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Chapter 284 – Followers of the End (3)

At Nagma Riverbank, the armies of the two powers faced each other again approximately one month after the engagement on Karul Plains.

Unlike before, this area was too narrow for a full-scale war. Therefore, the commanders of both armies advanced by selecting ~20,000–30,000 troops respectively. The beasts of the land, as well as the birds, had all fled. Thousands of troops moved as one, shaking the ground with their steps and the air with their shouts.

Kung! Kung! Kung!

There was a magnificent drumming sword as the horses moved and the swords flashed brightly. The blades deflected the noon sunlight, and their helmets shone.

Indeed, they were the empire of swords.

However, the Meltor army that opposed them were also tough. The victory their hero had gained at Dofun Castle had ignited a fighting spirit in them; its influence on the battlefield wasn't lacking at all.

'Not bad,' Orta judged as he moved at the forefront on his horse. 'Thanks to Theodore, the number of shields has been significantly reduced. Of course, we can't afford to install a tactical magic circle here, but this level is worth a try.'

The Andras army had lost a few of their titanium shields, which were the annoying things that greatly reduced the destructive power of a magician. So, a gap had appeared. If Meltor attacked that spot, they could sweep away at least 5,000 people.

As the distance between the two armies decreased by half, Orta calculated it in his head. If the reins of the horse were shaken, they could cover that distance within 30 seconds.

The two commanders raised their hands in the air.

"Charge from the first row―!"

"Raise the flag of fire! Wipe out all of the enemies!"

The knights emerged from the Andras camp, while fire and lightning flew from the rear of the Meltor camp. It was already too late to turn the horses around. The bombardment poured down. The knights abandoned the retreat, gathering aura around their body and rushing forward.

It was a showdown between the knights' breakthrough and the magicians' firepower.

Kwarururung!

The sound of horseshoes drew near. Then a ball of fire fell from the sky, burning one horse and a knight in armor. The knight's body was turned to charcoal. He couldn't even scream, only letting out smoke.

This was a firepower that even the specially treated armor couldn't endure. It was a simple magic spell amplified by the magic power of a 5th circle magician. Lightning boiled the brains of a knight, while fire pillars burned half a dozen knights at once.

In a moment, a hundred cavalrymen were turned into lumps of charcoal.

Puhwaak!

Nevertheless, there were dozens of survivors. They had seared skin and burned lungs, but the group of knights came to the front of the Meltor army.

"Ohhhhhh!"

They fell from their dying horses and used the last of their strength to swing their aura blades. Their bodies were already half dead, but their souls were still attached, so their auras responded to their request.

It was truly a mad loyalty! As the Meltor soldiers took a step back, the blades in the knights' hands flashed.

Chwaack! Hwaaaaack!

Several bodies lost their heads and collapsed. Bloody rain fell from the sky, while the knights attacked again.

Kakang!

However, the magic soldiers blocked them.

"Don't back down! Fight the opponents!"

"Stand firm! For one minute—no, 30 seconds!"

It was a fearful decision to ignore the threshold of life and death, even if the knights were in the worst condition. Somehow, the magic soldiers had to receive the sword, even if it meant self-destruction. They didn't fight to win. Instead, they concentrated on hanging on. The magic soldiers were able to do that, even if they were relatively lacking in combat power.

The real test came with the 2nd row of the Andras army.

From then on, the command system was meaningless at the forefront. Destruction magic fell toward the enemy from the sky, while the soldiers were drunk on madness and killed the enemies who came before them.

They stabbed their spears until they couldn't feel anything, then they lay on the ground, with blood dripping from their bodies. This was a battlefield, a place where human life was trampled on like weeds.

In the middle of this, two men encountered each other.

"We meet again, Rat. For you to not be threatened after our first match… this isn't bravery. I have to praise you if you've come here directly as a sacrifice," the empire's 3rd Sword, Prince Fermut, said.

He wore a set of luxurious armor and held a sword which shone with a red light. Clearly, they weren't ordinary equipment. Orta felt an unknown energy from the blade, causing him to increase his concentration.

Countermeasures had been devised, but the relationship between the two people hadn't changed. When it was the same type, Aura Ability was absolutely superior to Sorcery. If Orta lost his concentration for even a moment, his breath would be cut off.

"I thought you were sharp, but I guess it was just a rumor."

"…Hoh?" Orta met the provocation, "I don't know what to say to you, foolish prince. You call Meltor your enemy, but you don't understand what a magician is."

"Don't you run when disadvantaged?"

"No, we learn from the unknown. In that sense, your surprise attack was wonderful. If an ally hadn't arrived at the time, I would've died on the spot."

The Aura Ability, Refraction, was Orta's natural enemy. It deflected any attack, and any unique maneuvers would be blocked. Using an analogy, it was like cutting the limbs off a knight and putting them on the battlefield.

Fermut wasn't an opponent whom Orta could win against without preparation. However, Orta was different today. He opened his arms wide and raised his magic power. "Regret it. You should've killed me last time."

"Don't worry. Today, I will kill you."

After a few passionate words, a brief silence covered the two masters.

Wiiiiing!

The space between them was bent. Immediately, there were 36 space cuts aimed at Orta, while Fermut smashed through three attacks.

This was the difference between the two people.

Space magic couldn't be defended against with normal aura, but Fermut was different. His aura twisted the three-dimensional space around him to override physical interference. Its utility was in both attack and defense.

"What is there to learn? There is nothing different from before, Rat!" Fermut drew his red aura around him like a tail and rushed toward Orta.

The principle of Fermut's Aura Ability was similar to Zest's, but it wasn't comparable.

Fermut bent space to shorten the distance he had to move. In some ways, Fermut's application of it could be considered close to Shukuchiho. Narrowing dozens of meters in one breath, Fermut's red blade distorted the empty space.

Fermut Style, Refraction Sword.

Sleeping Moon.

Break the Seams of Space.

It wasn't easy to catch Orta when he used Blink, but on the other hand, it meant it would be easy if Blink was blocked. Fermut's aura pulled at the space, causing Orta to stiffen in the air after using Blink.

"Die!" Fermut cried out with a desire for slaughter.

Fermut Style, Refraction Sword.

Round Decapitation.

The sword clearly curved to cut at the neck. The space around Orta's neck shrunk. There was no way for Orta to avoid this as his space movement was blocked. A space cut which couldn't be blocked with physical strength… This wasn't a trick that was used often, so Orta wouldn't have known.

However, he did know.

"Bend," Orta spoke in a voice that couldn't be heard by anyone.

Kiiing-

There was a difference of exactly one inch as the red aura circle took on a curious shape, and Orta escaped from the noose of death. For Fermut who had been certain of his victory, this was a bolt out of the blue. "H-How could you?"

"Over Bound." Orta's shockwave hit Fermut's body that wasn���t being protected by aura.

Unable to use the power of refraction, Fermut coughed up blood due to the great damage to his internal organs. "Cough, t-this rat…!"

In the meantime, Orta opened the distance again and ridiculed Fermut, "Do you feel a sense of crisis now?"

"Don't be arrogant just because of luck!"

That was a valid rebuttal since the damage wasn't that big. The explosion in Fermut's body calmed down, and aura increased around him. The place where the blade touched proceeded to distort, twisting and turning into a whirlpool of chaos. It was a spiral sword which would tear at anything it touched.

Fermut held it and rushed forward again. 'I won't miss this time!'

It had been his mistake to have let go of his aura before, but this time, his sword would definitely cut that rat's neck. His fury caused his blade to become even sharper. Space was bent without any errors, and his sword extended in a perfect orbit.

Fermut had never been so focused ever since he obtained the 'Refraction' ability. So, why didn't his sword reach its target?

Jeeeong!

Fermut was hit by another shockwave, and he roared angrily.

"…You!" He shouted with anger and shock in his eyes, "What tricks are you using, you coward?!"

"Are you calling wisdom cowardice? Indeed, you wouldn't be able to understand it with your dumb intelligence. I'll teach you personally."

Despite Orta's ridiculous insults, Fermut listened carefully. It was possible that the rat had found a weakness in his ability. He would kill the rat as soon as he heard the story. A large number of large blood vessels popped up on Fermut's arm as he desperately suppressed his anger.

Then Orta finally opened his mouth, "It isn't a big deal. Your Aura Ability is to 'bend' space, not erase or make it. Based on my observations, I calculated the index of refraction and changed the magic formula accordingly."

"―What?" Fermut immediately refuted it with a face that was filled with fury. "Don't make me laugh! As a magician, don't you know the principles of magic? The density of my refraction is always changing. You can't possibly read it in real time and use magic to match it!"

"Ho, it looks like you are slightly better than I thought. That's right. It isn't possible for ordinary magicians," Orta confirmed and denied it.

Then Fermut was surprised by Orta's unexpected behavior.

Click. Orta untied his mask and removed it. "But I can."

His exposed features were quite attractive. The wrinkles made his face more dignified, while the large and small scars covering his cheeks proved he was a veteran. However, the most unique part was his pair of eyes.

"…What are those eyes?" Fermut forgot his anger and asked with confusion. It was because Orta's eyes were different from those of other people. Putting aside the pupil, the whites of the eyes didn't exist.

Orta's eyes were recessed in their sockets, embodying the concept of 'emptiness.��� Anybody who recognized it would be full of praise. They were eyes that the magicians from the Age of Mythology had yearned for and desired.

They were called the Empty Mystic Eyes.

"Well, I don't know the details either," as he replied to the question, Orta touched his eyes and looked back on the distant past. "One thing is clear. I was born blind, with eyes that were unable to see. Since childhood, I learned the shape of things using my ears. I was fortunate to have talent in magic."

He was downplaying it. Orta was a genius. He solved complicated formulas in his head, analyzed what wasn't detectable by sight with his hearing and touch, and learned everything.

