The moment Code Black initiated combat with the target, there was a girl in a red dress on the 50th floor's aerial observatory of Monument. Despite her slender arms, legs, and petite face, anyone who saw her eyes would be terrified.
"Psychic Control Web adjusting."
Because her eyes resembled those of a chameleon rather than human eyes.
Her eyes moved incessantly, scanning the administrative cityscape below.
This peculiar-looking girl was none other than Code Red, one of the secret weapons of the Yujin family.
Above her head, a distinct violet halo floated.
If anyone capable of detecting psychic power were present, they would have undoubtedly seen the thin psychic power threads extending from her, forming a web with a radius of 1 km.
Code Red lacked the potential to receive genetic traits from Gallagon like Code Black, performing joint operations, or Code White, who had already died.
Instead, she received genetic modifications related to combat assistance to support other shadows.
One of these modifications was the Angel Spider.
It was a carnivorous animal that inhabited jungle planets and had the ability to create psychic power threads.
Creatures caught in the psychic web spread by the Angel Spider would be controlled by the spider and become prey without resistance.
Unlike the original, Code Red didn't have the ability to control other creatures.
Instead, she gained the ability to detect and control the flow of psychic powers in vast areas beyond even a spider's capacity.
Thanks to this skill, known as the Psychic Control Web, Code Red took on the role of supporting other shadows from the rear.
Her usual task was to continuously relay information about the target to Code Black, but not this time.
Someone had disrupted the extensive control web she had unfolded.
'I detect psychic powers as strong as mine. Unable to detect the target.'
It was like someone throwing a stone at a spider's web.
Even if the web was damaged by the stone, the spider couldn't tell who did it or how to prevent it.
She found herself in a situation akin to being the owner of a ruined spider web.
The only relief was that her opponent didn't seem as adept at manipulating psychic powers as she was.
If it were her, she might have attempted to reverse control of the web, but her opponent didn't try to wrest control from her.
'Focus on restoration first.'
Anything else, if the spiritual synchronization linked to Black was severed, would be catastrophic.
She focused on restoring the control web while keeping an eye on Black.
"?"
But then, something new entered her detection zone.
Her gaze turned towards the black sky.
In the artificially created darkness, a green-shining star appeared.
"A star?"
She recognized the identity of the green spacecraft well.
With large wings, a nimble body, four horns, and a tail, the presence was a Green Gallagon.
Emerging from an unknown place, the Green Gallagon was rapidly flying towards the Monument.
[Enemy approach detected. Engaging interception.]
Intuitively identifying Green Gallagon as an adversary, Red ceased spiritual synchronization and responded accordingly.
She reached for the elongated rifle and sniper coil gun she had placed nearby.
Loading tungsten rounds filled with condensed plasma, she aimed the coil gun into the air and fired.
Oddly, the projectiles autonomously changed trajectory, heading toward the target as she manipulated their path using the Psychic Control Web.
As the Green Gallagon approached in the sky, the plasma rounds detonated.
[Target eliminated.]
Thinking she had taken down the target, green light burst from the smoke cloud caused by the explosion.
"Hmm?"
Disregarding the plasma burst, the entity swiftly closed the distance towards her.
"Re-engaging fire."
Confirming the target's survival, Red continuously fired the coil gun.
The sight of dozens of oval-shaped projectiles soaring from the muzzle in silver seemed like a reversed playback of a meteor shower.
She had believed her shots would eliminate the entity, but reality diverged from her expectations.
"What?!"
Rarely showing emotions due to erosion, she expressed astonishment.
The green entity had skillfully evaded the plasma explosion, showcasing remarkable aerial maneuverability.
Despite intentionally surrounding the target with projectiles from all directions to pressure it, the Green Gallagon escaped through a gap using aerial acrobatics.
As the green death light, taking away all life, embroidered the night sky successively, chaos erupted within the Monument.
Red knew her actions were reckless at this moment, but she deemed the adversary, displaying incredible aerial skills, to be more dangerous.
'Akira's imminent threat.'
Code Black engaged in combat, while Code Blue guarded Akira Yujin. She was the only one capable of defending this place.
Yet, despite Red's aggressive counter-fire, the Green Gallagon not only distanced itself from the Monument but rapidly closed the gap.
"Re-engage until target elimination is confirmed!"
The black skies of the Monument lit up with an untimely fireworks display.
***
She was born when the white meteor shower adorned the gown of the goddess of the night. Born as the youngest of the esteemed Odd Grad group, she was given the name Adhai, meaning the daughter of a shining star. The occurrence of a special celestial phenomenon among the Gallagon is rare, and she bore the expectations of the Odd Grad group on her shoulders.
However, it didn't take long for those expectations to turn into disappointment. She was born with a cursed physique, unlike her kin. Unlike her kin, she remained petite even as time passed, retaining the appearance she had when she hatched. The weak individuals had no place among the Odd Grad group, and she, with little potential for strength, was expelled from the nest.
Living her entire life in the nest and being physically weak, surviving in the harsh wilderness seemed almost impossible for her. After her expulsion, she slowly succumbed to starvation. If oddly-shaped dwarves hadn't appeared, she would have undoubtedly died. These dwarves were rogue thieves who appeared to steal the eggs of her kin. They raided the nest, discovered her, and took her to the dwarves' den.
The dwarves used strange daggers, claws, or whatever they were, to stab her, and then they put her in a cold lump of ice. Her memories after that were faint. When she woke up, a creature was in front of her. Being keen because of her weak presence among her kin, she could tell what kind of creature it was as soon as she saw it. It emitted a scent similar to her kin but was different.
It was one of her kin that used treasures containing psychic power as food to grow stronger. However, there was a difference. This creature was a cruel predator that took pleasure in killing and devouring other creatures. It tried to devour her, and she offered a deal before her demise. She would give the treasure of the nest in exchange for her protection.
Her kin, including herself, never relied on negotiation or deals since they were the apex of the ecosystem. However, having lived a life dependent on her kin and other creatures, she knew the limitations of such a survival method. Despite her own dislike for the situation, she bargained because she had no choice. The creature seemed familiar with her kin. The creature looked at her strangely and accepted.
That was her first encounter with the 'Great Adult.'
｢Danger.｣
Seeing the silvery stones flying towards her, she quickly folded her wings. Her body rapidly descended, and an explosion occurred above her head. Falling down, she continued to think. About the 'adult' who promised to protect her. The adult, to her eyes, was undoubtedly an excellent predator, but compared to her kin, it was weak. The giant metal structure where the dwarves lived was full of beings that could kill him.
Nevertheless, the adult did not give up. The adult made constant efforts and, as a result, fought stronger dwarves and emerged victorious. So, she admired him. The factors that could make the adult great. She wanted to learn that.
｢Strength｣ ｢Learning｣ ｢Hope｣
As she fell to the ground, she spread her wings wide. Along with that, her body soared high into the sky. The silvery stones that followed her couldn't catch up, exploding midway. She rotated her body skillfully, adeptly avoiding the explosions. Her small size actually worked in her favor for such evasive maneuvers. If she weren't a mutation, she wouldn't have been able to dodge so effortlessly.
The Big and small Adults taking care of her taught her how a weak individual hunts stronger enemies.
And most importantly, they taught her 'how to survive alone'.
She learned diligently, and someday, hoped to stand beside them.
｢Me｣ ｢Desire｣ ｢Great Adult｣ ｢Mate｣
Purple lightning emanated from her tentacles, hitting the silvery stones flying around her. Amidst the curtain unfolded by the goddess of the night, green meteors stormed. The sight was exactly as her name suggested when she was born. She is Adhai, the daughter of a star.
***
Code Black, whose neck was severed by my hand.
Her head rolled on the ground.
'It's not over yet.'
The black shroud she wore remains.
The advanced-grade reinforced robe, the Black Shroud, guarantees the wearer to evade death once every three days.
Shshsh!
As the effect of the Black Shroud was activated, the headless corpse dispersed into black mist.
