Evilness, the all-consuming power that holds sway over life and death.

The Hunter’s Guild in Star City was more crowded than usual that morning. The early sunlight filtered through the windows, casting bright reflections across the meeting table where a small but vital group had gathered. Ryhard and Greju were absent, tending to their territories, unaware that the other beast nests still ignored them. The beasts instinctively avoided the territories of other creatures, and for now, their lands were safe. However, in Star City, the tension was rising. The scattered attacks from the wandering beasts were an ever-present threat, though recently, the number of attacks had dwindled after the conquest of the last five nests.

But there was something unsettling. The main nest, the one teeming with a million beasts, had yet to make a move.

Arthur, Jessica, myself, the girls, Leonidas, and Chimara were all seated in the grand hall, listening intently. They were preparing to launch an assault on the remaining nests the following day, but the air in the room was thick with an unspoken urgency.

Arthur broke the silence first.

“Last night, at dawn, Jessica and I made a discovery that changes everything,” he said gravely, his eyes locking with Aido. There was always calm in Arthur’s demeanor, but today, it was underscored with a palpable tension.

Leonidas, sitting close to Chimara, furrowed his brow. He already had an idea of what Arthur was about to say. He and Chimara had been patrolling the outskirts of the city just before dawn and had also encountered something deeply troubling.

“What did you find?” I asked, his voice steady but tinged with curiosity.

“Camps,” Jessica replied, her words slicing through the air. “Not just beasts this time. Chaotic beings, as Cirdan calls them. We’re talking orcs, goblins, ogres… even lesser dragons.”

A wave of disbelief rippled through the group, but it was the mention of gorgons and semi-humans that plunged the room into a tense silence.

Leonidas let out a deep breath, leaning forward with his elbows resting on the table, his eyes scanning the group with concern. He had fought countless battles, but the topic of semi-humans always struck a personal chord.

“Semi-humans…” he muttered under his breath. “Do they look like us? Like the demi-humans?”

Chimara, sitting silently beside him, nodded, sharing his unease. They had both sensed the gravity of what was coming. Though they knew the demi-humans of Star City were different, the physical resemblance between them and these chaotic beings could complicate things significantly.

Cindar, who had been present all along, reassured Leonidas, “No, as Ryhard mentioned earlier, you can consider humanoids with animal features or animals with humanoid traits as demi-humans in our world. Ryhard himself is a demi-human, though you call him a Centaur. The concept isn’t far off from us; the only difference is that we cannot crossbreed with them, unlike in your myths.”

Leonidas’ face remained troubled, the history of the demi-humans weighing on him—history he had confirmed through the records Arthur allowed him to access. He needed a clear understanding of what semi-humans truly were. “Then what is a semi-human?”

Cindar’s expression shifted to a serious one, though a faint smile lingered. “As you might guess from the word ‘semi,’ they are creatures that resemble humanoids but with a savage, chaotic appearance. They are, essentially, monsters. They live like beasts, without even the structure of tribal behavior. They’ll plunder their own if they need to and care only for their immediate survival. They are evil by nature, and their bodies reflect that.”

“Have you had any contact with them yet?” I asked, folding my arms. Destroyer manifested himself as usual, a faint glow radiating from my clothes—by now, everyone had come to accept it. It was remarkable how Cirdan seemed to regard it as natural, his attention focused as he absorbed every piece of information coming into the room.

“Not yet,” Arthur replied. “They’re camped on the outskirts, in the eastern forest, close to the Arid zone in the north, near some Nests. That leads us to believe they’re targeting them. They haven’t made any aggressive moves toward the city yet, but that doesn’t mean they won’t. What’s troubling is that these chaotic beings seem... organized. They’re not acting like wild beasts; they’re building fortifications, mapping routes. It’s almost like they’ve been here before.”

I sat quietly for a moment, processing Arthur and Jessica’s words. For days, I had sensed a shift in the air, a tension that didn’t originate from the beasts. Something else was moving in the shadows—these chaotic beings, coming from another world like Ryhard and Greju, with appearances similar to legends, yet bodies incompatible with ours.

“How many camps have you found?” I asked finally.

“At least four large ones, and several smaller ones scattered across the hills,” Nerisse responded as she stepped into the room, her team—including Daisy and Michi—still dusted from their patrol. “The ogres and the lesser dragons are the biggest threat. They’ve established a hierarchy, and it looks like the semi-humans are under their control. They’re at least Rank 2 in strength, but clearly not on the level of a Titanic Beast.”

Leonidas requested a picture of the semi-humans. They looked like a tribe in dire shape—malnourished, chaotic. Chimara’s eyes widened. They were hideous, no doubt, but there was something familiar in their appearance. They resembled people suffering from scarcity, displaying behavior that bordered on cannibalism.

“If we let them organize, it’ll be harder to take them down,” Arthur continued. “And we still don’t know if they’ve made contact with the Nests of beasts. If they’re gaining resources that could threaten us...”

Frenia raised her voice, “The firearms we found in one of the nests shouldn’t fall into their hands.”

“That would be a serious problem,” said Luyira, who was also in the room. She was calm but attentive, listening closely to the discussion. “They’re already dangerous. If they manage to get their hands on firearms, we’ll be in serious trouble.”

“The booms booms belong to us!” Rina exclaimed passionately.

Cirdan interrupted, “It’s unlikely they’ll learn to use them properly. Even basic firearms require some understanding that I wouldn’t have figured out without you teaching me. But a loaded gun or firearm would give them an edge, even against us. Most of my people aren’t as strong as your Hunters or Demi-humans. Only the Elder Dragons have scales as tough as mythril.”

I observed the scene now the girls are processing the information, my gaze fixed on the center of the room. The girls were huddled around the makeshift table, maps and devices laid out, projecting images of the chaotic events unfolding in the Arid Lands. Luyira, vibrant as always in her signature red, her rabbit ears twitching slightly, was the first to speak. She was both playful and serious in a way only she could pull off.

“If those chaotic beings really manage to take control of the nest’s resources, it’ll be a tragedy,” Luyira, she voice soft yet edged with gravity. Normally, she was lighthearted, even mischievous, but there was always an underlying fierceness when it came to anything involving me. Her red eyes flickered towards me, possessive, but she quickly refocused on the others, her fingers drumming lightly on the map.

Rina, with her raccoon-like mask eyes, let out a mischievous giggle, her red hair bouncing as she nodded. Despite her playful nature, she couldn’t ignore the seriousness of the situation. “Yeah, but like... if they’re ready to face those mutant beasts, maybe they know something we don’t? Maybe they’ve figured out how to tame them... or control them!”

I couldn’t help but notice how Rina’s innocent cheerfulness contrasted with the dark possibility she suggested. She was always a bit of an airhead, but her love for people, especially Ninaies and me, shone through, even in grim moments like these.

“The mutants are too unpredictable. They have no loyalty and can’t tell friend from foe. Anyone who gets close will be devoured without mercy, even those chaotic beings.” There was a mixture of disdain and certainty in Ninaies' voice, known for never underestimating the brutality of these creatures.

Mary, eyes narrowed as if trying to solve an impossible equation, muttered softly.

“But if the chaotics manage to control them...”

Her words trailed off, hanging in the air like a dark cloud. Silence briefly settled over the group as everyone pondered the gravity of that possibility.

From the back of the room, Arthur, Jessica, Leonidas, Chimara, and Cirdan listened quietly, their faces hardened as they absorbed each word. Arthur, as always, was an enigma, his eyes narrowed, lost in thought.

Arthur stood at the edge of the balcony, just above the girls talking about the situation, looking out over the bustling streets. The transformation was remarkable. What had once been ruins and abandoned buildings was now filled with life. Homes had been built, children played in the streets, and a sense of community was beginning to take root once again.

Jessica approached, her eyes scanning the city below. “It’s incredible, isn’t it? A few days ago, this place was a graveyard. Now… it’s starting to feel like a home.”

Arthur nodded, arms crossed. “It’s a start. The city’s coming together, but there’s still a long way to go.”

Chimara joined them, her imposing figure towering over most but radiating a motherly warmth. “The 1,000 surviving children are being taken in by the new families—volunteers from the civilians who’ve been helping conquer the nests. It’s strange how quickly things can change. Yesterday, they were orphans. Today, they have homes.”

“There’s more than just homes forming,” Leonidas added, stepping forward. His lion-like features made him stand out, but his voice was calm and steady. “These families, the sense of belonging… it’s like a breath of fresh air. The population is growing again. We’re at 25,000 people now, and that doesn’t even count the 7,000 demi-humans who’ve survived.”

Arthur glanced at him, impressed. “The demi-humans are settling in well?”

Leonidas nodded. “Yes. Many of them are taking up residence in the vacant areas of the city. It’s like they’ve always been here, though some of the old prejudices linger.” His voice carried the weight of experience. “But under Luyira’s protection, and with you, the Savior, and the others providing security, most people are willing to set their differences aside. They’re learning to live together. It’s not perfect… old habits die hard, but we’re getting there.”

Jessica smiled slightly. “People are stubborn. But if we give them enough time, and the right kind of leadership, they’ll adapt.”

Just as she finished speaking, Cirdan joined the group, his long elven features contrasting sharply with the demi-humans and humans around him. He stood with a quiet grace, his eyes reflecting centuries of knowledge. “In my world,” he began, his voice measured, “cosmopolitan cities like this were essential for survival. We faced chaotic and violent races far worse than the ones here. Diversity, learning to understand each other’s strengths, was what allowed us to endure.”

Arthur raised an eyebrow. “You think that’s what will help us here?”

Cirdan nodded. “Without a doubt. But one thing your world seems to lack is a proper understanding of magic. You’ve relegated it almost entirely to combat. That’s dangerous. Magic should be woven into the fabric of life—used for healing, growth, and protection. The lack of mana here limits its potential, but I’ve been talking with Mary, and we’ve made some fascinating discoveries.”

Leonidas crossed his arms, his curiosity piqued. “What did you find?”

Cirdan smiled slightly, a glimmer of excitement in his usually calm demeanor. “Apparently, we elves have always known that our bodies store mana. Our nervous system is directly tied to it. We call them ‘mana nerves.’ The more developed these nerves, the greater one’s capacity for magic. Elves, like myself, possess highly developed mana nerves, but individuals like Ryhard and others have a less refined version. They rely on enhancing their physical abilities rather than casting powerful spells.”

Chimara, listening carefully, asked, “And the lizardmen from Greju? What about them?”

Cirdan’s expression turned serious. “They’re different. They lack both the vital energy to tap into this world’s form of magic and the mana circuits that we possess. That makes them more vulnerable than any other species I’ve encountered. Without access to these systems, they’re at a significant disadvantage.”

There was a pause as everyone considered this information. The rebuilding of the city was a triumph, but it was clear that these deeper challenges still loomed. Cooperation would be the key to survival.

Arthur spoke up, his tone resolute. “It’s clear that if we’re going to survive, we need to work together. Demi-humans, elves, humans… everyone. This city, these families, they’re a step in the right direction, but it’s only the beginning. We need to set an example, to lead.”

Leonidas placed a hand on Arthur’s shoulder. “You’re a good leader, Arthur. And you’re right. Leadership isn’t just about commanding others—it’s about setting the tone for what’s possible. It’s up to us to show the people what cooperation looks like.”

Cirdan nodded, his voice calm but firm. “In my world, we survived because we were willing to learn from each other. Magic, technology, brute strength—every race brought something valuable to the table. We’ll need that here, especially with what I’ve seen.”

Arthur turned to him. “What did you see?”

Cirdan’s face darkened, the weight of his words sinking in. “I’ve been reviewing the video recordings from your historical archives. It’s fascinating how you can store images, preserving events like that. But the creature… it’s something beyond anything we’ve faced. A titanic beast, as you call them. In my world, we named them ‘cataclysms.’ The size of it, the power it displayed—there’s only one comparison I can think of. It’s like an evil god or a demon summoned from the depths, something that requires entire armies to bring down, even with your advanced weapons.”

Jessica, her usually calm demeanor shaken, asked, “And you’re sure it’s the same thing?”

Cirdan shook his head slowly. “I can’t say for certain, but the sheer power it exhibited is enough to call them equals. It’s a force that defies nature, Arthur. A creature that doesn’t just threaten a city—it threatens entire worlds. If we’re going to stand a chance, we’ll need every ally, every bit of magic, and every weapon at our disposal.” His voice lowered, filled with a deep concern. “What worries me most is the theory of a Queen—one capable of giving birth to these monsters.”

A heavy silence fell over the group. Arthur’s expression remained composed, though his words were laced with unease. “There’s only one mention of such a creature… in a fragment of paper. It’s supposedly a message from a survivor, a man who claimed to have seen a monster towering over the skies, giving birth to a titanic beast from her womb. This was in India, before we lost contact.”

Jessica’s eyes widened. “So it could be true.”

Arthur’s tone remained calm, though the gravity of the situation was not lost on anyone. “We’re not sure if it’s real. Communication with India has been impossible for decades. We don’t even know if anyone there is still alive.”

Cirdan’s gaze was fixed, processing the information. “The idea of such a Queen, capable of spawning those titanic beasts… it’s more than just a threat. It’s a catastrophe waiting to happen.”

Leonidas, who had been silent, finally spoke, his voice as deep as the concern reflected in everyone’s faces. “If these ‘cataclysms’ are real, if there’s a Queen... then we need to prepare for something far beyond anything we’ve imagined.”

Arthur exhaled slowly, his eyes moving across the room as if already calculating their next steps. “We’ve been fighting the chaos, reclaiming what’s ours… but if this is true, we may be facing a new kind of war. One that doesn’t end until we find a way to stop the Queen.”

Arthur, ever the steady leader, exhaled slowly. “Then we need to be ready. Leonidas, Cirdan, you’ve both proven yourselves to be strong leaders. Your people trust you, and that’s going to be critical in the days ahead.”

Leonidas grunted in agreement. “We’re ready to fight. And we’ll fight together.”

Jessica’s sharpness returned, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. “We’ve got more than a few tricks up our sleeves.”

Cirdan, nodded solemnly. “Let’s hope it’s enough. Still... in all my years, I’ve never stood beside a being like Cemina—she was a privilege only for royalty. I was never a high elf serving them. I was just a teacher in the forests of Elmore. But here...” His voice trailed off, his eyes gleaming with something akin to reverence. “Here, I see gods in the flesh.”

Arthur, sensing something deeper in Cirdan’s words, furrowed his brow and turned to him, questioning. “What do you mean exactly?”

Cirdan’s demeanor shifted, his gaze turning into that of a teacher unveiling a discovery for his students. His tone carried a mix of awe and curiosity. “When Mary was analyzing me... I couldn’t grasp her power. She’s like a wall of energy, something beyond my senses. But it wasn’t oppressive. Her energy, the way it touched me... it felt like a mother’s embrace, soothing, protective.” He paused, the memory still vivid in his mind. “You called her a Saint, Arthur. In my world, she would be considered something even greater. Like Cemina— the Goddess of creation.”

Arthur remained silent, his eyes locked onto Cirdan’s, clearly intrigued by what he was saying.

Cirdan continued, his voice steady but carrying the weight of his realization. “Frenia... she has the ability to change her size, make herself grow to a point where the giants of Undur would look like mere dolls compared to her. Our gods and demons do not act directly; they remain distant, leaving mortals to their own fate. But here... I stand among beings who wield divine power, who walk among us. It’s fascinating, yet... it instills fear.”

Jessica, now fully serious, asked, “Fear?”

Cirdan nodded, his tone soft but intense. “Like a kitten standing beside a dragon. That’s how I felt in her presence. It’s humbling and terrifying at the same time. To know that such power exists, and yet they walk among us, guide us. It makes one wonder... how small we really are in comparison.”

Arthur exhaled slowly, his gaze drifting for a moment, then refocused on Cirdan. “You’re right. It’s a power beyond what we know. But if they’re here, it’s because we need them. That power is what will help us survive.”

Cirdan's expression softened. “Perhaps. But it’s also a reminder. A reminder that even the strongest of us are just pieces on a much larger board. And the forces we’re up against... they won’t be defeated by strength alone.”

Leonidas, having remained quiet for most of the conversation, spoke up. “Then we need to be wise, careful. If beings like Mary and Luyira are on our side, it’s because they see the same threat. But it also means we need to learn from them, work with them.”

Chimara chuckled softly behind Leonidas and whispered seductively, "And because your son-in-law seems to be creating a world where he can live with them too."

