It has been a profound and unforgettable experience: a fierce amalgamation of martial prowess and magic that has pushed me to my physical and mental limits.
I acknowledge that there is still a long journey ahead in terms of my training.
I observe Beatrice from a distance; her eyes shimmer with pride tinged with concealed concern behind that tender gaze. I know she feels relief at my surrender to avoid any unnecessary harm.
As we stride toward the center of the stage to receive our well-deserved applause, I vow to dedicate each forthcoming day to perfecting my martial and magical skills.
This defeat will serve as nothing more than a steppingstone to reach even greater levels of excellence in future encounters.
The crowd continues to cheer for Julius, and I can't help but feel a blend of admiration and gratitude toward him. It has been an honor to face him in combat and discover his immense potential.
With my head held high and my heart filled with determination, I move through the deafening cheers of the audience, knowing that this day will mark a pivotal moment on my journey.
"I understand that sentiment, and I hope we have the opportunity to face each other again in the future," Julius replies with a genuine smile.
Julius extends his hand toward me, a gesture to seal our battle and demonstrate mutual respect.
I don't hesitate to accept his outstretched hand.
"Yes, the next time, I shall be even more formidable," I assert with unwavering determination, as our handshakes are accompanied by an increase in the audience's ovations.
Even some seem to have forgotten the true reason behind our friendly combat.
Suddenly, a cerulean light bursts forth within my being, almost instantly healing my wounds.
I feel vitality gradually returning to every fiber of my existence. I attempt to express my gratitude to Julius for this unexpected act, but before I can do so, I am tackled by a petite figure and sent to the ground.
It's Beatrice who embraces me with overflowing strength. In response to her protective hug, I tenderly caress her head to soothe her.
I know she must be thinking that all of this happened because of her; perhaps she believes she couldn't control herself during the selection process and that led to this situation.
"Don't worry, Betty," I whisper reassuringly while she uses her curative abilities to mend my wounds, all under Julius's surprised gaze. "He and I fought as friends; he's someone very powerful and experienced, so he didn't cause as much harm as it may seem."
Surprise is clearly reflected in Julius's eyes as he observes our interaction.
"Even among spirits, it's rare to see a connection as profound as the one you share with her," Julius remarks thoughtfully. "You must have great compatibility together."
Surprise and amazement intertwine in his words, revealing an aspect previously unknown to me.
My own compatibility with Beatrice is something I have never thoroughly considered; my top priority has always been ensuring her well-being and protecting her at any cost.
At this moment, as Beatrice continues to mend my wounds and clings to me with tenderness, I comprehend that our relationship transcends the boundaries established between human and spirit.
She is an integral part of my life, my family.
Internally, I smile, knowing that no matter how formidable my opponent may be or what obstacles I encounter on my journey, I will always have Beatrice by my side, providing unwavering support and constant inspiration to reach new heights.
"Undoubtedly, whether spirit or not, our connection is the most significant to me," I respond with conviction, reflecting my profound understanding of Beatrice's importance in my life.
Julius sighs and smiles, appreciating my words and finding joy in someone who understands his perspective.
"It's astounding to discover that I have something in common with someone who doesn't follow the path of a knight. Life certainly holds many surprises," Julius comments as he reflects on our unexpected similarities.
I can see how Julius is blinded by his own path, limiting himself by not recognizing other ways of living and fighting.
His devotion to his purpose prevents him from seeing everything around him and rejecting any other possibility.
As I rise from the ground with Beatrice still clinging to my left arm, I continue to share my thoughts:
"Fully concentrating on one goal can blind you to many important things. Sometimes, to progress on your own path, you must avert your gaze from the horizon and observe your surroundings. You'll realize there are numerous paths leading to the same ultimate goal; you just have to choose the one that makes you happier without leading an empty existence."
Julius's eyes widen at my words; he appears surprised but then adopts a formal and respectful expression.
"It has been an honor to engage in combat with you. As an imperial knight, I wish to apologize for the behavior exhibited by my comrades. Not all knights share their attitude," Julius asserts, shouldering the responsibility on behalf of his peers.
Gratitude washes over me as I see Julius sincerely apologizing for the actions of those he represents. I extend my right hand toward him, displaying trust and acceptance.
