"Divine punishment?" Still glowing and not yet fully recovered from the shock, Mash murmured those two words.
"What does divine punishment mean?" Fujimaru Ritsuka did not understand either.
What was going on now?
The so-called Holy Selection required to enter the Holy City was that brilliant light released by the Lion King?
And only six people had been chosen to enter the Holy City, while everyone else had to undergo divine punishment?
What... was divine punishment?
Clang—
Just as everyone was still bewilderedly contemplating the meaning of "divine punishment," a perfectly synchronized metallic ring sounded.
The Purging Knights surrounding the refugees suddenly raised their lances or drew their longswords.
"I am sorry, but this is the punishment for not being chosen by my king."
There was no doubt that Gawain's face bore regret, sorrow, and reluctance.
But this was the king's choice.
And if it was the king's choice...
"I permit you to lament, and I permit you to weep. Filthy people, offer up your lives here."
He drew the sword at his waist and pointed it downward.
It was an order.
However—
Whoosh—!
Clang!!!
A figure suddenly charged at Gawain with astonishing speed. Even Gawain's pupils shrank as he hastily raised his still-lowered sword to block the blade slashing toward him.
Sparks flew. Gawain lost his footing and could not help taking two steps back.
"You—" Gawain had already recognized the man before him, gritting his teeth with difficulty.
The tattered rags, ripped to pieces by the emergence of armor, fluttered away from the man's body in the wind, revealing the face that had been hidden beneath.
Anno.
A savage fury burned in his eyes as he forcefully suppressed Gawain's strength.
"What—"
Feeling that unexpected, immense force, Gawain was startled and nearly took another step back.
He was shocked.