Silvia's perspective

My opponent was walking in a calm manner to the stage.

His hair dark as the starless night, much like his raven eyes. Dressed in the clothes of a commoner, yet proudly presents the sword hanging from his waist. A sword knight, just like me.

Bowing his head slightly, he greeted me.

"It's a pleasure to meet the famous Sylphid, known for being the strongest student knight."

"Yet you show no fear?"

His only response was a short grin.

I have a reputation in this kingdom as the daughter of the only duke. The Arcadia Kingdom is, in itself, a prominent country around the world. We possess many world class knights, and a fair number of them instructed me at least once.

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Granted, prideful knights won't lower themselves just at a duke's request. They wanted to teach me, just for being me.

Talented.

Powerful.

It wasn't long before I surpassed the other children my age and gained the epithet Sylphid.

I draw my sword.

Up until this point, all my opponents bored me. Too weak to handle me, they all fell down.

However, for some reason...

"You won't go down fast, will you?"

If it's him who is unfazed...

"But, of course. It is my duty as an opponent to such a reknown figure."

Another bow, mostly theatrical. A clear attempt at showing amiability and fairness. I could see he intended to confront me like an exemplary knight.

Far in the background, I barely noticed the crowd surrounding us or the commentator presenting us with their interpretation.

"I hail from the house of Clarent. Silvia Clarent."

"...Ark."

Thus, my first encounter and battle with Ark have begun. With our knighthood on the line, our strings of fate intertwined.

It was on this day that I learned what true power really is.