“We still haven't obtained much information on that matter. After all, they are in a neighboring country…”

“What we do know is that this individual has single-handedly defeated a dragon, can use grand magic, and relentlessly hunts powerful monsters while challenging renowned warriors. From what I've heard, all those who have been defeated by this individual were of considerable skill, so it is possible that they truly possess strength comparable to that of the Great Mage.”

Seriously...? If that's true, this could be really bad. Could they be stronger than I am right now? No, I want to believe that’s not the case…

As for grand magic, I too can use it, having inherited the Great Mage's power. The grand magic I can use consists of fire, water, and wind attributes. I've tried each one, and their scale is immense.

“And one last thing…”

Oh, this must be new information that even I haven’t heard before.

“Well, I think this is likely just a rumor, but I’ll share it anyway. There have been multiple reports that this individual… appeared to be in the form of a child.”

“However, throughout history, all known users of grand magic have been seasoned magic wielders. Even the Great Mage is said to have reached that level in his thirties. There’s no way a child could wield grand magic.”

“A child, huh…”

What could this mean? No way… could it be some kind of mad sorcerer who has turned themselves young?

“No, please forget what I just said.”

“Thank you. I’ll keep it in mind, just in case.”

A child’s appearance… If it’s just a rumor, then fine, but if it turns out to be true, then knowing about it beforehand might make all the difference. I should keep it in mind.

“Also, do you know how strong the captain of the royal knights, who is likely to be this country's representative, is?”

“Yes, he is quite well-known. I have met him once. In terms of skill, he is about on par with me, perhaps slightly stronger. If he were in his prime, he would have been several levels above me, but even he cannot escape the effects of aging.”

“I see.”

So this knight captain is somewhat advanced in age.

“…Are you considering fighting as this country's representative?”

“………………”

When Gildart asked me that directly, I couldn’t answer immediately. This situation is completely different from anything I’ve faced before.

Indeed, I have fought against formidable monsters—dragons, mutated creatures, calamities, dungeon bosses… But all of those were monsters, not humans. I have fought humans before, but they were all weaker than me.

This time, my opponent is human… and possibly even stronger than I am, despite my inheritance of the Great Mage’s power. I have yet to fully master that power—I’m only skimming the surface.

My opponent, on the other hand, actively seeks out strong enemies, constantly fighting against powerful monsters and warriors. A true battle-hardened fighter. Could I really handle a duel to the death against someone like that? Not only could I suffer serious injuries, but I could also die.

“…I will fight.”

But there is no way I could stand by and abandon Sara. She was the first important person I met in this world.

At first, I simply saved her from being attacked by bandits. Then, she showed me around town and helped me get my identification papers. She has done so much for me.

Seeing her smile naturally makes me smile as well. Watching her enjoy the food I cook fills me with joy. Just having her nearby, looking happy, makes me feel at peace.

Even if it means putting my life on the line, I want to save Sara. That feeling is my true, unwavering resolve.

“…She must be very important to you. Understood. I may not be of much help, but I will do whatever I can!”

“Thank you. Do you know when the duel will take place?”

“Yes, although it has not been publicly announced, it will be held in four days at Basil Plains, right on the border between Bartom and Edwards. It’s about half a day’s journey by carriage from Luxeria, the royal capital.”

…Time is short. I need to prepare, even if it's just a temporary fix.

“Gildart, I have a request. Would you be willing to spar with me? I believe I have considerable strength, but I have almost no experience fighting against humans.

Also, could you issue an emergency request to gather any high-rank adventurers nearby to be my sparring partners? I don’t care how much it costs—I’m willing to pay them to cancel or postpone any jobs they’re currently on.”

The one thing I absolutely lack right now is experience in human combat. I have a general understanding of the magic and skills I inherited from the Great Mage, but when it comes to actual battle against humans, I’m sorely inexperienced.

Even if I start training tomorrow, I only have three days left. Fortunately, I have more money than I know what to do with. I’ll use it to gather high-rank adventurers and train for human combat, even if it’s just a last-minute measure.

“Understood! As an emergency request, I will summon all B-rank and higher adventurer parties in the area!”

“Ah, but please exclude those who are on urgent or life-threatening missions.”

“Got it. I will make the arrangements immediately!”

“Gildart, you have my gratitude. Thank you.”

“Not at all! I’m honored to be relied upon. Besides, I can finally repay the debt I owe you for all you’ve done.”