The dawn light cast unsettling shadows over Kugutsu Island, a place that seemed to conspire against any attempt at escape. Hidden at the entrance of an ancient underground tunnel, Yuzuki and Akari were surrounded by uncertainties and the imminent danger of the Alcali Clan.
The Depths' Guardians
The silence of the tunnel was interrupted by a guttural sound, like something large moving in the shadows. Akari raised her hand, signaling Yuzuki to stop.
Akari (whispering): "They're here. Deformed creatures that live in the sewers and underground. Let's stay together, and it won't attract attention."
Yuzuki gripped his sword, feeling Mao's dark energy pulsing through it. When the creatures appeared, they revealed themselves as giant, deformed rats, their bloated bodies covered in pulsating tumors, the result of years of feeding on the corrupted spiritual energy that flowed through the island's depths. Their eyes glowed red, and elongated fangs protruded from jaws that no longer seemed natural.
Despite Akari's warning, the group was discovered, and the fight became inevitable. Yuzuki led the battle, using his speed and Mao's dark power to confront the creatures. Akari, agile and lethal, fought by his side, her daggers glowing in the faint light of the tunnel. Despite their differences, they fought as a team, each covering the other's weaknesses.
Yuzuki (shouting): "Focus on the vital points! They're fast but fragile!"
Akari: "Got it! Watch the flanks!"
After a fierce confrontation, the group finally managed to defeat the creatures. Yuzuki was panting, his eyes meeting Akari's for a moment. Despite everything, he couldn't deny her skill.
Yuzuki (reluctantly): "You fight well. But that doesn't change anything."
Akari: "I don't expect it to change, Kanji. Just survive. That's what matters now."
However, Akari found several symbols in the tunnel, but one stood out. A symbol of a dragon biting its own tail. She observed it carefully but didn't know what it meant.
Yuzuki (seriously): "You don't know, do you? It's the seal of the Lepra King. He's one of the kings in the Pangea continent. He's part of the Dragon Clan. They control and absorb the power of a dragon. The Lepra King rules a large territory and is feared for spreading disease and fear among the population. He uses the small cities in his kingdom as slaves to work on the development of the capital."
Akari (shocked): "My God! I didn't know dragons existed... Pangea is a terrible place."
Following the canal.
Confrontation at the Port
The canal led them to a small opening hidden along the coast. There, a boat was anchored, seemingly intact. But before they could board, a force from the Alcali Clan appeared, blocking their exit.
Group leader (shouting): "Kanji Yuzuki! In the name of the Alcali Clan, you won't leave here alive!"
Yuzuki unsheathed his sword, stepping forward to lead the group. Akari stood by his side, her posture resolute.
Yuzuki: "If you want to stop me, you'll have to do more than that."
The battle that followed was intense. The clan's warriors were well-trained and numerous, but Kanji and Akari fought as though their lives depended on it – and they truly did. Mao, feeding on the chaos, let Yuzuki suffer and didn't share his energy.
Mao (sarcastic): "Dependence creates addiction, Yuzuki, I'm just protecting you."
Mao's ironic laughter echoed in Yuzuki's mind.
Akari: "They're focused on you. That gives us a chance. I can reach the boat and prepare the escape!"
Yuzuki: "Do it. But if you try to run alone, I swear I will find you."
Akari didn't answer, only ran toward the boat while Yuzuki held off the enemies. His strikes were relentless, but every movement drained his energy. Mao continued to laugh in his mind, enjoying the spectacle.
Mao: "You're quite a spectacle, Yuzuki. But how long will this fire last?"
When it seemed all was lost, Akari shouted from the boat.
Akari: "It's ready! Come now!"
Yuzuki strategically withdrew, covering the others as they ran to the boat. With one final effort, he jumped aboard, and Akari cut the ropes, making the boat slide away from the shore.
As the boat pulled away, Kanji Yuzuki watched the island disappear over the horizon. Kugutsu Island was behind them, but he knew that the dangers had only just begun.