TRAIGS - Chapter 750

Raon tightened his grip on the Heavenly Drive and nodded.

‘I have been in the family for quite some time.’

Typically, after returning from a mission, combat units rested for two weeks to a month depending on their injuries before undertaking their next assignment. The fact that the Light Wind Division had been allowed nearly four months for training was solely thanks to Glenn’s consideration.

‘The swordsmen are ready to see real action.’

The current Light Wind Division was undeniably strong. With two at the peak of Grandmaster, four high-level Masters, and all but Yua and Julius surpassing the Master level, it could be considered the strongest combat unit in Zieghart.

However, having spent the last four months in pure training and sparring, there was an unmistakable need for practical experience. The timing was perfect for an assignment.

“I understand.”

Raon lowered the Heavenly Drive and looked at Glenn.

“I’ll attend the next officer’s meeting to receive our mission.”

“There’s no need for that.”

Glenn waved his hand dismissively.

“The Light Wind Division’s mission has already been decided.”

He looked down, indicating that he had made the decision himself.

“What kind of mission is it?”

While practical experience was important, the nature of the mission mattered greatly. Raon wasted no time inquiring further.

“There’s intelligence that a Floor Master from the Black Tower and a Sword Master from the Holy Sword Alliance will be meeting.”

Glenn’s crimson eyes darkened like dried blood.

“Both the Shadow Agents and the black market have verified this information, so it’s reliable.”

“If a Floor Master and a Sword Master are meeting, then…”

Raon’s eyes narrowed as he quickly deduced the reason for such a meeting.

“Exactly. It’s obvious.”

Glenn nodded, reading Raon’s expression.

“It’s likely a trade of swords or swordsmanship for artifacts.”

He twisted his lips, indicating disdain for the two factions’ probable dealings.

“I think so too.”

Raon followed Glenn’s gaze, nodding thoughtfully.

‘The Holy Sword Alliance is obsessed with swords, while the Black Tower is fixated on magic and artifacts.’

Given their respective interests, a trade meeting made the most sense.

“Your mission is to raid the transaction site, steal the swords and artifacts, and eliminate the Sword Master and the Floor Master.”

Glenn’s brow furrowed, acknowledging the difficulty of dealing with two powerful factions simultaneously.

“Can you do it?”

“I will.”

Raon met Glenn’s steely gaze with a calm smile.

“The more difficult, the more rewarding.”

Though it was undeniably a challenging mission, it was an ideal opportunity to test the might of both himself and the Light Wind Division.

-Ugh, you’re such a lunatic….

Wrath shuddered as if exhausted by Raon’s enthusiasm.

-Your subordinates are pitiful! Someday, this king will rescue them!

The spirit dramatically raised his hand as though making a solemn vow.

“Where is the location?”

Ignoring Wrath, Raon stepped closer to Glenn.

“The outlaw territory of Holam, located to the southwest. However, the exact timing is uncertain.”

Glenn frowned, advising Raon to prepare for an extended wait at the site.

“The leader of the Shadow Agents will visit the Light Wind Division tomorrow to provide detailed information.”

“I understand.”

Raon nodded, mentally reviewing the information Glenn had just provided.

“Now, let’s begin your final lesson.”

Glenn smiled faintly, though his tone carried a note of finality.

“A final lesson… it feels a bit regretful.”

Raon exhaled softly. These lessons had allowed him to understand the essence of numerous sword techniques. Knowing this was the last brought an unexpected heaviness.

“Ahem!”

Glenn cleared his throat, his ears reddening slightly.

‘Does this mean he enjoys spending time with me?’

Hearing his grandson express regret over the lesson ending sent Glenn’s heart racing. His face grew warm, and he struggled to contain his rising emotions.

Suppressing his trembling lips, he forced himself to maintain composure.

“If you perform well and earn merit, there’s no reason I can’t continue teaching you.”

He turned his gaze aside, his voice slightly strained.

