Even at Noblesse Magic Academy, we actually get the occasional day off.
Whenever that happens, I usually find myself scurrying off on some little excursion. My motivation, naturally, revolves entirely around Battle Universe.
When you head out into the countryside, you often find special-edition pieces for sale. Some are monochrome, some are vivid and colorful, and sometimes you even stumble across pieces that are entirely new designs. They aren't legal for official matches, of course, but I love wandering around and soaking in the local atmosphere while I hunt for them.
"Watch your step, Miss," the carriage driver said.
"Thank you very much."
"And... um..."
"Yes?"
As I was stepping down, the man called out to me. I tilted my head, wondering what was up, only for him to thrust a piece of stiff cardstock toward me.
"Y-You’re Cecil-san, aren’t you?! The winner of the Battle Universe World Championship!?"
"Eh? Oh, y-yes. That’s me."
"If it’s not too much trouble, could you... well, sign your name for me?! Gosh, I’m just so shocked... S-Sorry for startling you, I just got a bit overexcited!"
"It’s quite alright. And what is your name?"
It happens every once in a while—rarely, mind you—that someone asks for my autograph. They always look so terribly apologetic about it, but honestly? It makes me happy. It’s because everyone loves the game as much as I do that I’ve been able to enjoy it for this long.
Still, I never expected to be recognized right as I was getting off a carriage.
This was a small town, but Battle Universe seemed to be a massive deal here. Apparently, it was the birthplace of the knight who served as the model for the pieces: Grist Alldin.
He is the most famous historical figure in the world. I’m a huge fan of his myself, so I practically had a spring in my step as I walked. As I approached the town entrance, the gendarme on duty called out to me. Wait, are they strict about security here? I wondered, only to be caught off guard again.
"I-Is it possible you’re Cecil Antwerp!?"
"Huh? Oh, yes."
"W-Would you mind shaking my hand?! Man, I watched that tournament from the front row! You were incredible!"
"Hehe, of course. I don't mind at all."
Two fans in a single day? That was a first. It certainly put me in a good mood.
The town was full of quaint little buildings, and the blue sky was breathtaking. Being right by the seaside made me feel even more refreshed. I stepped into a nearby shop, and even though people usually describe me as "quiet" or "composed," I couldn't help but geek out.
"...Wow."
It was a specialty shop! I hadn't expected to find one of these here. Battle Universe pieces were lined up neatly on the shelves—everything from custom-made boutique items to retired official releases.
Incredible. This is amazing. Truly, truly amazing.
...Wait, did I bring enough money? I’d packed quite a bit, but suddenly I was feeling very anxious.
As I was fretting over my wallet, a voice came from behind me. Oh no. Was I humming? I’d been told once before that I have a habit of humming to myself when I’m happy.
"Ce-Cecil-san!?"
"...Eh?"
It was the shop assistant—a young woman about my age wearing an apron embroidered with the Battle Universe logo.
"I-I’m a huge fan! Oh my gosh, why are you here? Wow, I—I’m sorry! I’m rambling!"
"Oh, no, thank you so much."
I was mostly surprised because she was so cute and roughly my age. Even though it’s a popular game, female players are still a bit of a rarity. I was just thinking how nice it was when she dropped a bombshell.
"U-Um, if it’s okay..."
"Yes?"
"Could we play a match!? P-Please! I’m so sorry for asking!"
I was thrilled. Truly. But I was also a little worried. What if I’m too serious? What if she ends up hating me? Still, I couldn’t suppress my curiosity.
"I’d love to," I replied.
We moved to the back of the shop, where several tables were set up with Battle Universe boards.
"This is... such a wonderful shop."
"Thank you. It’s my grandfather’s. He’s actually out for a bit right now."
"I think it’s lovely. Well then, I look forward to our match."
"Yes! The pleasure is mine!"
We exchanged polite bows, and I finally learned her name was Raffy. As the game progressed, I realized I’d probably never forget her. Why? Because she was strong. Like, really strong.
