NOVEL NEXT Chapter 20: Chapter 20 – Storm of Retribution
Chapter 20 – Storm of Retribution
The air around Tempest grew heavier as the days passed. Whispers of the Syndicate's movements spread like wildfire, each report confirming what Joshua's system had warned — the enemy was preparing to strike.
---
Joshua POV
Joshua stood at the gates of Tempest, his galaxy-red eyes fixed on the distant horizon. His streaks flickered, gold and black entwining like twin flames. Nyx sat at his side, her crimson eyes glowing faintly.
[System Notice: Incoming Hostile Force – Distance: 12 Kilometers]
Joshua's fingers curled around the hilt of his blade.
"They're testing us."
Rimuru's voice drifted from behind him.
"Then let's give them an answer."
Joshua's streaks flared, the balance within him shifting.
---
The Battle Begins
The Syndicate's forces arrived at dusk — cloaked figures emerging from the treeline, their eyes glinting beneath their hoods. They moved with precision, spreading out along the perimeter of the village.
Joshua's system pulsed in his mind.
[Enemy Count: 150]
[Threat Level: High]
Joshua's galaxy-red eyes narrowed.
"Nyx... take the shadows."
The wolf melted into the darkness, her crimson gaze vanishing.
Rimuru stepped forward, golden eyes glowing.
"We defend Tempest... no matter the cost."
---
Joshua POV
The battle erupted in a flash of steel and magic. Shadows clashed with flame, the night filled with the sound of war. Joshua's blade carved through the enemy ranks, his streaks blazing as he balanced light and dark with every strike.
Nyx darted through the chaos, her fangs flashing.
[System Notice: Equilibrium Skill Evolution: 72%]
Joshua's breath came steady, his mind locked in perfect balance.
"This... is the will of Tempest."
---
The Turning Tide
As dawn broke, the enemy forces began to falter. The combined might of Tempest's defenders pushed them back, breaking their lines. Joshua stood at the heart of the battlefield, his streaks flickering as the last of the Syndicate scouts fled into the forest.
Rimuru's voice echoed through the clearing.
"Tempest stands."
Joshua's galaxy-red eyes flickered.
"And balance will be upheld."
---
Aftermath
The bodies were cleared by midday, the village returning to an uneasy calm. But Joshua knew the battle was far from over. His system whispered in his mind, a single message lingering in the silence.
[System Notice: Syndicate Elite Deployment Confirmed – Arrival Imminent]
Joshua's streaks pulsed, gold and black shimmering beneath the rising sun.
The storm had only just begun.
---
End of Chapter 20