The sun's feeble glow cast a faint light through the woods of departed gods, shimmering amid the barren branches.
The fog enveloping the nexus land exuded a sinister aura, echoing the haunting cries of deceased children and souls. This chilling experience transformed courage into apprehensive anticipation, as the lingering spirits seemed poised to pursue those who dared to enter the ominous territory.
Amidst the ominous wails, WPDA marines cautiously explored the towns, seeking out any survivors concealed in the desolate landscape. Strategically positioned among walls and structures, they orchestrated an ambush, an act that left no one sheltered—neither the departed souls nor the living ones.
"If you spot anything or anyone, apprehend them immediately. We've been instructed to clear the area of individuals who aren't supposed to be here."
Léa, positioned at the forefront, guided her marine officers in coordinating the search around the secluded town, diligently checking for any signs of unfamiliar presence.
As her subordinates heeded her instructions, Léa herself assessed the surroundings using the air's pulses, with her blade hanging by her hips.
"The air carries the scent of vengeance and misfortune. It's remarkable to sense its guidance decades into the future. In my assessment, the source of power seems undiminished. Truly impressive."
Time raced swiftly, leaving no moment to spare. The marine officers had already dispersed to their designated locations, each group comprising ten or more officers on standby.
Despite the passing time, progress remained elusive. The zones they guarded were eerily quiet and isolated, with no sign of Onnamon detected by any group.
Notably, Timothy and his allies made the most headway. Etuna paused alongside Aurora, sensing a formidable power in the distance—the first clue to the source they sought.
As they halted, turning to inquire about Etuna's sudden stop, he asked, "Why did you pause, Etuna?" A short distance away, Aurora stood between them.
Etuna replied, "I feel my power weakening. We've surpassed the range that can obstruct my abilities. I can't proceed any further; it's up to both of you to find Onnamon. Trust that I'll be your distant protector, alerting you to any approaching threats."
Timothy let out a sigh, folding his arms tightly across his waist, exhaling the disappointment etched on his gentle face. "I suppose even divinities have their weaknesses."
His eyes opened, and he raised a finger, a smile radiating both excitement and confidence. "But don't worry. We've got this. Just give us a sign if you spot anyone skulking in this ravaged land."
Etuna, expressing trust and belief, placed her palm on her heart, nodding with a reassuring smile. "Fear not, my friends. I'll ensure your safety, whether it means standing here for hours or soaring to the moon. Rest assured, I'll keep watch for any malevolent presence."
Aurora turned to face Timothy, extending her palm outward, appearing slightly embarrassed and piquing Timothy's curiosity about her thoughts.
"Something on your mind?" he inquired, and Aurora, glancing to the side, released a breath before meeting his gaze, conveying a sense of anxiety he couldn't quite grasp.
"I'm not sure it's wise for me to join, Tim. I lack superpowers or unique abilities, and I can't even fight. I'll just be a hindrance."
Timothy remained calm and indifferent, seemingly unfazed. "That's true, and it might be safer for you to stick with Etuna. However, your curiosity is hard to ignore, and it could add some entertainment. Plus, if things go horribly wrong, I'll be right there beside you for protection. Last time, I didn't get the chance."
Aurora exchanged glances between Timothy and Etuna, attempting to convey the most reasonable solution while growing slightly embarrassed.
"I trust Timothy to keep you safe. In my youth, other divinities had to protect me when I couldn't unleash my powers. You two remind me of those times. But if you feel safer with me, I'll guide you and stand guard."
Impressed by Etuna's offer, Aurora contemplated the unexpected experience of a god protecting a 'normie' like her. After a thoughtful pause and a deep breath, she exhaled to articulate her decision. "I appreciate it, goddess, but I don't want to be a burden. I'll go with Tim. I'm curious to see what this island has in store for us."
Etuna nodded, a warm smile exchanged with Aurora, leaving an indelible impression. "Understood, Mrs. Aurora. I'll be watching from afar. Hurry and catch up to Onnamon. The power source lies at the center of this island. Head south, and you'll find the stronghold."
With both in agreement, they hastened towards the tower, moving with urgency. The target was within reach, and the impending encounter with the adversary seeking the power source they aimed to protect was imminent.
Near the tower of chained power, standing practically before the barrier, Onnamon reached his destination.
"Magnificent. I'm inches away from the source. I will be whole—an unstoppable force to be feared by the gods. With the power of extinct demons and vanished souls, I'll complete the puzzle I've long sought. Years of work have led me here, and now, I'll fulfill my every desire. All that remains is to unite with the nexus."
Multiple rifles were trained on Onnamon's back, catching him unaware until his senses tingled with imminent danger.
Swiftly opening his awareness, he leaped from the rocky edge, deftly evading the fast bullets. Landing on a platform below, he dashed over a crevice, skillfully rolling between the flying bullets to avoid any punctures.
As he touched down on the other side, he turned to confront the direction of the gunfire. A small army of marine officers, led by the swordswoman Léa with a moonstone metal blade, stood before him.
"Onnamon. We're from the WPDA. I'm Léa, the connoisseur of the agents. Under Admiral Fanny's commands, you are hereby arrested for trespassing too deep into the Vast Expanse's islands. Surrender or prepare to face the consequences."
Onnamon rose from his crouched stance, leaning on his hip with a fearless and merciless smile. The only sounds were the confident giggles that echoed his unwavering self-assurance.
"Have you not done the same? You've entered forbidden territory. You, too, are a trespasser, connoisseur."
Léa maintained a nonchalant expression, holding back other marine officers from taking action. "We have permission from the chief admiral. You, however, do not. We are authorized to be here—to thwart your nefarious plans."
To be continued...