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Jin decided to follow Joshua and his group and slowly head towards the 2nd Magic Tower.
Joshua and his group were moving forward while slaughtering Zipfels and members of Kinzelo in the next sections, so there was no need to get involved in battles or hide.
The scenes of corpses, blood, and destruction continued. From behind, the vibrations and noise of the ongoing battles were still heard, and it seemed like the entire shipyard might collapse at this rate.
I guess it's our turn to be dragged by Joshua.
As they moved, Diphus recalled Jin's last words.
'Yes, even Jin can't perfectly grasp everything.'
That fact didn't disappoint him at all.
'Joshua, that snake is not only skilled in scheming but also has the abilities of the prophet... I can say it is already impressive just by perfectly understanding the flow of events up to now. Honestly, I couldn't have kept up.'
Diphus felt a sense of anguish knowing that he still couldn't be of much help.
-Second eldest brother, honestly, I didn't plan to make this proposal to you. I thought I could kill Joshua on my own. But elder sister Mary asked me to return with you without getting hurt.
He recalled the words Jin had told him just before the operation began.
If things continued this way, even if he succeeded in killing Joshua, he would end up being carried away by Jin. As a fellow flagbearer, and as an elder brother. He couldn't accept such an outcome.
'I need to be of help. Just like during Barton's time, I must not fall into a situation where I have to retreat unless I get help from Jin.'
As Jin had mentioned not knowing why Joshua was confident right now, Diphus also couldn't immediately come up with a solution.
However, the important thing was that he was able to hold on to his spirit and will, which had been momentarily lost in the excitement of being able to kill Joshua.
Diphus had rarely failed to do what he had set his mind to so far.
The group soon crossed into the 20th section after passing through the 19th section.
According to the shipyard's layout, there was an emergency passage closest to the 2nd Magic Tower.
Looking around, they saw signs that Joshua and the Black Knight had forcibly opened the passage and destroyed it.
"Jin, it seems there was no fighting in the passage. Did Kinzelo use a different passage?"
"Or perhaps they used their leader's steel gate."
"That ability he showed during the Sword Emperor Castle's terror attack, damn. Except for Runcandel, they've all exceeded the limits of the transfer gates."
"Vermont hasn't shown such advanced technology or capabilities yet."
"The Empire can't compare to us. That's why those Vermonts haven't shown up here yet. Anyway, I feel sick. Let's move on."
Outside the passage was the Sota Desert.
Whirrrr!
Fierce and thick sandstorms covered the entire desert. The giant sandstorms scattered here and there gave an ominous feeling.
Naturally, from this point on, there were no traces of Joshua and the Black Knight's movements. The footprints didn't last even for a moment and were covered with sand, and it was difficult to breathe without forming a protective shield.
The environment.
Natural disasters and adverse conditions that would be no different from catastrophes to civilians did not have a fatal effect on most trained martial artists.
Even dying a futile death from falling rocks, or getting struck by lightning with astronomical odds, individuals with a power level of 8-star or higher would never die unexpectedly.
Let alone those like Jin or Diphus, who could be called superhumans.
The environment of the Sota Desert that was currently threatening the group far exceeded that normal level.
'It's no joke…'
It was an environment so vicious that a civilian could not survive even for a second. The heavily sand-laden wind sliced through protective shields like a sharp knife.
The entire desert seemed to be infested with terrible destructive magic.
Indeed.
'These are large-scale barriers and chained defense magic being maintained at all times. They are to protect the 2nd Magic Tower from intruders.'
The 2nd Magic Tower was one of Zipfel's most important areas. It was near the center of the Lutero Magic Federation, right next to their headquarters, Drakka.
Such levels of barrier and defense magic were only natural.
Diphus pointed beyond with his hand. The White Night Tower could be seen in the distant hazy sky, obscured by the sandstorm.
The problem was that there was not one tower.
"It is an illusion barrier."
"I never observed this phenomenon during all my scouting before your arrival."
"These defensive magic, including the illusion barrier, are likely to activate when someone deviates from the predefined path or enters a specific area."
There were a total of five towers.
All but one of them were illusions created by the illusion barrier. And as is the case with these types of barriers, another trap would trigger when you reached one of the fakes.
This time, Murakan gestured toward the sky.
"Hey, why is it so dark like this... Kid, Diphus, take a look at that."
Numerous battleships were hovering in the sky.
At first glance, it seemed like there were over a hundred. If Jin, Murakan, and Diphus had a fear of Zipfel, it was a sight that would have made their legs feel weak.
Unlike the towers, they couldn't be sure that the battleships covering the sky like a group of whales were an illusion.
Considering the size of the shipyard they had just checked, it was a number that could easily exist if one assumed there were several more shipyards.
In other words, these battleships could be finished products of mass-produced battleships that were deployed to support the shipyard.
"Shall I fly up into the sky and take care of those first? I can also check which one of those towers is real."
"If you start flying up there in your original form, the three of us are as good as dead, Murakan. And by the looks of it, there are over a hundred."
Even if these battleships were illusions like the towers, flying in plain sight above the Lutero Magic Federation was a crazy thing to do. If it were that easy, there would have been no need for the infiltration plan.
"Ah, this is a specialty of that despicable devil."
"Ms. Misha?"
"Yes, that's right. I don't have the skill to discreetly remove these barriers. I might be able to break them with brute force, though."
"I can roughly understand the basis for the confidence Joshua has shown. He has a means to avoid being exposed to the barriers. Unlike me, he probably planned to rob the 2nd Magic tower, not the inside of the shipyard, from the time we set up camp, so he must have prepared the necessary means ahead of time, using the power of the prophet."
Diphus said. Jin had similar thoughts.
"And he probably didn't think we couldn't break through this. He moved as if he wanted us to follow him."
Diphus continued.
As he said, Joshua had an ulterior motive to 'actively use' Jin and his group.
