Chapter 116: The Knights’ Examination (rewrite

The Knights' Examination

As Bedivere's impressive performance unfolded, Lott tapped his forehead in realization. "Oh, right. I forgot that Bedivere's one-armed skill and spear strikes are nine times more effective than other knights. No wonder he's so strong."

Morgan, glancing at Lott with a knowing smile, raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Are you surprised by Bedivere's strength? I thought you were always aware of his capabilities."

Lott, a bit taken aback, admitted, "I didn't expect him to be this formidable. But then again, he's got quite the reputation."

Morgan's smile widened. "I guess you're starting to understand. I've been keeping something from you too. Let's see how you react when you see the outcome of the bet we made."

Curious, Lott responded, "Alright, I'm eager to see what you have planned."

Morgan playfully withheld her intentions, prompting Lott to wait for the surprise. Meanwhile, the officials brought out Bedivere's papers, and Lott scrutinized them, noting, "He tackled both subjects. Impressive."

In the examination room, Bedivere was preparing for his next challenge. The examiner, looking at the destroyed target from Bedivere's earlier test, nodded in approval. "You've passed this stage. Now, get ready for the final exam."

"Understood," Bedivere replied, pleased with his progress. He then set aside his lance and drew his long sword, ready for the one-on-one confrontation.

Morgan observed from a distance, nodding in satisfaction. "Seems like everything is going as planned."

The competition officially began with Lott's unique format: a knockout-style tournament. Starting with sixty-four participants, the rounds would narrow down to a single champion. Lott ensured fairness by scoring the candidates based on their performances, avoiding any bias from early eliminations. He had even considered adding a popular vote but decided against it, believing that true merit should be the sole criterion for success.

As the citizens of Chalk City gathered to watch, they lined the periphery of the venue, respectful and eager to witness the event without intruding. The knights appreciated the opportunity to showcase their skills to an attentive audience.

Bedivere, with his one-armed prowess, faced his first opponent: a wandering knight. This knight, trembling and disheartened by his opponent's earlier performance, knew he was at a severe disadvantage. Despite his skill, he felt unprepared to face Bedivere.

The two knights introduced themselves, and at the referee's signal, the duel commenced. The wandering knight, gripping his sword with both hands, tried to strike Bedivere with all his might. Bedivere, demonstrating his superior agility and strategy, sidestepped the attack effortlessly.

The wandering knight's strike missed entirely, hitting the ground instead. Bedivere, using his greater strength and technique, positioned his sword at the knight's back, declaring, "It looks like I've won this match."

The wandering knight, feeling defeated and disheartened, could only acknowledge Bedivere's superiority. The referee announced, "Knight Bedivere is the winner of this match."

Bedivere sheathed his sword and prepared for the next round, ready to face new challenges.

Morgan, watching Bedivere's strategic approach, nodded in approval. "Bedivere's not only strong but also exceptionally clever. His battlefield intelligence is impressive."

Among the knights of this era, most relied on brute strength in combat, but Bedivere's tactical prowess set him apart. Morgan reflected on the top performers she had seen, noting that Bedivere's battlefield acumen was second only to Lott's inventive methods.

In contrast, Lott's unconventional approach to the tournament had earned him a reputation for creativity and strategic insight. The blend of strength and intelligence displayed by Bedivere reaffirmed the high standards expected of the Knights of the Round Table.