Speech and Departure

On the distant horizon, a faint tinge of dawn broke through the sky.

Thin morning mist filled the air, carried by a chilly autumn breeze that felt like a splash of cold water on one's face, instantly sharpening their senses.

On the spacious square capable of accommodating thousands, three hundred knights stood tall, their spines rigid. Though no words were spoken, the silence they exuded was even more intimidating, akin to the calm before a storm.

They were no longer the disheveled figures they had been before. In order to show their sincerity, the duke had spared no expense in outfitting them with the finest armor and weaponry. With just this equipment, they could easily defeat opponents twice their number.

Amid the silence solemness, sudden footsteps echoed—clear and distinct, prompting everyone to turn towards the sound.

Facing the collective gaze, Arkhan walked forward with a calm expression.

Unlike his usual appearance, he now wore a silvery suit of armor, with a golden-edged cape draped over his back and a gleaming golden sword at his waist. He was radiant and poised, exuding a majestic aura.

This set of equipment had also been sponsored by the duke and was rumored to have been crafted by a group of legendary mages.

Whether it was the armor or the cape, both bore ancient magecraft, rendering them exceptionally defensive. Among all the treasures in the House of Lucan's collection, this set ranked among the finest. Yet, for Arkhan, it probably wasn't as robust as his own body.

There was only one reason he was drawn to this suit of armor—it looked cool!

Having played numerous games in a past life, he had a profound understanding—strength was only temporary, but looking cool was an eternal truth!

For this, he had endured plenty of taunts from Nidhogg.

Artoria and Guinevere followed silently behind him.

Lancelot, Bedivere, Kay, and Merlin would stay in Lucanmont, primarily to guard against possible beast tide.

Initially, Arkhan had intended to have Artoria stay as well, but she insisted on accompanying him and saying excuses like—"The primary duty of knights is to safeguard their lord."

Guinevere had also taken some strange medicine it seems. Even though she had been terrified by the sight of the demon boar's corpse, she was determined to be by his side on the battlefield this time.

Unable to argue with these two sisters of his, Arkhan had no choice but to bring them along.

The silver armor clanged crisply as Arkhan ascended the platform. He swept his gaze across the faces of the assembled three hundred knights, and then he spoke with a solemn tone.

"Since the withdrawal of the Roman forces from the British Isles, our late King Uther led us through 182 battles, large and small, without a single defeat, establishing the legendary invincibility of Camelot."

In the eyes of many knights, a look of nostalgia appeared. Though they hadn't experienced that era themselves, the prideful accounts of their elders vividly conveyed the glory of those radiant times.

"Unfortunately, fifteen years ago, King Uther suffered his first and final defeat. His brother Vortigern betrayed Camelot, betrayed Britain, and allowed the Anglo-Saxons to invade our homeland. Naturally, King Uther could not allow these lands to be taken by outsiders, so he led his forces north and engaged in a decisive battle at Hadrian's Wall."

Arkhan's voice grew somber.

"But in that battle, we were defeated."

The knights lowered their heads, their clenched fists creaking.

Artoria and Guinevere's expressions also darkened.

"Since then, Camelot has not initiated any wars for the past fifteen years. We've been on the defensive."

"But now, I have drawn the sword from the stone, Caliburn, and become the Chosen King of Camelot. This lion, which has slumbered for fifteen years, must now open its eyes and bare its fangs to the enemy!"

Arkhan pulled Caliburn with a resounding clang, pointing it towards the sky. His voice suddenly grew louder.

"You, my noble knights, embody the very hope that pulsates through the veins of Camelot's future. Through mountains that touch the heavens and rivers that whisper ancient tales, you have forged your path, battling fierce adversaries in the very lairs of wyverns. In the crucible of adversity, you stand as the epitome of bravery, bound not only by duty but by the unbreakable ties of camaraderie!"

"I once proclaimed that upon conquering the trial, you would become true knights. Now, you are on the verge of that goal, and the only thing you lack is the knight's glory!"

"I am aware that a multitude among you tread the path of my leadership, driven by the fervor to carve a legacy, to etch your names in the annals of glory. Therefore, at this moment, I bestow upon you the entirety of this endeavor. It is now in your capable hands to seize this opportunity and forge your destinies!"

"This marks my first war and Camelot's resurgence after a decade and a half. You bear not just my aspirations but also the collective expectations of millions who call Camelot home. The outcome of this war will ascertain if Camelot can reclaim its past grandeur and once again be hailed as the 'Unbeatable'!"

"Therefore, in this war, only victory is permitted, no defeat!"

""Only victory, no defeat!""

""Only victory, no defeat!""

""Only victory, no defeat!""

The three hundred knights yelled with fervor as they raised their weapons high. Their eyes burning with determination, the atmosphere resembling a thunderous crescendo.

Arkhan descended from the platform, mounted a hybrid warhorse prepared on the side, and scanned the resolute faces of his knights.

He raised Caliburn high above his head, the golden blade shimmering brilliantly in the morning sun.

"Follow me, my knights!"

===

On the city wall, Kay, Lancelot, and Bedivere watched the receding cavalry with a shared look of admiration in their eyes.

"Such a noble pursuit, chasing justice and ideals, that's what everyone should aspire to..." Lancelot sighed.

"Ugh, it's so annoying! Why did he agree to take Lily and Guinevere but not me? They went to ask, and they got permission. I asked, and all I got was a fat smack! It's so unfair!" Kay clutched his hair, frustrated.

"Sir Kay, His Majesty has his reasons for making these decisions. Even though you are His Majesty's student, please refrain from criticizing him behind his back. It might make me angry." Bedivere said, his emerald eyes fixed on Kay, speaking earnestly.

Kay pursed his lips and then suddenly brightened. "Oh, I get it! It must be because he thinks I'm not mature enough, so he won't take me along. As long as I can pass the path of trial and prove my strength to him, he'll definitely agree!"

"Hehe, youthful enthusiasm, as expected~"

A familiar voice chuckled from behind and Merlin emerged from the rain of flowers, grinning mischievously.

"Just remember, you should be grateful you didn't go this time~"

"What do you mean by that?" Kay responded dissatisfiedly at the incubus.

"Nothing~ just consider it my ramblings."

Merlin approached the wall's edge, gazing at the vanishing cavalry in the distance as a sly smile played on his lips.