Sora moved slowly through the familiar hallways of the guild hall, each step echoing softly off the polished marble floors. Sunlight poured in through the large windows, illuminating grand banners bearing the crest of Radiance. Despite the comforting warmth, anxiety weighed heavily in his chest as he approached the towering double doors leading into the throne room. He paused briefly, gathering his composure. Taking a deep breath, he nodded at the two knights stationed before the ornate entrance. The knights stood tall in their golden armor, swords sheathed at their sides, faces unreadable beneath their gleaming helmets. Sora held up his B-rank badge, its polished metal glinting in the sunlight. The knights exchanged a brief look before silently stepping aside, allowing him entry. The massive doors swung open soundlessly, revealing the expansive throne room beyond. The chamber was majestic, its vaulted ceilings painted with intricate murals depicting legendary battles and radiant heroes of old. Pillars of white marble lined the room, gilded with gold and silver patterns that caught and scattered the sunlight streaming from the high stained-glass windows. At the far end stood an elevated dais, atop which rested a magnificent throne of pure white marble inlaid with golden filigree, emblazoned with the emblem of Radiance, a blazing sun. Standing before the throne were four figures: King Shadis himself, resplendent in royal attire, his face stern but welcoming; Kaito, arms crossed with his usual composed intensity; Yumi, her gentle eyes focused intently on Sora; and a fourth figure Sora didn’t recognize, a slender woman with sharp features and intelligent eyes behind thin-rimmed glasses. He stepped forward cautiously, dropping to one knee in a respectful bow before the king. King Shadis rose from his throne, gesturing with a gracious hand. “Rise, Sora. Welcome. First, how are you feeling?” Sora stood slowly, relaxing somewhat at the king’s kind demeanor. “I’m feeling better, Your Majesty, thank you.” Shadis nodded approvingly, stepping closer to the group. “Good. You already know Kaito and Yumi, of course.” He turned and motioned towards the unfamiliar woman. “This is Dr. Mariah, head scientist of Radiance. She has dedicated many years to the research of Corruption.” Dr. Mariah offered a slight bow, her voice sharp yet polite. “A pleasure, Sora.” “The pleasure’s mine,” Sora replied, curiosity mixing with lingering unease. Shadis’s expression became serious once more. “Now, if you could, please recount everything you remember about your encounter with Renjiro during the Oceanside Battle.” Sora hesitated briefly, carefully choosing his words. “Yuki and I engaged Renjiro after being separated from the group. We exchanged blows, but his strength and speed were overwhelming. At some point, his scythe grazed me. After that…” He trailed off, frustration clear on his face. “I blacked out. I don’t remember anything after.” Kaito’s gaze sharpened immediately, voice firm. “Sora, you’re the first person ever recorded to become corrupted and then somehow return to normal. Think harder. Is there anything else you recall, any sensation, any detail, no matter how small?” Sora sighed heavily, brows furrowing as he tried desperately to recall something more. “I understand the significance, Kaito, truly, but my mind is completely blank after I was struck.” Mariah suddenly spoke up, her keen eyes fixed firmly on him. “What about after waking up? Did you notice any abnormalities, any unusual sensations or residual pain?” Sora paused again, thinking carefully. “Nothing out of the ordinary. I woke up inside the carriage on our way back to Radiance, feeling groggy but otherwise normal.” Yumi stepped forward gently, eyes filled with concern. “Emotionally or physically, did anything feel off?” He shook his head slowly. “No…nothing unusual.” Shadis exchanged glances with Dr. Mariah, then sighed deeply. “All we truly know about corruption is the basic mechanics: if someone loses control over their emotions, their spiritual energy can become corrupted. Once someone is corrupted, they lose themselves completely, becoming mindless killers driven purely by rage and instinct.” Shadis paused, thoughtfully stroking his beard. “Yuki reported knocking you unconscious shortly after you were corrupted, possibly within a minute.” He turned toward Mariah, who nodded thoughtfully. “It’s possible,” Mariah began, adjusting her glasses, “that there is a brief window during the initial stages of corruption. If one were knocked unconscious before the corrupted energy fully consumes them, it might halt or even reverse the process.” Kaito considered her words, frowning deeply. “If that’s true, it means we have a potential method of stopping corruption in its early stages. But it also implies a very short and critical