"The pleasure has been mine. I hope we may cross paths again in the future, perhaps under more amicable circumstances," I reply as our fingers intertwine in a firm and respectful handshake.
Julius takes my hand with gratitude, accepting my words and the gesture of friendship.
Individuals like Julius often shine on the surface but conceal deep-seated loneliness as they distance themselves from others.
Walking a solitary path can be painful, creating a void that cannot be filled solely with accomplishments and recognition.
That's why he desperately seeks any emotion that can fill that void.
"Yes, my friend," Julius responds sincerely.
I hope this somewhat calms the nobles.
Now I must focus on our next objective: the appearance of the whale. I have significant decisions to make; this situation will change the course of our history.
To let Crusch perish or to fight alongside her... I need to ponder it carefully.
As I gently caress Beatrice's head while we walk, I feel her using her remaining magical abilities to transfer mana, mending me.
With her constant care, I grow increasingly resilient to pain; I suppose something good emerges even amidst chaos.
We exit the coliseum, and I observe the people around us attentively: some regard us with disdain, while others appear to wish to convey something of importance.
Now that the nobles are seemingly under control, it is time to take the next strategic step.
If I had employed more dangerous or airborne magics, I could have caused even more harm during the fight, but at this moment, revealing all my cards to the enemy would be perilous.
However, that does not mean Julius hasn't also restrained himself during the battle; I know I must strive to become stronger.
The next step is to train diligently and perfect my magical skills.
Puck possesses the ability to alter spells on a molecular level, creating magical formulas with different effects.
Beatrice has a similar talent, although I had not paid much attention to it so far due to my limited knowledge in chemistry.
It's time to push those boundaries and explore the infinite possibilities that lie before me. Alchemy and magic can merge to produce astonishing results if I can master them correctly.
It's time to immerse myself in comprehensive study and dedicate myself to developing new spells that will allow me to face any challenge with greater efficiency.
With determination shining in my eyes, I quicken my pace toward the unknown as a cold breeze caresses my face.
From now on, every move will be strategic, and every decision will be guided by the relentless pursuit of the power required to protect all.
If Teo were here, perhaps he would be a much more adept sorcerer.
His absence becomes apparent in moments like these when the need for his experience and knowledge becomes palpable.
Emilia rushes toward me, a worried expression etched on her countenance. Maneuvering past the people obstructing her path, she positions herself in front of me.
It must have been astonishing to see me involved in such a perilous fight, especially when facing one of the most formidable knights in the entire realm.
"Marco!" Emilia exclaims as she scrutinizes me from head to toe, searching for any signs of harm or injuries.
My black attire cannot conceal the crimson stain that adorns the left sleeve due to the wound inflicted by Julius.
It has already healed, so there's no issue.
Once satisfied that I am unharmed, she breathes a sigh of relief.
The burden on Emilia's shoulders must be overwhelming after all that has transpired; however, it is comforting to see how she cares for my well-being.
"You'll have to explain many things to me," Emilia says with a certain seriousness reflected in her eyes.
There appears to be something significant pending between us; perhaps she mentioned something over the communicator during my bout.
"It's best when we are alone," I respond cautiously. "For now, I want to head to the capital to observe the people's reactions to the elections. Rumors about what transpired are surely beginning to spread rapidly. Besides, I also have matters to attend to with the guild of blacksmiths, but that can wait for another occasion."
I am uncertain of how many days remain before the whale's attack.
In the novel, it mentioned three days, but in my case, I am not certain if the same pattern will persist.
"That was an intriguing battle," I hear a familiar voice amidst the people surrounding us.
It's Crusch, as radiant as ever.
Her verdant hair elegantly sways with each step she takes, displaying a maturity and elegance that is hard to find among the other candidates.
Crusch looks directly into my eyes with a satisfied smile on her lips, as if she is pleased with my performance during the duel.
There exists a bond between the two of us, one filled with complicity and mutual understanding.
Although there are many challenges to face and difficult decisions to make, I know I am not alone in this struggle.
Determination burns within me as I move toward an uncertain but boundlessly promising future.
I incline slightly, being mindful not to discomfort Beatrice resting in my arms.
