Clang Clang Gashaak
Sharp and metallic noise reverberated in the air, brig sparks flying left and right as two swords clashed against one another. The wind trembled and the ground quaked, shockwaves howling all over the training grounds, two men battling it out.
The ones in battle were no ordinary people either. One of them was the Captain of the Royal Guards while the other was the Graystone Kingdom's very own King, each gritting their teeth as they bore the brunt of each other's strikes.
All eyes were on the two as the exchanged blows, sharp streaks of light gleaming every so often. The fiercer the winds blew, the more heated up the battle became, arriving to the point where blood started to trickle down the ground.
《Appraisal》 ［Grey］
-----------------------------------
【Salferine】
【Name】Archen myr Lantre Graystone
【Race】Human
【Sex】Male
【Age】48
【Status】Healthy
【Mana Capacity】1,265 【Mana Quality】C
【Combat Power】1,537 【Threat Level】B
【Attribute】Earth 【Magic Proficiency】High (50%)
【Class】Swordsman 【Weapon Proficiency】High (55%)
【Physical Enhancement】59%
【Ability】『Terrorize (3☆)』
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【Salferine】
【Name】Eliazar myr Camelot
【Race】Human
【Sex】Male
【Age】43
【Status】Healthy
【Mana Capacity】1,749 【Mana Quality】C
【Combat Power】2,340 【Threat Level】B
【Attribute】Wind 【Magic Proficiency】High (54%)
【Class】Swordsman 【Weapon Proficiency】High (59%)
【Physical Enhancement】62%
【Ability】『Raven's Eye (3☆)』
-----------------------------------
They weren't just small fries either. Both of them were respectable High-Rankers whose clash could easily devastate the place if it weren't for the tough and sturdy barrier covering the training grounds.
Of course, as there was a massive gap between the strengths between them, both parties decided to battle with their combat powers fixed at the bottom of B-rank. The one who breaks the rules will lose the match immediately.
The King dashed forward and raised his sword high in the air, blazing sparks rushing out his blade as it connected with Eliazar's sword. Seeing it didn't go through, he then jumped back and increased the distance between them in just a couple moments.
Unfortunately for the King, Eliazar didn't just let him be and chased him to a corner. Their clash once again continued, only that now, the situation has been reversed, the King down the one pressured by the Captain of the Royal Guards.
《How Impudent!》 ［Archen］
However, such pressure was easily broken. Imbuing his "Terrorize" ability to his words, the King landed a strong mental attack towards Eliazar. It was especially intimidating with his blood red hair and golden eyes, seeming like a predator.
It was not enough to defeat him, but it was able to halt Eliazar's attacks. He was only able to buy a little time, but such was more than enough for him to change his stance, gathering mana to his sword and he clenched his fists.
《Flash Rain!》 ［Archen］
The King's hands moved fast like lightning, landing heavy strikes one after another. Eliazar had just regained his composition yet he needed to defend against such a merciless barrage of blades. Now, he was the one being pushed into a corner.
《Falling Rush!》 ［Archen］
To conclude his powerful chain of attacks, he raised his sword once more, gathering and converting mana into heavy rocks, clustering towards his sword. It grew bigger and bigger, heavier and heavier, casting a massive shadow to the ground.
Heavy as one can be, the sword came down like a rockslide, loud rumbling echoing in the air as the earth shook. The very moment the attack connected, all Eliazar could do was defend and bear the brunt of such oppressing weight.
The ground cratered below Eliazar's feet and irked veins popped out in the King's face as he tried to push harder and harder. It was an extreme battle of attrition, and unfortunately for the King, he was the one who broke first.
"Was that all you got, Your Majesty?" ［Eliazar］
"You tough bastard..." ［Archen］
There was nothing more to it. With the King's chain of attack now over, Eliazar then gripped his sword once more, lunging towards the King with all his might, a sharp and dangerous glint showing deep inside his eyes.
The King managed to dodge the first attack, but it took him all he got just to do so. E succeeding attacks became even more difficult, most of the following strikes lightly grazing him, letting blood spill even more.
《Blitz Symphony!》 ［Eliazar］
A combination of wind magic and swordsmanship. Eliazar struck from afar and the winds carried his blades, striking from hard to dodge angles and from positions one wouldn't be able to normally strike. A rain of blades from all directions.
To make matters worse for the King, both his legs and arms were now riddled with wounds and injuries. Not only dodging, even striking was now an ordeal, needing to use all tricks he could just to get by.
《Halt!》 ［Archen］
The King used "Terrorize" once more, once again catching Eliazar off-guard. His rain of attacks slowed down considerably, his blows missing the spots. The King then used the opportunity to run away and regain ground.
