Arata turned his back.
Step…
Step…
Step…
Each footfall echoed like a drumbeat across the burning battlefield. Smoke twisted upward, curling through the crimson sky, and his silhouette grew smaller, yet somehow more formidable.
Narration: And so, the man the world called a monster… walked alone toward his final war.
Kenny stayed kneeling, tears streaking down his face. His fists clenched the scorched ground, shaking with every sob.
Kenny: Why couldn't I see it sooner? What the hell was I doing…
He slammed his forehead against the ground. THUD! THUD! Blood trickled down his brow, mixing with the dust.
Kenny: I'm… a failure. Why couldn't I realize it sooner? I'm such an idiot… why!?
From behind, Silka's arms wrapped gently around him, holding him steady.
Silka: That's enough, Kenny. Don't drown in regret. If you truly want to honor him… then do as he asks. Every moment, every act you obey will be his final treasure.
Kenny: No… I have to fight!
Silka: Listen to him for once. Follow his command. Do it now, before it's too late.
Above them, Arata's shadow stretched across the battlefield, framed by flames and smoke. A small, broken smile tugged at his lips as he heard the whispered conversation.
Arata (softly): I'm sorry… Kenny. Forgive me.