Treatise Of A Failed Knight-Chapter 243: Vermillion Trap Array

"Are you certain you’ll be fine on your own?"

I stare at Kalakuta worriedly as he prepares to embark on a long journey to the Eastern Sects.

Delegates recently brought a letter mentioning how the Freedom Fighters have inspired the Eastern Sects to adopt their ideals and abandon their old ways of governance.

What bullshit.

Even if they wish to leave their old systems behind, it isn’t due to any inspiration.

It’s fear.

Our army terrifies them.

’But this sort of rhetoric is very influential on Kalakuta, who hasn’t still recovered from what he saw back then...’ I sigh deeply, casting the thought aside for a moment.

"What if they are insincere? What if it is a trap?" I ask with a deep frown. "Based on the guest invitation, for both security and diplomatic reasons, you can’t bring too many Freedom Fighters with. That’s very dangerous, especially in enemy territory."

Kalakuta simply smiles as I keep yammering on, his calm expression unnerving me.

"First of all, they aren’t enemies. Not anymore. Not unless I confirm that they were insincere in their letter. Besides, you don’t have to worry about my safety. They didn’t limit the possession of Armaments or anything of the sort. I will be taking a dozen of my most capable men, including Kamal and Garett. We will have enough Shamans and Alchemists to help with Spells and reinforcements in case things go awry. Besides, you haven’t had a Divination that prophesies against today, right?"

"No... I haven’t." I mutter.

"See?"

"I already told you my Divination isn’t perfect. I should come with you at the very least..." I still mumble, my expression displaying more concern and dejection.

"I understand... but you know they specifically requested that you not show up."

"Yeah... very suspicious."

"Or it could be that they are terrified of your power. You’re the one who attacked them, after all."

"Hey, they attacked first!"

"I know... I know..." Kalakuta laughs lightly, rubbing his long hair as his loud voice pierces the air around us.

"What I’m trying to say is that they witnessed your power firsthand, and you killed many of their people, so it isn’t strange that they would not want you to come."

Well, there’s also the fact that I severely tortured those three.

But noe isn’t a good time to bring it up.

"I understand..." I finally raise both hands in defeat, realizing there’s no way Kalakuta will actually take me to the Eastern Sects.

He hasn’t told me directly, but I can tell that he is truly happy about this.

The idea that his actions could actually spark such a change—that an entire Continent would overhaul their long-held traditions because of him is something that likely touches him very deep in his heart.

Of course, Kalakuta is already aware that this could indeed be a trap.

He is no fool.

It’s even why he is taking most members of the War Council, as well as Freedom Fighters whose base combat skills are not inferior to mine.

But beyond such preparations, Kalakuta truly wants to believe this is real.

After all, if it is, then there is a chance that the other Great Nations will follow suit.

This ceremony will mark a new beginning.

A golden dawn of humanity.

The change he has desired from the beginning.

’I’m sure he also wants me present, but the letter was precise about what is allowed and what isn’t. Since he wishes to respect them as a gesture of goodwill, I actually support his leaving me behind.’

Besides, it’s not like I’m idle.

Kalakuta already knows I have to help with the construction of the Great Bridgeworks.

My Magivires are really good at heavy lifting, drastically increasing the efficiency of construction.

Right now, we are done setting up the roads and bridges in the Northern Empire, and construction is taking place in No Man’s Land.

Because of this, it is even more imperative that I control the Magivores so that construction goes smoothly. In fact, most of the current work falls on the Magivores, so not too many construction workers are needed on site.

At this point, funds might actually be our biggest restraints.

But, at least for now, there is no problem

"I intend to give the workers a break during this period to ensure they have enough rest. I can handle constructions alone for now. Once things become delicate again, I’ll involve them."

"Are you sure? You’re not overexerting yourself?" It’s now Kalakuta’s turn to look worried, but I shrug it all aside.

"I am not. Even if I were, this is still a much better deal. We have no idea if or when an emergency might occur. I don’t want the men to be too tired in such a scenario."

"Hmmm... That’s fair."

The two of us talk on a few more matters before the other Freedom Fighter delegates show up, signalling their departure.

All the Freedom Fighters see Kalakuta and the twelve off to the edge of the eastern shores.

We stand still and watch him depart.

Towards the east.

’This is a turning point. A significant occasion. Once it happens, there is no turning back!’ I clench my fist as my eyes become filled with emotion.

’I hope it all goes well. Please return safely, Kalakuta!’

******

Melodious tunes fill the air.

The atmosphere is joyous and electric, even from the shores of the eastern continent.

Women in pure white robes come to greet them upon arrival, each one a stunning beauty with a face as spotless as a doll’s.

These women have no blemishes, with sensational physiques that will tempt any man.

But Kalakuta and his men are unmoved.

They simply express gratitude for the hospitality and move ahead with purpose.

