Chapter 33 - 30: Come Alive
The city of New Eridu lay in chaos, its streets overrun by unknown Ethereals attacking from all directions. With four of these monstrous beings spreading destruction across the districts, Section 6 had no choice but to split up, each member tasked with neutralizing a separate threat.
Miyabi took charge of the central district, where the strongest among the Ethereals wreaked havoc. As she arrived, the devastation before her was nothing short of a massacre. The lifeless bodies of civilians—young and old, Thiren and human alike—littered the streets, their blood painting the ground in a grotesque display of carnage. The air reeked of death, and the echoes of terrified screams still lingered.
Then, a voice crackled through the intercoms, smooth yet dripping with amusement.
"Ah, so the renowned Section 6 has arrived. Welcome, welcome! I am the Doctor. You see, this is all a grand experiment. I've been eagerly waiting to see how well my subjects fare against one of New Eridu's so-called strongest. And what better test than this?"
Miyabi's grip on her weapon tightened as the voice continued.
"Oh, and before we begin, I must thank you for your carelessness. That little incident with Ellen? Quite a fortunate turn of events for me. Her arm proved to be a most exquisite ingredient in enhancing my creations. Truly, I must express my deepest gratitude."
A cold fury surged through Miyabi's veins. The mere mention of Ellen—of her suffering—lit a fire in her chest, but she didn't have time to dwell on her rage. A presence shot toward her from above, moving at an alarming speed. Acting on instinct, Miyabi whirled, her blade flashing as she parried the incoming attack. The force of the impact sent a shockwave through the street, cracking the ground beneath her feet.
She barely managed to counter before gaining some distance, her sharp eyes now locked onto the monster before her.
The Ethereal that stood before her was an abomination, something twisted between a shark Thiren and an Ethereal. Its massive form radiated raw power, with dark, jagged armor plating its grotesque frame. Its gaping maw revealed rows of serrated teeth, and in its clawed hands, it wielded a hammer so massive it could easily flatten a building. The creature's glowing eyes burned with savage intent.
The Doctor's voice returned, smug and delighted. "Marvelous, isn't it? A fusion of science and nature, perfection molded by my own hands. Now then, let's begin! Show me what you're capable of!"
The Ethereal let out a deafening roar, the sound vibrating through the ruined district as it lunged forward, hammer raised high, aiming to crush Miyabi where she stood. She exhaled sharply, her stance firm, eyes unwavering.