I had survived my first conversation with the heroine without getting stabbed. A personal record.

Naturally, the universe rewarded me with a social event I didn’t want to attend.

“The Freshman Welcome Duel,” Marlowe explained. “A tradition. As a noble, you are expected to participate.”

“Sounds fake. Can I RSVP with ‘no thanks, I value my life’?”

“Sadly, no.”

That was how I ended up on a dueling platform facing some smug blond heir who clearly thought I’d melt under pressure.

Elara was watching from the stands. Great.

“Ready to beg for mercy, villain?” the blond asked.

I smiled sweetly. “Only if it comes with a side of fries.”

The duel began.

And, to everyone’s surprise—including mine—I won. With accidental grace.

Elara blinked. Her lips twitched. Was that a smile?

“He’s not a complete idiot,” I heard her murmur.

Achievement unlocked: Impressed the heroine by not dying.