Volume 14 Chapter 4 (1/2)

Episode 4 - The Inevitable Outsider Element

–

Part 1

Lux as rescued fro the investigation of the deep level floor along with Singlen

Their first objective was to find Listelka and hold her back, but it appeared the ene really careful, because currently they couldn't even find any trace of her

While doing that, they arrived at a toith impressive ornament on it

Inside where stone statues that were

A tight outfit that looked like pilot suit was clinging on her body Horns were growing out from her head

There was no doubt that this was a clone of Gear Leader Arshalia just like before

「I have been waiting, you who possess a qualification The second trial will put far bigger burden than before on you If you are finished with your preparation, please touch me」

She told him that with a tone that was the same like the Arshalia from before

The second trial in order to reach the central of Avalon

If this process was finished, it seemed the main body of Arshalia would appear but……

「Will we able to reach the central earlier than Listelka? Would it be better for us to search for her without doing the trial here?」

Lus advised like that, but Singlen scoffed

「I see, then you better take me to where they are quickly I'll hold them back without fail then」

「Right now Fugil is guarding Listelka by hiainst wide range radar They should be avoiding battle as much as possible until Mishi+s return As for the reason, you have experienced it yourself haven't you?」

「……Because she will be co this 『trial』?」

Singlen responded with a fearless grin at Lux's question

It seemed he answered correctly

No il was, it would be difficult for him to cover for his ainst multiple enemy

Thus, Singlen predicted that they would thoroughly avoid encounter with Lux and the others until the time they finished the three trials

「Besides, if you finished the second trial, they also won't be able to leave you alone any this far, they will surely come to finish you off mercilessly instead」

「──Understood Then, please take care me」

Lux resolved hi-Ride He then headed toward Arshalia

He took a deep breath, and reached out his hand toward her

「Then, you will enter the second trial noill begin to strengthen you with Baptis that tiraved in your memory」

But, the next sentence Arshalia spoke caused Lux to gasp

「Baptism? Just nohat did──」

The ertip shi+ned in seven colors

「Guh, AAAAAH!?」

Elixir was poured in fro into him

His mind was invaded at the sa's scenery was dissolving faintly

「……Now Trace your footsteps along with your ony」

Seen off by Singlen's haughty grin, Lux's consciousness instantly fleay

And then he saw a strange scene once more

–

Part 2

The day of revolution five years ago──

The last decisive battle that happened in Arcadia's imperial capital

Lux who defeated a great nuhts and finally rushed into the castle was confronting his father the emperor in front of the throne

First, Lux felt an intense out of place feeling seeing the beginning of the memory

If he remembered correctly, when Lux headed to the throne roo into the sea of blood along with his close associates and iuards

There Fugil sneered at Lux who had wounds all over his body, and rebuked him that he was the weakest

But, here in this meuards were unharmed

Even though they were giving off intense animosity, both sides had no visible wound on them

Even Lux hile scratch on him

(A a dream? Because I wished that reality would be like this, I' to redo it once more?)

Lux s that it was really not manly even if he said so himself

Beside such thought, the scene in front of hi on its own accord

「You fool Do you think that your revolution will coht, but you erred in how to use it To bare your fang on my empire like this」

「……Please surrender Chichi-uefather And then please receive the judgment from Count Atismata and the people I will accompany you as your son」

Lux responded to the eaze with an aloof serious face

He had already resolved himself

If there was obstacle to the revolution, he was resolved to smash it no matter what he had to do

「Hahahaha Looks like you haven't noticed anything You are inferior You have soht, but after all you are just the failure youngest son a the imperial family」

「……What?」

「How do you think my Arcadia Empire came to obtain this much prosperity? Why couldn't our rule be overturned? The cause of your defeat is yourof that power!」

When the e-Knight showed up from behind a pillar

Lux had decided that he wouldn't be shaken no matter what happened, but his face lost color instantly

Over there was Airi who should be staying in home because of sickness

His little sister as unconscious while her body was restrained by armored arm

「Airi-!?」

「──Don't hter──your little sister will lose her life」

Just as the e his Blade on Airi's neck

Just from that, the Lux inside his dreah his limbs were chained

(……Why? How!?)

Lux in reality was even ht

He hadn't met Airi since two days before the day of revolution and he should have entrusted her to a maid to take care of her

If it wasn't know that Lux was the mastermind behind the revolution, then it should be impossible to kidnap Airi beforehand

Lux had also continued to be careful since the resistance was starting a o He shouldn't be suspected at all, and yet…

「Besides, a good news has also arrived Atisainst ht bravely, but that X X was bad A seam appeared from there, and at the end it led toward you」

What was this?

Even though he should be inside a dream, he could only understand a part of it

This wasn't a convenient dreahtmare?

But in any case, in this world the battle's outcome had been decided while Lux was unaware

The iathered here weren't a big deal, but it was over if Airi was taken hostage

Even if he sacrificed his little sister and saved the country, there would be nothing re for Lux after that

Should he sacrifice himself and Airi for the sake of Philuffy ould remain behind?

──No, Lux was unable to do anything like letting Airi die here without doing anything

「Dispel your armor and surrender Or else I'll sever the head of your little sister right now right here! Kneel, you stupid son!」

The raging words of the emperor flew Lux's hand reached out toward the Sword Device of Bahamut

At that instant, a voice descended on the audience hall

「Ku-ku-ku What an inco For Count Atismata's X X to accidentally be linked to man that is the old empire's close aide──, perhaps this is your wicked luck as the emperor」

「──You!」

「Fugil, niisan……!?」

Fugil as si down on all of the

Perhaps he had activated Reload on Fire, because Fugil was flying forith a speed that eye couldn't follow He cut down the ie without any sound

「──Wh!?」

Agitation ran through the chief vassals at the surrounding who saw that

Several iuards iil, but the table was turned on them instantly

「Im, possible……!」

The emperor's voice trembled and his face convulsed with terror He yelled after seeing what happened

「──Why!? Why are you baring your fang toward us!? You who saved our ancestor and was called as the hero of our bloodline!」

A strong thought of doubt was born inside the consciousness of Lux who heard that

「Fugil saved the ancestor of Arcadia Eil the eldest son of the emperor?」

No, in the first place what did it il had saved the ancestor of the old empire?

「Hou How do you know about that? I don't reh」

「I perused the old document of the past In the record that is only told to Arcadia's imperial family, your name and existence ritten there We as once called as the fail, it was you who led us to the victory of the revolution──」

(──!? What does that mean!?)

Even h Lux when he heard the emperor's words

(In the first place, at the past of this situation, Fugil saved our ancestor, the family of traitor?)

Then, the one who destroyed Holy Arcadia Empire was also──

Lux atching that scene as an existence that was only his consciousness Naturally he couldn't speak any words here

On the other hand Fugil didn't le twitch on his expression He replied with a derisive smile

「As I thought, in everything there will always be unforeseen incident acco Count Atismata caused me to misread the distortion of fate Now I have to -Ride, Ouroboros」

Fugil lifted his Sword Device high At the sah inside the castle

「Kuh……!」

Lux in the scene didn't understand as going on, but for the ti he had to carry Airi to a safe place

Lux held Airi in his hands, flew outside the castle, and searched for a safe place

The moment the Lux inside the dream flew out of the audience hall

He saw the surviving Drag-Ride force that was gathering near the castle to assault Fugil all at once

「Kill that guy! Don't let hiet away from this castle alive-!」

The angry yell of the eht

But, Lux certainly saw it

The i years of glory

A silhouette of Divine Drag-Ride that he had never seen before, it possessed gigantic frame that surpassed such castle

The reathered in the area started an all-out bombardment

Like that even the castle ed by the flaht

–

Part 3

「──Uh, GUAaaAAAAH!」

Lux woke up froh his chest was stabbed open

Deep level floor──the Auto over hi beside her

He should be at Lux's side because he was tentatively a guard, but it looked as though he wasn't protecting Lux at all

「What a noisyso carelessly until now, this ti so loudly」

What a man

Far fro Baptis that came out of his mouth was sarcasm

He wished to gruument with this man so he refrained

In exchange Arshalia's clone gave hiement

「Thank you for your hard work The Baptism toward you has been safely coht of ement of central is finished After all to make use of Avalon's function, it will be a burden that no ordinary person can endure」

「Preparation? Just noas that preparation?」

His flesh anda state that could handle the central

That meant, everyone else would also receive this in the second trial

Putting aside Aeril who had resistance in receiving Baptis, he orried about Airi

She wasn't sickly anymore like the past, but he wondered if she would be able to endure this pain

「U, gu……! Haa, haa……」

He put off worrying about other people for later

Right now Lux was extre-Ride, he couldn't even stand up properly

「It's better for weakling to not move for a while you know? The Baptism here tampers with a lot of nerves of the whole body Most likely the other candidates are also in the same condition」

「……How do you know that!?」

Lux reacted with alarlen's sentence that he spoke out really naturally

Even Aeril as a Lord didn't know about the process of this trial

「You are really a selfish man huh I have told you repeatedly that if you want to know then submit under me Are you fit to become a chore boy with that kind of bad memory?」

「Don't diver the story! We are participating in this battle as part of world alliance, who is under who isn't related! Not telling the other about infor the capture of Avalon is a violation of the pact!」

「Kukuku, and then you are also foolish like usual huh」

Lux brought his face closer heezing breath, but the Blue Tyrant was kept acting curt

「At present, there is no existence in history that has ever reached this Avalon No……perhaps I should say that it was arranged for the world to perceive it like that If that's the case, my words are just a lie you kno can you prove that what I' is correct?」

It was just as he said

There was no way Singlen could know about this matter

It should be nothingabout his deduction whileon

And yet, why did he think that his words were the truth?

