Chapter 483: King of the Race

"Mmn～♪ Hmmn～♪ Hmm～♪ Mmn～♪" ［Eliza］

Soft hums and excited steps. A young lady skipped through the streets with a bright smile on her face. She was brimming with joy and full of energy, bringing along with her two children who were just as excited, holding her hands left and right.

It isn't very often that she visits another city, and so, she took her sweet time looking around and exploring the sides and corners of the streets with her glittering eyes. Had she been alone, she would have gone to a rampage and tried all sorts of new things.

She was the young lady of the Landevar house and by her side was Galvin and Bella whom she treats like her little siblings. Today, they are once again heading outside of the city and watching the finale of the horse racing competition unfold.

"Please go on ahead."

"Un! Thank you!" ［Eliza］

They then passed through the gates and with just a few more steps later, they finally arrived at the spectator seats located just right by the entrance, temporary platforms erected for the sake of the event and comfortable seats for everyone to enjoy.

The whole course runs throughout the entirety of the city walls, measuring a little over 8 kilometers long, filled with even more diverse and exciting traps and obstacles from yesterday's qualifiers. It was a 3-lap race which totals to about 25 kilometers.

Normally, they would have used the top of the city walls as the viewing platform for the race, but with Grey's help, they can now watch the entirety of the race live and see how it turns out from different angles without having to move seats.

Grey doesn't have enough cameras, but he can at least use illusion magic to relay his vision using some form of holographic screen. It will be a live broadcast with a total of 30 different screens capturing different areas of the tracks, all played simultaneously.

And to make things even more interesting, Grey and Yuna also suggested adding a few commentators to liven the whole place. It is normally impossible, but with the addition of Grey's broadcasting spell, it has become much easier.

"You sure are in a good mood... Did something happen?" ［Fritz］

"Un! Elder Sister Yuna and Elder Brother Grey cooked us the best breakfast! It was so delicious, it felt like I was melting away!" ［Eliza］

"Yeah! Big Brother Grey and Big Sis Yuna's cooking is the best!" ［Galvin］

"Hahaha. How envious... I wish we could have tried it too." ［Cedric］

After yesterday's qualifiers, Grey and Yuna, along with the children, quickly headed to Antoinette's 1st birthday party. Thankfully, it was held in the evening, and despite almost forgetting, they were still able to prepare everything they needed.

It was a wonderful time where everyone only had fun, forgetting their problems and just appreciating life as it is. They also wished the Little Angel a happy birthday, the Little Princess especially eager to give her her present.

The birthday party later ended, but it was already late at night. With a quick favor from the parents, they got permission to stay the night in the Royal Capital in their respective mansions, Grey and Yuna cooking breakfast later on.

"How about you two? Are you ready to win the championship?" ［Fritz］

"Haah... We just want to get this all over with... I didn't even think we would get this far. It's a little nerve-wracking, actually." ［Grey］

"Un... Now that we look at it closely, it feels like a dream that we're still here. I might still be even sleeping right now... I just want to sleep..." ［Yuna］

"Oh? That's rare... I thought you were confident in winning?" ［Fritz］

"That was yesterday... This is this, that is that..." ［Yuna］

Frankly, with barely a week of training, Grey didn't think they would even pass the qualifiers, but despite all the odds, they were able to pale in and now, they are standing before the tracks they will be racing at later on.

They were much calmer and confident yesterday, but now that they see just how long and arduous the tracks are, they finally realized just how brutal horse racing was once again. Reality hit them like a cannonball.

It wasn't just them who were nervous, but the younger participants as well. They all did their best to calm themselves down and look the competition straight in the eyes. The crown may be out of reach, but they will keep on trying.

"Mister Berns, you look so serious. That's so unlike you." ［Grey］

"I'm just trying to get into the right mindset. You might not believe it, but meditation does a lot for you. You should try it sometimes." ［Berns］

"Hahaha. We'll keep that in mind." ［Grey］

There was still some time before the competition, but so little to do. Everyone soon headed towards the viewing platforms and seated themselves comfortably, chatting about all sorts of things as they slowly wasted their time away.

Meanwhile, Grey also set up the screens for the event. He made sure that it was clear to everyone watching, especially to the commentators whose voices will be booming throughout the horse race and all over the city.

Soon enough, Logan arrived with Jasper and Sven behind him. He couldn't go past the qualifiers, but at least, he could provide horses for the competitors of the event. He was clearly excited, banners of his hand with Grey and Yuna's names on it.

Time flew by in a flash, and with every passing minute, more and more people arrived at the spectator seats, the participants also bringing their own horses with them. They are all in peak condition, ready to conquer the hill and take the crown.

"There he is... Baron Wensley... Looks calm as ever, I see..."

