Reincarnated As The Side Character

Monday had finally arrived, alongside the long awaited sparring match against Sidgroth, a day that also meant Sidgroth's departure to Magnolia. Maxwell had been preparing for ever since Sidgroth announced it, a test of his strength and resolve against one of the greatest warriors he knew.

Initially, Maxwell had been anxious, his nerves tense as the date drew closer. But yesterday's date with Mari had proven to be a perfect remedy. Spending time with her had soothed his unease, replacing it with determination and focus. Today, he felt calm and ready, he was eager to put all his training to the test and see just how far he'd come.

Of course, there was another factor boosting his confidence. Mari had agreed to come and watch the match. Maxwell couldn't deny he wanted to impress her, what better way to show off his progress than sparring against a member of the Victorious Ten? But there was another reason for inviting her. Knowing Sidgroth's strength, Maxwell was well aware he'd likely take quite the beating. Having Mari there, with her healing abilities, once the sparring match was over. Was most definitely going to be needed.

Maxwell woke up early, he peeked through the window as he prepared for the day ahead. He began his warm up routine, rolling his shoulders and stretching his limbs to loosen his body. Gladiolus was by his side, mirroring his energy as they jogged around the training area together.

Maxwell knew Sidgroth wasn't the type to hold back—not in a sparring match, not in anything. This wasn't going to be a friendly sparring match; it was a test, one where Maxwell will feel Sidgroth's blows with no restraint whatsoever.

Maxwell understood what that meant. If Sidgroth was bringing his all, then Maxwell had to meet him with the same intensity. He couldn't afford hesitation or half hearted effort. Today was about proving himself, not just to Sidgroth, but to himself as well.

"You're up early, kid. Nervous about our match in a few hours?" Sidgroth asked as he stepped outside, drinking his coffee

Maxwell glanced over, wiping the sweat from his forehead after his warm up. "Who wouldn't be? Although I'm not as nervous as I was at first. It's more like forty percent nervous and the other sixty confident," he replied, a smirk on his face.

Sidgroth raised an eyebrow. "Confident, huh? Well, I hope that confidence is backed up by skill. Nothing worse than being all bark and no bite."

Maxwell chuckled, shaking his head. "Don't worry, old man. You'll see soon enough. Gladiolus and I aren't planning to hold back either."

Sidgroth laughed, taking another sip of his coffee. "Good. I wouldn't expect anything less."

"By the way, I invited Mari over to watch the sparring match. Hope that's okay," Maxwell said as he watched Sidgroth.

"Mari? Oh right, the healer girl." Sidgroth grinned, and his tone turned teasing. "I suppose so—if you're ready to embarrass yourself in front of her."

Maxwell smirked, refusing to take the bait. "But if I win, then I'll undoubtedly impress her. A bold risk for a bigger reward, right?"

Sidgroth chuckled deeply, setting his mug down. "Even with all the luck in the world, kid, you won't win. But I'll give you points for optimism." He turned to leave, his laughter echoing through the room.

Despite his mocking words, there was a glimmer of pride in Sidgroth's heart. Though he wouldn't say it aloud, he wanted Maxwell to win—not just for the sparring match, but to grow stronger for the battles ahead.

Six hours later, the moment had arrived. Maxwell stood at the center of the training field, gripping his mace tightly. Gladiolus growled softly beside him, mirroring his determination. They were getting a feel of the training field.

This was it, the sparring match that Maxwell had been preparing for all week. The long hours of training, the sweat, and the fatigue all led to this point. There would be no more waiting, it was time for Maxwell and Gladiolus to show Sidgroth just how much they had improved.

Sidgroth was about join Maxwell at the training field, but there was a knock at the door. He walked to the door, opening it to reveal Mari standing nervously on the doorstep.

"Ah, you've arrived," Sidgroth said with a small grin, stepping aside to let her in. "Come on inside, girl. Maxwell's out back in the training area. We were just about to begin actually."

Mari nodded quickly, stepping inside. Being in Sidgroth's presence, one of the legendary heroes of the Void War, made her feel even smaller than usual. "T-T-Thank you, Mister Sidgroth!" she stammered, trying to keep her voice steady, though her nerves were noticed. She had always admired Sidgroth from a distance, but up close, it felt a little overwhelming.

Sidgroth noticed the nervousness in her demeanor and chuckled lightly. He walked besides her with a relaxed but amused expression. "By the way, aren't you busy? I imagine being the only one with a healing Ornament in Calla Lily keeps your schedule pretty tight, huh?"

