While the soldiers were still in chaos and unable to mount an effective resistance, Maximilian made a swift move, appearing above as he closed in on Manifesto.
Manifesto launched several light spears toward Maximilian, but they were easily deflected by the shadow sword Maximilian conjured.
"Shit!" Manifesto blurted out in alarm as Maximilian entered melee range.
Despite the pressure, Manifesto, ranked as the number two hero globally—didn't stay idle. He unleashed his trump card: bursting out a wave of hardlight like shrapnel, hoping to injure Maximilian or at least slow him down.
But Maximilian had already prepared. A shadow shield rose from beneath his feet, intercepting all the shrapnel before transforming into spears that pierced all four of Manifesto's limbs.
"Arrrrrghhh!"
