506
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Chiiiiing-!
Zephyrin's axe-sword emitted a purple demonic energy.
At the same time, signal flares shot up from various locations in the desert and the Romin Forest. A variety of colored magical signals painted the sky in an instant, turning the battlefield into a festive spectacle.
"Enemy spotted! The enemy has been dete... Argh!"
The mage who shouted couldn't finish his sentence as he met his demise. The purple sword energy shot by Zephyrin cleaved his body in half.
Though the morning was breaking, the visibility remained hazy due to the sandstorm, and the mages waiting in the Romin Forest were extremely nervous and on guard.
They made a fatal mistake due to excessive tension.
Detonating signal flares without accurately identifying the enemy was clearly a fatal mistake.
"Assemble! Gather! They are planning to break through by force, block them!"
Zephyrin's sword energy ruthlessly ravaged the forest.
The mages spent the first few seconds desperately blocking the sword energy, but the commanders soon realized that something was amiss.
"What...!?"
"It's not a shadow force or an aura... that demonic energy, it's not Runcandel! It's a demon, Kinzelo!"
"How many?"
"Confirmed as one! Unknown identity, presumed to be female!"
"Damn it, the signal flares...! Ugh!"
Thunk!
Zephyrin closed the distance in an instant and cut off the head of the commander who was shouting.
"Haha, what can I do if everyone is so stupid?"
The eyes of other mages nearly popped out as they confirmed her identity.
"You are... Zephyrin!?"
"3rd-class researcher, Zephyrin...?"
-Sir Berakt, Ms. Zephyrin is someone we cannot punish.
-I know. I simply asked you because I wanted to know if you had any tricks up your sleeve, vice-leader. If the leader's recovery is further delayed, it will postpone our great cause.
-...In that case, I will personally meet and make a request. I will ask her to stay among Zipfel's ranks as a spy for a while. I think this is the maximum we can demand from Ms. Zephyrin.
After forcefully leveraging the leader's power in Black King Mountain hideout.
Zephyrin complied with Bishkel's request and became a third-class researcher at Zipfel, working as a spy.
Therefore, her appearance was an even greater shock to the mages in the Romin Forest.
"Yes, I am Zephyrin. Oh, come to think of it, the commander who just died had a persistent grudge against me, didn't he? Ugh, he wasn't supposed to die this easily!"
"What kind of betrayal is this!"
"Are you all too bewildered to understand the situation? I've been a spy from the beginning. You stupid people were just captivated by my looks."
"Aaargh!"
The mages were almost swept away like fallen leaves by Zephyrin's axe-sword that moved in all directions.
At least three or more mages died with each swing, but the number of mages gathering following the initial signal flare was well over a thousand.
A chain barrier casted, and attack spells rained down from all directions.
Meanwhile, the confusion among those watching the signal flares from the desert was intensifying.
'Signal flares were fired in the Romin Forest!'
'Did they find Runcandel?'
'What's this? A yellow signal is going off to indicate a mistake.'
'The same goes for the black signal that signifies internal betrayal.'
'What on earth is happening in the Romin Forest!'
From Drakka to the Sota Desert, through the Romin Forest, and up to the Federation's border, all the members of Zipfel in that area were too preoccupied deciphering the chaotic contents of the signal flares to focus.
Octavia still had to deal with Gurnil, so she had no room to spare. However, Drakka and the Spectre corps needed to make quick decisions.
'Was their escape towards the Kuta Forest initially just a diversion?'
'This could be a double bluff, or it might be another attack of Kinzelo.'
'But there are still no traces of their escape near the Kuta Forest.'
'Squad leader, decide!'
The squad leaders of the Spectre corps soon made their decisions.
"1st, 2nd, 3rd Squads head to the Romin Forest. The rest continue searching the Kuta Forest!"
1st, 2nd, 3rd Squads.
The dragons carried nearly twenty members of the Spectre corps and changed direction.
Now it was Jin's turn to make a choice.
'The entire Spectre corps won't come after us. Since the signal isn't clear, they can't completely give up the search in the direction of the Kuta Forest.'
Ha, ha.
Jane's heavy breathing quieted down after taking the painkiller.
"Kid, that crazy demon dragon sure knows how to attract attention. Let's move. Hey, Black Knight, can you hold out a bit? Can you go?"
"Yes, Lord Murakan. I can fight."
"What's the point of fighting with that body? Are you trying to show off? Get on my back. Hey kid, carry Yona again."
Surprisingly, Jane willingly climbed onto Murakan's back.
"...I am sorry for showing such an unsightly sight to the clan's guardian deity."
"Don't be so embarrassed. Even knights of ancient Runcandel, stronger than you, have thrown up and caused a ruckus on my back."
Which direction will they move in?
As forces converged on the right side where Zephyrin had broken through, it seemed like the obvious choice to choose the opposite direction. Everyone thought that way, but Jin was coming to a different conclusion.
"Let's wait for a moment. Then, we'll break through in the same direction as Zephyrin."
"Kid, what are you talking about? If that's the case, why did you tell Zephyrin to draw attention?"
"What did you say?"
"The Spectre corps is coming, so why do you want to wait?"
"Oho! Mr. Jin, is there something else on your mind?"
The group expressed their doubts.
"The goal of the Spectre corps coming to Romin Forest for support is not to subdue or kill Zephyrin. Their top priority of Spectres is to find us, whether the mages die or not."
The eyes of the group widened at his words.
"In other words, the Spectre corps will search the entire Romin Forest while avoiding battle with Zephyrin as much as possible. Fighting her would only hinder the search."
Jin's words were correct.
Even in the midst of urgency, the group couldn't help but admire him.
They couldn't comprehend how he could have such insights in such a short moment.
"Wow... it is so really crazy, so cool that I might faint."
"The moment troops are most concentrated on Zephyrin, we will follow her path. Then, we will quietly escape from the Romin Forest, dealing with some enemies that may follow. We need to refrain from using aura as much as possible in order not to be distinguished from Zephyrin."
The demonic energy, which was frantically cutting down the forest and the mages, was emphasizing Zephyrin's presence.
The moment the aura mixes in between, the group will be immediately exposed to the Spectres.
