A new day began, and the sound of receding waters stirred Miguel from his rest. In less than a few minutes, the crimson labyrinth returned to the same eerie state as the day before.
Without hesitation, Miguel descended from the hill, turning into a blur — a mirage — as he flash-stepped across the muddy terrain.
This time, he wasn't hunting awakened beasts.
This time, he was looking for people.
Someone who might have answers. Someone who could help him understand what the hell he was supposed to do in this forsaken place.
"Where do I even start? It's not like I can just turn around and find someone I know. Sunny, Cassie, even Nephis... anyone's better than no one."
Moments later, fate answered. Miguel stumbled into a clearing — and saw Cassie.
He blinked, then offered a half-smile.
"Well, this is unexpected. Hi Cassie. How's this cursed place treated you? You look... mostly untouched. A little disheveled, but spotless. So I'm guessing someone's been keeping you safe."
A new voice answered.
"I think you're referring to me. I'm Nephis."
The girl standing nearby was tall and lithe, with long silver hair and sharp grey eyes. Her clothes, fashioned from black seaweed, clung to her athletic frame. She was barefoot, poised, and alert.
"This is a nice surprise," Cassie said with a quiet smile. "I never thought I'd run into you here."
"Same," Miguel replied, nodding. "It's good to see you again. And Nephis... I hope we can be friends too. I'm Miguel."
"Sure," Nephis said simply.
Miguel shrugged off her indifferent tone.
"Quick question. I know it might sound weird but... what's the plan? What exactly are we supposed to be doing?"
Nephis raised an eyebrow.
"We?"
"Yeah. Sorry, I just assumed we'd team up. You know — strength in numbers, safety, survival. That kind of thing. But I'll ask properly this time... Can I come with you two?"
Nephis studied him for a moment.
"No..."
'Who needs you anyway.' Miguel thought, already turning away.
"...problem."
He blinked.
"...Right. No problem."
Cassie giggled quietly.
Before they could move, a shadow stepped into their path.
Cassie, sensing their sudden tension, asked quickly, "What's wrong?"
"There's a shadow," Nephis said.
Cassie's expression shifted.
"A shadow? Scavengers?"
"No," Miguel answered. "A human shadow."
There was a long pause.
Finally, Cassie whispered, "What?"
"I said it's waving."
"Yes, I heard you! I mean—why is it doing that?"
"No idea," Miguel replied. "But stay alert."
From behind them, a voice echoed:
"Actually, I just sent it ahead so you wouldn't stab me before realizing I'm human."
Nephis immediately turned toward the source, her sword shifting in her hand.
"If you're human, why are you hiding in the shadows like a creep?"
Miguel didn't even turn around. He smiled slightly, glancing over his shoulder.
Cassie tilted her head.
"Are you... the boy from the cafeteria?"
Nephis looked at her. "You know him?"
Cassie nodded. "I recognize his voice. His name is Sunless. He was in second-to-last place in the rankings. Right above me."
Nephis frowned. "The one who—?"
Cassie didn't answer.
"Hey! I'm not a pervert, alright? I just... said a few awkward things. It was a misunderstanding!"
Miguel spoke calmly.
"I believe him."
After a moment of silence, Nephis lowered her sword.
"Okay. You can come out."
From the shadows, Sunny emerged, limping slightly. His own shadow returned to him, shaking faintly. He raised his hands, showing no hostility.
Nephis eyed him carefully.
"What happened to you?"
She was referring to his limp and bruises.
Sunny exhaled. "Carapace Scavenger."
Nephis raised a brow. "You got away alive?"
Sunny straightened up a little. "Didn't get away. I killed it."
He gestured to his rucksack, full of monster meat.
Nephis looked him over again. There was a new hint of respect in her eyes.
Sunny looked down and muttered, "It was already wounded."
Nephis shrugged. "A kill is a kill. You did well."
Miguel grinned. "I expected nothing less from you. Outskirt rats like us don't die that easily. Good to see you again, Sunny."
Nephis glanced at him. "You know him?"
Miguel smirked. "He's my friend. Of course I know him."
"Then why didn't you say so earlier?"
He looked at Sunny with a mischievous glint. "Because it's funnier this way."
Sunny cleared his throat. "Anyway... Before running into the Scavenger, I was heading toward that tall hill with the coral pillar. But after the fight, I slowed down. I'm worried I won't make it in time. Do you know the way?"
Cassie smiled. "Actually, we were just there. We're heading back now."
Nephis remained quiet, staring at the sky.
Sunny looked at Miguel, searching for support.
Miguel raised both hands slightly. "Hey, it's not my call. But..." He glanced at Nephis. "He could be useful. That shadow he controls moves on command."
Nephis finally looked at Sunny. After a pause, she said:
"No..."
"What?!" Sunny and Miguel both thought.
"...problem."
Miguel blinked. Twice in a row.
Sunny felt his heart pounding in his chest and smiled.
"Well. Alright..."