Chapter 327: Bracket Stage.

Chapter 327: Bracket Stage.

Okay, honest opinion Neill stared at with me a serious look. Tension was rising as she kept her silence. I need you to be honest about it, okay, Sis?

I kept my silence.

Hmmmm Ahhhhhhh. Neill took in a deep breath before letting it all out, shaking her head a few times to show me how urgent and important my answer would be. With how the mood was set, it had to be something serious

Which of these look better on me?

STOP GOING NAKED IN FRONT OF ME!

She was deciding on what to wear for our matches today.

Sheesh, dont shout! Neill glared at me as if I was the irrational one, thinking being an exhibitionist was okay! We are dragonkins, you know. What are you so unhappy about? Dont tell me you actually have something for your own sister?The roots of this story extend from novell bìn origin.

NO! I shouted vehemently to deny her allegations. I am okay with you being naked when we go into the hot spring or shower together. No problem. Just stop undressing randomly, especially when IM EATING BREAKFAST!

I pointed at Tasianna, Svena, Haati, and Rajah, the only other people inside the dining room of our subspace, making Neill aware there were also others around. Exposing yourself to others was just plain out rude and awkward! They were all averting their gazes, understandably so!

And? Not like this is my actual body, anyways. Besides, my clothes are made from my scales. In that sense, I am walking around naked, for a humanoids common sense. Neill shook her head in exasperation as she created her scaled yukata, again. As reluctant as she was, she still acquiesced to my wish. Jeez, you honestly act more like Renee. Act more like your mother, Sis. She is technically walking around naked, as well.

Thats not the point, haaaaa. Whatever, just sit down and eat. We need some calories for later.

The weekend has passed and today was the first day of the bracket stage of the tournament of Yeostar. The moment we returned to Elyonda yesterday, our tournament bracelet shone, displaying information on the first 16 matches.

Looking at the schedule, the matches would be spread throughout the week, with the first eight fights happening on FireDay and the rest tomorrow, EarthDay. After the first round was done, the second round would pit each winner against the other in their bracket, leading to another eight matches on WaterDay. Which would lead to us having four matches on WindDay, where the quarter matches would start.

LightDay, so Friday, would be a showcasing match for the five champions of the five ruling princes of the Divide. In other words, it was an extended weekend for us fighters and the semis and final would be held next week.

And, coincidentally, Neill and I would be fighting our matches today, but on the complete opposite ends of our 16-man bracket. Meaning, if we were to win all our fights, we would meet during our semi-finals.

I honestly had a feeling some personal touches were made during the scheduling. It didnt really seem fair, especially if you knew the rest of the matches. It didnt feel random. Very tailored towards making it the best show for the audience.

In any case, our matches were today, and we needed to eat before it began during the lunch bell. I was happy to see Neill this morning, but the moment she began talking about what clothes she should wear for her match today, I honestly felt something bad would happen. And lo and behold, my sister exposed herself.

Was this how siblings behaved with each other? I honestly did not know as a single child for my entire Earth life. Maybe this was just a dragon thing.

So I began after the two of us finished our first breakfast course. My belly was full and my early morning grouchiness was gone. Why are you coming in here and talking about clothes for no apparent reason?

Hmm? Shouldnt that be obvious? Why would I wear the same clothes I wore in one match for another, Neill said as that was obvious to her. In fact, I should be asking you why youre wearing the same clothes! I mean, its cute and fits you well, but you wear that red jacket and skirt all the time! Dont you have any other combat clothes, like when we wandered around the city on LightDay?

I looked down, feeling a bit self-conscious about what she said. Well, I have spares of the same ones. Its not the same

Thats even worse!

Saori said the same thing to me before she made a bunch of spares of my usual clothes. A red jacket, a frilled skirt, and a vest with a T-Shirt. Sometimes I would wear my white mage robe, sometimes I would wear it like a cape. Sometimes not at all. These were my adventurer clothes, and I got so used to them, that they became kinda normal to me.

Still, I did wear different clothes when I tour the city, though! I wasnt that boring, but I guess my lazy fashion sense was making me less excited about wearing other clothes. As if Neill could read my thoughts, she was frowning deeply at me.

Youve been a human for longer than me, so I thought you knew about it. However, tell me, what makes being a humanoid so good?

I thought about it for a second, but I couldnt exactly tell what was so good about being a human compared to a dragon. Uhm, being smaller so fit everywhere?

Considering my sisters unimpressed face, I probably answered incorrectly. No, it's clothes and fashion!

Seriously? I felt unconvinced.

