With the battle against the Hotetsu members now behind them, Zara, the Council of Captains, and Kyokuske regrouped within the Demon King's castle. The tension that had gripped them had eased, and they were left with a moment to reflect on their next steps. Zara turned to Kyokuske, gratitude in her eyes. "Thank you for your help, Kyokuske. Your determination and strength have been invaluable. Ace's mission is now our mission, and we're committed to carrying it out." Kyokuske nodded in acknowledgment, his gaze unwavering. "We have much to do. The first step is to locate Yua and the missing amulet. Ace's plans depended on both. We'll need to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Rune and its creator." Kyokuske nodded in acknowledgment, his gaze unwavering. "We have much to do. The first step is to locate Yua and the missing amulet. Ace's plans depended on both. We'll need to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Rune and its creator." The captains, too, were resolute in their determination. "We'll stand with you, Kyokuske," Captain Vaelis's absence still weighed heavily on their hearts, but they knew that his sacrifice had not been in vain. Together, they began to piece together the information they had gathered so far. They knew that Yua was in another dimension, and the amulet held a vital key to understanding the Rune's malevolence. Zara spoke with conviction, "We'll need to use the combined knowledge and skills we possess to locate Yua. The amulet is a link between dimensions, and it holds the key to finding her and understanding the Rune's true nature." Kyokuske added, "We must also delve deeper into Ace's past, to the time before he became the Demon King. The secrets he held as Rylan Kurotsuchi may hold the answers we seek." With a renewed sense of purpose and unity, they set out on their next quest. Their journey was far from over, and the mysteries surrounding the Rune, its creator, and the amulet remained shrouded in darkness. As they prepared to depart, they knew that the challenges ahead would test their resolve like never before. But they were determined to confront the shadows of their past and pave the way for a brighter future for the demon realm. The next chapter of their adventure was filled with uncertainty, but they were prepared to face whatever challenges awaited them. With their combined strength and unwavering determination, they were determined to unveil the truths that had remained hidden for far too long.