“I’ll do my best.”

Raon nodded firmly, pressing his hand against his chest.

“Hmm.”

Glenn bit his lip as he looked at Raon again. His grandson was a complete package—strength, personality, character, and even appearance reminiscent of himself. There was nothing lacking. Even though Glenn hadn’t eaten dinner, he felt full.

However, to ensure Raon’s proper growth, it was now time to get serious.

“Let’s begin today’s lesson.”

Taking a deep breath to cool his excitement, Glenn’s smile faded, replaced by a sharp intensity.

“The final lesson always comes with a test.”

His expression grew cold as he raised the Heavenly Drive.

“Show me everything you’ve learned and built up so far.”

Glenn’s voice was dry, his sword lifted as though daring Raon to prove himself.

Raon swallowed hard and stepped back.

‘Everything…’

It seemed Glenn wanted him to showcase his entire repertoire, unlike his sparring sessions with Rimer.

‘There’s only one way.’

‘Sword Field Creation – Genesis Blade.’

Raon knew that the only way to respond to Glenn’s challenge was to grow through his culmination of swordsmanship.

-You’re correct.

Wrath watched Glenn intently, a strange longing in his voice.

-That old man wants to feel the full extent of your abilities.

Wrath’s voice held a peculiar mix of envy and admiration.

‘I understand.’

Raon inhaled deeply, stepping into position before Glenn.

The Ring of Fire within him resonated to its peak, heightening his concentration. It felt as though Glenn Zieghart was the only existence in the world, the sky fading away, the earth sinking, and time itself slowing to a crawl.

Before him stood the pinnacle of martial arts.

“Sword Field Creation – Genesis Blade.”

As if uttering a sacred incantation, Raon swung the Heavenly Drive. The silver blade cleaved the air between heaven and earth, drawing upon the full extent of his swordsmanship and techniques honed in the realm of his mind.

*Shiiiiing!*

As pure and dark forces clashed, light and shadow intertwined. The energy within the Heavenly Drive didn’t waver but grew stronger, erupting into a brilliant, golden glow.

*Rumble!*

An endless, colossal strike rippled outward, twisting the earth and collapsing the walls of the training ground.

*Boom!*

The Heavenly Drive trembled under the weight of Glenn’s blade, but the elder’s stern expression melted into a smile of approval.

“Your path isn’t straightforward, but it’s the right one.”

Glenn twisted his wrist, causing Raon’s attack to soar like a dragon, illuminating the dawn sky with faint violet hues.

*Haaah…*

Raon collapsed to his knees, exhaling heavily. He had poured everything he had into the strike and could no longer stand.

‘Have I changed…?’

He had thought his growth was negligible, but the sheer power of his technique had exceeded his expectations. If he had used this during his sparring with Rimmer, the elf would’ve been gravely injured.

“Excellent.”

Glenn shook off the trembling Heavenly Drive and smiled.

“Your mastery of swordsmanship is exceptional. Even a transcendent would struggle to defeat you in swordsmanship alone.”

He nodded approvingly, his satisfaction evident.

“Ah…”

“The efforts you’ve made, as natural as breathing, have built a solid foundation in both your body and soul. When you ascend to transcendence, it will all erupt like fireworks. So don’t rush.”

Glenn’s voice was gentle as he offered reassurance.

“The test…?”

“You’ve passed, of course. You may leave now.”

He clapped Raon’s shoulder and entrusted the Light Wind Division to him before departing.

Raon bit his lip and nodded. To have his swordsmanship acknowledged by Glenn brought him more joy than receiving any reward.

He could feel his heart pounding with exhilaration.

“On the morning of your departure, bring the Light Wind Division to the family head’s hall.”

With those final words, Glenn left the training ground.

*Hoo…*

Raon lay sprawled on the shattered ground, staring up at the sky.

“This is fun.”

Having someone capable of receiving his all was a rare and exhilarating experience. He couldn’t help but smile.

