Editing Seirei Tsukai no Blade Dance:Volume13 Chapter5 (section)

===Part 5===

"&mdash;Luminaris-sama, the stone monuments suspected as part of the Barrier's foundation have all been destroyed."

Special operative Ayla reported to Luminaris.

"Good work... Turning out as predicted, the Barrier's disorienting mist effects have weakened."

Just as Luminaris pointed out, the drifting fog was much thinner than several hours earlier. Just now, it was a place where one could hardly see a step ahead, but now it was possible to see the several trees in front of them.

"Everyone, the destination is ahead. Let us set forth for the Forest Dwellers' village."

"Affirmative."

Giving her fatigued subordinates encouragement, she advanced further into the Forest of Ice Blossoms where it was still snowing.

Assuming the Barrier's effects were gradually going to weaken in this manner, they were going to see their destination eventually. It was unknown whether the Forest Dwellers had elementalists who controlled combat-type spirits, but even if they did, they were surely going to be defeated by the Sacred Spirit Knights.

Luminaris swung her sacred sword, chopping the branches blocking the way. Just at that moment&mdash;

The sound of giant flapping wings could be heard overhead.

"...What!?"

The surrounding fog was blown away in an instant while a powerful blizzard swept through the forest.

"...What is going on!?"

"Luminaris-sama, look over there quick!"

Her adjutant, Alda, was pointing above.

"...Could it be... dragons... no way!?"

Luminaris was speechless.

Looking up at the gray sky through the tree branches, they could see a group of giant dragons flying in the air.

Scales flashing ice-blue light. These were precisely the ice dragons inhabiting the north part of the continent.

Normally, dragons could not possibly move in groups due to their highly territorial nature. But dozens of dragons were currently flying overhead as though under central command, moving in a fixed formation.

The blizzard blew stronger and stronger, mercilessly attacking the girls who were cornered, unable to advance or retreat.

"Luminaris-sama...!" "This forest, what on earth...!?"

The ice dragons roared.

Eyes flashing with crimson light, they stared like predators at Luminaris and her group on the ground.

"&mdash;They're coming! Elemental waffe, release!"

Drawing her sword in a stance, Luminaris yelled.