Chapter 49 Alaric's Ascent

"It could be an artifact," Ruben answered cautiously, "but I believe it's more likely they have a skilled mage."

Ruben's expression hardened.

"If it is a mage, this battle will become significantly more dangerous for us. Whoever twisted my fireball like that isn't ordinary."

The fireball had been one of Ruben's most powerful spells, accelerated and guided through a carefully crafted mana rail. That someone had managed to turn it back on him was both terrifying and incomprehensible.

The commander turned his eyes toward a man seated some distance away from the group—a man who had remained eerily calm throughout the entire ordeal.

It was time for Alaric to step forward.

Alaric stood up, brushing off his worn, sky-blue tracksuit.

 He looked more like a drifter on a casual stroll than a warrior preparing for battle. Yet, his presence was impossible to ignore.

 When the commander's gaze met his, Alaric spoke with calm finality.