Klein and Odette stepped into an open area of the training grounds, drawing the attention of the mages and knights nearby. Their hushed whispers quickly turned into an eager murmur as the prospect of a duel between two esteemed figures—one a seven-star aura knight, the other an A- rank mage—caught everyone's interest.
Arthur moved to a safe vantage point, his anticipation growing. Klein then gestured for the nearby mages to clear the area. "Give us some space to demonstrate our skills."
Klein then unsheathed his aiming sword, the blade gleaming in the midday sun. He adjusted his stance, a picture of discipline and power. "Are you ready, Ms. Odette?"
Odette, holding her wooden staff adorned with faint runes, nodded. Her brown curls swayed slightly as she stepped into position, her expression calm but focused. "I'm ready, Captain. Don't hold back too much, or it won't be worth my time."
Arthur smirked at her confidence, finding himself further intrigued.
Klein chuckled. "I'll try not to disappoint."
The moment he spoke, Odette moved into action. She raised her staff and began an intricate incantation, her voice clear and commanding. As the spell completed, she drove her staff into the ground with authority. In an instant, the environment transformed—frost spread out in every direction, the ground beneath them turned into a treacherous sheet of ice, and massive blocks of crystalline ice erupted from the earth, creating obstacles and barriers to hinder Klein's movements.
Arthur's eyes widened in awe. Incredible! She's shaping the battlefield to her will, like a queen commanding her icy domain. This is what magic is capable of! His amazement quickly turned bittersweet as jealousy crept into his thoughts. Why couldn't I have been reincarnated into someone who could wield magic? It's so much more versatile and powerful.
But before he could dwell further, Odette's staff began to glow again. She chanted another spell, her voice steady yet urgent, and a brilliant magic circle materialized near her staff. This time, the air seemed to freeze even further as jagged ice projectiles began launching from the circle in rapid succession, each shard a deadly missile aimed at Klein.
Arthur leaned forward, his heart pounding. She's relentless, attacking while forcing him to move in this frozen ground. It's a perfect combination of offense and defense.
Despite the overwhelming display of magic, Klein remained calm. His aura flared around him, a shimmering shield of energy that radiated confidence and power. He weaved through the projectiles with precision, using his sword to deflect or shatter those he couldn't dodge.
Klein smirked as he dodged another icy shard. "You're making me work for it, Ms. Odette. I like the challenge."
Odette's lips curved into a faint smile. "I wouldn't want to disappoint either, Captain."
Arthur continued watching intently, noticing a subtle pattern. Each time Odette cast a new spell, there was a brief pause—a momentary delay as she chanted and focused. It was slight but noticeable to someone like Klein, who was always searching for an opening.
Klein pressed forward, his movements fluid despite the icy terrain. He leapt onto one of the ice blocks Odette had summoned, using it as a springboard to close the distance. His sword gleamed as he brought it down with force, shattering part of the icy ground and sending shockwaves that caused the frost to crack and splinter.
Odette stumbled slightly, her footing compromised, but she quickly stabilized herself, raising her staff to conjure another blizzard. The storm obscured her figure, shrouding her in a swirling veil of snow and ice.
Arthur marveled at the spectacle. She's incredible—turning defense into offense seamlessly. But... that delay in her casting. Klein will exploit it if she's not careful.
Klein crouched low, scanning the blizzard for any sign of movement. He wasn't just strong—he was a tactician. His eyes narrowed as he caught a flicker of light within the storm, the telltale glow of another spell being prepared. Without hesitation, he dashed forward
As the blizzard began to dissipate, Odette aimed her staff at him, releasing a massive spear of ice. Klein sidestepped just in time, the spear grazing his armor as it crashed into the ground with a deafening crack.
"You're quick," Odette said, her voice steady despite her labored breathing.
"And you're formidable," Klein replied, closing the gap with a burst of speed.
Before Odette could finish her next incantation, Klein was in front of her, his sword poised just inches from her staff.
Odette exhaled slowly, lowering her staff. "You got me, Captain," she admitted, her tone a mix of respect and fatigue.
Klein stepped back, lowering his sword with a respectful nod. "You put up an incredible fight, Ms. Odette. Your magic is nothing short of extraordinary."
Arthur clapped enthusiastically, breaking the tension. "That was amazing! The way you both fought—Odette, your control of the battlefield was masterful, and Klein, your adaptability was stunning. Thank you both for this demonstration."
Odette bowed slightly, "It was an honor, Your Majesty."
Klein wiped the sweat from his brow, offering a small smile. "Indeed, Your Majesty. I hope you found it insightful."
Arthur nodded thoughtfully. "It truly was insightful. Even though I lack any talent for magic, witnessing this has been both educational and inspiring. Magic is such a marvel, and seeing how it's used strategically is incredible. Also, congratulations on your victory."
Klein smiled modestly and replied, "Thank you. It was expected, given my strength, but I have to admit, Odette made it challenging with her clever use of the surroundings and her relentless attacks."
Arthur smiled, appreciating Klein's humility. His eyes wandered to the training grounds, where most of the mages who had been watching the duel had returned to their drills and spell practice. The air crackled faintly with residual magic as Arthur observed their dedication.
His attention was drawn to a particularly lively corner of the grounds, where two mages were locked in a fierce duel. Spells of fire and wind clashed midair, creating bursts of light and shockwaves that captivated his gaze. The intensity of their battle stirred his curiosity.
"Klein," Arthur said, turning to him, "I see another duel taking place over there. I'd like to watch it and learn more about how mages fight against each other. You don't need to join me—feel free to take a break or oversee the training here."
Klein then replied. "Are you sure, Your Majesty? I could accompany you."
Arthur shook his head with a kind smile. "You've already done more than enough today. Watching your duel was enlightening, and I know you're responsible for more than just shadowing me all day. Besides, I'd like to observe this duel on my own, to get a fresh perspective."
Klein hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Understood, Your Majesty. If you need anything, I'll be nearby."
Arthur waved him off and began walking toward the dueling mages, his heart beating with excitement. He was eager to see how two magic users clashed in a contest of skill and strategy without the presence of an aura knight.
As he approached, the intensity of the duel became more apparent. A male mage with flowing crimson robes commanded fire with precise gestures, while his opponent, a female mage in a cloak of emerald, wielded wind magic to counter and redirect his attacks. Arthur was mesmerized by their movements, which were both graceful and tactical, each spell a dance of power and ingenuity.
This is different from the duel between Klein and Odette, Arthur thought, observing the subtle interplay of magic. Even though they are not as strong or powerful as the previous battel, here, it's all about countering, outmaneuvering, and controlling the battlefield with pure magical prowess.
As Arthur observed the battle, the male mage in crimson robes conjured a searing fireball and hurled it toward his opponent. The female mage, quick on her feet, summoned a gust of wind to deflect the blazing projectile, redirecting it away from herself.
But the new trajectory sent the fireball hurtling straight toward Arthur.
The male mage's eyes widened in alarm as he realized the unintended danger. "Your Majesty, look out!" he shouted, his voice sharp with urgency.
Arthur turned his head just in time to see the fireball streaking toward him. His heart raced, but there was no time to dodge. The world seemed to slow as the flaming orb closed the gap.
Yet, just as it was about to make impact, the fireball abruptly vanished, dissipating into thin air without leaving so much as a wisp of smoke or a trace of heat.
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Not part of the story.
Happy new years to all the reader and hope you all are ready for 2025. Also I hope you all enjoying this story so far. If you could please leave a feedback, review, or comment. Thank you :)