The Regressed Mercenary’s Machinations

"Kugh…!"

Ismoken instinctively drew upon his energy, barely managing to block the sudden attack.

BOOOOM!

The Dragon Cannon's mana collided with his own, unleashing a powerful shockwave that blasted him backward. He skidded across the ground, struggling to keep his footing.

His first reaction was to counterattack immediately, but the thought of not destroying the weapon forced him to hold back.

Momentarily shaken by the unexpected assault, he cautiously observed the Dragon Cannon.

It remained still.

"W-What is this? Was it pre-programmed? Or does it automatically detect enemies? Does such a technology even exist?"

He knew nothing about the Empire’s new weaponry. His knowledge had always been speculative at best.

One thing, however, was clear.

This was no mere piece of junk.

Despite its shabby, trash-like appearance, the weapon had demonstrated immense power.

Feeling uneasy, but also recognizing its value, he became even more convinced—he had to take it.

Ismoken, his expression tense, stared at the Dragon Cannon. It simply sat there, as if nothing had happened.

Relieved, he stepped forward to inspect it more closely.

Creeeak.

The wagon it was mounted on suddenly rolled backward.

"……?"

Baffled, Ismoken took another step forward.

The wagon rolled back again.

Creeak, creeeak, creeeak.

Every time he approached, the wagon shifted from side to side, avoiding him.

"What the hell…?"

Ismoken focused his senses, trying to trace the flow of mana.

Mana was surging from the weapon itself, seemingly propelling the wagon’s movement.

Before he could stop himself, he shouted instinctively—

"S-Stop!"

Thud.

The weapon immediately halted.

Ismoken’s eyes widened in shock.

"It… understands speech? Is it possessed by a spirit?"

Fascinated, he spoke again.

"Don’t attack. I’m going to dismantle you."

The Dragon Cannon remained motionless.

Encouraged, Ismoken cautiously stepped closer.

And then—

BOOOOM! BOOOOM! BOOOOOM!

"Urgh!"

A barrage of fireballs erupted from the Dragon Cannon's muzzle, forcing him to dodge frantically.

He stared at it in disbelief.

"It recognizes enemies?"

What kind of advanced technology was this? His mind flooded with theories.