*

　Warm sunshine shone through the window.
　Leonhard was reading a book in a corner of the mansion.
　It's a book that is said to have been written by the first emperor.
　Was it really written by the first emperor?
　I don't actually know, but it's alright and enjoyable.

"...well...

　A small murmur of wondering what would happen.
　It was only a few days ago that I learned of Argena Dios' death in battle.
　I don't think I received much of a shock.
　Rather, he was even convinced.
　I think he was struggling to be himself.
　Even if he had survived this battle, he must have died.
　Could he have gotten over his suffering without this battle?
　Maybe I would have, maybe I wouldn't have.
　I am an ungodly man.
　We can't see into the future.

...Yeah.

　I cringe.
　I can't see into not only the future, but also the human mind.
　I try to understand as much as I can, but I don't understand it in the essential sense.
　I've never been able to understand.
　That's the kind of person I am.
　As I was thinking about this, I heard a thumping footstep.
　It's Leela.
　I wish she would walk a little quieter, but it can't be helped.
　That's just the way she is.
　I close the book and straighten my residence.
　Then, with perfect timing, Leela appeared.
　She holds a cylindrical piece of parchment in her hand - a letter.

'What's the matter with you?'
We have a letter from your house.
Thank you. Can you give it to me?
Okay.

　Leonhardt received the letter from Leela and unsealed it.
　He followed the text written there with his eyes, and his eyes widened in astonishment.

''Utterly, that man...''

　Leonhardt grunted.
　He had to grunt.
　The battle between the imperial army and the rebels - we should remain neutral until the outcome of the battle is revealed.
　That's what he advised his father.
　I thought my father would make that decision as well.
　Nevertheless, my father's reply was, ''I can't stand in the wind of the new aristocracy.
　I even felt as if my vision was tilting unsteadily.
　It was the first time he had experienced dizziness due to mental shock.
　He also wrote delusionally, 'I'm going to lead my clan members to reinforce them.

''.......Why?''

　Such words leak out.
　Why can't we see what's going on?
　Why would I risk my house for the reason that I can't stand up to the new nobleman's windfall?
　I don't understand.
　There are no disadvantages, so we can just see what's going on.
　What's the point of standing in the wind of the new nobility?
　Isn't that a trivial matter compared to endangering the family and its members?
　I don't understand.
　The man who had taught him to think of the interests of his family had done the opposite.
　Moreover, he has involved the members of the branch family.
　If Princess Tilia wins, he will destroy the house.
　There was no way she could use her political power to escape.
　The Palatium family was in clear opposition to the Princess Tilia.
　What are you going to do?　Leonhardt asked himself.
　A number of ideas passed through his mind, but any of them would be detrimental.
　It is fatal that my father has been raised in the army.
　But a choice had to be made.
　The practical route would be to take over the viceroyalty and then take away the real power of the country.
　He will kill Princess Tilia, and if necessary, he will kill his father and Alfort.
　What a wild plan.
　My House of Palatium's name will fall to the ground.
　But that's nothing compared to the loss of the house itself.
　In the first place, I have already betrayed my friends.
　This is the result of putting the family's interests ahead of his own.
　I am a traitor.
　What hesitation would he have in staining his own name?
　I think so, but I needed time.
　If I had time, I could come up with another way.
　I could minimize the disadvantage to the Pallatium family.
　I was sure of that.
　But...

"I guess I don't have time.

　Leonhardt looked out the window and let out a small sigh.
　Outside the window, he saw his armed men.
　Politely, he has Leonhardt's beloved horse with him.
　Well," said Leonhardt, standing up.

"What do you want to do, Leonhardt-sama?
It's my job.

　Leonhardt cowered lightly.
　Work - yes, work.
　It's easier and better to split it up.
　I'll have to face the fact that I killed a friend for decades to come.
　At least, I need to relax for now.



　Roy rolled up the blanket and scowled.
　He has a small scar on his armpit, just like his first victim.
　He hides his face with the blanket and moves to the bed facing him.
　The blanket is already rolled up, which Richard must have thoughtfully done.
　The sheets are smeared with blood and, of course, the soldier is dead.
　I lifted my arm and saw that there was still a small wound in my armpit.
　He covered his face with a blanket and folded his hands together.
　Come to think of it, Roy remembered the first victim.
　Did he say a prayer then?
　Maybe I did, maybe I didn't. Maybe I didn't.
　Maybe he didn't.
　I've lived a life that had nothing to do with piety.
　I've never been in the habit of offering up prayers.
　Why am I praying now?
　I don't need to think about it.
　It's because of Argena's death.
　His death has affected me.
　It's a strange feeling to think about that.
　I thought death was the end.
　I guess that's true.
　At least for him, death is the absolute end.
　But for those left behind, it is different.
　The living gain something from the death of others.
　That's the way it is, I suppose.
　Roy covered the soldier's face with a blanket and stood up.
　Then Richard called out to him unintentionally.

''Well what do you want to do?''
Same as last time.
Yeah.

　Richard said with a sigh.
　I thought he was going to complain about it, but I guess it was only a groundless fear.
　But I don't know how I feel inside.
　Three days have passed since Argena was killed in battle.
　In that time, Roy hasn't done anything.
　He is just obeying the order to stand by.

"Did you see anything suspicious?
Hey.
Okay.

　Richard said dejectedly.

''Well two this time,''
Now three or four.
No, please.
Yeah.

　Richard scowled and Roy nodded.
　'It's no fun talking about how many victims we're going to have next.
　It would be more useful to ask around than to think about such things.

''... an invisible assassin?''
Well, you're a prodigy.

　Any assassin whose identity is exposed is a third-rate assassin, and any assassin who can hide it is a first-rate assassin.
　So far, our assassins are top-notch.
　But...

I don't understand.
What do you mean?
How can you kill a civilian soldier with all these skills?
Isn't that to foment anxiety?
That might be part of it, but isn't that an inefficient way to make people anxious?
Certainly, killing a civilian soldier doesn't necessarily make you more anxious, does it?

　Richard nodded with a divine look on his face.
　'If you want to cripple the army into action, you have to kill the commander.

'Then who?'
Yeah.

　Roy stroked his chin.
　The stubble prickled his fingertips.

'Not the Imperials, not the Rebels, someone killed them for a wayward waste of time, didn't they?
It's strangely specific.
If you ask me, I'll give you a free pass.

　I'm just spouting my imagination and can't be sure, but I have a feeling that it might be.

If it's neither, is it the surrounding lords?
I told you it was a layover.

