Just then, a familiar voice broke through the silence.
"No need to look for them."
Shingin froze and turned toward the source. Under the dim park lights, a figure gradually came into focus. It was Ryuosho.
"Ryuosho?" Shingin's face lit up with surprise. "What are you doing here?"
Ryuosho approached with his hands in his pockets, his demeanor as casual as ever. "I escaped."
"Escaped?" Shingin frowned. "What do you mean?"
Ryuosho let out a cold chuckle. "The others are obsessed with power, so consumed by their training that they've lost themselves. I refuse to stay and watch them self-destruct."
Hearing this, Shingin's heart sank. He could understand Yahageshii's motivations, but the girls? Had they also become so fixated on strength? A wave of sadness washed over him as memories of the past flooded back. Back then, even a small scrape on their skin had made him feel immense guilt. Yet now, it seemed his failures had only led to deeper scars, ones he was powerless to prevent or heal.
Ryuosho interrupted his thoughts, his tone indifferent. "That's their choice. Don't dwell on it too much."
Shingin's emotions churned. He looked at Ryuosho and couldn't help but ask, "Ryuosho, you've always seemed... detached. I thought maybe you'd also—"
Ryuosho smirked, cutting him off. "What, become some battle-crazed maniac? No. I've always been clear-headed." His eyes glinted coldly as he continued, "My powers were awakened artificially. Unlike those who sacrifice everything for strength, I know what I want. And frankly, it's easier to just live freely, even if that means running away."
Shingin stared at him, unable to fully grasp his meaning.
Sensing his confusion, Ryuosho explained further. "After seeing those monsters, I realized something—if you want to protect the people you care about, you have to become a monster stronger than the others. But at that point, the people you're protecting will fear you and distance themselves. And even if you become the strongest, what happens when a stronger 'god' comes along? You die, just the same. So why bother? I'd rather live happily in weakness and die with a smile."
Shingin was stunned. He had never considered this perspective before. Ryuosho's words were like a pebble thrown into the still waters of his mind, creating ripples of doubt.
"To live happily in weakness..." Shingin murmured, his resolve wavering. He glanced at Shizuha beside him, her eyes filled with anticipation for the journey home. In that moment, clarity dawned on him. It wasn't about overpowering enemies—it was about ensuring the safety and happiness of those he loved, about preserving their laughter and lightness.
Shingin lifted his head, his gaze firm. No matter what, he would protect this newfound hope.
He exhaled deeply and smiled faintly. "I thought I was the only one cowardly enough to think like this. Turns out you're the same, Ryuosho."
Ryuosho snorted, his voice tinged with a sly undertone. "Cowardly? Hardly. If weakness equals cowardice, then all those ordinary parents out there working tirelessly to protect their children—are they cowards too? No, they're just powerless, doing their best."
He shrugged nonchalantly. "I'm the same—powerless, but doing what I can."
Shingin burst into laughter, patting his chest. "Exactly! Just do your best within your limits. Haha!"
After his laughter subsided, Shingin remembered Shizuha standing beside him. He quickly introduced her, his face glowing with pride. "Shizuha, this is my best friend, Ryuosho. And Ryuosho, this is my sister, Shizuha. I finally found her!"
Ryuosho raised an eyebrow and nodded slightly. "You should confirm it, though. Hair or skin cells—DNA testing. That way, your mom will have proof."
Shingin's smile faltered, replaced by a frown. "Are you doubting her? She's my sister. I can't possibly be wrong!"
Shizuha gently tugged at Shingin's sleeve, her voice soft but steady. "Brother, I think Ryuosho is right. This way, it'll be easier for Mom to believe without you having to explain too much."
Shingin hesitated, his gaze shifting between Shizuha and Ryuosho. Finally, he nodded reluctantly. "Fine, we'll do it your way."
Ryuosho chuckled and patted Shingin's shoulder. "Let's head home. I'm sure you miss your mom too, right?"
Shingin's expression softened. "Yeah, though I haven't found our other brother yet. But for now, let's take Shizuha home and see Mom. She must be worried."
Ryuosho gave a slight smile and took the lead. "What are we waiting for? Let's go."
Shingin held Shizuha's hand tightly, taking a deep breath before following. Her hand was small and warm, like a ray of light cutting through the shadows in his heart.
Together, they began their journey back home. Ryuosho's steps remained as leisurely as ever, while Shingin walked with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. They left Yahageshii and the others behind without a farewell.
For Shingin, this journey wasn't about proving his strength—it was about reuniting with his family and mending the time they'd lost. He knew this was what truly mattered.
The night deepened, and a cold wind swept through the silent streets. Hidden in the shadows, a spy from the revolutionary faction, Kyohei, trembled as he eavesdropped on their conversation. Learning of their plans to return home, he knew this information could impact the faction's next move.
However, just as he turned to report back, a sharp sound sliced through the air. He felt a chill against his neck before his body froze in place. Trying to turn, he glimpsed a shadowy figure darting past. The next moment, darkness engulfed him completely.