Ordinarily, the Demon God should have been eliminated first.
He was the foundation of the Three Demon Kings and could create the most variables. However, since Lesia was holding him back, Zion could focus on the Ocean King. With the Ocean King injured, escape was unlikely.
“Krugh...”
The Demon God didn't even realize the Ocean King had perished. Powerful humans and Magic Sword users had gathered in one place. It was a dire situation, and he had to escape at any cost.
‘Humans... have become this strong.’
He had seen glimpses of this strength when the Abyssal King was defeated. But he thought the Ocean King would remain untouched by their attacks, planning to watch and reclaim the Ocean King’s power later. Despite his careful plans, he was quickly countered and brought to the ground.
‘The Ocean King should have held out longer.’
Fendalzous had become more powerful with Duran Calgonis, able to fly and dominate humans. Even with Magic Swords, they shouldn't have reached him. But the Magic Sword users shattered his expectations and now threatened his very existence.
‘Those two... if only it weren’t for those two…’
The Demon God spat black liquid, glaring at Zion and Lesia. They were just humans who had become stronger with Magic Swords. Yet they tore his body apart and even defied his immortality. Perhaps the Abyssal King met the same fate because of them.
‘Am I... going to die?’
For the first time, the Demon God pondered death. Death was meant for humans and beasts, not for someone as powerful as him. He believed it was a mere lapse against humans, nothing more.
‘They are just humans. How could they...’
Contrary to his thoughts, his body was in tatters. His magic was tangled, and even moving was a struggle. They had destroyed La Bler and taken Duran Calgonis. He had gained nothing while the humans continued to take everything.
‘I must flee, though it means losing everything.’
The Demon God had a last resort. Among the Magic Swords he created, one was the most bizarre and overwhelming. With this Magic Sword, he could seek another opportunity.
‘The Immortal Magic Sword, Zyle Berza...’
Gathering his remaining strength, the Demon God summoned the Magic Sword. To escape now, he needed Zyle Berza. Though its power would be sealed for a time after use, survival was his priority.
‘Take me where you are!’
As his will reached Zyle Berza, its power activated. A dark blue aura surged from the Demon God, swirling around him. Zion sensed his escape attempt and slashed with Exceed Rain. The dark blue aura enveloped the Demon God. Other knights moved quickly, but the Demon God’s form had already become hazy. Zion, resigned, lowered Exceed Rain.
‘He saved it for this moment.’
Zion had anticipated the Demon God’s various survival tactics, using the Ocean King to lure him in. He prioritized dealing with the Ocean King to prevent a failed attempt against the Demon God.
‘Should I have targeted the Demon God first?’
Reflecting on his decision, Zion dismissed the doubt. Even if he had attacked the Demon God first, the result would have been the same: the Demon God escaping. Then, only the Ocean King would have remained, potentially creating an even bigger gap.
‘Now, the Demon God has only one Incomplete Magic Sword left.’
Lesia had taken one of the Incomplete Magic Swords; the other must be hidden. The Demon God’s sudden spatial shift likely stemmed from its power.
‘If he hasn’t used it yet, it must be the best one.’
Observing Lesia, Zion quickly grasped the transformation. The Incomplete Magic Sword had granted her dragon-like features. The Demon God likely tried to control Lesia but failed. She noticed the change and tracked the Demon God’s location.
‘The Incomplete Magic Sword holds the Demon God’s magic, making it harmful to him.’
Zion deduced many facts from witnessing the Demon God’s wounds. Lesia’s presence was an unpredictable factor the Demon God couldn’t counter.
‘She’s handling the Incomplete Magic Sword perfectly.’
Lesia wielded the Incomplete Magic Sword as if it were natural, completely suppressing it and utilizing its power.
‘Could she kill the Four Calamities with that?’
Though he didn’t know the materials, the Incomplete Magic Sword emulated dragon power. If it could harm the Demon God, it should affect dragon remnants as well.
‘With the Four Calamities dealt with, it’s nearly over.’
With the Abyssal King and Ocean King gone, the Demon God couldn’t regain his strength. He had lost his darkness and now relied on one Incomplete Magic Sword. Once the Four Calamities were eradicated, no beast would dare threaten Alain Kingdom.
‘Now, with Hanette...’
“Black, can you explain this?”
Brandish approached with the Royal Knights. Zion understood and bowed.
“If you give me time, I can explain.”
“…First, let me ask. Was your choice a mistake?”
Brandish’s question encapsulated his curiosity about the Magic Swords. Zion had kept their existence secret for a reason. It seemed all Magic Sword users were now assembled, excluding himself.
“I have never thought my choice was wrong.”
“I believe you. I will trust your words.”
Brandish responded calmly, surveying the surroundings. Though strengthened by Guerganvo, she couldn’t kill the Ocean King. The Black Knight had finished the job.
‘Does Hanette Adelaira also possess a Magic Sword?’
Now the owner of Guerganvo, Brandish could sense other Magic Swords. Hanette, the Sylase commander, inside and outside the palace. Yet, she couldn’t sense a Magic Sword from the Black Knight.
‘He seems like a Magic Sword user…’
Sensing another Magic Sword approaching, Brandish turned. The person spotted her and froze in shock.
“Princess...”
Brandish scowled at Yuter, who stared at Guerganvo, speechless. They had hidden the Magic Swords well, but now it was revealed.
“I will hear your explanation later.”
“…Yes, Your Majesty.”
Brandish calmed herself and dismissed Guerganvo’s form. Despite knowing better, her child should have been informed. Hiding it until she obtained a Magic Sword was unacceptable.
‘What else are they hiding...’
In the Royal Palace’s office, Brandish restored the palace and its surroundings. The Royal Knights searched the palace, while the commander’s forces guarded the vicinity, looking for any beasts. The city guard and law enforcement protected the citizens, preventing access to certain areas. Zion, with Hanette and Enrite, entered the office, explaining everything about the Magic Swords.
“…So, your goal has been achieved?”
“Yes, Your Majesty. The seven Magic Swords have found their masters. Once they all gather, the outcome will be clear.”
Zion responded cautiously, observing Brandish’s reaction. The king, lost in thought, didn’t press further. Curious but understanding, he refrained from criticism.
“Your thoughts aren’t wrong. If the Magic Swords’ existence were known, everyone would covet them, leading to conflicts harming many citizens.”
“I considered presenting it to you, but at the time, I refused royal orders and avoided the palace. I couldn’t draw a weapon before you or risk a misunderstanding with the Royal Knights.”
Zion solemnly explained, though he felt like saying, “I couldn’t trust anyone.” Yet, he spoke with decorum, facing Alain Kingdom’s ruler. Brandish’s acceptance was crucial for all Magic Sword users.
“Does the White Knight agree?”
“Black’s reasoning isn’t wrong, and I’ve had similar thoughts. More so, I feared other officials knowing and wanted to keep it secret.”
“I will also keep it secret. How would the officials know?”
“They always meet in the palace, trying to read each other’s minds. Even if you hide it, someone will dig it up. The Royal Knights and the maids close to you could discover it quickly.”
Enrite, like Zion, trusted no one but needed to present a convincing case. Thus, he praised Brandish while casting doubt on others.
“I understand your intentions. It may be excessive, but considering the Magic Swords’ value, secrecy is right. This matter will be overlooked.”
Brandish concluded without further probing. While incomplete, their explanations sufficed. The two knights were Setinos Quasar, devoted to Alain Kingdom. Thus, she chose to move forward.
“…Now, tell me. How can I help you?”