Chapter:-123 The Opening Ceremony pt-4
"Well, the feelings are mutual Ichijou-san & George-san." (Minoru)
One could feel the sparks of rivalry flying all around them three!
***
Erik had an amused expression on his face as he looked towards the budding rivalry between the future greats!
Until suddenly he sensed something; he turned to look towards the stage which seemed oddly empty.
Minoru and Masaki were a step behind but also sensed a disturbance.
They followed behind with the same action as Erik; surprising George who couldn't understand what was going on.
"What happened guys? Why are the three of you suddenly looking towards the stage?" (George)
While it seemed to be an open question, in reality, George was asking Masaki for the reason behind their sudden movement.
Masaki didn't directly acknowledge George's question but instead thought out loud.
"Looks like Elder Kudou still hasn't stopped with his tricks, father did inform me about his antics." (Masaki)
Masaki had an excited smile on his face as he looked towards the former World's Strongest Magician.
The latter was silently standing in the background and not many could feel his presence.
Heck! Very few even detected the minute psion that was momentarily released when Patriarch Kudou activated his spell.
"Well, he is one of those people who have a different outlook towards all things." (Erik)
Erik added more to Masaki's words, forming a wise image of the old veteran.
This quality was one of the major reasons why Erik was so focused on having Elder Kudou join in on his plans.
He preferred to believe that someone as old and wise as Elder Kudou; who has seen the worst of humanity would be able to understand him.
"Grandfather always do something similar each year, just to teach others that power isn't what makes a magician strong." (Minoru)
Minoru had a light smile on his face as he looked at the hidden figure of his grandfather; covered by the shadows cast by the curtains of the stage.
Being the grandson of Elder Kudou, Minoru's chest was filled with pride and respect towards his grandfather.
"Ahem!, Guys! I would appreciate a little explanation." (George)
George couldn't understand what these three were talking about. Too many things were going through his mind at the moment; the reason why he couldn't sense Elder Kudou's presence.
"You will understand in a moment." (Masaki)
"Any second now!" (Minoru)
"Wha—" (George)
Ting!
The mellow yet loud tinker of the spoon hitting the glass resounded throughout the hall.
One of the well-dressed organizers stepped forward on the stage and spoke with a powerful overtone.
"Everyone! Please welcome, Patriarch Kudou!" (Organizer)
Erik and Co's. turned to look at the rather healthy figure of the "old man"; walking on to the stage from the background.
He wore a simple black tuxedo and pants with a beautiful rose tucked into his chest pocket.
His white hair was combed backward, his white skin had a few wrinkles here and there but it complemented his healthy build.
Last but not the least, his pitch-black eyes attracted everyone's attention towards themselves.
"Welcome everyone! Today, I would like to greet everyone youngster who will be performing in the upcoming events; be it as a magician or CAD engineer." (Elder Kudou)
"The Nine-School Competition was established to test the potential of the participants while allowing them to improve after facing defeat." (Elder Kudou)
"It also presents a huge opportunity for the CAD engineers to prove their skills by contributing to their team's wins; making sure that every one of their equipment is well maintained and well-calibrated." (Elder Kudou)
"In this intense competition, your overall skills matters more, rather than your magical powers." (Elder Kudou)
"It includes, leadership qualities, mechanical qualities, communication qualities, decision making qualities and many more of your skills would be put to test in this rigorously tough competition." (Elder Kudou)
"Before I came forward, I had cast a wide-ranged illusion magic which would make others ignore my presence." (Elder Kudou)
"I had been standing right here all this time and only 6 individuals saw through the subterfuge." (Elder Kudou)
"You all may wonder the reason behind my actions. I want you all to understand that the use of magic is more important than the level of magic." (Elder Kudou)
"Even a simple illusion magic can be lethal if utilized correctly." (Elder Kudou)
"Keep this in mind, well...I wouldn't be taking anymore of your time." (Elder Kudou)
"I expect great things from you all; I am looking forward to your performances when the competition starts." (Elder Kudou)
Elder Kudou displayed his boundless wisdom and gave a motivating speech to the next generation that will carry on the dreams of their predecessors.
Having said his part, Elder Kudou made his way backstage as one of the organizers stepped forward; once again.
"I thank Patriarch Kudou for the wisdom he has bestowed upon us today." (Organizer)
"The gathering will continue for another 2-hours and the competition would commence at 3:00 p.m, tomorrow evening." (Organizer)
"Enjoy~" (Organizer)
---
"Now do you understand?" (Masaki)
Masaki lightly teased his friend for being incapable of sensing Elder Kudou's presence; just to see him burst into a fit of anger.
He knew very well that the one thing George hated was being outdone by others; he would surely respond with agitation.
Especially since Masaki was making fun of him in front of his idol.
Sure enough!
George's face first went red from embarrassment to purple with anger!
"S-Shut up! I-I just wasn't paying attention!" (George)
"I-It is just that, I was busy thinking about the theory Erik-san had presented some time ago." (George)
"Sure, whatever you say~" (Masaki)
Masaki, of course, knew that George was telling the truth but why would he let up now?
"Why you!" (George)
George continued to deny and grumble.
"Haha!..." (Minoru)
The young Kudou laughed at the antics of his newfound friends as his laughter attracted many student's attention.
"Hm..." (Erik)
Erik also chuckled.
Truthfully? He was having fun, something which is rather rare in his case.
Anyway, the gathering continued for 2 more hours before each student was escorted to their respective rooms.
Only a few more hours were left until the beginning of [Nine-School Competition].
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