Gacha Kingdom Building

---This Chapter is written in Elizabeth's POV---

An unstoppable bombardment... My opponent this time is quite leisurely with the way they use their mana...

But it's interesting... She's able to use the shadows created by her own attacks to hide and move, creating new angles and surprising me with that incredibly fast magic of hers.

It's a shame, but it seems like I'll need to focus on this battle.

Even though her first attack caught me off-guard and I wasn't actively reinforcing or repairing my barriers, it doesn't change the fact that she managed to get past them.

I've been able to block the last few ones, especially the mass-produced array of light attacks she is drawing from the sphere behind her, but I'm not confident I'll be able to completely evade damage from solid magic if she were to prepare a few chantings.

Thankfully Miwen figured out how to circumvent her Gift's effects quite quickly...

If it comes down to it, I can destroy most of my body and regenerate myself from what is left.

Still, being left in such a precarious situation could be dangerous, so I'll only do it as a last resort.

More importantly... The giant sphere behind her...

It's clear that she controls it, but... That amount of mana is much more than someone of her level should be able to handle.

There must be a mechanism that facilitates her control over it, or a way she can draw mana from it seeing as her own reservoir is not decreasing even after launching hundreds of light rays and dark spikes at me.

These tricky attacks... The shadow cast by the light rays gives her a lot of advantages in this fight.

Since she's the only one who knows where and in which direction they'll be cast, she can predict and control the shadows on the battlefield, facilitating her own magic and movement, and making it hard for me to draw from the natural forces of the environment since if I were to compete over the shadows created by her magic, I'd always be a step behind.

One of the biggest weaknesses of [Light Magic] is their power. A lot of mana is needed to make it an effective element for attack. Since this doesn't seem to be a problem for her, this battle showcases how powerful this element can actually be at higher levels.

Every attack comes with incredible speed. If not for me being able to sense the mana flow before the attack is launched and having [Lightning Magic] to quickly counterattack her, I'd be left reactionless and fully dependent on my barriers.

I've tried fighting with [Wind Magic] for a while but... If I do, I'm not able to properly keep up with her.

And if her mastery over light wasn't enough, her prowess with [Dark Magic] is pretty much the same.

Keeping track of shadows during such a fight is pretty much impossible. If she was only able to use this element, it would be one thing, but I have to pay close attention to all of her attacks to react, so I'm almost always open to a more powerful magic cast from a blindspot.

Considering the opposing nature of the two elements, it's praiseworthy that she can combine them so effectively.

After reaching a satisfactory level of [Light Magic] where it can be effectively used as offensive magic, it should be fairly reasonable for one to rely only on it since it's quite a self-sufficient element.

Although she lacks a direct enhancer to her [Dark Magic] like she has the sphere for the light attacks, it's pretty clear that she has not neglected her training in any of the elements she possesses.

Elizabeth: "So this is the peak of power in this world? It's not so impressive..."

Nissa: "Provoking me? You must be quite confident in the small-level gap between us. However... As long as I have this, you'll not be able to win-"

It took me only an instant to concentrate various lightning attacks into a single small sphere that then shot a beam of lightning in her direction, cutting her arm away.

Elizabeth: "Now we are even."

She's been getting too comfortable on the offensive, neglecting to defend herself properly.

She must think that as long as the speed of her magic is superior, it won't be a problem to focus on defense when needed, but...

Albeit not as fast, my lightning can get pretty close to her light attacks.

And since I'm more powerful, a half-heartedly prepared barrier won't cut it for her.

Of course, this was mostly a warning shot. A small revenge for what she did before. I didn't want to end this before seeing what else she had to offer, so I purposefully aimed at her arm.

Considering what she had shown me with her [Light Magic], I was pretty sure that a wound like this would quickly be healed.

Interestingly, it took her longer than I expected, but she managed to pull it off.

She must not be used to being injured...

Judging by her healing powers, she must not be a saint, as I initially thought.

I should be more careful...

Nissa: "...What is the nature of your pact with the boy? Why would you protect them?"

I could feel her influence over my soul for a while now. Searching indiscriminately.

It started even before I came to this place. Without a doubt, she was also doing the same to him.