The resurrection point designated by the Black Shroud is not far from the place of death.
'When resurrected, all injuries are healed, and for a certain time, special effects are received.'
When wearing the Black Shroud and dying, according to the setting, the soul merges with the equipment, transforming into a being called a Necrospecter.
As a Necrospecter, only half the damage from all types of attacks is received.
Moreover, every time physical harm is inflicted on an opponent, their life force is absorbed to strengthen oneself.
While it seems to have extremely favorable effects, it has a fatal drawback.
'Unstability.'
In an unstable state, one loses rationality and cannot properly utilize their inherent traits.
It's akin to when the effect of the 'Symbol of Hunt' ends, and I turn into a starving beast craving flesh.
Becoming a spirit that assaults any living creature.
'Though they receive reinforcement effects, they've lost their sanity. Dealing with them isn't too difficult.'
The problem lies in what comes next. The surrounding area has been devastated due to the battle with the Black. Nullifying cameras is meaningless as many people witnessed the fight between me and the Black. The fact that a battle occurred in the administrative district is a problem distinct from incidents in other districts.
'It's like the head of the city is in danger.'
If the Monument's higher-ups get to know that such an important place is in danger, they will undoubtedly mobilize the defense fleet. This includes not only ground forces but also the small-scale orbital ships.
Moreover, my time is running out. In about three minutes, the effect of the 'Symbol of the Hunt' will end, and then I will turn into dust from the plasma shot by the battleship.
Of course, I took countermeasures against that.
'Since I sent Adhai to the Monument.'
Adhai went to Monument to confront Code Red.
'To teleport through spiritual tuning, you need to be in a location where you can monitor the battlefield in real time.'
The only place where that's possible is the tallest building in the Administrative District, the Monument. Most likely, Code Red, like Black, also has the ability to see distant objects.
'Self-defense mechanisms would be related to that.'
Spiritual tuning, long-range detection capabilities—these are all technologies useful for fighting at a distance. Therefore, the defense of Code Red is likely to be a long-range attack weapon, such as a gun.
'Adhai is the perfect counter to Code Red.'
The Green Gallagon specialized in hit-and-run tactics based on speed.
Just as the young Blue Gallagon has the ability to call its kin due to its small size, the Green Gallagon is characterized by its exceptionally high speed.
Moreover, its 'Hyper-Acceleration' attribute triples its already fast flight speed, making it challenging to catch the Green Gallagon unless with a wide-ranging area attack.
'Plus, Adhai's small size makes intercepting it much more difficult.'
Unlike mutants, the non-mutant Green Gallagon can grow up to 10 meters, resulting in a wider hit area despite its speed.
However, Adhai, including the tail, is about the size of a middle schooler and its wing length doesn't even reach 2 meters.
With such a narrow hit area, it won't be easy to shoot it down even with androids or battleships targeting it.
'If combat occurs in the airspace above Monument, the defense fleet can't help but focus there.'
Before sending Adhai, I cautioned it.
I told it to flee if metallic-smelling masses approach.
From what I know, the Green Gallagon is faster than a Megacorp Frigate. Apart from the Green Gallagon, only the Cult's frigate and the Esserton's high-speed frigate are faster, neither of which exists in this cosmic city.
'It's intelligent, so it should be able to escape unharmed.'
While Adhai buys time, I need to eliminate Black and find a way out of this city.
'Given that battleships are not visible even after this situation has occurred…'
A deadly virus has spread throughout the entire city since the previous battle in the sewers.
Probably, the spread of the epidemic to the defense fleet happened faster than my estimation, causing problems in the command structure.
'No, let's focus on the immediate matter.'
The battle isn't over yet.
Moments after the black mist disappeared in front of me, I sensed movement from inside the ruins nearby.
It was the resurrection of Black, turning into a Necrospecter due to the unique effect of the Black Shroud.
｢Big baby, I sense a naughty swordsman nearby.｣
Number 26, who emerged from the pit, seemed to sense something similar and signaled.
Simultaneously with its signal, the debris in the ruins exploded with a rumble.
A black figure walked out of the flames.
Black's appearance had changed significantly from before her death. Her white skin had turned as black as the Black Shroud, and her eyes were glowing red.
"Recognition, sssss, I will do, sss, it, sss, please."
Her voice was filled with a hissing noise, like a snake. While some sanity seemed to remain, she appeared slightly uneasy.
"Forgive, forgive, forgive, can't, sssss, forgive? Forgive, can't, sss, I, special, special being, being?!"
No, let me correct that. Due to the Necrospecter mode, she was properly insane.
Her body, muttering incomprehensible words, began to twist suddenly. It was as if a Hulk mutant was mutating when entering combat.
Upon close examination, she had the 'Physical Transformation' trait.
When becoming a Necrospecter, the unstable trait prevents the proper use of the original characteristics. Problems such as skills not activating at all or the effects of passive traits changing unpredictably occur.
It seemed that the Body Transformation trait was also affected by the instability.
[ZZZZ ZZZZ (Be cautious, it's a formidable enemy)]
｢Yeah, be careful too, big baby.｣
Although the time for the mutation was short, Code Black's appearance was no longer human, nor was it easy to categorize her as a Hulk mutant.
The four pupils on her face all turned towards me simultaneously.
"Die, die, sssss, die? I, Akira's, sss, die! Most special, sssss, Sha-ah-ah!"
The creature created by the Yujin family, a monstrous being, roared at us.
-x-X-x-
"I'm special, ssss, special, sss, special, sssss, about to die? Am I going to die…"
Code Black, transformed into a gruesome form.
Despite her altered appearance, she continued to scream incessantly.
"I've never seen anyone change this oddly because of a Necrospecter."
Summing up her appearance briefly, she looked like a mutated corpse monster from a classic horror game set in space.
The yak horns protruding from her throat were grotesquely twisted. In the place where her hair had completely fallen out, two new eyes had taken the place. Her right arm had transformed into a spear-like shape, seemingly melded with summoned Pain Spheres. On her left arm, mouths had emerged sporadically, tongues lashing out.
Thanks to the fusion of the Black Shroud and flesh, her body was practically naked, yet it emanated more discomfort than beauty. Despite my fondness for aliens and monsters, I couldn't find any liking in her appearance.
"Shaaa!"
Code Black, or rather the Necrospecter, pounded the ground and leaped forward. As she swung her left arm in mid-air, purple whips emerged from the mouths on her arm, lashing towards my direction.
The whips seemed to target my vulnerabilities as if they had a mind of their own. Instead of dodging the whips, I leaped into their midst. I blocked the ones aimed at my head with my arm and deflected those targeting my side using wrist guards.
Some lashes, however, aimed for my back and legs, which I couldn't entirely fend off. Nonetheless, I wasn't worried.
｢Those who torment the Big Baby won't be forgiven!｣
The flying whips seemed nailed in mid-air for a moment as if stopped by an invisible force. This was due to the significantly enhanced 'restraint' ability of number 26 compared to before.
The haphazardly thrown psychic whips were neutralized, providing me with an opportunity to approach the Necrospecter closely.
｢Back off! Go away, away, go away! Die!｣
She snarled and swung the arm fused with the Pain Sphere towards me.
I couldn't afford to take that blow directly. Not only because it would hinder my regeneration ability, but also because the Necrospecter would drain my life force. As per its design, by offering life to the Black Shroud, it would revert to its original form before death, gradually reducing negative effects while keeping the enhancements intact.
Hence, stalling during a fight with Code Black was not a wise move.
I twisted my body sideways, narrowly avoiding its swung Pain Sphere. Expecting my evasion, it transformed the Pain Sphere into a hook-like shape.
'No chance.'
I too was reading its attack. Just before its hook could pierce my thigh, a blood-sucking tentacle sprang from the end of my combat arm, lashing at its side.
"Ugh! Die!"
Upon being struck by my attack and while flying away, Code Black's left arm gleamed.
