A private room had been prepared for the participants of the tournament.
After receiving a plate at the reception and writing my tournament name on it, I stuck it on the door and decided to take a break until noon. While I was lazing around, I heard a voice coming from the hallway.
“–Lina-chan, do your best today! If Lina-chan wins, I’ll receive plenty of research funding as your mentor! Give it your all, with everything you’ve got! With everything!”
“–Honestly, I didn’t want to participate… Well, I’ll do it moderately. It’ll be a good practice opportunity.”
I thought that since this is my private waiting room, they would just pass by. But–
“–Don’t say that, just do your best! If Lina-chan doesn’t give it her all… Wait, is someone there? Trespassing?”
At the same time as that voice, the door opened. For some reason, it was the door to my private room.
“‘Participant Name: Rage’… This isn’t the right place. I’m sorry. This person is a bit strange–“
The ones who entered were a woman with a magical robe and a sparkling atmosphere, and a girl with strong-looking eyes, long hair tied up with hairpins and let down on both sides.
What they had in common was… red hair and long ears like elves.
They looked like girls with a similar appearance to Charl. Why is that? I feel like I’ve seen them before, very familiar.
Or rather…
“…Huh, you seem familiar, have we met somewhere before?”
“It’s our first meeting, isn’t it? I’ve never seen or heard of you before.”
The red-haired girl, Lina, put her hand on her chin and stared at my face with a curious expression. I calmly covered my face with my hand and gestured for them to leave.
“Well, it must be my imagination. You’re wearing weird glasses, and that guy had black hair… Besides, even if we meet here, I can’t win with my current self. I have to become stronger before challenging… because I can’t kill him yet.”
“I apologize,” Lina said as she grabbed the woman in the robe and left.
“Phew…”
After the door slammed shut, I sank deep into the chair, letting out a sigh.
So many thoughts flooded my mind, like why Lina was here, my relief at having the ‘flower glasses’ as a backup, why my life was being targeted, and that unforgettable crimson flame. It was you, don’t mess with me… But…”
With a determined expression on my face, I interrupted my inner monologue and spoke up.
“After everything is over, let’s escape as soon as possible.”
———————————————-
.
[–From this moment onward, the 57th Magi Cosmaia Magic Tournament Charll commence! All players in their respective blocks are requested to assume their designated positions.–]
The much-anticipated Magic Tournament finally began after the announcement of the tournament schedule.
The total number of participants in this tournament is 64, which may seem relatively small compared to other larger tournaments with hundreds of participants.
However, every participant has been carefully chosen and is a formidable competitor, leaving no room for complacency.
The tournament is scheduled to take place over three days. On the first and second days, there will be elimination matches in Blocks A to D, followed by a round-robin match on the final day among the four winners who advanced.
The tournament format varies each year, sometimes starting with a round-robin or a team battle with two to four members. However, it appears that neither of these formats will be used this time. Personally, I find the round-robin format more convenient. Elimination matches have higher overall odds, and that plan feels like a dream unfolding.
[–Now, Lady Elena, the organizer, will offer some words of encouragement to the players. Lady Elena, please proceed.]
At the signal from the host, the magical devices activated, and a projection materialized in the air.
Surprisingly, the luxurious room displayed in the projection appeared empty, without a single figure present.
I wondered if there was a malfunction with the magical devices. Suddenly, a loud crashing noise resonated.
[Huff, huff… Greetings, everyone. I am Elena Timid Noblest, Magikosmaia’s 6th Princess.]
A slightly breathless blonde girl emerged, gracefully bowing before the audience.
With her distinctively curly golden hair and sapphire-like blue eyes, she exuded an air of nobility and elegance.
[Firstly… I would like to express my profound gratitude in this moment. It is truly an honor for me to participate as the organizer in this prestigious Magic Tournament.]
Clad in an extravagant dress, the girl delivered her welcoming words with ease. Her noble and dignified demeanor, coupled with her stunning appearance, drew admiration from the participants and spectators alike. She truly embodied the image of a princess, causing even those who had previously mocked her as the 6th Princess to be pleasantly surprised.
I, too, found myself taken aback. I had assumed she must be quite eccentric to create such magical devices, but hasty judgments often prove unreliable. It’s important to engage in self-reflection and avoid quick judgments.
As I was impressed by this sudden shift in evaluation…
[–Stica, what does it say there? It’s difficult for me to read.]
[–Allow me to read it for you. I will make it easier next time, even a baby could understand it.]
[–I see, thank you!… Wait, did you just mock me?]
[–I did not.]
The two of them continued their conversation calmly as if nothing had happened. Noble? Hmm?
[During the matches, a protective barrier called the Barrier Field will be in place to prevent injuries. However, I kindly request that all participants respect their opponents and approach the matches with integrity and noble spirits. Please read this part gently.]
It became evident that Lady Elena was reading from cue cards, occasionally focusing on specific points and unintentionally reading parts that weren’t intended to be read. Her initial impression began to crumble.
[–It’s because Stica didn’t prepare properly! I specifically asked for it to be written in an easy-to-understand manner!]
[–Apologies, young lady. It was my mistake to misjudge your intelligence.]
[–Ahhh! You made fun of me, didn’t you?! You’re making fun of me again!!]
[–I did not. –I did not. I simply stated the facts.]
[–But it hurts even more! I won’t forgive you–]
Unaware that her voice was reaching us, she continued arguing behind the scenes. The audience remained serious, and I maintained my composure.
[…………Uh, Lady Elena, thank you for your words of encouragement!]
The projected image suddenly disappeared, and the host concluded with a wry smile.
And so, the Magic Tournament began with a rather underwhelming and awkward atmosphere.
———————————————-
.
