Adapting

It happened during the third coordinated attack that a breakthrough occurred. As Asche, Liss, and Reca unleashed their enhanced techniques on the massive cannon, the damage inflicted was more clear than before. The mana that typically protected the damaged parts hadn't regenerated in time thanks to Vanessa's hardwork, resulting in a hole that was now two hundred meters deep. The cannon, unable to withstand the onslaught, tipped once more, making it clear from a distance that their strategy was working.

The guards, recognizing the vulnerability of their primary defense, made a strategic retreat once again, a total one this time. The ominous atmosphere persisted, though. Rain and his group took a moment to assess the situation, knowing that the battle was far from over.

"What now?" Jori asked.

"Keep your guard up," Rain said. "They will bring the big guns now."