The Red Dragon's claws tore through the gale like scythes, a wave of scorching heat spreading before Leon as it dived.
Unlike Kandelian, who stood braced beside him, he did not panic.
A young Red Dragon was hardly enough to frighten him.
He merely picked up a longsword from the pool of blood at his feet. Its edge had already curled from the guards' fighting, yet he raised it before him, pointing its tip straight at the Red Dragon's brazen claws.
Kandelian crushed the Plague Source, saving himself the time needed to chant:
"[Sand Wall]."
He stirred the winds and swept up the dust, shrouding the broad silhouette in the sky until it became a faint shadow.
This third-ring spell was particularly useful on Wind Sand Islet, simply because its casting materials covered the ground. The solid wall of sand obstructed vision while providing a windblown cushion against charging enemies.
Even against a Giant Dragon, it was highly effective.
The dragon felt its movements slow. Its wings trembled slightly amid the blowing sand, and the grit pouring into its nose and mouth threatened to extinguish the flames bursting from its throat.
But that did not stop it from hurtling toward the ground.
Clang— The shrill collision of claw and sword rang in their ears.
Sparks splashed onto Leon's trembling wrist. His expression remained blank.
Boom!
The Giant Dragon crashed to the ground.
Yet Leon stood unmoving amid the spreading dust.
The impact crushed the longsword in his hand, but he still brought the Red Dragon's enormous body to a dead stop with his fist.
Kandelian realized that the Oathbreaker had used no spells. He had opposed the charging Giant Dragon with brute strength alone.
Then he saw Leon kick up another damaged longsword, catch it, and drive it straight into