The Golden-Haired Summoner - Chapter 15
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I'm resuming updates for Golden Haired Summoner now. However it's going to be either a 2 or 3 chapters per week release, unless it gets more reads then I will make it a 5x a week release.
I bit my lip. How can I meet him…?
[Masterrr~ Whaaa…]
Rai’s voice, fading as he was dragged away by Iruje, was no longer of any concern to me.
The sky that glimpsed through the wide corridor was perfectly clear, not a single cloud in sight. It was as if it knew today was the beginning of the festival.
Perhaps energized by that, the excited atmosphere of the delegation students walking alongside me filled the passage.
“Are you really sure about this, Geenie?”
Suddenly, a voice filled with worry came to my ears. It was Teacher Irito.
She was likely concerned that I was pushing myself to participate in the tournament despite not being fully recovered.
“Of course. Don’t worry about me, Teacher.”
“Are you sure you’re okay? You said you didn’t want to participate in the tournament originally. Even now, you could still…”
“I’m fine! I have something important to ask His Majesty, the Emperor.”
No one knew better than me about my own physical state. But despite that, there was something I had to accomplish.
That was to meet Ash, the prince of this grand empire and my lifesaver, and at the very least, thank him. If I didn’t do that, I would feel indebted for the rest of my life.
And to make that happen, I had to win the tournament. Absolutely.
*Fweeee!*
*Boom! Boom! Boom!*
“Finally, we’re starting the grand opening of the 38th Winkan Festival! Representatives from each academy, please enter the central dome.”
The sound of fireworks and the announcer’s voice reached us clearly, even from the waiting area.
The sports team led the Drike Academy delegation, followed by the general studies students, including myself.
I walked in step with the other students in an orderly fashion. As I stepped out of the passage, I squinted under the bright sunlight, then gaped at the clear sky filled with colorful firework trails.
My heart raced at the sight of the endless dome and the thunderous cheers from the surrounding audience.
Just wait a little longer, Ash! When all those people are watching me, I’ll come find you!
The Winkan Festival began as grandly and magnificently as its reputation suggested.
“The winner? Of course, it’s the one-hit wonder! Drike Academy’s Geenie Crowell! This means Geenie Crowell has advanced to the finals! I have to say, her skill, despite being injured, is truly remarkable! Usually, swordsmen and magicians—or even spirit summoners—show the opposite result, but here…”
*Woooo!*
*Beep!*
As expected of the vast empire of Elan, the dome where the tournament took place was expansive and seemingly endless.
After much turmoil and threat, I stood there, fueled by a burning determination to win. That drive was what had gotten me here in less than a week of treatment.
On the fifth day since the tournament began, after two matches, I learned something painfully clear: internal injuries were not to be taken lightly.
Competing without even using half of the recommended seven-day recovery period was a mistake.
Each time I used mana, sharp stomach pains and headaches would strike, forcing me to rely on one-hit kill tactics.
But somehow, that strategy had become my trademark.
The announcer approached me with a microphone amplified by magic.
“Miss Crowell, how do you feel? Your next opponent in the finals is none other than the promising prodigy from Winted Academy, Mr. Ratshamu Fedri. Are you nervous?”
“…Who is that?”
At my question, the announcer looked taken aback but continued.
“He’s the famous third son of Duke Fedri, one of Elan’s top sword masters. You really haven’t heard of him?”
“Oh, I think I’ve heard of him. I’m not nervous, but this tournament is starting to feel a little drawn out.”
I smiled brightly.
“Is that so? Ha ha ha! Thank you for your answer. Let’s move on to the next round—the youth division semifinals!”
After stepping down from the stage, Teacher Irito came to support me.
My body was definitely feeling the strain. I could feel the familiar sensation of blood rising in my throat again.
The tournament winner would receive two prizes and one special privilege.
The first prize was a trophy, the second was a cash reward, and the privilege was the chance to meet the Emperor of Elan and make one wish. As long as it wasn’t unreasonable, the Emperor would usually grant the winner’s wish.
In previous years, winners often wished for higher status, more wealth, or to transfer to the prestigious Winted Academy. But I only wanted to ask the Emperor for a meeting with Ash.
As just a regular student, it would be absurd to request an audience with the Imperial Prince. Even if permission was granted, the bureaucratic process would take weeks. Winning the Winkan Festival was the fastest way.
Of course, offering the trophy to the king would also be a nice gesture, right? Gotta secure some connections early. This would be a classic case of killing two birds with one stone, right?
The tournament, which had been dragging on, was now in its final stages. Today, only two matches remained in the vast dome: the finals for the toddler and youth divisions.
As a result, today’s audience was more excited than ever. It truly felt like the final, the pinnacle of the Winkan Festival.
