=== Chapter 9 [Dragon]

 

[So you are saying that only he can prevent this world from falling into ruin?

Why would it be so? What is so special about this one man, what is his secret?]

 

The world as we knowing it might be ending soon. Something appeared in the sky, something dreadful. It is invisible to our eye, but lays down destruction to everything it passed though. In order to stop it, we need to do everything possible and even the impossible. For that sake I requested an audience.

 

[Yes, I knew him for quite some time now. His name is Wolf and he claims he met Lunar.

However his story is a little more unique, for he is the benefactor of her words and grace.

My information also comes from Darku, who is currently investigating the problem.]

 

I was inside of an impressive medieval castle, the capital for the biggest guild in this world, TSA. It is actually an alliance of several smaller guilds, but since they are technically all merged, there is no reason to treat them individually. Currently I was receiving a screening from the round table.

 

[So if we have the man himself right before us, let us question him directly.]

 

[We ought to hear him out, but there is no way for us to tell if he is speaking the truth.]

 

With them thinking so, I already knew this was going to be difficult. From their perceptive, encounters with Ghost AIs, world codependency, and how Lunar was able to contact us on the other side, all those things would appear as a fallacy. I needed evidence to show I was serious. Luckily, I had some prepared.

 

[Here they are, this is the Feather, the one that gives courage to the people.

Rain, the talents who are granted by the creators. Ashes, the symbol of rebirth.

All those Words I was granted by the goddess Lunar. You won't find any information about them.]

 

The wise men who gathered, including Xyl, carefully examined each Word thoroughly. Fascinated by the items I presented to them, I bet they were thinking “How could have one man gathered them all?” After looking with their spectacles, touching and shaking the globe, they return to their positions.

 

[Very well, they seem to be factual and existent. There is no problem with us,

we acknowledge they are indeed Words. But they hold no meaning to us. You have to explain,

how can those Words solve the problem at hand? You came here understanding that yes?]

 

[I reckon that will come in due time, so please come down and let the man speak.]

 

With the permission to speak I took my time to think over things I wanted to share. If I didn't sound convincing, they would doubt my words. If my words were not coherent, they would find it hard to believe. On top of that, the importance of this was great.

 

[Listen well, I will tell you know why I think was given those words and how they connect.

Feather, Rain and Ashes, they are all a part of a rebirth cycle. The logic behind is that,

a phoenix, which is a bird, raises from the ashes, but in order to it needs fuel, which is rain.]

 

[I see, so by shaking the globe you ignite the fireplace instead of causing the rain to fall?

It would have been confusing if we didn't actually shake Rain. We understand.]

 

[Yes, now this means that Lunar wanted us to realise something by giving those specific words.

If you look at Ashes it is but a simple globe, a miniature Moon. It has no power of its own,

however adding fire to it will create something, it will reignite it and cause the phoenix to rebirth.]

 

I looked at everyone's faces to check if they understood my words so far. It would be difficult, or even impossible, to get them to understand my plan if we were not on the same line by now. However, it should be smooth sailing from now, since I did noticed they were giving me their trust.

 

[So what does that mean for us? When you look at the sky, at the single Moon in the darkness,

the first feeling you will get is hopelessness. We can't do anything about this situation,

those kind of thoughts. But I think that's wrong, we can definitely still do something even now.]

 

[Then I assume you already come here knowing so, we will gladly hear your suggestion.]

 

I gathered myself and my posture. I was not convicted myself that this plan would work...But I was also grated a mission, thus I had the responsibility to do something, if anything at all.

 

[It might be not as clear for you but do you see how this world is connected with the other one?

How does one affect the other? Despite how ridiculous this sounds, wasn't the war here,

and in the other world related? Wasn't the internet blackout related to the solar eclipse here?]

 

[In the case of the war, it was indeed so. Around the time our guild put the war into cease fire,

the war in the other world also have halted. Together with the blackout, this seems quite credible.]

 

Xyl, a friend of Darku spoke, giving a raise to voices of the council members. They were worried, perplexed and surprised. They were not sure if whenever this was something that was logical, if this was something that could normally happen. With their voices split, they argued until...

 

[This won't be the solution to our problem. We have to do something together, there is no doubt.

We should listen to what this man, hear his opinion. We can't afford being idle now. We have to act.]

 

Everyone nodded and looked at me, as if I were the all knowing oracle. I was but a simple person, chosen by the goddess to become the hero. What I knew and believed was due to my own knowledge.

