Chapter 53: What legacy? I created it
In the middle of the ruined training ground, Aldrian walked towards Arthur, who looked at him blankly. What Arthur saw in Aldrian was a towering wall, one so high that it felt impossible to surpass. This wall of power forced him to accept his inferiority before the young-looking man at the 'Viscount' stage, he could no longer regard him as a mere 'boy.'
Aldrian stood before Arthur and stretched out his hand, offering to help him up. Arthur sighed, took Aldrian's offer, and stood. His height was much greater than Aldrian's, from the onlookers' perspective, it was a striking contrast. But after what they had just witnessed, there was not a single doubt that the shorter young man could wipe the floor with any of them.
In the end, strength is what matters most. Even if you were a toddler, if you could do what Aldrian did, they would respect you.
"So, what do you think, Sir Knight?" Aldrian asked with a smile. Arthur looked into Aldrian's beautiful blue eyes and bowed his head.
"It was my ignorance and arrogance to doubt you, but you have truly opened my eyes. This will be an invaluable experience for my future. I, Arthur Maximilian, am honored to stand before someone destined for greatness. I hope you don't hold my earlier actions against me."
Aldrian was slightly surprised by Arthur's actions. Arthur was decisive and unashamed to admit his wrongs in front of others. For one of the ten great swordmasters to bow his head was truly a sight to behold. Perhaps it was due to Arthur's principles and upbringing, but it was still remarkable for a man of his status to bow and admit his wrongs in front of others, especially to someone much younger.
"No worries. I never took your actions to heart. After all, your way of thinking was justified," Aldrian replied.
Emperor Ladwin descended and landed before them, his smile bright as he looked at Aldrian. He was thoroughly satisfied with this display of power.
"Now we have reached the conclusion of the duel. The winner is Aldrian Aster!"
Following the emperor's announcement, the elves gave a standing ovation for the duel, not just as entertainment, but also for the insight it provided into the nature of absolute destructive power. They couldn't help but compare it to 'The Wrath of the Forest Spirit,' which could also destroy landscapes. Yet, they felt that perhaps Aldrian's slash was stronger, able to cut through everything in its path and even cause a spatial storm.
Aldrian and Arthur shook hands and descended from the destroyed platform, greeted by cheers from the crowd. Aldrian was also welcomed by Eleine and others from the imperial family, who were once again reassured of his status and power as the chosen one.