Life Gallery 12 - The Eagle Falls 2

Scene: Desperate Eagle Fight - Vampire vs Despair Eagle

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUND – NIGHT FLASHBACK

Lysander (calm): "Yue had investigated their power and I still remember some. Wilhelm Königsberg, the strongest who is their leader, S-ranked ability and one of the three S-ranked professional hunters in this country. Memel Mohrungen, the dwarf tank, B-ranked ability that controls the earth and metal, but he's more defense-oriented. Allenstein Domnau, she isn't even a fighter but she is noted to be Wilhelm's personal secretary. Her power is called 'Breaking Links' which allows her to shoot a beam of particles precisely through a person's brain. The power is meant for precise lobotomization which could help stabilizing power but it can also be used to throw a person off their balance and make their power unstable. I don't know about the other two but if Yue did not investigate them, they must be unimportant. Maybe they got their rank higher after Arys's death recently? Based on their performance, we can assess that their power is about D to B-ranked. Though, I'd say, they are D to C since if they are stronger, Yue would have noticed."

Ludociel (confident): "Then it's obvious. Divide and conquer"

Kimhyun (determined): "Right. I'll use my electromagnetism to break the walls and separate them into smaller groups. That'll make them easier to handle."

Hugo (concerning): "But… what about Wilhelm? Isn't he stronger than you two Royals?"

As Hugo voices his concern, Lysander's expression shifts, a cold, calculating look settling on his face.

Lysander (calmly with a hint of malice): "Hey, bastard, how about giving your friend here some blood?"

Hugo (surprised): "What?"

Fenix (alarmed): "No! Hugo's already exhausted. I don't—"

Lysander (coldly): "Vampires heal and regenerate based on how much blood they have stored. Looking at you, Fenix, you're low. And we need you… to stall Wilhelm."

Fenix (surprise): "What?"

Lysander (coldly): "None of us can take Wilhelm one-on-one. But you can survive him—you're a vampire. Kimhyun's a werewolf, so his blood isn't an option. Ludociel's blood is holy, poisonous to vampires. I need to conserve my mana. And Shizuka? She's unconscious; draining her could kill her. That leaves the bastard whose powers are still blocked by Allenstein."

Hugo stares, caught off guard by Lysander's cold reasoning.

Hugo (hesitant): "So… I just—"

Lysander (interrupting, matter-of-fact): "You give him enough to heal. It's the only way. Fenix needs to hold off Wilhelm while we handle the others. Once we're done, we'll gang up on Wilhelm. No matter how strong he is. A 1v4 fight will bring us victory."

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUND – NIGHT CURRENT TIME

Fenix stood across from Wilhelm, his breaths ragged but steady, his eyes locked onto the imposing figure in front of him. Wilhelm's dark aura swirled menacingly around his tall frame, a sharp contrast to the vampire's pale, bloody figure. Fenix had been drained nearly dry, his arm still slowly regenerating from where it had been severed earlier. But he had one job—to stall.

Wilhelm (calm, but dangerous): "You're nothing but a mosquito, bleeding dry and flitting around. Do you think running will save you?"

Wilhelm raised his hand, and the air around him darkened as the temperature dropped. Black frost crept across the ground, spreading like a creeping curse. Wilhelm's power wasn't just raw strength—it was the Frost of Despair, a terrifying ability that turned the air around him into an icy death zone. The cold sank into Fenix's bones, slowing him down with every breath.

Fenix (panting, with a smirk): "You know… mosquitoes are hard to kill."

Fenix's body jerked into motion, not toward Wilhelm, but away—darting to the side in a blur of motion. His vampiric speed allowed him to zigzag through the training ground, avoiding Wilhelm's direct line of attack. The frost followed him, though, spreading wherever Wilhelm moved, the cold closing in faster than Fenix could escape it.

Wilhelm (smirking): "You can't run forever."

With a flick of his wrist, Wilhelm sent a wave of black ice crashing toward Fenix, jagged spikes of frost shooting from the ground. Fenix barely managed to leap aside, but one of the spikes caught him in the leg, pinning him for a moment. He hissed in pain but quickly ripped his leg free, his regenerative abilities already working to close the wound.

Fenix (gritting his teeth): "Running is... kind of my thing."

Fenix dashed again, weaving through the training ground, constantly staying just out of reach of Wilhelm's attacks. The ground beneath him crackled with the sound of ice forming, and every time he slipped, the frost clawed at his limbs. But he kept moving, relying on his vampiric regeneration to heal the cuts and burns as fast as they formed.

Wilhelm (annoyed): "Pathetic! Stand and fight, vampire."

With a snarl, Wilhelm slammed his fist into the ground, sending a shockwave of ice surging outward. The temperature dropped even further, and the frost raced toward Fenix's feet. In a moment of desperation, Fenix leaped onto one of the training dummies, balancing precariously as the frost consumed the ground below him.