Since Jin and Kinzelo won't be able to break through the barrier as quickly as he can with the key, he naturally wants to use them as bait after breaking the vault.
Even if the vault is opened without a trace using a key, the fact that there was a break-in and theft will soon be revealed.
Naturally, Zipfel would have to track down the culprit.
To do that, all the barriers near the 2nd Magic tower would have to be removed to make it easier for allies to search, and then Jin and his group, along with Kinzelo, who were still wandering within the barriers, would become primary suspects and be subject to intensive pursuit.
This was part of the scenario that Joshua desired.
Crack! Diphus gritted his teeth, vaguely guessing the process. He couldn't just let things continue like this.
"Lord Murakan."
"Yeah."
"What do you think of advancing forward while using my body to shield you? I'll do my best to handle the traps as much as possible in the lead, while Jin and you follow Joshua as quickly as possible."
"Is that so? Are you as sturdy as Runcandel's first or second daughter?"
"I can hold my own to some extent."
"Do you know how destructive these traps can be?"
"Just like Jin said last night, this is just a time to take risks. This kind of risky opportunity may not come again. We're going in, getting real information, and killing Joshua."
"That's bold, I like it. Put your body on the line and let's overcome this crisis."
Murakan, who spoke like he agreed, glanced at Jin for a moment. As always, the decision was for him to make.
Jin flatly refused with the attitude that there was no need to worry.
"No, that's the last resort. If by any chance you are caught in a trap, the losses will be too great, elder brother Diphus, and if our location is exposed due to the activation of the barriers, there will be no way out."
"I knew you'd say that, the youngest. Do you have any other options?"
Srrung!
Bradamante came out of its sheath.
"...I have experienced this terrible desert once before. I have a sword I obtained along with an enlightenment at that time, and I think it might work."
Shadow Sword 1st technique, Soul Slash.
Jin had passed through the final gate of the Great Desert of Mitra with that sword. Even if Zipfel's barrier and magic were formidable, they didn't seem to be superior to Solderets trial.
After forming a blood alliance with Ghost mercenaries, the Soul Slash had also been effective when remnants of the Seygal clan, attempted suicide in the nameless desert in the eastern part of the Empire
Fwoooh...
Bradamante's blade darkened.
"If the Shadow sword doesn't work, then I'll consider using my knowledge to personally unravel the barriers and spells. And if that doesn't work, then I can consider putting you in the forefront, elder brother."
Jin closed his eyes and began to concentrate.
The will to cut, the belief that he can cut, the will to cut and pass. The willpower and insights he gained from the Great Desert of Mitra pierced through his entire body and mind.
Before swinging the sword, a smile appeared on Jin's lips.
This was because a mysterious, indescribable sensation was spreading through the tip of his sword, as if he had already glimpsed the future and the outcome.
The barrier and magic were cut with a gentle strike of the sword.
Each time he swung the sword lightly, the sandstorm abated, and the illusions that covered the tower were gradually washed away.
Jin continued to swing Bradamante until every spell was erased, and it looked as though he was performing a sword dance.
When Jin opened his eyes again, he felt refreshed, as if he had just taken a bath.
The horrific sandstorm and tempest had mysteriously disappeared. In the serene twilight with a gentle breeze blowing, the solitary White Night Tower appeared.
The White Night Tower was much closer than what the illusions had concealed.
"The moment when you must risk your life for the clan won't be due to mere barriers like this, elder brother."
After saying that, Jin waited for Dipus to respond. He feels that he owes him right.
But for some reason, there was no answer even after a few seconds.
Instead, the sound of Murakan clicking his tongue was heard.
"Hmm... Tsk. Well, they were all real after all."
Diphus was momentarily speechless as he realized that all the flying ships filling the sky were indeed "real."
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Jin's eyes widened as he looked back at the sky a beat later.
"This is insane..."
A curse escaped his lips reflexively. Anyone, who does not belong under the Zipfel's flag, would have reacted the same way.
The enormous battleship, over a hundred in number, looked like a dark and vast tumor in the early morning sky.
The battleships blocked the stars, and the gentle serenity of the clear night sky was nowhere to be found, replaced by a gloomy darkness.
There were two fortunate aspects to the situation.
First, the fleet appeared close due to the illusion barrier, but they were actually quite far apart.
Second, there was not a single battleship emitting light. The ships remained parked in the sky, not in motion.
For a few moments, the three couldn't tear their eyes away from the sky.
'Mirror.'
Jin immediately thought of Colon's divine artifact.
'To operate that many ships, you'd need at least 7- or 8-star mages numbering in the tens of thousands. You'd need even more to maximize the power of the battleships.'
If there is an artifact like the Mirror, that provides infinite mana, so many mages wouldn't be needed.
If Jin hadn't obtained the Mirror from Colon during reserve flagbearer days, they would have felt a much greater sense of despair when seeing the battleships now.
However, even without the Mirror, there were means like living golems and Demon God's Orb. Jin had already confirmed in the Gaifa Archipelago that they could operate and produce battleships by reviving the deceased.
Of course, Demon God's Orb was not yet complete.
But for how much longer?
'When the Demon God's Orb is completed, and the mass-produced battleships are put into full operation. If even the cube is used together…'
Runcandel, or rather, the world, is over.
It was impossible to predict when the Demon God's Orb would be completed. However, one thing was certain: the most crucial material for the Demon God's Orb was Jin himself.
'I need to focus more on escaping. And... I must secure the battleship's blueprints.'
Having the blueprints was essential to effectively deal with the mass-produced battleships. The blueprints were the most important means to identify the weaknesses of the battleships and the most critical resources required for production.
'Furthermore, Sondra Zipfel's right arm and spatial-time device must also have something in common with the blueprints. Since they all utilize the power of the Demon God's Orb, it should be helpful for research.'