　Richard tilted his head curiously.
　It was as if he had spoken the answer - but--.
　Well, it couldn't be helped.
　It's hard to get to an answer that is outside the bounds of your imagination.

What's going to happen now?
We'll wait another day or two and then if we're lucky, we'll leave.
If we're lucky?
Yeah, if you're lucky.

　Roy cowered lightly.

'What happens if we're unlucky?'
I can get them to charge one more time.
I'm not the lucky one, though.
Me too.

　Richard said with a sigh and Roy laughed.

'How likely is it?'
That's a 10-to-1 ratio.
You can't do that.
Yeah.

　Roy chuckled.
　If the Director of Military Affairs, Ralph Libra, wants to win on his own, then retreat.
　If he wants to win with the help of others, it's a reassault.
　The latter - Roy believes that a reassault is more likely.
　War Secretary Ralph Libra is a gambler who doesn't know when to back down.
　He gambles on borrowed money from many sources, even though he's run out of money.
　He is of very poor quality.
　However, for this time, I can understand how they feel.
　After all, there are still some trump cards left in hand.
　It's a trump card that could break the deadlock.
　It's hard to resist the temptation to win.
　It's even harder to resist the temptation to win, especially when you've been losing.
　I have a feeling that Roy could win if he plays his trump card.
　But I'm not sure I can ride the coattails of War Secretary Ralph Libra.
　I'm starting to feel like I'm going to lose again next time.
　When I was thinking about that--.

''It's Leonhardt-dono!
The First Kingsguard has come to reinforce us!
We'll win this one!
The Empire can win!

　Such a voice came from outside.

'Looks like reinforcements are on their way.
Looks like it.

　Roy let out a deep sigh.

''Aren't you happy that the First Kingsguard came to reinforce us?
I had to charge in again.
Oh, I see.

　I'm not pleased," Richard said with a grunt.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This will be your strategy tent.
Yeah.

　As Leonhardt entered the tent, the man who called himself Richard slipped away.
　Inside the tent was Count Roy Akbens.
　He was unconcerned that his friend had just died.
　Surprisingly, I can't say I'm surprised.
　I had thought he was more of an emotional type, but it seems I was wrong in my estimation.

'Yo, it's been a while,'
Well, it's been a while, I suppose.
I don't mind.
Yeah, I know.

　Leonhardt walked over to the central table and stared at the map spread out there.
　The rebel army - the enemy field position is curved.
　Perhaps they had recreated the crane wings in their positions.
　It was the rebel army's, Crono's painful plan.
　How much wisdom did they have to muster up so far?
　We can only imagine, but it must have been quite painful.
　Well, that doesn't mean I'm going to cut corners.
　Just as Crono is carrying the fate of himself and the Alliance territory, he is also carrying something on his shoulders.
　Now, if it were me, how would I attack it?
　When I looked up, I saw Roy looking at me.
　Sheesh, I think.
　Roy's friend had just died.
　I should have said the words of condolence.

''I'm sorry about Lord Argena.
It's too obvious.

　What's not to like, Roy spat out.

'I am also mourning the death of Lord Argena.
I heard that Lucas's husband is dead.
It's sad.
Count Rio Chiron is dead.
I'm not sorry.
So, you want to be the next chrono.
It's inevitable, that's for sure.

　Truly, from the bottom of my heart, I agree.
　It's a shame that we could have been friends if our interests had been aligned.

''So ... what's the plan?''
Where's Lady Argena, by the way?

　When I asked him back, Roy frowned.
　I don't think I gave him the wrong answer, but I think he was offended.
　I want to ask him what was offending him, but it's going to make him even angrier.
　It's better not to touch something you don't understand.
　Roy pointed to a point on the map - the enemy's left flank.

'What is this obstacle?'
He's been removed.
I see.

　Roy frowned more and more as Leonhard nodded.

'So what do we do now?'
"We will concentrate our forces on the enemy's left flank.
Not as much as in the middle, but they're coming at you from two directions.
It's a diversion.
Okay. So, what's the big deal?
'I'm the real deal. While the decoys are attracting the enemy--

　Leonhardt pointed to the center of the map.

'I'll break through the centre.'
Can you do it?
I can do that.

　If you use the Divine Majesty Technique, you'll be able to protect yourself from arrows and jump over the fence.
　However--''

''To break through, though, you'll need to attract the enemy to you.
Oh, yeah?

　I knew I was going to spit it out.
　He's hated me for the slightest of interactions.
　It's a shame.
　If I could have earned his trust, my success rate might have increased.

"This is just a suggestion, but I want your men to take the lead in the battle.
Why?
Don't you get it?

　Roy let out a deep sigh.
　'I don't know what he's trying to say.

'I was just checking to make sure.
Checking out?
Words are imperfect. And confirmation is important. Is it fair to say that we can't allow ourselves to be robbed of the glory without making sacrifices?
Well, that's just the way it is.

　Roy said disgustedly.

We're sacrificing not a few. And after making even more sacrifices, how can I convince my men that Leonhardt-dono will take all the credit for it?
All right. We'll take the lead. Is that all right?
Yeah, that's good.

　It's still a disgusted tone.

Then I'll go outside and make a meeting with my men.
Hey.

　As Leonhardt turned on his heel, Roy called out to him.
　I had no choice but to stop.

'What is it?'
'You ... what are you fighting for?'
It's for the Palatium family.

　Leonhardt answered immediately.
　Everything is for the Palatium family--.
　That has never changed and will never change.

''For ... the house?''
You're not, are you?
I guess you have to take care of your family now, huh?
You've taken over.

　Come to think of it, Roy came from a bastard family.
　'I see, that's what it's all about.

'But, well, I guess it's for your own good after all.
...Oh, I see.

　Leonhardt felt like he finally had it all figured out.
　He thought his father had made a mistake in judgment, but apparently not.
　From Leonhardt's point of view, his father's decision could only be called foolish.
　It's not just this time.
　The same is true for the past mistakes.
　Each of these decisions can only be called stupid.
　But for my father, it was the right thing to do.

''...I see.

　Again, I mutter.
　If my father was wrong, then I was wrong too.
　I had used common sense.
　I should have killed my father for the sake of the house.
　If he had done so, the situation would not have turned out as it did here.
　Totally, Leonhard let out a sigh and left the tent.
　He looked up and saw that the sky was covered with thick clouds.



　Leonhard straddled his beloved horse and looked at the battlefield.
　The sunken ground and scorched obstacles told of a fierce battle.
　The battlefield where many soldiers were killed and wounded.
　I can do it.
　If only my men could attract the rebels.
　Looking at the enemy's left flank, I see that my men are hiding behind an earthwork.
　Sporadically, the enemy archers fire arrows, but fortunately no one is injured.
　Leonhardt slowly drew his sword.