"I will give you a signal when I think it is the right time."
Hiding in the sandstorm, the group waited for Jin to open his mouth again.
Five minutes had passed since Jin spoke, just after Zephyrin stirred up a storm with her demonic energy.
"Let's go!"
The Runcandels charged towards the Romin Forest.
Mages chasing Zephyrin were visible from the beginning. They were too preoccupied with reading the situation and spreading information, so they didn't notice the swords of Runcandel falling on their necks.
Squeak, thud!
Just because they don't use aura doesn't mean the blade becomes dull. Runcandels gritted their teeth and ran, leaving behind the fallen mages' necks.
"Ugh!"
"Run, Runcandel, quickly!"
They were desperate.
The entire time the Runcandels were running, they prayed in their hearts that the forest would end quickly and that they would be able to get out safely. Fortunately, the mages didn't discover them, and even if they did, they were immediately killed.
Swish!
After running for who knows how long, the sound of the air being sliced sharply reached their ears. Dragons carrying the Spectre corps were flying in the air. They had just arrived over the Romin Forest.
As Jin anticipated, the Spectre corps refrained from engaging with Zephyrin and instead seemed focused on searching the area. The forest's shadows provided cover for Runcandels from their eyes.
"Ha, ha, ha!"
"Haa!"
Eventually, when the morning was fully bright, Runcandels managed to escape from the Romin Forest. Their bodies were covered in the sticky blood of mages, sweat, wood fragments, and dust, but nobody was dead or severely injured.
The mages in the forest were still pursuing Zephyrin towards the border.
Additionally, some members of the Spectre corps were now also tracking Zephyrin due to the unexpectedly severe damage she had caused in the forest.
Now, if they could just cross the central border of the Federation, the chances of escape would dramatically increase.
However,
It was inevitable that the group would be exposed to the Spectre corps before they could choose a new escape direction. Runcandels found themselves facing gray-robed figures, their staff pointed at them.
'… About ten of them.'
Jin calmly counted their heads.
Ten members of the Spectre corps.
The ones who had chased Zephyrin wouldn't be coming back. Instead, the Spectre corps stationed in the Kuta Forest would rush to support when the battle began.
Boom!
Their leader fired a signal flare, signaling that the target had been found.
"Lord Murakan," Jane spoke up.
"Please let me down."
The first time she obediently climbed on Murakan's back was no different. She wanted to preserve every bit of remaining stamina. And the reason Jin tried to save Jane at all costs was the same.
The sacrifice of the black helmet was necessary in moments like this.
Although they didn't say anything to each other, both Jin and Jane had prepared themselves since the moment they decided for Zephyrin to attract attention.
"Dame Jane."
"You don't need to say it, 12th flagbearer."
"...I see."
"Your choice to bring me here was the right one. Sandra Zipfel, even though we are enemies, I am grateful for your help. The painkillers are proving to be somewhat helpful."
Jane drew her sword and stepped to the front of the group.
There was no room for apologies.
"I won't forget today's sacrifice, Black Knight."
"A death dedicated to the clan is more valuable than life. Therefore, this is not a sacrifice but the greatest glory."
The trembling that felt like she would break any moment while being carried on Murakan's back soon subsided.
Jane's sword was aimed calmly and firmly at the enemies.
"I may not be able to prolong this for much longer. Go quickly. You must survive to witness my glory."
Although there were other unspoken words inside her, Jane didn't say them out loud.
'12th flagbearer, in truth, I want to serve you if the opportunity arises. Not the 2nd flagbearer…'
After looking at Jane's back for a moment, Jin shouted, calling out to his eldest brother.
The 2nd flagbearer of the clan, Joshua Runcandel!
And then he continued.
"Don't just stand there. Assist Dame Jane in her final battle. That may be the only way to wash away a bit of your dishonor and betrayal."
507
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It was a development that no one had anticipated.
However, Jin had planned to use Joshua like this from the beginning of the escape.
It is a crisis that can only be overcome if someone makes a sacrifice. And of course, the only one in the group who didn't mind dying was Joshua, the clone.
Jin also wanted to save Jane with a desperate heart.
But Jane was already in a state where she couldn't be revived unless there was a legacy of Numerus, and realistically, she couldn't hold her ground against ten Spectres, along with additional reinforcements.
A brief silence passed.
"I was thinking of doing that even if you didn't say it."
Soon Joshua answered in a calm voice, and even Jane looked back at him in shock.
The person who was most shocked was Diphus.
"What? Joshua, are you serious?"
"2nd flagbearer, you won't survive if you join me."
"I'm glad I can risk my life now rather than fighting the tower keeper."
"Joshua, what are you thinking?"
"It's straightforward, Diphus. I'm making a choice for the clan. If you have a complaint, step up instead of me."
"I am not complaining. Instead, the thorn on my side is disappearing on its own. However, I know better than anyone else that you are not the type of person who would give up your life so easily."
It wasn't the time for a long conversation.
"See you later, 2nd flagbearer."
Swish!
Joshua threw the black sword, Kainer, which he had at his waist, to Jin. Even if the clone died, there was no need to lose the sword.
"I will return and get it."
"I was also thinking that the sword is precious, but what else can you fight with..."
The moment Jin spoke until there.
Suddenly, Joshua's pupils turned black, even the whites of his eyes.
-If it's still not enough, I should consider using that power…
The thought Joshua had when he fought with Hedo.
The power that he hesitated to use in the battle with Hedo was now coloring his eyes a dull black light and forming a new sword in his hand.
'Joshua, what is this?'
'What is this? It seems similar to the power the bushes use?'
'... Murky energy?'
What Joshua was enveloped in seemed similar to the murky energy used by Amela in the Gaifa Archipelago.
However, it felt much thicker and refined than that. Joshua's murky energy had a color almost identical to the shadow force.
'I anticipated to some extent that the Prophet is deeply related to chaos... Is it possible to use the murky energy to strengthen others in this way?'
The staffs of the Spectres fired pure white mana beams at the same time. It was an attack concentrated on Joshua, who had just started to move.
And the group was once again shocked by the sight of him easily blocking or deflecting all the mana rays with a protective shield.
