It didn't take long for all hell to break loose. The airports in Oceanview lingered in their decision to halt travel, and the virus or whatever was infecting people and reducing their minds to their base instincts, continued to spread to other parts of the world, and from those places the virus began to creep into most of the civilized world. But it isn't so civilized no more. Taylor thought with a smirk.

After bearing the brunt of these beasts in human form, it was discovered that they could evolve. If these beasts continued to sate their hunger in whatever form it came in, whether it was lust or violence, the virus they were infected with would trigger an evolution in their bodies and these people would regain their minds. Whatever they became after accumulating all that sin is still unknown, but they were stronger, faster, and more intelligent than the average person. Currently, it was still up for debate as to whether these people should be punished for their crimes, but while the world hesitated to offer judgement, for these beasts who had tasted forbidden fruit… The memory of it still lingered in their minds, and their hunger… It was not yet sated.

The blood moon also managed to severely damage the balance of the world. All kinds of supernatural creatures went out of control, to the point where damage control was impossible; that these creatures walk among normal people in a civilization where law and order reigned supreme… It once again became common knowledge.

And the chaos didn’t stop there. Under the guise of the blood moon, the lingering karma of the previous war erupted. The delicate peace had been broken and the lingering resentment, summoned by the blood moon, had to go somewhere. An almost free for all war broke out, out in the open and free for the rest of the world to watch.

Militaries and governments around the world with ties to certain supernatural groups became involved, sparking a similar war. Whether it for land, old blood debts, or whether these countries smelled an opportunity to rise, a world war broke out.

As for Taylor…

“Hey, can someone get the popcorn? The movie’s about to start.” He asks from the couch where he was cuddling under a blanket with Sylvie.

“Johnny, go get the popcorn, dear.” Sylvie says with a wave of her hand.

Johnny’s eyes becomes red and he lets out a hiss.

Sylvie gives him a blank look before frowning. “Hey, mister, remember, hissing is only allowed during the tribulation. Afterwards, expect a slap if you ever do that to me.” She says sternly.

“I always have to get the popcorn. Why can’t Lily get the popcorn?” Johnny grumbles as he goes to the kitchen.

“Lily’s like three years old. Be a man, Johnny.” Taylor calls out.

Jesse’s phone began to ring and she shuffled Lily around to reach for it in her pocket.

“Yes?” She asks before listening to other side. “Okay, I’ll tell him.” Jesse says before ending the call. “Taylor, it was Johan. He says to take your phone off silent. He’s trying to call you.” She says before lounging back with Lily.

“Ugh.” Taylor groans before reaching for his phone. Johan was already calling. “Yes?” Taylor says, expecting work. If he was being honest, he’s been way too relaxed through this tribulation. It would be weird if nothing came up.

“Taylor. I’m going to ignore your laziness for a moment, but just know that you’re a prick. The cultivation association needs your help. They want you to gather your disciples and begin the hunt for these people who have been infected with the Greed Aura. This aura is somehow creating a new type of supernatural creature, and the whole supernatural world has agreed; lock it down and control its growth. We don’t know how far this evolution could grow and the supernatural world would like to eliminate some possibilities.” Johan explained over the phone.

Taylor lets out another groan. “Do I have to? Can’t I just call them to do it without my involvement?” He whines, sounding like a spoiled child.

“Taylor, Taylor. We’re going to have to set up another beat-down session. But that’s another matter. I found out that there’s a werewolf clan looking to settle a blood feud with you. If you don’t get off your ass and get to work, I’m sending them straight at you.” Johan says, a hint of exhaustion in his voice.

Taylor groans again. “Fine. I’ll get to work.” He says before ending the call, a little disgruntled because he didn’t get his way. But Taylor couldn't help but smile. I like having Johan around. I feel like a kid again. He thinks with a laugh.