Chapter 218 - Luxury Without Regard for Cost
With the enemy forces growing more boisterous, I gracefully descend to meet the challenge of the high-ranking knight. Landing in the open space, I face the ornate knight who, as expected, watches me with his retinue of elderly knights. The old knight cradles his helmet under his arm.
Stopping at a distance, the ornate knight begins to mutter something. Given the distance and his helmet, even with my keen ears, I can't make out what he's saying. What's he going on about?
The elderly knight, standing beside him, seems to confirm something, then takes a deep breath. It appears he’s about to speak on the prince's behalf.
"Presenting the illustrious Second Prince, Leonor Ek Re Medek Legisamo, of the Medek-Legisamo Empire!"
Using a spokesperson for his declaration. Well, whatever.
However, a royal? And not just any royal, but the Second Prince? That's quite a catch. His presence in the expeditionary force suggests a serious commitment to the eastern invasion of the continent.
Naturally, I don't show any fear or respect to royalty, but in a more traditional setting, one might prostrate themselves. I simply cross my arms and stand my ground.
A moment of silence passes before the old knight continues.
"The Prince’s words shall now be relayed! Bow and listen!"
Instantly, all the soldiers and knights around us prostrate themselves. It's an absurd scene, even on a battlefield.
The distant imperial soldiers, realizing what's happening, hurriedly bow as well. I wonder how the ones still in combat will react.
Standing tall amidst the prostrate soldiers, I stand out like a sore thumb.
"...Impudent woman!"
The old knight finally barks at me, his face turning red with anger.
"However, the Prince is merciful! Listen while standing!"
Sure, I was going to anyway.
"The Prince wishes to challenge you to a duel! Will you accept?"
An unexpected proposition. A prince challenging me to a duel on the battlefield?
Honestly, he’s crazy, but I like it. From the strong magical aura I sensed earlier, I believe he has the skill to back it up. A prince's power can't be hidden, and the cheers that rose when he appeared confirm his strength.
His armor is also impressive. The full-body suit, made entirely of enchanted minerals, is a masterpiece. The paint may have altered its original color, but I can guess the true material.
The intricate magical engravings covering his armor are unsettling. Normally, such extensive engravings would be impossible, but the exceptional quality of the materials and the armor's design make it feasible. The effects of these engravings are likely on par with high-level magic.
His sword, in its ornate sheath, is no less impressive. I can only imagine its power when drawn. It must be a legendary weapon, on par with those wielded by the greatest swordsmen.
Besides his sword, I need to be wary of other hidden weapons. Even I carry powerful magical items, so it’s safe to assume he does too. The decorations on his armor, helmet, and sword sheath are all suspect. He likely has more hidden away.
The prince, radiating magical energy, is almost a living embodiment of it. It’s impossible to pinpoint specific sources.
Honestly, he seems like a formidable opponent. While I doubt his personal abilities surpass my expectations, his equipment certainly does. I have no idea about his combat style or magical aptitude, making him a truly unknown and formidable foe.
Moreover, a one-on-one duel is an exciting scenario.
My heart races with anticipation.
Still, I’m not going to accept just because he asks.
"What’s in it for me? For me, it’s enough to wipe out all of you. There’s no point in a duel. If you can offer something appealing, I might consider it."
I deliver these words with as much arrogance as possible.
My insolence seems to rattle the surrounding soldiers and knights, who murmur and mutter in anger.
In the midst of the commotion, the fully armored prince mutters something.
"Your Highness! Is that true? Is it all right?"
The flustered old knight seems out of place on a battlefield. It’s almost comical.
But what’s he going to say?
The old knight glares at me, pauses dramatically, and then speaks.
"Ahem! By accepting the duel, you will be granted the supreme joy. An unexpected fortune, an honor far beyond your station, an event of the highest caliber, one that is exceedingly rare in the entire empire, the continent, or even the three thousand worlds. You will be compared to the most beautiful women, the most luxurious flowers and jewels, and even the greatest heroes and warriors will envy your bliss. The gods themselves will smile upon you, and your fate will be as certain as the rain when an umbrella is held. As the ancient bards tell of..."
What a long-winded speech. What’s he getting at?
"Which is to say! In short!"
The old knight cuts off his rambling and straightens up.
