Wes lay back in the grass, his arm flung out as he stared up at the sky. His revolver still smoked faintly from its final attack, resting beside him.
"Hah... defeating a D-rank monster... level 25 no less... that was something else," Wes muttered with a half-crazed grin. "I literally reincarnated here a few hours ago. And now I'm out here cooking monsters."
He was about to continue when a soft chime echoed.
DING!
A translucent screen appeared in front of him:
LEVEL UP!
Name: Wes Walker
Current Level: 3 → 7
HP, MP, and all stats increased significantly
Skill Proficiency: Bullet Crafting, Fire Bullet, Wind Bullet, Flashstep (Rank Increased)
New Abilities Unlocked:
Heat Mirage Bullet – Creates illusionary heat clones for 5 seconds
Earth Bullet – A solid kinetic projectile that causes shockwave impact on hit
Ice Bullet – Freezes the target briefly; slows movements drastically
"WHAT?!" Wes shouted, flailing slightly in surprise. "Level 7?! From one kill?! And I got new bullets?!" He grinned wide. "Okay, okay, I can work with this! Earth and Ice! We've got elements now, baby!"
Scarlett walked over, folding her arms. "Well, you were the one who finished the snake. Kind of makes sense."
"Still! That's like... four levels in one go! And new elemental bullets?! This world is awesome."
Scarlett rolled her eyes. "Don't let it go to your head."
Wes muttered to himself, thoughts racing. This world... you can level up this fast? And I've only been here for hours? If things continue like this...
Captain Durnhal approached, his armor clinking. "Your Highness, we must return to the capital. The King needs to hear what happened."
Amara nodded solemnly. "Yes. I must tell Father about the ambush, the serpent, and the lives saved."
Durnhal looked toward the horizon. "We should leave soon. Nightfall in these woods is dangerous."
Amara turned her gaze toward Wes and Scarlett. A small idea formed in her mind.
They saved my life. Father would want to meet them.
"Wes. Scarlett." Amara stepped forward. "Would you come with us to the capital? My father—the King—will want to meet the ones who protected me. And I'm sure he will reward you both handsomely."
Wes and Scarlett exchanged a look.
Wes gave a tired, crooked grin. "Sure. Let's meet the King. Why not?"
Scarlett nodded. "We'll come."
Amara smiled warmly. "Then let's go."
The knights opened the carriage door. Amara climbed inside, then turned back. "Come on, you two."
Wes and Scarlett followed, stepping into the ornate royal carriage.
As the horses began trotting down the forest trail, Wes leaned against the window and looked out.
Outside, the trees shimmered with golden light from the setting sun. Shafts of sunlight filtered through the canopy, painting the forest floor in hues of orange and green. Occasional birds flew by overhead, and glowing flowers pulsed faintly in the shadows. The sound of the wheels humming gently across the path blended with the occasional call of distant animals.
Wes stared out in silence, eyes trailing a flock of sky-butterflies fluttering through the breeze.
Amara said her kingdom was built for peace... for all races to live together. Elves, dwarves, beastfolk... and here I am—some reincarnated otaku with a magic gun. I'm living in the kind of world I used to only read about.
He rested his cheek against the window.
And she's the princess of all this. A kingdom founded by warriors. Led now by her father. Her mother used to be a battle priestess? That's like something out of a legend. And her brother's a prankster prince. They sound like characters from a story... but they're real. She's real.
He looked toward Amara as she smiled, chatting with Scarlett.
And I get to ride in a royal carriage like this. Damn... what even is my life now?
"So this is what it feels like... a real royal carriage. Cushions. Space. Smooth ride. THIS is luxury," Wes said aloud with a grin.
Scarlett sighed. "Idiot."
Amara giggled. "It is a nice ride. It's enchanted to be light on the roads."
Scarlett glanced at her. "Sorry for the idiot's comments."
Amara waved a hand. "No, it's alright. I enjoy his enthusiasm."
"So," Wes asked, stretching a bit, "how long does it take to get to your city?"
"A few hours," Amara replied. "We're just on the outer border of the kingdom."
