Progression in Interdimensional Travel (33)

One Phantom phased into existence behind a mage, its barbed tail arcing forward like a spear. The mage spun, conjuring a circular ward of crackling energy that deflected the strike. Before the Phantom could vanish again, another soldier equipped with a disruptor gauntlet slammed his fist into the ground, creating a shockwave that locked the creature in place. The mage capitalized, channeling a burst of flame that engulfed the Phantom, its shadowy form dissipating in an agonized shriek.

Another Phantom attacked a squad from above, its howl scattering their formation. Lucy, seeing the disruption, fired a flare round that exploded into a dazzling cascade of light, momentarily revealing the Phantom's position. The squad regrouped, laying down suppressing fire that boxed the creature in until an artillery shell obliterated it.