"In short, the Prince is willing to take you as his consort. You should be honored and tremble at this supreme privilege!"
The sudden declaration leaves me speechless, and the battlefield falls silent.
Processing the words—understanding, evaluating, rejecting, and re-evaluating—I finally snap.
"...Are you kidding me? I don’t want it! Such a thing!"
I can’t help but shout in anger.
So, it’s a great honor, and I should be thrilled? Yeah, right.
Seriously, no way. Even if I married into a wealthy family, I’d just be another mistress. Some might find that appealing, but to me, it’s a boring, valueless life.
A pretty meager reward, if you ask me. If you really want to tempt me, offer me half the world!
"So, what do you want, greedy woman? Do you dare to deny the Prince’s words?"
This is getting ridiculous. I sigh.
I admit to being greedy, but offering me something I don’t want is pointless. If asked what I want, well...
"Then, how about my—"
I almost say "surrender," but I catch myself. If I win, I meant for him to become my subordinate. But I’d better not say it lightly. If he somehow accepted, it would be a huge hassle.
"No, I’ll recognize the Prince’s reckless challenge and courage. Therefore, I’ll accept the duel unconditionally. However, if I win, you must abandon your ambitions in the eastern continent. That’s my condition."
It’s a fair deal. The duel is their idea, not mine. My goal is to make them abandon the invasion, which would be best for everyone. Prolonging the battle and causing more casualties isn’t necessary.
I didn’t come here for personal reasons. The idea of a marriage as a prize is utterly pointless. I have no personal demands from the Prince. I prefer to win or take what I need myself, not rely on favors.
The terms are relayed, and the old knight speaks again.
"Abandoning the eastern territories is the Emperor's will! No one can stand in its way!"
Of course, the Second Prince doesn’t have that kind of authority. So, the duel is off, then.
"However, the Prince says this: Defeat is your only fate. But in the unlikely event—one in a million, or one in a billion—that you somehow win, or if the Prince grants you the victory, he will speak on your behalf. You should thank him with all due respect."
I see. So, he’ll put in a good word. That’s something.
I’ve already dealt a significant blow to the eastern expeditionary force, making it impossible for them to launch another invasion anytime soon. While they might retaliate out of anger, resources and personnel aren’t infinite, even for the Empire. They’ll need to focus on rebuilding the north, which will further delay any eastern campaign. At least for now.
The Prince likely doesn’t expect to lose, which is a bit delusional, but not surprising for someone sheltered. He might not even consider the possibility of defeat, just like me.
Still, I don’t want to kill a prince. It would create a significant personal grudge and complicate things for the Kingdom of Brenark. Unless I have no other choice, I’ll try to avoid it.
"Fine. That works. The outcome of this battle will be decided by our duel. If I lose, we’ll withdraw without further conflict. If you lose, you’ll abandon the eastern invasion. No more fighting outside of this duel, understood?"
For the Prince’s side, this is about minimizing further losses. They’ve already lost many soldiers, and the duel is a way to stop the bleeding.
For my side, the battle has already been won. If they withdraw, that’s fine by me. The duel will reduce casualties for the Crimson Knights and is interesting, to boot.
Besides, it would be frustrating to be seen as running away from a challenge. I accept because that’s my way.
As if to confirm, all the knights and soldiers around us discard their weapons.
The wide battlefield, extending far into the distance, suggests the presence of communication mages. I’m curious about who they are.
The members of my group and the Crimson Knights also stand down, and the battlefield falls silent. The knights not part of the Crimson Knights move toward us.
I take a closer look at the Prince, adorned in even more extravagant armor than the Kikyo Society. His stance and movements are those of a seasoned warrior, despite the theatrical gestures. He’s well-trained and likely has experience in many battles, not just a fancy dress-up.
To the Kingdom of Brenark, he’s a villain, but to the Empire, he’s a true hero. He must have significant achievements and a strong reputation.
The old knight steps back, leaving the open space to the Prince and me.
"Choose your weapon. If you don’t have one, I’ll provide one of your liking."
Unexpectedly, he speaks directly to me.
"I don’t need one. I have my fists."
I hold up my fist for emphasis.
"To strike a woman with a weapon would tarnish my honor."
Hmm, he’s bringing up honor. He doesn’t seem convinced.
Reluctantly, I generate a sturdy rod. It looks like a magic trick.
