...
At the Main Administration Office of Civica City...
Several days had passed. Amidst the hustle and bustle of this magnificent water city, the name "Miscellaneous Trader" began to spread widely. The citizens assumed they were wealthy merchants who had just relocated from another region.
However, not everyone was so easily fooled.
Inside a room filled with towering stacks of documents and scrolls, sat a heavyset man with a round face and sharp, cunning eyes. He was Boben Scriwel, the richest and most influential merchant in the city, controlling nearly half of the trade in the entire region.
Spread before him was a confidential investigation report. His brow furrowed deeply with suspicion.
"Hmm... This is very strange," Boben muttered, tapping his fingers rhythmically on the desk. "There are no birth records for them. Their citizenship papers are clearly forged. But their energy signature and the way they speak... it is obvious they hail from a great Kingdom, not some ordinary street peddlers."
He picked up the paper and crumpled it slightly in his fist.
"But... what is even stranger is that any deeper information regarding their background is completely sealed off. Even the central data system of the Disidess State seems to be intentionally hiding it. As if there is a high-level order forbidding anyone from digging into who they truly are."
Boben's eyes narrowed.
"This is suspicious. Who are they really? Spies? Or runaway nobles? It doesn't matter, this is a matter of great importance."
Boben immediately summoned his personal messenger.
"Prepare an official report and send it immediately to the Oceanic Kingdom! Inform them that there are two foreigners in Civica posing as merchants. Also mention that their data is being protected and hidden by the Disidess authorities. Let King Uleg Zonan decide their fate!"
At the Temporary Residence - Across Locnes Beach...
That afternoon, the sea breeze blew cool and gentle against the simple yet comfortable wooden building.
Rovela Silvio and Eilis Mogina had just stepped inside. Their faces looked exhausted after spending an entire day pretending to be someone else, haggling over prices, and gathering as much information as possible about the Vulture Family.
Eilis threw herself onto the sofa roughly, letting out an annoyed huff.
"Hahh... That's enough! I am so sick of this, Rovela!" she exclaimed irritably, crossing her arms over her chest. "Days and days wearing these masks! Always pretending to be someone else! My skin feels like it's going to itch if I keep doing this! When can we finally act freely?!"
Before Eilis could complain further, Rovela cut her off firmly but quietly.
"Enough, Eilis. Be quiet. This is precisely the best way to handle things," Rovela said as she poured water for herself and her companion. "Have you forgotten? This city is a nest of spies. There are watchers on every corner, and spying fish in the skies above. If we act recklessly or reveal our true power, we will be surrounded by thousands of soldiers within minutes. So... we must be more careful. Just a little longer."
Eilis let out a long sigh, turning her head toward the window to look at the waves. "Hmph... You are always too careful. But fine, you are the expert when it comes to survival."
They fell silent for a moment, savoring the calm of the afternoon after the exhausting charade.
TOK... TOK... TOK...
The sound of knocking was soft, yet it cut through the silence clearly.
DUG!
Rovela and Eilis's hearts seemed to stop beating for a split second. Their bodies tensed up instantly. Their eyes met, wide and filled with disbelief.
'Who dares to come here?!' their minds screamed in unison.
They hadn't told anyone about this secret location. Even their disguise should have led people to believe they lived near the market district.
Rovela quickly signaled Eilis to get ready, while he himself moved slowly toward the door, prepared for any possibility—whether it was an enemy, an ally, or something far more dangerous.
Rovela's heart pounded rapidly. He did not throw the door wide open immediately. Instead, he moved slowly and cautiously, slipping toward the side window and peering through a tiny gap in the curtains.
There, under the warm afternoon sun, stood a little girl who looked incredibly adorable. She wore a simple yet clean dress, her hair tied neatly in place. In her hands, she held a uniquely woven basket that looked sturdy; it appeared small but was filled heavily with contents.
No weapons. No soldiers. Just a child smiling innocently.
Rovela let out a quiet sigh, some of the tension leaving his body. He walked back to the main door and turned the handle with extreme slowness.
SCREEECH...
The door opened just a crack, wide enough for the head of the disguised, portly merchant to peek out.
"What is it, child? Who are you?" Rovela asked in a deep, cautious voice.
The little girl smiled sweetly and bowed politely.
"Good afternoon, Merchant Uncle! My name is Elmira Brenda," she introduced herself in a loud yet charming tone. "I am the daughter of a merchant at the central harbor. My father said... you and Auntie just came from a very faraway place. So Father prepared something special for you in advance. This is a welcome gift, filled with good supplies and food!"
