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<10/21/1962 – 21:09 | Route 96, Junon, Sprawn Valley>

The night was still young in October 21, though the winter winds paid an early visit to the open roads of Route 96. Despite the chill, Brash Danton remained warm while distant from the drumfire set in front. The view of the approaching group initially intimidated him as it would with anyone, but Danton knew his limitations well, and presumed these people would be a piece of cake.

Their faces were barely visible from the available light, but the gang of four adults quickly surrounded the tall loner to the side, only wearing a light jacket and possibly concealing weapons somewhere else. With little delay and a crooked grin, the leader introduced himself. "Well, what do we have here?"

Danton quickly studied the four of them. The one beginning to talk had dark cut hair that converged at every end and tip dangling over his face. His stance was rather calm for the flex in his tone. His other teammates followed behind and around him.

The face of Kite Fargenst [https://i.postimg.cc/yYKxFr7Y/Kite-Frame.png]

"A bit late to be traveling these roads alone," he warned.

Danton didn't take the threat lightly, but all it took out of him to reply was a huff of air to display any lack of fear. The man sounded so cliché, probably on purpose as a means of sounding cool in front of the others. "I'd say the same thing about your little picnic."

The leading male stopped immediately in surprise. Whoever this young traveler is, he isn't scared of them at all. He's not even wincing in distress of feeling surrounded. The stranger, appearing to be in his late twenties held a solid stance for preparation, but there is only one possible way a person can practice such brave gesture. He is a Leray wielder. "Now that's a bit much..." Glancing around his teammates, the leader thought of a slight variation in the usual plan. "You certainly have some brass coming up here to us."

The face of Brash Danton [https://i.postimg.cc/3rmW0H5c/Danton-Frame.png]

Danton replied calmly, "You're the ones surrounding me."

Everyone fell silent for a moment. The leader usually would not let this drag on any further, but to reward the bravery, he asked the stranger a few unordinary questions. "Have you by chance had a match with our local gradyent?"

Danton inhaled slightly, though unnoticeable by sound. It was an odd question, but the answer is what embarrassed him the most. "I have." His honesty rose the eyebrows on everyone, but Danton continued, sure not to drag out any false merit. "But as expected, he overpowered me."

"What level or skill are you at right now?"

Danton ignored his first question, instead proposing a new one. "I don't just hand out that information. Though I'll ask you the same. If you want to know what my skills are, you'll have to test me."

The woman broke protocol, speaking directly to the group leader from Danton's unexpected confidence. "Sir, we might want to consider a low bet for—"

"Just let me do the talking," he responded. His partner shut up immediately, and his attention returned to this stranger, who seemed fascinating since he wasn't deterred by anything so far. Most challengers fear getting surrounded like this. He doesn't have any idea who he is dealing with. "You certainly have a death wish." Within a few more seconds of silence, he began laughing aloud undeterred, after which he extended his left open hand out to the stranger. "I like it! My name is Kite Fargenst, and we are the official Trujima Gang that watches the roads here."

Danton shook Kite's hand in good faith, but was curious in that these people were calling themselves a gang. What kind of gang are they talking about? Is that just a silly moniker? "I'm Brash, Brash Danton, but you should just stick to calling me Danton."

Kite shook Danton's hand, and was still surprised by how levelheaded the man remained. He appeared to be about twenty-seven years old, but his power can't be that strong if he failed in a match against the Route 96 gradyent. "Danton huh? Please join us by the fire then. I'd like for you to meet the rest of us."

"Kite?" She had to ask what Kite was suddenly up to. He usually intimidates the weaklings to leave them be and never bother the Trujima Gang ever again, but this time he isn't doing anything of the sort. Danton may have this tough look to himself, but it must be a facade.

By the time everyone gathered around the small fire, Danton could read the details on everyone's face better, as well as their more obvious attire designed for Leray battles. The woman must be just a few years younger than himself. Kite is around the same age too. Then there was one who appeared to be twenty-one years old, while the guy with more muscle mass appeared to be much older. What a strange pairing of people. "What is the Trujima Gang?"

Kite answered expectantly, "I'm so glad you asked. But first you might as well meet all of our official members." Kite nodded just to confirm and agree that he would reveal more of his gang to Danton. The atmosphere grew calm and alert at the same time.

Danton first looked at the bigger dude to his left. He introduced himself automatically, but the tone in his voice was deeper than expected. "I am Gleeon Miao, and that's all you are allowed to know of me."

Kite allowed his usual cryptic answer, explaining the reason to Danton. "Many of us are not so open to strangers, but that is because outsiders like you must prove yourself a worthy adversary before doing such things."

Danton glanced at Kite with a confusing frown in his expression. "Why then would you introduce me before battling?"

He isn't even afraid of the very idea of fighting four on one? Incredible! "Only because I believe it necessary for you to recognize the names of those who will be defeating you tonight. Eh?" Kite nodded his head to a direction signaling Danton's shifted attention.

The female introduced herself while agreeing with Kite's values on Leray battling. "We are not to be taken lightly," she spoke. "Only the best belong in the Trujima Gang." Danton seemed just a little surprised that she would identify herself as being strong... Typical behavior for any man. They always underestimate herself because she is a female warrior. "I'm Mainne. That's all the information you need right now."

