336 Battle Universe ⑤ (Cecil’s Side)

Fansent’s response arrived right then. It was brief—he sounded like he was in a bit of a rush—but he spoke.

"—Cecil, you did well."

Ah, those few words made me so happy.

...I really do love him, after all.

Just talking to him made my chest tighten. Simply being near him made my heart race. I wanted to touch him; I wanted him to touch me. I couldn't suppress these feelings any longer.

Once this match is over, I’ll tell him—properly.

...Though I suppose I’ll also have to think of what to say to Lady Cynthia.

But man, Teacher Chloe was strong.

When I looked down, I realized mana was leaking from my body in hazy wisps. To think that at the absolute last second, even without any mana left, she still managed to land a blow on me.

If I moved so much as an inch more, I’d probably black out. As long as I stayed right here, I could still relay everyone’s conversations. I wasn't in any state to help anyone else, but I’d done my job.

I’m leaving the rest to you, Fansent.

Battle Universe (Unequal Straightforward Match)

Activation Condition: A Magic Formula is drawn on the Earth. The Gift triggers only if a target recognized as an enemy by Cecil launches a preemptive attack. (If Cecil initiates the attack, the Gift fails to activate, and a twenty-four-hour cooldown is incurred before the next attempt.)

Effect: The target is designated as the "King" after an attack range and defensive power corresponding to their Mana are automatically applied.

Knowledge Transfer: If the target is unfamiliar with Battle Universe, they are granted knowledge equivalent to Cecil’s. In cases where the target’s baseline knowledge is insufficient, a knowledge-assistance effect is applied.

Turn Limit: Each move must be completed within 300 seconds. Failure to act within the time limit results in an immediate loss by timeout.

Stakes: The target may challenge Cecil any number of times; however, Cecil will die instantly upon defeat.

Resolution: Once the target completely admits defeat, they are rendered unable to use Mana for a duration equal to the number of their defeats multiplied by twenty-four hours, and the match concludes. Simultaneously, Cecil is granted a Reward.

Reward: The Reward is not fixed; an optimized Reward is generated based on the specific circumstances of the victory.