This application of [Light Magic] is not news to me, however, for her to use it... It's a little strange.

Elizabeth: "There are two different pacts between us. One connects our souls, in a system of equals where he can do with mine as he pleases, while I can do the same to his. As for the second... I'm currently a humble servant of his."

It must be frustrating for her to hear this since she probably can't confirm the effects of Miwen's Gift and has no choice but to listen to my words.

My honesty seemingly was wasted, as it didn't look like she believed me.

Elizabeth: "As for protecting them..."

...That doesn't sound right.

I was afraid of the effects that linking our souls could have on me due to the nature of the charm that took root in his soul, as well as his... predisposition for love.

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There was a chance that this could affect how I feel about him...

However, such worries were misplaced. I've yet to notice any particular change in either of us.

While I'd willingly fight impossible odds if he ordered me to, that's simply a matter of my own pride.

Whatever position I find myself in, I shall do my best to deliver the most excellent results.

As soon as I decided to remain in his Kingdom, looking forward to the path his reign takes and where he'll stand by the end of his journey, I was bound to take such risks. This was settled even before our contract was established.

However, I also believe it to be my duty to pave the best possible road for him, and in this situation... He was about to make a mistake.

It's to be expected since as he proclaims, he is no machine. His feelings do interfere with his judgment.

Elizabeth: "I'm interested in acquiring more powerful subordinates, and I think you'd be a great addition. But sadly, it seems like you have incurred our king's wrath. Were I to fight by his side, not only would I lose the opportunity to measure your worth but I'd also become nothing more than another tool in his arsenal as he hunts you."

Since I respect the hierarchy, I wouldn't normally complain about such a thing.

But this case is a little special.

Subjugating this woman is more profitable than killing her, but I don't believe I can fight her and convince him at the same time.

In this case, where our objectives clash, he'll undoubtedly use me as a step stool to reach his.

A behavior I'd approve, if not for the fact that I'd be the tool in question.

Going against him when he's this decided would be the same as facing a bottomless abyss. It's a meaningless task that I'd never be able to achieve anything through.

But I still believe it's my duty within the position he gave me to help him achieve the best outcome, even if it may conflict with his vision, I should at least be able to guarantee that he can make the decision.

And I'm living proof that he can be forgiving if given enough time, so no matter what she has done, it might not be too late.

Nissa: "Nonsense. For someone like him, even damaging me is but a pipe dream."

Elizabeth: "Oh... Are you judging him by his level?"

What a grave mistake.

Especially considering Cassandra's presence... If he allows her full control, even I might-

A small trace of mana pierced my barriers. It was highly concentrated and hidden within multiple layers of [Dark Magic]...

Judging by how fast it came, it was probably a spell prepared beforehand or one she has quite a lot of experience using.

As for the effects... I couldn't feel anything.

In the most literal sense.

The giant sphere of light that was almost blinding was nowhere to be seen. Instead, only darkness filled my eyes.

I couldn't hear a word from her anymore, and even though I was trying to speak, I was unsure if any words were leaving my mouth either, as I couldn't even feel my tongue or lips moving.

As expected, she had yet to show me everything in her arsenal.

My barriers were under bombardment from multiple sides, and one by one, they were cracking... breaking...

Her mana output was similar to mine, but by concentrating her power, she was slowly gaining the upper hand and my repairs were falling behind.

It was already hard to react to her attacks in time before, but now, it was simply impossible.

A curse that takes away all physical senses...

It was certainly interesting, but...

She wasn't able to take my mana sense.

By releasing some mana into the air, I was able to feel where the attacks were coming from and where she was aiming, which allowed me to reinforce the barriers and counter her attempt.

With my mana dispersed like this, I was actually able to react even faster than before.

I could tell she was frustrated by this as the intensity of the attacks increased so much that she would fail to properly guide them towards a single spot like she was doing before.

And so, wanting to see her reaction for myself, I decided it was time to undo the curse affecting me. It was simply too annoying to fight like this for an extended period.

Undoing the curse was quite a simple task, really.

She didn't have time to prepare much. In order to be quick and powerful, she had to sacrifice complexity. The curse itself didn't take deep roots, and with it being so superficial, I was able to analyze it pretty fast, figuring out how it worked and what it did to restrain my senses.

