Day of Tounament

My parents' homeland — the Dulucan region region."

"...Huh? The Dulucan region? That's... beyond the Wilderness, isn't it?" Williameyes widened at the name of Kyle's destination.

"Yes, that's right."

"I only know as much as what I've read in books, but that place doesn't even

have proper diplomatic relations! It's far, there are no roads, no maps, and

there are dangerous creatures... you'd be risking your life if you go."

William's words implicitly expressed his disbelief towards Kyle's intentions to go.

That was how remote the Dulcan region was to the people of the Norveniaregion.

West of the Norvenia region was a vast expanse of land known as the Wilderness

— a neutral zone outside the control of humans. The Dulcan region was

located just beyond. Throughout history, ambassadors and expedition teams had left Norvenia for Dulcan through the Wilderness, but most of them gave up

midway and returned. The number of successful instances where people

reached Dulcan and returned could be counted on one hand. Any rational

person wouldn't even consider making the journey.

"Well, it's just a plan for now. I'd have to make the proper preparations

before heading out, of course. My parents were able to make it here, so the trip

itself can't be impossible," Kyle said calmly.

"You... don't seem to be joking, but... Dulcan, huh..."

Perhaps the matter was too far in the future to consider, or the destination

was too unfamiliar to him, as William couldn't quite process the idea. In his mind,

he naively believed that Kyle would either give up once he realized how harsh

the journey would be, or that he wasn't entirely serious about it. But William was

unaware of Kyle's motive for heading to the Dulcan region — his past.

Finally, the day of the tournament arrived.

"Hey, Kyle. Don't you mess this up. If you fight pathetically in your match, it'll

reflect badly on us too. Honestly, this is such a drag."

"I agree. Why was such a weakling selected to compete? The instructor's

orders may be absolute, but I still cannot comprehend it."

The students that were to participate in the tournament were gathered in a

waiting room, loudly expressing their disdain. The ones leading the barrage of

verbal abuse towards Kyle were James, the sixth year student, and

Steven Arbor, the fifth year student. Both were sons of great lords that

represented the kingdom, making them very influential figures within the

Academy. Nothing could have been more irksome than having those two lead

the onslaught of insults. However, Kyle was already used to their shrewd tactics.

He had endured more than enough insults in the years since his enrollment to

easily brush off the nobles.

"I am aware the role that has been bestowed upon me is unfitting for one of

my status. I will endeavor to avoid an unsightly match that would bring shame

upon everyone. Please, give me your mercy.

"Hmph. I haven't the slightest expectations for your performance — just

prepare yourself for the worst if you drag us through the mud. That's all."

"Of course," Kyle agreed, completely unfazed by James 'threat. Just then,

the door to the waiting room opened.

"It's time. You're up, Kyle." The swordcraft instructor came in.

"Yes, sir." Kyle immediately rose to his feet and placed a hand over his chest,

using the appropriate response etiquette.

The tournament format consisted of five matches that took place one after

another; it had been decided that Kyle would go first. Huge crowds of spectators

and students were packed into the stands of the arena where the tournament

was being held, their gazes fixed on the center of the field. It was there that Kyle

and his opponent faced each other to exchange a few brief words before the

first match unfolded. The knight took one look at Kyle's face and widened his

eyes in a look of surprise — which quickly turned to an expression of

annoyance. Kyle's brows also frowned a little upon seeing the knight.

"Hmph. I knew you were enrolled into the Academy, but I never imagined

you'd be the one to face me."

"It's good to see you again." Despite being similarly surprised to see his

opponent, Kyle still greeted him in a calm voice.

"Oho, so you remember me. It's been five years since our last encounter."

"Yes. Thank you for taking care of me back then, Lord Bahram."

The knight's name was Bahram Turner — the man who tortured Kyle in the

name of an interrogation five years ago.

"My apologies. My position at the time required me to use a harsher method

of investigation." Bahram looked down at Kyle with a sadistic sneer.

"It's fine, I've put it behind me. If I recall, you were terribly flustered at the

time — if anything, I'm the one who should express my apologies to you, Lord

Bahram, for not being of more use to you," Kyle said with a grin.

Despite his efforts, Bahram had failed to redeem himself for Eira's

kidnapping case and was severely demoted in rank. He had recovered some of his status in the past five years, but it didn't compare to when he had been in

line to be the next commander of the Royal Guard. There was no reason for

Bahram to feel resentful toward Kyle over what had happened, but it wouldn't

have been strange for Bahram to unjustly pin his resentment on him,

considering the circumstances at the time.

Sure enough, Bahram narrowed his eyes and glared at Kyle with contempt. His

mood had been fouled by the scathing sarcasm behind Kyle's words.

"...Let us have a good match today, then," Bahram said in a frosty voice. He

made no move to shake hands.

"Yes, let's. I will fight you with everything I have."

"I accept your challenge. There's no need to feel intimidated by my rank in

the Royal Guard — being daunted by our differences in experience will only

lead to your demise," Bahram informed him with a cold sneer.

"Yes, that is my intention," Kyle answered in a voice so calm, it bordered on

daring. Bahram' expression fell carefully blank.

"We will now begin the match. Both sides, draw your training swords."