Last time, as a result of my conceit, I was beaten black and blue by Arinsu.
I'd underestimated her because I'd let Tirna's flattery go to my head—that was the biggest reason for my defeat.
Because of that, afterward, I'd gone to ask the reluctant Magmell's help to create an artificial waterfall with her water attribute Magic Art, where I did waterfall training to sharpen my mental strength to the limit for the first time in my life.
And so, I once again stood before Arinsu, with a resolute will to not lose to the same opponent twice.
However…
"—Fugya?!"
But how?!
I seriously gave it my all this time?!
"Fufu, let's play again next time."
"Gununu…"
As Arinsu turned around and left with a relaxed expression, I vexedly bit my lips while crouching on the ground.
Damn you, Arinsu…
You asked for it!
I'll drag you into my field of specialty and make you feel the humiliation of defeat!
◇
The next day.
"Elma, uh…"
"Yeah, I know. There's no point in winning this way. But, you know, Tirna. The world of competition is cruel. History is always written by the victors—so, I'll win no matter what! Even if I have to cowardly means! So, without further ado, I challenge you to the '21 game', Arinsu!"
Pointing straight at Arinsu, I issued my challenge in a loud voice.
Incidentally, the '21 game' was a children's game in which you took turns counting up by 1, 2, or 3, and the person who had to say 21 lost.
Whenever we had nothing to do during our journey, the pig would always teach me one of these mental exercise games.
"Elma…"
Could you please stop looking at me like that?!
I had no other choice?!
I couldn't win against her in a fight?!
"Fufu, you're such a cute girl."
"Shut up?! Let's see how long you can keep that calm façade?!"
Anyway, I chose this 21 game because there was a 'sure-win strategy' in this game.
Yes, since the goal was 21, you'd definitely win if you always grasped the 'multiple of 4'.
So that Arinsu didn't realize it, I humbly told her, "Well, since you accepted my challenge this time, I'll let you take the lead."
"Fufu, very well. I'll start then… 1, 2, 3."
"It's my turn, then. 4."
"Oh, that's rather reserved of you. Well, 5, 6."
"7, 8."
"9, 10, 11."
"12."
"Then, I'll have 13."
Fufu~, that leisure of yours would end here, Arinsu.
You had been completely caught in my trap.
"14, 15, 16."
Yes, my victory is secured!
After this, regardless of where you stop, I'll take 20 and you'll lose, Arinsu!
As I did my best to suppress my grin, Arinsu said "17."
Having come this far, she must have realized that she would lose.
But unfortunately for you, Arinsu, you had already lost the moment you had accepted my challenge! "18, 19—"
Right then.
"By the way, I recognized your strength, you know? I must say, I was very impressed, you didn't let down the name of the 'Sword' Saintess."
"Why, thank you. But it is too late for flattery, I won't let down my guard. Your trick won't work on me."
"Fufu, I suppose so. Oh, this is troubling. Then, 20."
"Yes, 21! You lost! …Huh? 21…? I-I lost?!?!"
Gong, I was shocked.
"Elmaaa…"
Eh, wha-, but how~?!