time frame.” Shadis’s eyes narrowed slightly, his expression becoming even more solemn. “Mariah, could this method be reliably replicated, or was Sora’s situation simply an anomaly?” Mariah shook her head cautiously. “We’d need extensive research and testing before drawing any firm conclusions. But theoretically, it’s plausible. Immediate unconsciousness could interrupt the corrupted energy’s spread.” Kaito crossed his arms again, a determined glint entering his eyes. “If that’s true, it could change how we approach corruption moving forward. But we’d need more evidence.” Yumi interjected softly. “And unfortunately, testing such a theory would be incredibly dangerous. If we fail, the cost would be far too great.” Sora swallowed hard, understanding the implications clearly. “I…wish I could be of more help.” King Shadis smiled warmly, stepping forward and placing a comforting hand on Sora’s shoulder. “You’ve done enough already, young warrior. What we’ve learned from your experience alone is invaluable.” Mariah nodded in agreement. “Indeed. You may have inadvertently opened a door to understanding and possibly controlling corruption. Your survival could mark a turning point in our research.” Sora felt a measure of relief, pride mixing with anxiety. He looked around the room, noticing the heavy weight each of them carried, the king, Kaito, Yumi, and Dr. Mariah. The fate of their world was an ongoing struggle, one he’d unknowingly become deeply involved in. “Whatever I can do to help,” Sora said earnestly, straightening his posture, “I’ll do it. Just say the word.” King Shadis gave him a proud, approving look. “Good. Rest assured, Sora, your bravery has not gone unnoticed. You have our gratitude and respect.” As Sora left the throne room shortly thereafter, the weight of their conversation lingered in his mind. Despite the uncertainty, he knew one thing clearly: his life had taken a new path, and he was determined to face whatever lay ahead. Sora took the winding stair from the royal wing down into the main guild hall. Morning light poured through the high windows, catching dust motes in thin golden spears. A few adventurers milled about, but the first faces he sought were waiting near the mission board, Yuki, Lars, and Ryota. Yuki spotted him first. The relief in her eyes was obvious. “Welcome back, survivor,” she teased, though her tone was soft. “How did the meeting go?” Sora exhaled. “Intense. King Shadis and Dr. Mariah, the corruption expert, grilled me about every detail.” He gave a quick rundown: the king’s curiosity, Mariah’s theory about knocking victims unconscious, and Kaito’s worry that the discovery was only step one. “They’re hopeful, but it’s a long road.” Yuki nodded, expression turning thoughtful. “At least something good came out of your brush with that scythe.” Before she could say more, Lars stepped up, tall frame blocking half the board behind him. A clean set of bandages circled his ribs, yet his posture radiated impatient energy. Ryota, arms folded, mirrored the same simmering focus. “Enough court talk,” Lars said, voice low but firm. “We’ve been patched up, but that last fight proved one thing, Mars Guild is nowhere near ready for the monsters waiting out there.” Ryota clenched his gloved fists. “Yeah. We let ourselves get taken out before the real battle even started. Never again.” Yuki’s brow furrowed. “What’s the plan?” “The mountains,” Lars answered without hesitation. “Isolated passes north of Radiance. Thin air, harsh terrain, spirit-beasts stronger than anything we’ve cleared. We grind there until we’re worth the guild crests on our chests.” Sora felt a spark of excitement stir. Lars’s determination was contagious. “I like it,” he said, flashing a grin. “Hardship builds power, right?” “Exactly,” Ryota agreed, eyes shining. “We train until Renjiro or anyone like him can’t lay a finger on us.” Yuki inhaled, steeling herself. “Then it’s settled. We stock supplies today and leave at dawn.” Sora extended a fist, and each of them tapped theirs to his in turn, Lars last of all, sealing the pact. “From here on,” Lars declared, “weakness is temporary. Mars Guild goes up the mountain, and comes down stronger.” They broke, already discussing routes and provisions, the grim memory of Oceanside fueling every word. Above them, the stained-glass sun of Radiance cast long, determined shadows across the hall floor, pointing the way forward. Meanwhile, Itsuki was lost in the chaos of a dream, vivid and suffocating. It started gently enough, golden sunlight washing across fields of tall, swaying grass. She saw herself, younger, smiling brightly as her small feet raced across the soft earth. Ahead of her ran Suzu, laughing brightly, long hair fluttering behind her like a silk banner in the breeze. “Suzu, wait!” young Itsuki giggled, breathless and joyful. Her