One day, he had hit the 'wall' of the 6th circle and lost his way for a while. He had forgotten the self-confidence which had sustained him in place of his missing eyes, and he had struggled every day.

"I wasted 10 years."

The answer to his wall was these pair of eyes that shouldn't exist.

"I realized it the first moment I saw the world."

To be honest, he didn't even care about the 7th circle. He just gazed at the scenery in front of him. A world that no one could see stretched before him.

"My eyes can penetrate the 'world.' I see beyond the three dimensional walls and gain insight into indescribable concepts."

"T-This is ridiculous…!"

"Space refraction—I understand it after seeing it once."

Fermut's body trembled as he understood what this meant. It meant that he couldn't do anything in Orta's presence. It was no wonder why Orta was so sure that he wouldn't die.

Unlike the first unexpected battle, the current Orta could see through Fermut's ability. No matter how quickly Fermut changed his refractive index, it would still be slower than Orta's movements. It was impossible for Fermut to gain the advantage in this situation.

Orta was firmly convinced of his superiority and asserted, "The reason for your defeat is simple. You have abused that power."

In response to the cold declaration, Fermut poured all his aura into his sword and shouted, "-Don't be foolish, talkative magician!"

Born as the successor of the strongest empire in the continent, Fermut had never tasted frustration. To Fermut, Orta's declaration was an insult. Fermut's patience ran out, and he used a hidden technique that he hadn't shown yet. "I won't leave a single piece of flesh left on that cheeky body!"

There was a burst of light from the dark red sword.

Fermut Style, Refraction Sword.

Final Hidden Technique.

End of the World.

The space bent all around him, slaughtering anything in its grasp! Even the 2nd Sword, Zest, admitted that it was wonderful. There was no way a magician could survive it except by running away.

…No, there was one way.

"You lack the ability to learn. Didn't I say it was futile?" Within the whirlwind of bloody aura, Orta walked forward and declared, "This is the end."

Orta pointed at Fermut in an expressionless manner, and a brilliant flash emerged.

Paaang!

Immediately afterward, a large hole was drilled into the middle of Fermut's chest.

Chapter 285 – Followers of the End (4)

"Cough!" Fermut couldn't even scream.

His heart, lungs, and ribs were destroyed at once, causing fatal injuries. The transcendental vitality of a sword master and the reflexive actions were barely recognizable. Fermut couldn't be saved, even if a cardinal found him. Orta was confident about Fermut's death and relieved that this fight was easier than he thought it would be.

'The arrogance, that closed his eyes, and the foolishness, that didn't allow him to use his talent, killed him.'

The Aura Ability to bend space was an innate talent. Fermut wasn't 30 years old yet, but he was in line to be the next emperor. As such, there was no one who could keep his arrogance in check.

Where would a person like this experience adversity or go against a person they couldn't fight? Fermut was clearly strong, but in contrast to his strength, he had too many imperfections. It might be different at the first encounter, but when fighting twice against a seasoned veteran like Orta, he would soon be disadvantaged.

If Orta looked at it calmly, it was a well-deserved victory.

In just a few seconds, the blood coming from Fermut's mouth formed a puddle. It was at least a few liters worth of blood. An ordinary person would've died three times already from the blood loss.

It was impossible for Fermut to keep fighting, so Orta just needed to wait until his heart stopped beating.

Orta raised a hand in order to mercilessly stop the pain. "I won't mourn you, but go well."

The space blade aimed at Fermut's neck―

Chaaeng!

It bounced off. Orta grabbed the broken index finger of his right hand as he faced an unbelievable situation. Fermut, who was supposed to be a dead body, wielded his sword.

'This is impossible. Being able to counterattack with such a body…!'

Then at the very next moment, Orta saw it.

"Grrr…kuhu…kuaaaaah!" The blood vessels all over the face and body swelled up, while the round hole where Fermut's heart used to be was filled with chunks of flesh.

It was too horrible to call it a human heart. Black blood flowed like tar, while his eyes turned black and unfocused. An unknown aura was filling Fermut's dead body, a power that was hostile to all life!

Orta's eyes widened as he identified the origin, "Don't tell me… An ancient magic sword?!"

It was on a different level from the magic swords which were often traded. Orta felt the alien power overflow from the prince's sword and started sweating anxiously. This was a magic sword that had the power of a demon infused in it.

However, unlike the god sword, it wasn't for demons to use directly. Its purpose was the degeneration and destruction of other species. At first, it simply lent its strength, but now it dominated its master. The power was so formidable that idiots who would try to obtain magic swords from the Age of Mythology continued to exist.

However, why would the crown prince be carrying a magic sword like this?

"Hmph, I don't intend to just watch!"

If Orta let it be, Fermut would completely revive. Sensing a crisis, Orta moved his hands at a dazzling speed, forming a total of 13 magic circles. Unlike his usual magic, this was a series of attack magic focused on lethal force.

Elimination Sphere.

Downsizing.

Wedge of Ruin.

The black sphere which had destroyed a gate in the past emerged as a few small shapes. It was a special magic that destroyed matter just by coming into contact. Orta didn't hesitate to shoot all of it at the prince's body. It aimed precisely at 13 of Fermut's unprotected vital spots!

"Kuaaaaaack!" Fermut lost his temper.

The bent space blocked some of the magic spheres, but Fermut's left arm and right leg were cut off. Three holes were made in his abdomen, and the regenerated heart was destroyed again. However, Orta didn't feel relieved.

'He focused on protecting his head. Is the brain the only part that can't be reproduced? Furthermore, the magic sword's power has increased…'

It might be a sword that regenerated the user's body in exchange for strength. By the time Orta inferred up to this point, Fermut's black eyes returned to being white. The tremendous impact brought back his sanity. "K-Kuooooh…! Y-You, see, soon…!"

Using the sword's power to bend space, Fermut threw his own body a few hundred meters away. Of course, it was a distance that Orta could easily cover.

"…Hrmm." However, instead of chasing after him, Orta raised a hand. He wasn't intending to leave future trouble behind. Orta could see beyond space. Despite being far away, he accurately saw through Fermut's body.

'It is like he is already dead.'

Fermut's life was saved, but he had lost his heart twice, as well as a large amount of blood that contained aura. This couldn't be reversed by the regenerative power of the magic sword or a cardinal's power. Furthermore, by maintaining his flesh using the power of a demon, he would suffer side effects.

Rather than returning as a sword master, it would be lucky if he could even stand on the battlefield again. In the empire where the weak were suppressed, Prince Fermut's prestige would fall. It was time to prioritize the army's victory, rather than chase after Fermut.

"Sending a command from the deputy commander!" Orta's voice resonated on the battlefield due to the communication artifact. "The enemy commander, Prince Fermut, has been defeated and has departed from the battlefield! From now on, we will focus our power on annihilating the Andras Empire's troops!"

Orta used magic to magnify his voice on purpose. The order rang out in the middle of the battlefield, raising Meltor's morale while lowering Andras'.

Prince Fermut, who was the next emperor, had been defeated! The defeat of a master was painful, but it was also the departure of the chief commander and head of the army. The Andras troops realized the severity of this situation.

It only took an hour for them to be slaughtered.

The Andras soldiers were reduced from 30,000 to around 2,000 and were suffering from major losses due to the battle. Meanwhile, Meltor's casualties were less than two-tenths of their fighting force.

It was a one-sided victory. As Orta thought, Prince Fermut of Andras never showed up in battle again. Even for the white tower, it wasn't easy to find out what happened to him once he returned home.

* * *

Kaaack, kaaack.

For humans, the battlefield was a terrible horror, but for hungry beasts, it was a feast. Crows, wolves, and many other wild animals gathered on the riverside after the two armies had left.

The victorious Meltor took away the bodies of their casualties, but the busy Andras Empire abandoned the corpses of their casualties as they fled. There were around 30,000 corpses strewn around.

"Huhuhu, this is a good smell," a man remarked as he walked through the pit filled with the stench of blood and putrefaction. "The air of the battlefield where blood and death are overflowing! I don't know how long it has been since I've seen so much blood."

His red hair and red eyes were such an uncomfortable color that anyone would frown if they saw it. It was quite different from Veronica's beauty. The man's body was covered in a dark red color, like dried blood. The beasts, who had been drawn by the smell of blood, felt something ominous and withdrew.

He was the Red Rider of War, one of the four horsemen like Hipatia. This man was one of the lunatics who wanted to bring peace to this earth through war and slaughter. At first glance, his polite tone and stylish clothing were all a sharp contrast to his nature. The red knight's eyes flashed with joy, and he spread his arms widely.

Ominous lights flashed one after another, and the blood on the floor started to wriggle like slime.

Kullong… kullong kullong…

On average, only a few liters of blood spilled from each body. However, the amount of blood that had flowed out from 30,000 bodies was so much that it was like a large red river, despite the blood being dried up.

The mass of blood was sucked into the body of the red knight.

"Kuhuhuhu…! Okay, this is good. Very good! This is such a great and splendid banquet. Like Hipatia said, that magician really is our king!"

Theodore had used it as an excuse, but the warlocks close to the battlefield became certain. They collected the blood, corpses, and ghosts, turning them into their strength!

A large number of sacrifices that couldn't be obtained even by annihilating one village often occurred in a war. If possible, the red knight wanted to take them when the blood was still warm and the bodies were in good condition… However, Meltor's army was too strong. It might be possible if all of the riders took action, but it was impossible to go against them with just two knights.

"―Don't be rash, Red," an elderly man leaning on a staff rebuked the red knight. "As Hipatia said, there is still a corner of the child's spirit that hasn't been convinced yet. If he really is our king, we need to figure out why he is in Meltor and why his memory is incomplete. Keep in mind that you shouldn't make contact with him."

"Of course, Black Knight."