"As expected of a veteran. His horse riding skills are no joke."

"Do you think he'll win again this year?"

"Hahaha! Wanna make a bet on it then?"

One person made his entrance and the whole area was sent abuzz. All their eyes were on him, some looking at him with reverence, some with disdain, some with curiosity, some with determination, and some with a little bit of everything.

He has been a horse racing champion several hundred times, participating in many different races annually and taking the crown each time. There were a few times he was defeated, but he still came in close, only a couple seconds to spare.

Berns had competed with the old Baron a few times already, but he never got close to him, not even once. However, this year is different. He has poured in the most work he can, and he will make his mark in history. He was extremely determined.

"Oi, Berns! Don't you dare lose to that old man!"

"That's right! There's only two of you who passed the qualifiers! One must win!"

"I won't forgive you if you lose! Mark my words!"

They were loud and rowdy, but everyone was in full support of Berns as he took a final glance at his rival. He clenched his fist in excitement and answered everyone's high expectations with a smile on his face, his eyes burning with passion.

Just like that, time passed by in the blink of an eye and every participant arrived with their gallant steeds. The event staff members checked on everyone's conditions with a bit of magic, making sure there was no foul play involved in the race.

CLOP CLOP CLOP NEIGH NEIGH NEIGH

Of course, the whole event didn't start immediately. There were also some exhibition shows to entertain the spectators and build up the excitement, different riders showing off different skills and talents they honed to mastery.

There were riders who juggled on top of horses, horses who performed impossible acrobatics, there was some jousting, a show with flying pegasi, a formation dance with the mares and stallions, and so many more. It was a horse circus.

It wasn't boring at all, everyone cheering and clapping as each act was performed. The kids were especially happy, jumping up and down as they pointed at the horses, screaming to the top of their lungs as if there was no tomorrow.

"Grey, what are you thinking so hard about?" ［Yuna］

"Nothing, really... I just thought how wonderful it would have been to see a show with Sleipnirs. I would have caught some if I knew there were shows..." ［Grey］

"Ohh! Sleipnirs! I would also love to see a show with them too!" ［Yuna］

"Hey... Stop that disturbing talk of yours... Those Sleipnirs are B-rank beasts. Are you actually planning to destroy Galderia?" ［Cedric］

As usual, nothing common sense could handle was going inside Grey and Yuna's brains. They don't exactly know where they can find Sleipnirs, but it shouldn't be too hard. They are a little tempted to actually catch some for fun.

Shenanigans aside, the exhibition shows continued, and before long, the final act reached its conclusions. Claps and cheers echoed all over the plays, everyone in deep admiration for the performers and their talents.

After the exhibition shows, came a hearty lunch and some happy moments with the spectators and riders. Out of fun, Grey also suggested an interview to the performers and riders to be broadcasted throughout the screens, much to everyone's surprise.

"Fufufu! It is hard to learn horse acrobatics, but it's even more fun than challenging!"

"Horse riding... I've been doing it for 20 years, and though there are a lot of things to consider, I think learning to communicate with horses is the most important."

"Hahaha! It's not just about skill! It takes heart as well!"

However, it was a pleasant surprise to be sure. Everyone was on board and most of the riders and performers were up for an interview, their faces soon broadcasted all over the place and their voice booming with the help of wind magic.

Some gave useful tips and advice, some promoted their groups, some gave out merry greetings, some told hilarious jokes, and some were plain and boring. Regardless, everyone had fun with the interviews, spicing up the lunch experience.

"Horse riding, huh... Some people often forget this, but rest is also an important part of training. Remember that you don't just become a master in a single day. You need to enjoy other things as well lest your spirit will wear down..." ［Baron］

To be expected, the interview everyone took note of the most was the old Baron's. He gave some very helpful advice about horse riding and life in general, talking from his experience and making it simple so everyone can understand.

"Most importantly, don't do it because you have to, but because you love doing it. Life is short, so make the best out of it... Have fun while you still can." ［Baron］

They were but simple words, but somehow, it impacted everyone more than the old Baron ever thought. He may have hundreds of medals and thousands of admirers but what matters the most was himself. Horse riding is fun and that's why he loves it.

Other than the interviews, there were also great foods provided by Esperanza and enjoyed by everyone. They have the opportunity in their hands, so they might as well take it and promote their brand as much as they can. Cedric was terrifying.

In fact, he was even pursuing everyone during lunch, prompting the merchants to ask to sign for contracts and making it so that they have the upper hand. He was smiling all the time, but the merchants were already dancing on the palm of his hands.