Elmira lifted the basket up toward Rovela's face. It smelled fragrant and looked quite luxurious.
Hearing this, Rovela felt a touch of emotion in his heart. 'Poor child, she is so polite and sincere.' But his vigilant mind quickly took over. 'But... in a city this dangerous, nothing is free. This could be a trap. The basket might contain bombs or poisonous insects. I cannot accept this carelessly.'
Rovela quickly gave a signal with his eyes toward the inside. Eilis understood instantly and nodded sharply.
"Quick, Eilis! Help me cast Multiplier Magic! We need a clone!" whispered Rovela.
"Roger! Let's do this!" Eilis replied briefly.
They joined their hands behind the wall, focusing their energy.
"Multiplier Magic: Copy Paste!!"
WUZZ...
In an instant, right beside them, a shadowy figure formed and slowly solidified into reality. It was a Clone of Rovela, perfectly identical to the original—down to the clothes, face, and even his voice.
"Do your task, accept the item, but do not touch the contents directly unless necessary," the real Rovela commanded.
"Yes, Boss!" the clone answered with a stiff smile.
Meanwhile...
The real Rovela and Eilis quickly moved inside and hid inside a large wardrobe in the room. There was just enough space for the two of them.
Eilis immediately chanted a protective spell:
"Invisibility Magic: Hide Presence!"
SZUT!
They both turned transparent and vanished from sight. Even their aura was completely masked by the magic. From the outside, the wardrobe looked ordinary, locked and empty.
They peered through the gaps between the doors, watching every movement with sharp eyes.
In front of the door, the Clone of Rovela stepped out casually.
"Wow... thank you very much, little Elmira! Your father and you are so kind," the Clone said in a friendly yet artificial voice. He received the basket carefully, holding it only from the bottom.
"You're welcome, Uncle! Please enjoy the contents! I'll be going home now!" Elmira chirped happily, waved goodbye, and trotted away, leaving the yard.
After the clone closed the door again, inside the wardrobe...
Rovela and Eilis looked at each other.
"Safe... turns out it was just a gift delivery," Eilis whispered in relief.
"Stay alert nonetheless," Rovela replied softly. "Gifts from strangers in a foreign land... always come with a price. We'll check the contents later using the detection tools."
"Multiplier Magic... Canceled!"
WUSH!
The clone's figure slowly faded away, dissolving into thin wisps of smoke. Rovela and Eilis returned to their seats at the dining table, dispelling their invisibility magic. Their faces grew serious as they stared intently at the woven basket placed in the center of the table.
"Okay, now let's see what's really inside," Rovela said gravely. He carefully began to remove the coverings one by one.
Inside were fresh fruits, dried bread, and several small bottles of fragrant oils. Everything looked normal and luxurious.
"Seems like it really is just an ordinary gift," Eilis murmured in relief, picking up an apple and turning it in her hand. "Her father is quite kind, isn't he?"
"Wait..." Rovela's hand stopped at the very bottom of the basket. He felt something hard and solid. "What is this?"
He pulled out a small box made of carved black wood. Its shape was unique and looked ancient. A cold, eerie aura emanated from it.
"This is what made me feel uneasy," Rovela whispered, his brows furrowing with suspicion.
Slowly, he began to lift the lid...
Meanwhile, Outside the House...
Elmira Brenda had walked only a few meters away from the yard, skipping happily, thinking her task was done.
Suddenly...
SPLASH!
A massive shadow suddenly engulfed her. A gigantic hand appeared out of nowhere and gripped her small head tightly.
"Ughhh!!"
"WHAT WERE YOU DOING IN A PLACE LIKE THIS, MY DEAR LITTLE LADY!" a heavy, terrifying voice boomed, belonging to a huge, dark figure.
Elmira's face turned red, contorted in pain and terror.
"W-WHAT... AAAAAA!!" she screamed at the top of her lungs.
ZAP!
In the blink of an eye, the large man and Elmira vanished completely. There was no explosion, no tremor in the ground, not even the wind stirred. They were gone, swallowed by the air as if they had never existed. The street returned to absolute silence.
Back Inside the Room...
Just as the box lid opened...
"W-WHAT... AAAAAA!!"
That piercing, heartbreaking scream echoed clearly into Rovela and Eilis's ears! It was Elmira's voice!
"WHAT WAS THAT?!" Rovela shouted in shock. Both he and Eilis jumped to their feet instantly.
"Quick, go outside and check!" Eilis yelled.