That's right. The elderly man, who seemed like he would soon fall down and die, was another of the four horsemen who had come to confirm the king's resurrection—the Black Rider of Famine.

The old man struck his staff down once, and all the dead rose up around him. It was a white shape, a form that would be contaminated and reborn as evil spirits. The black knight nodded while swallowing the souls. "…This situation is also satisfactory for me."

They had been hiding since the last war. The Central Continent had long stopped fighting, so they had to hunt for blood and death elsewhere. It might be a bit of an exaggeration, but the number of sacrifices they had collected over a century was much less than what they had just accumulated over the last few days.

'I'm not sure yet, but there isn't much doubt.'

According to the records, it had been a wait of 1,000 years, and there was no reaction from their vigilant senses.

The black knight had thought it wouldn't happen in his own generation, but Hipatia was immediately convinced. The red knight was in the best position, and the last one wasn't even human. Among them, the black knight was the most cautious, so he was put in charge of this task.

As a specter of black magic who had already lived for over 200 years, the black knight gazed at something with empty eyes. "This land is unusual."

The northern powers that maintained an unnatural confrontation, and the empire that abandoned the function of a proper nation…

The black knight gazed in the direction of Andres' capital, Belfort, and gulped. 'The empire of swords… It is ridiculous.'

Was it visible only to the vision of a warlock? A whirlpool of energy soared into the sky of the distant horizon.

'I'd rather call it the empire of evil energy.'

As the two warlocks stood there, the war continued. Meltor had the overall advantage and pushed to the border. The loss of so many of the empire's Seven Swords and their hidden cards meant that half of Andras was lost. This was the moment when Meltor's victory was confirmed.

However, the warlocks sensed it. This war wouldn't end so smoothly. More blood and more magnificent deaths would overflow. As if confirming their intuition, the situation changed drastically.

Finally, the emperor of Andras moved. Simultaneously, this unification war headed in a direction that no one had imagined.

Chapter 286 – Emperor Moves (1)

The capital of Andras, Belfor, resembled a well-refined sword from a bird's eye view.

Straight buildings were laid out in straight lines, giving off the impression of 'efficiency.' It didn't really fit an architect's aesthetic, but there was no one who could dismiss the grandeur of the city.

Above all, the towering spire in the center was crucial. Seven sword masters guarded the empire, so there were seven towers in the image of a crown that surrounded the imperial palace. This structure flashed with a bright aura that was equivalent to a master. It was illuminated night and day, proving the empire's greatness.

Unlike Meltor, there was no meeting room in Andras' imperial palace. This was because the emperor determined the guidelines for everything. It was an absolute monarchy that moved only according to his decisions. If there was one facility, it was an audience room.

"Dammit, when can I get out of here?" A man pushed at the shoulders of two knights, moving with a deep anger and nervousness.

As soon as the man returned to Belfort, he had asked for an audience with the emperor and entered the imperial palace before there was a reply. Usually, this wasn't possible, but the man's identity made it possible.

He was Fermut el Andras, the heir to the throne. There were no knights in the imperial palace who could block the crown prince.

'Kuk, come on. If I don't hurry, my body won't last…'

It was seemingly fine, but the insides of Fermut's body had started to collapse. The injuries, that Fermut had received from Orta, had been recovered with the regenerative powers of the magic sword, but his aura lost hadn't returned.

His strength that had been able to bend an iron rod had been reduced to less than half, while his right leg staggered because his legs weren't balanced. Fermut's heart had been destroyed and his aura eaten by the magic sword, so now Fermut wasn't even a sword master.

However, he still had a string of hope. It was because he believed that his father, who was the emperor of Andras and had been an almighty being since Fermut's childhood, could heal this wound.

Finally, Fermut's steps reached the audience room.

"Your Majesty!" Fermut called out. He didn't center the room carelessly. Rather, he raised his voice and cried out longingly, "The 3rd Sword, Prince Fermut is here! Please excuse me!"

Then a sonorous voice was heard from the other side of the door as the emperor of Andras replied, "You can come in."

The green-tinged Fermut hurriedly opened the door. In his experience, his father, Emperor Kether, wouldn't meet anyone if he wasn't willing to talk. So, Fermut absolutely couldn't miss this opportunity.

As the two luxurious doors opened, the throne which was made of dozens of broken swords came into view. According to the records, the throne had been made by collecting the swords of the past Seven Swords who died.

'Someday, I will sit in that great position…!' Fermut couldn't abandon his ambitions despite his ragged body.

He bowed to the old man sitting on the throne. This was Andras' sun, Emperor Kether.

"―You are a disgrace, my son." Kether's voice was heavy on Fermut's shoulders and chilled his heart.

Kether had white hair, white eyebrows, and a white beard. It was an appearance appropriate for his age. He had a solid build that was greater than that of a young person, and the tendons of his hands stood out clearly as he grasped the throne. Perhaps the strong grip of the hand would crush it.

"You said with your own mouth that you would win. Now, you are begging me for mercy after losing? This isn't like you."

"I don't dare make excuses, Father." Fermut kneeled down in a rare polite manner, giving up his high self-esteem. "Just one more chance! This time I will be more vigilant and crush the army of that cowardly Meltor!"

"Hrmm… I don't know about the words of a loser."

"Father! Please! Father, if you want to be in charge, then I will unconditionally obey you! No, if Father takes up the baton, this war will be easy to win!"

The winner would take it all. Eating the weak was the life of the Andras Empire.

Fermut might be a prince, but he couldn't be freed from this food chain. Fermut held the position of the next emperor, and he had reached this position by killing all his other brothers and sisters.

This person who had aggressively gobbled up the weak… He wanted another chance? It was a laughable story.

"…You are really stupid, my son."

Then what type of person was Kether, the emperor of Andras?

"But I forgive you. You are my child and Andras' third sword. I gave you that sword in order to protect your life from the pit of death."

"O-Ohhh…! T-That means!"

"Your life is Andras' and mine."

Fermut felt a familiar and fierce joy at the words. Fermut's life had been declared as the emperor's possession, so no one other than him could kill Fermut. It was the same for that damn Witch of Heat and Sage of Water. From now on, Fermut's era was coming. Even the emperor of the iron throne had affection for his flesh and blood.

"Then I will take it directly with this hand."

"…Huh?"

What did that mean?

Puk. A coin-sized hole was drilled in Fermut.

"K-Kuaaah….kuheook…" Fermut screamed as something entered his body, draining it.

To be precise, he tried to scream.

The moment that Kether's finger penetrated Fermut's brow, Fermut's flesh was no longer his. The connection between the body and the soul was cut off, and the feeling of the soul being pulled into the abyss was horrifying.

'T-This monster… is he, really, my father?' Fermut questioned as he reached the final threshold of life.

Jjikeok.

Kether looked down at his dead son with a dull facial expression. It was the nasty death of the 3rd Sword.

Fermut had completed his duties, but now he was useless.

The emperor muttered, "It hasn't even been 1,000 years since I started ruling Andras and the balance is already collapsing. The mortals, who are useless except for causing chaos, are bothering me again… Do I have to move directly with this incomplete body…?"

He had empty eyes that watched the people and a voice that casually discussed a time period of 1,000 years. Kether thought about it before deciding. He couldn't leave this situation alone. It was a matter where he needed to move personally. "It can't be helped."

He commanded Crowd, who had appeared in the audience room, "Gather all of the Seven Swords. I will make this war simpler."

"Are you going to end the empire?"

"I don't know. I haven't thought about it yet."

The two people talked about absurd things without changing their expressions.

"Don't waste effort on needless work, Crowd. Remember that you might be a little exceptional, but you are still part of me. You will have to join them someday."

"Of course, I always keep that in mind."

"You are really good at speaking. Well, okay. Go now. I must end this tirelessly repeating war game."

The emperor, whose empire was in a desperate situation, called this war a game. Nevertheless, the 1st Sword didn't contradict his words. It wasn't because he didn't have the authority but because he knew it was correct.

The moment Kether moved, this war would soon end. It would end in a way that nobody expected or wished for.

"War is just the struggle of insects."

He would finish it in one go.

* * *

After the battle on Nagma River, the dispersed Meltor troops gathered in one spot to reorganize.

It was necessary to observe how Andras reacted to the great damage, and a new face joined. It was Blue Tower Master Blundell, who had come to fill the vacancy that Veronica left after leaving Karul Plains.

"Hahaha! I am glad to see your happy face!" Blundell laughed, causing his swollen muscles to swell. His staff was no different than usual. There was no tension as the leaders laughed.

"I would like to raise a glass in celebration, but I have to put off this joy until after our victory. How long have I been waiting in the capital? I am so happy to be able to fight with you, despite it being late!"

"Yes, we think so too. Blue Tower Master."

Benedict coughed a few times before asking, "The war is going well, but what about the situation back in the kingdom?"

"It isn't bad! The economy has shrunk a little bit due to the war, but it is still good. The situation with the supply unit is good, so we can sustain it for half a year without difficulty."

"Hoh, it is good news."

The soldiers were risking their lives fighting on the front lines, but the support people in the rear also shared their pain. Food was shipped at a cheap price to the front, while merchants placed the supplies before their own interests. It wasn't uncommon for them to go bankrupt from the burden.

However, Meltor's national power endured that burden. The patriotism, accumulated finances, and sympathetic elements allowed them to do it. They couldn't help feeling proud as citizens of this kingdom.

"Okay, now it is my turn," Blundell said, his grinning expression becoming serious. He asked, "How is the current situation? I heard there was a big win at Nagma River, but nothing since. Don't tell me that nothing happened…"

"That's right," the masked Orta immediately replied to Blundell. "Since that day, the enemy troops haven't moved. There have been no movements, apart from a defensive formation. Therefore, we were worried about how we should respond."