Jin remembered that he was of the core of the Demon God's Orb, so a renewed tension swept through his body and mind, making him more alert to the fact that this was Zipfel's headquarters.
Murakan spat out roughly.
"Tsk! These crazy Zipfels, when did they make and park something like that? Approximately a hundred ships... hmm, I can shoot down one battleship with one breath, so I guess hundred breaths would do the trick."
Contrary to the content, there was a hint of bewilderment in his words. This time, even Murakan was properly shocked.
"Damn it."
Diphus spoke as if chewing on the words.
The moment he saw the fleet, he couldn't help but think this for the first time in his life.
'Is it possible for our clan to win in a war against Zipfel?'
He had never once doubted or suspected it. He believed that someday, Runcandel would surpass Zipfel and become the true victor of the world.
But as he faced the fleet that filled the sky, it seemed like such a thing would never happen.
Moreover, this fleet might not be all there was. There could be another fleet hidden somewhere else, not in the Sota Desert.
Born in Runcandel, he had finally seen the enemy's true identity today and his vision became distant.
Still, he quickly pushed aside his sense of frustration and regained his composure, thanks to one fact that had come to his mind.
'Even with a fleet like that, Zipfel can't conquer Runcandel. They could not attack my father's Runcandel.'
Jin knew this because he heard it directly from Chiron, but Diphus had been vaguely guessing it for some time. The fact that his father, Chiron Runcandel, does not have much time left.
'My father will disappear from our clan in the not-so-distant future... Before that happens, I must prepare for any contingencies, whatever it takes. My mother's favoritism toward Joshua must be for that reason, although it's hard to accept.'
Diphus's gaze fell on Jin. Jin, who stood still, reminded him of the day when he turned the garden of swords into a battlefield.
Magic Sword.
The legacy of the ancient Runcandel.
To contend with Zipfel's power, he must regain that power.
'Jin's strength and ability are desperately needed.'
Aside from the Magic Sword, he had just used Solderet's divine power to instantly destroy barriers and defensive magic and he also had the Plutonian Swordsmanship.
He needs to purify the clan as soon as possible.
Diphus made up his mind and turned around.
"Yes, just as you say, Jin... I guess the reason I risk my life for our clan is not just because of the barrier."
"Oh, Diphus, are you thinking of dying to destroy all those things right now?"
"If destroying those battleships and dismantling them fundamentally could deliver a significant blow, I would do it. Damaging the material wouldn't be meaningless either, but our first priority is to secure the blueprints. We need to either reproduce them or identify their weaknesses. That's what we should do moving forward."
After pushing away the frustration, Diphus's unique tenacity throbbed in his heart. Now he felt like he had to grit my teeth and fight against Zipfels, not his siblings.
This didn't mean giving up on patriarchy, but it seemed necessary to minimize unnecessary conflicts.
'We reproduce them…'
Jin mulled over that part of Diphus's recent statement.
He hadn't considered this idea before, although it wasn't entirely foreign to him. Jin wasn't in favor of living golems, but spatial-time devices and battleships were definitely valuable if they could be produced.
Since all of these were based on magical engineering and research, there had never been high expectations for Runcandel and Huphester to keep up with the Lutero Magic Federation.
But all of a sudden...
Jin remembered a conversation he had with his brother Tantel just before leaving Laprarosa.
-After our time stopped, we can never return to that world. This is a replica of Laprarosa, where we used to live, but it's actually a kind of afterlife.
-Then wouldn't the outside world be more interesting?
-What's the point in desiring something we can't have, brother? Also, you should know that none of the brethren we loved were there. However! I once heard this story from sister Battle god.
-What is it?
-5000 years have passed outside, so there might be magic spells or devices developed that could bring us out. So, if you don't mind. I wish you would find that out, brother.
The reason Jin recalled this conversation was simple.
-We didn't have the concept of mages like other races, hehe. Instead, those who could manipulate mana all became blacksmiths, like me.
The words spoken by 5th battle king Boras as he implanted a new 'molar' in Jin's mouth.
At that time, Jin had experienced the 'Memory Transfer Magic' through the molar, and it had been an incredible shock to him. The magical civilization established by the Plutonian tribe had some remarkable aspects, even when compared to the present.
Jin placed his hand on his chest.
A solid illuminating heart was felt beneath the infiltration suit. The illuminating heart was formed from the blood of battle god Vahn, but it could be made in a different form if not transplanted into a person.
It felt like an artist suddenly exposed to an intense wave of inspiration.
Thoughts like these were crossing Jin's mind.
'If we could create battleships powered by illuminating hearts using the technology of the Plutonian tribe...'
This might just be an extravagant dream, but he wouldn't until he tried.
'I need to meet my brethren again. I have to prepare for my third journey to Laprarosa and find a way to bring my brethren back to this world…'
Calling the real brethren back to the human world, not in the form of guardians of the black light call.
This had always been one of Jin's most important concerns since the first trip to Laprarosa. It was not only a means to repay his brethren but also a heartfelt desire to be with them once again.
'I don't know yet what the principle of the cube is, but it is an object that can also summon the resurrected dead. If I study and analyze it properly, it may be helpful in calling my brethren back.'
Even after seeing Zipfel's cutting-edge technology and fleet of over 100 battleships, Jin suddenly felt grateful that he could have such deep hopes.
"Let's follow Joshua again. Just as he had the means to bypass the barrier, it is highly likely that he also knew the exact location of the blueprint. He didn't expect us to break through the barrier like this, so the faster we get there, the more likely we will be able to catch him off guard."
Silently and swiftly, they began their run towards the White Night Tower.
The White Night Tower exuded a gentle glow, quite different from the fleet hovering behind.
A tower that truly lived up to its name of the white night.
Even after running for a while and getting quite close, the party somehow realized that there was no additional defensive magic or barriers near the Tower of the White Night.
Jin naturally assumed that there would be additional traps and magic around the tower.
