Chapter 13: Sin City

The journey to Sin City begins under a blazing midday sun, the air heavy with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant bird calls. Ryu, Rei, and Nina follow the familiar dirt path winding through the countryside—a route Ryu remembers well from his journey to McNeil Village. It's a road of memories, but now, the stakes are higher, and the dangers more immediate.

Monsters lurk at every turn, as if drawn to the trio's determination. Packs of Curr dart out from the underbrush, their eyes gleaming with hunger. A swarm of oversized birds swoop down from the trees, their beaks glinting like daggers. But the team is more than prepared.

Rei moves with the grace of a predator, his claws slicing through foes in a blur of motion. Nina stands back, her wings casting a faint glow as she chants incantations, bolts of lightning, ice, and fire striking the enemies. Ryu, wielding his Dragon Sword, moves with a calm intensity, his strikes precise and devastating.

The monsters are no match for the trio's combined strength, and soon the path grows quieter, the creatures deterred by the aura of power that surrounds them. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of amber and violet, they find a clearing beside a bubbling brook and decide to set up camp.

Rei and Ryu work in perfect tandem, slipping into old habits from their childhood. Rei chuckles as he watches Ryu gather firewood. "You still overpack the kindling," he teases.

"And you still think a handful of twigs will get the job done," Ryu retorts with a grin, arranging the wood with practiced ease.

Nina observes with a smile, her wings fluttering lightly as she spreads her bedroll under the tent. The scent of tree leaves and the crackle of the growing fire create a sense of comfort amidst the wilderness.

As the fire blazes to life, casting warm light across their faces, the three settle down. Ryu and Rei sit closer to the fire, while Nina leans back, gazing at the stars.

Ryu begins recounting his journey with Nina, describing their trek to Angel Tower, the battles they faced, and the lessons learned along the way. His tone is light, but he avoids mentioning the deeper conflicts, particularly what transpired between him and Garr. Nina's gaze flickers toward him briefly, sensing the omission but choosing not to press.

Rei listens intently, his sharp eyes softening with the familiarity of Ryu's voice. When Ryu finishes, Rei leans forward, his own story tumbling out with grim determination. He speaks of his relentless pursuit of Mikba's gang, the countless skirmishes, and the pain of losing his friends which made his life lonely.

"I didn't just stumble into controlling my weretiger form," Rei says, his voice low. "It took years. Training. Meditation. Learning to focus my rage. I did it all to make sure no one would ever be hurt by Mikba."

Ryu nods, his respect for Rei deepening with every word. "You've come a long way," he says quietly. "We both have."

Rei smirks, his usual playful demeanor returning. "You're still a crybaby, though."

Ryu chuckles and shakes his head. "And you're still reckless."

The fire crackles between them, and for a moment, the weight of the years falls away. They're just two friends, reunited after too long, sharing stories under the stars. But the looming threat of Sin City and the Mikba gang lingers at the edges of their thoughts, a silent reminder of the battles yet to come.

The fire crackled warmly, its soft glow casting long shadows over the camp. With the day's battles behind them, Ryu and Rei decided to unwind with a simple game of dice. The worn wooden cup and the small, carved dice felt familiar in their hands, remnants of countless nights spent playing the same game as kids.

Rei shook the cup vigorously, his grin wide as he slammed it onto the ground with a theatrical flourish. "All right, Ryu," he said, leaning forward with a gleam in his eye. "What's your guess?"

Ryu squinted at the cup, pretending to scrutinize it like a seasoned gambler. "I'm going with… eight."

Rei snickered and lifted the cup to reveal a total of nine. "Wrong! I win again!"

"Oh, come on!" Ryu groaned, tossing a small pebble at Rei's shoulder. "You're totally rigging this."

"Rigging? Me? Never!" Rei said, feigning innocence as he shook the cup for the next round.

The game continued, filled with laughter and playful accusations. It wasn't long before Nina wandered over, drawn by the noise. "What are you two up to?" she asked, her curious eyes flicking between them.

