It was natural that Von would be amused.

He was one of the best in the empire, while Henry was only in the Learner class, nothing more than a mere rookie. His request for a duel was nothing more than the recklessness of the ignorant, but Von could not see even the slightest sign of naivete in Henry’s eyes.

‘Maybe he has a trump card he’s hiding.’

Otherwise, no idiot would challenge a Sword Master to a duel.

“Alright. However, seeing how confident you are, I hope you won’t disappoint me.”

“Of course.”

Henry had already expected that Von would accept his challenge; Von’s curiosity had been stirred by all the things he’d said.

‘Although Von is a Sword Master, his foundation is the Imperial Swordsmanship. Therefore, I have a good chance, since I have mastered Hector's swordsmanship.’ 

Henry was confident because their duel would rely on skill rather than pure strength.

“Let us move to a different location.”

***

Below the city hall was a massive training hall. Von had secretly prepared it to use for his training.

Before their duel, Henry said, “Sir Von.”

“What is it?”

“I...