The blinding effect fades, and Fistoa launches a counterattack. Using an unfamiliar stepping technique, it repeatedly advances and retreats at high speed, creating feints to confuse us before unleashing a powerful strike.

“So fast!”

I was shocked by the sheer speed but managed to dodge it instinctively. However, that deadly strike was just another feint, completely catching me off guard. Something shot out from Danatia’s back and soared above Arleo II, exploding upon impact.

“Heat signature detected above! Evade immediately!”

Sensing danger, Feri warned me. I rolled to evade at the same time, but I wasn’t fast enough. A scorching blast rained down, with several strikes hitting Arleo II and exploding.

“Guh!! Feri, damage report!”

“Right shoulder and left leg are damaged, mobility reduced by about 20%!”

“Just when we can’t even use our full strength… No choice, time for the last resort!”

As Danatia chased us, I fired magic energy bullets to keep it at bay while creating some distance, activating the Heroic Boost. This temporarily enhanced Arleo II’s capabilities, providing more than enough power and speed to compensate for the reduced output. In one swift motion, I closed the gap with Danatia and swung my sword.

Surprised by Arleo II’s drastically faster movements, Danatia was too slow to dodge. I struck the already vulnerable arm, severing it completely. The dismembered arm flew through the air before dropping to the ground with a thud. Without missing a beat, I aimed for Danatia’s neck in a follow-up strike. But Fistoa, having regained its stance, was quick to react, blocking the attack with its sword.

Our blades clashed, locking us in a deadlock. Though evenly matched at first, the boost gradually allowed Arleo II to gain the upper hand. I had to end this before the boost wore off, or victory would be out of reach. I pressed harder to force a more advantageous position.

“Hahaha, it seems you do possess some strength. However, at this level, you wouldn’t even come close to the heroes of the past.”

“Don’t act so superior! You won’t know the outcome unless you actually fight!”

Frustrated by Danatia’s arrogant tone, I retaliated with a fierce shove, knocking Danatia to the ground. Taking advantage of this opening, I swiftly closed in, aiming my sword at Danatia’s head.

“The match is over! Stop the fight now!”

At the sound of Yukiha’s voice, I halted just before the blade reached Danatia’s face. The tip of my sword hovered inches from Danatia’s nose.

“Impressive. This battle was just starting to get exciting, but it seems it’s over too soon.”

Danatia’s words, spoken with a relaxed tone, implied that it hadn’t been fighting seriously. But I hadn’t been giving it my all either.

“Although I lost the duel, it seems we’ve won the overall battle. Our objective has been achieved.”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

Confused by Danatia’s cryptic words, I heard Feri urgently report.

“Two high-energy reactions have appeared in the ruins. We’ve been tricked… This entire fight was just a distraction while they continued to undo the seal behind the scenes.”

I couldn’t believe it. The whole battle had merely been a diversion… and now the heroes had awakened. Two heroes in crimson machines, and Amuria’s Unrivaled Iron Cavalry—what would happen next was beyond my imagination.