Fenix (grinning, mocking): "You'll have to catch me first, old geezer."

The taunt did little to faze Wilhelm. He waved his hand, and the frost shot up the dummy, freezing it solid. Fenix jumped just in time, narrowly avoiding being frozen in place. But as he landed, Wilhelm was already moving—closing the distance with terrifying speed.

Wilhelm (growling): "You're done!"

Fenix barely managed to roll out of the way as Wilhelm's fist slammed into the ground, cracking the stone floor. The black frost spread even faster now, snaring Fenix by the ankle. His leg began to freeze, the biting cold spreading up his body. He hissed in pain, his blood magic working overtime to heal the damage.

But Fenix knew he couldn't keep this up forever. He was running out of blood, and Wilhelm's attacks were becoming more precise, more relentless.

Fenix (thinking, desperate): "Just a little longer… just hold out…"

He darted again, this time ducking behind a column, using the brief moment of cover to catch his breath. Wilhelm's frost snaked around the pillar, creeping toward him, but Fenix managed to dash away at the last second. His wounds were closing slower now, the fatigue finally starting to show.

Wilhelm (amused, closing in): "You're not even fighting. Is this your strategy? To bore me?"

Fenix's legs buckled slightly, the frost numbing his muscles, but he forced himself to stand. His vision blurred, but he still smirked.

Wilhelm lunged, his fist enveloped in black ice, aimed directly at Fenix's heart. But at the last second, Fenix ducked, slipping past Wilhelm with a burst of speed. He was panting hard now, his body on the verge of collapse, but he managed to stay ahead—barely.

Fenix (whispering to himself): "Just… a little… longer…"

The frost continued to spread, but Fenix, despite the pain, kept running, dodging, healing, and stalling—every second buying his friends the time they needed.

Scene: Desperate Eagle Fight - Sword vs Shield

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUND – NIGHT 

The cold, dimly lit training ground echoed with the clang of steel and the hum of magic. Kimhyun stood firm, his sword glinting under the faint light, his eyes locked onto Memel Mohrungen, the dwarf tank. Memel's enormous shield dominated his silhouette, and his stocky figure radiated unshakable confidence.

Memel (grinning): "Come on, pup. Let's see how you break through this."

Kimhyun's grip tightened on his sword, sparks of electricity dancing around the blade. He could feel the tension in the air, the weight of the fight bearing down on him. He had to break through—he had to protect his friends.

With a roar, Kimhyun rushed forward, his sword flashing as he brought it down with all his might. "Thunderous Slash!" Lightning surged through the blade, crackling as it connected with Memel's shield. But instead of breaking through, the attack was absorbed, the electricity grounding itself in the earth beneath the dwarf's feet.

Memel (mocking): "That's the best you've got? You'll need more than a spark to get through me, brat."

Kimhyun gritted his teeth, frustration bubbling beneath his cool exterior. Memel's defense was airtight, his shield absorbing every hit without so much as a scratch. The ground rumbled slightly as Memel planted his feet, controlling the metal and stone around him to reinforce his defense.

Kimhyun (thinking, frustrated): "Hmm, my sword can't get through."

Memel chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement as Kimhyun backed off, reevaluating his approach.

Memel (taunting): "You're fast, but speed means nothing if you can't hit. Come on, show me what a little pup like you can do."

Kimhyun (muttering): "Fine... let's see how you handle this."

With a burst of speed, Kimhyun launched himself to the side, zigzagging around Memel with lightning-fast footwork. He moved like a blur, disappearing from Memel's line of sight before reappearing behind him. But the dwarf was prepared—without turning, Memel slammed his shield backward, the metal vibrating with force. Kimhyun narrowly dodged, rolling to the side before springing to his feet.

Memel (grinning): "Not fast enough."

Kimhyun's eyes narrowed. Memel was quicker than he looked, his movements calculated and precise. It was like fighting a mountain—every attack was met with an unyielding defense.

Kimhyun (thinking, frustrated): "This isn't working... That shield... it's like a wall...no, a mountain."

But then, Kimhyun noticed something—a slight delay in Memel's reaction time when he swung his shield. The dwarf was strong, but his movements weren't as fast as his own.

Kimhyun (thinking, analyzing): "There's a gap... when he swings his shield, his guard opens for a split second."

Kimhyun's mind raced. He couldn't overpower Memel, but if he could exploit that gap—just for a second—he could land a decisive blow.

With a plan forming, Kimhyun darted forward again, this time feinting left before quickly dashing to the right. Memel swung his shield, expecting to block the incoming attack, but Kimhyun was already gone, slipping beneath the dwarf's guard.

Kimhyun (smirking): "Got you."

With a flash of lightning, Kimhyun's blade slashed toward Memel's exposed side. But just as the blade was about to connect, Memel's shield shot downward, blocking the attack with a deafening clang.