They ran as fast as lightning toward the front door, throwing aside the curtains and scanning the surroundings frantically.
But...
Silence.
The street outside was deadly quiet. A gentle breeze blew, yet not a single person was in sight. Merchants, customers, even guards seemed to have vanished. There were no signs of a struggle, no footprints, and no Elmira.
"Damn it... I heard her scream clearly just now!" Eilis stammered, her eyes glowing with magical energy as she scanned the area. "But there isn't a single trace of energy here. They disappeared without a mark."
Rovela gritted his teeth, shaking his head slowly. "Fall back, Eilis. Let's go inside first. Don't act rashly. This is an extremely clever trap."
They walked back inside with heavy steps. The door was shut tightly and double-locked. Their eyes remained vigilant, listening for every tiny sound, ready to face anything.
At the Dining Table...
Rovela looked back at the now-open box.
Lying inside was a ring made of black metal, incredibly beautiful yet terrifying. It featured a large gemstone with engravings of wings spread wide...
The symbol of the Vulture Family!
Rovela and Eilis's eyes widened in shock, their bodies freezing rigid at the sight of the object.
"S-So... this is the reason..." Eilis whispered in disbelief. "They know we are looking for them..."
Rovela stared at the ring with a deadly serious expression, his gaze sharp and cold.
'So they were the ones who took Elmira... and sent this as a message,' Rovela thought, his body trembling with suppressed emotion. 'It seems something big is going to happen tomorrow... and that scream was just the beginning. Damn it!! They are toying with us!!'
Roughly yet carefully, Rovela placed the ring on the table.
THUD!
The heavy, ominous sound echoed through the silent room.
Morning in Front of the Residence...
The sun had barely risen above the eastern horizon, yet the atmosphere in front of the wooden house was already filled with a tense and icy aura.
Drawn up in neat ranks across the yard, dozens of elite soldiers of the Oceanic Kingdom clad in gleaming armor and wielding spears surrounded the place. At the front of the formation stood a tall, firm man wearing a deep-blue commander's cloak. He was Sir Jarred, the leader of the city's security unit.
The door opened slowly. Out stepped Rovela Silvio and Eilis Mogina with incredibly relaxed expressions, as if they were completely oblivious to the hundreds of eyes staring sharply at them.
"I apologize for greeting this beautiful morning in such an unpleasant manner, Mr. Merchant," Sir Jarred said in a flat, official tone. He raised his hand, giving a firm signal.
"Based on the reports received and the investigation conducted, we declare that you are not fit to remain in this territory," Sir Jarred stated sternly. "You entered without official permission, used false identities, and violated city regulations and public order. You failed to consult with the authorities beforehand. Come with us now to face judgment!"
Hearing the accusations, Rovela and Eilis merely exchanged glances, then let out long, simultaneous sighs filled with utter annoyance and exasperation.
"Hahhhh..."
Rovela crossed his arms over his chest. His expression turned deadly serious, yet a sharp, infuriatingly smug smirk played on his lips.
"Oh? Is that so? So just because we didn't 'consult' anyone, we are suddenly considered criminals?" Rovela spoke softly, his voice calm but piercing. "We were merely trading, paying our taxes on time, and harming no one. Yet suddenly, first thing in the morning, we are surrounded like war criminals."
Rovela took a step forward, looking directly into Sir Jarred's eyes.
"But I understand perfectly, of course you acted this quickly. Because there is someone 'very big', 'very rich', and 'very powerful' pulling the strings behind the scenes, isn't there? Who else could it be but Mr. Boben Scriwel?"
Rovela chuckled lightly, the sound cold and chilling.
"How cunning. Reporting us not because we are dangerous, but because you are afraid of competition... or perhaps... afraid that we know something we weren't supposed to know?" Rovela remarked sarcastically. "My objective is quite clear, Commander. We are simply here seeking the truth. But it seems that in this city, the truth comes at a very high price. So high that it must be hidden and covered up."
Eilis, standing beside him, chimed in with a mocking tone, "Or maybe... Mr. Boben is the one actually committing far greater offenses, which is why he is so busy finding fault with others to divert attention? Classic move."
Rovela smiled broadly—a smile filled with double meanings and hidden traps.
"By all means, Sir Jarred. Take us away. But remember this well... today you arrest two innocent merchants. But tomorrow... who can guarantee that this kingdom won't regret shutting its doors on people who could actually have helped?"
To the ordinary soldiers, Rovela's words sounded simple enough. But to anyone listening from the shadows—including Boben's spies—those words felt like both a threat and a clear declaration that Rovela knew far more than he let on.