Jin thought there would be some types that couldn't be easily disarmed even with the shadow sword, but even when they reached a distance of only a few hundred steps from the tower, nothing had been triggered yet.
"This can't be. Was the barrier we encountered earlier the only one?"
"It's like someone deliberately blocked all barriers and defensive magic spells. There's no sign of the mages who should be monitoring the defenses, and not a single guard in sight."
"Kid, ever since you broke the barrier, something has felt suspiciously lax. Hmmm."
".... Could it be a trap?"
Jin's eyes narrowed at Diphus' words, and at that moment.
Rumble, rumble, boom!
The ground beneath them began to shake and tremble, as if it were an earthquake. It wasn't caused by a trap triggered underfoot or the initiation of a barrier. The entire area around the White Night Tower was shaking.
And the group immediately realized the source of this tremor.
'Aura...!?'
This phenomenon occurred when an enormous scale battle took place, or when overwhelmingly powerful beings unleashed their energy.
The epicenter was none other than the White Night Tower.
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It wasn't just the aura that they felt, but also a vast and highly pure mana.
"It's a battle!"
The moment Diphus spoke, the vibrations intensified even further. And then, an explosion occurred around the middle levels of the White Night Tower, and light flashed.
It was a type of explosion that the group had seen numerous times in their lives.
The area around the Tower of the White Night was illuminated with brilliant colors that do not appear in battles between knights, or mages.
"This isn't a fight between Kinzelo and Zipfel."
There is nothing that can be called brotherly love, but the three Runcandel brothers who came here all mastered the same sword.
"It's Joshua. He and the Black Knights have started a battle with Zipfel's mages."
Even without seeing it directly, Jin and Diphus could accurately perceive the unique destructive aura of Runcandel's sword.
They also identified the owners of the mana.
'The Spectre Corps.'
Both of them had personally encountered Zipfel's most powerful magic unit. It was undoubtedly them that Joshua was fighting against.
"I don't know if he was discovered while infiltrating, or if it was a trap from the beginning and he fell into it. I think it's the latter."
In any case, it was an awkward situation for the group.
'Judging by the scale, there probably aren't too many other mages at the 2nd Magic tower, but it's been revealed that Joshua and the Black Knights are in the 2nd Magic tower, Drakka will soon send reinforcements.'
This was Zipfel's headquarters.
This means that there is no way there is a shortage of troops to the point where they can barely send support to the underground shipyard in the Sota Desert.
Moreover, the Second Magic tower was much more dangerous than the shipyard.
The shipyard was merely a bait thrown to test the abilities of external forces. But the Second Magic tower would undoubtedly contain the actual battleship's blueprints.
"However... It's a bit strange. The mana I sense is roughly two to three members of the Spectre Corps, or four at most. Why did they deploy such a small number?'
If Zipfel had already anticipated that there might be an intrusion at the Second Magic tower and had plans to set a trap to catch the biggest fish from external forces, they would have tried to kill them all even if it meant risking an all-out war.
This was the perfect opportunity.
There should have been not just two to four members of the Spectre Corps but a much larger force waiting in the White Night Tower ahead of them.
It wouldn't be strange at all for someone like Kelliark Zipfel himself or a figure of Octavia's caliber to appear in this situation.
But there are only a few members of the Spectre Corps.
'Could it not be a trap?'
It wasn't easy to quickly grasp the situation, but it was a moment that required a decision.
'If it's a clear trap, we should flee even if it means giving up on the blueprints. In that case, Zipfel wouldn't have left any blueprints at the Second Magic tower. Moreover, even with me, Murakan, and elder brother Diphus, we can't escape a full-force of Zipfel.'
But what if it wasn't a trap?
The reason why only a few people are guarding the White Night tower is the result of several twisted causal relationships that are difficult to immediately take into account. What if it was just Zipfel's carelessness and mistake?
What if Joshua had already secured the blueprints, and a battle broke out during his escape?
Ever since they arrived in the Sota Desert, Jin had always had a headache, but this time, it felt like his head was about to explode.
How many unexpected variables they had encountered so far and how many unforeseen situations lay ahead were nearly impossible to gauge.
But one thing was certain.
'If we don't act today, we won't have another chance to obtain Zipfel's battleship blueprints.'
With the fact that Runcandels not only attacked the shipyard but also the Second Magic tower, Zipfel would undoubtedly strengthen security regardless of the outcome of this incident.
This wasn't just any clan; it was the most powerful one in the world. This was not a clan that would make the same mistake.
Jin quickly came to a conclusion.
"...It doesn't seem to be a trap, second eldest brother. If they had lured us in from the beginning, they would have had more troops."
"That's true. Ugh, this is so frustrating. If it's not a trap, why is that idiot Joshua getting caught and causing us so much trouble?"
Right then!
The Second Magic tower's midsection exploded again, and debris rained down. The battle continued to intensify.
"This is the moment to take risks."
Jin took a deep breath and continued talking.
"Even if it's not a trap, reinforcements will arrive shortly, so it would be a reasonable decision to retreat. But we can't rule out the possibility that Joshua has secured the blueprints."
Diphus nodded.
"I understand what you mean."
"If you want to retreat now, you can, elder brother."
The youngest, what are you talking about? The decision to kill Joshua in the first place was a risk. Do you really think I'm going to leave now?"
"I just wanted to mention it just in case."
"Moreover, this might be an opportunity. If he has the blueprints, we can just kill him after we escape and take the blueprints. Joshua will undoubtedly be injured in the battle with the Spectre corps, making it easier to achieve both objectives. Plus, if we don't act today, we'll never get the blueprints, that's for sure."
Diphus had already been thinking the same as Jin. The way things were unfolding was undeniably the best course of action.
Had they known for certain that the blueprints were not in the Second Magic tower vault, neither of them would have made this decision.
"Let's go, Jin, Lord Murakan. Let's save him and kill him ourselves before Zipfel's reinforcements arrive."
