---
The aftermath of the battle still hung in the air like a thick fog.
Dabi and Loira sat on the cold ground, breathing heavily, their bodies aching from the intense fight against Zarek.
Elder Wanka, his old but still formidable figure rushing through the hallways, finally reached them, his eyes scanning the room quickly.
He stopped in his tracks when he saw the two.
"Where is Zarek?" Wanka's voice was sharp, filled with urgency.
He glanced around as if expecting the Abyssal Knight to jump out from the shadows at any moment.
Dabi looked up, exhausted but alert, his brow furrowing. "He vanished… into the shadows. He fled."
Wanka's eyes narrowed as he closed his fist, concentrating for a brief moment. Then he shook his head.
"No, I can still feel his energy… he's nearby. He didn't go far." His tone was absolute, leaving no room for doubt. He gestured for them to stand. "Follow me."
