Chapter 1119
"Excuse me...?"
Brigitte, the Queen of Swords, stared at him, her eyes wide with total bewilderment.
"What on earth makes you want to enter the Divine Sword Assembly? You are a Transcendent—and honestly, one who has already surpassed my own strength!"
Her shout was powerful enough to make the air vibrate, her tone demanding an explanation for such a bizarre request.
"Lord Raon. Is this a joke?"
The Thespian Emperor narrowed her gaze, studying Raon’s face for any sign of a prank.
"The Divine Sword Assembly is a traditional gathering for the practitioners of the Unyielding Blade. Participating wouldn't offer you any real challenge, Lord Raon."
She shook her head slowly, implying that the gap in skill between him and the other contestants would be far too vast to be productive.
"I am aware of that."
Raon offered a thin, calm smile in response to the Thespian Emperor.
"I have a fair understanding of how the Divine Sword Assembly works."
The Divine Sword Assembly was a grand martial festival held by the Unyielding Blade once every decade.
Every swordsman within the sect took part, and the four finalists were granted the rare privilege of entering a secluded library of techniques. This specific archive was exactly what had piqued his curiosity long ago.
"Even in a contest where internal energy is forbidden, no one here could possibly be a match for you!"
Brigitte scowled, still trying to wrap her head around his motivation.
"Furthermore, you don't even meet the requirements to sign up for the event..."
"Don't the warriors of the White Whale also have a spot in this upcoming Assembly?"
Raon tilted his head slightly, cutting off Brigitte’s protest.
"W-well, that is true, but..."
Brigitte’s voice trailed away as she looked toward the Thespian Emperor for support.
"That was Briana's idea. She argued that since the White Whale possesses many talented bladesmen, they should be allowed to compete. But I'm curious how Lord Raon managed to learn about a decision that hasn't even been announced yet..."
The Thespian Emperor gave a dry, bewildered laugh, wondering how he had obtained such classified information.
"I happen to have a source who looks after me with terrifying diligence."
Raon brushed his hand against the inner pocket where the letter from Chad, the Leader of the Shadow Agents, rested, a faint smirk playing on his lips.
"It must be the Shadow Agents' Leader."
The Thespian Emperor nodded, realizing how Raon stayed so well-informed about the internal affairs of the Unyielding Blade.
"I suppose the rumors were true regarding how much that individual dotes on you, Lord Raon."
Even as an outsider, she was privy to details that typically only high-ranking members of Zieghart would know.
"How are you aware of that?"
Raon was the one surprised this time, his eyes widening.
"While not common knowledge, the whispers among the intelligence circles were quite clear. Many know that the Shadow Agents' Leader has been staunchly backing you for the position of Successor."
The Thespian Emperor gave a steady nod, noting that this was something most professional informants had picked up on.
"I see..."
Raon blinked, momentarily stunned.
—Even strangers in distant lands knew, yet you were the only oblivious fool on the planet!
Wrath mocked him, sneering at Raon’s legendary lack of social intuition.
—You might as well gouge out your eyes, since you clearly only use them to look at pieces of metal anyway!
He gestured dismissively, claiming sight was wasted on someone so dense.
"R-regardless, since Zieghart and the Five Divine Orders are now officially allied, I would be honored if you granted me the chance to compete in the Divine Sword Assembly."
Raon lowered his head toward Brigitte, formalizing his petition.
"It is fine with us."
The Thespian Emperor agreed with a simple nod, signaling her approval of his entry.
"Fine. Since Zieghart is an ally, we can make an exception for your entry, but I’m telling you now: it won’t benefit you!"
Brigitte pounded her fist against her chest in a fit of irritation.
"There isn't a single soul in the Unyielding Blade capable of forcing you to use your full potential!"
She shook her head vigorously, insisting that none of her disciples possessed a blade that could withstand Raon’s true skill.
"The subordinates behind you might learn something, but for you, this is merely a waste of energy."
Brigitte gestured toward Martha and Dorian, suggesting they were the ones who should be fighting instead.
"Besides, that special archive you’re after... it’s legendary for our students, but it shouldn't hold much value for you. You’ve mastered the arts of the Sword God Glenn Zieghart and you practice the Ten Thousand Swords..."
She tilted her head, completely unable to grasp his logic.
"There is truth in that."
Raon agreed, his smile widening slightly.
*In terms of pure technical skill, there are very few who stand above me.*
Aside from figures like Glenn, Darkan, Rector, Derus Robert, King Lecross, and the Blade Queen, there was almost nobody left on the continent whose swordsmanship surpassed his own. Her skepticism was perfectly logical.
"With the exception of one specific person."
Raon slowly lifted his arm.
"Wouldn't the Master of the Unyielding Blade be a sufficient challenger for me?"
He curled his fingers until his hand pointed directly at Brigitte.
"You mean... me?"
Brigitte’s eyes went wide once again.
"Yes. Both you and Lady Briana."
Raon nodded, expressing his desire to witness the culmination of the sisters' lifelong dedication and raw talent.
"A significant amount of time has passed, and I am curious to see how your sword has evolved..."
"That sounds like a wonderful idea, doesn't it?"
