3rd Pov
The sixth day of the festival starting, early in the afternoon...the last few batches of participants fought qualifying the winners to the next round.
Though, it seems after the sudden announcement of Dawn's participation, some people just forfeited on the spot...as much pride and greed they possessed.
They weren't all idiots who would run toward someone already out of reach, while those with a passion for fighting and a thirst for strong opponents would give themself a chance.
This led to Dawn having an internal crisis since instead of scaring the unfortunate one away, he attracted the battle maniac.
tHose who passed the group stage and were now in the round of 16 were eager to fight him...
Dawn : (At least, because of my show off...i'm directly in the round of 8, meaning i just have to fight 3 times to win this.)
thought his fight might be the hardest, as once the semi start...he will be forced to either fight Diablo or Shion...
Dawn : I don't think I'll lose my mind...it's just annoying.
And the last fight was against Benimaru, since he is on the other side of the tournament branch...there were some other strong contestants like Gobuta, Ranga or the masked Carrion.
But none of them could compare to those Dawn listed, on top of that he already knew the outcome of the tournament...without him the final should have been Benimaru against Diablo.
Though those sources cannot be accurate since Rimuru himself is stronger than the original, his subordinate also grew in power.
Dawn : Now the only problem is that demon...
Carrera...while Ultima was too terrified to participate, Testarossa had her duty...since Diablo entered, Rimuru couldn't refute Carrera's entry.
She might overpower Benimaru..., but luckily for him, she isn't on his side of the branch, but rather if she wins all her fights.
She will face me in the round of 8.
Dawn : Heh...I might have to be a little more serious than I planned.
He only thought that because if let too much time, Carrera might just snap and cast a gravity collapse in the middle of the city...surely, she was eager to fight the one that terrified her fellow primordial.
Dawn : Anyway, i have to say...taking a dip in the onsen in the middle of the day isn't bad.
Since the next round didn't concern him, he went to the onsen and coincidentally a few of his acquaintances followed by.
Dawn : Though I didn't expect to meet you here King Gazel.
Gazel : Haha, well the tournament will only get interesting later...for now i plan to wholeheartedly enjoy the wonder of Tempest.
Gazel Dwargo, even if he and Dawn aren't exactly friends, his father had forged a weapon for Dawn a long time ago.
Dawn had seen the early stage of Dwargon, so he was naturally bound to the dwarven nation even if it's only a little now.
Dawn : I agree, but you got quite the company...
With them were a few others, Fuze...the guildmaster of a branch of the Freedom guild in Blunmund, beside him was oddly, the scientific Vesta...
And another particular guest was Lucas Schwartz, one of Dawn's people...
Dawn : To think Lucas would become acquainted with the king of Dwargon, I really didn't expect that.
Lucas : Shut it...we just met in the city and got along.
Gazel : He is really strong ! I immediately recognized his worth after gazing at him, we then proceeded for a spar, and I have to say this brat is a prodigy !
Dawn smirked, but not for the reason you could think of...
Dawn : Prodigy, heh...(Well he doesn't know that Lucas is almost as old as him, also he was awful with swords back then.)
Horizon was the one who taught him, that's why they were so close...or at least that's why Lucas looked up to him that much.
But never once in 2 decades, Dawn received a positive report...it was only later when Lucas switched to a claymore like sword that he progressed.
His skill set particularly matches brute strength after all.
Lucas : That crazy old man just bumped into me and dragged me out, that's all.
Dawn : I see...I guess you guys were a good match.
As the words escaped his mouth, a hint of regret appeared...it went unnoticed by everyone beside Lucas who just looked away.
Their relationship wasn't the best, and it deteriorated ever since Horizon was captured.
Lucas surely expected him to get up and go to his rescue instantly but instead, he has been waiting for months.
Lucas : (Unlike me, our leader is strong and has enough power to go there and confront demon lord Dagruel, so why is he waiting...)
Being able to enjoy such a festival while one of them is out there suffering really isn't sitting right for Lucas.
Dawn : Mmh, perhaps Lucas should learn for a while under Hakuro...it could help.
Gazel : Oho, that's a good idea, I'm sure the brat will manage to get through his hellish training.
Dawn : Right.
Without asking the opinion of the one concerned, his fate was set at that moment...
Shaking hand, both Gazel and Dawn looked like a father who had set up their son.
Dawn : By the way...what's up with this guy ?
Vesta : Oh, Dawn-dono...well Fuze-san has fainted since...well the emotional shock of meeting someone of your stature here hit quite hard.