"Huh? They really aren't moving? Those warmongers?" Blundell had a lot of experience, but even he shook his head as he looked at the models on the map.

Meltor might have the upper hand, but this advantage wasn't absolute.

Andras still had more troops than Meltor, as well as a lot of hidden strengths. There was no reason for them to act passively.

"What are their intentions?"

Orta shrugged in response. "I'm not sure. I can't get a sense of their actions. The secret agents I sent didn't get any results, and I am reluctant to poke at the gaps."

"Don't tell me… Perhaps they are planning a truce?"

"Perhaps. For the first time, Meltor is dominating in the war. We absolutely can't step back, and they know that."

There was a moment of silence in the control center. They were each having their own thoughts and guesses about what Andras' actions meant. Then a messenger ran into the barrack, which had a heavy atmosphere.

"C-Commander!" The messenger's fear-filled pale face made Benedict realize that what the messenger brought wasn't good news. "A small unit is making its way past the western border! Four magic soldier units and 26 war mages tried to delay them, but they are all dead or in a serious condition!"

"What, the defense line?"

"It was broken in an instant! The speed is insanely fast!"

The shock spread to all the leaders, including Blundell and Benedict.

The soldiers at the defense line of the border were elites, yet the soldiers at the defense line were broken in an instant? Moreover, it had been done by a small number of elites with overwhelming force.

Benedict somewhat recovered his composure and asked, "The power of the enemy? Surely you know that?"

"T-That…"

"What is it?!" In the end, Benedict lost his patience.

The messenger hiccuped before opening his mouth, "A-According to the report, it is the 1st, 2nd, and 5th swords…"

"What?"

"Is that true?"

"A-And one more thing."

Apart from three of the Seven Swords crossing the border, there was more to report? The eyes of the leaders glared at the innocent messenger. If they hadn't controlled their magic power, the innocent messenger might've had a heart attack.

However, he spoke despite the pressure, "I'm not sure, but… one of the surviving war mages said he saw it."

Before they could ask, the messenger continued, "He said the emperor's flag was among the Andras unit that crossed the border…!"

The flag that expressed the emperor himself was a symbol that could only be seen in Andras. If they really were carrying that flag, it meant that three of the Seven Swords and the emperor had crossed the border personally.

'This is crazy!'

It was a surprise raid that would never happen again in the future.

"What did these bastards eat?" Blundell's murmur resonated through the barracks, seeming to represent everyone's feelings.

Chapter 287 – Emperor Moves (2)

It was as he said.

All of the remaining Seven Swords, the pillars of Andras, had been mobilized and were moving with the symbol of the emperor in an insane operation. If this were a chessboard, it would be the same as placing the king into the midst of the enemies.

Of course, the emperor of Andras had to be a powerful sword master, but it couldn't be enough to reverse the battlefield.

This was a suicide operation.

To sum it up briefly, it was true that a sword master was superior to great magicians at breakthroughs, but this breakthrough would only have value if it was followed up. What would they do if they broke through? It was merely an ineffective demonstration of force without the military force to take over.

Furthermore, the operation was being carried out by the remaining Seven Swords and the emperor, who were all masters. Even the most skilled aura users wouldn't be able to catch up with masters.

'What is he thinking…?' Theodore's brows furrowed.

It was a plan that couldn't be understood with common sense. The most likely option was that they would immediately attack the capital of Meltor, Mana-vil. With at least four masters and dozens of expert aura users…

Certainly, it wasn't guaranteed that any kingdom's defenses could block that elite power. The high walls would be smashed apart and the king beheaded. However, with Meltor, that strategy would run into a wall.

There was the defense of the four magic towers. Additionally, considering the presence of Veronica who was recovering her magic power, it was impossible for Mana-vil to fall to a small number of elites.

On the other hand, Meltor could choose to collapse the capital of Andras or gather troops to strike the elite force from the rear. At first glance, this situation was really too ridiculous.

'…Wait.' At this moment, Theodore recalled something. 'If it is the western border, then Master…!'

If the enemy forces penetrated through the western border zone as the messenger said, then Vince definitely belonged to the unit blocking them. The four magic soldier units and 26 war mages had taken action to delay them.

There would be some casualties from the four sword masters' breakthrough. What if his master was included among them? The war mages were already few in number. The casualties wouldn't be low.

"Messenger!" Theodore urgently called the messenger over and asked him, "Do you have a list of survivors from the west? I want to know the status of the personnel involved in the delaying operation!"

"T-There were too many magic soldiers, so it hasn't been organized yet. I only have a list of war mages."

"Show me."

The messenger pulled out a scroll, and Theodore took it with trembling fingers. The leaders belatedly realized why he was troubled. Vince Haidel was a famous name among the war mages. Orta, Blundell, and the other leaders who had taken action with him several times also looked worried.

Theodore read down the list of the deceased.

From the top, Beruch, Ilan, Zirmud, Haman…

There were 26 people. It wasn't a large number, but it was natural for his fingers to hesitate. Vince's name might be here. The fear stilled his fingers. Finally, he reached the end and scanned it again several times.

"….Phew…"

Fortunately, Vince's name wasn't present. Then he saw Vince's name on the list of wounded.

[Vince Haidel: Amputated left leg, serious condition.]

Vince had lost his left leg, but he had survived. Theodore felt both deeply sad and greatly relieved. It was enough if Vince survived. Even if he couldn't continue as a war mage, Vince wasn't one to give up just because he lost his left leg.

As Theodore made a relieved expression, Orta whispered to him, "I'm sorry but you don't have time to go visit him."

"…I know," Theodore said, handing the scroll back to the messenger. "It will be okay just to deliver medicine."

Theodore pretended to take the potions out of his pocket, pouring them from his inventory onto the table. They were the highest quality potions he had obtained from Paracelsus' laboratory. His heart wanted to give Vince an elixir, but Theodore couldn't give Vince special treatment. He could go and talk with Vince after the war was over.

The messenger disappeared with the potions, and the leaders started a meeting under Blundell's command.

"Then it is time to determine the course of action." The magician, who had lived for over a century, grasped his beard and raised two fingers. "It can be divided into two categories. Do we fight that stupid group or ignore them and head straight to Belfort?"

"Tower Master, I think we should advance," Benedict, now the former chief commander, declared with a certain voice. "Without the Seven Swords and the emperor, the empire doesn't have the power to stop us. Belfort's fierce walls can be removed with the combined attacks of three or four masters. One week is enough."

"Then we should ignore those guys running around?"

"It is cruel, but yes. That's correct. There is the Red Tower Master, and the Yellow Tower Master also promised to participate in the capital's defense. They will be able to hold on until we obtain Belfort."

Unlike the decisive Benedict, Orta shook his head. "I am the opposite. Such a predictable operation, even the emperor of Andras would've thought of it. Furthermore, there are a total of seven masters in our camp. It is a level where we can act to stop that elite group."

"That is White Tower Master's position on this matter?"

"Yes."

Aside from Benedict, who advocated to advance, and Orta, who wanted to stop the unit of masters, there were now only two commanders remaining who could speak out. They were the Chief Commander Blundell and Theodore Miller. In a 2-against-2 situation, Blundell's opinion would be more powerful.

However, he made an unexpected decision. "Hrmm, this old man will abstain."

Everyone stared at Blundell, and he explained, "I have only just joined the battlefield, so I don't have a clear view. It might end up as a divided opinion. Therefore, I think it is right to let the last commander, Theodore, decide."

"That…" Theodore hesitated but sighed as the rest of the commanders agreed.

Then he closed his eyes and focused on his super-sensitivity. '…Damn, it still isn't visible.'

Theodore tried again, but darkness was the only thing reflected by his super-sensitivity. Just like when the bow master's foresight interfered the other day, an unknown factor was blocking his super-sensitivity.

March to Belfort or go to Mana-vil…?

What should he do? The future couldn't be seen, but Theodore felt like his choice would have catastrophic results either way.

"I…" He started hesitantly and then continued, "I think it is right to block the small unit."

Theodore judged that it was correct to interfere with the emperor's intention, which would be linked to the truth of this Northern Continent.

Then Blundell clapped and shouted, "Okay, it has been decided. White Tower Master!"

"I'll prepare it right away."

"How long will it take?"

"If I take action immediately… I can do it in three hours."

Returning to Mana-vil from the front lines in three hours, that was a feat impossible without Orta. Due to the sudden decision, the leaders ran around reorganizing the army, while Theodore stared at the rain clouds in the distance.

In spite of the favorable situation, his mind didn't stop shaking, just like how the surface of the sea would stir uneasily before a storm.

This was surely the climax of the unification war.

Theodore was confident of this and closed his eyes to control his boiling magic power.

* * *

Three hours later, a light appeared somewhere.

Flash!

There was a flash, and white dust rose like mist. It was the aftermath of dozens of magicians appearing through space magic in a room with no furniture. They breathed in the dust reflexively, with even the masters coughing. Theodore was the only exception due to his wind divinity.

'Eh? This place…'

He looked around before anyone else and noticed the familiar appearance of the room. Theodore had been to this place before. Yes, a few years ago on the mission with Vince…

Theodore was able to realize it immediately. "The Bergen Barony?"

"You noticed. Have you used it before?" Orta stepped out. "After estimating the speed of the empire's Seven Swords and the emperor, I thought that Bergen would be the best place to deal with them."

"Ah, that's right. If they go straight through the mountain range…"

"It is the shortest distance to reach Mana-vil. The mountain terrain won't slow down four sword masters, so it is certain that they will pass through Bergen."

Indeed, Theodore agreed and looked around. The core power of the army was gathered in this place. They had to consider that there would be a minimum of four sword masters, and perhaps an unknown master like the bow master from the other day.

Thus, six masters had joined in this space transfer.

