Chaos Carrier With A Broken Talent

For the Carriers from the Hail of Swords, the ultimate goal was to face the Lost Knight, experience his skill firsthand, and perhaps learn something.

But Sera and Kael had come here for one thing only — the reward. Aime was also on that list, but she had already accomplished her main goal, the cross-pendant was clutched tightly in her hand.

Now, they had the opportunity to see what they wanted.

Dozens of light pillars burst out of the cracked ground, revealing the treasures hidden deep beneath the Desolate Meadow, under the watchful eye of the Lost Knight.

Could anyone take these treasures without his permission?

Sure, but to do so, the Carrier must be significantly stronger than the Lost Knight.

There were such people in Orsire and in the Hail of Swords, but as in the case of the repeat run of the Thunder of Four Howls, it made no sense for them.

The First Rank Carriers came here, which meant that the rewards at the end of the journey were of a matching level.

Sera's eyes flashed.

Several artifacts, more than a dozen products, various essences, and even one soul stone hovered above the ground in rays of light.

Ethan's gaze immediately caught on something unfamiliar to him — a strange object resembling two triangles overlapping each other, which ultimately formed a six-pointed star. Lines ran from the corners, while the edges trembled along with the pulsations floating around, creating an experience of something magical yet scientific.

It was a Formation. A rare thing that could only be needed by the Carriers who obtained at least one Ring. Ethan almost reached this stage, he had only one step left to take, and that was the problem.

'I don't know what this thing is, but it's not what I should be thinking about right now. Where are the elements?!'

Ethan didn't know what the rewards would be at the end of the trial, but he didn't see what he needed.

He didn't know what the Element Spark looked like, but he knew that if there was one here, he would feel it immediately. There was no doubt about that.

'Shit, so the Element Spark is actually with the Lost Knight? But it's impossible to defeat him! What's more, I don't see a single speck of darkness around him, only light!'

Despite reaching the final stage and learning a lot of new things, Ethan still hadn't found the answers to his questions.

At the same time, Klaus glanced around.

His eyes widened at the multitude of awards.

Among the treasures were also a few ordinary items that had no energy or special purpose, but they were rare examples that could be sold to any merchant for a fortune.

This was the Lost Knight's option of last resort. If none of the more valuable items suited the participant, they could receive money, which played an important role in this world.

"I can choose anything I want?" Klaus gulped.

The Lost Knight nodded.

"Sure. And, thanks to your friend who gave you a second chance, you can choose two rewards since you won." He turned to Loena. "This girl, on the other hand, will get nothing. The bitterness of defeat and experience are the best rewards for the loser."

Like everyone else, Klaus wanted a reward, but he didn't think the moment would come so soon.

Among the artifacts were not only weapons, but also various gear and jewelry. Naturally, there were various swords at the base, hovering around Klaus as if he were in paradise.

During his life at Cronwhold, he saw many amazing swords, both simple ones forged by blacksmiths and ancient artifacts.

Klaus did not need to rush. He could take as much time as he needed.

Still, he quickly made his choice.

"That one."

Klaus pointed to a sword with a blue, smooth blade that exuded a captivating coldness. It was the only one of its kind in the entire collection of the Lost Knight.

"Alright, I didn't expect you to decide so quickly, but it's your right. What else? You're entitled to two rewards, don't forget."

Strangely enough, his next choice was even quicker than the first.

He pointed to a stone seal with an image of a sword surrounded by four lightning bolts.

It was one of the items that had no active use as an artifact or product. He could sell this seal for good money, but he didn't need it for such a purpose.

The Seal of Four Howls was one of the things that could practically guarantee Klaus's participation in the tournament a year from now.

"Hahaha, good choice." The Lost Knight chuckled. He knew why Klaus took that seal, it was obvious.

Klaus received his rewards, dragged Loena out of the arena despite his wounds, and approached Ethan.

"Thank you... When I have the chance, I'll repay you. This shard, the second chance you gave me, it changed everything."

In response, Ethan smiled and nodded toward Loena, who was unconscious.

"Fine, I'll wait, but not too long. Also, I advise you to resolve your conflict. Something tells me she's not as cruel as she wants to appear."

"Nah." Klaus shook his head. "What you saw was the real her. In fact, Loena was holding back, she's usually much tougher. Just... She's a little different with me."

Klaus said nothing more and simply stepped aside. It was his turn to rest after the ordeal.

Everyone understood what he was talking about, but that was his and Loena's personal problem.

"Finally!" Sera stepped forward, holding her bell. "I can fight you, right?"

"Sure." The Lost Knight nodded. "But without defeating another participant, you can only choose one reward."

Sera shrugged.

"That will be enough. I know what I want."

"In that case, go on."

Flames surrounded Sera as she rang the bell.

…

About half an hour passed in this manner. Everyone fought against the Lost Knight, even Aime, who seemed to be a poor fighter.

None of them failed by the Lost Knight's standards. He didn't need their victory, but their desire and the fire in their eyes to continue no matter what.

In the end, only one participant remained.

The Lost Knight slowly raised his hand, pointing his sword at the figure in front of him.

"You can't delay this moment any longer, young man. Ring the bell."

Ethan glanced at the bell and nodded weakly.

"Alright, but my request for a reward will be special."

The Lost Knight shrugged.

"First, prove that you are worthy."