 

[All things considered if we find a way to use the connection of the worlds to our advantage...

For example, if we involve people's mind into a single concept, then surely it will happen here as well.]

 

When I say minds, I mean that Lunar is able to connect with human minds. The evidence for that was her appearance in the other world, when I saw her reflection in the puddle, and the screenshots she sent to Titania and WRose. Therefore, it might be possible that she used something that Morphic Fields theory describes, namely telepathy.

 

Now we don’t know for sure how that works with our current science. But if that was true then there was also possibility that our thoughts, reaching the "Ghost AIs" in this world, shaped this world according to our belief, just like words. That is why the war or the blackout happened.

 

[We have to send our ideas to the world. Naturally, I’m talking about an easy to understand message for everyone.

Doing so, we will have those thoughts materialize in this world, and in return, it will affect the other as well.

I know it’s going to work, because we experienced that with the war and the internet blackout. Furthermore,

the gods of this world have the power to make Words into realty. Unspoken Words are just as inaction, we can't afford that now.]

 

This all made sense for the wise men, which looked at each other with a more serious expression. Then they looked back at me, seeing that I was probably the one that would know what to do.

 

[I was thinking among all the things we can do to send a message. There might be one thing,

I want everyone to plant trees—it needs to be specifically trees. It doesn't matter which kind,

you can plant them anywhere where there’s space. What matters is that people must realise what we are doing.]

 

As I spoke those words, the room was in an uproar. Xyl had to step in to restore order. Understandably, planting trees would not resolve anything, but it would do one thing.

 

[I see you didn't get my intention. When you hear "Save the planet" what is the first thing on your mind?

It must be planting trees. Thus if do that, that notion will be planted in all living beings of this world,

and the other. Like a seed, the thought will grow until it becomes existence. That's why it must be trees.]

 

Now I was making sense—that was clear by the way they looked. If we concentrated out thoughts on saving the world, surely a hero will appear that would be able to defeat the invisible threat. Surely if words are able to create existence, we would be able to create our own narrative. Doing so, we shall save this world, which in turn will save the other.

 

[If anything, we did manage to deforest a lot of areas. We planned to use those materials in the war, but we never had the chance.]

 

[However, will it work if we plant trees in this world, Wolf?]

 

[I don’t know... but you should try.]

 

If there is a connection it can go both ways right? Then it shouldn’t matter on which side we change the minds of humans.

 

[Then we hold nothing against that plan, you have our support Wolf. If what you say is true,

then this idea is worth attempting. It is much better than leaving it as things are now.]

 

[Yes, I agree. If anyone would be knowledgeable about why the Moon shrouds the sun,

it would be Lunar. Therefore this man, the chosen by Lunar, would be the one we should trust.

Even in the darkest times, as long as there is hope, we should reignite it. So we shall, together!]

 

And then, everyone around the round table, reached out their hands, joining them into the middle. I too, reached my hand towards the council members. With that the battle was half over. I also needed to convince the other guild, Anti-TSA, which I don't think would be hard.

 

===

 

Large wild flames were rising up as high as the sky, screaming filled the befouled air, there was pain and there were tears. This usually peaceful town changed into a battle zone. Maremoda was no longer a safe place. It became a trap for its residences that could not escape.

 

[Pina, Hina! You're both alive, I'm so glad!]

 

The lower parts of the town collapsed and started burning, hence why survivors evacuated to the higher sections. It was there were people, who got injured, rested. Those who still have the will to fight didn't lose time and idle, they searched the city in order to bring the survivors into safety. WRose, who was brave, was one of them.

 

[Hey, look it's Rose! Don't worry about us, just run!

There are going to be monsters here soon, you have to retreat!]

 

[Rose... just listen to what my sister says...]

 

The two shrine maiden girls in her casual clothes were down on the ground, pinned by a heavy wooden balcony, unable to get back up on their own. Knowing so, and ignoring the request of her friend, the white wearing girl rushed. She knew that she had little time to save them before they would disappear. She knew that she had to act fast.

 

[I won't leave you there to die! Here!]

 

She used her magical power in order to move the rubble away and quickly took her hand towards the injured. With a green glowing energy, her petite hands reached towards both of the girls, restoring their vitality. The three, back on their feet, involuntary ended up embracing each other, as they were very worried about each other.