'This can't be his skills. Is this also the ability of the Prophet?'
Diphus narrowed his eyes.
Joshua is definitely not at the level of being called a very strong martial artist or superman.
Moreover, he had suffered internal injuries from the fierce battle just now, so it was impossible for him to effortlessly deflect the attacks of ten Spectres.
[I cannot maintain this state for long. I'll try to hold them back as much as possible, so make sure to take the stolen items back to the clan.]
Jin and Murakan, who knew that he was a clone, were composed, but Diphus felt a strange sensation.
He had always wished for Joshua's death, but he had never thought that it would end like this.
Of course, he was a bit taken aback, but there was nothing sentimental about it, such as realizing that his feelings for Joshua were in fact love and hate, not hate.
"Well, I don't know what you're thinking, but we better leave before you change your mind. Elder brother, make sure to decorate your last moment gracefully. After all, you are in front of the enemies. There probably won't be a need for that, but if by any chance you come back alive, I'll personally kill you at that time."
Before leaving, Jin and Diphus gave a sword salute to Jane.
She was swinging her sword towards the newly emitted mana rays aimed at the group.
Swish!
She made an unbelievably fast and accurate vertical slash and it was hard to believe that she was on the brink of death a few moments ago.
Jane was burning the last of her will. Like a fire that reveals a greater light just before it goes out, her sword surpasses the level she reached throughout her life, even if only for a moment. She went one step further. With her value of duty on her back.
Then, a group of three Spectres approached to block her, and the rest of the group seemed to be trying to attack Jin and his group, who were already moving away.
[Aren't you underestimating the close combat against Runcandels too much?]
Crash!
Two of the staffs falling toward Jane were blocked by Joshua's sword. The remaining one, transformed into a spear, was repelled by Jane.
[Moreover, she's a Black Knight.]
Squeak!
One of the three people who rushed in did not hear Joshua's words.
Because Jane, who had lunged backward, cut his throat with a single slash. She got stabbed in the shoulder because she too had dug in too hard, but she couldn't let that dull her final resolve.
As the head of one Spectre fell, the Spectre corps showed a momentary pause.
No matter how formidable the sword of a black helmet was, they never expected that a nearly lifeless body could achieve such results with a simple sword.
The Spectre corps had expected that Jane would not be able to inflict any significant injuries, let alone decapitate those who attacked.
'What is this? Did she kill him with a single slash?'
'Seriously, just standing there is a miracle in itself!'
'These Runcandels are particularly unpleasant when this incomprehensible power occasionally manifests…'
Jane forcibly put her broken shoulder back in place while looking at the Spectres who were readjusting themselves.
"You cannot pass... Zipfels."
While her entire body was torn and shattered, only her eyes emitted a faint, piercing light.
The remaining nine Spectres felt a chill running down their spines as they met her gaze. Despite losing one person, they still held an overwhelming advantage, yet the indescribable eerie feeling made it difficult to express the discomfort.
Some stay, and some pursue the fleeing ones.
Given the difference in power, they could choose such options easily. However, the Spectres were engulfed by a strong intuition that leaving only four or five would result in irreparable damage.
'Not only the Black Knight, but also Joshua Runcandel's power has suddenly risen.'
'We can't afford to lose members so fruitlessly. The 4th, 5th, 6th squads and the main force will arrive soon, so let's decisively finish those two and resume tracking!'
'Sandra Zipfel probably still engrossed in her crazy love play. She will not provide any significant help without Hedo.'
The Spectres reorganized their formation. Those who were about to chase Jin and his group started opening up their mana and drawing magic circles.
"It seems you're determined for a proper fight, Spectres."
[It is an honor to join you in your final battle, Dame Jane.]
Joshua stood shoulder to shoulder with her.
"...Second Flagbearer. It seems the rumors were true."
Rather than expressing gratitude for his participation, Jane first brought up a different matter.
[Rumor?]
"That your body is not just one."
She said this in a dry tone, but within it, Joshua keenly felt deep disdain. It was the first time he saw the Black Knight so openly revealing emotions.
[...Is that wrong?]
Jane didn't answer.
[Regardless of how you view it, I am realizing the highest value of the clan in my own way.]
Although she harbored the desire to serve Jin, Jane wasn't dissatisfied when she followed Joshua under Rosa's orders. It was because she believed it was a way to show loyalty to the clan.
However, she was still human, so she could not help but feel disappointed right before her death.
"Struggle, is that what you're talking about?"
[Yes.]
The sky was turning red as the Spectres spread their mana.
What was unfolding in the sky was the Spectre corps' exclusive large-scale magic, 'Red Abyss,' which Jin had encountered the first time he faced them.
Hoo...
Jane took a long breath.
"It's so lamentable... You should be ashamed, Joshua Runcandel."
Like blood-red rain, red mana particles spread from the sky and turned into swords and chains and rained down on the two people.
Swoosh, clang!
Jane's first move in response to the red abyss was to block the red blade falling on Joshua's back.
Thud!
Witnessing the scene, Joshua felt something familiar and terrifying surge within his chest.
Self-loathing.
A monster that had taken root in the deepest part of his soul one day and had never retreated from there, not even once in a lifetime.
[What... How dare you speak so lightly without knowing anything, Dame!]
Joshua shouted, cutting through the chains falling towards Jane's head. His eyes, now stained black, were shaking.
"What's somewhat fortunate is..."
[Despite the harsh contempt shown by my father, sister, brothers, and sometimes even my mother, and the countless disappointments I faced—I never gave up even once in the face of such bitterness. I was more desperate than anyone else!]
"I dedicated my last glory for the real one, not the fake."
The two swords were relentlessly moving.
They were blocking the red blades and chains falling into each other's corner, and if one didn't look closely, they could almost mistake them for swinging their swords to cut each other down.
[Why won't no one acknowledge me...! No one, no one! No one...!]
Shouts that were almost like screams continued to scatter in the air with the deafening sound of the two swords and the mana of nine people colliding.
How much time had passed?
In the end, Jane's flame went out.
Thud!
The blade of the Red Abyss pierced through her back.
Until just a moment ago, she had swung her sword fiercely like a vengeful ghost, but suddenly, her movements stopped.
