The sun rose.
Golden light spilled across the sands as a new day crawled into existence.
A day of rebellion.
Ash-gray skin reflected the morning glow, thread-like scars running across his arms, neck, and face. Behind him, a long, dusty black coat fluttered in the wind as he walked forward without hesitation.
Pale yellow eyes stared into the future of the island.
"Today," he muttered, voice deep and merciless,
"this kingdom will be mine."
Elsewhere — Orimo
Orimo walked through the sand, footsteps heavy, eyes scanning every shadow.
Ashyrn.
Varo.
He hadn't found either.
Then—
A woman appeared before him.
Blue hair shimmered beneath the rising sun. Crimson-red eyes locked onto his. Her presence felt unreal, like a mirage given form.
"Orimo Kuzan," she said softly.
"Are you looking for your brother?"
Orimo didn't hesitate.
"…Yeah."
"He's underground," she continued. "I can take you to him."
Orimo nodded. "Please."
She placed her hand against his arm, fingers resting over his veins.
"When you arrive," she whispered, "place your hand on your brother."
Then—
She turned to ash.
{Underground Chamber}
Darkness.
Cold, damp air.
Orimo stood in a faintly lit chamber.
And there—
Varo Kuzan.
His body was dried, cracked, drained of life. His skin clung tightly to bone. Pain radiated from him so intensely it felt suffocating.
Orimo rushed forward.
"Brother—! Who did this to you?!"
He placed his hand on Varo's chest.
Varo's lips trembled.
"That… Ashyrn…"
Orimo's eyes darkened instantly.
"…Are you okay?" he asked, voice unnaturally calm.
Varo's fingers clenched tightly into Orimo's shirt. Tears streamed down his face as his voice broke.
"Orimo… I can't move…!"
His grip tightened, desperation pouring out with every breath.
"Please… help them," Varo whispered.
"Save the country… I beg you."
Orimo interrupted softly, firmly.
"Big brother. I will."
He leaned closer.
"Please wait for me."
Varo's expression softened. Through tears, a weak smile formed as he nodded.
Orimo stood.
The air around him felt heavier.
"How dare you do this to my brother…"
he thought.
His gaze hardened.
"I'm coming for you, Ashyrn."
The real battle… was just about to begin.