"Watch out!"
I quickly bowed my head, raising the crown-like carapace extending from the back of my head. A thin black beam shot from the mouth on Necrospecter's left arm, striking my head.
"Ugh!"
I took a few steps back and swiftly dodged the incoming beam. Five black beams relentlessly chased me, aiming to tear me apart.
'Thanks to my dragonification trait, there's no energy consumption limit.'
Though the destructive power was significantly lower than when I was in a sane state, simultaneously firing several shots didn't really pose a disadvantage due to the decreased force.
The beams destructively razed everything around me—houses, trees, roads, cars—stubbornly following the tip of my tail.
｢Die! Die! Die!｣
The one maniacally firing the beams suddenly shut its mouth. When I turned around, I saw a purple mesh encasing its entire body.
The one who threw the mesh was number 26. As number 26's tentacles flickered, blood spurted from the figure.
"Aaargh!"
Letting out a scream, the figure exerted force on their arm, slowly loosening number 26's restraints. Witnessing this, number 26 immediately shifted to another attack. Its long tentacles shattered the ground, digging in.
"I'll kill you, I'll… Argh!"
The figure tried to aim the beams at number 26 but failed as thick tentacles emerged from the ground, targeting their arm.
Hastily retracting the left arm and leaping backward, the figure swung the right arm. However, the tentacles shrunk instantly, leaving the figure's attack slashing through thin air.
'It has grown a lot.'
The Sea Demon can freely adjust the size of its tentacles while using them. Even after growing, number 26 effortlessly utilized them in combat.
Amid their battle, I swiftly closed the distance with the Necrospecter. As the figure landed on the ground, I took a deep breath.
With the exhalation, a long jet of flame engulfed the figure's face.
"Aargh!"
Although Code Black only received half damage from all attack types, she didn't nullify the pain. Writhing in flames, she grabbed its head.
'That scorching pain must be intense.'
Amidst the agony, all four of the figure's eyes focused on the flames. Reflex activated, reflecting the fire, spreading it around both of us.
Taking advantage of its focus on the fire, I attempted to stab the figure's shoulder with the bone blade attached to my back. Or rather, I tried.
One of its four eyes spotted my bone blade. Reflex activated again in mid-air, deflecting my attack.
While my body swayed from the attack on my back, the figure's spear pierced through the black smoke and crimson flames.
The target of the spear was my hand. With my tail still unrecovered, my remaining weapons were three combat arms and bone blade arms attached to my back. My plan was to neutralize the combat hand I used most frequently.
But there was something the figure didn't know. Just before the tip of the spear pierced my palm, my hand glowed purple. The spear passed through my hand like piercing an empty palm.
"?!"
Despite being in an altered state of mind, the figure seemed surprised by the current situation as they widened their eyes.
I raised my healthy hand's nails sharply and slashed upward at the figure. Unfortunately, it failed again. The figure stepped back, using reflection, causing my attack to deflect in the wrong direction.
A whip emerged from the figure's left arm, aiming to strike my arm, but number 26 intercepted it. While the restraints held the figure's arm, number 26's tentacles targeted its back simultaneously.
"Y-you! Damn, little, little, little…!"
Code Black screamed in rage, trying to fire beams from her left arm. I vigorously shook my head, knocking down her left arm with my horn. With a gruesome sound, the figure's arm twisted in an unnatural direction.
As the blocked figure kicked me, perhaps due to its inherent trait, her balance remained strong. My abdomen caved in, and my body was forcefully pushed backward.
Following that, the figure's Pain Sphere flew to stab me. From a crumbled stance, I barely blocked the attack using my combat arm.
'I've allowed two attacks already.'
Code Black's strength had significantly increased. This attack resulted in my arm's shield carapace being partially severed.
"W-what's this…?"
For a moment, a spark returned to Code Black's eyes, perhaps indicating a partial recovery of consciousness.
"Uh, s-s-s, I-I'm special, ssss special, sss special…"
As she hadn't absorbed enough life force to stabilize the effects, the figure's eyes returned to a murky state.
'A close-range battle won't be easy.'
In close combat, avoiding the enemy's attacks becomes challenging. Moreover, the figure rapidly becomes stronger.
'However, fully relying on number 26 is not feasible.'
It lacks effective means to strike Code Black. The method of breaking necks in a human fight doesn't apply here. Unless number 26 has fully matured, it's currently lacking in strength.
The serrated tentacles are a double-edged sword. They can injure the Necrospecter, but if used against it, it could cause significant damage to number 26. Additionally, number 26 lacks the durable exterior I possess, making it vulnerable to Code Black's light attacks.
'I need to change tactics.'
Initially, my plan was to neutralize the most threatening weapon—the left arm. But considering the situation, it didn't seem easy. Even without rationality, the figure was keenly aware of its weaknesses.
I don't have any more time. Let's stake everything on this attack.
"Now die! Die!"
The figure rushed at me, baring its teeth like a rabid dog. Its swung spear aimed to strike me down with a hooked motion.
Due to its increased speed, I narrowly evaded the figure's attack. As I kicked the anchored spear, destabilizing the figure, I glanced at number 26, who emitted a brief flash upon feeling my gaze.
It meant it would follow any plan.
'Good.'
I rolled backwards, and as Code Black's anchored spear failed to connect, she clicked its tongue in frustration. Even though she seemed more rational than before, I remained unperturbed.
She raised its left arm to fire beams at me from a distance. Simultaneously, the ground behind the figure split open, and tentacles emerged.
Number 26's tentacles entwined around Code Black's left arm. Despite her attempt to repel the tentacles with reflection, at that moment, shards of rebar beneath the destroyed road flew into her eyes.
"Argh!"
Originally intended to penetrate, the attack was limited to stabbing the Code Black's eyes due to its resistance.
"Shaaa!"
Struck in a vulnerable spot, she made an indiscernible sound and tore off the tentacles with its right arm. The pain resonated through number 26 as if even felt by its tentacles.
｢It's fine! Doesn't hurt at all!"｣
The creature exclaimed and, giving force to its tentacles, threw me high into the sky.
The direction number 26 hurled me towards was above the figure's head. While flying towards the destination, I adjusted my aim to target the figure's forehead.
And then, I unleashed the prepared Psychic Breath from above the figure.
"What?!"
Judging the danger, the figure hastily tried to move backward.
"No way!"
With all its might, number 26's restraints hindered the figure's movement. It was a very short period, yet enough time for the Psychic Breath to reach the figure.
The figure looked at number 26 with disbelief, but it was already too late. The dragon's flames ruthlessly engulfed the Necrospecter's body.
***
"Faster than expected!"
Code Red, engaged in anti-aircraft shooting against airborne enemies, involuntarily sweated.
She fired tungsten-tipped plasma shots from her coilgun. In this darkness, these shots were undoubtedly substantial compared to regular bullets, although it wasn't easy to see them clearly.
Thanks to her Psychokinesis Control Web, she could detect and manipulate bullets fired from the coilgun, but her enemies couldn't.
The night in the cosmic city, although artificially illuminated, was relatively bright compared to the greenish Gallagon, making it not at all easy to dodge each bullet.
Code Red had experience fighting Gallagon alongside other shadows. However, there was no existence as swift and fearsome as the green demon she faced now.
"Support needed!"
She had already attempted multiple spiritual harmonizations to forcibly summon Black. But all attempts failed. There was only one truth indicated – Black had entered Necrospecter mode.
Click!
The coilgun flashed red, indicating the remaining ammunition was low, a situation apparent even to an ordinary person without abilities.
The unfavorable circumstance stirred emotions within her – fear of defeat.
"Urgent retreat!"
She tossed the useless coilgun away and focused her mind.
It was to release the spiritual harmonization with Black and summon her comrade, Code Blue. Originally an absolute no-go action, but currently, she wasn't in her right mind due to the fear of death, something she hadn't experienced in a long time.
A green meteor rapidly approached the violet halo glowing from her head.