Of course! By my tail, you really have no idea, huh? A dragons main way to attract mates is their strength and the glistening of their scales, earned by scheduled shedding sessions and cultivating a den filled with mana, Neill repeated what Mother had already told me. However, unless you're a master of scale manipulation and know exactly what you are doing, the fashion sense of most dragons is pretty abysmal. I mean, if you take care of your shedding schedule, you have the intimidation and beauty aspect down, but I feel like you can do so much more.

My mother does it well enough, I replied, remembering how fancy Mother was with her scale usage, both in her original and elven form. You couldnt describe her without mentioning how dazzling she was.

Well, of course, shes an ancient scale. Our elders know how to use their scales, but most are pretty old-fashioned, you know. Take my mother, for example. Unlike Melloxtressa, doesnt experiment with her clothes and how to present herself. Shes too used to her own style, like you! She pointed at me. However, you mother? Fashion empress! Her dresses are amazing and the way she uses her ice abilities in combination with her scales to make them look like gemstones is jaw-dropping.

Neill then slammed the table, pushing herself onto her feet. Which is why hearing you care so little about your own clothes is beyond infuriating, Sis! Look at us! We are currently dragonewts, but you dont even try to bring out the best part about our current forms. The flexibility to bring out different types of looks! Here! Look!

Ark! I groaned as I saw her yukata starting to break down. Stop going naked!

I sent my own scales out to hide her body like a curtain, shaking my head in astonishment at how she was so casual with exposing herself. In any case, after a few seconds, she called me out and I let the scale curtain down, only to see Neill wearing a ballroom dress with her hair tied up and combed, showing off her three horns as they glowed an iridescent blue, probably created from her mana.

Wow, that is a real change.

The wild nature of her mane-like hair and skin-showing yukata was completely gone, replaced by an exotic beauty and refinement I would have never expected from my battle junkie sister. She could use some makeup to elevate her charm even further, going for the mature vibe I would expect from an older sister.

Mhmm, right? I hate those balls. Too stuffy, but Ive watched some human nobles dance in these to make my own using my scales. I really look good, right? Neills eyes gaze down her dress, enchanted by her own beauty and even began to adjust things about her appearance while she did it.

Is that why you took that curvy body as your human form? Transforming from a monster to a human allowed you to customize your look however you wanted upon your first transformation, although it was hard to impossible to change that appearance afterward.

Mhmm, I asked around what would be the best-looking form I could take. Elves and dragonewts were my own reference point, though, but I learned from men how they like curvy women, so I took this form to look the best!

At least, you didnt go too wild on the front part Yeah, shes a bit needy for attention, huh?

Then again, people had the right to look however they wanted. If Neill liked that body of hers, then what could I say about it. Which made me curious about what Neill said about dragon fashion. However, when I asked her if she could show me how to make my dragon form look prettier, and less scary, Neill just flat out told me to ask Mother about it.

Im not a good role model if you want to know how to make your dragon form look better Neill contorted her mouth, looking like she didnt want to continue talking. This was the second time Neill declined showing me her dragonkin form.

Weird. Here I thought I could get an idea guess I have to ask Mother about it.

Neill then asked me about modern Earth fashion, remembering I was an otherworlder. Saori was the expert on this topic, but if Neill liked talking about fashion, then I could indulge her with what I used to wear. It gave us something to talk about while we ate.

After our breakfast was done, Neill told me to put up my scale curtain again so she could do what she came here for: to ask me what she should wear for todays match. Considering how fascinated she was with modern Japans styling, I wasnt really surprised what her outfit was.

Ripped black jeans with a purple tank top and her usual black-purple jacket. Trendy, stylish, and still fitting for the summer temperature although I thought hot pants might have elevated her tomboy look. With her wild hair down and a lack of shoes, Neill really looked like a delinquent at this point.

After I gave my approval of her look, Neill smirked as she looked at me, making it obvious what she was thinking.

H-Hey, I just got [Scale Manipulation]. Its not that good yet to create clothes! I protested, but Neill didnt let me continue. Understanding what my sister wanted, Tasiannas and Svenas eyes sparkled for a moment as they jumped onto the bandwagon.

Lady Hestia, your honorable sister is correct! Today you must present yourself. Do not forget what Lady Amelia told you about how you needed to advertise for your concert today. Tasianna smiled deviously.

I concur. Princess Fargryneills wisdom is something you must accept, my lady. Our hair is a womans pride, but wearing the correct and appropriate clothes depending on the situation is our talent! You must agree how dull it must be to wear the same thing over and over again. On the other hand, Svena looked like she wouldnt accept a no from me. Considering the number of times I denied her a chance to try out new clothes, using I am busy as an excuse, I couldnt fault her for hopping onto this chance.

