Chapter 638: Sage Abiliy (I)
After a moment, Marshal Maximo shook his head, exhaling slowly as he fixed his stern gaze upon Spartacus.
"You will march into the Eclipse Battlefield tomorrow," Marshal Maximo stated clearly, his voice carrying an unmistakable authority. "You’ll be part of the vanguard unit under Commander Romulo."
Spartacus nodded solemnly, his expression unchanged and entirely calm as if he had anticipated this order long ago. His composure contrasted sharply with Vlad’s immediate reaction; the young man’s eyes widened, and a deep sense of apprehension filled them.
The Eclipse Battlefield was infamous. It was a distant war zone located far beyond the familiar reaches of the Golden Sky Fortress, a hostile environment where even Legends frequently fell. The battlefield’s conditions were notoriously brutal and unforgiving, rife with dangers capable of annihilating even the strongest warriors. It was a place that represented the epitome of risk, where survival itself was uncertain.
Vlad felt an overwhelming pang of guilt swell within his chest. He instinctively lowered his head in shame, convinced that Spartacus was being sent into exile because of the trouble caused by protecting him. The sense of responsibility weighed heavily on his conscience. However, Vlad soon clenched his fists, lifting his head once more. Determination filled his gaze as he turned toward the legendary swordsman.
"I will repay my debt to you," Vlad declared resolutely, his voice ringing with sincerity. "Within the next three years, I promise to forge your Demon Cage."
Spartacus’ gaze settled calmly on Vlad, observing the unwavering resolve blazing in the young man’s eyes. A rare and subtle smile crept onto the swordsman’s lips, reflecting approval and acknowledgment.
Marshal Maximo’s own expression softened as he saw Vlad’s earnestness. He didn’t fully understand what this ’Demon Cage’ exactly entailed, but it was clear to him that the young Depravita was determined to repay his debt. His already favorable opinion of Vlad continued to improve, recognizing not only the boy’s exceptional talent but also his commendable character.
"Very good, young man," Maximo responded, amusement twinkling faintly in his eyes. "However, I believe you’ve misunderstood the situation slightly. I’m not sending Spartacus to the Eclipse Battlefield to protect him from the Zanis Family. Rather, it’s quite the opposite."