Scarlett nodded. "What's the name of your city?"
Amara smiled, looking proud. "Elondale. It's a city of peace and beauty. All races live there in harmony—elves, dwarves, beastfolk, humans, and more."
Wes's eyes sparkled. "Wait—really?! Dwarves? Beastfolk? Elves? That's awesome!"
Amara giggled at his reaction. "Yes. We value peace and cooperation. It's what our kingdom was founded on."
"That's... actually kind of amazing," Scarlett said thoughtfully. "It must take a lot of effort to maintain that."
"It does," Amara said. "But we believe it's worth it."
As the carriage continued its journey, the sky turned golden-orange with the setting sun.
After some quiet, Scarlett glanced over. "Hey, Amara... mind telling us about your kingdom? Your family? The history of it all?"
Amara nodded. "Of course. Elondale was founded nearly 300 years ago by King Alaric Lyselle, my ancestor. He united the scattered regions into one kingdom and declared it a haven for all races. My father, King Revan Lyselle, is his great-great-grandson and the current ruler."
Wes leaned forward, listening intently. "That's pretty amazing. A kingdom of peace like that... it's rare, even in fantasy stories."
"He works hard to protect it," Amara continued. "We have a council of representatives from all races. Decisions are made with balance in mind."
Scarlett nodded slowly. "I respect that."
"So your father's the king," Wes said. "That makes you... the crown princess, right?"
Amara nodded. "Yes."
"Guess that means I saved royalty today. Someone write that down for the history books."
Scarlett rolled her eyes. "Please don't encourage him."
Amara laughed. "I think today's story will be remembered, one way or another."
Wes tilted his head. "So, Princess Amara—what about the rest of your family? You mentioned your father, but what about your mother? Any siblings?"
Amara smiled warmly. "My mother is Queen Elenys Lyselle. She was once a battle priestess—strong, wise, and known for leading troops into battle before she became Queen. Now, she rules beside my father with compassion and strength."
Wes whistled. "A battle priestess turned queen? That's seriously cool."
Scarlett nodded. "She sounds incredible."
Amara giggled. "She is. And then there's my younger brother—Prince Rhal."
She shook her head fondly. "He's... mischievous. A prankster, really. Always getting into trouble, hiding frogs in people's boots, sneaking sweets from the kitchens."
Wes burst out laughing. "Sounds like a riot. I'd get along with him."
Scarlett smirked. "No doubt. He sounds just like you."
Amara joined their laughter. "He's a good soul, though. Father says he just sees the world through a different lens."
Wes nodded. "Well, sounds like your family's pretty amazing."
The carriage continued on, wheels humming over the smooth road.
After several more hours of riding, the trees began to thin and the terrain turned to stone paths and guarded outposts.
Wes perked up. He stuck his head out the window.
"Whoa! We made it! That's the city wall!"
Stone towers stretched high into the sky, built with pale marble and blue banners. The massive city gates loomed ahead, guarded by two armored soldiers who stepped aside as the royal carriage approached.
Scarlett tugged his coat. "Stop being an idiot and get your head back in here."
Wes reluctantly pulled back inside. "Just admiring the craftsmanship."
Amara giggled. "Welcome to Elondale."
The gates opened with a deep groaning sound of stone and iron. The carriage rolled forward, entering the city.
Inside, the roads sparkled with embedded stones that glowed gently beneath the carriage wheels. Elves strolled in elegant robes, dwarves bartered loudly with merchants, beastfolk children played in the streets.
Wes stared. "Whoa... elves with glowing staffs... dwarves selling gem bread... look, Scarlett, look! That guy has a tail!"
Vendors shouted: "Fresh honey-grilled meat skewers! Magically chilled fruit juice! Wind-puffed pastries!"
Wes nearly drooled. "This place is incredible!"
Scarlett smiled faintly. "It's beautiful. And lively."
They passed a group of children kicking a bouncing orb of light. One child waved at Wes.
Wes blinked, smiled, and waved back.
Amara turned to them. "So... how do you like it so far?"
Wes and Scarlett both smiled.
"Honestly?" Wes said. "It feels... alive. Magical."
