Relic of the Future: Chapter 8

He managed to stay standing but staggered, and she took the chance to roll away and up behind him. He heard the tell-tale click of mechanical gears shifting. He couldn't see, but he knew the sound like nothing else, thanks both to Ruby and Nora, and the constant fights they had.

There was no telling what her second weapon-type was, but he didn't hesitate. His left hand left Crocea Mors to tear his scabbard free, turning and deploying it into its shield form a moment before the explosive rounds struck.

His legs buckled and fire washed over him, along with smoke and a distinct scent of ozone. So, she had another ranged option but had chosen to conceal it, luring him in with the false promise of being disarmed if he took away her gun. Clever. The smoke from the attack washed over him and concealed the two of them from view.

—Relic of the Future: Chapter 8