[Outside Military Police Headquarters]
Squad Ten stood frozen among the crowd, watching their leader kneel in blood before four ancient monsters.
Helena's body moved before her mind caught up, her legs carrying her forward, her hand reaching toward where Damian knelt.
But an iron grip closed around her wrist, stopping her cold.
"Girl."
The Sword Demon's voice emerged barely above a whisper, carrying weight that made her freeze completely.
"Don't try to do anything, or you'll die a horrible death."
His blindfolded face remained pointed forward, his features showing no emotion.
"The ones who have come are among the most cruel human beings on earth."
Helena's breath caught, her eyes tracking between the Sword Demon's weathered face and the four robed figures.
'Cruel? These are supposed to be heroes who saved humanity, who–'
"All the extremist faction leaders are here."
Sicar's whisper cut through her thoughts, his pink eyes wide with something approaching fear.
