Chapter 11: Salvation II (vs. Guardian β of the Sealed Labyrinth)
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Mage Angelica had a significant flaw as a spellcaster. She was born with a congenital condition known as Mana Emission Aperture Syndrome, which limited her to using only Basic Magic. A mage who could only wield Basic Magic was, no matter how hard she tried, considered incompetent and useless—at least, that was the expectation.
However, a powerful breakthrough occurred when her innate vast Mana, her relentless training in Mana manipulation, and the innovative ideas of a boy from another world converged, completely overcoming her limitations.
Once an underachiever, Angelica was now referred to as a Sage, and indeed, the absurdly powerful spells she wielded were worthy of such a title.
The numerous unparalleled spells born from her dialogues and research with the boy were, in fact, a combination of meticulously controlled Basic Magic layered and activated together.
Yet, not all of her powerful spells were created solely from the aforementioned Basic Magic.
For instance, there was the spell known as Serpent Chains (Chain Bind), which she used in her battle against Ashley. Unlike the usual spells that utilized her internal Mana, this spell was activated by controlling the Mana she had previously infused into the ground.
Additionally, there was the spell known as Imitation Elemental Magic, which she employed in her battle against Sena. Similar to Serpent Chains, this spell used her Mana released into the external environment as a core, mixing it with the ambient elemental Mana to create a pseudo-advanced spell.
Both spells were the culmination of the advanced techniques she had honed, involving the release of pure Mana and the manipulation of external Mana that had been previously released.
However, the core process of manipulating external Mana that had been released and using it to activate spells was exceedingly difficult, and even with her abilities, it remained incomplete.
Many must have thought at this point: Even Sage Angelica cannot master this overnight.
And rightly so. The research that had long been neglected was only resumed after arriving in Bordaf.
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“If the enemy moves at high speed in the Six-Blade Form, we need to defeat it before it takes that shape.”
“But that’s—”
It’s difficult, Mika was about to say, but Angelica stopped her with a hand.
“Indeed, that’s not an easy task. While the threat level is lower, the floating Treasure Sword Form is hard to hit, and it has powerful laser attacks.”
However, Angelica had a spell perfectly suited for this situation.
“I have a spell called Reflector.”
“Reflector?” Ashley echoed back.
“Yes. With my Reflector, I can bounce back its laser attacks.”
Reflector—one of Angelica’s unique spells. It involved releasing high-density Light Magic in a particle form to fill the space, granting these particles the ability to reflect magic, thus bouncing back the opponent’s spells.
“However, using Reflector will place a significant burden on both of you.”
This spell, created using the same principles as Serpent Chains, was naturally still incomplete. Therefore,
“At my current level, I can’t prepare and manipulate such a vast amount of Light Magic alone. So, I need you both to provide the Light Magic. After all, we have the Saintess and the Holy Knight, specialists in Light Magic, right?”
Upon hearing Angelica’s words, Ashley and Mika exchanged glances, blinking in surprise.
“I will send my Mana to you and create a Mana passage. From there, I will manipulate the Light Magic you provide to manifest Reflector.”
It was easy to say.
“But manipulating someone else’s Mana… is that even possible?”
Saintess Mika trembled at the thought. It seemed like a ridiculous fantasy, far from mere theoretical discussions.
“I can do it.”
Angelica stated firmly, trying to reassure the two.
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In a very short time, a strategy centered around Angelica’s Reflector was meticulously crafted.
“With our trump card and secret technique, we’ll be ready.”
Angelica puffed out her chest with pride. At that moment, Saintess Mika suddenly recalled someone’s words.
—Never reveal your trump card first. If you do, have a secret technique ready.
Unfortunately, she couldn’t remember who had said it, but she distinctly recalled the person wearing a huge smug grin.
“What are you two laughing about?” Ashley asked.
Mika realized she had been smiling unintentionally. Just then,
“Hm? You two?”
When Mika peeked at Angelica’s expression, she noticed the corners of her mouth were lifted. Not understanding why, the two exchanged small smiles.
After a few more minutes of refining their strategy, the three confirmed their preparations for battle and entered a state of readiness.
“Well then, shall we go?”
At Saintess Mika’s voice, the three set their sights on the monster wielding the Treasure Sword.
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Just moments before, as the strategy meeting was winding down, Angelica quietly murmured to the two.
“Perhaps the Sealed Labyrinth can read the hearts of people—especially their fears.”
It was merely a conjecture without any solid evidence. Yet, for some reason, Mika’s heart felt uneasy.
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I will be promoting this for the next few days. Please forgive me!
Today, on July 16, the first volume of the comic adaptation has been released. The comic adaptation features beautiful color illustrations by the artist Yuchi Su, including a Chapter 0 with Sena and Sensei. Thank you all for your support!
We have also received reports of purchases! Thank you!