Chapter 17: Gladiator Tournament [1]
Garry, despite his foolish nature, began to see some validity in Vaughn's words. The first step in their plan involved eliminating the knight and then disposing of the princess's body in a forest, making it appear as if she had met with an unfortunate accident.
"Alright, we will proceed with that," Garry agreed, tapping his chin in contemplation.
However, Vaughn interjected with a suggestion. "But Garry, I propose we relocate from this area," he advised.
Confusion filled Garry's expression. "Huh? What do you mean?" he questioned.
Vaughn explained further, emphasizing the importance of their safety. "Yes, just to ensure our well-being," he continued. "I understand that your business connections are here, but your life is far more valuable than any amount of money."
Garry took a moment to consider Vaughn's words, weighing the significance of his own life against his business ties.
"But what's the problem? Won't the diversion be enough?" Garry inquired.
Vaughn replied with caution, acknowledging the intelligence of the kingdom's inhabitants and the trusted advisors of the king. "More or less, but the people of the kingdom are no fools, and there will likely be at least five individuals who will see through our diversion," he explained.
Garry remained stubborn, unwilling to leave the place due to concerns about his profits. However, Vaughn couldn't afford to take any risks. He lacked knowledge about the world they were in, and the system had not provided him with any explanations or guidance.
After pondering for a moment, an idea formed in Vaughn's mind. "Say, why don't you let me participate in the Gladiator tournament?" he proposed, sharing a suggestion he had gleaned from his memories.
As soon as Vaughn spoke, both Moon and Genie reacted swiftly. They turned towards him, gripping his arms in a concerned manner. Despite the warmth of their touch, which would typically elicit a certain reaction from him, Vaughn remained calm, listening to their worried voices.
"Please, don't," Genie pleaded, her face filled with concern. "Vaughn, considering your current condition, participating in the Gladiator Tournament would only lead to your demise."
Moon, too, joined in trying to persuade him, clenching her left fist in worry before gripping Vaughn's right arm. "Brother," she said, her voice filled with a mix of fear and pleading. "Please reconsider."
The reasons for their resistance were simple. The Gladiator Tournament was a highly esteemed event that took place once a year, attracting numerous competitors seeking to claim the prizes. The winner would be granted a wish by the king, as long as it was deemed rational. One of the most coveted rewards was the opportunity to marry one of the princesses from the hosting kingdom. While the princess changed each year, it still presented a chance for marriage.
Vaughn had suggested this idea for two reasons. Firstly, by participating in the tournament, he would be viewed as a warrior and be afforded some measure of protection until the event's conclusion or his own demise. Secondly, if he were to emerge as the victor, he could potentially marry a princess and thereby gain the means to protect Moon and Genie.
However, Garry's thoughts centered around his own protection, considering the potential advantages the tournament could offer him as well.
"But, I don't think you can do anything at your current state.", Garry said.
Adding to that, Genie said, "Absolutely."
Moon also nodded her head.
Their eyes filled with worries, clearly wanting Vaughn to change the idea.
However, Vaughn could not reject this, after all, the system showed something interesting to him.
[Main Quests]
[Quest 1: Join the Gladiator Tournament.]
[Reward: +10 of all the stat attributes.]
[Quest 2: Deflower 3 women who are regarded as 'Targets']
[Reward: +30 stats; skill: Holy Punch; Card of Termination x1]
[Quest 3…]
The quests were lined up.
And their rewards, they couldn't have been more interesting!
Of course, seeing that, Vaughn decided to go this way. Also, since he had the knowledge of the basic protection provided, he decided that doing this would ensure him safety.
"If I'm not mistaken, the tournament is set to begin in no more than three days, correct?" Vaughn inquired, seeking confirmation from Garry.
Garry nodded in affirmation. "Yes, it's scheduled for Sunday," he replied.
Vaughn's smirk widened upon hearing this. "That gives me ample time to prepare," he stated confidently.
Genie and Moon exchanged glances, sensing an air of overconfidence emanating from Vaughn. The Gladiator Tournament drew over a thousand warriors, yet only one emerged victorious. The fate of the remaining participants varied—some perished, while others were left with lasting injuries. A few fortunate ones managed to survive by the mercy of their opponents.
But the chances of death, quite high.
The fighters would use almost any means to win!
It would be a barbaric fight. So, could a boy who is 18, fight in such an event? Of course not! That's what all of them protested.
But Vaughn said, "Trust me, and register me as soon as possible."
Garry had nothing to lose with this. Vaughn's value had dropped anyway and if he were to die, he could still shift the blame by telling about it to the king - of course, using the guards and other slaves as witnesses.
There were Genie and Moon too. He could use the stone to make them confess.
"Alright then."
"You will participate in the upcoming event."
Saying this, Garry waved at the guard who was standing close to the door, facing towards Garry just in case, for protection.
The guard walked inside, close to Garry who then merely whispered something in his ears.
Hearing that, the guard left the room, rushing away.
"Alright lad, you can return now. Rest for one night, for from tomorrow it would be hell.", Garry said.
"Tomorrow?", Vaughn, Moon and Genie, all three of them questioned simultaneously.
"Yes."
"I can't let you go just like that, can I?"
"I must ensure you win, so…"
But before Garry could continue further, Vaughn interrupted, asking, "So, you are going to give me some cool equipment!?"
"…"