For a moment, Orimo didn't move.
Then—slowly—his eyes opened. Heavy. Exhausted. But alive.
"…Oh. Ryuki."
His voice was barely more than a whisper.
Equa Rome shifted his hold on Orimo and spoke calmly,
"I'm an ally."
Ryuki narrowed her eyes, sword half-raised.
"How could we possibly know that?"
Rome answered without hesitation, voice steady but worn,
"Trust me. He saved my life."
Ryuki's eyes softened as she lowered her blade.
Rome turned his head toward Orimo.
"Can I join your crew?"
Orimo exhaled weakly.
"…Yeah."
Ryuki stepped closer, confusion burning in her eyes.
"Why are you changing sides?"
Equa looked at the broken walls, then at his own hands.
"I never chose Morgan's side. I was controlled. He bent my will… forced me to protect this factory. I was nothing but a puppet."
Ryuki's hand trembled.
Morgan Tarek… one of the 'True Conqueror.'
Just how strong is he…?
Orimo's voice cut through her thoughts.
"We need to leave."
But Equa shook his head.
"Orimo… I want to take down this factory."
Ryuki stepped forward instantly, glaring.
"I wouldn't recommend that. We can't mess with Morgan Tarek—he's too strong. One of the true conquerors of the sea."
Orimo clenched his fists.
"Destroy this."
Equa straightened.
"Roger that."
Ryuki's sword flashed out again—this time pressing right against Orimo's forehead.
The wind grew heavy around them, swirling like a warning.
"Are you insane?" she hissed.
Orimo stared back at her, unflinching.
"I will be devil king. I'm not afraid."
Ryuki's voice cracked with frustration,
"It's not about fear—you will die against him!"
Equa stepped forward, tone cold.
"You shouldn't draw your blades against our captain. We follow what he says."
Ryuki gritted her teeth… then slowly lowered her sword, sliding it back into its sheath.
"…Fine."