Dark Whirlwind had her usually composed demeanor shattered by the unexpected strike of Risebelle.

"You...you dare," Dark Whirlwind hissed. She took a step back, her gaze locked onto Risebelle.

"Risebelle, you can move!" Roselle exclaimed.

"Dark Whirlwind made it so you and Becky can move too," Risebelle said with strain. "We need to fight. Now."

Roselle looked with concern. "But—"

"Don't waste time, Roselle!" Risebelle interrupted. "Join me now, before I lose whatever control I have left and destroy us all!"

Roselle hesitated, but she could see the desperation in Risebelle's eyes. She was just barely keeping control of herself. Taking a deep breath, she nodded.

Becky knew better than to question Risebelle's command. She cracked her knuckles and prepared to jump into this battle, but eyed her Hammer.

Dark Whirlwind watched the three of them, her fury simmering beneath the surface. "You think you can defeat me? You deluded fools."

"Risebelle, what do you think you're doing,” Alden asked himself.

Sybil, still unable to move, looked at Becky with frustration. ‘I wish I could stand by your side Becky…but this level of magical power....’ Sybil thought to herself.

Meanwhile, Runebelle’s sadness deepened. The intensity of her sister Risebelle's anger and the danger they were all heavy on her. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears.

Runebelle delved into the realm of her mind, where she found herself in a cheerful and vibrant space. Her cheerful System greeted her with its usual enthusiasm.

"Hello, Project Rune! How can I assist you today?" the System chirped.

Runebelle took a deep breath before stating. "I need the power of Project Rune. If I can increase my power, I believe I can move through the Darkness."

"That's a very creative idea!" the System praised. "Transforming into your Project Rune form is now possible due to your Data collection being above 50%. However, I must warn you that this opponent is stronger than you alone, and you shouldn't try taking them on by yourself."

Runebelle's confidence wavered. "But then I can't protect my sisters..."

The System responded with a gentle tone. "It's quite the opposite, Project Rune. You need to rely on your sisters this time. Project Mage (Roselle) and Project Zab (Risebelle) are crucial. There is one problem, though. The issue is whether their bodies can handle or use the transformations at will. If they attempt it without enough Data collected, it could lead to Magical Rupture and cause serious harm, potentially leading to their self-destruction. I have no knowledge of their current Data levels."

Runebelle's heart ached at just the thought of her sisters in danger. "But we have to try. I can't just stand by and do nothing."

"You can do this, Project Rune," the System encouraged. "But remember, teamwork is your greatest strength while you are transformed. Trust in your sisters, no matter what and together, you can overcome this!"

Runebelle nodded. "Thank you. I'll make sure we all get through this."

Runebelle focused on all the sadness she felt within her body. Every tear unshed, every pang of sorrow, every moment of despair—she brought it forth, channeling it into her System. Her Magic percentage rose rapidly, surging from 200% to 400%. With a loud cry, she shouted, “PROJECT RUNE!”

Her appearance began to shift dramatically. Her hair turned a vibrant green, shimmering with energy. The once small cannon on her back morphed into two sleek, small guns, and a large, menacing needle materialized, standing out prominently. Her eyes took on a bright green hue, glowing with the newfound power coursing through her.

Her body grew from its childlike form into that of a teenager. The transformation complete, Runebelle stood as Project Rune, releasing a green aura of immense power.

She looked at her hands, feeling the energy pulsating within her. "I'm ready," she whispered.

Dark Whirlwind looked curiously towards Runebelle. "What is this transformation?"

Runebelle, now in her Project Rune form, ignored Dark Whirlwind and turned her attention to her sister, Risebelle. She knew her sister's systems and capabilities intimately. Grabbing Risebelle by the shoulders, she focused her green, glowing eyes on her systems, urgently assessing the data.

"Risebelle, your systems are overheating," Runebelle said with concern. "Your anger is pushing you beyond your limits. We need to find a way to cool you down and manage this."

Runebelle harnessed the power of elemental infusion in her Project Rune form. She considered her options: Fire, Ice, or Earth. Given the circumstances and the need for control and precision, she decided to choose Ice.

With a focused intent, Runebelle summoned the icy elements, and her transformation began. Risebelle's appearance underwent a dramatic change. Her blue hair transformed into a shimmering aqua, and her body emanated an extraordinary coldness, radiating the essence of ice itself.

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The infusion of elemental power heightened her abilities, and her systems responded accordingly.

[System Message]

Lifeforce: 100%

Magic: 225%

[System Note]: Project Rune's Magic recognized.

Runebelle turned to Risebelle, now displaying anger towards her face, which was rare.

Runebelle turned to Risebelle . "Share your anger with me, Risebelle. I don't like what's going on here either. I want to stop this, but we can't fight separately. We have to work together."

Risebelle's eyes, now reflecting the icy transformation, met Runebelle's with understanding. She could feel the intensity of Runebelle’s convictions and the depth of her sister's resolve.

"You’re right," Risebelle admitted but was still brimming with anger. "We need to fight together."

Runebelle turned one hand toward Roselle. She channeled the element of fire, and a brilliant transformation began to unfold before their eyes.

Roselle's appearance shifted dramatically as flames enveloped her. Her hair turned into a blazing cascade of red and orange, and her eyes blazed with fiery intensity. Her outfit transformed into a set of fiery armor that exuded both power and elegance. As she completed her transformation, Roselle stood there as Fire Form Roselle, radiating the heat and intensity of a roaring inferno. Her magical power surges to 225%.