「How about I kindly teach you? That's because you know it At the bottom of your heart, you understand that my words are the truth」

「……Such, thing」

「I was trying to make you obey me was because of that You are soular point of destiny and remain there In the upheaval of history, the transition of ruling systee in it The caliber of that person replaces the distortion and tendency of the era, pushi+ng through everything Therefore──」

The len continued his words, screa

When Lux peeked out froures of the populace running around at the surrounding

「This is, illusion? No, is this a scene that happened in Arcadia Empire?」

「Indeed」

Arshalia's clone immediately answered Lux's question

「In the period of maturity of Arcadia Empire, a secret ery to adapt it to the body──the technology of Baptise and dose is mistaken, it will result in death or serious after-effect But if it succeed, then the subject will obtain ability that far surpass ordinary people」

Co

Elixir was granted only to royalty and nobility, producing superior people from birth──the bloodline of ruler

「An extrereat nu Arcadia E was divided into two And then──」

『……Uh, GYAAAAAH!?』

『Stop, STOP ITTTTT……-!?』

The scream that came from the reproduced scene caused Lux to react and leaned forward

Looking closer, several Abysses attacked people ere carrying weapon and devoured them

「This scene is also a projection of past recording, not a real thing? Then don't tell me, the Abyss──」

「It's like that The imperial family created Abyss as a method to oppose rebel, crinarok as guard to protect the Ruins」

Splat splat That gruesome scene where the populaces were eaten caused Lux to avert his gaze reflexively

And then, the Abysses were flying away to somewhere

「……-?The Abysses are heading so to the Ruins?」

When the playback was over, Lux thought that the projection was cut off, but unexpectedly there was still a continuation

When he immediately looked toward Arshalia, she responded with a nod

「They are going back To the Abyss creation plant inside this Avalon They spring forth from Ruins, then return back to the inside That's the mechanism」

The projection of Automata answered so Lux obtained a conviction form that

The Abyss would return after acco their objective──that was all they did

But, so bothered Lux inside

「Don't you think it's strange? Certainly Abyss is necessary fro the Ruins But, this place is Arcadia Empire's capital No matter how completely the Abysses are under control, but where is the need of using thehts?」

It was just as Singlen said

Most likely the -Rides was mostly done by royalty and nobility too with few exceptions

In other words, even though they could use Drag-Ride to carry out the purge, ere they deliberately using Abyss?

Was it fora brutal example, or to save time and labor, or else──

The projection was progressing even while Lux wasn't

To the underground graveyard that existed behind the imperial castle──the catacomb

「The record projection is still not over? How er it will continue?」

「The playback of record projection is over for the moment The place is imperial capital's catacomb The place that projected that scenery become the place of the last trial」

「……Sir Singlen My physical condition has recovered Let's head there next」

「Kukuku, what, chore boy Are you trying to chase after Arcadia E out mission?」

「There is no time to talk nonsense with you No, if Arshalia's main body is at the last trial, Listelka should also definitely go there」

If they could enter into the central froil there

「Well, I'll consider that as correct Let's go chore boy」

Singlen drove Leviathan and glided toward the back of imperial castle

Lux also took a deep breath and after he cal, he wore Wyvern in order to preserve his stamina and followed behind

The effect to his body due to Baptism wasn't much

On the contrary, the Drag-Ride he was clad with felt like it was adapting to his body more than before

Lux was thinking while chasing after Singlen's back

In the end, was Lisha and others ere facing Mishi+s safe?

How far Aeril had progressed with the trials?

And then──Airi and the Triad

Lux suppressed his wavering emotion with his will and flew

At the sa a mysterious uneasiness in his chest because of the scene of five years ago that was projected as illusion

–

Part 4

A few minutes before Lux received the Baptism that was the second trial

The deadly battle between Lisha and others ere confronting Mishi+s in the central arena was continuing

The Key's Supervisor Mishi+s was a powerful warrior ned the nicknaht

Due to Azi Dahaka's Divine Raiment Avesta, there was a risk of iy were stolen

Thus, Lisha as well as Krulcifer whose e accouard

In respond Mishi+s didn't htest with her halberd at the ready She was silently watching the surrounding

Not even a shred of uneasiness or carelessness could be seen fro-Ride users

The scenery of Arcadia Empire that was projected in the abandoned capital

The el type Abysses flew at its sky, Lisha unsheathed her Sword Device

「Eat this-! Legion!」

Tiamat's special armament, the ten projectile weapons in the shape of arrowhead attacked Mishi+s with roaring sound

At the sa with Fafnir and fired her Freezing Cannon to hold the opponent in check

Several offenses and defenses had been carried out since the five started battling Mishi+s

However, it was hard to say that the present situation was advantageous for them

「She isn't losing patience at all huh This woman is really like a machine」

What Lisha and others were aith to defeat one of them

The situation when she left the side of her ainst her The five were luring her to be ile-mindedly

But, Mishi+s's face that was like a steel mask didn't waver at all

She was focusing her eyes that were like crystal and calmly watched the movement of everyone

「──Splendid I cannot find even the s」

Mishi+s talked to herself with a small voice that no one else could catch

Key's Supervisor developed Ruins and Drag-Rides They also set up the Drag-Ride's suitability to match their bloodline

So to speak, they were a clan who thoroughly knew and inherited all the Drag-Rides

Even a them, Mishi+s was raised up as the Lord's close aide She was given education since she was a child

In addition of Baptis-Ride, nanomachine was also injected directly into her

She endured various conditioning and battle training until the end

She also grasped the -Ride

At first there were several hundred of her fellow elite clans out one by one Mishi+s held out with her strength of will and polished her talent

「My power is so that I received wholly from inheritance Exactly because the Lord accepted our clan, that ere able to prosper That's why losing will be unforgivable」

「──It's similar You and me」

Celis as hovering ue from some point She addressed her

「You heard that? Though I don't need sympathy from the defeated」

「You shouldered your own destiny, co reluctant to make every effort You are an existence that is farto do the same」

「It's pointless even if you are trying to invite carelessness from me you know? My heart won't waver After all I received a Baptism that allow me to do so」

Mishi+s was controlling herself with training of stabilizing herability

She was here as an incarnation of Key's Supervisor, a machine that would continue to produce the best answer at the fastest time

「Besides, it's upsetting to be considered the same like all of you, mere human who consider stolen power as your own andlike that」

「Hah! Don't act self-i path because of that arrogance and then got forced to sleep for centuries because of that!」

Lisha as also doing Drag-Ride development cut into the conversation of the two

The ion once more to hold the enemy in check, Mishi+s moved

Azi Dahaka lowered its center of gravity while keeping its tight hold on its halberd and skated

It was an astonishi+ng h the preliminary motion couldn't be seen at all

Not just the dashi+ng speed of the takeoff using the ars' wheels, the movement itself was also extremely smooth

It was an i the energy distribution to the precision of several percent and having perfect control to the Drag-Ride's body balance

But, even with such complicated procedure she had the composure to attack Lisha

「I won't let you! I have finished grasping your range!」

「Yes, looks like you all have worked out quite countermeasure in this short time But, in the end it's only a hasty preparation」

Mishi+s muttered in a small voice, at the same time her pupils expanded

Lisha leaped to the air behind and fired Legion once more At that moment, Mishi+s twirled on the spot

The other four as surrounding fro the impossible movement

「……That, could it be」

The one who first noticed was Philuffy whoseor throwing the opponent

If she had to say it herself, Philuffy wasn't e movement

What she did was nothing ialca into Drag-Ride piloting and took the practical action

Mishi+s too wasn't deliberately showing original move one of the choices that she had practiced repeatedly for several thousand times

One of the Legion that Lisha fired was hit back by the halberd

「What-!?」

「That kind of movement is possible!?」

Even Krulcifer who specialized in precise itation

They would be able to predict if she dodged while repelling the Legion or blocked it and absorbed the energy, but the Legion that was hit back by the halberd flew straight to Lisha with double the speed

The instant Lisha reflexively strengthened her barrier and defended, Azi Dahaka leaped toward Lisha

「──Howling Roar!」

However, Lisha was also a first class Drag-Knight

She took the fastest evasive action even while defending against the unexpected counter shot

In order to avoid having her energy and Divine Rai range of the Divine Raiment

But, Mishi+s neutralized thethe Wire Tail her right hand was holding

「──Don't tell me-?」

The halberd that ung at first was throard Yoruka as going to backup Lisha It was a trap to make Lisha misread the measurement

The led around Tiamat's armored arm, Mishi+s activated her Divine Raiment

「──Avesta」

「Ku!? OOOOOO-……!」

Lisha activated her Divine Raiuished howl An instant before Tiamat's Divine Raiment was stolen

With that power, all of Azi Dahaka's gravity was stolen and the enemy floated to the air

「……!? You aren't putting burden on ravity to make me float──?」

When Mishi+s showed a slight baffleht, and behind

The tip of wire that was fired fro

And then the lightning attack that was fired from Celis's Lance

In order to purposefullypower not for gravity increase, but to make Mishi+s floated still in the air

「I see, good decision That's including all of you who immediately react to her idea ──But」

Three layered barriers that were deployed around Azi Dahaka drastically dampened each attack

After stiffening slightly, she blocked the sword of Yoruka as lying in wait below using the handle of her whip, at the same time she picked the halberd she threay and quickly retreated

「I received slight dae but, first I'll crush one」

「Ku, u……!」

Tiay completely sucked within a few seconds was dispelled Lisha stood stock still on that spot She becaible action until she beca-Ride once more

But, Mishi+s was still paying the greatest wariness toward her surrounding

Surely she wouldn't co at the defenseless Lisha

「My goodness…… So the nicknaeration」

Krulcifer let out a horrified astonished sigh along with cold sweat

Exactly because she had the experience of facing Balzeride ore the sa-Ride in the past that she understood really well Mishi+s's strength as Drag-Knight

Celis and Philuffy had grasped the attack range of the Halberd she ielding from the battle the other day

They werea distance wherethey wouldn't receive attack, but regardless of that, she saw through their countere

There wasn't a single special thing that was out of huth

She si-Rides, and thoroughly perfor to face all those

「If I can speak frankly, I'm relieved I can remove the troublesome opponent」

「So froet is the princess」

But, even though she had learned the knowledge about all Drag-Ride, it would be difficult for her to respond against a Drag-Ride that had been drastically modified

Therefore, MIshi+s designated Lisha as the biggest threat ath to remove her first

「Haa, haa……don't underestireat mistake if you think that I'm done just from this much!」

Lisha yelled while walking backith her Sword Device at the ready Perhaps she wished to say that she could give coht anymore

Certainly it would be really helpful to have soive advice

Even though she would shoulder a great risk by staying here, it would only increase their chance of victory by miniscule amount, but it was a small mercy that the Divine Rairavity control

