The stage for the duel was set on a high platform in the valley. The Musou Iron Cavalry, the Crimson Mechanized Soldiers, and the people of the Kingdom of Amuria were all spectators, showing considerable excitement.

I had already boarded the Magicraft, as had Fistoa, and we were both waiting for the signal to start the match. As I was focusing, trying to prepare myself for the battle with a good sense of tension, Feri informed me of something unusual.

“This is strange… the output of Arleo II is not increasing.”

“What!? What do you mean?”

“It seems some sort of limiter has been attached to the machine. I apologize. I didn’t notice it earlier because it’s connected to the core’s secondary function.”

“Wait a minute, the duel is about to start! Can we fight like this?”

“The output is less than half of the usual, but it’s still possible to fight. Depending on the opponent’s combat strength, Yuta, your chances of winning are not bad.”

“Hmm… yeah, I guess so. If the opponent is on the level of a veteran, it could be dangerous, but there shouldn’t be many like that.”

Hearing my conversation with Feri, Jean seemed worried and called me over the comm.

“What’s wrong, Yuta? Did something happen?”

“Arleo II’s output isn’t increasing.”

“What!? Is it broken?”

“No, it seems a limiter was attached at some point.”

“What!? Hold on! There’s no one who could tamper with Arleo II like that… Could it be a spy?”

“Well, let’s talk about that later. I’ll manage to win the duel somehow, so don’t worry.”

I had a vague idea of who might have attached the limiter, but I didn’t sense any malice from her, and I firmly believed she was a good person. I thought there must be a reason for this.

“We will now begin the duel between the Magicrafts. Both sides, step forward!”

The referee, to ensure fairness, was chosen from the people of the Kingdom of Amuria. It was decided that Yukiha, a Magicraft pilot with a certain status, would take on that role.

“This duel is not to the death. If I sense any danger, I will stop the match immediately. Understood?”

Both Fistoa and I listened to Yukiha’s warning and agreed to it.

“Then, let the duel begin!”

Yukiha raised her hand and gave the signal to start. At the same time, both Fistoa and I moved. However, as soon as I started moving, I felt an overwhelming pressure from Fistoa’s Magicraft. Startled, I stopped my advance and took a step back.

Wait a second, this guy is strong…!

Though not quite at my father’s level, I could feel an intimidating presence from Fistoa. With Arleo II’s power halved, this might be a tough opponent…