"Dice," Rei replied, holding up the cup. "Wanna join?"

"Absolutely," Nina said with a grin, settling beside them. "Let's see if you two are as good as you think."

Rei gave the cup an exaggerated shake, his movements quick and deliberate, before slamming it onto the ground. "Guess away, my friends," he said smugly.

Ryu narrowed his eyes. "Twelve."

Nina, however, smiled slyly. "Eleven," she said. "You flicked your wrist just before putting the cup down to change one of the dice."

Rei's jaw dropped, and he slowly lifted the cup to reveal an eleven. "How did you—?"

"I pay attention," Nina said, clearly enjoying her victory. "Your little tricks won't work on me."

Ryu chuckled. "Impressive. All right, your turn."

Taking the cup, Nina shook it gently at first, but then closed her eyes and murmured a quiet spell. A soft breeze swirled around the cup, muffling the sound of the dice completely. She set the cup down with a triumphant grin. "Guess."

"Cheater," Rei muttered, squinting at the cup. "Um… ten?"

"Seven," Ryu guessed, eyeing Nina suspiciously.

Nina lifted the cup, revealing a two. "You're both wrong."

"Wait a second!" Ryu exclaimed. "You used magic! That's against the rules!"

Nina raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Rules? What rules?"

Rei and Ryu exchanged sheepish glances. They had been playing this game since they were kids, but it suddenly dawned on them that they'd never actually established any official rules.

"Uh…" Rei began, scratching the back of his head. "I guess we never really… made any."

Nina burst into laughter, clutching her sides. "You've been playing a game without rules all this time? That's ridiculous!"

Ryu crossed his arms, trying to look serious but failing to hide his grin. "Fine, maybe we've been winging it. But we don't use magic."

"Noted," Nina said with a mischievous glint in her eye. "But for the record, this game is now quite popular in Windia. Ryu taught me how to play when we were kids, remember? And in Windia, magic is allowed."

Ryu blinked, a faint blush creeping up his neck. "Oh… yeah, I guess I did."

Rei raised an eyebrow, smirking. "So, what you're saying is, she's been training for this moment her whole life."

"Exactly," Nina said with mock seriousness. "And it looks like I win."

The three of them burst into laughter, their voices echoing into the peaceful night. The weight of their mission seemed to fade for a moment as they enjoyed the warmth of the fire and the simple joy of each other's company.

The night passed peacefully after their game of dice, the trio falling asleep under the stars with the campfire embers glowing faintly. As the sun rose, they packed their belongings and resumed their journey. Days of travel brought them closer to their destination, with the landscape growing harsher and the air heavier with tension. Finally, they reached the jagged mountains that concealed the infamous Sin City—a hidden civilization steeped in crime and secrecy.

As they approached the entrance, the atmosphere shifted. The narrow path wound through craggy rock formations, and rough-looking individuals loitered around, their eyes darting suspiciously. Many of them were hawking stolen goods or illegally mined Chrysm ore, their voices loud and untrustworthy. Ryu, Rei, and Nina kept their expressions neutral, masking their unease as they passed through the shadowy crowd.

The entrance to Sin City was a massive hole in the side of the mountain, guarded by bulky, masked men clad in mismatched armor. Their presence radiated authority and menace. The guards looked the trio over, their gaze lingering on Ryu and Rei's weapons and Nina's unwavering bearing. After a moment's scrutiny, the guards stepped aside, allowing them entry with a gruff nod.

Inside, the air was thick with smoke and the acrid stench of desperation. Sin City was a chaotic sprawl of dimly lit alleyways carved into the mountain's interior. Faint torchlight illuminated rows of makeshift stalls where vendors peddled contraband: rare Chrysm, forged documents, addictive substances, and weapons of dubious origin. The sound of clinking coins, shouted bargains, and muffled arguments filled the air. Everywhere, people fought, bartered, and indulged in vices that were forbidden outside this hidden enclave.

