[Location: Front Courtyard of Evocaier Academy – Night – Year: 1092 Ad Felicitas]

The air hummed with wild energy, the sharp tang of burning metal stinging the senses. The once-grand courtyard lay in shambles. Streaks of red projectiles blazed through the sky as automatons of various shapes and sizes advanced with relentless precision. At the vanguard, Vexor Bipedal Automatons marched steadily, their arms unleashing a relentless barrage of red energy blasts. Behind them came six-legged mechanical horses, their rotating turrets spewing deadly firepower. Sleek, black panther-like automatons prowled the flanks, swift and lethal, while massive spider-shaped machines flickered in and out of sight, shrouding themselves in cloaks of invisibility. Explosions thundered across the battlefield, shaking the ground beneath them. A piercing siren screamed, signaling the onset of Condition III.

Luna Sabriel staggered back, her breaths shallow and ragged. Exhaustion pressed heavily on her, yet her sharp blue eyes remained fierce and unwavering. With trembling hands, she unleashed Glacialis Tempestus—a dozen massive sigils of radiant blue light erupted in front of her, unleashing thousands of colossal, homing ice beams. The frigid onslaught tore through the ranks of automatons, leaving the battlefield covered in frozen shards and jagged ice formations.

For a brief moment, the chaos paused. The battlefield fell silent, and a faint cheer rose from the defenders—a fragile glimmer of hope amid the turmoil. But Luna’s body betrayed her. Her legs buckled, and she collapsed to her knees, her hands barely able to support her weight as one leg folded limply beneath her.

Then, the ominous clang of iron footsteps echoed once more. The shadows of gray and black automatons surged forward, an unrelenting tide of metal and malice.

"Damn it… I should’ve known. This wasn’t their full force—just wave after wave to wear us down. I shouldn’t have used Glacialis Tempestus so early," she thought, regret gripping her.

At the forefront, Alina Walsh held her ground, wielding Frostshard Legacy. With precise movements, she deflected the onslaught of red energy blasts raining down on their position. Fighting alongside the Valiants, her movements were fierce and deliberate. But even in the heat of battle, her sharp gaze flicked back toward Luna Sabriel, her expression hardening.

"There’s no time for hesitation, Luna. Fall back and recover!" she commanded, her tone firm and authoritative.

Luna hesitated briefly, her weary eyes locking with Alina’s unyielding gaze. Slowly, she forced herself to retreat, her boots crunching against the frozen ground as she staggered backward. Her focus lingered on Alina, a mix of worry and guilt flickering in her eyes, until exhaustion finally forced her to withdraw further.

Amid the chaos, streaks of golden light zipped through the air. Vaeloria, Mia, and Lily, accompanied by a squad of novice Venator, unleashed radiant arrows from their bows. Each shot hit with deadly precision, piercing the cores of advancing automatons and igniting them in bursts of fiery explosions.

With a bright smile, Vaeloria quipped, her voice light.

"Relax, instructors. We’ve got this under control."

But beneath her cheerful demeanor, the tension in her eyes betrayed her unease.

Suddenly, a pack of panther-like automatons emerged from the shadows, moving with blinding speed. Without hesitation, they pounced mercilessly, their claws raking against the students. The natural barriers shielded most of them, but Vaeloria’s eyes widened in horror as one student was dragged to the ground. The pack of panther automatons descended upon them, tearing into the fallen student with savage precision until their lifeless body lay still.

The Venator formation crumbled, their ranks dissolving into disarray. Screams of panic and despair filled the air, mingling with the unyielding clanging of metal footsteps that grew closer with every passing second.

Alina Walsh and the Valiant rushed to the rear lines, cutting down the panther automatons with precise, coordinated strikes. Yet, the attack only delayed the inevitable.

"Fall back! We can’t hold this position any longer!" Alina shouted, her voice sharp with command but tinged with urgency.

The defenders—students and instructors alike—began retreating in disarray, scrambling to escape the unrelenting assault that bore down on them.

At the edge of the battlefield, Friedrich Rosenthal stood firm alongside the Holy Knights, a final bastion of unyielding defense. The Clariven Mace in his hand glowed with radiant golden light, its power humming in resonance with the chaos around him. In his other hand, the massive Greatshield Lexivane absorbed wave after wave of explosive attacks. Each impact sent jolts through his body, shaking him to the bone, but he stood his ground. Even as the shield deflected a final, powerful blast, sparks scattered around him, illuminating the desolation.