"It feels like a dream," Scarlett admitted.
Amara's heart warmed. "I'm glad. You'll both love it here."
Minutes later, the carriage rolled to a stop in front of another gate—twice the size of the city wall's, reinforced with gold and crystal inlays.
Wes leaned out the window. "Another gate? Why are we—"
CLANK—CLANK—CLANK!
The gate began lowering slowly, gears grinding. On the other side...
Wes and Scarlett's eyes widened.
A stunning white and sapphire palace stretched upward into the horizon, decorated with glowing banners, hovering lanterns, and gardens of sky-colored roses.
Amara smiled. "Welcome to my home."
Wes and Scarlett were speechless.
"...Woah," Wes finally said.
"It's... beautiful," Scarlett added.
The carriage passed under the final archway.
"I can't wait to see inside," Wes muttered, eyes gleaming.
Scarlett nodded, equally curious.
Amara just smiled quietly, watching their awestruck faces.
The carriage rolled through the towering palace gates, flanked by high marble walls engraved with ancient runes of peace and protection. Wes and Scarlett peered out the windows, soaking in the grandeur of the palace grounds.
"Whoa," Wes said, his eyes wide. "Look at those gardens! And that fountain—there's an actual golden phoenix perched in the middle spitting water!"
"It's definitely... something," Scarlett admitted, quietly impressed.
Beautiful hedges trimmed into mythical shapes lined the path, surrounding a central fountain where crystal-clear water cascaded from the beak of the phoenix sculpture into a shimmering pool. Petals from nearby blossom trees floated gently in the breeze.
They rolled up to the front steps of the palace, where a formation of knights stood at attention, lining both sides of the grand staircase leading up to the entrance. Two figures—a stately butler and a composed maid—stood beside each other, awaiting their arrival.
The carriage came to a halt. Amara gracefully stepped out.
CLANK! In unison, the knights saluted with their swords held to their chests and their feet stomped once in respect.
"Welcome home, Princess Amara!"
Wes and Scarlett stepped out behind her, jaws slightly slack at the formal reception.
"She really is royalty," Wes whispered.
Scarlett smirked. "You think? Maybe the giant castle gave it away."
As they climbed the stairs, they couldn't resist teasing each other.
"Can you imagine us living somewhere like this?" Wes said with a dramatic sigh. "Ah yes, the grand halls of the Walker Palace."
Scarlett snorted. "You? In a palace? Maybe a broom closet, tops."
"Excuse you. I'll have a full palace. With a harem."
Scarlett stopped in her tracks. "You what?"
"You heard me. A harem of beautiful ladies from every race. It'll be glorious."
WHACK!
"OW!"
Scarlett smacked the back of his head.
"You idiotic egotistical lunatic."
STOMP! She crushed his foot.
"You harebrained, fantasy-addicted dork."
THUMP! A solid jab to his ribs.
"You delusional, overly dramatic airhead."
"I get it! I get it! I'll cancel the harem, just don't break my spine!"
Amara laughed sweetly from ahead. "You two never stop, do you?"
"Unfortunately not," Scarlett muttered.
"It's part of our charm," Wes said proudly, limping slightly.
As they reached the top of the steps, their attention shifted.
The tall, refined figure of Cedric stood straight-backed, with an air of discipline carved by decades of service. A swept-back silver hairstyle, trimmed beard, and piercing steel-blue eyes enhanced his imposing aura. The monocle on his right eye shimmered with a golden crest.
Beside him, Serina stood perfectly composed. Her toned frame and silent focus felt like a steel blade sheathed in silk. Her eyes—sharp violet-gray—didn't miss a movement.
Wes blinked. That butler… he feels dangerous. That's not just a cane—that's a weapon.
Scarlett thought the same. There's something lethal behind those eyes. You'd never guess he once smiled.
The air around them was calm, yet laced with something hidden—like a coiled spring behind formal grace.
"Princess Amara, welcome home," Cedric said, voice refined.
Serina bowed. "We are honored by your safe return."
Amara smiled. "Cedric, Serina. It's so nice to see you both again."