Arthur nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Leaders like you, Leonidas, and Cirdan—you’re what your people need. But even more important, we need to stand together. All of us.”

Cirdan’s eyes gleamed once again, the spark of a discovery fresh in his mind. “Yes. And with them beside us, we may just have a chance.”

Arthur, leaning against the railing as he surveyed the city below, shifted his focus back to the group. “Cirdan, your group has officially been introduced on television and radio across the empire’s reach,” he said. “The people are excited, especially after hearing about your fight against the chaotic forces. But we’ve made sure to warn them—chaotic beings are still out there, and they need to avoid any signs of them. It’s dangerous, and they need to understand that.”

Cirdan nodded thoughtfully, though concern flickered in his eyes. “The people are hopeful. But hope without caution is dangerous.”

Arthur began to walk down the stairs, the rest of the group—Jessica, Chimara, Leonidas, and Cirdan—following close behind. His expression hardened as he voiced his deeper concerns. “I’m worried about the distant cities. America’s already difficult to cover, but there are places across other continents where information doesn’t travel nearly as fast. In some areas, it can take years just to send or receive news. They’re practically isolated, and that makes them vulnerable.”

Jessica chimed in, her tone pragmatic. “If we don’t find a way to bridge that communication gap, those places will be completely exposed to the chaotic threats. By the time they realize something’s coming, it’ll be too late.”

Arthur’s gaze sharpened as he nodded in agreement. “Exactly. That’s why we need to accelerate our understanding of technology—develop it better, faster. The Dome City in Maryland has been a breakthrough. The tech we found there is already helping us develop more advanced systems. And we’re just scratching the surface.” He glanced at the others, adding, “Most of the androids have been moved here from the Capital, leaving only a few behind to oversee the artisans.”

At that moment, Arthur gestured for the group to follow him into a nearby building. Inside, the room was filled with various equipment, wires running along the walls, and screens displaying complex diagrams. In the center of the room stood a sleek machine—far more advanced than anything they’d seen before. Arthur motioned toward it with a hint of pride in his voice.

“This is what I’ve been working on,” he said, his tone filled with anticipation. “Our previous computers were like the ones you’d see back in the early computing binary systems—basic and limited. But this... this is a game changer. We’ve managed to upgrade the technology using what we recovered from the Dome City. ”

I stepped forward, curiosity piqued, and examined the machine. “It’s smaller, more efficient. What does it do? Can I play games on it?”

Arthur chuckled, clearly pleased by the comment. “It’s a little more than that,” he said with a smile. He moved to the console and pressed a few buttons, causing the screen to light up with data streams and intricate blueprints.

Leonidas, watching closely, asked with his deep, rumbling voice, “How exactly is this supposed to help us?”

Arthur’s eyes gleamed as he began explaining. “This is our leap forward. It’s a multi-processor computer, something one step away from quantum processing. It’s faster, more powerful, and can handle complex calculations that were impossible for us to process before. We’re just starting to understand how to use quantum computing—how to shrink down the systems and make them more efficient.”

Chimara, ever the practical one, raised an eyebrow. “And what does that mean for us? How is this going to help in our situation?”

Arthur walked to a nearby terminal, tapping on the screen as it flickered to life, showing detailed maps of distant cities. “This means we’ll be able to communicate faster and process data in real-time. We’ll be able to coordinate between cities and track chaotic threats and Mutated beasts as they happen, giving us a chance to respond before it’s too late.” He gestured to a set of blueprints on the screen. “With the machinery we recovered from Maryland, we’ve also been able to build better tools to support this. The androids have been instrumental in these developments. Together, we’re creating a network that will link these distant cities like never before.”

Arthur paused for a moment, then added, “We’ve even recovered some older, more basic android models. They’re not as advanced as the ones we currently have, but they’ve provided valuable insights. We’re reverse-engineering them to understand the basic processes behind how they’re built. They’re somewhat similar to mechas—we can repair the simpler parts, but the processors and micro-systems... those are still a problem. Without the proper methods and fabrication techniques, we’re limited in what we can do.”

Cirdan, listening intently, stepped closer to the machine. “You’re saying that with time, we might be able to fully understand this technology?”

Arthur nodded. “Yes. It’s still a challenge, but we’re making progress. Every piece of recovered tech brings us closer. Once we unlock the secrets of these advanced systems, it’ll revolutionize how we handle communication, defense, and even reconstruction.”

Jessica crossed her arms, her expression thoughtful. “So, this network you’re building... you’re saying it could connect all the isolated cities? The ones you were worried about earlier?”

Arthur nodded again, his voice firm. “Exactly. With this, we won’t need to wait years to send or receive information. We’ll have instant communication across the globe. It’ll be a safety net, linking every city and outpost. But more than that—it’ll allow us to predict and respond to chaotic threats before they can cause devastation.”

Leonidas grunted, nodding in approval. “It’s a bold plan. One that could save lives.”

Arthur smiled slightly. “It’s more than bold. It’s necessary.”

Leonidas, ever the strategist, asked, “And what about defense? Can this technology help us in that regard?”

Arthur nodded. “Yes. Once we fully integrate the systems, we’ll be able to enhance our defensive capabilities. The machines will allow us to create better weaponry, stronger shields, and more advanced detection systems. We’ll be able to monitor for enemy activity before it even gets close to any of our cities.”

Cirdan, his eyes still on the advanced computer, remarked, “In my world, such technology would have been considered magic. To see it here, integrated with the machines you’ve recovered... it’s impressive. But it’s also clear that we have a long way to go.”

Arthur exhaled, knowing full well the challenges ahead. “That’s true. But we’ve made progress, and with each step forward, we get closer to securing not just this city, but every city out there. We can’t afford to leave anyone behind. Not with the threats we’re facing.”

Jessica placed a hand on Arthur’s shoulder. “You’re right. We have a responsibility to protect everyone. This is just the beginning.”

Cirdan, always thoughtful, added, “With this technology and the cooperation of your people, we have a fighting chance. But we must move quickly. The forces we face won’t wait.”

Arthur smiled grimly. “We’re moving as fast as we can. But now... we have the tools to fight back. And for the first time, I feel like we can actually win this.”

The sound of boots echoing down the hallway interrupted the conversation. The door swung open, and a group of hunters and demi-humans entered hurriedly, their faces tense. Alidia was the first to notice them, her sharp green eyes gleaming with curiosity and an edge of command.

“What’s going on?” she asked, her voice cutting through the room like a knife.

Nerisse, one of the trackers, stepped forward with a stack of documents in hand, her expression grim but focused. She quickly connected a device to the room’s console, and images flickered to life on the screens—projected visuals of barren landscapes and abandoned camps. With urgency in her voice, she began.

“The tracker teams have sent new information,” she said, her words brisk. “They followed the trail of the chaotic beasts, and it seems like they’ve packed up and moved somewhere else.” She motioned to the screen, where footage of the abandoned camps played. “The strangest part is that when they reached a section of the Arid Lands, the trail just… stopped. All of them, vanished. As if they’d been taken by the wind. No trace left behind.”

A murmur rippled through the room, the weight of the revelation settling in. Luyira, standing near the console, frowned deeply, her mind already racing to piece together the puzzle. Leonidas exchanged a quick glance with Arthur, concern in his lion-like features. It was Arthur who finally voiced what they were all thinking.

“Disappeared?” Cindar asked, incredulity coloring his voice. “You mean they were spirited away by the forces that brought us here? Or did they… fly?”

Nerisse, clearly unsettled, nodded. “Exactly, sir. There were no signs of a struggle, no bodies—nothing. They just… vanished.”

The tension in the room thickened, but before anyone could interject, Nerisse continued, eager to relay the rest of the news while she still had momentum.

“And that’s not all,” she said, her tone quickening. “During the search, two unknown groups were spotted. The first is a group of humanoids, bearded and muscular, well-armed. They carry weapons similar to rifles and travel in machines that seem to run on some kind of flammable liquid fuel.” She paused for a moment, letting that sink in before continuing. “We’ve tried to communicate, but they speak a language we don’t understand. Still, they’ve shown no signs of hostility and appear willing to cooperate, for now.”

Cirdan, his brow furrowing in deep thought, stepped closer to the console, his eyes narrowing as he examined the images on the screen. His long fingers traced the outlines of the machinery displayed.

“They look like Dwarves,” he muttered to himself, lost in contemplation. “But something’s off. The Dwarves I know don’t use firearms or these types of machines. This technology… it’s foreign. They don’t seem to be from our world.” He spoke more to himself than to anyone else, his mind spinning with possibilities.

Nerisse swallowed, visibly unsettled by the strangeness of what she was about to say next.

“The second group... well, they’re even stranger,” she continued. “They’re living trees. Some of them resemble Rank 2 mutated beasts we’ve encountered before, but they’re… different. They seem more alive—almost intelligent compared to the mindless mutated beasts we know. Their movements are sluggish, deliberate, as if they have no real urgency, but they don’t behave like animals. Some even have humanoid shapes, though most are walking shrubs and trees.” She tapped the screen again, showing shaky footage of the strange beings slowly approaching a radio station.

“They approached one of the radio stations we set up in Pit’s Hell. They didn’t speak, but they tried to communicate through gestures and drawings. They’re not hostile… at least, not yet.”

The room fell into a contemplative silence as the images of the living trees and foreign humanoids looped on the screen. Luyira, deep in thought, paced a few steps away from the console, her brow furrowed. Leonidas remained stoic, though his eyes betrayed concern. Even Arthur seemed lost in thought, his mind clearly trying to piece together this new mystery.

Finally, Cirdan broke the silence, his voice low and thoughtful. “Living trees, dwarves with firearms… It’s as if the worlds are bleeding into each other, overlapping in ways we can’t yet understand.”

Arthur nodded, his expression tense but resolved. “We need to learn more. If these beings are here—if the chaotic forces are moving in the shadows—we can’t afford to sit and wait. We need to be ready. I was planning to let you guys settle more while we organize things with Ryhard and the Greju, but it seems we’ll need to add two more groups to our side.”

Leonidas, always pragmatic, crossed his arms and nodded. “I agree. We have to act fast, but how do we handle it?”

Arthur’s eyes darted between them, already forming a plan. “Even though Cirdan is technically a guest and ambassador, we need to use his abilities. I’d prefer if he goes with the tree people. It seems we need an expert in language to communicate with them. Meanwhile, I want Luyira to go to the Dwarves.”

I raised an eyebrow, curiosity sparking in me. “What do you mean, ‘Luyira goes’? I know that usually includes our team, but this time you’re addressing her directly.”

Before Arthur could respond, Cirdan interjected, his voice calm but carrying a hint of intrigue. “Have you noticed we’ve been speaking using the communication spell? I didn’t cast it, nor am I supplying any energy to it. In fact, I’d swear its range is much greater than usual. That’s because the caster is none other than Luyira, your wife.”

Luyira grinned, her red eyes gleaming with amusement. “Hehehehe, 私ってすごいでしょ！ヤバくない？ (Watashi tte sugoi desho! Yabakunai?)”

Cirdan blinked, momentarily confused. “Eh, that part didn’t translate. What did you just say?”

Luyira chuckled, her tone playful but knowing. “I said, ‘I’m amazing, aren’t I? Isn’t this wild?’ But what’s even more interesting… I can bypass the spell’s magic and still speak without the other party getting the meaning.” Her playful expression didn’t fully hide the extent of her ability.

Cirdan, eyes wide with amazement, took a step closer. “Incredible! That’s not supposed to be possible. How did you modify the spell?”

Luyira gave a teasing smile, waving a hand dismissively. “That’s something you’ll have to wait to find out. But you’re right—we don’t have time. We need to move.”

Ninaies, ever intuitive, nodded in agreement. “I’ve got this gut feeling too, like we need to meet these groups soon. Something’s pulling us toward them.”

Rina, always full of heart, added, “If they have children and they’re scared, they need to know everything’s going to be alright.”

I found myself nodding along with them, agreeing completely. “Alright then, my team—Luyira and the girls—will head to the Dwarves. Who’s making up the second team?”

Arthur considered for a moment before answering. “I think Frenia and Mary should go with the treants to protect Cirdan. Besides, they could also learn more about the communication spell casting.”

Frenia, standing nearby, smirked playfully. “Ah, AIdo, I know you’ll miss me when we’re separated again. But at least this time, mommy gets to go with you,” she teased.

Mary, ever the calm and divine figure, added in a more serious tone, “I’ll need to check on both groups eventually. The Greju were infested with parasites, and we don’t know who might be bringing sicknesses we’re not prepared for. So please, only send Aido and the girls, and make sure Nina and Rina wear hazmat suits.”

Ninaies and Rina gasped in unison, their voices overlapping in protest. “No way, mom!”

Mary gave them a stern, motherly look, shaking her head. “Someone has to be the mom here. And even though you’re two of the strongest beings in the group, you’re still at a mortal level. You need to be careful. Not even Luyira can bring back the dead. So even with her there, you both need to stay cautious.”

Luyira grinned and teased lightly, “Mommie, looks like we’ve got another mom here, too.”

Alidia, who had been watching the exchange quietly, chimed in with a smirk. “Sometimes it’s good to see someone else scolding you all besides me.”

The room lightened briefly with the playful banter, but the weight of the situation lingered heavily in the air. They all understood what was at stake. With the teams now assigned and the plan in place, hesitation was no longer an option.

Arthur’s voice cut through the room, regaining its commanding tone. "We’ve got our teams. Luyira, Aido, Ninaies, Rina, and Alidia—you’re heading to the Dwarves. Cirdan, Frenia, and Mary, you’re with the treants. Your team will have more backup; the Amazons are ready to march with you now that the issue's resolved. We're sending another squad to trail Aido’s team. Keep communications open through the tablets—they proved useful last time. Be careful out there, and watch each other’s backs. We don’t fully know what we’re walking into."

With the assignments clear, we sprang into action. Nina grabbed her ninja weapons, while Rina cradled her anti-golem rifle with an almost reverent smile. She loved that thing as much as she loved us. If she ever gave it a name, I honestly wouldn’t know how to react. I swung Nina onto my back, while Luyira hoisted Rina effortlessly, and Alidia took charge of her gear. Running, we moved faster than any vehicle, covering ground at a blistering pace.

As we neared the Dwarves' coordinates, the distant echoes of gunfire and explosions reached our ears, spurring us into even greater speed. We’d checked with the scouts, but they had moved to the camp to report in and hadn’t returned. That left us in the dark—no one knew the battle was raging. We raced ahead, urgency in our every step.

When we finally arrived, the scene was chaos—a fierce battle between the Dwarves and a swarm of mutant beasts. The Dwarves had formed a tight defensive circle, their small, mech-like machines intertwined with trees they had repurposed as shields. These mechs were smaller than typical battle suits, built for the Dwarves’ shorter stature, but they were equipped with devastating firepower. Each Dwarf moved with disciplined precision, like a well-trained military unit, but even their prowess was being tested.

“They’re fighting Rank 2 mutant beasts,” Luyira noted, her sharp eyes scanning the battlefield. At least twenty of those beasts roamed among hundreds of lesser creatures—mechanized bears, stone golems, massive wolves, and towering lizardmen, some as tall as eight meters. Above them, two giant, bird-like creatures circled menacingly, their screeches sending shivers through the air as their shadows flickered across the battlefield.

Rina perched herself on a nearby tree, gripping her anti-golem rifle, her eyes gleaming with a smirk. "If the treants saw them using trees as shields, I bet they’d lose it," she quipped, her voice light despite the seriousness of the fight ahead.

“They’d probably call it sacrilege,” Ninaies replied, her mind already calculating the best route through the chaos. “But our problem’s bigger—there’s too many of them, and the Dwarves are getting overwhelmed.”

“We’re moving in,” Alidia ordered with the calm authority she was known for. “Luyira, protect the Dwarves and use your communication skills to keep them coordinated. Rina, find a good spot to cover us—stay hidden. Aido, take point; Ninaies, support him. I’ll tank and draw the attention of the bigger beasts. Once they hesitate, hit them hard.”

The Dwarves, numbering around two hundred, were holding on with tenacity, but their numbers were declining. Their organized formation was impressive, but it wasn’t enough to stave off the unrelenting swarm. Many were already injured, and their defensive line was beginning to buckle.

