Chapter 114: The Day the “Wings” Were Born
Like a divine retribution piercing through the foolish, the beam of light unleashed by Rest penetrated Subnock’s torso. A massive hole had been torn through Subnock’s body, leaving it in tatters. The ground below gaped open, and the section struck by Rest’s new spell, Amaterasu, had evaporated completely, leaving no remnants behind. Yet, the head and limbs remained, their lifeless eyes telling the tale of the colossal beast’s demise.
“I must admit, the power is terrifying… My Magical Power hasn’t diminished, yet I feel utterly exhausted…”
Rest, having returned from the skies, sat on the ground, sighing at the traces of destruction he had wrought.
After casting Amaterasu, Rest quickly activated spells like Floating and Wind Manipulation. He had already descended below five hundred meters, too late to open a parachute if he were skydiving. Though he managed to reduce his falling speed, the pain upon crashing to the ground was still considerable. Had he not reinforced his physical strength just before impact and enveloped himself in Water, he would surely have sustained injuries severe enough to break every bone in his body.
“I won… but strangely, I feel little sense of accomplishment…”
He had defeated a Magical Beast that no one had managed to subdue since the founding of the kingdom. While it was a feat worthy of historical recognition, he felt oddly detached, as if the surface of his heart was eerily calm. If he were to report this achievement to the kingdom, what kind of rewards would he receive? Perhaps the burden of attention would outweigh the benefits.
“…I’m surprised. Did you really take down the Master of the Demon Realm all by yourself?”
“Hm?”
A voice called from behind, and when Rest turned, he found Wilhelm Lübesse standing there. He had entrusted the horde of Corrupted Beasts to Lübesse, yet he appeared to have sustained no significant injuries.
“To think that a perfected spell could wield such power… It’s a height unattainable by mere swordsmanship.”
While he praised Rest, Lübesse’s expression bore a hint of regret. The competitive spirit emanating from him seemed to stem from jealousy over an achievement he could not claim for himself.
“…In close combat, you would have won.”
“Hmph…”
Lübesse looked down at Rest with a scowl, but soon opened his mouth, seemingly displeased.
“I am Wilhelm Lübesse, the third son of the Lübesse Baron Family, and a master of the Almacain Sword Dance Technique, known as the ‘Sword Demon.’ Since we will likely be working together for a long time, engrave that into your mind.”
“…………?”
Why would he introduce himself at such a moment? Rest returned Lübesse’s gaze with a puzzled expression.
“I will eventually stand at the pinnacle of this kingdom’s knights as the Knight Commander. You will become the head of the court magicians, so we are bound to have a long relationship.”
“Ah… I see what you mean.”
Understanding dawned on him. In other words, they were to become the “Wings” of the Aiwood Kingdom—knight and court magician, destined to soar together.
“You’re getting ahead of yourself… We’re still students, right? There are plenty of capable seniors and active knights out there.”
“I have no interest in the unremarkable who merely happened to be born first. I will undoubtedly claim the peak with this sword… that is all there is to it.”
“…………”
It seemed Lübesse was quite the self-assured individual. If the senior knights heard him, they would surely be infuriated.
(He has a high pride, but it doesn’t seem to be mere vanity… Compared to Cedric and Prince Rodel, he’s much more tolerable.)
“I’m Rest. From the Rosemary Marquis House. I don’t have a surname yet since I’m not married.”
“…………”
Rest remained seated on the ground, extending his right hand. Lübesse grasped it firmly in return.
Thus began the tale of the “Wings,” two individuals who would run through the turmoil of war surrounding the Aiwood Kingdom together. Their first collaboration, destined to become the heroes of their era, came to a close here.