Memel (laughing, impressed): "Nice try, kid. But I've been in more battles than you can count."

Kimhyun skidded back. He was fast, but Memel's experience and solid defense were making it nearly impossible to land a hit.

Kimhyun (thinking, frustrated): "He's covering all his weak spots... but there has to be a way."

Suddenly, Memel stomped the ground, sending shockwaves through the floor. Metal spikes erupted from the ground, forcing Kimhyun to leap backward to avoid being impaled.

Memel (grinning, taunting): "You're good at running, I'll give you that. But how long can you keep dancing around?"

Kimhyun (thinking): "He is not only strong but fast. The only way to really defeat him is a large area attack… Haizz, if Queen fought him, this would have been done long ago. Still though…"

Kimhyun raised his sword high, electricity surging through the blade. This time, instead of charging, he stabbed the sword into the ground. The floor exploded with electricity, metal bars erupted from the ground just like before. Those bars move in front of Kimhyun as they are controlled by his electromagnetism. 

Memel (grunting, surprised): "What the—?"

Kimhyun (thinking): "I learnt this technique from my defeat by the King, Yue. Let's see how you deal with it."

Suddenly, all of the metal bars were sent flying towards Memel with tremendous speed.

Memel (shouting, raising his shield): "Raising Shield!"

Memel creates an aura shield that shields him from all the metal bars but immediately, Kimhyun moves with blinking speed behind Memel.

Kimhyun (smirking): "You're finished. Thunderous Slash!!"

Kimhyun's blade rebounded with a harsh metallic clang, his eyes widening in surprise. Memel's entire body shimmered with a dense metallic sheen, his skin transformed into solid steel.

Memel (smirking): "Heavy Metal. You really thought you had me, pup?"

Kimhyun clenched his teeth, but then smirked as electricity surged around his body.

Kimhyun (smirking): "I have already heard of this technique!!"

As he speaks, massive golden lightning covers his body. Kimhyun launched himself towards Memel.

Kimhyun (smirking): "Metal is the best electrical conductive, you know."

Without warning, Kimhyun thrust his hand forward, touching Memel's metal shoulder. Golden electricity surged through the dwarf's body, instantly conducting through his steel form.

Memel (shouting, in pain): "Argh—!"

The surge was overwhelming. Memel's Heavy Metal ability betrayed him, conducting the powerful current right through his body. He collapsed, twitching and grunting, as the electricity rendered him helpless.

Kimhyun stepped back, watching as Memel's body convulsed with sparks of residual energy.

Kimhyun (calmly, triumphant): "Looks like you underestimated the pup."

Memel slumped to the ground, unconscious, the fight decisively over with just a single touch.

Scene: Desperate Eagle Fight - The Battle of Sound, Light and Mercury

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUND – NIGHT 

Ludociel's white wings spread wide as she hovered gracefully above the spacious training ground, light emanating from her rapier. Her presence was radiant, her wings casting a divine glow as if she were a goddess of war. Behind her, a large crystal-like octahedron, her Sanctuary that shields the first year students, Hugo and Shizuka.

Across from her, Klaus Ritter stood resolute, mercury swirling protectively around him like a shimmering serpent. Nearby, Elbing Gumbinnen crouched, her eyes focused as she manipulated the airwaves, preparing sound-based explosions.

Ludociel (calm, commanding): "You really think you can challenge me? Your combined powers are nothing compared to the Light of Orleans!"

With a flick of her wrist, Ludociel sent a blast of pure light toward Klaus and Elbing. The radiant energy crackled through the air, targeting them with blinding speed.

Klaus (grunting, manipulating mercury): "Mercury Wall!"

The shimmering liquid metal surged upward, forming a reflective barrier that deflected Ludociel's attack. Light refracted off the mercury, dispersing harmlessly, but Ludociel's smirk remained. She was toying with them.

Klaus (taunting, coldly): "Mercury can reflect anything, even light. You won't break through so easily."

Ludociel (smirking): "Nice trick, but that won't last long."

Suddenly, a deafening BOOM echoed through the training ground as an explosion erupted just beneath Ludociel's wings. She barely managed to swerve out of the blast radius, her wings folding to shield herself from the shockwave. Elbing had triggered one of her prepared sound explosions.

Elbing (grinning, focusing): "You'll never see them coming, Maiden of Orleans. My explosions are faster than your eyes can catch."

Her eyes sparkled with confidence as she set off more condensed sound waves, her carefully timed explosions sending ripples through the battlefield. The fight was not just physical—it was a battle of wit and timing.

But underneath her grin, Elbing remembered their journey—the countless times she and Klaus had been underestimated. They were never the strongest in the guild. But Wilhelm had believed in them when no one else had. He'd promised them success. Now, even with the scandals surrounding Eagle Step, they believed in their duty, in defending their guild at any cost.