They were ready to be arrested, but at the same time, they had already laid a verbal trap that would slowly tighten around the necks of their enemies.
In Front of the Residence...
Hearing Rovela's sharp words left him speechless and cornered, Sir Jarred's face flushed red with embarrassment and suppressed rage. Unable to counter his logic, he resorted to brute force.
"Enough talking! Arrest them! Bind their hands tightly!" Sir Jarred shouted, his voice booming with authority. "Take them to the dungeons immediately to await trial!"
The soldiers stepped forward with thick ropes. They began wrapping them around Rovela and Eilis's wrists and bodies.
However... the opposite happened.
Rovela and Eilis did not resist at all. Instead, they allowed themselves to be bound willingly. In fact, the corners of their mouths curled upward into satisfied, cunning smiles.
'Good... very good,' Rovela thought to himself. 'Take us straight to the center of power. That is exactly what we want. The closer we get to the King, the easier it will be to uncover the truth about the Vulture Family and Elmira.'
"Go ahead, Commander. Take us wherever you wish," Eilis whispered in a mocking tone. "Just don't regret it later."
They were led away, appearing as obedient prisoners on the surface, while inwardly they were cheering—their plan was proceeding smoothly, leading them straight toward the palace.
At a Street Corner in Civica City...
At the same moment, a man who had just returned from a long journey emerged from the crowd. He wore simple robes, and on his finger sat a pinkish ring that was once his staff.
He paused for a moment, furrowing his brow.
"Hmm? What is this?" he muttered softly. He looked up at the sky, sensing a strange vibration in the air. "This aura... it is very unique. Not ordinary magic. The energy is mixed, containing elements of ancient sorcery but also the wild, untamed energy of adventurers. How strange..."
Without hesitation, he closed his eyes briefly. His eyebrows twitched, and a small, faintly glowing slit opened in the center of his forehead.
"Third Eye: Open!"
His vision shifted. He could now see the flow of invisible energy. And there, not far away, he saw two massive, brilliant spheres of energy surrounded by the dark auras of the security forces.
"WHAT?!" His eyes widened in shock. "Those... are two people? Their aura is incredibly powerful! They are no ordinary beings! They are..."
Back to Rovela and Eilis...
As they were being marched away, their steps suddenly halted.
THUMP!
Their hearts raced wildly. They felt a piercing gaze locking onto them from a distance. Someone was using a special ability to track their exact location.
"Someone is watching us..." Rovela whispered without moving his lips.
"I feel it too, Rovela. An aura that is incredibly strong and stable..." Eilis replied telepathically.
Simultaneously, they turned their heads toward a narrow alley in the distance. There, they sensed another power equal to—perhaps even greater than—their own.
Their eyes met. No words were needed; the decision was made instantly.
"ATTACK!"
BAM! BOOM!
With lightning speed, Rovela swung his elbow backward, striking the soldier holding the rope right in the face, while Eilis delivered a powerful kick to the gut of the soldier beside her.
"URGH!!"
"ARRRGGHH!!"
In an instant, the binding ropes snapped effortlessly, rendered useless by their inhuman strength.
"RUN THAT WAY!!" Rovela shouted, pointing directly toward the source of the mysterious aura.
The two of them burst through the ranks of soldiers, leaping and sprinting like the wind, leaving the scene behind!
"HEY!! STOP RIGHT THERE YOU TWO!!" Sir Jarred screamed, furious, his face turning beet red. "CHASE THEM!! DON'T LET THEM ESCAPE!! ARCHERS, FIRE!!"
Shouts, the blaring of horns, and the thunder of marching feet echoed throughout the water city. The race to discover the identity of the mysterious aura wielder had officially begun!
In Front of the Residence...
Hearing Rovela's sharp words left him speechless and cornered, Sir Jarred's face flushed red with embarrassment and suppressed rage. Unable to counter his logic, he resorted to brute force.
"Enough talking! Arrest them! Bind their hands tightly!" Sir Jarred shouted, his voice booming with authority. "Take them to the dungeons immediately to await trial!"
The soldiers stepped forward with thick ropes. They began wrapping them around Rovela and Eilis's wrists and bodies.
However... the opposite happened.
Rovela and Eilis did not resist at all. Instead, they allowed themselves to be bound willingly. In fact, the corners of their mouths curled upward into satisfied, cunning smiles.
'Good... very good,' Rovela thought to himself. 'Take us straight to the center of power. That is exactly what we want. The closer we get to the King, the easier it will be to uncover the truth about the Vulture Family and Elmira.'