The woman with long dark hair and blue eyes speckled her attention in Danton's personal direction. He had never met someone so strong willed before. Yet here she is standing before him, wrapped up in a powerful gang of warriors, so they keep saying. Danton didn't return the favor of saying anything, since it would be rude to improperly address someone so beautiful.

"And I guess that just leaves me." The other younger male stepped forward in front of Danton. "I'm Vanoss. New to Trujima, but not to fighting."

"He is a new recruit," Kite admitted openly. "But not one to be underestimated."

Danton turned around to Kite, already fully aware that he calls the shots in the official gang. But that still begs the question. "So you take in new recruits? What exactly is the Trujima Gang for anyway?"

"I'm so thrilled you asked."

"He really isn't," Mainne whispered aloud. Kite certainly heard her, but was used to her chronic sarcasm by now.

Kite decided to summarize for Danton, eager to test the stranger's real skill level. "It's rather simple actually. We're the strongest bunch here. Trujima will constantly patrol Route 96 and watch for any potential high-level warriors. To be honest, it's not common that we get any. Though that's actually the point."

Danton felt he understood immediately. The Trujima Gang operates in a similar way that a gradyent does, rather for the same general purpose. "Level-based population control." It's a similar enough term to mean the same thing. Trujima consists only of powerful warriors, and patrols the area regularly to establish their dominance while keeping weak stragglers off the road. Who wants to fight weaklings anyway? That's the mentality these people must have.

"You're sharper than you look." Kite studied Danton seriously, but Danton wasn't the type to wear his own personality or power level on his wrist. His clothing gear consisted of a standard mercenary outfit, which is simply light gear designed for warmth and light elemental protection. It also lets someone who is highly agile to perform well in the field. The man is obviously refined.

"I'm just wondering," Danton stated. "What would it take for a person to join your Trujima Gang?"

"Our slots are full," Mainne replied.

"What Mainne means to say, is that I don't just let anyone join. But back to business, our people have been itching for a good challenge lately."

Danton stopped Kite from going on since he would only beat around the bush all night long. He stepped right in front of their leader with his hands behind his back and his stance totally firm. "Why don't we just settle it right here then?" Danton's immediate challenge finally had the four of them gasping, except for Kite, though his expression lifted too in similar surprise. "I know you were going to get someone to battle me, but why not raise the steaks higher than credits?"

This guy means business! Finally, someone who can stand up to anyone! "Name your price, soldier."

Danton replied willingly and swiftly with his tone still firm. "I've been getting bored around here lately. Since you seem to think that your Trujima Gang is so strong and precious, I'd like to test the strength of all your members, including yourself in a single battle each. And if I win all of them, I'll be taking point for Trujima from then on."

Mainne and the other members tensed up. Kite has never been challenged like this before! What Danton is saying is that if he defeats their strongest fighter in battle, Kite will be forcibly removed to the back rank of the gang that he founded himself. Brash Danton? Where the hell did you come from? And who are you?

Gleeon folded his arms in silence, realizing what this means. This isn't a simple challenge or offer, but a total duel between all members. Officially, this is how rankings are to change within gangs or official elite groups. Naturally, if Kite refuses to duel, it would be the same as committing social suicide amongst them all. Forget throwing away all trust; he would no longer be recognized as an honorary leader, not unless he himself can defeat Danton at his own game.

It took a few seconds for Kite to finish processing that large of a request. The steaks are much higher than credits right now. Danton isn't battling for money, but for status and proof of his own power. It's incredible and rare to find someone of this caliber running around. Still, mentality and will isn't everything. Kite knew he had been training for a very long time. If Danton has been training too, then one is bound to be better than the other, correct? No, this is a test from God. Danton is the ultimate test to see if the Trujima Gang really is something special, and now he has no choice but to take the challenge head-on.

Kite cleared his throat to reform the situation in front of him. "Recruitment into the Trujima Gang works in a very specific way. Usually, those who want to join are stress-tested, much like how you are about to be with your offer. But should one challenge all other members of Trujima and then defeat me without slipping up one battle between any members, then I would have to hand over our veneration to the strong, yielding myself as obsolete. That is how we do things here." It's the same way the League of Elites conducts their championship battles, the righteous wielders they are.

"I accept those terms," Danton answered. Kite was sugar coding the situation, but it was easy enough to read. Kite is drawing out his glorious moment by forcing Danton to battle and win against all of his subordinates before challenging himself directly. Otherwise, defeating only Kite wouldn't mean anything. But that's fair enough. Danton was willing to play this game tonight. Only having been awake for a few hours, drawing the necessary energy for this moment wouldn't be difficult.

Kite's face cringed slightly, he wasn't very happy about this sudden arrangement. Having no choice, he set up the rules for this tournament, first by addressing his entire team. "I'll have everyone's attention in Trujima. We have been challenged by a lone traveler seeking leadership and rank changing in our system. You all know what this means. Who here besides me will go first?"

Mainne's mouth was held open by how unexpected this was already. She had never seen Kite behave this way before. He's usually reserved and careful about these things. Also, she wouldn't have a problem if he turned down the challenge in fear of losing his leadership, but then this random Brash guy is something else. How dare he?! Waltzing up here and messing things up like this? Kite? How could you even agree to give the man a chance?

"I'll go!" Gleeon held his right shoulder while twirling his arm forward in a type of early stretch. "I'd rather assess the situation firsthand, and trounce this weakling if he's flexing so immaturely."