Even the King of Dmitri, King Dikel III, was in attendance today. Although he only came to the finals due to his busy schedule as king, he was here because a Drike student had made it to the finals.
But, of course, the most important person here today was the Emperor of Elan, seated in the luxurious royal box. And sitting next to him, was that the Empress?
“Teacher, is that the Empress?”
“Hm? Yes, that’s the first Empress.”
Teacher Irito seemed happy to answer one of my rare questions.
“The first Empress? Then who is the second Empress?”
“The second Empress’ seat is currently vacant. The Emperor recently tried to raise Lady Estia Spodro to that position, but it was blocked because of her low birth.”
“Estia Spodro? What’s her background? She has a noble title, right?”
“Yes, she comes from a noble family, but only a viscount’s house. It’s surprising that she even became a concubine. She was originally a royal knight of the palace.”
Estia Spodro… she’s Ash’s mother. But if a viscount’s family is considered lowly, then what about my family, a barony?
“Does… does she have a son? Between her and the Emperor?”
“Oh my, how do you know about that? Yes, she has a son. Or rather, she claims to have one. Rumor has it that Lady Estia disappeared from the palace one day after enduring the Empress’s jealousy. Thirteen years later, she returned with a 12-year-old boy, claiming he was the Emperor’s son.
That’s the current second prince, Eron du Pon Epiroth. But Lady Estia passed away within a year of returning to the palace. People speculate she knew her death was imminent, and that’s why she revealed the prince’s existence before returning.
Some even believe she left the palace because she had conceived another man’s child and feared being found out. But, I’m certain the second prince is the Emperor’s legitimate son. The black hair that runs through the Elan royal family is unmistakable.”
As expected of a teacher from the economics department, her explanation was long and detailed. But it was good to learn what I wanted to know.
“I see. So, is Ash… I mean, is Prince Epiroth not recognized in the palace?”
“That’s right. When Lady Estia returned with the prince, the Emperor tried to make her Empress, but the nobles and the first Empress fiercely opposed it. After all, they couldn’t be certain if the boy was really the Emperor’s son, and they didn’t know what Estia had been up to outside the palace. Plus, she had tarnished the imperial family’s reputation by leaving without fulfilling her duties as a concubine.”
“Why did Lady Estia leave the palace? What happened?”
“Well, there are many rumors, but it’s believed she left because she couldn’t endure the Empress’s jealousy any longer.”
I nodded. Poor Ash.
Does he know he’s no longer able to practice swordsmanship, which he learned from his mother? He must know by now. I wonder if it hurt him…
Suddenly, a sharp pang hit me in my chest. But it wasn’t exactly guilt—it was something different.
“The toddler division finals are about to begin! Please welcome Ratshamu Fedri from Winted Academy and Geenie Crowell from Drike Academy to the stage!”
“Huh?”
The announcer’s voice rang out.
“Oh, it’s time… Geenie, get ready! You need to do well! Today’s different; King Dikel III is watching.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll give it my all! I’ll bring the winner’s trophy to His Majesty.”
And after that, I’ll meet Ash and tell him. I’m sorry and thank you.
“Both contestants, please bow to each other before the match!”
The pre-match bow was more of a psychological tactic, a way to gauge and intimidate the opponent.
Standing across from me was Ratshamu Fedri, a boy with red hair who looked around 15. Shouldn’t he be in the youth division instead?
“My name is Ratshamu Fedri. Let’s have a good match, little one.”
“My name is Geenie Crowell. I am a lady, and calling me ‘little one’
is quite rude… I won’t be going easy on you.”
“…Where exactly do you look like a lady?”
And where exactly do you look like a 13-year-old? No matter how much sword training you’ve done, that build is too much!
Even though Ash is also 13, he looks more like he’s 10, around my age.
With that deep voice, Ratshamu seemed like the wrong fit for the toddler division, but the way he acted—so cocky—was definitely still childlike.
How dare he taunt me! I won’t hold back on him now.
“Both contestants, prepare for battle!”
“Undine.”
As a swordsman draws their blade, or a fighter dons their gauntlets, a mage casts their preparatory spell. It was only natural for me, a summoner, to call upon Undine before the duel.
“Three, two, one… start!”
“Undine, unleash… tch!”
*Swish*
Before I could even finish the incantation, Ratshamu’s wooden sword sliced through the air.
A basic horizontal slash, the simplest of sword techniques.
While it was the most common, it also left many openings.
But since he launched the attack while charging toward me, I had to abandon my spell and quickly dodge backward. This much was fine! No matter how fast he was, once I cast the spell…
“Unleash Water…”
“Hyaaah!”
Before I could finish my incantation, Ratshamu’s sword lunged toward me again.
I shut my mouth and twisted my body to the side.
Watching him attack again and again, I realized his plan: to keep me so busy dodging that I couldn’t open my mouth to cast a spell.
