The paving stones split apart, and dust rose into the air. Soon, layers upon layers of giants surged like waves and began to surround the five of them. The giants stared at them with ferocious expressions, awaiting the goddess’s command.

  The gigantification of the people— that was the authority of Ishtar, transformed into the goddess of war.

  Eshiel, who had been aiming his bow, spoke in a heavy voice.

  “This might be the end… I’m sorry, Riana.”

  Azael stepped forward.

  “Everyone, get up onto the city wall. It’s important not to be surrounded. Buy me a little time. I have an idea.”

  At his words, the group nodded and leapt onto the wall. As Azael sank to the ground and focused, the others surrounded him, protecting him and preparing for a desperate last stand.

  (Kill. Them.)

  At the goddess’s command, countless giants launched their assault at once. Tamar drew upon the power of her vines to their very limit, continuously binding the goddess, while Elaton and Eshiel fought desperately, knocking back the giants climbing up the wall. Riana, possessing Ella, healed the group while simultaneously amplifying their strength.

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  Even with Riana’s support, there were limits to the use of power. Forcing herself to her utmost, Tamar was eventually exhausted and collapsed unconscious. The vines binding Ishtar withered and snapped in an instant. Freed, the goddess advanced toward the group, causing the ground to quake.

  As she lifted her massive foot, a black shadow spread across the ground. With a thunderous crash, her foot slammed into the city wall. Elaton, mustering every ounce of strength, caught the giant’s foot. The foundation of the wall cracked and sank.

  “Please… Azael, hurry…”

  While Elaton’s limbs were pinned, smaller giants climbed the stairs and attacked savagely. Eshiel desperately fired flaming arrows to hold them back, but alone, he had his limits. It seemed as though their end was right before them.

  At that moment, Azael, who had been sitting in concentration, opened his eyes. With a faint smile, he said,

  “Alright. It’s done.”

  Suddenly, the area began to grow dark. The ground was dyed in a gloomy blue light, and eerie wailing sounds filled the air. From beneath the earth came rumbling noises that shook the ground itself. Then, from the pit of offerings, countless bluish spirits began to pour out. A horde of evil spirits, blue light blazing from their hollow eye sockets, screamed in chilling voices.