The group led by Shingin walked as if caught in a timeless bubble. The air was still, devoid of any trace of the Watchers, encounters with other Awakened, or signs of imminent danger. It was as though the harrowing events they'd endured were nothing more than a fleeting nightmare.
Despite the seeming calm, an unsettling feeling lingered. It was as if invisible eyes were locked on them, watching every move from the shadows. No matter how hard they tried to pinpoint its source, nothing could be found, leaving them with an uneasy sense of paranoia. The sensation crept back in moments of relaxation, tightening around their hearts like an invisible chain.
Adding to the unease was an occasional wind, a strange draft that carried no chill nor natural freshness. It felt eerie, as though it came from some unknown existence, brushing past them silently.
As they entered a small town, the tension dissipated. The settlement was modest yet bustling, alive with chatter, vendors hawking their goods, and children playing. This vibrant, mundane scene of human life was a sharp contrast to their previous ordeals. For Shingin, who usually preferred solitude and silence, this chaotic warmth was surprisingly comforting. Compared to the suffocating silence of the night, the clamor brought solace.
Amid the lively streets, a familiar figure caught Shingin's eye. Standing near a vendor stall was a slim, agile silhouette, seemingly waiting for something.
"Rayl!" Shingin called out instinctively, a rare smile breaking across his face as he hurried toward the figure. A surge of relief and joy welled up in his chest, like reuniting with a guardian.
Rayl turned at the sound of his name and greeted Shingin with a knowing smile. "Shingin, long time no see." His tone was light, carrying a warmth that suggested their bond had remained unbroken despite the time apart.
Riyugi also recognized Rayl, though she approached cautiously. Her expression was complex; their previous misunderstanding, which had nearly cost her life, still lingered in her mind. But Rayl seemed unfazed, nodding slightly in acknowledgment.
"Rayl, what brings you here?" Shingin asked, unable to hide his surprise.
"We were nearby," Rayl replied nonchalantly. "We heard you'd be passing through, so we waited here. Come on, the leader wants to see you."
"The leader…" The mention of this figure made Shingin's heart tighten. His last encounter with the Seventh Leader had left an indelible impression—their sharp gaze had seemed to pierce through his very soul. He had a feeling that this meeting would be far from simple.
Rayl led them through the bustling streets to an old, weathered building. Its gray walls were cracked and worn, and the stone steps leading to the door had been smoothed by time. Without knocking, Rayl pushed open the door and ushered them inside.
The interior was simple and unadorned. The wooden floors creaked slightly underfoot, and the air carried a faint, musty smell of age. The room exuded an atmosphere of patience and gravity.
Inside, several individuals waited silently. Their expressions varied, but they all radiated a calm intensity, as if preparing for something significant.
By the window stood a girl who instantly drew everyone's attention. Her short pink hair framed her face neatly, the ends flicking slightly as if stirred by an invisible breeze. Her sharp gaze was cold and penetrating, as though she could see straight into one's core.
"She's Yame, the leader's daughter," Rayl introduced her with subtle reverence. "A Wind Affinity user."
Shingin studied Yame. Her presence was as striking as a fierce gale. Dressed in a white-and-blue sailor uniform, a sleek wind blade was strapped to her waist. She exuded a mix of elegance and danger, befitting someone of her lineage. Shingin's surprise deepened as he realized the Seventh Leader had a daughter—though, given the leader's childlike physical state due to their sealed form, perhaps it wasn't entirely unexpected.
Riyugi looked at Yame with a hint of recognition. "So, the one watching us like a silent wind on the way here—that was her?"
Rayl nodded with a faint smile. "Your instincts are as sharp as ever."
In the center of the room stood a man with a commanding presence. Syoruha's tanned skin seemed to carry the imprint of the sun, and his athletic build spoke of untapped power. His rolled-up sleeves revealed muscular forearms, and his calm demeanor exuded confidence. "This is Syoruha, a Sun Affinity user," Rayl said.
Syoruha nodded curtly, his sharp gaze like a blade tempered by experience.
At the far end of the room sat an elderly man with white hair cascading over his shoulders. His weathered face was serene, his eyes reflecting the wisdom of countless battles. He wore a deep brown robe tied with a simple leather belt, his stillness radiating an undeniable presence. "This is Elder Kasamaki, one of the finest warriors of the revolution," Rayl explained.
Beside elder Kasamaki stood a young girl, no more than fourteen. Her petite frame and playful smile belied a mischievous spirit. Her chestnut hair, slightly disheveled, was tied into a ponytail with a blue ribbon. "And this," Rayl added, "is elder Kasamaki's granddaughter, Harutemi."
Harutemi wore a pale yellow dress embroidered with green leaves at the hem. She exuded the energy of a fledgling bird, curious and lively. Catching Shingin's gaze, she stuck out her tongue cheekily, revealing small, sharp canines.
Shingin memorized their faces and names, silently noting their potential significance in the trials ahead.
"The others will stay here," Rayl finally said, turning to Shingin. "You're coming with me to see the leader."