Ludociel (thinking, frustrated): "These explosions… they're not random. She's laying traps to force me into vulnerable spots. But if I keep dodging, I'll play into her hands."

Klaus seized the opportunity Elbing had created, hurling sharp spikes of mercury at Ludociel. The gleaming metal darted through the air with deadly precision. Ludociel, however, evaded most of the projectiles with a fluid grace—though one spike grazed her shoulder, drawing a thin line of blood.

Klaus (taunting): "Getting sloppy, Maiden of Orleans?"

Ludociel's eyes narrowed. She'd been holding back, but now the fight was taking its toll. She shot forward, wings blazing with renewed brilliance. With a burst of light energy, she retaliated.

Ludociel (fierce, preparing a powerful attack): "Sparking Drive!"

A blinding column of light tore through the ground, aimed directly at Klaus. He summoned his mercury in desperation, but the sheer force of her attack shattered his defense. The impact knocked Klaus off his feet, scattering his mercury reserves across the battlefield.

Klaus (gritting his teeth, weakened): "I won't… lose like this…"

As Klaus struggled to reform his mercury, Elbing triggered another explosion, attempting to force Ludociel back. But this time, Ludociel was prepared. With a swift beat of her wings, she darted out of the explosion's range and dove straight for Elbing.

Ludociel (determined): "Enough games. Golden Shining"

Elbing (thinking, fear rising): "No… not now. We've come so far—Wilhelm believed in us."

Before Elbing could react, Ludociel was upon her. With a precise thrust, her rapier cut through Elbing's defenses. The light burned into Elbing's torso, sending her crashing to the ground.

Klaus (panting, barely standing): "Elbing!"

But before he could help his partner, Ludociel turned her focus back to him. With her wings glowing brilliantly, she delivered the final blow—a burst of light that pierced through his chest, knocking him to the ground.

As Klaus and Elbing lay defeated, Ludociel stood tall, breathing heavily but victorious.

Ludociel (gasping, but resolute): "You two fought well, but... I had to end this."

Scene: Desperate Eagle Fight - Asport in Action

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUND – NIGHT 

While the training ground of Eagle Steps today was covered with lightning and light in many directions. In one corner, two individuals are standing facing each other.

Lysander, with his signature smirk, stands across from Allenstein Domnau. Her face is a mask of frustration and anger, every muscle in her body tense. 

Lysander (smiling, condescending): "Allenstein Domnau, an A-ranked ability that's practically useless in combat… If I were you, I'd get out of this place fast. Why risk your life fighting monsters or… servicing him, when you could be an excellent genetic researcher with that power of yours?"

Allenstein (mocking, angry): "So I should take advice from someone who threw his own brother out over a mere accident?"

Lysander (smirking, unfazed): "That 'accident' left ten people dead, in case you forgot."

Allenstein's face tightens, but she doesn't waver. Her resolve is iron, and she knows the stakes.

Allenstein (cold, with rising anger): "And your little plot against us could get more than ten people killed. I don't care what you're planning. I'm not letting you leave."

Lysander (smiling, calm): "Oh? How are you going to stop me, then?"

Allenstein straightens, her confidence blooming as she prepares to activate her power.

Allenstein (confident) "I can destabilize anyone's internal balance. Your body, your power—it doesn't matter. You won't be able to move an inch when I'm done with you."

But Lysander's smirk only deepens. He remains eerily still, a calm predator watching his prey.

Lysander (smiling, almost bored): "You're right… except for one tiny thing…"

Without warning, Allenstein's eyes widened in horror. Suddenly, her right arm is ripped away from her torso in an instant. It doesn't make a sound, like reality itself was sliced and her limb just ceased to exist in one clean moment.

Allenstein (gasping, shock setting in): "Wha... what?!"

Her breath comes in ragged bursts, her mind struggling to comprehend what just happened. She staggers, attempting to use her power on him, but before she can react—

Allenstein (screaming in pain): "Agh… Aaaaaah!"

Her left arm is severed, just as silently as the first. The limbs lay on the ground beside her as she stands, helpless.

Lysander (mocking, his smirk never fading): "You're right about having a useful power... but unfortunately for you, I have one of my own. And it's much faster than yours."

Allenstein gasps in agony, her mind racing, but the pain keeps her from thinking clearly. She glances up at Lysander, her expression filled with a mixture of fear and hatred.

Allenstein (gasping, barely holding on): "You..."

Lysander (grinning, cruel): "Oh, I'd love to kill you right now. But that power of yours… it's far too valuable to waste. You said you would not let me leave? Well, I am not letting you leave."

Scene: Desperate Eagle Fight - The Final Fight

INT. EAGLE STEP HEADQUARTERS – TRAINING GROUND – NIGHT 

Fenix's body ached as the relentless cold of Wilhelm's frost gnawed at his muscles. His vampiric healing was slowing down, the blood Hugo had given him nearly spent. Frost crept up his legs, freezing the very air around him. He couldn't run forever.

