Crimson light swirled around Wanda like an elfin spirit. The dancing lights illuminated the surroundings, highlighting the vivid red of her hooded cloak. Under the brilliant shine, her light blonde hair took on a reddish hue. Her delicate features appeared even more beautiful in this moment.
"How beautiful…" Gwen gasped, her eyes widening behind her mask as she watched the scene unfold. At that moment, Wanda Maximoff resembled Freyja from mythology.
"The Scarlet Witch is indeed even more alluring!" Hode exclaimed, his gaze fixed on Wanda as she floated in the air. It was undeniable that Wanda was more captivating now than ever. He finally understood why most people found the darker version of the witch to be more enticing.
Wanda spread her arms, and the crimson light surged like a tide towards the burning scene. Under its suppression, the roaring flames were gradually pushed back. Even the surrounding black smoke was compressed into a single ball by the chaotic magic's power. As the crimson light condensed inward, Wanda's expression grew increasingly grave. This was a massive manipulation of chaotic magic that required extremely precise control.
"Whew…" Beads of sweat dotted her forehead, and Wanda continually moved her hands. Back in Germany, she had attempted to contain an explosion, but that had resulted in dire consequences. She could even clearly sense the emotions of those around her—filled with pain, despair, and fear. The appearance of these feelings caused her control over the chaotic magic to waver, and the flames she had been suppressing began to spread outward.
Hode furrowed his brow as he observed Wanda's pained expression. He knew full well that accomplishing all of this was not truly difficult for the Scarlet Witch. The real challenge lay in Wanda overcoming her inner barriers. This was something he could not assist with; she could only rely on her own strength to get through this ordeal.
He floated beside Wanda, controlling his form. "Forget the past. Right now, only you can save them. Remember what I said before. This isn't a challenge for you; trust me, you won't fail!"
His deep voice resonated in Wanda's ears. She didn't turn around, but she knew Hode was right beside her. Even through the searing heat of the flames, she could clearly smell Hode's familiar cologne.
"I…" Wanda took a deep breath, her gaze growing steadily more resolute. Yes! That was right! Only she could save the people inside; only she had the ability for it. Regardless of whether she attempted it or not, this was the only choice she had. Even if she wanted to back down now, it was too late; she could only try her utmost.
Her thoughts drifted back to the words Hode had spoken the previous night. "Chaotic magic is not just about destruction; it can create and alter everything!"
"So I can do it! Create everything!"
With each detail she recalled, the crimson light became even more dazzling. She pressed her hands tightly together, the crimson light flowing more smoothly between her fingers. As if this was the most natural thing in the world.
With the brilliance of the light, Wanda's heart grew increasingly determined. The fire that had begun to spread was being compressed at an accelerated pace.
Buzz!!!
With a resonant hum, the strange crimson light erupted like a tidal wave. The pulsating crimson energy surged toward the entire block. Like a roaring tide, the area was enveloped in red light, even changing the color of the sky to crimson. From below, it appeared as if a sea of red had formed.