The two guardians of Elvenheim, Ellaim and Edwin. White Tower Master Orta and Blue Tower Master Blundell. Theodore Miller and Randolph Clovis.

There were also senior war mages and William and Sylvia. A master might be dominant, but the more firepower they had, the better. This group could easily defeat the allied forces of the Central Continent. Benedict had been left behind to command the army, but this was still an enormous power.

'Yes, if it is this much… It is enough to win the battle,' Theodore thought as he left the narrow and dark room behind Orta. They passed through the secret door into the back alley like the last time, and the crowded streets of Bergen soon filled their eyes.

In the front of the group, Blundell used invisibility magic and said in a playful tone, "Good. There is still a day or two according to the calculations of White Tower Master."

"Please be more cautious, Blue Tower Master."

"Huhuhu, can't I joke around? A good night's rest isn't possible in this situation, so I should at least joke…"

Then it was at that moment…

— — — — — — —!!!

It wasn't the sound of an explosion or a roar. The sound, which couldn't be described by any modifier, tore through the sky.

The sound was a type of vibration, a type of shock wave.

If the strength was too much, it could tear apart a person's eardrums as well as cause the destruction of inanimate objects. The scene of the clouds being torn apart was proof of how terrible this sound was.

"…!"

"...! ...!"

Despite the magicians spreading out a barrier of magic power, the eardrums of the ordinary people were affected. Fortunately, it got better when the sound passed. However, the people who suddenly lost their hearing were crying on the ground.

It was because of the overwhelming sound that burst out! The old buildings seemed to shake uneasily in the aftermath. If the sound rang out one more time, Bergen would collapse like an earthquake had occurred.

Therefore, Theodore commanded the wind faster than anyone else.

'In the name of Aiolos! Be a wall to calm down the shaking on the outskirts of this city!'

The sound was vibration, and vibration wasn't visible to the naked eye. Just as nothing could be heard in a vacuum, building a shield with wind could reduce the power of the noise. Theodore's will spread out, causing the mountain breezes to wrap around Bergen in a sphere. In order to recreate this phenomenon, an expert of Orta's level was needed.

Orta and Blundell admired it and responded belatedly.

"Calm Mist!"

"Aerial Winder!"

The double barrier of fog and wind calmed the chaos. The crowd of people gradually calmed down, and the wind barrier Theodore had made became as strong as a steel wall. It would remain strong even if the sound occurred again three or four times in a row.

Then Theodore's group looked in the direction where the sound had come from. What had created such a blast? Rather than an attack, it might be the aftermath of an explosion that someone had caused.

'Eh? This power is perhaps…?'

Was it because he had calmed down? Theodore read the magic power and looked at the horizon with confusion. It was heat magic.

Theodore had felt the flow of this scorching magic power many times. The density of the power of aura might be much higher, but only a magician could wield such massive mana in this way.

"This strength, surely it isn't that tomboy!"

"This is ridiculous! They are supposed to be a few days away from Bergen…!"

Blundell, who had the same thought as Theodore, was confused, while Orta was embarrassed about his calculations being off. Then the explosive sound burst out again.

―――――――!

――――――!

―――――――!

This time, it was multiple smaller versions. The earth shook and the clouds were torn apart every time flames shot up to the sky. This power was equivalent to at least five consecutive 7th circle magics. They didn't know why, but Veronica was pushing a bombardment toward someone!

'No, it isn't just anyone!'

This situation had already been set up. Veronica alone couldn't deal with Andras' core power. The emperor would be directly commanding the Seven Swords.

"It can't be helped. Join in!"

The plan to stay in Bergen and build up defenses was abandoned. The group prepared to head toward the gigantic flames. Starting with Blundell, 20 magicians rushed forward. The glare, noise, heat, and shock waves reaching Bergen was proof of the power involved in the conflict.

The curtain raised on the final battle to end the unification war.

Chapter 288 – Emperor Moves (3)

The magicians, led by Blundell, quickly crossed the walls of Bergen, leaving the deafened people staring stupidly at their backs. They didn't know what was going on, but they knew it wasn't something they could interfere with.

Kurururung!

The earth was still shaking violently. Dirt fell from collapsed hills and landslides occurred, spreading the flames and dust further. It increased the height of the obstacles in the path of Theodore's group, but that was all.

'Ugh, how many times have the magic attacks been shot out…?'

With Randolph and the two guardians by his side, Theodore looked at the Nadun Mountains that started to come into view.

Black smoke and flames were rising.

The giants keeping this spot for hundreds of years were broken like fragile reeds, while the monsters were rushing around like wild beasts. It was like a natural disaster, the eruption of a large volcano, had occurred.

Even though it was great magic, it didn't have one or two times the power.

It was at least 10 times the power, a destructive force that could take out the middle of a large mountain range. This was a firepower that no one else except for Veronica, Meltor's ultimate fire magician, could exert.

Theodore might be able to do one shot, but he didn't have a way to release such strong destructive power in a row.

"This woman, she's not thinking about other people at all…" Blundell grumbled as he felt the heat in the air and drew water from the area.

Then he covered the group with a thin protective layer.

It was a proficiency worthy of the peak of the blue tower. Theodore felt admiration for him when he found that the shield didn't interfere with his breathing and movements. To think he could use a spell this sophisticated in an instant! Theodore had reached the threshold of the water attribute, yet he couldn't do it so perfectly.

'An 8th circle master, I am still far away.'

It was a wall beyond a wall. However, Theodore was pleased, rather than frustrated.

Shortly afterward, the party arrived at the entrance of the mountain range and looked around. Burned trees emitted heat into the sky, while the half-melted and uneven ground made it hard to walk on unless they were cooled and hardened.

Thanks to Blundell, there were no inconveniences. However, it was uncomfortable to wait in such an environment. Then at that moment…

"―Oh, you came faster than I thought? I expected it would take a few more days," a cheerful voice rang out from above their heads, belonging to the person who had made the Nadun Mountains like this.

It was the appearance of the great magician with the lineage of a red dragon, Veronica. She landed on the ground and chuckled when she saw Blundell's wrinkled face. "What, you've just gone and already come back? It must be hard to wander around at your age."

A vein throbbed on Blundell's head as he countered, "Hey, at least have some manners!"

"What if I don't want to~? Isn't it hard moving those muscles? Eek, look at them squirm. You should put on looser robes!"

"Ridiculous! I'm not ashamed of my muscles!"

For the two pillars of the kingdom, this was the normal conversation between them. However, the expressions of the other magicians changed when they discovered this reality. The two people then belatedly became aware of their lost dignity and closed their mouths.

Veronica cleared her throat a few times before talking first, "Kuk! Let's stop joking around and talk about the situation."

"Cough, yes. You must've been in a delaying battle, right?"

"Yep, I can't deal with so many sword masters alone. I fired off attack skills from a distance that is hard for them to reach. And I have a feeling that I shouldn't approach."

"Your gut… I shouldn't look down on it."

Unlike their first frivolous appearance, the two people became serious as they started the discussion.

According to Veronica, she had chosen to intercept, rather than tighten the defenses around Mana-vil. She could sit quietly and wait for them to arrive, but she was worried about the power of the emperor, as well as the 1st and 2nd swords.

If possible, she wanted to at least identify the emperor's Aura Ability, but that seemed to have failed.

However, Veronica's face was shining brightly, rather than shrinking back. "Well, I don't think I can lose with all this power gathered. I just need to take a breather before penetrating the enemy."

"Is it okay? You must've consumed quite a bit of magic power."

"The same is true for the other side. I think it will be worse if we wait for my recovery. A sword master's resilience is almost at the level of a troll," she said without exaggerating.

If a magician required 10 hours to recover from the magic power consumed, then a sword master only needed 2~3 hours to recover their stamina. It was possible that the opponent would be ready if they waited for Veronica's recovery.

"Red Tower Master."

"Huh? What is it, Kid?"

Theodore pulled something out without any hesitation.

* * *

After approximately 30 minutes of waiting. The heat filling the entire mountain range faded, and the fire started to shrink. It was an environment where they could walk around and breathe, even if they didn't have Blundell's magic.

However, it wasn't just environmental benefits that Theodore had gotten in those 30 minutes.

"…Once again, thank you for your help, Captain Theodore. I will repay you for this medicine when we return."

"W-What, this tree root? I took only half of it, and I've recovered almost all of my magic power?"

It was the stunning effect of the Thousand Year Knotweed Elixir that Theodore had given out. He was very satisfied with their reactions.

'The 500-year-old ones aren't as efficient, but they are still good.'

There was no doubt that he could buy a mansion with the value of one elixir, but he needed to keep supplies for big battles. It was worth investing all the remaining plants if it was possible to restore Veronica���s power. Blundell was well aware of the meaning of Theodore's actions and pounded on Theodore's back. "Good! Very good! As His Majesty said, you really are the treasure of our Meltor!"

"B-Blue Tower Master, i-it hurts."

"Don't be sorry about today's spending! I will petition the king to give you something of equal value!"

"T-Thank you?" Theodore's back throbbed from being hit several times by that large hand, and he barely managed to respond.

Anyway, this was favorable to all of them.

There were two guardians, a sword master, three tower masters, and Theodore. Additionally, there were the Prime-grade elites following them for secondary assistance. It would be hard for the four sword masters in the mountain range to win.

The two great magicians came to the same conclusion and raised their voices.

"Go! We don't need to waste any more time!"

"That's right. Stay focused. From now on, we will be entering a battlefield where one inch of carelessness isn���t allowed."

They tightened their formation. Randolph and Ellaim were excellent at melee battle and were placed at the forefront, while the strongest Veronica was placed in the middle. Blundell moved in the rear, and Orta, who hadn't completely recovered yet, was a support. Meanwhile, Theodore and Edwin were moving fluidly between different positions.

It was a formation that allowed them to cope with any situation.