After all, this time, my attendants had my sister as their supporter. They could put their self-interest over their duty.

Okay. In the end, I accepted. I couldnt argue against the fact I have been using the same clothes for a while now.

However, unlike what Neill wanted, I still wasnt good enough with my scale manipulation to properly create details like fabric. Everything I created still had a clear scaly theme. In addition, since my scales were crimson red, everything I made was crimson red. Not very appealing as it made me monotone.

So, it was decided I chose from the closet-sized cloth collection in my storage, all made by Saori. Tasianna and Svena were going about it madly, using me like a dress-up doll. The fact they havent been able to do this in months really made them go into a clothing frenzy.

As usual, Tasianna and Svena had a more time-appropriate fashion sense. It contrasted Neills quick interest in modern Japanese fashion, to the point she was arguing with the others to dress me in such a style. As sisters, we should match! she argued, which convinced my two attendants.

And with that, our group finished our food and then went into Elyonda, on our way to the arena. Once there, I could hear the same cheers as I heard from the market. Mostly cheers concerning their bet and how I should win it. People really loved betting, huh?

Okay, see you guys later! I saw everybody off as I went over to the registration, smirking as I saw the same receptionist who registered me for my tournament. Yoooooo~ Goooood morning, Mr. Receptionist! Hope you had a good FireDay.

He forced a smile, twitching and shivering as he tried to talk with me, only to stumble on every word. Y-Yes, good FireDay, ahahah Y-Youre here to register, yes?

Mhm. Say, you seem tense today, did something happen? I gloated at him before I tilted my head to the person standing behind him. Or, did somebody scold you?

Huek!

Hahaha! Nothing to worry about, Cris. The middle-aged man tapped the receptionists shoulder before gesturing for him to leave. You earned yourself a rest, how about you go?

Y-Yes, Sir! Right away, Sir! Like a cornered rat, the guy just dashed away.

Sooooo, who am I speaking to now? The tournament officials? Or the royal palace? My smile turned serious, glaring at the person with mild annoyance.

The man looked well-groomed, almost looking like a butler, but from the way he dressed, he seemed more like an administrator. He didnt seem slimy, but I didnt get a good vibe from him. Almost like he was judging me.

Both, my lady, however for today, I am here as Duke Alberstiens messenger, which also includes the noble faction. I am one of the board members controlling the operations of the Arena of Yeostar, Count Bertlez. He bowed low. I didnt see this guy when I met Yeoss prince, but from the way he acted, he knew who I was.

Knew it.

Board member, huh? So, Count Bertlez, do tell me something. Were you the one who did the bracket placement? I apologize if I am too paranoid, but looking at everything, it seems too convenient. Almost like a show? My eyes narrowed. My annoyance had changed to irritation.

My lady, you should have known from Sir Jethros explanation that this tournament is made for us to find our next Champion of Yeostar. If you are asking if it is rigged, then no. Fairness, at least, in honor of God Yeostar.

I didnt need to ask Yeostar to know if that was a lie or not.

Dont try to trick me with wordings or something. Did you choose the participants randomly or did you place them deliberately?

We chose the best and most fitting people to face each other, if that is what you are asking.

Tch, in other words, yes.

After all, we never mentioned the bracket stage would be chosen by random. No, there was nothing like that stated in the rules, only that we will create a bracket stage.

I knew the rules, of course, but what I was annoyed about was the fact how they placed everybody. On our side, so Neills and my side of the bracket, all the beastmen and foreign adventurers were placed there to duke it out, while the other side was majority from Yeos.

Strangely, if I were to beat todays match, I would have to fight against Chahayat, while Neill would need to fight Ghorush, before we met in the semis. On the other hand, Larent, Alistar, and Renee were on the other side. It was clear what they were doing here. Setting up narratives to talk about.

This was more a show, than a noble ceremony to find a new Champion. It felt like I was a spectacle as I would have to fight my sister, while Larent, the Empires Ex-Hand of Heaven, would fight against Yeoss knight commander. All to see who would win in the finals.

So, what do you want from me? You wouldnt appear here for no apparent reason. I gave him my ID, allowing him to register me for my match, as I was hurrying him along for his explanation.

As a representative of the noble faction, I thank you for your service, Lady Hestia. Please, smite todays villain, he started and bowed dramatically. He clearly had showmanship experience. But, I would like to inform you that the entourages of the other five princes have arrived in the city. Meaning, our esteemed guests would be watching us from today onwards.