With a spirited grin, Roselle turned to Runebelle and said, "Thanks, Runebelle. This feels amazing!"

Runebelle nodded, her smile still present. She looked at both her sisters and declared, "If we're going to face Dark Whirlwind, we'll do it together. As a team."

Risebelle's anger, which had been boiling over, began to dissipate. Her reddish aura that was strained outwards around herself now became bluish.

Dark Whirlwind glared towards the sisters and pointed out one finger. "Stop what you're doing, or you'll regret it."

The oppressive aura descended upon them once more, threatening to immobilize them; however, Runebelle’s Elemental infusion had given Roselle and Risebelle a crucial boost. While they weren't completely immune to the immobilization, they managed to resist it to some extent.

Becky made a dash with her mind set on reaching her hammer and outfit; however, just when she neared her goal, the oppressive force once again gripped her, rendering her completely immobile.

Runebelle, now in her Project Rune form, turned to her sisters with a curious look in her eyes.

"Tell me about your transformations," Runebelle requested. "I know I'm Project Rune, but you both must have your own designs too."

Risebelle responded, “I'm Project Zab."

Roselle added, "And I'm Project Mage."

Runebelle nodded, absorbing this information. "Yes. I knew that much, but can you transform?"

Risebelle shook her head. "No, we can't. Not without the help of Kintovar. Trying without her help would lead to Magical Rupture."

Runebelle nodded, absorbing this information.

"Listen, sisters," Runebelle began, "I can use this transformation to fight, but you both can't. The power I have can make a difference, but it's limited. We need to be strategic. Any hit could be fatal."

She glanced at Roselle and Risebelle. "Roselle, you're Project Mage, and Risebelle, you're Project Zab. Our abilities are a part of who we are, but we can't use them here without Kintovar's guidance. So, we'll have to rely on my power for now."

Runebelle's face wore a rare smile. "Let's use this power wisely. Roselle, you've got the fire and lightning of Project Mage within you. Be fierce and agile. Risebelle, your Project Zab abilities might not be accessible, but your water element can still help us. Be our shield."

She extended her hand to her sisters, a gesture of unity. "Together, we'll face this threat and protect each other. And when Kintovar returns, we'll be even stronger."

Risebelle smirked, crossing her arms. "Our little sister is acting all grown up now," she teased.

Roselle smiled warmly. "I like this side of Runebelle."

Risebelle squinted her eyes. "Just don't think you're the permanent leader here, Runebelle."

"Oh, no, of course she won’t," Roselle said, giggling. "It will always be the oldest sister, Risebelle."

Runebelle's smile widened while looking between the two of them. "Alright then, let's show Dark Whirlwind what we've got."

"It seems you three are quite determined not to back down," Dark Whirlwind remarked. "I gave you precious time to reconsider, but you continue to defy me. Well then, it's time to make an example out of you."

The ominous aura surrounding her intensified. It casted shadows over the sisters who prepared to fight.

Dark Whirlwind's aura transformed into a swirling mass of blades. The blades held both light and darkness. The sight before them was nothing short of ominous and intimidating. The aura of blades swirled around Dark Whirlwind who kept their gaze upon them.

However, what truly surprised the sisters was when a dark magic circle materialized in the sky above, casting a sinister shadow over the entire area. From this circle, an array of dark and light swords emerged, spreading out like a cage that enclosed the battlefield.

Roselle, Risebelle, and Runebelle exchanged glances, mirroring the same sentiment: "Are you serious?"

Alden watched the unfolding chaos. The sight of Dark Whirlwind's intimidating display of power was threatening his very being, but he knew he couldn’t let the sisters fight that ‘thing’ alone.

"I have to move," he muttered to himself with desperation. "But how? I'm not strong enough."

He closed his eyes, reaching deep within himself, seeking the strength he knew was there.

"Great Goddess," Alden whispered fervently "We face our greatest threat in Dark Whirlwind. You granted us the strength to stand against such darkness. Please, grant me just a portion of that strength now."

As if answering his call, a warm, radiant energy began to course through his veins. Alden felt his holy magic surge, becoming stronger with each passing moment. He focused on this newfound power, envisioning a cross forming in his mind. Slowly, almost painfully, he managed to shape the holy cross with his magic. It pulsed with a divine light, offering him a glimmer of hope.

Though his movements were still restricted, the slight margin of freedom was better than nothing. He gritted his teeth and planned to make the most of it by beginning a chant. With a deep breath, he invoked the spell.

"Cross of Judgment," Alden shouter with power behind his speech. A magical cross manifested in his hands which radiated with divine energy. Gripping it firmly, he stepped forward. The slight margin of freedom he had allowed him to move closer to his allies.

"Roselle!" Alden heard his name being shouted. He turned to see Roselle's eyes wide with a look of surprise.

Alden smirked. "This is thanks to the goddess. I'm here to fight alongside you against that monster."

Dark Whirlwind, observing the scene, spoke disdainfully, "I don't know how you're able to move right now, but your magical power is nowhere near mine. You're a fool to think you can oppose me."

Alden faced Dark Whirlwind squarely. "You misunderstand. The goddess herself rejects your existence. It's my duty to carry out her will and protect those who stand against darkness."

Silver, no longer maintaining her Kintovar disguise, returned to her original form. Concern was glued to her face. Despite her inability to move, she said to herself, "It seems the surface can be just as dangerous as any other place. I can't help much in this state, but I sincerely hope that nobody loses their life here."