As the team moved cautiously through the labyrinthine streets, they encountered people in various states of ruin. Some appeared hardened and dangerous, their hands never far from hidden blades, while others were gaunt and hollow-eyed, struggling under the weight of addiction. The occasional scream or crash echoed through the cavern, but no one paid it any mind.

Ryu's jaw tightened as he scanned the grim surroundings. His hand rested on his sword hilt, ready for anything. Suddenly, a scantily clad woman approached him, her dark eyes glinting with calculated interest. Her movements were slow and deliberate, her voice sultry as she complimented his looks. "Well, aren't you a handsome one," she purred, trailing a finger down his arm. "Looking for a little company? I can offer you something… special."

Ryu's face flushed, and he stepped back quickly. "I—I'm not interested," he stammered, avoiding her gaze.

Rei smirked and stepped between them. "Sorry, sweetheart," he said smoothly, "he's taken."

The woman's expression soured, and she turned away with a huff, disappearing into the crowd. Nina glanced at Ryu with an arched brow. "You okay?" she asked, her tone a mix of concern and amusement.

"I'm fine," Ryu muttered, adjusting his sword belt. "Let's just find Mikba and get out of here."

Rei's smile faded as he scanned their surroundings. "We'll need to keep our guard up. This place reeks of trouble."

As they pressed on, the dark alleys of Sin City seemed to close in around them, the weight of the hidden city's corruption settling on their shoulders. Somewhere in this shadowy maze was Mikba, the gang leader they had come to confront. The air buzzed with danger, and each step felt like venturing deeper into the heart of darkness.

The trio continued their journey through Sin City, weaving through dimly lit alleys and avoiding the chaos around them. The sound of clinking coins and hushed whispers followed them as they moved deeper into the heart of the city. Soon, they arrived at a massive drawbridge spanning a deep chasm within the hollowed-out mountain. On the other side lay a more fortified section of the city, clearly reserved for those of importance or power.

Standing before the bridge were several burly guards. Their arms were thick as tree trunks, and their weapons gleamed in the torchlight. The mechanism controlling the drawbridge stood behind them, heavily protected. The guards eyed the trio warily as they approached.

One of the guards, his voice gruff, stepped forward. "What's your business here? This bridge is for those with permission only."

Rei glanced at Nina, his brow furrowed, but she stepped forward confidently. Reaching into her satchel, she pulled out a small bag of illegally sourced Chrysm ore she had confiscated from Palet, its faint glow illuminating the dim space around them. "We have business with Mikba," she said firmly, holding up the bag. "I have plenty more where this came from, and I hear Mikba is the only one with the coin to pay for it."

The guards exchanged suspicious glances, but the sight of the high-quality Chrysm seemed to sway them. After a tense pause, one of them nodded and gestured toward the mechanism. "Lower the bridge," he ordered his companions.

The heavy iron chains groaned as the bridge descended with a loud clank, connecting the two sections of the city. The guards stepped aside, allowing the trio to cross.

The trio crossed the drawbridge and entered a darker, more sinister part of Sin City. The air was heavier here, the streets quieter but no less dangerous. Large, intimidating figures moved in the shadows, and the faint clink of coins echoed from alleyways where shady deals were being made.

They were escorted by a pair of guards through a maze of corridors until they reached a large set of iron doors. The guards pushed them open, revealing Mikba's office. They then left, so they can make the shady deal in peace.

The room was masdive, dimly lit by flickering torches mounted on the stone walls. It was decorated with stolen luxury—fine rugs, golden trinkets, and shelves lined with rare items likely pilfered from the highest bidders. At the center of the back of the room sat Mikba, a round man with slicked-back hair and a sharp, calculating gaze. He wore an embroidered silk vest over a crisp shirt, the buttons struggling to contain his broad stomach. His fingers were adorned with jeweled rings, and a thick gold chain rested heavily around his neck. He exuded an air of confidence, a man used to being obeyed without question.

Mikba leaned back in his oversized chair, which creaked slightly under his weight, and regarded the newcomers with mild amusement. "Well, well," he said, his voice smooth but edged with menace. "Who are these fine travelers? And what brings you to my humble establishment?"

