Crushing flags and claiming the Villainess

Austin's mood improved by being near his favorite person. It really helps when you are with someone who not only understands your inner turmoil but also says things that can help you get over it.

They tried a few dishes being served and a few people came to greet them.

While he was at it, Austin glanced around him and found the one he was looking forward to meeting.

The fourth target character: Kevin.

He was the childhood friend of Rhea and someone who would play a key role during the tournament.

Having a Shard that detects the demonic presence and uses the power of the sun to eradicate them—yeah, a cheat ability.

Not only that, he was on the verge of breaking into S-rank.

'He may get the chance to level up soon...'

Austin has a bad feeling that during this tournament, the Beast King, the demon who attacked Drenovar, will ambush the tournament.

Canonically, he would have secretly recruited a few of those students who lost in their first round. And once he gathers hefty soldiers, he would have attacked from the front—ruining the whole competition, only for Rhea and Kevin to bring him down in the end.

Fighting with Rhea would have helped Kevin remember his childhood and the friend he got detached from. And voila, Rhea would get herself another love interest.

'My concern is on the demon...now that he knows that Valerie is a part of the students' body, will he change his strategy?' After all, canonically, Valerie—an S-rank—shouldn't have been here. Not only that, the Demon General has even fought with her, so he knows Valerie's strength.

And these few changes leave Austin completely lost on what the Demon would be plotting.

"Are you tired?" Valerie's concerned voice woke him up from his daze.

He smilingly shook his head, "Was just thinking about the matches. It would be great if we could remain on the same team. You know...my first time and all."

Valerie held his hand assuringly, as she said, "Regardless of which team you participate from, I know you will be victorious. And not only that, you would be playing a key role in your team's victory."

Austin was rendered speechless. How can someone be so sure about someone else's abilities?

Her faith in him puts him under slight pressure, but the motivation he gains from it is immense.

He squeezed her hand and told her, "You are right. I am going to win this."

While they were lost in their world and were completely unbothered by the people whispering and glancing in their way, someone suddenly walked to the stage.

"Can I have your attention, please? The Chairman wants to relay a few words." It was a man in a black suit who garnered everyone's attention before he politely gave a bow to the students and backed away.

Austin and Valerie also turned towards the stage, and they saw an elderly man with long white hair that reached his shoulders and a pair of amethyst eyes appearing on the stage.

There was something about his presence that created pin-drop silence in the ceremonial hall as he addressed the participants,

"First of all, congratulations. You've overcome countless challenges through sheer determination and skill to stand here today. Out of thousands, you were chosen, and that alone is proof of your worth. No matter the outcome, remember this—you are already champions. But don't stop here. Strive to be even greater."

His voice was tranquil as if he was helping the excited hearts to calm down.

'The chairman eh...the head of the council that is responsible for organizing the tournament and an A-rank.' Austin didn't have much of an impression of the man other than the fact that everyone working under him and many of the students respected him for his past records.

Once a top student of Ravencourt Academy and someone who pushed his team to become the third-time winner of the tournament.

Ravencourt Academy has always produced immense talent and championed students. Three of the ten S-ranks in the world come from that academy.

That's why, they wanted to bring Valerie to their side as well. Since in their eyes, she wouldn't reach the peak of her strength while being in a small academy as Valorian.

The Chairman continued, "Over the years, my fellow council members and I have observed that teamwork and coordination are key factors in overcoming the first hurdle—the squad matches. Time and again, we've seen stronger teams falter simply because they couldn't synchronize their efforts. And for them, it's a bitter truth to swallow, because in the end, even the mightiest wolf must learn that true strength isn't always found in solitude."

His tone turned serious near the end, and his gaze hardened, which made Austin frown.

Shouldn't this welcoming speech have ended by now? Why does it seem the man is here to deliver a very important information?

Everyone felt that there was something about to happen. And their anticipation wasn't unwarranted,

"That is why we have decided to give everyone a chance to prove their individual strength. Instead of starting with team battles, this time, the tournament will begin with solo matches."

"...!"

"Huh?"

"What the ..."

"Is he being serious?"

Suddenly, a round of gasps spread across the hall as they heard the announcement.

It has been a tradition for years for the tournament to flow in the same usual manner: squad matches followed by duo matches and ending with solo battles.

Then how...and why did they change the rules all of a sudden?

Austin frowned, as he somehow realized the reason.

His eyes turned toward a certain man with black hair, standing with his team. Stay updated via My Virtual Library Empire

There is not one but two S-rank participating this year. That's why, they must have thought that rather than letting the team benefit from the S-rank warriors, let them first face their individual battles.

Valerie, on the other hand, was slightly nervous about this change.

She was aware that Austin might be the lowest-ranking warrior in the tournament, and anyone he would be facing would surely be B-rank or above. Most probably, above.

She glanced at her lover, evident concern written over her face.

But when Austin held her hand gently and whispered, "I promised that I would participate in the duo match with you, and I will fulfill my promise."

...she felt all her concern melting under his warm gaze.

That's right, even though the situation has changed, she should trust her Lord.

He has always proven everyone wrong with his wits and strength.

A few weeks ago, no one could even have imagined for him to defeat a B-rank warrior. But he did, that's why he is here.

Looking at their connected hands, she muttered, "We will win this...together."

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A/N:- Thanks for reading.