"Go ahead, Commander. Take us wherever you wish," Eilis whispered in a mocking tone. "Just don't regret it later."
They were led away, appearing as obedient prisoners on the surface, while inwardly they were cheering—their plan was proceeding smoothly, leading them straight toward the palace.
At a Street Corner in Civica City...
At the same moment, a man who had just returned from a long journey emerged from the crowd. He wore simple robes, and on his finger sat a pinkish ring that was once his staff.
He paused for a moment, furrowing his brow.
"Hmm? What is this?" he muttered softly. He looked up at the sky, sensing a strange vibration in the air. "This aura... it is very unique. Not ordinary magic. The energy is mixed, containing elements of ancient sorcery but also the wild, untamed energy of adventurers. How strange..."
Without hesitation, he closed his eyes briefly. His eyebrows twitched, and a small, faintly glowing slit opened in the center of his forehead.
"Third Eye: Open!"
His vision shifted. He could now see the flow of invisible energy. And there, not far away, he saw two massive, brilliant spheres of energy surrounded by the dark auras of the security forces.
"WHAT?!" His eyes widened in shock. "Those... are two people? Their aura is incredibly powerful! They are no ordinary beings! They are..."
Back to Rovela and Eilis...
As they were being marched away, their steps suddenly halted.
THUMP!
Their hearts raced wildly. They felt a piercing gaze locking onto them from a distance. Someone was using a special ability to track their exact location.
"Someone is watching us..." Rovela whispered without moving his lips.
"I feel it too, Rovela. An aura that is incredibly strong and stable..." Eilis replied telepathically.
Simultaneously, they turned their heads toward a narrow alley in the distance. There, they sensed another power equal to—perhaps even greater than—their own.
Their eyes met. No words were needed; the decision was made instantly.
"ATTACK!"
BAM! BOOM!
With lightning speed, Rovela swung his elbow backward, striking the soldier holding the rope right in the face, while Eilis delivered a powerful kick to the gut of the soldier beside her.
"URGH!!"
"ARRRGGHH!!"
In an instant, the binding ropes snapped effortlessly, rendered useless by their inhuman strength.
"RUN THAT WAY!!" Rovela shouted, pointing directly toward the source of the mysterious aura.
The two of them burst through the ranks of soldiers, leaping and sprinting like the wind, leaving the scene behind!
"HEY!! STOP RIGHT THERE YOU TWO!!" Sir Jarred screamed, furious, his face turning beet red. "CHASE THEM!! DON'T LET THEM ESCAPE!! ARCHERS, FIRE!!"
Shouts, the blaring of horns, and the thunder of marching feet echoed throughout the water city. The race to discover the identity of the mysterious aura wielder had officially begun!
The mysterious man was nearly scared out of his wits when he saw the two figures staring directly at his hiding spot, as if they could see right through his concealment.
'Damn it! They can sense me!' he panicked inwardly.
Wasting no time, he instantly closed the slit on his forehead. His Third Eye shut once more.
"Invisible Aura: Total Concealment!"
WHOOSH!
His entire presence and aura seemed to be erased from existence. He merged perfectly with the shadows of the wall behind him, becoming completely invisible, undetectable, and leaving not a single trace. He stood frozen like a statue, holding his breath, watching to see what would happen next.
In the Main Market Area...
Meanwhile, the situation for Rovela and Eilis was becoming increasingly critical.
"CHASE THEM! DON'T LET THEM GET AWAY!" Sir Jarred shouted from behind.
Dozens of fully armed soldiers, along with mercenary guards hired by Boben, pursued them relentlessly. They were cornered right in the middle of the bustling market square.
BAM!
Rovela and Eilis came to an abrupt halt amidst the crowd. They stood back-to-back, breathing heavily.
"Damn... we're trapped," Eilis hissed, gripping her invisible staff tightly. "Front, back, left, right... all paths are blocked."
Rovela scanned their surroundings. Hundreds of market-goers were now staring at them with confusion, fear, and curiosity. The noisy market atmosphere slowly shifted into an eerie, suffocating silence.
"They look at us like we're monsters," Rovela muttered quietly. "But... forget them for now. We need to find an exit or find that person with that aura—"
Before Rovela could finish his sentence, the sunlight above them suddenly vanished.
The bright, clear atmosphere instantly turned pitch black. The temperature plummeted, becoming freezing cold and damp.
"Huh? Why did it get so dark all of a sudden?" asked one of the citizens in panic.
