Dante and Akira surged forward at an incredible speed through the desolate lands of Hell, each step sending waves of heat rippling through the hostile environment. Neither their breath nor their pace faltered; they pressed on with unyielding determination toward the heart of Hell. Yet, in Dante's mind, a troubling thought lingered: how long had he been here? It was impossible to tell. That uncertainty gnawed at him, along with the growing concern about what might be happening in the world above.
"Dante."
The unexpected voice brought him to an abrupt halt. He turned to the side and saw a figure he had grown familiar with: his other self, Alter-Dante. The expression was serious, though it carried that same unnerving calmness.
"Finally decided to show up," Dante remarked, his tone slightly sarcastic but his eyes sharp. "What is it now?"