-Next time…

Wrath hopped onto Raon’s shoulder, his round eyes glimmering.

-I’ll be the one to face your sword manifestation. (T/N : Someone’s jelly!! lol)

‘What?’

-Your sword technique! Next time, I’ll take it head-on!

Wrath gestured dramatically as though issuing a formal challenge.

‘Why the sudden change?’

-Because of something you said before… among other things.

Wrath turned his gaze away awkwardly, trying to hide his embarrassment.

‘I don’t know why, but I’m not eating a midnight snack.’

-It’s not about food!

Wrath grabbed Raon by the collar, shouting indignantly.

—

“You’ve been summoned by the Shadow Agents leader.”

The council leader, Chad, ascended the platform with heavy steps. He met the gazes of the swordsmen brimming with intensity and bowed his head.

“This mission is a dangerous one: intercepting a trade between the Holy Sword Alliance and the Black Tower to eliminate both factions. The location is the outlaw territory of Holam…”

Chad elaborated on the mission’s details while flipping through documents.

“Holam, true to its reputation as an outlaw territory, has no established security and is open on all sides, allowing for easy escape. If you fail to act during the trade itself, your targets may slip away, so be thoroughly prepared. Additionally, the area is controlled by local overlords, so caution is advised.”

After outlining the potential pitfalls, Chad stepped back.

“May the Light Wind Division find success in this mission.”

“Thank you for coming all this way.”

Raon hid his probing gaze and bowed respectfully to Chad.

“Holy Sword Alliance and Black Tower?”

“Are we taking on both at once?”

“…This won’t be easy.”

Even the usually confident swordsmen felt a palpable tension at the thought of confronting two major powers simultaneously.

*Clap!*

Raon stood before them, clapping loudly. The idle chatter ceased immediately, and the swordsmen straightened, their eyes fixed on him.

“As you’ve all heard, this mission won’t be easy. We must eliminate both the Holy Sword Alliance and the Black Tower forces and seize their goods. The risks are obvious, and our plan and execution must be flawless. If the unit doesn’t move like a perfectly synchronized machine, failure is inevitable.”

“Ugh…”

Dorian swallowed hard, his eyes darting nervously.

“But!”

Raon’s voice sharpened as he gripped the hilt of the Heavenly Drive.

“This mission was given to the Light Wind Division directly by the family head. It means he trusts us.”

At the mention of Glenn’s trust, the swordsmen’s eyes gleamed fiercely, like sharpened blades ready for battle.

“This is our chance to unleash everything we’ve built. It’s time to show that the Light Wind Division is the strongest combat unit on the continent!”

Raon unsheathed the Heavenly Drive and pointed it skyward.

*Chiiiing!*

The swordsmen, as if waiting for this moment, drew their swords in unison and raised them high.

Over thirty blades shone brightly, their combined energy forming a massive sword that seemed to pierce the heavens.

“Woah!”

Chad, standing at the back, let out an involuntary gasp at the overwhelming sight of the entire division’s power.

‘Unbelievable….’

Though he had heard rumors that most of the Light Wind Division had reached the Master level, seeing it firsthand left him speechless.

Raon’s claim that the Light Wind Division was the strongest was no exaggeration.

‘I made the right choice aligning with them!’

The Shadow Agents leader rubbed his hands together, his eyes gleaming as he stared at Raon’s imposing back.

‘My life is set!’

—

The next morning, before heading to meet Glenn, Raon practiced the Mystic Soul Sword by the lake behind the annex.

As expected of an advanced sword technique, the more he practiced, the more facets it revealed. Its refined rhythm brought him peace, and he found himself focusing intently on it these days.

*Kyahhh!*

After finishing the final form of the technique, he turned to see Sylvia standing there, holding a tray with a dazed expression.

“Mother?”

“Ah! I’m… sorry.”

Sylvia snapped out of her thoughts, lightly patting her cheeks as if to shake off her daze.

“Is something wrong?”

