第２７６堀：この舞台は２人のために (Part4)
"Both sides are still holding back their full capabilities. I suspect Eoid, being inexperienced, realized that if he moved carelessly, he would be finished. Or rather, he was being cautious on purpose. If that spear had been a real one, it would have already pierced through and decided the match. It seems he’s afraid that his long-range attacks might actually be lethal."
As Eris pointed out, Eoid’s equipment was genuine weaponry designed for killing. If Eoid were a true master capable of overwhelming Popuri, the match would have ended moments ago, but he lacked that level of skill. That was precisely why he had struck with the shaft of the spear rather than the blade.
"Ugh... To think I’ve only been studying under those people for a few days and I’m already facing this. Haah, how terrifying," Popuri muttered as she stood up, her eyes now burning with serious intent.
Seeing this, Eoid instinctively raised his shield, but—
*BOOM!!*
A massive boulder had already collided with him.
"A direct hit from a giant Stone Shooter!! It’s a direct hit!! I didn't hear a single chant—that was non-verbal casting!! The power is immense!! Is Eoid-senshu alright?!"
"Indeed, I am concerned for Eoid-senshu's safety. But why didn't Eoid-senshu use Taiki-senshu's technique?"
*No, he can't use it.*
Eoid couldn't grasp the logic behind the "Great Severing." He didn't understand how to cut by observing the flow of magical power; he lacked the knowledge to understand the structural composition of matter itself.
"E-Eoid!! Nooooooo!!"
"Calm down, Amanda. Eoid is fine. Right, Yuki?"
*Ah, I forgot.* I need to provide some follow-up. Looking at it, it certainly looked like a death scene.
"Yeah, he's alive. Though his shield arm is probably broken."
Right. Since Eoid relies on physical equipment, the impact is transmitted directly to his body. Even with a shield, taking a hit from a boulder of that mass would inevitably damage his arm.
"I-Is that true? Eoid!! Answer me!!"
Hearing my words, Amanda immediately shouted into the smoke on the stage. After a brief pause, a voice returned.
"...Ouch. I-I'm fine."
As the smoke cleared, Eoid emerged, clutching his left arm with his right.
*Yeah, that’s definitely bent in a direction it shouldn't be.* Even Eoid’s custom-enchanted shield couldn't fully mitigate that mass. It wasn't just magic; it was pure kinetic energy. Eoid walked toward Vice Principal Lara, his arm looking painful even from a distance...
"I yield. I surrender."
Upon hearing the declaration, Lara smiled happily.
"I confirm Eoid-senshu's surrender. This match goes to Popuri Lancer-senshu!!"
*Waaaaaaaah!!*
"You did well."
"Indeed. Sorry about the end there. Now then... you know what comes next, right?"
Amidst the roaring cheers, Popuri said that, and Eoid looked at Amanda. Then—
"Amanda!! Will you go out with... *Gah!?*"
He was immediately smacked on the head by Popuri and Lara.
"This is not the time for that."
"Yeah. Seriously, not now. Try again."
He was writhing in agony. Well, having a broken arm and taking that kind of impact is painful. Eoid is impressive for not screaming. Teary-eyed, Eoid raised his voice once more.
"Amanda!! Marry me!! I love you!!"
"Yes!!"
With that, Amanda leaped onto Eoid amidst the thunderous applause.
*Ah, he's dead.* She hit his arm.
"Unbelievable!! A marriage declaration right here on the spot!! A proposal!! The entire audience is cheering in celebration!! Well done, Eoid-senshu!!"
"I offer my heartfelt blessings. May happiness follow your future. With this, the first Duel Festival's final match concludes!!"
*Whoo! Whoo! Yay!*
Needless to say, the sound of those celebratory voices spread throughout the city. The plan was a massive success.
However...
"Hey, Yuki-san. Where was that sugar production factory again? I feel like I could produce tons of it right now."
"What a coincidence. Me too. Being around people who are this happy makes one feel a bit choked up."
Well, that concludes the story of Eoid and Amanda for now. Next stop: Cleena's hometown!! But before that, I think I'll set up a pitfall trap.
*Note: In this chapter, I’ve explained some of the concepts regarding magical power that Yuki is thinking about. Please assume that he is doing various things based on these foundations. Also, since it is still the holidays, please understand that my writing might be delayed.*