Wilhelm (cold, with disdain): "You're slowing down, mosquito. Did you really think you could delay the inevitable?"

Fenix staggered, his breath shallow. He was barely keeping up now, each step slower than the last, each movement more labored. Wilhelm had been toying with him this whole time, letting the frost gradually paralyze him.

Fenix (panting, grinning despite the pain): "Not… my best idea… I'll admit that."

Wilhelm (amused): "Pathetic. You should've stayed in your coffin."

Fenix dropped to one knee, the ice too heavy to fight off much longer. Just as Wilhelm was about to strike, a loud crack shattered the air. The ground trembled violently, shaking loose chunks of rubble from the walls around them.

Wilhelm paused, eyes narrowing as debris fell. A section of the wall collapsed, sending dust billowing into the training ground. From the rubble, three figures stepped forward.

Ludociel hovered above, her radiant wings aglow. Following her are Lysander covering himself with dozens of magic swords and Kimhyun with his lightning dancing across his body.

Ludociel (smiling softly): "Rest now. We've got this."

As she speaks, Ludociel hovers towards Fenix, create another Sanctuary to shield him from the final fight that is about to happen.

Fenix (grinning weakly): "Took you long enough..."

Wilhelm's gaze shifted toward Lysander, his expression darkening. A cruel smirk tugged at his lips as he regarded the trio.

Wilhelm (mocking): "More insects. Do you really think you can stop me?"

Lysander casually flicked his wrist, and a sapphire-hued wand—Azure—appeared in his hand. The winged swords quickly moved into a row, ready to be unleashed.

Lysander (smirking): "It's 3 on 1, Mr. Wilhelm. 2 of us have S-ranked abilities. The odds are stacked against you."

Wilhelm's smirk widened, a cruel gleam in his eyes. He flexed his fingers, and the frost around him surged forward, covering the ground beneath them in black ice.

Wilhelm (darkly amused): "I've faced worse odds. You think you can defeat me?"

Without warning, Wilhelm raised his hand, and the frost exploded outward in every direction, jagged shards of ice hurtling toward the trio. Ludociel's wings flared as she brought up a barrier of light, deflecting the shards before they could reach them.

Ludociel (calm, but firm): "Your ice is powerful, Wilhelm, but light will always prevail. Sparking Drive!!"

With a swift motion, Ludociel sent a beam of concentrated light toward Wilhelm, piercing through the frost. Wilhelm barely shifted his stance, his frost hardening into a dense wall, absorbing the impact.

Wilhelm (grinning): "Oh, no. My power is more than just ice."

As Wilhelm's frost thickened, Kimhyun dashed forward, his sword crackling with electricity. His movements were nearly a blur, a trail of golden lightning following in his wake. With a fierce roar, he brought his blade down toward Wilhelm.

Kimhyun (roaring): "Thunderous Slash!!"

Wilhelm spun, raising a jagged spike of ice just in time to block Kimhyun's strike. Lightning clashed with ice, sending shockwaves rippling through the air. Wilhelm smirked as the frost absorbed the electricity, grounding Kimhyun's attack.

Wilhelm (mocking): "Is that all you've got, pup?"

But Kimhyun was far from finished. With a flick of his wrist, he sent arcs of lightning shooting toward Wilhelm from the side, forcing him to step back. The ice crackled under the intense electricity, but Wilhelm's frost held strong.

From the rear, Lysander's Azure hovered in the air, his magic swords forming a semi-circle around him, glowing faintly as they awaited his command.

Lysander (calmly, with a smirk): "He can't handle all of us at once. Let's make this quick. Dandelion"

With a flourish of his hand, Lysander sent his magic swords streaking toward Wilhelm. The magic blades hummed as they cut through the air, their aim precise and deadly. Wilhelm's eyes narrowed, and the frost around him swirled, forming a thick wall of black ice to intercept the swords. The blades clashed with the ice, but Wilhelm's defense held firm—until one sword managed to slip through, grazing his shoulder.

Wilhelm (grimacing, but amused): "Not bad… but you'll need more than that to take me down."

As he spoke, Wilhelm raised both hands, summoning massive spikes of ice from the ground. The black frost shot up in jagged formations, aiming directly for Lysander. 

Ludociel's wings flared again, she quickly rushed towards Lysander and conjured her Sanctuary, the crystal-like octahedron to block the spikes.

The temperature continue to drop with Wilhelm's frost expanded.

Wilhelm (grinning): "My power is called Absolute Zero. It is not just ice but the power to deprive all objects of its heat until it reaches absolute zero or -273°C. The longer the battle, the stronger I would become."

