The chapter begins with Hikari, Liu Ming, and Kael traveling through the vastness of space, surrounded by the endless darkness speckled with stars. The group is enveloped in their chakra barriers, gliding through the void with practiced precision. As they approach their destination, Hajima Planet comes into view—a lush, green world surrounded by floating shards of land, with glimmering waterfalls cascading into the abyss.
Arrival on Hajima Planet
They land gently in an open field on the planet. The air is fresh, filled with the scent of blooming flowers and rustling leaves. Kael takes a moment to admire the planet, stretching and yawning.
Kael: "So… I forgot to ask. Why are we here?"
Hikari (adjusting his coat): "In the cocoon, during one of my lives, I ended up on this planet. It's a perfect place for training. Plus, the craftsmen here can build us a spaceship."
Liu Ming: "A spaceship? What do we need that for?"
Kael (tilting his head): "Yeah, what even is a spaceship?"
Hikari smirks, folding his arms.
Hikari: "Flying through space is manageable for now, but if someone attacks us mid-journey, it's a problem. I'd have to protect you both and fight at the same time. A spaceship gives us mobility, defense, and speed. Besides, it's our ticket to the Second Domain."
Liu Ming and Kael exchange a glance.
Liu Ming: "Fair enough. Let's find these craftsmen."
Searching for a Lead
They begin walking through the serene countryside, looking for signs of civilization. The field stretches endlessly, with the occasional dirt path breaking through. After an hour, they spot a weathered bar on the horizon, nestled against a grove of massive trees.
The trio enters the dimly lit bar, where conversations abruptly die down. The patrons—gruff men, travelers, and a few shadowy figures—turn to stare at the newcomers. Liu Ming approaches the bartender, who is cleaning a glass with a rag.
Liu Ming: "Hey. We're looking for a craftsman who can build spaceships. Know anyone?"
The bartender hesitates, eyes narrowing. He glances at the other patrons before shaking his head.
Bartender: "Never heard of one."
Hikari notices the tension in the room and places a hand on Liu Ming's shoulder.
Hikari: "Let's go. We're not getting answers here."
As they step outside, the door swings shut behind them. The trio walks a few paces away from the bar when a voice rings out.
???: "You bastards! You've got some nerve showing your face here!"
A New Encounter
The group turns to see a young woman rushing toward them. Her long black hair flows behind her as she unsheathes a slender blade. Her stance is sharp, and her eyes burn with determination. She charges directly at Liu Ming.
Woman: "I'll kill you mercenaries!"
She swings her sword toward Liu Ming's neck, but just before it connects, she freezes. Hikari's aura flares momentarily, creating an invisible pressure that stops her in her tracks. The blade trembles near Liu Ming's throat. Then she sense aura of hikari and steps back
Hikari: "Who are you, girl?"