''........God.

　When you pray, the blade emits a dazzling light.
　It's a divine art that only emits light.
　Eventually, the light disappears.
　And then--.

''Oh!

　My men leaped out of the earthen mound with a yell.
　A rain of arrows fell there.
　But the light, the shield blocked the arrows.
　Leading the way was the Divine Majesty Magician, followed by the knight with the shield.
　The divine master magician deploys his shield of light and runs.
　More arrows rain down, but they can't stop the subordinates - the First Konoe Knights.

''Geez!''
Oh, my God!

　A short scream rang out.
　It belongs to a common soldier who tried to follow the First Kingsguard.
　His spirit is great, but unfortunately, his abilities are different.
　His own men are the elite of the Imperial Army.
　They are different from ordinary soldiers.
　However, it's the same with the Thirteenth Kinsman Guards - Crono's men are the same.
　They have been fighting since the Imperial calendar forty-three years.
　They have been trained by actual battles.
　When they had closed the distance by half, enemy infantry fired arrows with crossbows and enemy heavy infantry fired stones with throwing strings.
　More arrows rain down.
　The divine warrior blocks the flying attacks from the front.
　If it had been a shield, it would have stopped them in their tracks.
　But the shield of light deployed by the Divine Majesty Magician is divine power.
　It's not impossible to advance without stopping your feet.
　However, there is a limit.
　God's power is too much for humans.
　That's why it's called a god--.
　Anyway, a divine master magician can't continue to prevent attacks.
　One day, they will reach their limit.
　Leonhardt took a deep breath--

"Ha!

　I let the horse run.
　The horse gradually increased its speed and passed by the most forward obstacle.
　At that moment, the enemy archers fired arrows.
　The arrows rained down, but they were not very dense.
　It's thanks to the fact that my men are attracting the enemy.
　I didn't slow down and ducked through a rain of arrows.
　Soon another obstacle came into view.
　A charred blanket is draped over it.
　It must be sentimentality to look like a burned out corpse.
　With a bang, my speed slows down.
　The horse seems to have decided that it can't jump over this obstacle.
　Leonhardt grabbed the horse by the neck.

''........God.
"-Oh!

　Activate the physical performance of the horse with the divine art.
　The horse screamed noiselessly at the pain.
　The horse overcame the obstacle while spitting blood foam from its mouth.
　I can't help but smile.
　He knew that Brad Hamal would not allow such an outburst to happen.
　Forgive him or not.
　He and I have parted ways, too.
　No, they hadn't been looking in the same direction from the beginning.
　All of the Knight Commander of the Kingsguard, that is.
　It seems like Count Ernat was the only one who was thinking about the Empire.
　He's just mending his form.
　That's the knight now.
　The arrows fly in.
　It's an arrow fired by a crossbow.
　He changes course and ducks, but soon after, the next arrow is released.

"God!

　Leonhardt deploys the Divine Shield, a divine technique, to block the arrows.
　He tries to change his course again, but arrows fly in as if he is anticipating them.
　I look ahead and narrow my eyes.
　There, an old man is giving instructions to a soldier with a crossbow at the ready.
　In addition, the old man shouts something to the basket hand - a magic item.
　The density of the arrows increases and he scowls.
　The soldier holding the crossbow is a young man.
　Probably a volunteer soldier gathered from the territory.
　They must have little experience.
　Nevertheless, instead of panicking, he lets Leonhardt use his divine authority technique.
　The Divine Majesty Technique can prevent it, but it can't be prevented forever.
　There is a limit.
　Then, and activates the horse even more with the divine authority technique.
　The horse accelerates as if it were popping.
　The wind rumbles past my ears with a rumbling sound.
　When we are almost there, our vision sinks.
　The horse has reached its limit.
　But if they got this far, it wouldn't matter.
　Leonhardt jumped his horse to a stepping stone.
　He jumped over the fence and over the holes where the soldiers were hiding.
　The moment he landed, pain crawled up from his leg.
　Apparently, he had hurt himself.
　I bite down on the pain and kick the earth.
　Arrows fly from behind me, but they all miss.
　Princess Tilia--, Leonhard looked around.
　Then--.

''I'm not going to be caught off guard!

　Leonhardt jumped back as his vision faded.
　Slightly later, a woman - Faye Murifine - descended.
　She came to kill me for real.
　It's obvious from her point of view, but why did she scream?
　If I hadn't voiced my voice, I could have gotten a shot in.
　Faye turned to me and looked puzzled.
　Well, I guess so.
　She's strong.
　She must have rarely fought better opponents than herself.
　So it was no use watching Leonhardt swing his sword down with a pompous look on his face.

''Wind! BMOO!

　A green light breaks in between Leonhardt and Fay along with the spirit of the cleaver.
　Wind magic, or perhaps a magic item.
　He could prevent it with his divine magic technique and kill Fay, but--.
　Leonhardt dared to keep his distance.
　It's not because he was reluctant to kill her or because they were close friends who fought together.
　It was because he decided that there was no need to risk it here.
　But--.

''God!

　A woman's voice rings out.
　It's not Faye's voice, but it's a familiar one.
　I'm sure it's the voice of a girl named Theon.
　A cone-shaped rock jumps out of the ground.
　It's the divine art of the Mother Goddess of Fertility.
　You'll be able to jump back and avoid them, but the rocks fly out one after another.
　It's a great power, but they didn't get a chance to use it.
　Leonhardt got away from the three of them.

''I've chilled my liver.'' (Bumo)
I'm sorry, sir.

　Crono's second-in-command - Mino walks up carrying Paul Axe, and Faye stands up.
　On the other side, Theon is glaring at us.

''If you don't die, I can heal you.
"You can do your best, but you can't.
That's quite an absurd request, isn't it?

　Mino and Fay held their weapons at the ready as they lightly spoke.

''Leonhardt-dono!''
What is it?
I want you to retire.
Ha, how can you say that after you've slashed at me?

　I couldn't help but laugh.

'I'm sorry, but I have my own set of circumstances.
Is that a problem that cannot be solved by discussion?
Well, I'm not sure.

　Leonhardt cowered his shoulders.
　I feel like we can resolve this, but I'm in the middle of trusting my father's judgment and trying to lose everything.
　If he is tricked into agreeing to discuss this, that would be a fool.

''I'm ... sorry.''
I'm not sorry, either.