The chilling cold from Wilhelm's Absolute Zero continued to spread, freezing everything in its path. Frost formed rapidly on the ground, creeping toward them as Wilhelm's power intensified. The air around them felt heavy, and each breath became a struggle against the suffocating cold.

Lysander (calmly, but cautious): "He's raising the stakes. If we don't act soon, we'll be frozen solid."

Ludociel, maintaining her radiant Sanctuary around Lysander, glanced back toward Kimhyun, who was circling the battlefield, his lightning sparking in bursts as he assessed the situation.

Ludociel (gritting her teeth): "We need to disrupt his control over the battlefield. His power grows stronger the more we delay."

Kimhyun nodded, his grip tightening around his sword. He could feel the pressure of the cold creeping into his bones, but he wasn't ready to give up just yet. His eyes narrowed as he charged toward Wilhelm once more, his sword crackling with even more golden lightning.

Kimhyun (shouting, determined): "I'll break through that frost!"

With blinding speed, Kimhyun launched himself forward, electricity dancing around his body. This time, his movements were even more erratic, zigzagging unpredictably to throw off Wilhelm's aim. As he closed the distance, he raised his sword high.

Kimhyun (roaring): "Thunderous Slash!!"

Wilhelm raised his hand, conjuring another thick wall of black frost to intercept the attack. But Kimhyun's speed was too fast this time—his blade collided with the frost, shattering the ice with a deafening crack. The lightning surged forward, catching Wilhelm off guard and forcing him to retreat.

Wilhelm (snarling, annoyed): "Persistent little pest."

As Wilhelm stumbled back, Lysander seized the opportunity and with a wave of his hand, dozens of magic swords shot toward Wilhelm from all directions, each one aimed with pinpoint precision. The blades hummed through the air, cutting through the lingering frost.

Wilhelm growled, summoning more spikes of ice, but the assault was relentless. Several blades pierced through his defenses, leaving deep gashes on his arms and legs. Blood stained the frost beneath him as he staggered, his eyes flashing with fury.

Wilhelm (snarling): "You... dare?!"

But even in his anger, Wilhelm wasn't finished. The frost around him pulsed, expanding outward in a massive wave, freezing the ground beneath Lysander's feet. Ice began to form rapidly around Ludociel's Sanctuary, cracking under the immense cold.

Wilhelm (grinning, his breath visible in the cold air): "You think you're safe in that shield of light? My Absolute Zero will crush you."

Ludociel focused, pushing more energy into her Sanctuary to keep the frost at bay, but even she could feel the strain. Her wings flickered, the radiant glow dimming slightly as the cold closed in on them.

Ludociel (determined): "I am not letting you be."

As she speaks, she summons a huge blast of light, covering the entire training area.

Wilhelm (covering his eyes): "What the—"

Ludociel (shout): "Now!!!"

Suddenly, Kimhyun lunged again, lightning surging through his body. He quickly covered his distance with Wilhelm. Meanwhile, Lysander materializes dozens of more swords.

Lysander (excited): "Let's see how you defend from an attack on two sides."

Kimhyun (roaring): "Thunderous Slash!!"

Wilhelm quickly creates an ice wall to defend but he only covers himself from Lysander's side of attack. On Kimhyun's side, the Thunderous Slash has cut through his torso. Blood spilled onto the ice, and Wilhelm let out a gasp of pain, his control over the frost wavering. 

Lysander (calm): "Like I said... it's 3 on 1."

Wilhelm (coughing, weakly): "This... isn't over… I can't lose here!!!"

As he speaks, he summons a massive blizzard covering the entire city. Kimhyun got blown away as he is the closest to Wilhelm but Ludociel quickly created another Sanctuary to protect Kimhyun.

Kimhyun (happy): "Nice, Queen."

Wilhelm (coughing, angry): "I WILL NOT LOSE!!!"

Wilhelm stood in the eye of the storm, his breath ragged but defiant. His torso was cut deep from Kimhyun's attack, but he had frozen the wound shut, preventing more blood loss. Around him, the city-wide blizzard roared, thickening the frost and making it impossible for anyone to get close.

Wilhelm (panting, teeth chattering): "You... can't touch me... not in this storm!"

The fierce wind lashed at Lysander, Kimhyun, and Ludociel, making it difficult to even stand. Kimhyun's lightning flickered, his sword barely visible through the haze of snow. He cursed under his breath.

Kimhyun (shouting over the wind): "We can't even get close! His storm's too strong!"

Lysander (calmly observing): "He's overextending his power... but we can't afford to wait for him to collapse."

Ludociel's wings flared, she has created four Sanctuaries continuing to shield the group from the brunt of the storm. But even her strength had limits, and she was straining to hold the barrier together.

Ludociel (gritting her teeth): "I can keep us safe for now, but if he keeps freezing the whole city, we'll be trapped here!"

Lysander's gaze flicked between Wilhelm and the growing storm. He could end this if he uses his power, but that wasn't an option. 