"Still time."
Just a while ago, she calculated the moving speed of the Green Gallergon during their fight.
At the figure's speed, Code Blue couldn't reach her before the Green Gallergon did. She thought so, but there was one thing she overlooked.
The Green Gallergon hadn't yet exerted its full speed.
"?!"
The figure's wings glowed intensely green, significantly accelerating its speed.
With the increased speed, a shockwave erupted behind the accelerating figure. A deafening roar tore through the air, causing all windows on the Monument's outer wall to tremble.
The figure, narrowing the distance at a rapid pace, suddenly snapped its wings backward. As the speed dramatically decreased, the figure's velocity resembled that of a comet.
Windows on the 50th floor where the observation deck was situated shattered due to the shockwave, and chairs inside the observation deck tumbled chaotically.
"Miscalculation."
Code Red closed her eyes as she glimpsed the violet irises of the figure, which had reached dangerously close.
Even after devastating her body to pieces in the observation deck and passing through the entire floor, the Green Gallergon, coincidentally or not, spread its wings again in the monument's airspace.
At a distance, another blaze of dragonfire blazed fiercely.
-x-X-x-
The port district of the T&C Special Trade Center.
As the blast doors parted, a spacecraft smoothly glided into Earth's atmosphere. Marked on the spacecraft's surface was the Möbius Strip, the symbol of the Yujin Family.
As the spacecraft's doors opened, crew members carrying metal hard cases swiftly descended.
"We're short on time. Hurry up and prepare."
"Yes, sir! Min-seok!"
Commanding his subordinates was Min-seok Yujin, a Huangjin man. He once served Jungwoo Yujin and currently was serving Jada, the butler of Si-hyun Yujin. The underlings serving Si-hyun moved tirelessly according to Minseok's orders. They opened the hard cases and began assembling the components inside.
"Miss."
While the subordinates commenced their work, Min-seok bowed his head upon seeing the last woman to descend. She, dressed in a white bodysuit, was none other than the owner of those present, Si-hyun Yujin.
"If the task is completed within five minutes, we'll depart immediately."
"…"
Si-hyun remained silent, surveying her surroundings.
"Something's off."
The port district swarmed with ships like warships, vessels visiting the city for the council, yet scarcely any people were visible. Even the occasional androids seemed out of the ordinary. Seeing androids with three arms, clearly combat models, performing tasks that ordinary laborers should handle hinted at a significant incident unknown to her.
"If there's a shortage of people, it's either due to a massive incident causing staggering casualties or…"
An unidentified epidemic spreading.
Before arriving here, she learned through the media about the reprehensible acts committed by the Eden Knights. Given her own background as a shadow, she knew well that the Eden Knights' Silver Lion Knights consisted of genetically modified humans. While powerful, they wouldn't have decimated the population of this space city to such an extent.
Their numbers were insufficient to overwhelm the ground forces of the defense fleet. Moreover, there was no mention in the media of large-scale killings.
As the Zhao Family had connections with Eden, if the Eden Knights had committed mass civilian killings, they couldn't simply ignore it.
In that case, there was only one answer.
"Pass on the message to everyone. Activate reinforced suits and wear masks."
"Excuse me?"
"There's an epidemic spreading."
From the lack of reaction of the White Maidens present, it seemed this wasn't an airborne disease.
Those present here were slated for necessary contact with specific individuals for their mission. So, if they wanted to avoid infection, they needed to prepare here in advance.
At Minseok's command, the underlings in the midst of their tasks activated their reinforced suits and donned masks.
"Could another faction be behind the chaos?"
There were suspicions, although none were decisive, as all the factions had a distance from terrorists employing biological weapons.
"Akira Yujin is still here."
The Yujin family, being experts in genetic manipulation and biotechnology, had experience with biochemical weapons using viruses.
If the head of such a family was unaware of an epidemic spreading in the city, then this virus wasn't ordinarily hazardous.
"Or perhaps they're aware and choosing to stay silent."
Devious enough to be plausible for such manipulative forces.
By coercing the Chief Administrator through the Council, they might keep the city from focusing on the situation.
Of course, she herself, valuing her life above all else, had surely taken precautions not to get infected by the virus in any way possible.
"It's completed."
Min-seok's voice interrupted her thoughts.
Before her stood a complex mechanical device assembled by her subordinates.
It was a modified item, a Star Union Gremlin Torpedo, converted by Si-hyun's underlings into a timed explosive.
Originally designed to incapacitate other faction warships, the Gremlin Torpedo, upon detonation, released nanomachines that would corrode all nearby metal objects.
Si-hyun's subordinates had modified it to spread far more nanomachines than the original design across a wide area.
"Good work. Let's move."
From now on, they would install this bomb in the city's heart, the underground reactor.
"Hmm?"
While moving with her subordinates, Si-hyun detected a peculiar psychic power surge.
"A cult? No, that's…"
For a moment, an extremely alien psychic power flickered within the city but vanished quickly.
"Could it be?"
"Miss?"
As Si-hyun paused, Minseok called out to her.
She glanced between the bomb and the city center.
On one side was Si-hyun Yujin's wish fulfillment.
The perfect opportunity to eliminate Akira Yujin and neutralize the enemies of the Yujin family.
But on the other side…
"Miss, you need to move right away."
"…"
It wasn't an option that should waver.
She was Si-hyun Yujin after all.
Standing silently, she finally made her decision.
"I… had something to consider. Let's go now."
As she moved, she briefly glanced at the city center.
"Uncertain if it's him. Even if it is, he wouldn't survive in a collapsing cosmic city."
Whatever "it" was that killed her would be buried along with the city's collapse.
"If by any chance he does survive…"
At that moment, she would sever the chains binding herself.
Using Psychic Breath twice in quick succession, I barely regained my fading consciousness.
Despite the tremendous force resembling the White Gallant's blast, the Necrospecter didn't fall.
"I…sss.. I am the greatest….sss"
With its outer skin torn apart, revealing only bones and muscles, Code Black staggered a few steps before collapsing.
Her heartbeats slowed down, gradually coming to a halt.
The Black Shroud enveloping her body returned to its black robe-like appearance.
'Phew.'
Focusing on the auxiliary systems, only after confirming its demise did I finally feel relief.
'She was a formidable foe.'
If I had been alone, I wouldn't have stood a chance.
'number 26 became a significant strength.'
Additionally, Adhai, who went to confront Code Red in my place, did her role perfectly.
I glanced at number 26.
It remained cautious, perhaps anticipating the resurrected Black from its dead body.
Sensing my gaze, Its shot a concerned wave at me, asking if I was okay.
'I'm fine. How about you?'
As always, It was worried about me more than itself.
I intended to thank it with a wave, but I felt a change in my body.
'The 'symbol of the hunt' is over.'
Mixed feelings of relief that the hunt ended before killing the Black and regret for not being able to consume the corpse coexisted.
'Still, gaining even one of Code Black's genes would be beneficial… huh?'
My thoughts couldn't proceed further. A tremendously intense instinct completely dominated my mind.
'What… what is this?'
An appetite so fierce that it drove me utterly insane surged through my brain.
Though I'd experienced this several times and considered myself familiar, this time was different.
"Could the fatigue and side effects from the Psychic Breath…?"
Suddenly, everything seemed pointless.
I was just hungry.
｢Big Baby! Hurry, eat!｣
Someone said next to me, but I couldn't quite make it out.
It felt strange, but the voice emitted a smell that stimulated my hunger.
And without betraying my expectations, a fragrant piece of meat appeared before me.
I swallowed the piece of meat in one gulp.
'Not enough.'
Text boxes popped up before my eyes, saying something I couldn't comprehend.
But more than that, I was hungry.
Why did I have to starve like this?
'If you need it, seize it.'
It was a saying I'd always heard since I was young.
If you need something, take it. That's the life of a winner.
｢■■■, ■■■ ■■■■■■!｣
'Right there.'