Though, there was only so much the King could do. With Eliazar's "Raven's Eye", much like Grey's "Heaven's Eye" though much weaker, he has a full grasp on the battlefield, every scene playing out in his eyes.
The King tried to land a strike from behind, but it was all futile in front of Eliazar's "Raven's Eye". He was able to evade the attack with relative ease by docking, the turning around to to land a counterattack
Crack Crack Bang Thud Thud Thud
Even then, it did not connect. Before the blade could even come in contact with the King, the latter had already erected a couple sturdy earthen walls which acted as buffer, letting the King to gain some distance.
"You should give up now, Your Majesty." ［Eliazar］
"What are you talking about? Don't tell me you're getting delusional now, Eliazar? Looks like I need to appoint a new captain of the guards." ［Archen］
"Well... Let's just see who's getting... delusional!" ［Eliazar］
Shaking off the dust on his shoulders, Eliazar pounced towards the King like a hungry tiger ready to bear his fangs. The King tried to make him lose balance by making the ground uneven, but it was all useless efforts.
With the appearance of a smile on the King's face, the ground rumbled ever so lightly, massive spikes rising out of the ground and surrounding Eliazar, like a shark's jaw, ready to devour the latter whole.
Sadly, the King had used such tricks one too many times already. Eliazar had already seen it coming, letting the winds explode on his feet, launching him high up in the air, his sword gleaming as sunlight refracted from it.
"Are you still not tired of using the same old tricks, Your Majesty?" ［Eliazar］
"They may be old, but it still works wonders! 《Cleaving Crescent》!" ［Archen］
Pain devouring his arms away, the King still swung his sword nonetheless. A massive blade of mana soared towards Eliazar's direction, and in response, Eliazar also shot one of his own, soon clashing with one another.
BOOOOMMMMMM
The blades devoured one another, a loud explosion rupturing the air. As massive shockwaves rocked the barrier, both the King and Eliazar were now back on their feet. They raised their swords proudly, smiling with excitement.
Clouds of dust swallowed the fields whole, the King and Eliazar leaving craters as they rushed towards one another. Sharp lights glimmered like stars as they swords exchanged blows once more, thrill welling up inside their hearts as they smiled.
《《Double Cross!!》》 ［Archen and Eliazar］
As if their minds were one, the King and Eliazar poured their all into one final move. They brandished their swords, rushing surges of mana coiling around their swords, blinding light swallowed the training grounds.
BOOOOMMMMMM Shwing Shwing Shick
And as the clouds of dust cleared up, one of their swords flew high up in the air, soon landing stuck on the ground. As for the other one, it was now pointed towards the neck of the King, a smile showing on Eliazar's face.
"Looks like it's my victory once again, Your Majesty." ［Eliazar］
"Kugh... You always get the last say, huh, you monstrous bastard." ［Archen］
"Hahaha. What might you mean, Your Majesty?" ［Eliazar］
It was Eliazar's victory. With such a clear result, loud cheers echoed all over the training grounds as the knights applauded their match. Both the King and Eliazar shook one another's hands before heading out of the field to get themselves healed.
And just as they came back from their intense duel, a pair of familiar figures caught the King's eyes. They were Grey and Yuna who had been watching the fight since they arrived, now bowing their heads slightly to greet the King.
"Hahaha. Sorry to have shown you such a pathetic sight, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna. It must have been quite disappointing." ［Archen］
"No, not at all, Your Majesty. It was a good fight. I don't think there's any other King out there who could have done it better than you did." ［Grey］
"Grey's right. I also think what Your Majesty had shown was an exceptional fight. I would love to see you fight again." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Stop with the flattery. There's no need to be so stiff." ［Archen］
He was already bleeding all over yet he still had the gall to laugh with such a bright face. With such a terrible condition, Grey and Yuna could only extend their offer to heal their wounds and recover their energy while they're at it.
As golden light melded into their bodies, the wounds in their bodies started to vanish one after another as if they were but passing lies. Their fatigue melted away and all the blood they lost was restored. They made a full recovery in just a couple seconds.
"Ohh! You are just as well-versed in Holy magic as King Ernes said. I don't think even our best healers could do such an excellent job." ［Archen］
"His Majesty is right. To think it would only take a second to heal all our wounds... This is nothing short of amazing..." ［Eliazar］
Such a thing was only natural. After all, Grey and Yuna are ones who possessed the gift of knowledge given to them by God. With their prowess, only the Cardinals, High Paladins, and the Pope could be a match against them.