If he had watched my matches, he would know that I was pretty good at dodging attacks.
My body may not be nimble, but as long as the attack wasn’t overwhelmingly fast, I could predict my opponent’s moves and avoid them in advance.
Drike’s general studies department was known for its analysis skills! Although, I had to admit, a lot of that came from the tears and sacrifices of the Chavel Mercenary Group.
*Swish, swish!*
Even while I briefly thought about this, his sword was relentlessly cutting through the air in front of me.
The blade pierced through the air with a whistling sound, but it was too straightforward, always thrusting forward. Foolish! Right, left, down, left, up! I could see it all!
“Grrr!”
While I couldn’t open my mouth to cast spells, I clearly heard the grinding of his teeth as his attacks kept missing.
Despite his frustration, he didn’t stop swinging his sword. He must have been certain that if I couldn’t speak, I wouldn’t be able to command Undine, leaving her as a useless decoration.
But I wasn’t a magician. I wasn’t even a knight, though I was starting to get tired of dodging.
[Undine, unleash Water Breathing!]
“Gah, glub, glub.”
“Haaa…”
The water rapidly gathered around Ratshamu and enveloped him completely.
Undine followed my command, not just wrapping around his head but covering his entire body in a large sphere of water.
Finally able to stop dodging, I pretended to wipe away nonexistent sweat.
Ratshamu’s eyes, filled with disbelief, stared at me from within the water. He couldn’t understand what had just happened. Commands could be given telepathically, after all. It consumes more mana, but it’s possible.
“No matter how much you shout in there, I can’t hear you.”
He was probably wondering how I managed to use the spell, but I had no obligation to explain.
Watching Ratshamu flail inside the water bubble for a moment, I realized something: he didn’t know how to swim.
“Undine, get rid of him.”
[Yes, Master.]
The water bubble rolled slowly across the arena before falling off the edge with a soft pop, bursting as it hit the ground.
Normally, I would only cover the opponent’s head and then fire a compression shot, but by the time we reached the finals, I figured he’d have a countermeasure ready for that.
So instead, I covered his entire body and tossed him out of the ring. Simple.
“Yes! Ratshamu Fedri is out of bounds, just 10 seconds after the match started! The winner is Geenie Crowell from Drike Academy, and with that, Miss Crowell is the champion of the toddler division! Wow, it seemed like Miss Crowell was struggling at first, but she finished it in one swift move. The Fedri family’s swordsmanship wasn’t enough to stop her overwhelming dominance!”
In the vast dome, filled with the announcer’s booming voice, the winner of the toddler division was finally decided. It was me.
Of course, no matter how talented they were, they were still toddlers. At the end of the day, they were just kids.
With a bit of ingenuity and a mature mind, no child could stand up to me.
And considering that I only used Undine, my power was far beyond that of my peers.
Though, I suppose my sly techniques, born from my clever thinking, were what truly set me apart.
As I looked around, I spotted King Dikel III in the audience, seated among what appeared to be other kings and their entourages.
I bowed deeply in their direction, feeling a sense of lightness as I descended from the stage.
Then I noticed Ratshamu still sitting dazedly where the water bubble had burst. I couldn’t just leave him like that!
“Heh, can’t swim, can’t wield a sword… Ratshamu Fedri, you’re not even on par with Leo. And you’re definitely not as good as Ash.”
At my taunt, Ratshamu, who had been sitting blankly in disbelief, suddenly shot up from the ground, shouting in anger.
“How dare you, you filthy backwater Dmitri peasant…!”
What? Dmitri peasant?
“…Do you want to die?”
“That’s my line! You only won because of your cheap tricks! Dmitri is nothing but an inferior country…”
*Crack*
In that moment, the lightness I had felt from victory evaporated, replaced by a fierce windstorm in my mind and a slow-burning rage. I’ll drain every drop of moisture from your body!
“Insulting my homeland… Your guts are spilling out, aren’t they? No, I’ll pull them out for you! Undine, Water Remov—”
I was filled with murderous intent, ready to kill him, even if it meant collapsing from my injuries. But then, I heard a cold male voice from behind me.
“Stop.”
I was so startled, I jumped, not having sensed any presence at all.
When I turned around, I saw a red-haired young man who bore a strong resemblance to Ratshamu but was much sharper in demeanor—not just in looks, but in the atmosphere he exuded.
“B-Brother!”
So, he’s part of the Fedri family too? The red hair is a dead giveaway.
Listening to the detestable Ratshamu, I realized it must be true.
Unlike his younger brother, this man seemed extremely dangerous. His gaze emitted something close to bloodlust, but it felt more like a warning—something that wasn’t quite hostility but certainly wasn’t friendly.