Dawn : ...
Later, Dawn came out of the onsen...his skin still steaming from the long bath he had just taken.
Wearing just a simple plain black shirt, he went to buy some juice since it's a well known tradition in anime and japan to drink juice after bath.
Dawn : I always wanted to try...but elite never went to japan, so I have no memory.
Taking the opportunity, he brought a small can of apple juice and sat on a bench nearly...drinking slowly and peacefully while some curious eyes stared at him.
Dawn : (I see, the freshness of this juice right after a hot steam bath really helps, it's almost as good as the kebab at 4am...)
Nodding in approval, his peace was interrupted as a group of people he knew entered the store...
Dawn : Oh ? I didn't expect to meet you guys here...
His voice gradually sounded weaker as he realized the situation, Velzard was leading the group...behind her was Flora and Veldora carrying dozens of shopping bags.
Eleonor was serving as a guide...as if she always lived in Tempest, a map in hand...and lastly Yuu was there with a big wallet in hand.
Ramiris is here too...though she seems more transparent than anything...
Dawn : What the hell...
Velzard : Ohhh, Dawn-kun, we need another bag carrier !
In the back, Veldora seemed to be at the end of his life...it seems shopping with girls is as horrifying as fighting Ivarage.
Dawn : H-I got some business to attend...
Velzard : Huh ? But Luminous is taking care of everything, right now so come, we'll find you some clothes.
Dawn : I-i didn't expect you to be the kind of woman to buy a lot...
Velzard : Well Eleonor here is quite fashionable, she showed me the wonder of shopping, and I got to say it's quite amusing.
Dawn quickly glared at Eleonor who averted her eyes, his gaze then shifted to Flora who was looking pale.
Dawn : A-are you okay, Flora ?
Flora : L-leader...help, it has already been 75 shops...we haven't even eaten and more than 3/4 of their purchases are delivered...
It was hard to believe considering the high amount of bags she was currently carrying.
Dawn : Y-Yuu...how much money did you guys spend ?
Yuu : ...I counted around 7 stellar gold coins already...
Dawn froze for an instant, he condescendly glared at Velzard who seemed to have finally understood that she messed up somewhere.
Velzard : W-wait ! Don't look at me that way ! What did I do wrong ?
Dawn : Ahh...why is Kyuri ?
Ramiris : That I know ! She stayed behind in Shizue's care, she must help Hinata and Rimuru take care of some meetings.
Dawn : I see...
Velzard : Hey don't ignore me !
Sighing, Dawn went to Yuu and took the pouch full of coins.
Dawn : I take this away, from now on...you got only 25 gold coins per person.
Limiting their budget, his voice dripping in authority left room for the girls and Veldora to negotiate.
Flora : Thank you leader !
Velzard : (Mmh, maybe i should go visit Rimuru...he might just give me some more coins...or should I use Flora ? After all, she is the richest.)
While being dejected for a moment, a fierce glare filled with greed and malice came out of Velzard's eyes...she just looked like a cat ready to bounce on its prey.
Flora : *gulp*
Dawn : Anyway, I'll have to go so enjoy your day.
Waving them off, Dawn just left the room and went outside.
Dawn : Since I'm wearing those simple clothes, I won't be recognized...good.
Though, the shirt given by the institute is quite tight...from his chest to his stomach, it flexes his body a bit too much for his liking.
Dawn : Mmh, I'm alone, huh...I wonder what I should do.
He hasn't been left alone on a day off since forever, maybe he should go buy something...but material or any kind of equipment is useless to him.
Some food ? He only ate because the others do so...as a spiritual lifeform he doesn't have such need.
Dawn : Maybe visit some cultural place or-eh ?
While thinking, a few strands of silver flashed in the corner of his eyes...instinctively taking position, he followed the hooded individual.
Who seemed to have also noticed his presence, walking a bit further until they were in a more isolated place.
The individual removed her hood...revealed her long silver hair, gems like eyes and pointy ears.
Dawn : It has been a while, your majesty Elmesia.
Elemsia : What a bad boy, we are close friends and you dare use honorifics with me, just call me El-chan like you used to be.
Elmesia El Ru Sarion, empress of the sorcery dynasty Sarion, the land of elf...she and Dawn are long time friends but since Sarion didn't want to involve themself in the politics outside their own territory.
Meeting has become quite hard, still both of them had become closer when Dawn journeyed around the world for centuries...Sarion was always a place that welcomed him.