A bat would be better, but it’s hard to balance on the fly. A simple rod will have to do.
"Here. No complaints, Prince."
I spin the rod like a baton and then slash it down sharply.
It’s a simplified version of the Silver Super-Hard Bat, with an outer layer of Orichalcum and an inner core of Nova Ore. It looks simple but is incredibly destructive.
"I am Leonor. You may address me by my name. Woman with the eyes of a ravenous beast."
"…What? Are you talking about me?"
For a moment, I’m confused. A beast? Did I mishear?
"Unsatisfied? You are a ravenous beast, are you not? If you dislike it, state your name, impudent one."
A ravenous beast... whatever. Since we’re having a duel, introducing ourselves is a necessary step.
"I am Shinogami of the Kikyo Society. I’m the woman who will engrave your defeat. Remember my name well."
I’ve introduced myself, but I won’t call him by name or remember it. If he proves a worthy opponent, I might reconsider.
"You are Yukarinowe. I do not forget the names of those who fall honorably in battle. You will be the first woman to do so. Consider it an honor."
His condescending tone might be how he treats everyone, not just women.
"Sure. The audience is waiting. Shall we start?"
"Very well. Let us begin."
He’s so arrogant. He is in a high position, but he’s incredibly condescending. Compared to the more casual noble Rosmerta, it’s quite a contrast.
But then, he is from the empire, the dominant power in the western continent. This is to be expected.
Well, let’s get started.
With an unknown opponent, the first move is crucial, but it won’t be easy.
Aim for a decisive strike, but plan for the possibility of it being blocked.
Leaning forward, I take a step.
The sparse grass gives way under my feet, reducing air resistance and closing the distance quickly.
Holding the rod in my right hand, I lunge forward while casting a spike spell at his feet.
It’s a test to see how he reacts. This won’t be the end.
The lavishly equipped prince stands still, not even flinching.
The spike spell fails. He must have an anti-magic device to block close-range spells.
Fine. I close the distance and strike with the rod.
He doesn’t move, not even to defend. His vulnerability is disconcerting.
But there’s no time to hesitate. I strike with full force.
The rod hits his shoulder, a solid hit on the sturdy armor.
"Barrier magic!? What is this?"
It’s different from the barrier cast by the mage earlier. The magic activation was felt only from close range.
It’s likely a custom-made personal barrier. Too small to be anything else.
An extravagant item, only a prince could have it. But the energy source, a magic stone, can’t be plentiful, and even if it uses his own magic, it can’t withstand many of my attacks.
Frustrated and envious, I strike again.
But he’s only letting me have the first hit.
He swings his sword, still in the sheath, without hesitation.
Is he holding back or being dramatic?
It doesn’t matter. His attack is far more powerful than I anticipated.
Too close to dodge, I quickly raise a shield.
The speed and weight of the attack are overwhelming, and the improvised shield is blasted away, flying toward me.
"Damn it!"
I control the shield within my domain, dispelling it as it flies and thrusting spikes to stop his advancing sword. I didn’t expect to use my shield for defense.
The impact is deafening, and the spikes warp under the force.
They don’t break but are bent, a testament to the power of the blow.
Whether the sword is drawn or sheathed, it’s lethal. Without my cloak’s protection, a hit could incapacitate me, if not kill me.
I step back to reassess. The weight of his attacks is abnormal.
I’m confident in my physical enhancement magic and the boost from magic potions.
Even if he’s stronger and using similar potions, the force is too much. There must be a trick.
The multiple engraving magic is likely one of the tricks. His raw abilities, enhanced by numerous boosts, are the result of exceptional craftsmanship and expertise. I haven’t even grasped the full extent of his capabilities.
He must also have powerful magical items.
Some have limited uses, while others consume a lot of magic power. In a prolonged battle, they can’t be used recklessly.
But the engraving magic is different. It operates with minimal magic consumption, providing continuous effects.
Worst-case scenario, he likely has magic potions or recovery potions to sustain his magic power. He’s clearly well-prepared. Running out of magic power isn’t an option.
He must also have items for healing, recovery, and powerful offensive magic. They are likely more troublesome than I imagine.
There’s not enough information from the early exchanges.
I’ll have to play it by ear.
Still, I’ll give him this: he’s no ordinary opponent.