 

[I wouldn't leave you guys here... knowing that monsters are coming.

Don't worry I am going to protect you from harm, we can do this together!]

 

[I didn't mean to... look sorry Rose. I believe in you too!]

 

[Yea... I was scared that you would... sorry.]

 

At this warming moment, something else, outside of their control has happened. From above, and below, there was multitude of various sounds. Metal hitting stone, wood hitting ground, mechanical sound of adversaries that quickly surrounded all three girls, blocking their escape.

 

[This is not good... Don't worry, we and sis are strong.]

 

[Yea, with your type of magic you can't do much here, so leave it to us.]

 

Worried about their friend, the shaman sisters decided to take the control of the situation, presumably to repay her from her previous deed. They drew their wands, ready for combat.

 

[Hey, don't worry about me just because I play a Priest.]

 

Surrounded at every side with multiple adversaries, the girls scouted for an opportunity to break through. Their opponents were dolls and mannequins, each one without clothes, carrying sticks and metal rods in their hands. Alone they did not look threatening, but the sheer number was overwhelming. Luckily for the Wizard sisters...

 

[Let's escape the way Rose came from, we can't be sure that there is a safe path anywhere else.]

 

[Right... just leave the blasting to us... Hyaa!]

 

Several mystical blasts from each wand pierced the monsters through, diminishing their numbers ever so slightly. The problem was that they were coming from each side, thus the girls have to quick about it. With a gesture, Hina raised a fissure from the ground, blasting the mannequins away in a line. This was their chance to run.

 

[This is the way, come on!]

 

WRose announced, as she ran for the opening with the other girls. While doing so, they kept on offensive, using basic magic that did not slow them. This way they had the best chance to escape before they were surrounded. However, as soon as they made their way, something unforeseen happened that changed the situation drastically.

 

[Watch out!]

 

A large doll fell from the top of the building, directly smashing and pushing away the girls. They were slip from each other. Pina and Hina were pushed back to the crowd of monsters while WRose, who was launched the other way, smashed into a wall and was pinned against it, still standing.

 

[This is bad, you two keep fighting. I’m going to get through this somehow.]

 

Between the friends there was a wall now, consisting of the larger monster and the rest of mannequins. They were usually something that was made as an imitation of the human body, as something mincing it. Right now they were nothing but ruthless machines without soul or human features. They were abominations.

 

[Don't worry about us! We can escape the other way somehow.]

 

[Yea... just don't do something rash...]

 

But they soon regretted saying those words. Lacking the means to fight at a close range, they were at a disadvantage, and with only one grab counter, they were unable to fight for a long time. The monsters eventually overwhelmed them, and grabbed both of the girls by their hands. As they struggled with their limbs, their bodies were lifted up into the air.

 

[Let me go! What did I ever do to you?]

 

[Hey... this is not fair...]

 

On the other side, a lone girl was firing her spells at the wall of enemies. Even if she blasted them with an ice spell, even if she summoned holy light came from the sky which ignited her foes, even if she used her staff at close range, nothing seemed to break the wall completely. She lacked the power, now that she changed her archetype from Wizard.

 

[I'm... useless. I can't break through like this... not as a Priest.

If only I have not changed my Archetype, I would have the strength to...]

 

Sulking in her worries, WRose was pushed against the wall by the horde of doll monster's grabby hands. On the other side, her friends were trying to release themselves from the grapple, to no avail. Their struggles, diminishing with each second, came to a stop, as if their life energy was drained completely.

 

[I can't move! This is no normal at all... Do you feel funny inside too, Pina?]

 

[I'm here sis, I feel like... we are turning into them now...]

 

It was as the cat girl said. Although not transformed, their bodies did not respond to their wills now. Their limbs were shaken by the monsters, they moved as if they were held by strings. It was grotesque, and unpleasant to even look at. Reluctantly, the white wearing girl averted her tearful eyes.

 

[I don't like it... I don't want to become a doll...]

 

[Don't worry Pina, we still have to believe. You won't become a doll, I'm here for you.]

 

[But... I always end up getting dressed in weird clothes for you sis... but it's not always fun...

In fact... ever since that accident you wanted to help... for that I'm thankful... and sorry.]

 

[I didn't... I didn't know you hated it! I'm so sorry.]

 

Even if their faces also lost muscles, a sorrow tear came down their cheeks. Now the three girls, even if in this seemly unsolvable situation, were once again ignited. WRose, who was the only one that could save them all, had to act and quickly.

