Guards and other staff roaming the castle grounds begin preparing themselves early in the morning.
Although they aren’t of high enough status to attend today’s rumored gathering, they know that it’s a big day for Lady Ilene and the Mahora family.
Because of that, more people fill the stone pathways at this hour than usual as a blur flies across the grounds.
Most only catch a glimpse of it, but those with training can almost swear that it looks like the new Blade.
******
After a rushed wash and dry, Ryuu steps into his room and redresses.
If it wasn’t for the enchantments on his suit and pants he would be running late, but fortunately for him, the self-repair function also acts as a cleaner.
A few moments after making sure he’s presentable, a sharp knock echoes through his door.
“Ryuu, it’s me. I’m coming in.”
Ilene barges into the room without waiting for an answer.
Ryuu’s turned away for the moment, but can hear the clack of what sounds like heels from behind him.
“Sorry about the clothing, Ryuu. I had planned on grabbing you an outfit to match with me, but I lost track of time yesterday. We’ll have to make due with your usual suit.”
Ryuu stifles a scoff as he turns and replies, “Why would I want to match with-”
His voice breaks the moment Ilene enters his view.
Instead of the usual military coat and long skirt, she’s donned a midnight blue a-line dress.
Crescent-moon earrings dangle around her face, their silver surface reflecting light in a similar fashion as her hair.
Naturally, her heels are the same shade as her dress, which, when paired with her long silver gloves, gives her the complete “noble” appearance.
“What?” she teases with a slight smirk.
“Cat got your tongue?”
“No… I haven’t seen you in anything other than your usual outfit before. I guess this reminded me of your standing.”
She squints her eyes at him.
“Living in this castle, training and food of this quality…and this dress is how you’re reminded of that? What am I going to do with you?”
“Alright alright, just fill me in on the schedule. I’m still in the dark on most of this.”
“It’ll be simple. We’re about to make our way to the reception hall across town ahead of everyone else. We’ll have a little time to prepare ourselves before guests start arriving, with the two of us greeting them as they enter. You can relax though. I’ll do most of the talking, unless someone specifically addresses you. After that, we just need to look nice, and act even nicer. My father will gather everyone’s attention and make an announcement, then they’ll all be distracted by food and drink.”
She takes a breath following her explanation, then continues, “You can handle that, right?”
Ryuu scratches his cheek and replies, “Yeah, of course I can. Talking to people is no biggie.”
Ilene nods and steps closer to him, hooking her arm through his.
“Sure it is. Just keep your usual bluntness to a minimum, if you would. I don’t need you offending allied or neutral nobility when all of the attention is on us.”
“I’ve got it, geez. If you’re so worried, I can always stay here…”
He doesn’t get a reply, and instead is led by the arm out of the tower.
******
Their trip across the Gold District goes without issue.
Most of the distance is covered by carriage in order to avoid the public eye.
The pair arrives at the reception hall within the hour, and is greeted by Duke Alastair himself.
He wears his usual blue and gold robes, representing Mahora as a whole as he ushers them inside.
The exterior of the hall is simple enough.
Being in the Gold District, its size is considerable, yet mostly consists of gold trimming and cleanly-cut marble.
The interior, however, somehow appears larger than the building can hold.
The reception hall itself is one giant room, with a dome ceiling bending upward, and pristine quartzite flooring.
Banners and murals litter the walls, while elegant, golden script flows up into the ceiling.
A sea of tables cover the far side of the room, and an elevated platform in the center of it all serves as a stage of sorts.
“Well, what do you think?” Alastair asks them.
“This has been the place of gathering within our city for generations, albeit less formal than my hall in the castle. I believe that the two of you will be able to properly shine here today.”
“It looks amazing, Lord Alastair.”
“Yes, Father. It’s more spectacular than I remember.”
He smiles and leads them to the far end of the hall, where a thick set of curtains cut off the back area.
Numerous staff are working behind the curtains, moving around and preparing things without even stopping to greet them.
The duke glances over his shoulder.
“These fine people are the ones responsible for getting everything set up so quickly. They’ll also be catering and keeping an eye on things, so be sure to learn their faces while you can. With that, I’ll be taking my leave for now. I have the wonderful responsibility of making sure all of our guests arrive without a hitch.”
He walks off, leaving the two of them alone with the busy staff.
Ilene pats Ryuu on the back and gives him a devilish grin.
“It’s almost show time. Are you ready for an afternoon of laying it on heavy, Love?”