Fafnir's future prediction, Typhon's Divine Raiment neutralization, Lindwurm's instant teleportation, Yato no Kami's enforced control

Gravity manipulation was also powerful but, their chance of victory would be even ot stolen

「I respect that spirit, but it's unfortunate The battle situation cannot be overturned anymore by the time I obtained Suppressor」

The re four people held their breath toward Mishi+s's cold gaze

Krulcifer ion Voice

『Can you read her consciousness's wavelength? Now that it has becoh』

As expected, there was nobody who could surpass Mishi+s in regard to piloting Drag-Ride

But, the special move that Kirihime Yoruka used──Instant Strike was a blade of certain kill that read the wavelength of consciousness and took advantage of the gap of the subconscious

Because it was unrelated with Drag-Ride spec and piloting skill, it should be effective even against Mishi+s

『Of course I can read it But──I don't think hitting her once with Instant Strike will result in anything A slash that simply land won't be able to pierce that three layered barrier and inflict lethal dae』

Krulcifer was at a loss hearing Yoruka's reply

To breakthrough Azi Dahaka's abnormal defensive power, there was a need to unleash an attack of full power froe

Just like when Balzeride was defeated in the past, there was no other way except to ai one of the three hidden techniques, Recoil Burst

「You are really composed to look the other way and talk」

The instant Krulcifer returned her focus to Mishi+s, Azi Dahaka skated even faster than before with a movement that once more didn't show any preliminary motion beforehand

Krulcifer as targeted flew to the back to escape, but Mishi+s stuck close to her

「Attack, Krulcifer! She will keep chasing even if you run away! ──But, why is she even faster than before!? Youback when it ith me!?」

The Divine Drag-Ride of land battle type had heavy weight due to its solid armor and weapons

But, just by using Suppressor to erase the Drag-Ride's weight didn't et faster

Rather the wheels of the ars would float and the speed would drop instead

With the nature of land battle type Drag-Ride to ht even take away its mobility

But, the way Mishi+s used Suppressor was different

She had mastered the method to put the Divine Raiment to practical use co-Ride

「She is keeping the gravity norround while lightening only the upper body to accelerate!?」

Celis e of Divine Gate, so she couldn't back her up immediately

「Krulcifer! Fire and drive back the enehter──」

「Yes, I know!」

Hearing Lisha's yell, Krulcifer activated Wise Blood

She predicted Mishi+s's attack using the prediction of the future few seconds ahead

For the ti she confirmed that she would be able to obtain distance fro and then she carried it out

「Then, prepare yourself」

The halberd that Mishi+s held back until it was coo into a flash of vertical slash

The sure-kill attack that was tinged with strong energy was blocked by Fafnir's Auto shi+eld

It was an automatic defense of seven shi+elds, but if Mishi+s used Avesta, this special ar Krulcifer had already known that froainst Balzeride

Therefore, she didn't let go of that instant

「──Freezing Cannon!」

Baer of her sniper rifle at a position that almost touched Azi Dahaka's shoulder

It was an attack of extreme speed with delicateness

The freezing bullet that was fired fro with the impact

Because she only stressed onthe attack hit, she was unable to drive the ene unable to act, but she succeeded in offense and defense at the same time

The heavy weight land battle type Drag-Ride Azi Dahaka was blown backward by that attack

Because Mishi+s wasDivine Raiment Suppressor that she stole, it became easy for it to be influenced by outside force too

That hat Lisha pointed out just now

「That's a splendid skill I even feel proud as a fellow clansman」

「Is that so? Surely it's troubling for both of us to value just this hly」

Krulcifer responded with a bluffing s out cold sweat

The special ary sucked out from it and they were dispelled She now became defenseless

If after this Fafnir's fraot touched, her Divine Raiment would be plundered

But, she won the gae just now

Philuffy and Celis alredy took position at where Mishi+s was falling to They were ai at the moment she landed

At that instant when Krulcifer grasped the situation and her tension relaxed slightly

She could hear the yell froround

「Don't be slow Krulcifer! The enemy's aim is still you!」

The cannonout from Azi Dahaka's shoulders──Devil's Glow shi+ned and fired a torrent of iy

Because her automatic defense Auto shi+eld was taken away, Krulcifer i but──,

「-……!? What's this!? The propulsion control, is changed──?」

An out of place feeling arose froravity of Fafnir's frame

It was as though it beca

The instant Krulcifer reacted to that in bewilderment, she ed by the bombardment

Receiving that terrific iht away

「-……, aah……!」

「Krulcifer!?」

The fallen Fafnir was attacked even round The arh pitched metallic sound and creaked

Krulcifer endured the intense pain where it felt like her whole body was breaking while she comprehended Mishi+s's technique

She used the Divine Rairavity control that she stole froravity of each part of the armor haphazardly

When Krulcifer was shaken by the cru-Ride, she was hit by the bombardment from the eneravity pressure that was several times than normal was applied on her and Fafnir was knocked doard the ground

If what Mishi+s had done was put into words, that was all there was to it

However, even Krulcifer never iravity that skillfully at the sa-Ride users simultaneously

「──Kuh!? AAAAH!」

Furtherh the armor's endurance

The effect of Suppressor cut off at the last moment, but Fafnir's armor was also dispelled

Mishi+s changed her falling trajectory with the recoil from Devil's Glow shot Celis and Philuffy attacked, but everything was avoided within a hair's breadth and she retreated

With this, only three people reht in this place

It became only Celis, Philuffy, and Yoruka

「Krulcifer! Hang in there!」

Lisha who somehow recovered her body's freedohly

Her bones weren't broken, but several places on her body were hit by pressure

「I'm fine…… Is what I want to say but, as expected this is heavier injury than yours It's not so severe that ot bruises all over, I won't be able to show myself to Lux-kun」

Krulcifer acted tough, but her breathing was so weak it felt like it would stop anytime

「You idiot! What do you think we are forive you tih it will be me who make Lux mine in the end!」

「Even though you won't yield at the slightest, but you are really principled aren't you…… I don't hate that side of yours」

Krulcifer smiled wryly, then her eyes closed and she lost consciousness

Lisha's gaze returned to the battlefield while she was still holding her classmate in her hands

「──With this there are only three people left You all are getting more and more cornered」

Mishi+s who recovered her balance declared without a single change in her expression

But, even after losing two people, Celis, Philuffy, and Yoruka's expressions didn't show any uneasiness

「In my country, it was said that only in predicath Besides, in reality even you was unable to be unhare just noasn't it?」

Mishi+s responded to Yoruka's bewitching smile with silence

Azi Dahaka's left shoulder was frozen Although the joint wasn't solidified, the barrier generation device was partly sealed

It was a small injury on a little spot

However, she also knew that it ht become a lethal wound in a battle between the equally powerful

Since the ti, she was undefeated in battle versus Drag-Knight

That hy in contrast of her threat that sounded like she was convinced of her victory, she understood that this was a situation where she couldn't let her guard down

The only thing that could be called Azi Dahaka's weak point wasn't how it had no flying ability, once the ary it wouldn't be able to repair it by its own strength

On the other hand, it was the only path of survival for Lisha and others

Krulcifer went for that and she succeeded in not letting her Divine Raiment stolen in her defeat

「She has done her part enough The rest will be our turn to meet the expectation」

Celis readied her Lance along with Lindhile she looked straight at Mishi+s

Even after two of them had been defeated, they didn't show the color of despair on their face

The extremely deathly battle resumed

–

Part 5

「Eh……?」

Drip, drip, fresh blood was trickling on the stone paving of the castle town

Even though Airi exposed herself in order to save her friends, Zweigbergk ignored it and he was about to kill the Triad It was at that time

A girl who suddenly appeared knocked down the situation into even more chaos

「You, bastard……-!?」

The one as bleeding wasn't Airi or even the Triad, but Zweigbergk as going to swing down his Blade just now

A flesh hand that thrust like a spear gouged his chest froether with Tarasque's armor

「……What is, going on? This is──」

「I don't, know But, so like this……」

「You are, Hayes Vi Arcadia……」

Sharis, Tillfur, and Noct, the three of theround

Each of the pain that made them unable to ht

「Guh, you, are……!」

「What's wrong, you senile old gopher Did you forgeteh」

The girl earing pure white robe on top of a pilot suit ithout a doubt Hayes

But, her body should be unable to do any activity except by using Baptisht of her life should be on the verge of running out

The strangest thing was that the girl right noasn't even wearing Drag-Ride

She pierced the ar-Ride Tarasque with her bare hand

「How……! How are you here-!? ……How can you do so like this-!?」

The stabbing arm slipped out when the old soldier pitched forward He turned around while slashi+ng with his Blade

But, Hayes easily blocked even that with her bare hand and crushed the blade that she caught in her grip

「Wha……!?」

「Kukukukuku I see, so it's like that huh Looks like your s What a pitiful man」

「Answer me!? What the hell are you!?」

Even though the blade was broken, Zweigbergk continued to pour his strength to push his Blade

And yet, Hayes who should be just a petite girl didn't even give an inch

That smile that was filled with composure suddenly warped into an evil look

「You're tellingmore than an errand boy of the Blue Tyrant is……! Know your place!」

Her free left fist exploded into motion and pierced Tarasque's shoulder

The barrier was drilled through and the ared out The ark was bloay

「Goh, gahah……!?」

Zweigbergk's torso was torn off just with that and he was reduced to a lump of meat miserably

A track of fresh blood was re where the castle town of the empire was projected

「……So this is the power of Sacred Eclipse's nificent The God has chosen this me! I am the true successor of the e sisters! It's this me!」

The eyes of Hayes as talking loudly were shi+ning glaringly with seven colors

Frolance, Hayes looked calmer mentally than before, but her look was filled with inhuman zeal

It was as though she was an incarnation of Abyss──no, a God

「Now then, I finished the confir-Ride Insects like you all are already don't matter but, it doesn't seem bad to crush you all here as harassment to that fake prince」

Airi slightly staggered when those eyes with mysterious rainbow color were turned toward her

They were able to escape frok's threat, but now a threat that was farthan that appeared

Besides, the situation at the surrounding was strange

The old castle site where the scenery of Arcadia E around and devouring the people at the area

When they finished eating, they headed toward the direction of the castle

Airi too had finished the first trial froht now?