"Oh, right... Forgive the late introductions, I amー" ［Eliazar］
"Captain Eliazar, am I right?" ［Yuna］
"A-Ah, yes... How did..." ［Eliazar］
"Sir Galahad had told us when you were fighting with His Majesty. Though, we didn't think we'd be welcomed by such a sight." ［Grey］
"I see... That makes things easier then... It's a pleasure to finally meet the Great Heroes. I've heard so much about you from His Majesty." ［Eliazar］
"The sentiment is mutual." ［Grey］
They extended their hands and shook their hands soon after. It was still the first time they met, but for some reason, there was a bright glint in Eliazar's eyes as he shook their hands. One could only wonder what things the King had told him.
Well, it wasn't just Eliazar, the other knights who were also part of the Royal Guards were also interested. Seeing such young figures act so casually with the King and the Captain of the guards, they couldn't help but wonder about their identities.
And such curiosity was easily noticed by the King, nudging one of his elbows towards Eliazar's side, signaling the latter of something. It took him quite a while to figure out, but as soon as he did, he nodded in understanding.
"Royal Guards! Atte～ntion!" ［Eliazar］
Eliazar's voice boomed throughout the fields and the Royal Guards rallied under his command. They quickly got into position and faced their captain. Each one of them stood firmly, hands tucked in tightly to their sides.
"Greetings to Their Highnesses! Archduke Grey and Archduchess Yuna!" ［Eliazar］
"""Greetings, Your Highnesses!!"""
They were a little confused at first, but they quickly pulled themselves together and gave their salutations to Grey and Yuna. It was a quick and simple way to answer their questions, eyes now sparkling with excitement as they learnt who the two youths standing before them were.
After all, who hasn't heard of their names and the various tales they have made despite being so young. And just recently, their King has been singing praises for them. To their eyes, they were idols, through and through.
As for Grey and Yuna who were on the receiving end, they couldn't be any more uncomfortable. First, it was Galahad, and now, the whole Royal Guards. Receiving such expectant stares was simply too taxing to the mind.
"It's alright, everyone. Please be at ease." ［Grey］
"At ease!" ［Eliazar］
Another command and another set of movements. The Royal Guards soon let the tension in their shoulders loose and relaxed themselves. The only thing which didn't change was their stares towards Grey and Yuna, boring holes towards their heads.
"Looks like you've got quite the admirers." ［Archen］
"Your Majesty..." ［Grey］
They couldn't even laugh nor cry even if they wanted to. It wasn't just the ones in front of them, the knights in Farsa and in Erdea were also too overzealous for their own good, admiring them like little fangirls.
Of course, it wasn't a bad that they have admirers, it's just that every now and then there would always be those who would go too far, bordering that of obsession. They already had enough dealing with Garret, any more would be a headache.
"Alright... Now that I've rested myself quite well enough, should we also go for a round, Lord Grey, Lady Yuna? I want to see just how far I can fare against great heroes as yourselves." ［Archen］
"I would also like to have a bout against either of you, Your Highnesses. It would be a great honor to learn from you." ［Eliazar］
"Oh! It would also be by greatest pleasure to fight against you, Your Highnesses. I would be delighted if you accept this meager wish of mine." ［Galahad］
It was just as they expected. After the King issued his request for a duel, Eliazar and Galahad followed suit and soon, all the Royal Guards wanted to have a try too. It was like a domino effect from the King all the way to the guards.
Grey and Yuna tried to ask for help, looking at the healers and attendants with eyes filled with expectations, but such expectations were soon broken. They only shook their heads in silence, eyes smiling with pity.
"Your Majesty, I don't think this is the right time or place for that." ［Grey］
"Hmm... I guess you're right..." ［Archen］
It was a success! Grey and Yuna couldn't believe how easy it was to convince the Kingー or so they thought...
"But well, I don't think we will ever have an opportunity like this again. I think it's best if we just settle this matter now. It's now or never, am I right? Hahaha!" ［Archen］
The King continued his words, leaving Grey and Yuna baffled. It was all useless. No matter what kind of excuse they spin, however they try to convince him, the King would surely not budge on his opinion, eager eyes glowing bright.
Grey and Yuna already knew after months of dealing with a certain King that such brilliance in their eyes could only mean trouble. It was the eyes of someone stubborn to a fault, it would only cause them more headaches if they try to refuse.
The longer they delay the subject, the more the King would bother them, like a child who was promised to be given candy,excitedly asking every minute or two. All they could do was give up, heaving lengthy sighs deep inside their hearts.
『Haah... Why are Kings here so troublesome...』 ［Grey］
『Uuu... It's not even funny anymore...』 ［Yuna］
Grey and Yuna could only grumble using telepathy, looking at the King and everyone else before heaving an exasperated sigh yet again. Fortunately enough, it wasn't like they haven't thought of such a situation before. They already made countermeasures.