“Ugh. It wouldn’t be so bad if it was a one-time thing.”
Ryuu’s eyes suddenly light up.
“Hey, if someone starts pressuring you too hard, then as your Blade, am I allowed to-”
“No. You will not be hitting anyone or anything here today. No matter how rude someone is, or how far they step out of line. You may only act in this kind of setting when it’s obvious I’ll be harmed if you don’t.”
He shrugs.
“I was just lightening the mood. Believe me, I don’t want to deal with what’ll happen after I knock someone out either.”
They soon devolve into their usual small talk and banter.
Time passes faster than they realize; they only come to their senses when the entrance swings open, and a few groups of nobles waltz inside.
Ilene instantly composes herself, muttering out of the corner of her mouth, “This must be the punctual group. It’s time to go. Keep up.”
Ryuu follows close behind as they move to greet the families.
To his surprise, he actually recognizes two of the guests.
“Leon? Belynda? What’re you guys doing here?”
Leon grins and gives a thumbs up, his muscles rippling beneath his crimson suit jacket.
“Hahaha! I guess I never mentioned it, but the Acers are a viscount family! I managed to surprise you, right?!”
Belynda covers her mouth with an ornate fan, and Ryuu can’t help but notice the expensive lavender fabric draped around her.
In addition, some type of animal fur loosely wraps around her neck, providing a layer of defense against the northern chill.
“I, for one, told you I’d be here during class,” she sighs.
“It can’t be helped if I’m so insignificant you don’t remember.”
As Ryuu apologizes to her, six older nobles step forward.
A man with well-groomed dark hair and a commanding presence speaks first.
“It’s nice to see you again, Lady Ilene. And I’m glad I’ve finally gotten the chance to meet you, Sir Ryuu. My name is Maxwell Serafall, and this is my wife Gwendolyn. We’re Belynda’s parents.”
Ryuu firmly shakes the man’s hand as his wife steps forward, offering her own hand.
He could’ve guessed this was Belynda’s mother on his own, considering she simply looks like the more grown-up version of his class president.
He takes Gwendolyn’s hand with grace, going through the motions that Ilene hammered into him as she exclaims, “What a gentleman! From what our little Belynda has had to say, I imagined you as quite the ruffian, but you’re nothing like that! I hope you continue to get along with our daughter in class!”
He shoots a quick glance at Belynda as she raises her fan even higher and averts her eyes, making a silent vow to grill her about it later.
After that, two people that are without a doubt Leon’s parents move into view.
The man is the same size as Master Nolan–sporting a fiery-red crew cut and the same loud grin as his son–yet is bundled in a tight-fitting tuxedo.
His wife isn’t much different; her hair is a deeper shade of crimson that falls down her back in a long braid, complimenting the beautiful sea-green dress that hugs her figure.
Both of them have startlingly green eyes, which raises questions about Leon’s golden eyes, but Ryuu keeps his confusion to himself.
“Sir Ryuu! We’re Martin and Kris of the Acer family, better known as the parents of the Crimson Prodigy! I hear you’ve been sparring with our son quite a bit! I hope he isn’t treating you too roughly!”
Martin comes in close and puts Ryuu into a headlock under his arm.
The action is playful enough, but from this distance, he can sense that Martin could kill him in an instant if the energetic man felt like it.
Before Ryuu can say anything, Kris smacks her husband on the back of the head.
“Let go of him, darling. You’re giving a bad first impression.”
Kris’s face is disturbingly calm as she speaks, while sweat suddenly begins pouring down Martin’s face.
“O-of course, honey. I just wanted to show Sir Ryuu that…we…appreciate…”
His voice trails off as Kris continues staring with an almost too-perfect smile, then she turns to Ryuu.
“I cannot properly express how thrilled I am to meet a friend of Leon’s. Due to his strength, he has trouble connecting with others his age, so I hope you’ll continue to stick by his side in the future.”
He gives an unsure nod as she drags Martin away, then he turns to Ilene after noticing they never greeted her.
She simply gives a light grin and shakes her head, suggesting she’s used to how they are.
The third unknown pair of nobles steps up soon after.
Ryuu notes the regal way they hold themselves–a hint of superiority in the air around them.
The first to speak is a woman in an elegant white dress–with lace covering her chest and midsection–as well as a floppy white hat and veil that cover her face.
“How do you do, Ilene? It’s been a while since we last spoke.”