Of course, the issue they needed to be aware of was that Zipfel's reinforcements were not the only ones present.
'Kinzelo hasn't shown much presence since the shipyard terror.'
Either they are moving slowly because they are blocked by the barrier on the other side, not the area that Jin released, or they are still looking for more opportunities even though the situation has progressed to this point.
Jin looked back for a moment. Far in the distance, the Sota Desert was now a battleground between Kinzelo and Zipfel not only underground but also on the surface.
'It seems they might be biding their time. However, if Kinzelo hasn't achieved their goal yet, the terrorist group members should have retreated by now.'
The three of them quickly arrived at the entrance to the tower.
The midsection of the tower, where Joshua and his group and the Spectre corps were fighting, was littered with debris and piles of stones, but there were no signs of other mages or guards.
As they entered, a vast interior space unfolded before them. Whether it was soundproofed by magic or for some other reason, the sounds and vibrations of battle were surprisingly muted inside, indicating the tower's impressive construction.
"There's not a single bug here. Does this mean they've almost given up?"
Murakan chuckled and said. Even Jin and Diphus, who saw it in person, couldn't help but find it strange.
It is impossible to guess that the reason there is no one in the Magic Tower is simply due to Sandra Zipfel's whims and madness.
In the center, there was a massive spiral staircase with an elevator at its core, but the elevator was not operational.
They hurried up the stairs.
The tower was much taller than it appeared from the outside. Even when they sprinted, it felt like Joshua and the Spectre corps on the middle floor were not getting any closer quickly.
This reflected the urgency that Jin and Diphus felt because they feared the blueprints might be lost during the ongoing battle.
Fortunately, the group soon felt the vibrations of battle again, signaling that they had reached the middle floor.
They opened the imposing iron door that was tightly closed.
Chrrrr!
The Spectre corps was indeed the Spectre corps. Even in the midst of a fierce battle, they immediately fired a mana beam towards Jin as soon as the door opened.
Crack!
The beam was deflected by Diphus, with the blade of his great sword Volgar.
The Spectres didn't panic and reorganized their formation as more enemies arrived.
Jin and Diphus couldn't help but gnash their teeth as they assessed the situation.
'Damn it, there are four of them.'
They had expected between two to four, but of course, it had to be four. Joshua and Jane had been fighting these four Spectres until Jin and his group arrived.
Jin and his group approached Joshua. He was breathing a little hard, but was not seriously injured. However, the problem was with the Black Knight, Jane.
Jane had minor to moderate injuries, with bleeding from small and large wounds scattered all over her body. There were even some deep wounds that could potentially be fatal.
The Black Knight might have a fighting chance in a 2v2 scenario, but facing the four Spectres meant she had to put her life on the line.
What's more, they were on Zipfel's territory inside the Magic tower, and it was entirely possible that the Spectres could use the Magic tower's special devices or energies to enhance their magic beyond its normal capabilities.
It was evident that Jane's injuries, of course, were a result of her protecting Joshua.
It was only natural for a Black Knight to protect the next patriarch of the clan, but isn't the Joshua present here merely a clone?
'Does the Black Knight not realize that Joshua is a clone? Damn it. The clan's best sword is being sacrificed to protect a mere clone.'
Jin's blood was boiling, and he wanted to cut Joshua's throat right then and there, but not the clone's throat, but the original's. However, Jin didn't overlook one crucial fact in the midst of all this.
'Joshua hasn't obtained the blueprints yet. No matter how cowardly he is, Joshua's evaluation isn't entirely wrong. If he had acquired the blueprints, he would have told the black knight to escape with the blueprints, saying he would stop the enemy somehow.'
Although hidden behind a mask, Joshua would undoubtedly have had a shocked and happy expression.
The expression stemmed from the fact that they had successfully monopolized information about the 2nd Magic tower and had arrived faster than expected, giving them a chance to turn the tide.
"4th and 12th flagbearers."
"Hey, you don't greet me again? Can't you see me? Huh? Are you blind?"
"..... And Lord Murakan. I will explain the situation later…."
"There is no need for that, 2nd flagbearer."
Jin cut off Joshua's words and drew his sword.
"Instead, tell me the location of the blueprints immediately. Let me tell you in advance that if you refuse to cooperate, you may be held liable for obstructing mission and immediately executed. You knew very well that I don't make empty threats."
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The spectres couldn't hear due to the distance, but the Black Knight Jane heard Jin's voice clearly.
"12th Flagbearer, you are making inappropriate remarks," Jane said.
"Black Knight, please refrain from intervening. I don't wish to harm even the Black Helmet who have dedicated themselves to the clan."
Jane's eyes widened under the mask.
Since becoming a Black Knight with Mon a year ago, no one in the clan had spoken to her like this. However, this wasn't a situation to rashly argue back with etiquette and laws.
There was no justification, and there were four spectres attacking Jin in front of them.
'They know that 2nd Flagbearer and we were hiding information from the beginning. Moreover, this is not a bluff or intimidation. If we don't disclose the location of the vault, he genuinely intends to kill the 2nd Flagbearer.'
The Jin that Jane had personally observed was truly an unwavering individual. He never spoke empty words, as if he had just revealed.
-It's a concern that we haven't shared information about the 2nd Magic Tower with 4th and 12th Flagbearers from the beginning, but it's no use worrying about it.
She remembered Mon's words. They did not say anything more to Joshua at that time, but in fact, both Mon and Jane were worried about this aspect of Jin.
'Besides, what about the 4th Flagbearer? If we are talking about a grudge against the 2nd Flagbearer, he has a much deeper grudge. It could be really dangerous if I provoke them. Mon... You must come.'
Even though Runcandels had arrived for support, Joshua and Jane felt more pressure than when they were being pushed back by the spectres until just now.
"Obstructing the Mission?"
Jin's eyes became even stern at Joshua's words.