 

[I don't know... why so much I wanted this, why does the feeling never leave me alone.

But I won't surrender to this, not with my friends’ lives on the line in front of me.]

 

Her green eyes shined, and gained a new light. It was the light of hope that washed away the tears. Even if others say otherwise, even if shapes of people's body are different, what you believe is important. If you let go of who you are, you give the strings of control to others, and they are free to move you as they please.

 

[I won’t let them control my friends or me! There is one thing I can do still.]

 

The white wearing girl rose to the sky. Behind her, a pure white wings spread, lifting her into the air. Below her, a rain of shining feathers decimated monsters as she flew over them. With her mind focused, she soared towards her target, the two girls who were taken captive. With a quick swing of her staff, she summoned a pillar of white chilling energy that blew away the monsters around the three girls.

 

[We're free! But...]

 

[We still can't... move...]

 

Like dolls, the two girls fell onto the ground, without being able to move at all. However...

 

[Here! I hope this works.]

 

WRose, with her hands in prayer, a healing glow appeared on the bodies of the sisters. With their movement resorted, they stood up and instantly prepared to attack the big monster.

 

[This big guy is coming!]

 

Together, they used their powerful spells and blasted as hard as they could, defeating the brute. With the bigger one down, they had no problems with taking out the rest of the mannequins. The battle was over, and as her angel wings vanished, WRose was caught as she was falling from above.

 

[Wow, you really did save us! You looked pretty cute and cool there!]

 

[Yea... like a cute magical girl or something...]

 

[Hey guys... we gotta get out here first, could you stop petting me?]

 

===

 

In a different section of the town, a young drow with his friend was trying to a safe way out of the town. With people trapped in the upper parts of the city, it was only a matter of time before everything was lost. Because of that, someone had to secure an escape route, and that someone was a specialist at surviving.

 

[Right, this way is also blocked. You can trust me, I been living in this town for a while.]

 

[Affirmative, this unit will comply with unit Darku's request.]

 

One robot and one drow were hand in hand running as far as they could, examining the damage. Every time they found rubble, it was too much for them to remove quickly. Knowing how long it would take, it was dangerous to attempt, as the monsters would surely find them. Thus, they were looking for another option.

 

[Right, we could just ask everyone to jump down, but that's also dangerous.

We have ropes, but only our archetype has that ability. Because others don't,

it would be unwise for them to go. They might get stuck, without a way back.]

 

[It was only an attempt at logical progressing, this unit will excuse itself.]

 

[Also, because of this internet blackout it’s kinda impossible to take out a bridge...

or something from the inventory. It sucks, but we gotta do what we can at the moment.]

 

[Affirmative. This unit also does not possess physical items at hand, regrettably.]

 

The two were clearly stuck with only one option, which was to continue searching. A little while later, they found something that attracted their interest.

 

[Unit Darku, please look at that direction. It appears that the two roofs of those building are intact.

Furthermore, my sensors indicate that there is a safe path heading down the road there. Proposition,

find a way to breach the gap between the two roofs with a makeshift bridge and proceed further.]

 

[Roger, I like that plan. There's gotta be a long plank somewhere right? A not singed one as well.

Okay, I'm going ahead to look for it. I think I saw something that would fit a while ago, so could you stay here for a moment?]

 

[Acknowledged, this unit will secure the perimeter awaiting the return of unit Darku.]

 

Without saying a word more, the drow rushed towards the location he remembered from earlier.

 

[There's the balcony, it is also lengthy enough. Okay,

all I need to take out the tools and somehow deliver this.

Easier said the done... but here goes nothing.]

 

This task reminded Darku about how he played a certain game long ago. It was a game full of content, an open sandbox game where you were able to craft and modify the game as you pleased. It was a blast, the first game the Marksman ever dived deep into. Even if it was now just an old memory, he did not discard it.

 

[Okay, now I gotta before G1 gets upset.]

 

Returning to the site with his salvaged balcony plank, the drow was a witness to a scene before his eyes. Surrounded by monsters, humanoid shaped machines that carried chains, G1 was on the ground, unable to move. Furthermore, to get to him, Darku would have jump down a quite the distance down and without a way back.

 

[Hello *beeb* Sorry *beeb* This unit...]

