I woke up to a familiar, pleasant sensation: someone was stroking my hair. I opened my eyes. Alexia stood over me.
"Well then, Monster of the Sultanate," she smiled. "It's time for us to go."
I sat up sharply. My drowsiness vanished instantly. "Time to go? Why are you guys so happy? I basically leveled the place."
Lianel stood nearby, looking surprisingly pleased. "You almost killed the prince yesterday," she said. "But you know what? Today, the Sultan sent a letter to our King. Overflowing with respect and praise!"
Alexia handed me a scroll that looked exactly like a surrender wrapped in flattery.
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"The Sultan wrote that he 'gained a manifold respect for our Kingdom after seeing the magnificent warriors we send to competitions.' He has completely dropped all charges against us."
"Yeah right..." I drawled, processing what had happened. "I trashed his palace, reduced his son to a blubbering mess, and he respects us?"
I started laughing.
"What are you laughing at?"
"Nothing," I wiped my eyes. "Just... even in a letter, the Sultan's arrogance shines through. He just knows exactly when to stow it away. I guess he decided that dealing with an enraged northern 'marvel' is more trouble than it's worth."
We packed up quickly. Or rather, the princesses packed up, and I just waited. We got on our flying carpets. This time there was less luggage, and I flew freely, enjoying the wind.
"Goodbye, Land of Sand!" I shouted, feeling neither regret nor attachment.
We flew back. I stared at the horizon, where the Academy awaited.
Alright, I thought. The game continues. I didn't win the Tournament, but I terrified the Sultan. Maybe that's enough to get my answers?