“Tch, just because you’re his brother… Fine, I’ll back off for now. But if you insult me again… I’ll make sure you regret it.”
Instinctively, I knew that fighting him wouldn’t end well for me, so I decided to retreat for now.
Summoning so much water at once had taken a heavy toll on my already fragile body.
As I approached Teacher Irito, she greeted me with a flushed face.
“Geenie, that was incredible! Did you see how pleased His Majesty was?”
“No, I greeted him earlier, but that Ratshamu idiot…”
“What did you do to him?”
“What? Who are you talking about?”
“Rovenin Fedri, the young man who approached you just now.”
“Who’s that?”
Fedri? Oh, she must be talking about Ratshamu’s older brother. He seemed decent enough.
At my question, Teacher Irito’s expression hardened.
“Geenie! You don’t know Rovenin Fedri? He’s sixteen years old and already at the level of a sword user! It’s expected that he’ll surpass his father, Duke Fedri, and become a sword master by the time he’s in his thirties. He’s regarded as one of the most talented individuals on the continent! How could you not know about him? What were you doing during class?”
A sword user? Someone who can activate aura, even if it’s faint?
Reaching that level at sixteen is an extraordinary achievement.
Considering most knights reach that level in their thirties, it was impressive.
But becoming a sword master in his thirties? That’s ridiculous…
“Come on, Teacher Irito, how could anyone become a sword master in their thirties? They’d have to be at least forty…”
I waved my hand dismissively, about to scoff at the absurdity when I suddenly recalled Rovenin Fedri’s presence.
He had certainly seemed strong enough to give me goosebumps. Even so, becoming a sword master in one’s thirties was almost unheard of. Most sword masters achieved that level in their late forties, at the earliest.
Sure, the legendary hero of the Crancia continent, Emperor Mythos, was said to have become a sword master at twenty-eight, but that was probably just an exaggeration.
“It’s true. He’s recognized as a prodigy throughout the continent. It’s almost tragic that someone like him wasn’t born in Dmitri
. Sigh…”
“Oh.”
Well, I don’t like him. Humph! Dmitri has me, after all.
Seeing me pout, Teacher Irito chuckled. Could she read my thoughts from my expression again?
“Hehe, of course, we have Geenie, so it’s fine.”
“Really…?”
“Of course. Now, let’s go. We need to meet His Majesty.”
“Yes!”
I wonder how Rai is doing. Iruje should be grilling him by now. That spirit needs to be disciplined every once in a while, or he’ll start acting up!
The royal box, where the kings and their entourages were seated, was heavily guarded by knights from various countries.
Among them, I recognized a few familiar faces from Dmitri’s knights.
Their armor bore the embossed image of a golden bird holding a shield in its claws, the symbol of the royal guard. They were King Dikel III’s personal escort, the royal guard.
The golden bird symbolized Dmitri, and depending on whether the bird held a sword or shield, it signified the guard or royal escort, respectively.
The golden bird with both sword and shield represented the general knights who actively served in battle, like those in the Fifth Knights Division led by Captain Tonell.
“Stop. We need to conduct a search.”
An Elan knight approached, announcing that we were to be inspected.
It was a simple check for concealed weapons, considering Teacher Irito was a woman, and I was still a child. They didn’t search us thoroughly, just a cursory glance.
We easily entered the royal box, which was more like a palace lounge than a mere spectator area. I hesitated for a moment, feeling out of place. Are we even allowed to step on this carpet? What if they charge us for it later?
It seemed like the youth division final had already begun, as everyone was intently watching the match. Only King Dikel III noticed my hesitation and greeted me warmly.
“Oh, come closer, proud child of Dmitri.”
At his words, all eyes turned toward me, including the many dignitaries present.
They murmured as they watched me.
“Oh, is that her?”
“The one from earlier…?”
“Such an adorable girl.”
Yes, that’s right. I’m the champion of this tournament.
Feeling my shoulders swell with pride, I approached the king, intending to curtsy gracefully.
But I quickly realized that I wasn’t wearing a dress but rather a pair of combat trousers due to the tournament. No skirt to curtsy with!
I froze in embarrassment. What should I do? Lift the hem of my trousers?
“The greeting is enough. I’ve already accepted your bow during your glorious victory today.”
Was he referring to the bow I had made earlier from the stage? The king’s gentle voice made my face flush with embarrassment.
Why does something always go wrong when I try to greet royalty?
I bowed deeply, speaking in a soft voice.
“Thank you, Your Majesty. But my victory is all thanks to your guidance.”
“You’re quite admirable. Knowing when to lower one’s head is a great virtue. You’ve never failed to meet my expectations, so you’re already a commendable servant.”
Has he not heard about the trouble I’ve caused? Or has he just forgiven it? Well, if he’s not scolding me, I’m fine with that…
“It’s an honor to be thought of so highly, Your Majesty.”