A heavy silence filled the air as they walked through the desolate landscape, causing Blundell to mutter a few words. Anyone who remembered the Nadun Mountains in the past would react the same way. "…It is quiet. It is hard to think of it as the Nadun Mountains. Will it be able to naturally regain its original appearance?"

"This won't be enough to stop the enemies. We've wiped out the little ones, but the main players of the Seven Swords are still there. The defensive ability of the 1st and 2nd Swords is unnecessarily high," Veronica gave excuses as to why she had gone so far.

Theodore inwardly accepted the excuses.

This destruction was necessary if she wanted to tie up the feet of the 1st Sword, who had blocked Death Gazer on Kural Plains without any injuries, or the 2nd Sword who could cut space. There was no value in preserving the natural environment when facing them.

"No, I'm not trying to blame you…" Blundell was trying to explain when…

Wuooooong…!

Despite there being no warnings, everyone prepared for battle.

The magic power of the four great magicians oppressed the region, scattering the aura of the wind, fire, and water elementals that were called. No matter who rushed out from beyond the charred grass, Theodore knew that they wouldn't be able to survive.

'He' stepped forward.

"…Hah." A pool of blood formed every time he took a step. Blood was flowing from his torn left arm and the hole in the abdomen, ignoring the recovery effect of aura as it soaked into the earth.

No matter where they looked, he was in a miserable condition. His aura was flickering like a candle about to be blown out. He raised his right arm over his head.

"Hey, will you save me if I surrender?" Zest Speitem suggested with a desperate expression.

"…What is going on, 2nd Sword?" Blundell asked as he moved forward, causing Zest to shake his head. Did he mean that it was difficult to explain with his own mouth?

"I don't know. Why did this happen? Why did he attack us…? I don't want to die like this. So, save me, okay? I will do whatever you want."

"Him?"

"D-Damn. It is hard to stand…"

Flop. Zest's body fell to the ground. The sword master, who should be tougher than steel, found it hard to stand. This meant that his condition was extremely serious. Should they give him first aid?

While Blundell was feeling baffled by the unknown situation, Zest looked behind him and spoke in a faint voice, "Again, we meet… Kid."

"…Zest Speitem."

"I couldn't kill you twice, and now the third encounter… I won't be able to even if I am saved…" The strongest swordsman who guarded the Andras Empire with the 1st Sword chuckled with derision.

He had missed the opportunity to kill his opponent twice, and now he was begging for his life? If pride had a solid shape, it would've completely shattered at this point. Nevertheless, Zest wanted to live. Theodore looked into Zest's eyes and saw his condition more precisely than anyone else.

Then Theodore declared in a calm manner, "I'm sorry, but you are already dead. Your wounds can't be repaired by any means."

"…W-What?"

"The hole in your abdomen, it isn't a mere flesh wound. It destroyed the soul. Your soul is strong and managed to hold on for a bit in that state, but now… there isn't much left."

Theodore's ability to see the soul had increased while learning eastern martial arts and shamanism. As such, he was able to see that the hole had been drilled into Zest's soul. It was an injury that couldn't be fixed. The soul and the flesh were completely different concepts. Repairing a broken soul was a feat only possible for a 9th circle magician.

"…I see…" Zest accepted it with a lighter expression like he could read the truth in Theodore's face and voice. "Damn, that monster… He had such power… Dammit. Rather, if I died by your hands, it… would've been better…"

"There is much to be said about running away and winning."

"…Kuk, cheeky, child. Of course… I…"

Tok, Zest's right hand fell to the ground. It was the end of a sword master, the 2nd of the empire's Seven Swords. Theodore didn't miss the way Zest's soul was drawn somewhere along with his death.

"That way."

"You…"

"There is no time to explain. The one who killed Zest is over there." Theodore was certain and spoke without thinking.

Something was burning up in his body. Seeing the death of the person, who had almost killed him in the past and had threatened his kingdom, made him angry. Zest shouldn't have died like this.

Theodore had wanted to kill Zest with his own hands. Or maybe he felt a sense of rapport with him from when they fought? He couldn't know now.

"…Understood. We will go this way." Blundell followed Theodore's words without asking.

There was no reasoning for it. He was just convinced by Theodore's previous achievements and current firm conviction. As they moved in the indicated direction, they passed by the body of a woman with white hair. Randolph looked at the strange looking spear and the woman's body with a strange expression.

Then at the end of the path, they faced him.

"―You're late."

He was big. Anyone who saw him would think so. The man sitting on the rock was taller than the average person, and his wide shoulders were magnificent like a mountain. His white-tinged hair reminded them of the snow peaks, and his grandiose voice echoed. He was holding onto a sword that had blood dripping from it.

Even though he didn't introduce himself, everyone knew who he was. This man was the emperor. He was the peak of the Andras Empire, the emperor who carried the Seven Swords and dyed the north with blood.

Emperor Kether—anyone born in Meltor couldn't help hating this man. However, Theodore felt confused. He didn't know why, but he felt a strange sense of familiarity from the emperor.

"Indeed, it was like this."

The emperor's eyes, which didn't contain a shred of humanity, focused on Theodore. No, it was like he was looking inside Theodore.

"Indeed, it has been a long time, my brother."

No one knew the meaning of his words. Why did the emperor of Andras call them brother and why had he killed the 2nd Sword? They didn't know anything and couldn't make a guess. As the fear of the unknown settled upon the magicians, 'it' woke up inside of Theodore.

–I made a guess, but it truly is him.

Theodore immediately responded, 'The emperor's brother… Don't tell me…?!'

–It is as you guessed, User. In the midst of this confusion, Gluttony's voice was as calm as ever. –He is one of the Seven Sins that has been in conflict with me since time immemorial―Invidia, the parasitic grimoire that symbolizes the sin of envy.

Chapter 289 – INVIDIA (1)

It was Invidia, 'envy' of the Seven Sins!

Theodore's mind became blank for a moment, then he quickly recovered.

The emperor of Andras was a grimoire, one of the Seven Sins like Gluttony? It was shocking, but it also made the current situation more dangerous. Theodore's intuition, which often helped him escape from the jaws of death, was telling him that this was a priority.

A grimoire that had been able to grow his power for over 500 years…

It was one of the Seven Sins that was superior to any other grimoire, and it had the status of emperor of the only empire in the continent.

Theodore couldn't even imagine the strength that would've accumulated using this omnipotent power. The grimoire, Death's Worship, had managed to turn a 4th circle magician into an elder lich in only three months. What would pop up when it was 500 years?

'Gluttony, tell me what you know about him.'

–Understood.

It was the best way to gain an idea of Envy, who wasn't attacking, and to figure out how to deal with him.

-As I mentioned, Invidia is a parasitic grimoire that needs a host. He maximizes the potential of the host and accelerates its growth rate. Up to here, it is similar to me.

'Then?'

–The Seven Sins each have a unique ability. In the case of Pride, it is feeding evolution, eating its prey. Envy's inherent ability is called 'envious plundering,' according to its characteristic.

Once Theodore heard those words, 'Envious plundering', he looked at the emperor who was still sitting down.

The emperor's aura was relaxed, and he didn't show any hostility.

Invidia, who wore the emperor's skin, opened his mouth, "You won't answer? Hrmm, good. You are a good listener, but your talking is the worst. If you choose to remain silent, close that filthy mouth until the end."

While talking, Invidia opened his arms in an exaggerated manner. He was like the conductor of a band, an orator on a podium.

His appearance was full of gaps, but no one could think about attacking him. Despite the hatred that had been ingrained in their bodies since childhood and the magic they had trained for decades, all the magicians were overwhelmed by their instincts.

'Death.'

They would die if they tried to strike one of the old man's weaknesses.

Cold sweat dripped down their bodies. Everyone gathered here subconsciously recognized the difference in power between them.

"Now, have you had enough time to look around? My brother, I told you not to speak, but I also want to hear your comments. How is it?" Envy ridiculed Gluttony's silence. "How is the breeding ground that this body has created?!"

"…Breeding ground?"

"Yes, the whole of the North is a breeding ground for me," Invidia responded in an excited voice like he thought Theodore's words were Gluttony's.

The others gulped at this unfamiliar atmosphere.

They didn't know what was going on, but they could tell that a sinister secret was going to be revealed next. There was no need to break the excitement of the monster. Everyone implicitly agreed and focused on the conversation between the two people.

"The idea was pretty good, but carrying it out was more difficult than I thought. The talent to build a nation without any foundations is rare. A king like that is rare. Those heavenly qualities… If he had been born in the flesh of a god, he could've become transcendent."

"If you are talking about the king of Andras… Sword King Kesein?"

"He had that name? Well, it doesn't matter. With his body, I built this Andras, creating a system that revered aura. I was going to try in the East at first, but someone already got there first."

"Ah," Theodore muttered in agreement, "Lust…"

"You are familiar with it. Well, you can probably guess the next thing, Brother? Aura users can improve themselves to a certain level, but then they need to take on others. In other words, a struggle is needed to build them up."

"…Meltor."

"That's right. A sword empire going against a magic kingdom. Aura and magic, the countries with two opposing powers became my breeding ground. Humans are foolish. Once a fire is lit, they don't care where the fuse came from. They kill each other, and my purpose is achieved. Huhu, what lovely creatures."

It was a guess. The fact that the king who had established a great empire in the middle of nowhere was a grimoire meant that Paragranum, who had helped establish Meltor, was suspicious.

The pieces connected in this way.

Grimoires didn't care about human ethics. They would commit good and evil in order to achieve their purpose of existence. The two grimoires cooperating for their own purposes would be able to produce the deep-rooted history of this Northern Continent.

There had been the appearance of titanium, the establishment of the magic towers which then became the foundation of the magic kingdom, and the recurrence of the armistice agreement.

