Chapter 64 : Where is my Poké Ball?

St. Freya Academy, the kingdom’s premier institution, gathered prodigies from across the land. Genius breeds pride, and pride sparks conflict. To prevent these future pillars of the kingdom from maiming each other in private spats, an unwritten rule emerged: the Court Duel.

“Court Duel?” Ailiya asked, listening to Seraphina’s explanation, feeling like she’d stepped into a mythic tale.

“Yes,” Seraphina said patiently. “It’s simple, like a cowboy showdown. One-on-one, a third-party referee counts down, and at zero, both cast a single spell. The spells clash midair; the first to break loses. One strike decides it.”

“For group disputes like this, it’s best two out of three. No wide-range spells that could harm bystanders, and the loser must meet the winner’s demands.”

Ailiya rubbed her chin, zeroing in on the crux. “So it’s just about who has more mana? I might as well surrender now.” Her mana pool was a trickle compared to these noble girls raised on magic potions.

“Not quite,” Seraphina said, wagging a finger with a smile. “Simple rules leave room for strategy. Psychological tactics—taunt or intimidate to disrupt their focus, making complex spells harder to cast. Or technique: instead of countering a massive fireball with an equally big waterball, a precise water needle can pierce its core, breaking it apart. And luck—if your spell happens to counter their element, you’re set.”

Victory required a blend of skill, mind games, and fortune, proving true talent.

Sounds… kinda fun, Ailiya thought.

Across the field, the noble girls had chosen their fighters, consulting Prince Leon before settling on a best-of-three format. Cordelia, a marquis’s second daughter, excelled in wind magic; Beatrice specialized in defensive earth magic; Genevieve was a classic fire mage. None were top-tier, but all outclassed Ailiya’s fledgling third-rank spells. To them, crushing her was child’s play.

Plus, none wanted to look weak before Prince Leon—for pride or family honor, they had to win.

Ailiya’s team centered on her, the money-hungry wildcard. Aurora sighed, “I owe you one,” and joined reluctantly. They needed one more.

Ailiya’s eyes landed on Isabella, the strongest present. But Isabella flicked her a cold glance. “I won’t join. I shouldn’t be dragged into this petty squabble.” Don’t pull me into your commoner nonsense.

Trouble… Ailiya fretted.

A clear voice cut through. Liliane, noticing the commotion, approached slowly, supporting her weakened body. Her presence drew every eye, including Leon’s group.

“I’ll compete,” she said, her voice soft but firm.

Cordelia and her friends paled. Liliane von Winter? It was like handing the enemy a free point. Winning two out of three against her was a leap from easy to impossible.

“That’s unfair!” Cordelia protested, but a small figure stepped in front of Liliane.

Ailiya, face serious, her round eyes resolute. “Lady Liliane, you can’t compete.”

Liliane blinked, surprised that the gold-grubbing Ailiya would block her, a guaranteed win.

“You’re unwell,” Ailiya said firmly. “Sick people need rest. This is my fight; I’ll handle it.”

Liliane’s lips twitched into a faint smile. “Sure? That’s a thousand gold coins.”

“Positive!” Ailiya shot back. “Money’s one thing, health’s another. I might push myself for cash, but not others.” She paused, muttering, “Besides, you’re my boss. If you collapse, who pays me?”

“Oh?” Aurora drifted closer, smirking. “Can I buy your body with coin?”

Smack! Ailiya slapped her backside. “We’re talking serious stuff! Quit it!”

Resolute, Ailiya escorted Liliane back to the bench, patting her shoulder like a child to stay put. Liliane, amused, closed her eyes and complied.

For the final spot, Seraphina stepped forward, gentle but determined. “I’ll join. It’s a chance to test myself against seniors, and I won’t drag Ailiya down.”

The teams were set: Cordelia, Beatrice, and Genevieve versus Ailiya, Aurora, and Seraphina. The winner claimed the training field, and if Ailiya’s side won, they’d get a thousand gold coins.

Ailiya took a deep breath, striking what she thought was a cool pose, arm raised. “Let’s start—Pokémon Showdown!!”

“It’s a magic duel, not a creature brawl,” Aurora deadpanned.

“I know,” Ailiya stuck out her tongue. “Just felt like saying it.”