Once I took control of the system behind it, I just had to deactivate it. With that, I regained my vision...

Elizabeth: "I see you've not been sitting idly."

Nissa: "...The Cage of Misset."

Elizabeth: "...Ouch."

I had sensed another spell being cast but... a binding one was surprising.

Even a single touch of the light spears that surrounded me was enough to burn my fingers.

The cage started to tighten itself, the spear walls approaching me ever so slightly... Their power was also increasing constantly.

Nissa: "This is the end, demon."

Elizabeth: "Don't say that. If it was truly the case, I'd be disappointed."

Nissa: "...?"

Elizabeth: "Black Dimension."

Pitch-black walls form around me from all sides, from an outside perspective, I was just enveloped by a black cube.

Inside this cube, all spells of [Dark Magi] have their power increased. On the other hand, all other elements lose their effectiveness.

The more mana spent on this spell, the bigger and stronger it grows. Eventually, the entire area underground is within my Black Dimension, and the once menacing spears surrounding me are absorbed into the darkness, never to be seen again.

Nissa: "...With an incomplete chant?"

It seems like she wasted quite some time chanting hers... She must be starting to realize the difference between us, but...

As a matter of fact, I don't even need an incomplete chant to cast this spell, as I have it completely mastered.

Sadly, I must be careful when escalating, as I don't want her to break before showing me everything she's got.

Elizabeth: "This is not all, you know?"

Nissa: "...!? What are you doing!?"

Elizabeth: "I just felt like you were a little too reliant on this..."

Once I extended the Black Dimension, I was able to mask my mana within it and created an illusion strong enough to convince her that I was still in the same place.

With this, I got close enough to her [Light Magic] sphere to analyze it.

As expected, this is constantly receiving mana from multiple sources. A very sophisticated system is draining small amounts from a few different sources whenever the sphere's mana reaches a certain level.

I was also able to confirm that it wasn't only being used for our battle. It's probably feeding mana to a few items that are used to keep the city in the air...

Many talented people seem to have worked hard to make this work...

I shouldn't play around with it too much, or else I'd risk the lives of everyone in the city, but...

Taking control of just enough should be fun.

Elizabeth: "You seem upset... Here, you can have it back."

The sphere that had its color changed to black, completely taken by darkness was now shining a deep purple as it released thunder in all directions.

Nissa: "You're kidding... That's too much..."

How disheartening. Her face showed she was in utter disbelief as she scrambled for an answer.

Well, taking control of this much mana should indeed be impossible for anyone in this world without a proper system, however... During my war against the Gods, I'd use more than this in a single spell.

Handling this much is child's play to me.

Elizabeth: "Before your death, may I ask... Why did you start this fight? You didn't stand to gain anything from killing the kids."

Nissa: "...Because I saw his pact with a demon. It shouldn't have been possible. The demons of this land were all killed centuries ago, and they haven't been allowed to enter from other worlds ever since. I made sure of that."

Oh...

How steadfast.

But it does make me wonder...

Elizabeth: "...Why? As a [Dark Magic] user, I'd expect you to be a little more-"

Nissa: "I had a revelation once... Two Calamities would befall this continent, destroying most of it. One of them was a dragon... By establishing this city with other masters and fighting together with the Snow White Wolves, we've managed to drive it away... But the other... was a demon.

I thought you were using the boy... but... one of the names he mentioned... I saw a dragon in it..."

A prophecy...

She seems convinced. It's probably not her first, and she might've gotten a few right during her life...

However, no mortal being can guarantee fate. Even in The Caravan such an ability doesn't exist. Even miracles caused by Divinity cannot always guarantee the future.

The only ones who might be able to do such a thing are the ones responsible for destiny in the first place.

But they are not the type to meddle.

Although...

Miwen seems to be able to tell Isabella's future through his device. It's not perfect since it shows him many possibilities, but still...

Hm...

Is there a different logic or power operating in this world?

Or at least upon its people?

But even something like that... I can't imagine a nobody being capable of doing something like this... And what would be their reason in the first place...?

Well, in any case...

