Cyber Chronicles 1: Crimson's Effect

Chapter 28: Lincoln(Present)

As Crescent grew accustomed to Lincoln's manipulation of light through the energy orb in the sky, the elongated shadows within the canyon became extensions of his strategic advantage. Skillfully exploiting the shadows, Crescent expanded his attack range, making it easier to land precise hits on Lincoln.

Lincoln, sensing the urgency, allowed the orb of light to dissipate, plunging the canyon into partial darkness. The moonlight cast feeble rays, creating just enough illumination for Crescent to continue manipulating shadows. Lincoln, stained with his own blood, grimaced as he rose, his body struggling to heal the multitude of wounds inflicted upon him.

His energy waning, Lincoln faced the harsh reality – he was at the brink of his limits, and Crescent remained unscathed. The notion of utilizing his clone brought uncertainty. A careless reveal might tip off Crescent without Lincoln gaining any advantage.

Immobilized once more, Lincoln braced himself as black tendrils sprouted from the ground, aiming to pierce him. In a desperate move, he warped away, the tentacles slashing at the residual crimson energy left in his wake. Reappearing, he retaliated by sending shards of energy toward Crescent, but the shadow manipulator effortlessly turned intangible, rendering the attack futile.

Frustration built up inside Lincoln. It felt like his opponent was unstoppable – impenetrable in defense, untouchable in attack, and even swift in movement. The idea of landing a hit seemed almost out of reach, let alone winning the ongoing battle. Despite the daunting odds, Lincoln held onto a small flicker of hope, noticing how Crescent's actions were gradually losing their usual speed. There were subtle hints that Crescent, too, was approaching his limits.

However, the harsh reality couldn't be ignored – Lincoln would reach his limit first.

Lincoln's legs brimmed with energy, propelling him off the ground. Suspended midair, he tapped into the surrounding energy, summoning a barrage of sizzling crimson energy blasts that streaked toward Crescent like a celestial cascade. Each blast crackled with volatile intensity, leaving vibrant trails of light in their wake, resembling fiery meteors on a collision course with their elusive target.

Crescent responded with an eerie grace. With almost casual elegance, his shadows solidified and enveloped him like a defensive veil. The chaotic dance of energy clashed with the fluid obsidian shadows, giving birth to a mesmerizing display of opposing forces.

In this interplay of vibrant energy and elusive darkness, Lincoln keenly observed the nuances. His analytical mind recognized a subtle but significant pattern. There was a small interval between when Crescent could make himself intangible again. Every alternate attack, it seemed, compelled Crescent to employ forceful defenses rather than effortlessly letting them pass through.

Armed with this newfound insight, Lincoln's mind raced to formulate a strategy. The small window of vulnerability presented a unique opportunity.

Vanishing into thin air, he reappeared on the ground with remarkable speed. Without a moment's hesitation, he unleashed a relentless barrage of energy blasts and spikes at Crescent. The attacks passed through Crescent's coalesced form, leaving no visible impact.

In a sudden and calculated move, Lincoln transformed one of the energy spikes into a clone. Lincoln dashed forward as the clone materialized behind Crescent, aiming to divert his opponent's attention. The clone seized the opportunity, unleashing a volley of energy blasts at Crescent's exposed back.

However, the chaotic clash took an unexpected twist. A mysterious force, seemingly choreographed by Crescent's shadows, intercepted the energy blasts with unnerving precision. Lincoln's eyes widened in disbelief, and he exclaimed, "The shadows work independently?!"