Suddenly Hayes's eyes flashed and she stared at one Abyss that was flying in the area

「Hahaha So it's like that, I don't even need to be bothered myself It's a waste of time You all can just wait to be eaten there This abandoned capital will soon turn into hell However, well, if Ane-ue knew about this, then she is really a villain yeah No, it's the right act It's a worthy mission for the descendant of the Lord」

Airi wanted to ask just what she was saying, but right now they itated Hayes

After all their fate would be decided by which way the dice of God's ould roll to

「But, I'onna hand it over to you, Aneue-sama Of course not to the traitor Aeril too I'll be the one to guide this world I'll make you bitches to watch hell too yeah, until then just shi+ver in fear there」

Hayes left behind an evil smile and left from there

No, she shi+ned with light and then her existence vanished

After that nothing remained behind

It was only Zweigbergk's corpse that showed that the happening until noas reality

「Just now, space teleportation……? One of the Ragnarok, Deus ex Machina's──」

Airi who had seen that Ragnarok's battle against Lux noticed that baffling common point

No thened with Elixir, was it also possible to make her learn a powerful supernatural ability that was like Divine Raiment?

No, the ability of the girls of the Lord was nothinguse of a part of the Ruins' power through Baptism

In other words that was──sonarok──

「Let's stop…… It's useless to keep thinking about it More ilad, you are all safe」

Airi let out a deep sigh and spoke with teary eyes

「Haha……, our state really isn't cool as knights protecting a princess though」

「We gotta be thankful, that we are simply able to survive」

「Yes We at least can show our face to Lux-san, that we are able to protect Airi safely」

The expression of Sharis, Tillfur, and Noct relaxed even with the color of pain dyeing their face

If they could be greedy, they wanted to go to tell the others about what just happened, but they understood that they had no spare strength for it

Right now they could only hide for a while and prayed for Lux's safety

Lisha and others would defeat Mishi+s, Lux and Singlen would stop Listelka, and Magialca and others would reach the central of Avalon in that opening

They were still wishi+ng for the success of those, but two abnor

Singlen who ordered Zweigbergk to ai situation, and Hayes as transfore if Sacred Eclipse appeared anytime──

「Don't tell me, Hayes just noas──!」

「What's wrong, Airi?」

「──It's nothing I'll go to take the first-aid kit froe that we left at the other side」

Airi pushed down the unknown uneasiness and ran

At that ti Drake appeared at a distant view Perhaps he was looking for Zweigberk

The battle of the girls met an end for the moment

–

Part 6

「──The saain? It's a bit of disappointment」

Arcadia Empire──imperial capital's central arena

In the fighting stage where a scenery that boasted splendor was projected, the fierce battle of Mishi+s versus Syvalles was continuing

Lisha lent her shoulder to Krulcifer who lost consciousness and glared at the battlefield with a grim face

200 ml from her location, Celis, Philuffy, and Yoruka were repeatedly surrounding Mishi+s as piloting Azi Dahaka and held her in check

Each one of them coordinated with each other to deploy three kinds of attack

The flying type Lindwur with Lightning Flash from the Lance

Because even Azi Dahaka couldn't defend against lightning attack, it was forced to dodge

The land battle type Typhon grasped the rubbles on the surrounding ground and threw it

Otherwise it would pierced a huge rubble with the tip of Pile Anchor and pulled it out, and threw it like an improvised flail

Yorukaability to kicked on the air and slashed at Mishi+s

They launched different attacks fro for opening, but Mishi+s wasn't perturbed at all She continued to deal with the attacks

「What, a woman…… That damn cold blooded maid!」

Even if their attacks were htest weakness even though there was also her shoulder armor that was destroyed by Krulcifer

Even though she was constantly n that her stamina was exhausted

「──There is no end to this At this rate ill keep Aruji-sa That mustn't happen」

YorukaMishi+s in check froe and approached Mishi+s

Lisha who saw that immediately raised her voice

「What are you doing ero woe!」

「Do you think it won't reach you? ──Suppressor!」

The instant Yato no Kae that they had avoided until now, severe gravity burden assaulted Yato no Kami

The four ar that was used as foothold was smashed and sunk down

What Mishi+s aimed for wasn't to steal Divine Rai Suppressor

She turned into offense right after Celis and Philuffy's attack ended, in the ti where no obstruction could come

「It will be my victory if I can just take that Divine Raiment」

Yoruka immediately met Mishi+s with her katana shaped Blade, but her ravity burden

Mishi+s dodged the slash in a hair's breadth while dealing an attack with her halberd to the armor

The barrier was broken through and the darkness colored armor was smashed form the torso

But, the tip of the sword that Yato no Kaht armored foot of Azi Dahaka

The Drag-Ride's barrier was deployed with the focus to the front

Thus the tips of the limbs had thin defense even for Azi Dahaka

And then,

「Why can't I plunder the Divine Rai toward me──」

Mishi+s frohile confir Yoruka's plan

「Yes, I had given an order beforehand Fro underfoot, a command to cancel the use Divine Raiment──」

With just a contact of several seconds, the plundering of Divine Raiment by Avesta would show effect faster than Spell Code

But, at the ti, the special arround activated the Spell Code

The co the Divine Rai the enemy's movement

And then, in exchange of getting her ar of Azi Dahaka

「You were ai?」

「I cannot fight satisfactorily at all with this body anyway」

Yoruka s an unusually cheerful smile

The wound frolen hadn't full recovered Then she was doing a forced donarok, the current Yoruka couldn't even display half of her true strength

Then before her stamina was chipped off in this stalemate, she sacrificed herself and entrusted the rest to her comrades

「So you turned yourself into a sacrificial pawn? The Drag-Knight as even called as the Empire's assassin Blade is actually a really cowardly person」

Mishi+s took a distance for the htly performed a check on her movement

The barrier generation device on the left shoulder and the right ared

It was impossible to move with full power, but she could still exhibit 70 of power

「Perhaps that's true」

Yoruka whose armor was dispelled retreated unexpectedly easily

Without paused she walked toward Lisha's position and turned around toward Mishi+s

「But, it's not a bad feeling, to be able to re able to wield th」

「I don't know if it's one of irls can defeat e?」

When Mishi+s sent a calaze to Celis and Philuffy, Yoruka's lips loosened with a chuckle

「You are, the same like me in the past」

The line that Yoruka suddenly spoke caused Mishi+s to frown slightly

「You blindly believe in your le sacred sword along with an absolute self-confidence Your steely determination surely won't yield no ainst a feeling that is even stronger than that」

「Just when I' to say, it's only nonsense If you yield only because of such insignificant thing, then it's only a proof of your immaturity」

Mishi+s adjusted her stance, she changed the grip on her halberd and took a forward-bent posture

Lisha who saw that sensed a danger and quickly raised her voice

「Celis! Philuffy! Be careful! She is going into offense!」

Because the danger of Yoruka's Spell Code had gone, and then because there were only two re style

She changed her grip on the halberd fro handle flexibly, into a hold for large swing that could exhibit greater ht

She finally moved to attack fro down the opponent

The next moment after Lisha sensed that, Azi Dahaka accelerated with a speed that the eye couldn't follow

Celis who fired lightning attack froh Mishi+s was hit by it, her halberd still struck in a sweeping blow

「……-, u!」

Celis's armored arh it into her chest Celis's face distorted in pain

It was a power in the degree that instantly broke through the barrier

But, Mishi+s's Azi Dahaka also exposed a fatal opening for the first time

「Now airheaded girl! Bring down the maid!」

Lisha who saw that raised her voice even while shuddering

Drag-Ride that was hit by Celis's Lightning Flash would temporarily have its movement paralyzed and its power output would also decrease

Furthermore because Mishi+s had so Full Connect, she would receive even e

If she was in the middle of the attack's effect, she wouldn't be able to activate Avesta

Thus it was a chance of the lifetime

Philuffy didn't overlook that and fired Pile Anchor, winding it around Azi Dahaka

「I'll kick, so be careful」

Philuffy entangled the wire on the armor's four limbs and sealed the halberd's move kick

She would roll the wire and dragged Azi Dahaka closer When the kick bleay the opponent, Celis would also cooperate and dealt an attack to bring the enemy down

「Ei」

Instantly, Pile Anchor pulled Azi Dahaka closer with tre kick with all her strength in a counter

At that instant, Mishi+s who should be lilint toward Philuffy

「It's pointless no matter what you do! You won't make it in time until your Divine Raiment reactivate!」

Lisha who saw that gave a push to Philuffy with her words

To activate Divine Raiy needed to do that were a lotother action

Even if for example Azi Dahaka's Divine Raiment would just barely make it in time, Philuffy's attack couldn't be defended anymore

When the full power kick from Typhon landed, Azi Dahaka's armor burst open

The three layer of tough barriers were broken through, and the front part of the armor was smashed apart

But, Philuffy herself was also blown backward at the sah she was affected by the recoil

「……Wh!?」

Lisha certainly saw it at that moment

The sight of the lapis lazuli colored shockwave that was e Philuffy' armor

It wasn't Howling Roar

Mishi+s shouldn't even have time to fire that

「Most likely, it's the so called Reflector that we heard from them」

Yoruka asped and guessed the situation

The special armament of Azi Dahaka that they heard from Celis at the battle the other day

The internal device that unleashed shockwave as counter to the surrounding right after the attack landed

Because it was a type that activated automatically like Fafnir's Auto shi+eld, it was possible to activate it even in the instant where Mishi+s only barely recovered from the electric attack

「But, how can it has that much pohen it's only an automatic counterattack!? Even Typhon is a land battle type Divine Drag-Ride! Its defensive strength is──」

「Yes, that's right But wasn't the opponent coy for other thing and focused only at the special armament」

「-……!? She predicted it? The exchange just now」

Lisha comprehended an instant after Yoruka pointed out

Originally the power of Reflector was quite strong, but in the end it was only to the degree to stop further attack from the enemy

But, if she discarded all other action froy only into it, then it would be a different story

「When I and Krulcifer-san also attacked before this, the counterattack wasn't so strong, but that too was a preparatory steps for this」