Dawn : Sure, so where were you going in such a hurry ?
Elmesia : W-well, i just wanted to vent some frustration...
Dawn : Mmh ? Did something happen ?
Elmesia : Dawn-kun...waaa ! Can you believe that !
At first she let out tears of frustration before closing the distance, hugging Dawn while complaining her heart out.
Elmesia : I decided to enter that tournament they held and I was eliminated in the group stage ! Me out of all people !
Dawn : Eh ? Who did you face to get eliminated...
Elmesia : That's the problem ! No one told me the Jaune primordial was here in Tempest ! She kept throwing explosive spells ! She even deliberately kept a weakling alive so she could eliminate me !
Dawn : Ah...(I guess Carrera just wanted to face a strong opponent since the other might have disappointed her...)
Thus, Elmesia's grand plan to make a grand entrance in this festival failed as she fell against a primordial demon...
Dawn : Let's just go grab some food, I'll keep you company for a bit.
Elmesia : You're really cold hearted, even my perfect acting didn't move you.
Returning to a confident expression, Elmesia dusted off her dress before smirking...she was indeed frustrated but she wasn't childish enough to let this get to her.
Elmesia : I watched your match, quite the impactful ending, heh.
Dawn : At the end, Masayuki gained even more glory...
Elmesia : Right, I don't really understand why everyone cheered for him though...it was clear that he was on the verge of breaking down just facing your aura.
Dawn : Well, he is just a lucky bastard (He will become my nephew in the future, i'll beat him up correctly later...)
Elmesia Pov
Whoa, I never saw Dawn-kun make such a terrible expression...it feels like he is going to end the life of a thousand men...
I shouldn't pry further if I want to keep being sane...
Dawn : Anyway, let's grab some food and catch up, I think we got a lot to talk about.
Elmesia : Sure, but it will just be trivial friendly talk...it's not like you got a child and a wife, right.
I heartily laughed forgetting to check on Dawn's expression...before freezing as I noticed him flinching.
Elmesia : Whoa...no way ! You got a girl ?! Who is it ?!
I yelled out in concern, how dare seduce my friend ! Who I saw was like a little brother ! Wait, he is more mature than me...but I'm older, right...
Dawn : Wait wa-
Elmesia : Or is it a child ?! You adopted a child ?!
I grabbed his shoulder while shaking him, trying to force any answer out of him...you can't hide anything from me you vile bad boi !
I'll drop everything out of your soul if needed-
Elmesia : Ouch !
Dawn : Stop this.
Lightly tapping my head with his hand, he clearly infused some magicule in it to make me feel more pain...bastard ! Meaning ! Idiot !
Elmesia : Tch...you better explain, also did your girlfriend ask you to tint your hair ? Not like you are any less handsome.
In fact, I think white hair suits him more...mainly because his magic element is based on ice...also his eyes seem much colder, mmh...
Dawn : I'll explain everything if your ladyship could share with this lowly duke a drink.
Elmesia : Hai hai, let this beautiful empress acco-wait, duke ?
Since when did he have a nobility title ?
Dawn : So ? Is my lady coming ?
Offering me his hand in a very courteous manner, I glared at him suspiciously before taking it.
Well, as he said...i'll get my answer with a good drink.
Whoa, my head is spinning ! Tempest's alcohol is really the best !
Elmesia : Jaune is so mean ! Waaa !
Drunk and deprived of my resistance, we sat at a table in a pretty famous bar, Dawn-kun himself was slightly red as he let the alcohol take effect.
Dawn : Haha, don't worry I'll avenge you later.
Elmesia : Hihi, so what's up with your appearance ? Is your girlfriend more beautiful than me ?
This did upset me a little, I am not interested in Dawn romantically...far from that, but he doesn't seem appealing by my glorious appearance at all.
And that's annoying, I'm very proud of my regal yet dignified beauty...I want to see what kind of woman managed to melt this man's cold heart !
Dawn : I don't see anyone at that moment, but I did have someone like that in my past life.
Elmesia : I see, i se-huh ?
Past life ?
Immediately looking up, I felt my head sober up as I registered his words...past life, huh...
So he is a reincarnated, well i did have some suspicion but to think they came true...
Elmesia : I see, so who were you before ?
Dawn : Just some small duke that failed to protect his land, I think back then Sarion wasn't built yet...it should be around several dozen generations before the Falmuth from 2000 years ago.
Mmh, so 2000 years multiplied by multiple generations...wait, how old is this guy then...I mean, he was certainly born 2000 years ago.