Now her body has reached a stage where it cannot be moved by will or anything transcendental that a human can possess on its own.
[Damn it, Jane!]
Joshua instinctively extended his sword, but protecting her was impossible, and even if he succeeded, it would be meaningless.
In the moment when her devastated body was finished off by the chains and blades.
Jane looked directly at Joshua one last time.
I hope my current state serves as a lesson to you.
And thus, Runcandel's Black Knight, Jane, met her end.
The remaining clone continued the battle alone, amidst her corpse being scattered within the Red Abyss.
508
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There were two red skies on the battlefield, and a red abyss was spreading on Zephyrin's side as well.
The Spectre corps that chased Zephyrin had exerted all their efforts to subdue her, but so far, they hadn't dealt any meaningful blows.
'A monster like this was a spy and working as a 3rd-class researcher not too long ago...!'
'The signal flare went off a while ago, but how is the situation unfolding?'
'The battle on that side is dragging on, and that black power seems to be shadow force... Is the 12th flagbearer directly engaging in combat?'
'We urgently need support from 4th, 5th, 6th squads and reinforcements from the main base. Something doesn't feel right.'
Zephyrin was trying to avoid revealing her true identity to Zipfels and the leader's physical condition was still not optimal, so she was not fully using her power.
Nevertheless, Zephyrin successfully kept the Spectre corps in check. She was so skilled that those who were not familiar with axe swordsmanship, which she used clumsily, like at the Black King Mountain Hideout, might mistake her for Luna.
However, just like the Spectre corps, Zephyrin was also confused.
'What's this? That's not shadow force; it's the power of chaos. Moreover, it's not the chaos of Yona Runcandel... What's going on with Sir Jin?'
The sword energy Joshua was firing from the end of the Romin Forest almost looked like shadow force. However, Zephyrin quickly recognized that it was not.
'I don't think the 4th flagbearer or the Black Knights are using the power of chaos. It's probably the 2nd flagbearer... It's unpleasant because it strangely resembles that woman's power.'
That wasn't the only thing that was unpleasant.
Zephyrin was aware that the situation in the rear, in the Sota Desert, was not looking favorable.
The thunderstorm created by the battleship Grenil was gradually contracting. Meanwhile, the dragons of Zipfel and Kozec seemed to be finding more stability.
'Even if we go this far, if I can't take items from Sir Jin, it feels unfair, and I won't be able to sleep. Come to think of it, it seems difficult for those idiots from the Kaligo family to steal those items from Sir Jin with their stupid brains. What should I do...'
Once again, Zephyrin's gaze turned towards Joshua.
And she was able to discover something strange about the situation. Other than the power of chaos released by Joshua, there was no sign of shadow force, aura, or the blue flame, etc.
What that meant was clear.
'Is the 2nd flagbearer fighting alone...?'
There are two reasons that immediately came to Zipfel's mind.
First, the 2nd flagbearer could confront the Spectre corps alone by using the power of chaos, and then retreat, rejoining the Runcandels who had escaped.
Second, sacrifice himself.
Whether it was the former or the latter, the crucial point was that Joshua was fighting alone.
'It might become a backup plan.'
She can rescue Joshua, and hold him as a hostage for future negotiations with the Runcandels for the items. Zephyrin soon reached such a conclusion.
Swish!
Zephyrin parried the blade of the red abyss approaching her back, and pulled out a signal flare from her pocket.
***
"Ugh, vice-leader! Help! Help! Is help too far away?"
The 2nd princess of the great Kaligo family, Ainas Kaligo, had been yelling like that since her grand raid from the battleship Grenil.
Sweat ran down Bishkel's forehead as he looked at Ainas.
It wasn't because of the appearance of Ainas, whom he recognized as the female demon version of Bubare. Even though she looked very out of shape, she was surprisingly doing well in the battle.
Although a considerable amount of time had passed since the battle began, the fact that she was still alive was proof enough of Ainas's ability.
Of course, Bishkel didn't highly evaluate Ainas's battle prowess or skills.
'...It's almost like the survival power of a cockroach. She even resembles that disgusting fatty in that aspect.'
Ainas yelling for help wasn't because she was engaged in a convincing exchange of blows with the enemies.
It was due to the transcendent regeneration unique to the highest level demons.
Even if her body exploded, her head was severed, or her limbs were dismembered, she instantly recovered, and was once again getting on the nerves of Bishkel and her enemies.
"I don't know if there's everything like that, Sir Hedo."
Octavia shrugged her shoulders. While Bishkel associated Ainas with Bubare, Octavia was seeing Sandra from her.
"...I also wonder how different they are from the demons I fought with earlier."
Octavia didn't doubt Hedo's lie at all. Hedo felt a little sorry for her.
"That demon may look amusing, but honestly... The battleship Grenil is quite shocking."
There was only one battleship that didn't seem to be in perfect condition, and one demon that only had good regenerative abilities.
Octavia was barely coming to terms with the fact that these things had been holding their own against the main force she had led so far.
"That battleship had already faced the Sword Emperor's sword. Seeing the majesty of their battleship, it seems like his sword hasn't dulled. Still, it looks like they're gradually being pushed back now."
"If the Sword Emperor hadn't damaged the armor and shield, it would have been tight even now. Even if it weren't for the demon who injured the Sword Emperor, we might have gained the upper hand sooner."
As she spoke, Grenil was in a much worse state than before. Various parts were destroyed, and about half of the spikes forming the thunderstorm had lost their functionality. The cannons, excluding the main cannon, were now at a level where they wouldn't pose a threat.
"Anyway, we need to make a decision soon. The situation near the Romin Forest doesn't look promising."
Octavia said, raising her mana. The dragons were also ready to fire their breaths, and the mages were preparing large-scale defensive spells again.
'It's almost the limit now. If we're exposed to attacks of this level a few more times, escape will be impossible.'
It wasn't a situation where the leader could restore Grenil, as he did during the Sword Emperor Castle terror attack.
'Ms. Zephyrin, hurry...!'
The moment Bishkel clenched his teeth, searching for her.
In the distance, a signal flare exploded in the sky above the Romin Forest. It was the signal flare set off by Zephyrin.
