3rd Pov
Life itself is a challenge...those who were fortunate to be born with a golden spoon far away from all these dangers couldn't know.
While those who had to go through hell to just survive...had to bear with it.
Deep down inside a prison in an unnamed land, a young man had his two wrists chained up...his body was covered in bruises and all possibility of regeneration was negated.
Fresh and old injuries...How long was he there ? He couldn't now without having access to the sun...everything was just a pit of darkness.
Everyday since he was imprisoned there...well almost as if the only time where he had contact with another living being was when the one who chained him here came to visit.
* click *
The ground shook as someone approached, the prisoner could only flinch as the door in front of him unraveled once again.
A man, not a monster...had come to visit him again, the body of a giant, the menacing glare of a predator.
This was demon lord Dagruel...and the one he imprisoned here, outside of all prying eyes was Horizon White.
Dagruel : You look as pitiful as ever, anyway I got some news and a gift for you.
The giant wasn't particularly interested in whatever scheme Guy had planned but still, he decided to obey his order.
Bringing out a crystal boy of communication, it has a long recording inside.
Dagruel : Don't expect your friends to come help you, they must have already abandoned the dead weight that you were.
Horizon : Does it really matter ?
Once again, Dagruel got stuck on a nerve...he had realized ever since Horizon was imprisoned here.
He never complained, the torture didn't break him, the weeks without food or water were useless because he was a trained saint.
The mention of his friend and mental torture were also for naught...
Dagruel : I don't know if it's blind trust or loyalty but Dawn Arceid won't come save you, he neither has the power or guts to do that.
Horizon : Aren't you just terrified ?
Dagruel : Huh ?
Horizon : You know very well, inside you are shaking in fear...the only reason you haven't killed me is because I am your sole leverage against my master...you are nothing but a loser who tries to reassure himself to keep whatever pride le-arght !
Without warning, Dagruel had sent the heaviest punch he could gather right into Horizon's stomach...the impact shook the land.
Fending off the already low air within the cell, the thick wall crackled under the pressure...while Horizon lost consciousness for a moment before waking up with a smirk.
Dagruel : You damn brat, you are only alive because Guy wanted to...it doesn't matter who I have to face, I'll destroy them eventually.
His voice ice cold, it was a rare instance where Dagruel lost his cool...it actually happened more often ever since Horizon was brought here.
This kid just managed to get under his skin just fine.
Dagruel : Anyway, just watch this recording Guy prepared, you brat.
Tossing the recording ball right in front of Horizon, it was at a distance out of his reach...purposely set there so he could never stop whatever was going to be shown.
Silence then reigned in the cell as Dagruel left, not bothering to close the giant door in which guarded the cell.
Horizon : (This hurt...i don't know how long i can keep up with this...maybe a few months ? No, I might break before.)
Once the enemy was gone, his eyes melted his truth feeling...he was tired, even for him a superhuman who fought countless battles.
He was reaching his limit, and his will power was the only thing left that kept him fighting.
Horizon : (Abandon me, huh...i wonder, perhaps the Dawn i know could actually do that...will i be ok with such outcome?)
He himself didn't have the answer, in the past he had proven his loyalty to Dawn...over and over, even ready to kill the other members of their group.
Of their family for his sake, he was convinced that dying for the one who gave him a new life...would be fine for him.
But now, he felt like he still had so much left to do.
Horizon : (Life, huh...)
His eyes dropped down staring at the crystal ball, the recording had yet to appear, probably damaged due to Dagruel's outburst.
But finally, a light scenery appeared within the shackle of the recording ball...a peaceful and joyful scene that Tempest Festival is.
Horizon eyes stayed impassible as an image of his friends, family, strangers...all enjoying themself.
Smile and laughter craved on everyone's face...while he was rotting up in this cold cell.
His vision grew blurry as a lone tear escaped his eyes.
Horizon : (I can't break down now...i have to go back to his side, I have to protect what we built over the age...)
Back to Tempest, the 6th day concluded...now the quarter final was decided.
Dawn returned to the hotel and laid down...the next day was going to be active...having 3 consecutives fights or so he thought.
Without any notice, Rimuru had sent a thought message...
Rimuru : (This is a small announcement for all the remaining participants of the tournament, first congratulation and secondly, due to a problem in our schedule, the quart, semi and final will all happen at once tomorrow when the sun reaches its peak, a final battle royal.)
Ending the communication on that cold note, Dawn couldn't help but grin...he was also getting tired of brushing around the bush.
Ending this with a single fight is perfect.
Dawn : Oh right...tonight, we had set a dinner at a restaurant...I almost forgot.
Him and the other genesis knight, just them tonight...it's like a family gathering thought one of them was missing...
Dawn : ...ahh, let's just get ready...
Sighing, he just settled the undesired thought aside and went on, later he arrived in front of the said restaurant.