But his soul has traveled across the age...he might be even older than me actually...
Elmesia : A duel, huh...so you were a noble, why didn't tell me before ?
Dawn : A lot happened and most of my memories were sealed, now i'm back and complete again.
Taking a sip of his drink, his face was getting redder and redder, and before I knew it he was already releasing a wave of his particular blessing...
Since he had pledged loyalty to Luminous, he also has her blessing which is basically a highly condensed form of seductive magic.
Looking behind me, I could see some of the other customers present being entranced into his charm...ahh, seriously i should stop him from drinking...
He is surprisingly weak against alcohol, well I guess he never truly drinks.
Elmesia : Oi, sober up already !
Releasing a burst of my haki, I snapped everyone out of their daze...while it didn't have much effect on Dawn-kun, he was still sane enough to take control back over his body.
Dawn : Ugh, sorry accidentally let out the blessing of lust...
It's a power he never uses, because it's meaningless for someone like him...i still remember the first time it awakened accidentally.
He wasn't even fully Luminous's subordinate but since he was going to be anyway, he somehow had her blessing.
I still remember how much of a mess the castle was at that time...
Dawn : Anyway, let's order some soft drinks and I'll continue my story.
Elmesia : Hai hai, to think the great hero of the west would be this weak against Alcohol.
Dawn : Shut it, you aren't better, crying over a simple defeat.
An irk mark appeared on my forehead as I flashed a sweet smile.
Elmesia : I hope somehow manage to blow your smirk off, jerk.
We glared at each other for a moment before bursting into chuckle, at the end we were still good friends.
And so, I then passed the next few hours talking...by now the next stage of the tournament should have started.
But we didn't really care, what truly interested me was his story...a reincarnated duke with a reincarnated daughter.
The same daughter who runs around everywhere without anyone knowing...
Elmesia : Have you thought about writing this off and selling it ? I'm sure a lot of people would love such a story.
Dawn : Spare me please, I'm far too old for that...
Waving his hand, he then continued to answer my every question...it was truly fascinating, despite knowing that he purposely left some part out.
I enjoyed the story of his life...but also it saddened me, in two lifetimes...he had lost everything twice...sure his situation now is clear.
But if he had regained his memories 2000 years ago after...he had killed that girl Luna, I don't think he would be the same as now.
Dawn : Anyway, can I ask you a few pieces of advice too ?
Elmesia : Sure...
Dawn : What should I get for my daughter ?
Elmesia : Mmh, well I guess some sweets would be a safe choice ?
Dawn : Sweet, huh...I think there is a big sweet factory in Ingracia...should I pressure the king ?
Whoa...he started muttering some scary thing to himself...little girl, your father is mentally deranged...i pity you.
Elmesia : W-what about a teddy bear ?
Dawn : Mmh...that would be nice, I could find some exotic bear and peel them off...what is the fluffiest fur anyway ?
Yeah...he is hopeless, well i'm still rooting for him to be happy...perhaps the key to open him up is this girl Mirai...
Though I still pity her, I doubt she will get any boyfriend as long as Dawn-kun is alive, oh maybe i should ask him about that.
Elmesia : What if she get a boyf-
And just like that, I didn't even have the time to realize my weakness...as I accidentally unleashed a catastrophic bomb in the middle of Tempest...
My consciousness blacking out, at last I felt the crushing murderous intent that Dawn-kun released...
3rd Pov
Fortunately, Velzard realized the sudden spike of bloodlust in time and activated suspended world before reaching to calm Dawn...
It took some time but finally, he fixed everything and concluded with Elmesia.
Before returning to his hotel room, more tired than he should be.
Dawn : I need more alcohol in me for this kind of discussion...
Sighing, he just went to bed before remembering that the tournament was still ongoing...
Dawn : The round of 16 should be done by now...i didn't receive any call or thought communication so most likely, my fight starts tomorrow.
Closing his eyes, he just decided to drift into sleep mode...
Dawn : Yeah...let's just sleep for now...
The next morning, Dawn was forced awake by an angry Kyuri.
Kyuri : Mashter ! Wake up !
Jumping in the air before landing right into Dawn's stomach, the poor hero groaned as pain traveled from his core to his brain.
Dawn : U-ahhh...what's up ? Did Rudra attack or what ?
Kyuri : Kumara finally woke up ! I want to meet her now !
Dawn : Can't you just ask Shizue or Rimuru ?