His piercing blue eyes swept across the battlefield, cutting through the haze of smoke and fire. The glowing red eyes of the automatons glared back at him from the shadows, their gray and black forms gleaming ominously under the dim battlefield lights. The onslaught of red energy blasts from Vexor Automatons and turreted mechanical horses grew more intense, hammering the defensive line mercilessly.

He watched in grim silence as, one by one, the warriors at his side fell. The weight of guilt pressed down on him, heavy and suffocating.

In the distance, he spotted Alma and Nadia crouched among the wounded. Their faces were tight with focus and tension. Alma’s hands glowed softly, channeling healing energy as she worked frantically to close a massive wound in the chest of an Evocaier. Her movements were shaky but determined. Beside her, Nadia stood protectively, conjuring a sturdy stone barrier to shield them from the onslaught of red energy blasts.

Friedrich clenched his jaw, his breath quickening as emotions churned inside him—anger, frustration, guilt—a swirling storm threatening to consume him. His grip tightened on the Clariven Mace, the rage almost overpowering. But he knew if he faltered, it would all be over.

"Damn it… Vilreth and the city teams better hold out…" he thought, his silent prayer lost in the chaos.

In a low but commanding voice, he cut through the noise of the battlefield.

"Fall back to the central area! Now!"

His words had barely left his lips when his forces moved as one—no hesitation, no questions. The Golem Transport ATV-032 "Bellator", a long, rectangular vehicle in dark gray, hovered just above the ground, its faint underglow casting light over the scattered debris.

Alma and Nadia worked quickly to assist the injured. Despite the exhaustion evident on their faces, their movements were swift and deliberate.

Alma glanced at an Evocaier she was cradling, her breath hitching as her trembling hands pressed against blood-soaked fabric.

Nadia turned toward her, concern clear in her expression.

"Alma…" she said softly.

Alma lifted her weary eyes to meet Nadia’s, attempting a faint smile, though it carried no warmth.

"I’m fine. We’ll make it through this," she whispered.

Her hands trembled as she helped the Evocaier onto the Golem Transport, her exhaustion evident in every motion. Nadia said nothing, her silence speaking volumes as they worked side by side, their resolve unwavering amidst the chaos.

Amid the chaos, Jaxon Virelli moved swiftly, gliding like a rollerblader through the battlefield, dodging attacks while firing fiery projectiles from his twin bow guns, Emberstorm Crossfires. Every pull of the trigger sent jolts of pain through his exhausted body. Sweat poured down his face, stinging his eyes, but he kept firing, the echoes of explosions filling the air.

"Fall back! Prioritize the wounded!" he shouted hoarsely, his voice barely cutting through the deafening cacophony of destruction and the unceasing roars of automatons.

Nearby, Lorcan, Caelus, Sloane, Reine, Alyssa, Bryan, Erick, and Vellya fought with everything they had. Exhaustion marked their every step and swing, yet they pressed on.

Vellya stood slightly apart, her gaze fixed on the battlefield. Her Guardian Skeletons, Papa and Mama, were shrouded in dark energy as they crushed automatons with lethal blows while shielding her from incoming red projectiles.

Under her breath, Vellya counted softly, the numbers like a mantra keeping her grounded amid the chaos.

"That’s… one hundred and twenty-two…" Her voice was calm, but a faint tremor betrayed her mounting tension.

Suddenly, a burst of energy struck Mama, shattering the skeleton into fragments that scattered across the field. Vellya’s eyes widened, her breath catching in her throat.

"No… Mama…"

Her trembling hand extended as she summoned her Spectral Dolls. The eerie figures materialized, their translucent forms gliding through smoke and fire to strike down automatons with surgical precision. The dolls wreaked havoc, their unpredictable movements disrupting enemy formations.

A small, childlike laugh escaped Vellya’s lips, light and unsettling, like a fragile shield against the creeping fear in her heart.

"Hehehe, let’s play!"

The Spectral Dolls swarmed the automatons, each touch reducing them to glowing ash. Though the chaos they caused was brief, the air remained heavy with the smell of scorched metal and the faint residue of Evocyte energy.

As the dolls faded, Vellya’s attention shifted back to the shattered remains of her guardian. She knelt by the scattered bones, her small fingers gently brushing over the fragments. Spectral energy flowed from her hands, mending the cracked skeleton. In moments, Mama Guardian stood whole once more.