A chirping voice. If I eat that, this dreadful hunger might subside.
Just as I thought that, food appeared in front of me again.
The smell was odd compared to the food from earlier. It was so unappealing despite my hunger.
'Just shut up and eat.'
Suddenly, childhood memories flooded my mind.
If I don't eat now, I might not have a chance later. I have to eat it no matter what.
I reluctantly forced myself to eat the tasteless food.
My stomach felt a bit full, making my mind waver.
Eat it all now. No, what am I saying? No, not enough yet. Wait a minute. Can't wait!
'A delightful scent is wafting through.'
No, hold on.
For some reason, I felt the delicacy had thorns.
I shouldn't eat that delicacy. No, I should eat it. If I do, I can obtain what I desire. I shouldn't eat it. There's no time to wait.
I pounced on the delicacy.
An incredibly appetizing fragrance tickled my auxiliary systems.
'What thorns?'
Of course, there were no thorns.
｢■■■■, ■■■■!｣
The shouting from it made my head itch. No, what nonsense about prey having a mouth. Stop it right now. It's all a misconception.
'I'll eat well.'
I was about to open my mouth. Food from it?
"I'll eat well!"
No, it is…
｢■■■, it's okay.｣
The signal he sent flowed through a tentacle behind my head. An intangible signal reached my brain, interpreting its meaning.
'Eat quickly!'
I closed my mouth. A strand emerged from his body and brushed against my jaw.
Then, my auxiliary system and its tentacle gently intertwined.
Suddenly, I felt a spark at the tip of the auxiliary system. Simultaneously, text boxes appeared before my eyes, shining brightly.
Two distinct lights illuminated a crucial fact for me.
'number 26?'
The moment I realized who I was suppressing, the world brightened.
My once foggy mind cleared, sensations returned to my body.
Despite the itching of my skin due to hunger, it wasn't as severe as before, leaving me less ravenous.
I released my grip on number 26.
"What's happening?"
My recent actions were far beyond my control.
'Could it be the overlap of exhaustion from Psychic Breath and the side effects of the 'Symbol of Hunt'?'
Psychic Breath consumes mental strength to the limit. When I used it during the apartment fight, I lost consciousness. Thanks to the superpower enhancement effect on a full organic entity, I could now use Psychic Breath twice. Normally, I'd have fainted after using it twice in a row, but due to attributes and type effects, I managed to stay conscious. However, the overlap of exhaustion from Psychic Breath and the irrationality from the hunting symbol's side effects seemed to have synergized negatively, causing severe mental distress, unlike anything I've experienced before. To be precise, it wasn't just mental distress; it was a complete takeover by instinct.
'Oh my. I shouldn't do this again.'
The combined effects of the two attributes resulted in something far more severe than I could have imagined.
[ZZZ ZZ(Little one?)]
Was it when I regained consciousness that number 26 called me? I almost instinctively attacked number 26.
I immediately apologized to it.
｢I'm fine. Are you okay? Did I hurt you anywhere?｣
[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ(I'm sorry; I just lost it. I'm really sorry.)]
｢You don't have to apologize. As long as the big baby is okay.｣
Although it seemed fine, I carefully examined his body. What I found fortunate was that I didn't attack number 26. If I had attacked it to consume, the situation would have been much worse.
'number 26 doesn't have healing abilities like me.'
Unlike me, if number 26 gets injured, it will take it a long time to heal. If it sustains a fatal injury, that's the end for it. Despite several inspections, apart from the injuries it received from the fight with Code Black, there were no new injuries on its body. Some of its tentacles were bloody, which surprised me, but upon smelling it, I realized it wasn't its blood but the Cult member's.
'After Code Black, it must have picked up the Cult's corpses around this ruins.'
He did his best to turn me back. Amidst feeling grateful and an inexplicable emotion, I suddenly remembered numerous text boxes floating in the air.
Among them, one particularly shone.
'Activate Humanity!'
It was the humanity trait I obtained by consuming pirates in the past. A trait I'd considered useless until now played a crucial role when it was critical. I'm not sure what exactly catalyzed it.
'It must have been when number 26's tentacle touched mine; that's when the trait activated.'
To replicate the recent situation, I attempted to touch number 26's tentacle again.
'Little one, there's a small one coming.'
[ZZZ (Huh?)]
Number 26 discreetly withdrew its tentacle and pointed at the sky. As I looked there I saw Adhai flying in this direction.
'Oh no.'
She was followed by several airships in the rear.
-x-X-x-
The scout ships pursuing Adhai amount to a total of three. Among them, the compact scout ship model, Aegis, resembling a 40-meter long rectangular box, is utilized in MegaCorp.
Even though it's considered small, it's equipped with a staggering four plasma cannons, making any reckless moves unwise.
'What should I do?'
The surroundings offer nothing but ruins destroyed by Black's psychic breath and heat rays, rendering hiding impractical.
'If we're going to flee, the kids might need to use the underground passage to get here.'
However, escaping underground in this situation isn't necessarily a good choice. Adhai is currently in pursuit. Getting hit by a plasma bullet due to hastily hiding would be disastrous.
'Moreover, Adhai is injured.'
There's a scent mingled with human blood on the kid's body. If not planning to abandon the kids here, I can't afford more burden than this.
'To buy some time, is there any means… ah.'
Come to think of it, when I lost consciousness, Number 26 tossed Black and Cult corpses to feed me.
'After consuming Code Black, a text box definitely appeared.'
Being out of my senses, I knew something flickered in front of my eyes but didn't specifically examined it. I hurriedly checked the text box.
[Predation effect activated! Successfully obtained 'Majesty of the Dragon' genetic essence.]
[Extracted 'Majesty of the Dragon' from biological characteristics of 'Code Black'.]
[Would you like to apply 'Majesty of the Dragon'?]
[Predation effect activated! Successfully obtained 'Pain Spear' genetic essence.]
[Extracted 'Pain Spear' from biological Charecteristics of 'Code Black'.]
[Would you like to apply 'Pain Spear'?]
[Predation effect activated! Successfully obtained 'Resistance' genetic essence.]
[Extracted 'Resistance' from biological characteristics of 'Code Black'.]
[Would you like to apply 'Resistance'?]
All of them are potent traits. Moreover, one of them is immediately necessary for me.
Accepting all, a new translucent text box emerged, and mutations began within my body.
[Majesty of the Dragon trait applied.]
[Can be fused with existing 'Clairvoyance.']
['Majesty of the Dragon' and 'Clairvoyance' traits fused. Evolved into 'Watcher of Dread' trait!]
[Watcher of Dread: Instills indescribable terror in a specific sentient being. There's a chance the target may go insane.]
[*P.S.: I suppose I don't need to mention which emotion humans have harbored the longest.]
['Pain Spear' trait applied.]
[Can be fused with existing 'Breath of Fire.']
['Pain Spear' and 'Breath of Fire' traits fused. Evolved into 'Decay Fungus Organ' trait!]
[Decay Fungus Organ: Releases fungal spores that deteriorate and contaminate the enemy's natural healing abilities.]
[*P.S.: Decay is just another form of circulation.]
This mutation primarily occurred around my head and its vicinity. The itchiness started around my eyes and spread across my entire head. Changes in the surface of my skin resulted in indentations and protrusions, and horns twisted forward on the front of my head. Swirling patterns appeared on the surface as well.
Previously, when I acquired the psychic enhancement type, geometric patterns were engraved on the exoskeleton covering my head. Upon that, new patterns resembling pupils were added.
True to its name 'Watcher of Dread', numerous eyes inside my head made it feel as though they were monitoring the external surroundings.
The transformation didn't just occur above my head. The incendiary organ within my throat vanished, replaced by a new organ that produces and launches microbes. Due to this new organ, my entire neck became much thicker than before.
The 'Resistance' trait manifested changes within my body, not visibly apparent on the outside.
Okay.
Having completed the evolution through the new traits, I called for Number 26.