Without hesitation, Luyira leapt into the heart of their formation, landing gracefully in the middle of the Dwarven circle. Her presence drew immediate attention—a mix of shock and awe from the Dwarves as her appendages unfurled, forming a protective dome over the wounded. Her bright red hair and rabbit-like features stood out against the battlefield, but more than her appearance, it was her power that commanded respect.

“Stay under my protection!” Luyira commanded, her voice firm yet soothing as the injured Dwarves glanced at her in disbelief. “I’ll keep you safe.”

“Hold strong!” she encouraged, her voice cutting through the cacophony of battle. Her communication abilities were a lifeline, the Dwarves quickly organizing their wounded behind her, firing calculated bursts at the relentless waves of enemies.

Meanwhile, I placed Rina in the highest branches of a sturdy tree, "Destroyer, combat mode", he simple read my mind and started to change his form to our usual armor shape. The familiar heat radiated from its core as it powered up, and I summoned my twin blades, forged from pure lava and fire. They blazed in my hands, shifting fluidly as I charged into the thick of the battle. Though I tried to mimic Luyira’s fluid combat style, my abilities were more limited—but still effective. The ever-shifting blades gave me an edge, carving through the ranks of mutant beasts with terrifying precision. Every swing ignited the creatures, leaving charred remains in my wake.

“They’ll feel the heat of my blades,” I shouted back at the others, my voice laced with the thrill of battle. "We can’t let these things anywhere near Star City."

As I surged forward, flames licking the air around me, I became a blur of molten fury. My twin blades of lava and fire whirled and morphed in my hands, cutting through the mutant beasts like butter. My heart pounded, the rhythm in sync with the pulse of the battlefield. Every strike counted, every movement was lethal. I focused on the larger threats—an 8-meter lizardman, its scaled hide nearly impervious to regular weaponry. With a roar, I plunged my blade into its belly, lava sizzling as it melted through its flesh. It toppled with a bellow, flames engulfing its monstrous frame.

Above us, Rina had settled into her sniper’s perch, her anti-golem rifle already lined up with precision. “I’ve got your back,” she called, her voice steady as she fired. The first bullet tore through the chest of a stone golem, shattering its core. The beast collapsed in a heap of rubble, and Rina quickly shifted her aim, picking off the largest threats with expert precision. Each shot counted, no wasted effort, her steady rhythm a reliable backdrop to the chaos below.

Alidia, small in stature but imposing in presence, moved like a living juggernaut on the front lines. Her voluptuous figure—curvaceous and powerful despite her youthful appearance—was wrapped in armor that shimmered with the soft glow of her aura. Each piece of her gear seemed to come alive with the energy she exuded, as she absorbed hit after hit without flinching. Her massive shield, nearly as tall as she was, deflected blows that would have crushed lesser warriors. With graceful precision, she wielded her lance in wide, sweeping arcs, the reach compensating for her height as she knocked beasts aside like mere ragdolls. Every strike created space, forcing enemies to focus on her alone while the Dwarves regrouped behind her indomitable defense.

On the ground, Ninaies moved like a shadow. Utilizing her ninja skills, she slipped through the chaos, disappearing into the few shadows the battlefield provided. In the blink of an eye, she would reappear, delivering swift, deadly strikes to the beasts before vanishing again. Her movements were precise, and the mutant creatures hardly had time to react before they were felled by her blade.

“We’re thinning them out,” Ninaies called from beside me, darting in and out of the fray with agility that defied the chaos. She targeted the wolves, her daggers flashing as she severed tendons and slashed throats with deadly precision.

The battlefield was a whirlwind of chaos—explosions, fire, and the relentless roar of mutant beasts—but the team worked together seamlessly. Luyira’s dome shield kept the injured Dwarves protected, while I fought with the ferocity of a warrior king, cutting down anything that dared approach. Rina’s deadly accuracy from above provided much-needed support, and Ninaies’ stealth strikes dismantled the enemy forces, one by one.

Despite the overwhelming odds against the Dwarves, the arrival of our team shifted the momentum of the battle. The Dwarves, emboldened by the reinforcements, rallied behind us, their mechs and weapons combining in a coordinated effort to push back the relentless waves of mutant beasts. Yet, the fight was far from over. More creatures poured in from the edges of the battlefield, and the enormous bird-like beasts circling above hadn’t yet made their move.

“Stay sharp,” I called out, cutting through the roar of combat. “This is just the beginning.”

The battlefield was a swirling storm of chaos and noise as I wielded my blazing swords against the hulking monsters. But it wasn’t about numbers—it was a race against time. The beasts followed an unrelenting pattern, always focusing on the weakest targets, seeking the kill. Alidia’s taunts drew some of them away, but instinct drove many of the creatures to break free and attack anything vulnerable. Above, the two massive bird-like creatures let out deafening shrieks, their wings casting long, dark shadows over the battlefield as they swooped low, threatening to disrupt our already tenuous defenses.

Destroyer pulsed with heat, grounding my focus. "Remember, you’re not fighting alone," it seemed to remind me. "You’ve got a great team, and the Dwarves are seasoned fighters. Each beast we take down is one less threat to them. Trust your team. Handle the ground; they’ll manage the rest. Until you are ready to join them."

High above, from her perch in the tree, Rina tracked the birds with sharp, calculating eyes. Her anti-golem rifle was powerful, but hitting such fast-moving targets in the air was a challenge even for her. She adjusted the scope, watching the larger of the two creatures as it swooped closer.

“I’ve got you now,” she whispered, taking a steady breath before squeezing the trigger. The shot rang out, slicing through the chaotic din below. The bullet struck the bird in its wing, sending it into a spiraling descent. For a moment, hope flared.

But the beast wasn’t finished. It screeched in agony, stabilizing itself mid-air, its malevolent eyes locking onto Rina’s position. With a mighty flap of its wings, it generated a powerful gust that caused the trees to sway violently. Rina gripped the branch tightly to keep from being thrown off.

“Not going down that easy, huh?” she muttered under her breath, already lining up her next shot.

On the ground, Ninaies moved like a shadow, a blur of fluid, precise strikes. She darted between the hulking beasts, exploiting their weaknesses with swift, lethal efficiency. One mechanized bear reared back, preparing to crush her beneath its massive paw, but she vanished into the shadow of a nearby stone golem. In an instant, she reappeared behind the bear, plunging her dagger into its exposed neck. The creature let out a pained roar before collapsing in a heap.

Despite her graceful movements, Ninaies could feel the pressure mounting. The battle was relentless. "Is this how you guys usually fight, Aido? Luy? Dia? It's exhausting..." she muttered, glancing toward the sky where the birds continued to circle ominously. Their erratic patterns hinted at something—something dangerous and imminent.

I replied with a smirk, "I'm just glad Destroyer gives me nearly unlimited energy."

Rina, leaping from tree to tree to stay hidden, shouted back from her new vantage point, her voice echoing through the forest. "That’s not fair, hubby! Let me use Destroyer too!"

Destroyer, almost laughing, replied, "Sorry, even as my lord's wife, I am exclusive to him."

Alidia, taking a brief pause in the fight, called out, almost teasingly, "You sound like Luyira."

Luyira’s voice shot back, playful but distant, “I heard that, Mom!”

Inside the protective dome Luyira had formed over the Dwarves, there was a rare moment of calm amidst the chaos. The injured soldiers beneath her appendages gazed up in awe, her red hair and rabbit-like features lending her an otherworldly presence. The soldiers whispered, calling her a Valkyrie, and with her power to shield and heal, it wasn’t hard to see why. Her appendages spread a healing warmth over them, patching their wounds and soothing their pain.

“Stay calm,” Luyira said softly, her voice filled with both authority and comfort. “You’re safe now.”

One of the Dwarves, a young soldier clutching his side where a deep wound had bled, spoke through clenched teeth, "We owe you our lives, but... how long can you hold this? There are so many of them."

Luyira smiled gently, her gaze flicking toward the raging battlefield outside the dome. "Long enough. Aido and the others won’t let them through."

But even she felt the strain. The beasts were relentless, and the Dwarves—though resilient—were running out of time. It hurt her to see the soldiers struggle, and she made a silent vow: now that they had arrived, no one else would die. The dome expanded as more injured Dwarves were pulled inside, her appendages drawing them close to safety.

Her eyes narrowed as she spotted Aido across the battlefield, his molten blades cutting through beasts with an intensity that matched the heat radiating from him. He was holding the line, but brute strength alone wouldn't be enough to win this fight.

“Aido!” she called out, her voice cutting through the roar of battle. “We need to take out those birds before they tear the whole field apart!”

I glanced up, locking eyes with the enormous bird creatures still circling overhead. She was right. Those birds were waiting for the perfect moment to strike, and if they did, they’d rain chaos down on both the Dwarves and our team.

“I’ll handle them,” I said, my molten blades morphing into long, fiery whips crackling with heat. I crouched low, gathering my strength, then leaped into the air with a burst of flame. The larger of the two birds swooped down just as I lashed one of my fiery whips upward, wrapping it tightly around the creature's leg.

The bird screeched in fury, its massive wings beating violently as it tried to shake me off. But I held on, this beast nothing compared to the dragons we had faced rescuing refugees days earlier. Using my other whip, I swung myself higher, latching onto the bird’s wing. With a powerful surge, I plunged one of the fiery whips into its chest, sending a wave of molten fire through its body. The creature let out a bone-rattling shriek before plummeting to the ground, crashing with a thunderous boom.

The impact sent shockwaves through the battlefield, knocking smaller beasts off balance and disrupting their advance. The remaining bird, enraged at the death of its companion, let out a piercing cry and dove straight for me.

“Rina, take the shot!” I shouted as I dropped back to the ground, preparing to defend myself.

Rina had already tracked the bird’s path, her rifle trained on it with perfect precision. She squeezed the trigger, and the bullet sailed through the air, striking the bird between its eyes. Its wings faltered, and the creature tumbled from the sky, crashing just outside the Dwarves' defensive circle.

With the birds down, the battle's tide began to turn. The beasts, now leaderless, lost their coordination, their attacks becoming more frantic. The Dwarves, sensing their opportunity, surged forward, firing their rifles and driving the creatures back with renewed force.

Ninaies emerged from the shadows beside me, her expression fierce but relieved. “That was close. Nice teamwork.”

I nodded, my molten whips retracting, leaving my armor still glowing from the intensity of the fight. "We’re not done yet. Their numbers are falling, but this battle isn’t over."

Just then, a deep rumble shook the ground beneath us. The trees swayed violently, and from the distant edge of the battlefield, something massive emerged. The remaining beasts parted as a towering stone golem stepped into view—twice the size of any we had encountered, with molten cracks running through its body and glowing eyes burning with a dark, malevolent fire.

“Of course, there’s a bigger one,” Rina groaned from her perch in the trees.

Luyira’s dome flickered slightly as her focus shifted toward the golem. “This one’s different. Be ready.”

Before we could react, Alidia, ever the fearless leader, charged forward. Her shield struck the golem with a resounding crack, buying us a precious moment to regroup. “I’m the commander, remember?” she called back, half-joking. “Don’t act like I can’t handle the big ones too.”

Well even though she said that I can see she can handled it, so I replied her almost joking, “Let’s finish this, Commander.”

The massive stone golem loomed ominously over the battlefield, recovering quickly from the shock of Alidia’s initial strike. It focused on her, not because of her taunt, but out of pure rage from the damage it had taken. Its molten cracks glowed with a fiery intensity as it grabbed nearby beasts and hurled them like projectiles at the Dwarves' defensive line.

Alidia’s frustration boiled over. "Are you ignoring me?!" she shouted, deflecting another of the golem’s stone-heavy blows with her shield, her voice thick with rage.

Inside the protective dome, Luyira continued her relentless healing of the injured Dwarves. Her hands glowed with a soft, warm light as her appendages connected to each wounded individual, mending their bodies with a precision that left the Dwarves in awe. Deep wounds closed, burns faded, and broken bones knit back together under her care.

One of the Dwarves, barely able to speak through his disbelief, whispered, “What kind of science is this…? We’ve never seen anything like it.”

Luyira smiled softly, not pausing her work. “It’s nothing to fear. Just relax. I’ll have you back on your feet soon.”

The Dwarves, who lived by the laws of science and technology, struggled to understand the magic before them. Their world revolved around mechanical engineering, machines, and weapons—but this healing power, this mystical force that seemed to defy logic, left them in shock. Torn between awe and fear, they watched in silence as Luyira worked.

As her appendages moved, Luyira felt something else—an energy that wasn’t physical. It was fear. Her eyes scanned the perimeter of the dome and, in the shadows of a makeshift shelter near the Dwarves' vehicles, she spotted them: a dozen children and a few women, their faces pale and filled with terror. They were tucked away beside armored transport units, hastily modified to withstand the battle.

“They brought children to the battlefield?” Luyira whispered in shock.

One of the recovering Dwarves, his voice still trembling from the ordeal, explained, “Not by choice... but we must protect them. They’re terrified—it’s the first time we’ve faced monsters like these, and the first time we’ve encountered people like you. A warrior’s duty is to protect the future, and there’s no greater symbol of that than children.”

Luyira’s heart ached, but there was no time to dwell. The giant golem was bearing down on them, casting an immense shadow over the battlefield as it advanced.

Outside, I stood firm, my molten blades glowing as I prepared for the final assault. Ninaies and Rina had regrouped, with Alidia still locked in a fierce battle, exchanging blows with the monstrous golem like two heavyweight fighters.

“This one’s going to take everything we’ve got,” I muttered, eyeing the massive golem.

“I’m ready,” Ninaies replied, her voice calm, though the enormity of the threat loomed over us. “We’ll have to hit it from every angle. It’s too big to take head-on.”

Rina, perched in the trees, reloaded her anti-golem rifle and took careful aim. “I’ll focus on its weak points. You guys take it down.”

Alidia continued her relentless assault, her shield meeting the golem’s crushing blows with thunderous impact. It was a brutal exchange, like two boxers trading punches. “How dare you touch a woman’s face!” she yelled, parrying another strike.

Destroyer, in my mind, chimed in dryly, "A shield isn’t a face."

With a powerful strike, Alidia knocked the golem off balance, creating the perfect opening for us to finish it off.

“Now!” I shouted.

Ninaies vanished into the shadows, using her agility to circle the golem undetected. I lunged forward, my molten blades transforming into whips of fire as I slashed at the golem’s legs, aiming to cripple its movement. The searing lava cut deep into its stone legs, causing the golem to bellow in pain, but it wasn’t enough to stop it entirely. The creature swung its massive arm toward me, but I rolled out of the way just in time, narrowly dodging the attack.

Above us, Rina took careful aim at the golem’s glowing eyes. She fired, her shot piercing the molten stone and causing the creature to stumble. The golem roared, its massive body swaying precariously as it struggled to regain its footing.

“Good shot!” I called up to her. “Keep hitting those weak points!”

Meanwhile, Ninaies had reappeared behind the golem, her movements swift and precise. She climbed onto its back, her blades slicing through the stone exterior as she searched for the creature’s core. Every cut was calculated, weakening the beast with each blow.

But the golem was not giving up. It slammed its fists into the ground, causing a shockwave that rippled through the battlefield. The force nearly knocked us all off our feet.

Luyira, seeing the sheer power of the golem, knew she had to act quickly. Standing at the edge of her protective dome, her hands glowed as she prepared her next move. “I’ll weaken it. Be ready to finish it!”

Her appendages extended outward, and with a burst of energy, she cast a powerful spell. Tendrils of light wrapped around the golem, slowing its movements and dimming the molten cracks that coursed through its body. The creature struggled, but its strength was visibly draining.

“Now!” Luyira shouted, her voice echoing across the battlefield.

Alidia extended her arms toward me, a mischievous grin on her face. “Give me a lift, dear.”

I immediately knew what she was planning. As the golem crumbled onto its knees, I grabbed her by the waist and hurled her into the sky with all the strength I could muster. The speed at which she ascended was staggering, a sonic boom ripping through the battlefield. The beasts that remained scattered at the deafening sound, and moments later, an even louder boom followed—a meteor in the shape of a woman crashing down from the heavens.

I grabbed Nina by the waist and sprinted away from the impact zone, barely escaping the radius of destruction. A heartbeat later, the ground shook with the force of a massive explosion, a cloud of dust and debris rising high into the air. When the dust settled, the battlefield was eerily quiet.

Alidia stood triumphantly amidst the carnage, covered in dust and splattered with some of the molten remains of the golem. She wiped her face with the back of her hand, attempting to clean herself off as best she could.