The Zipfels immediately recognized that it wasn't their signal.
'Alright!'
Ainas also saw the signal and raised her greatsword high.
"Oh, it's grand duke Zephyrin's signal! I don't know what's going on, but the grand duke! After all, he is our Grand Duke! Let's get out of here, vice-leader!"
Chiiiiig-!
The sharp metallic rotating sound emanated from Grenil's engine. It was the power they had been saving from being beaten up until now.
Those who had operated Kozec knew what the sound meant. It was the sound just before starting full-speed flight.
"Escape? After being beaten up like this, there's still such power left!"
Octavia narrowed her eyes and shouted.
Everyone knows that Grenil's goal was to buy time in the first place. However, Zipfels believed that they could completely defeat Grenil unless the leader appeared, as was the case during the Sword Emperor Castle terror attack.
"Hey, hey! vice-leader! I'm still here!"
Bishkel had no intention of rescuing Ainas Kaligo and leaving.
Not just because he disliked her, but it was dangerous to waste time boarding and revealing weaknesses.
'There is nothing we can do if you die. If you become a prisoner, we will rescue you through negotiation, Ainas Kaligo. But I hope you survive on your own. So that I don't have to waste negotiation cards needlessly.'
Ainas ran frantically towards Grenil, which had started turning its hull.
However, she was unable to get closer to Grenil as Kozec's cannon fires, Hedo's sword energy, the mages' offensive spells, and the dragons' breath were being bombarded and exploding in all directions.
"Vice leaderrrr! You forgot me, ugh! No, huh, kuck! Kuduk! Let's go together!"
Having turned back towards the Romin Forest, Grenil was concentrating all remaining power on the rear shield and acceleration. Kozec couldn't keep up, and the dragons barely followed, shooting breath, but none of it hit.
The colossal barrier erected by the mages collided with the front of Grenil and shattered.
At that moment, Hedo explosively threw himself towards Grenil.
"Whoa!"
Ainas, who stood in his path, was blown away by the shockwave created by Hedo's acceleration, and Octavia matched Hedo's leap by generating a gust of wind with her mana.
Sssaaak-!
The longsword, Bale, rose in the air, unleashing a storm of twenty sword energies.
If it weren't for injuries, as Octavia had mentioned, Hedo's sword wave would surely have shattered Grenil's rear shield, preventing it from advancing at full speed.
'A bit too shallow.'
The sword wave only scraped the rear shield, narrowly missing its target.
At the same time, the heat and shockwaves from Grenil's engine engulfed Hedo's body and the dragons that were following closely.
Even in the midst of this, Hedo scattered his sword waves in all directions to protect the dragons, allowing them to descend and avoid the shockwaves.
However, Ainas was once again thrown somewhere by Grenil's shockwave.
"Chase them!"
Octavia's eyes were burning with dark killing intent as she shouted and Kozec took the lead to catch up with Hedo.
***
Meanwhile, at the central border of the Lutero Magic Federation beyond the Romin Forest.
A woman in a white dress was wiping the blood off her greatsword. In front of her stood a man covered in wounds and scars, breathing heavily with his left arm lost.
It was Bianca Kaligo, the 1st princess of the Kaligo family, and the Black Knight, Mon.
'She suddenly stopped moving....'
Mon ran into her while escaping from the shipyard. He couldn't fend off her attacks throughout the battle, even though he fought tirelessly.
Well, calling it a battle might be an overstatement. Mon's stamina was low due to fighting all the time in the shipyard, but Mon was sure of one thing.
Bianca was an opponent he couldn't handle even if he fought in his best condition.
The only reason Mon was still alive was that Bianca suddenly stopped her attacks, as if she were possessed by something.
'The ones who went into the magic tower... Are they okay? I have to somehow escape from this monster and request support from the clan. Definitely. But why is she staring at that thing so intently?'
What Bianca was looking at was the signal flare fired by Zephyrin.
"Uh, uh, that... The signal from the Grand Duke. I have to go. What should I do...?"
A slurred yet slow voice. Bianca was conflicted.
Whether she should kill the human in front of her before leaving or just hurry up and go.
"The grand duke's... orders come first. If I don't follow, I'll be in trouble. You're lucky, human. And it was fun."
Saying so, Bianca ran off towards the Romin Forest.
She said it was an important signal flare, and even though she had such remarkable physical abilities that she could overpower Mon, it was impossible to know why she was casually jogging away.
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Mon got down on one knee and vomited out a handful of blood. If they exchanged a few more blows, Mon would have met death facing the monstrous demon's sword.
'...I've heard there are formidable demons among the demons currently active, but I didn't expect someone like that to be affiliated with Kinzelo. Was the demon that the first flagbearer cut in the past also like that?'
It had been a long time since he suffered such a powerless defeat and were so blatantly ignored. Mon managed to retrieve his severed left arm, but it would be difficult for him to continue performing his duties as a black knight if he did not receive treatment at the level of Holy Queen immediately.
But now was not the time to succumb to despair.
'The demon is heading towards the signal from the Romin Forest. The battleship Grenil is also flying towards the Romin Forest, and seeing Kozec following, there's a possibility that Jane and the others are there too.'
Mon didn't know the exact situation in the Romin Forest. However, the fact that the forces of Zipfel and Kinzelo were converging must have a good reason, and the most important thing in this situation was the items in the vault of the 2nd Magic Tower.
'Did the 2nd flagbearer succeed in looting, or did Kinzelo obtain something and intensify the battle? Either way, what I need to do now is request support.'
It made no sense to hold Bianca back. Mon survived because of the enemy's mercy, but he needed to move somehow to ensure the success of the mission.
After performing first aid and treating the wound, Mon took a step forward.
But the security at the border is very strict.
Each tall watchtower along the border emitted light. Border troops from the five autonomous districts and eight autonomous countries looked alternatively at their assigned zones, the battlefield of the Romin Forest, and the Sota Desert, with their alertness higher than ever.
The battleship Grenil and Octavia's forces were rapidly approaching the Romin Forest as if possessed.
As the battle intensified, border troops were beginning to worry that the Romin Forest might completely disappear from the map.