Kite felt comfortable already sending in the big guns first. Gleeon is probably more powerful than Mainne and Vanoss combined, even if he isn't skilled enough for personal combat. Gleeon has been weightlifting and performing tons of exercises that promote physical and muscular growth. On top of this, despite his weaker magical level, he can both tolerate and inflict incredible amounts of pain with the skills he does have, making his HP endurance level very high. Danton won't stand a chance. "Very well then. Danton and Gleeon, please take your places for battle. I'll initiate the preparations and parameters."

Danton felt comfortable quickly, realizing that Kite must be nervous about his own battle by sending in his best team member so soon. Gleeon however does look the part. This battle may actually get rough. Still, if it's not as intense as that gradyent... Danton shook any shred of doubt away, and prepared his stance and position while Gleeon did the same. Judging first impressions won't be easy, as it never really is for this kind of purpose.

Gleeon held his position, now twenty meters apart from Danton. While waiting on Kite to make the battle here official, Gleeon wondered what kind of tactics or strategies Danton might try and use. He can't be serious about rushing in totally unarmed. That either makes him an excellent magical user, or one that hides his own weapons from plain sight. Therefore, daggers or small weapon units is likely his best defense, and that is already a good sign for Trujima.

With everyone now apart and at the correct distance to project the ideal Siriean dome in the middle of the road, Kite announced the parameters in which both participants would need to agree on. "The battle between Brash Danton and Gleeon will commence shortly. The rules are standard, and the reward spoil won't involve any credits due to the nature of which this battle is set on. Are these terms and conditions agreeable for both wielders?" Kite knew he didn't need to sound so certain of the rules, but it was often a requirement for setting the proper parameters for the correct Siriean dome situation. The holographic text that displays the rewards for winning and losing should report from here on no wins or losses, but there is something bigger at steak either way.

"Agreed," Danton and Gleeon spoke at the same time. By the time both of their energy scopes were up, Kite gave the final announcement to begin the match, and the will to fight from there on automatically triggered the entire formation of the Siriean dome around Danton and Gleeon.

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Chapter Theme Shift: Scars and Bruises ~ Alexander Wolfgang Pfeffer [Epic Score] (Ravaged World)

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image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Gleeon-N-000.png]image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-000.png]

The Siriean dome that was set up lit the area better than the ambient drumfire could have from this distance, but the dome shield itself was almost fully transparent, allowing Kite, Mainne, and Vanoss to all watch the battle from just outside the dome. The light it provided helped to better see the interior area as well. Gleeon would soon make a move to initiate it all, or Danton would have to do the same if he doesn't go first. Still, Danton remained perfectly calm despite the excitement building. After all, this is still a walk in the park, and he has been polishing the skills he learned before for a long time now. It felt generous giving them all a fair amount of excitement in the night, but Danton knew not to take it easy. These people won't get in the way of proving himself to anyone. Even a strong man like Gleeon isn't game enough for that.

Gleeon tensed and held his stance as the battle soon began officially. Danton wasn't moving much, so it would seem he needs some additional motivation. "Alright Danton. Don't disappoint me!" Gleeon spoke with his fists already drawn as if to punch Danton in the face from a far distance. "You act all tough, but I want to feel what you've got!"

With Danton's heart already racing, he took Gleeon's words seriously. Whether he is strong or not, never hold back against any opponent. That is rule one of training, so said father. "Fine then," he enabled. Danton was obviously being asked to go first, and he immediately began to charge Leray energy in the form of MP towards his wrists. A magical spell causing elemental Leray damage would soon make short work of this guy. Danton prepared his arms and hands for the proper motions and signaling, enabling a jade color electrical type glyphring to form around the right wrist while chanting the name of his early spell. "Electro-Ball!" Danton released the stored energy from the glyphring, cannoning out a solid sphere of magical light arcing at the base randomly as it flew near the speed of a bullet. At the same time, Danton's base MP level dropped by three percent.

Electro-Ball only has a power level of 2.5, and thus deals a low amount of magical damage overall by electrocution. However, the unmatched speed of the projectile and low MP cost still makes the spell highly popular and effective against stationary targets at short or long range. As expected, Gleeon actually didn't have enough time to react or jump out of the way. It actually seemed like he had no such intention of moving out of the way of that electric sphere. When the projectile slammed against the fabric material in his shirt, blasts of arcing electrical energy zapped at his nerves in every end of his body for 0.7 seconds. Despite how short lived the spell was, the pain level was in the high range. Gleeon was still however used to this type of pain. While his limbs felt numb, it didn't last long enough for worry.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Gleeon-N-001.png]

With only 5% HP damage in one single spell, Gleeon quickly judged that Danton's small spell was somehow efficient and more powerful than average Electro-Ball users, but for skill, it was a massive mistake to make to the Trujima Gang. "You fight like a little kid," Gleeon taunted. "Aero Blast!" Forcing his energy through the same way Danton had done before though without any glyphring, Gleeon created a powerful concentrated blast of wind that drilled through the air narrowly like an invisible beam towards the stationary target.

