Man On The Moon

XXIII

Stelle, noticing Firefly's reaction, steps forward slightly, trying to appear composed despite the unexpected interruption.

Stelle: "We're just travellers passing through. We mean no harm."

The guard narrows their eyes, scrutinizing their group closely. They remain wary and suspicious.

Shadow of Company Guard: "Passing through, you say? This area is strictly restricted. You shouldn't be here."

Caelus, his expression neutral, replies calmly.

Caelus: "We weren't aware. We're merely admiring the scenery. We'll be on our way, no need for any trouble."

The guard seems to consider their words for a moment, but their suspicion doesn't fade. They eye Firefly specifically, sensing something off about her.

Shadow of Company Guard: "You, with the white hair. There's something about you that feels familiar. Are you sure you're just passing through?"

Firefly, her heart racing, tries her best to compose herself and maintain a casual demeanour. The last thing she needs is to raise more suspicion.

Firefly: "I assure you, we have no ill intentions. We just saw the view and thought it was too beautiful to ignore."

The guard studies Firefly intensely, their gaze is cold and perceptive.

Shadow of Company Guard: "You look strangely familiar. I've seen your face before. Are you sure we haven't met before?"

Stelle, sensing the guard's increased suspicion towards Firefly, tries to divert their attention.

Stelle: "We're just weary travellers. You must be mistaking her for someone else. We'll be on our way now."

Sensing Firefly's unease, Stelle and Caelus remain tense, ready to intervene if needed. But before anyone can act, Firefly's attention suddenly shifts. Her expression changes as if she's just realized something important.

Stelle: "Firefly? What is it?"

Caelus, noticing Firefly's reaction, looks at her questioningly.

Caelus: "Are you alright?"

Firefly seems to be in a sort of trance, her focus directed at something in the distance. She mutters something quietly. Stelle gently touches Firefly's arm, trying to pull her attention back to the present.

Stelle: "Firefly, what's going on? Tell us what you're thinking."

Stelle and Caelus are momentarily taken aback as they witness Firefly's transformation. Her normal form morphs into her Sam form before their eyes, and for a brief moment, they are stunned.

Stelle: "Firefly... or Sam? What just happened?"

Caelus, initially surprised, quickly regains his composure. He looks at the transformed Firefly with a mix of confusion and concern.

Caelus: "Is it still you in there, Firefly? Can you hear us?"

The transformed Firefly, now in the form of Sam, doesn't respond to Caelus' question. Instead, she seems focused on something in the distance, her expression calm but distant. The Shadow of Company Guard, witnessing Firefly's transformation and now sensing a threat, attacks without warning. They lunge at Sam, aiming to incapacitate her. Stelle and Caelus react quickly, stepping in front of Sam to defend her from the sudden assault.

Stelle: "Hey! Back off!"

Caelus positions himself beside Stelle, ready to fight if needed.

Caelus: "Leave her alone!"

Stelle and Caelus unleash their ultimate.

Stelle and Caelus: "Rules...Are made to be broken!!!"

Stelle and Caelus channel their power and energy, unleashing their ultimate skills upon the Shadow of Company Guard. The guard struggles against the powerful attacks, their defences weakening.

Shadow of Company Guard: "Damn you... you're stronger than I thought..."

Stelle and Caelus maintain their relentless assault, their determination unwavering. They press on, their attacks growing stronger and more focused.

Stelle: "We won't let you hurt her!"

Caelus, his gaze fixed on the Shadow of Company Guard, his expression resolute.

Caelus: "We'll protect her, no matter what it takes."

With Stelle's and Caelus' attacks weakening the Shadow of Company Guard, Firefly senses an opportunity. Drawing upon her powers, she channels her ultimate ability.

Firefly: "I won't let you harm them."

As she unleashes her ultimate attack, a powerful burst of energy surges forth. The guard is pushed back, struggling to withstand the intensity of Firefly's powers.