As Raon spoke, Brigitte’s entire aura shifted. With a sharp, predatory glint in her eyes, her presence transformed. Briana—the elder sister and a genius of the blade—surfaced, smiling with an anticipation she didn't bother to hide.
"It has been too long. Let’s see who has improved more."
---
"Are you serious about joining this Divine Sword Assembly?"
Martha demanded the moment she entered the guest house, heading straight for Raon.
"From what I’ve gathered, this won't do anything for you, even if it helps the rest of us."
She tilted her head, confused as to why Raon would bother with such a low-level event.
"Different people can look at the same object and walk away with entirely different perspectives."
Raon gestured dismissively with a subtle grin.
"Even if others see no value in it, I have the means to extract something worthwhile."
Every warrior in the Unyielding Blade utilizes a unique style. With his current understanding of the Ten Thousand Swords, he could analyze their raw techniques, envision their perfected forms, and find a kernel of wisdom to absorb.
"And it isn't just for me; you two will be entering as well."
Raon pointed toward Martha and Dorian.
"The swordsmen of the Unyielding Blade are cut from the same cloth as those in the Holy Sword Alliance. They are singularly focused on perfecting their craft, ignoring worldly distractions. There are many formidable talents among them."
He smiled, suggesting the experience would be invaluable for his companions.
"I can sit this one out, right? Being a mage and all."
Evelyn waved her hand casually, signaling her intent to remain a spectator.
"Mages are certainly clever when it comes to finding ways to be lazy," Martha grumbled, wrinkling her nose.
"But couldn't you have just asked the Queen of Swords for a private duel?"
Dorian rubbed his jaw, puzzled by Raon’s insistence on entering the formal tournament to face her.
"Because I require access to the archive that houses those unique sword manuals."
Raon licked his lips briefly.
"The archive?"
"Exactly. I want the match with the Queen of Swords, but I also want to explore the Unyielding Blade's hidden library."
He could easily arrange a friendly spar with Brigitte, but the secret archive was restricted even to their own members. As an outsider, no amount of formal diplomatic requests would grant him entry. This tournament was the only loophole available.
"Didn't Brigitte say there wasn't anything of value in there for you?"
Martha narrowed her eyes, remembering the Queen of Swords' dismissal.
"We won't truly know until I've seen it for myself."
Raon brushed the comment aside.
"I might encounter a specific technique or a style of martial arts that resonates with me."
For a practitioner of the Ten Thousand Swords, even the smallest new concept was a step forward. He was determined to digest as many different martial styles as possible before the inevitable war began.
*And besides...*
There was a chance *that* specific art was hidden there. The technique he had been hunting for since his previous life hadn't been found in Zieghart or the Holy Sword Alliance. There was a strong possibility it was tucked away in the Unyielding Blade.
"Zieghart has plenty of manuals you haven't mastered yet."
Dorian suggested, turning his head toward the door as if looking back toward their home.
"I have already studied every manual in the Zieghart collection. The only ones left are styles that simply don't align with my path."
Raon spoke casually, though the weight of his words would have left most people speechless.
"Y-you've read every single one?"
Dorian’s jaw dropped in shock.
"I have."
Raon nodded as if he were stating a boring, everyday fact.
"Why the shock?"
Martha reached over and flicked Dorian’s forehead.
"This is the lunatic who lived in the archives and trained from sunup to sundown."
She shrugged, noting that such a feat was typical for him.
"You've also made your way through nearly every volume in the Zieghart Treasury's restricted library, haven't you?"
Evelyn added with an approving nod, commending his habit of reading whenever he visited the vault.
"I-is that true?"
Dorian gaped at Raon, completely unaware of this fact.
"Wait, you read the Treasury books too? I didn't even know that. You really are a freak..."
Martha’s eyes widened as she processed the information.
"Ah..."
Raon felt a dry lump in his throat as he looked at the smiling Evelyn.
"H-how are you aware of that?"
It was enough to make his skin crawl—knowing that she was privy to his actions inside the Zieghart Treasury, a place located in an entirely different dimension.
—Gasp!
Wrath seemed equally disturbed, letting out a sharp, panicked breath.
"Hehe."
Evelyn didn't offer an explanation, only a bright, cheerful giggle that felt entirely out of place given the tension.
—L-let's just move to the Devildom!
Wrath clutched his head as if his mind were breaking.
—There is nowhere on this earth safe from that terrifying woman!
*If you ask me...*
Raon sighed, purposefully looking away from Evelyn’s glowing purple eyes.
*She would probably find a way to follow us there too.*
—...
Wrath offered no rebuttal, simply staring into space with a glazed expression.
---
A week passed by. The Divine Sword Assembly finally kicked off at the headquarters of the Unyielding Blade.
'This setup is quite impressive.'
Raon smiled to himself as he surveyed the five dueling platforms constructed in the heart of the sect.
'It's clear they didn't hold back on the budget for this.'
While much of the Unyielding Blade’s architecture was aged and showing its years, the sparring grounds and training facilities were pristine and clearly well-maintained. It was exactly what one would expect from a sect devoted to the sword. Raon scanned the crowd of warriors gathered around the platforms.
