The [Sword of Redemption] in Xia Xiu's hand pierced Valente's flesh, then abruptly shattered, scattering fragments of holy light over him.
[Philadelphia〔Grace · Activate〕]
As the double-edged sword pierced his body, Valente felt a wave of mental relief. The scorching flames in his lungs were instantly extinguished, and the bruises on his body vanished right afterward. He could also feel that holy aura still lingering around him.
"Grace should last another fifteen minutes. You won't have to worry about the smog eating away at you during that time."
As he spoke, Xia Xiu summoned another [Sword of Redemption], gripped it, and gave himself a stab as well. Meanwhile, the recovered Valente rose with his sword in hand. His now-silver eyes were fixed on Night. He had noticed Night quietly beginning to retreat.
"Thanks for holding out this long without using your overpowered carry. But now that [Eternity] has activated, it's time to send him on his way."
Naturally, Xia Xiu had noticed Night's movements too. The pupils in his golden eyes slowly narrowed into vertical slits, an indefinable menace lurking within them. He loosely curled his right hand, and [Gáe Bolg], with its thirty barbs, appeared in his grasp. Blazing flames coated the scarlet spear.
Xia Xiu now resembled a cheetah poised to spring. If Night took even one more small step back, he would attack first.
"Mm."
Valente tightened his grip on the [Balmung Holy Sword] slightly. After taking a deep breath, he slowly began to recite in a low voice:
"Who can forge the [Balmung Holy Sword] anew?"
The seven stars on the holy sword's blade lit up in an instant.
"Only a hero who knows no fear can fuse the sacred blade!"
Valente Bernard's [Siegfried] instantly radiated dazzling silver light, then slowly merged with Valente's