"It's a pleasure to see you, Miss Crusch. Your speech was truly impressive," I say with courtesy as our gazes briefly meet.
Although we have had conversations since our first encounter, I must be cautious and maintain appearances.
I need to gather information about the whale, and that necessitates a visit to the Karsten mansion.
The problem is that in the novel, the protagonist ends up injured when visiting that place.
Nevertheless, considering the contracts I have forged thus far, it should not be so arduous to achieve.
"I thought you would come, but I did not expect to witness such a spectacle," Crusch comments with a blend of curiosity and surprise in her voice.
I never mentioned my combat abilities during our previous conversations or divulged details about my contract with Beatrice, so it is understandable that she was unaware of these aspects.
Moreover, the revelation of the existence of rifles and my victory against a cult archbishop was equally unexpected for her.
"I had heard rumors about how some individuals halted the cult's advance in the Mathers domains, so I already had my suspicions," Crusch continues, disclosing part of her prior knowledge. "It does not surprise me to know... What I genuinely do not know is whether they are aware of the exact reason behind the initially planned attack..."
Crusch's words immerse me in a sea of contemplation.
Did she already know about the leak of information that triggered the attack?
Was she aware from the beginning?
If she knows and did nothing, then...
No, I cannot allow my decisions to be based on emotions. Crusch's life or death depends entirely on what I decide to do.
The whale is protected by powerful magic, so I believe that conventional cannons will suffice to confront it.
Or at least, that is what I want to believe.
"Miss Emilia and I fought together to defeat him," I confess finally, withholding no details. "In the end, I used spiritual arts to entirely banish his soul from this world."
There is no point in deceiving Crusch. Even without her magical protection, I would have revealed the truth just the same.
She places her hand under her chin, deeply immersed in her thoughts. Emilia and I exchange expectant glances as we wait to hear what she will say.
Crusch finally breaks the silence with an intriguing proposition.
"I would like to speak with both of you, but it should be in private," her gaze loses itself on the horizon before she adds, "I cordially invite you to visit my mansion tomorrow afternoon. I will send a carriage to pick you up if you are willing."
Emilia and I glance at each other once more and simultaneously nod, readily accepting her invitation.
Without a doubt, Crusch will seek our assistance to confront the whale or perhaps try to glean more information from us.
In any case, I came prepared for any eventuality.
"It will be a pleasure to visit your mansion, Miss Crusch," Emilia responds with joy, and a pleased smile graces Crusch's countenance.
With kindness and elegance, she bids us farewell, and the soldiers begin to approach us.
"It was a magnificent battle, General," Lucas acknowledges as he hands me my rifle reverently.
"I always knew the General was strong, but now I see that he is on an entirely different level," Lessed adds with a smile full of admiration, clenching his fists in a gesture of recognition.
Observing them, I realize that my defeat means little to them. After all, the name Julius is renowned in every corner, and his strength is unmistakable.
Emilia places a serious expression on her face as she takes me by the shoulder, conveying the gravity of the situation.
"One of the sages wishes to speak with you," she informs me bluntly.
A shiver runs down my spine.
Could it be about the news I received from the archbishop?
No, that is something yet to be verified and is not pertinent at this moment. Undoubtedly, something of greater significance is at play.
At that very moment, Roswaal makes his grand entrance alongside Ram through one of the castle's entrances. His smug smile appears to indicate an extreme level of self-satisfaction.
His clownish attire only manages to mar any occasion with his mere presence.
"I he~~ard you had a li~~ttle sho~~wdown," Roswaal remarks, extending his arms as if feigning surprise. "Unfortunately, I was occu~~pied and co~~uldn't witness it perso~~nally."
Ram openly taunts me while casting a mischievous smile, undoubtedly aware of my defeat against Julius.
"Hah! You're quite the braggart. I suppose this lady should give you a few lessons," Ram says, fixing her piercing gaze on me before offering that characteristic malicious grin of hers.
It has been a considerable amount of time since we last trained together under her tutelage.
The truth is, when it comes to magic, I would prefer to avoid reliving that experience.
Explaining something that is natural to her would be complicated and challenging.