Slowly, very slowly, Rovela and Eilis lifted their heads upward.
Their eyes widened to their absolute limit, their pupils shrinking in terror. Their mouths fell open, but no sound came out.
Where the blue sky had been just moments before, a massive Water Vortex now floated in the air! The water spun violently, forming a gigantic water tornado that covered nearly half of Civica City's sky!
"W-WHAT IS THAT...?!" Eilis whispered, her voice trembling.
Emerging from within the dark, mysterious swirl was a colossal, absurdly strange shape. It was enormous, possessing countless eyes and long, writhing tentacles hanging down toward the ground.
Time Stands Still...
Rovela stared intently at the massive water vortex in the sky, while Eilis was already readying her staff to unleash a destructive spell.
But then...
THE WORLD STOPPED INSTANTLY!
STOP!
Every movement froze. Water droplets hung suspended in mid-air, the soldiers' shouts were trapped in their throats, and even the flying dust remained motionless. Only Rovela was still able to move and breathe.
"Hah? What is happening...?" Rovela muttered in confusion.
Suddenly, from his waist pouch, a brilliant white light exploded outward! It shot forward like a comet, stopping right in front of his face and shining so intensely it blinded him.
"AGH!! MY HEAD!!"
Rovela clutched his head tightly, screaming as an excruciating pain surged through him—as if millions of pieces of information and raw power were being forcefully injected into his brain!
On the ground, Eilis Mogina, who had been chanting a spell, gasped in shock. She saw Rovela, who had been standing still, now radiating a blazing blue aura.
"ROVELA?!" she shouted in alarm.
Above the Vortex...
Empowered by the new strength suddenly coursing through his veins, Rovela stepped forward... not on the ground, but on air itself!
SPLASH! SPLASH!
He walked up the flowing currents of water, piercing into the vortex at high speed. With a single swing of his glowing blue hand...
"PALM AURA: BREAKER!"
CRRAAACK!! BOOM!!
One devastating punch shattered the entire water formation and the smaller monsters guarding the vortex into countless splashing droplets.
Only one figure remained standing amidst the destruction.
It was "The Fraudster."
The creature possessed a human-like body, but its skin was a dark violet color, complete with octopus tentacles and squid fins dangling from its back and head. Its face was handsome yet terrifying, with narrow eyes filled with sinister desire.
It looked down at Rovela, then grinned widely and cunningly.
"Ah... finally found you. A unique human... filled with such mixed energy. Very interesting," The Fraudster mused silently.
Back on the Ground...
Rovela landed heavily on the earth. He was breathing hard, his hand still trembling slightly from the loss of control over the energy flow (Missed Palm Aura). He immediately turned toward Eilis with a panicked expression.
"Eilis! Quick! It looks like we have to leave here RIGHT NOW! Cast that spell! Immediately!" Rovela shouted urgently.
"Which spell?! Any spell needs preparation—"
Before Eilis could finish, the shadow of The Fraudster plummeted from the sky like a meteor!
WHOOSHHHH!!
The creature wielded a massive, sharp Water Spear, thrusting it toward the two of them with lethal intent!
"LOOK OUT!!" screamed Eilis.
SWISH! TWANG!
Suddenly, from the side, a Fire Arrow streaked through the air at incredible speed! It shot straight toward the monster's spear, trying to disrupt the attack!
However...
Rovela's reflexes were even faster!
Seeing the spear inches away from them, Rovela didn't retreat—instead, HE JUMPED FORWARD!
His hand glowed with a brilliant blue light, shining like a diamond.
"TAKE THIS!!"
BOOM!!!
The devastating clash between Rovela's glowing blue hand and The Fraudster's body had just occurred. An explosion of water and energy engulfed the entire area, completely obscuring vision.
Amidst the smoke and dust, Eilis Mogina wasted no time. Her face flushed with intense concentration, she raised her staff high and shouted at the top of her lungs:
"MOVE: ANEINEN BJERGE!!"
TRANGGG!!!
In that exact instant... a blinding light erupted.
The figures of Rovela, Eilis, The Fraudster, and the entire aftermath of the battle VANISHED instantly from everyone's sight!
Silence.
As the dust settled and visibility returned, what the remaining citizens and soldiers saw was utterly unbelievable.
Left on the ground were only:
- A massive crater marking the impact site.
- A few torn and tattered pieces of clothing.
- And dozens of royal knights and soldiers lying unconscious in rows like dried fish.