Serina's gaze moved to Wes and Scarlett.
"Princess, if I may... who are your guests?"
Amara turned. "This is Wes and Scarlett. They saved my life during a monster ambush in the forest."
Cedric's eyes briefly widened before he bowed. "You're unharmed, Princess?"
"I'm alright thanks to them."
"We are in your debt," Serina said, bowing.
"No biggie," Wes said. "Just a really big snake."
"Just our job," Scarlett added.
"Head Butler Cedric Granveil," Cedric introduced himself. "A pleasure."
"And I am Head Maid Serina Eldewyn. Welcome to Elondale Palace."
Wes gave a lazy salute. "Wes Walker. Resident gunslinger."
"Scarlett Hayes," she said with a nod. "Thanks for the warm welcome."
"Your parents await you in the throne room, Princess," Cedric said.
"Okay. Lead the way," Amara replied.
The group began their walk through the palace.
The palace interior was breathtaking. Golden-framed paintings hung on marble walls, depicting Elondale's royal lineage and moments of peace between once-warring tribes. Sunlight poured in from glass-paneled ceilings above. Grand chandeliers floated midair, glowing with ambient mana. Ornate rugs trailed beneath their feet, each with different woven crests representing the noble houses.
Wes whispered to Scarlett, "Every hallway looks like it costs more than my whole reincarnated life."
Scarlett replied, "Try not to drool."
Wes, walking between towering suits of armor and under polished archways, muttered, "This place is straight out of a fantasy RPG."
They stopped before two massive double doors, fifteen feet tall, carved with dragons and lions entwined in battle, with a sun rising in the center—the royal crest of Lyselle. Twin crystalline handles glowed faintly with warding enchantments.
Cedric knocked with three deliberate raps. THUD. THUD. THUD.
A commanding voice answered. "Enter."
The doors opened slowly with a deep groan.
Inside, the throne room unfolded like a vision from a legend.
Towering stained-glass windows let in sunlight filtered through hues of blue, gold, and white. Pillars made of silver-veined marble rose to a ceiling painted with a mural of the kingdom's creation. The red carpet they walked on was thick and embroidered with gold threads.
At the far end stood the twin thrones.
King Revan sat like a general-king, broad-shouldered, storm-gray eyes intense. He wore deep blue and gold robes, a ceremonial sword at his side. His crown gleamed atop his slicked-back hair streaked with gray.
Beside him stood Queen Elenys, elegant in celestial white and gold. Her braided platinum hair coiled like a crown. She radiated warmth, her posture both serene and unshakable.
As the King's gaze fell upon them, both Wes and Scarlett froze instinctively.
The royal pressure was immense—like a weight pressing into their skin.
"...We are so dead," they mumbled together in perfect sync.
The King didn't blink, didn't move—just stared.
Wes gulped. "Yep... we are really, really dead."
Amara stepped forward, her voice steady. "Mother. Father. I've returned."
The Queen's voice was gentle and rich. "Amara. Welcome home, darling."
The King nodded. "Welcome home, daughter."
Amara smiled. "Thank you, Father."
Then the King's eyes shifted, locking onto Wes and Scarlett.
"Daughter... who are these two behind you?"
Wes straightened, trying not to show he was trembling.
Scarlett took a deep breath and lowered her gaze slightly.
Wes, in his mind: This is it. This is my isekai execution scene. What a way to go.
Amara stepped forward, smiling gently as she faced the King and Queen. "These two," she said warmly, gesturing behind her, "saved me from a monster ambush... a giant serpent in the forest."
The throne room went quiet.
The King's eyes widened slightly. "You were ambushed by a giant serpent?"
Queen Elenys gasped softly. "Amara... are you hurt?"
Amara giggled lightly, placing a hand over her heart. "I'm fine. If it weren't for Wes and Scarlett, I probably wouldn't be standing here."
The King and Queen looked past her at Wes and Scarlett. The two straightened nervously, eyes wide as the royal gaze locked onto them.
Then—without warning—the King and Queen bowed their heads slightly.
Wes blinked. Scarlett's jaw nearly dropped.