However, when it comes to physical training, Ram is unparalleled.
The only time I managed to land a hit on her was because I had trained with her before and understood her combat style to some extent.
However, due to my responsibilities to the village, I had to abandon those training sessions.
I suppose the time has come to resume them.
"It seems you're eager to train with me," I respond with an ironic smile. "But remember, your eagerness only reflects your desire to take out your frustration for making me work so hard."
Both of us are well aware of the true motivation behind her desire to beat me up during our training sessions.
Even though she does it voluntarily, I told her she could live as she pleased. Her obsession or love for Roswaal probably surpasses her desire to rest.
"Yes, let's train until we're exhausted," Ram replies with a mischievous smile as she clenches her fist against her palm.
Ram says it in a joking tone, but I am sure she will try to give me a beating during our training.
Meanwhile, Roswaal approaches me and whispers in my ear.
"I will retu~~rn to the mansi~~on. The informati~~on I possess needs to be verifi~~ed with the latest findi~~ngs. Something important is happe~~ning in the castle," he says with seriousness before rising and bidding farewell.
Emilia inquires curiously about the sudden reason for his departure, but he simply mentions pending matters at the mansion and apologizes for having to leave.
Ram quickly follows him, and both of them depart, leaving me alone with my overwhelming thoughts.
I will never place complete trust in Roswaal; however, I can discern from the sage's reactions that he did not lie about the information leak.
Blindly entrusting him is akin to surrendering my life to a crocodile: you never know when it will strike.
Roswaal's hidden intentions could lead me down a perilous and uncertain path.
I am not like the typical novel protagonist where everything seems predictable and straightforward, gaining the trust of others.
If I were to form an alliance with him... No, that is impossible.
He has no qualms about taking a life, even knowing he can pass the baton to another Roswaal.
He cares not for the lives of a lost loop.
I recall Beatrice's "I love you," which pierces me like swords thrust into one's heart. "Just like me," I whisper to myself, surprising Emilia with my words.
"Just like you?" she asks with curiosity in her eyes.
"Don't mind me; I was just musing," I say as I wake up from my thoughts.
Beatrice slumbers peacefully in my arms as we await the arrival of the intermediary who will take us to the sage.
Emilia observes Beatrice with tenderness and occasionally strokes her head.
"It seems you have a deep affection for Beatrice," I comment, swept up in the sweetness of the moment.
"Yes! She is quite charming and possesses a very tender heart," Emilia responds with a smile.
The soldiers converse amongst themselves while we wait in silence, refraining from mentioning the events of the selection.
I yearn for more privacy to be with Emilia, but here, I must maintain a solemn demeanor.
When we are alone, we can speak without constraints. Fortunately, she understands this and has not broached the subject either.
"What do you think Crusch wants?" Emilia asks, gently stroking Beatrice.
There must be an important reason for her desire to meet with us now that the elections have officially begun.
I also need to speak with Anastasia, but I must not stir things up too soon.
She controls one of the largest trade guilds, and sooner or later, we will be in competition for both the throne and the commercial monopoly.
I want to know what she is capable of.
The information I have about Anastasia is insufficient; I need to see her face to face and judge for myself what kind of person she is.
"It probably has some secret motive or perhaps it's a matter of business," I respond, reflecting. If it relates to trade, my presence alone should suffice.
I merely wish to observe if Emilia is capable of arriving at her own conclusions without external influences.
She appears lost in thought; she has been close to the village's affairs for some time and has shared moments with me while studying how to manage alongside Roswaal.
Gradually, experience is shaping and molding her into a leader.
To rule is not merely about studying; it also involves contemplation, action, and learning from mistakes to know how to confront them.
In the novel, this aspect seems overlooked, but to achieve my objectives, Emilia must grow like never before.
Maturity is a significant advancement, but without skills and experience, it will not suffice in this situation.
Each of us harbors internal dilemmas and conflicts to resolve. However, I feel that I have not yet fully savored this world as I should.
While I have had moments of relaxation here and there, I yearn for more moments of solitude.
"It must be something secret, isn't it?" Emilia asks, her face bearing an expectant smile of innocence.
I cannot help but release a quiet chuckle at her anxious expression, trying to keep it as noiseless as possible not to awaken Beatrice.
