Chalk flashed as it slashed toward Gareth.
Shield raised, lance thrusting out—Gareth's combat skills remained as masterful as ever.
Lance and shield—the lance was massive, the shield heavy, yet in Gareth's hands they remained incomparably nimble. Held in her two hands, the two weapons seemed like a single whole: impregnable, yet brimming with aggression.
Anno slid a step to the side, evading Gareth's lance. He then kicked the shield, forcing Gareth back several steps. Yet even as she retreated, Gareth's footing remained steady, without the slightest wobble.
"You're still the same as ever, Gareth," Anno sighed in admiration.
"You too, Teacher." Gareth's voice was still so familiar, but the coldness within it felt especially alien.
Anno was somewhat taken aback by Gareth's words.
Gareth saw Anno's pain, but she gave a self-mocking smile.
"Teacher probably doesn't understand what I am now, does he?"
She straightened up, her enormous lance lowering to the ground.
"In fact, I don't really understand it myself."
"Standing before Teacher should make me so sad, so miserable, yet I can't shed even a single tear."
".Yes. At the beginning, you were strong, but you certainly cried plenty." Anno seemed to recall some cherished memory, and his gaze dimmed slightly.
".That was when I was a child." Gareth fell silent for a moment, but still raised her lance and pointed it at Anno. "Now, I am Gareth, a Knight of the Round Table loyal to the King, one who has accepted the blessing of [Impurity]."
Impurity—because she did not want to become any dirtier.
Her eyes were clouded.
"And Teacher, though... though it pains me greatly..." Gareth's voice trembled, yet remained incomparably resolute. Her expression took on a faintly savage edge. "The King has deemed you a rebel. Therefore, I must subdue you."
"—Take this!"
Power erupted