"Mama… are you okay?" she whispered, her voice trembling with hope and fragile determination.

Meanwhile, Lorcan swung his fists at an advancing automaton, his body sluggish and his breaths labored. Though he was on the verge of collapse, his determination burned brightly.

"How many more of these things do we have to fight…?" he muttered, his voice raspy with strain.

Caelus, wielding the Auralis Spear, cast a sharp glance at him while unleashing arcs of violet lightning along the weapon’s blade.

"Lorcan! Follow orders! Fall back now!"

Lorcan growled, blocking another automaton’s strike with his fists. His body screamed for rest, but he refused to back down.

"You go ahead. I’ll hold them here."

Though his tone carried conviction, the faint quiver in his voice betrayed his desperation.

Nearby, Alyssa, her red ponytail swaying as she moved, swung her flaming spear. Waves of searing energy erupted, obliterating enemies in her path. She growled, stepping forward with unwavering resolve.

"No way I’m leaving! Not until everyone’s safe!"

Bryan, darting between enemies with twin daggers glowing with dark energy, shot her a stern look.

"Don’t be reckless! Stay together—it’s too dangerous to split up."

Amid the chaos, Erick knelt beside Lorcan and Alyssa, a glowing white sigil radiating softly from his hand as he healed their wounds. His voice was calm yet firm.

"Don’t overdo it, Lorcan, Alyssa. Let me help."

Sloane, breathing heavily after a flurry of attacks, lifted his blades and glanced at Reine, managing a faint, tired smile.

"Reine, we’re holding the rear together, right? You still with me?"

Reine, wiping blood from the corner of his mouth, tightened his grip on his shield despite his trembling arms. His voice was steady, filled with quiet determination.

"I’m not leaving. Not until everyone else is safe—even if it kills me."

For once, Vellya wasn’t her usual cheerful self. Standing slightly apart, her gaze swept over her comrades, her expression uncharacteristically serious.

"Vellya’s staying too. Mama and Papa always said we have to stick together, no matter what."

With a sharp crack of lightning, Caelus swung his spear, arcs of energy bursting into the air as he struck down another automaton. His voice was tense but resolute, cutting through the chaos.

"Damn it… Alright. We’ll cover the evacuees—keep it tight!"

Everyone nodded without hesitation. Ahead of them, the Golem Transport moved steadily, carrying the wounded across the battlefield.

As Reine, Friedrich, and the Holy Knights held the front line, a wave of panther-like automatons broke through. Jaxon, Alina, Lorcan, Caelus, Bryan, Alyssa, Sloane, and Vellya sprang forward, intercepting the creatures before they could reach the transport.

Suddenly, spider-like automatons emerged from the shadows, their forms blending with the darkness. A barrage of red projectiles rained down from their mounted cannons.

"Watch out! Behind you!" Alina shouted urgently.

The warning came too late. The attacks struck Sloane and several novice fighters, their natural barriers failing to hold. They were thrown into the air, bodies trembling as energy tore through them, before crashing lifelessly to the ground amid the smoke.

Lorcan was the first to react, rushing to Sloane with panic etched across his face. He knelt beside his friend, his voice breaking with emotion.

"Sloane! Get up! Don’t you dare die on me!"

Erick quickly followed, his glowing sigil illuminating the scene. Activating Exalt Healing, he spoke with calm determination.

"Hold on! Stay with us!"

Meanwhile, Caelus activated Stormstride, his body shrouded in crackling purple lightning. The battlefield blazed with streaks of violet energy as he moved at blinding speed, each step leaving a glowing trail of electrified light in his wake. His Auralis Spear surged with violet lightning as he struck with unerring precision, skewering spider automatons and dismantling them in seconds, clearing a path near the downed students

In the chaos, Lorcan hoisted Sloane onto his shoulders, his face a mix of determination and despair.

"Nice work, Caelus. Let’s move—now!" he shouted, retreating with the others.

The group fought their way back, carrying the wounded as they navigated the treacherous battlefield. Behind them, Friedrich, Reine, and the Holy Knights held firm, creating a defensive line to buy time.

When they finally reached the central area, the tide of battle shifted. The sorcerers stationed there launched devastating counterattacks—massive fireballs rained down from the sky, lightning storms crackled and roared, and powerful tornadoes tore through the remaining automatons, annihilating them completely.

