Chapter 17: Death's Return
The Corpse reconvened in their dimly lit hideout, the air thick with anticipation. Death, now empowered by his moon abilities, stood tall, his eyes gleaming with malevolent intent.
"Ahhh, the time-stopper machine's deactivation has unleashed my true potential," Death declared, his voice dripping with confidence. "We'll crush Vladimir and the Stanforce once and for all."
Reaper's eyes lit up with excitement. "My Lord, shall we eliminate Vladimir immediately?"
"Not yet, Reaper," Death replied, his smile growing wider. "I sense Lara's presence, my most trusted spy. Her loyalty will be tested soon enough. Let's savor the moment."
Edge's curiosity got the better of him. "Who is this Lara, my Lord?"
Death's laughter echoed through the room. "You'll find out soon enough, Edge. For now, let's focus on JackSpark. Zapper, he's all yours."
Zapper's eyes gleamed with a mix of excitement and hatred. "I'll take care of him, my Lord."
Valkyrie and DragonKnight, hiding in the shadows, overheard the conversation. Valkyrie's careless movement alerted the Corpse, and Vixen turned to face them.
"Ah, unexpected visitors," Vixen purred. "Let's play."
DragonKnight unleashed a flame burst, but Reaper devoured the flames with ease. "Don't touch my love, rude boy!"
Valkyrie charged forward, her sword flashing in the dim light. Edge, intrigued, intercepted her. Their blades clashed in a flurry of steel and sparks.
"You think you can take me down, missy?" Edge sneered.
Valkyrie's smile was a work of art. "I'd love to try."
The two combatants exchanged blows, their movements evenly matched. Adeath, Gregeel, and Crescent arrived, tension escalating between the Stanforce and the Corpse.
"You fools," Zapper spat. "You're outnumbered. Surrender now."
Adeath stood firm. "We'll stop you, no matter the cost."
Death's patience wore thin. "Enough! I'll show you my power. No one interferes with me."
With a wave of his hand, Death unleashed a dark energy wave. The Stanforce stumbled back, but Valkyrie and Edge continued their intense duel.
King Vladimir's voice echoed in Adeath's mind. " Retreat, don't engage Death directly."
Adeath nodded mentally. "We'll find a way out, my King."
Death's laughter boomed. "You think you can escape? I'll crush you all!"
The battle raged on, with Valkyrie and Edge locked in a fierce dance of steel. Will the Stanforce escape Death's wrath, or will they succumb to his power?