sister glanced back, eyes sparkling with warmth and tenderness. Itsuki reached out, almost touching Suzu’s fingertips- But the scene twisted, colors bleeding into shadow, warmth fading into an unsettling chill. Suzu’s smile vanished, replaced by eyes cold as winter’s first frost, indifferent and cruel. “No,” Itsuki whispered, trying to stop, but her body refused, compelled forward. The sunny field shifted, warped, and darkened. The gentle wind morphed into screams, agonized, pleading, desperate. Familiar voices called her name. Itsuki turned sharply, heart pounding. The village, her home was ablaze, flickering flames devouring rooftops, smoke billowing skyward like black claws. And standing amidst the inferno was Suzu, her expression twisted in rage and sorrow, her hands dripping with blood. “Why didn’t you stay away?” Suzu’s voice echoed harshly, accusing and haunted. “This is your fault!” “Stop!” Itsuki shrieked, reaching helplessly towards her sister. But Suzu raised her arms, crimson whips slashing outward, carving devastating paths of destruction through their home. Their parents fell to their knees, blood spilling from their mouths, eyes filled with disbelief and anguish as their lives drained away. Itsuki collapsed, frozen with horror, unable to move or scream as the scene replayed over and over, their parents dying, villagers collapsing one by one, Suzu’s anguished laughter echoing through the wreckage. She jolted awake, a scream ripping from her throat, chest heaving as sweat streamed down her face. Her entire body trembled, the echoes of the nightmare gripping her with painful clarity. She stared blindly at the ceiling, her vision blurred by tears. “It wasn’t your fault,” she whispered hoarsely to the empty room, her voice small and uncertain. “It wasn’t…” She sat up slowly, pulling her knees to her chest, burying her face in her arms. The grief pressed down, heavier than ever, mingling with guilt and anger. She felt trapped, the weight of what Suzu had done and the fear of losing Shunjiro pressing relentlessly on her heart. “Shunjiro,” she whispered, her voice breaking as more tears spilled silently down her cheeks. “Please… please come home.” Minutes stretched into hours as she lay there, motionless, drained of all strength. Sunlight crept across her room, indifferent to her pain, illuminating the guild emblem on the wall, a silent reminder of everything she still had. Her friends, those who fought beside her, suffered beside her. She realized then how deeply she missed their company, their warmth and comfort. Itsuki wiped her face, taking a long, shuddering breath. She knew she couldn’t lie there forever. Her friends were still here, still standing strong despite everything they had been through. If they hadn’t given up, then she couldn’t either. Slowly, shakily, she stood. Her reflection in the small mirror across the room looked fragile, tired, yet determined. Itsuki took another deep breath, steadying herself. She moved to the door, reaching out with a trembling hand. “I can’t stay alone,” she murmured softly, as if reassuring herself. “I need them… now more than ever.” She opened the door gently, stepping into the hall, guided forward by the warmth of her friends and the hope that together, somehow, they’d make it through. Itsuki stepped quietly into the training hall, immediately struck by the charged energy lingering in the air. She paused, watching Yoshinori stand at the center, his face serene and focused, eyes closed. His breath slowed, chest rising steadily as a subtle blue glow began emanating from his body. Electricity crackled faintly around him, arcs of lightning jumping from finger to finger, growing brighter, sharper. With a sudden snap, Yoshinori opened his eyes. A deafening roar echoed through the chamber as a massive bolt of lightning tore from the sky above, piercing straight through an open skylight, illuminating the room in a brilliant flash of blinding white and blue. Itsuki gasped, shielding her eyes as electricity surged violently around Yoshinori, casting intense shadows along the stone walls. When the light faded, Yoshinori stood calmly, breathing deeply. Tiny sparks flickered gently along his arms and shoulders. “Wow,” Itsuki breathed, stepping closer. “That was incredible, Yoshinori.” Yoshinori turned to her, the fierce glow softening in his eyes. He immediately noticed the tear tracks down her cheeks and the lingering sadness she was desperately trying to conceal. He paused a moment, not mentioning what he saw but gently said, “Hey, Itsuki.” “Hey,” she replied quietly, forcing a faint smile. Yoshinori’s expression softened further as he stepped closer. “You know,” he began carefully, “if you ever need someone to talk to or just someone to sit with, I’m here for you. Always.” Itsuki looked down for a moment, her throat tightening