Wearing a plain black folder, he quickly entered and before anyone could see him, he gave his name to the waiter who went to call his manager.
Afterward, Dawn was guided in an exclusive room...the inside was generously decorated and few servants were standing around waiting to serve.
Dawn : Seems like I'm the last one.
Everyone was already present...Yuu, Flora, Shu, Lucas and Eleonor.
Dawn : I didn't expect you to be here either, Shizue.
Shizue : Hehe, sorry I was a bit busy the last few weeks...but I couldn't miss this gathering.
Despite being part of the group for only 2 years, Shizue still felt at home with these people...
She couldn't miss this dinner, she herself wanted to be there.
Dawn : Anyway, let's sit down and enjoy.
Signaling the waiters and waitress to leave and bring in the food, everyone took their seats.
Talking about all and nothing, chatter filled with room with those who had better communication skills.
It seemed like the girls were talking about how Velzard was addicted to shopping, while Lucas talked about swords with Shizue.
Shu on the other hand was quietly eating while switching with his newly developed toy.
Dawn : (So peaceful...)
Each individual present was powerful enough to be high cadre in any nation, they all shared a single trait.
A traumatic past...yet they were all acting like normal people in this colored room.
Dawn could only smile while resting his chin in the palm of his hand.
Observing quietly, his eyes shifted for an instant toward the empty seat on his left...
Dawn : (Just wait a bit longer...)
A wild tone corrupted his eyes as he meant his words, this didn't go unnoticed by the others who decided to ignore it.
They knew what he was thinking and that asking would just spoil the mood.
Eleonor : Oh and Lucas, I didn't expect you to ignore the tournament...you like those kinds of things don't you.
Flora : Ara, now that you mention it...
Yuu : Wasn't he just scared to face our leader ?
All intention instantly shifted toward Lucas who gave them a deadpan stare.
Lucas : As terrified as I am, I was just too busy training with king Gazel and...missed the inscription...
Shizue : Pfff, you know you could have asked me or Dawn-san, we could have got you in nonetheless.
Lucas : Meh, it's too late now anyway
Dawn : It sure is (Besides I don't think he has the level to face the likes of Carrera, Shion yet...)
Lucas : Why do I feel like you just dismissed me ?
Chukling, Dawn didn't try to hide it...he just grabbed his glass and sipped in his drink while ignoring the chuckling sound in the background.
Flora : Still, you make quite the acquaintance with king Gazel...this could be beneficial politically.
Lucas : Oh please great lord, spare me the smartass talk, i'm just a lowly brute !
Praying to himself, he was a muscle head...whenever political talk was engaged, he would crawl down and try to erase himself.
In a way, Flora was both his best and worst friend...her second personality Eta being a psychotic lady got along well with Lucas.
While Flora herself was Dawn's secretary, she is a noble character who helps a lot in foreign and internal affairs.
The worst friend for a brute who mainly rely on strength.
Flora : Fufu, we'll have a long talk later, Lucas-kun.
Lucas : Ugh...
Yuu : Poor you, once Flora get into it she won't stop until everything is covered.
Shizue : Don't worry, I can help too ! I talked a bit with King Gazel when Rimuru-san met with him, he is a good man.
Flora : Ohhh, then I count on you Shizue-san !
Eleonor Pov
I couldn't help but chuckle at their shenanigans...there was this slight tension roaming around ever since Horizon was imprisoned.
I could understand too, I myself wondered why our leader didn't go rescue him and waited...but at the end, I decided to trust his judgment.
Isn't that what a leader rôle is ? Us members are just pawns for him to order...we are his arm and legs, our job is to follow the directive.
This might sound weird but it's reality...those at the top order those below, and when you have a competent person above, you can rest easy and trust him with your life.
I'm content in following Dawn...but now, seeing him like that, his gaze distant filled with unexplainable emotion.
I felt my heart ache, it was clear to me that our leader, our boss...our commander, he ensured that all of us had a good time.
But then, I feel like slowly...a wall formed between him and us, this is so hard to explain...I guess, I just feel like he is trying to resolve things by himself and separate us from his world.
Yuu : Mmh ? Is something wrong, Eleonor ? Your expression doesn't look good.
Eleonor : Huh ? Ahh, don't worry...I was just thinking.
My gaze unconsciously went toward our leader, which earned an understanding nod from Miss Yuu.
I guess she also had similar concerns to mine.
Yuu : By the way, Dawn-san is going to face most of Tempest's executive tomorrow in the final, isn't that a bit unfair.
I smiled slightly at Yuu's direct answer to my worry, using my finger to play with the few overgrown strands of my hair. I decided to stay quiet and watch.
Flora : That sure sounds unfair, won't they just team up to win ?
Lucas : Meh, why are you guys worried ? It's not like he'll lose to anyone there, anyway.
