After weeks of training, Marianne made significant progress in horse riding, racing, and sword fighting. She was now able to ride the horse alongside Ace and spar with him in sword fighting. During a break on a Sunday, Ace approached Marianne with some advice. "I don't advise you to participate in sword fighting," he said. Confused, Marianne asked, "Why?" Ace looked at her and replied, "I've observed your potential, and I don't think you're that skilled in sword fighting." Marianne's determination flared up as she responded, "But still...! I want to participate...!! I don't care if I lose..!" "At what point? it's still useless, you're just gonna let yourself be injured to just lose..??" Ace asked coldly. Ace's cold response caught Marianne off guard, causing her to blink twice in surprise. In an attempt to understand his intentions, she asked, "Are you concerned about me?" However, Ace simply shrugged and walked away without uttering a word in response. Marianne stood there, watching him leave, her gaze fixed on his retreating figure, unsure of what to make of the encounter. The next morning marked the arrival of the highly anticipated Royal Sports event. The atmosphere was electric, with excitement filling the air and music playing all around. As Marianne made her way to the school, she couldn't help but notice the infectious enthusiasm radiating from everyone around her. Amidst the chaos, she spotted Ace waiting for her at the gate, as he always did.
Marianne approached Ace with a smile, ready to engage in conversation. However, Ace immediately advised her once again, "Don't participate in sword fighting." Marianne nodded in acknowledgment, understanding his concern. "Okay, okay," she replied, accepting his advice. Ace then proceeded to make his way inside the school, and Marianne followed closely behind him. Ace took the initiative and signed both their names for the horse racing event. However, when it came to the sword fighting event, he only signed his own name. The coordinator, noticing Marianne's royal status, expressed surprise, "But she is a princess...?" Ace's response was cold and unwavering as he glared at the coordinator. "So what?" he said dismissively, making it clear that Marianne's status as a princess held no significance to him in this context. The coordinator, feeling uneasy due to Ace's intimidating presence as the principal's son, forced a smile in response. The fear that surrounded Ace had made him unapproachable to many. Ignoring the awkwardness, Ace and Marianne proceeded towards the school gym, where a crowd of students, teachers, and parents had gathered for the event. The atmosphere inside was filled with anticipation and excitement, as everyone eagerly awaited the start of the Royal Sports.
Marianne's parents, Vale and Elena, were present alongside her for the Royal Sports. Asherton, who had also been informed about Marianne's participation in horse racing, joined them as well. Inside the school gym, an opening celebration was taking place, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event kicked off with a lively and vibrant celebration, showcasing the talents and spirit of the participants. The cheers and applause of the crowd filled the air, creating an atmosphere of unity and excitement. Ace and Marianne found seats together on the front bench, while Marianne's parents occupied a spot on the other side, where the king and queens would typically sit. As they settled in, Derek spotted them and decided to join them, taking a seat beside Marianne. The group now sat together, ready to enjoy the festivities of the opening celebration. A few minutes later, Alexander, Ace's father, took the stage to address the crowd and deliver a speech. The audience erupted in cheers and applause as he began, "Good morning, folks! I know all of you have been eagerly awaiting this moment..." As Alexander spoke, his words captivated the audience, but it was not just his words that held their attention. Despite his age, Alexander's striking appearance left everyone in awe, his charisma and charm shining through as he commanded the stage. The crowd couldn't help but be amazed by his presence, further heightening the excitement in the room.
With the conclusion of Alexander's speech, the Royal Sports were officially opened, and the attendees were now free to indulge in the various games and food offerings available. The focus for the day was on enjoyment and exploration, as participants and spectators alike immersed themselves in the festivities. It was a time for everyone to have fun and savor the delectable treats and thrilling games. However, the main event, the horse racing competition for the students, was scheduled for the following day, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the overall atmosphere. As the students exited the school gym, they eagerly dispersed to partake in the various food stalls and games set up for their enjoyment. Excitement filled the air as they indulged in delicious treats and engaged in friendly competitions. Meanwhile, the parents gathered inside the gym for a more relaxed affair, coming together to enjoy a tea gathering. It provided them with an opportunity to socialize, catch up, and share in each other's company while their children reveled in the festivities outside. Derek excitedly suggested visiting the horror booth, and Marianne agreed, leading the way into the room. Playfully, she shouted, "The one who gets scared is gay!" Ace nonchalantly shrugged, not bothered by the comment. Derek, on the other hand, retorted with a playful response, "Well, I guess you're the gay one here!" As they entered the horror booth, Marianne and Derek embraced Ace tightly, their fear and excitement manifesting in tears and loud shouts. However, Ace remained composed, showing no visible emotions as he stood still. After the experience, Ace calmly made his way out of the horror booth, with Marianne and Derek still holding onto him tightly. "Guess you two are the gays here" Ace said coldly to them. "Hey! not fair..!!!" Marianne shouted, Ace's cold remark caught Marianne and Derek by surprise, causing Marianne to react defensively, crossing her arms protectively. Derek chimed in, expressing his disbelief, "Yeah...! What are you...? How did you not get scared?!" They were both puzzled by Ace's lack of fear and his composed demeanor throughout the horror booth experience.