“This is becoming a habit... do you always fight like this?” I asked, half in disbelief, half in admiration.

Alidia chuckled, brushing more debris from her armor. “Remember, my dear, I don’t have powerful magic like you and the others. I rely on physical combat, just like Nina. Sometimes, that means... getting a little messy.”

The battlefield was littered with the corpses of fallen beasts, the stench of burning flesh and stone filling the air. But the Dwarves had survived, thanks to our combined efforts. A sense of relief washed over me. It felt good to know we’d made a difference.

Luyira slowly lowered her appendages, the shimmering protective dome around the Dwarves fading away. She turned to face them, her expression soft. The warriors, still processing the shock of both the battle and the miraculous healing they had received, stared at her in a mixture of awe and disbelief. The power she wielded was beyond anything they had ever encountered.

One of the Dwarves, a grizzled veteran with a long scar across his face, stepped forward hesitantly. His voice, hoarse with emotion, broke the silence. “We owe you more than our lives,” he rasped. “You’ve saved our people. But… what you did, with your body… we don’t understand it.”

Luyira gave him a gentle smile, her eyes kind and filled with understanding. “You don’t need to understand it. Just know we’re here to help. You don’t have to fight this alone anymore.”

Behind her, the children and women cautiously emerged from the shelter, their eyes wide with a mixture of fear and hope. They had witnessed the horrors of battle but also the miraculous forces that had saved them. In their eyes, we were something more than warriors—we were their salvation.

As we regrouped, the team stood together, watching as the Dwarves began to gather the remnants of their shattered forces. The makeshift vehicles they had pieced together were still operational, and, for the moment, the survivors were safe. But the atmosphere was thick with tension. The battle may have ended, but the war against the chaotic forces was far from over.

“We’ll take it from here,” I said, trying to offer the Dwarves some sense of reassurance. “You’re safe for now, but this war isn’t over. Stick with us, and we’ll make sure you make it through.”

The Dwarves nodded, their faces a mixture of gratitude and weariness. They had lived through the day, but the battle had left scars—both physical and emotional.

The grizzled Dwarven veteran, still catching his breath, stepped forward. His scarred face and battered armor spoke of countless battles, but nothing could have prepared him for this. He took a long, deep breath, steadying himself before speaking. His voice, though exhausted, carried the weight of leadership.

“I am Hjalmar Stonehand, leader of what’s left of our battalion,” he began, his gaze distant as if haunted by the recent carnage. “We’ve been wandering this cursed land for two days, trying to make sense of it. When we spotted other people, we hoped—hoped to make contact, maybe even find allies. But when they fled, it crushed that hope. Not long after, those… things appeared,” he gestured toward the mangled remains of the mutant beasts, “and attacked us without warning.”

He paused, his eyes clouding with the memory of uncertainty. “For a moment, we thought those people had led the beasts to us. That we’d been betrayed. But when you arrived and fought alongside us, it became clear—these creatures are enemies to all.”

I absorbed the molten lava blades back into my armor, the heat dissipating as I turned to face him. Hjalmar seemed like a seasoned warrior, rational and steady, despite the madness of what had happened. “The mutant beasts don’t care who you are,” I said gravely. “They exist only to kill, leaving nothing behind but destruction. Their bodies are toxic after death, dissolving to feed the growth of more creatures. They’re designed to perpetuate an endless cycle of devastation. Nothing about them can be salvaged.”

I gave Hjalmar a moment to process the grim truth before pressing forward. “Tell me, do you know where you are? This planet is called Earth, and right now, you’re on a continent known as America.”

Hjalmar blinked, his expression twisting with confusion. “Earth? America? I’ve never heard of these places. Our kingdom—Vargstrond, proud and unyielding—lies at the heart of the universe, on Midjarlan, the Mother Planet.”

The name "Midjarlan" hung in the air, weighted with mystery and unfamiliarity. The team exchanged puzzled glances, each of us trying to make sense of what we had just heard.

“Midjarlan?” Ninaies stepped forward, her curiosity getting the better of her. “Are you saying… you’re not from this world?”

Hjalmar shook his head slowly, the realization dawning on him as he spoke. “No. On Midjarlan, we are the only sentient race. Our lands are vast, filled with dangerous creatures, but nothing like these abominations.” He kicked at the shattered remains of a mechanized bear, its metallic shell crumbling underfoot. “This is something else entirely. We were preparing for battle with another kingdom—one we've been at war with for generations. We had reports of an invasion at our borders, so we gathered in our fortress, Skjoldborg. And then… without warning, we were here. No explanation. Our entire battalion, our equipment, even the kitchen workers and their children were transported. Since then, we’ve been stranded.”

Luyira, still tending to the wounded Dwarves, looked up at Hjalmar with curiosity in her eyes. “You mean you were transported here… with no idea how?”

Hjalmar nodded, the frustration evident in his furrowed brow. “One moment, we were on the battlefield, preparing for war. The next, we found ourselves in this place, surrounded by strange landscapes. At first, we thought we could figure out a way back, but we’ve found nothing. Some of my people think we were drugged or attacked, but there was no sign of enemies, and oddly enough, most of our equipment appeared with us. It seems like whatever brought us here took everything we were physically touching—our Brassgoliaths, supply transports… all of it came through. But you—” he eyed the group, his curiosity piqued, “you people are very tall, and those tails and ears... And that armor of yours,” he motioned toward Destroyer, “it seems almost alive. How does it work?”

Rina smirked, wagging her fluffy tail. “I’m a demi-human, that’s why I have the ears and tail. But Luyira? She’s a Retter Messiah—strong and powerful. I can’t do half the things she does.”

Luyira, teasing, grabbed Rina’s waist. “But this lovely body belongs to me and Aido. Maybe Nina too.”

Ninaies rolled her eyes. “Oi! Dream on, Luy.”

Alidia, sensing the playful mood of the girls but keeping focus, stepped in. “Girls, save it for later. Let’s keep things in check. Hjalmar, I’m sorry for your losses.” The banter brought some lightness to the atmosphere, but the bodies scattered around—Dwarves and beasts alike—reminded everyone of the gravity of the situation.

Hjalmar sighed, his eyes scanning the aftermath of the battle. “At least two dozen of my people are gone. We lost five Brassgoliaths, leaving us with only thirteen operational. We were around 232 soldiers, plus women and children. In total, we’re down to 208 and 21 civilians.”

I crossed my arms, and think about it. “You’re not the first to be brought here like this. Others—people from different worlds, even different realities—have also been pulled into this chaos. No one knows why. Something, or someone, is drawing people into our world, and as you’ve seen, it’s far from peaceful.”

Hjalmar’s face tightened, the weight of this revelation settling on him. “So… you’re saying we’re no longer on Midjarlan. We’ve been ripped from our home, our war, and brought to a world we don’t know?”

I nodded solemnly. “That’s right. This is Earth, and it’s just as dangerous as where you came from, maybe even worse. But we can survive—together. We need to stick together if we want to make it through this.”

For the first time, Hjalmar’s hard expression softened. The burden of leading his people in a world that made no sense was weighing him down. “My men, my people… we’re warriors, but this place—it's beyond anything we’ve faced.” He glanced back at the women and children, who huddled near the vehicles. “I thought I could protect them, that I could find a way to safety. Now, I see that we’re fighting for more than just our kingdom. We’re fighting for survival.”

Luyira, sensing the growing tension in him, placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. “You’re not alone in this. We’re protectors of this world, and anyone who’s good-hearted and willing to fight for a better future is welcome by our side. If we’ve learned anything, it’s that we can only move forward by working together.”

Hjalmar, visibly moved by her words and the healing she had provided, nodded slowly. “Then I’ll trust in you and your team. We’ll fight together, as allies.”

Rina, watching the exchange from a distance, couldn’t help but add her two cents. “Don’t worry—we’ll make sure those kids of yours get somewhere safe. No way we’re letting them grow up in the middle of a battlefield.”

Hjalmar chuckled softly, a rare moment of levity breaking through his weariness. “They’re tougher than they look. But… I appreciate it.”

I stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Hjalmar’s arm. “Let’s get your people to safety first. Then we can figure out what comes next. You may be far from home, but with us, you’ll have a fighting chance.”

Alidia, ever the practical one, nodded. “We’ve got a camp a few hours from here. We can regroup there and make a plan.” She turned to me, her voice all business. “I’ll send the report now.”

Alidia’s voice cut through the preparations as she stood close to me, a playful smile curling on her lips. “Mhmm... Dear Aido, are you treating me more like a woman than a familiar? I’ve noticed a change—something different in the way you act around us. It’s not bad, mind you, it’s just… like your love for us has grown more personal.”

Luyira, still tending to some of the Dwarves, glanced over, a hint of amusement in her eyes. “I still like being treated like a sister, but you’re right. He’s been looking at us more and more like… wives.”

Ninaies, ever focused on the mission, shifted the conversation back to the battlefield. “If you check the path of the beasts, they’re coming from nests to the east,” she said, pulling out a map. “There are at least three nests in that direction. It seems like we’ll need to take them out one by one, conquering them as we search for more drifters.”

Rina nodded in agreement, adjusting her rifle. “I agree. This is the second group we’ve found with children. Ryhard’s group was only adults, but Greju had kids too. I just hope the other teams are having a more peaceful time.”

With their next objective clear, the group began organizing the survivors. The women and children were carefully loaded into the Dwarves’ makeshift armored vehicles. The once-crippled Dwarven forces now stood taller, bolstered by the healing they had received and the reassurance of their new allies. The weight of loss still hung heavy over them, but for the first time in days, there was hope in their eyes.

As they prepared to move out, Hjalmar stood a little apart from the others, gazing up at the darkening sky. His voice was low but filled with a quiet determination. “I never thought there could be life beyond the stars. Now, we’re living proof that the universe is far larger than we ever imagined.”

I stepped beside him, understanding the weight of his thoughts. “We’ve all had to learn that, Hjalmar. There’s more out there than any of us could have dreamed, and most of it isn’t friendly. But together, we stand a chance.”

He nodded, his resolve strengthening. “Then we fight. Not just for survival, but for a future in this strange world.”

With that, we turned back to the task at hand—moving forward, conquering the dangers ahead, and searching for more who, like the Dwarves, had been pulled into this chaotic world. Our fight was far from over.

Alidia, focused on contacting the other group via the tablet, suddenly heard the unmistakable sounds of a fierce battle erupting on the other end. Her brow furrowed as the distant voices of Sakura and Cirdan rang through, their magical attacks unleashing against what sounded like another swarm of mutant beasts. Spells crackled through the air, and the tension was palpable even through the static.

“Hold them back! Keep pushing!” Sakura’s voice was sharp with urgency, her magic tearing through the chaos.

Cirdan’s deep, steady tone followed, a powerful incantation rolling from his lips as he summoned forces to counter the onslaught. “These creatures are relentless—prepare for the next wave!”

Alidia quickly adjusted the tablet, relaying the situation to the others. “They’re in the middle of a fight. It sounds like more mutant beasts. We’ll need to assist them soon.”

As the urgency settled in the air, the scene shifted, rewinding to moments before, when another group—Mary, Frenia, Sakura, Cirdan and the others—arrived at Hell’s Pit.

The scene at Hell’s Pit unfolded like a dreamscape, blending the otherworldly with the ruinous remnants of a lost age. The vast pit, now a grand chasm, stretched open over the domed city of Maryland, a place of forgotten wonders and preserved relics. The terrain was scarred by decades of battle, with gnarled roots and strange plant life intertwining with crumbled technology, creating a landscape that was both alive and ancient. Rusted machinery lay half-buried in earth that had since been reclaimed by nature, vines creeping over consoles and screens flickering with faint pulses of electricity, their life long drained by time.

Frenia, Mary, and their group approached the pit cautiously, guided by Darwin and his team of engineers and researchers. Darwin, an older man whose grizzled appearance betrayed years of surviving the harsh realities of this world, walked alongside Frenia with a hint of relief in his voice.

"We were assigned to oversee the salvage ops," Darwin explained. "The terrain's a mess—decades of explosions, beasts, and… well, who knows what else crawlin' out of the pit. But if not for you, Frenia, and what you’ve done for us, I’m not sure we’d still be here—Luyira and Aido included. Glad to have you back, honestly."

Frenia gave a small nod in acknowledgment, her gaze sweeping over the towering trees that had grown wild, their trunks impossibly thick and alive with some unseen force. From a distance, it became evident that the trees were more than just flora—there was movement within them. Strange, fluid motions caught her eye as the branches swayed in unnatural patterns. What seemed like humanoid figures moved gracefully between the branches, blending seamlessly with the foliage. Their presence exuded an ethereal energy, as if the forest itself was breathing.

Mary’s voice cut through the air, soft but filled with awe. "Dryads... only fauns are missing now." She took in the sight of these tree spirits with an almost childlike wonder, her tone hushed as if she dared not disturb the strange magic hanging in the air.

Frenia’s lips curled into a wry smile. “Our world is starting to feel like something out of those old books,” she murmured. "Almost like we're living in one of those myths ourselves."

Mary turned to her, her eyes thoughtful. "Perhaps it is more than just coincidence. Have you noticed how many of these creatures, these things we keep encountering, are plucked straight from the stories we once read? Legends, myths… but to them, we may be the intruders—the unknown element in their world."

Sakura, standing off to the side with her arms crossed, quirked a brow. "Gotta admit, for being made of wood, they're kinda sexy. Not Luyira-level, but hey, they've got that natural charm."

Carlos shot Sakura a disapproving glance, though he couldn’t entirely hide his agreement. "Focus, Sakura. Yeah, they're beautiful, but we've got enough problems without getting enchanted by forest spirits. You remember what happened last time."

"Alluring but dangerous," Mary added. "If the stories are true, dryads have a tendency to be playful... but also mischievous. Not malicious, though. More like children who don’t understand the consequences of their actions."

Cirdan, the elven mage who had long accompanied them on their journeys, stepped forward. His expression was serene, eyes glowing faintly as he regarded the dryads. “In my world, we have similar beings,” he explained softly. “They’re called spirits of the forest, deeply connected with nature, and they’ve always been allies to the high elves.”

He moved to the center of the group, raising his hands in a graceful motion. Green energy swirled from his fingertips, and ancient words of magic flowed from his lips. As the spell built, a faint, shimmering bridge of light connected his aura with the dryads. Their attention snapped toward him, curious but not hostile. They moved closer, their lithe forms weaving through the branches like dancers in a mysterious performance.

The air grew thick with magic as Cirdan's voice became the conduit between their world and the dryads' ancient language. Though no words could be heard, there was an unmistakable sense of communication, a silent understanding passing between them. It was as if Cirdan’s magic reached into the heart of the forest itself, bridging the gap between their two worlds.

Sakura, Carlos, Francisco, and Lizzie, Mary’s personal guard, remained vigilant, eyes scanning the trees for any sign of threat. Despite the tranquility of the moment, they knew all too well how quickly things could spiral out of control. The calm before the storm was always the most dangerous.

As they watched, Frenia allowed herself a rare moment of peace. The battle-hardened warrior stood close to Mary, her gaze softening as she observed her friend—her sister. For so long, their lives had been consumed by chaos, and yet here, in this strange melding of nature and lost technology, there was something undeniably serene. It wasn’t often they had moments like this, moments to simply be in each other’s presence without the weight of their responsibilities crushing them.

"Feels like forever since we’ve had a chance to just... exist," Frenia mused aloud, her voice low so only Mary could hear. “We’ve had our moments, sure—banquets, meetings, the usual—but it’s been ages since we’ve really done something together. Without all the… noise.”

Mary glanced at her with a gentle smile. "I know. And this, Frenia... this moment, I’ll treasure it as much as any battle we've fought together." She paused, her gaze drifting toward the dryads once more. "But I can’t shake the feeling that something larger is at play here. Something pulling the strings behind all this."

Frenia frowned, her eyes narrowing. "A third hand, you think?"

Mary nodded slightly, her expression unreadable. "Possibly. And whoever it is... I don’t think they’re done with us yet."

The forest, alive with the presence of dryads, swayed softly as the silent exchange between Cirdan and the spirits continued, and yet, beneath the peace, there was an unshakable tension. A sense that the calm was merely a facade, waiting to be broken.

The air between the two groups felt dense, not with hostility, but with a heavy sense of understanding. The dryads, led by Eira and Selene, stood tall and ethereal, their shimmering forms melding seamlessly with the trees. Rowan, the towering treant, remained rooted in place, his creaking branches resonating with the weight of ancient wisdom. His presence seemed to loom over the gathering like a silent sentinel of the forest, watching over his dryad companions and their interaction with the human visitors.

