Chapter 36: The Phantom's Edge

The clones—Number One, Number Two, and Number Three—were all active today, each carrying out their assigned duties. But the attacks kept coming, almost always on Number Two, who had left the city for reconnaissance. Perhaps it was easier to target someone outside the protective limits of the city walls, though, by now, they should have figured out the clones weren't the real deal. Or perhaps… they already had.

Each clone was made from a dense magic crystal, capable of using the Death spell. This added layer of authenticity, making them appear genuine enough, seemed to have successfully deceived those watching. Number One, stationed at the Magic Academy, refrained from using Death to avoid stirring trouble. Number Three, busy within the city, held the same restraint.