The Duel

Alexia ejected me from the carriage with the disdain one might show to a misbehaving cur. Though unscathed, I embraced the role of my mob character, feigning injury.

Scarcely had I mustered a groan when Alexia bridged the distance between us. She administered the most potent healing potion from her collection, murmuring, "Forgive me, Yuna. It was not my intention to cause harm."

"No harm done, truly. But was such a potent remedy necessary for a trifling wound?"

"That's… well… because… um."

"Let's not dwell on it. The royal palace beckons."

Our mandate was to reside within the royal palace for a trio of days, to glean wisdom from the Crimson Knights' rigorous training. Free rein was granted to explore the capital on the initial two days, but the third day was reserved for an audience with the monarch, precluding any excursions lest we risk tardiness.

On the inaugural day, my sister joined the knights' training, leaving me to spectate. Hours passed, and ennui set in, my powers yet to reach their zenith.

In pursuit of diversion, I ventured to the market. Utilizing my mob character skill, 'Communication,' I uncovered that Princess Aria Eldoria was to engage in duels with any bold challenger. Victory for the youth meant a granted request from the princess herself.

An enticing proposition, indeed.

Armed with the knowledge of the duels' locale, courtesy of my mob ability, I proceeded there, wooden sword in hand.

Upon arrival, I beheld an expansive arena, a queue of hopefuls eager for combat with the princess, and a throng of spectators amassed to witness the royal skirmish.

I hastily completed a form with my particulars—name, lineage, and age—and joined the queue. As my turn approached, the battlefield came into sharp focus.

Challenger after challenger was swiftly vanquished, often with a mere strike or two. Then came my moment.

Emboldened by my mob character's fortuitous skill, I strode onto the battlefield, wooden sword brandished amidst the crowd's mirth.

The princess inquired, "Your name?"

"Yuna Edvart," I declared.

"An Edvart, indeed. Yet, do you truly intend to cross swords with me, armed only with that paltry wooden blade?"

"To you, it may be but wood. To me, it is peerless, surpassing the steel of my adversaries."

"Confidence suits you. Let us commence."

The duel began, and I feigned hesitance, my movements languid, barely deflecting the princess's relentless assault. Each clash resonated with the spectators, many anticipating a swift conclusion. Yet, I was merely biding my time, seeking an opportunity to triumph—a victory that would seem to all a mere twist of 'luck.'

At a critical juncture, as the princess executed a strike meant to disarm, I faltered. To the crowd, it seemed my end was nigh. But as if guided by destiny, my sword slipped from my grip, ricocheting off a wall and miraculously returning to my hand.

Capitalizing on the bewilderment, my blade found its mark—a once-in-a-lifetime thrust that breeched her defenses and lightly tapped her chest. The crowd gasped in collective disbelief. The princess, grappling with the reality of her defeat, began to speak…

Continue to know what calamity awaits yuna in this new world and what is his plan....