with emotion. She took a deep breath and met his steady gaze. “Thank you, Yoshinori. That means a lot.” “Of course,” Yoshinori replied with a gentle nod. Trying to lighten the mood, he continued, “Have you seen the others around? I’ve been out here training my spiritual energy reserves for hours, lost track of everyone.” Itsuki shook her head slightly, feeling some of the tension easing from her shoulders. “Honestly, I’ve barely gotten myself out of bed. Haven’t seen anyone.” Yoshinori smiled warmly, understanding perfectly. “Want to join me then? Training might help clear your head.” “Sure,” Itsuki said, grateful for the distraction. But before they could start, the sound of heavy footsteps echoed from the hall leading to the training grounds. They turned simultaneously, curious. A moment later, the doors opened wide, revealing Hiroto and Mei stepping into view. They wore their full uniforms, expressions serious but approachable. Behind them followed King Shadis himself, flanked by the rest of the Gilded Blades, Kaito, Akira, and Yumi. Itsuki and Yoshinori exchanged confused glances before stepping forward respectfully. “Your Majesty?” Yoshinori greeted, clearly puzzled by the sudden gathering. King Shadis nodded, his voice strong and reassuring. “We thought it best to discuss matters here. This involves all of you.” From the far side of the training grounds, familiar voices rang out. Tetsuo, Aiko, and Ryuji approached, waving cheerfully. Itsuki’s eyes brightened upon seeing Tetsuo standing strong and healthy, and she quickly moved toward him, smiling in relief. “Tetsuo! You’re finally awake!” she exclaimed, embracing him briefly. “How are you feeling?” Tetsuo gave a playful, confident grin. “Better than ever. Check out this badass scar!” He pointed dramatically at his left eye. Itsuki laughed softly, genuinely happy to see his familiar cheerfulness return. Yoshinori smirked slightly at the sight of Ryuji, who was currently shirtless, flexing exaggeratedly. “Do I even want to ask why your shirt is off, Ryuji?” Aiko snorted loudly. “He’s been showing off that chest scar to every woman he passes. Even the cleaning staff aren’t safe.” Ryuji shrugged, unbothered, and flexed again, muscles rippling. “Why wouldn’t I? Battle scars are hot, right?” Yoshinori rolled his eyes with a faint smile. “Glad to see neither of you have changed. Let’s try not to embarrass ourselves in front of the King, alright?” Itsuki smiled softly, the warmth of friendship slowly easing the heaviness in her heart. “It really is good to see all of you. Feels like forever since we’ve all been together like this.” Aiko nodded seriously, the smile fading just slightly. “Yeah, it’s been too long.” King Shadis cleared his throat gently, drawing everyone’s attention back to him. “Finding Shunjiro will be extremely challenging,” King Shadis began solemnly. “The world is vast, and our current leads are few. However, we can assume they won’t harm him, they want to recruit him. For now, we must bide our time, gathering intelligence on this ‘Eclipsed Abyss.’” He paused briefly, his stern gaze softening slightly as it passed over the members of the Strongest Guild. “You’ve all grown tremendously,” Shadis continued firmly. “But with the dangers you now face, Itsuki’s sister corrupted and allied with the Eclipsed Abyss, and Shunjiro targeted, we need you stronger.” Kaito stepped forward, his presence commanding attention. “I’ve already prepared someone for this exact scenario,” he said confidently. “My pupil, Rayne, an SS-ranked Elf warrior. He’s short but incredibly powerful, a match for even my own skill in some ways. His techniques and combat experience will be invaluable to your growth.” As if on cue, another figure stepped into the training grounds, emerging quietly but powerfully from the shadows of the entrance. Rayne’s short stature contrasted starkly with the massive greatsword strapped effortlessly to his back. Despite his size, his physique was strikingly muscular, his armor meticulously polished and marked by countless battles. His eyes were intense, focused, yet held a warmth of genuine kindness. He bowed respectfully toward King Shadis, then straightened and turned to the guild members, his piercing gaze evaluating each of them in turn. His voice was clear and calm, filled with a gentle yet powerful authority. “I’m Rayne,” he said simply. “And I’m here to make sure you become strong enough to stand against the threats to come.” Itsuki felt a shiver of anticipation. It was clear Rayne was formidable, exactly the kind of mentor they needed. Ryuji elbowed Tetsuo lightly, muttering under his breath with awe, “Damn, that’s one powerful elf.” Tetsuo grinned widely, nodding. “This is exactly the opportunity we’ve needed.” Rayne’s gaze met Itsuki’s for just a moment, and Itsuki felt something stir within