82 Chapter 20: The Battle’s End [6]

Ardyn's heart dropped the moment he saw Evan's shield shatter, his body falling to the ground with a painful thud. He instinctively wanted to go over and help, but his feet were rooted to the ground and he had forgotten how to breathe.

His new friend... The man who had warmly welcomed him into this world and who had helped him without expecting anything in return...

That same man was on his knees on the cracked ground, coughing hard. His figure was no longer glowing, the light radiating from his body flickering out like the raindrops extinguishing a burning candle.

The storm hit them unexpectedly, raindrops pattering across the empty streets and echoing in his ears. There was so much going on that he found it difficult to concentrate on any one thing. He didn't know if he should look to the Guardians for help in dealing with the situation, or keep a watchful eye on the Calamity, or stare at Evan and desperately try to think of a solution.