The onlookers could only stand frozen, their mouths agape, unable to utter a single word. The two strangers and the monster... were gone, as if the earth had swallowed them whole.
In a Hidden Alleyway...
The mysterious man with the pinkish ring stood motionless like a statue. His eyes had not blinked even once.
In the final split second before they vanished, Rovela's gaze met his directly through the storm of the explosion. Rovela smiled faintly, as if saying 'Follow me', before disappearing completely.
"Hah... an interesting person," the man muttered, a slight smile forming on his lips.
Not willing to be left behind, he raised his left hand and slowly twisted the pinkish ring on his finger.
"TELEPORTATION: ZU ONI!!"
WHOOSH!
In an instant, he too vanished from the spot, tracking the residual energy left behind by Rovela to follow them to an unknown destination.
Back in the Kingdom of Roses...
Inside King Alderic's Office...
King Alderic Roses was sitting calmly, organizing stacks of important documents. The room was quiet and peaceful.
However... suddenly.
THUMP! THUMP! THUMP!
Alderic's heart began to race violently. His skin crawled, and a strange, intense sense of unease spread from the tips of his toes to the top of his head.
"What... what is happening?" Alderic muttered in shock.
Suddenly, a loud roar echoed inside his mind—it was the panicked and alert voice of his beloved dragon, Overtone.
'MASTER! DANGER! MASSIVE ENERGY APPROACHING FROM OUTSIDE!'
Without thinking twice, Alderic leaped to his feet. He roughly pulled open his desk drawer and drew out a magnificent sword crafted from gold and silver.
SHING!
"I have to see this!" Alderic shouted.
He ran at lightning speed out of his chamber, through the palace halls, and straight toward the open main gates.
When he arrived and looked up at the sky... his breath hitched in his throat.
"Impossible..."
Where the sky had been clear blue just moments before, it was now filled with hundreds of Dragons of various types and sizes! They had gathered in massive formations above the mountains bordering the kingdom. And soaring among them was Overtone, Alderic's own dragon, roaring loudly.
All the dragons seemed to be guarding something, or preparing to face a great enemy.
ZAAAAAP!!!
Suddenly, from the direction of the sky, a Blue Flash streaked across, while on the other side, a blinding Yellow Light appeared!
The two immense forces collided!
BOOOOOOOMMMM!!!
A cataclysmic explosion erupted! Waves of blue and yellow energy slammed into each other, rolling and twisting into a terrifying storm cloud.
The impact was so powerful that the ground beneath Alderic's feet shook violently. Even the war generals resting in their cabins were jolted awake.
"What was that?! An earthquake?!" shouted one general, clutching a pillar to stay upright.
King Alderic gripped the hilt of his sword tightly, his eyes sharp as he stared at the battle of energies in the sky.
"Is that... Rovela's energy? And what is that yellow light? Who is fighting up there?!" Alderic wondered, filled with confusion and deep concern.
The situation across the continent was heating up rapidly, and a battle on a grand scale had only just begun!
Above the Mountains - The Collision Point..
The devastating clash between the blue and yellow energies finally subsided. From within the blinding vortex, three figures were hurled out like cannonballs, slamming violently into the rocky mountainside.
CRASH! THUD! SPLASH!
- Rovela Silvio rolled a great distance, his back smashing hard against the cliff face.
- Eilis Mogina was thrown into a thicket, her body completely drained of strength.
- The Fraudster landed gracefully yet staggered slightly, his tentacles writhing to absorb the impact.
Silence reigned for a moment...
Rovela groaned softly, his eyes opening slowly. His vision was blurry, and his mouth tasted metallic as blood rose in his throat. Beside him, Eilis also began to regain consciousness; her face was pale, and a deep gash marked her cheek.
"Ugh... my head..." Eilis whimpered weakly.
In contrast to them, The Fraudster let out a low chuckle. He stood tall, appearing largely unharmed save for his clothes and body being completely soaked.
"Ah... what an incredible feeling. It is so rare to find a human who can withstand my strikes with such strength," the monster spoke, his voice echoing like a mix of human speech and bubbling water.
Seeing their predicament, Rovela felt a surge of responsibility and guilt. 'I brought this trouble here. I dragged Eilis into this. And this monster is far too strong for the two of us right now.'
Gathering the last of his strength, Rovela raised his hand.
"BODY BARRIER: AURA BIRU!!"
WHOOSH!
A solid, glowing blue energy shield instantly enveloped them both, hiding them from the enemy's sight and protecting them from potential attacks.