The King and Queen… bowing? To us?! Wes thought, stunned. They rule this whole kingdom and they're bowing like that's normal?!
Even Amara turned in surprise. "Mother? Father?"
Cedric, who stood nearby, flinched. "Your Majesty! Lady Elenys! With all due respect—you are royalty. You shouldn't bow so easily!"
Queen Elenys lifted her head with a smile. "It's alright, Cedric. We're simply offering our heartfelt thanks."
She looked at Wes and Scarlett. "You saved our daughter's life. That deserves a gesture beyond formalities."
King Alric nodded. "Not many would act without reward. Some would have taken advantage. But you two... thank you."
Scarlett and Wes fumbled, suddenly overwhelmed.
"I-I-It's no problem, really!" Wes stammered.
"We just... did what anyone would do!" Scarlett added quickly.
"No they wouldn't," the King said, voice low and firm. "You protected her. That matters."
Wes laughed nervously. "Well, you know... big snake, small revolver... but still easy stuff!"
WHACK!
Scarlett slapped the back of his head. "Behave, you idiot. We're in front of royalty!"
"OW! That was my thinking side!"
"That explains a lot," she snapped. SMACK! "Try not to humiliate us, you glorified pea-brained peasant!"
"Peasant?! I'm literally the gunslinger who saved the day!"
STOMP! Scarlett crushed his foot.
"And yet you keep talking."
Wes hopped in place. "Abuse! Abuse, I say!"
Amara giggled behind her hand. Even the Queen chuckled softly.
King Alric cleared his throat loudly. The echo bounced across the throne room.
Wes and Scarlett both froze mid-bicker and turned slowly.
"Sorry, Your Highness!" they chorused in panic.
Queen Elenys smiled. Amara giggled again.
King Alric nodded, his expression returning to composed authority. "There will be a formal banquet in two days to celebrate our daughter's return. You both are invited as honored guests."
Wes brightened. "A banquet? I've never been to one of those. Thanks, Your Majesty!"
Scarlett smiled. "We're honored, Your Highness."
Amara looked at Wes and Scarlett—especially Wes—and smiled sweetly. "That's wonderful news. Thank you, Father."
King Alric nodded. "Serina, escort our guests to the royal guest quarters."
Serina bowed. "As you command, my King."
She turned toward Wes and Scarlett. "Please, follow me."
They nodded and began walking behind her. But just as they reached the threshold of the throne room—
"Hold on," King Alric called.
Wes and Scarlett turned.
The King stood from his throne. "I nearly forgot. For saving the life of the Princess, you will be rewarded."
Wes blinked. Scarlett raised an eyebrow.
"It's really no problem, King Alric. We were just glad we were there," Wes said with a grin. "Protecting Amara... that's what mattered."
Amara's cheeks colored slightly. "Wes..."
Queen Elenys smiled knowingly.
King Alric nodded slowly. "Very well. You may go now."
Wes and Scarlett bowed and followed Serina.
Once they were gone, only Amara, Cedric, and the King and Queen remained.
King Alric glanced at his wife. "What do you think of them?"
Queen Elenys folded her hands calmly. "They're more than they appear. I believe they have potential the world hasn't seen before."
King Alric nodded. "I feel the same."
He turned to Amara. "Daughter. Tell me more about them."
Amara nodded. "Wes is... eccentric. He uses a weapon I've never seen—a revolver—and his class is unlike any I've heard of. Magic Gunslinger. But he's brave, loyal, and smart in his own chaotic way. Scarlett is grounded, sharp, and dependable. They balance each other."
Queen Elenys chuckled. "And quite entertaining."
"Thank you, Amara," King Alric said. "You may go."
Amara bowed and left with Cedric.
Once the doors closed, silence fell.
Queen Elenys looked to her husband. "So, what now?"
King Alric tapped his fingers on the throne arm. "For saving our daughter... we cannot give them a simple thank-you."
"We should offer them Official Rank and Title, Land and Property, and a Gold Reward."
Queen Elenys smiled. "That's wise. And kind. We can secure friendship and goodwill."
The King nodded. "We'll see how they act at the banquet."