Mary’s attention was still focused on the dryads, their elegant movements and soft voices stirring something within her. As they spoke of divinity and the connection to life itself, her smile widened, though there was a hint of bittersweet understanding in her eyes. “The secrets of this place truly do run deeper than we could have imagined,” she said quietly, turning slightly toward Frenia. Her next words, though soft, carried a weight of personal reflection. “It’s good to have you beside me through it all. I’ve seen how you look at Aido—how you see him more as a companion for eternity rather than a romantic love. It’s something I understand. You don’t love him like a man, but you’re drawn to the idea of someone who can walk beside you through the endless years... like me.”

Frenia’s cheeks flushed slightly, though her expression remained composed. “You know me too well, Mary,” she said, her tone lighter now, trying to ease the sudden tension of the moment. “I guess that’s why I’ve always followed you—because you understand. Eternity is a long time to be alone.”

Mary chuckled softly. "It is. But with you, Frenia, it never feels lonely."

As their private exchange unfolded, Cirdan’s connection with the dryads grew stronger. The magical link he had forged seemed to hum with a life of its own, and the dryads began to approach Mary and Frenia more directly, their graceful steps leaving faint, glowing imprints on the ground. Eira, her face serene, and Selene, with her knowing smile, stopped a few paces from the two women.

“We greet you, Mother of All,” Eira said, her voice like a breeze rustling through leaves. There was something reverent in the way she spoke, an acknowledgment of Mary’s power that was more than just politeness. “We know who you are, you and the one who accompanies you. Your divinity... it radiates. Strong, pure.”

Selene’s ethereal smile deepened as she added, “We sense your bond with life itself. Do you have a connection to the Life Deity we worship in our world of Zhizn?”

Mary’s eyes softened, and though her posture remained calm and diplomatic, her voice carried the same authority she used when addressing her people. “I have no connection to your deity. I am what my world calls a Retter Messiah, a Saint. My duty is to protect, to guide. Frenia is my protector, my sister in arms. Together, we defend those who cannot defend themselves.”

Frenia nodded, standing close by, her presence solid and reassuring. Though always alert, she allowed herself to relax slightly in the company of Mary, trusting the deep bond they shared. The dryads, sensing no threat, accepted the explanation with understanding glances exchanged between them.

“We are familiar with such roles,” Eira replied, her voice soothing. “Zhizn is home to many who walk the paths of protectors and divine guides.”

The treant, Rowan, remained silent, though his immense form creaked as he shifted slightly. The air around him was thick with the ancient energy of the forest, as though he was connected to the very earth itself. His presence was both comforting and imposing, a guardian of the natural order.

Selene spoke again, her tone shifting to something more serious. “We have felt the difference in the earth here since our arrival. The ground is rich with energy, as though crafted for a being of great power. The animals... they watch us. They know something. But our bodies, once so light and free, are now weighed down. Movement has become a burden.”

“That’s because this world is not like Zhizn,” Mary said, her tone calm but laced with a warning. “This land, this place, is dangerous. You’re far from your home. If you allow me, I can try to understand your problem better.”

Frenia stepped forward, her expression more serious as she took in the dryads’ condition. “We’re the guardians of this world, tasked with protecting it from threats we still don’t fully understand. Monsters—beasts—attack our people. We’re on a quest to stop them.”

Eira and Selene shared a solemn glance. “We can feel the sickness of this land,” Selene said softly. “The creatures that walk the forests, they are alive but hollow. There’s no spirit in them, no soul. It’s as if they are mere shells, moving by some unseen force. Like... machines.”

Frenia’s brow furrowed at this. “You mean the mutated beasts?”

Selene nodded. “Yes. They live, but there is no essence within. It’s almost like the machinery you call the radio station. Moving, acting... but with no true life.”

Cirdan, listening to the exchange, interjected thoughtfully. “That aligns with what we’ve observed. These beasts don’t sleep, don’t eat. They simply move and kill, following some base instinct... or command. Like constructs made to resemble living beings.”

The treant, Rowan, let out a low, rumbling sound, a mixture of thought and concern. “The earth here is poisoned. War has scarred this land, and the death of many creatures—both plant and animal—has left a lingering sickness. The air is heavy with it. You humans may not sense it... but we do. This place has seen much death.”

The dryads’ words echoed through the group, their truth undeniable. Frenia’s gaze shifted toward the distant ruins, where remnants of long-forgotten battles still lay scattered. Her expression hardened.

“This land is sick,” Mary said softly, her voice carrying a weight of sorrow. "We’ve known it for a while, but now... it feels as if the land itself is crying out."

Eira stepped closer, her voice gentle but determined. “We will help you, Mother of All, and you, protector Frenia. We may be far from Zhizn, but nature is our domain. If this land is poisoned, we will work to heal it.”

Selene nodded, her expression mirroring Eira’s resolve. “Together, we can uncover the source of this sickness.”

Frenia gave a short, decisive nod. “Then we fight together. We can’t afford to ignore any allies in this war.”

Eira's expression shifted, her earlier playfulness replaced by a deep, almost somber resolve. Her words carried the weight of inevitability as she spoke once more. “It seems we’re all bound together in this now. The balance of life, not just here but perhaps in all realms, is at stake. If you are called Mother in your world, we must heed the call as well. Our nature demands it.” Her voice, while soft, carried an underlying power, the voice of the forest itself pledging its allegiance.

Mary gave a soft smile, touched by their willingness to join forces. "The honor is mine, Eira, Selene. We all share a bond with life. Together, we will uncover the truths buried in this place. But you’re right to sense something... primordial here. There’s a substance—one that could shift everything. I cannot speak of it in full just yet, but it could be as dangerous as it is powerful. It’s a force that seems connected to both life and death, an ancient paradox. The primordial soup, as we call it.”

The dryads exchanged glances, their interest piqued. "We feel it in the earth," Selene admitted. "Something beneath the surface is stirring. It calls to us, though it is foreign and unsettling."

The conversation shifted as Cirdan caught the attention of Eira and Selene. The dryads approached him with curiosity, their playful demeanor resurfacing. There was something familiar in his presence, though not entirely. Eira’s eyes narrowed as she stepped closer to the elven mage.

“You,” she began, her voice curious, “you remind us of a race we’ve encountered before, yet… your energy is different. More potent. It hums beneath your skin like a current we’ve never felt.”

Cirdan smiled slightly, his expression calm. “My people, the high elves, possess a deep connection to magic. We are rare even in our own world. Our goddess, Cemina, blessed many of us with an affinity that surpasses other races. I suppose that’s what you’re sensing.”

Before they could delve further, Darwin approached alongside a scout from the radio station. He handed a report to Sakura, and the tension in the air thickened immediately as she read it. Her usually sharp and confident demeanor faltered, and her voice trembled as she relayed the news.

“A horde,” she began, eyes wide. “At least 6000 mutant beasts were headed for Star City... but something changed. They’ve altered their course. They’re coming straight for us—right here at Hell’s Pit.”

The weight of the news fell over the group like a shadow. The dryads’ once serene expressions turned grim, and the treant, Rowan, shifted slightly, his branches groaning as though reacting to the impending danger.

Mary’s brow furrowed, her mind racing to assess the situation. "We don’t have a fortress or any sort of defense here. Star City’s walls could have held... but this place? We’re exposed.”

Frenia stepped forward, cracking her knuckles, her grin fierce. “Let them come. I don’t need a fortress. I’ll take them all on myself.” There was no arrogance in her tone, just a raw, feral confidence that sent a shiver through those around her.

Mary’s eyes filled with concern as she looked at Frenia. “Frenia, are you sure? That’s a lot of beasts. And… I still can’t bring myself to kill anything living.”

Frenia’s reassuring grin softened slightly. “Mary, trust me. You won’t have to kill anything. I’ll weaken them. The others will clean up after. Besides, these things aren’t truly alive—not in the way that matters.”

Cirdan, his hand glowing with magic as he prepared himself for what was to come, nodded in agreement. “She’s right. These creatures are hollow, devoid of life as we know it. Once Frenia cuts them down, we’ll step in to finish the fight.”

Eira and Selene, the dryad leaders, looked at Frenia with a mixture of admiration and awe. “Your confidence is palpable,” Selene remarked. “In our world, creatures as relentless as these roam the forests. We will support you as best we can, though we sense your strength will be more than enough.”

Mary nodded toward the dryads, her voice laced with caution. “You’re strong, yes, but your bodies… they’re far more fragile than they appear.” She turned to her group, eyes on Carlos as he raised a questioning brow.

“Fragile?” Carlos asked, tilting his head. “I mean, aren’t they made of wood? How could they be weaker than flesh?”

Mary’s gaze shifted to the dryads, her expression softening. “Their appearance is deceptive. Their bodies are more like flesh than wood, with certain areas denser than others. But their molecular structure holds less energy than we do. Their essence is tied to nature, not combat. If only Destroyer were here, we could know more for sure. But for now, I forbid the dryads and treants from engaging in direct combat.”

At this, Rowan, the treant, let out a deep, rumbling protest, his branches rattling with frustration. His voice, like the groan of ancient trees, filled the air. “I am the guardian of my people!” he bellowed, his deep voice vibrating the ground beneath them. “I will not stand idle while they are in danger. Neither will my kin.”

The tension grew palpable as Rowan’s towering form seemed to grow more imposing. His loyalty to his people was clear, and he would not be swayed easily. Eira and Selene, though more diplomatic, shared Rowan’s fierce determination.

Mary took a step forward, her tone firm but understanding. “Rowan, I understand your duty. But your bodies are vulnerable to these creatures. They will target the weakest among us, and right now, that’s not us humans or demi-humans. It’s you and the dryads.”

Rowan’s branches quivered, but the rumbling beneath the earth quieted. Though his protective instinct burned strong, he knew there was truth in Mary’s words. Reluctantly, he nodded, his deep voice tinged with resignation. “Very well. But I will not stand by idly if they come for us.”

Frenia, sensing the unease, stepped in with her characteristic confidence. “Don’t worry, Rowan. You won’t have to. We’ll take care of them before they get the chance.” Her knuckles cracked again, the eager smile returning to her lips. “Besides, I could use the exercise.”

With the plan set, the alliance between humans, dryads, and treants solidified. The ground trembled faintly as the approaching horde of beasts drew nearer, their collective presence an ominous cloud on the horizon. This was no mere skirmish—this would be a battle that would determine the course of their survival in this strange, shifting world.

The air around Hell's Pit seemed to hum with the rising tension as the group steeled themselves for the impending battle. The once quiet, mystical atmosphere of the reclaimed forest now felt thick with an ominous energy, the calm before a storm that no one could escape. Mary stood beside Frenia, her gaze heavy with both trust and the weight of her own limitations.

“Do what you must, Frenia,” Mary said, her voice soft but firm. “There were those in Star City who refuse to leave, even if they justified as their way of living, we lose too many souls, they are not way we are allowing more. We need to make sure the beasts don’t reach them.”

Frenia, ever the warrior, gripped her weapon tighter, the steel in her hand as familiar as the ground beneath her feet. Her eyes flickered with a fierce determination, not for bloodlust, but for the purpose that burned in her chest—the need to protect those who couldn’t protect themselves. She looked over her shoulder at Mary, offering her a confident, reassuring grin. “You know I will, Mary. I always do.”

The dryads and treants shifted behind them, uneasy but resolved. Eira and Selene, their ethereal beauty now tempered with a cold understanding of the coming violence, stood beside Rowan, whose branches still quivered with frustration at his forced restraint. Even they could feel the growing shadow of the horde as it approached, the unnatural creatures trampling the earth in a path of destruction.

Cirdan, his magic already crackling in the air, moved toward Frenia, his calm presence a silent promise of support. “I’ll be ready to strike once you weaken them,” he said quietly, though his tone held a solemn respect for her strength. “Just don’t go too far. Even you can’t take them all alone.”

Frenia chuckled, rolling her shoulders as she prepared for the fight. “Watch me.”

Darwin, Carlos, Sakura, and the others made their final preparations, tightening armor, testing their weapons, and exchanging brief but meaningful glances. They knew what was coming—knew that once Frenia charged into battle, there would be no turning back. The horde would come for them all.

As the first distant rumble echoed through the trees, signaling the beasts’ approach, Frenia stepped forward, her grin turning into something feral, almost eager. “Let’s go greet our guests,” she said, her voice tinged with anticipation.

Mary felt a deep sense of concern as she observed Frenia assuming the lead position. Despite placing great trust in Frenia, the magnitude of the imminent danger posed by the overwhelming number of over six thousand beasts was staggering. However, Mary remained steadfast in her understanding that this course of action was necessary. If Frenia could subdue the beasts, the remainder of the group could intervene effectively. Failure to do so would likely result in the horde devastating everything in its path, as Hell's Pit lacks the infrastructure to withstand such an onslaught.

The group spread out, forming a loose defensive line at the edge of the pit, the ancient machinery of Maryland’s lost city looming behind them. The dryads moved gracefully into position, their connection to nature allowing them to meld with the trees, though they stayed far enough back as Mary had ordered. Rowan, though still simmering with the desire to protect, rooted himself deeper into the ground, ready to unleash his power should the need arise.

The ground trembled as the first wave of mutant beasts poured through the dense forest, their twisted bodies moving with a grotesque, single-minded purpose. They emerged like shadows given form, hollow-eyed and driven by an unrelenting need to destroy. Frenia, standing at the front, was no longer just a warrior—she was a towering force of nature. Her transformation had turned her into a giant, her body swollen with power, claws gleaming, her eyes glowing with an unnatural light. Her grin stretched wide as she faced the incoming horde.

With a single, massive swipe of her hand, she slapped the first creatures aside as though they were nothing but toys. The smaller beasts crumbled under her blows, their broken forms scattering across the battlefield. Frenia's laughter echoed through the trees, a sound of unrestrained fury and joy, as she felt the raw power coursing through her veins.

Suddenly, the larger, rank 2 beasts moved in, launching volleys of missiles and razor-sharp projectiles toward her. She grabbed one missile mid-air with her massive hand, crushing it with ease, before hurling the remains into a cluster of the other beasts, sending them tumbling backward. Her massive foot stomped down, crushing several more beneath it as she corralled the horde, ensuring none of them escaped her range.

“Here we go,” she growled, her voice a deep rumble that shook the ground beneath her. Her enormous form became a living barrier between the horde and the rest of her team.

Behind her, the battle raged in full force. Cirdan’s hands glowed with energy as he unleashed precise bolts of magic into the fray, targeting the beasts Frenia had already weakened. His spells crackled through the air, sharp and deadly, turning mutated creatures into dust as they collapsed under his power.

Sakura darted through the battlefield, her movements swift as lightning. She hurled bolts of electricity into the masses of beasts, stunning them where they stood. With a flick of her wrist, she followed up with razor-sharp icicles that pierced through the creatures with deadly accuracy. Nearby, Carlos slipped into the shadows, his body moving like smoke through the carnage, using his stealth to target the beasts with swift, lethal strikes. His movements were silent, precise—much like the feared Ninaies, masters of the dark.

Lizzie had taken the high ground with a group of other Hunters and Demi humans. She knelt on the edge of a giant rock formation, her rifle in hand, firing round after round into the chaos below. Each shot found its mark, taking out beasts before they could reach the front lines. She worked in perfect synchrony with Francisco, who charged directly into the fray. Francisco fought like Alidia, agile and brutal, tearing through the beasts with swift, deliberate movements, but avoiding his taunt abilities. He knew better than to risk pulling the beasts’ attention away from where they needed to be, followed with the rest of Hunters and Demi-humans using  giant hammers, swords and spears, forming another barrier the beast has to overcome if want to reach their objetives.

Mary, standing further back, her heart heavy, watched as the battle unfolded. Her fingers twitched with the urge to use her own power, to join the fray and tear through the horde herself. But she resisted. She had made her choice long ago—killing, no matter how justified, was not her path. She was a protector, a guide. Even as the world around her demanded violence, she refused to cross that line.

The dryads and Rowan stood on edge, their expressions tense as they watched the carnage from a distance. Though their magic vibrated in the air, waiting to be unleashed, they obeyed Mary’s command to stay out of the fight. They knew their bodies were more fragile than the humans, despite their connection to nature, and in this battle, that fragility could cost them their lives.

