[TL/N: Read my new work - Anime Group Chat in a Doomsday World!]
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Alexander had used spatial control magic to teleport Yoshino, but the transfer distance wasn't particularly far. Moreover, the AST members were equipped with advanced detection equipment, enabling them to track Yoshino's movements quickly.
As the AST troops approached from the sky, Yoshino instinctively clung to Alexander's clothes, her innocent, doe-like eyes filled with worry. This sweet and timid little girl detested the idea of fighting. She feared harming others, yet understood that if she didn't resist, she might be hurt herself. Torn between these emotions, she grew increasingly flustered.
Sensing her distress, Alexander gently placed his hand on Yoshino's head and ruffled her soft hair. In a reassuring tone, he whispered, "Don't worry. Don't be afraid. I'll protect you."
His comforting words seemed to work. Yoshino's small shoulders relaxed, and she let out a faint sigh of relief.
Meanwhile, in the sky, Ryoko Kusakabe locked eyes on Alexander, her expression burning with anger. Her memories of being outwitted by Alexander still stung.
"Swordsman! So, it's you causing trouble again!"
Swordsman?
Alexander blinked, glancing around to see who she might be referring to. Realizing there was no one else nearby, his eyes widened in disbelief.
"Wait a second… Are you calling me 'Swordsman'?"
In the world of spirits, their true names are often unknown to outsiders. As a workaround, they are given code names based on their abilities, personalities, or appearances. For instance, "Diva" reflects a characteristic talent, "Nightmare" describes behavior, "Princess" is based on elegance, and "Recluse" captures a withdrawn personality.
Apparently, Alexander had also been given a codename—one that left him speechless.
"Swordsman"? What kind of lame title is that?
Gritting his teeth, Alexander muttered under his breath, "You've got to be kidding me. 'Swordsman'? With naming skills like this, you're on par with a bald superhero in a cape!"
With a flick of his wrist, Alexander summoned Sandalphon, pointing the glowing blade menacingly at the AST members before him. But then, as if reminded of his ridiculous title, he quickly dispelled it, the sword vanishing into thin air.
"Alright, who came up with that name?" Alexander demanded. "Tell me now, or I'll show them why the flowers bloom so brightly!"
Ryoko Kusakabe, however, paid no attention to his outrage. She certainly wasn't about to admit that the title was entirely her doing. With a sharp wave of her hand, she gave the order:
"Everyone, attack!"
Boom! Boom! Boom!
The AST members launched a relentless barrage of lasers at Alexander. Calm and composed, Alexander stepped in front of Yoshino, shielding her with his body. With a wave of his hand, he summoned an immense ice wall that rose up to protect them both.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
Laser blasts rained down on the ice barrier, but it stood firm. Not a single crack appeared.
Behind the protective wall, Yoshino looked up at Alexander, her eyes sparkling with awe. As a Spirit whose power revolved around ice puppetry, she was naturally drawn to someone with similar abilities. Watching Alexander stand unflinchingly against the overwhelming attacks while shielding her made her admiration soar.
The AST members, on the other hand, were stunned.
"This can't be… Isn't his power swordsmanship? Where did the ice come from?" Ryoko Kusakabe muttered, her disbelief evident.
In their knowledge, spirits typically possess only one distinct ability. But Alexander's display completely defied their expectations.
"Swordsman? I'll show you what kind of 'Swordsman' I am~" Alexander declared with a smirk.
With another wave of his hand, arcs of electricity crackled to life around him.
Power of Thunder—activate!
Crackle! Crackle!
Thunder roared as bolts of lightning descended from the heavens, forming an immense electrified grid that enveloped the AST members. Despite their energy shields, the sheer force of the attack left them trembling uncontrollably. One by one, they fell from the sky, incapacitated.
Ryoko Kusakabe and Tobiichi Origami were the only two still standing. Watching their comrades rendered helpless, they glared at Alexander with ferocity and determination.
Whoosh! Whoosh!
The two women charged at Alexander simultaneously. Their laser swords gleamed menacingly, one aimed at his neck and the other at his chest.
Whoosh! Whoosh!
"Ah, so you want to fight up close?" Alexander smirked, his stance shifting slightly in anticipation of their melee assault.