　The Night Ranger was fun.
　Oh, yes.
　It was fun.
　It was the first time in my life I'd ever done something stupid like that, and it was a lot of fun.
　It was exciting.
　Well, that was a long time ago.

"That's not true, sir.
What's that?
It's a shame about Leonhardt, my lord.
Me?
It's a pity that Master Leonhardt is circling the wagons.
That's a horrible thing to say.
If you hadn't been so firm, Master Leonhardt, you wouldn't have fallen into this mess.
It's my fault?
Yes, sir!
....

　Leonhardt couldn't say anything back.
　Faye's words are true.
　A silence descended.

'Is that the end of it?'
That is all.
Then let's get started.

　Leonhardt quietly held his sword at the ready.
　The first one to move was Mino.
　Bumoh!　And then he rushes in with a heroic cry.
　The light runs.
　A yellow - symbolic light, symbolizing the earth, colors Mino's body like a barbarian's war veneer.
　The speed increases.
　The large sub-human is quick, contrary to its slow and heavy appearance.
　That's because their body size is different.
　If you are fighting with the intention of taking on a human, you will be able to close the distance in the blink of an eye.
　Leonhardt has had several hand-to-hand combat with large sub-humans - and he's fast.
　The next thing you know, the minos are close at hand.
　I can't see Faye.
　I'm sure he's hiding behind the minos because I can sense them.
　Should we keep our distance here?
　Leonhardt tried to jump back and noticed a shadow tangled around his ankle.
　It's the divine power art of the 'Goddess of the Jet-Black and the Goddess of Chaos'.
　He severed the shadow with his sword and jumped away.
　Mino flashes a pole hammer.
　Leonhardt bends to his knees and ducks the attack and turns to fight back.
　No, he tried to roll.
　At that moment, Fay appears from behind Mino.
　Something like a black haze rises from his entire body.
　He must have used his divine power technique to raise his physical ability and defense to the bottom.
　His stance is a stab.
　The aim is the neck.
　Speaking of Mino, he's already swinging a poleaxe.
　Is he prepared for the failure of Fay's attack?
　It's quite a brilliant coordination -- but.
　Leonhardt jumped towards Fay.
　The cutting edge passes in front of him.
　My neck is hot.
　I thought I had ducked it, but it seems to have been snatched.
　However, he turned aside and succeeded in using Fay as a shield.
　Mino's movement slows down.
　He twists his body to say, "I'm going to pierce both of the feys as it is.
　The next moment, the ground exploded.
　At first I thought it was Mino's imprinting technique, but--

''Guhach!''
"Gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! (BUMO!)

　It seemed different as they were both blown away.
　Leonhardt was knocked from his back to the ground and quickly got to his feet.

I'm sorry!
Good job, sir!
"Let's go to town! (BUMO!)
Yes!

　I'm tempted to say you're kidding me, but I gingerly hold back.
　Leonhardt let out a breath and readied his sword.
　He kicked the ground and closed the distance between him and Mino.
　Bumoh!　And with a heroic cry, Mino swings down the poleaxe.
　He deploys a protective barrier overhead and is attacked.

'There is a gap!
We're all good!

　I caught Faye's slash with my sword.
　I tried to catch it, but I couldn't.

''Wind! (BUMO!)

　My body gets heavy.
　Mino used a magic item.

''It's a raryaah!
Tsk!

　Faye pushed her sword into the air.
　The core of my head remains calm while I click my tongue.
　I use the momentum of the push in and pass it off as it is.
　Faye's upper body swims.
　Leonhard raises his sword and staggers back.
　He ate Fay's side kick to the chest.
　I thought he would be concerned about fighting with a sword, but I was surprised that he would use body arts.
　Suddenly, my vision faded.
　When I lifted my gaze, I saw Mino floating in the air.
　My eyes widen.
　I didn't expect a minotaur to leap over the fey--''

''Wind! (BUMO!)
God!

　The swinging poleaxe shattered the defensive wall, and Leonhardt caught it with his sword as quickly as he could.
　His body creaked from too much impact.
　Furthermore, a cone-shaped rock pops out of the ground.

''Chii!''

　Leonhardt pushes Paul Axe back with all his might and manages to escape to the side.
　I thought it was a divine power jutsu, but Sion has a scowl on his face.
　That means it's Mino's Marking Technique.
　Bumoh!　And Mino screams out a bullhorn.
　Then the imprint emitted a strong light.
　A crack appeared around the minnow, and a cone of rock shot out in all directions.
　Moreover, it spread outward.

''God!''

　Leonhardt moves out of range as he deploys his protective barrier.
　Something snatches the corner of his vision.
　There is no time to check it.
　The next moment he reflexively held his sword up, a high-pitched sound rang out.
　There was a fey in front of me.
　He was approaching, hiding behind a rock.

''Please give me your orders!
I'm not done!

　Faye pushed her sword into the air and Leonhardt put his strength into it, too, in a losing effort.
　Suddenly, the resistance was gone.
　The moment Leonhardt put his power into the air, Faye reversed her position.
　Utterly disgusting.

''Light!
Huh!

　Light bursts between Leonhardt and Faye.
　His vision fades and he kicks the ground hard.
　The pole axe is swung down to where Leonhardt was half a second ago.
　This is also the power of the imprinting technique, or something that looks like a stone strikes the back.
　It kicks the ground further.
　It's not to escape.
　It's to kill the enemy's weak point - Theon.
　She has not mastered the power.
　It's better to take care of her before she learns to use her powers in a fight.

''You can't come here!

　Theon shouted, and a stone pillar flew out of the ground.
　It was similar to an explosion.
　But if it's to this extent, it can be avoided without a hitch.
　It was closing in on Sion until he was only a few steps away.
　At that moment, a frightening feeling ran through him.

''God!　A miracle of protection!
Please, God, please!

　An alien air surged from Zion.
　He didn't know how it was alien, but he had a feeling that he would die if he couldn't resist.
　Fortunately, or should I say, the Divine Majesty Technique 'Divine Clothing' was preventing Sion's attack.
　Leonhardt closed the distance as it was and thrust his sword out.
　The sword pierced through his chest and the strength drained from Sion's body.
　Theon turned over--

'....I got him.

　He said in a horrified sounding voice.
　He tried to pull the sword out, but he couldn't.
　Theon had tightened his grip on the blade.
　I knew immediately what he was going to do.
　The blade was beginning to rust.
　As he put all his strength into pulling the sword out, the blade snapped halfway through.
　Leonhardt kicked the ground and took his distance.
　Gehohoho, Sion spat out blood.
　He should have inflicted a fatal wound, but he doesn't look like he's going to die.
　On the contrary, the blood has already stopped.
　So far, so good.
　If you're a divine master magician - it's not impossible, especially if you're one who believes in a god with superior healing powers.

