Chapter 18

16 1 0
                                    

Amidst the chaos, soldiers from the Crimson Syndicate engaged in combat with the menacing monsters. Luna, observing the intense firefight, couldn't help but voice her curiosity, gesturing towards the weapons wielded by the soldiers. "Do those weapons have any effect on these creatures?" she inquired.

"Indeed. These weapons are imbued with enchantments, far surpassing their mundane counterparts," explained one of the soldiers. "Our comrades are currently in peril, surrounded by these monsters. Your formidable strength, as vouched for by Emily, could greatly aid in their rescue. It should be a task well within your capabilities." The soldier bowed earnestly, imploring Luna once more, "We ask for your assistance in saving our people." Luna, intrigued by the recurring gestures of respect in this world, contemplated the deeper reasons behind such displays of respect.

"Very well. Guide me to their whereabouts," Luna replied. The soldier extended his arm, indicating the location of his comrades. Additionally, he gestured in a different direction, mentioning that William sought Luna's presence. "Any idea why?" Luna questioned, but the soldier, clueless about William's intentions, shook his head. As Luna set off toward her destination, the soldier offered a parting wish for her safety. Another soldier then escorted her through a secure alleyway.

"Why weren't any soldiers near Quinn's area the other time?" Luna inquired as they strolled along. She was told by Quinn that as long as people remained indoors, the monsters couldn't harm them. Luna pondered the sudden influx of armed soldiers, contemplating the change in the city's defensive measures.

"Typically, we let them roam the streets, but an attack on a building tonight has led to people evacuating, causing this chaos. The monsters are heading toward that hotel," the soldier elaborated.

"A hotel?" Luna inquired.

"Yes"

"How many people do you think would be in that building?"

"It's a very popular place so I'm positive there will be a lot of people there. We're here." Taking cover against a building, the soldier cautiously observed the situation. "They're holding up, but the monsters are overwhelming. Lure them in this direction. I'll regroup with others and attack from behind. Be cautious and avoid unnecessary risks," he advised before swiftly sprinting in the opposite direction.

Advancing towards the approaching horde of monsters, Randolph swiftly emerged, holding Luna's greatsword, with Arthur draped over his shoulders. Luna, noting the prompt return, couldn't help but think, 'That was fast.' Placing Arthur next to Luna, Randolph explained that the other soldier was escorting Eleanor back to her group. "What's his purpose here?" Luna inquired, pointing to the unconscious Arthur.

"In accordance with your decree against their demise, should I leave him in a state of unconscious vulnerability, any element or entity could pose a threat to him," Randolph proclaimed with regal assurance.

"What's with this regal demeanor, as though addressing a queen?" Luna thought. She shook off the thought and clasped her hands. "Now that you have arrived, I have a task for you. Do you see those swarms?" Luna gestured to the monsters assaulting the soldiers. "I need you to handle them and ensure the safety of our soldiers," she instructed. Randolph bowed gracefully, executing a swift turn that promptly positioned him near the advancing monsters. Luna lifted Arthur from the ground and ascended into the sky, heading toward William.

The streets echoed with the noise of monster roars and panicked human screams, accompanied by the relentless discharge of firearms that reverberated in Luna's ears. The spiritual energy of numerous individuals surrounded her, and she sensed a substantial release of power as thunder crackled near Randolph's location. "That must be Randolph. It seems all of Sebastian's clones wield thunder," Luna mumbled to herself.

The Great Phoenix.Where stories live. Discover now