The soft glow from the Armor of Serenity shimmered in the fiery light of the surrounding lava. It seemed to pulse with a quiet power, its intricate patterns hinting at stories of strength and resolve. Akira stood clad in the armor, the gentle radiance enveloping him. Draco and Yue observed with mixed emotions.
Draco crossed his arms, letting out a loud sigh. "I can't believe the armor chose you. I thought I was the better fit." His voice wasn't laced with jealousy but rather curiosity and a hint of regret.
Yue stepped beside him, her gentle voice soothing. "Brother Draco, don't think like that. The armor might have chosen Brother Akira because it saw something in him that's necessary for now." She smiled softly, resting a hand on his arm. "But you're just as important. Without you, we wouldn't have made it this far."
Draco looked at her, his expression softening into a faint smile before nodding. "Fine, at least it's a weapon for our team." He turned to Akira, his gaze steady. "Just remember, you're not fighting alone. We're in this together."
Akira adjusted the armor, a small smile tugging at his lips. "I know. No one can do everything on their own. I believe that together, we can accomplish great things."
The oppressive atmosphere in the sanctuary began to lift. After ensuring everything was in order, the three prepared to leave and return to the central city at the base of the Solar Roar Volcano. The distant rumble of bubbling lava echoed as they stepped out of the sanctuary.
At the wide plaza outside the central castle, Ignis stood waiting, his imposing figure framed by the fiery glow of the volcano. His flame-colored eyes focused on the armor Akira wore, and a small nod of approval followed as they approached.
"You've returned safely. I can feel the chaos diminishing from the volcano. It's a good sign," Ignis said, his deep voice steady.
Stepping closer to Akira, his gaze lingered on the armor. "This is a true symbol of victory. To wield this armor means you've overcome the anger within and proven your resolve."
Akira nodded, his tone humble. "But it wasn't easy. We succeeded because we're a team."
Ignis's expression softened with approval. "That is the most important thing. But I must tell you, your mission is far from over."
The trio paused, tension rising in the air. Yue tilted her head. "What do you mean?"
"A dire message has come from Undine," Ignis said, his voice growing graver. "The underwater city, once the most beautiful in Arcadia, is now under heavy threat from chaos. The chaos emanating from Atlantino, a city submerged beneath the ocean, is spreading rapidly. It's wreaking havoc on the ecosystem and endangering life in Undine."
"Chaos can spread that far?" Draco asked, his voice laced with shock.
"Yes," Ignis confirmed. "Chaos not only corrodes life and nature, but it is also disrupting the water cycle, the lifeblood of Arcadia. If the chaos continues to spread, it will destroy not only the underwater city but could also impact the entire continent."
Akira frowned. "You mean it could affect everyone in Arcadia?"
"Precisely," Ignis replied. "And if the water cycle collapses, it will trigger what we call the 'Chaos Rain,' a phenomenon that will unleash darkness across all regions of the world."
A heavy silence hung in the air before Ignis continued. "Draco, you will lead the team to Undine, along with Akira and Yue. This is your chance to prove yourself as a leader."
Draco was silent for a moment before nodding firmly. "I understand. I'll do my best."
Akira gave him a reassuring smile. "I know you can do it, Draco. We'll support you, just like we did here in Draken."
Yue nodded with determination. "That's right! We'll help each other."
Before long, they boarded the magma-powered Crystal Train. As the train started moving, its tracks stretched across an open ocean, revealing breathtaking views. The water sparkled under the sunlight, its vast expanse creating a serene contrast to the challenges ahead.
"This journey won't be the same as before," Akira said quietly.
Draco nodded. "Because what we're facing isn't just a regular threat. It's something that could destroy everything we know."
Yue clutched her brother's arm tightly. "But… we'll get through it, won't we?"
Akira gave her a small, comforting smile. "Of course. We'll make it through together."
The hum of the train filled the air as it raced toward its new destination. Ahead lay even greater challenges, and the journey to Undine had only just begun.