Kyuri : They are busy-
Dawn : I am busy too...
Kyuri : But you are my master, it's your duty to take care of me.
Dawn : ...ok let's go.
Waving her tail Kyuri happily hummed before jumping on top of Dawn's head, her size shrinking to a modest ball height.
Shortly after, Dawn was out...it seemed he slept more than he wanted as the sun was already high in the sky and the street was crowded.
Kyuri : By the way, I was told that your next match was set.
Dawn : I see...so who am I fighting ?
Kyuri : Carrera-san ! She was grinning madly earlier...saying how she would beat you.
Dawn : Mmh, defeat me, huh...
Kyuri : Go easy on her, master ! Because she is actually very nice.
Dawn doubted her words since he knew how mean and explosive Carrera is...but he guessed that somehow Kyuri got food from the Jaune primordial and earned her favors.
Dawn : Anyway, where is Kumara right now ?
Kyuri : I heard Ramiris granny is taking care of her in the labyrinth right now !
Dawn : Then to the labyrinth.
Following his words, they were in the next instant standing in the deepest floor of the labyrinth.
His presence wasn't noticed by anyone, in fact the entire floor was silent with no sign of life, only a room lightened further away.
Dawn : Veldora, Ramiris and 3 other magic signatures, huh.
Taking a step forward, he then opened the door and pulled the handle...a blindening light flashed at him through his eyes and didn't waver at all.
Inside was a large laboratory...
Dawn : (Oh isn't this the laboratory that gave so many headaches to Rimuru at the end of the Web novel...it's also here where Ramiris will create a portal to the otherworld.)
But that was a story for the future, a distant future...right now, Ramiris was carefully studying 3 creatures...
Well small is a crude word, as only the little fox was small...the other 2 creatures had achieved humanoid bodies after their respective evolution.
Dawn : (Zegion and Apito, huh...it seems Kumara hasn't achieved her humanoid form yet.)
Veldora's training for them had already started and they gained humanoid form much earlier than they should, this must be a side effect of Rimuru himself being stronger.
Dawn : Interesting.
While his interest was sparked at Zegion's development, Kyuri on the other hand was getting agitated as her eyes landed on Kumara.
Realizing the pressing she paused, Dawn chuckled and made his presence known.
Dawn : Am I interrupting something ?
Ramiris : Oh Dawn-kun ! You're here.
Startled by his sudden appearance, Ramiris let off her tool and greeted him properly.
Dawn : (Wait...tool ? What was she doing to Zegion...)
Ramiris : Mmh ? Oh, if you are wondering, I was experimenting on Zegion's body since it's like a pure gold mine of information.
Dawn : I-i see...anyway, i'm here for my little partner here.
Ramiris : Kyuri-chan ? Oh right ! I almost forgot ! She eagerly wanted to meet Kumara-chan.
Interlocking her finger as she exclaimed her realization, she then called Kumara who jumped in front of her confused.
Kumara : Did something happen ? And I'm glad to see you again, Dawn-sawn !
Dawn : The feeling is shared, little fox.
Bending down to scratch Kumara's head, the little fox purred while trying to deepen the connection.
Kumara : * Brrr *
Dawn : Also, I came here to introduce you to someone.
Kumara : Someone ?
Popping out of her trance, she looked up and noticed the other small fox that until now kept quiet while staring at her.
Dawn : Allow me to make the presentation, this one is my partner Kyuri, she is also your grandmother.
Kumara : Oh i se-wait grandmother ?!
Dawn : Yup, the one your mother talked about.
Smiling, Dawn gently put down Kyuri who was getting more and more excited.
The two fox then stared at each other...they were similar if not the same...the major difference in their appearance was their fur color.
A bright shining gold for Kumara while snow silver fur for Kyuri.
Kumara : A-are you really my grandmother ?
Kyuri : Sure I am, look at how big and cute you are...
Sprouting sweet words, Kyuri nudged her nose on Kumara's head...an unfound and unknown connection bound the two.
And unconsciously, their bonding started at that moment, leaving them be...Dawn went to Ramiris giving some space to the daughter and grandmother duo.
Dawn : At least now, you can tease Kyuri for being a granny.
Ramiris : Haha, I was starting to get hurt from her teasing...
Dawn : Well you are pretty old to be fa-
Ramiris : Ah ?
Instantly giving him a cold glare, Dawn flinched and shrunk back.
Dawn : Nevermind, I didn't say anything...
Ramiris : Yeah that's better, by the way what are you doing Veldora-kun ?