More than 10 million people had died over the past 500 years, but the two grimoires felt no guilt at all. They didn't regret it if it meant getting closer to their goals.

Behind Theodore's rigid face, Gluttony whispered, –His inherent ability is to steal the power of others. Invidia symbolizes the sin of 'Envy', always searching for a power that he doesn't have.

'…Raising sword masters and eating them.'

–That is accurate.

'Then why not magicians or elementalists?'

–It is simple. The only thing he can steal is a 'unique ability'. Magic and elementals belong to the same source. He can steal Sorcery, but it isn't worth it unless he can use magic. It is more efficient to collect many Aura Abilities.

Convinced by Gluttony's easy explanation, Theodore's eyebrows twitched.

If Invidia was able to steal Aura Abilities, it meant that all the abilities of the sword masters that existed in the history of the empire were gathered in one body. He could be a big threat, having combined dozens of abilities.

Not all abilities were as powerful as 'space cut', but Theodore couldn't guarantee that there weren't more powerful abilities than that.

'The odds… Damn, I don't know. I can't get a sense of how strong he is.'

Theodore didn't sense an overwhelming power like he had with Fafnir or Desertio. However, that didn't mean Invidia felt weaker than them. The previous two dragons were so overwhelming that it was like looking up at the distant night sky, and Invidia had the same abyss-like presence.

Regardless of the magnitude of his power, it was ominous.

'If possible, don't fight.' Theodore suppressed his emotions and made a decision.

"Hmm, it isn't pleasant to have bugs listening to my words. I need to remove these bugs before talking to you."

Invidia pointed his sword without a single bit of killing intent.

'What?'

He couldn't react. Theodore's super sensitivity screamed out one beat late, but there was a person who reacted faster than that.

―――――――Kiiing! There was a sharp ringing sound!

As Invidia heard it, his gaze shifted somewhere. For the first time, it wasn't toward Theodore but Blundell Adruncus.

"Hoh, you blocked it. Ah, the owner of this Aura Ability lost to you, master of the blue tower."

"I didn't think I would see this ability again." Cough. A few drops of blood fell from Blundell's lips. "You've shortened my lifespan even more, Emperor."

"Indeed, it was like this. Your 'flow' magic is a Sorcery that interferes with this ability. I was wondering how a person at the 8th circle could use Time Stop, but it was at the expense of your life."

"A foul is a foul, isn't it? Cough!" As the blue robe became stained with blood, Blundell's large body stumbled.

This was the moment that an unsightly scene occurred.

Chaaeng!

Around that big body, all movements stopped as white smoke filled the surroundings. The flow of air, conduction of heat, and reflection of light all stopped due to something interfering with it.

It was Time Stop, the ultimate magic that originally could only be used by 9th circle magicians. Therefore, Blundell's body received a huge burden every time he used it.

"White Tower Master, now! Move as far as possible!"

"I understand!" The White Tower Master saw the emperor's capabilities and immediately accepted Blundell's instructions, drawing a magic circle under his feet.

This was already the second Mass Teleport today. It placed a considerable burden on him, but it was a hundred times better than dying. Even with Blundell's Time Stop, Orta cast the spell just before the emperor moved his sword.

Flash!

The approximately 20 people couldn't do anything and fell down the edge of a mountain. They were 10 kilometers away from their previous location. If possible, Orta wanted it to be 100 kilometers away, but this was the limit for instantly created magic circles.

Orta breathed roughly through the pain and said, "Sigh… Give me a few minutes to breathe."

However, at that moment…

"―Get down!" Theodore shouted as he felt a chill.

Zest's Style Space Cut.

Hidden Technique, Kill the Gap.

Fermut Style, Refraction Sword.

Cutting from Both Ends!

Shortly after that, a fountain of blood rose.

Chwaaaaak!

Some people managed to avoid it thanks to Theodore's warning, but six people were cut in half, causing blood to gush up. It was truly a horizontal blow that cut people in half. The ones who couldn't escape had used defense magic, but shields had no meaning before bent space itself.

'This technique… Is it Zest Speitem's?'

Skipping through space… Theodore was familiar with it.

According to his memories, Zest had only been able to move a few meters with it. It wasn't a technique that could be used to narrow a distance of 10 kilometers, even if all his power was exhausted.

'Gluttony, don't tell me this is Invidia's ability?'

–He wouldn't be a Seven Sins if he simply took the ability. He can use the ability to its maximum potential and combine several abilities. Even if it is the same ability, the power changes after entering his hands.

'Crazy!'

Regardless of whether he knew Theodore's astonishment or not, Invidia admired the fact that several humans had survived his strike.

"Hoh, interesting. I thought I would finish it all at once. It seems like I can enjoy this outing. I will give you one chance. Feel free to attack."

"This bastardddd!"

"I will sure kill you!"

The magicians were in a frenzy after losing their colleagues.

"Wait! Be more careful…"

However, it was too late. Instead, Theodore stopped talking and gathered his magic power to help as much as possible. Since it was already too late, it would be better to join in on the attack. Theodore released two Memorize slots.

Memorize.

Two Slots Open.

Double Infernal Blade.

One was just created by Theodore, while the other two had been stored in advance. The three fire swords burned the space as they moved. They aimed at the seemingly defenseless Invidia.

The other determined magicians also fired their own attack spells. Diamond Dust, Hell Fire, Acid Dragon, Thunder Calling… The firepower to make a high-level monster disappear wrapped around Invidia's body..

— — — — — —-!!

The earth shook. The range of their firepower was narrow compared to that of Veronica's previous firepower, but it was highly concentrated. The magical bombardment melted the ground like magma, and the wind turned into a vacuum.

This would wound a dragon, let alone a sword master. It was the destructive power of an adult dragon, so one person wondered if it was enough.

"―Now, is it my turn?"

That person cursed their own stupidity.

"I only took out 'Adamantine Might' and 'Immutability', but you couldn't even cause a scratch. I'll have to get rid of the low-level bugs."

Surrounded by a golden aura, Invidia looked like King Kesein who had been revered as a 'Sword King.' Even though what was inside was a fearful creature of the abyss, the power was no different. No, it had become even more powerful over the years.

Invidia walked over the boiling magma and declared their sentence in a dry voice, "Die."

Then a number of translucent swords appeared around his body.

Heart Sword State.

Despise the Weak.

It was the ability of a sword master from the distant past who had the ability to mentally influence reality. A heart sword that couldn't be blocked by physical defense needed to be blocked purely with the mind. If they didn't resist, the ability wouldn't just affect the mind but kill their actual body

A person who had reached the realm of a master would be able to bear some of the impact, but…

"T-This! Shit!" Theodore yelled half a beat late as he realized the situation.

He responded too late because it was his first time encountering a mental Aura Ability. Apart from Theodore and the six masters, all of the other magicians would die. Yes, even William and Sylvia who accompanied him.

'T-Too late…'

The heart sword was already shooting at William and Sylvia. In this situation, it was impossible to protect them. Please let William's and Sylvia's mentality be strong. Theodore closed his eyes, unable to stand the horrors he would soon see.

Chwaaaak!

Unsurprisingly, a large amount of blood splattered. Theodore saw the epicenter of the blood soaking the ground, and his eyes widened.

Chapter 290 – INVIDIA (2)

The body that was stronger than anyone else's was shaking dangerously.

"Blue Tower Master!"

"Old Man!"

The robes of the 8th circle great magician, Blundell Adruncus, were dyed red. It was due to the damage of the sword which destroyed the body and spirit without leaving traces on the clothing.

However, Theodore couldn't help wondering.

A magician's accomplishment couldn't be said to be proportional to mental power, but a powerful magician possessed a strong mentality. Veronica and Blundell would only feel a mild dizziness after receiving this attack. So, why did Blundell suffer such serious injuries?

The reason for it was revealed by Invidia. "You are doing stupid things, transferring the damage of others to your own body. What is the use of such ineffective behavior?"

"Cough! It might be dangerous to those children, but it is just a slight scrape to this old man. Anyway, if I can use my life to save them, there is no reason to hesitate…!"

Indeed, Blundell didn't fall down. The heart sword would've sliced William's heart, as well as Sylvia's carotid artery. Instead, the spirit and physical strength which had been trained for a hundred years received the blow that would've killed dozens of people alone.

The expressions of the magicians, who were burdens to Blundell, stiffened. Meanwhile, Invidia scoffed, "Why should the strong protect the weak? You should've let them die and attacked me instead."

"Hu, a monster like you won't understand humans. I wasn't expecting this!" Suddenly, Blundell pointed his staff. "Wait a bit longer!"

"You..!"

Once again, time stopped. As the space around the emperor stopped, Blundell shouted urgently toward the weary-looking Orta, "White Tower Master! Get anyone who isn't a master away from here! Hurry!"

"…Yes!"

There were elite magicians of the 6th circle. They would be a great help in a normal confrontation between masters, but if the emperor was the opponent, they wouldn't even be able to grab his ankles.

It was just like how general soldiers couldn't help in a war between warriors and knights. When had they ever received such treatment? The magicians were in distress because they didn't understand the situation.

Among them, there was a magician who refused the teleportation. "I don't want to, I don't want to! Grandfather, Theo! I can help too! I don't want to run away alone like this!"

"…Sylvia."

Sylvia struggled against the confused William's hands, shaking her long silver hair to the left and right as desperate tears overflowed from her blue eyes. She looked at Theodore as the magic circle started to shine beneath the magicians' feet. It was the precursor to a mass teleport.

William was sweating while struggling with Sylvia. Then Blundell walked over and spoke softly, "Sylvia, sweetie."

"I don't want to! I don't want to hear it, Grandpa! I couldn't show you anything! Please don't disappear like this! Theo, I wanted to be helpful to Grandpa, so I worked hard…!"

