The trio pressed forward, their boots crunching over scorched earth, the acrid scent of charred flesh and smoke hanging thick in the air. The screams of the dead seemed to echo faintly beneath the roar of the island's heat, a reminder of the horror that had unfolded here. Orimo clenched his jaw, forcing himself to ignore the stench and the sight of smoldering ruins.
Ryuki's eyes narrowed as she thought, The Cursed Necklace—always a price to pay. So what curse is Orimo bearing?
Orimo's gaze swept the horizon. "What is that massive facility up ahead?"
Yura's voice trembled slightly. "That's Morgan Tarek's base—one of the Eight Conquerors. My ally… he's being held there."
Auransa's expression darkened. "He must be going through hell inside."
Ryuki shook her head, scanning the towering walls. "How can anyone survive in a place like this?"
Yura swallowed hard. "The scientists inside have controlled the temperature, freezing the rooms. It's designed to suppress anyone inside."
Ryuki's voice was steady. "So… what's the plan?"
Yura wiped his tears, voice breaking. "I… I'm going in. I have to save him."
Orimo stepped closer, determination radiating from him. "Then we go with you. I've made my mind up. No one gets left behind."
Yura's tears fell freely now, relief and fear mixing. "Th-thank you…"
Orimo gave a firm nod. "No need to worry. Just stay focused."
They advanced, bodies slick with sweat, the oppressive heat of the lava island threatening to sap their strength with every step. The scorching air shimmered, painting the facility in a surreal haze ahead of them. But nothing could deter Orimo, Auransa, Ryuki, and Yura—they marched on, ready to confront whatever horrors awaited inside Morgan Tarek's fortress.