“Indeed, indeed. Children like you are the ones who bring glory to Dmitri, and I am most satisfied.”
The king, who had been nodding slightly, suddenly directed his gaze outside the royal box.
Leaning against the terrace railing, the king stared intently at something in the distance. What is he looking at?
“…Your Majesty?”
“Hm? Ah, come here, Geenie. Take a good look.”
I stepped closer to the king and stood on my toes to peer out of the terrace.
The youth division final was in full swing. Both contestants were swordsmen, but one of them had a faint blue aura surrounding their sword. Red hair?
“Rovenin… Fedri?”
“That’s right. Rovenin Fedri, the famed genius of Elan! At that age, to already be a sword user… When I reached that level at twenty-three, it was a moment of great pride, but it pales in comparison to him.”
Sword aura, a power granted to those who have mastered their sword path.
I could sense the king’s admiration and regret as he watched Rovenin, a fellow swordsman. And something else—was it sorrow?
Was the king disappointed that such a prodigy wasn’t born in Dmitri?
“Your Majesty is a sword master, are you not? You can create sword energy with your aura, which is far more impressive!”
“Ha ha. Yes, you’re right. But I only became a sword master at the age of forty-two, thanks to the guidance of skilled teachers and the good fortune of being born with a healthy body. As royalty, I also had the advantage of learning from the insights of previous sword masters. However, all of my efforts are nothing compared to a genius like him. He may very well become a sword master in his thirties.”
“No, no! If Your Majesty is a commoner, then who can be called a genius?”
The king smiled at my flustered attempt to comfort him.
Why does the king look at Rovenin Fedri with such sorrow? Is his talent truly that exceptional? Does it drive the king to question his own abilities? Is it because they walk the same path as swordsmen?
As a spirit summoner, I couldn’t understand.
“Ah, but there’s no need for such sadness. Elan may have Rovenin Fedri, but we in Dmitri have Geenie Crowell, and that is more than enough for me.”
Did the king think I was jealous?
His words were eerily similar to Teacher Irito’s.
And even though I shook my head, denying it, I couldn’t help but feel a flicker of envy toward Rovenin Fedri. Or perhaps it was more of a rivalry?
I wasn’t sure how to describe it, but I knew one thing: I didn’t want to lose to Rovenin Fedri.
Looking down, I saw Rovenin’s opponent surrender in the face of his overwhelming swordsmanship. The match ended as quickly as it had begun.
Rovenin Fedri, what kind of swordsmanship do you use? I don’t care how amazing you are, but if you become a sword master in your thirties, I swear I’ll make a pact with an upper-level spirit before then! I will not lose to you!
With the conclusion of the youth division final, the award ceremony began.
The contestants from the toddler and youth divisions gathered, standing in neat lines according to their schools.
In front of us stood a grand podium, and atop it was the Emperor himself. Black hair, blue eyes. Although his eye color was different, his face resembled Ash’s. Or rather, it would be more accurate to say that Ash resembled the Emperor.
“Will the champions and runners-up please step forward?”
At the announcer’s call, I stepped forward.
Excitement bubbled inside me at the thought of finally meeting Ash. Since I was going to stand before the Emperor, I had changed into a clean combat uniform instead of a dress.
Standing to my right was Ratshamu Fedri.
On my left was Rovenin Fedri, the youth division champion. I felt a sudden sense of irritation at being sandwiched between members of the Fedri family.
The order in which we stood was predetermined: from left to right, it was the youth division runner-up, the youth division champion, the toddler division champion, and finally, the toddler division runner-up.
They must have placed the champions in the middle for the Emperor’s convenience when bestowing prizes and granting wishes. But I didn’t like it.
“Tch!”
Ratshamu, who had been glaring at me the entire time, clicked his tongue and scowled.
It seemed he wanted to be standing where I was.
Heh, that’s not happening. I can’t stand the thought of the Fedri brothers both winning. It would be too unbearable to watch. With that thought, I began to feel less annoyed about my position.
“Bleh.”
I stuck my tongue out at Ratshamu, who had been staring daggers at me.
Of course, I did it in a split second when the Emperor turned his attention to Rovenin.
But it seemed Ratshamu saw me clearly, as his face turned bright red in anger. Heh, want me to do it again?
“Will Geenie Crowell, the toddler division champion, please step forward?”
Hearing the announcer’s call, I made my way up the stairs, mentally preparing for what was to come.
The prizes would be awarded in the same order as the tournament results, starting with the toddler division.
I was glad I’d be the first to receive my prize, as I was eager to tell the Emperor my wish.
I stood before the Emperor, surrounded by the intimidating Royal Knights, who glared down at me.
“It’s an honor to meet you, Your Majesty.”