Shizue : I thought about that too...when Rimuru-san brought this up, many were against it but it was backed up by Luminous-sama...so no one could retort.
Luminous-sama, huh...i don't know her that well since i barely had any interaction with her but...i can see her agreeing to that.
Dawn : Well Luminous-sama ordered me to show off Ruberios's power, so it isn't that bad of a situation, i just have to defeat the seven other participants.
Really...you are the only one capable of saying that while knowing the enemy force...if i'm not wrong.
Tomorrow's final, the names listed are quite infamous for me and other officers who worked with Tempest in any way.
Diablo, Benimaru, Souei, Shion, Gobuta, Ranga and the masked Lion champion...also known as former demon lord Carrion.
Out of the 8 participants, 6 are from Tempest...and a primordial demon is among them.
Lucas : You see, this guy is a monster of his own ! There is no need to worry for someone like that !
Pointing his finger at our leader, I glared at him for not showing proper respect...not like i'm not used to it.
He is really just a muscle head...
Dawn : Now now, you don't have to worry...in fact you can all expect a good show tomorrow.
Why does he sound so mischievous when saying that...
Flora : Fufu, I pity the other...(he has that evil look he bore whenever he gives me impossible tasks..)
Dawn : Well, I'm more concerned about the after tournament.
Shizue : Oh ? Did you plan something ? Maybe we could book another good restaurant to celebrate.
Dawn : Nah, I had something else in mind.
Now i'm curious, i think the other too...leader isn't a greedy person, gold or fame mean nothing to him.
Beside he has it all, and even now he just follow the rest of us when we go out, tonight he proposed a gathering for all of us
He never does things for himself...
Yuu : So what did you plan ?
Lucas : I'm curious too...
Dawn : Mmh, i planned to ask her later but i guess now it's fine.
Huh ? Her ?
We all stared at him weirdly as he let out a dry chuckle, he then turned toward me and with a smile, he spoke up.
Dawn : So Eleonor, will you go on a date with me after the tournament ?
All : ...
Eh ? Did my ears malfunction ? Or is my mind playing trick on me ?
I looked around only to see the other shocked, their eyes were almost out of their socket...focused on Dawn then me.
* Cling *
Finally, the sound of a glass shattering snapped me back...realizing I was not dreaming or in an alternative reality.
I pinched my cheek and looked up at Dawn completely speechless.
Dawn : So ? Is that a yes ?
All : Eh ?!!?
I couldn't focus as my heartbeat accelerated, my face probably flushed red tomato...the answer to his sudden invitation got stuck in my throat.
Yuu : A-ah...this can't be, right... I misheard, tell me I misheard...
Flora : Wait Yuu-chan ! Stay with us !
Yuu, who had dropped her glass from shock, was now hyperventilating for whatever reason, she seemed to have the most impactful reaction out of everyone.
Eleonor : Y-yesh !
Biting my tongue while responding, my blush deepened while I buried my face into my hand.
The other didn't even laugh at my condition, this is just how startled we all were.
My embarrassment just grew larger as I heard Dawn chuckle and get up.
Dawn : Well, it has become quite chaotic so i'll take my leave now, i'll pick you up after i win the tournament so be ready, Eleonor.
I just nodded, unable to form any logical and coherent sentence, this was just too sudden for me to stay cool headed.
Dawn Pov
I did quite the bold declaration just now...but it's necessary.
Dawn : I can't hesitate on the mean in time like these, Eleonor is the one I can trust the most with this task.
Looking up, the moon was shaped like a crescent...it gave me a sense of loneliness, compared to the other nights.
There were no stars in the horizon, just a plain dark sky devoid of clouds or celestial objects.
Dawn : Really...I feel lonely...
Moving on, I didn't join my room but instead a more isolated place within the jura forest.
I was far away to not hear any noise from the festival but at the same time, I could see a glimpse of light escaping the top of the city.
Dawn : I had my share of fun...now it's time for me to get back to work.
Right now, my swordsmanship and magic are among the best this world has to offer.
My skill set is polyvalent and my ultimate skill allows me to fight the strongest, the condition and status of my existence too.
I'm rapidly reaching my limits...i am not like Rimuru, despite my digital nature, i don't have the reactive evolution feature to back me up.
This should be concerning but at the same time, i feel reassured...because no matter what happens during the incoming war.
I know that I tried my very best...
Dawn : I just have to achieve the final step of my development now...
New ultimate skills would be useless, i can't gain another hero egg and corruption would just lower my standing.
But there is still one kind of power that many others have...if I base my Story's domain, I can make it happen.
World system skill...they are a type of subskill originating from an ultimate one.
The art of creating a separate dimension with your own characteristics...Rimuru's imaginary space, Testarossa after world...
If i can bring out the Lord of Fate's power in such a way...i can complete my evolution, then the weapon that Veldanava tried to create would be done.
Dawn : Then let's start it...I got a long night ahead of me.