 

The robot spoke in broken works, as if it was malfunctioning. The bowman knew that he was just acting, but nevertheless the situation was dire. All he could do at the moment was to draw their attention, and then jump down. Even if the Safety Rope didn't have enough length, he would think of something.

 

[Don't worry Gee, I'm coming.]

 

Getting the attention with his bow, the drow was instantly noticed by the enemies. They were furious, and had one goal in their mind. Suddenly, one of them threw a chain at the Marksman, but he dodged it. However, that was not the only one, and soon after, multiple chains were aimed at the bow user.

 

[Okay, that happened.]

 

Pulled without resistance, the Drow now found himself between all of the monsters. However, they did not attack, nor they saw particularly interested in combat. With their empty eyes, they stood motionless. Darku of course had no idea why, but he didn't mind that he was still live.

 

[Well, this is far different from what I expected.

G1, you okay? Let me get you up and then we can...]

 

[This unit appreciates the gesture, however given the circumstances it would be unwise to do so.

According to this unit's limited calculations, the monsters' goal is solely this unit. Therefore,

upon recuperation attempt this cycle would continue. There is no breaking it, this will continue.]

 

A little worried about what he just heard, the drow looked deeper inside of him. He was certain. He knew for sure he heard those words before. It the same as always, the same old story, the nostalgia that Darku could not break away from. At this crucial moment, it all returned to him.

 

[You... might be right, but there is no way to know for sure.]

 

[This unit will not impose its prime directive upon unit Darku. It will not upon a friend.

Accessing memory... the data... so beautiful... the time we spend together... no longer...

Proceeding to delete data... Reason: This unit doesn't want to feel regret… No regrets…]

 

[No, don't do that! I can save you so you don't need to delete the data! It's something...

It is something precious to me. I just recently realised what keeps me in the orbit, something that I can't let go!]

 

Even if robots don't cry, that wasn't the case for Darku, who shed a tear from his hidden eye. Whipping it off, he removed the hair covering his eye and tucked it inside of his cape. Now he saw clearly, and he also knew what he is going to do. He had to escape from this seemingly infinite loop.

 

[I'm going to get you up, hold onto me the entire time okay?]

 

Without the confirmation, he placed his board onto the floor and placed a Spring Trap on one of the sides. His plan was to use the board as see-saw, and using the spring as the propeller to jump back on the roof.

 

[Hold on tight, and use the rope when we land.]

 

As soon as he recovered G1's down status, the chain monsters activated again, and flung their weapons at both of them. Although, they were to slow, as their targets were already in air, that didn’t prevent from their metal chains to follow the duo all the way up.

 

This time however, Darku and G1 were ready. They both used their Safety Rope just as they were hit. This allowed them to active the skill before they were pulled all the way, and thus allowing them to return to the roof safely. Afterwards both of them quickly escaped their range.

 

[See? I used the gravity force to pull me forward, instead of backwards.

Pretty cool right? I'm impressed that this actually worked myself.]

 

[Magnificent. This unit could not calculate unit Darku's plan up until now.

It appears that gravity, albeit considered a constant, is in fact fluctuating.

New entry, when someone pulls you down, you can use that force to fling yourself forward.

All thanks to unit Darku's logic that this unit was saved. You are great. You are great.]

 

===

 

Meanwhile, near the entrance to the beach, only the bravest of the warriors held the line. With the invasion in progress, the survivors would have been overwhelmed if not for them. Even though there was no end to this siege, there were a few people who wouldn’t yield to anything.

 

[Fancy meeting you here, are you going to help me at all?]

 

[I'm going to help myself mostly—I don't need to you help me.]

 

The two in the line was Titania, a knight who fought her fights bravely, and the one called Anti-Wolf, whose intentions were unclear. Both of them were quite the veterans, like an unstoppable force. No matter how long, no matter for tough their opponents were, they did not let a single one pass.

 

[Hey, don't be silly. If your name really Anti-Wolf? Your mother must hate you.]

 

[No, that's what I said, but you can just call me Albert. That's fine for you miss?]

 

[Oh, certainly better than Anti-Wolf. Now tell me, how old are you, what are your hobbies...]

 

[Humpf...]

 

Although the blond girl wanted to better know her comrade, the other one shrugged and turned away. It was about time, as the next wave of enemies was coming. Fearsome beasts of many kinds, the small, the big, the ugly, like a horde swarmed the tight corridor the two were guarding. Titania raised her sword.

