The small boat rocked gently against the waves as the horizon revealed a distant island bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon sun.
Ryuki: "That's it. There's an island."
After a short journey, the boat scraped against the sandy shore. Ryuki stepped out gracefully, setting Orimo down as he slowly regained consciousness in her arms.
Orimo: "Where am… I?"
He blinked, taking in the golden sands and lush greenery. Realizing he was being carried, his eyes widened in disbelief.
Orimo: "Hell nahhhh!"
With a swift leap, he hit the ground.
Ryuki: "So… you're awake."
Orimo: "Of course. Where are we?"
Ryuki: "It's another island."
Orimo scanned the horizon, excitement lighting his eyes.
Orimo: "Woah… let's explore then!"
Ryuki: "Yeah, sure."
The duo wandered through winding paths lined with vibrant flowers and trees whose leaves rustled softly in the breeze. Soon, they arrived at a small village, the scent of baked bread and roasted fish filling the air. Villagers gathered, smiling warmly.
Villager: "Are you outsiders?"
Orimo: "Yeah."
Villager: "Eat with us, then."
Orimo: "Oh… sure. Can you tell me more about this island?"
Villager: "Yes, this is Aurelia Island."
Orimo: "Oh, that's great!"
Villager: "Come eat with us. I'm Azaeroth."
They followed him into his home, sharing a meal full of laughter and aromas of local spices. The warmth of the village and the simple kindness of its people contrasted sharply with the chaos they had left behind.
Orimo: "He was so nice."
Ryuki: "Yeah!"
Orimo's gaze drifted to the center of the village, where a massive building stood, its spire piercing the sky.
Orimo: "What's that huge building in the middle?"
Ryuki: "How would I know?"
A man nearby overheard them.
Man: "That's the Temple of the Sun God—Mansan. It's been passed down through generations. Whether it's real or legend, we don't know."
The village fell quiet for a brief moment… until a sudden volley of gunshots shattered the peace. The laughter and chatter of the villagers cut off instantly.
Orimo's body tensed.
Ryuki's hand instinctively went to her sword.
The island, once serene and inviting, had turned dangerous in an instant.