'Their presence is tightly controlled.'
Even though the raw power of these swordsmen wasn't overwhelming, their focus was as sharp as that of elite masters. He was genuinely curious to see the techniques they had perfected. Suddenly, a high-pitched chime echoed through the air!
As Raon watched with interest, the Queen of Swords, Brigitte, vaulted onto the main platform with the grace of a hunting raptor.
With a powerful shout, she stood alone on the stage, looking out over the assembled martial artists.
"I officially open the Divine Sword Assembly! Let us see the fruits of your labor from the past ten years!"
"Uooooooh!"
Following her declaration, the warriors of the Unyielding Blade and the White Whale thrust their weapons toward the sky, cheering wildly. Even though it was a serious competition, the atmosphere felt like a genuine celebration.
"Ohhh..."
"Urararara!"
Dorian let out a groan that suggested he was exhausted just from the noise, while Martha gave a predatory roar as if she intended to crush everyone in her path.
"We have a very distinguished visitor joining us for this Assembly!"
The Queen of Swords turned her gaze toward Raon, who was positioned near the second platform.
'Wait?'
Raon felt a surge of concern as he locked eyes with Brigitte.
'She isn't going to blow my cover, is she?'
There wasn't a warrior on the continent who didn't recognize his name. For many, just hearing the title "Sword Emperor" was enough to shatter their resolve. That was exactly why he had asked to remain anonymous and even wore a wig, but Brigitte looked like she was about to do the exact opposite.
"The Sword Emperor, Raon Zieghart!"
Brigitte laughed boisterously as she pointed a finger at him.
"The Master of the Light Wind Palace is here to compete as a representative of our allies!"
She stamped her foot, loudly encouraging everyone to take this chance to learn from a master of his caliber. A heavy, collective gasp followed. The moment the title "Sword Emperor Raon Zieghart" rang out, the roaring crowd fell into a stunned, absolute silence. Thousands of eyes shifted to Raon, filled with a mix of shock and disbelief.
"Haaaah..."
Raon exhaled a long sigh as he pulled off the wig he had borrowed from Dorian.
*I just wanted to quietly study their forms.*
Every member of the Unyielding Blade had their own unique approach. He had hoped to see these fresh styles to further his own mastery, but now that Brigitte had outed him, he expected everyone to simply back down in fear.
*This is going to be a total waste of time after all...*
Just as Raon was about to shake his head in defeat.
"Uwaaaaaaah!"
"Did she really say the Sword Emperor?"
"I want the first match!"
"No, I'm going first!"
"Move me to the second platform immediately!"
In total contrast to what he expected, the Unyielding Blade swordsmen were practically jumping over each other to challenge him, their eyes burning with intense competitive spirit.
They weren't doing it to suck up to Brigitte. They were charging toward his platform with genuine fervor.
"And one more thing..."
The Queen of Swords slammed her fist against her chest.
"I will be competing in this Assembly as well!"
She announced that she would be entering not as the Sect Master, but as a fellow swordsman.
"Waaaaaaaaah!"
"The Sect Master is fighting too!"
"I never thought I'd get a chance to face the Master in a real tournament!"
"This is the best day of my life! Unbelievable luck!"
"Just getting a chance to show them our techniques will be the lesson of a lifetime!"
The warriors shouted Raon and Brigitte’s names, their hands trembling on their hilts with pure joy.
'What on earth is happening...'
Raon watched the chaotic enthusiasm with a look of pure bewilderment.
*They actually want to fight us?*
It made sense for those at the Grandmaster level, but even the lower-ranked Masters and disciples were ecstatic at the prospect of being crushed by him. After spending so much time around people who were terrified to even look him in the eye, seeing this level of excitement was almost surreal.
"See?"
Brigitte shrugged at him with a grin, clearly pleased with the reaction.
"There really wasn't any reason to worry..."
Raon couldn't help but smile back, seeing how proud Brigitte was of her disciples.
"Everyone in the Unyielding Blade is single-mindedly obsessed with the sword. Unlike the Holy Sword Alliance, which views the blade as a holy relic, we only care about the art of the strike itself."
Brigitte nodded, affirming that this was the soul of her sect.
"T-they're only cheering because they don't realize how scary Lord Raon actually is."
Dorian’s voice shook as he watched the crowd, convinced their joy was born of ignorance.
"Exactly. Once they've been knocked around a few times, they'll be singing a different tune," Martha added, agreeing with Dorian.
"I'm not so sure about that."
Raon shook his head gently.
"They were genuinely happy even when they knew Brigitte was joining."
The swordsmen were celebrating the participation of a leader who had clearly put them through hellish training. They truly seemed to find joy in testing themselves against the pinnacle of strength.
"I think you'll find this very enlightening."
Raon’s smile grew as he felt the presence of the Unyielding Blade’s elite masters, who were silently measuring him from the shadows.
"And clearly..."
He looked at Brigitte—or rather, the sisters Brigitte and Briana, who were radiating an infectious energy—and placed his hand on the hilt of his weapon.
"So will I."
Raon lifted his gaze, certain that he would leave this mountain with more than just a signature on a document.
