After they started badmouthing me, I defeated another five cadets. I hadn't considered it before, but I'm certain now. This competition is undoubtedly rigged. I was continually matched with cadets in the double digits. That's some bad luck I'm having. I'm currently sitting on a bench, watching the current matches.

There was some pointless brawling, but there were several fights from which I learnt new things, such as how to dodge better with feints and other attack patterns. I've never seen those combat styles before in my life. So this is no longer a dream. That is something I can affirm.

Most of the cadets used similar techniques, yet it felt completely different when higher-ranked cadets used them. as though they were breathing with their swords. Cathen Faris, a rank one cadet, in particular. His sword style was simple yet powerful, and the most intriguing aspect of him was his ability to wield an aura. A type of strengthening technique that uses aura to fortify your sword.

You may make the aura powerful enough to pierce a hole through the mountain by enclosing it around a twig. That's what I heard, at least. I haven't seen him use it yet, but he's already powerful enough as it is, and I don't want to face him while he goes all out.

From what I've seen, he's a psychopath with the disguise of a powerful man. He had killed every opponent he had fought up to this point, and not a single one had survived. And no one shed a tear for the dead. In the end, strength matters. It is both a source of happiness and of fear.

I didn't feel tired, so I went exploring. I took a trip around the building, enjoying the mediaeval architecture. The arena is linked to the academy, so I could see how things function here. Several activities were going on here, even during the competition. From instruction to application. This shows how well-liked the king is here.

"What do you think? I've never seen anything like this before. " I came to a halt near a room where two women were conversing.

"It's undoubtedly that cadet's fault. He's probably abused her. " Instead of learning how to use a sword, they are instead abusing women. Who is that wuss?

"I've heard he's the weakest of the bunch."

A weak prick? That would make things even easier. "Curse him for placing Aria in this situation," I tried to enter the room but went back into hiding. Aria? Is that the woman on the bed? So you were both talking about me the entire time. I assumed she'd simply overdosed. Was her situation actually serious?

"She's fine, but I'm not sure why she's not waking up. It's almost as if she's under a spell, isn't it? "

"When you say it, it does seem like a spell, but who would do that? Because that poor cadet is incapable of handling a proper sword, magic should be a pipe dream for him. Or did he cast some forbidden curse on her? That explains how a lovely lady like her ended up spending the night with that brute. "

Are these bitches blaming me? Instead of speculating, the curse? If I stay here, I will be convicted one way or another after the competition. I need to get out of here as soon as possible.

"We will now begin the last part of the fighting tournament," the announcer said.

"Let the match begin, Cadet 456 and Cadet 35!" I just stood there. Surprise tactics will no longer be effective and taunting... I don't believe it's still doable.

"I will not bully someone weaker than me, so I'll give you three moves and only defend." That's quite generous. Should I bow to him for that?

"I will try to take advantage of this opportunity, so don't back out later." I charged at him with a barrage of random slashes. I twisted my body in ways I'd never done before. I used every ounce of might. I had to put an end to this from the beginning. In games or in real life, breaking the rhythm of combat ensures victory. Even professional gamers get confused, and that's what I'm going for here.

I intended to tip his balance by kicking his leg, but he avoided it by taking a step back. I, too, took a step back.

"You are gutsy, but you lack technique." He made a remark.

Thanks, genius. You think I didn't know? My endurance is dwindling. I need to get this over with as soon as possible.

"Ahhh..." I exclaimed as I sprinted forward once more.

"Tch, ignorant fool."

He avoided both a vertical slash and a kick to the ribs. I am physically and mentally inferior to him. It's becoming difficult to breathe.

"There's one more chance." He grinned.

This piece of shi-