The martial arts tournament concluded without a hitch.
During the free battle time on the night of the event, Hakuren took on the three representatives from the Post-Age of Gods Dragon Race. It wasn’t an act of bullying; rather, her goal seemed to be teaching Urza the art of holding back. Or perhaps, instead of just holding back, she was showing her how to orchestrate a match that was actually worth watching.
Hakuren would catch her opponent's full-power attack, then follow up with a punch, repeating the process over and over. Of course, she restrained herself to the absolute limit whenever she struck. Calling it a punch was perhaps an overstatement; "stroking" them would have been a more accurate description of her movements.
By the way, Hakuren... you might have been getting swept up in the excitement because Urza was cheering for you, but the three dragons you were facing were actually weeping. It was setting a poor example for the child, so I eventually stepped in to stop her.
When I did, the trio thanked me with overwhelming intensity. I felt the need to apologize on behalf of Hakuren and Urza. I pointed them toward the medical tent so they could have their injuries treated.
For the time being, the three of them decided to set aside their pursuit of the Title of Magic Black Dragon and focus on their training. I wondered if they intended to settle down in the Village of the Great Tree, but they requested to work for the Demon King instead.
"He seems like the most normal one out of everyone here."
"We won't cause any trouble."
"We look forward to working with you."
Giral gave his permission and the Demon King accepted them, so I had no grounds to object.
As for Chelsea—formerly known as the Holy Knight Schneider—she had discarded her armor and was now operating entirely in her female form. Progenitor-san had mentioned it was a delicate matter, but I assumed it had been resolved. She had a bright smile on her face, so she seemed to be doing well.
Following recommendations from Daga and Galf, she was slated to work in Village Five. She would join the Village Five Church and begin her swordsmanship studies anew under Pirika’s tutelage. Since Progenitor-san had approved and she wanted to go, I saw no reason to stop her.
I immediately introduced her to Seles, the representative of the church.
"I am Seles. It is a pleasure to meet you."
"I am Holy Knight Shuna of the Korin Religion Headquarters... No, I am Holy Knight Chelsea. I look forward to your guidance."
I truly hoped they would get along.
Meanwhile, Draim and Raimeiren were facing off on the stage. Draim had tears in his eyes. Ah, right—Hakuren was the one who had tossed the wooden tag with his name on it into the lottery box. It was my fault for asking how strong Draim actually was just before the draw. I felt a bit guilty. I made a mental note to comfort him once the fight was over.
Near the stage, Malbit was busy enjoying some sake. She had arrived midway through the festival and entered the Knight Division as a substitute for Lu, eventually winning the entire thing. She usually came across as a total layabout, but I suppose she could deliver when it truly mattered.
Watching Malbit celebrate, Rigne looked on with regret, muttering that she should have entered the division as well. She really didn't need to hold back on our account. Perhaps Rigne felt the urge to move her body as well, as she was currently waiting in the wings for her turn on stage. Her opponent was Ruincia, who had arrived alongside Malbit.
Ria's mother, Rigne, against Tia's mother, Ruincia. I couldn't even begin to guess who would win.
Predicting the winner was one thing, but... Ria? Why were you and all the other High Elves standing firmly on Ruincia's side of the cheering section? Rigne was going to look devastated if she saw that. Wait, you actually wanted to see her lose for once? If you let your momentary whims get the better of you, you’re going to regret it later.
Sure enough, Rigne spotted Ria and the others and shot them a defiant, predatory smile. Rigne, please—no "accidental" fire into the spectator stands.
The match between Draim and Raimeiren was finally settled by one of Raimeiren's signature flying knee kicks. I thought she might let Draim save face for a while, but once Hiichiro joined in the cheering, the atmosphere shifted.
"In my younger days, that knee made me cry more times than I can count..."
"You and me both."
"In your case, Giral, it was because you went on a rampage claiming you wouldn't obey me, the Dragon King. My situation was nothing like that."
"It was probably because you were acting sweet toward some other woman, wasn't it?"
"How did you know?"
That was the conversation between Dos and Giral. They were pummeling each other just a short while ago, yet here they were, thick as thieves.
"Ah, sorry, but could you strengthen the magical barriers for the spectator seats?" I asked. It looked like Rigne was preparing to use her bow, and I wanted to minimize the risk of any "unfortunate accidents."
Several tents serving food and sake were set up around the venue as usual, and the High Ogre Maids were incredibly busy. Among the stalls, Gatto's tent was a particular favorite with the children. He wasn't serving food; he was displaying a collection of weapons.
"So cool!"
"It's beautiful!"
"This one is so easy to hold!"
The kids loved it because he had crafted weapons in sizes specifically for them.
"I made these on a whim while working on some prototypes. Whoa, hold on, don't thank me yet. Don't take them! They're just for display today. From tomorrow onward... if the Village Head and Hakuren-san give their permission, I'll hand them over. Hahaha! I'm not being mean. If I give you weapons without asking and you get hurt, I'm the one who's going to get an earful."
The children booed loudly at Gatto’s words. Weapons for kids, huh? It was still a bit too early for that. They would just have to make do with the wooden swords and wooden spears I had carved for them.
"Also, Gol, Sil, Bron. Hand over your swords. I’ll sharpen them for you by tomorrow. Ah, you three have permission already, so you can take these."
"Thank you, Uncle Gatto! In that case, I'll take this one, and this one, and this one too."
"You're taking quite a few. Besides, isn't the size on those a bit off for you?"
"I need this specific size. The payment is Reward Medals, right? Is one per item okay?"
"Hm? I don't need those. Just take them."
"We can't do that."
"Why not? ...Wait, don't tell me."
"Ahaha."
"I see. In that case, I'll accept the payment without hesitation."
After the Beastman Boys left, I approached Gatto. "What was that all about?"
"When a man buys things that aren't for himself, Village Head, there's usually only one reason."
...Oh. Oh, I see. Presents for women.
I see, I see. It was heartening to see them enjoying their youth. However... Gol and Bron only took one each. Sil took three. Was Sil’s romantic interest a weapon maniac? Or did he have three different interests? I certainly hoped for the former.
A few days later, Giral came to consult with me.
"I received a letter from those three dragons who went to the Demon King's place..."
"How are they doing?"
"Well, the letter says all three of them are currently active as the 'third, fourth, and fifth batters.' What exactly does that mean?"
I spent a moment agonizing over how I should even begin to explain that one.
Side Note: In Village Five.
"Wait, Seles-sama is a Saint?"
"Unfortunately, I am merely the official in charge of the church."
"Wait, Pirika-san is a Sword Saint?"
"Unfortunately, I am just a typical Village Five Security Guard."