Elizabeth: "You gave me a lot to think about... As thanks, I'll give you the opportunity of a lifetime. Join us and I'll spare you."

Nissa: "I'd rather die."

Elizabeth: "So be it."

I gave her enough time and listened to her whole speech while pretending not to notice how much mana she had used.

Almost her entire reservoir seems to have been drained, and she used her strongest spell yet.

A combination of both light and dark magic was carefully chanted in a low voice.

The two elements graciously spin around each other as she holds drops of light and dark in her hands...

I didn't bother to prepare anything grandiose myself, aside from imbuing my lightning element to it, so she had beaten me in complexity by many leagues.

However, it clearly wasn't enough to make up for the sheer difference in mana.

Once our magic crashed, hers was instantly destroyed, resulting in a large explosion.

As I slowly landed on the ground, she stood right in front of me, her body trembling.

Elizabeth: "Your Gift wasn't simply the ability to cause an irrecoverable wound. A powerful individual like you was bound to have her abilities tied to their Gift somehow, and so... You are able to devour certain things... Almost like an all-consuming darkness."

Nissa: "..."

Sadly, she revealed her hand a little too early.

Her own mana pool wasn't decreasing at all during our battle.

But the sphere didn't have a system to automatically replenish her mana.

She was feeding off of it, as well as my own.

In essence, she was replicating my Gift through her own.

But it seems like she can't rely on that alone. There seems to be a cooldown, or some kind of restriction for it, seeing as she wasn't able to absorb everything I threw at her.

Elizabeth: "Now... It seems like my king is getting a little worried, so... I'd recommend you get rid of all that mana. It might kill you."

Mana depletion happens when you use all of your mana at once... but there's also a less common situation called Mana Overload.

Most cases happen through badly cast spells that recover more mana than a target's natural pool. Simply the result of inexperienced support mages.

However, like in this case, a few Gifts may also lead to this problem.

It's normally easy to deal with. One just has to exhaust their mana before their body is fried from within.

Of course, depending on the quantity and a person's output, they might not be able to do it as fast as necessary...

Elizabeth: "Should I offer you a second chance? I might be able to help you with-"

Suddenly, a beam of pure mana was launched at me.

The quantity was roughly the same as what I had launched at her... Many times more than her normal output.

Elizabeth: "Oh... Is that my arm? Thanks. I don't think I need it anymore, but I'd like to repair my uniform if possible, so I'll be taking it with me."

While mana by itself is not that dangerous, this quantity and the way it was launched could prove an exception.

Spells like my Black Dimension or the Void Mirror that I chose to use were more than enough to deal with it.

Still, this proved to me that her Gift had two sides.

The first one is the ability to absorb other things, such as my arm, or mana.

The other was the ability to release what was absorbed.

This second side might have a side effect like the first one having the ability to sever connections and prevent one from healing themselves, but...

As it stood, it didn't seem like she had any applications for it aside from saving her own skin this time.

Two opposing forces... As expected, it complements her powers well. She must've carefully crafted her kit to resonate with it.

Nissa: "...Damnit. I can't move now..."

Right.

Quite believable.

Elizabeth: "While I do think it's true to a certain extent, I can feel you gathering mana in your arm... Well, my time ran out, and I have no intention to approach you, so rest assured. You'll live to see another day."

She's a little too devoted to her mission... I gave her so many chances to survive, and yet, she threw herself at me one more time, using her magic to move her body while encasing her fists with blades made of both light and shadows...

I'm not great at physical combat. I never cared for it.

It might've been interesting to see how far she could fare if she had complete control over her body, but this sad attempt wasn't even worth my attention.

Our battle had ended, and I just restrained her with water magic.

Elizabeth: "Oh, but before we part, here's a little gift for you to remember me by."

The only thing I wasn't able to pay her back for... a curse.

Elizabeth: "This is a very cute one. I believe you'll have a lot of fun with it."

I made sure that it was hard to remove, and annoying enough that a woman like her would come after me to dispel it.

When the time comes, I plan to defeat her again, and with the threat of an even worse curse, she should submit in desperation.

Now the difficult part will be... reasoning with Miwen...

But since she's a beautiful woman, I'm confident I can convince him one way or another.