An armored beast the size of a small tank faced off against a small group of humans—at least, theoretically. The tension between both sides seemed ready to explode at any moment. Murder and hunger gleamed in the black beast's eyes—the latter was especially dangerous—while the three fully armed Kingdom Knights facing it directly looked as though they were confronting a formidable enemy. They gripped their swords tightly, constantly adjusting their footing to ensure they could dodge and counterattack as quickly as possible the instant the enemy charged. Their heavy armor did not seem to give the knights much sense of security. Though many considered it sturdy and well-made, against a Dark Moon monster whose claws were nearly as large as a person, no one dared claim that half a centimeter of steel plating would offer much protection.
While we stared in surprise, analyzing the unusual energy carried by the monster, Joseph was also planning the battle strategy for his three-man squad as its captain. His eyes never left the creature, and his voice was low. "Stay calm. Grip your weapons. Watch the enemy's eyes. Never run. Humans can't outrun a monster like this."
Joe took a deep breath and raised his sword diagonally before him, ready to thrust or block at a moment's notice. "It would've been better if we were still on horseback. Fighting on foot puts us at a huge disadvantage."
Joseph's voice remained steady. "Being on horseback wouldn't help either. Didn't you see that all three of our horses pissed themselves? Stop talking nonsense. Lean forward, tense your lower-body muscles, and use all the experience you've gained fighting enemies."
Anna nodded. "What do we do next? Do you have an attack plan?"
"No plan." Joseph shook his head bluntly. "We'll just die with a little more dignity