Wasting no time, Rovela quickly touched Eilis's shoulder, channeling a small amount of his power to help her move.
"Eilis! Listen to me carefully!" Rovela spoke quickly and firmly, his eyes locked sharply on the enemy. "You must recover immediately! Keep casting healing spells until your wounds are closed! Don't worry about me!"
"But Rovela! He's too strong for you alone—"
"Trust me! And do one more thing..." Rovela glanced upward toward the sky where the dragons were gathered. "Summon King Alderic! Call him here as fast as you can!"
Rovela grinned, his expression filled with confidence and a hint of madness.
"I say that because... I think King Alderic will be overjoyed to know there's a god-level monster like this right in front of him. He won't be able to wait for a fight! Now go behind those rocks, hide, and support me from afar!"
"Alright! Be careful, Rovela!" Eilis understood her friend's intent. She quickly retreated behind the boulders and began chanting, "Heal, Heal, Great Heal..." over and over again.
One-on-One Battle!
Rovela now stood alone facing the giant creature. With a swift motion, he drew a weapon from his waist.
SHING!
A long Double-Edged Frozen Sword appeared in his hand, radiating an intense freezing aura. The blade gleamed brilliantly as it reflected the sunlight.
Rovela assumed his battle stance—right foot forward, sword ready at his side. His breathing was steady, despite his body being covered in wounds.
"Come on, Giant Octopus..." Rovela taunted coldly. "Show me your true power. Stop playing around."
Before him, The Fraudster smiled widely, revealing rows of sharp teeth. He waved his hand, and instantly the moisture in the air solidified, forming a massive, sharp, and heavy Water Spear.
"Interesting... you sent your friend away so you can fight freely. I like that!" The Fraudster exclaimed. "In that case, let us play this game of death!"
CLANG!
The Water Spear and the Frozen Sword were ready to clash. The atmosphere was tense, the wind howled fiercely, and the battle between a human and an ancient sea monster was about to begin!
At the Mountain Peak...
The atmosphere was suffocating. Strong winds battered the wounded body of Rovela and the predatory form of The Fraudster. Both stared intensely at each other, their muscles tensed, ready to explode into action at any moment.
Suddenly...
"Well... well... well..."
A voice sounded casual yet clear, cutting through the silence.
"A battle between different races like this... do you really think a HUMAN can win?"
Both of them turned their heads instantly. Perched casually on a rocky cliff not far away was a man leaning back comfortably. It was the mysterious man with the pinkish ring who had followed them all the way from Civica!
He smiled mockingly, then began to speak at length, rambling about fate, the difference in power, and other trivial matters as if he were a match commentator.
"Ughhh... what is this guy talking about?!" Rovela thought in annoyance.
"What a nuisance...!" The Fraudster growled inwardly.
Both of them had grown sick and tired of listening to his chatter.
"GET OUT OF THE WAY!!"
Without a signal, Rovela and The Fraudster acted simultaneously! Ignoring the man completely, they charged at full speed toward each other to finish their duel!
SPLASH!
The Fraudster lunged forward, his Water Spear aimed straight for the heart!
CLANG!
Rovela swung his Frozen Sword, its blue glow ready to cleave the monster's body in two!
The lethal attacks were about to collide...
YET...
SWOSHH!!
In the blink of an eye, the mysterious man VANISHED from his resting spot and reappeared RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE between them!
THUD!
With his bare hands, he gripped the shaft of The Fraudster's Water Spear with his left hand, and seized the blade of Rovela's Sword with his right hand!
"KRKKKKSSSSSHHHH!! BRUUUUAAAKKK!!"
A terrifying sound of crushing and shattering echoed loudly. The solid, sharp Water Spear crumbled into mist and droplets! Rovela's mighty sword was also crushed and broken into pieces right within his grasp!
Rovela and The Fraudster stared in shock, their eyes wide with disbelief as their signature weapons were destroyed so easily with bare hands!
The man pushed them both back with a light yet powerful touch, sending them stumbling several steps away.
He looked at them alternately. His face, previously smiling, had changed completely. His eyes were sharp, cold, and emitted a deadly glare that made their blood run cold. The aura he released was no longer hidden, but a terrifying pressure that weighed down upon the entire mountain range!
"HEY... WHY ARE YOU SO IMPATIENT??!"
"Why don't we discuss this properly... HUH?!"
His voice was low, resonant, and filled with threat. Rovela and The Fraudster instantly felt like small children being scolded by a giant. They couldn't move, couldn't speak, they could only stand frozen, staring at the figure standing before them like a God of War.