Not expecting the speedy return fire, Danton shielded his face by lifting up his arms, cringing in his teeth that he let himself get attacked so easily. Though this was just high-speed air slamming against him, the rush to his face made it impossible to look up and see, while the force kept his strength all on his ankles for balance and support, less he be blown away by a non-damaging spell. Aero Blast has a power level of one, and uses about no energy since a simple blast of high-speed air doesn't cause damage in this particular spell, but it can be effective in battle interruption. Right now, despite the blast lasting longer than usual, Danton was unable to break free of the hold the rushing air had over him.

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Gleeon concentrated all of his magical focus to the single point, using additional MP energy to keep the Aero Blast spell going ten times longer than it normally should. On top of that, the spell became more powerful as a result. Gleeon knew of the possibility of overpowering spells, which causes them to fail and backfire, but in this instance, he is simply reigniting the same spell cycle as the next one ends. Keeping Danton unable to move due to air friction was a solid enough distractor that took the opponent by surprise, but in order to do anything afterwards, Gleeon would have to stop using Aero Blast and shift focus.

Just as Gleeon let off on the spell, the artificial translucent air generated by the spell wore down enough to reveal Brash Danton, who was still shielding his face with his arms, unable to find some method of escaping that common trick Gleeon was used to using. Now this is the moment of defeat for him; checkmate! "Earth Glave!" Gleeon's spell went into effect immediately, since he had plenty of training himself. The sudden drop in his MP levels was well maintained and synchronized with the advancing wave of uplifting earth and rock heading straight for Danton. Earth Glave would be on him in 1.4 seconds, and he was already too stunned to move out of the way.

Danton saw the Earth Glave about to meet up at his position just as the heavy winds died down, and given such little time to react, he was too slow to block out the damage or find another way to dodge the attack. Carrying an average power level of 5, the Earth Glave spell smashed dirt and rock chunks right into Danton's face, with one bumping off his right temple and causing a visible red scar to form. The force of the blast also knocked him off his feet and backwards, while the advancing wave descended back into the ground to disappear without a trace, but Danton was left with heavy damages.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-001.png]

"Impressive endurance." Gleeon had to commentate shortly after counting the drop in HP. Given the critical hit to the target, his HP should have dropped six additional points by average standards. So he has been beat up before...

Danton stood back up quickly, now realizing where his weakness was set to. Long-range combat tactics are not going to cut it against Gleeon. It's time to get physical, just like in training. Danton charged at Gleeon first thing on foot, draining his own MP energy and channeling all of that power into his right leg. "Flash Kick!" Enabling the quick spell-assisted magical skill, Danton's aura around his leg intensified into a white translucent color that bloomed brighter in the night. In a single leap off the ground, he flew at an accelerated speed towards Gleeon, closing the gap of twenty meters to zero in a split second. With a flying glowing kick, Danton delivered the magical assisted slam of his boot to Gleeon's face. Danton twirled around in the air afterwards to assist himself in landing on both feet just to attain moderate distance after landing his hit.

But as Danton came to his senses and checked the energy scope above Gleeon, he also realized that despite the painful kick to the face, Gleeon was barely affected by it at all, and his body didn't even stumble backwards from the impact. The guy is a heavy weight body builder for sure.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Gleeon-N-002.png]

Gleeon twisted his neck as if to stretch, not even addressing the bruising sensation of his sore face. Right now, Danton just tried to attack with magic again, and made himself more vulnerable by trying to move away. Gleeon knew plenty of magical spells, though he didn't like to rely on them too much. This next one in particular will serve just as well. As Gleeon put his hands together, slowly pulling apart his fingers now glowing brightly with blue auras of energy, he chanted the spell as it let out. "Thunder Flare!"

Danton's eyes opened wide, as he recognized the spell cast immediately, and that of its full capabilities. Danton charged sideways to try and dodge, not taking any chances with a power-level-7 based spell, but it was too late. The large blue sphere of light encased Danton in a legally defined damage zone quicker than he could get out of the way, and damage set in the moment that light intensified. Electrical arcs flew everywhere to and from Danton and the edge of the sphere, electrocuting him in place with a field of electrical elemental Leray energy. Thunder Flare can also last up to five full seconds of time from advanced users, capable of draining tons of HP and stamina from any target.

Now having Danton trapped in the middle of the electrical sphere, Gleeon continued to let out the remaining energy in him, swapping his MP levels for Danton's HP reserves. It had to be painful from the evident yacking coming from Danton. Thunder Flare causes the most painful amount of damage per voltage level; the jolt hold seems to last forever. By the time four seconds went by, the bubble faded fast, and Danton was released from mid-air down to the ground on his hands and knees, his skin smoking with scars hiding underneath his outfit.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-002.png]

Naturally, Danton's heart was pounding faster with heavy intent from within his chest. The electrical blast that got him was much more painful and damaging than he could have realized. Danton learned Thunder Flare himself, but never got it quite right with the high draw from MP reserves. How is it that any one of these people could perfect such high-powered spells?

Danton couldn't move just yet; his entire body was shaking involuntarily from the tingling sensation everywhere. It wasn't numb, but rather blistering with pins and needles poking at every nerve, and the drain to his stamina brought on by the drop in HP from an electrical attack didn't make this any easier. He still struggled to try and stand back up, the fight not over yet. Now that he understands the capabilities of just one of Trujima's warriors, he has to keep going until the end.