Mari bit her lip, glancing downward as she fidgeted with the strap of her bag she brought with her. "Uhmm... I-I took a day off," she mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper. She wasn't entirely used to taking breaks, but today felt like the right moment. It was also a good excuse to spend time with Maxwell, though she didn't say that part aloud.

Sidgroth's chuckle deepened, "A day off, huh? You must be pretty fond of that kid to take the rare chance to use your free time just to come watch him get beaten up."

Mari's face turned a deep shade of red. She wasn't used to this kind of attention, especially from someone like Sidgroth. "I-I just wanted to support him!" she said quickly, her voice high and flustered. "A-And maybe help if he gets injured..." She trailed off, her gaze dropping to her shoes.

Sidgroth's grin softened, his teasing nature shifting into something a little gentler. He gestured toward the training area, where Maxwell was preparing for his sparring match. "Relax, girl. I'm just messing with you. Go on, he's out back. Don't keep him waiting."

Mari's heart fluttered, but she couldn't help notice the warmth that spread through her at his words. She gave a shy nod, quickly stepping past Sidgroth toward the door that led out back.

Sidgroth watched her go, a smile on her lips. He shook his head with a smirk, his arms folding back across his chest. "That boy might just have luck on his side after all," he muttered to himself.

"M-Maxwell, it's nice to see you again so soon," Mari said nervously, her hands clutching the strap of her bag.

"I'm glad you came, especially with your busy schedule, Mari. Thanks again! I can already feel myself winning against Sidgroth just because you're here," Maxwell jokingly said with a grin.

Before Mari could respond, Gladiolus walked over to her, his massive body imposing but his actions were surprisingly gentle. He brushed himself against her side, much like an oversized cat seeking attention, a soft giggle escaping her lips.

"H-hello to you too, Gladiolus," Mari said, her voice warming as she reached out to pat the creature. Gladiolus let out a low, pleased rumble, leaning into her touch.

Maxwell chuckled at the sight. "Looks like Gladiolus missed you too. He doesn't just warm up to anyone, you know."

Mari glanced up at Maxwell, her blush deepening. "I-I guess that makes me feel special..."

"That's an understatement; you're very important to me—I mean, to us!" Maxwell stumbled over his words, nervously laughing as he rubbed the back of his neck. "I mean, you did heal Gladiolus and me, after all..."

Mari's gaze dropped, her cheeks turning a soft pink. "And if you get hurt during your sparring match with Sidgroth, I'll be sure to tend to your bruises or injuries once it's over," she said quietly.

Maxwell smiled, feeling a warmth in her words. "Chances are, I'm going to have at least one bruise by the end of it, so thank you, Mari. It means a lot to know you've got my back."

"B-By the way, Maxwell, do you really think you have a chance against Sidgroth?" Mari asked hesitantly. "I mean, he's one of the Victorious Ten. Sparring with him is practically no different from going up against The White Crusader or any of the others. Sidgroth is on their level."

Maxwell shrugged, a grin tugging at his lips. "Honestly? I don't stand a chance, not even with Gladiolus at my side. But I've come too far to back out now. And who knows, maybe the one percent chance will work in my favor, and I'll actually win." His tone was lighthearted, but there was determination in his eyes.

Mari blinked at him, her expression caught somewhere between worry and admiration. "I-I guess that's one way to look at it," she murmured, her voice soft. "Just… be careful, okay?"

Sidgroth stepped outside, his presence was heavy as he walked onto the training field, his massive warhammer resting easily in his grip. "Maxwell, Gladiolus, are both of you ready?"

Maxwell glanced back at Mari with a nervous grin. "Wish me luck, Mari," he said, standing up.

"Good luck, Maxwell. You'll do great," Mari replied softly, her hands clasped together as she watched him go.

Turning his focus back to the training field, Maxwell nodded to Sidgroth. "As ready as I'll ever be, teacher," he replied, his voice firm as he walked alongside Gladiolus. Taking their position on one half of the field.

Sidgroth planted his feet firmly on the opposite end. His gaze was sharp, yet there was an underlying respect in his expression. "Good. Then let's not waste any more time..." he said as he prepared himself.

"Let our sparring match begin..."

Sidgroth Blackfire faced Maxwell Zinnia and Gladiolus...

The moment had arrived, the practice match was about to commence...