Chapter 55 - 52: All Knowing
The low hum of the helicopter's engines filled the cabin as Ellen and the rest of Section 6 sat in their designated seats, secured by harnesses. The interior was dimly lit, the occasional flicker of cyan lights casting shadows across their uniforms. The atmosphere was tense, but controlled—each member focused as the mission briefing played through the built-in speakers.
"Reports indicate the Hollow's spatial fluctuations have increased exponentially as we approached," the operative from the command center stated. "The ether density is unstable, forming a mist around the perimeter that rapidly corrodes those without high resistance. Outer ring civilians have been evacuated to an outpost further back, and under no circumstances should you attempt to enter the Hollow itself. Your mission is reconnaissance and containment. Stay out of the mist."
Ellen leaned back slightly, arms crossed, absorbing the information. She felt the steady vibration of the helicopter beneath her, her fingers tapping idly against her forearm. This was standard procedure, yet something about this mission felt different. The closer they got, the more a faint unease settled in her chest.
The helicarrier descended, touching down on the outskirts of the outpost. The ramp lowered with a hydraulic hiss, and the team stepped out onto firm ground. The air was thick with the residual presence of Ether, an almost tangible force pressing against their skin. Standing at the landing zone, waiting for them, was a white-haired woman with a sharp, almost emotionless expression.
She wore a sleek, military-inspired outfit with a high collar and a tight-fitting bodysuit, a long, flowing cape billowing slightly from the downdraft of the carrier. A massive sword rested against her back, its sheer size making it clear she was more than just an ordinary soldier. Her piercing gaze settled on them as they approached.
"Section 6," she greeted, her tone crisp and professional. "I am Soldier 11, leader of the Obol Squad. Follow me."
Without another word, she turned and led them toward the operations tent. Inside, the atmosphere was thick with urgency. A large hologram of the Hollow flickered in the center, surrounded by floating charts and fluctuating data streams. Standing before it, hands clasped behind his back, was an older man with graying hair and a battle-hardened presence.
He turned as they entered, his gaze sharp but welcoming. "Miyabi Hoshimi," he acknowledged. "Section 6. You got here quicker than expected."
"We move with urgency," Miyabi replied, stepping forward. "What's the current status?"
The commander exhaled, gesturing to the display. "We've been tracking the Hollow's expansion rate. It's growing at an inconsistent pace, but every time we mobilize closer, the fluctuations spike. We suspect there's an external factor at play. Your team is to assess the outer perimeter and report any anomalies. I trust Section 6 can handle itself."
Miyabi nodded, engaging in further tactical discussions while the rest of the team remained attentive. However, Ellen found herself zoning out. A strange sensation tugged at the edge of her perception, a whisper that grew louder.