"Elnart... Are you going to be like Cedric one day too...?" ［Yuna］

"Hm? Did you call me, Older Sister Yuna?" ［Elnart］

"Ah, nothing... I was just mumbling to myself..." ［Yuna］

There was no use thinking too much about it. Yuna simply stopped paying attention to Cedric and just enjoyed her meal. She is still nervous about the upcoming race, but eating makes her feel a lot better, a rush of sugar in her mouth.

The short hand circled twice and with the sun starting its descent, lunch was finally over and everyone was now relaxed. They all await a certain signal, many of the riders preparing themselves as eu stretches their bodies.

DING DING DING DING DING

Of course, with the shows and lunch now over, it was finally time for the main event. The 14 riders were called one after another, and they walked towards the starting line with their hands holding gently unto the reins, hearts beating fast.

Their faces were shown on the screen and their figures were displayed ever so gallantly. Everyone cheered for their favorite riders, some even betting for fun and some waving large banners to show their support, excited as can be.

"Wooh～! What a wonderful day it is, isn't it, everyone?!"

"Ahh～! It's been quite some time since we held something this exciting! This is the race you've all been waiting for and the day new legends will be born!"

"I heard there are some interesting characters in our race today, partner. What do you say we introduce them to our merry crowd?"

"Hahaha! I was just thinking the same thing!"

The commentators weren't any less excited either, making loud and lively comments as they introduced everyone one after another. Their voices thundered all throughout the spectator seats, and their excitement spreading like a contagious disease.

From the old Baron down to Berns, Grey, Yuna, and the final contestant, the excited commentators gave the grandest and loudest introductions, specially mentioning the ones who are participating in the race for the first time.

STOMP STOMP STOMP STOMP NEIGHHHHHH

The horses lined up neatly to their places, eyes shining brightly with excitement and competitiveness as they stomped their feet. All of them had massive and muscular builds, but do not be fooled! Their speed is nothing to be laughed about.

Bets continued to flood and cheers continued to roar. The momentum of excitement continued to build up as the final checking was ended. The track was now clear of potential hazards and the horses are now raring to zoom.

"Then! Without further ado!"

"In 3!... 2!... 1!..."

""Let the race begin!!"""

The signals finally rang and the first step was taken. Several dozen more followed until the ground started to rumble, massive horses picking up speed from a trot to a galloping in just a couple of seconds, breezing through the empty sections.

It was like a dangerous stampede, the ground shaking in excitement and clouds of dust brewing in the air as the horses passed one another. The competition was close and everyone was just a couple steps apart from one another... Well, not for long...

Just a couple seconds in, the participants had entered the obstacle zones and as soon as none was left behind, the mages then started using magic to create even more obstacles behind them for the upcoming laps.

"And we're off to an explosive start folks! Everyone is already at the obstacle zone and are zooming through the walls and hurdles!"

"It doesn't even look like the horses' feet are touching the ground! At this point, wouldn't it be better to say they are flying?!"

"Hahaha! You may be right, Partnerー Oh! Look at that! The contestants are already starting to drift away from one another! The obstacles really are something!"

"Is that an alternating wall?! Wooh～! That's not something you see everyday!"

The obstacle zone was where everyone had their true skills shine. It proved to show their mastery of the tracks and their speed at analyzing the situation. However, now, it isn't like the qualifiers where they were all alone.

With other horses and riders by their side, they also need to calculate their distance and male more complex decisions. One wrong move and they might bump to other riders, sabotaging not just the enemy but also themselves.

There was also the competitive temperament of the horses when racing with another horse. Grey was especially effective by such, Sven speeding up faster and faster and acting stubborn as it tried to pass its fellow horses.

"Whoa there, buddy! Not so fast!" ［Grey］

Even then, there was no need to fear. Grey is already used to dealing with Sven and though he still doesn't have full control over him, he can use his temperament to his advantage, steering as efficiently as he can as he avoids the enemies and obstacles.

As for Yuna, there was no need to worry. Though Jasper may be a little clumsy, she knows how to counter and complement him. When Jasper gets off balance, she can always use her weight and build up momentum to cancel any mistake.

Berns wasn't losing either. He may not have extreme abilities and senses as Grey and Yuna, but his guts tell him what to do. He kept his eyes straight despite the dust and made sure to consider the bigger picture all the time, taking the best route.

The old Baron, well... There was nothing more to say. He was zooming and cruising through the tracks without a care in the world, taking moves which looked risky and fatal, only to save it at the last moment and recover almost instantaneously.

"As expected of our champion! Baron Wensley is still leading the race and following him is the young master of Meloberyl Company!"

"Ohh～! Their Highnesses aren't losing ground either! Though they are still far from the lead, remember that they only started horse riding last week!"

"Is that even possible, Partner? There's no way those two are just beginners."