Emilia pouts and playfully nudges my side, expressing her disapproval of my reaction.
I am delighted to see that despite all that has transpired recently, Emilia remains herself. In that regard, she surpasses me greatly.
"I'm sorry... But yes, I'm certain it will be something important," I reply with conviction.
My words cause Emilia to place a hand over her heart while she looks at me with a smile filled with determination in her eyes locked onto mine.
"So much has happened lately... And believe me when I say it has been incredibly overwhelming," Emilia says as she takes my free hand, disregarding the presence of others. "But when I'm with you, I feel I can give it my all. I know that together, we can support each other and move forward."
Emilia wears an expression on her face that I can't quite fully comprehend, but her words leave me surprised and deeply moved simultaneously.
At that moment, Beatrice stirs for the first time since she began sleeping.
She turns her head toward Emilia, her adorable face adorned with slight pouts as she gazes at her. With gentle tenderness, Beatrice lowers her face a bit and inquires:
"And what about me?"
Filled with excitement, Emilia smiles broadly and takes Beatrice into her arms.
Surprise paints Beatrice's face at this unexpected gesture, but I cannot help but become entranced by Emilia's radiant and beautiful smile.
It's fascinating to witness how someone can transform so profoundly when they surpass our expectations. There is no better feeling than witnessing the growth of those around us.
I gaze at Emilia and Beatrice with a smile, cherishing this moment in my memory.
Emilia lifts Beatrice in her arms and replies with a smile:
"We'll be together, the three of us will support each other, and I'll make Betty happy." Emilia arches her eyebrows before adding, "When Puck returns, the four of us will be reunited."
Beatrice smiles, having seemingly formed a special bond with Emilia. Even though Emilia cannot perceive it, I can sense something behind that smile.
I feel that Beatrice is concealing something from me.
"Yes! When Pucky returns, we must tell him everything we've done, I suppose," exclaims Beatrice excitedly.
Emilia lovingly embraces Beatrice, and Beatrice reciprocates the affectionate gesture. Even the soldiers gaze upon us with admiration.
"Miss Emilia is unquestionably an exceptional person," Bert concedes.
The soldiers nod in agreement with his statement, and I can't help but join in the chorus of praises for Emilia.
Nevertheless, she remains susceptible to flattery.
Suddenly, metallic noises from the nearby hallway capture the attention of everyone present.
From the castle's entrance emerges Gildark; his imposing figure and magical aura reveal his physical might.
Typically, there is no need to keep your magical energy fluctuating constantly, but some do so as part of their training to control and enhance their power flow.
Gildark approaches us with a serious expression, one I've never seen him without. Even though Roswaal claimed he was a good person.
Well, I'm not sure what Roswaal considers a "good person." After all, he fell in love with Echidna.
Gildark looks at Emilia and me before bowing as a sign of respect.
"Miss Emilia, Mr. Marco, I need you to accompany me," Gildark tells us while carefully examining our faces. He knows that Emilia has been previously informed about the situation.
The fact that he doesn't mention who is requesting our presence is just a subtle way of indicating that there are eyes and ears around.
Although I have a hunch.
I instruct my soldiers to wait in the carriage; this won't take much time. They nod and obediently withdraw.
Emilia cradles Beatrice in her arms as we follow the imposing Gildark. I know nothing about fencing, but I can sense the overwhelming presence emanating from this man.
Even if I wanted to face him in hand-to-hand combat, it would be impossible to defeat him... for now.
Of course, sheer brute strength is not everything; a well-aimed shot can take down anyone, no matter how powerful they may be.
I'm unsure if this person possesses skills to deflect such attacks, but if he leads all the knights, it's because, at the very least, he's stronger than Julius.
With the firearms in their current state, it probably wouldn't be enough. But when I manage to improve gunpowder and weapons, I'll be able to create faster and unassailable bullets.
We advance through the corridors until we reach a dimly lit one. Gildark hasn't uttered a single word throughout the entire journey; he walks with measured and composed steps.
With a deep and solemn voice, Gildark speaks for the first time:
"I heard that in the village of which you are the mayor, they recruit people of all races and also seek to provide employment and shelter to the homeless."
