As they explored the island, Orimo noticed something strange—something that didn't match anything he had ever seen.
"How are robots living with people…? That's strange," Orimo muttered, watching a metal-skinned robot carry groceries while casually chatting with a woman.
Ryuki replied calmly, "No. It's probably their technology… and it looks really advanced."
They continued walking, absorbing the unusual scenery, until an old man stopped them with a raised hand.
"Are you outsiders?"
Orimo nodded. "Yes."
The old man smiled warmly despite his tired eyes.
"Come with me. I'll show you around."
The Devil Pirates followed him without protest as he rambled excitedly:
"Our King is Ryujin Hibuko. He's not bad… but Arashi Takeda was better. I still don't know what happened that made him kill his own citizens…"
Orimo's steps halted.
"Wait—what?"
The old man shook his head, still confused by the memory.
"Are you interested in learning our history?"
Orimo replied instantly.
"Tell me."
{Flashback Begins}
A battlefield of nightmares—
Bodies piled upon bodies.
Blood turning rivers into crimson streams.
The sky choked with smoke.
This was the Void Century.
The strongest tyrants had gathered, massacring all who stood before them, each fighting for absolute rule.
Lightning crackled across the sky as Tyrant Jozu stepped forward, the colossal axe resting on his shoulder like it weighed nothing.
Across from him stood Tyrant Uzoj, calm as the storm raged around him, gripping a long spear that hummed with power.
Jozu snarled, voice booming like thunder:
"Today you will die, Uzoj!"
Uzoj's tone didn't waver.
"We will see."