"Your arms are still attached to your body because the enemies are right in front of us. But if you give another meaningless answer, they will be severed."
For Diphus, the sight of Joshua being pushed to such an extent was something he had only imagined thousands of times, except when Luna was running wild during their childhood.
'It's been a long time since Joshua was in this state. It might not be a bad thing to kill him now, but it's better to observe Jin's judgment.'
The attack from the Spectre Corps began again. Diphus, Jane, and Murakan defended against the spells pouring down on them. However, Murakan refrained from using his shadow force, mindful of Jin's words to hide his strength as much as possible.
That's why the Spectre Corps suspected Murakan might be one of the Black Knights of Runcandel.
Amidst the noise of the battle, Jin and Joshua's eyes met each other.
"...It's the 17th floor."
Eventually, Joshua answered, taking out a piece of paper from his pocket and holding it out. The paper displayed the detailed location of the vault and the path.
"I guess this isn't everything, 2nd Flagbearer."
"What are you talking about?"
"A means to bypass the barrier. I want that too."
"There's no such thing."
"I thought you had a good head, but you don't understand what I'm saying."
Shak! Clang!
Jin swung his sword without hesitation, and Joshua parried the strike, taking a step back.
The Runcandels and the spectres who had just started the battle also looked towards Jin and Joshua.
"Jin, do you understand what you're doing right now?"
"As I just said, I am holding you accountable for obstructing the mission. 2nd Flagbearer, you should have informed me and 4th flagbearer about the information of 2nd Magic Tower when Kinzelo started the terror attack and the situation changed dramatically."
Unlike Joshua, who was so angry that he spoke in a low voice, Jin had a calm voice.
"...I don't know what you're trusting in, but you should know. If you attack me now, you'll lose a lot that you can't even compare with me."
"That's something we'll only know when the situation ends."
"Unlike me, you don't have another chance."
At those words, Jin chuckled and burst into laughter.
"I'm well aware of that. I only have one life unlike you, the clone of the 2nd Flagbearer. So, isn't your role clear?"
Hand over everything to me and die for the clan.
Jin continued talking and swung his sword again. It seemed like they were just locked in a struggle of strength, but the highly concentrated aura entwined in their swords was ready to explode at any moment.
"Either use the volcano like you did back then or use any other means. Buy time by somehow attracting the enemy's attention. I will secure the blueprints and take them to the Garden of swords."
Swish!
Joshua's aura was pushed back, and an explosion erupted from Bradamante.
Joshua couldn't fully use his power because he had just engaged in a fierce battle with the Spectre Corps. He took a step back as Jin's next strike came and quickly adjusted his stance.
It was a peculiar battle.
The battlefield was divided into two, Runcandel and Zipfel were fighting each other in front. Runcandel was fighting Runcandel in the rear.
"You...!"
"Did you focus on your training a bit? The 2nd flagbearer was definitely stronger than me three years ago at the Bluebird Archipelago. Even considering that you were fighting the Spectre Corps, your swordsmanship lacks depth. More reinforcements will arrive soon, which means we're running out of time. Make a decision quickly, 2nd Flagbearer."
The reason Joshua's sword was dull wasn't just due to fatigue. It was because of distress.
It wasn't just Jin who had been struggling with variables in the Sota Desert. Joshua, too, was torn between the ongoing variables and unknowns, both physically and mentally.
'Dammit, not only did I run into the Spectre Corps right after entering the Tower, but now it's come to this...!'
The Prophet's key had undone the magic tower's barrier, but they hadn't even made it to the vault yet.
Therefore, Joshua had also been contemplating. He considered whether it might be better to buy some time and entrust the rear to Jane.
As Jin had said, there was no time.
And if Jin didn't back down and they continued the fight, Runcandel was likely to end up losing its flagbearers and black knights without any gain.
'Moreover, if Jin is captured or killed here, my prophecy will become invalid. I doubt it will happen, but this could be another piece of the prophecy or a turning point.'
Blood flowed from my clenched molars.
Each form and method will be different. Also, it cannot be said that all hearts are right or good.
Naturally, all the flagbearers prioritized and loved the clan above all else. Joshua was the flagbearer who had an obsession with Runcandel above all else.
He was always the person who made choices for Runkandel.
He was always the person who made choices for Runkandel.
'I should... listen to the youngest's words.'
From the moment his youngest brother spoke, he should have responded without ever raising his sword against Jin.
It was just that his judgment was momentarily clouded as he felt an emotion that had been severely damaged for a long time being broken down again by the people he most wanted to resemble and reach.
Pride.
Once again, Joshua had resolved to put aside that emotion for the sake of the clan.
Swish!
Joshua retrieved the key from his pouch and threw it to Jin.
"It's the vault key. Thanks to that, I was able to ignore the barrier."
"I am curious. Where did you obtain it?"
"I don't think it's necessary to tell you the details. But don't doubt whether that item is genuine. In fact, you can read the mana in it."
The vault key was a type of artifact. The flow of mana within the key had many similarities with the external barrier.
Moreover, to imbue such complex mana within a key of this size, only Zipfel could accomplish it.
"You had something like this, but you were only planning to use us as bait?"
"I believed that you and Diphus could escape and return while I obtained the blueprints. After all, the clan's guardian deity is also with you guys."
"Ha."
Jin sighed.
"You made a reasonable choice in the end, but there's one thing I need to say. If this mission fails, it will be because of your greed. You risked the lives of the real Flagbearers and Black Knights for the sake of a clone?"
"Call it greed if you want. But one thing, if I didn't love the clan, I wouldn't have given you the key in the first place."
Joshua said as he turned around. He believed that Jin wouldn't stab him in the back, considering they had just been pointing their swords at each other.
He also acted based on his faith that Jin would carry out the mission for the sake of the clan, rather than taking revenge on his own clone.