“…No, not at all.”

Sylvia shook her head and held out the tray she was carrying.

“I prepared this so you won’t go hungry on your mission.”

She offered him freshly made toast, still steaming, and urged him to eat it before it cooled.

But her unsettled demeanor didn’t escape Raon’s notice. She was clearly worried, likely because she had learned about the mission’s nature.

“Don’t worry too much.”

Raon smiled as he accepted the toast.

“No matter who the opponent is, I don’t think we’ll lose.”

“…I see.”

Sylvia returned his smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes.

“Be safe and come back.”

She turned and walked back toward the annex, her steps slow and heavy.

-Her smile is fake.

Wrath, too, noticed Sylvia’s unease and furrowed his brows.

‘I agree.’

Raon took a bite of the toast.

-No, it isn’t! This crunchy, savory toast tells me she’s perfectly fine!

Wrath dismissed the concern, raising his arms dramatically.

-Top-grade ham, top-grade cheese! This is the taste of a mother’s love!

Wrath grinned, claiming Sylvia’s cooking carried the flavor of wealth.

“Hmm…”

Raon finished the remaining toast in one bite and licked his lips.

‘I’ll ask her about it after the mission.’

Though he was worried, there was no time to dwell on it now.

Raon brushed the crumbs from his hands and headed toward the family head’s hall to report their departure.

—

“Raon Zieghart, leader of the Light Wind Division, pledges to complete the mission and return.”

Raon and the division knelt in the hall, bowing deeply before Glenn.

“Mm!”

Glenn looked over the Light Wind Division with satisfaction, a faint smile on his lips.

‘They’re all exemplary.’

There was no trace of inexperience among them. Every one of them exuded the aura of seasoned veterans, and Glenn found no reason to worry about the perilous mission.

But that wasn’t the only reason he had summoned the division.

‘Raon.’

As this was his grandson’s first mission as a direct descendant, Glenn wanted to offer encouragement before the division departed.

“Ahem. So, uh…”

Just as Glenn prepared to deliver the advice he had rehearsed for two days, Balder, the Lord of the True Martial Palace, stepped forward.

“You’ve grown so much since I last saw you!”

Balder nodded approvingly, his expression brimming with pride.

“With your strength now, you could bend any opponent to your will! Just watch out for those Black Tower scoundrels—they always fight dirty!”

“Understood.”

Raon bowed respectfully to Balder, the first to offer advice.

“Good! When you return, let’s have a drink together!”

Balder laughed heartily, mimicking the motion of raising a glass.

“Hmm…”

Glenn’s brow furrowed deeply.

‘That damned fool….’

The first words of advice were supposed to be his. Yet his boorish son had barged in and ruined everything.

‘No, it’s fine.’

Balder’s words were more like casual remarks than formal advice. It wasn’t worth stressing over.

“Hoo…”

After taking a deep breath, Glenn was about to speak when Karoon, Lord of the Central Martial Palace, raised his chin.

“You’re undoubtedly strong. Confident, even. But don’t let that confidence turn into complacency.”

Unlike Balder, Karoon’s tone was serious as he addressed the division.

“When on a mission, treat every opponent, even a rabbit, as if it were a lion. Give your all in every moment.”

“Thank you for your guidance.”

Raon met Karoon’s gaze briefly before bowing again.

*Thud.*

Glenn smacked his forehead with his palm. Both his sons had stolen the spotlight, leaving his carefully prepared advice to dissolve into nothingness.

“J-Just… go.”

In the end, Glenn could only wave them off weakly.

“Phew…”

Rimmer shook his head, understanding the situation perfectly.

“Yes, we will all return safely.”

Raon saluted before leading the Light Wind Division out of the hall.

—

“Where are you two going?”

Just as Balder and Karoon were about to leave as well, the hall doors slammed shut with a deafening *boom.*

Glenn’s eyes burned like molten fire, his voice as cold as ice.

“You two are staying.”