The only problem is the complexity of such a skill. I had given a lot to make Story's domain which would be a lower version of a world system skill.
Instead of bringing the enemy into a separate dimension, I separated the world surrounding me.
At that time, I still had the Lord of Stories, which had power like a reader or author...due to these subskills.
I could create such an overbroken ability...but now, I have none of them...I have to create it on my own.
Failure...ahh, this word really stuck hard at that time.
I laid down watching the orangish sky as I passed the entire night trying...at the end, I didn't even get a clue on how to achieve it.
Each time I try to materialize it...the world around me would freeze...fate and ice are colliding as if trying to fight for dominance.
Do i lack mastery ?
Dawn :This is annoying...
I haven't failed that much since forever...anyway, I should get going.
Dawn : Fortunately, my body allows me to overextend myself without consequence.
Kyuri : Master sure is stubborn.
Sighing, I had already noticed Kyuri approaching and settling on top of a branch near my settlement...it has been a few hours now.
Since I wanted to focus on my training, I ignored her...
Dawn : I have to do what I can.
Time is precious...this is a project that went down into history and age, I cannot fail.
The war can start a week after this festival, or a few months later...maybe even years, but it's right around the corner.
My plan going forward will be to save Horizon even if I end the giant race, then I end this stupid game between Rudra and Guy...
And finally, I'll accomplish my own fate and bring down the Author.
Kyuri : Can we get breakfast already ? I'm getting hungry...
Dawn : Weren't you with Luminous and Velzard ?
Kyuri : Well there is this new guy who just arrived, his name is Yuuki or something like that...i didn't feel him so i left.
Dawn : Yuuki ? Now that I think, he should have arrived much earlier...did he plan something else ?
Should I kill him now ? If i talk with Rimuru, i could surely get him gone...i could also place Flora as the Freedom guild's president.
Kyuri : Why not think after eating ! I'm hungry !
Dawn : Oi stop that.
I quickly grabbed Kyuri by the back of her head as she started biting and hitting me.
Kyuri : Then let's go ! Or are you planning to eat grass ?
Dawn : Calm down, I'll buy you something but for now just be quiet, I'm having a headache...
Kyuri : If you make me wait another hour, i'll transform and wipe out half of this forest, mphf !
And then she went pouting, seriously my head...i held my nose in annoyance.
I can't feel hunger neither is Kyuri, this is more of an enjoyment than a need...i am not one to enjoy food, i eat to follow the other.
On that point, Kyuri is really unlucky to serve me...
Now this is interesting...I am currently in the colosseum arena, where all the participants of this final battle royal were gathered.
The space around us was enlarged so we could fight to our heart content...the only problem is that everyone's eyes are fixated on me.
Dawn : (Am I really going to be your focus ? Even Carrion?)
They might really just jump me up for whatever reason, this is why for the first time since the tournament started.
I drew out Shin Exalia before even the start...i could end this quickly but this is a rare occasion where i can experiment and progress in forming my world system skill.
Dawn : (Ahh, I'll just cheat a little then.)
Activating [Eyes of Fate], I looked into the order of attack...Shion will be the first one to rush at me...
Diablo will stay on standby until the end, he is the most interesting opponent for me because of his skill...it's still not a proper world system skill but Despair time can be compared to it.
Dawn : (Then let's go with that pattern.)
I focused my eyes while focusing my magicule into my legs, despite being a digital lifeform...i still like to use my own movement to leap into space.
Moving without time lag and instantly becoming mentally tiring at some point.
Souka : Now ladies and gentlemen ! We finally reached it ! The last turn of this great tournament ! But before starting the festivity, our beloved ruler and his majesty the demon lord has a few words to address !
The classic speech of the local ruler before the great final, anyway since it will take some time I'll just check on the audience.
There are a lot more spectators than before...approximately 1.5 times more, I also heard that Rimuru quickly developed a new method with the communication crystal to livestream this battle royal all around Tempest.
Speaking of Rimuru, he just got up...still in the vip box, he walked up to the edge facing a large balcony and an even bigger crowd.
Behind him were the usual Luminous but this time, Velzard and Veldora along Ramiris and Testarossa (As a servant) were present.
Rimuru : First I would like to thank the countless warriors who fought in this coliseum...as a witness of every single stage, this was a great adventure and we finally reached its ending.
I could also notice El-chan, the genesis knight, Gazel and some other influential nobles in their own respective box.
It seems like El-chan revealed herself to Rimuru and got her own separate box.
Hinata and Shizue were taking care of the children...the boys were particularly focused on what was happening.
While Chloe looked at Rimuru with hearts in her eyes, once we locked her she gave me a sweet smile and wave of hand.
I returned them but I couldn't be as sincere when my focus deviated toward the man standing near her...Yuuki Kagurazaka...
He is here, he might have noticed my glare since he looked away with slight fear...i didn't expect myself to be in this trouble.