[ZZZ ZZZZZ ZZZZ (We have to catch the people chasing Adhai.)]
｢A person? Referring to the bait with four appendages?｣
[ZZZ (Yes)]
As it wasn't exactly a wrong expression, I didn't point it out.
[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZ (A person is riding inside that metal box.)]
｢Yes, I sense it.｣
[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZ (I alone can't capture them all.)]
｢Yes, I'll help!｣
It's fortunate that it catches on quickly. Dealing with not just one but three scout ships alone isn't easy. In this situation, I need Number 26's assistance.
[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZ (You have power.)]
｢Power?｣
[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZZ (The power that drives people insane.)]
'If I can effectively use the 'Abyssal Terror' trait, I can incapacitate the crew aboard the scout ships.'
In the game, Sea Demons often focused the 'Abyssal Terror' on tanks or supports.
The debuff effect of Abyssal Terror is incredibly potent, and even with significant resistance, it's hard to prevent it.
｢This might be reality here, but…｣
Moreover, the considerable distance between this place and the scout ships might prevent Number 26's Abyssal Terror from reaching the ships.
'No, endless negativity won't help.'
Number 26 is still young but is a Sea Demon after all.
'If it's Number 26 we are talking about then, it can do it.'
Moreover, it's a clever one. Once it grasps the trick, it'll surely manage.
"[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZZ (Focus your power.)]"
"Yes. Ugh!"
While Number 26 concentrated, trembling, I observed Adhai. She was circling the vicinity with the scout ship. She consistently evaded the ship's bombardment with nimble flight, but her speed was gradually decreasing.
'She won't last much longer.'
[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZZZ ZZZ ZZZZ (Think about clearly identifying the target and wanting to capture it.)]
｢Capture?｣
[ZZZZ ZZZZ ZZ (Yes. I won't let it go.)]
｢I'll give it a try.｣
Truthfully, I don't know if what I said is correct. I briefly explained the sensation of focusing on auxiliary organs when aiming at someone.
However, it seemed to have helped Number 26 quite a bit. The swirling, colorful energy dancing around it converged into a giant eye shape.
｢Got it!｣
Number 26 emitted a wave filled with joy. At that moment, the auxiliary organs stiffened and warned me of a highly dangerous presence ahead.
The muscles in my combat arms and legs tensed, and the acidic blood flow within me accelerated. It felt just like when I first encountered Si-hyun Yujin or Black.
'Success.'
Number 26's Abyssal Terror effect impacted me as expected. The fear that gripped my heart vanished quickly once I realized I was affected by the Abyssal Terror and managed to nullify it.
"[ZZZZ ZZZZ (Well done)]"
｢Am I amazing? Am I?｣
"[ZZ (Yes)]"
I patted the delighted Number 26. If I could feel fear to this extent, ordinary crew members wouldn't stand a chance.
"[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZZ (Throw me like earlier)]"
｢Okay.｣
Its thick tentacle wrapped around my waist.
｢Here we go!｣
The tentacle holding me shook vigorously, pushing my body up into the air. When I transformed into the hunting form, except for the tail, I used to be around 5 meters in size and quite heavy, so Number 26 couldn't throw me high.
But now, my size and weight had significantly reduced, allowing me to fly swiftly toward the location of the scout ship.
In mid-air, I extended my combat arm and launched the bloodsucking tentacle towards the scout ship. As the red tentacle made contact with the ship, the small saw blades on its surface dug into the ship's hull.
With my body fixed, I retracted the bloodsucking tentacle, attaching myself to the scout ship. Whether the crew onboard noticed my presence or not, two turrets on the left side of the scout ship aimed at me.
I quickly dodged the first shot by lying flat and crawled closer to the adjacent turret. When I approached the turret, I activated the Phantom Claws and reached into the interior.
By deactivating just the tips of the claws, I disrupted the electrical circuitry inside.
'At least one down.'
The turret targeting me malfunctioned and soon stopped.
Although the remaining turret attempted to fire at me, I had already prepared for it.
Two rows of panels on my back collided, emitting waves that disrupted the machinery. Sparks flew from the junction of the plasma turret that was hit by the waves, rendering it useless.
Now that I successfully hijacked the ship, control of that turret was in my hands.
As for the two turrets on the opposite side, they couldn't target me since my position against the outer wall was angular and obstructed.
'This should put an end to external threats.'
Words from the crew inside the inner wall were detected through the auxiliary organs. The enemies were in a state of confusion due to an unexpected new threat.
'But it's not enough.'
If they contact other scout ships to fire at me from here, I'm finished. I need to shake things up more to prevent that.
My auxiliary organs began to squirm, trying to find someone among the crew emitting a strong metallic scent.
While the auxiliary organs were working, I hijacked the turrets and aimed at other ships. Inside, the screams and curses intensified when the turret expelled a bright green energy mass. The energy sphere flew straight into the rear of another scout ship. Although the hit scout ship shook violently, there seemed to be no major issue with its flight.
'It's definitely challenging to control it directly.'
Meanwhile, the auxiliary organs found the target I was seeking. I activated the Abyssal Terror on him and crawled towards the side of the scout ship. Destroying the terminal inside in front of the door where crew members boarded and disembarked, I ripped the half-open door open and entered the scout ship.
"Damn it! Left gun deck incapacitated!"
"Left turret number 2 is also unresponsive! Find a way to fix it!"
"We have to turn off the firing assist AI system and reactivate it!"
The interior of the Defense Fleet's 1408th scout ship was in complete chaos. They were pursuing the green flying object a while ago when an unknown adversary suddenly attacked them.
"Where did that thing go? Can't see it on the left camera!"
"Spotted on the upper camera! What is it doing?"
"Whatever it is, we need to take it down!"
Even as the crew in the situation room deliberated on how to deal with the monster, the Defense Force personnel aboard the ship did not slack on their vigilance about their surroundings. Soldier 13, like his comrades, remained on edge, prepared for any impending emergency.
Suddenly, all lights inside the scout ship went out, and the noise in the previously bustling ship vanished in an instant.
"Huh?"
Startled, Soldier 13 raised his Gauss rifle and scanned the front.
"W-what's going on?"
Shortly after the emergency lights came on, the inside of the ship turned red. The revealed sight left him horrified.
The crew members lay torn apart, their bodies sprawled on the cold metal floor, and grotesque creatures were devouring the corpses.
"Ugh, aahh!"
"Hey, what's wrong?"
As he screamed, someone placed a hand on his shoulder.
Thinking it was a comrade, Soldier 13 turned around and froze in shock.
A being resembling the monsters tearing the bodies apart was smiling at him. With black blood running down its eyes and a mouth resembling the torn monsters, it lunged at him with its teeth.
"No, no, no!"
Soldier 13 fired his Gauss rifle at the creature, causing it to collapse with a hole the size of a ping-pong ball in its abdomen.
But then, the other monsters devouring the corpses shrieked and rushed towards him.
"Aahh! Die! Die! Die!"
With each shot fired from his rifle, a monster fell. Perhaps realizing that a comrade had died, hordes of monsters poured in from another room.
As Soldier 13 tried to aim at them, a metallic projectile pierced his head from somewhere.
Only after his head was pierced did he realize who the creature he had killed was.
"Damn it! This crazy bastard!"
"Hey! Snap out of it! Hold on a little longer!"
"Medic!"
"Headquarters! This is 1408! Soldier 13 has gone insane and fired at friendly forces!"
Before he could even regret his actions, Soldier 13's consciousness plunged into darkness.
"Success."
Due to the soldier affected by the Abyssal Terror, seven out of twenty people aboard the ship died.
'It's a downgraded version of the Abyssal Terror, but quite effective.'
The Abyssal Terror can be described as an underwater horror that targets individuals. Unlike the true Abyssal Terror, its effect of driving the target insane only activates probabilistically, yet it's still a potent trait.
'Especially effective in causing disruption amongst enemies like now.'