"Get to the vault immediately. You may have already expected it, but the fact that only the Spectre Corps are left here is not a trap. I don't know the exact reason, but I suppose it's because they were preparing for Kinzelo. So there should definitely be blueprints in the vault."
The aura around Joshua's sword became brighter. He had made up his mind, and now that his worries have disappeared, he has regained his original battle prowess.
"...Once you secure the blueprints, give us the signal. I will escape with the Black Knights then."
"Understood."
Jane glanced at the atmosphere between the two of them and felt relieved.
'I couldn't hear the exact conversation,but judging from the flow, it seems like the 2nd flagbearer has decided to buy time, and the 12th flagbearer aims to obtain the blueprints.'
Jane felt relieved that Runcandel's flagbearers were no longer killing each other in this enemy territory.
Jane and Joshua weren't just being pushed around by the Spectre Corps. Even in an outnumbered situation, they depleted a considerable amount of Spectres' stamina, so Murakan and Diphus were able to inflict damage on the Spectres with relative ease.
'Now, all that's left is to hold on somehow. So that the 12th flagbearer can complete the mission! It would be perfect if the 12th flagbearer can leave behind the 4th flagbearer or the guardian deity. But even if they all go, the fight against the Spectres will be much easier than before…'
Jane was deep in thought when she heard a sudden thudding noise. The heavy thumping came from outside the steel door where they were standing.
It sounded as if some gigantic creature was walking towards them. The battle stopped for a moment as if it had been promised by the sound, and everyone's eyes were focused on the gate.
Moments later, the source of the sound appeared.
It was a large man dressed in a perfectly tailored suit. Huge, strong muscles that cannot be covered by clothes and that do not look like human flesh at all.
It was Hedo, Zipfel's second-class butler and Sandra's exclusive butler.
In his gloved hands, he held the severed head of another man, and blood dripped from it.
"There are a few remaining members of the Spectre corps who are not very foolish."
Tuk.
He casually dropped the man's head to the ground, and took out a cigarette.
495
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Chiiik.
The sound of Hedo striking a match echoed.
The once tumultuous battlefield, where swords and magic clashed violently, instantly fell into silence.
Just like it had to be since this big, muscular man appeared.
Overwhelming pressure.
There was no clearer and simpler way to express the presence of a man named Hedo.
Just by standing there blocking the entrance, the entire hall felt like a room with no exit, and the atmosphere became as heavy as mud, making it difficult to breathe.
What the hell is that monster...? Whose head is that?
The Runcandels exchanged glances without saying a word.
Even though the members of the Spectre Corps knew exactly who he was, they too exchanged glances.
However, unlike the Runcandels, the glances of the Spectre Corps carried emotions.
Confusion, sorrow, shock.
And fear.
The source of these emotions was none other than the severed head that Hedo casually dropped, belonging to a member of the Spectre Corps, just like them.
'Hedo killed Rube!'
'Damn it, I came back to the Magic Tower because I was afraid something like this might happen...!'
Of course, the emotions of the Spectre Corps were not conveyed to the Runcandels who had just fought them fiercely.
Not only did their hoods cover their faces, but the Spectre corps were not a loose group that would show their emotions to the enemy, no matter how scary the situation was. Because they are the elite of the elite.
However, those who had been selected from the moment of birth and donned the gray robes of Spectre corps through dreadful efforts and training knew better than anyone else that there are sometimes untouchable monsters in the world, and on top of a mountain, there is another mountain and the sky.
Just like some of the superhumans they have encountered while living as spectres, and this man in front of them!
Sizzle!
The long cigar burned quickly like a fuse. The thickened ashes didn't flutter but fell in clumps. With just one puff of smoke, the entire cigar turned into ashes.
Huuuu!
Hedo then exhaled the smoke accumulated in his lungs, and the acrid smoke, which should rather be called poisonous smoke, covered his bulky upper body.
"Huh?"
It was Murakan who broke the silence.
He continued talking with an expression that seemed as tough and unyielding as possible, but did not seem like he had lost his composure and was impatient.
"What's with you, punk? You came without knocking. And now showing off your well-built body? Did you come from a physique competition? If you don't want to get beaten to a pulp, pretend you didn't see anything and go on your way."
While saying this, he subtly poked Jin's side and whispered:
'Kid, you better scram.'
Jin also felt it instinctively.
The four members of the Spectre Corps were formidable opponents, but with Runcandel's current strength, they could easily handle them.
However, that unidentified man was beyond their capabilities.
Even with Jin, Diphus, Joshua, Black Knight and Murakan, who regained half of his strength, it wasn't something they could handle.
He was definitely not a Genesis knight. Runcandels and Murakan, who had experienced the majesty of the Genesis Knight up close more than anyone else, were certain.
Even if he is not a Genesis knight, he is definitely somewhere near that level…..
A giant standing tall in such a lofty domain of martial artists.
'I've never heard of such an incredible being existing in Zipfel. Could it be Kinzelo?'
Not only Jin but also Joshua, Diphus, and the Black Knight were unaware of Hedo's true identity. There was no description of Hedo even in the confidential document on Zipfel's secret forces that could be accessed by the Black Knight and the top flagbearers.
Squelch!
Hedo crushed the head of the dead Spectre with his foot, bursting it open, and spoke. The Spectres did not even dare to open their mouths at the sight.
"No knocking, huh? I haven't thought about that problem after becoming the second-class butler of the Zipfel clan, Black Dragon. This is not Runcandel's territory, isn't it?"
So, he was the Black Dragon Murakan?
The moment Hedo said that, the members of the Spectre Corps realized that they were mistaken.
It wasn't that they didn't consider it at all, but they thought it was more likely that Murakan was the Black Knight since he was wearing a mask.
"Huh? The mask wasn't torn, right? How did you recognize me?"