''Yes, it hurts.''

　Theon held his chest and sounded as if he were crying.
　But there was a smile on his mouth.

'Are you all right, sir?'
"Even to the untrained eye, it doesn't look all right." (Bumo)

　Faye and Mino stand to protect Theon.

''We'll let you off the hook now, won't we?
I wish I could, but I can't.

　Leonhardt raised his hand and looked at the sword.
　The sword's blade was missing from the middle of the blade, but--'

'God, bless my sword.

　The Divine Majesty Technique "Celebration Holy Blade" - the sword is surrounded by white light, and the light forms the blade.
　Naturally, the light has no weight, so it is unbalanced.

''Do you intend to defeat these three?''
I could do it.

　Leonhardt lightly cowered his shoulders.
　The enemy is strong, but we can definitely win.
　Well, it can't be an easy victory, though.

...

　The enemy Divine Majesty Magician who was running in the lead turns into a particle of white light.
　It was a side effect of the Divine Majesty Technique - they were eaten by the gods.
　As if that was the trigger, one by one, the enemy divine warriors turned into particles of light.
　The scene was beautiful and nightmarish.
　Death is a terrifying thing.
　And yet, if he died like that, the horror would diminish.
　Death would be lighter.
　I'm sure they would argue with me if I pointed that out.
　Faith has been proven, he said.
　But--

...like you really want that?

　Aridid muttered as he looked at the battlefield from the turret he had set up in the tree tops.
　Eaten by the gods.
　Become one with the gods.
　I don't mind either way, but it doesn't sound like much fun.
　I think it would be more fun to eat good food and play than that.
　The priest said, 'That's better,' so there should be no doubt about it.
　After all, he's experienced.
　When I said God's undigested food, he was dreading it, so he must have meant it.
　When this battle is over, I'll buy you a drink.
　Maybe we can make an offering.
　Whoosh!　And then a voice rises.
　The imperial and imperial troops had clashed.
　For now, it's five minutes.
　But with time, the Imperial Army would be forced into an inferior position.
　Well, as a rule of thumb--''

Well, my dear comrades in arms are we all ready to go?
"Yes.

　I called out to the magic item in the basket, and the voice came back.
　There are enough arrows to go around.
　There's no need to save them like the parent conquest.

''It's like letting the enemy die for the sake of our future!
"Oh!

　Alideed fired an arrow at the imperial army.

*

　Fay, Mino and Theon were strong.
　Faye was a great swordsman.
　In another five years, he would have become the best swordsman in the Empire.
　Mino supported Faye well.
　He was a highly skilled warrior himself, but that was not all.
　He had a wide perspective.
　There was even a section where he seemed to have a bird's eye view of the battle itself.
　However, if it was just Fay and Mino, it would have been settled early.
　The existence of Sion was the main reason why it had dragged on to this point.
　After all, she's an amateur.
　Her thoughts are very difficult to read.
　That affected the entire battle.
　The amateur's thoughts overturned the inferiority of the battle many times.
　But that's over.
　Leonhardt exhaled quietly and looked at the three of them.
　Faye and Mino were gasping for air, and Theon was about to collapse.
　It's time to end this, Leonhardt kicked the ground.
　His target was Mino.
　The imprint is flickering.
　In other words, the limit is near.
　As if sensing our intentions, Mino raised his poleaxe.
　However, the movement is lackluster.
　A dull touch can be felt from the sword.
　The sword pierced Mino's chest.

''Ta, General........'' (Bumo.......)
Hey, you fought well.
"Whoa! (BUMO!)

　Twisting the handle, Mino spat out blood.

''Not for free....'' (Bumo...)
I will not let you die!

　Faye swung her sword down and Leonhardt leapt backwards to duck.
　Mino declines on the spot.
　A fatal wound.

''Lord Sion!
I understand!
No, you won't.

　Leonhardt released a divine technique - a light bullet.
　The light bullets hit Sion's knee.
　The knee is abducted and Theon falls down.

''Please wait. I'll heal you right away.

　Theon crawled on the ground, heading underneath Mino.
　He didn't even try to heal his own wounds.
　That's how he knew she was already at her limit.

'Well, what to do?　I wouldn't mind missing it now, though, would you?
I'm sorry, sir. I can't do that.

　Faye stood to protect Mino and the others and sheathed her sword.
　Then she poised herself in a hunchbacked position.
　A black haze rises from Fay's body and a chill crawls up Leonhardt's spine.
　He's going to use his trump card.
　Leonhardt let out a small breath and looked at his own sword.
　The sword's blade was missing from the middle.
　He has formed a temporary sword blade with his Divine Majesty Technique, but this is not enough to take an attack.
　It can't be helped, Leonhard sheathed his sword.
　I compose myself the same way as Faye.
　I can feel her upset.

'You don't think you're the only one special, do you?
I don't think so, sir.

　Faye said, sounding miffed.
　Leonhardt glared at Faye.
　The sound slowly fades away and the scene around him loses its color.
　He confronts Faye in a world of white, only white.
　At the same time, they move.
　The air clings to me like a stew that has been stewed.
　It's uncomfortable.
　Just uncomfortable.
　Consciousness and flesh are not engaging.
　I bite the two together with force.
　My temples ache.

"The artifact--oh!
Summon!
Pulled swords!

　Voices overlap and the divine weapon is pulled out.
　Light and darkness collide, and the sound returns.
　A roar like a thunderclap echoes.
　The Divine Weapon pops, but it doesn't make me lose my posture.

''Hah!''
Oh!

　The divine weapon is unleashed along with the spirit of the cleaver.
　A roar resounds, and the divine weapon is played.
　Leonhard immediately unleashes his divine weapon.
　It's the same for Fei.
　The divine artifacts collide, are flicked, and collide again.
　It accelerates as if it is controlled by the will of God.
　The white light and black light draw a trail in space.
　It's as if space is being scraped away.
　Such a thought flashed through my mind, but it was a trivial matter.
　Faster, just faster, faster, flat out faster - the vision is red.
　My vision is red.
　My mouth smells bloody.
　My bones creak and my muscles are torn to shreds.
　Still, I accelerate.
　As if to say that this is what I am for.
　Unfortunately - humans are not just for accelerating.
　There is a limit.

Keha-ha!