An overwhelming silence falls upon us as we progress; his question catches me completely off guard, and even Emilia appears dismayed.
Gildark turns his head to observe us, sensing our surprise at his query.
"I have an organization called 'The Brotherhood' that is dedicated to assisting the most in need," he calmly responds. "However, it proves difficult to provide employment and assistance to all applicants."
I finally grasp what he's hinting at. Emilia stares at Gildark with eyes illuminated by excitement as she approaches him stealthily.
"It's marvelous! Such a noble and beautiful endeavor!" exclaims Emilia with enthusiasm.
Gildark remains unresponsive to Emilia's flattery, but she continues to express her joy with her words.
I can't help but express my astonishment at the fact that someone of noble birth shows such a keen interest in the less privileged.
"Our intentions are precise, yet we are selective about who gains entry," I explain, while Gildark nods understandingly to my words. "We carefully filter based on attitudes and behaviors to ensure we only accept those worthies of our assistance."
Gildark abruptly halts our steps and turns toward me, extending his hand in a gesture of camaraderie.
It's evident that this individual possesses a noble heart, despite his stern and intimidating demeanor.
I smile and firmly shake his hand.
"It's a true pleasure to converse with you, both as a knight and the leader of the Brotherhood," I say confidently. "I'm pleased to see someone as noble as you are occupying such a high position. Therefore, I want to assure you that our camp will always have its doors open for any needs or requests, whether under the title of knight, leader, or Marco Gildark; of course, if my lady agrees."
Emilia beams as she directs her gaze full of joy toward Gildark.
"Your words strengthen my intentions," she expresses excitedly. "It's gratifying to find someone like you leading the knights."
Gildark observes us with the same unchanging expression on his features; he seems to be suspended in time.
His trained and powerful muscles give him an imposing figure, while his watchful eyes remain unwavering.
At that moment, Gildark bows deeply before us, displaying great respect and contrition.
Emilia is taken aback by this sudden gesture and instinctively touches the warrior's arm, urging him to cease this excessive show of reverence.
"Diversity exists in all spheres," Emilia begins as she slowly straightens her posture. "I have learned that one must understand and command respect. My goal is to build a world where everyone is valued, where fundamental principles are ingrained in society regardless of race, economic capacity, or individual abilities. This is just the beginning. I firmly believe in mutual respect, as every person possesses the potential to better themselves. This is the philosophy with which we are shaping Irlam."
Emilia's words resonate in my mind as I observe Gildark nodding in admiration toward her.
In this man of imposing appearance and superhuman strength lies a bold and inspiring vision to transform his people and change the lives of those less privileged.
The nobility of the heart doesn't always reside within those who bear noble titles; it can emerge from even the most unexpected depths of the human soul.
Perfect words to conclude, Gildark must have heard the news about Irlam but may have been skeptical about the accuracy of the reports.
Especially since he couldn't investigate due to being the property of someone aligned with a candidate.
Gildark's eyes widen in surprise at Emilia's words, his pupils dilating like sunlight reflecting on a dark lake.
For the first time, I see a slight change in expression on his otherwise imperturbable face.
He extends his hand with the grace of an ancient knight, and Emilia responds to the gesture with unmatched elegance.
"Due to my position," Gildark says with a deep and resonant voice, "I must maintain neutrality towards any candidate. However, I wish you the utmost success in your noble endeavor as a ruler, Miss Emilia."
His words hang in the air like melodic notes suspended above the abyss that separates their political stances.
Though naturally serious and reserved, Gildark reveals a more noble and benevolent aspect of himself.
He has dedicated much of his life to forging a purely community-based non-profit organization; an altruistic act that demonstrates the hidden greatness behind his impenetrable facade.
Turning in another direction with precise yet fluid movements, Gildark stops beside a grand door whose wood appears to have been carved by divine hands.
A magical pressure pulsates intensely from the other side; it's clear that it's designed to deter unwanted intrusions and prying ears.
It's then that Gildark opens the majestic door and enters the adjoining room, finally revealing the identity of the mysterious sage who summoned us: Miklotov McMahon.
Leader of the sages and the first person to show consideration for Emilia.