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“On this busy day, thank you very much for gathering at the Zersteller – Canalford Cup and for giving your unreserved support and encouragement to our students. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone present.

Now, I am truly delighted that our school’s traditional Canalford Cup has concluded successfully in even greater prosperity than last year, which had been hailed as the finest in history.

To all students—particularly the championship team from Class 1-F—I would like to note once again that their matches drew tremendous attention from the semifinals onward. That freshmen, who have not yet completed even a year since entering, could achieve victory two years in a row is nothing short of astonishing, and I sincerely look forward to their continued growth. As chairman, I pledge that we will remain an institution worthy of representing the Arcadia Empire, never bringing shame within or beyond our walls.

It goes without saying that one who bore part of that achievement was none other than Estea Sidra, our student council president and this year’s runner-up. Like the rest of you, I myself greatly anticipate what shape the student council will take after its upcoming reorganization.

With that, I will conclude my remarks, cherishing the fortune of being a witness to such a wonderful battle in this Colosseum once again next year.

Congratulations to Reinforce, this year’s champions!”

With his speech finished, Count Felix personally handed us the trophy at the podium. The one to accept the rainbow-hued trophy was, of course, Hom.

“It was truly an excellent fight. With your skill in mecha modification, I could recommend you to the army right this instant.”
“Thank you very much. But I intend to pursue the path of medicine.”
“You’re only in your first year; life lies long ahead of you. If ever I can be of help, do not hesitate to consult me.”

Count Felix showed no sign of displeasure, but instead smiled gently as he extended his hand toward me. I exchanged a firm handshake with the chairman, and the moment our hands parted, the reality of our victory finally sank in.

“We won, Master.”
“It’s thanks to you, Hom, for not giving up.”
“You did great, Hom.”

Alfe smiled as she leaned close to me after my words.

“Congratulations.”
“Congrats to you Master, Alfe, and Hom.”

Estea and Melua, already recognized as runners-up, also offered their congratulations. Since the damage to the machines below third place had been too severe, only the champion and runner-up teams received awards this year.

“…Come to think of it, Ignis didn’t make it in time, did he?”

As we stepped down from the stage, escorted by thunderous applause, Alfe murmured softly. She seemed troubled that her magic, albeit indirectly, had touched a flesh-and-blood human.

“Well, he was the one who broke open his own cockpit. It’s not something you need to feel responsible for, Alfe.”
“Melua’s right. The only reason he couldn’t attend the ceremony is because he hasn’t woken up yet, that’s all.”

Melua and Estea quickly offered their reassurances before I could.

“I hope that’s true…”
“You’ve seen it yourself in the class match against Class A—Ms. Matilda’s healing magic will take care of it.”

For my part, I would have preferred Ignis to stay asleep for the day, but fate was not so kind.

“I will not accept this!”

Suddenly, Ignis’ voice rang out across the colosseum like a curse.

“Oh, boy…”
“Ignis…”

While Melua pressed a hand theatrically to her forehead, Estea’s expression hardened. At Ignis’ side stood the vice principal.