The Queen tilted her head playfully. "Or... maybe we marry Amara to Wes. They seem fond of each other."
King Alric narrowed his eyes. "Absolutely not. I don't trust him. He's an outsider."
Queen Elenys laughed. "Oh, you're such a protective father. If you keep this up, she'll never marry."
"Good. The only man she needs is her father."
"Very well, my darling husband," she teased.
—
Meanwhile, Serina led Wes and Scarlett through the palace halls. The corridor glowed with soft golden light. Floating chandeliers sparkled above them. Intricate mosaics on the floors depicted heroes, dragons, and gods.
Wes marveled at it all. "This hallway alone could be an art museum."
Scarlett smirked. "I'd settle for not tripping on this luxury."
"You know, for once, you should be impressed."
"I am. I'm just not shouting about it like a child."
"Child?! I am a regal adventurer, thank you very much."
"A regal moron."
Wes laughed. "If I'm a moron, then you're the royal babysitter."
"If I'm your babysitter, I deserve a raise."
They both laughed as Serina walked ahead in silence.
Finally, they reached a tall hallway flanked by arched windows and golden wall sconces.
"This will be your room, Master Wes," Serina said, opening a door. "And next door is yours, Miss Scarlett."
They looked at each other.
"Well," Wes said with a smirk, "see you later, partner."
Scarlett smiled faintly. "Get some rest, idiot."
"You too, sword queen."
They nodded and entered their respective rooms.
Wes stepped into his chamber, his jaw dropping.
Polished oak furniture. A four-poster bed layered in velvet sheets. A fireplace with soft embers. Blue curtains drawn back to reveal a private balcony.
He let himself collapse on the bed. "Okay, this... this is the softest bed I've ever been on."
He rolled to the side, gazing out through the balcony doors at the fading stars.
His body sank into the mattress.
What a day. I died. Met a goddess. Reincarnated. Fought monsters. Saved a princess. Rode in a royal carriage. Met a king. And now... I'm laying in a palace guest room.
His eyes began to close.
"What... even is my life now..."
Sleep took him.
The next day arrived.
Sunlight spilled through the royal guest room windows, gleaming softly against the polished marble floor. A beam of golden light crept up the side of Wes's bed, warming his face. He groaned loudly.
"Ughhh... what time is it? Why is the sun attacking me?"
He rolled over, pulling a pillow over his face.
I'm still tired... but also starving.
Wes sat up, hair a mess, yawning. "I'm hungry enough to eat a wyvern..."
He got up lazily, throwing on his coat and boots haphazardly. "Whatever, breakfast adventure it is."
He stepped out of his room, wandering through the palace halls, eyes still half-shut. The morning sunlight poured through towering stained-glass windows lining the halls, casting streaks of multicolored light onto the polished marble floors. The walls were adorned with portraits of former kings, tapestries of legendary battles, and glowing sconces that flickered gently.
As Wes walked, he trailed his fingers along the smooth stone railings, yawning between steps.
This place is ridiculously huge... like, five-star hotel mixed with museum levels of fancy.
His half-lidded eyes sharpened slightly as he heard the unmistakable sound of swords clashing, echoing through a corridor window.
CLANG! CLANG! SHOUTS!
He turned his head, curious, and stepped toward the window. Looking down into the courtyard, he squinted.
"Huh? That red hair... wait—is that Scarlett?"
There she was, standing in the middle of a training ring, locked in an intense duel with a fully armored knight.
Her blade met his with a sharp CLANG, sparks flying.
"Move with your stance, not against it!" the knight barked.
Scarlett dashed to the side, slashing with a low arc. The knight blocked but stumbled slightly. She pressed in, twisting her blade upward in a crescent motion.
"You almost had me there," the knight said, breathing hard.
"Almost isn't good enough," Scarlett replied, stepping in with a fierce forward lunge.
CLANG! CLANG! WHOOSH!
They exchanged a flurry of strikes—Scarlett's crimson hair a blur, the knight forced back step by step.
Knights watching from the edge of the training ring commented.
"She's really good. Her control is ridiculous."