　It was Faye who was the first to reach her limit.
　She was on her back, spitting out blood.
　It was a chance of a thousand, but Leonhardt also reached his limit.
　He turns over and spits out blood.

''Aaaaah!
Oh, oh!

　With all his strength, he wields his divine weapon.
　Faye swung her sword down and Leonhardt raised his sword.
　A clear sound could be heard as the sacred artifacts collided.
　Faye's divine artifacts shattered like glass.


....

　Leonhardt silently swung his divine weapon down.
　Blood splattered, and Faye collapsed from her knees.

''Fay-san!''

　Theon, who was covering Mino, shouted.
　He was wondering whether he should kill her or leave her alone--''

''Bandit!''
Protect the princess!

　I heard a shrill voice.
　When I looked at the direction of the voice, I saw that the old men were about to come running towards me.
　There must have been about fifty of them.
　They were tired, but no problem.

''Hmmm...''
"My name is Manchausen!　Princess Tyria, the retainer of the first lady!
I am the first of my kind!　This Alonso is my first retainer!

　The two old men - Manchausen and Alonso - press together with their chests.
　It's depressing.

"'Tis the time to be a regular guy!

　The two men attacked him, weapons in hand.
　It was pathetic, but they should take it seriously.
　Leonhardt flashes his divine weapon while passing between the two men.
　A thud echoes from behind him.

''Manchausen!　Alonso!
How dare you two!
Come on, fight, fight, fight!

　The old men are attacking us.
　Of course, I don't take it easy.
　They cut down, cut down, and cut down.
　An ordinary soldier would have run away, but the old men came unhesitatingly towards them.
　Their faces were filled with joy.
　They die laughing.
　They pass away smiling.
　What in the world drives them?
　At least they wouldn't be driven by madness.

''Long live the Imperial Highness!''

　Slaying the last one, Leonhardt looked up at the sky.
　Thick clouds covered the sky.
　It might rain.

''How dare you kill to kill?
....

　I look at the silent voice and see a beautiful woman of strange age drinking wine.
　Her throat rose and fell lustily.
　As I recall, she was called a priestess.
　My instincts told me it was dangerous, but I also had a feeling that I wouldn't have to fight.

'You will not fight?'
I am an observer.

　Then he laughs.

I suppose you really meant to say, "Go ahead and do it yourself.
'Yeah. That helps.

　I meant it.
　He didn't know how many hundreds of years he'd live, but if it meant he didn't have to fight, so much the better.
　Leonhardt stepped out--''

''But.........''
"But?

　I stopped and parroted.
　That's when.
　Someone clung to me from behind.
　I looked behind me over my shoulder and saw the old man.
　While I was wondering what was going on, he grabbed my arm and my leg.
　It was a sudden and unbelievable sight.
　The old men who should have killed him were moving.
　Leonhardt glared at the priest.

'You weren't an observer, were you?
Did you say that?

　The priest tilted his head slightly.
　I would describe it as cute, but it was petty.

'Well, you paid for my drink.
Is that why?
It's important.

　For an eagle," said the priestess, goggling.
　Leonhardt dropped his gaze and noticed that the old man was clutching something.
　It was a magic item.

'Die with us!
Long live Princess Tyria!
God!

　In the next moment, red lotus flames filled his vision.

*

　An explosion roared from behind her, and Leila narrowed her neck.
　Something might have happened to Crono.
　Such anxiety passed through her chest.
　She bit her lip and endured the desire to run down to Crono.
　I can't help myself if I go.
　Rather, it would be an impediment.
　Besides, I was entrusted with the command.
　So how could I betray the trust?
　Leila looked at the battlefield.
　On the left flank, the imperial infantry and the imperial knights were engaged in a fierce exchange.
　Should it be said that they are barely getting by?
　The Imperial soldiers - the Thirteenth Konoe Guard Knights take pride in their ability to defeat anyone.
　But it would be the same for the enemy.
　If they can win with their minds, they won't have a hard time.
　The only reason we're able to hold back the imperial army right now is because of the support of Aridaid and the others.
　I want to ease the pressure more.
　If we do that, we can win ourselves.

''Well how do we do that?''

　Leila bit her thumbnail and realized something.
　A volunteer soldier.
　Since the enemy is concentrated on the left flank, the volunteer soldiers who fortify the center are free to go.
　The question is whether they will be fighting each other.
　The skill of the volunteers is poor.
　Shooting at them is just a dream.
　At this time, a rainfall began to fall.
　He reflexively looked up at the sky and said.

"Shoot at an angle!

　Leila exclaimed involuntarily.
　Why couldn't she come up with something so simple?

''The First, Fifth, and Seventh Squads of Volunteers, please move to the left flank!

　Leila shouted into the basket of communication magic items.

*

...Rain?

　Leonhardt opened his eyes at the cold touch.
　The rain was falling in flurries.
　He repeated a shallow breath and picked himself up.
　Apparently, his body was safe.
　The divine power technique he used on the spur of the moment mitigated the impact of the explosion.
　He managed to get up and look around.
　There are dead bodies scattered around, but there's no sign of the priestess.
　Did he run away, or did he lose interest?
　Well, as long as they don't get in the way, I don't mind.
　Besides, it's no use trying to read the intentions of someone who is no longer human.

''Well..........''

　Leonhardt walks away with the divine weapon in his hand.
　I have a headache.
　He can't stop feeling nauseous.
　I'm hot all over.
　I hear muffled sounds.
　I can't see or hear anything but the smell and taste of blood.
　All I can smell and taste is blood.
　After a while, a tent comes into view.
　In front of it was Crono and a woman wearing a robe.
　Her face was not visible as she wore a hood so deep in her eyes.
　I felt like that if it was called Princess Tilia.
　Crono is slowly approaching us.
　I leave a distance of about ten steps and stop.

''........Is it impossible to discuss?''
Well, guess what I'm gonna say, you're gonna have to talk to me like that?

　Leonhardt lost his smile.
　Crono's body was colored by the imprint and his expression was grim.
　In short, it's full of wariness.

''There's a word for 'no and original,' Leonhardt.
That's your style, Crono.

