Ken yo, kaku katariki – 114
#22 – A Surprising Reunion
The Erbenu Multi-purpose Arena.
It was a giant, circular arena that was usually used for horse racing, but it was also the place where the tournaments were held every year. Currently, it was separated into multiple fields.
As it was so big, each game was shown on a giant monitor.
“It will be starting soon, teacher.”
I nodded.
The other students who sat around me all looked nervous.
It was not all of the students from the school. We were only able to secure thirty seats. So the remaining teachers and students would be rooting from the theaters or halls, where the games were broadcasted.
“Still, the scale is definitely different compared to the preliminaries…”
In the preliminaries, they alternated between students and general divisions.
But here, the student battles ended on the first day. And then it was non-stop until the final battle.
“Of course, it is. While the student battles have gained in popularity…they are still quite new. In terms of tradition, they are just an opening act for the real show.”
“Besides, there are not that many people to begin with.”
The preliminaries took place in sixteen cities. Though, the students only fought in eight of them. And since only one person made it through in each, it was quickly a top eight.
I nodded at Ms. Sherry and Ms. Iria’s explanation. And just then, the sounds of trumpets echoed.
Music played, and then a procession of instruments, flags, and vibrant uniforms.
The opening parade had begun.
The audience were spell-bound by the dancing and confetti, and as they clapped and cheered, the music played a majestic tune.
And then the audience became silent.
The monitor now showed a balcony above the audience seat.
A familiar man stood there.
(Gileus?)
The black military uniform decorated with gold. And it wasn’t just him. Six other men. At a glance, it was clear that they were all strong.
(So it’s them…)
The Garden. Those who had won and become heroes.
While there seemed to be some differences between them, there was no doubt of their ability.
I could not help but smile.
And then the next person appeared on the screen—the surprise of the audience.
The prime minister. Though, it was the person with him that drew more attention.
Black hair with streaks of white.
Clothes that were reminiscent of old Japanese clothes from my past life.
And the sharp eyes, in spite of his age.
People were mutterin in disbelief…. And then they noticed the sword at his hip, and were sure of it.
The crowds cheered.
As for me, I was just confused.
(Huh…?)
I knew that figure well.
But it was so unexpected.
“Old man…!?”
Why was he here?
In spite of the distance, he must have sensed me, as he turned towards me and seemed to smile.
“Huh? Did you say something?”
“No, uh…”
“Sword Saint, Jin Raido…”
Ms. Iria muttered the name.
“He looks just like a photograph that I saw before. It was an old photo, but I’m sure of it.”
(The old man… Sword Saint!?)
While I was confused…it also made some sense to me.
I had never met anyone as strong as him. The greatest fighter in the world. Yes, I could see it.
But before he was my teacher, he was family. And I had not expected such grandiose titles. It was like hearing that your father used to be the prime minister.
As I thought about it, a low voice echoed through the arena.
‘…To everyone gathered here today.’
The prime minister’s voice said calmly.
‘The time has finally arrived this year. I am sure most of you have been waiting for this day, as if it was an eternity.’
He said with a chuckle.
‘There is no need for long speeches now. But to the warriors who had been sharpening their claws for this day. The time has come for you to prove your worth, your will, and conviction. Win everything and be victorious. Thankfully…we have a worthy audience here.’
He said as he spread out his arms.
‘Let the Combat Technique Tournament Finals commence! I pray that you fight well!’
The crowds erupted with cheers.
But I felt left behind, as I started at the old man’s back.
“Teacher?”
Ms. Iria noticed that something was wrong.
I opened my mouth and then paused.
I had told her about him many times. But what if they knew that he was this ‘Sword Saint’?
What would that lead to?
The world’s strongest. This was someone highly respected, even worshiped in the empire.
If it was known that we were related, it might be incredible news.
…Right now, we were here to watch and root for the students. I did not want to distract from that.
‘It’s nothing.’ I said with a shake of my head.