But there is a reason...he is the final villain of the Web novel of Tensura, from what I can see we are currently living through the Light novel.
So Yuuki isn't that much of a threat but...the whole timeline is messed up, if Ivarage and Feldway are down, then Yuuki might just take his spot because he is a villain too.
Rimuru : -On that note, i believe everyone is just waiting for this final round to start, but before that Tempest has a last surprise to announce.
So he is doing it now...following his words, a large to almost gigantic screen formed in the middle of the colosseum.
Dawn : (Water magic ? No, they are using the communication crystal but i can't find the origin of this large screen...this must be Raphael's doing...)
Rimuru : I present to you all, the Labyrinth of Tempest !
Image flew by the large screen...a short video of some chibi adventurers crossing the floors of this one hundred large labyrinth.
Treasure, boss and wave of monsters...a challenge for all, this was perfectly presented to attract the crowd's attention.
Rimuru : A place filled with adventure and rewards, while having no risk of death...this is what the Labyrinth is, we will later reveal more so stay tuned ! With that being said, I will now step down and let you all enjoy this final.
Ending his speech, I couldn't help but smirk as the silent crowd erupted into cheer...even if not much was revealed and the overall project was still hazy.
He just made the announcement at the right time when all eyes were watching...he even used the hype surrounding my appearance in the tournament to promote his project.
Was this Luminous's plan ? No, she isn't one to help a foreign nation...
Souka : Simply woah ! As you all heard, our Founding Festival has yet to end ! Now let's start the final round of the great and first tournament of Tempest
Rising her fist toward the sky, she did a good job too at fueling the heat.
Souka : Ready warriors ? Then I hereby declare the final round, start !
3rd Pov
Immediately after the word escaped Souka's mouth, the first one to move was Shion.
As he predicted, she was going right after Dawn...the ground bursted under the pressure of her step, in an instant she fended off the air and met her opponent.
Dawn : How feisty...
Despite knowing the immense raw strength Shion possessed, he didn't dodge...instead parred the incoming punch with his own.
An impactful start as the surrounding dust scattered in the air...soon enough, a spark of lightning bursted inside the veil of dust.
Clashing their fist and legs, Shion and Dawn engaged themself into a close combat match ignoring the other.
Carrion : Damn, they sure go all out.
Gobuta : Gosu...they are really scary...
Gulping, Gobta was the only one who was fearing instead of enjoying the situation.
Diablo : Kufufu.
Benimaru : Seems like we missed our chance...well, how about having a round of our own Souei.
Souei : It wouldn't be fair if we were all going against the outsider, so let's do it.
Benimaru : Though I didn't expect you to participate...shouldn't you hide in the shadows ?
Souei : I have an illusion spell to change my appearance and my name isn't Souei at this instant, call me Eiko, young lord.
Both glared at each other, they clearly had a rivalry of their own.
Diablo : Well, since both Shion-dono and Benimaru-dono are taken, why don't we play a bit my dear comrade ?
Since the interesting prey were all taken, Diablo turned toward the remaining participants...Carrion, Gobuta and Ranga.
Ranga : Grrrr, i'll win this for Rimuru-sama !
Carrion : I wanted to try to face off a primordial anyway.
Gobuta : Pls let me go home...
And so this final battle royal splitted into multiple matches, having their own clash...the intensity rose up nicely.
All went according to Dawn's plan...he had purposely challenged and taken Shion into a 1 vs 1 to trigger the natural code of honor within the other participants.
They wouldn't interfere in their singular fight as they aren't mindless monsters but are possessing pride of their own.
Dawn : (With that I'll face both Diablo and Benimaru after dealing with Shion, the best course of action.)
Shion : Oi ! How dare you look down on me !
Sending another punch, Shion got angry when she noticed how Dawn paid more attention to his surroundings and the other's fight than their own.
Dawn : Look down ? Sorry but I'm way too out of your reach to even see you below !
Grinning, he stealthily grabbed her wrist and twisted in backward until he was positioned behind her.
Shion : Ugh !
Dawn : You possess raw strength but your technique is barely above average.
His eyes stared through her back where her Odachi sword was attached.
Dawn : If you understand, stop holding back and use all you got because this ain't it.
Coating his fist with magicule, he smashed it right onto Shion's Gorikimaru...the large blade crackled under the pressure while it followed Shion into her downfall.
Her body gasped as she was sent right into the barrier surrounding their battlefield.
Shion : Arght...a-a single punch hurt that much ?
She coughed some saliva while her regeneration acted, the punch wasn't even directly connected to her yet her skin and organ were twisted and burnt.
Dawn : I told you, get your act together and come at with bloodlust or you'll lose before I even use my sword.
Shion could only grit her teeth, while Shin Exalia was out of its scabbard...Dawn hadn't swung her yet.