While the adversaries were unsure how to react, I sprinted through the passageways within the scout ship. Due to the soldier gone berserk because of the Abyssal Terror, firing wildly in the situation room, the Defense Force members were all gathered in that direction.
Unnoticed by them, I sprinted through the corridors, reducing the encounters with crew members.
"P-please, spare me! Don't—ack!"
Kneeling, I tore off the head of a pleading crew member, took a single bite, and swallowed it whole.
Rushing toward the situation room, feasting on corpses, a volley of bullets flew from that direction.
'Tungsten rounds. Impossible.'
Regular rounds couldn't pierce my outer shell. Positioning my head towards the soldiers hiding in the situation room, I opened my mouth wide.
Activating the microbe generator inside my throat, I vomited out a mass filled with mold.
"Ugh! Damn it!"
The projectile of mold soared like a projectile, passing over the heads of the soldiers, landing inside the situation room.
There were sounds resembling the throwing of garbage bags on the floor before the mass exploded.
"What's this…? Ugh!"
"Cough, ack! Cough…!"
The screams of the soldiers hit by the shrapnel of the mass were audible. The decaying mold generator, a fusion of Pain Spheres and Flames Breath, had effects completely different from the materials used.
"It's fundamentally related to infection."
The decay mold generator was a characteristic mold that caused necrosis and decay, creating fungal spores.
When the spores burst, the fungi inside infected other organisms. To prevent infection, antifungals or remedies to eliminate the mold needed to be used.
"If they could just focus properly, it would be easy to resolve, but during combat, it's challenging."
In the game, when players are hit by the mold of the decay mold generator, they immediately enter a panic state. This was due to the ongoing agony of the body decaying in real-time after being hit by the mold.
Without anyone to assist nearby, performing emergency treatment alone was impossible.
"Ugh, aagh…."
"Stop…!"
The soldiers, who had been screaming in severe pain, were barely breathing. Their faces were covered in pustules, their clothes soaked with sweat, blood, and pus. Some were already oozing black blood from their noses and mouths, perhaps having decayed internally.
After confirming that the crew on the ship had been completely neutralized, I entered the situation room.
'I wish I could pilot it myself, but controlling a military vessel alone is impossible.'
Even if it were a small reconnaissance vessel, the models belonging to the military ship, including the scout ship, were beyond my capabilities to pilot. At best, I could enable autonomous navigation using AI.
'It's regrettable, but I'll have to make do with this.'
I set the direction towards the friendly scout ship indicated on the radar and commanded the AI to engage full speed ahead.
The engines of the scout ship roared, and the situation room where I stood shook violently. As the scout ship surged fiercely towards its target, I retraced my steps.
Crawling out to the outer hull of the scout ship, I saw one of the remaining two ships already plummeting towards the ground.
There was no doubt that number 26 was disrupting the crew with the Abyssal Terror from the surface.
Meanwhile, the scout ship I boarded was rapidly approaching the enemy. They belatedly realized the intentions of the ship and hastily altered their course.
As the ship narrowly passed by, I extended the bloodsucking tentacle and switched to another scout ship.
The infected scout ship, carrying soldiers contaminated with mold, flew towards the city encased in a dome, pilotless.
｢Adult!｣
Adhai appeared in the distance and sent a signal my way.
[ZZZ ZZZZ (Later for greetings.)]
All that remained now was this one ship I had boarded. One last small scout ship and twenty crew members inside. They were the final adversaries.
If the enemies had ignored the consequences and fired at the scout ship I was in, things wouldn't have turned out this way.
They made the wrong choice, and now they have only one option left.
Simply to face annihilation.
-x-X-x-
The managers of each team and the androids were striving to assess the situation.
"To think that the Monument is under attack, what on earth is the defense fleet doing? Where did the enemies come from?!"
"I cannot be ascertain."
"These useless androids are nothing but rubbish!"
Shouts echoed from all directions, and everyone looked around with a mixture of concern and confusion in their eyes.
Observing this, Laila stared blankly.
"Is this a dream?"
Amidst the ongoing proceedings of the Monument's council, chaos ensued due to an unexpected assault.
As soon as the explosion echoed from the 50th floor, security personnel from each family barged into the conference room, forcibly taking the heads of the families out along with them.
Laila attempted to explain to those trying to flee, but the situation had already spiraled out of control.
The council had utterly failed.
No matter how they attempted to salvage it, her downfall had become an undeniable reality.
"I have to find a way somehow…"
Was it due to an excessive shock or perhaps the recent days of physical indisposition? Her mind, usually sharp, moved sluggishly today.
It wasn't just her mind; her senses were also becoming distorted in reality.
The noise she perceived as loud gradually started sounding distant.
"Administrator, how should we proceed?"
"…"
"Administrator?"
Someone, whether a team leader, a security officer, or a secretary she didn\t know tapped her on the shoulder.
That slight jolt turned her insides upside down.
"Why…?"
"Oh my goodness! Administrator!"
Laila wanted to believe this situation was a dream.
But the thick scent of blood around her lips and the agonizing sensation tearing through her body proved that this was indeed reality.
"What is this?"
When she realized she was bleeding, she had already collapsed to the floor.
As people around her shouted incomprehensible words, it was akin to the rage of an angry swarm, and she couldn't understand a thing.
Soon after, even those voices faded away.
"…How's the administrator's condition?"
"The examination shows bleeding in various organs, including the lungs. Treatment is not possible here."
"Bleeding in organs? Why on earth?"
"It's believed to be caused by an unknown virus."
When Laila suddenly vomited blood and collapsed, the atmosphere in the refuge took a sharp turn into darkness.
Laila wasn't merely a city administrator.
She was Laila Chemblin, a woman from the T&C family, one of the seven families of MegaCorp.
If she were to die, those present here would undoubtedly face an unimaginably grim fate.
"This can't go on! There's a central hospital just upstairs!"
"That's right! We must transfer her immediately!"
"Nonsense! We don't know when the enemy's attack will start again."
"Whether it's an attack or not! If the administrator dies, it's all over for us!"
The hesitation of the team leaders in the face of Laila's life-and-death situation was evident.
Should anything go wrong while transferring to the hospital, the person who suggested moving Laila would be solely responsible. Due to the rigid atmosphere unique to MegaCorp and the brutal retaliation of Noble Capital, the Monument's leadership couldn't effectively manage this situation.
Amidst their indecision and wasted time, the Crisis Management Team manager, having concluded communication with the Defense Fleet headquarters, approached them.
"We've arranged a medical ship from the Defense Fleet headquarters, so we'll move her there."
"Wouldn't it be better to go to the hospital in the Administrative District if we're moving?"
"…We received word from the Defense Fleet. The Administrative District is currently under attack by unidentified enemies who are, killing people."
"Oh my!"
As the city's situation seemed worse than they had imagined, the team leaders fell silent.
"While a reconnaissance ship has been deployed, safety isn't assured. The Defense Fleet headquarters is safer than here, so receiving treatment there would be better."
"Fair point, but how do we transfer?"
"A transport vessel is prepared in Monument Square. A reconnaissance ship is also on standby in the Monument's airspace for escort. We can move using the transport vessel."
Ultimately, as proposed by the Crisis Management Team leader, they decided to send Laila via the medical ship. Combat androids carried Laila out of the refuge towards the square where the transport vessel awaited.
After the androids exited the lobby on the first floor, a bald African-American man emerged from the emergency staircase.
"Your Highness, it's Jacob. There are no bodies here. Yes. Yes. The culprit of this situation is probably…"
The person conversing was named Jacob. He was the Deputy Commander of the newly appointed Denver's Order of Seraphim.
｢Little one, are you okay?｣
｢I'm｣ ｢Fine｣ ｢Perfect｣
Coming out near the wreckage of the crashing reconnaissance ship, the children had a brief moment of respite number 26, concerned about the bloodied Adhai, kept checking everywhere with its tentacles.
Watching Adhai squirm as if ticklish, I thought,
'I knew there would be side effects to the hyper-acceleration.'
