Toot Toot Toot Bam Bam Bam Ding Ding Ding

  A loud fahuowards the sky, cm cheers and chatters booming all through the whole arena. A parade of drums, trumpets, xylophones, and many more marched and circled, a rhythmic symphony brewing in the air.

  The massive gates opened and heavy creaks resounded in the air. A rge cohort of knights p out, bearing silver swords, golden spears, and scarlet fgs in their arms. They stopped their mard faced one another, a loud thud eg.

  Majesty, dignity, and honor. The knights raised their hands in attention, perf their salutes as the important figures of the Kingdom made their entrance, waving their hands with smiles on their faces.

  "Your Majesties, Yhnesses! We love you!"

  "General Harold! You're the best! Take back the seat of the Champion!"

  "Long live Graystone! May the swords of the Kingdom shine bright!"

  There were the High Officers, the Ministers, and the Royal Family. The King waved his hands and the crowd cheered fervently, ting his owards high heaven. The majesty of the Royal Family graced the arena, each step prim and proper.

  There was o the ruckus and otioement brewing heavier in the air. The Royal Family soon arrived at the Royal Chambers and the fgs of Graystone were raised proudly by their side, music pying in the air.

  "? Our beloved mothernd. In the nd of the caves and seas. The waves will turn and the earth will quake. But our sword will remain standing proud ?...."

  It was the national anthem of Graystone, everyoanding in attention no matter how young or old. They closed their fists and pced it atop their chests, their words drifting along the fleeting music. Everyone was in harmony.

  The violins and the piano were pyed, and the drums were beat. As the voices of the masses drifted afloat the air, the winds whistled ever so gently. The beats and notes soon reached their clusion, merriness returning to the crowd.

  "My dearest and loyal subjects, the time has e yet again. He was a great King and a great swordsman. With his own hands, he brought forth peace over the nds and built the very nds we staoday.

  King Parsifal, the first and greatest King of the Graystone was a man of vi aion. He swung his sword for the people and paved the way for the people, gifting us the paradise we live in." ［Ar］

  The King tinued his speed the people listeo his preag. There was not a single chattering to be heard, everyone listening atteo the stories they have since heard when they were children.

  The tales of the first King had been passed down from geion to geion, and for meions to e. He was not just a King, but a hero as well. One who spent sweat, blood, and tears to build Graystone.

  It was a story sung by bards and writers 300 years ago, yet it still felt fresh to the hearts of the popuce. The King's words only fahe fmes of their endless gratitude to a man they have never met before yet had ged their lives.

  "However, like all stories, the tale of reat founder also reached its clusion 300 years ago. On this very day, King Parsifal had joihe stars in the night sky, forever watg us from above.

  He left a lega our books, a burning will in our hearts, and a dream for the future. Today, we celebrate his departure and the gifts he bestowed us. Today, we shall cross our swords in his honor and remember him fes to e!

  To King Parsifal! Glory to Graystone!" ［Ar］

  """To King Parsifal! Glory to Graystone!"""

  The King raised his hands and the crowd raised their voices in unison. A boisterous and fmboyant round of appuse echoed in the air, people smiling as they hohe First King deep in their hearts.

  However, the excitement has yet to begin. With the King finishing his piece, a sharp ring rocked the skies and two figures took his pce. The crowd cmored at their entrahe atmosphere getting rowdy and lively.

  "What a wonderful speech from His Majesty! Truly a gmorous way to start the ival of Swords, don't you think so too, Partner?" ［???］

  "I agree, Partner. I have already heard it tless of times but my heart still quivers every time I hear it. His Majesty, King Parsifal, truly is a great man!" ［???］

  "No wonder many people see him as his idol. I'm sure everyone here wao be like him at some point in time. To reach the pinnacle of swordsmanship!" ［???］

  "Hahaha! That sure brings back memories. It feels like it was just yesterday." ［???］

  They were rowdy and fmboyant, their voices eg in the Grand Colosseum as they chatted ever so casually. They were seated in a separate chamber just across and a little ways below the Royal Chamber, the perfect vantage point.

  "Oh! Looks like we got carried away again, partner. How about we introduce ourselves before we tinue chattering?" ［???］

  "Hohoho! That's a wonderful idea! In fact, that's the best idea!" ［???］

  They ughed and chuckled, clearing their throats all the while. The people listeo their chit chat and they successfully grabbed the attention of everyone. People could only chuckle to themselves as they listeo the two's silliness.