Nina stepped forward, cool and composed. She tossed the bag of Chrysm ore onto his desk, the gemstones spilling out in a cascade of glittering light. Mikba's eyes lit up, his lips curling into a satisfied smirk. He picked up one of the larger chunks and held it up to the light, turning it over in his hand with practiced ease.

"Quality work," he murmured, his voice dripping with approval. "Not many sellers left with this kind of supply. You've got my attention." He placed the gemstone down and folded his hands, leaning forward. "Let's talk numbers."

Nina met his gaze, her tone steady. "I'm the last supplier willing to work with you. Word on the street says that everyone else is gone. But if you can pay what this is worth, we can do business."

Mikba's grin widened, revealing yellowed teeth. "Smart woman. I like that." He gestured toward the bag. "I'll give you a fair price for this batch, and maybe we can talk about future shipments."

As he reached for a pouch of coins, Nina took a deliberate step back. Her eyes hardened, and she pulled a golden emblem from her armor, holding it high for Mikba to see. The light of the torches reflected off the polished surface, illuminating the symbol of Windia.

"Mikba," she said, her voice ringing with authority, "you are under arrest for the trade of illegally sourced Chrysm ore, as well as your numerous crimes against the Kingdom of Windia."

The room fell silent, save for the faint crackle of the torches. Mikba froze, his hand still on the pouch of coins. His smirk faded, replaced by a scowl that darkened his entire demeanor. He leaned back in his chair, his fingers drumming slowly against the armrest as he studied Nina.

"Arrest me?" he said softly, the smoothness in his voice now laced with venom. He let out a low chuckle that grew into a booming laugh, filling the room with a sinister echo. "You think you can just walk into my city, into my office, and threaten me?"

He rose to his feet, his imposing frame looming over the desk. Though his build was heavy, his movements were deliberate, his presence commanding. He adjusted the cuffs of his shirt and stepped around the desk, his sharp eyes locked on Nina.

"This city belongs to me," he growled, his voice dropping to a dangerous tone. "Every deal, every coin, every life here is under my control. And you think you can take that away from me?"

Rei shifted his stance, his claws flexing instinctively over his daggers, but Ryu stepped in front of him, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. Mikba noticed the movement and sneered.

"You have no idea who you're dealing with," Mikba said, his voice rising. "But you'll learn soon enough."

Nina didn't flinch. Her grip on the emblem tightened as she stared Mikba down. "We're not leaving without you," she said firmly. "You can come quietly, or we'll bring you in by force."

Mikba's grin returned, this time twisted with malice. "You've got guts, young lady," he said, cracking his knuckles. "Let's see if you've got the strength to back it up." Mikba's maniacal laughter echoed through the chamber as he raised his hands toward the heavens, his voice trembling with unholy fervor. "Goddess! Grant me your power!"

A blinding flash of light erupted from the center of the chamber, filling the vast room with searing brilliance. Ryu, Rei, and Nina instinctively turned away, shielding their eyes from the blinding spectacle. When the light finally receded, the air grew thick and cold, the very atmosphere tainted by the dark energy that now pulsed through the room.

Before them stood Mikba—no longer a man, but a towering abomination twisted by hatred and arcane power. His hulking frame was cloaked in sinewy, purple flesh that rippled with unnatural muscle, each movement exuding overwhelming strength. Jagged black horns curled from his crown like the broken spires of a cursed citadel, framing a face that was a grotesque blend of humanoid and beast. His eyes glowed a deep, menacing red, burning with malice, ancient knowledge, and unrelenting wrath.

Twin wings, massive and leathery, burst from his back with a thunderous gust, the winds they generated blackening the torches that lined the walls. They stretched wide, each beat of them stirring a vortex of corrupted air that made the stone tremble beneath the heroes' feet. The room itself—vast and cathedral-like—seemed designed to house his monstrous form, with towering ceilings and reinforced walls carved with forgotten glyphs that pulsed dimly in response to his presence.

