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Chapter 101: Lanchi Takes the Stage
Chapter 101: Lanchi Takes the Stage
The golden afternoon sunlight that had filtered through the wooden window panes now permeated the dust in the hall, and a faint scent of gunpowder hung in the air as the floorboards creaked from time to time, like cries piercing the silence.
However, as Lanchi replaced Fred, he chose to sincerely apologize to everyone, explaining the cause and outcome of the misunderstanding with reason and emotion.
With constant efforts at communication, the atmosphere in the hall gradually eased.
A cool breeze blew through the dilapidated door, rustling the bamboo blinds, like a gentle lullaby that soothed the agitated hearts of the fighters in the hall during their afternoon siesta.
Lanchi's slow and measured words, coupled with a demeanor starkly different from Fred's, seemed to suggest to the fighters that perhaps some concessions could be made.
"..."
For a moment, Hepburn couldn't decide how to evaluate this odd duo of Fred and Lanchi.
Fred had almost blown the roof off at the start, but now with Lanchi taking his place, opening a window didn't seem like such a big deal.
After some negotiation:
Tzervini, her brows furrowed, pointed at Fred, who stood at a distance, and said, "What you guys did just now was too much. He must be disqualified and not allowed to fight again. If you agree to this, I'll accept a rematch!"
At this point, Tzervini couldn't help but feel infuriated whenever she saw Fred! She would never allow such a despicable and dishonorable fighter to set foot on their dueling stage again, even if the other party guaranteed a fair duel this time.
"No problem. Fred is disqualified," Lanchi promised Tzervini.
Standing at the back, Hepburn looked on with confusion as the situation underwent rapid changes.
She felt that the situation, though initially tense, seemed to be settling down now that Lanchi had taken over.
However, she still had a nagging sense of foreboding.
Subsequently, Lanchi took out a piece of paper and a pen from his coat pocket, approached the fighters, and meticulously drafted a detailed set of duel terms with their consent.
He was so considerate that the fighters even started to feel a bit embarrassed.
Compared to Fred, who was cunning and devoid of martial ethics, Lanchi was indeed sincere and reasonable.
"...So, one of the core rules is that no hidden weapons, explosives, or magical tools other than magic cards are allowed during the match, ensuring a fair battle as if it were taking place in the Shadow World."
"The Fighter's Club will bear the responsibility for any damage to the buildings caused by the duel, and the Student Management Committee will not be held accountable."
"Regardless of the outcome, both parties must uphold the honor of their Martial Spirit and family name. There shall be no retaliation, defamation, or use of force and power to threaten or harm the other party. Friendly exchanges must be maintained."
Lanchi held the contract and reiterated each clause to the members of the Fighter's Spirit Club, seeking their confirmation.
"Agreed," they nodded in unison.
Tzervini found this well-mannered black-haired young noble much more agreeable than Fred, who was nothing but a thug.
Gradually, she also realized that communicating with the erudite scholars from the Sage's College could be quite pleasant.
It was mainly due to the amicable and charismatic persona he exuded.
In fact, Lanchi's sincerity made Tzervini feel a bit guilty about going all out against him and his team.
"So, is she going to be the one this time?" Tzervini asked, pointing at Hepburn.
This time, due to the incapacitation of the fifth-rank vice-minister, and in the interest of maintaining stability within the department, Tzervini had decided to take the stage herself.
"No, I'll take on this duel myself."
Lanchi folded the contract, tucked it into his coat pocket, and smiled at Tzervini.
"Are you sure? While I won't endanger your life, don't expect me to go easy on you either."
Tzervini asked with a disdainful expression.
Although she had heard the rumors circulating in school, and her friends who had watched the Shadow World broadcast that night spoke of this young man's uncanny abilities within it, this was the real world, and they had a written agreement. She didn't think Lanchi would have any chance to pull off any tricks or emerge victorious.
"Of course. Give me a minute to warm up, and then we can begin our duel, alright?"
Lanchi nodded solemnly, confirming that he would be the one to face her, and asked.
Tzervini was taken aback.
Perhaps this third-rank auxiliary mage had some sort of trump card that could turn the tide in a one-on-one fight.
"Mhm, no problem. Regardless of today's outcome, I will regard you as a worthy opponent."
Tzervini flashed a hearty smile, her eyes reflecting a newfound appreciation for Lanchi.
In her current opinion, the contrast between Lanchi and Fred was stark, to the extent that even Lanchi's courage to challenge her fairly seemed dazzling.
This was the true embodiment of the Fighter's Spirit.
Subsequently, Lanchi walked back to where Fred and Hepburn were standing.
"Lanchi, is there anything you need me to do?"
Hepburn asked worriedly.
She was the only spectator present who knew the composition of Lanchi's magic cards.
Without the help of teammates to lay the groundwork and build up sufficient anger, even if he used [Basic Etiquette] (Kneel) along with [Great Loving Poet], it would be nearly impossible to make Tzervini faint from anger; it would only push her into a rage.
And if he wanted to use [Beautiful Melody] (Infernal Tune), how long "stiffness" as a soft control would hold back a sixth-rank like Tzervini was questionable. It would only take her a short time to annihilate Lanchi.
In any case, even though Lanchi's one-on-one abilities were not weak for a third-rank, he couldn't surpass a much higher-ranking opponent without the assistance of his teammates!
"Don't worry, Hepburn."
Lanchi merely smiled in response.
It was as if he was certain that their mutual understanding needed no further explanation.
...
A minute later.
As a new bout was about to commence, the tense atmosphere in the arena gradually transformed into one of eager anticipation and mutual respect befitting a derby.
In the four corners of the arena, the traces of polishing on the old wooden walls seemed more pronounced, as if they recalled past glories.
The duelists stood facing each other on the untouched stretch of the arena, untouched by the previous explosion.
This spot was more suitable for a fair, unrestrained, and wholehearted duel.
Tzervini and Lanchi stood facing each other from a distance, their focused expressions adding solemnity to the scene.
"Lanchi, let me reiterate: I will give it my all and regard you as a formidable foe."
"Thank you, Senior Tzervini."
Their every gesture and expression reflected their seriousness about this bout and their respect for each other as opponents.
"Duel—start!"
The loud voice of the referee, a fighter, reverberated through the arena, signaling the commencement of their intense battle!
(End of Chapter)
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