  "Gooooddddd m, Ladies alemen!! This is Konan speaking! It'a a pleasure to see your beautiful faces again this year!" ［Konan］

  "And the erry! In your service!" ［Terry］

  ""We will be your entators for the day!!"" ［Konan and Terry］

  They were her than the entators for the ival of Swords, lively and rowdy as be. The moment they introduced themselves, the audience was in an uproar, raising their hands and ting with enthusiasm.

  It wasn't the first time they hahe entary for such a great and gra, and throughout the years, due to their liveliness and charisma, the people only grew to love them, everyone full of energy, squealing like little hamsters.

  "Partner, have you heard, it seems like there's quite a ge in the way we're doing things this time around." ［Konan］

  "You're said it, Partner. I retty shocked too when I heard it. But more than shocked, I was even more excited! To think that not just one, but we'll be having 3 champions this year!" ［Terry］

  "You heard it right, folks! Three! There will be 3 champions in this year's ival of Swords! One from each division!" ［Konan］

  Many were already aware of the fact, but some were still in the dark. The moment they heard about the entators' words, a furor thundering amongst the crowd, the audien a wild and turbulent craze.

  Fortunately, they weren't ive reas, but rather, a wave full of positivity, the people smiling from ear to ear from excitement. One was already exhirating, and now they have three. They eagerly looked forward to the matches.

  "In this year's ival of swords, the partits are grouped into three divisions, namely, the Junior Division, the Intermediate Division, and the Senior Division, all having 32 swordsmen ready to battle for the ." ［Konan］

  "And that's not all! Sihere are now three divisions, rather than two days, the ival of Swords will now be three days!" ［Terry］

  "Three times the excitement and three times the fun!" ［Konan］

  The ival of Swords would be a lo. On the first day would be the round of 32, for the sed day is the round of 16 and the quarterfinals, and stly, ohird day, would be the semifinals, and the grand finals.

  The Junior Division would py in the m, the Intermediate Division during noon, and the Senior Division iernoon, a 30-minute break separating each division from one another.

  Of course, as there could be unforeseen acts, healers and support csses are always on standby in the area, even the Archbishop of Avalo and ready to give aid when the moment is called for.

  The barriers have also been checked so that no sudden problems occur during the event, everything double checked just to be sure. With all the time and resources spent on the event, there was nothing mrand and luxurious as it is.

  "I wonder just what kind of prizes the champions will pick this year." ［Konan］

  "If I'm correct, Lord Deltran chose a new sword st year, right?" ［Terry］

  "That's right, and not just any sword, but a High-Tier Superirade sword. It was one which would illions to make!" ［Konan］

  "If it was me, I would have chosen a mansion instead! Hohoho!" ［Terry］

  Of course, the grand prizes for the champions were just as luxurious. As long as they are reasohe winner of the ival of Swords be granted any single wish from the Royal Family the moment they win their divisions.

  Be it a mansion, fame, money, good equipment, an expeem, knighting, and many more, the Royal Family is ready to grant it, and thus many of the swordsmen participate year by year. It was basically a oime wishing well,

  "Ohh!! Just thinking about it makes my blood boil iement!" ［Terry］

  "Your said it very well, Parthere's no greater thrill and honor than to watch such honorable swordsmen cross swords with one another!" ［Konan］

  "Oh! And have you heard? We have some iing new faces this year! They just shocked the whole capital retly! I really want to see them!" ［Terry］

  "I know who you're talking about, Partner. It really seems like the ival of Swords would be very iing. I 't wait to..." ［Konan］

  The entators babbled and babbled on, running their mouths as they hyped the crowd up with rumors and gossip which has been floating in the Capital for quite a while already, poking at the people's i as they tio speak.

  ...

  "Have... heard... are... champions..." ［Konan］

  "... right... The... had... fought... time...." ［Terry］

  Voices faint and thin echoed throughout the walls, the ones hearing it barely making out what they were supposed to be. Only deep breaths and howling sshes echoed in the air, a number of figures preparing for ead their own.

  Uhe searing areas where the sun couldn't reach, various swordsmen gathered along their swords. Eae of them was a cut above the rest, hearts springing full of fidence as they held onto their swords preciously.

  Some seared themselves carefreely, some were polishing their swords, and some were meditating to ease themselves. They were all different and unique, yet they bore the same wish iheir hearts... The dream to reach the top.

  "Feeling uneasy, Lisa?" ［Yuna］

  "A little bit... But don't worry, I'm not as nervous as yesterday, I'm sure I overe this adversity!" ［Lisandra］

  "Fufufu! That's the spirit, Lisa! Just believe in yourself!" ［Yuna］

  Of course, Grey, Yuna, and Lisandra were also there. After attending the parade, the Princess quickly came down the waiting area and ged into her swordswoman attire, equipping the swrey and Yuna made by her side.