In the empire, kings are addressed as “Your Highness,” while emperors are addressed as “Your Majesty.”
Imperial princes are also addressed as “Your Highness,” but royal princes are simply called “Lord.”
I bowed deeply and waited for the Emperor to speak.
“Geenie Crowell of Drike Academy, you have competed in the 38th Winkan Festival and emerged as the champion of the toddler division. In the name of Elan’s 17th Emperor, Eron du Khan Megaloprophis, I bestow upon you this prize.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty.”
I straightened my back and accepted the heavy trophy and an
envelope from the Emperor.
The weight of the trophy reminded me of the significance of this moment, and I bowed once more.
It was forbidden to make eye contact with the Emperor without permission, and lifting one’s head without his consent was even more serious. In the empire, the Emperor was regarded as a being above all others, and anyone who violated this law would face severe punishment, regardless of their status.
The Royal Knights standing beside me were there to enforce that rule.
“As the champion, what is your wish?”
Finally, the moment I had been waiting for.
This was the reason I had decided to compete in the tournament, although I had since found a few other motivations along the way.
“I wish to have an audience with your second son, Prince Eron du Pon Epiroth.”
I said the words I had prepared beforehand. But strangely, the Emperor didn’t respond right away.
What? Is it not allowed?
I wanted to look up at the Emperor’s face, but I couldn’t, not with the Royal Knights watching me like hawks.
I could also feel the eyes of the foreign kings and nobles in the audience fixed on me.
“…Lift your head.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
After a brief silence, the Emperor spoke, and I immediately raised my head, grateful for the permission.
Up close, I could see a few strands of gray in the Emperor’s black hair.
He was 41 years old this year, having ascended to the throne at 26. That made this his 15th year as Emperor.
I remembered learning that in class.
Though not the greatest swordsman or the wisest scholar, the Emperor was regarded as an excellent strategist.
Cold and ruthless in his tactics.
“Why do you wish for such an audience? Would it not be better to ask for more money or a higher title?”
“I am satisfied with my current prize and title.”
“And what title does your father hold? Count? Marquis?”
“He’s a baron.”
At my response, the Emperor paused. But that was all—there was no change in his expression.
A baron was a non-hereditary title, only applicable for one generation, and the lowest rank among the nobility. It was barely enough to be considered noble.
“Hmm, I see. A baron’s daughter… That’s a rather ambiguous position for a noble.”
“…Does that mean I cannot meet the Prince?”
Is my low rank the issue? But I’ve never heard of such a restriction.
Then again, considering the rigid customs of the imperial palace, it wouldn’t be surprising. If royal etiquette demanded you wash your hands before eating, imperial etiquette probably required you to wash them again afterward.
“That’s correct. However, as the champion, your wish must be granted. But…”
“But?”
I realized too late that I had just interrupted the Emperor. The Royal Knights glared at me with fierce eyes, but since the Emperor didn’t reprimand me, they didn’t act.
“The second prince is currently in the Palace of Silence.”
“…What is the Palace of Silence?”
“It’s where members of the royal family go to reflect after committing a wrongdoing. No one is allowed in or out, and they are prohibited from meeting with others. The second prince is currently serving a month of reflection there.”
Is it because he ran away from the palace? Does that mean I can’t meet Ash, even though I won the tournament?
“Not even a champion’s wish can grant me access?”
“That’s correct. If I were to grant your wish, it would mean retracting an order I have already issued.”
“That’s…!”
I hadn’t anticipated this. I was completely thrown off. I had been so sure my wish would be granted.
So what now? Should I just give up? I had come this far, enduring pain that felt like my insides were tearing apart.
One thing was certain: my expression must have been a tangled mess of emotions.
“Hmm, I suppose there’s a solution.”
“…?”
For the first time, the Emperor’s expression shifted. A faint smile crossed his face, as if he had just thought of something amusing.
As I stared at him in confusion, the Emperor spoke again.
“This tournament had two outstanding contestants, one in each division. However, neither division was particularly exciting to watch. The toddler division, in particular, felt like watching an adult fight a child.”
His words struck me like a bolt of lightning.
“That’s too generous of you, Your Majesty.”
I forced myself to keep a neutral expression, even as my face twitched from the effort. What is he trying to say?
“But granting such a wish to the toddler division champion feels like giving out two wishes. So, why don’t we settle this by having you earn two wishes? If you defeat the youth division champion, I will grant you both the release of the second prince from the Palace of Silence and a private audience with him. What do you say? Are you up for it? Rovenin, what about you?”
I had heard that the Emperor of Elan sometimes enjoyed creating absurd situations for his own amusement. Is this one of those times?
A match between a toddler and a youth division champion! Damn it, someone up there must hate me. Otherwise, why does everything in my life have to be this difficult?
