Literary Battle

“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your patience. I am Duke Gran, your host for tonight’s Azure Triad Contests—honored to present this grand event.”

Duke Gran’s voice carried a creepy undertone beneath its noble authority.
Though old, he relished such events.

The bloodshed of youth reminded him of his own glorious past.

In his youth, he’d once slain a higher-tier noble in a martial duel—causing a scandal among the aristocracy.

So when Empress Elizabeth assigned him as host—he eagerly accepted.

Though she wanted him to maintain order—Gran secretly planned otherwise.

He wanted violence, blood.
He wanted these youths to tear each other apart!

“Tonight’s Azure Triad Contests remain unchanged: Literary Duel, Martial Duel, Dragon Duel—rules identical to past years.”

“But the prizes are vastly different.”

“What prize is it?”

Nobles leaned forward—eagerly anticipating.

“Heh. Anyone who wins one contest receives a Dragonvein Fruit.”

At the words “Dragonvein Fruit“, the crowd erupted.

“No way—it’s actually the Dragonvein Fruit?!”

“Yes! Market value—10,000 gold coins!”

“And it’s rare! In critical moments, it can save your life!”

What these nobles said was true, from Black’s perspective.

The Dragonvein Fruit caused a surge in magic or spirit energy—temporarily.

A Level 40 Mid-Tier Swordsman could fight on par with a Level 55 High-Tier Swordsman after consuming it.

Essential for last-resort attacks or level-skipping kills.

Only two flaws:

Severe side effects.
Users must be Level 30+.
Below that? Light injuries—or instant death.
“Furthermore… there is another prize. In my opinion—far more valuable than the Dragonvein Fruit.”

Duke Gran paused—his gaze subtly sweeping over Alice.

Tension rose—everyone listening intently.

“Whoever wins two out of three contests… earns the right to dance the Oath Dance with Princess Alice!”

Silence.

Then—jaw-dropping shock.

No noble expected this reward!

The Oath Dance?
This was a courtship ritual!

During the dance, men received a mysterious blessing—massively boosting their charm.
They might even win the princess’s hand in marriage!

In short—if you won two contests—you had a high chance of becoming the princess’s fiancé!

Realizing this, many young nobles’ hearts raced with desire.

Princess Alice might be cold, isolated—but she was still the Second Princess, undeniably noble.

And her beauty? Divine. Her figure? Perfect.
A top contender for Most Beautiful Woman in the Dragonheart Empire.

Marrying her? Not just a stunning wife—but royal connections.
Instantly become imperial kin—endless wealth and glory!

Cyril looked surprised too—he didn’t expect this reward.
But thinking deeper—it made sense.

He’d heard the empress was desperate to arrange Alice’s marriage—yet found no suitable match.

So this was a backdoor suitor selection.

After all—whoever won two contests? A prodigy.

In Cyril’s eyes—even if Alice resisted—once the empress spoke, she’d have to obey.
She deeply respected her mother—never defied her.

But…

He glanced at Seth—sure enough, saw murderous intent in his eyes.

Alice had humiliated Seth so badly earlier—he would retaliate.

If Seth truly aimed to join the Azure Triad Contests—all three victories would likely be his.

Cyril sighed—pitying Alice.

“Ha! Ha!”

Seth clapped loudly—mockingly.

His face radiated triumph. He never expected to reclaim his dignity so quickly!

Alice dared humiliate him for a mere servant? Then he’d show zero mercy!

As for the Azure Triad Contests? If he wanted victory—all three wins would be his!

Literary Duel? He wasn’t strong—but his scholar followers could prepare texts. He’d just recite them.

Martial Duel? His specialty. Among the youth here—he was unmatched.

Dragon Duel? Only Alice could challenge him—50% chance of winning.

Overall—very high odds.

Once victorious—Alice, however unwilling—had to dance the Oath Dance with him.

Making her embarrass herself during the dance? Easy.

Or perhaps… an accidental touch on certain private areas? Also easy.

As for the empress? He’d fabricate excuses later.

After all—Alice was the least visible among princes and princesses.

Of course—if she fell in love with him during the dance? Even better.

Seth wouldn’t mind breaking her down—then tossing her aside.

Seeing Seth’s lewd gaze scanning her body, Alice’s face turned icy.

Luckily, Black reacted quickly—blocking his view without drawing attention.

“That Seth—truly means to oppose me.”

Alice took a deep breath—suppressing rage.

Seth had glorious strength—his arrogance was understandable.

Earlier, she’d forced his apology using the land vote threat—but that trick wouldn’t work twice.
Provoking him further might make him snap.

Never provoke a combat maniac.

Now—only way to stop him? Prevent his victory.

“For the Literary Duel—give it your all. You must win.”

In literature, she could only rely on Black.

“Understood, Your Highness.”

By now, Black offered no excuses.

Alice had helped him so much already.

Even if he had zero literary talent—he’d force himself through.

Still—no confidence.

All he could do? Bet.
Bet that the poem’s form and theme matched his strengths.

Leave it to fate.

“Then—let the first contest of the Azure Triad begin!
The Literary Duel!”

“This year’s form—poetry. The theme—love.”

“The poems will be judged by several noble elders!”