her, a spark, a renewed determination. We will grow stronger, Itsuki thought fiercely. And then, we’ll find you, Shunjiro. Wait for us just a little longer. Rayne stepped forward, his calm yet commanding voice echoing clearly through the training grounds. “I’ve already spoken to King Shadis and Kaito,” he began. “I’ll be officially joining your guild for the time being. My mission is straightforward: help you locate Shunjiro and bring him home safely. Once he’s back, I’ll return to my own training.” He paused briefly, letting his gaze travel across their faces, reading their determination and anxieties. “Our journey begins in the Shadow Realm. From there, we’ll cross into the Cosmic Continent, where we’ll gather every clue we can find. Depending on our discoveries, we’ll then proceed to the Nature Continent and finally, if needed, the Darkness Continent.” Itsuki’s eyes widened in concern. “Do you really think Shunjiro could have ended up so far away?” Rayne nodded solemnly. “With Tsubasa’s powers, he could have been teleported anywhere. It’s important that we explore every possibility.” Yoshinori crossed his arms thoughtfully, his expression serious. “But that kind of journey… it could take months, maybe longer. What if Shunjiro finds his way back on his own while we’re gone?” Rayne met Yoshinori’s gaze steadily. “That’s possible. But the skills and strength you’ll gain from this journey are invaluable. Whether or not we find Shunjiro ourselves, you’ll return prepared to face threats like the Eclipsed Abyss head-on.” Ryuji leaned in, curiosity evident. “So you’re saying this journey will be our training? Sounds intense. But I’m definitely in, especially if it’ll help me survive the next encounter.” Tetsuo chuckled heartily, his enthusiasm evident. “Agreed! We can’t afford to stay weak. This journey might be exactly what we need to catch up to Shunjiro, and everyone else out there.” Aiko’s voice was quieter but filled with resolve. “And if we come across the Eclipsed Abyss during our search?” Rayne’s eyes narrowed slightly, his tone turning grave. “Then we’ll handle them together. I won’t lie: our chances of encountering powerful enemies along this path are high. It’s crucial that you all embrace a mindset of survival and adaptability.” Itsuki hesitated before speaking, her voice soft but resolute. “I understand this will make us stronger. But… can we really handle it, even with your help?” Rayne offered her a reassuring look, his voice gentle but firm. “Absolutely. It won’t be easy, but Kaito has already assured me of your talent. I wouldn’t have agreed to train you if I didn’t believe you had the potential.” Ryuji nodded approvingly. “Well, if the short powerhouse says we can do it, I’m all in.” Rayne’s eyebrow twitched slightly at “short,” though he maintained his composure. “Good. But before we set off, I need to see each of your abilities first hand. We’ll spar right here, right now.” Yoshinori tilted his head, intrigued. “What exactly do you want from us in this spar?” Rayne’s expression hardened slightly. “Attack me with the intent to kill.” Everyone froze momentarily, surprise evident on their faces. Tetsuo spoke first, confused. “Wait, really? Aren’t we teammates now?” Rayne’s expression remained serious. “In the Shadow Realm, and on this journey, you’ll be facing opponents who won’t hesitate to kill you. You must learn to fight without holding back.” Ryuji chuckled, flexing confidently. “You’re pretty confident, huh? You sure you can handle all of us?” Rayne smiled faintly, his eyes gleaming with quiet strength. “Trust me, none of you will be able to kill me. So use whatever you have, but just try not to destroy this training hall.” With that, he glanced over to Mei, who had been quietly observing from the side. She returned his gaze with a knowing smile, stepping forward. Kneeling briefly, she pressed her palm flat against the ground. A shimmering, translucent barrier immediately rose around the entire training grounds, enveloping them securely. “You’re good to go,” Mei said calmly. “Don’t hold back.” Rayne drew his massive greatsword, hefting it effortlessly despite its enormous size. His eyes narrowed, and the air grew heavy with anticipation. “The stage is set,” Rayne announced steadily. “Come at me as if your lives depend on it, because soon, they will.” Itsuki exchanged determined looks with Yoshinori and the rest of the guild, feeling her pulse quicken. Her fingers tightened into fists, heart steadying as she felt a familiar surge of courage. “We can do this,” she whispered quietly, more to herself than anyone else. Ryuji cracked his knuckles eagerly, eyes bright with excitement. “Let’s see what you’ve got, elf-man.” The Strongest Guild stepped forward, tension crackling in the air, ready to test their newfound resolve against their powerful new teacher.