Chapter 127

On the day of the sword competition, as the castle gates opened, the domain’s residents entered with bright smiles. They followed the guided path, looking around curiously. The bustling atmosphere brought a fresh vitality to the castle.

Raylenne was just as excited. The cloudless sky seemed to celebrate the sacred and fair sword competition.

In the prepared arena, knights in full armor waited for the event to begin. As spectators filled every seat, Cashwood, today’s judge, stepped forward. Scanning the surroundings with his usual stern expression, he announced, “The competition will now begin.”

There were no welcoming remarks or wishes for a fair competition – typical of Cashwood, which made Raylenne smile wryly.

Bang! A lively firework signaled the start. Gallant knights in armor bearing the Bedeusian ducal crest faced each other, holding longswords.

The tournament-style competition meant winners would face other winners. First round victors would compete against Aiden, Caverion, and the Bedeusian knight commander in the second round.

At Cashwood’s command, the knights took their stances. The clash of sharp blades mixed with cheers, echoing throughout.

Raylenne, Aiden, and Caverion watched from an elevated platform. Aiden and Caverion observed intently, their serious expressions creating a solemn atmosphere. Raylenne, trying to lighten the mood, asked, “Aren’t you nervous, Aiden?”

Though the tournament’s pressure might not affect the war-hardened Aiden much, it was hard to say. As a former war commander and respected swordsman, he had much to lose.

Aiden turned to Raylenne, calmly replying, “I’m fine.” He didn’t seem to be putting on a brave face.

Raylenne then looked at Caverion. “How about you, brother?”

Despite having asked during yesterday’s walk, things might be different now with the competition imminent. Caverion must have noticed the Bedeusian knights’ fierce gazes.

“I’m fine,” Caverion answered without hesitation.

Raylenne marveled at their composure. ‘Is this the dignity of the story’s main characters?’

As she admired them, a horn signaled the end of a match. The first round continued through the morning, with proud knights competing solemnly.

After the first round ended and a brief rest period, Aiden and Caverion donned their armor for the second round.

“Be careful not to get hurt, Aiden,” Raylenne said, gently kissing his cheek before he put on his helmet. Aiden’s neck flushed slightly. Hearing Caverion clear his throat behind them, Raylenne stepped back with a smile.

As the horn announced the second round, Aiden and Caverion headed to the arena. Raylenne watched from the platform. Though they wore the same armor as other knights, her loved ones seemed more gallant and handsome.

The crowd’s cheers grew louder, recognizing the participants. They shouted encouragement for Aiden, a beloved ruler despite his short tenure as duke.

“The match between Sir Aiden and Sir Crooks will now begin,” Cashwood announced, raising a flag.

Today, all participants were addressed as “Sir,” regardless of their usual titles. Aiden’s first opponent was Crooks, a slender senior knight.

At the starting signal, Aiden’s sword moved instantly, attacking his opponent. Crooks’ sword, unable to withstand Aiden’s strike, flew from his hand and stuck in the ground.

The match ended surprisingly quickly. Cashwood, looking bewildered, belatedly declared, “Sir Aiden, victor!”

Raylenne was equally astonished. How could Aiden attack so swiftly and accurately with his less-used left hand?

Her amazement continued as Aiden and Caverion won match after match. Finally, only Aiden, Caverion, and the knight commander remained in the tournament bracket.

Aiden had a bye, so the winner between Caverion and the knight commander would face him.

Caverion and the commander exchanged respectful greetings. The commander, gripping his sword, said to Caverion, “I watched your earlier matches. Your battlefield skills haven’t dulled.”

“The blade dulls if neglected even for a day. I dislike that,” Caverion replied, tightening his grip on his sword.

At the starting signal, the commander struck first. Caverion dodged lightly.

The commander gritted his teeth and swung again. Despite the threatening move, Caverion blocked it effortlessly.

“I understand your desire to win, but you’re too excited,” Caverion said.

“I’m remembering my comrades who fell to your blade, Your Grace.”

“I joined this competition to erase such resentment. As knight commander, you should collect yourself. Shouldn’t we show the people a more splendid match?”

The commander’s jaw tightened at Caverion’s advice, but he soon stepped back, seemingly heeding the words.

After taking a deep breath, the commander’s agitated aura noticeably calmed.

Clang! The swords met again with sharp metallic sounds.

However, with each clash, the commander was forced back one step, then two.

When Caverion suddenly changed his sword pattern, swinging in a wide arc towards the commander’s side, the surprised commander hastily altered his defense.

Unable to withstand Caverion’s sword pressure, the commander’s weapon fell from his hand.

“Sir Caverion, victor,” Cashwood declared coolly as the horn sounded, ending the match. The commander retrieved his fallen sword and faced Caverion.

They exchanged respectful bows. The commander, lowering his head, said, “It was an honor to face you.”

“It’s been a while since I’ve had such a worthy opponent,” Caverion replied.

As the commander withdrew, Aiden entered the arena.

This was the final match to determine the tournament champion.

Raylenne leaned forward on the platform, watching Aiden and Caverion intently.

The handkerchief she had been clutching since the second round began was now damp with sweat.

Raylenne felt her throat go dry, as if she herself were standing in armor on the field under countless gazes.

‘Who will win?’

Though both were dear to her and she’d be happy regardless, if she were honest, she slightly hoped for Aiden’s victory.

After all, this was Bedeusian territory, and all spectators were Bedeusian subjects. Aiden’s win would be the outcome people desired.

‘Yes, that’s why I want Aiden to win…’ Raylenne rationalized, burying her guilt towards her brother.

“Greet your opponent,” Cashwood instructed. Aiden and Caverion bowed to each other, showing respect and desire for a fair match.

“I’m rarely this excited at the thought of crossing swords with you again,” Caverion said, smiling. However, his smile wasn’t the gentle one Raylenne was used to, but rather carried a cold edge.

“It’s the first time I’ve faced you with a sword since the domain war,” Aiden replied.

Caverion lightly swung his sword, as if warming up. “Well, confident you can win?”

Aiden also loosened his wrist, preparing. “I have no intention of losing in front of Raylenne.”

“A fine ambition.”

With Caverion’s words, both took their stances. Cashwood looked them over and called the start.

Caverion charged first, moving incomparably faster than in previous matches.

But Aiden was equally swift.

Clang!

Aiden blocked Caverion’s blade aimed at his center.

With fierce blades between them, they locked eyes.

Their gazes clashed, sparking with fighting spirit.