  It has only been a few days, but Lisandra had already familiarized herself with the sword. Not only was it light, it was very sharp and durable as well thanks to Grey's entments. It felt like aension of her own body.

  Well, it wasn't just them who were present, but a few friendly and familiar faces as well in the mix. There was the General, the Lt. Generals, Gahad, Eliazar, knights from the Royal Guards, and of course...

  "That's right! I 't always be like this! I o be firm!" ［Lisandra］

  "That's right～! Just keep up that mi and fortitude, Lisa!" ［Yuna］

  "A-A-After all... L-Lord Deltran is here as well!" ［Lisandra］

  .... There was the Champion. The moment Lisandra saw him, she immediately got panicky and fidgety, squealing and screaming deep inside her heart, watg from afar like a truly insane fangirl, obsessed with her idol.

  Little did she know, that very idol was someone she was super close toー or rather, someone she knew very well. Only Grey knew of the fact, and he could only chuckle at Lisandra's unusually meek and adorable reas.

  It wasn't just the princess, but many of the younger geion were in awe as they looked at him, eyes sparkling brightly as they bored a hole in his head. It was quite the amazihat he could remain unfazed even after sutense gazes.

  "If yoing to stare that much, why don't you just approach him and ask for an autograph? It shouldn't be that hard." ［Grey］

  "E-Eh?! N-No way! My heart's not ready yet!" ［Lisandra］

  "Fufufu! She has a crush on him, after all～! My, how i～!" ［Yuna］

  "No! I do not! I really don't! And I already have a fiancée! How many times do I have to tell you that, Yuna!" ［Lisandra］

  Whispering whilst shouting, Lisandra tried her utmost best to keep her voice down as she shook Yuna's shoulders. Her face burned a fierce red like a ripe tomato as she kept on shaking Yuna, the tter only having fun as much as she could.

  And her words were true. Lisandra doesn't hold any romantic feelings for Deltran, only feelings of resped admiration as a fellow swordsman. She looks up to her like he looks up to Lionel and her father, heart holding them dear.

  'Well, I guess that works out...' ［Grey］

  Otherwise, it would have been a pretty big and messy problem. Lionel may be hiding his identity as Deltran, but he's still the same prihey were brother and sister, and one could only imagine h it would be,

  "Haah... Lisandra, give me the scabbard of your sword real quick." ［Grey］

  "Hm? Is there something wrong with it?" ［Lisandra］

  "Not really, I just wao cheething." ［Grey］

  The priilted her head in fusion, but she only got a smile in response. She didn't hesitate any longer and uhed her sword, then giving Grey the scabbard, a curious look brewing on her beautiful face.

  Grey ied the scabbard, turning it up and down, carefully scrutinizing it with a serious gaze in his eyes. He looked very serious, but it was all just a ploy, standing up soon after, his footsteps resounding in the air.

  "Hm? Grey...? Where are you...!!" ［Lisandra］

  Lisandra was just about to ask, but the answer revealed itself soon after. It took her a little while, but the dire Grey was walking towards was clearly towards Deltran, her face traced with panic as soon as she realized.

  She wao call Grey back, but raising her voice would be the same as asking to be the ter of attentioran would surely also look at her curiously, and she'd look like a fool. It would be so embarrassing, it might as well be a death sentence.

  The same couldn't be said to Grey. With a face which looked like he didn't have a single ounce of care, he walked up towards Deltran, only stopping his steps when they were just a couple inches apart, the tter looking at him with curiosity.

  "It's been some time, Lord Deltran." ［Grey］

  "Likewise, Yhness. Have you been well?" ［Lionel］

  He was cautious as ever, not letting himself suddenly slip and ag naturally with a polite smile on his face. If Grey had not known his true character earlier on, he would have been fooled as well. Ag skills deserving of an award.

  "Now, now, o be so formal. I already casted a sound-proofing barrier along with some illusion magily the two of us hear our versation." ［Grey］

  "That quickly? You sure move fast, don't you, Grey?" ［Lionel］

  "Well, you know what they say, the early bird catches the worm... Now, that phrase doesn't really fit the situation, doesn't it?" ［Grey］

  Grey didn't just erect a barrier, he also veiled themselves with a bit of illusion magic to prevent the people not only from eavesdropping but reading their lips as well. It was the perfect spell for such secret talks.