Ilene greets her with a genuine smile, something Ryuu doesn’t see often.
“Yes, it’s been too long, Lady Evelyn. How has the city of Titania been faring?”
“Oh, as well as ever, I suppose. If anything had gone wrong, I’m sure news would have reached you by now.”
They share a silent laugh, then the lady turns to Ryuu.
“And you are the rumored man? Passing the Blade exam as an Apprentice A’yang is no small feat. It’s practically unheard of. I’m very interested in getting to know more about you.”
“Of course, um, Lady…Evelyn?”
“Oh, pardon me. Seeing Ilene again after so long seems to have caused me to forget my manners. I am Lady Evelyn Gris, duchess and ruler of the floating city, Titania.”
She then gestures to the person beside her: a lean man, with auburn hair tied into a loose ponytail that drapes over his shoulder.
He appears to be some kind of butler–given his charcoal tailcoat and white gloves–though his round, yellow-tinted glasses are an interesting addition.
“This is my Blade, Lucian Freed. Although he’s not much older than you, he’s your senior in this field, so it would be nice if you could receive some knowledge from him in your journey to aid Ilene.”
She tilts her head once she finishes speaking, jolting Ryuu out of his silence, and he replies, “My name is Ryuu, and as you’ve mentioned, I am now Ilene’s Blade. It’s a pleasure to meet you both.”
Lady Evelyn lightly giggles at this, while Lucian adjusts his glasses with a sharp look.
“Passable, but it’s clear you’re not used to conducting yourself in this manner. We need to get you into shape before more guests arrive. Lady Evelyn, Lady Ilene, if you’ll excuse us.”
Lucian pulls Ryuu away before he can protest, then he watches helplessly as Lady Evelyn passively stares, and Ilene mockingly waves goodbye.
***Ilene***
Ilene watches as Ryuu is dragged away, then shifts her attention once Lady Evelyn starts to speak again.
“He seems like a nice enough young man. I trust you’re confident in your choice?”
“I am. Ryuu may seem rough around the edges, but he’s gifted and intelligent. Given time, he’ll surely become an indispensable ally for the Mahora family.”
“Hmmm. Well, it would seem Lucian has already come to a similar conclusion. He wouldn’t have bothered showing any interest otherwise.”
Loud footsteps behind them catch their attention, then the two women face the entrance and find a swarm of people jostling into the hall.
The venue is immediately filled with nobility of different cities and bordering nations, causing the pair to split up.
“I’ll leave you to your responsibilities for now,” Lady Evelyn calls out.
“Hopefully we’ll have a chance to talk again before it’s all over.”
They nod at each other before parting ways.
Ilene moves to greet the incoming guests, spotting many people that have visited the capital in the past, as well as a few new faces.
Thirty minutes pass before the crowd finally disperses and gives her some breathing room, which she makes full use of by retreating to a corner of the room.
Honestly, where is Father?
I know he said he had to take care of some final preparations, but I’m already getting tired of having to entertain these people.
She shakes her head.
No.
If I want to be a duchess in the future, I must be able to handle events like this with ease.
I cannot allow myself to waver here!
Just as she resolves herself to rejoin the fray, a haughty voice calls out.
“Well, well! If it isn’t Ilene~!”
She freezes in place, then slowly turns to face the voice.
It’s as she had feared: Emma’s here.
A beautiful woman with curled blonde hair and eyes the shade of lapis lazuli exaggeratedly waves as she walks over.
Her pale-pink, strapless dress ripples with every movement, although the multicolored rings adorning her hands are what catch most of the onlookers’ attention.
“Ilene? Why are you ignoring me?”
“Emma… I didn’t think you’d come.”
“Why not?! How could I ever miss an event like this! The chance to see your Blade in person is something I would happily throw my very important schedule in the garbage for!”
She raises her hand to her mouth as she loudly laughs at her own words, drawing even more attention from the mingling nobles.
Perfect, just when I thought this couldn’t get any worse.
Emma De’shine, the daughter of a duke to the west of here.
Ever since we were kids, she’s declared herself as some kind of rival of mine, always making a show of staying one step ahead.
I suppose she’s here to spy on Ryuu and I, considering she’s yet to acquire a Blade of her own.
Ilene clears her throat and straightens her shoulders.
“Forgive me for causing you to bend your oh-so-important schedule, but I appreciate the gesture. You can leave now.”