Worse is that he took on Shion in close combat with only one hand...the difference in skill was overwhelming.
Shion : Fine, don't regret it later.
Her eyes shrunk in rage before a tint glow made of amethyst shone through her iris...her unique skill : Cook.
A reality and law altering skill that once evolved could even harm Rimuru...
Shion : Now die !
As she exclaimed, Shion appeared above Dawn with her odachi tightly held between both of her hands.
Slamming the divine weapon downward, the entire battlefield shook, simulating a large magnitude earthquake.
But what was truly important was how the air and space itself was smashed and destroyed during Shion's attack...even Dawn could tell the threat behind her attack.
Dawn : Not really, in the end it was impossible for you to harm me.
But to her despair, Dawn wasn't even harmed...he had Shin Exalia out engaged in a battle of raw strength with Shion's Gorikimaru.
Both blades clashed while their user glared at each other.
Shion : Y-you !
Dawn : I wanted to test a few things but you aren't a good opponent for that, way too chaotic.
Sighing to himself, he increased the strength in his hold and overpowered Shion, sending her crash into the barrier again.
Dawn : Let's see.
Leisurely turning around without wasting more time on his opponent, his eyes met with Diablo's who had already finished his fight.
Behind him were 3 unconscious corpses...Carrion's body was revealed and bloodied while Ranga and Gobuta were knocked out on top of each other.
Diablo : Kufufufu, as expected Dawn-dono...there was no way Shion-dono could have defeated you.
Dawn : She put up a half decent fight.
Clapping his hands, Diablo watched the entirety of Dawn's fight...he could be said to have been mesmerized by the high level of technique and raw skill behind Dawn's action.
Diablo : Is that so ? Was she stronger than Carrera ?
Dawn : In a way, her last attack could have definitely killed even a primordial.
Diablo : How funny, don't underestimate our kind you might regret it-
His voice retreated back into his throat when a violent aura burst through the arena, looking up behind Shion got up with the angriest look she ever wore.
Shion : RAHHH ! I'm not done yet !
Holding her breaking odachi, she glared at Dawn with competitive hatred...her teeth were showing beastly as an astral aura formed behind her.
Diablo : How scary.
Dawn : Ahh, you should learn to abandon when needed.
Sighing, Dawn gave her a meaningless side look before letting his breath turn into a cold hail...
Dawn : Might as well settle a new arena for later.
Shion : Ah !
Ignoring his action, Shion just rushed forward...like a mindless beast she jumped horn first toward her enemy.
Sword in hand, she was ready to blast everything on her path...
Dawn : [Ice palace].
Shion was truly a formidable foe, she was strong enough to be said to be among the upper rank in Tempest.
Yet at that moment, she felt more powerless than ever...her enraged attack coupled with her unique skill...
Her blade and hand were just an inch away from her enemy, ready to tore him apart yet they were immobile.
Her surroundings, which was once a large arena within the colosseum of Tempest, was now a large ice palace with several pillars and a complete roof covering their head.
Shion : W-what ?
Dawn : Seems like you can't alter my ice.
He was still not fully facing her, indicating a lack of interest...right before the impact he had completely nullified Shion's momentum.
Using deceleration via magic...moving within a world where even light was too slow, Shion was suddenly interrupted and stopped right in front of him.
The air flew chaotically as all the power within that strike rampaged...through it only did that much because it was allowed.
Dawn : Go sleep now, the true fight is just about to start.
Snapping her consciousness away using the Lord of Fate, he officially eliminated Shion from the Jura Tempest federation.
Rimuru Pov
Now that was savage...poor Shion, i told her to not mess with Dawn-kun but she had to do it.
Velzard : That wicked oni sure has guts, I doubt many would stand tall after discovering Dawn's identity.
Rimuru : Haha...well she has some screw to lose...
She is too daring for her own good...
Ramiris : Well to be fair, her performance was really good.
Luminous : Her skill seems quite deadly...
Her unique skill : Cook, huh...it's really an odd skill that can turn her hideous food into fine meals...well appearance aside.
Velzard : She seems to have the power to alter reality to a certain degree, Dawn was basically a counter to her.
Rimuru : A counter ? Now that I think about it, besides his ice magic and swordsmanship, I don't really know his power...
Veldora : (He is a monster, Rimuru...he can increase the pain of his punch in such a way that it hurts even hours later...)
Ramiris : Well, it's not fair to reveal the secret of someone without his consent but i can at least tell you that he possess a powerful light spirit, also an ic-
Velzard : Ramiris...
Huh...it's starting to freeze here, I can't feel the cold but the air seems to freeze under Velzard-san's influence...
Whatever Ramiris was about to say, it didn't go well with Velzard-san...
Ramiris : Mmh...right, sorry Velzard i just got careless...anyway he has a spirit called Dusk, she often is asleep but once awakened, Dawn can use a greater form of Holy magic.