“I’m fine with it.”
Rovenin, who had been standing silently, finally spoke. Rovenin, the 16-year-old sword user. Even our king coveted his talent.
Could I win against someone like him? Was it worth all this just to meet Ash? If I beat him, would the king and Teacher praise me even more?
Questions swirled in my mind. Despite my confusion, my mouth acted on its own.
“I… I’m fine with it too.”
I said it, thinking it was better than running away, but regret immediately followed.
I had sworn not to lose, but that was a promise for ten years from now.
“Announcer!”
“Yes, Your Majesty!”
“Arrange a match between the champions.”
Damn it. I don’t believe in gods, but if there’s one out there, it’s playing some cruel game with me.
The new match was quickly set up. The audience roared with excitement, while the Emperor watched with a satisfied smile.
“Both contestants, please bow.”
How many times have I heard that today? I’m already a champion, and now I have to hear it again. This is ridiculous!
The audience was ecstatic at the prospect of a champion-versus-champion match. Easy for them to enjoy since it’s not their fight.
“Rovenin Fedri, swordsman.”
“Geenie Crowell, spirit summoner. I’m ten years old!”
I emphasized the “ten years old” part. Does it feel good to fight a kid like me? You enjoying this?
“I’ve never fought a spirit summoner before.”
“So what?”
“I’m just curious to see how it goes. Age doesn’t matter.”
“Well, that’s great! I’ve always wanted to fight you too.”
In about ten years. I was willing to bet Rai’s life on Rovenin being a battle junkie. Adol’s too. Not Undine, though.
“Both contestants, prepare for battle.”
“Undine.”
The water droplets I summoned quickly merged to form Undine. Rovenin, who had drawn his wooden sword, stared at her intently.
[Undine, go invisible at the start and unleash Water Breathing.]
Since it was clear my opponent would be formidable, I gave Undine the command in advance.
“Three, two, one… start!”
As soon as the match began, Undine vanished from sight. Rovenin’s eyes twitched slightly as he watched her disappear.
In that brief moment, the water I had summoned rushed toward him, aiming to trap him.
*Tap*
Rovenin lightly pushed off the ground, darting forward.
He moved to grab me before the water could envelop him, but the water followed close behind, just managing to catch his right ankle.
With his leg caught, Rovenin slashed at the water with his sword. But as soon as the water was cut, it immediately reformed around his leg.
“Don’t let him go!”
“…”
Still expressionless, Rovenin raised his sword again, this time with a faint bluish aura surrounding it.
That shimmering energy was sword aura.
“Water Remove!”
If his sword aura cuts through the water, Undine’s control won’t hold. So, I had to act fast…
The spell drained a massive amount of mana. Even though I only targeted one of his legs, it took a significant toll on my mana reserves.
Water Remove was a technique that extracted the moisture from the target.
It was a difficult spell for a lower-level spirit like Undine to cast, but it was the only way to immobilize Rovenin.
If he decided to move seriously, I wouldn’t be able to dodge.
*Swish*
The water around his leg briefly turned red.
But Rovenin didn’t seem fazed and simply slashed through the water with his sword aura. The water surrounding his leg burst apart with a loud pop.
Rovenin immediately resumed his charge toward me. His sword aura had faded, but the sight of him advancing with his wooden sword still sent shivers down my spine.
“Hold him down!”
By now, his leg should be numb! Blood is mostly water, after all. Extracting moisture from the body naturally affects the blood as well.
It was nearly impossible to draw only the water content from the blood.
The water that had failed to trap him surged forward to catch him again, but it wouldn’t be enough…
“Fog.”
Unable to keep up with his speed, I decided to obscure his vision with a dense fog.
The fog quickly enveloped both Rovenin and myself, filling the entire arena.
“It seems we can no longer see the arena! Could this be Miss Crowell
’s spirit magic?”
I couldn’t see a thing in the fog, but somehow, Rovenin’s sword was already slashing toward me. His attacks were precise and sharp—completely different from Ratshamu’s clumsy swings.
His thrusts were direct, but they would follow me relentlessly if I dodged. I barely managed to leap back in time.
“Adol!”
Barely dodging a thrust that almost grazed my nose, I finally summoned Adol, even though I had sworn not to.
At least with the fog, no one would be able to see him!
[Master, I was wrong last time… bwahaha!]
Rovenin’s sword immediately stabbed toward the newly summoned Adol.
Although his movements were fast, it was still a wooden sword. Without sword aura, it couldn’t harm Adol. Instead, Rovenin’s sword broke into pieces upon contact.
“What… is that?”
“That’s a secret! Adol, Shock!”
Do you really think I’d tell you? My mana was already nearing its limit, and I felt a sharp pain in my stomach, but I couldn’t stop attacking.
