Chapter 252: Master and Disciple as One (2)
Kain had finally regained a sliver of composure when he turned to face the Archbishop, who had entered the tent and was waiting quietly for the conversation to begin.
With a resigned sigh, Kain asked him, “So, what brings you here?”
The Archbishop’s expression was gentle but firm. “I’ve come to inform you that, starting today, you no longer need to participate in the direct assault on the fortress.”
Kain blinked in surprise. Until now, he had always played an active role on the front lines, cutting down enemies and supporting the warriors by the side of the Mercenary King. He had believed he would continue in that role, regardless of Ketal’s training.
The Archbishop glanced toward Ketal, who stood silently by the tent’s entrance, and then back at Kain. “If Ketal masters the use of Myst, the fortress will fall before us in due time. But even with that hope, we can’t afford to sit idle. The Mercenary King and I will continue with the siege, and we’ll need your swordsmanship if circumstances change. Still, for now, your duty is to guide Ketal.”
Kain nodded, understanding both the burden and the honor. He had his own pride as a Transcendent Swordmaster, and while he was willing to stand aside, he still felt the weight of responsibility.
Just as the conversation seemed to end, Ketal spoke up. “I’m sorry. It sounds like I’m causing a loss in your strength on the battlefield.”
The Archbishop waved the apology away. “No, not at all, Ketal. This is hardly a problem.”
Ketal shook his head, a serious look on his face. “If there’s a gap, I’ll fill it myself.”
That surprised the Archbishop. “But you’re supposed to be training in Myst, are you not? The siege leaves little time—”
Ketal raised a hand, cutting him off gently. “I’m not saying I’ll fight on the front lines directly. I’ll lend you the power of an ally.”
With a brief flick of his fingers, a circle of flames spun into existence beside him, swelling rapidly into the shape of a colossal bull. Its form was striking, and its presence radiated heat so intense that the air in the tent trembled.