Late autumn gave way to early winter, and the weather turned cold. A grim, murderous air filled the endless wilderness.
The ambitious beast known as the Land of Flame finally launched its final offensive. After assaulting Thunderlight City seven times in succession, the pitiful city's gates were finally breached by Enkō's world-ending strike with his Perfect Susanoo.
With that, Thunderclap City lost its final line of defense. The Land of Flame's army continued advancing south, arriving beneath Thunderclap City and setting up camp ten li beyond its gates. They faced the capital of the Lightning Country—and its last remaining city—from afar!
As the sun set, the Lightning Daimyo donned light armor and personally climbed Thunderclap City's walls. He gazed at the enemy camp in the distance, its tents stretching beyond sight and carrying an oppressive weight that struck straight at the soul.
The Lightning Country had existed for over a thousand years since its founding. It had seen more than a hundred daimyo, both wise rulers and fools, but never a ruler who had lost the nation. Yet now, that title might very well fall upon him!
Tap, tap, tap—
Hearing footsteps behind him, the Lightning Daimyo forcibly suppressed his panic and helplessness. He straightened his back, his face stern and imposing.
The First Raikage looked at the Lightning Daimyo's deliberately resolute back and sighed inwardly. He gave a slight bow.
"My lord."
The Lightning Daimyo merely waved a hand. Neither sorrow nor joy showed on his face as he slowly asked, "Lord Raikage, is there any way to defeat the enemy?"
"Other than fighting to the death, there is no other way."
The First Raikage glanced at the distant camp, his tone low. "The Land of Flame has already worn down too much of our strength. If our remaining