"Then you have achieved that goal, my granddaughter."

"…Huh?"

Blundell gently wiped Sylvia's tears and gave her a warm smile. "I have been living all this time because of you."

"Ah…" As she paused for a moment in a slight daze, the magic circle flashed once. The light disappeared and no one was standing there anymore.

'Sylvia…' Theodore's chest felt tight as he recalled her crying face. Did she sense that she would be separated from Blundell in this fight? He didn't know why, but he felt anger at Sylvia's crying face.

Then as if to light the fuse, he emerged.

Chaaeng!

It was the emperor of Andras, Invidia 'Envy.' The Time Stop could only hold him for a few minutes. As he walked forward, Invidia ridiculed them, "It is the end of the boring melodrama."

He didn't care about the heavy atmosphere as he raised the sword in his hand.

"Now, come on," he declared, looking at the seven masters.

"I was already planning on it!" Understandably, Veronica was the first to respond to the provocation.

Kurururung.

She took one step, and the ground melted from the vast heat and pressure. The power of Veronica, who had inherited the blood of a dragon and the magic of eight circles, was more than twice that of Blundell's. There wasn't a single magician who surpassed her in pure destruction.

Simultaneously, 10 Infernal Blades appeared beside her. The moment that the space in front of her was distorted by the terrible heat, the world's strongest magician jumped forward. In a flash…

Veronica's fist burst forward.

―――――――――――!!!

A hill was crumbled in one blow, and the debris destroyed in two. By the third blow, the air was burning to produce a vacuum. From then on, it couldn't be seen with the human eyes. When measuring with time, each blow took a fraction of a second. The bombardment which could destroy a mountain crashed into Invidia's body.

"Hrmm."

Before that destructive power, Invidia's sword flashed.

Zest's Style Space Cut.

Broken Space―Thin Air Cut.

This was the technique that had blocked Theodore's heatwave in the past. A section of space was cut, blocking any physical forces. Then Invidia's sword moved again.

Delkur's Defense Method.

Immutability―Impregnable Wall.

Temporarily cutting space wouldn't be able to completely prevent the destructive power, so he would strengthen his defenses with other Aura Abilities. Simultaneously, a dark aura appeared in front of Invidia's body and blocked all of Veronica's blows. The space trembled, and the clouds above their heads were torn apart!

Nevertheless, the wall of darkness didn't collapse easily. However, Veronica wasn't Invidia's only enemy.

"―Your back is exposed." Randolph's double swords flashed behind the emperor.

Kakiing.

There was no chance to use a hidden technique. However, there was no need for anything other than strength to kill. With his speed, Randolph could stab at Invidia's vital spots. Then Randolph's two arms moved.

His right hand aimed for Invidia's neck, shoulders, ribs, and side, while his left hand aimed for Invidia's temple, clavicle, wrist and abdomen. The speed didn't leave any afterglows and couldn't be reacted to.

"It is fast, but that is all," Invidia spoke a few words and struck back.

Ainz Round Sword Style.

Mirror―Imitation.

Just like a mirror, he deflected all of Randolph's attacks, launching eight strikes to block all of them. It was the ability of Ludo Ainz, known to be the backbone of the Seven Swords from 200 years ago. However, Randolph didn't know this and was hit in his abdomen by Invidia's kick.

"Kuheeok!"

There were still two people. Edwin and Ellaim hid their nervousness and started their distinctive breathing. It was to call the high ranking water and wind elementals. The two guardians who used the spear and bow were veterans who defended the outskirts of Elvenheim. The problem was just that the other person was more of a monster.

"What, my legs?"

"You aren't the only one who knows lost skills."

Invidia used Delkur's shadow ability to completely stop Ellaim from moving. As their mobility was stopped, Invidia slowly and vertically raised his sword in his hand.

'This…!' Theodore was the only one who responded.

He had recent experience fighting 'him', so his instincts made him revolve his circles faster than anyone else.

Pan Helliones' Super Heavy Sword.

1st type, Earth Break.

Shortly afterward, aura fell down like a meteor.

* * *

Kwarururung!

There was a landslide. No, it was too moderate to call it that. The lava on the ground soared into the clouds, and the earth was turned upside down, forming a huge basin in the middle of the mountain. It was like a giant, that was several kilometers in height, had stomped their feet as hard as possible.

Pan Helliones possessed a strong destructive power, but it wasn't enough to destroy a mountain range like this.

"…How can we win against that monster?"

Theodore barely pulled out the two elves with Fluidization and looked at the devastation. If he had been half a beat late, Edwin or Ellaim would've literally been smashed.

'Perhaps if it wasn't for Blundell's assistance, I would be too late.'

Theodore didn't miss the moment Invidia's body turned black and white as time was stopped for a moment just as the sword was about to fall.

Time Stop, the original ultimate magic used for victory could only stop the enemy for a moment? As Gluttony said, the ultimate magic to not have much effect on grimoires that were already at the 6th stage.

Blundell's Time Stop was a big help because unlike Veronica's destructive power, he could assist in the direction of the fight.

'No, even so…'

Too strong. His super-sensitivity was still a mess, but Theodore had passed the threshold of life and death many times and realized there was no chance.

'Not power or speed. He has used six or seven Aura Abilities. If I assume that there are dozens more… we don't stand a chance.'

It might be possible if only one Aura Ability was used at a time, but he was a monster who could combine several abilities. Were the legendary grandmasters like this?

-No, not a grandmaster.

Gluttony firmly denied Theodore's words.

–Well, if we only consider the output, he has long surpassed a grandmaster. However, you are overlooking the most important part.

'The output is more than a grandmaster? What is the difference?'

–It is the difference in 'standing.' I would like to explain more but… please be prepared. He is coming again.

'Dammit!'

Invidia was coming again. "Is it up to here? Then it is my turn."

Theodore felt something. Invidia's blade greatly bent and took an unknown shape. It was a 3D shape that couldn't be recognized by the senses of a creature. Then Theodore shivered with a sense of discomfort as Invidia used a special technique without hesitation.

Triple Compound Hidden Technique.

It was the combination of three Aura Abilities that Invidia had obtained from three slaughtered sword masters.

Broken Space―Cut to Pieces.

Refraction―The End of the World.

Maze―Decisive Stage of Labyrinthos.

It was the extreme space cut that could damage a high ranking demon, as well as a refraction sword that crushed the bent space itself. In addition to those, it combined the 'Labyrinth' ability which allowed Invidia to rebuild space freely.

Kill, kill, and kill.

How many people could survive in this space where three types of deaths coexisted? It was a technique that Blundell couldn't afford to take on alone!

'Shit, I can't escape with all my limbs intact���!'

Theodore could escape if he sacrificed his left arm. Then it happened when Theodore faced the approaching hell.

Clang! There was a loud sound that came from an unknown place.

"…Eh?" Theodore's eyes widened. All of the hellish attacks had disappeared without a trace.

Invidia stared at someone with an interested look. "How did a 7th circle magician penetrate this…? It is those eyes. The Empty Eyes are the nemesis of the labyrinth. I will leave you alive and pull out your eyeballs."

"…Kuk."

The one who suffered damage and the one unaffected were the opposite of what had been expected. The blood that flowed down from Orta's mask proved that he had paid a considerable price. It was difficult to break down Invidia's technique even with the transcendent power of his eyes. Furthermore, he wouldn't be able to block the next technique with his Empty Eyes.

In this increasingly unfavorable situation, someone whispered in Theodore's ear, [Kid, do you have any countermeasures?]

[T-Tower Master?] Theodore didn't look back despite his surprise, as he lowered his voice and replied to her, […Why are you saying this to me?]

It might be different in a normal situation, but right now, there were many suspicious things about Theodore. He was being called brother by Invidia, and no hostility was shown toward him. Invidia had even said that they would talk later.

If it wasn't for this urgent situation, it wouldn't be strange if he was arrested and interrogated. Then why did Veronica ask him if he had any countermeasures?

Veronica made a sound like she heard something ridiculous and sent her voice to him again, [Hah! There are many things I want to ask, but there is no one here who thinks you are an enemy. How long do you think we've watched you, fool?]

[…Thank you.]

[Ah, stop talking about this embarrassing story! So? Have you thought of something? If this continues, we will definitely lose. Suggest anything.]

Theodore was troubled for a moment. Then he thought of a last resort. However, in order to carry out this method, somebody's sacrifice was needed.

"…I need time."

"How much?"

"5 minutes―no, 3 minutes."

"3 minutes…" Veronica narrowed her eyes. Frankly speaking, this confrontation was being maintained by the opponent's whim. They wouldn't be able to hold on for 3 minutes if he really wanted to kill them.

In such a situation, 3 minutes was impossible. However, this made Veronica even more convinced by Theodore.

"It is hard, but isn't this good?"

"…Tower Master?"

"This time, I will show you a wonderful appearance! Don't be late with your preparations."

Theodore's hairs rose as she stepped out without hesitation. Strategically, it was ridiculous for her to face the opponent alone. Due to that, Invidia didn't attack immediately. He opened his mouth with a strange look, "Red hybrid dragon. What are your intentions?"

"What are my intentions?"

"Surely you can see the difference in strength. What are you going to do by yourself?"

"Hmm, how about this form?" Veronica threw off her red robe, revealing her solid and well-trained body. It was a feat that required a lot of courage to do in front of a monster like Invidia. Then at that moment…

Duguen! It was the sound of a heart beating, and it came from Veronica's body. The air seemed to shake. It was like a giant drum-like sound. Dugeun, dugeun. A strange shockwave emerged with Veronica in the center.

"3 minutes… That is the limit of my time," Veronica murmured in a grim voice as she tucked her hair behind her ear.

Then Invidia was able to see it. "…Hoh?"

In Veronica's eyes, there were golden dragon pupils, not human ones.