For a brief moment, silence fell over the battlefield. But as the defenders surveyed the smoldering ruins, their weary faces told the truth. This was only a temporary reprieve. The next wave was inevitable—and it would be even more unrelenting.

[Location: Near Central Hub – Evocaier Academy – Night – Year 1092 Ad Felicitas]

The air was thick with the scent of burning metal and heavy dust. Dense smoke hung around Friedrich, cloaking the last defensive line in front of the academy. He stood tall, shoulders bearing an almost unbearable weight. His sharp eyes scanned every corner of the chaotic battlefield, searching for signs of the next wave.

Beside him, Headmaster Gideon approached slowly. His steps were heavy, exhaustion evident in his movements, yet his gaze remained vigilant, radiating the unshakable wisdom of years of experience.

"Friedrich, what’s the situation?" he asked, his voice firm but laced with a tension he tried to mask.

Friedrich turned slightly, his jaw tightening. His tone was low but resolute, every word carrying the weight of the battle.

"All our golems are destroyed. We’ve taken down around 20,000 automatons, but they just keep coming—wave after wave. It’s like they’re testing our limits, waiting for us to break."

Gideon exhaled deeply, the lines on his face deepening. Worry flickered in his eyes before he quickly composed himself.

"We can only hope reinforcements arrive in time."

Friedrich gave a short nod, though a bitter edge slipped into his voice.

"We all hope so."

Gideon cast a glance at the wounded lying behind them, his expression heavy.

"I’ll assist the medics with the injured. Hold the line as long as you can."

Friedrich nodded again, his gaze never leaving the battlefield.

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"Do what you can, Gideon. We need everyone in fighting shape."

Before turning to leave, Gideon paused, his voice quieter but weighted with meaning.

"Take care of yourself, Fred. We’re all in this together."

The words lingered in the air, heavy with unspoken burdens. Friedrich remained rooted in place, his eyes sharp, his resolve unwavering despite the suffocating tension.

Nearby, Alma, Erick, and Nadia worked tirelessly, their hands stained with blood as they struggled to save the injured. Their breaths were ragged, sweat soaking their clothes, but they pressed on without pause. Among the wounded lay Sloane, his injuries severe.

Under the remnants of a crumbled stone wall, Lorcan, Reine, Alyssa, Bryan, Caelus, Vaeloria, Mia, Lily, and Vellya leaned against the rubble, their bodies battered and bruised. Their faces were pale, their eyes hollow, filled with exhaustion that gnawed at their very core. Every breath was a battle.

Luna Sabriel stepped forward slowly, hesitation evident in every step. Her jet-black hair, usually immaculate, clung to her sweat-drenched face. Her right hand trembled slightly, betraying the deep fatigue she tried to conceal. Still, she stood tall, forcing herself onward as though nothing was wrong.

Jaxon and Alina immediately moved to flank her, standing at her side as she approached. Their eyes were sharp, their bodies moving in sync, a wordless instinct of protection guiding their actions.

As Luna reached Friedrich, her voice was soft but steady.

"Any news from the team at the Research Center?"

Without looking away from the battlefield, Friedrich replied, his tone low yet firm.

"Nothing yet, Luna. Let’s hope Drifter is still holding out."

Luna paused for a moment, her expression hardening as the weight of the situation pressed down on her.

"Let’s hope…"

Friedrich glanced at her briefly, noting how she struggled to stay upright. Concern flashed in his eyes.

"Are you sure you’re alright? Take a break. We can’t afford to lose anyone else."

Luna forced a faint smile, though her eyes couldn’t hide the exhaustion etched deep within.

"I’m fine, thank you."

Alina stepped closer, worry written plainly across her face. Her voice was quiet, almost pleading.

"Luna, you need to rest."

She gently touched Luna’s arm, noticing the slight tremor in her hand. Her tone was full of care.

"You’re pushing yourself too hard. If you keep this up, you’ll—"

Luna interrupted, her voice soft but resolute, tinged with weary determination.

"I’ll rest… when this is over."

Alina’s expression hardened, frustration flashing across her face. She didn’t press further, but her concern lingered in her eyes, knowing Luna’s stubbornness wouldn’t waver.

Beside them, Jaxon remained calm, his dark sunglasses reflecting the glow of the battlefield.

"Looks like break time’s over," he muttered.

In front of them, Friedrich fixed his gaze on the battlefield, his expression hardening as the shadows of advancing automatons emerged from the haze. His voice cut through the heavy air like a blade.