Turning her attention toward the storm dragon who had been keeping a low profile ever since Dawn appeared.
The dragon flinched and looked up while letting out a dry 3 staged laugh.
Veldora : I-i was thinking about leaving...s-since this guy is here now...
His expression was terrified as when he was educated by his sisters...it seems the experience of being beat up with the after effect of Lord of Fate terrorized even a True dragon.
Veldora : (I need to get away from this sicko ! No wonder he was trained by Velzard-nee!)
Dawn : Now that I think, why are there is the two of you here ? Don't tell me-
Ramiris : Haha, Veldora-kun was very insistent in helping me...he even let go of his manga for that.
Like glass breaking, Dawn let out a very scary expression while Veldora tried to run away...unfortunately for him.
He wasn't fast enough and got caught up before being dragged outside somewhere else on the last floor.
Dawn : Me and the breeze dragon need to have a proper discussion.
Ramiris : Sure, take your time !
Waving her hand amused by the situation, it was something she expected...she also wanted Veldora away since he was very loud so Dawn came up handy.
Ramiris : Now, Zegion-kun, Apito-chan...let's resume to our experiment, hehe.
Once she made sure Dawn and Veldora were gone, Ramiris turned toward her two subjects with bright stars in their eyes and a creepy smirk.
Zegion : Stay behind me, Apito...i'll take the hit.
Apito : Y-yes...
Ramiris : Hehehe~
A few hours later, Dawn was now in the coliseum...since it was publically announced that he would be fighting and that the round of 8 would now take place.
Standing in the backstage, waiting for his name to be announced, Dawn stared blankly at his opponent who had a wide grin plastered on her face.
Carrera : Finally a worthy opponent, i had enough of fighting those magot !
Dawn : I guess El-chan wasn't strong enough to pause you from any threat.
Carrera : El ? Well, it doesn't matter ! Aren't y'a ready ?! I can't wait to beat you up and boast it against that loli !
Dawn : Speaking of Ultima, how is she doing ?
Carrera : Huh ? I guess...she is doing fine ? (Actually, she always asks anyone where this guy is to avoid him...)
Pondering, for sure Ultima showed a new part of her personality those last few weeks...in constant fear, even Carrera couldn't make fun of her after seeing the devastated state she was in.
Dawn : I see, maybe I should pay her a visit soon (I am too harsh on her, does she like sweets ? I should give her something next time.)
Carrera : A-ah...i-yeah ! I'm sure she will be glad...i think ?
After exchanging a few light talk, finally their name was announced...being the third match of the round of 8.
The other already took place, and the overall shape of the final was already being drawn.
Dawn : (Well Masayuki was eliminated earlier, though his popularity increased instead of lowering...Gobuta won and will surely face Ranga next turn...)
Among those waiting in the semi, Shion, Benimaru and Diablo were the big names.
That aside, the 3rd and most anticipated fight of this round of 8 was now about to start.
Dawn Pov
Well well, there are a lot more spectators than I anticipated...the rulers and nobles of other nations are here too, didn't know they were so eager to watch me fight.
I'm really popular aren't I, though I doubt that many would have come if Carrera's identity was revealed as one of the primordial demons.
Anyway, i looked toward Rimuru and Luminous's box for an instant, they assisted at each match...well Rimuru did, Luminous kind of went off in the middle but yeah.
Now their eyes were fixated on me and Carrera, the two of us facing each other...I could feel her burning glare piercing my soul.
Though i wasn't really worried, i'm even contemplating if i should only use sword art...
Carrera : Oi ! Don't dare hold back, I'll crush you fair and square !
Dawn : I see, well if you ask so nicely.
Drawing my blade out, Shin Exalia was presented for the world to see for the first time.
On the way, my eyes flashed on El-chan who had her face hidden below a hood, she was silently cheering for me.
Dawn : (How are you feeling?)
Shin Exalia : (Greater than ever, I can finally be of use to master.)
Dawn : Good, then let's get started then...we got a delinquent girl to discipline.
Taking a basic stance, I let out a slight smirk signaling Souka that I was ready.
Souka : Then, our third match will now start ! On one hand, Dawn Arceid as everyone knows ! On the other hand, Executive Carrera, a powerful and dedicated servant of our lord Rimuru ! Ready, start !
I didn't really listen to her speech, my attention was focused on the girl in front of me...and as soon as the word « Start » sinked in my mind.
I bursted forward, not giving her any time to breath...my blade was already near her neck.