 

[Okay, there comes more, get ready.]

 

One swing after another, the knight pushed the attackers back down, but they did not surrender. More and more started filling up the space, as if there was no end to them. In this case unfortunately, it was only a matter of time when they would overwhelm her. Luckily she also had a little helper.

 

[Just keep them at their bay. If they can't move past you, you won't get surrounded.]

 

The little boy dressed in black, with his dual swords that he used especially for fighting monsters, dashed left and right, trying to take down as many attackers as it was physically possible. It was not an easy task, as one mistake could cost him his life. He carefully swung his swords when...

 

[That sound!]

 

Suddenly, from a nearby alley or something, a loud sound echoed throughout the city. It was as if a wall collapsed. Following there was a multitude of legs thumping through the streets in a hurry. That could only mean one thing, the other outpost collapsed and thus the only guardians remaining were the duet here. The situation turned dire.

 

[We must be the only ones left, I advise you to retreat.]

 

[Screw this, I'm going to take them all combined, I won't surrender that easily.

At least we can give others the time to regroup and form defensive lines further in the city.

Are you coming with me or are you staying here? I'm fine with either way really...]

 

[Dammit... this girl is going to make me die. Fine, I don't need your help,

so consider this an opportunity to see how the hero work is really done.]

 

With haste, both of the defenders rushed towards the point where the streets met. It was a wider section, one that could hold much more monsters at once. Not surprisingly, that also meant that bigger monsters were also able to move freely, which posed a huge problem.

 

[Are you the last guys? Why did you run away from your post? You reckless fools,

you are going to doom us all! If we needed your help you would have called, but now it's too late.

Even if we lost our point, we can still hold here. I already send for reinforcements to cut them off.]

 

[That fine, you guys can leave if you want, I can handle this solo.]

 

Before the knight girl was able to speak, the cheeky boy took the initiative and spoke words of overconfidence. It was doubtful whenever he would be able to take out all of the enemies at once. With a smirk on his face, and without listening to others, he took his stance, awaiting for the enemy to appear in sight.

 

[You might want to move back, you know. You can't really take the bigger ones.]

 

[Don't tell me what to do girl, I'm perfectly fine with beating them one on one.]

 

[Here it comes!]

 

A giant ogre, the most ugly and scary kind, entered the street with no regards to its surroundings. Tables, chairs, windows and signboards were flying in the air as the monster charged at the party. With quick movement, Titania stood in its direction, blocking the blow with her giant sword.

 

[Say behind me and attack this thing!]

 

But those that heard those words were in the air, blasted by the sheer power of that monster’s charge. Only a few were still on the ground, including the small, dual wielding sword boy. It was his chance now. The kid quickly moved behind the monster and attacked it blind side, hoping his damage will be high.

 

[Take it all I have, you ugly!]

 

Unfortunately, just as the hits connected, the monster turned and used his hand to attempt to grab the boy.

 

[Not happening.]

 

Hastily the boy used his own grab, parrying the hand with his own, allowing him to continue his attack. Unfortunately, as the skin of the monster turned into a stone like grey his attacks were no longer effective. It was like hitting stone with metal, the swords did not visible damage, bouncing off with a metallic sound.

 

[Dammit, this is the after-grab protection. Someone has to grapple it.]

 

Saying so, the boy did not notice that the smaller monsters, the one that followed Titania, were now only inches away. The two, quickly found themselves surrounded by enemies and in front of a giant ogre. This wasn't hopeless yet, as the knight decided to do her part of the job till the end. It was a daring attempt, but worth it if successful, she thought.

 

[Okay, we have to deal with the adds first. Don't attack the big one yet.]

 

[What are you going to do?]

 

[I'm going to tank all of them.]

 

[Are you crazy? You can't take all that damage, you will die in seconds. Also,

I'm pretty sure that if you took down the boss first, you would be able to survive.

But do what you want, good luck with that. As for me I'm planning on surviving myself.]

 

The Rogue was getting ready to dash away as quickly as possible. However, he was stopped midway. There were just too many monsters in his way. At the same time, Titania took the gamble and raised her sword. Her body was emanating with blue energy and as she pulled the sword down, a black sphere appeared above her, pulling all the monsters towards her. With great pain, she was struck again and again with a giant club.

 

[Don't worry... about me... just take down the adds...]

