The End of the First Day

Yet just then, the runes covering Locke City's walls lit up once more.

"Whew... Finally fixed."

Amid the relieved voices of several mages, the elements around the city suddenly began to gather. As though summoned by something, they merged into the glowing runes and, in the end, reconstructed the Rune Defense Array.

Many people in Locke City wore looks of delighted surprise, while only the few who knew the truth let out long breaths.

"Well done."

Suppressing his headache, Benjamin nodded at the several mages responsible for the array. His mental power had suffered a severe blow, making it difficult for him to contribute much more in battle, while the enemy was about to attack again. Without the Rune Defense Array, he had no idea how he could hold Locke City.

In any case, once Ikor's people came to their senses and saw the invisible barrier protecting them once again, their hearts naturally settled.

Across from them...

The Hori Kingdom soldiers were even more dumbfounded.

"W-what do we do now?"

Just as they were preparing to launch another assault, the Rune Defense Array, like an impassable chasm, had risen before them again. At that moment, they felt as miserable as someone with a sneeze stuck in their nose.

"This thing can be repaired?" General Pres's order to charge caught in his throat. He neither dared to shout it nor swallow it, and could only stand there foolishly. In his hesitation, he muttered those words under his breath.

The atmosphere grew a little awkward.

Grant also froze for a moment before suddenly clenching his fists.

"How could a mere barrier possibly block the will of God?" He turned toward the artillery battalion and spoke coldly. "Prepare the next barrage. I will shatter this barrier alongside you."

The priest commanding the Holy