Rimuru : T-that sounds dangerous.
I stuttered while trying to ignore Velzard-san's obvious discontentment.
Luminous : You guys should focus, the main event is about to start.
Mmh ? Returning our attention to the arena...it seem Benimaru won against Souei and now directed his blade toward Diablo and Dawn-kun.
The three finalists stood face to face while exchanging inaudible words, well i could hear them...
Diablo : Kufufu, Your power seems to have risen further up Benimaru-dono.
Benimaru : I'll gladly boast your compliment after winning this tournament, Diablo-dono.
Dawn : Oi oi, don't forget me you two...
It's just filled with trash talk...anyway, this final doesn't have much suspense since Raphael basically spoiled me before even the start.
3rd Pov
The first one to move was Benimaru, he used the new battlefield made of ice to slide and increase his speed further.
His blade aimed at Diablo, he judged him to be the less dominant opponent.
Benimaru : I'll deal with you first.
Diablo : Fair enough.
Bringing out his claw, the black progenitor let out a fearless and wicked grin...his golden iris pierced through Benimaru's attack and easily shattered his stance.
His claw dancing through the air, he perfectly disengaged Benimaru's swing startling him.
Benimaru ; Was my attack this easy to read ?
Diablo : When you have as much experience, it's easy to do so.
While the both of them fought for dominance, Dawn couldn't help but sight and muffle his hair.
Dawn : Are they really ignoring me now...how annoying.
He wasn't avid of fame or greed, but he had his own pride...being ignored in such a way did annoy him.
Dawn : Still Diablo sure is scary...he isn't the strongest demon after Guy for nothing.
His eyes focused on the Divine Oni and Primordial's movement...they were fast enough to be invisible to the naked human eyes.
But Dawn could clearly see their fighting stance, their breathing pattern, their footstep...everything was like in slow motion for him.
Dawn : Mmh, care for a small danse Shin Exalia ?
Shin Exalia : (Anytime master!)
In a matter of seconds, Dawn ended his analysis...he memorized both Benimaru and Diablo's skill and jumped in for action.
Midway, he raised his left hand and conjured several floating ice swords, they levitated around him while seemingly moving on their own.
Dawn : (You know...the power of fate is really scary, let's test this new skill [Sword's will])
Following the procedure of giving a will of their own to those swords, the five ice blades moved on their own now.
The command was simple, the five of them are fated to target Diablo and pressure him until Dawn disposes of them or they are destroyed.
Dawn : It's working...
This was a miraculous effect he accidentally created while training last night, while he tried to make a world system skill...the Lord of Fate was used over and over.
Sword's will was naturally invented but it was merely a prototype without continuation.
Benimaru : Wh-
Diablo : Kufufu~
Both Tempestian fighters got startled when Dawn appears right between them, his sword in hand, he ignored Diablo and went for Benimaru.
Forcing his hand, Benimaru started to sweat when his body moved instinctively...several hundred sword exchanges were made in an instant as both were led further away.
Dawn : Not bad, you can still react to this level...then should i speed up ?
Benimaru : You really are a monster...
Dawn : How ironic, but I can't say I'm fully human so it's fine.
Their swords collided as they spoke, Benimaru had to admit silently...the man he was exchanging blows was a monster on its own.
Benimaru : (His swordsmanship in particular...i was startled by the display of magic power earlier but his sword skills are even greater...)
And despite the difficult wall he was facing, Benimaru was smiling...he enjoyed fighting an opponent like that.
Whose skill was honed for who knows how many years...it was truly an enjoyable duel.
Meanwhile, Diablo had to deal with five swords made of ice more ferocious than any beast he had encountered.
Diablo : (Those swords...they are moving without a clear pattern...i can't shatter them...)
Since their fate was set by Dawn himself, they would tempter with Diablo no matter what for as long as he wanted.
That was just how Fate worked...living beings are subject to an infinite amount of possible fate but a blade that was given a single one is different.
Diablo : Tch, how annoying...
He couldn't even use his unique skill to get rid of them...they weren't living beings but material ice made by magic.
Diablo : I'm humiliating myself in front of Rimuru-sama...this isn't good, Dawn Arceid...it seems like besides your monstrous skill, you also possess odd power to back up.
Getting serious, he focused on the irregular flying blades...from behind to above, below to the front, right to left...they rushed at him with the intent to shred him apart without any rest.
Back to Dawn's fight, Benimaru could be seen being pushed back while guarding the incoming sword slash.
Benimaru : (He is really going faster ! How much is he holding back again!)
As time passed, Dawn's speed kept increasing without stopping...he was still keeping a straight face and remained calm.
Dawn : (First sword, third sword, seventh sword...he can still keep up, huh.)
Benimaru : I-i didn't want to use it here but I guess I have no choice !
Igniting his sword with black fire, for the first time since the beginning, Dawn's assault stopped and he was pushed back.