“Whaaaat? Don’t be a meanie~ Come on, you know I can’t leave without seeing them first. Is it a man? A woman? Are they ugly? Hahaha, what am I saying? Of course it’ll be a woman. And she’ll be ugly.”
“Why is that all you’re worried about? You could try asking about something besides their appearance.”
“Oh sweetie, we both know that Blades are just decorative pieces.
Butlers and servants with a little more “know-how” than usual.
Actually, I wouldn’t be surprised if you went and picked up an old man from inside the court.”
Another high-pitched laugh erupts from Emma’s throat and echoes throughout the reception hall, but most people have lost interest at this point and returned to their own conversations.
“Seriously though, where are they?” she continues.
“The second star of the celebration being nowhere in sight is making people expect some kind of grand entrance.”
Ilene sighs and rubs her temples, her carefully maintained mask beginning to crumble.
“How should I know? He’s been busy with something, but I have no doubt he’ll be back before long.”
“Aha! So it is an old man! Haha! Your shrewdness truly knows no bounds, Ilene.”
“I don’t know what you think I’m playing at here, but if you must know… He’s younger than we are. There. Satisfied?”
Emma’s expression falters for an instant, then immediately returns to its usual, superior smirk.
“Is that so? Well, color me surprised! Now I’m definitely not leaving without seeing him.”
The two of them continue talking for a while, with Ilene reluctantly playing along as an excuse to not interact with others any time soon.
Their dynamic is aggressive, yet effortless, which leaves the impression that they’re actually good friends despite what they say.
While waiting around for an eventual change in subject, Ilene notices a shift in the atmosphere.
With a sweeping glance, she finds the reason: Lords Alastair and Xander have finally arrived, marking the beginning of the main event.
******
The duke makes his way to the center of the hall, standing atop the platform as he begins his announcement.
“Welcome, everyone! I’m pleased to see so many friendly faces have made their way here for the congratulatory gathering of my daughter and her Blade. Allow me to begin by easing your worries–food and drinks will be provided momentarily, so I ask for some extra patience. Before we get to that, I believe you should all at least have a chance to see the main characters of the day. Go ahead and join me, Ilene! Ryuu!”
The surrounding crowd gives a round of applause as Ilene navigates through them and onto the small platform.
Their encouragement lasts for a moment longer, then shortly turns into looks of confusion as nobody else makes a move toward the stage.
Where the hell is he?!
Surely he should be done with whatever Lucian was showing him by now!
Out of the corner of her eye, Ilene spots Lady Evelyn tapping something on her wrist, and within moments, the curtain in the back slightly parts.
“My apologies, Lady Evelyn! Please, take my head for this crime!”
Lucian slides across the floor on his knees, pressing his head to the ground as a way of expressing his regret.
She simply sighs and asks, “Where’s the Blade?”
He lifts his head just enough to gesture toward the curtains.
Sure enough, a white-haired man strolls out, his gaze focused as he approaches the center of the hall.
***Ryuu***
“Go ahead and join me, Ilene! Ryuu!”
Ryuu’s ears perk up as he hears Lord Alastair call for him, but Lucian’s grip on his shoulders keeps him in place.
“Are you sure you’ve got it now? Remember, a Blade serves in every way, not just combat. It’s your duty to make sure you present yourself well, or it reflects badly on Lady Ilene, and the Mahora family as a whole.”
“Yes, I understand. You’ve been going on about this for almost an hour now.”
If he wasn’t so strong I would’ve already brushed him off, but with [Mana Sense] I can get a rough view of how much energy he’s capable of holding at one time.
The only people I’ve seen with more than this are Master Darius and the duke himself.
“I don’t know…” Lucian mutters.
“I think you need at least another month of guidance before you can act as a proper Blade… Yes, we’ll continue-”
A sudden beep sounds off from beneath one of his gloves.
He pulls it back to inspect a light flashing around his wrist, and his face drops.
Without another word, he propels himself out of the curtains and leaves Ryuu behind.
******
“Now that they’re both here, let’s try this again. Everyone, a round of applause for Ilene, and her Blade, Ryuu!”
The nobles give another round of applause at the duke’s signal, and Ryuu lets his eyes wander across the crowd.
Every person is decorated in expensive suits or dresses, with jewelry glittering and heavy fragrances mixing together, but none of it interests him much.
He spots Leon nearby with a familiar grin, as well as Belynda, although she looks disinterested.
As the clapping dies down, he locks eyes with a particularly flashy blonde woman.