「Run away! Airheaded girl──!」

LIsha who grasped the situation reflexively raised her voice

But, Philuffy too was unable to escape immediately

Because she was entangling Pile Anchor to Azi Dahaka's lih they were both bloay from each other, the chain stopped them midway

Right after the ent taut and their motion halted to a standstill, Philuffy took off the wire in order to avoid Avesta Azi Dahaka took that instantaneous opening and charged

Philuffy as unbalanced reacted by letting out a punch to meet her attack even then

But, she was a step short

The straight punch that was unleashed was dodged by Mishi+s who ducked low and her halberd hit Typhon's shoulder

「……Aa, u」

There was a sound of

Typhon's ar to the back

「Philuffy!」

Lisha spontaneously yelled, but Philuffy put her own hand on the ground and then with a twirl she landed on her feet

「……I'ht」

The attack didn't hit the person herself In the end it see by the inertia

In addition there was also the physical ability and agility of the person herself, so she avoided serious injury

Lisha who confirmed Philuffy's safety stroked her chest in relief

However, because the Force Core in the shoulder was hit strongly, Typhon's armor was automatically dispelled and she fell on one knee

And then, so that Philuffy's inability to keep fighting happened

「This is bad Typhon was touched by Azi Dahaka for a full second」

Yoruka serous matter with a composed tone

Until now they had concentrated all their nerves to at least prevent the plundering of their Divine Rai Faith was taken away after Tiamat's Suppressor

Only Celis alone was re, but she too couldn't be said to be in a perfect condition

Although each of her arot hit by Mishi+s's halberd before this

「Can she win? Against that coldblooded maid who has stole two Divine Raiment, at this rate──」

At that tiuish, her shoulder was lightly tapped

Krulcifer as laid down behind lifted her body and stood up even though she eating from her forehead

「……Let's believe in her」

「Krulcifer!? Never mind that, just sleep! With that body you cannot use──」

「I knoon't move and I also won't force myself I just want to watch with my own eye」

Either way, the e

If Celis couldn't defeat Mishi+s, at that moment that would be the end of their fate

「You're right It will be a loss tothis」

Yoruka nodded in agreement She continued her words with her usual smile

「Our victory fro that we have accumulated until now──」

Her gaze was quietly directed toward Celis as readying her Lance

「Have you resolved yourself? You have lost even the one in ten thousand chances of victory right now」

Mishi+s asserted with a cool expression and brandished her halberd

Azi Dahaka was greatly daainst Philuffy, but her procure Faith, the Divine Raireater still

In addition Celis's Lindasn't undaed

When the aspect of each side's stamina was also included, it appeared that Mishi+s was still the one with far greater advantage

But, there was no hesitation in the face of Celis as the last one re

「No, I'm finally able to see the chance of victory Thanks to everyone risking their life to build it, I'm able to discover it」

「I see, so you are ainst this me just because Azi Dahaka's spec is someeakened──」

Right after Mishi+s laughed down Celis like that, Azi Dahaka skated forward once more

Celis dodged with an arching trajectory while intercepting using Lightning Flash, even so a twisting sweeping attack of the halberd smashed apart a part of Celis's armor

「The energy froain by Avesta With this I'm also above you in stamina」

Celis was silent against that

She only adjusted her breathing quietly and gaze at Mishi+s

「It looks like you have no intention to recognize your defeat I will give praise to that th at least」

Mishi+s was going to close the distance once more, it was then Celis activated Lindwurm's Divine Raiment

Divine Gate

A territory of light with a radius of several dozen ml with Celis at the center was created Instant teleportation was performed within that territory

That power that could build up overwhele in offense and defense was erased by the black surge that was emitted from Azi Dahaka

「Missing Faith……the Divine Raiment she stole from Typhon was instantly activated!?」

That Divine Raiinal user Philuffy It consuth drastically

It was so so difficult to use that Philuffy was barely able to use it by borrowing the strength of Abyss, but using Full Connect, it wasn't difficult for Mishi+s with all the energy she had plundered in this fight

「──Haaah!」

Celis seeation of her Divine Raier she took out

Mishi+s deflected it with her halberd Celis used the opening and unleashed a thrust in a flash──but,

「Lindwure just now you know? Do you think you will be able to surpass me with speed?」

GAKIIN!, the lance ept aside by the halberd Celis along with Lindwurered

But, she i attack

「You are still holding out like thisto be tortured to death aren't you?」

Mishi+s approached even more and struck with consecutive attacks of her halberd

After thrusting up, she doubled the weight of her weapon with Suppressor and swung down She twisted her body to dodge and then rotated to perfor blow

Lindwur down in the blink of eye

Even so no despair could be seen in Celis's expression

She made it so the part that came into contact with the eneed spear fight froe

She skillfully eted Azi Dahaka's shoulder At that

「Don't tell me, it was finally stolen!? Even Lindwurm's Divine Raiment!」

Lisha who saw that shuddered and yelled

Celis seemed to have predicted it and immediately flew behind

Toward the mountain of rubbles of the destroyed old castle

If there was a wall behind her, there would be no attack ca instant teleportation It becaainst Divine Gate after a fashi+on

──But, that instant Super gravity fro to

BAKIKIKIKII-! The foothold rubbles that projected the castle toas s sank down

「Checkmate O powerful warrior of this era, this is farewell」

Mishi+s as convinced of victory unleashed a full power thrust with her halberd Celis muttered at that instant

「──Howling Roar!」

The energy that was focused in the head part of Drag-Ride became a vortex of shockwave that was liberated out

Even though her h she couldn't use Divine Rai-Ride, it could be activated without any hindrance

Although Mishi+s as taken by surprise had herher barrier as shi+eld

Mishi+s forcefully screwed in the thrust froth, at the same time the counter from Celis's Lance also stabbed Azi Dahaka's armor

「She's defeated!? No, is it a draw!?」

Lisha yelled, at the sas

「Double layered little trick at this point of ti」

Mishi+s pulled away her halberd with a wry sravity force, and took her distance

The flash fro Lance fired

Just before their attack crossed each other, the flash blinded Mishi+s's eyes and Celis barely dodged the opponent's thrust

Celis cut her way through the absolutely deathly predicament with only two tactics

「But, is there any -Ride is stolen by Avesta each tie Now that it is one-on-one, you won't ithout landing a sure kill attack on me」

「It seems so ──Then, perhaps I'll land one」

And then, Celis removed a part of her armor that was ruined

「Break Purge── Leaving behind only the minimum propulsion frame and armor, Celis's suicide attack huh……」

Lisha who knew that style was letting out cold sweat seeing Celis's form

Break Purge that was originally a basic technique was subliinal technique that was only hers

The ar except to the uty was distributed were also reduced, increasing the attack power

As the compensation for the increase in power and speed, the defensive poas greatly reduced

If she fully received an attack by Divine Drag-Ride in that state, she wouldn't be able to avoid instant death

If it was Mishi+s who thoroughly knew about Drag-Ride's trait and function, surely it would be possible for her to deal even Celis's suicide attack style

She closed the distance gradually with an expression of mask that was the same like until now

The abilities of Divine Rai Avesta already reached saturated state

Even if she was going to absorb energy from Lindwurm until it was dried up, with how thin its aret closer to absorb the energy

It would be the final exchange that would be done in the range of sure-kill

Mishi+s who saw that the end wa near silently asked

It wasn't a diversion to , or a mental attack to shaken up the enemy Words naturally welled up from inside herself that was covered behind the mask

「It's splendid Battle skill and physical strength that are polished until that far, and then your th They are worthy of praise But, you are not a ainstthe o I auard of the imperial princess」

She spoke out her belief was also to strengthen herself by applying self-suggestion

Azi Dahaka was also dah as she wished

──She could defeat the opponent She would defeat the opponent

Mishi+s gazed at her opponent with eyes that were filled with a will of steel

The Drag-Knight Girl who she should respect, for being the first person who fought her until this far

「In the end, is it really just as you say?」

Celis spoke her words straightforwardly, then she threw three Daggers midair and immediately fleard

Because she had removed part of her armor, she manifested an acceleration that was double than before

She unleashed a doard thrust from midair, with her momentum behind it

「Just what are you planning──? Divine gate!」

In respond Mishi+s activated the stolen Lindwurm's Divine Raiment and instantly circled behind Celis

She let out a sith all her strength to the defenseless back In that instant, Daggers were falling before her eyes

「-……! You predicted that I will circle behind you!?」

Mishi+s whose attention was taken by the Daggers for only slightly stoppedher hand

Celiss turned around at that opening and her Lance danced

Once, twice, thrice

The shoulder that lost the barrier generation device due to Krulcifer's sniping, the ared by Yoruka's katana, the joints of the armored arms, and each weak spots were stabbed consecutively

Mishi+s was flustered by the unleashed fierce attack that was like a heavy rain, even so Mishi+s didn't fall behind

Full Connect partly integrated her body with Drag-Ride, she could control her Drag-Ride with the same sensation like it was her own body

She accorasp of Lindwurm's movement She had no blind spot

「Looks like you have toyed with various strategy, but in close-quarter coainst this me──」

A shock ran through the expression of Mishi+s who handled all the thrusts and backed away

Right after that, the armor that covered the four limbs of Azi Dahaka crumbled down in pieces

「……-!? Did the attacks, hit? How── I certainly have, dodged, them……」

The tip of Celis's Lance that lunged out in Godspeed slipped through Mishi+s's defense and shaved out Mishi+s's armor with certainty

Through that Azi Dahaka's solid armor was also weakened

「What is going on……? How is Celis's attack starting to hit?」

Lisha as looking from the side was also similarly bewildered

In the place of Philuffy and Krulcifer ere also looking duht, Yoruka silently took up the role of explaining

「It's si of the opponent Just like how Aruji-sah the opponent's preli in her lance while seeing through the opponent's defense」

──Breath

That was the conduct of the flesh body that would surely appear on the surface in the middle of offense and defense that were carried out in full strength

Celis foresighted the ti that Mishi+s perforeneral and reacted to it

Mishi+s who heard thatlook

「I day after day towon't be read and the like For -Ride to fall behind you is just──」

「No, you are wrong Even Drag-Ride is so that human control No matter what habit and personality will be mixed in it And then──」

Celis gazed straightforwardly to Mishi+s with an aloof gaze and declared

Yes

For Drag-Ride user at Mishi+s's level, they surely would have finished revising their movement so it would be extremely hard to predict their