　Crono readied his sword and Leonhardt readied his divine weapon.
　The rain increased in intensity and Crono moved.
　No, Leonhardt just couldn't move.
　After all, he had wounds all over his body.
　It was no wonder he couldn't move.
　Crono didn't care what happened to me, he just walked up to me and swung his sword at me.
　I take it with my divine weapon, but I stagger.
　Crono attacked like he was folding.
　こちらは受けるだけで精一杯だ。
　受けるたびに体が軋む。
　だが、それだけだ。
　呼吸を整えて回復に専念する。
　攻撃を受け、攻撃を受け、攻撃を受け――強烈な一撃で吹き飛ばされる。
　レオンハルトは静かに息を吐くが、クロノの呼吸は乱れている。
　さて、次はこちらが攻める番だ。
　もちろん、口にはしない。
　地面を蹴り、一気に距離を詰める。
　すると、驚いたのか、クロノは目を見開いた。
　神器を振り下ろす。
　甲高い音が響き、クロノがよろめいた。
　チャンス――だろうか。
　嫌な予感に突き動かされ、レオンハルトは距離を取った。
　半瞬遅れて、小さな爆発が起きた。
　クロノが隠し持っていたマジックアイテムを使ったのだろう。
　まったく、油断も隙もあったものではない。
　クロノがニヤリと笑う。
　まだマジックアイテムを隠し持っているのか。
　それとも、他に手があるのか。

「……いかんな」

　レオンハルトは小さく頭を振った。
　術中に嵌まっている。
　焦るなと自分に言い聞かせ、深呼吸を繰り返す。
　体力の回復を図りながら戦う。
　無茶も、無理もしない。
　レオンハルトは静かに神器を構えた。
　クロノが突っ込んでくる。
　先程までとは違う制御された動きだ。
　その分、読みやすい。
　振り下ろされた剣を、横薙ぎの斬撃を体捌きで躱す。
　躱せないものは受け流す。
　だが、剣にばかり気を取られてはいけない。
　魔術、刻印術、マジックアイテム――どんな手を使ってくるのか分からない。
　足に絡み付こうとした影を斬り、指で弾いたマジックアイテムを躱す。
　長剣を弾き、突き出された短剣を躱す。
　躱し、受け流し、体力が回復してきたので反撃する。
　繰り返している内に攻守が逆転する。
　やがて、クロノが防戦一方になる。
　まだ何かあるのではないかという不安が湧き上がる。
　だが、ここで仕留めなければいけないような気もした。
　He closed the distance and fired a scooping blow.
　Crono leaps back, but the cut snatches his neck.
　Blood splattered, but it was shallow.
　But now it was clear that Crono had no trump card.
　The moment Leonhardt stepped out of the way, he felt pain in his right eye.
　A necklaces.
　The broken string of the necklace had hit his eye.
　The pain slowed his movements, and the engraving that decorated Crono's body emitted a dazzling light.
　What to do?
　The right side of the field of vision is blocked.
　The attack comes from the right.
　What about Crono's attack?

Tsk!

　Leonhardt clicked his tongue and swung his divine weapon down.
　His right vision is closed, but he can tell that Crono has a surprised expression on his face.
　Crono's body sinks down as if he has reached his limit.
　That's when I see Crono's left arm.
　The left arm, which is connected by a single piece of leather--.
　Leonhardt was sure of his victory.



　Defeated, Crono thought.
　He had sacrificed Mino, Fay, Theon, and Manchausen to win.
　They had consumed them and had successfully cornered them.
　And yet, they were upset.
　It wasn't good enough.
　Even with the necklace - even with the good fortune of Lysad's fangs taking away Leonhard's vision.
　But well done.
　He had cornered Leonhardt.
　That's enough for me.
　Now I'll leave it all to the others.
　I was about to bend my knees in a strange sense of contentment when I heard a voice.

　Are you done?

　It was a gentle voice.
　A voice that would nod and say 'yes,' if I said it was good enough.
　I want to indulge this voice.
　I want to cling to it.
　But that's - Crono put a lot of effort into his legs.
　There is no good reason.
　There is no good reason.
　After sacrificing so much, there is no way I can give up so easily.
　I can't give up for the sake of the people I killed and the subordinates who died.

...good reason.

　Crono spun the words.



I don't have a reason!　Stupid!

　The next moment Crono shouted, his right vision turned white for a moment.
　It was an unexpected blow.
　His left arm should have been connected only by a single piece of skin.
　And yet, how could it attack?
　Leonhard staggered back and fell on his ass.
　His eyes widened in astonishment.
　His left arm was connected.

''There's no good reason.''

　Crono said as he spat and slowly opened his right eye.
　A green light floods in.
　It's the power of a god - the power of the 'Green and the God who controls the flowing water'.
　The light swirls around.
　When one uses the divine power technique, the divine power rises from the surgeon.
　But Crono was different.
　Light flooded from the space around him and surrounded Crono.
　Leonhardt saw the figure of Count Rio Chiron in the light.
　No, no, no, no. I won't let Crono kill you.
　It was as if he could hear such a voice.

''........Rio Chiron.

　Leonhard stood up on shaky legs.

'You're still attached to Crono, even in death.
...Rio is...

　Crono mumbles to himself.

'Rio's dead,'
'Can't you see that?　That's the power of Rio Chiron!　Dead, assimilated with the gods... and yet they still cling to you!
Rio is dead.

　Crono repeated the same words.

''But I'll go with you.

　Crono drives.
　The imprint is dazzling, perhaps due to Rio's power.

'Fast!　But--
Oh!

　Crono let out a yell.
　His body cowered with the power like a lion.
　Crono unleashed a fist and Leonhardt quickly caught it with his divine weapon.
　He laughed and said there was no way he could shatter the divine weapon.
　The next moment, the sacred artifacts shattered with a sound like broken glass.

''Nonsense!　God's--
'Ahhhh!

　A fist pierced his face and Leonhardt was blown away.
　He was slammed head first into the ground, and still his momentum didn't kill him, but he rolled on the ground two or three times.
　Finally, it stopped and Leonhardt saw that his head was attached to it.
　He let out a breath of relief that his head was present.
　It was a tremendous blow, like a direct hit from a breaking hammer.

''I have to ... stand up.''

　If you don't get up, you'll die, he scolded himself as he stood up.
　Leonhardt looks at Crono--.

'....Yeah.

　He let out a gasp.
　Leonhardt saw the dead behind Crono - behind the green and black light.
　There was an elf.
　There were lion beastmen.
　There were minotaurs.
　There were lizardmen.
　There was Rio Chiron - and many of the dead were behind the Crono.

'....Yeah.

　I let my voice trail off again.
　I wanted to give up everything I had and put my trust in this great king.
　If it wasn't for this, I would have done so.
　No, I still want to do so, and I can't stand it.

"I have something to protect.

　Leonhardt spun the words as if to resist, but they were so empty that he felt thin and cold himself.
　He wanted to protect his home.
　But what was it for?
　Was it for his father, who judged him by his mood, or was it for his relatives, who were incited by such a father?
　Did he just want to protect the history, the fortune?

