第２７４堀：勇者の技 (Part4)
"Yes. There were even spells I had never seen before; I learned quite a lot. It truly goes to show that the world of magic is deep indeed."
"……Oh! It seems contestant Soel has regained consciousness. Even though she was defeated, let us give a round of thunderous applause to her for showing us such a magnificent battle, and to contestant Taiki for his victory!!"
*Clap, clap, clap……!!*
"Taiki-sama!! That was wonderfulーーー!!"
Ah, Airi-san is waving at Taiki-kun.
For some reason, Riel and Firia, who are standing next to me, look completely drained. Why is that?
"……*Sigh*, I never imagined there would be such a difference in power. It was marvelous, Taiki-san."
"No, Soel-san, you were amazing as well."
"Fufu, I'm happy to hear you say that. By the way, may I ask you a question?"
"Yes, go ahead."
"From what I heard, the young lady waving at you over there is your wife, correct?"
"Yes. That is my wife, Airi."
"And do you have any concubines?"
"No, I don't have any……"
Hmm, this is turning into an interesting development.
I’m glad I recorded this. Heh heh heh……
"For someone of your stature, Taiki-san, it would only be natural to have concubines. If you don't mind, may I throw my hat into the ring?"
"Hah!?"
"Of course, I have no intention of ousting Airi-san. I will properly discuss it with her. Oh, I must contact my father. I shall return later."
"W-wait, just a second!?"
Taiki-kun’s attempt to stop her is in vain, and Soel-san runs off.
This is getting interesting.
She’s the daughter of a major merchant; she’s far more convenient for Taiki-kun than some random noble.
Well, ignoring Taiki-kun’s own opinion, it’s convenient for the sake of the country.
Her heart seems to be in the right place; the only question is whether she can get along with Airi-san.
"Contestant Soel has run off. I suppose the sting of defeat was too much for her. Now, there will be a thirty-minute break before the third match. Attendees, please take this time to use the restrooms."
"Yes. During this time, we will introduce the sponsors, collaborators, and contributors who helped make this Duel Festival possible. First, the Lancer Magic Academy for providing the dueling grounds, the Mercenary Guild for security, and the town announcements……"
While that broadcast plays, Taiki-kun, who should be the victor, walks back with the face of a loser.
"……What should I do?"
"……Do your best. I’ve done my part. Don't worry, I have that conversation recorded perfectly. There’s no escaping it now."
"Guh!? Wait, please delete that!?"
"I can't do that. You need to get Soel-san’s consent, and you and the others need to watch this to understand her character, right?"
"Gyaaa!! This is a public execution!!"
Just give up!!
I was having that exchange with Taiki-kun when I heard a strange voice from behind us.
"……E-excuse me."
"?" "Hmm?"
When I turned around, Eoid was standing there, his face stiff with tension.
"I-I can't fight like you, Taiki-san!?"
He looks like he’s about to cry.
But seeing that, Taiki-kun and I just laugh.
"W-why are you laughing?"
"Well, Eoid has to do things the Eoid way, doesn't he?"
"Exactly. There’s no need to imitate us."
Then, Taiki-kun and I tap Eoid on the chest with our fists.
"Go in there and give it your all. You know you’re weak, right?"
"Yes."
Taiki-kun tells him to simply challenge it.
However, for Eoid, the duel is just a side show.
He’s referring to something else entirely.
"Show Amanda your true feelings through the duel."
"Yes!!"
That’s right—this is Eoid and Amanda’s stage, after all.
Do your best, kid.
That finishing move, recreated with a cleaning broom, which everyone once dreamed of imitating and which rivals the Hiten-style sword technique!!
Perhaps you, too, had one in your youth?
Holding it in a reverse grip……
Well then, it is finally Eoid’s turn next.
Everything up until now has just been the opening act.
The main event starts now.
Also, I have an announcement for everyone.
"Winning Dungeon Management Method 2" will be released by Monster Bunko on September 30th, and the cover was revealed on the 15th.
For those interested, please check it out.
And as for this story, "Winning Dungeon Management Method: No Reason to Accommodate Others," as of today, September 16th, it has reached 50 million PV and 5.4 million unique visitors.
This is all thanks to everyone who has read it up to this point.
Thank you very much.
See you in the next chapter.