Commanders at the border decided to divert search teams towards the direction where Mon and Bianca were engaged in combat. As it was an individual battle, it was nothing compared to the commotion of Romin Forest and Sota Desert, but it was not enough for the guards to miss.
Mon went forward looking for a loophole in the border without being discovered by them.
'Darn it, my body is starting to stiffen.'
The bleeding was severe. Just like Jane earlier, Mon had sustained significant injuries, enough to lose consciousness if not for the mental strength and willpower of a Black Knight.
Ha, ha….
Mon leaned against a tree for a moment and caught his breath. The surroundings appeared hazy due to the fever, and with each shiver, it felt as though his bones would break.
While his senses were fading from the pain, Mon suddenly changed his posture and aimed his sword beyond the bushes.
He felt someone approaching.
'Is it a guard…..!'
It was likely border troops. If there were only a few below 7-stars, Mon could handle them quietly. However, if it was more than that, it was impossible to kill everyone before the signal flare was fired.
A moment later, when the owners of the approaching footsteps revealed themselves, Mon could finally exhale in relief.
"Sir Mon!"
It was Jin and his group.
They had limited routes to take while avoiding the surveillance of the border. Jin and his group had followed the same path as Mon, and during the process, they had noticed the trail of his blood. Hence, their encounter was more destined than coincidental.
"12th flagbearer."
"What happened... Sir, your arm."
"How did the mission go? Why are you the only ones here? What about Jane and the 2nd flagbearer?"
Mon, who had been speaking, stopped as he met the dark and heavy gaze of Jin and others.
"..... We escaped from the Romin Forest with the sacrifice of Dame Jane."
Mon remained silent for a few moments and then looked back, towards the direction of the Romin Forest where his lover had faced her death.
After becoming the Black Knight, they completely gave up their personal lives, but Mon and Jane always believed that their hearts were connected.
They had planned that if they ever retired safely one day, they would spend the rest of their lives together.
That hope had come to an end.
"I see."
Mon responded with a composed voice.
Just as Jane had prioritized clan and missing over choosing words to leave with her lover until the very end, Mon did the same.
Personal sorrow does not help the clan. The Black Knights believed that.
That is the black helmet of Runcandel.
"Did the 2nd flagbearer also stay behind?"
"Yes."
Mon didn't inquire about why the next patriarch remained instead of another flagbearer? Is that intentional or not? Why does Jin have the black sword Kainer? If not, what is the 2nd flagbearer fighting with?
Mon didn't ask because he somewhat knew why Joshua stayed behind.
"Was the mission successful?"
Jin took out the items from his pocket and showed them.
"As long as we escape unharmed, the mission is a success. Let's save the detailed stories about my injuries, Yona Runcandel, and Sandra Zipfel for after the escape. Let's get moving before I collapse."
Mon's gaze fell on Sandra. She was once again rummaging through her coat pocket, searching for painkillers.
"Oh, luckily, I still have some. Swallow this. It worked wonders for the other unnie earlier. It's tough to run when you're in pain, right?"
"...Unnie? Could it be you're talking about Jane, Sandra Zipfel?"
"Yes, that's right. She thanked me."
Mon took the painkillers without saying a word and swallowed them. Then, Mon lightly tapped Sandra's shoulder.
Mon hadn't explicitly revealed his romantic relationship, but the group somehow seemed to understand the sentiment behind Mon's gesture towards Sandra.
They resumed their journey.
'It would be difficult to just pass by without armed conflict.'
It was natural since it was the center of the Lutheran Magic Federation and the surveillance network was several times tighter than usual.
While Jin was contemplating the most efficient route to break through, Sandra spoke up.
"Ha, it seems like it's time to end our first date."
The group's attention shifted to Sandra.
She was biting her lower lip, trying to console herself.
"I guess I have to step forward now so you can escape, Mr. Jin. From now on, even if you want to see me, you can't just come looking for me like this. Mr. Jin, today is the last time, okay?"
Jin and Sandra's eyes met.
"I'll divert the attention of the border guards for you. Escape without getting caught. However, do you remember what I said earlier?"
-However, thanks to you, my siblings and the Black Knight's lives were saved. If there's anything you need, ask for it. If it's within my power, I'll do it after the escape.
Both Jin and Sandra recalled those words at the same time.
"What do you need?"
Sandra extended her golden prosthetic hand towards Jin, ensuring that his face engraved on her forearm was clearly visible.
"I would like you to engrave your name under the picture here."
"Wow... You truly are amazing. I thought only that Enya, the president of the kid's fan club, is crazy but even she is nothing compared to you. I might not see another human like you even if I live for another three thousand years."
"Fan club? After the Golden Pengi's advertisement, all sorts of unofficial fan clubs emerged. I even created and passed a bill related to fan activities and officially registered it. There have been several articles about it, even on the Huphester side."
"Oh, I think I've seen something like that. It was someone named Nodav Sarsaeng, probably."
"That's my alias. So, what Enya does is just a personal fan activity, while mine is an official fan activity. There's a big difference."
Jin silently drew his dagger and, as requested, signed below the picture on the prosthetic hand.
Sandra was about to scream but covered her mouth.
"Wow! I'll treasure this more than my life!"
The feeling of her arm turning into a golden prosthetic hand, with his face engraved on it, and even his signature below it, the feeling of hearing her say she would treasure it more than her life... there were no words to express it.
Regardless, the moment the signature was completed.
Kururur...!
Suddenly, a tremendous explosion occurred in the Romin Forest.
It was a massive explosion, felt even at the central border, causing an earthquake. And this explosion wasn't caused by Kinzelo or Zipfel.
It was an explosion caused by Runcandel's decisive killing move. Everyone in the group was recognizable at a glance.
The clan's only self-destruction sword move, a sword created with the ultimate end in mind.
The Seventh Decisive Killing Move, Volcano.
It was the same as when Joshua faced Jin and Garmund in the Bluebird Archipelago. Joshua's clone had chosen the volcano as a final desperate act.
At that time, Joshua's volcano had demonstrated the power to obliterate the entire 32nd island of the Bluebird Archipelago. The volcano unleashed by the current Joshua, reinforced with murky energy, far exceeded that power.
