As Alte Krieger played its trump card, Phantom countered with a display of pure skill.
"Oh! Both combatants have accelerated even further!"
"A magnificent battle! Truly unprecedented and unparalleled!"
The announcer and commentator were shouting, their voices pitched high with excitement. The spectators clenched their fists, their palms sweating as they cheered with everything they had.
"Phantom! Right there! Go for it!"
"Alte Krieger! Don't let up! Take him down!"
Perhaps it was the nature of the Celuroa Kingdom's people; combat scenes like this seemed to set their blood on fire.
"Your Majesty, this is a rare match for the ages," Kirk-at, the captain of King Cesar's Royal Guard, remarked as he watched with wide eyes.
"Indeed. For a golem to stand as an equal—or even a superior—to one crafted by Donald, the former Alpha... even if he has retired, it is a remarkable feat."
"Your Majesty, perhaps the era itself is changing."
"That may well be true."
In the arena, the two golems clashed with such raw power that they pulverized the paving stones, despite the Toughening enchantments laid upon them. Phantom increased its speed by wrapping itself in a Breeze, while Alte Krieger mobilized its spare mana tanks to push its output to the limit.
The battle appeared to be a stalemate. However, the longer the fight dragged on, the worse the situation became for Alte Krieger. Once its stored mana was exhausted, its movements would inevitably grow sluggish. Phantom, on the other hand, showed no signs of flagging, though its power source remained a mystery.
Finally, the balance broke. As the reserves in its spare mana tanks ran low, Alte Krieger’s movements began to stiffen, bit by bit. In contrast, Phantom’s agility never wavered.
Hmph. Jix, was it? He's no amateur, Donald Callow thought, sweat beading on his forehead as he watched from the sidelines. To think such a technician was still hidden away in the world... the world is truly vast.
Right before Donald's eyes, Alte Krieger’s sword was finally parried. With its guard broken, Phantom landed a decisive blow that exploded against the opponent's exposed torso.
"That's it! The winner is Number 41, Phantom!!"
A deafening roar of cheers erupted from the crowd.
"The fierce struggle has reached its conclusion! The one who stands at the summit is Number 41, Phantom!!"
"My, that was a legendary match! It will surely go down in history!"
The announcer and commentator were still breathless with excitement. The venue was enveloped in a storm of thunderous applause.
"I thought as much. Phantom had it in the end," Jin muttered to himself back on Hourai Island. "Donald's Alte Krieger had extraordinary specs, though."
"If it's even better than that, does it mean we shouldn't underestimate Phantom?" Elsa asked.
"Right... Since they're deciding the various awards next, I'll take over the operation of the Doppel for a bit."
"Understood, My Lord," Laojun replied.
The victory belonged to Number 41, Phantom. That was undisputed. With a total score of 900 points, it was a landslide win. Second place went to Alte Krieger with 740 points, while Zaberer took third with 500 points.
Beyond the rankings, there were several other honors: the Effort Award, the Technical Award, the Fighting Spirit Award, and, of course, the Magi Craft Meister Award. These honors were determined through a consultation between the judges and the tournament officials.
"Personally, I would like to present the Magi Craft Meister Award to Number 1, Stahl Ritter," the Lord of Kunlun stated.
"Oh? And why is that, Lord of Kunlun?" one of the tournament officials asked, sounding intrigued.
"Yes. Stahl Ritter appears capable of instantaneously shifting the output of its limited power source—the mana tank—to the most optimal distribution for any given moment. I found that highly commendable."
Several officials looked surprised at Jin’s explanation.
"What!"
"It had such a function?"
"Now that you mention it, that would explain certain things... but to see through it so easily, you truly are a Magi Craft Meister."
Thus, the Magi Craft Meister Award was granted to Number 1, Stahl Ritter. Additionally, the Effort Award was given to Number 35, Iron Warrior; the Technical Award went to Number 2, Zaberer; and the Fighting Spirit Award was presented to Number 16, Blue Knight.
"Well, it was a short tournament, but it was certainly worth watching."
"Yes, it was a meaningful experience."
In the spectator stands, Vivienne and Lucol were conversing quietly.
"So, did you discover anything?" Lucol asked.
Vivienne shook her head. "No, nothing concrete. However, as a storyteller, I am satisfied to have witnessed a match that rivals the great battles of old."
"I see. That's good then. By the way, regarding the winner, Number 41—I heard he was a last-minute entry."
"...Which means?"
The two lowered their voices. Given the lingering cheers of the crowd, they didn't have to worry about being overheard.
(Is it possible that Number 41 is the target we've been pursuing?)
(You mean Jix is actually Gunno Asher?)
(Exactly... or at least a close collaborator.)
(What should we do now?)
(I'm hoping to make contact somehow once the awards ceremony is over.)
(I agree. That would be our only chance.)
"Winner, Lord Jix and his golem, Phantom. Congratulations."
"I am honored," Jix replied.
The awards ceremony took place amidst a whirlwind of applause, proceeding from the champion to the runner-up and the other prize winners.
"Runner-up, Lord Donald Callow and his golem, Alte Krieger. Congratulations."
"Thank you very much."
"Third place, Lord Yaruidare and his golem, Zaberer. It was a close match."
"I will continue to refine my skills."
"Magi Craft Meister Award, Lord Erich Siflo and his golem, Stahl Ritter. Splendidly done."
"I am humbled."
One by one, the Effort Award, Technical Award, and Fighting Spirit Award were presented. Once the ceremony concluded, King Cesar delivered a congratulatory address.
"Everyone, you have brought forth a collection of magnificent golems whose merits were nearly impossible to rank. With such technology, the future of our country is bright. I look forward to your continued devotion to your craft."