"Haah... Fine... We'll have a duel with you." ［Grey］
"Ohh! That greatー" ［Archen］
"On one condition. We'll only fight against those who are worthy." ［Grey］
The King couldn't even finish his gratitude, when Grey suddenly cut him off. If they would be bending to their request, they might as well demand something reasonable in exchange. It was the countermeasure they had set up.
At the words "worthy", everyone tilted their heads in confusion. They neither knew nor understood what exactly such a vague word entails. They could only ponder silently, some scratching their chins and cupping their chins.
"Pardon me, Your Highnesses but... by 'worthy', you meant..." ［Galahad］
"Yeah, that's right. Only those who can bear the full force of our aura for a whole minute without falling to their knees could duel against us." ［Grey］
Everyone shuddered at Grey's words. Though the very least requirement to be a Royal Guard was to be a C-ranker, such a rank was still nothing compared to an S-ranker. Their aura would surely be devastating.
Yet despite knowing the difficulty before them, everyone didn't shake in fear nor ran away. Rather, they even got more excited, eager and stubborn smiles showing on their faces one after another. There was simply no stopping them.
"Hahaha! Then... Please, do your worst!" ［Archen］
There was only confidence in the King's voice, a fierce flame of determination and enthusiasm burning deep inside his eyes. Everyone behind was also the same, fully ready to take on the challenge.
"Alright... Let's see how strong your resolves are..." ［Grey］
"Do your best, everyone, okay?" ［Yuna］
In just a split second, the atmosphere in the training grounds turned a complete 180. As soon as Grey and Yuna released their auras simultaneously, an extreme force immediately weighed down on their shoulders, tension rising astronomically.
It wasn't just heavy, it was extremely heavy, making the Royal Guards feel like they were carrying mountains on their backs. It hasn't even been five seconds yet, yet people were already starting to kneel ground, some already on all fours.
With such a massive gap between them and Grey and Yuna, it was already a surprise that they held on for more than a few seconds. They were already having a hard time breathing, and were feeling dizzy yet their will has yet to be bent.
'Kugh...! As expected of the ones who fought against the Azure Sword Emperor... What amazing and intense pressure...!' ［Archen］
'His Majesty wasn't joking... So this is the power of the heroes...' ［Eliazar］
'Is... Is this... How far I can go..:?' ［Galahad］
Even High-Rankers such as the King, Eliazar, and Galahad were no different from little puppies under Grey and Yuna's pressure. They could barely keep standing still, let alone move. It was just that intense.
Thankfully, Grey and Yuna only directed their aura towards the King and his knights, otherwise, the healers and attendants would have already long fainted from such intense pressure. It would surely be a disaster.
And speaking of fainting, some of the Royal Guards had already passed out, unable to take the pressure, dropping like flies one after another. Before long, only the three High-Rankers remained, trying to hold their grounds.
"Haha... Looks like this is as far as we can go, huh..." ［Archen］
"Forgive me, Your Majesty, I don't think I can stand it any longer as well..." ［Eliazar］
"The same here, Your Majesty..." ［Galahad］
Though, even High-Rankers as themselves soon fell, their knees plunging towards the ground. With it, not a single person managed to pass Grey and Yuna's little test. Everything went perfectly according to plan.
"Haha... It seems like we are still not worthy enough to fight against you... That was quite the bummer..." ［Archen］
"Fufufu! Don't be like that, Your Majesty. You did well for holding out so long. A little more and you could have won." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. Then I guess that's something..." ［Archen］
It was a shame but a condition was a condition. The King really wanted to have a bout against Grey and Yuna, but with his current status as it is, he would barely stand a chance. There was a need to get even stronger.
They have failed, but an even stronger flame of passion and determination started to light ablaze before them. Now, they are even more motivated to get stronger, ready to go through hell and back if that's what it takes.
"Oi, you lot. That's enough rest. Let's get to training." ［Eliazar］
At Eliazar's words, the knights, albeit still dizzy, started standing up one after another. Their tenacity was amazing in ways more than one, even Grey and Yuna couldn't help but be moved. No wonder they're the Kingdom's strongest knights.
"Then, since we're already done here, how about we headー" ［Archen］
"Father!" ［???］
The King was cut off once again, another figure appearing on the training ground. She was a young lady, but rather than a dress, what she wore were a long-sleeved blouse, tight trousers, a belt, and high boots, a scabbard attached to her side.
She was the typical tomboy princess Grey had seen many times in fictional works back on Earth, now marching with heavy steps, heading towards the King with a feisty glint in her eyes.
"Let me join the Carnival of Swords!" ［???］
CHAPTER 302 END