For the first time in their lives, they experience transportation by Flying Swords. On their way through the lands, towards the Moon Orchid City, the most neutral zone where all the Sects plan to gather for the dissolution of the government, the thirteen strangers are told of the history and culture of the eastern people.

It is as though they are on tour.

They learn of the power of Martial Arts and Cultivation Techniques.

They learn of Demonic Beasts and Sacred Treasures. They witness the glory of their incredibly fascinating lore.

It is indeed an enlightening experience.

At some point, Kalaluta begins to wish Javier were present.

After all, it is all so new and exciting.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. All who journey should eventually reach their destination.

Their arrival in Moon Orchid City marks this.

However, it isn’t a sad conclusion, but an exciting new start. Although the cities under the other Sects appear very exciting, the atmosphere in Moon Orchid City feels a lot more vibrant and less stifling.

The lovely aroma in the air, the lively hues, and the variety of people all add to the tapestry of life around.

This... is truly beautiful.

Kalakuta and the twelve eventually make it to the Central Pavilion, exhausted but still full of excitement.

After all, they experienced Flying Swords for the first time and traveled a long distance, visiting all kinds of places throughout the day.

Not only would they be weary from their time spent, but they would also be famished.

It came as a surprise when their tours did not come with meals, but since they were traveling on Flying Swords, filling up the stomach before experiencing such high-speed travel should strike anyone as dangerous.

Thus, they understood.

Besides, all become forgiven once they witness the delectable feast awaiting them in the Grand Pavilion.

All the Sect Masters are present.

They welcome the guests and show them to their seats in the massive courtyard. Palace musicians and dancers come out to entertain everyone, and a toast is given to the path of the future which will be paved in pace.

Everyone cheers.

The Sect Leaders drink their wine.

They encourage all to partake in the sumptuous meals and wholeheartedly enjoy the celebrations.

The feast should begin now.

However—

"Something is wrong with this wine. As an Alchemist, I can tell... this is likely extremely poisonous." Kamal whispers to Kalakuta, a suspicious gaze traveling around him.

It appears the Sect Leaders are unaware of this, and they keep urging everyone to eat and drink.

Could they truly be oblivious?

Is this their scheme?

While contemplating, Garett reveals something even more concerning.

"I have been noticing something has been off for some time now, but I didn’t want to say anything until I was sure. I believe we are surrounded by some kind of large-scale Spell."

"Is that so...?"

At this point, Kalakuta’s frown intensifies.

"What’s wrong, Freedom Fighters."

"Is the food not to your liking, Junior Brother?"

"Are you bored by our entertainment?"

The Sect Leaders begin to ask questions, their voices like endless whispers in the ears.

Kalakuta feels it now.

Something is indeed strange.

The murmurs grow louder and he feels his vision twisting, slowly revealing flaws in the illusory world and he and his allies dwell in.

This isn’t a courtyard.

The pleasant evening sunset isn’t real.

The musicians and dancers aren’t entertainers at all. Everything is a lie.

This... this is undoubtedly a trap.

"What kind of Spell did you use on us?" At this point, Kalakuta rises to his feet and tightens his grip on Pathfinder.

The rest of his comrades also unsheathe their weapons and glare at the faces before them.

"W-what are you talking abou—?"

"I won’t ask again!"

At this point, Kalakuta smashes the table with his massive club, causing the so-called delicious meals and wine to spill over.

Once they do, the sight changes.

The foods appear rotten, infested with all sorts of horrible ingredients and worms. A horrid smell rises from the corrosive liquid that should have been the wine.

All of these things radiate Trace Elements!

"What is the meaning of this...?" Kalakuta growls as he looks at everyone.

Their faces show countless emotions.

Fright.

Shock.

Anxiety.

Hesitance.

Goodwill.

But then—

"Tch! They figured it out already?"

—All of these countenances begin to melt as the surroundings rapidly change.

A crimson sky paints the realm above, while a vast and abandoned field covers the world beneath.

Around Kalaluta and his allies are nine pillars which connect to each other and also shoot into the sky. A crimson barrier also creates an isolated field where they currently occupy, actively trapping them inside.

With the Pillars outside the barrier, and countless armed enemies inside it, the situation quickly becomes obvious.

This is a trap!

"Hehehe... you fools!" The Council Leader chuckles aloud as he stares at Kalakuta and his comrades. "You walked right into your death."

"What is this...?"

Kalakuta mutters, confused by the sudden change in scenery while the Freedom Fighters quickly collect their own thoughts.

The leader of the many Martial Artists who surround them yells out loud.

"Feel the almighty power of our Sect’s Cultivators! This is the Vermillion Trap Array, your burial site!"

[A/N: I hope the sudden switch in tone doesn’t appear too jarring. Apotheosis can be like this, but do not worry. It will all make sense...]