Her eyes are open almost too wide, and her jaw hangs slack as she stares.
Ryuu gives her a polite nod then averts his gaze, more confused than bothered.
“Now then,” the duke continues.
“It’s time for what you’ve all been waiting for… The naming of the Blade!”
More cheers sound out from the crowd as Lord Alastair spreads his arms wide, giving his own flair to the ceremony.
Naming?
I haven’t heard anything about this.
“As you all know, when someone acquires the title of Blade, they must also be granted a name by the head of their respective family. Since Ryuu serves my daughter, that honor falls unto me.”
He turns toward Ryuu and places a hand firmly on his shoulder.
Lord Alastair’s eyes twinkle with a knowing light, leaving him wondering exactly what kind of name he’ll receive.
“From this moment forward, Ryuu’s second name shall be “Dragon Blade”. It speaks to both his tenacity and strength of heart, so I believe it to be a proper title. Well?”
The gathered nobles give their loudest cheer yet, engulfing the reception hall in noise.
Ryuu meets the duke’s eyes once more as he processes his new title, feeling both surprised and elated.
A name, and a home.
It feels…right.
Is this really where I’m meant to be, Drax?
I’m still not sure, but either way, I owe all of this to Ilene.
For better or worse, I swear…
Ryuu straightens his back and clears his throat as he waits for the noise to die down, then delivers a short speech of his own.
“All of you who’ve gathered here today, I thank you for taking the time to congratulate Ilene and I on this accomplishment. I’m still inexperienced with being a Blade, and a lot of things in general, but I swear to carry myself in a way that brings honor to my new home, and my friends. Most of all, I’d like to thank you, Ilene.”
As he speaks, he turns to fully face his partner on the platform.
“If it wasn’t for you, the life I’ve lived over the past week and a half would be far different. I know I’m a lot of work, but now that we’ve reached this point, I can’t see things going any differently. I promise you, I’ll protect your life with my own, no matter what.”
Ilene seems a bit taken aback by the sudden praise, her hands fidgeting as she develops a light blush, but she manages to respond in kind.
“No, thank you, Ryuu. Because of you, I’ve managed to take a large step in the right direction. With you by my side, I have no worries about anything standing in our way. We’ll carve a path to the future, and together, we’ll accomplish the goals we’ve set out to achieve.”
She takes a deep breath as she finishes, then steps closer to him.
Ilene clasps her hands around Ryuu’s, bringing them up by his chest.
“To Dragon Blade. My Blade, and lover.”
“Wha-!”
Ryuu’s cry of shock is cut off by even more noise from the crowd.
As he glances around, he finds Leon with an expression very similar to the blonde woman he’d spotted earlier.
Belynda is doubled over laughing (which doesn’t surprise him), and he finds the blonde again, yet this time she seems to be close to tearing up with a pouty face.
Duke Alastair leans in close to them and mutters, “First I’ve heard of this.”
Ilene simply grins and replies, “That was kind of the point, Father. I hope you aren’t against it.”
He shakes his head in response, giving Ryuu a solid pat on the back.
“As long as the two of you are happy, then I have nothing to say.”
He then raises his volume as he addresses the people once more.
“Well now, it seems the cause for celebration has doubled! Everyone, please help yourself to some of the finest goods we have to offer here in Mahora! Enjoy!”
As soon as he finishes, the curtains in the back open, and staff members surge outward.
Carts roll through the hall, tables are loaded to the brim with trays of food, and a number of servers walk around with drinks ready to go.
The blending scents of braised meat, cheese, and alcohol runs rampant, and the nobles dig in without wasting a second.
Ilene continues to grasp Ryuu’s hand as she pulls him along.
“Come on, it’s time to have some fun! In moderation, of course.”
He nods, unable to hide the slight grin on his face as he’s led into the chaos.
******
Music starts playing soon after the celebration kicks off, and Ryuu surmises that it must be the work of some magic-based technology.
Everywhere he looks, handsome men and beautiful women are dancing and talking, while enjoying some drinks as expected.
Ilene is no exception, rhythmically tapping her feet as she sips on a dark wine.
Ryuu instead enjoys a local spirit that leaves a nice burn in his chest, keeping him alert as he indulges in the festivities.
Though, it doesn’t take long for others to begin approaching them.
“Lady Ilene, may I have this dance with you?”
A man in a light-tan suit holds out his hand as he bows, and Ilene glances at him before nudging Ryuu with her arm.
He catches the hint and steps forward, keeping his tone neutral.
