The sun had just begun to set, casting a warm orange glow over the village of Brindlemark. Kaito Akatsuki, a young man with a unique, multicolored gradient of white, green, and black hair, walked along the winding dirt path, his hands filled with a basket of freshly picked herbs. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers and the distant chirping of crickets.
As he approached his village, Kaito noticed a faint smell of smoke carried by the gentle breeze. At first, he thought it might be the village elder's fireplace, but as he drew closer, the smell grew thicker and more acrid.
Kaito's heart began to beat faster as he quickened his pace. Something was wrong.
The village of Brindlemark was nestled in a small valley, surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. The villagers lived simple lives, relying on farming, hunting, and gathering to sustain themselves. Kaito had grown up in this peaceful environment, surrounded by loving family and friends.
As he walked, the smell of smoke grew stronger, and Kaito's sense of unease deepened. He could see the village up ahead, but something was off. The thatched roofs of the cottages seemed to be... smoldering?
Kaito's heart skipped a beat as he broke into a run. The village was on fire.