The aura mixed with murky energy soared into the sky and fell to the ground, destroying the Romin Forest. It literally looked like a huge volcano erupting.
Even from where the group stood, the shockwave distorted and shattered the space and sky of the entire Romin Forest region.
The battleships urgently deployed their shields to the maximum, and the strong ones did their best to save allies who couldn't withstand the explosion.
"They are also firing congratulatory fireworks over there to celebrate the birth of my treasure!"
Sandra seemed cheerful, as if the fact that the volcano was destroying her clan's territory wasn't particularly important.
"Now let's go, Mr. Jin. Thanks to that explosion, the border guards seem a bit disoriented. If I cause a little more confusion, there should be a gap in their surveillance."
"Sandra Zipfel."
"Yes!"
-But, Jin, I have a responsibility to fulfill on my own. If my clan is going the wrong way, shouldn't I correct it? I will make everything normal. I will return Zipfel to the proud clan I know.
-That is a story that lacks reality.
-I don't think there's anything I can't do if you guys help me.
-Regardless of us being friends, there are things that can't be done. It's impossible for Runcandel to help Zipfel.
Suddenly, Jin saw his friend in her. He remembered their conversation at Veradin's mansion. Leave the clan, discard the name Zipfel. That moment came to his mind.
"I'd like you to pass my regards to Veradin."
"Ah, I never thought I would at least hold your hand again… I was already planning to meet Radin and talk about Mr. Jin."
When Jin extended his hand, Sandra's eyes widened. Of course, it wasn't to comply with Sandra's request but rather a request for a handshake from the perspective of someone who had received significant help in this situation.
"Then, until we meet again, Mr. Jin."
"Goodbye, Sandra."
Sandra soon turned around and ran out of the bushes, and as soon as she encountered the guards, she screamed:
"I am Sandra Zipfel, the acting master of the Tower of the White Night. The intruders are fleeing towards the 16th checkpoint. Swiftly track them!"
As the border guards moved in response to Sandra's command.
Runcandels were finally able to cross the border and escape the center of the Lutero Magic Federation through the West Sea.
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***
March 5, 1800, a day has passed since those who participated in the special mission in the "Sota Desert" returned to the Garden of Swords.
The mission was successful, but the losses were enormous.
"We saved him. However, the arm... The necrosis and tissue loss were so severe that there was nothing we could do," said the medical director with a heavy voice. It was about Mon.
Although they managed to retrieve Mon's severed arm after the battle with Bianca, those who participated in the Sota Desert mission fought several fierce battles with the Federation's Navy even after crossing the central border of Lutero.
Even at the end of the battle with Bianca, the arm was in a state that could not be helped if it did not receive treatment at the level of the Holy Queen.
"Can he continue with missions in the future?"
Jin asked, suppressing the boiling anger.
Jin did not ask that question about whether Mon, the top knight of the clan, was capable of performing missions. He asked in a hope for Mon to maintain his existence and pride.
"Except for the left arm, the rest of his body will recover perfectly soon. It may be difficult for him to perform a Black Knight's missions, but I believe he can handle missions below that level."
"...Thank you, Medical Director."
"Please go inside. He's awake."
As Jin entered the operating room, he saw Mon wrapped in bandages and medical equipment.
"Sir Mon."
After their return, Jin heard from Zed that Mon and Jane were lovers.
"12th flagbearer."
Mon remained silent for a while, gazing out the window. The sky over the Sota Desert during the mission was either blurry or filled with the flames of battle, contrasting with the unusually sunny light that now filled the hospital room.
"It's inevitable that I will be demoted to a Guardian Knight or an Enforcement Knight. This arm will only be a burden to other Black Helmets."
"The mission could not have been successful without you, sir."
"The weather is nice."
Mon neither affirmed nor denied Jin's words. He was simply pondering the information he heard from Jin on the way back.
"Don't burden your heart too much. Being a Black Helmet is just a symbol of loyalty to the clan. Even without it, my essence remains unchanged. However."
Mon turned his head towards Jin and continued talking.
"If your words are true... if that really is the case, it seems like things have changed."
The expression 'changed' referred not to himself but directly to this place, the Garden of Swords.
-The 7th decisive killing move, volcano, the 2nd flagbearer probably faced certain death...
-No, he is alive. The one who executed the volcano was not the real Joshua but his clone.
-Clone?
-Youngest, what are you talking about?
While escaping from the Lutero Magic Federation, Jin informed the group that Joshua might be a clone. It hadn't been proven yet, but Diphus and Mon couldn't shake off the uneasy intuition.
"12th flagbearer."
"Please speak."
"Jane actually wanted to serve you. And the moment your words are proven true..."
At that moment, someone entered the medical room. It was Jin's butler, Petro.
"Young Master!"
Jin instinctively sensed why Petro had come so urgently. Mon felt the same.
"The 2nd flagbearer has returned...!"
As Petro finished speaking, an immense energy radiated from Mon.
The entire building was shaking with such force that it was hard to believe it belonged to a person who was on the verge of death until yesterday.
Red bloody tears flowed from Mon's eyes. Soon, he withdrew his strength, rose from the bed, and looked at Jin.
"Come quickly, 12th flagbearer."
They went outside.
They saw Joshua standing outside the steel gate. He was in good health, without a single wound, and was leading all of his knights except the black knights.
A flag with the symbol of Runcandel, the black swords, was raised.
The knights outside the gate who came with Joshua and the knights gathered inside the garden were holding the same flag.
The sight was so horrifyingly repulsive.
"Your words were true."
Diphus stood next to Jin and spoke. Diphus's trembling was palpable as he barely restrained his anger.
"Jin."
"Yes, elder brother."
"Make sure to drag that guy down and kill him. And if Mother shields that disgusting man again this time, I will never let it pass."
Betrayal.
Or reform.
Diphus had made up his mind.
Jin had too. However, unlike Diphus, Jin was almost certain that his confident eldest brother would have a hard time avoiding responsibility this time.
Looking at the knights standing behind Joshua, Jin's conviction deepened.