Kite was standing watch right beside Mainne, judging every aspect of the battle from both sides. Right now, Danton was trying hard just to get himself back up from the Thunder Flare he suffered. "I did try to warn him." Kite folded his arms in front of him. "Danton is lacking somewhere, but I do admire his valor to keep going." Just watching this was painful, but Danton was noticeably struggling to take back control of his nerve-shot limbs again. It's very rare, but sometimes electrical attacks can cause temporary paralysis on people, preventing bodily movements or at least slowing them down. Danton must have been hit badly, though Gleeon's power is impressive enough for this not to be a surprise.

Mainne watched closely, unable to take her eye off of Danton as he struggled to move. In another two seconds, Gleeon would make another attempt to end the fight before it can even begin. There's just something about him, the way Danton wants to keep going. Plenty of people push themselves, but does he really want to be in charge this badly?

With very faint electrical sparks occasionally zipping around the edges of his arms, Danton knew that temporary paralysis must have set in, a legally defined Leray rule bound by the protective veil. Without that veil, his heart would have stopped in that brutal spell, and the paralysis would have cut off his ability to breathe too, but coming out of paralysis takes too long. Come on! Move! Danton desperately tried to regain control, his body locked in place with his hands and knees stunned in place, and after one more second of intense struggle did he find enough strength. "Naaaaagh!" Though it hurt like hell, Danton managed to move both arm muscles and that of his legs, standing back up despite his intense lightheadedness. The intensity of the pain and shot nerves died down very quickly after he managed to regain control again, and now he faced Gleeon, who somehow seemed to be standing there disappointed.

"This doesn't impress me Danton. You should have stayed down, so that I could put you out with honor."

Danton was speechless. Did Gleeon really expect him to just give up? What is this about putting anyone out with honor? Don't you understand where you are? The idiot doesn't realize that this is just another Leray battle. Battles are not about honor or dignity. Danton quickly reached behind him and swung out from the grip attached to his belt with retractable hinges, a utility allowing people to hide smaller weapons, though Danton knew hiding this wasn't necessary.

As he swung behind to extend the tip, he held his right hand forward with a few spins and swooshes of the metallic blade, just like he practiced. Danton was better in close combat situations too, but wielding a short sword is something he adapted this with as well. The short blade was only 18 inches long; close to the design of a standard Wakasashi, but the hilt and lightweight design allowed Danton to maneuver the saber in the air very effectively. His sudden draw of his weapon raised the eyebrows of the three spectators watching this battle unfold. Danton prepared himself and his sword for combat, now realizing where and how to strike. "I'll show you a battle. Octoslash." Danton didn't holler the name of his skill, though it wasn't needed since Octoslash is simply the name of a maneuver without any magic in use.

Danton charged head first towards Gleeon while he stood there in defense and preparation. With Danton's grip on the hilt tight as it could be, he swung the blade just one foot away after catching up, shifting around quickly on his feet to go faster at his combination strike, but as Gleeon was being sliced with the short blade, the stings that should register didn't even faze him. On the energy scope, Danton still noticed very insignificant drops in Gleeon's HP. Octoslash isn't working! Is he immune to slashing damage?

Danton had only two more strikes to go, but Gleeon didn't even bother allowing his opponent to waste any more time. He grabbed Danton's right wrist just before another strike, and used his left fist to punch the blade out of Danton's grip. The short saber flew backwards, clinging to the ground with solid metal collision. Gleeon then used the same free hand and punched Danton straight into the gut, simultaneously letting go of his wrist so that Danton could fly backwards somewhat on top of being punched. The hit obviously affected Danton much more than it did Gleeon.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-003.png]image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Gleeon-N-003.png]

That feeling one gets when punched in the stomach as hard as ever, when they suddenly are unable to breathe any more oxygen, it lingers even in a place with a protective veil. But Danton having this happen many times before got over the situation quickly, standing back up and facing Gleeon with his fists out and balled up. Gleeon must want a close combat battle. You're all about honor, right? Stick them up and fight!

Gleeon saw this as another pathetic attempt for this wimp to show any level of strength, but if he must need another punch to the gut to get the message, so be it. Gleeon changed his stance and prepared for a real battle, finally interested that Danton at least understood the fighting style of which Gleeon was more comfortable with.

When they were both in range to attack again, Danton got the first hit right on Gleeon's jaw, just as he ducked down and changed position to strike Gleeon's stomach from a sidewinding punch. However, Gleeon didn't really take any noticeable pain or damage from either hit, and when he threw his fist into Danton's shoulder, the hit knocked him over on his back. Danton maneuvered from the ground to get back up and keep trying. Luckily, he was faster than Gleeon was when focused, but Gleeon can hit much harder too, and this just kept things difficult for the both of them.

Kite nodded his head left and right, feeling more relaxed and subtle than before. "Oh, no. You guys are supposed to be making this interesting. This dribble just bores me."

"Still," Vanoss added. "The guy is brave for trying. Right boss?"

"Ptch!" he spat. "If you try and fail, then what does that make you? Hm?"

"You guys want to shut up and watch, or miss the whole thing?"

An odd reaction coming from Mainne. Kite didn't know Mainne all too well yet. She did just join two months ago, but she's usually so bored by battles due to her skill level that she doesn't even bother with people anymore. What's the deal with everyone today? All of you! "Gleeon! Stop fighting like a girl and show that idiot who's in charge here!"

