Two days had past. The end of the last day left before the time limit drew closer. During this time, a chance to catch Rarashik had not yet presented itself to Muir.
Due to the fatigue caused by her constant attempts, Muir was barely able to stand. Her condition was in tatters. Throughout the two days, she had wasted a considerable amount of time due to losing consciousness several times.
As expected, without eating, drinking, or resting, continuing constant battle for three days was impossible. Therefore, breaks were provided throughout the spar (although they were fairly short). However, the benefits of having those breaks had yet to present themselves.
Even during those three days, the smile on Rarashik’s face failed to disappear.
“Nn~, this is looking bad, huh.” (Rarashik)
Scratching her head, Rarashik gazed at Muir who was lying stretched out on the ground, exhausted. It would not be strange for Muir, who had been relentlessly continuing her assault for the last few day, to be devoid of energy.
“It’s good to see that you’re stubborn but, if you’re only at this level then you lack the power to become my disciple.” (Rarashik)
“Uu….” (Muir)
Muir desperately put all the strength she had into pushing herself up from the ground. Arnold closed his eyes, unable to stand looking at the spectacle any longer. Seeing his aversion, Hiiro opened his mouth.
“That’s surprising. I expected you to have told them to stop by now, but?” (Hiiro)
“As if I would stop them! That girl…to have such a desperate look on her face, there’s no parent in the world that would stop them now.” (Arnold)
“Fun.” (Hiiro)
“All I’m saying, is that I believe that Muir can win.” (Arnold)
Arnold held up both hands as if he were praying. Hiiro presumed that, considering Arnold’s personality, he would have stopped the spar. However, what Hiiro failed to realize, was that Arnold was always thinking about what was best for Muir.
As it was by her own will that Muir made this decision to struggle against Rarashik, Arnold had to accept it. If Arnold stopped them, it would be as if he were denying Muir’s will. If he were to do such a thing, he would be disqualified from being her parent.
(Well, those two can think whatever they want. Regardless, things will undeniably get harsh from here on.)
Throughout this two day period, there was barely any progress. Even if Muir’s movements had gotten better, it seemed insignificant when compared to Rarashik.
Whether Muir passed or failed this trial, Hiiro didn’t give a damn. This was simply because Hiiro was completely unrelated to this matter. However, seeing the tattered body of a girl who was putting out earnest effort, Hiiro thought that it was probably naturally to hold the other side in contempt.
Such a girl’s opponent was emitting a conniving smile, as if the girl were dancing in the palm of their hands. Naturally, it did not give a very good feeling. Hiiro couldn’t help but feel that he wanted to erase Rarashik’s smirk with bewilderment.
Which is why Hiiro decided to open his mouth.
“Oi, Chibi” (Hiiro)
Everyone started at Hiiro who was the source of the sudden noise. Even Muir, who was battered and fatigued, reacted to Hiiro’s voice.
“If you want to become stronger, then stop being so meticulous.” (Hiiro)
“…….?” (Muir)
“Remember what happened before. Even if it’s vague, just do what you felt at that time.” (Hiiro)
“A-at that time…?” (Muir)
Hiiro folded his arms as he closed his eyes. That was the sign which meant he had nothing left to say.
“Hiiro…you….” (Arnold)
Arnold eyes widened as he stared at Hiiro. It was unbelievable that that Hiiro had given someone advice. For better or for worse, Hiiro only cared about himself, and yet, he gave advice to Muir. Somehow, Arnold felt happiness spread somewhere inside of him.
“That’s right, Muir! Even if you have no faith in your own strength, place your faith in the me that believes in your strength!” (Arnold)
“O-Ojisan….” (Muir)
“Listen up! You’ll definitely get stronger! I guarantee it!” (Arnold)
Arnold’s words seemed to pierce Muir’s chest. Following this, Muir felt as if Hiiro’s words had wrapped around her entire body.
“Gee~z, they’re a noisy bunch. If you think those words will make her stronger, then…” (Rarashik)
Suddenly, Rarashik’s long rabbit ears tensed. She looked at the Muir who was staggering to her feet.
“Hiiro-san, Oji-san….thank you” (Muir)
A strong light dwelled within Muir’s once uncertain eyes.
“…fu~n, I see…” (Rarashik)
Rarashik wore a meaningful smile. Whether her eyes were filled with expectation or amusement at a weakling’s struggle was uncertain.
Muir closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
(Right now, I’m not sure if I really have strength. I don’t know if I can become stronger. However, Oji-san believes in me. Such a person has placed their faith in me!)
She clenched her hands tightly.
(I won’t hesitate any more! I just need to remember what happened in that moment!)
Muir recalled the moment when she was captured by the clay-viper, when she had awakened to her power. It was fuzzy, however, at that time she herself had desperately wanted to escape. The thoughts of wanting to obtain power had definitely passed through her mind.
“That’s right! I’ll be able to somehow do something by myself!” (Muir)
In that instant…
*pachi pachi pachi pachi pachi pachi pachiiiiiiiii* (E: Crackling sounds. Think static electricity discharging.)