Chapter 11: Revelations
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the guild hall, Ryu found himself once again in the company of Kumo. Despite his earlier irritation, there was a persistent curiosity in Kumo's eyes, as if he couldn't shake the desire to understand the enigma that was Ryu.
Kumo: "Hey, Ryu. Can I ask you something?"
Ryu glanced at Kumo, his expression guarded.
Ryu: "What is it?"
Kumo hesitated for a moment, as if gathering his thoughts.
Kumo: "I've been watching you, and... well, you're not like anyone else I've ever met. Your strength, your skill... it's on a whole different level. How did you become so powerful?"
Ryu's gaze hardened, memories of his tumultuous journey flashing through his mind like lightning in a storm.
Ryu: "It wasn't easy. I grew up in a place called Hell Forest, a place where survival was a daily struggle and weakness meant death."
Kumo listened intently, his eyes wide with disbelief.
Kumo: "Hell Forest? I've heard stories, but I never imagined..."
Ryu: "It's as brutal as they say. I fought SS+ creatures just to survive, honing my skills and pushing myself to the limit every single day."
Kumo: "But why? Why put yourself through all that?"
Ryu's expression darkened, the memories of pain and loss still fresh in his mind.
Ryu: "Because I was stuck there .also Because I refused to be weak. I made a promise to myself that I would never again let anyone or anything control my fate."
Kumo nodded slowly, a newfound respect shining in his eyes.
Kumo: "I understand now. You're not just strong physically, Ryu. You're strong in here too."
Ryu said nothing, but there was a flicker of acknowledgment in his eyes, as if Kumo's words had struck a chord deep within him.