The Extra's Reincarnation-Chapter 61: Aelius Day (3)

"Mrs. Florence, what exactly is the Royal 8 Challenge?"

"Oh, it’s an event that hasn’t happened in 100 years. From what I’ve heard, there’s eight trials, each testing different aspects of the ideology of a Royal Blade. Strength, intelligence, magical prowess, loyalty and all the qualities needed to protect the princess."

"It’s not just a game. The Royal Blade is sworn to protect the princess with their life. It’s a lifelong commitment."

Diana’s voice held a quiet but firm conviction as she spoke. And it made sense why the king would take such measures to protect his daughter, Francine.

I remembered hearing about a character who fulfilled this duty throughout the entirety of the novel, his name was Marcus Renfield.

He had been by her side since they were young, but with that came pressure from Franz Evera, who looked down on Marcus for being seen as his replacement for protecting the princess.

From what I could tell, their relationship had a rocky beginning, and it never improved during their time at the academy.

It was common knowledge that they despised each other, and in the unlikely event of a physical altercation, Franz would undoubtedly come out on top. He was known as one of the strongest individuals of our generation, a solitary figure who reigned supreme.

That was a fact anyone could accept.

FWANG…

[An event quest log has been added…]

[To view details, please check the Quest | Choice Log menu.]

CLICK!

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Side Quests:

(Event) (Time based: 1 Day) (NEW) Participate in the Royal 8 Challenge - 1st Reward for entry - 250 SP, 2nd Reward IF you become the Princess’s Royal Blade - 1000 SP, 5 Base Stat Points, 1 Skill Upgrade,

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The system notifications rudely interrupted my train of thought, flashing right in my face.

The rewards for participating and winning the Royal 8 Challenge were nothing to scoff at. But becoming the Princess’s Royal Blade? That was a lifelong commitment I wasn’t sure I wanted to sign up for.

Being a lapdog for the royal family isn’t exactly my style, so I might just have to pass on this one.

"So, what do you think, Julian? If you want to do it, I won’t mind signing you up,"

Lady Ophelia asked, her head tilted to the side like a curious pup.

"I don’t know… maybe I’ll think about it,"

Even so, I couldn’t shake off the feeling that a skilled regressor like Francine would easily uncover my true identity in this world.

In her countless regressions, I was probably never meant to exist. It was only a matter of time before she uncovered me as an anomaly. Even if I managed to somehow slip through undetected, there was no way she wouldn’t sense something was off about me and become suspicious.

"Well, you boys have some time to think about it and if you do then just let me know, but for now, let’s enjoy the festivities! I hear there’s to be a magnificent parade soon." Lady Ophelia said brightly.

We spent the next few hours immersed in the celebrations.

The streets were filled with music, laughter, and the tantalizing aromas of festival foods.

As we roamed the city, we indulged in various exotic foods. In just two hours, I had already sampled five different cuisines, and I knew that my appetite would never be satisfied.

But today’s main event was about to commence: the Annual Tournament of Duelvantré.

A tournament designed to entertain the wealthy elite of Aureus and capitalize on the desperation of lower-class nobles willing to risk their life savings for a chance of climbing the social ladder.

As we made our way to the Aurean Colosseum for the Annual Tournament of Duelvantré, the excitement in the air was obvious.

Many people had their food, coins, and fancy glasses ready for the final matches, as the massive structure loomed before us, its golden arches glinting in the afternoon sun.

Crowds of people streamed through the entrances, their voices a constant buzz of anticipation.

"I can’t believe we’re actually here!" Ezekiel exclaimed, his eyes wide with wonder. "I’ve only ever heard stories about the Duelvantré tournament."

Diana nodded, a small smile playing on her lips.

"It’s quite the show. Some of the strongest fighters from across the country compete here."

As we entered the VIP section, courtesy of Lady Florence’s status, I couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer scale of the arena. The stands were packed with spectators, their cheers echoing off the stone walls. Below, the fighting ring stood ready, its surface gleaming and unmarred.

"We’re just in time for the finals," Lady Florence explained as we took our seats.

"The preliminary rounds have been going on for days, but this is where we’ll see the true champions emerge."

I leaned forward, my eyes fixed on the arena. Despite my usual calm demeanor, I could feel a thrill of excitement coursing through me.

This was a chance to see some of the most skilled fighters in action, to observe techniques and strategies I’d only read about.

The announcer’s voice boomed across the colosseum, introducing the finalists. Two figures stepped into the ring, their postures radiating confidence and power.

"On my left, we have Thorne the Unbreakable, champion of the Northern Provinces!" A muscular man with a thick beard raised his axe, eliciting cheers from the crowd.

"And on my right, Lyra Swiftshadow, the elven warrior from the Kingdom Of Elandria!"

The elf woman stepped forward, her lithe form belying the deadly grace with which she moved. Her silver hair glinted in the sunlight as she unsheathed twin daggers from her back.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the announcer’s voice rang out, "prepare yourselves for a battle of titans!"

A gong sounded, signaling the start of the match, and just as quickly as it began, it ended within a mere five minutes, with the elven warrior claiming victory in the grand finals of the Duelvantré.

**

With the colosseum event now over everyone within Ophelia’s box left the VIP room and headed out towards the exit.

Upon entering the halls, they were quickly stopped as Ophelia recognized the group before them.

An older man led the way, his age only hinted at by streaks of grey in his otherwise blonde hair. His posture was tall and broad-shouldered, his presence undeniably eye-catching. He wore a white and gold robe with a fur-lined collar. Julian recognized him from the opening ceremony.

Close behind him was a woman about Ophelia’s age. Her demeanor contrasted with Ophelia’s kindness, reflecting the elegance and restraint of nobility. Her confidence was evident yet gentle, her composure unbroken.

A little girl followed at the woman’s side, appearing no older than six. She resembled her father more than her mother, her blonde hair tied up in a bun with a pin. She wore a beautiful white dress that matched her mother’s.

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Immediately Ophelia and Diana kneeled down on one bended knee and together they lowered their heads.

"Greetings your majesty,"