Gleeon could hear Kite, despite the Siriean dome being 44% sound proof. This pointless exchange of fists is boring though, and Danton just keeps trying to dodge everything thrown his way, even when nothing is coming. So be it then. Push Wave! Gleeon didn't open his mouth upon releasing the special magical ability. He simply aimed at Danton right as he was about to be hit in the face, generating invisible force in a directional wave so powerful, it could knock Gleeon off the ground too. Danton was naturally forced back in his struggle while scraping skin against the rough terrain of pavement. No real damage was done to Danton though, as Push Wave is simply made effective by resetting someone's position or situation.

Danton however came back to it quickly, frustrated that Gleeon can take every type of attack. There has to be some way of stopping this guy. "Shadow Wave!" Danton unleashed his next spell rather quickly, and from ten meters away, it was soon to hit already.

Gleeon wasn't stupid enough to just take every attack thrown his way. When HP reserves get lower, it becomes more difficult to defect away from any reaction to pain. Therefore, this Shadow Wave must go away. Gleeon charged energy into both hands to release them as fast as he could. "Twister!" The quickly generated tornado of visible opaque wind traversed forward, quickly swallowing the Shadow Wave. If anything strong enough comes into contact with a Shadow Wave, then that spell triggers the damaging part of the attack, causing the wave to explode. Usually, meeting one spell with another cancels each other out.

Contrary to expectation, the Shadow Wave exploded the moment the Twister zoomed over the wave, and as for the Twister itself, it just kept on going forward. Twister is a slightly upgraded version of Whirlwind, with a power level of 4.7. Shadow Wave has a power level of 4.0, therefore, the Twister won't be stopped by a simple Shadow Wave, and wind elemental slashing damage will be caused as the twister advances to the target.

Danton wasn't expecting it, but he was soon engulfed in the slicing winds and air of the Twister attack that Gleeon used to trick him out. The onset waves of slicing set into Danton's skin, creating visible cuts on his hands, forearms, and the bottom of his legs, but they weren't deep cuts. The damage and pain itself wasn't as alarming as Danton would have believed it to be.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-004.png]

The winds surrounding Danton subsided rather quickly, revealing to him Gleeon, who was standing there with a changed gesture and stance. Was he expecting that one spell to be the last one he needed to try? Danton reassured himself, knowing full well that he could defeat Gleeon if he only try harder and harder. "Eye for an eye," Danton glared while charging MP energy into his right hand again. "Lightning Strike!" With an upgraded form of Electro-Ball, Lightning Strike has a power of 3.5, improved completely on the design. Danton launched a distant arc of electrical energy through another jade colored glyphring bigger in size, though holographic and intangible. With that arc, Gleeon was met with a high electrical current for almost two full seconds. No matter how high one's endurance is, jolt holds are not something anyone can get out of. Despite his resilience to pain, Gleeon's health finally dropped of a higher level through the energy scope.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Gleeon-N-004.png]

Gleeon regained his senses quickly, but it appeared that Danton still wasn't willing to go down without a fight. So be it. "I'll give it everything then. Drilling Fate!" Gleeon summoned a small pair of daggers from two yellow generation glyphrings, after which he charged energy into the devices until they were glowing yellow with an aura. When ready, Gleeon threw the small knives at Danton, sure he would be unable to calculate the trajectory sequence. Within less than a second, the spinning blades created a horizontal vortex of air about a meter wide in diameter, now shooting forward until colliding with Danton's front.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-005.png]

Danton immediately used more of his energy to create a yellow glyphring of his own. Seeing as Gleeon is immune to slashing damage, perhaps another element is more effective. "Hammer of Might!" Just as the oversized sledgehammer formed into Danton's hands, he charged towards Gleeon, and threw the hard metal with as much force as he could. Contrary to what happened previously every time, Gleeon swept to the side, intentionally dodging the hammer flying his way. The metal object continued onward until slamming into the shield wall, making a negation sound and forming large hexagons at the impact site. The Hammer of Might faded into nothingness shortly after, and Danton's technique scored no damage.

Finally frustrated, Danton pulled out his saber again, as before it transferred back in the same place he left it when attached due to the properties of Leray defined rules. With his saber drawn, Danton figured it was time to get back to the basics of combat since nothing else was working. "Power Attack!" A simple blade would deal no damage to someone like Gleeon, but if he infuses non-elemental magical energy into the weapon, the power level of each hit is often multiplied by a factor of five. Danton knew already who was faster in this situation.

With the glowing blade ready, Danton charged into Gleeon first with a shoulder bash meant to knock him off balance. Gleeon tried again to grip Danton's wrist while he recovered, but Danton instead blocked that attempt with a blunt downwards to his arms, next slashing the blade through the top of Gleeon's left arm. Despite all previous resistances, the damage level to Gleeon actually caused enough pain to make him flinch and blurt out nonsense. Danton continued this close combat combination, using the power of Leray magic to his advantage in the blade as he took more sweeps at Gleeon's sides and legs. For every hit and strike, Gleeon reacted negatively while his HP chipped down further and further. By the time the range dropped below halfway, Gleeon knew he had to stop this with something other than brute force, and he unleashed magic just when Danton was in front of him again.