  "So, why did you approach me? Are you in need of something?" ［Lionel］

  "Not really, but here, take this..." ［Grey］

  "A... Scabbard...?" ［Lionel］

  "That's right, it's a scabbard. Now, please sign it with your autograph," ［Grey］

  The prince uzzled, no he was baffled and bewildered. He had thought it was going to be something valuable and important, but to think it was so trivial as a mere autograph... He was at a loss for words, uo utter even a single word.

  There have many who've asked him for an autograph, and he's sighed many of them over the course of several years, yet it was the first time someone approached him with such a serious look, eveing a sound-proof barrier just for it. It was quite shog to say the very least.

  Lionel looked at Grey again, and his eyes remained unged, still serious as he held the scabbard towards him. The tter could only sigh in resignation and accept. There was nothing he could lose with just a mere signature, anyway.

  "Haah... I didn't think you would ask for an autograph, Grey. That really threw me off. You should warn me ime." ［Lionel］

  "Ah, no.... It's not for me." ［Grey］

  "Then who is it for... Oh, for Lisa, huh..." ［Lionel］

  The Prinswered his owion, following Grey's go a now fidgety and panicky young princess. His younger sister was full of worries as they looked at them, not knowing what to do and trembling ever so slightly.

  Lionel already khat Lisandra admired her, but he never k was to such a great extent. He felt guilty hiding his identity, but there was only so much he could do about it. He heaved a sigh nation, not dwelling oopiy longer.

  "Haah... You should have told me sooner." ［Lionel］

  "Aren't you going to wish her good luck? She worked really hard, you know?" ［Grey］

  "I know... Trust me, I know..." ［Lionel］

  It was subtle, but there was a tinge of softness aleness in his voice as he said such words, a little smile blooming on his face as he picked up a pen and sighe scabbard of his dearest younger sister.

  He could still remember her sparkling eyes when she was still a child, hopping cutely aedly as she watched him train his swordsmanship. To think that that very same child had grown up to be such a fine young dy... He couldn't be any happier.

  "Alright... I'll be heading baow. I'll be sure to give it to her." ［Grey］

  "Yeah, and while you're at it, tell her exactly this... 'May the swuide and bless you on your path to greatness'... It's something I read in a book once." ［Lionel］

  "Alright, you t on me." ［Grey］

  He was now smiling fidently, eyes filled with gentleness. Grey couldn't help but break a smile as well, soon turning around and heading back towards Yuna and Lisandraー or at least, he was going to, when suddenly...

  "ht, and one more thing... I look forward to our match." ［Lionel］

  It wasn't just a statement, it was a big decration. A decration that he wouldn't be losing to anyone else until they fae another, and so, Grey should also the same. It was an invitation from the Champion towards his challenger,

  Of course, being the man that he is, Grey wasn't oo turn down such a challenge. A spark has ignited deep within him, an exhirated smile blooming on his face as excitement exploded inside his heart like fireworks.

  "Sure, I won't disappoint you, so you better keep your word." ［Grey］

  "Hahaha. Just who do you think you're talking to, Junior?" ［Lionel］

  Smiles on their faces and eyes burning with passion and resolve. Grey soon turned around and headed back towards the other two, returning the scabbard and reying Lionel's words as it is to Lisandra.

  The moment he saw the sweet smile on his younger sister's face, he couldn't help but smile as well. He had achieved many goals in life and gathered many treasures, but nothing was more valuable than her smiles. She was his greatest treasure.

  "And now! Let's wele our honorable swordsmen!" ［Terry］

  The announcer's voied throughout the Grand Colosseum, a booming fanfare following it soon enough. Oer ahe swordsmen poured out towards the stage, holding their chests high as they marched forward.

  There was the Junior Division, the bright future of the kingdom. The Intermediate Division who are the rising stars which will soon bee pilrs of Graystone. And finally, there was the Senior Division, legends who had already made their name.

  "Whoohoo!! Lord Deltran, make sure you crush them all!"

  "That's my son! I'm sure he would win this in a breeze!"

  "Chifon, do your best! Show them what an adventurer really is!"

  The crowd was ecstatic, merry and joyful cheers fluttering in the air. The excitement only grew and grew, adding in more to the chaotic symphony. There was not a single soul who was nor shouting, all were yelling to the top of their lungs.

  Grey, you remember our promise, right? ［Yuna］

  Of course. Have you fotten who I am, My Dear? ［Grey］

  Fufufu! The's have as much fun as we ! ［Yuna］

  The ival of Swords has begun!

  CHAPTER 320 END