Among Adhai's scales were debris: human blood, shards of glass, steel reinforcing bars used to support buildings. Not only the scales, but the wings were slightly torn, and one of the neatly grown horns had a crack.
All injuries had occurred during the hyper-acceleration, despite Green Gallagon usually being able to withstand collisions with other objects.
"He's small and fragile, which likely led to this mishap. It's unlikely that his growth will offset these side effects."
"Until a solution arises, I must seal off the hyper-acceleration. It should only be used for evasion, not as an assault, like this time."
While pondering this, Adhai called out to me.
He approached me stealthily and spat out an object from the mouth's tentacles. It was someone's hand.
｢Loot｣ ｢Adult｣ ｢Gift｣
Indeed. The owner of this hand is probably Code Red. When Green Gallagon enters hyper-acceleration, it generates a sonic boom with each movement. If Code Red didn't possess defenses as potent as Black, stopping Adhai's charge would have been impossible. The fact that anything of the enemy's body remained was fortunate.
I stroked Adhai's head and passed on the hand.
[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ (These are the spoils you obtained)]
'Gift>
Adhai seemed like it would discard it if I didn't eat it myself.
[ZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ (Then let's eat together)]
A single hand couldn't exhibit the feeding effect anyway. It would be better for the injured Adhai and number 26 to consume it. I nibbled on one finger and handed the rest to the children.
Adhai, after eyeing me, swiftly sucked up all the remaining blood in the hand, and number 26 dealt with the remaining debris.
I pondered what to do next while looking at the children.
\The communication with three reconnaissance ships has been lost. They won't be complacent anymore.\
Battle in the Monument and Administrative District, coupled with the destruction of three reconnaissance ships.
Now, the space city won't merely perceive us as unfamiliar intruders.
Invasion.
In the enemy's eyes, we are the invaders who attacked the council.
It was evident that military vessels would directly search for me from now on.
Although we could defeat three reconnaissance ships by combining our strength, if dozens of them target us or a battleship intervenes, there's nothing I can do.
'Hiding in the city is no longer an option.'
'They won't cease until they find me, the one who ruined the city.'
'If we are discovered, it's over.'
When the defense fleet spots me, instead of deploying soldiers, they'll obliterate my hiding place entirely.
If they're not fools, they've learned that it's challenging to capture me with ground forces alone.
'I have to leave this place.'
Although I haven't fulfilled all the conditions for evolution into a pseudospecies, it's inevitable.
Survival is a priority over evolution.
'Nevertheless, amidst the misfortune, the situation has turned in my favor.'
In a way that benefits me.
The enemies are currently in a complex situation.
'It'll be challenging for them to focus on me properly.'
The fact that they sent only a few small reconnaissance ships when the city's head is under attack signifies something.
It indicates internal issues in the defense fleet that make it challenging to mobilize manpower.
'It's all thanks to the space bacteria I spread.'
'However, there's not enough time.'
It's not just because the command neglected the disease due to the council; I can't expect them to fix things now when the council is already in disarray.
If we develop vaccines and establish quarantine systems, the opportunity given by the cosmic bacteria will soon disappear.
Since a convenient means of escape has arisen, I must utilize it.
The city erupted into war while guests visited.
So where will those guests go?
'They'll probably head out of the city.'
I raised my head and gazed into the city's airspace.
Numerous transport vessels were flying towards the harbor zone.
When they try to leave via the harbor zone, I'll sneak on board secretly.
Normally, I would have been inspected while leaving because of the council, but in this situation, can they really do that?
Especially against MegaCorp's guests' ships.
'We just need to hide well.'
After deciding what to do, I called the children.
[ZZZZ ZZZZ ZZZ (Let's go)]
｢Where to?｣
[ZZZZ ZZZ ZZZZ (Where we came from)]
'I don't understand'
Number 26 immediately understood, but Adhai tilted its head.
Well, it entered through a different path, so it wouldn't know.
｢Where we first met the Big baby.｣
｢I understand.｣
While Adhai nodded at number 26's simple explanation, I collected bodies from the surrounding ruins.
'It might be tough to obtain genetic essence due to severe damage.'
Considering many bodies were missing lower halves or only had limbs remaining, expecting a feeding effect seemed unreasonable.
'Still, they have some utility.'
The wounds from the fight with Black, like severed arms and tails, hadn't completely regenerated.
To heal quickly, they needed to feed and replenish nutrients.
'Especially since the children are also injured.'
As I didn't know whom we might encounter at the harbor zone, it was essential to supplement nutrients intermittently on our way.
I swallowed small parts, like just an arm or a leg, and picked up relatively less damaged bodies.
Returning to the children, I handed over two corpses I had been holding.
[ZZZ ZZZZ (Eat while we are moving.)]
｢Okay!｣
While I had unconsciously placed Adhai on top of my head, number 26 extended its tentacles and skillfully caught the bodies I provided.
Seeing Adhai lying on number 26, wrapped in wings, it seemed natural.
'So this is what happened when I wasn't around.'
Having gathered food, we left the wreckage of the reconnaissance ship and headed back to the pit where number 26 had first emerged.
While going to the surface was quicker, encountering a warship was more likely.
It was safer to take a bit longer and go underground instead.
Arriving at the pit, I used auxiliary equipment to check for any dangers inside.
'No issues.'
The only movement detected underground was the motion of scavengers.
I descended first, followed by number 26 carrying Adhai.
By retracting its tentacles and fins into its body, number 26 transformed back to its balloon-like appearance from when we first met.
As a result, it shrank enough to move within the sewer system.
'So that's how it moved with that bulk.'
Their current appearance made it seem as though Adhai was riding on a pink rubber tube.
Although quite comical, it was efficient, and I marveled inwardly.
Subsequently, we entered the sewer and moved towards the direction of the harbor zone.
As anticipated, there were no enemies in the sewers.
While traveling, I asked number 26 and Adhai how they had developed so much.
To my surprise, the response was unexpected.
[ZZZ ZZZZZ (Did you target corpses and newcomers?)]
｢Yes.｣
People who didn't smell of metal were weak prey, so I ate only them.
The creatures didn't only consume the corpses of deceased laborers in the sewers.
They also attacked and devoured newcomers, like vagrants.
'I can distinguish between soldiers and vagrants.'
Normally, individuals unnecessary for the city's operation, like vagrants, couldn't exist in this space city.
However, this time was an exception due to people losing their jobs as the commercial district collapsed.
Those who lived day by day, now unemployed, couldn't afford rent and were forced to hide in the sewers or the ruins of the commercial district.
It appeared that number 26 and Adhai primarily targeted such individuals.
'Quite impressive.'
Their method of targeting easy yet unsuspecting prey was the hunting technique I frequently used.
While I believed Adhai had grown considerably, perhaps the one I could call my apprentice was number 26.
As we conversed and moved, we unintentionally drew closer to the harbor zone.
While on the way, having consumed all the corpses, my body was almost fully recovered.
'We've arrived.'
After signaling the kids to wait briefly, I stood beneath a manhole close to the Harbor District pier.
Before opening the lid, I checked if there were any enemies outside.
I focused my auxiliary sensors to observe the movements around.
The bustling sound of footsteps on the ground, the distant hum of engines from moving ships, and nearby, the familiar smell of metal drifted into my auxiliary sensors.
'The familiar smell of metal?'
The moment I found it odd, my auxiliary sensors detected something new rapidly approaching this way.
What was approaching wasn't a smell or a sound.
'Danger!'
As I hurriedly retreated, a green energy mass destroyed the manhole.
The alloy lid vanished instantly, leaving a gaping hole in the nearby sewage ceiling.
'I knew you'd come here! You monster!'
A voice from above ground.
Following the voice, energy blasts fired from a plasma bolter poured into the sewage where I had been.
'The Eden knights!'
What awaited us in a remote part of the Harbor District was the Prime Capital of Mars, the Eden family.