Light in abyss

CHAPTER EIGHT: SHATTERED RESOLVE

In moments of despair, we cling to illusions of strength, veiling our fragility behind a facade of resilience. It is the lie we tell ourselves that forestalls the collapse of our very essence.

As the sun ascended, casting its golden hues across the sky, it signaled the onset of another day for Katherine and her team, a day fraught with impending conflict. With a sense of purpose, they readied themselves for the looming battle.

Benjamin, laid the groundwork for their strategy with Seth and Hana serving as scouts.

His rationale was clear: in the event of overwhelming odds, Hana’s ability to create a protective barrier around the demon encampment could buy them time to call for reinforcements and avert unnecessary casualties.
With swift determination, Seth and Hana set out on their reconnaissance mission.

Contemplating the dangers ahead, he imparted specific instructions to Katherine, the gravity of his words entailing the seriousness of their mission.

“Katherine,” Benjamin began, his tone measured yet firm. “You will guard the team from the rear, refraining from direct engagement. Your focus must be on providing support above all else.”

Katherine’s response was immediate, her defiance tinged with a hint of wounded pride. “I am just as capable as any other member of this team. Why should I be relegated to the sidelines!?”

Benjamin’s reply was swift. “This decision is not a reflection of your abilities, Katherine. As captain, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of each member. Take this flare. If the situation deteriorates beyond our control, signal for assistance and retreat.”
Surprised by Benjamin’s display of concern, Katherine complied.

Meanwhile, Hana and Seth returned from their reconnaissance mission, their report painting a grim picture of the demon encampment. Hana’s assessment revealed twelve third-rank demons within the encampment, accompanied by three hostages.

Benjamin wasted no time in assessing the situation, formulating contingency plans to counter the imminent threat. Despite assuring the team of the low likelihood of successful possession, he underlined the potential consequences should the demons succeed, emphasizing the importance of completing their mission with maximum efficiency.

With the briefing concluded, the team set forth, Benjamin leading the charge with Hana and Seth flanking him. Katherine followed close behind.

The team finally reached the demon camp, their anticipation mingling with dread as they beheld the horrific scene before them. Katherine’s fear was palpable, yet she pushed forward, even in the face of the grotesque tableau laid out before her. Mutilated bodies and maggot-infested corpses littered the ground, painting a ghoulish picture of death and decay.

Benjamin, summoned forth ten blazing spears. With a steely resolve, he unleashed his skill.

“Noble Flame 4th: Regal Blaze.”

The two demons located at the forefront of the camp, sensed the imminent danger. They darted through the shadows of the forest, their movements swift and elusive as they sought refuge amidst the gnarled trees.
Seth’s keen eye caught their fleeting movements, and with a swift command, he ensnared them in a vice of gravitational force, rendering them immobile targets for Benjamin’s onslaught.

Meanwhile, five demons, guardians of the cave where their hostages languished, stood vigilant, while another five charged forth with deadly intent.

The five demons coordinated their assault with chilling precision, two setting their sights on Hana, another pair converging on Seth, and the final one making a beeline for Katherine.