Chapter 19 - 16: The Collapse of Order
The emergency sirens wailed across the Section 6 headquarters, their piercing tones reverberating through every corridor. Ellen and the rest of the team gathered in the main briefing room, where a holographic map of New Eridu's southern quadrant flickered to life. The tension in the air was palpable as Commander Inoue stood at the center, her expression grim.
"We have a critical situation," she began, her voice firm but urgent. "One of the major Ether power plants has suffered a catastrophic meltdown, leading to the emergence of an S-class Hollow. The Hollow is expanding rapidly and poses a threat to the entire southern region of New Eridu. This is an all-hands-on-deck operation."
Miyabi's sharp gaze never left the hologram. "What's the primary objective?" she asked, her tone steady.
Commander Inoue gestured to the map. "Rescue any survivors within the affected area, eliminate Ethereals to slow the Hollow's growth, and reach the center to neutralize the core Ethereal. It's likely that the core Ethereal is fueling the Hollow's expansion. We must act swiftly."
The gravity of the situation settled over the room like a heavy shroud. Ellen glanced at Mira, who sat quietly in the corner, her hands clutching a small plush toy. "What about Mira?" Ellen asked, her voice tinged with concern.
"She'll remain here," the commander replied. "The base will be on lockdown, and the automated defenses will ensure her safety."
Ellen nodded, though unease lingered in her chest. She approached Mira and crouched down. "We'll be back soon, okay? Just stay put and don't worry."
Mira's eyes were wide, but she nodded. "Be careful," she whispered.
The team arrived at the Hollow's edge, the air thick with Etheric energy. The landscape was warped, buildings twisted and suspended mid-collapse, as though frozen in time. Jagged shards of Etheric crystals jutted out of the ground, pulsating with an eerie glow.
"Stay sharp," Miyabi ordered, unsheathing her cursed blade, Tailless. The weapon seemed to hum with anticipation, its dark aura matching the ominous atmosphere.
Ellen adjusted the straps of her armored coat, her giant scissors gleaming with frost. Soukaku and Harumasa flanked her, their weapons at the ready. Yanagi moved ahead, her tactical naginata sweeping the area for threats.