Friday would be a showcase match between Yeos and the other principalities of the Divide. Most likely, this was a way to strengthen the bonds between the five princes. From what I heard, the five princes currently didnt get along, so I had no idea how this would proceed.

As such, as our first match of the day, I would like you to formally announce yourself to everybody. Let the world know what you are doing here, my lady. I am sure, with you around, the other princes would be more appreciative of our young Prince Markval. I ask of you to aid him, would you please?

Political tool?

Haha, I wouldnt word it like that. You are an important personage, my lady. Not only your lineage, but also your piety. With the times so dark due to the wars, one would need security. With your support, Yeos may find itself in a better position to continue honoring our role as God Yeostars followers. Not to mention, I am sure the Empire would appreciate our returned assistance and our ability to bring back stability in the Divide.

Tsk, and then let everybody know this was all Duke Alberstiens idea. Nice plot. Bring the Prince to your side to stifle out the other factions. All because of me. Just to wage more war.

If you word it like that, Lod Bertlez, that does sound like a fantastic plan! I faked my enthusiasm, causing the Count to glow up with a wide smile.

You have my deepest thanks, my lady! Goddesss blessing to you! Although I dont think you will need help with that lowlife mercenary, I still wish you good luck! May the Goddess guide your path with brilliant light!

I am not your pawn. Deal with the dragon, then prepare to pay handsomely.

But, of course, I could only do that if I won today. Which meant, if I wanted to pay them back for thinking of me, a Champion of Aurena and also a Dragon Princess, as lowly as an advertisement tool, then they better think again. I can afford to hear insults, but trying to use me? No, no, I was below that crap.

Oh, but if you could do me a favor, I took the set of parchment out from my storage, hiding the action by making him think I took it from underneath my robe. Could you hand this out to the audience? Its one of my projects to help with bringing out any enemies, you see. I just need some advertisement help.

Oh, naturally! We have a debt to repay! He took the stack of parchment and began to read them. Hmm, Draconic Concert? You are putting on a concert, my lady? Also, is this a sketch of you?

Yes, I am an enthusiast of good music. A festival requires events, no? So, considering how many people are in the city and arriving, I thought it would be a great time to support cultural and economic growth. After all, Yeos and the royal family have my thanks for creating an interesting experience in Elyonda.

Magnificient, my lady! Your ingenuity astounds me! I shall do it right away! Although, ahem, if I may give my opinion. To our cultured guests from the Empire, they might enjoy this, but our commoners? Such music would be wasted on their uneducated ears, ahahahaha!

I just smiled. I said nothing.

I shall also make sure our nobles know of it!

Please, do, but please keep the surprise for after the match ends. Thank you.

With that settled, I went over to the waiting room until somebody came to guide me to the arena. Unlike during the battle royale, I went into the arena through the normal gate.

Noble ladies and gentlemen! Blood enjoyers! I welcome everybody to the first match of the day! The bracket stage has begun!

The moment I entered the arena, the wild cheers of the audience and the loud, but hype, shoutcasting of the announcer drummed into my ears. I could hear it all. The excitement of the crowd was absolutely enthralling.

However, sadly, cause of what happened before, I wasnt really in the mood to bask in the mood. As such, I concentrated more on the environment I was sent into. It didnt look like the flat ground arena during my winners ceremony, no, it was a plain grassland. The sky was also the usual dome showing the people in the audience in a panorama-like style.

To start it all off, and I know all of you are excited for this, we have the tournaments dark horse! The flaming dragonewt with the abilities of a priestess on the right side! Crimson hair Hestia Atsuko Kaaaargryxmor!

Idol! Idol! Stop using a moniker that only describes my hair! I was outraged! Stupid announcer!

However, I was ignored.

And to the left! We have the malignant manipulator of the venomous depths! The elder, and currently only, brother of the Acid Killers! Well, as I said, it probably should be only Acid Killer now! Give him a pity cheer, everybody, for he has just lost his younger brother! Greisha!

Jeez, bad taste! Bad taste!

But the crowd cheered anyway. However, from the look of it, it felt more like jeering caused by the announcer.

On the other hand, the person walking up to me didnt look too good. In fact, his eyes had been aimed at me the moment I entered the arena, where I could feel the intense thirst for blood from that guy. Poison dude was not happy that I killed his brother, and while I could understand it, his brother shouldnt have attempted to kill so many people.

It was his fault.

He raised his arms silently, holding up two catalysts. It seemed like the elder brother got the catalyst for his younger brother. Acid Hydra!

And it seemed like he wasnt about to wait for the announcer to finish.

The first match Hestia versus Greisha

Start!