In his colossal, clawed hands he wielded a monstrous battle axe, nearly as tall as Mikba himself. Forged from a metal darker than night, the weapon pulsed with sickly red veins of power, as if it were alive and hungry. The very light in the room recoiled from it, bending unnaturally, as though the axe devoured all hope around it.

Mikba's deep, rumbling breath echoed like distant thunder, each exhale laced with sulfur and ash. He stepped forward, the ground quaking underfoot, his gaze locked on Ryu with a twisted grin that bared rows of serrated teeth. A storm of shadow loomed around him, and in that moment, it was clear—they were facing not just a foe of flesh and power, but a being born of vengeance and ruin.

"He's a demon?" shouted Nina

"You wanted to arrest me?" Mikba's voice boomed, deep and guttural. "Try it now!"

Ryu and Nina instinctively fell into their fighting stances, while Rei roared and transformed into his weretiger form, his muscles bulging and claws extending. The three launched into the fight with everything they had. Rei's powerful strikes kept Mikba on his toes, while Nina unleashed a barrage of lightning bolts and ice spells. Ryu dashed in to land slashes with his Dragon Sword, each strike aimed at weak points in Mikba's armor-like purple hide.

But Mikba was relentless. His axe swung with devastating force, creating shockwaves that shook the chamber. Nina barely managed to dodge one blow, tumbling to the ground as debris rained around her. Rei charged in, claws raking across Mikba's thick skin, but it was like scratching stone. With a backhand swing, Mikba sent Rei sprawling across the room.

Panting and battered, the team regrouped, their movements sluggish. Mikba laughed mockingly. "Is this all the famed heroes of Windia have to offer? Pathetic!"

Nina glanced at Ryu, desperation in her voice. "Ryu, you have to transform! It's our only chance to beat him!"

Ryu stepped back, his expression hardening with focus as he crossed his arms over his chest. The chamber fell into a tense silence, the air thick with anticipation. Then, with a low hum that built to a thunderous crescendo, a swirling black orb of pure energy burst into existence around him. The ground trembled. Arcane light pulsed from the orb in violent rhythm, like a heartbeat pounding against the fabric of reality itself.

Rei tensed. Nina instinctively reached for Ryu—but before either could move, the energy lashed out.

"What's happening?!" Nina cried, her voice thin against the roar of power.

Rei's snarl joined hers as they were both pulled inward, helpless against the invisible force that tore through the chamber like a vortex. The orb consumed them, drawing them into its growing core of swirling shadow and searing light.

Then—detonation. The orb erupted in a blinding flash that split the world in two. The stone beneath them cracked. The walls groaned. Wind surged outward with the force of a typhoon, scattering debris like leaves in a storm. A beam of radiant green fire shot skyward from the epicenter, piercing the heavens and bathing the entire chamber in emerald light.

When the glow at last faded, the battlefield stood changed.

Towering where Ryu once stood was a Behemoth. He did not transform into the sleek, bipedal dragon-form they had known. This beast stood on all fours, its body a cathedral of armored, shimmering emerald scales. His limbs were thick and powerful, ending in claws that could rend steel. A clubbed tail bristling with jagged spikes swept behind him like a living wrecking ball. Rows of towering spines jutted from his back, each the length of a man, glowing faintly with draconic energy.

His breath steamed with fire and smoke, curling from his maw like a volcano on the verge of eruption. His eyes—fierce and golden—burned with a divine fury. It was not just rage, nor raw instinct, but the will of something greater. Something ancient. Something destined.

This was no mere transformation, this was awakening. Mikba stood frozen in place, the blood draining from his face. Before him now stood a god of war clad in living armor, a manifestation of vengeance and protection incarnate.

And as Ryu took a single step forward, the earth cracked beneath his claw. A challenge had been issued. A reckoning had begun. But then, Ryu looked around in confusion, his voice booming. "Nina? Rei? Where are you?!"

"We're here!" came Rei's voice, echoing in his mind.