But, in the end it was so that only within Mishi+s's own comprehension

The body that becaainst formidable enemy wouldn't move like normal no matter what

Until now she had never faced a Drag-Knight stronger than her, no, far froht who could match her

Therefore Celis won against her in the strength of predicting the eneht

「You are an Anti Drag-Knight, but even though you can perfectly predict Drag-Ride's movement, you are unable to learn as far as the person's habit In your Full Connect state, the -Ride──, the more it become easier for me to predict your movement」

Fusing a part of the body with Drag-Ride brought ed sword

The endlessly swift and precise control──and then the sharing of senses caused the body's infor-Ride even more

Mishi+s thought that her habit was hidden even then

She didn't notice until now, until she encountered an equally powerful person

「Such thing……is iht──!」

Mishi+s activated Avesta as though to deny Celis's words

Next she wouldn't use it to steal ability, but she would pour her everything to plunder only the opponent's energy

She would steal all of Lindwure of close-quarter co-Ride armor itself

「Celis!」

Lisha who saw Azi Dahaka charging forward fiercely raised an agitated voice

In respond Celis deeply readied her Lance

An instant before she and Mishi+s clashed, a scene of her with Lux was resurrected at the back of her mind

Thealone everyday because she was too strong and the young

「Mishi+s V Xfer Your strength on the whole is far above mine」

Within an instant, various memories rushed inside Celis's chest

The Anti Drag-Knight who devoted her everything to herher skill until she could boast as the strongest

If they fought fairly──no, even if the five of theinally they still wouldn't have any chance of victory

But, there was the existence of the sixth person with Celis and others

──No That existence was far reater

She ht him

She became able to interact with everyone in the Acades

She was freed frohteousness and self-sacrifice that she was obsessed with, and she was row

Exactly because of that, the current Celis could see Mishi+s's weak point

(Lux I'rateful That's why, let'swill──)

Mishi+s's halberd that wasdown in order to sever the torso with a flash came after she drew back the shoulders and elbows of her armored arms until the farthest limit of Azi Dahaka's mobility

At the same time she activated Avesta to the maximum output

If the attack hit, it would destroy the target while stealing the energy of the Drag-Ride thoroughly at the same time

Celis who fleard as though to respond to that didn't take evasive action

But, in that instant Mishi+s saw so unexpected and her eyes snapped wide open

「……Partial, deployment?」

Tuning──

Using the Sword Device to intervene into Drag-Ride's system

But, what Celis was using wasn't a special technique like Singlen's Senjin

Everything other than her Lance, back wings, and shoulder ar the shape into even further suicide attack form

If the rey of Lindas few, then she would concentrate it even th

The body of Celis that accelerated until the lih Mishi+s

「Mishi+s Because you are a natural Drag-Knight, you are unable to becoainst huet involved with someone else」

The exchange with Celis that was even less than an instant

During that instant, Mishi+s was caught into an illusion of hearing words that she should be unable to hear

When she noticed, the ar the halberd broke, and the Lance deeply pierced into her armor

「Ah──」

High voltage electricity pierced Mishi+s's body, burning her nerves through the part of the Drag-Ride that was fused with her body

At the saot hit by the halberd also received the aftermath of the impact and she was bloay

「-……!? Celis!」

Lisha pushed through her fatigue and dashed

Celis received the enemy's attack in the form where her armor was removed to the utmost limit

Even her pilot suit was half destroyed by the impact It wasn't likely that she was alive

Krulcifer thought so and she looked doith a grieving expression, but Philuffy and Yoruka were calm

「It's fine She is alive」

「Yes, though it looks like her doht for now」

「Eh……?」

When Krulcifer looked forward following the two's voice, there was the figure of Celis as held up in Lisha's ar in pain

「How? Even though she received such an attack from that close」

「My? That's a line that is unlike you Well, it also can't be helped if a e of close range weapon」

Krulcifer tilted her head in puzzle Yoruka's words, but her doubt was cleared after a few seconds

「Don't tellforward herself was for such thing?」

An attack would display itsunleashed, but when it arrived at the target

The joints of the ar, the tip of the halberd that hit the target were exactly where the destructive force was gathered

If the distance was closed far before the attack arrived, at the time when the attack was unleashed, then attack power of Mishi+s's Azi Dahaka would also be halved

The counter technique Critical Hit that Lux used with Scale Blade

It was applied into Celis's spear technique

It was a terrifying method where she accelerated herself even further to defeat the enemy

「The halberd's blade only touched Lindwur, the handle part sie from the impact, but it wasn't deathly」

After Yoruka said that, Krulcifer leaked out a relieved sigh

And then at the spot where Mishi+s was bloay to, she was collapsing face up with her armor dispelled

Because she was in Full Connect state, the electric shock from the spear burned her flesh body

Even if she had sta, her muscles were surely paralyzed and she couldn't move satisfactorily for a while

She washand toward her chest, but it was already iht

「Even so, you are being really open with us aren't you? Are you that worried about Celis-senpai I wonder?」

When Krulciferrelieved,

「Of course After all she is superior as a wonity if she is lost here」

「I see……」

Just when she thought whether Yoruka had feeling of fellowshi+p budding inside her, it was the usual Yoruka Krulcifer was exasperated

Although, it was great that they could win in this battle

Crushi+ng Mishi+s as the eneth surely reatly closer to victory

The reil, and then Sacred Eclipse

「Let's go, we need to treat the injury properly」

「Right Also let's also treat Mishi+s and bind her She too will become prisoner──……!?」

Krulcifer nodded at Philuffy's words and looked forward Right after that

She could see Mishi+s ht a horn flute to her mouth

Yoruka i, but she was too late

──iiiIII-, the sound of horn flute resounded in the area One of the angel type Abyss grasped Mishi+s and took her away

Looking at how her four li down limply, it seemed that was the best that she could do

The Abyss that was hiding behind the arena wasn'twhen an unexpected situation happened by any chance

「──She got away We too are in a state that cannot wear Drag-Ride, so there was also the possibility of her telling the Abyss to attack though」

「Aht against Abyss even without Drag-Ride after all I think that was a wise decision that she made there」

It was regrettable that Mishi+s escaped, but surely Mishi+s wouldn't be able to fight properly for a while And it was useless even if they were feeling regret in this situation

Right now they could only share happiness that all of them were able to survive safely

「Looks like Celis fainted, but she is safe Let's take a bit of break Also, it will depend on Yoruka but, when Yato no Ka for us? I want to join up with Lux's little sister and the Triad soon and entrust Celis to them」

「That's fine Honestly speaking I want to fall asleep like this but, we still haven't obtain Avalon yet」

The five comrade in arms flopped down in a circle and looked up to the sky

They basked theether while thinking and praying for the safety of a young man

–

Part 7

「Haa, haa……! Mishi+s's return is late I don't think it's possible but, could it be she is defeated?」

On the other side, the south section of Arcadia imperial capital

In front of the castle gate of the castle town that was projected at the abandoned capital, Listelka was breathing roughly

She was the first imperial princess of the Lord, and also the shrine maiden of oracle She knew beforehand about the trials for the sake of obtaining Avalon

By touching the clones of Automata Arshalia that appeared in a total of seven places, one would receive three trials

The first trial put a burden on the person's mind, a ceremony to display the person's power of resistance

By enduring through it, the person could obtain the effect of preventing the mental disorder when Elixir was administered into them

The second trial was a direct ad of Elixir into the person

By strengthening both mind and flesh, the person would obtain the ability to control the mechanism in central

At present Listelka had also finished the second trial safely and she was taking rest like this

She deliberately headed to the castle gate where there was no sign of people in order to avoid contact with enemy

She was able to predict that if the other group realized the pattern of where the clones of Arshalia were located, they would search the important locations

Thus, Listelka who understood the terrain took advantage of that and went here along with Fugil

「She is a legendary heroic figure even a the Key's Supervisor No one would be here match no matter who」

Fugil responded to Listelka with unchanging thin smile

The pure white ih, then she leaned the back of her head on Fugil's chest

「Do you feel disdain to me? That I am a cowardly imperial princess I am the shrine maiden of oracle, the current i various underhanded things」

Until this point Listelka did her best that she even threay her shame

In order to conquer the Ruins, she asked for the cooperation of the world alliance while betraying htehter Hayes as disposable piece, and she also put the second daughter Aeril into a trap

She introduced herself as an absolute ruler while building her advantage using schemes where she didn't care of the means she chose

Despite that, she was forced back at the previous battle and even now she was only barely holding out

Even sending Mishi+s as an assassin while Fugil was guarding her was because she was fearing the strength of the world alliance in her heart

She was still holding advantage in the aspect of information, but that too was only at the level that could be easily overturned by luck or coincidence

Exactly because she understood that, she was leaning on Fugil to rely on him

「Fugil A this skillfully? As a descendant of the Holy Arcadia Empire, as so my mission well?」

The girl slowly closed her eyes and reconfir

What surfaced at the back of her mind was the past memory that was resurrected in the second trial just now

And then now, she was thinking back upon the tragedy as though tracing the negative history of the empire

Before Listelka and others went into sleep, the rebels, the fa-Rides for so everywhere Their

They attacked all thein the imperial capital, and finally the royalty and nobility wereself

Even though the Lord had developed Drag-Ride and Elixir along with the Key's Supervisor──, yet how?