Carrera : What the-
Thought i couldn't kill her, so I just decreased my speed and let her get away...this should be enough as a warning since she was looking down on me.
Jumping backward, Carrera directly made several spheres and had them explode right into my face.
Dawn : (Huh ? It hurt less than expected...)
Brushing it off, I used the smoke generated by her attack to move up...standing in the sky, I observed calmly the situation unfold.
Carrera was nowhere to be seen...at least out of reach for Universal Perception but I knew exactly where she was.
Dawn : If you want to win! You need better tricks than that !
Tightening my grip on Shin Exalia, I slashed down several magic projectiles thrown toward me...the source being the smoke screen below.
So she opted for a total concealing of her magicule and presence, huh...i honestly didn't expect this troublemaker to use such tactic.
But that says a lot, she isn't underestimating me now...
Dawn : Huh ?
This girl really lives up to her surname being a living bomb...as the projectile exploded upon making contact with Shin Exalia.
The sky or the ground, everything was covered in smoke...while another wave of explosive projectiles were thrown at me.
Dawn : (Right, left, below, in the back and in front...is she trying to blow up everything?)
I groaned annoyed while slicing each attack, not minding the explosion...still it was getting annoying to be constantly bombarded.
Is this her plan ? If that's all, then this is nothing but a waste of time.
Dawn : Unique skill : Blade heart, activation.
Flying up higher, I dodged the rest of the projectile before raising my blade...the sharp side going down, I purposely added more strength than needed to see what would happen.
Slicing the air and the space, in an instant my attack connected with the ground...Carrera must have felt the danger coming because she instinctively went out of the way before I had even lowered my arm.
Anyway, the ground was split in half and a large singular horizontal crack performed the barrier protecting the spectator.
Dawn : Tch.
I quickly turned toward Rimuru and noticed that Veldora and Velzard were there too...did they join mid fight ? I didn't expect Veldora after i beat him up earlier.
Well that's good, with them here...the barrier will be maintained perfectly...
Carrera : Where are you looking at, you punk !
Dawn : Don't worry, even without eyes I could defeat you.
I quickly shifted back my attention toward this little demon, watching her burst from the ground...flying right toward me.
The already split arena exploded into pieces, but that really didn't matter...
Was Carrera really trying to fight me in close combat ? This is stupid as she is specialized in magic and long ranged spells.
Dawn : Well whatever, if that's a challenge, bring it on !
I settled back Shin Exalia into her scabbard much to her dismay before taking a martial stance, my hand curved into a fist while the other waved down near my wrist.
Carrera : Take this ! [Nuclear burst] !
Two bright gold spheres made of nuclear magic formed in her two palms...our distance was already close enough for me to carefully study her eyes filled with craziness.
Though, what was important was the high sheer density of magicule present in her two small attacks...it might hurt a bit...
Dawn : That's some cheap trick you got there.
Unfortunately for her, this pattern and offense can only be used upon very close contact...and that's the thing, my mind is filled with hundreds if not thousands of different art.
Involving sword, other weapon, hand and martial arts...this is why, even if she was confident in pulling such skill in the middle of a fight.
Going out of her comfort zone, she would never be able to reach me and enact her plan.
At a nearly impossible timing, I use my right hand to push wrist...before grabbing her forearm in the momentum.
At the same time, I shifted my other hand right toward her neck...grabbing and choking her in the process...the position I had led us in allowed me to perfectly unbalance her and covered my blind spot in which she could have made those projectiles explode.
Dawn : I give you advice, even if you have sharp fangs, don't bear them toward another predator.
Smirking, I pulled her toward me before she could respond...I had pushed my knee into her stomach and followed by a circular kick at the same place.
Sending the primordial fly high into the sky, I was confident in her being knocked out by the combo I just pulled.
Dawn : It's the end, huh...i guess this is as far as she can g-
Huh ? My words stuck right back into my throat when I looked up...the sun seemed much brighter than usual...
No, it wasn't the sun...just Carrera who was coming back, a huge smirk plastered on her face.
She was falling back toward the arena, in her hand was a massive ball of energy that conveyed the power to wipe out the surface of the world.
Dawn : Has she gone crazy ! This is going to destroy the entire city !
The barrier might stop it but this is going too far...
Carrera : Ha-Hahahaha ! Take this you piece of shit ! [Full blast Jaune] !
I quickly drew out Shin Exalia and gathered magicule, my eyes narrowed as I analyzed the incoming blast.
