The Threshold of Cruelty: The First Lessons in Breaking the Will:
The training continues by focusing on the limitations of the hostile environment. The intense heat and high pressure of the mountains will impede the flow of normal magical energy. These were the words of Rindo Mutsu. She continued, "This will render one unable to use their usual techniques with the same efficiency. This initial frustration is necessary to break the ego and begin the true process of building strength. Listen carefully, everyone; the training will be at higher levels."
Everyone was instructed to ascend a steep slope under the influence of doubled magical gravity and extremely intense heat.
Ivan: Using Ki with magic will require tremendous effort. I understood what Old Man Jin meant when he spoke of unifying all the senses simultaneously.
Everyone began facing volcanic beasts perfectly adapted to the mountain climate. After a while, the training became significantly more difficult.
Naofumi: What training! My body has changed dramatically, and Ivan and the others are moving with incredible speed. This training is fundamental to the development of my magic; it's suitable for improving both my physical and spiritual abilities. Night fell, and while he slept, Ivan remained awake, gazing at the stars.
Then Castle Cow approached, saying, "I have a chance to speak with you."
Ivan: "You're from the First Division."
Castle: "Your swordsmanship is truly impressive."
Ivan: "You have a unique spirit, and your use of magic and your spear is also amazing."
Castle: It seems we're in for some tough battles, so we're preparing with specialized training.
Morning arrived, and the training continued for a long time in the volcanic mountains. Sometimes they practiced standing on one hand, and other times they sat and used deep concentration.
Rindo said: Well done, everyone. Ten full days have passed, and I've seen a significant change in your magical power. Now, we'll move on to our next destination: the Oriana Empire.
Naofumi looked towards Emilia Rose and said: The Oriana Empire and its king, Dimitri Rose. He's one of the strongest kings, and I also sensed Princess Emilia's intention to attack Ivan with all her might.
Everyone arrived at the empire, where the king and queen greeted them, accompanied by the young prince, Mike Rose.
Apart from the others, Mike went directly to Ivan and said: You're amazing! I followed your fight with the son of the Waturu family. You're his heir. I also use this spear, and I named it Genos. Ivan (to himself): This boy has the eyes of a water god. He doesn't yet understand the power he possesses, but he'll be incredibly strong in the future. Mike Rose told him, "You're a genius."
Mike replied, "I want you to fight me in a training match."
Ivan: "Fine, you got it."
The fight began, with Mike displaying impressive fighting skills that impressed Ivan, who smiled at him for the first time. "Ah, that's right. This reminds me of training with old man Gene."
Suddenly, an attack came towards Ivan. Yes, it was Emilia Rose, saying, "Ivan Moto, I challenge you to a duel."
Everyone was surprised by Emilia's statement.
Ivan looked at her coldly and said, "That's fine, Water Girl. I accept."
Rendo speaks to the king and says, "Do you agree?"
King Dimitri: "And how could I refuse her request!"
A special arena is prepared for them as they prepare to fight.
Naofumi: "I have a bad feeling about this fight."
Castle says, "Princess Emilia is eager to fight Ivan. That's unusual for her."
The queen looks at Ivan, remembering her son Lumière Rose, and says, "Emilia hasn't forgotten the past yet, my child."
Vetsel: "Ivan fights with a sword. I feel a strong urge to fight him too. His swordsmanship is enjoyable, and I won't forget those moves when he taught the son of the Waturu family a great lesson."
Isami: "Emilia Rose is a princess of the Oriana Empire and a user of water magic and an interesting two-sword style, with the eagle spirit she possesses. I understand what you want, Commander Sebastian. Unleashing her demonic power and obtaining it is difficult, and your interest in the Ninth Division member, Ivan Muto, confirms that you are right, Commander." Sebastian Clark: Get to work, Isami. No need for idle chatter. Any information about the location of the First Emperor's body?
Isami: I've checked, Commander. The Emperor's body lies beneath the castle of the Kingdom of Union. I've also received information about a new legendary monster that has appeared between the borders of the Kingdom of Kong and the Kingdom of Astragard.
Sebastian: What kind of monster is it?
Isami replies: The legendary monster Abracasus, the embodiment of the chaos that precedes nothingness.
Sebastian: I see. The same monster that Jacob faced.
The Fourth Member of the Organization, Jacob Clown: Ah, that's right. I saw it when the First Division's Captain, Ryota Tsubaki, and his squad fought against it.
Sebastian: That's enough, Isami.