Meanwhile, Frenia’s giant form continued to tear through the horde. She moved like a colossal war machine, each stomp shaking the ground, each swing of her massive claws sending beasts flying. But even in her giant form, she found herself frustrated by the smaller creatures that slipped through the cracks. They swarmed around her legs, trying to pass her and reach the others. She crushed as many as she could, but the sheer number of them began to overwhelm her.

“Damn pests,” Frenia muttered, wiping blood and debris from her claws. She stomped down again, obliterating another cluster of rank 2 beasts, ensuring they wouldn’t escape her wrath.

Darwin, who had been monitoring communications, suddenly approached Mary. “Saint Mary,” he called, his voice urgent. “Commander Alidia is trying to contact us. What should we tell her?”

Mary’s eyes flicked toward Darwin, her expression firm. “Their group is smaller than ours, and as much as I’d love to have them here, they’ve got their own battles to fight. Tell them to trust us. If the supporting teams are nearby, send them here. But that’s all.”

Darwin nodded and hurried off to relay the message. Mary’s attention snapped back to the battlefield as she noticed something in the sky—shadows moving swiftly through the clouds. Her eyes narrowed as she recognized the shapes.

"Frenia!" she shouted, taking to the air in a graceful, swift motion. Her wings beat against the wind, carrying her higher and closer to the dark shapes above. "Look! Something’s coming by air!"

Frenia glanced up, her massive form looming over the forest as she saw the aerial beasts descending. They were bird-like, their wings large but their bodies small, yet there were so many of them that they blotted out the sky.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Frenia grumbled. “Aerial beasts now? They seem small.”

“They may be small, but they’re numerous,” Mary replied, her voice steady even as she soared higher. “I’ll distract them. Focus on the ones on the ground. I know what I can handle.”

Frenia watched as Mary flew higher, her heart swelling with both admiration and concern. “You better be careful up there!” she called after her.

Mary gave her a soft smile from above. “Always.”

Mary floated in the air, watching the swarm of mutant beasts descend on Hell’s Pit like a storm of feathers and claws. The creatures were small, with agile bodies and disproportionately large wings, designed to be a true ravenous swarm. Their screeches filled the air, and the cruel glint in their eyes made their purpose clear: to devour everything in their path.

With a resigned sigh, Mary ascended to intercept them. As she had expected, she was able to enter the cloud of beasts with ease—they simply didn’t see her as a target. They were after something they could kill, and she wasn’t going to let that happen. She extended her hand and began to channel wind magic, her specialty. The air around her began to swirl, forming a localized hurricane that shook the beasts, disorienting them. The birds, in their ignorance, flew through her as though she were a shadow, until they found themselves trapped in the turbulent currents of her spell.

The vortex contained them, their lightweight bodies being tossed and thrown from side to side. The strategy was working: the creatures were being controlled, unable to coordinate. On the ground, Frenia and the other combatants fought the beasts at ground level, and Mary knew she had bought them valuable time.

But maintaining the hurricane was unsustainable. Mary could feel the effects of her actions spiraling out of control. The winds she was generating, along with the pressure building in the atmosphere, were affecting the environment more than she anticipated. Clouds began to swirl, moving in tune with the rhythm of her power. If she continued, the force of the wind would rapidly escalate into a full-blown hurricane, capable of devastating the entire area—including her allies.

“This can’t last much longer,” she thought, panic creeping in as she realized the situation was becoming dangerous. She hadn’t intended to create an actual hurricane, but her inexperience in manipulating wind on such a large scale made it difficult to stop. Just when she felt she was on the verge of losing control, she made a decision.

Aido always used fire. The idea struck her like a spark. Fire wasn’t just destructive; if used the right way, it could solve the problem without causing a catastrophe.

"They need oxygen to fly... to breathe," she thought, her blue eyes glowing with determination. She didn’t need to breathe, and was invulnerable to almost everything until she knows. If she could consume enough oxygen in the immediate area, she could knock the beasts unconscious without killing them.

Mary canceled the wind spell and instead channeled the power of fire. She released a controlled explosion of flames from her hands, engulfing the air around her and the beasts. The fire wasn’t strong enough to incinerate them, but it sucked the oxygen from the air, draining the creatures’ energy. Within seconds, the swarm collapsed, falling like stones to the ground, not far from the group battling below.

Mary descended gently, observing the immobile bodies. As she crouched to inspect one of the beasts, she confirmed they were still alive, only momentarily stunned by the lack of air. She sighed in relief, satisfied with the results. But as she studied the creatures further, she noticed movement around her.

One by one, the beasts began to rise, shaking their wings. They had learned. They knew that if they tried to fly high again, she would stop them. Instead, they began slipping between the trees of the forest, using the foliage to prevent Mary from repeating her large-scale strategy.

“AH! as Luyira said… BEAST FUCKERS,” Mary muttered as she watched them disappear into the thick canopy. It was no longer a simple battle of power, but of strategy, and these creatures, though primitive, understood that the terrain now gave them the advantage.

Frenia continued to crush the ground forces, her massive form a living wall that refused to yield. Her claws ripped through the rank 2 beasts, her fury unrelenting. The air was thick with the sounds of battle—magic crackling, weapons clashing, and the guttural roars of the mutant beasts. Yet through it all, Frenia's grin never faltered.

The majority of the ground beasts had been exterminated thanks to the tireless efforts of the group, and the battle was reaching its most critical moment. Only a few creatures remained, and exhaustion weighed heavily on everyone—except for Frenia, who, as a Retter Messiah, fought with the same boundless energy that made her unstoppable. However, Mary knew that while Frenia was a devastating force on the battlefield, she wasn’t particularly skilled at dealing with the swift and cunning airborne creatures.

Hovering above the chaos, Mary's mind sharpened with clarity. As she watched the sky, she focused on the flying creatures that had scattered. The air around her was dense with life, the same energy she used to heal and protect. But now, Mary focused on something different. Instead of seeing the people and mystical beings she protected as patients, she began to see the environment itself as a body. The forest, the creatures, the wind—and the beasts as an illness that had to be eradicated.

"I can't kill them," Mary thought, her mind analyzing what she already knew in her heart. "But I can cure this illness another way."

Inspired, she closed her eyes and immersed herself in her connection to the world around her. She could feel every creature, perceive the energy that gave them form. Just as when she removed a disease from a body, she could identify the weaknesses in the creatures flying overhead. And then, a brilliant idea crossed her mind: if she couldn’t destroy them, she could strip them of their most dangerous ability—their power to fly.

With her eyes still closed, Mary extended her power beyond its usual limits, sensing how the dark birds had begun to surround the others. Despite having scattered, their true target remained the people and mystical beings under Mary’s protection—the dryads and the treants who fought valiantly but were beginning to tire. The trees creaked, and the leaves trembled as the tension in the air thickened.

And then, above Mary, wings of light materialized, glowing with an almost divine intensity. However, as the others looked closer, they realized these weren’t literal wings. They were thousands of condensed, heavy ice needles, shining with a frigid glow. The air around her crackled with cold tension as the temperature dropped rapidly. The other fighters, even in their exhaustion, stared in awe at the vision.

Some warriors murmured among themselves, their eyes wide. “Is that an angel?”

The dryads, eyes filled with reverence, whispered amongst themselves. “The Mother of All protects us…”

Mary, with unwavering focus, opened her glowing eyes and unleashed the torrent of ice needles. The small daggers flew through the air like a storm of inevitable death, targeting the wings of the flying creatures. Her precision was flawless. The needles pierced the membranes of the beasts' wings, shredding them and burdening the creatures with the weight of the condensed ice. The forest, which had moments ago been filled with the threat of these flying beasts, was now void of their fluid and free movement.

One by one, the beasts began to plummet from the air, their wings unable to support them as they were pierced and weighed down by the ice. They fell like stones, crashing into the ground with force, unable to rise again. Mary’s strategy had worked. Though she couldn’t kill them outright, she had neutralized the most immediate threat: their ability to fly.

From the ground, Frenia, Cirdan, Sakura, Carlos, and the others watched as the creatures fell, helpless against the icy storm Mary had unleashed. Despite their exhaustion, the warriors knew this was their chance. With the aerial threat neutralized, the final line of defense advanced.

“Now!” Cirdan shouted, his voice charged with magic, as he launched a blast of energy toward one of the fallen beasts. At the same time, Sakura called down lightning to finish off the creatures that still struggled to rise. Carlos emerged from the shadows, disappearing and reappearing in quick strikes to eliminate any remaining threats.

Lizzie and Francisco, having regained some of their energy, joined in with coordinated shots and attacks, finishing off the last of the beasts. But this time, they were not alone. The dryads, now freed from the ground assault, began channeling their magic into the trees and the earth, summoning roots and branches to entangle and strangle the remaining enemies. The treants, enormous and powerful, crushed the fallen beasts under the weight of their branches.

What had once been a desperate fight had now turned into a decisive victory. The beasts, both those that had fallen from the sky and the few remaining on the ground, were exterminated by the perfect cooperation between humans, dryads, and treants. Though weary, the unity of the group and the precision of their attacks proved unstoppable.

Mary, now hovering lightly above the battlefield, looked down at the results of her tactic. The wings of light, once majestic, began to fade, turning into tiny ice particles that shimmered in the sunlight. The air was cold, but it was clean. The danger had passed.

Frenia, still in her giant form, stomped on the last remaining beast beneath her foot and looked up at her sister. “Great job, Mary!” she shouted with a fierce smile, pride glowing in her eyes. “I knew you had it under control!”

Mary gently descended, landing softly on the ground with a relieved sigh. “It wasn’t easy, Frenia. But at least now, we’re one step closer.”

The battlefield was silent, save for the murmurs of the survivors. Exhausted but victorious, they all understood that this was merely one chapter in the long war still ahead of them.

The battle for Hell’s Pit had ended, but the true challenge had yet to reveal itself.

After the battle, the group finally took a moment to rest. Frenia, Mary, and Sakura gathered together, fatigue still lingering but the relief of victory washing over them. As they sat in the calm after the chaos, they established communication with their allies—Alidia, Aido, Luyira, Ninaies, and Rina—each group sharing thoughts and observations about what had just transpired.

Mary, leaning against a tree, began reflecting on the dryads. “The dryads remind me of the Greju tribe,” she mused, her voice calm but thoughtful. “But they’re even weaker in comparison. They possess a deep connection to the forest, but lack the strength to defend themselves on a large scale. The dwarves, however, feel more akin to Ryhard’s group.”

Frenia nodded, her voice carrying that unshakable confidence as usual. “Exactly. The dryads, the treants—they remind me of different beings we’ve encountered before. The key difference is that, in their own world, they seem capable of holding their own. It’s as if each group is specialized for their environment, their world, but they’re out of place here.”

Sakura, more relaxed after the battle, leaned forward, listening closely. “That’s what makes me think the attacks weren’t random. I mean, look at the timing. It feels like something—or someone—knew we were planning to contact them. The attacks were too coordinated.”

Mary’s eyes darkened slightly, the suspicion weighing heavily on her mind. “It’s not just a feeling. The beasts’ movements were precise. They went straight for the dryads and treants at the right moment, and when that didn’t work, they tried to overwhelm us. It feels… intentional.”

As they spoke, a familiar crackle came over the radio. Arthur’s voice came through, adding his thoughts to the conversation. “I’ve been keeping an eye on the situation from here,” he began, his tone professional but with a hint of concern. “From what we’ve mapped out, there are six more nests located beyond your current position. These nests are responsible for producing the mutant beasts you just fought.”

Arthur paused for a moment before continuing, “What’s strange is that their movement patterns don’t directly target you, but they do intersect your positions. The way they moved today? It wasn’t random at all. The possibility of someone or something intervening? Not crazy. In fact, it’s highly likely.”

Mary exchanged a glance with Frenia, her expression tightening. “So, these attacks might have been orchestrated. If that’s true, it means we’re dealing with something far more dangerous than just mutant beasts. There’s intelligence behind this.”

Frenia grinned slightly, though there was no humor in her voice. “Good. I like it when there’s a real enemy to fight.”

Sakura sighed, shaking her head. “Let’s not jump to conclusions. But… yeah, it doesn’t sit right with me either. If someone is orchestrating this, we’ll need to figure out who or what—and fast.”

Mary took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. “One thing’s for sure—we need to investigate these nests. If we can destroy them, we might be able to cut off the supply of beasts. Our main goal is to protect the people and recover the power to change the world.”

After a while of silence, the tension was palpable between all the parties present. It was as if everyone was waiting for someone else to make the first move, the first word. But finally, I decided to speak up, breaking the quiet with my thoughts.

“It’s obvious we’re not alone,” I began, my voice steady but laced with the gravity of the situation. “There’s a third party, one whose intentions and methods we still don’t understand. We are just as lost as our allies here, but... it’s undeniable—we’re gaining ground. They haven’t shown themselves since the attack in Star City. Something is changing.” I paused, thinking in Arthur words, “I believe, like Arthur, that our best course of action now is to reclaim the territories where the nests lie. That’s the key to controlling the battlefield.”

Mary, standing tall and fierce as ever, nodded. "I agree," she said, her voice firm. “We’re advancing. We’re progressing. And we can’t lose sight of what’s important—our people, and now, our new allies.” She turned to me, her gaze sharp. “What’s your plan, Aido?”

“First things first,” I said, straightening up. “We meet at Hell's Pit. We’re not far, and the dwarves’ mechas can handle the rough terrain better than most. I have an idea... something I want to try, but I’ll need everyone’s help.”

Arthur nodded slowly, his eyes assessing me. “I see. Inform me of anything you need along the way. If reinforcements are necessary, I can send more troops. The rebuilding of the city is going well enough, and Mary’s team has a third of the hunters and demi-humans at her command.”

Leonidas, the ever-watchful warrior, crossed his arms and gave a nod of agreement. “I’m ready when you are, Aido. But more importantly, how are my girls?”

Before I could answer, two voices chimed in. “We’re fine, Daddy!” Nina and Rina called out, their voices filled with the lightness that only children could bring to such dark times. “We’re doing great!”

Leonidas chuckled, his booming laugh echoing through the space. “Hahaha! Good, good. Chimara and Rina’s families are thriving, too. That’s all I need to hear.”

“I’ll take care of them,” I reassured him. “Nothing will happen to them while we’re here. My idea... well, it’s simple enough, and with the abilities of everyone here, it should work.” I turned to the group, feeling the weight of their expectation. “I’ll be in contact later. Let’s get to Hell's Pit.”

And so, we began our march. The dwarves followed behind us, their vehicles struggling with the rough terrain. It was amusing to watch—vehicles meant for war and survival faltering against the land. But then, to their utter surprise, Luyira stepped forward, her many tentacles extending out. She hoisted the heavy machines and their drivers with ease, lifting them as if they were nothing more than toys. The dwarves’ eyes bulged, their seasoned warrior pride taking a hit as they watched the scene unfold, realizing how small they were compared to her raw strength.

As we marched, Hjalmar Stonehand—a dwarf of sharp mind and sharper tongue and their leader—struck up a conversation, sharing stories of his world. It was a grim picture he painted. His people had been at war for so long they had forgotten why it started. Kingdoms tearing each other apart, holding onto ancient grudges that only grew with each death. “I’m a cynic,” Hjalmar admitted with a bitter grin. “I won’t lie—I’m using you to survive, as anyone would in my world. Where I come from, if you’re not useful to the kingdom, you’re worthless. That's the way it is.”

The contrast between his world and ours was stark. In our world, we fight together against a danger that doesn’t care about privilege, land, or ideals. It was something he hadn’t fully grasped yet, but I could see him thinking, questioning what he was really fighting for all this time. “In the end, survival is all that matters,” he said, his voice distant.

As we walked, Nina and Rina played with the dwarf children—six boys, eight girls. Their group was small but proud. Among them were only seven women; in their world, females were considered weaker, a resource for breeding, forbidden from joining the war. They told us, without hesitation, that females taken in conquered lands had fates worse than death—rape, enslavement, a lifetime spent as public consorts in harems. It was a brutal world, and as Hjalmar described it, my blood ran cold.

Then, Hjalmar’s eyes wandered to Alidia, and his expression shifted. “Your height is impressive,” he said, not realizing the landmine he had just stepped on.

Alidia’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Er... what do you mean, Hjalmar? My height is perfect, but I wouldn’t mind being like Frenia—able to change my size at will.”