“She’s taken. Although, if you insist, I wouldn’t mind dancing.”
The man turns his attention onto the Blade, then recoils as he catches the look in Ryuu’s eyes.
He soon retreats with a sneer while repeatedly glancing over his shoulder.
The Blade slowly waves goodbye, while Ilene stifles a laugh behind her glass.
“Heehee, spectacularly done, Ryuu. I like your style.”
“Yeah whatever. I’m gonna need more to drink after this.”
Several more men make similar approaches, and Ryuu fends them all off while doing his best not to seem overly antagonistic.
Eventually, the would-be suitors give up, allowing him to take a seat nearby and have some rest.
Damn, I still haven’t had a moment to shut my eyes.
I just had to get some extra training in last night, didn’t I?
A large pair of hands suddenly claps him on the shoulders, and he looks up to find Leon grinning down at him.
“Oh, it’s you. What’s up, enjoying the afternoon?”
“Man, don’t even try to distract me with small talk right now. You know I need to hear all about it.”
“About…?”
“Don’t play dumb! When did you and Lady Ilene hook up?!”
“We haven’t “hooked up”, we’re just testing the waters to see if we’re compatible. It tends to happen when a man and a woman spend a lot of time together, so I’m not seeing the big deal.”
“Riiiight. Like you don’t remember what I told you about her. I see through your act, Ryuu, but don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone.”
Really?
Leon’s a bit sharper than I gave him credit for.
“It’s obvious you’re head over heels for her! I mean, come on, it’s not like anybody blames you! Even in this hall of people with access to all of the best cosmetics and fashion, she stands out! I’m totally rooting for your success!”
I take that back.
“I guess you’ve caught me. You’re right. I tried to play it off as long as I could, but Ilene’s face and figure simply enchanted me from the moment we first met. Once I got to know her, it was a done deal. I’m just lucky she feels the same.”
Leon throws his head back in a hearty laugh, his crimson mane fanning around his shoulders.
“Sheesh, you really are a lover boy, huh?! That’s cool man, we all have a little passion for romance somewhere inside! I’m just glad my rival has another reason to continue getting stronger!”
Before Ryuu can rebuttal, a nearby presence pulls his attention away.
“Excuse me. You’re Sir Ryuu, correct?”
He looks straight ahead and finds the blonde woman from earlier standing a few feet away.
Up close, he’s able to catch the way her blue eyes seem to drink in the surrounding light, making it hard to look away once pulled in.
“My name is Emma De’Shine, first and only daughter of the Duke of Ganston.”
Ryuu stands and offers a light bow.
“Ah, yes. As you said, I’m Ryuu. Nice to meet you, Lady Emma.”
“Just Emma is fine, Sir Ryuu. I must say, I’m surprised to see a man of your…stature has become Ilene’s Blade. I can’t help but wonder how the two of you became acquainted.”
“Are you one of Ilene’s friends? I don’t know what she’s told you, but I wouldn’t say we had a normal first encounter… It was more like a recruitment.”
Emma raises a finger to her chin and tilts her head.
“Recruitment? Whatever do you mean?”
“He means it was a done deal from the moment we met.”
Ilene cuts in, swankering over and hooking her arm through Ryuu’s as she continues to sip from her glass.
“What’s the big idea, Emma? Trying to steal my Blade in the middle of our ceremony?”
“Heavens no, Ilene. Now that a proper name has been granted, he’s off the table. I simply wanted to see for myself what kind of person you brought into your family.”
“Heh. And what do you think?”
Emma falters and casts her gaze downward.
“I-I don’t think he’s bad. I heard that he defeated someone on the way to becoming an Advanced A’yang as a mere apprentice. That’s something worthy of praise, no matter who you are.”
Ryuu begins to put the pieces together as he observes Ilene’s superior act, although he knows her well enough now to understand the alcohol is bringing this side out.
“Well, as long as you understand that Ryuu belongs to me, then there won’t be any problems. I’m truly glad you stopped by, Emma.”
“Hnghh…”
Emma’s mouth contorts into a slightly pouty frown as she turns to leave, unable to take the heat from her rival in this position.
Ilene swirls her wine in satisfaction as she smirks at Ryuu and gives a thumbs up.
“That was nice. I’ve waited so long to get one over on her like that, hahaha!”
“Yep, you really got her,” he replies with more than a hint of sarcasm.