'Ah!'

　Crono unleashed a fist and Leonhardt was blown away again.
　What I was trying to protect doesn't give me any power.
　It's because he doesn't see the value in himself.
　Still, he stands up.
　Why.
　For what.

"...Leela.

　Muttering.
　Oh, yes.
　Leela, Leela is here.
　The daughter my father bought from a poor farmer.
　She was given to me.

"I have something to protect.

　I muttered again, and my whole body felt hot.
　A white light rises from my body.

''I.......can still fight.

　Leonhardt clenched his fists.

*

　Bear stared at the battlefield from behind the trees.
　It had stood for quite some time since the battle had begun, but the Imperial soldiers were still holding the line.
　This was despite the fact that the Imperial Army - the First Order of the Kingsguard - had been destroyed.
　But it would only be a matter of time before the front collapsed.
　The enemy is still out there.

''Well it can't be helped.

　Bear scratched his head.
　Leila, the commander, was tactful, but she didn't have the coldness to order her soldiers to die.
　Then they should move on with their own judgment.
　I will now go to the place of death by my own decision.
　Thinking about that, his legs trembled.
　The mercenary of successive battles would feel pathetic, but if it was an order, he could give up.

''Well, but Sif sold it to me.

　We - the Confederation of Tribes - will die to protect Crono and his territory.
　It's not a choice.
　The contract is absolute.
　At the very least, we have to show that we will keep it.
　Indeed, being a mercenary is a sinister business.

"...a call to arms of the Confederated Tribesmen.

　Bear called out to his compatriots in the basket's communication magic item - and beyond.

'We are about to attack to the death. Are you ready for this?
"Oh!

　A dependable voice replies.

'Let's go!　United Tribes!
Charge, that is. (GASP!)

　Right after he started running, Bear was overtaken by the tiger beast - Taiga.

''Are you guys going to die too?''
I'm not going to die, that I'm not! (GASP!)
Well, okay.

　Bear called out to Kagome's communication magic item as he ran.

'Correction!　I'm going to die and win!
"Oh!

　A voice rang out from the communication magic item and Bear and his companions attacked the enemy soldiers.

*

　Gong, gong, and the impact is intermittent.
　When I opened my eyes to see what was going on, Leonhardt had been beaten by Crono, who was on horseback.

''........Ah.''

　That's right. We were fighting.
　My body is heavy as lead.
　I can't put any strength into it.
　He twisted his body with all his strength and knocked Crono down into a sea of mud.
　I try to get on my horse, and a kick comes flying out.
　I don't feel any pain.
　My whole body is hot, and I can only feel something hitting me when I'm hit.
　How long have we been hitting each other?
　I don't know.
　I don't know, but at least it wasn't a downpour when we started punching each other.
　There was a gobbling sound.
　Crono was about to drown in a sea of mud.
　Oh, this is easier said than done.
　When I was thinking about that--.

“--!

　Leonhardt looked up and spat out the muddy water.
　Before he knew it, he lost consciousness and nearly drowned.
　What a mess.
　Before he knew it, Crono was on his feet.
　Leonhardt mobilized all his remaining strength to stand up.
　I want to win.
　Such thoughts snatched at his brain.
　Oh, yes.
　I want to win.
　I want to win.
　I want to win against Chrono.
　If I win, I'm sure I will feel great.
　And yet Crono is going the opposite way to Leonhardt.
　Oh, don't go.
　Please don't go.
　Fight me, and I'm going to hit your body.
　They both fall to the ground.
　Crono tries to advance and Leonhardt clings to him.
　He loses consciousness.
　When he regains consciousness again, he hugs his pants.
　Crono looks around.
　He was crawling on the ground in his pants.
　Please, wait, he said, crawling on the ground.
　At that moment, Princess Tilia knelt down and hugged Crono.

'That's enough!

　What is good. No decision has been made.
　But the words could not be spoken.

'Ours, Master Crono, has won!

　Princess Tyria took off her hood.
　Underneath it was a look not unlike that of the Tyria Princess.
　She looked familiar.
　As I recall, she was called the mistress.

'Lady Crono has won!

　The landlady pointed in the direction of the east, and Leonhardt turned around.
　Then, a pillar of light stood in the eastern sky.

''Oh, so that's what it means.''

　Leonhardt understood everything and plopped down on the spot.
　It was a diversion.
　It was probably a plan for a separate force to attack the castle while attracting the imperial army.

''Ah, I see.''

　Leonhardt hung his head helplessly.
　He had been warned that he was the trump card of the Empire, but he was not recognized as an enemy to be defeated.
　That's why Crono fled.

''I see....

　Tears spilled out of my eyes.
　My thoughts were only one-sided, and even more so, defeated.
　If only he had recognized me as an enemy to be defeated, I would still be saved.
　What a misery.
　What humiliation.
　This was the price of betrayal.

'Hey, can you stop being so sentimental and declare your defeat?
"-Oh!

　When I looked up, the landlady held out a magic item to me.
　She took the magic item and said.

''This is Leonhardt, Commander of the First Kingsguard. The imperial army must stop fighting immediately. I repeat, the imperial army must cease fighting immediately.

　Leonhardt called out to his friends.

*

I repeat. I repeat, the Imperial Guard must cease hostilities immediately.
What the f*ck you got in store for me on the battlefield?

　Leonhardt's voice echoed from all sides, and Roy scowled.

'Lord Roy, what shall we do?'
What? It's over... it's over.

　Roy looked around at Richard's words.
　The soldiers stopped their hands.

'My orders are--'
The castle is down.

　Looking behind him over his shoulder, he saw a pillar of light standing in the eastern sky.
　It was divine, the light of divine power arts.
　Perhaps it was the power of Princess Tyria.
　Somehow, I had a feeling that it was.

''I fought a serious battle, though.

　Roy blurted out as he stared at the pillar of light.
　He fought diligently, but it was only one phase for the rebels.
　It was a shame, but a complete defeat.

''Did Lord Argena understand that?''
Come on, baby.

　Honestly, I don't think Algena was expecting this development.
　I don't think--

'Shouldn't we wrap this place up with the guy was a great guy?
'Yes. That's the best thing to do.
So what do we do now?
I'm going back to the country.

　Richard said once and for all.

'You gave me an immediate answer,'
I've been thinking about it.
Well, good luck with that.
I'm not leaving yet. Not until I get this over with.

　Richard said, miffed, and Roy laughed.