 

She said choking blood. Each strike brought her vitality lower and lower, as she was brought down to her knees. She was losing her strength but not determination. She did not move from her place, nor did she waver. This was not just to defend others, but also to prove to herself that there is something that only she could do.

 

[You know boy... I don't need your help... to become a hero!]

 

Her yell quickly echoed through the streets, filling everyone nearby with great courage.  Even though they were hurt, people that were still alive gave a cheer, and rushed to Titania. Her sacrifice was not in vain it seems, as many came to her side and charged at the monsters.

 

[See little boy... who's the hero now?]

 

[You can't do nothing but take damage and shout. What kind of a hero are you?]

 

[Nothing huh? How about... this!]

 

To everyone's shock, Titania, who was hurt the most, charged straight for the big monster, knocking away smaller ones. She firmly grappled him long enough for a fellow Tank to use their grapple skill in a combination attack. With a mighty swing of the spear, the ogre was thrown into the air. Afterwards, as she jumped herself into the air…

 

[This is my skill!]

 

She suplexed the beast hard into the ground, probably cracking more the bones that just the skull ones. This was a sign for others to charge through the remaining monsters, united by one single banner. Her bravery was immeasurable—no one knew how many lives she has saved that night.

 

[Yea... pretty impressive miss tank, unfortunately my time is up, see you later.]

 

[Ye buzz off you prick, I'm going back to my post, you can do whatever.]

 

After being healed by the Priests, Titania returned to her post. However, the battle was not over yet.

 

===

 

[This is the time we charge and claim victory. If not now, we shall never be truly victorious.

If not now, we shall never taste true freedom. If not now, we shall forsake everyone's effort so far.

Thus we can't waver, we have to be strong and charge right into this monstrosity. Now everyone, charge!]

 

I was riding my bike, as usual, feeling the freedom of the wind in my face and body. Something was different however. I wasn't running away, I was moving forward—and straight at something dreadful. Was this the thing I was running away? Will I be able to defeat it? Whichever was the answer I was about to learn it for myself pretty soon... It's been ages.

 

Behind me, an army of men with the same determination as mine. I led them to the truth and they came along me. I wasn't someone who was their leader though—I was just someone who they were willing to follow. Knowing so, I couldn't look back and disappoint them. I had to be the hero not just for myself, not just for friends, but for all.

 

This was my destiny given by the goddess Lunar, a mysterious being that lived for many years. She was still a mystery, but despite not knowing her well, I trusted her. It was thanks to her grace that we succeeded in materializing the invisible threat. Thanks to our plan, we created a narrative in which the wishes to save world were brought into existence.

 

[There it is! First party, protect the siege engines!]

 

Thanks to everyone’s effort we managed to make the giant monster appear, and thus we were able to fight it now. Partially submerged into the ocean, it was gigantic. It was almost as big as the entire city of Maremoda. Its body of a snake gave birth to nightmares.  It had hundred heads, each one as big as a house. Its breath was prudish, one that would instantly cause nausea.

 

Perhaps it was not as scary at it looked, the beast did not move or attempted to attack the city directly. It somehow seemed peaceful in comparison to all the monsters that were occupying the town. Maybe not now, but we had to deal with them too in due time. We also didn't know how many survivors are still trapped in the city.

 

[A wave of monsters is approaching, do not let slow you!]

 

Various types of beasts were closing on my position. I think I counted about four hundred, but I was never good at math. In any case, I wasn't going to stop and fight them, I had to push forward and attack the giant snake creature myself. That dragon was my only goal as the hero, or so I thought. How exactly I was supposed to slay it I didn't know.

 

And so, the monsters were upon us. The main force of mounted units spearheaded the assault and rushed through the horde without fear. Doing so, they pushed the enemy to the sides, leaving plenty of space in the middle. We were now free to advance further into their ranks, surrounding them from both sides. At the same time, as soon as the siege machines were ready, a rain of heavy boulders bombarded the sea creature.

 

[Damn... is there no effect? We can't aim any closer—we might hit our own unit.]

 

That was right, TSA and Anti-TSA joined forces. We were no longer fighting for just one side, but for all humans. It also reminds me of that all of my friends might be inside, trapped in the city. That's why I have to be quick.

 

[Hey! Wolf! Go go go!]

 

[Yes... Go Wolf!]

 

[I believe in you Wolf! You can do it!]