I couldn’t help but laugh, shaking my head. “Yeah, Alidia is perfect just the way she is.”

Luyira piped up from beside me, her voice full of pride. “Mom is perfect! And with Aido always giving her lots of love, she’s going to grow even more, just wait!”

Hjalmar blinked, stunned. “Oh, uh... sorry. Is she married already?”

Alidia shot him a mischievous smile. “Yep. To the guy standing right next to you.”

Hjalmar’s jaw nearly hit the ground. “Seriously? You?”

“Yah,” I confirmed with a grin. “We are.”

He gave me a long, appraising look. “You look young... but to have a daughter like Luyira, you must be far more powerful than you seem.”

Luyira’s laughter broke through the group’s murmurs, her joy contagious. “Hahaha, yep, 他是我爸爸 (Tā shì wǒ bàba),” she said, looking at me with a wide grin, throwing in the foreign words playfully.

Hjalmar frowned, confusion knitting his brow. “Papito? Wait... you’re with your daughter too?”

I cleared my throat, a bit embarrassed by the misunderstanding. “Erm... no, not exactly. Luyira’s my sister, and Alidia here,” I gestured toward her, “is my mother.”

Hjalmar’s eyes widened further. “For the king, that’s allowed?”

Before I could respond, Rina jumped in, her voice full of youthful indignation. “What do you mean? Of course it’s okay! They love each other, what else matters?”

Ninaies, always perceptive, gave Hjalmar a sidelong glance. “I can feel your reaction, you know. Seems like this idea doesn’t sit well with you.”

Hjalmar hesitated, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. “Mhm... it’s not that it’s wrong exactly, but in our world, the laws forbid it. Filial relationships... they’re said to create weak offspring, bring problems down the line.”

Luyira, unfazed, tilted her head with a curious look. “Ah, you’re talking about genetic issues? We don’t have that problem. And even if something like that ever came up, Mary can take care of it.”

Hjalmar’s eyes widened in disbelief. “Seriously? You can just... get rid of any problems like that?”

Alidia nodded with a confident smile. “Yah. Mary’s got all kinds of cures. We don’t have to worry about any of that.”

“So...” Hjalmar looked at me and Alidia, still processing everything. “You’re saying Mary can cure anything?”

Luyira beamed, proud as ever. “Of course! She’s called the Saint for a reason. We’ll meet her soon enough.”

Hjalmar shook his head in amazement, a low whistle escaping him. “This world... it feels like a true fantasy. Tell me, is it possible—giant robots that can fly?”

Before I could answer, Destroyer’s voice rumbled through the air, low and resonant. “I guess all males in all universes dream about that. You mean mechas, right? We have those, but flying’s not an option yet—they’re too heavy, and the fuel we use, well... it’s similar to yours, and not efficient enough.”

Hjalmar froze, his eyes darting around. “SPIRITS! I heard a voice, but I see no one!”

Rina erupted into laughter, nearly doubling over. “Hahahaha, Destroyer’s been quiet this whole time—I bet he was just waiting for the perfect moment to scare you!”

I chuckled, shaking my head at Destroyer’s antics. “It’s Destroyer,” I said, patting my armor. “This thing’s alive, Hjalmar. He’s like our guardian, our teacher, and an endless source of knowledge. And yeah, he was silent until now. Apologies—he was busy analyzing you.”

Hjalmar’s eyes lit up, full of wonder. “A living armor? And it changes shape, too—I noticed when you took your helmet off. Amazing... you lot are living in the future.” He paused, his expression turning more introspective, his voice softer. “It’s kinda humbling... seeing that we’re not the most advanced beings in the universe.”

As we continued our march, Hjalmar’s awe was palpable, the reality of our world slowly sinking into him. His old beliefs, the things he thought he knew, were being rewritten with every step we took deeper into Hell's Pit. And as much as he marveled at us, I could sense he was starting to realize the vastness of the universe—and how small we all truly were.

As we arrived at Hell’s Pit, the familiar faces greeted us warmly. Mary, ever composed yet radiant, stood alongside Frenia and Sakura. As always, Sakura practically threw herself at Luyira, clinging to her with affection. Carlos, her ever-embarrassed husband, looked on helplessly, used to this but still uncomfortable with how touchy his wife was with others. Francisco and Lizzie, as always, appeared the perfect composed couple, silently observing the scene with calm amusement.

Hjalmar, on the other hand, almost dropped his jaw when he saw Mary, but his true shock came when he laid eyes on Frenia. The dwarves were mesmerized by her towering presence. It was as though they all fell in love at first sight.

“Giants do exist,” one of the dwarves muttered in disbelief.

Frenia grinned down at him, her massive frame radiating strength. “And you haven’t even seen all of me yet! Hahaha, little one.”

For some reason, Frenia seemed to enjoy her newfound admirers, flexing her muscles playfully, giving the dwarves something to marvel at. They stared, wide-eyed, completely enraptured by her display.

Mary, ever the voice of reason, cut through the moment with a gentle smile. “Frenia, you can impress them later. Let’s hear Aido’s plan first. We’ve set up a meeting place in that tent over there. It’s a bit tall to accommodate Rowan—he’s quite large himself. Cirdan is already there with him, and Eira and Selene are their leaders.”

I turned to Hjalmar, knowing this next part would be important. “Come with us, Hjalmar. You’re part of this now. But first, inform your people about something important. The reason we can all communicate is thanks to a technology Luyira’s using. If you leave its range, communication might break down, so don’t wander off. Especially because this is a dangerous zone.”

Hjalmar nodded, his expression serious. “Understood. I’ll let them know to stay still and cautious.”

After that, we gathered in the tent. As soon as we stepped inside, my eyes were immediately drawn to Rowan. He looked like a massive treant—similar in form to the wood golems of Rank 2 mutated beasts, but he was different. His eyes held a wisdom and gentle calm that only a sentient being could possess. Next to him stood the dryads, Eira and Selene, their skin like the bark of trees, hair a deep green, their beauty undeniable despite their wood-like appearance. There was something ethereal about them.

Mary gestured toward them, introducing each in turn. “This big guy is Rowan, and these two are Eira and Selene, the leaders of the forest people.”

I nodded in greeting. “This is our new friend, Hjalmar, leader of the dwarves. I assume they come from another world, just like him.”

Eira inclined her head with a serene smile. “Yes, my lord. It is a pleasure to meet you. Lady Mary and Lady Frenia have spoken of you. It is an honor to meet the leader of the dwarves.”

Hjalmar returned the gesture, though curiosity flickered in his eyes. “The pleasure is mine. Interesting that you speak my language. Your name is Eira, right?”

Eira nodded again, her gaze quietly studying him. “A dwarf... a race we can recognize. But you seem different. Like Sir Cirdan, you possess far more vitality than the dwarves we are familiar with.”

Luyira interrupted with a playful grin. “Hehehe, about the communication? That’s thanks to me! And as for Cirdan, let him enjoy the rest he deserves. He’s been drinking primordial soup like it’s an energy drink. I have a feeling it’ll cause him problems down the road.”

Mary chimed in thoughtfully. “Well, I’m keeping an eye on him, so no need to worry. But yeah, he’s been showing some symptoms, kind of like Leonidas." Turning her attention back to Eira, Mary added, "It seems Eira and her people have lower vitality compared to us, but they say it’s normal in their world. I should probably ask Destroyer about this.”

Feeling the growing curiosity of the group, I stood and reached for Eira’s hand as she blushed, her green complexion darkening slightly. It was subtle, but obvious enough to me. Of course, Luyira’s expression soured immediately, and the other girls noticed, brushing it off with teasing smirks.

Destroyer’s deep voice suddenly broke the silence, filled with understanding. “Mmm... I figured you noticed it too, Mary.”

Mary nodded, her brow furrowed. “Their constitution is similar to ours, but as you say, it feels... emptier.”

Destroyer hummed in agreement. “Yes. On a molecular level, their bodies are less dense. It’s possible they come from a dimension with lower energy levels. In theory, beings from a lower dimension would struggle to survive here. But if that were truly the case, their bodies would’ve already turned to dust. It seems they come from an alternate dimension with less energy overall.”

I blinked in surprise. “Seriously? How can you tell all that?”

“It’s a theory,” Destroyer responded, his tone analytical. “The higher the energy density, the higher the dimension a being inhabits. This is nearly confirmed with a Retter Messiah. Normal humans have cells with a lot of empty space. A Retter Messiah’s cells have no void, making them invulnerable to damage and giving them infinite energy.”

Mary’s eyes lit up at the prospect of a solution. “So, can I heal them to survive better here?”

“Yes and no,” Destroyer replied thoughtfully. “You don’t yet have the capability to fully strengthen them to survive long-term. But you do have the means. If we had what I’m searching for, the process would be much easier.”

Alidia, curious as ever, leaned forward. “And what exactly are you searching for? You’ve kept us in the dark for long enough.”

“The laboratory,” Destroyer answered without hesitation. “The place I was created. It contains the tools and processes necessary to upgrade living beings. There, we could use the primordial soup to create stronger bodies for all of us.”

Mary’s curiosity deepened. “Can you teach me how to do it?”

Destroyer’s response was almost cryptic. “No and yes. I could, but I don’t currently have access to that data. I’ve recovered part of it, from when I examined Luyira’s healing chambers.”

Luyira perked up, nodding. “Ah! Yes, I’ve tried using them again, but I haven’t been able to. Still, I’ve gotten better at healing others.”

Destroyer continued, his voice laden with knowledge. “Mary’s abilities are refined to cure any disease or poison, but her understanding of body manipulation is limited. She’s capable of altering human biology, even changing genders, but the process is dangerous and only applies to humans. The others—beings like the dryads and Rowan—are genetically incompatible with humans, and now it seems, their molecular structure differs too.”

The room fell silent as the weight of Destroyer’s words settled. We were surrounded by beings from different worlds, different dimensions, each with their own limitations and mysteries. And yet, here we all were—together, united by a common cause, trying to survive and perhaps, just maybe, thrive

Mary, ever the practical one, broke the contemplative silence. "So, the Dryads should stay protected until we find this lab? Do you have any idea where it is?"

Destroyer’s deep voice replied without hesitation. “New York.”

Alidia let out a knowing groan, her hands on her hips. “Of course! It had to be there.”

Rina blinked in confusion. “What?”

Luyira tilted her head. “Yah, what?”

Frenia chuckled, crossing her arms. “It’s where the main nest is, girls. A million beasts are swarming there.”

The girls all nodded in sudden realization. “Ah, right,” they chorused. “Must be there.”

Hjalmar, who had been taking it all in, paled slightly. “A million of those monsters? That’s suicidal.”

Luyira smirked confidently, flexing her tentacles. “Nah, watch me conquer it!”

Rowan, his deep voice as steady as the roots beneath the earth, spoke next. “We are strong. We can help.”

Selene, ever graceful, added, “Even if our strength in combat is limited, we have abilities that can support your efforts.”

As I returned to my seat, I paused for a moment, gathering my thoughts before laying out the plan. The weight of it hung over the room like a thick fog.

“As we’ve all seen, Arthur’s strategy of using us as the vanguard is effective. The Retter Messiah can eliminate thousands of beasts with ease. And now we have Frenia, who can fight like Luyira.” I glanced at Mary. “Though by her nature, I sense combat may be harder for her, we still have Alidia, and myself with Destroyer. But... our biggest issue remains—our people. We can’t just charge into the nest and hope the beasts don’t attack elsewhere. If that million-strong swarm moves toward the cities or breaches the walls, it will be nearly impossible for us to protect everyone.”

Alidia, always quick to understand the situation, nodded. “I see. So we need a way to deal with the beasts without endangering the rest of the world.”

“Exactly,” I continued. “My idea is simple: we build fortresses, starting here. Using our abilities, we can construct a fortress quickly—one where we can station our people and allies to defend the zone as we encircle the nest. Even though it’s large, it’s smaller than the area the big wall currently covers. If Frenia changes her size, she could place sections of the wall that are taller and stronger than anything we’ve seen. We can add cannons, mechas, hunters, and demi-humans. We don’t need to cover the ocean, as the ground beasts sink like rocks when they try to swim. Besides, most of the mutated aquatic creatures live far deeper in the sea, and we can station boats to watch the waters.”

Frenia’s eyes lit up, her enthusiasm infectious. “A new wall? With my power, we can build it in days, not years!”

Luyira pumped her fist. “Easy peasy!”

Ninaies smiled wryly. “Seems like we’ll have to watch from the sidelines this time. We don’t have the raw power you girls do.”

I turned toward our new allies—Hjalmar, Eira, Selene, and Rowan. “I want you all to stay here for now. We’re going to build a fortress, and hunters and demi-humans will guard it while we salvage more technology. Your presence will help us defend the area and stabilize it.”

Hjalmar gave a resolute nod. “I accept.”

Selene inclined her head. “We understand, my lord.”

Eira followed, her voice soft yet steady. “As the lord commands.”

Rowan’s deep voice was a low rumble. “We humbly obey, lord.”

Rina, ever the curious one, raised an eyebrow. “Why do you call Aido ‘lord’? I’m curious.”

Selene met her gaze, her expression serene. “He is divine. We see and do not see him, much like Lady Mary and Lady Frenia. His presence is beyond what we can fully perceive. He is greater than we can understand, most likely a divine being.”

Ninaies grinned, nudging me with a playful smirk. “See, Aido? You’re divine! Hehehe. But no dryads in the harem—at least not yet, eh?”

Luyira’s voice shot out, half-joking, half-serious. “NUH-UH! My share is already small enough.”

Rina laughed, teasing her. “Can I have a dryad, then?”

Luyira quickly shut that down, wrapping a possessive tentacle around Rina. “Nuh, you’re mine and Nina’s. No sharing.”

Rina giggled, leaning into Luyira’s hold. “Hehehe.”

Frenia rolled her eyes with a fond sigh. “Sometimes I think these girls wouldn’t care if the world was ending—they’d stay like this until the very end.”

Mary smiled warmly, watching the banter. “That’s why we love them.”

I couldn’t help but agree, a smile tugging at the corner of my mouth. “Indeed. Now, let’s get started.”

As we walked through the makeshift camp, it was impossible to miss the awe in the eyes of the dwarves. They were utterly fascinated by the advanced technology surrounding them—the towering mechas, the androids moving with an almost human-like grace. It wasn’t just the machines that captivated them; the physiology of the demi-humans intrigued them too. I could see them watching closely, their minds working to understand what made this world so different from their own.

Hjalmar and I stood near one of the larger mecha platforms, the quiet hum of machinery in the background. Destroyer’s presence loomed, ever watchful, the glow of his systems casting a faint light on the surroundings.

"They’re overwhelmed," I said, watching as a group of dwarves circled a mecha, their fingers tracing the metal joints with a mix of reverence and curiosity. "They’ve never seen anything like this before."

Hjalmar grunted in agreement. “Aye. In our world, we have Brassgoliaths—impressive in their own right, but... compared to these machines, they’re nothing but relics.”

Destroyer’s voice rumbled, cool and analytical as always. “The difference is vast. The Brassgoliaths lack the complexity of mechas. They are simply mechanical constructs, without the advanced processing capabilities or adaptability.”

Before I could respond, a figure approached us—a dwarf, stocky and broad, with a face full of determination and intellect. He bowed slightly before addressing Hjalmar.

“My lord Hjalmar,” he began, his voice steady. “I am Borgar Ironhelm, lead engineer of our group.”

Hjalmar nodded for him to continue, and Borgar turned to me and Destroyer, his eyes shining with curiosity.

“I’ve been studying these mechas and androids,” he said, almost reverently. “I understand their functionality at a glance, at least in terms of how they operate. But it’s impossible for us to replicate them with our current tools. Our Brassgoliaths are inferior in that regard.”

“And why is that?” I asked, intrigued by his understanding.

“With the right tools, we could replicate the technology behind the mechas—at least, mechanically. Their joints, their weapon systems, even the power cores. But the androids...” He hesitated, his eyes narrowing in thought. “That’s a different matter. We’d need not only the tools but also the blueprints for those. The fact that they can think and process real-world data... that’s something we can’t replicate. Not even close.”

Destroyer’s lights flickered in response, his voice deepening with interest. “You are correct, Borgar. The key difference lies in the androids’ positronic brains—one of the lost technologies. Far more advanced than the logical units that control mechas. A machine that can think, learn, and adapt... that’s beyond what even advanced mechanical constructs like Brassgoliaths can achieve.”