He glances over and spots Leon sneaking away with a creepy grin on his face, then he also gives Ryuu a thumbs up.
This is it.
There’s no getting myself out of this act now, so I may as well accept my fate.
Soon enough, a wave of female suitors try to form a crowd around Ryuu, but Ilene sends them packing with a single stern look.
The two of them continue talking about random nonsense, and the occasional story concerning a passing noble.
Afternoon fades into evening as the sun begins to dip outside, casting deep shadows through the hall’s large windows.
Around them, the music begins to slow down, changing the mood into one of relaxation.
Ilene finally finds a seat beside Ryuu, taking off her shoes and swinging her feet above the floor.
“These heels are really pretty, but if I stand in them a moment longer my feet may change shape. I don’t get how other women do this all the time.”
“Hell if I know. I’m just glad you let me wear my boots here.”
“If you’re so thankful, maybe I could get you to rub my feet later?”
“…”
“Your silence speaks volumes.”
“We can act the part all you’d like, but I’ll be damned if I’m ever caught rubbing your bare feet.”
“Don’t be like that. There’s a line of men out there that would murder for the opportunity.”
“Alright, then go ask one of them to be your Blade.”
“…”
“Your silence speaks volumes.”
They share another laugh at this, then lean back in their chairs as they take it all in.
Everything since the moment they met has led up to this point, and after today, the true race for the Succession Election will begin.
Ryuu’s strength will be put to the test more than ever.
As he feels himself begin to succumb to the heaviness of his eyelids, a loud crash startles him awake.
One of the far windows shatters out of nowhere, and moments later, raging infernos begin sprouting from thin air.
“AHHH!”
“What’s going on?! Is this part of the ceremony?!”
“What is the meaning of this?! Who dares to pull this kind of prank in my city?!”
Duke Alastair strides toward the broken window, but before he can reach it, all of the remaining windows burst in tandem.
The flames roar even higher as thirty hooded figures fly through the windows and roll across the floor.
They brandish weapons of all shapes and sizes, causing the panicking nobles to crowd into a circle in the center of the hall.
The duke raises his staff toward the ceiling.
“Fools. You’ve made an enemy of the wrong M’yin. Begone, all of you!”
As he speaks, he continues to mutter a few words under his breath, but nothing happens.
“What?! My spell, was it a misfire? No… My connection to mana has been cut off!”
“Very astute of you, Alastair.”
A raspy voice rings out above the fire, causing everyone to face the main entrance.
The doors shut with a thud of finality as a dark-robed figure seals the exit with heavy chains, before turning to face the audience.
Ryuu’s body tenses, and his skin becomes uncomfortably warm as adrenaline floods his system.
This fire… This setup… So it was you, you deranged bastard!
Tap.
Tap.
Tap.
The figure calmly struts farther into the hall, their black cane tapping against the floor without any hint of worry in the slightest.
Their features are hidden beneath a dark cloak, black gloves, and an elongated mask, resembling that of a past era’s medicine user.
“How nice it is to see all of you important people gathered in one place. I’m sure you’re wondering why none of you can use your magic, but I’m afraid an explanation will have to wait. I’ll cut straight to the point–give me Ryuuma, or all of you will die.”
A series of anxious murmurs ripple through the nobles.
“Ryuuma? Who’s that?”
“If we give them over, will they let us live?”
“Damn it all. If only I could use my magic!”
Ilene has already shaken off any kind of buzz she had, keeping her eyes locked onto the masked man.
Ryuu trembles beside her, although whether from anxiety or rage, he isn’t sure.
Duke Alastiar fearlessly strides toward the man, despite his power being cut off.
“I don’t know who you are, but don’t think you’ll get away with this! The guards will be here any moment to put an end to your scheme!”
“Hah… I don’t think I need to worry about any outside interference for a while. Surely you aren’t under the impression that I strolled into the capital without a few plans in place?”
The duke grits his teeth, unable to retort as the man continues.
“I won’t say it again. Hand over the one who just became a Blade, and nobody gets hurt. Otherwise…”
He snaps his fingers, and one of the cloaked figures throws a knife at the feet of the crowd.
It doesn’t hit anybody, but the message is clear.
“Blade? Then this Ryuuma you speak of, that’s Ryuu?”
“Ryuu? Ah, is that the name the boy has taken now? I thought he’d be a little smarter than simply shortening it if he was trying to hide. Oh well, such is youth.”
He twirls his cane around without a care in the world while counting down from ten in long, drawn out pauses.