"Pin Missile!" Hundreds of sharp metal needles spawning out of a yellow glyphring pierced through Danton's skin and clothing, creating a reaction that had him totally frozen by the pain of several stings. His HP dropped down at the end of the needle barrage cycle, but only slightly compared to the amount of hurt this put him through. Gleeon appeared to be hurting too, backing away for comfort while he rethought his strategy.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Gleeon-N-005.png]image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-006.png]

Gleeon didn't take away more than two meters of distance, since Danton was obviously the one disabled. Now was his chance to strike back. Gleeon prepared to charge more energy for one final spell cast.

Danton however let it all go, moving his limbs despite the needles still stuck inside of him. While it hurt like hell, being paralyzed again wasn't going to happen. Now that Gleeon is close enough for this to work, "Crimson Flare!" Danton's MP levels dropped significantly, but he only formed one large crimson sphere. Crimson Flare creates a crimson sphere that is basically intangible, though with a radius of 4 meters in all directions. Set with a power level of 5.4, the pain level is said to be just as devastating as the damage factor. As slow moving as it is, Gleeon won't know what to do being this close to start with.

Gleeon was trapped in less than a second, inside of the crimson sphere dealing fire elemental and non-elemental magical damage at the same time. Having about 200oF steam encasing his bare skin is about close enough to the experience one would go through with a Crimson Flare attack, and the damage level for HP reduction is just as high. Gleeon fixed his mouth shut only with his teeth, clamping down his fists as he became immobilized by the agony of the long lasting Crimson Flare. Danton tricked him by using it so close range; that invocation was lightning fast too.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Gleeon-N-006.png]

Gleeon escaped the sphere as it faded away, panting from the exhaustion and physical pains scattering everywhere around his body. Whatever it was inside of him growing, Gleeon could finally ignore pain once again.

"Sword Sweep!" Danton threw his short blade as if it were a spinning dagger, and it withstood the same effect going through the air.

Gleeon caught the blade by the handle just before it grazed him in the eye, and he now held onto Danton's sword. Danton was of course surprised, but it was this moment where Gleeon remembered one interesting Leray rule. The weapon will always respawn back to its owner when lost, except in one circumstance. If an enemy catches that weapon without damage being caused, ownership is transferred until the blade is recovered or dropped again, lasting for the entire battle. So what will you do without your precious metal, Danton?

Danton reacted quickly once Gleeon took a few slow steps forward wielding his own blade. "Fire Bolt!" Danton's Fire Bolt took off from his red glyphring like a cannon, but in that short moment of time, Danton watched his own blade cut through the flaming sphere of magic, defusing its entire effect to nothing while Gleeon was swinging the thing around like a maniac, now closing in on Danton to finish him off.

Gleeon swung the sword forward from an upwards position, but Danton swept to the left in order to dodge. It was then that Gleeon made use of his free hand, already charged with energy, already glowing with a surrounding fire elemental glyphring aimed to the guy's chest. "Triple Fire!"

There was no chance to react to this development, other than for Danton to realize what was now to happen to him. With a triple blast of three Fire Bolts at once, Danton was shot and forced backwards while sustaining the first-degree burns under his outfit and onto his chest. He felt much weaker in the same moment, his health dropping well below that of Gleeon.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-007.png]

Gleeon continued to approach Danton even while he was down, preparing to stab him with his own short sword. Danton was struggling on his legs as if they were disabled. Though the real issue he was having was proper energy consumption. The veil will only allow consciousness with its protection if he doesn't wear down the energy of his own MP level too quickly. When he does, HP levels take its place. Lose both, and the battle is finished early.

"Any last words?" Gleeon wasn't even serious about his offer, drilling the sword downward to impact right on top of Danton.

But Danton immediately rolled away, causing the blade to stab against the pavement and cling away instead. His roll then allowed him to position his body in a manner that enabled him to stand back up with ease. What Gleeon was now realizing was that Danton's right hand, and that of both his corneas were glowing with a radiant cyan color. "Never hesitate to take your victory! Thunder Flare!" Danton saw Gleeon tense tightly, likely because he knew there was little chance to dodge Thunder Flare, but it could also have been that Gleeon wasn't expecting Danton to also have knowledge of the spell. Honestly, this one is very difficult to execute. There was no way one Thunder Flare would be enough to end this match, unless he modifies it first.

The large blue sphere encased Gleeon just as it began the electrical discharge of high energy, and there was no way to stop what was coming next. Danton held his hands out and open, controlling the entire field in front of him while the discharge continued. Gleeon made a few grunting noises in between, but this was uncontrollable for him since the jolt hold was impossible to escape from...

After six seconds passed, Danton still had his hands and eyes glowing from the effects of the spell cast, but the electric sphere was still full of life, continuing to discharge while Gleeon's HP drained rapidly. After eight seconds, Danton could hear Gleeon's teammates calling out through the field, while he tried to control himself from fainting given the rougher MP discharge.

"What the hell's going on here?! That's too long for a Thunder Flare to last!" Kite's concern was noted, but there was nothing he could do. His job is to start the battle, but he legally has no way to end it since he is not an official referee. Still, how is Danton manipulating the time of discharge on that Thunder Flare? After a closer examination, he soon realized that Danton's MP reserves were falling down even faster than before. So that's how he's doing it. Kite forgot that wielders can manipulate the average time and discharge of spells by using more MP energy. You can't overpower a spell, but you can manipulate certain properties to cause more damage in other ways. Danton is choosing to electrocute Gleeon until it's over. How could he be so brutal?!