"I-I give up...! Wow, you really are the best, Cecil-san!"
"No, the feeling is mutual. That was... incredibly fun. You’re very skilled, Raffy-san... right?"
"Eh? Ah! A-A-Ah, I’m so sorry! I didn’t even introduce myself! My name is Raffy Eriri!"
The name sounded familiar. Suddenly, a shout erupted from the back of the room.
"Ce-Cecil Antwerp!?"
"...Could it be Daria-san?"
"W-What in the world are you doing here!?"
"It’s been a long time," I said, reflexively standing up.
Daria-san was an elderly gentleman I’d faced several times in tournaments. He was a formidable player who always used the most fascinating, creative moves.
Oh, I see. She’s his granddaughter. Then it hit me. I remembered seeing a little girl cheering from the stands: "Grandpa, do your best!"
"Well, I’ll be... You’ve surprised me, girl. What’s this, Raffy? You lost?"
"I got absolutely destroyed, Grandpa!"
"Hmph, pathetic! Well then, Cecil-san, how about it? One match?"
"Of course!"
"Good!"
Before I knew it, I was completely immersed. I was just so, so happy to have found such wonderful opponents after all this time.
————
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"G-Grandpa, look at the time!"
"What?! Gah, I’m so sorry, Cecil-san. You came all this way for sightseeing and I’ve kept you cooped up."
"No, please don't apologize. I had a wonderful time."
Still, looking at the schedule for the return carriage, I only had one hour left. I was wondering how to make the most of it when Raffy stepped in.
"I’ll show you around! I know all the best spots!"
"Are you sure? That would be a huge help."
"I'm counting on you, Raffy," Daria-san said.
So, feeling grateful for the chance encounter, I spent the rest of my trip touring the town while listening to anecdotes about the legendary knight, Grist. But as I was preparing to leave, Raffy told me something shocking.
"I'll definitely come back to visit, Raffy-chan."
"Yes! Oh, but... actually, we’re going to be closing the shop soon."
"...What?"
"My grandfather's health hasn't been great lately. And since I’m usually away at school in the Royal Capital, I can't really manage the place myself... That’s why I think he was so happy to play one last match with you in the shop. I was happy, too!"
"...I see. That’s such a shame, but I understand. Thank you for everything."
"Don't mention it! We'll see you again! I'll send the rest of your items by mail!"
"Hehe, thank you."
I spent the carriage ride back soaking in the memories of the day. It had been so much fun... if a little bittersweet.
However, a few days later, a letter arrived along with my Battle Universe purchases, and it contained some wonderful news.
"...Oh, thank goodness."
The letter explained that after a lot of thought, Raffy had decided to take over the shop herself. She invited me to come back and visit whenever I could. It also included a curious note: 'And please, bring that boy you mentioned—the one who made you fall in love with Battle Universe all over again.'
...Wait, when did I say that? I have absolutely no memory of saying that!
I checked the clock; it was time for my appointment. I headed to the Nobless Library, where Fansent-kun was waiting.
"Cecil, sorry for calling you out on such short notice."
"I don't mind. This is about the Calamity, right?"
"Yeah. In all likelihood—"
He was always thinking about the future, always carrying the weight of the world. It made me feel incredibly guilty. To think I was there to... well, just to invite him to play.
"Sorry, Cecil. I'll need your help with that."
"I understand."
"Well, I'll see you later then."
"...Um, Fansent-kun?"
"Yeah?"
Come on, Cecil. You can do this. Do your best!
"I found a really wonderful town recently. There’s a Battle Universe specialty shop there, and if you’d like... maybe we could go together sometime?"
"Sure. I'll look forward to it."
He agreed immediately.
...Hehe.
"Alright. I'll invite you again when the time is right."
"Yeah. Thanks, Cecil."
I’m so excited. I’m so, so excited!
Now... how on earth am I going to explain this to Cynthia-san? I’ll have to spend the rest of the day coming up with an excuse.
But still... I can’t wait.