"They aren't called prodigies for nothing! I actually saw them starting their practice last week when I visited the stables, and let me tell you, they're nothing like this!"

"Hahaha! Looks like we got ourselves new rising stars!"

The commentators brought life to the broadcast, and for one reason or another, many of the people focused their attention to Grey and Yuna. Even if what the commentators said wasn't true, they are still the youngest in the game. It was insignificant.

Whilst the race progressed, so did the difficulty of the obstacles. Some increased in dimensions, some in numbers, and even the terrain became rougher and even more challenging. It was to the point it was to the point it was like a stony cliff.

The race continued and so did the glorious comments of the commentators. While most of the riders passed through the traps with little trouble, some unluckily bumped into one another and as a result, they took one another out.

With the start of the second half, only 10 of the previous 14 participants remained, and luckily, Grey and Yuna remained in the race. Things were only getting more intense, everyone greeted by a new set of traps and obstacles.

"We're in the 2nd lap, folks! And so far, Baron Wensley is still leading!"

"We still have Their Highnesses with us, but it seems they're lagging behind."

Unlike the 1st lap. The biggest problem was not lack of familiarity nor coordination, but the horses' physical capabilities. They have been running at top speed for so long, they have stood to tire out, some even panting.

It was finally time to change strategies, some slowing themselves down in order to recover some stamina and familiarize themselves even more with the environment. The 2nd lap was the perfect opportunity for Grey and Yuna.

While their horses may not be the fastest, both Sven and Jasper have incredible stamina and endurance which is incomparable to other horses. They easily closed the distance between their competitors, surpassing them soon after.

Those with similar horses kept on rushing, dashing and streaking through the difficult obstacles and running as if their lives depended on it. The 2nd lap continued similarly to the 1st, 3 more riders taken out as their horses tired out.

"We're now on our 3rd lap folks! Things are heating up!"

"Ohh! It seems like the horses are reaching their limits!"

The 3rd and final lap came and before a familiar terrain, the horses and riders rushed through the obstacles. They have now familiarized themselves with everything, taking the most efficient paths they can and making the most out of their time.

It may be because they rushed the whole 1st and 2nd lap without rest, but both Sven and Jasper are now running out of steam. Grey, Yuna, and some similar participants were forced to slow down to a trot before continuing ruther.

However, the same couldn't be said for the champion. He zoomed through the whole lap with only two others following after him. He dodged and jumped over the various obstacles, and before long, the finish line was in sight.

The old Baron gave his trusty partner a soft bump, prompting to speed up as fast as it could, jumping over the final hurdle and galloping through the flags. A couple other riders followed soon after, flags waved with much vigor.

"It's been decided! The victor has been decided! Baron Wensley dominates again!!"

"He's unbelievable! He hasn't even been passed a single time! A true legend!"

"The other riders weren't bad either! They are just as amazing!"

The old Baron won the event once again, raising his hand to the cheer of the crowd. It was a loud and chaotic moment, a cacophony of cheers ringing from the spectators and various names called out one after another.

All riders soon reached the finish line, and they were greeted by a flood of friends, family, and admirers, cheering them on with bright smiles on their faces. They were sweaty and covered in dust, but who cares. It was a happy occasion.

"Hey, Berns... Why are you so quiet? You don't need to take it to heart."

"That's right. There's still next year. Cheer up, you idiot."

All except one person... He simply continued staring at the results display on the holographic screen, eyes not moving a single bit. Not even 2nd place... He came in 3rd to the competition, a downcast expression on his faceー

"I... I... I did it! I reached 3rd place, you bastards! I wasn't even part of the top 5 last year, and now, I'm 3rd! Aren't I awesome?! Hey! I'm awesome, aren't I?" ［Berns］

... Or so everyone thought, but far from reality, he was actually very happy of the results, and proud of his progress. He was even faster than yesterday, making him extremely proud and drunk on his victory... They were fools for worrying....

As for Grey and Yuna, they didn't do too badly on their 1st horse racing competition either, coming in 6th and 7th place respectively. They might have ranked higher if they had conserved more stamina, but it was already satisfactory.

"Ah! There you are, my great disciples! How was your first race?" ［Berns］

"It was really fun. I think we might join again next year if we have the times." ［Grey］

"Un! And next time, we won't be losing! That's a promise!" ［Yuna］

"Hahaha! How lively!" ［Berns］

What came after the horse racing competition was the awarding ceremony and soon after, a grand party to celebrate everyone's progress. There were a lot of delicious goodies, a lot of fun games, and a lot of interesting people.

Of course, what's most important was that Grey and Yuna kept their promise to the kids. It may have been an unplanned endeavor, but they were happy that they did so, finding out a new hobby which the two of them really like. It was a great day.

CHAPTER 483 END