I had to unleash everything I had while the fog was still covering us. If anyone discovered Adol’s existence, it would cause major problems.
“Ugh!”
Although Rovenin hadn’t been hit by water, the fog had amplified the effect of Shock, stunning him momentarily. However, he quickly recovered and resumed his attacks.
Despite my efforts, I couldn’t dodge all of his strikes. Out of every three attacks, one would hit me—on the shoulder, waist, or head. Each blow left me aching, and now I could feel the taste of blood in my mouth again.
I had about 25% of my mana left? Thanks to my internal injuries, I was already at my limit. If this keeps up, I’ll have to finish it with one final blow!
“Adol, Lightning Arrow!”
It would have been better to fire a Water Ball with Undine first, but I didn’t have time.
A long, crackling arrow shot from Adol’s body, flying toward Rovenin at lightning speed.
“Kuh…!”
Rovenin tried to deflect it with his sword, but the metal core within his wooden blade conducted the electricity, causing the blade to crackle and shatter.
*Tunk*
The remnants of the sword clattered to the ground, leaving only the metal core. Rovenin collapsed to one knee, letting out a pained groan.
I had about 15% of my mana left. I silently prayed that he wouldn’t get up.
“Cough! Adol… return.”
[Today was pretty fun, Master.]
Unable to sustain Adol any longer, I dismissed him, feeling another wave of blood rising in my throat. Staring at Rovenin, I was surprised to see him slowly getting to his feet, holding the metal core of his sword.
When did he…?
“Haa… huu…”
Rovenin stood, albeit shakily, and the sword aura began to gather around his broken weapon once again. What should I do? I don’t have any mana left!
“Damn it!”
“This ends now!”
I had no more tricks up my sleeve. I had already used up all of Undine’s techniques.
Rovenin charged at me with the metal core of his sword, now enveloped in sword aura. I could feel the pressure of his attack, but the thought of surrendering filled me with disgust.
There was no way I would give up!
[Master!]
I would rather die from his sword than surrender. Just as I shut my eyes in despair, I heard a sharp scream from Undine. Startled, I opened my eyes to see her tiny body standing between me and Rovenin’s attack.
“Undine…”
*Zzzt!*
[Kyaaah!]
Without hesitation, Rovenin’s sword sliced through Undine.
The blue aura exploded from his sword, and I watched helplessly as Undine’s form shattered before my eyes.
It was the first time I had ever heard a spirit’s body being torn apart. The violent shock forcibly dispelled her.
The blood that had been rising in my throat no longer mattered. Instead, it felt like my insides were being torn apart, and my mind went blank.
I heard a snapping sound in my head as everything went dark.
As the fog began to lift, I could see Rovenin standing there, his face expressionless but with blood trickling from the corner of his mouth. Through the fading mist, the announcer’s voice echoed in the massive dome.
“The fog is clearing! And the winner is…? As expected, the pride of our empire! Ladies and gentlemen, behold the victorious Rovenin Fedri!”
*Thud*
My legs gave out beneath me, and I felt the ground rush up to meet me. I collapsed, feeling my body shut down, but my eyes remained open just long enough to see the world blur into nothingness.
—
I lay dazed in bed, staring blankly at the ceiling. Teacher Irito’s voice gently broke the silence, trying to comfort me.
“Geenie, don’t be too upset. The match was decided before it even began.”
“Yeah, you did great, Geenie! You pushed Rovenin Fedri that far—it’s incredible!” added Bright, another classmate, trying to cheer me up from the bedside.
But their words barely registered. All I could hear was my inner voice, blaming myself over and over.
“It wasn’t decided! I could’ve won that match!”
I clenched the pristine white bed sheets in frustration, raising my voice. It had been a week since my loss to Rovenin, and I was still suffering from the internal injuries that hadn’t healed yet.
I hadn’t been able to return to Dmitri. Instead, I was stuck here in Elan, trying to recover from the damage to my insides.
“Well… you could have won, sure. It’s just… well, Rovenin has been practicing swordsmanship longer than you’ve been summoning spirits. It’s a difference in experience,” Teacher Irito added, awkwardly.
“Experience? That’s not the only issue! I don’t have enough mana, my spirit magic isn’t strong enough, and while I’m lying here, Rovenin’s probably getting even stronger!”
A wave of panic surged through me. I couldn’t just sit here doing nothing while he got ahead. I needed to train, to get stronger, to make sure I never felt this helpless again.
“I need to train… Irito, give me a pen and paper. I need to write a letter to His Majesty.”
“Huh? O-Of course.”
Teacher Irito seemed taken aback but quickly handed me what I asked for.
Rovenin, next time we meet, I’ll make sure to repay this humiliation.
I might be weak now, but when I grow up, I’ll be different.
Before you become a sword master, I will become a higher-level spirit summoner!