Matruska moved first.
The spear left her hand.
BUUM—!!
Lightning wrapped in a purple aura exploded as the spear shot past the Baroness. While it was still hanging in the air beside her, in a single blink Matruska vanished from where she stood—and reappeared mid-motion, catching the spear's shaft and swinging it down into a bandit who was about to charge the Baroness.
The pressure of her aura stacked instantly. Two figures with absolute authority over the battlefield stood side by side—without a single word exchanged.
At the same time—
Valeric burst forward.
He cut past the front line, passing Lucas, who was still standing unsteadily, right hand gripping The Great Hoe.
The air split.
Valeric landed beside the Baron.
The Baron turned immediately. His brows furrowed.
"…Highblade?" His voice was low, but sharp.
"What business do you have on my land?"
Valeric dipped his head briefly, one hand to his chest.
"My apologies for the intrusion, My Lordship."