At that moment, Cirdan, who had been observing from a distance, joined the conversation. His keen elven eyes glinted with interest as he approached, holding a rolled-up parchment in his hand.

“If we provided the tools,” Cirdan began, “could you at least recreate the mechas? I’ve drawn a design here—it’s a Zora Cannon. I’ve detailed its functions but kept its true secrets hidden.” He unrolled the parchment, revealing an intricate sketch of the Zora Cannon, complete with complex notations and diagrams.

Borgar’s eyes lit up as he examined the drawing, nodding slowly. “A Dragon Mouth... yes, we’re familiar with such a device in our world. With the right resources, it wouldn’t be difficult to reproduce. Its principles are similar to what we already know.”

Hjalmar grunted in approval, clearly impressed. “If we could recreate something like that, it could shift the tides of our battles. These cannons are usually mounted on frontier defenses or railed on military trains. They’re devastating, but rarely used—there’s nothing left to salvage afterward. Using them against beasts, as you mentioned, might not be worth it.”

Cirdan, brushing his hair aside, lowered himself slightly to meet Hjalmar's gaze, showing respect. “The beasts you’ve heard of, they’re beyond anything you’ve seen. Calamities, walking disasters. Compared to them, even a Dragon Mouth would feel like a pea shooter. I’ve only seen images, but they’re real. They’re called Titanic Beasts, the true menace of this world.”

Hjalmar’s face tightened with unease. A bead of sweat appeared on his brow. “How big are we talking?”

Destroyer’s voice cut in, calm but foreboding. “A rank 2 beast is more than 20 times smaller. And the golem you saw during our battle? That was a rank 2.”

Both dwarves went silent, their expressions darkening slightly. I could see the gravity of the situation starting to sink in. Cirdan leaned in, placing a reassuring hand on Borgar’s shoulder. “Titanic Beasts are the bosses of bosses. They vary in type and size, but the largest we fought covered an entire city with its body. Others can be as massive as an Elder Dragon.”

Borgar, still processing, hesitated. “You’re not speaking in metaphors... these are actual Dragons too?”

Cirdan smiled lightly, his hand still on Borgar’s shoulder. “We do have a few Dragons as friends. But yes, there are bad ones as well, and you, my friends, may be the key to ensuring they never get close to us.”

As I listened to their discussion, a thought struck me. Even without revealing all of our secrets, these dwarves—beings from another world—were learning rapidly just by observing and working alongside us. Borgar’s ability to grasp the mechanics of the mechas and the Zora Cannon so quickly was impressive, but it also raised concerns. Knowledge, especially advanced technology, is a double-edged sword. I couldn’t help but wonder what could happen if they ever misused this knowledge.

I watched the dwarves, the demi-humans, and our allies as they interacted, learning from one another. I could only hope that this exchange of knowledge would serve the common good and not turn into a danger down the line.

“This... could either lead to great progress,” I murmured to Destroyer, my eyes narrowing as the weight of the situation settled on me. “Or to our downfall.”

Destroyer’s glowing eyes flickered for a moment before he responded. “That depends entirely on what we choose to do with it.”

As Cirdan and the engineers continued to discuss the intricacies of the technology—debating schematics, materials, and the limits of what could be achieved—Eira, Selene, and their people were hard at work. What was remarkable about them was not just their strength but their connection to nature. The trees in the surrounding forest seemed to respond to their will, swaying and uprooting themselves, shifting aside as if obeying some unspoken command. With surprising grace, the dryads cleared vast sections of land, opening up space where we could gather resources for the fortress.

At the same time, those of us with more specialized powers worked on extracting metal parts from the ancient ruins surrounding Hell’s Pit. Using our abilities, we melted and molded the scrap metal, shaping it into forges and tools for the dwarves to use. Hjalmar’s engineers wasted no time. The moment they had what they needed, they set to work, transforming a section of Hell’s Pit into a small industrial zone. It was something we desperately needed. Star City lacked any serious industrial capacity, and until now, only the capital had that kind of infrastructure.

In the distance, Frenia’s immense form dominated the horizon. She had grown to the size of a mountain, her massive hands lifting and placing blocks of stone as if she were a child playing with Blocks. Despite the sheer size of the pieces, her movements were precise, almost playful, as she helped us construct the fortress. From here, the scene was almost surreal—giant stones being moved effortlessly, the dwarves hammering away in the industrial zone, and the dryads manipulating the trees, all in unison. The sections of the fortress that were completed were already being equipped with weapons and lookout posts.

As we worked, Mary approached me with an idea. “Aido, I think we should create a water moat around the perimeter.”

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Why?”

Mary smiled knowingly. “You reminded us earlier—the beasts are easier to handle in water if they aren’t naturally aquatic. If we have a moat, any land-based creatures would struggle to cross.”

It made sense. “Good thinking. Let’s do it.”

Luyira, Rina, and Nina, however, weren’t quite as focused. Having already completed the difficult task of cutting the terrain with her powers in mere minutes, Luyira had switched her attention to playing with the dwarf children, Rina and Nina joining her. The kids were laughing, chasing each other around the open areas as Luyira effortlessly kept them entertained, her tentacles darting out playfully. Their laughter echoed through the air, a rare and welcome sound in the midst of all the work.

Meanwhile, Alidia, ever organized and meticulous, was busy directing the flow of resources and managing the positioning of various posts. She made sure everything ran smoothly, coordinating the placement of weapons and supplies while overseeing the entire construction effort. In the distance, I could see Sakura pouting, clearly frustrated as she worked hard alongside the others to organize the outpost. Under Alidia's strict supervision, she couldn’t escape her tasks, feeling the metaphorical "whip" of Alidia's relentless efficiency.

As the work progressed, I took a moment to step back and observe. The dryads were still working their magic, guiding the trees, and Hjalmar’s dwarves were industrious, turning Hell’s Pit into something far more than a wasteland. I could see in their eyes that they were fully invested now—this was no longer just about survival for them. It was about building something new, something stronger.

Even though Luyira and the girls were more focused on playing with the kids than working, I couldn’t fault them. After all, Luyira had cleared the terrain faster than anyone could have expected, and the fortress was shaping up well. With Frenia helping as a living giantess and the dryads’ unique powers, our progress was faster than I could have imagined.

For a moment, I wondered if we had something truly powerful here—this collaboration between species and worlds, all united against a common enemy. But then, the shadow of doubt crept back into my mind. Sharing this knowledge, this technology… it was already clear that even without revealing all our secrets, others could learn and adapt simply by being around us. I could only hope that this cooperation would lead to a common good and not become a danger later on.

I took a deep breath, watching as Frenia placed another massive stone block into place. The fortress was coming together, and so was this strange new alliance. Only time would tell if it was for the better

High above the mortal realm, where none could see or sense them, seven figures hovered in the vastness of the skies. Lucifer, the Morning Star, stood at the center, his ethereal wings shimmering with an unnatural radiance. His six brothers surrounded him, their eyes fixed on the events unfolding below, on the fragile alliance forming between the dwarves, demi-humans, and Retter Messiah. Their presence went unnoticed, their influence felt only in whispers and darkened thoughts that clung to the edges of existence.

Lucifer’s gaze was cool, detached, as he observed the industrious dwarves working alongside Aido and the girls. A faint smile tugged at his lips, though it was devoid of any warmth. “The dwarves,” he murmured, his voice soft yet carrying the weight of a thousand truths, “they are not inherently evil, but they certainly lean toward it. We must keep an eye on them—for now, it’s not time for Aido to learn the true darkness within people.”

His eyes narrowed slightly. “At the moment, they restrain themselves—driven by their circumstances, by the instinct to survive, and by the sheer power they’ve seen in Aido and the others. But that restraint won’t last forever. Like criminals who know even the law can’t watch everything, the temptation to indulge their darker urges will eventually challenge them.”

Asmodeus, ever the inquisitor of desire and temptation, leaned in with a sly grin. “And what of the people from Alpha Centauri?” His voice dripped with curiosity. "They’ve managed to use highly advanced summoning methods—far more complex than we anticipated. Their intentions are clear. They know about Aido, or at least the Retter Messiah. What shall we do with them?"

Before Lucifer could respond, Leviathan, the serpent of the deep, interrupted with a growl. “Kill them,” he hissed, his serpentine form coiling with dark energy. “The chaotic beings served their purpose, they are the new toys of Satan but the Alpha Centauri civilization has grown arrogant, meddling where they don’t belong. Their use to us has ended.”

Satan, thoughtful and cold, crossed his arms, contemplating Leviathan’s words. "It would be wise to remove players from the game that neither we nor the heavens sanctioned. No one granted them permission to interfere, least of all the likes of them."

Lucifer’s smile widened, his eyes gleaming with malice. "Indeed, killing them is the best option. But first, we must understand how they managed such complex invocations. Someone—or something—provided them with the technology, and it’s no coincidence they acted when Aido began to move. We need to know who is pulling their strings."

Mammon, perched like a vulture ready to feast on the spoils, chuckled darkly. "And once we know, we can strip them of everything. Power, knowledge, everything they value."

Lucifer nodded slowly, his wings spreading wider as he addressed his brothers. "The heavens won’t interfere this time. For now, we are free to do what we love most—torture, control, and destroy everything that stands in our way." His voice dripped with anticipation. "We shall make an example of Alpha Centauri. Their reckoning begins now."

The Destruction of Alpha Centauri

Within moments, the seven princes of Hell turned their attention to Alpha Centauri. The vast civilization, a shining beacon of technological advancement, was blissfully unaware of the doom that was about to befall them. Planets that had flourished for centuries, home to billions of beings, were about to witness the full force of demonic wrath.

Lucifer descended first, his presence like a shadow across their twin suns. The Alpha Centaurians looked up in confusion as the skies darkened, but they could not comprehend what was coming. With a flick of his hand, Lucifer unleashed a wave of corrupting energy that swept across entire continents. Their advanced defense systems flared to life, but it was in vain. The energy consumed their technology, turning their proud cities into lifeless husks. Towers that once scraped the sky crumbled into dust, and their sprawling metropolises were silenced in an instant.

Leviathan followed, rising from the depths of their oceans, his massive form twisting and writhing as he brought chaos to the seas. The waters, once a source of life and prosperity, churned into apocalyptic storms. Tsunamis larger than mountains swept over coastal cities, drowning millions. Entire islands were swallowed by the raging waves, and no amount of technology could stop the fury Leviathan brought. Ships, submarines, and underwater colonies were torn apart, their inhabitants dragged into the abyss, screaming.

Asmodeus, ever the sadist, infiltrated the minds of the survivors. Where Lucifer destroyed their cities and Leviathan claimed their seas, Asmodeus took their sanity. He whispered dark desires into their ears, causing them to turn on one another in a frenzy of bloodlust and betrayal. Friends, families, even entire armies tore each other apart, driven mad by his influence. Civilization dissolved into madness, as entire populations turned on one another, slaughtering themselves in twisted orgies of violence.

Satan, with cold efficiency, targeted their leadership. He appeared in the heart of their government, his presence like a plague. The rulers, politicians, and generals, who had led Alpha Centauri for centuries, found themselves powerless. Their weapons malfunctioned, their strategies crumbled before they could even be enacted. Satan’s silent influence turned their leadership into puppets, before ripping their minds apart, leaving them drooling, soulless husks.

Mammon and Belphegor descended on the remnants of their riches. Where once stood an empire of wealth and opulence, they reduced it to nothing. Mammon claimed their treasures, ripping gold, gems, and technology from the very earth as though he were pulling the bones from a carcass. Belphegor brought sloth, rendering their once-great workforce helpless, collapsing in exhaustion, unable to lift a finger to save themselves.

And finally, Beelzebub, the lord of gluttony, feasted on what remained. His power spread like a plague of locusts, devouring everything in his path. The crops withered, the livestock perished, and even the soil itself became barren. There was nothing left to consume, nothing left to sustain life.

In less than a day, Alpha Centauri—the proud civilization that had dared to invade Earth, that had dared to summon powers they could not comprehend—was reduced to ruin. Their planets burned, their oceans boiled, their people descended into madness, and their very souls were ripped apart, scattered to the winds.

The seven princes stood among the wreckage, surveying the destruction with satisfaction.

Lucifer, his eyes glowing with triumph, turned to his brothers. "This is what happens when you play in realms beyond your reach. We leave no trace of them behind. Now… let’s find out who dared give them the power to challenge us."

And with that, the princes of Hell disappeared, leaving only the smoking remains of Alpha Centauri, a testament to the folly of those who dared challenge the will of Hell.

The seven princes stood together once more, hovering above the ruins of Alpha Centauri. Their minds were not on the destruction they had wrought, but on the mystery that lingered behind it. Something far deeper, far more intricate, was unfolding, and none of them liked what they were beginning to uncover.

Lucifer’s cold eyes glimmered as he studied the remnants of the ritual—a summoning circle, complex and ancient, but incomplete. Or, rather, seemingly incomplete. It was crafted with precision, designed so that the people of Alpha Centauri could not use it to transport themselves between realms. Instead, the circle was perfectly calibrated to summon intelligent, living beings from worlds either five levels higher or five levels lower in existence. This was no accident.

“Someone wanted Earth to know of other worlds,” Lucifer muttered, his voice carrying a mix of intrigue and anger. “They used Alpha Centauri, a long-standing enemy of Earth, as a tool. But whoever orchestrated this was clever. They didn’t just plant the knowledge and technology in the Centaurians’ minds—they erased its origin from their very souls. All evidence of where it came from was wiped clean, leaving it behind as nothing more than a divine vision in their memories.”

Leviathan’s serpentine form twisted as he growled, "So, we have no trace of who gave them the power?"

"Exactly," Lucifer replied, his voice sharper now. "Someone went to great lengths to hide their hand. But one thing is clear: this ritual wasn’t supposed to trigger until Aido had freed his planet from its first major threat. It was timed perfectly."

Asmodeus, leaning lazily against the ethereal currents of the void, raised an eyebrow. “And if Aido keeps feeding on these experiences of evil? Won’t that be a problem for us? All this exposure to darkness, suffering... it could strengthen him.”

Lucifer’s eyes darkened, a spark of irritation crossing his face. “That’s exactly what we need to avoid. If Aido grows too familiar with the workings of evil—if he gains too much power from it—he could become something even we can’t predict.”

Asmodeus tilted his head, his smirk widening. “So, what does Gabriel have to say about all of this? Surely, if someone has the power to pull off a ritual this complex and stay hidden, the heavens would have noticed.”

Lucifer’s lip curled slightly, disdain for the archangel creeping into his voice. “Gabriel says that whoever is responsible can hide from the sight of everyone. Not just us, but the heavens as well.”

Satan, the ever-logical one, interjected. “What if it’s not many forces at play, but a single one? Could it be… our Father? Or even Aido himself, setting things in motion subconsciously? If that’s the case, then this could spiral beyond our control.”

The thought hung in the air like a thick fog, each prince silently weighing the possibilities. Mammon narrowed his eyes, ever paranoid of losing control over his treasures. "If it’s our Father… then we’ve already lost control. He doesn’t act without purpose, and we would be nothing but pawns in his greater scheme."

Leviathan coiled tighter, his voice a low, dangerous growl. “Or it could be one of the other forces. A single being waking up, feeling the others manipulating a dormant power.”

Lucifer's expression turned colder, his thoughts coalescing as he surveyed the destruction they had wrought. “Our Father will not move a finger in this. He abandoned these realms long ago and has never looked back. Aido, though... it’s possible. He may have left something behind—something to protect himself from being controlled while he sleeps. Or, yes, a single force could have awakened, sensing the manipulation of a dormant Unique.”

A hush fell over the princes as they contemplated the enormity of Lucifer’s words. The concept of a Unique, one of the primordial forces of existence, was not something to be taken lightly. If one had been stirred from its slumber—by Aido or anyone else—then everything they knew could be reshaped.

Beelzebub, the lord of gluttony, chuckled darkly. “So, the game grows more dangerous.”

Lucifer turned to his brothers, his eyes gleaming with both fury and anticipation. “Yes. The pieces are moving in ways we did not predict. And if there is a single force meddling with Aido, then we need to find it. We cannot allow him to awaken fully, not with so much at stake. We must remain in control of the board—or risk being consumed by it.”

The other princes nodded, each lost in their own thoughts, knowing full well that the next move could either be their greatest triumph—or their undoing.

For now, their focus would remain on Aido and the unseen hand guiding the chaos.