Wilhelm (gasping, voice shaking): "I'll freeze everything… I won't lose!"

Suddenly, a new figure shot through the darkened sky, a brilliant streak of blue and gold cutting through the blizzard. The muscular man hovered in the air above, his cape flaring as he surveyed the chaos below. John Carter, leader of OverEdge—one of the strongest guilds and one of the three S-ranked superpower hunters—had arrived.

John Carter (booming voice): "Wilhelm! You've gone too far."

With a thunderous crack, Carter descended from the sky, his fists smashing into the frozen ground, causing the earth to quake, the force of his arrival creating a gravity shockwave that briefly pushes the storm back.

Wilhelm, through his pain, grins viciously.

Wilhelm (snarling): "You think you can stop me, Carter? You're too late. If I am going to fall, then so are all of you!!"

Carter's feet lift off the ground as he hovers effortlessly, gravity bending to his will. He raises a hand, and the gravity in the area shifts—intensifying. The winds slow slightly as Carter stabilizes the battlefield.

Carter (calmly, to the students): "I can contain the storm for a while, but Wilhelm's control is too strong. I need your help to break through."

Lysander narrows his eyes, intrigued. Ludociel flutters her wings, relieved to have a temporary break from the storm's force.

Kimhyun (gritting his teeth, nodding): "What do you need us to do?"

Carter touches down, his boots sinking slightly into the frozen ground. He looks at each of them with determined eyes.

Carter (firmly): "Wilhelm's power is fueled by his emotions—he's only getting stronger the angrier he gets. I'll weaken his hold by manipulating the gravity around him, but I need you to hit him with everything you've got."

Lysander, finally intrigued by the challenge, nods, summoning his magic swords again.

Lysander (smirking): "You can count on me for that."

Kimhyun grips his sword tighter, lightning crackling along the blade. Ludociel raises her hand, a soft glow emanating from her fingertips as she prepares another spell.

Carter (taking to the air again): "When I give the signal, hit him hard. We'll take him down together."

With a powerful motion, Carter raises his hands, and the gravity around Wilhelm intensifies, forcing him down slightly, slowing the blizzard. Wilhelm's eyes widen as he feels the crushing weight pinning him to the ground.

Wilhelm (growling): "You can't hold me, Carter!"

Carter (grinning): "Watch me."

The team springs into action. Kimhyun dashes forward, lightning bursting from his body. Lysander's swords fly toward Wilhelm in a deadly arc, while Ludociel charges a beam of light.

The blizzard begins to weaken, but Wilhelm's rage fuels one final, desperate push of Absolute Zero. He channels all his remaining power, summoning jagged ice spears from the ground and launching them toward the team.

Wilhelm (gasping, furious): "You won't take me down! My Absolute Zero will consume everything!"

Carter (shouting): "Now!"

The jagged spears of ice shot through the air, aiming to pierce his opponents. But Ludociel, her wings flaring with a radiant glow, stepped forward.

Ludociel (fierce, preparing a powerful attack): "Sparking Drive!"

A massive beam of white pure light beam erupted from her rapier, cutting through the air. The light collided with the icicles mid-flight, shattering them instantly, disintegrating Wilhelm's attack in a brilliant explosion of energy. Wilhelm stumbled backward, momentarily blinded by the brilliance of the attack.

Lysander (shout): "Dandelion."

Following the light beam are numerous swords sent flying towards Wilhelm from multiple directions.

Wilhelm (gasping, furious): "Don't think that I will fall into a trap twice." 

As he speaks, Wilhelm raises even more walls. But this time, something is different. Ten of Lysander's magic swords flew together, rotating into a deadly circle, forming a spinning wheel of enchanted steel, slicing through Wilhelm's hastily raised ice walls, effortlessly cutting through his defenses. 

Lysander (smiling): "Heavenly Wheel."

Wilhelm's eyes widened as the Heavenly Wheel approached, but before he could react, Kimhyun dashed forward at blinding speed, lightning bursting from his body.

Kimhyun (roaring): "Thunderous Slash."

Kimhyun's sword crackled with golden electricity as he charged toward Wilhelm's exposed side. In a flash, he was upon him, his blade cutting through the air. Wilhelm raised his arm in a desperate attempt to block, but Kimhyun's Thunderous Slash sliced clean through his ice armor, the electricity surging into his body.

Wilhelm (gasping, eyes wide): "No...!"

Carter (grinning): "It is over."

As he speaks, Carter quickly flies towards Wilhelm with sonic speed. He raises his fist, pulling gravity itself into his knuckles, and dives toward Wilhelm with a gravity-enhanced super punch. The sheer force of the punch shatters the remaining frost, slamming Wilhelm into the ground with a massive impact.

The storm dissipates, the blizzard finally overpowered by their combined strength. Wilhelm lies motionless, frozen in place by his own power, defeated.