 

From beyond the flames and fumes, the little girls’ trio was cheering for me. It was Hina, Pina and WRose respectively. Knowing that they are fine filled me with warm and made me smile a little. I can't let them down, especially WRose.

 

[Confirming sight... Match complete.]

 

[Hey Wolf, about time? Don't worry about us.]

 

Further down the road, another pair of familiar faces showed themselves. This time is was the robot and Darku. I don't know much about that robot, even if he still looks cool, but Darku was a dear friend of mine. With his support I was able to overcome obstacles I wouldn't be able alone. Thank you, you really are a solid pal.

 

[Hey don't just look here, focus on the road!]

 

[Wow... you must be glad seeing me too right?]

 

Finally, near the main entrance stairs, albeit a little beat up, Titania and Anti-Wolf stood. I must say, they are both really good at what they do—I'm impressed by their skill. This means however that I must give my all too. I won't disappoint you, I won't disappoint anyone!

 

[Faster! I have to go faster!]

 

Raving up the handle, I increased the speed as much as it was possible. But then something happened. It was as if the bike literally gained a mind of its own. It was extremely fast and furious, like a mustang in the wilds. However, I did not waver. With the strength of everyone that believed in me... I pressed the pedal to the metal.

 

I accelerated even faster, while gripping as hard as I could. I managed not to fall but I could no longer turn or steer my direction. The only thing I could feel was that I became one with the wind. Perhaps it was a jumping pad I drove over, but now, I was no longer on the ground. I was flying, still mounting the seat of my mustang. This was perhaps how true freedom feels like.

 

[Freedom... for everyone!]

 

I raised my sword high in the air, my other hand on the handle. Suddenly, a bolt from the heavens struck my blade, imbuing it with godly power. I was on a collision course with the giant sea serpent, and there was no stopping it. This is when I realised what charged me with all that power, my friends who I have met.

 

I became the lighting.

 

Whatever did happen afterwards was a mystery to me. Potentially, I slashed my sword at the monster, or perhaps it took a few swings, or perhaps it was the people who did the final blow to the dragon. My consciousness was hazy, almost like possessed by someone. But when I woke up everything became clear.

 

[Wolf, arise from your slumber, I call thee.]

 

And I was reborn, as a person who became a hero. Before me the giant beast laid defeated, with all of its hundred heads below the surface of the sea. Above that monstrosity, a white figure, known by the name Lunar, was descending from the sky, the Moon was behind her.

 

Filled with the light of the Moon, the goddess opened her mouth, and words came out spreading through the entire city.

 

[It is by the human hands and effort that this despicable beast was slain. However it might sound worrying,

it was also by the hands of humans that this monstrosity came into existence. Listen well oh children of men,

it is up to you if a creature, such as this one, will be given form again. I beseech you for all my good will,

change your ways, improve upon yourself, break away from the cycle and become reborn, not in lies but in the light of truth.]

 

And after a brief pause...

 

[Remember the path, sleep, dream, awakening and rebirth.]

 

The goddess, still speaking those last words, rose back to the heavens, taking the Moon along with her. The dragon below her turned into a mass of light that was pulled towards the atmosphere. With the brilliance spreading on the sky, the darkness dissipated and made room for the sun. Once again, not due the light that was reflected, we saw the world in its true brightness.

 

[We did it? This is...]

 

Before I came to senses, everyone started shouting and raising their hands in euphoria. They cheered my name "Wolf, the hero" even though I wasn't sure why. All my friends were there as well, running towards me. I wasn't quick enough to escape—they all surrounded me with a warm hug.

 

[Wolf! I knew you could do it! *smack*]

 

WRose, the smallest of them somehow got to me the quickest.  After jumping on me, she gave me a quick kiss on the check.

 

[Wow Wolf, you actually did! I was rooting for you!]

 

Titania, who didn't need to jump, also gave me a small smooch on the other check.

 

[Well I'm glad to you alive after all this.]

 

Darku, who came in last only enfolded his hands over me. Now that I gave up my freedom completely, I had all three of them around me. I can't say I wasn't happy, but in the end what Lunar said worried me. Even if we did create this beautiful world, and defended it, would we be able to defeat the dragon again?

 

Time will only tell. Even if it comes, we will be ready. If it did return, we shall do it again, until it perishes completely. If anything, the power is within our words, not inaction. Thus if necessary I will unite everyone and deal with the problem as it arises.

 

I'm going to make people believe in themselves, I'm going to become their Hero.