[Introducing the participants for the first match of Block A–and what a prestigious name it is, personally recommended by Principal Aldi! Participant Rage, known as the “D-Class Adventurer!”]
Collecting myself, I confidently stepped onto the arena for the upcoming match. As my registered tournament name was loudly announced, sporadic cheers erupted from the audience in Block A.
On the magic board, my odds were displayed as thirty to one.
“Hmm, not that what I expected… Well, I guess it’ll be fine.”
I had anticipated the odds to be fifty to one, but perhaps Aldi’s recommendation had raised some expectations. Nevertheless, the odds for this match were not of great significance. What mattered more was–
“–Sensei! Treat us if you win, okay?”
“–Jirei-kun! Do your best!”
As I contemplated, familiar voices resonated from the audience.
I turned my gaze and spotted five students, including Rudas and Charl, waving happily from their seats.
With a wry smile, I lightly waved my hand back at the audience.
I knew Charl would be there, but it surprised me that those kids had come too. Considering their fame, one might expect them to have guards nearby. However, knowing Aldi, he probably discreetly assigned guards to avoid causing any disturbance. Most likely.
“Well, they… well, they made it here.”
While scanning the spectator seats, I spotted the people I was looking for—Luna and Yuri. It was a relief to see that they hadn’t backed out.
…By the way, I’m currently wearing the dreaded and hideous magical device called the “Hanamegane” (Flower Glasses).
I really didn’t want to wear it, but apparently, the sixth princess, who had greeted me oddly earlier, was here to watch the match. Tearfully, the tournament staff implored, “We can’t force you, but please wear it and participate.” So, reluctantly, I agreed. I wished I could smash it into the ground right now.
[On the other hand, his opponent is the “Valiant Hero,” the champion of the 54th Magic Tournament! He is also a strong contender in this tournament, famous for single-handedly defeating an S-Class monster, the Cyclops Giant–“Battle Demon,” participant Gran-Raubust!]
The announcer introduced my opponent, a muscular giant donning thick full plate armor.
Simultaneously, an enthusiastic cheer erupted in Block A.
The odds displayed on the magic board for the giant were 105 to one—quite low.
Considering his reputation as a top contender, it was clear that no one doubted his victory.
In other words… I was perceived as a weakling.
But that’s precisely why our plan would succeed.
“Well then… both participants, please begin the match!”
The whistle signaling the start of the match sounded, and we faced each other.
“Forfeit. You can’t defeat me.”
As I observed my opponent’s reaction, the giant named Gran spoke in a deep, rumbling voice. Was he provoking me?
“You won’t know unless you try, right?”
“Don’t misunderstand. I’m saying it for your sake… Wounds heal, but the implanted fear doesn’t disappear.”
Gran lowered his gaze slightly, still keeping his eyes fixed on the “Block A First Battle Area,” wearing a discontented expression.
“Oh… I see what you mean.”
I glanced at Gran and understood his intention.
[Competition Arena]
The competition arena, a type of illusionary barrier called the “Falsehood Barrier,” would be restored to its original state even if it suffered damage during the match. However, memories wouldn’t be erased.
This man, concerned about my defeat, must have given me a warning in advance. I thought he was provoking me, but it seems not. He might unexpectedly be a good person. But…
“Sorry, but… I can’t forfeit. I can’t afford to lose.”
“Hmm… You’re facing it without hesitation… That’s a good spirit. I like it.”
Gran glanced at me in surprise and let out an admiring sigh. Perhaps I should just tell him that my motivation is purely driven by the prize money.
“Very well then… in response to your bravery, I, Gran-Raubust, pledge to give my all in this match.”
Gran infused his entire body with fighting spirit and effortlessly wielded the massive sword on his back with a single hand.
A tremendous aura surrounded him.
As expected of the champion of the 54th tournament. Just his presence exerted pressure on the surroundings, making them tremble.
“Here I come.”
A moment later, Gran kicked the ground with enough force to create cracks and charged toward me.
Despite his imposing figure, he moved with unexpected agility.
If that colossal sword were swung at this speed, not even an imperial-class barrier magic would be enough to defend against it.
As Gran closed in on me…
I briefly glanced at Luna and Yuri in the spectator seats.
They appeared extremely anxious, but I reassured myself. The outcome of this match was not my primary concern. I was more worried about whether Luna and the others could execute the “plan” successfully.
Yes, that “plan” that had come to me like a revelation…
———————————————-
.
“Huh? You’re willing to bet everything on me?”
I called out to Luna and explained the outline of my revolutionary plan. Luna’s eyes widened in surprise as she responded.
“Yeah… yeah, I can’t bet on myself according to the tournament rules… so I want you guys to do it.”
“but wouldn’t that be considered cheating?”
“It’s fine. I’m not betting on myself.”
To reassure Luna, I confidently declared. While it was forbidden to bet on oneself, there were no rules against having someone else place a bet on your behalf. In other words, it was perfectly legal.
“But what if you lose, and we only have this little money…”
“Great Demon Lord! Let’s do it! If he loses, I’ll turn him into mincemeat!”
Luna hesitated, her eyes fixed on the few coins she had taken out of her pocket. Yuri encouraged her with his spirited declaration.
With Yuri’s encouragement, Luna began to waver. She mumbled worriedly, “Um… gambling isn’t good, and we only have a small amount of money…” Just a little more, we were so close.
Since Luna seemed concerned about the money, I spoke gently to reassure her.
“Don’t worry. I’ll contribute a little to the betting amount as well. It doesn’t matter if the total is small. After all, we’re not betting on just one match.”
“? What do you mean?”
Luna tilted her head cutely, her eyes questioning me.
To provide a clear explanation, I opened my mouth.
“In other words–“
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