Scene: The Eagle Falls

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM – AFTERNOON

The sterile scent of antiseptic fills the air as Andrea steps quietly into the hospital room. His eyes dart immediately to the beds, where Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix rest, their bodies bandaged, though no longer in immediate danger. His heart clenches at the sight of his younger brother, lying still, with dark circles under his eyes. Shizuka is sleeping peacefully, while Fenix is smirking despite his injuries, as if the pain were just a passing inconvenience.

Andrea (softly, worried): "Hugo…"

He moves closer to his brother's bedside, his hand resting gently on Hugo's arm, careful not to wake him. Hugo stirs slightly but doesn't open his eyes. Andrea's gaze then shifts to Fenix and Shizuka, relief and worry mixing on his face.

Suddenly, the sound of the television in the room catches his attention. A news broadcast fills the screen, showing clips of Wilhelm, the former leader of Eagle Step, being led away in chains by authorities, his face twisted with rage.

News Anchor (on TV): "Breaking news: The leader of the notorious Eagle Step Guild, Wilhelm Königsberg, has been arrested after a failed attempt to destroy the city with a massive blizzard. Wilhelm also faces charges for torturing students and imprisoning three individuals from St. Alaric Academy."

Andrea's eyes widen as he listens, his stomach twisting with the thought of how close Hugo came to being a casualty of Wilhelm's madness.

News Anchor (continuing): "The three students, identified only as H, S, and F, were rescued by the timely intervention of the academy's royals. Authorities commend their swift actions, which prevented further disaster."

Ludociel (on TV): "It is deeply concerning that the leader of a respected guild could engage in such insidious acts. But rest assured, we will always protect our students and ensure that such a tragedy does not happen again."

Andrea frowns, his fingers curling into a fist at his side. He looks down at Hugo, his thoughts racing. Despite the rescue, the danger Hugo had faced was all too real, and it gnawed at him.

Andrea (muttering, worried): "How could things have gotten this bad…?"

From the bed, Fenix stirs, catching Andrea's eye. His usual cocky smirk appears, though it's softer than usual due to his injuries.

Fenix (weakly, with a grin): "Hey, Andrea. You're too late to play hero. We already took care of the bad guy."

Andrea forces a smile, his worry momentarily easing as he chuckles.

Andrea (softly): "I guess you did. As a big brother, I'm allowed to worry, right?"

At that moment, Hugo opens his eyes, blinking slowly as he adjusts to the bright light. His gaze drifts to Andrea, and a faint smile touches his lips, though his expression remains tired.

Hugo (quietly): "Hey, big brother."

Andrea's heart swells with relief at the sound of Hugo's voice. He immediately pulls up a chair, sitting by his brother's bedside.

Andrea (gently): "Hey, little bro. How are you feeling?"

Hugo hesitates for a moment, his brow furrowing as memories of the torture and the icy blizzard flash through his mind. He looks down at his hands, still trembling slightly.

Hugo (softly, conflicted): "I don't know… I feel… different."

Before Andrea can respond, Shizuka stirs awake, her voice groggy but playful.

Shizuka (sleepily): "Well, I feel alive… so that's a good start."

Her attempt at humor makes Fenix chuckle softly, despite the pain it likely causes him.

Fenix (grinning, teasing): "See, Andrea? We're tough. Hugo just needs to smile more."

Hugo rolls his eyes but manages a small smile at their banter. He shifts uncomfortably, still feeling the weight of everything that had happened. His guilt is evident, but his friends' light-heartedness keeps him grounded.

Hugo (quietly): "I don't know if I deserve to smile after everything."

Andrea (firmly, but kindly): "Hey, you did what you had to do. You survived. That's what matters."

Hugo looks up at Andrea, his expression conflicted, but Andrea's warm gaze reassures him. Before anyone can say more, Shizuka speaks up, her tone playful as always.

Shizuka (grinning, nudging Hugo): "Besides, we wouldn't have made it out if it wasn't for you. You're stronger than you think, Hugo."

Fenix (nodding): "The Sea Witch is right, Cyclop. If it was not for your strength, we would not have made it out alive."

Hugo (softly, but with a hint of hope): "Maybe... maybe I did okay."

Shizuka (grinning, optimistic): "You did more than ok. We might have better control but if it wasn't for your raw strength, we would have not made it. We just have different advantages so don't be pessimistic about yourself, alright."

Hugo looks between his friends and his brother, a small smile finally breaking through. Despite everything that had happened, despite the guilt still lingering in his heart, he couldn't deny that they were right.

Andrea (smiling): "You did more than okay, Hugo. You've got nothing to be ashamed of."

The warmth in the room grows, as Hugo's friends continue to cheer him up. For the first time since forever, Hugo feels a sense of peace settle over him, knowing that he's surrounded by people who believe in him, no matter how dark things may get.