'He must have led his knights here out of fear. But does he still not realize that, I don't know about the hounds, but the knights of the clan pledge their loyalty not to him…'
It was a complete mistake for Joshua to bring the knights en masse to the Garden of the Swords.
Joshua should have come alone. Jin thought so, and so did their mother, Rosa, who left the main house.
Thunk!
The knights formed a line on both sides of the road. Rosa, who was walking between them, had indifferent eyes.
"2nd flagbearer, Joshua Runcandel. Reporting back after accomplishing the mission."
His voice, struggling to maintain confidence, lacked the pride of having successfully completed a challenging mission.
There was no boasting of accomplishing a difficult mission. There was only the fear of a son who couldn't be sure whether he would receive punishment or reward from his mother.
Until he entered the Garden of the Swords, Joshua always believed that he would receive a reward as usual.
No, he wanted to believe it. However, as soon as Joshua faced Rosa's cold expression, he felt the hope fading. Young children have a hard time withstanding their parents' unusual facial expressions.
Joshua was even rationalizing the fact that he had accompanied the knights.
It wasn't because he was afraid of Rosa's decision, but merely an act to raise the dignity of the next patriarch, who had returned after completing the mission diligently.
"I received a report that you died during the mission. What happened?"
No matter how much Joshua tried to rationalize it, he could tell from the first words. His mother did not seem pleased to see his return.
It was time to realize the painful reality.
"Mother, that's..."
"Address me properly. Right now, I am not standing here as your mother."
Joshua's eyes widened.
Those who were watching were also shocked. It was the first time that Rosa, not Chiron, trampled on Joshua's authority in front of everyone.
"I apologize... acting matriarch. I made a mistake."
"Explain clearly to me how the 2nd flagbearer, Joshua Runcandel, is standing there instead of being dead."
Why are you alive? You should have died there.
That's how Rosa's words sounded to Joshua. Joshua couldn't help but tremble at the sound of his mother's voice, which went beyond a simple reprimand and even felt malice.
"Answer me, the 4th and 12th flagbearers would not have dared to tell me a lie!"
As Rosa shouted again, a heavy pressure filled the surroundings.
"The reason I am alive is..."
Joshua stuttered. His eyes fluttered, and he felt that he was becoming infinitely smaller. There was a deep sense of contempt in the eyes of the clan members looking at him.
"I sent a clone on the mission..."
At that moment, Jin thought to himself.
'Not only did you make the meaningless mistake of bringing the knights, but you are also missing the last chance to change our mother's mind, Joshua.'
Joshua had no idea why his mother was exploding in anger like this.
It was because he had forgotten his essence.
Hoo!
Joshua took a breath and looked up at Rosa. However, his wobbly legs couldn't hide the fact that he was afraid.
"The reason I am alive is because I sent a clone created through a prophet on a mission. As a result, the mission was successful."
"One black knight died, and one became crippled. Can you call that a success?"
That was the main reason why Joshua was now being reprimanded. Mon survived, but in reality, Runcandel lost two black knights in this mission.
As the decision maker of the mission, Joshua had to take responsibility.
But there was a separate reason why Rosa was going this far.
The essence of Runcandel, the struggle. Joshua had forgotten that. Maybe he didn't forget but simply never existed from the beginning.
The method didn't matter.
Even if he used a fake body for the mission, even if it resulted in one black knight facing death and one becoming crippled, even if it caused greater losses.
Joshua should have fought. As the next patriarch of the clan, he should have elevated the values of the clan.
He should not have trembled and stuttered like a frightened dog, like a terrified child. He needed to prove that he was never wrong.
He had to stand against Rosa and stand against the clan.
He should have roared, asking if there was a superior way than using the power of the prophet and cloning, why anyone had not done anything if there was a better way, and who really caused the death of black knight of the clan.
Just like Jin did when he made the patriarchy declaration.
'If you had shown that you never forgot the essence of Runcandel, Mother would have defended you again this time.'
Jin felt nauseous.
He, more than any other Runcandel and more than any of her children present here, understood Rosa Runcandel better. It was a fact that made him shiver.
"I made a mistake..."
Rosa's eyes became even colder.
Why?
Why... wouldn't you acknowledge me?
Didn't I successfully complete the mission for the clan? Haven't you tolerated my use of the power of the prophet and cloning until now, mother...
Aren't I your most beloved child?
Joshua's head was filled with just such thoughts. The essence of Joshua Runcandel was nothing more than a child struggling to be recognized by his parents.
It couldn't be called a struggle.
"4th flagbearer."
"Yes, acting matriarch."
"Speak. Did you know that the 2nd flagbearer sent a clone?"
"I didn't know."
"12th Knight, did you?"
"I had a suspicion."
"But why did this mission require the sacrifice of the Black Knight, not just his clone?"
"As I reported yesterday, because our clan invested the least among the three major factions in this incident. However..."
Jin looked down at Joshua and continued.
"If he had shared all the information with me and the 4th flagbearer from the beginning, if he had volunteered the sacrifice of the clone in advance, there would never have been the death of Black Knight, Dame Jane, and the loss of Sir Mon's arm."
"Mother, no! That was just a hypothesis! Let me explain, my plan was clearly perfect, but there were too many variables in this mission...!"
A smirk more than contempt spread across Rosa's lips.
"Black Sword Association, subdue Joshua Runcandel."
"As you command!"
The ones who responded to Rosa's command were the knights led by Joshua from outside the garden, not inside.
Except for the Black Knights, all of Joshua's highest-ranking knights were formed of the Runcandel Elder Council's enforcement knights. Although Joshua himself has only just found out about it.
"Lain, Vex, Rihanna... and even Sinatra. Are you all... members of the Black Sword Association...?"
The enforcement knights of the Black Sword Association removed the masks concealing their faces and revealed their identities. Everyone in the hall held their breath as the mangled, unrecognizable old faces were revealed.
"As of now, Joshua Runcandel's status as the 2nd flagbearer of the Runcandel clan is suspended. Furthermore, I am issuing a secret search order for both his real body and the clones, who may be active outside."
"Confine him in the dungeon."
"Mother, Mother...!"
Downfall.
Everyone who was watching Joshua Runcandel crying for his mother was thinking of that word.