All magic has flaws, a spell is constituted of several structures that once disturbed...it will leave a spell useless.
I can't just attack head front because of the unstable magic she is performing, everything will just blow up upon contact.
I could overpower it but then, my attack will cause much more destruction...wait, i could do that !
Dawn : Change of plan.
Relaxing my body, I took a deep breath before waiting for Carrera to approach...the closer she got, the more intense the land shook.
Even if it was still at a considerable distance, the sheer amount of magicule she was releasing could enact severe atmospheric change and turn upside down the ecosystem.
Thunderous flash of lightning jumped everywhere as the sky turned brighter and brighter as she came close...
Finally, once she was close enough...her fist coated in unmeasurable energy, I let out a cold breath.
Dawn : [Frozen World]
Using myself as the core point, everything around me turned into ice...Carrera and her attack, the destroyed arena, the barrier surrounding us...
Fortunately it didn't reach out for the outside of the barrier but everything inside was pure ice.
Even the molecules present in the air, no air itself was freezing...it's cold, I can tell it is while I didn't feel anything.
My own body seems to have been turned into ice...i just called it Frozen world but i believe it's an even better version that the one i used before.
* crack *
Anyway, moving my body...i forcefully broke out of the ice as diamond blue shards broke everywhere from my body.
A technique that instantly destroys anything that isn't a spiritual life form, and even then...only a digital lifeform might be capable of freeing themself.
An ultimate art branch based on Ice magic, Velzard's deceleration art and the lord of Fate.
Dawn : I won.
My face an inch away from the frozen Carrera, her eyes were solid ice...the magicsteel body given to her by Rimuru was done for.
Dawn : Though you can't complain, I had to stop you somehow.
My attention shifted toward the giant ball of snow, the size was enough to fill up a good part of the arena.
This girl really tried to blow up everything...how stupid, anyway Rimuru will restore her somehow.
Dawn : Oi, referee ! The match has already ended !
Turning toward Souka, she was speechless...no, the entire audience had their mouths open not knowing how to react.
And it's understandable...I just hope no one will analyze my magic and retrace the fact that I was the one who casted Frozen world 2000 years ago...
They won't sue me, right...
Souka : Ah yes ! The winner is Dawn Arceid-sama ! We will now take a short break until the arena is usable again.
With that done, I can pass to the next round...leaving on a positive note.
Rimuru Pov
They overdid it...i panicked a bit when Dawn-kun destroyed the barrier, i had planned to dress a new one myself but Velzard-san beat me to it.
I was actually amazed by how sturdy and perfect her barrier was...i guess not every true dragon is an otaku one who lazes around and plays chef from time to time.
Anyway, after a while...the climax of the battle happened and Dawn-kun won by using some crazy ice magic...
Rimuru : Just watching gave me the shiver...
Raphael : (After analysis, everything within the barrier from the organic matter to the tiniest molecule was turned into.)
Ehhh...isn't that too broken ? He even froze that super chaotic attack of Carrera...
Velzard : That was magnificent...
Luminous : Indeed, it's refreshing to see this spell again...though it seems Dawn has improved it.
I couldn't really understand those ladies, but it seems Dawn-kun had used this spell in the past.
In any case, I should go help Carrera, she seems stuck in the ice...
Raphael : (Notice : Individual Carrera's material body is unusable, creation of a new exoskeleton made of magicsteel, successful...retrieval of individual Carrera's spiritual body, successful.)
Whoa...i-i think Carrera saw hell for an instant...well i hope she won't become a Ultima 2.0...
Rimuru : That's really unfair...
At this rate, the winner of the tournament is clear...even Carrera was no match for Dawn-kun, and Raphael estimated that Diablo only had 3 % chance of winning.
This is so rigged ! Ahhh, well there is no use of thinking about that now...Dawn-kun is just that strong.
Rimuru : Well that aside, it will take a few hours before resuming to the tournament...
Sighing, now that I think of it...Yuuki-kun should be in Tempest now.
At first, I wanted to bring him along with the children but he said he was coming with a group of his own.
I didn't receive any report, so I thought he was running late...but the first week is already almost done.
With Raphael-sensei, we were already suspicious of Yuuki-kun...for being the mastermind backing up Clayman.
So I wanted to observe him during the festival...
Velzard : By the way...Rimuru-kun.
Rimuru : Mmh ?
Velzard : Can you spare me some gold coins ?
Rimuru : Eh ?
The sound of the arena being reformed, I turned my head toward Velzard-san while being dumbfounded...