The force field on the Silent Lady's blade dissipated completely. Magic Weapon had expired.
But the blade had already fulfilled its purpose, piercing the leather armor and cutting precisely through the chest and heart.
Renato jerked his longsword free, drawing a spray of warm blood.
The ranger toppled backward helplessly. Her twin swords clattered to the ground, and she went still.
Renato touched the cut on his face and slowly let out a weary breath.
He had won.
The half-elf knew his fighting style, but didn't Renato know the ranger's sword techniques just as well?
Lailas's twin swords could do nothing against his enchanted plate armor. She could only attack his poorly protected head, hoping for a killing blow.
Ever since learning she was a Harper, he had sensed this day would come. He simply hadn't expected it so soon...
There was no joy in victory. Renato shook his head, brushing aside his unnecessary emotions.
The battle was over, the ritual had been destroyed, and he was still alive. That was all.
There should still be something valuable in Benjamin's room.
Just as he turned to close the courtyard gate and conduct a quick search, the sound of panting outside caught his attention.
He pulled the gate open abruptly, and the sight of a petite figure made him relax.
It was Perly. She was huddled outside the gate, looking startled, both hands clamped over her mouth.
"Perly, what are you doing out here?"
The little mage shuddered when Renato spoke and shook her head repeatedly.
"When did you get here?" A little worried, Renato reached out to take her by the shoulder.
But Perly backed away like a frightened rabbit, nearly falling.
"I... I came with Lailas," she stammered incoherently. "We were trapped outside the barrier. We could only watch