Listelka separated her face fro

「How, could that kind of insurrection occur? According to a theory, at that tiitator as allied with the family of traitor」

「The White Hero It seeend of the far away past, that person at that time was called like that To call the person who ruined us as living in peace as a messiah or the like, what a selfish story Really──」

Listelka only said that and took a deep breath

And then, she embraced herself and trembled

Her other memory was from a thousand year at minimum after that

The case when she oken fro in

Listelka as sleeping in the Ark was accidentally discovered by the investigation team of the old empire Her brethrens and servants who also had just woken up were slaughtered

When she was in despair that the fa on theil saved Listelka

He killed all the troops of Arcadia Empire that was in that place

After getting saved, Listelka as heavily wounded was put into sleep oncewith medical treatment Aeril and Hayes ere relatively safe each spent their tiate the outer world

In the end, Hayes as holding grudge to the rulers and Arcadia E Listelka's coed with her secret maneuvers behind the scene

After that, Listelka woke up once more and they arrived at the present

「……It seems I will be able to move soon We have to head to the last trial」

Listelka lifted up her face and said that with a smile

The last, the third trial was──to face one's own ability

There was a record that when they next tied a contract with the main body of the Automata, Sacred Eclipse would appear

When the person could make it obey, the path to obtain Avalon would be opened

Inside her heart Listelka felt a question of why Sacred Eclipse that would destroy the world was also having this kind of role

Was its ability to read hu its ? No, or perhaps──

It was pointless to keep thinking about it

It was fine if she clarified the re puzzle when she arrived at the center of Avalon

「I'll be relying on you Fugil If Sacred Eclipse attack, please take care of it I'll e somehoith the trial other than that」

「Yes Everything will be as your highness will it」

「Geez, please stop acting so stiff at least in this kind of tih I feel bad for Mishi+s who is working hard」

Although Listelka puffed up her cheeks in dissatisfaction, her tone was gentle

「It will be fine No , I will surely overcome them if you are with me」

Listelka whispered the words of trust and she entangled her fingers with the hand of her iht

The last battle was approaching near

–

Part 8

Around that tidom

Inside a stone corridor that was cold and dark, two

One of theave intellectual impression frodom, Prime Minister Nulph

Across from him was a man in his priris

He was one of the great feudal lords that were called as the four great nobles since the era of the old enity of so military experience

In fact, it was thisthe expeditionary force of new kingdom this time, but at the surface Pri command

「I have given you troubles at that ti the full authority of the alliance ar unreasonable command」

「It's no proble from your position」

When Prime Minister Nulph bowed his head, Dist shook his head with his stern expression

「It will affect the honor of new kingdoreat nobles take command It is only a natural consideration toward her majesty the queen」

The relationshi+p of the new kingdoreat nobles ell-known even in other countries

After the old ereat nobles' authority turned stronger

If Dist was the one who took command instead of Queen Raffi, it was the sa force as a queen

Therefore, Queen Raffi nity in the forht of command

「Is her ht, Prime Minister Nulph?」

「Yes, theeffect Her s, so currently I' her majesty to rest in her room」

The royal capital of Marcafal Kingdom

The sovereigns of each country who evacuated safely until the royal castle received cordial welcome and took rest

The elite force of the alliance had been devastated, theout was mostly collapsed

It was a state where they could only leave the capture of Avalon wholly to the Seven Dragon Paladins, even so there was still a mountain of work to do

Realistically──or perhaps it should be called as having no integrity, even in this situation where it concerned the fate of the world, a ruler had to constantly think about the matter after it too

Meetings with the assumption that the world was saved and Avalon was obtained were being held continuously even now at present

「The sharing of Avalon's technologies in case it is obtained, the establishment of alliance relationshi+p for several years froreat We had lost ly raised and also a lot of Drag-Rides Now the situation is beco, for exaon Marauder, or the national defense against Abyss that appear from the Ruins」

Nulph also nodded toward Dist's opinion

「Besides, due to the series of news that were broadcasted by the Shadows dispatched by Listelka, dissatisfaction is heightening within a part of the new kingdo that the current Queen Raffi cannot deal with the danger」

「What a self-serving bunch Even though they were expressing thatsystem of the old empire」

「You're correct But the populace is a selfish bunch, while politician is a greedy being This tidoth of the four great nobles On top of that the failure of the queen is being broadcasted within the country」

When Nulph said that with a slightly pained expression, Dist stared at empty air and said briefly

「But, this ti, there will be a limit no matter how hard they work」

「That is the reality However those who received loss will seek someone to take responsibility If for example the world destruction is stopped but we don't obtain enough recompense from Avalon, while a lot of troops and the people's asset are lost──」

The result would be Raffi's position as queen would be degraded by the detractors within the country

At the very least the consuls who belonged to old ee of this chance to make a comeback

If that happened, in not too long a new seed of war dom

「But, it's still only five years since the destruction of the old e that kind of civil war isn't a profitable plan We have to arrange so that can convince the populace as well as the consuls, in order to heal the wound this time too」

「So that is what you want to consult with me, prime minister-dono」

「……I told my subordinates to clear out the people from here Our talk won't be overheard by anyone here」

Priree and his expression tensed

He was going to start a discussion that would be bad if it was overheard

Dist Ralgris also guessed Nulph's intention

Thus he kept quiet and waited for the continuation of the words

「Lord Dist I want to ask you to put in a good word for reat man Count Atis」

Dist kept silent hearing the words of the young prime minister

The ulteriorbehind the scene of the battle where the fate of the world was at stake

–

Part 9

「Does the second trial finished with this? How are you feeling, your highness?」(Magialca)

「I' a little bad but, I' for a few minutes」

On the other hand, the second team of alliance army

The team of six people that was centered around the Lord Aeril, then Greifer, Mel, Soffice, Rosa, and Magialca was s the second trial──the Baptism

With this, finally there was only the third trial re

「For the situation to go so siveswill happen」

「Even though you are the youngest, don't fan up anxiety like that yeah You're a twisted brat like usual」

Mel was staring at the sky anxiously Beside her, Greifer showed a sullen face

Right now the two of the-Ride

Their strategy was to constantly have two people preserving hteir stamina while no enemy was confirmed

「I'll say this first but, I wasn't saying that without any basis at all you know? After all it can be i the scene of the castle town from before this」

「What do you meaan?」

Rosa kept a sly at Mel's

「This projected scene, if it's the history of Arcadia Empire, then why is it showed to us……」

Aeril answered that by talking to herself

「More importantly, there It's Lux's tea behind the castle just now」

Sofficeat the castle far away

It was hard to see the other side of the building, but angel type Abysses were circling around and descended to the inside

「Do you have so by in that place?」(Magialca)

「──There is an i there a lot I don't think there is anything there but……」

「But, the Autoht? That means, it's possible you can find the third trial there ain't it?」

When Aeril was looking troubled, Greifer spoke his opinion casually

「Right It's just as you say but, for now there is no need to go there Let's approach just barely and then wait」

「……? What do you mean?」

Mel tilted her head at Magialca's instruction

「You will get it soon We have to ascertain that guy'swith plan you know, you snob」

After Magialca estively, they approached toward the iialca's EX Drake showed a reaction

「You can coht?」

With that sentence, tension ran a Aeril

After a slight delay, Listelka showed her figure from the shadow of the castle wall

「When I have been preparing nu well I wish to obtain the power of Avalon quickly, so that this kind of thing won't happen」

「I also wish the saht but──well, we have prepared beforehand to do so」

When Magialca gazed at behind the castle, Arshalia appeared once more at the entrance of the ireen

Right after that, the figure of Lux and Singlen that could be seen from afar disappeared

「After all it looks like for the third trial, the revival of Sacred Eclipse will be necessary It will still take tiht? That hy you deliberately yielded the path to the control rooroup instead」

「……Yes Well you are right I too was going to attack at the last moment just like you but, Sacred Eclipse that is just revived won't come here It also doesn't look like there will be extension of time to wait until Mishi+s return Therefore──let's settle this ahead of time」

Right after ListelkaBahamut moved to stand in front of her

「Nee-san……」

At that tion Paladins took their stance and confronted the opponent tensely, the surrounding space distorted, and a girl appeared between them

「──!? Who are you?」

When Magialca reacted pro a robe that was dyed with blood spurt lifted her face

「Hayes……!?」

When Aeril and Listelka were bewildered at the farinned

–

Part 10

「This place, just where──?」

When Lux gasped in surprise, the unfamiliar space spread out

A large room with silver smooth wall

Inside, several mechanical pillars that reseain

At the center of the roo Beside her there was also Singlen clad in Leviathan

Until now, everything was only projection of the past buildings laid out on the abandoned capital Guernica

However right now there was a sense of reality

This place wasn't fake, they were inside a real building

「There is no Listelka or Fugil here Don't tell me, we are the one who reached to the central first?」

In the first place, it would be sufficient if any of the three teaht be in the process of completion like this

But, even though they had overtaken Fugil's group, an anxiousness was rapidly bloating up inside Lux

「Great work acco the previous two trials, Lux Arcadisaive the explanation about the true ability of Avalon and about Sacred Eclipse」

The Autoht tone

This time it wasn't a clone that was made from nanomachine, it seemed it was the real Gear Leader

Lux who saw that silently dispelled Wyvern's armor and switched to Bahamut

「Hou? What are you planning wearing armor before the trial?」

「Because I don't knoill happen」

Lux responded avoidantly to the high-handed words of Singlen

Arshalia's words were continuing even then

「Why were trials given repeatedly until this point? That is because the person who obtains Avalon will obtain the power to overturn and rule this world Therefore, the number of people who know about the true nature of Avalon has to be very few Well then from here, I will prepare the last trial」

──VVRN!

Right after her voice, the surroundingback

The moment a spacious space was created, Lux turned around while slashi+ng at the same time

──GIIN!