"Everyone in the world knows that the Black Dragon prefers a somewhat vulgar tone. The person holding the greatsword is the 4th flagbearer, the person holding the black sword Kainer, painted to look like an ordinary piece of iron, is the 2nd flagbearer, and that person is Black Knight Jane. And the last one is the 12th flagbearer, Jin Runcandel."
It was only a matter of time before their identity was revealed, even if they had only battled the Spectres anyway, so it wasn't that surprising. The infiltration suit was also worn to minimize unnecessary exposure from the beginning.
However, all of the Runcandels could not help but be taken aback by the introduction of the second-class butler.
An individual of that caliber being merely the second-class butler is something that goes far beyond common sense.
Moreover, Zipfel's 'List of butlers' had already been made available to the public for a long time, without the need to view Runcandel's confidential intelligence documents.
Not only Zipfel but also Runcandel, the imperial family, and other prominent clans and factions did not usually keep the information about their butlers confidential.
Butlers handled not only the internal affairs of the clan but also various external duties like negotiations, welcoming guests, banquets, various events, and more.
The media tends to report such incidents, and the names of the butlers who handled the related work are often described.
'The publicly known second-class butler is Melvin Grauchy. Known as the best brain. But that monster is the second master?'
If Hedo's words were not false, he held that position for some reason, 'because he wanted to.' Everyone in the group thought so.
"Second-class butler? Hey, Mr. Physical beauty. Are you saying you're just a second-class butler?"
"Well... I'm also performing a few other duties. Among them, I have the role of the Keeper of this Tower."
"Keeper of the Tower?"
"Yes. It would be better to formally reintroduce myself. I am Hedo, the Keeper of the White Night Tower."
Hedo bowed by drawing his right arm to his abdominal, greeting them.
The Keeper of the White Night Tower.
By revealing another position, Hedo was subtly examining Jin.
'Jin Runcandel...'
Runcandel's 12th flagbearer, whom his young lady, Sandra Zipfel, had 'decided to love.'
He was generally indifferent to external affairs, but since before Sandra started making a fuss about love and marriage, he had occasionally shown a tiny bit of curiosity.
Who on earth is this person that so often causes such an uproar in the world? It was the first time a flagbearer of Runcandel had garnered such attention since Luna.
However, if it weren't for Sandra, Hedo wouldn't have had much interest in Jin at this moment.
"Could you take off the mask for a moment?"
"No."
"Although we belong to opposing clans, I have shown courtesy by revealing who I am. It doesn't seem like a difficult request to unveil your true identity."
"I am grateful that you revealed your alias and position. But it is impossible for a flagbearer of the Sword Clan to grant a request from Butler of Zipfel. Please reveal your true name and position. In that case, I will remove the mask."
"Too much boldness is sometimes called foolishness, 12th flagbearer. Have it your way."
Swoosh.
Hedo slowly drew the longsword tied to his waist as he spoke. It was twice the length and thickness of an ordinary longsword, but it wasn't as robust as a greatsword. Instead, it had a sleek and agile shape.
For a moment, Murakan showed a hesitant expression as he looked at the sword.
"However, you should understand that my mercy decreases in proportion to that."
Swish!
A sharp tearing sound, as if a needle were piercing the eardrum, covered the entire hall. Hedo took a step forward and swung the longsword. The group couldn't believe how a body as massive as his could move so quickly.
Moreover, the sword energy didn't travel in just one direction.
Though it swung from the center, the sword energy formed a giant fan shape that covered everything in front of Hedo.
A single strike, but hundreds of sword energies.
It was a state of 'Sword Wave' that was passed down like a legend by word of mouth among martial artists. The sword energy spread like waves, engulfing everything in its path—air, objects, and people.
The Runcandels raised their energy, erected shields, and used their best sword moves to withstand Hedo's onslaught.
Terrifying. Everyone who faced the sword felt the same way. Amidst the shock, the Runcandels couldn't help but have one question.
'If he attacks like this, won't the Spectre corps also be affected?'
Hedo's sword energy threatened not only the Runcandels but also seemed to pour more towards the Spectre corps. Although Jin and the others couldn't deduce the reason yet, one thing was certain.
Within Zipfel, Hedo had the power to trample even the Spectre corps at will.
'Is this Hedo have the authority surpassing even Octavia Zipfel? No, thinking that way might be a bit strange…'
For now, Jin sensed something odd about the Spectre corps's attitude.
'If this situation is Hedo reprimanding the Spectre corps as a superior for some reason, the Spectre corps should have at least sought forgiveness. But these guys seem to accept Hedo's attacks as if it's inevitable… Ugh!'
Crack!
Before he knew it, Hedo's longsword approached Jin and fell on Jin's forehead.
The sensation of just blocking the sword felt like his wrist was about to break.
Before Hedo could retrieve his sword, Murakan and Diphus attacked him with sword and fist, while Joshua and Jane attempted to flank him.
And at the moment when the attacks of the Runcandels were about to land.
Hedo's muscles expanded, and in the next moment, the group had to perceive their swords and fists piercing and striking not into human flesh, but into something indescribably solid, akin to a hard mineral.
The swords and fist were bounced off.
Although they attacked in haste, it was the two top flagbearers, the Black Knight's sword, and the fist of Murakan, who had regained his 50% strength.
Everyone was shocked, especially Murakan, whose eyes were wide open.
The other Runcandels couldn't divert their gaze from his shocking physique, Murakan was studying his unusually long sword as if something had struck him.
"Hey... that sword. Where did you get it?"
Murakan spoke in a low voice, looking puzzled.
Hedo chuckled, tilting his head once.
"What a peculiar question, Black Dragon. And by the way, I heard about your battle prowess from those who went to the Gaifa Archipelago, but it wasn't up to this level."
Inside the mask, Murakan's eyes, fixed on Hedo's long sword, were trembling.
"Oh, perhaps. If you're worried about revealing your true strength due to concerns about support from the main house, don't fret. You don't have to worry about the clan's reinforcements coming here."