342 Chapter 341: The mortal battlefield

With furrowed brows, we continued our conversation, our steps slowing as the landscape transformed before our eyes. The sight that greeted us ignited a mix of apprehension within me. At the forefront, atop a small hill, loomed a formidable fortress belonging to the Humans. But what drew my attention was the chaos that unfolded just outside its imposing walls.

An army of Auris warriors, adorned in their vibrant attire, launched relentless assaults against the stronghold. Their weapons clashed against the fortifications, their determination palpable in every strike. Shouts and battle cries filled the air, mingling with the sounds of steel meeting steel.

"It seems the conflict has escalated to new heights," I remarked.

Breta's gaze calmly scanned the scene, "They are blinded by their own perceptions, unable to see beyond the surface," she murmured, her voice tinged with disappointment.

Serenia, her voice calm yet filled with empathy, spoke next. "Such is the nature of mortals. Emotions and ideals clash, and the consequences reverberate throughout the realm."

With renewed purpose, we continued our approach, cautiously navigating the battlefield that stretched before us. The clash of ideologies echoed in the air, and the desperation of both sides was palpable. We moved with deliberate steps, our presence concealed.

Along the way, I continued to observe the unfolding clash. It became apparent that the Auris had gained the upper hand, their wings granting them dominance over the skies. They utilized their mana with precision, unleashing spells that rained down upon the fortress, testing the fortifications and wearing down the human defenders.

Yet, the humans proved to be resilient and resourceful. Their knights, armored and formidable, surged forward with bursts of unwavering strength. Each strike punished any Auris caught off guard, their relentless assault a testament to their training and dedication. The humans knew their strengths and played to their advantage, firmly focused on defending the fortress and prolonging the battle.

It became evident that the human forces were not seeking a swift victory, but rather sought to draw out the conflict. Their strategic approach hinted at a deeper plan, likely involving reinforcements. Their confidence in protracting the battle indicated ample supplies and a well-thought-out strategy to endure the long haul.

I paused mid-air, a glint of admiration in my eyes as I spoke. "You have to give it to them; they know how to play the waiting game. But they must realize that the longer this conflict persists, the more lives will be lost needlessly."

Breta nodded, her expression thoughtful. "By drawing out the conflict, they hope to tip the scales in their favor when the opportune moment arrives."

Peering through the gaps in the fortress walls, we spotted a handful of Mindweavers diligently at work. Each Mindweaver was accompanied by a protective squadron of knights, their collective presence an indication of the value they held in the defense of the fortress.

Unlike the static defenders, the Mindweavers remained in constant motion, their agile forms darting from one strategic position to another. They seamlessly weaved their mana, lending support wherever it was most needed.

The Mindweavers played a crucial role in holding back the airborne assault launched by the Auris. With their skilled manipulation of their power, they thwarted any Auris attempting to breach the fortress walls from above. Towering catapults, manned by dedicated soldiers, hurled massive stones toward the sky, a formidable deterrent for those Auris daring to approach. Although most of the airborne assailants managed to evade the onslaught, a few unfortunate souls succumbed to the punishing barrage.

Chaos reigned over the battlefield, a grim tableau of death and despair. The air crackled with the acrid scent of magic, and the wails of agony and battle cries mingled into a cacophony of sound. Above this maelstrom of violence and chaos loomed our destination—a tempestuous sky veiled in ominous darkness. Flashes of lightning tore through the clouded expanse, illuminating the tumultuous scene below, while the deep rumblings of thunder punctuated the relentless clash of arms. The tempest added an eerie, foreboding ambiance to the already fraught atmosphere.

Amidst the mayhem, the aura of mana disturbance hung heavily in the air, its presence palpable and disconcerting. The relentless use of mana by the combatants on the ground seemed to exacerbate the disturbance, intensifying the storm's ferocity. Yet, amidst the frenzy of battle, none of the mortal combatants seemed to perceive the growing menace overhead, their focus consumed entirely by the struggle at hand.

I glanced at my companions, a frown etched upon my face. "The disturbance in mana here is serious. The battle below only serves to exacerbate it further. I'm afraid If left unchecked, it could wreak havoc not only upon the battlefield but beyond."

"What do you want to do?" Breta's question hung in the air, and I pondered the best course of action.

"Bringing the battle to a halt seems the most expedient approach," I replied, locking eyes with Serenia. "Though it may be seen as interfering in mortal affairs, the severity of the mana disturbance demands our intervention. The consequences could escalate to a level we cannot ignore."

The Goddess's expression mirrored my concerns, as she took a few seconds to turn toward the others, engaging in a silent exchange of understanding. Their shared communication spoke volumes as they came to a unanimous decision.

Serenia turned back to me, her gaze unwavering. "We will support your decision. The gravity of the situation demands our intervention to ensure the safety of all involved."

"Very well," I responded, my voice firm with determination. Taking my position directly above the chaotic battlefield, I turned to Serenia, "Alright then, please lift the veil."

Serenia acknowledged my command with a nod, gracefully waving her hand in a fluid motion. As her magic took effect, the veil dissipated, revealing our divine presence to the mortals below. However, Breta, standing beside me, chose to maintain her own veil, seemingly indifferent to the attention we were about to receive.

As I emerged into full view, my immense size cast a looming shadow over the battlefield, capturing the startled gazes of all those engaged in the conflict. Their eyes widened in awe and surprise, as their attention shifted abruptly toward me. The sudden silence that swept across the battlefield was palpable, as if time itself had momentarily frozen.

The impact of my appearance had made its mark, and I knew that all eyes were fixed upon me, waiting for an explanation.