"And her footwork—did you see that pivot?"
"No wasted motion. That's discipline."
From above, Wes watched through the window.
Dang... she's sharp. Fast. Efficient. Even in a mock battle, she's going all in.
A grin crept over his face.
Guess it's only fair I go support my fellow party member.
He turned, then stopped. Looked at the window again.
Or... I could make an entrance.
Without hesitation, Wes stepped onto the wide ledge and jumped.
FWUMP! He landed in a crouch beside the training ring, startling the knights nearby.
"Wait—where did he come from?!"
"That's him! The one who saved the Princess!"
"The Magic Gunslinger?!"
Wes stood, brushing off his coat. "Morning, gents. Just enjoying the view."
He leaned on the railing, eyes fixed on Scarlett.
As she pivoted mid-strike and disarmed her opponent with a sharp upward swing, the referee raised a hand.
"Winner—Scarlett Hayes!"
Applause erupted. Scarlett turned—and saw Wes clapping with a grin.
"Hey! It's the Red Blaze herself! Nice performance!"
Scarlett blushed slightly, then frowned. "Shut up, idiot!"
"What? I was being supportive!"
"Supportive? You call that support? You're mocking me!"
"I mock with love."
They launched into their usual banter. Knights watched awkwardly.
"Do they always argue like that...?"
"It's... weirdly endearing."
Scarlett narrowed her eyes. "You think you're so funny. How about you and me? Mock battle. Now."
Wes blinked. "Wait, seriously?"
Knights murmured.
"She challenged him?"
"This'll be good."
Wes grinned. "Sure, Red Blaze. I need a workout before breakfast anyway."
He walked to the opposite side of the ring.
Scarlett called, "Don't forget your little toy."
"Right. Come to me—Reveria."
A flash of violet light. The sleek revolver appeared in his hand.
Scarlett nodded in approval. "Now it's a fight."
Knights whispered.
"That weapon... it's so strange..."
"Never seen anything like it."
The referee raised his arm. "Are you both ready?"
They nodded.
"Duel!"
What followed was an intense back-and-forth of skill, speed, and cunning. Scarlet's blade danced with precision and fire, while Wes countered with smooth dodges, acrobatics, and his magic bullets. They both landed glancing blows, each drawing a trickle of blood. Neither backed down.
Scarlett dashed in low with a sweeping leg kick, forcing Wes to vault backward. He flipped and countered with a Wind Bullet that forced her to brace herself. She retaliated with Twin Arc Slash, which Wes narrowly avoided by sliding beneath it, kicking up dust.
Wes fired a Fire Bullet which Scarlett deflected with a flaming spin. Her sword clashed with his revolver at close range—metal against magic.
"Try to keep up!"
"Try to slow down!"
Scarlett then unleashed her trump card: Thunder Fang—Full Power!
Lightning arced from her blade. The ground sizzled beneath her feet as she poured more mana into the strike.
"She's pushing it beyond her limit..." a knight whispered.
Wes raised his revolver. "Guess I better answer properly. Mana Bullet—Overload!"
The two attacks exploded mid-air in a blinding flash of thunder and energy.
The knights staggered from the shockwave.
Smoke consumed the field.
"Where are they?!"
"Was that a double knockout?!"
Scarlett stood, panting. "Wes?!"
Then came the click.
Wes rested his revolver behind her head. "Do you give up?"
"You sneaky—ugh. Fine. I give up."
"Winner—Wes Walker!"
As the smoke cleared, the two of them—scuffed, sweaty, and slightly limping—stood before the clapping knights.
Scarlett glared at him. "You just had to show off."
"I believe the phrase is: tactical surprise victory."
"You just wanted to make a dramatic entrance."
"It worked."
"You were dodging more than attacking."
"You were swinging like a madwoman."
"At least I didn't hide in a smoke bomb like a coward."
"Strategist! Not coward!"
They argued, pointed fingers, called each other every playful insult imaginable—until suddenly, both burst out laughing.
"Good job, partner," Scarlett said, breathless.
"You too, Red Blaze."
They high-fived, still chuckling, bruised but smiling.
To be continued...