After three days of anticipation, the grand arena was packed with spectators eager to witness the final match of the combat tournament. The atmosphere was electric with excitement, and King Lawrence, along with his family, sat on an elevated platform, observing the event from above.
In the arena stood a young man with white hair, his brown coat fluttering gently in the breeze. He wielded an offensive-type B-tier sword, while his opponent, a smaller boy with a confident smile, held a B-tier strategic sword.
Announcer:
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the grand finale! In the first corner, we have the White Knight, Renzo, master of the offensive blade! And in the second corner, the cunning strategist, Kaito! Who will claim victory in this decisive battle? Let the fight begin!"
The battle began swiftly as Kaito vanished into thin air the moment the signal was given, leaving the crowd in awe. Renzo, calm and steady, readied himself, his sharp eyes scanning for any movement. Suddenly, an attack came from his right side, but Renzo deflected it confidently with his sword, earning cheers from the spectators.
The attacks continued to escalate, with Kaito utilizing his strategic abilities smartly, striking from unexpected angles. Yet, Renzo displayed remarkable strength and adaptability, countering each strike with precision, causing the audience to chant his name enthusiastically.
As the fight progressed, Kaito's energy began to wane. His final attack, a daring strike from above, aimed to end the match, but Renzo countered it flawlessly. With a crushing blow from his sword, infused with the weight of rocks, Renzo brought Kaito to the ground, claiming victory.
The crowd erupted in applause, their cheers echoing throughout the arena. King Lawrence nodded in approval from his seat.
Hans (excitedly):
"Father, he's an exceptional fighter!"
Yurio (smiling):
"Indeed, he is. I look forward to facing him someday."
Lawrence (calmly):
"He's a valuable asset to our combat force for the upcoming exploratory mission. We can't afford to lose someone as strong as him."
King Lawrence rose from his seat and descended to the arena. He produced an A-tier dagger and presented it to Renzo. As Renzo grasped the dagger, it glowed faintly with a blue light, responding to his strength and submitting to him.
For a brief moment, Lawrence's thoughts drifted to the memory of his son, Kingoro, failing to awaken his sword in front of the crowd. The memory weighed heavily on his heart, casting a shadow over his pride.
Later that night, a few hours after the tournament, Kingoro lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling. His mind was clouded with doubt and fear.
Kingoro (to himself):
"What can I do if I fight with them in the dungeon? I'm useless... I won't be able to contribute anything of value."
As he drowned in his thoughts, the door to his room opened suddenly. His mother, Hisana, entered, carrying a small bag, which she placed beside him.
Hisana:
"I brought you some food infused with B-tier magical energy. It can help raise your mana levels."
Kingoro looked at his mother hesitantly.
Kingoro:
"I'm scared, Mother... I don't know if I can adapt."
Hisana smiled and gently patted his shoulder.
Hisana:
"Fear is normal, but strength comes from within you. You'll find your way—trust in that."
Hours passed, and midnight arrived. Kingoro was awoken by a faint sound. He moved to his window and saw the training grounds illuminated. Powerful commanders from the kingdom's army were there, training under the watchful eye of his father, Lawrence, with Yurio and Hans standing alongside them.
Kingoro's gaze shifted to the table beside his bed, where he noticed a set of armor and a sword imbued with magical energy. He donned the armor, gripped the sword tightly, and stepped out of his room with determined steps.
When he arrived at the training grounds, all training ceased, and everyone turned to look at him. Kingoro walked forward, his eyes shining with resolve.
Kingoro:
"I'm ready now, Father."