"They’re coming."

The atmosphere grew tense, every breath weighed down by anticipation. In the distance, the first wave of automatons began to move, their metallic forms slicing through the fiery haze, an ominous reminder of what lay ahead.

Luna stumbled slightly, her legs faltering under the invisible weight of exhaustion. The fatigue gnawed at her, persistent and insidious. But she quickly steadied herself, her expression firm, determination flickering in her tired eyes. Around her, the others prepared themselves in silence, their resolve evident despite their battered states.

The tense silence shattered with the first shot—red projectiles screaming through the air like fiery rain.

Friedrich stepped to the front line, raising his hand, his unwavering gaze locked on the approaching enemy. His voice rang out, clear and commanding.

"Celestial Aegis!"

A radiant light erupted, forming a glowing protective barrier adorned with celestial glyphs that encircled the team. The automaton projectiles hammered against the shield with deafening force, each impact resonating like thunder. Yet, the barrier held firm. Holy energy radiated outward, creating a brief, almost serene calm amidst the chaos. Then, shards of radiant light burst forth, tearing through the automaton ranks with divine fury.

"Attack! Stay inside the field—don’t break formation!" Friedrich commanded, his tone resolute despite the strain of channeling the powerful spell.

He and the Holy Knights unleashed their Sanctuary Field, the protective aura expanding in waves of warm, golden light. The glow lifted the spirits of everyone within, the oppressive weight of the battlefield momentarily lifted. Their movements grew lighter, their strength renewed as the field’s magic bolstered their bodies and minds.

Alina raised her Frostshard Legacy, her grip firm and her eyes blazing with cold fury.

"Take them down!" she shouted, swinging her sword in a powerful arc. Crystals of ice erupted along the blade’s path, freezing anything in its wake.

Beside her, Alyssa surged forward, her fiery spear blazing with brilliant red energy.

"Right behind you, Alina!" she called out, darting through the automaton ranks with swift precision. Each thrust of her spear ignited her targets, leaving trails of molten metal and shattered machinery in her wake.

On the other flank, Vellya stood calm amidst the chaos, her hands moving gracefully as dark spells swirled around her like living shadows. In an instant, her Guardian Skeletons, Mama and Papa, emerged from the darkness, their towering forms stepping forward with unyielding resolve. The groaning sound of their bones mixed with the clamor of battle as they shielded allies behind them. Enemy fire ricocheted harmlessly off their magical barriers, protecting the rear lines.

Behind the frontline, the Holy Knights and Valiant charged ahead, their swords and spears glowing with radiant Evocyte energy. The clash of their weapons against automaton steel sent sparks flying, the deafening ring of metal against metal resounding across the battlefield. Above them, streaks of red and blue energy painted the night sky, as if the heavens themselves were ablaze with the fury of the fight.

Reine, standing calmly amid the chaos, extended his hands as a cool, glowing light enveloped the area. His voice was low but steady.

"Winter’s Embrace."

The air dropped to a freezing chill, flakes of snow swirling as ice crept across the battlefield. Automatons slowed, their movements hindered by the encroaching frost, while allies felt their wounds mend and their energy renew under the spell’s protection.

Meanwhile, Jaxon’s flexible unit moved with precision, covering both the front and rear lines. Their movements were swift and coordinated, flowing like a seamless current of energy. Jaxon, wielding Emberstorm Crossfire, spun his weapons and fired fiery projectiles with deadly accuracy.

"Lorcan, Caelus—front line! We’ll handle the rear!" he barked, his voice brimming with unquestionable authority.

Lorcan gritted his teeth, the dark energy around his fists rippling and crackling in the air. With a roar, he charged forward, his punch colliding with the first automaton, shattering its core with brutal force.

"Got it!" he shouted, the dark aura around his fists intensifying as he readied another attack.

Beside him, Caelus surged forward like a tempest, his Auralis Spear pulsating with violet arcs of lightning. He attacked with ruthless accuracy, every strike cleaving through automatons effortlessly. His movements were a streak of electrified fury, weaving between enemies with devastating speed.

"Acknowledged!" he snapped, his keen gaze darting toward the next target.

In the shadows, Bryan, armed with twin daggers imbued with dark energy, slipped between the enemy lines like a phantom. His voice was sharp and urgent.

"Sir, stealth automaton incoming! Nine o’clock!"