Danton counted the single digit number now dropping on Gleeon's energy scope. Danton felt dizzy right now, but he continued to let out all of his remaining energy, keeping this electric bubble going until Gleeon was out of it. After a few more seconds passed, just as the number dropped to zero, the bubble faded away, and Danton fell to his knees due to pure exhaustion. His breathing became heavy quickly while he desperately tried to stay conscious and keep it together.

image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Danton-N-008.png]image [https://ia800302.us.archive.org/27/items/lw-allenergyscopes/{S4}_Gleeon-N-007.png]

Gleeon collapsed quickly on his stomach, totally unconscious due to the natural rules of Leray battling. He's not dead, but rather unconscious for the next 15-30 minutes. Danton felt so lightheaded and sick to his stomach from all of the bruises he suffered for this one victory. It was much harder than he initially believed it to be, and to think there are no credits for this win. Still, a match is a match, and all wielders must fight the hardest every time. Otherwise, none will make it as a wielder.

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Chapter Theme Shift: Chrome Mom New 12 ~ Advanced Battlegrounds OST

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With that, the Siriean dome collapsed around the both of them, and silence ensued much longer. Was it the shock of the result, or how incredibly intense that was? Mainne couldn't be sure, but the results on the holographic reward read as clear as day. Danton won the match. Even if that was a close call, and even if Gleeon wasn't the better fighter compared to Kite, he was still the second best. Right now, she can't tell if that face Kite is making is due to fear, anger, or the surprise of the current results. Regardless of the situation, Mainne knew she needed to step out there and give Danton a healing orb.

Danton finally pulled out one of his many healing orbs, when he noticed Kite trying to stop Mainne from delivering one of her own.

"Don't we want to help him recover after that?" Mainne was about to lose it. If Kite decides he's going to cheat somehow, then this was all for nothing. Besides, she and Vanoss still have to fight Danton too. It's impossible that Danton would defeat all of us.

"Danton can take care of himself using the healing orbs he brought with him." Just when it seemed like Mainne was about to try harder to yell at him, Kite heard a response from behind.

"He is right you know."

Kite and Mainne turned around to see Danton standing tall and energetic again, holding a glowing white orb of healing energy in his right hand. Danton felt so refreshed, but there was no need to have this little argument. After agreeing with Kite, Danton explained why. "Every Leray wielder should always be responsible and capable of healing themself for future encounters after a rough match. So I carry plenty of orbs on my person. Mainne? There's no need to make an upset about it."

Mainne was silent after, but it doesn't make it okay that this guy just plowed through his finest subordinate. "Look at you just calling your own shots. I get that you're tougher than you look, but you can't just extend spells to get your way in a battle."

Danton flung out his short sword, knowing it was reattached in his favorite space again since Gleeon was out cold. "You might want to be careful making those extreme accusations. Everything I did followed every legitimate Leray rule and code there is to practice, and you announced yourself earlier that your specific battle parameters were normal, so that's how it is." He saw that Kite tensed up again ready to argue, but Danton made sure it was clear as to how he beat Gleeon. "He almost had me. But when he had his chance, Gleeon took too much time to actually make anything final. It's too easy for anyone to feint a weakness, and that's why I don't hesitate to finish a person off."

Mainne could feel herself trembling slightly, but assured herself it was just from the cold outside. Danton doesn't hesitate? What does he mean by that? Can he just finish anyone off with that powerful Thunder Flare?

Kite's expression changed drastically, and he held his hand to his brows in frustration. "I see." Invoking a reaction from Mainne in disbelief, Kite elaborated what he understood between both of them. "I'll have to have a talk with Gleeon about that then. We don't tolerate weaknesses in Trujima."

"Kite!"

Ignoring Mainne's constant arguments, Kite put his hand to the tip of Danton's saber. "You can put that thing away now. Save the violence for your next battle."

Danton did as he was instructed, but raised a bit of concern for his fallen foe. "Are we battling in the same exact location?"

Kite sighed, now realizing what Danton meant. He sure does have a very indirect way with words. "Will someone please get idiot number one off the field? Now?"

Mainne decided to go help drag Gleeon back here and attempt healing orbs to wake him up, but Kite was being way too harsh on everyone right now. Danton can't possibly intimidate Kite this much.

"Well then," Kite replied after seeing Mainne go to help Gleeon from the floor. "That puts you against idiot number three."

"Name's Vanoss, sir."

"Yes, it is." Vanoss. He sure has come a long way since joining, despite only being in this gang for just three weeks. His sword skills are quite excellent compared to the others, perhaps enough to match that of Danton, but he is still inexperienced. Might as well get on with the slaughtering of the pawns. Then again, if Vanoss can still stand here so bravely and correct his words when the leader is in an unforgiving mood, it's just more proof that he is growing. Let's find out then. "Danton, Vanoss will be your next contestant. The same basic and general rules of battle will apply. Now take your places."

"It won't be much longer before I take your place."

"An interesting threat," Kite replied. "Don't announce things you don't already know. Even if you do face off against me, boy, you won't take my place in Trujima. And Vanoss? You need to give this everything you've got, as if your life depends on it."

Kite sure is being pushy now that his position is threatened, but Danton was okay with it this time. This actually encourages Vanoss to try his absolute hardest. If he didn't, there would be no battle. So all the more scary encouragement, please continue.