Hence, I gave up on the idea of going after the ship, I resolved to make my way towards the General, braving the tumultuous chaos surrounding us. Fortune smiled upon me, for I managed to intercept his airborne descent. Nevertheless, our descent was far from gentle, hurtling downwards with a rapid velocity. In a desperate attempt to minimize the impact, I shielded myself as best as I could. Miraculously, my efforts bore some fruit, sparing us from the worst of the damage.
Moments later, as consciousness slowly reclaimed me, I delicately lowered the General to the ground. His eyes fluttered open, his voice faintly reaching my ears.
"I apologize, Ryuu. I failed to halt their advance. I impeded your path."
"Speak not in such terms, old man. You exerted every ounce of effort within your grasp."