Dawn : Hellfire condensed, huh...it sure packs quite the heat.
Benimaru didn't answer and started his counter attack, leaving no room for rest, he knew a moment of hesitation would be fatal.
Dawn : But...how stupid can you be ?
His voice came out cold, as cold as the mist that formed around him...a phenomenon similar to when he used [Ice Palace].
Benimaru : What ?
Dawn : You dare light this small candle in front of me...a master at ice magic, or are you foolish enough to believe that your fire can melt my ice ?
As his voice rose in volume, Benimaru was projected backward...a frozen wind strongly hit him while the hell fire surrounding his sword extinguished.
Benimaru : (W-what is that ?! Even cold resistance is bypassed!)
Dawn : You guys should peg down a bit, it's not because Rimuru named you and that you progressed tremendously that you can defeat anyone !
Roaring like a lion in front of a lamb, Dawn immediately ended the fight afterward...Shin Exalia shone bright blue as the field was covered by another layer of ice.
The conclusion was reached once the frozen mist settled, Benimaru's frozen body could be found, stuck in a block of ice.
Under the horrific small ice age, Shuna or the Tengu tribe who had him as their leader's husband...they all got worried for the red Oni.
Dawn : No matter how heated your fire turns out to be, it will always fall short in front of the coldest frost.
Placing his hand on the block imprisoning Benimaru, he dissolved the ice letting the Oni fall unconscious.
Dawn : Now, shall we start the last dance Diablo ?
Once he was done with the divine oni, Dawn turned his head sideways and glared toward Diablo.
The black progenitor had a few scratches on his butler-like outfit...his regeneration had healed the injuries but still, it showed how much struggle Diablo put up against those Sword's will.
Diablo : Are you going to face me yourself now ?
Dawn : Naturally, to begin with I never expected those ice blades to defeat you, it would be underwhelming to say the least.
Diablo : You are more prideful than I thought...
Dawn : Less chatting, more fighting...come at me Diablo.
Taunting with his index finger, Dawn wanted to ask him to use Despair time and the full extent of his unique skill : Temptation but that wouldn't be right.
For one, Dawn shouldn't know Diablo's skill and power and secondly, there was no reason to use such power in a tournament like this one.
Diablo : Very well but I already am aware of the fact that I cannot win, so let's end this on a single note.
Dawn : Mmh ?
Smirking, Diablo stretched his arm up...his major and thumb connected as a palpable tension melted the surrounding ice.
Dawn : (That stance...wait, is he really going to use it?)
Diablo : I reserved this skill for a special occasion but I got a special order from a certain being, you see.
Dawn : (A certain being, huh...the only one i can think of is Raphael...is she trying to help me?)
A sinister aura flared out of his body, it was enough to knock out and instill fear in the bravest champion.
Diablo : Now let's start the last dance, [Despair time].
Instantly, the world around Dawn turned void...He was sucked into another dimension full of darkness.
Dawn : Oh ?
Diablo : You should be careful, as long as you are in there...your fate is under my watch.
Dawn : How insolent...you dare talk about fate with me ?
Diablo : I'll just destroy your physical body for now-huh ?
But much to his expectation, Despair time wasn't working...or rather, he did manage to pull Dawn into a separate dimension but he couldn't harm Dawn as he wanted.
Diablo : What the-
Dawn : I see, so that's how it's working...it seems I was going in the right direction...
Meanwhile, Dawn took his time to observe the structure of this skill...it was truly complex, that just showed how much experience Diablo had amassed over the eternity he had gone through.
Diablo : How are you resisting ? Your fate, this reality is mine to control...
Dawn : Oh you still haven't realized ?
Diablo : Huh ?
Taking a closer look, Diablo's insight in the matter helped him to quickly understand the situation.
Dawn had set a barrier around him, based on his ultimate skill...it didn't have a shape or name but it was still present.
Deflecting everything bound to harm him...including reality wrapping or fate twisting, the command set in the barrier was...
Protect Dawn Arceid's existence...thus as long as the barrier was present, fate itself wouldn't allow Dawn to be harmed.
It was a perfect defense similar to what Uriel's absolute guard could muster...though it has one weakness.
If an ultimate skill user decided to attack, then the barrier won't stand for long.
Dawn : Thank you, Diablo...you gave me some important piece of data, now let's end it.
Instantly breaking the [Despair time], Dawn casually took a step forward, fissures in the reality surrounding him.
One could see the void world that unique skill : Temptation could send you in those fissures.
Dawn : So ? Are you going to keep this up ?
Diablo : Ahh...it's my loss, I forfeit.
Raising his two arms, Diablo did the only logical thing he could do in this situation...forfeit, it was a crushing victory for Dawn.
Souka : We have a winner ! Please make some noise for this proud warrior ! Dawn Arceid !
With this, the tournament had reached its conclusion.