High-pitched sound of clashi+ng swords resounded Sparks scattered fiercely before his eyes

Lux's great sword and Singlen's Blade crossed each other They were treth was maintained

「──What are you doing chore boy? Are you planning to betray us and the world alliance after this far?」

Singlen asked with a haughty grin

Lux sharply narrowed his eyes and glared back at the enemy before him

「Don't play stupid How dare you harmed Airi and the Triad」

Lux poured even th and pushed back the Blade

Singlen shi+fted his blade and parried it, then he leaped back and took distance

The Dragon Voice that ca and information report

Singlen instructed Zweigbergk to capture Airi as hostage

And also how in order to protect Airi, the Triad were seriously injured

Therefore before Lux would perforht

「You are an impulsive man like usual I didn't particularly atteirls only 」

「Enough with the nonsense!」

The control roo

Inside the space where gears werewith Bahamut

With an ilen as the enemy, he had no definite prospect of victory

Even so, he couldn't co

It was great that they had reached until the central, but if he didn't stop thiswould be controlled by him

「Kukuku…… People who originally should join hand together are tricking each other and laying trap It's exactly like repeating back the history Not a single thing has changed since my time」

Singlen unleashed the tuning toward Lux as charging at him

The countless fraraphic floated around Leviathan, beautifully illu the deep blue armor

Singlen's secret technique that -Ride's system──Senjin

Singlen showed the stance of using that, but Lux unhesitatingly brandished his Blade

「Is your sight blinded by rage? ──Senjin - Ruten」

Lux's slash that was aimed toward the shoulder was deflected by the parry of an instantly deployed barrier

The moment the slash would hit, a force field was forht to left

The barrier was deployed bythe flow of Lux's slash without even an inch of deviation, so that the attack was stopped and averted

But, Lux's slash only slightly scratched the barrier and hit the armor of Leviathan

Singlen's parry was done with perfect ti

However, the result was different froht when they used Wyvern and Drake

「What's wrong? There is no need to go easy on me!」

Lux was provoking unusually vigorously at the enemy before him

In contrast Singlen was blinking in wonder, but he soon put up his usual fearless smile

「Hhha I see, so it's like that It's a shallow thinking but looks like you have been wracking your brain huh It see forward to a rematch with me」

Lux was silent toward Singlen's loud laughter

Although it was only slightly, but the Senjin of that Singlen was broken through and the attack hit

Lux pretended to be calm so that the trick wouldn't be understood

But, his plan was already seen through with a glance

「You used Bahamut's special armament Linker Pulse huh You made me to be wary of your three hidden techniques and Divine Rai your built-in special armament」

It was bull's eye

Singlen's Senjin - Ruten freely used parry by instantly deploying barrier, a technique that perfor the enemy off balance, but if he made a blunder with the technique, it would also expose weak point and opening that was just as large

In matter of speed, Lux's hidden technique, Quick Draould be effective But Singlen would surely ainst that

Then, using the built-in Linker Pulse that the ene-Ride to slightly shi+ft the ti of his slash If it ell the attack would hit, that was his calculation

He deliberately provoked Singlen was to make him had misapprehension that the attack hit simply because of the difference in skill so that he could keep hiding the trick, but Singlen easily saw through it

(Dear God As I thought, this -Ride battle……!)

The trick of bypassing the defense was exposed, but Lux was still e

After all even if the trick was exposed, it didn't len would be able to block all his attacks

「──Senjin - Gouka」

The ed with a fierce speed and approached from the front

Its Blade ung doith a sharp trajectory Bahareat sword

But, the energy that was concentrated to one point exhibited a destructive power that couldn't be fully neutralized Crack entered the special armament

「Kuh……aah!」

Lux barely pulled back his blade and parried the enemy's slash

「I see, so you also used Linker Pulse in defense to shi+ft the point of contact You are looking down on ainst this me」

「──Why!? Why are you all acting like this!?」

「What?」

When Lux noticed, he was yelling that

It wasn't a tactic or a restraint tofurther

Because Lux recognized this th and talent more than anyone, Lux's own heart yelled so

「It was the sa a plan to il turned traitor at thefor the sake of saving this world!?」

Fugil too, he gave various knowledge to Lux for the sake of the revolution, helping hi-Ride

Singlen too, although his position was different as the representative of his country, he should be standing here as one of the Seven Dragon Paladins

And yet why, they were doing so like this?

Lux couldn't cooistic action

「You already possess enough strength and status! Just what are you wishi+ng for even more than that!?」

「Fuh……hahahaha!」

Lux's choked out an angry yell, however Singlen responded with an inappropriate laughter

「What is funny?」

「That's a great way to pour cold water on a fight Who can hold back fro that? Weren't you a prince even if just as a lowly one? Someone who had been involved with the pivot of the country, can really ask what more anyone could wish for?」

「What, do you mean?」

Singlen twirled his Blade and stabbed it into the ground

He then continued to talk as though to say that it was the signal of the battle's pause

「Very well Originally I had no intention of talking this far with a fool, but in deference only to your talent in fighting, I'll especially teach you After all it's also not so that you are wholly unrelated with」

Lux didn't let his guard dohile lending his ear to Singlen's words

「The country I originated frodom was once dyed with corruption It was already like that far before Ruins appeared in various places of the world and Drag-Ride was brought out At that tie such situation anytiree from birth Just like you in the past」

「But I didn't do anything I had no interest for it I was unable to find soe Frankly speaking, it was just a trite reason I was disgusted by the world Whether it was toward the imbecile people in authority ere pleased with their monopoly of power, and also toward the lazy and incompetent foolish mass ouldn't stand and oppose such bunch」

「Is that you unjustified resent banished froeneral after that?」

「Do you think so? At that time I was banished On purpose that is」

Singlen laughed dohat Lux pointed out

Singlen suppressed the rebellion within the country, extered the eneral because of his style that was too atrocious

The king who feared Singlen's strength deliberately gave hilen harbored dissatisfaction toward that That was the rumor that Lux heard

「At that time, it was easy even if I want to n But you see, I didn't even want to touch that kind of power struggle It was trivial and worthless thing I thought they can just do as they please by themselves」

「Then, why──」

「Do you want to hear about how I secretly arranged so that Blackend Kingdom's army was destroyed once?」

That was one of the rumors out there

The wearing down of Blackend Kingdom's war potential by Nocturnal's appearance and calamity

The king lost his knight order and called Singlen back at that ti was nothing more than this man's scheme?

Thisthat it was the truth

「It's a sireed and foolishnessNothing is uglier in this world than aniness After I retired, I was staying quiet without even getting involved with the Ruin But, the hangers-on of the royal fath even then, they tried to kill me in their desire for achievement」

「The kingdom's soldiers ere dressed as bandit descended on the village at the re sister was killed when she refused to becoot wretchedly tortured」

A s indifferently

Fro about human's brutality could even be peeked

「Such thing, there is no way……」

──'Impossible' Lux couldn't assert that

No, for Lux who had seen the other side of the old eine such scene

People who considered themselves as someone with special position and looked down on others possessed cruelty to a terrifying degree

It was as though they didn't feel pain at all in their heart no matter what kind of inhumane act they performed

「I didn't feel sad even atlike affection toward family But, they pushed their luck too far They didn't even notice that I deliberately overlook thenificant, it was still uys laid their hand on and trampled with muddy shoes」

SInglen's jet black eye that wasn't covered by eye patch gleahed

「I noticed my own blunder In this world, low-lives that surpassed even h it's only natural If trash isn't incinerated, it will scatter stench and har around that will fly even until before my eyes」

Lux lost histhe old empire

If he was to lose Airi or Philuffy through that?

Revenge──though surely Singlen had no such thoughthim

「It's intolerable The ugliness of human's existence, the bottoinally unconcerned to be unable to stay as spectator In order to clean up har the hatchet personally That's all there is to it At that tiil and obtained even more power, and then──」

Singlen loudly recited at the top of his voice and pulled out the stabbed Blade

「Therefore, Lux Arcadia who is asking for cooperation We the supre as the pivot of the neorld」

「You are also unhappy with the way your country is the sa the world into one where there will be no irrationality by the fool…… That can be realized if we obtain Avalon here」

Most likely this was Singlen's last invitation

Even so, Lux was unable to nod

「I cannot say that your thinking is co」

No──even Lux hilen's story

Even if soitinore it and even betrayed them

What was important to him was taken away, he was hurt, and even now the scar was still re

Lux looked back at the fate surrounding hiht

Would it be better if he possessed a heartless resolve like this man from the start?

「──But, I cannot think that a world created like that is correct You who had so taken away from you only became unable to see it!」

He pursued his own path without hesitation

If that was one kind of justice, then searching for aproblehteousness

「Just like how an unreasonable fate was forced on you by them and you rebelled, if you do that then a new distortion would be created all over again」

「So that won't happen, a power that cannot be overturned for eternity is necessary That's the true power hidden in this Avalon」

Singlen quietly glared authoritatively Lux took a deep breath

「It will be overturned, Singlen After all it's just as you said, history will repeat itself Even the Lord who created this Avalon, weren't they torn down from their position?」

「Then I will crushi+ngly defeat any such thing no htened rebels ill disturb my controldohly leaving not a single one, as many times as necessary」

Water gathered around Singlen when Lux noticed, and the air was drying

Leviathan's special armament, Ballast

The conversation between Lux and Singlen until noas used for buying time

But, perhaps because there was no source of water inside this rooathered was still few

If it was like that, then the water couldn't be used freely for offense and defense

The water would increase as tieable for Lux

The strongest style that co Divine Rai

The technique called shi+n Senjin that defeated Yoruka would be used

「It can't be helped I will make a little bit of co your little sister here, you too will surely change your tune」

The instant Lux heard that, Lux exploded into reat sword and slashed at Singlen

But, Singlen too skillfully e sized Blade and blocked it

「What are you doing attacking without any planning like that? Do you think that it would be an even fight if you attack before I could use my Divine Raiment?」

Singlen showed a high-handed grin while parrying Lux's consecutive attacks with only sword handling

Perhaps because Singlen was thinking that if he used Senjin, the contact point would be shi+fted by Linker Pulse, he didn't use tuning

In that case, it would be the turn for Lux's three hidden techniques and Divine Raiainst those

(──There is no tih water for both offense and defense, my defeat will be set in stone!)

The control room that was covered with metallic wall

Singlen displayed that he was preparing using Ballast, inviting Lux to attack while he focused on defense

If a few reatly tilt toward Singlen

Lux as originally powerful in defense while waiting for a chance to launch his Quick Shot, was forced to perforlen's tactic

This very reat chance

「What's thewith every second that passed you know?」

「Then, try receiving this!」

Lux launched a feint of doard swing, while he touched Bahamut's Sword Device and unleashed his hidden technique

The confor of body control operation and mind control operation──the slash of Quick Draw flashed

Because the preli the Sword Device was necessary, that slash was predicted

But, Bahareat sword its arer that was drawn out was thrown like an arrow

Dagger throwing through Quick Draw

It was an attack that should take the eneer was deflected by the barrier and armor

The opponent flinched froible scratch that was carved, but that was all

「Are you intending to outwitis there in such act?」

Singlen turned a gaze that was mixed with exasperation Lux winced

Certainly, the effect was s an attack that only had speed behind it

If he could use Over Limit at least then it would become a more even

(There is no choice but to do this eapon I have at hand!)

Singlen's defense was extremely solid

The armor and barrier of Leviathan itself too when it was a land battle type Divine Drag-Ride