378. Country of Sakura, Cherin and the Seven Holy Swords [149]

    (What… is this!?)

    Deal should barely be able to stand after taking a direct hit from Dark Shadow.

    (But… why is he giving off such a powerful “pressure”!?)

    I raised my guard more than ever and gripped the black sword tightly.

    The next moment,

    「Rise -〈Hydra〉!」

    Sludge-like purple substance emerged from Deal’s whole body, which eventually turned into a giant dragon with nine heads.

    「Wha…」

    Evil spiritual power that caused nausea just by looking at it.

    I have crossed swords with many formidable enemies so far.

    Dodriel, Zack, Fu, Rain, Gregor – Every single one of them had a terrifying ability.

    (But the one in front of me right now is… different…)

    Deal’s power was clearly different in nature from any I’ve faced in the past.

    「N-No way, is this–」

    Before I could finish my words,

    「–”True soul dress”. Only those who have mastered their soul dress to the absolute limit can reach it. The true soul dress is the pinnacle of a swordsman.」

    Before I realised, Deal was standing right next to me.