“Six…five…four…”
To their credit, none of the nobles turn to give Ryuu up right away, though half of them are too frightened to even make a sound.
“Three…two…”
Ryuu suddenly jolts out of his chair.
Ilene moves to stop him, but he brushes her off with a dangerous look in his eyes.
“Hey, asshole! Keep your hands off of them! It’s me you’re after!”
He bolts between the masked man and the duke.
The Blade’s knees threaten to give out, but he forces himself to stand tall as he confronts his mortal enemy.
“Ah, there you are, Ryuuma. Or should I call you Ryuu? Hahaha! You really thought you could stay hidden from me for long?”
“Shut up! Who the hell are you, and why are you so insistent on taking everything from me?!”
“Taking? You’ve got the wrong idea. All I’ve wanted since that day in the Pit was you, and your power. Yes… I’m able to sense it more clearly now. You’ve awakened your Talent, have you not?”
“So what?!”
“So… You’ve matured even faster than I could have hoped. I suppose killing your family in front of you was the proper incentive after all!”
Ryuu clenches his fists until he draws blood, and somehow manages to maintain a shred of rationality.
Before he can move, three people step up beside him.
“I don’t know what all this talk is about, but if you’re threatening my rival, you can count me as an enemy too!”
Leon slams his fists together as he shouts, and aura flares to life along his arms.
Martin and Kris are right ahead of him, coating their entire bodies in intense energy.
“The Acer family is an A’yang family! Kris, Leon, let’s show everyone our true worth!”
Martin and Kris move to opposite sides of the hall, facing fifteen cloaked figures each.
Leon shifts closer to his rival and nudges him with his shoulder.
“Look alive, Ryuu! Whatever’s going on here, we can wait for answers until after we’ve kicked their asses!”
The short speech fuels Ryuu with all the motivation he needs.
He wills forth his own aura, giving Leon his signature smirk as he shouts, “Right! Let’s do this!”
The masked man sighs and shakes his head.
“You asked for this…”
He points his cane at them, then the gathered flames suddenly coalesce in the air above, forming a massive ball of fire that careens toward everyone gathered.
Ryuu freezes in place, unable to counter such a large attack, yet Leon springs into the air with a shout.
“{Charge Burst}!”
A dense ball of aura shoots out from his fist and into the center of the fireball, exploding and dispersing the flames toward the edges of the hall.
Leon then lands with a wide grin as he exclaims, “Can you keep up?! Don’t hesitate, Ryuu!”
The wavering Blade shakes off any nervousness left, trusting in Leon’s abilities, as well as his own, as he dashes toward his opponent.
He’s somehow able to use magic when nobody else can!
On top of that, he’s already surrounded himself with large flames to shorten any kind of charge-up time!
If that’s the case, my best move is-!
He gets within ten feet of the enemy before using {In-step}–appearing in their blind spot–and unleashing a heavy roundhouse kick.
The man catches it with ease, his cane sturdy against the Blade’s boot.
“Tsk!”
Ryuu pushes off the cane, charging his aura to draw the man’s attention as Leon swiftly closes in from behind.
The two of them lock eyes, and a message is instantly conveyed.
“”{In-step}!””
They become a pair of blurs, disappearing and reappearing at high speeds that make it difficult for the enemy M’yin to track them.
They keep it up for a few seconds, then both A’yang land closely in front of the intruder and shout “”{Charge Point}!”” Their fists–coated in incredibly dense aura–rocket toward the masked man.
Despite managing to block with his cane at the last second, he’s sent flying off of his feet and crashes into the entrance.
Although he had sealed the doors with heavy chains upon entering, they snap like dry twigs as he smashes into them, then rolls across the ground outside.
Leon and Ryuu quickly follow, grinning after their plan had succeeded.
The latter then feels a now-familiar sensation return.
“Just as I thought,” Ryuu mutters.
“Our connection to mana is only cut off inside of the hall. Out here, we’re on the same playing field.”
“Quick thinking, my rival! And with this, we can leave the others to my parents!”
The masked man rises to his feet, brushing himself off while maintaining a stubbornly care-free attitude.
“For you to charge at me instead of fleeing through one of the broken windows… I see. So this young man is the reason for your rapid growth, Ryuuma. Don’t get it twisted; even if you’re able to use mana, we are far from equal.”
He raises his hands, one still gripping the cane, as intense flames spark to life around them.
“I’ll show you what it means to face a Master.”