Without hesitation, Jaxon pivoted, Emberstorm Crossfire glowing bright before unleashing a fiery burst that struck the hidden automaton squarely, reducing it to smoldering fragments.

"Good call, Bryan," he said curtly, his focus unbroken as he scanned for the next threat.

Behind the frontlines, Luna, Alma, Nadia, and Erick held a tight formation, their hands glowing with intricate, multicolored sigils. Magical flares illuminated the darkened sky as their spells ripped through distant automatons. Each cast took its toll, their breaths growing heavier with every moment.

"Hold the line! Stay sharp!" Luna commanded, launching ice lances and ice bolts from her glowing blue sigils.

Beside her, Alma wiped sweat and blood from her face, her red and pink sigils firing exalt missiles, exalt bolts, and fire bolts in rapid succession. Nadia, surrounded by brown sigils, unleashed earth bolts and used terramorph to reshape the battlefield, creating cover for allies and traps for enemies. Meanwhile, Erick worked tirelessly, casting exalt barriers to shield them from incoming attacks while channeling exalt healing to patch up the wounded and keep the group fighting strong.

At the same time, Vaeloria, Mia, Lily, and the Venator squad moved with flawless coordination.

With her bow, Aurorasworn, drawn taut, Vaeloria shouted a commanding order.

"Everyone—fire now!"

A synchronized volley of glowing arrows filled the sky like falling stars, crashing into the automaton ranks with devastating accuracy. The frontlines erupted in fiery explosions, leaving heaps of smoldering metal. For a brief moment, the battlefield was silent, but the heavy pounding of metallic footsteps quickly returned.

From behind the rubble, a new wave of automatons surged forward. Among them were the Valkyrex, their radiant blue energy wings lighting up the night as they soared into the skies. On the ground, Vexor Automatons and six-legged mechanical horses thundered ahead, an unceasing tide of steel and destruction.

Lorcan whipped around, his eyes going wide at the sight.

"You’ve got to be kidding me… Caelus, tell me I’m not seeing this!"

Caelus exhaled sharply, his jaw tightening as he took in the imposing enemy.

"Nope. It’s them again. Damn it."

As the Valkyrex unleashed their assault, energy blades slashed through the air while their wings fired homing energy across the battlefield. Below, Vexor Automatons and six-legged mechanical horses rained down an unending barrage of red projectiles. Meanwhile, spider-like and panther automatons lurked in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

When the rear lines were breached, Jaxon’s team scrambled to hold the line, but the onslaught of stealth automatons took its toll. Despite their efforts, sorcerers, mages and Venator fighters fell one by one, overwhelmed by the invisible threat.

Suddenly, the sky darkened as a fleet of triangular Skyships maneuvered overhead, their engines roaring like an oncoming storm. Massive silhouettes blotted out the stars, casting ominous shadows over the battlefield.

Overhead, bursts of Evocyte Cannons lit up the night with searing blue flashes. One blast struck a stealth ship, its W-shaped frame—likely a corvette or transport-class vessel—barely visible as it lurked among the clouds. The hit sent it spiraling downward, thick smoke billowing from its damaged engines.

As the damaged ship retreated, Skystrikers pursued it, their aerial dogfights painting the sky with dazzling explosions.

On the ground, cheers erupted as smaller ships descended, delivering reinforcements to the embattled defenders. A surge of hope rippled through the ranks, but Friedrich remained still, his eyes locked on a massive, motionless ship hovering ominously above the chaos.

Its sleek, triangular design was jet black, its pointed prow gleaming faintly against the dim glow of battle.

Friedrich’s jaw clenched, his expression grim as realization set in. His voice was low, barely more than a whisper.

"Thanatos… the Hades Fleet… He’s here."

At the front lines, Alina, Reine, Caelus, Lorcan, and Alyssa fought relentlessly as wave after wave of automatons pressed forward without mercy. Each strike grew heavier as exhaustion gnawed at their bodies. When Reine fell to his knees, clutching his chest with a pained expression, the clamor of clashing metal and droning automaton engines roared around him, a deafening backdrop to his struggle.

Moments later, a massive explosion shook the battlefield, followed by the deafening screech of tearing metal. The sound of fast, deliberate footsteps signaled the arrival of reinforcements from the city—the Evocaier Order. Leading the charge was Vilreth Ravoth, a dark-blue-haired man who carved through the Vexor Automatons with ruthless precision. Wielding his dual blades, Temperantia Sin, glowing with dark energy, he moved like a storm. Each strike dismantled the Vexors and their six-legged mechanical horses, leaving behind piles of mangled steel.

Nearby, Helvra Valka, an orange-haired young woman, dove headfirst into the chaos. Armed with her fiery spear, Surtfang, and the massive shield, Eldaspisk, she was a blazing force of destruction. Each swing of her spear unleashed powerful explosions of flame, consuming everything in its wake. With a mighty throw, Surtfang hurtled through the air, impaling a line of automatons before detonating in a wave of fire, annihilating the enemies caught in its devastating blast.

On the far side of the battlefield, Reina Lindt, a young woman with teal-blue hair, provided precise and deadly support through her icy magic. Using the glowing blue sigils etched into her hands, she unleashed Frozen Rain, materializing a massive spell circle above the automaton ranks. From it, a storm of razor-sharp ice shards rained down, shredding their metallic foes. At the same time, her Glacial Enchant spell activated, forming a sigil of frost around herself, Vilreth, and Helvra. The sigil fired icy arrows automatically with each of their attacks, amplifying their destructive power and wreaking havoc across the battlefield.

image [https://i.ibb.co.com/QMxgRnq/03.png]

While casting Frostlight Benediction, a soft healing spell of ice, Reina rushed to the fallen Reine. Panic flashed across her face as she knelt beside him.

"Stay calm, Reine. We’re here now," she said, her voice soft but resolute.

Reine looked up slowly, his breath shallow. His voice, barely audible, trembled with fatigue.

"Big sis…?" he murmured, his dimming eyes searching for reassurance.

Amid the chaos, a Valkyrex locked onto the reinforcements, directing its attention toward them. Vilreth stepped forward to intercept it, his dual blades clashing with the automaton’s energy sword. The impact created a dazzling burst of light that illuminated the battlefield.

Suddenly, two more Valkyrex emerged from behind, their energy blades poised to strike. Without hesitation, black, shimmering wings unfurled from Vilreth’s back—Void Wing activated in an instant. With a single move, the two attacking Valkyrex disintegrated into ash.

The dual blades of Temperantia Sin fused together in his hands, forming a massive double-edged sword with serrated tips. Vilreth swung the weapon with overwhelming force, unleashing Eclipse Cleave, a devastating wave of dark energy that obliterated the Valkyrex, Vexor, and countless other automatons in its path, leaving only debris in its wake.

But the tide shifted as the remaining automatons turned their attention entirely to Vilreth, moving in unison to encircle him. Stealth Spider Automatons, previously hidden, emerged and unleashed barrage of red energy blasts toward him.

From a distance, Lorcan froze, his eyes locked on Vilreth’s commanding presence. His voice, barely more than a whisper, was laced with disbelief.

"Who… is he?"

Beside him, Caelus watched intently, his sharp tone betraying a trace of admiration.

"That’s him—the leader of the Nethia team."

Lorcan’s eyes widened, his voice tinged with incredulity.

"What? Him? The one who always refused duels?"

Suddenly, Vilreth’s cold, cutting voice interrupted their conversation, carrying an edge of finality.

“Time to end this.”

The black wings on his back expanded, radiating an intimidating aura that deflected the incoming energy blasts. Darkness enveloped his body as his pupils turned entirely black. Blood trickled from his eyes and mouth, dripping onto the ground. The moment it touched the surface, swirling dark energy erupted, coalescing into a vortex of power.

Cataclysmic Whirlwind materialized—a ferocious tornado of pure darkness, streaked with flashes of black and violet lightning. The whirlwind twisted like a living creature, devouring everything in its path. Within seconds, the Valkyrex, Vexor, and Stealth Automatons in its vicinity were obliterated, reduced to ash that scattered into the wind.

From the sidelines, Caelus watched the display of power with an intense, calculating gaze. His voice was low, almost a murmur, but carried weight.

"So… the rumors were true."

Far at the rear lines, Luna squinted into the horizon, scanning the smoke-filled sky and bursts of energy. Bolts of lightning from enchanted arrows lit up the battlefield, but the figure behind the attack remained hidden, like a shadow in the storm.

"Reinforcements? But from where...?" she murmured, her brows furrowed.

Her ARF communicator crackled to life, cutting through her thoughts.

"Stealth automatons approaching at eleven o’clock. Prepare yourselves," came the calm, authoritative voice of Xaltherion.

Luna straightened, adjusting her stance.

"Understood," she replied, her voice steady despite the tension in her expression.

In the distance, atop the tallest building, Xaltherion stood like a silhouette against the chaos. His gray armor, edged with glowing gold, shimmered faintly under the dim light. His gray-black hair moved with the wind, but his burning red eyes stayed fixed, focused and predatory.

image [https://i.ibb.co.com/FhfZsys/04.png]

In his hands, the Skyward Bow pulsed with energy. Its curved, dark frame glowed faintly, lightning coursing along its taut string. He moved with deliberate precision, nocking an arrow without hesitation.

"They won’t see it coming," he muttered before releasing the arrow.

A streak of red light shot forward, slicing the air with a sharp hiss. It struck the automaton ranks with precision, detonating in a surge of electricity that cascaded through their circuits. The machines fell, sparking and crumbling in a wave of destruction, leaving a brief, eerie silence.

Xaltherion remained steady, pulling the Skyward Bow taut once more. His crimson eyes glowed with focus as he aimed again, the air around him humming with energy.

At the front lines, Vilreth approached Friedrich, whose exhaustion was evident in his sweat-soaked face and steady posture.

"Apologies for the delay, Commander. The city is secure—Ragnar’s forces are handling the rest," Vilreth reported, his tone firm and measured.

Friedrich turned to him, his voice calm but commanding.

"Good. We’re holding here. Take your team to the Research Center. Now."

Vilreth nodded sharply, his movements purposeful.

"Understood."

As he advanced, Vilreth’s dual blades, Temperantia Sin, sliced through stealth automatons with ease. Dark winds followed his every move, leaving destruction in their wake.

Nearby, Reina Lindt froze enemies with deadly precision, her ice magic forming barriers that trapped and immobilized the automatons. Close by, Helvra Valka wielded her fiery spear, Surtfang, engulfing enemies in flames while her shield, Eldaspisk, absorbed incoming attacks.

Above, Xaltherion fired lightning-charged arrows from the Skyward Bow, eliminating stealth automatons with deadly accuracy. The crimson streaks and lightning bolts lit up the battlefield, adding to the chaos below.

As reinforcements surged forward, the battlefield shifted. From the direction of Nethia City, the atmosphere grew heavier. Dark winds churned, distorting the air with an oppressive weight that pressed against the lungs of all who stood nearby. Emerging from the haze, Ragnar Ashmane appeared, flanked by the Evocaier Order from Varde. In his hands, the Abyssal Halberd pulsed with dark violet energy, the weapon exuding an ominous hunger.

As reinforcements surged forward, the battlefield shifted. From the direction of Nethia City, the air grew heavier, dark winds churning and distorting the space with an oppressive weight that pressed against the lungs of everyone present. Emerging from the haze, Ragnar Ashmane appeared, flanked by the Evocaier Order from Varde. In his hands, the Abyssal Halberd pulsed with dark violet energy, radiating an ominous hunger.

With a mighty swing, Ragnar unleashed a thick, violet shockwave that tore through the automaton horde. Machines shattered and flew into the air, their twisted debris raining down with deafening crashes. Another powerful strike decimated the remaining ranks, leaving only mangled, lifeless metal scattered across the field.

Thick smoke hung over the battlefield, shrouding it in a grim, gray haze. The muted sounds of triumph were punctuated by occasional sobs or muffled cries. Victory had been achieved, but the cost was undeniable.

Survivors moved through the rubble, searching for their comrades. Some found relief in those who still breathed, while others were met with the cold silence of the fallen. Bodies lay motionless across the bloodstained ground, unmoving beneath the dim light of dawn.

The first rays of sunlight broke through the horizon, chasing away the darkness, yet the light felt cold and distant, offering no warmth to the shattered battlefield.

Amid the destruction, Ragnar Ashmane stood motionless, his silver eyes reflecting a hollow emptiness that betrayed the supposed victory. His grip tightened around the Abyssal Halberd, as though restraining a power that was no longer needed.

For a moment, his gaze swept over the survivors. Some knelt by fallen friends, tears streaking their faces, while others stood in silence, their shoulders slumped under the weight of grief. Ragnar’s jaw clenched, and his heavy breaths were the only outward sign of his inner turmoil.

Lowering his head slightly, he surveyed the ruins, searching for something that was no longer there. In that quiet moment of reflection, the truth was stark: this was not a victory. It was the silence after the storm—bitter, suffocating, and far from satisfying.