Nina's voice followed, calm but amazed. "Ryu… we've merged. We're part of you now."

Realization dawned on all of them—they had fused together, each contributing to this new form. Rei's raw strength, Nina's magical prowess, and Ryu's draconic power had combined into a single, unstoppable force. Ryu lifted his massive claws, testing his newfound strength, and felt Rei's influence guiding the movement. When he swung his tail, Nina's voice chimed in, noting the precision and balance they had gained.

Mikba snarled, refusing to be intimidated by the massive dragon. "I don't care what form you take! I'll destroy you all!" He raised his axe and charged.

Rei's voice echoed in Ryu's mind. "Watch the axe!" With perfect coordination, the dragon turned and swung its clubbed tail, knocking the weapon from Mikba's hands with a resounding clang. The massive axe flew across the room, embedding itself in the stone wall.

Mikba stumbled, glaring at the dragon in disbelief. "What is this?!"

Ryu, Nina, and Rei, now fully in sync, roared as one. The sound shook the very foundations of the room, signaling the beginning of the true battle.

The massive dragon, formed from the fusion of Ryu, Nina, and Rei, lunged forward with incredible speed, tackling Mikba and sending him crashing into the far wall. The impact shook the chamber, cracks spidering through the stone as Mikba slumped to the ground, momentarily stunned.

Rei's voice boomed in Ryu's mind. "Now's the time to hit him hard! Time for some Thunder Claws!" The dragon raised its claws, which crackled with electricity, and slashed downward. Thunderous arcs of lightning exploded on impact, jolting Mikba and causing him to roar in agony.

"Let's fight this monster together with a Radiant Breath!" Nina said, her voice steady with determination. Drawing from her magical reserves, she summoned holy energy. The dragon's jaws opened wide, and a radiant breath of blazing light erupted, engulfing Mikba in searing, golden flames. The room illuminated as Mikba's monstrous form writhed in the holy fire, his cries of pain echoing in the chamber.

Ryu's voice cutting through the chaos like a war drum "This ends now! Meteor Strike!"

His words echoed like prophecy across the shattered battlefield. Nina and Rei joined in, each drawing upon the last reserves of their strength, their souls igniting with purpose. The horns on Ryu's draconic back flared with searing light, arcs of pure energy spiraling upward into the ceiling of the room. The air warped and grew dense, humming with unnatural power as reality itself seemed to strain under the weight of their combined might.

High above, the ceiling split open—ripped apart by the force of their will. A swirling vortex formed in the ceiling, revealing the frozen expanse of space beyond. Stars shimmered in the distance. Then, from the heart of the celestial rift, a massive meteor emerged—wreathed in flame, trailing a comet's tail of burning fury. The heavens wept fire as it descended, spinning faster, brighter, more furious with each passing second.

Mikba looked up—his monstrous form trembling, his crimson eyes wide with disbelief. "No… this can't be happening!" The meteor answered with silence. It struck, the impact was apocalyptic.

A blinding flash consumed the entire room as the meteor slammed into the ground with cosmic fury. The shockwave rippled outward, splitting the stone beneath them, sending waves of molten fire around Mikba. The explosion roared like the wrath of gods—unstoppable, final. The heavens screamed, the ground shook, and for a moment, the world held its breath.

And then—silence. Ash drifted through the air like falling snow. Smoke coiled upward in solemn plumes. At the crater's heart, nothing remained but scorched earth and glowing embers. Mikba's form was gone—annihilated. His monstrous power reduced to dust. The malice that once bled from his soul was extinguished, erased by the judgment of stars. The battle was over.

The dragon exhaled, triumphant but drained. The shimmering energy surrounding them began to dissipate, and within moments, Ryu, Nina, and Rei separated, returning to their individual forms. They staggered slightly, catching their breath as they looked at one another.

"That… was incredible!" Rei shouted, a wide grin on his face. "We were unstoppable!"

Nina laughed, her cheeks flushed with exhilaration. "I've never felt power like that before. It was amazing!"

Ryu smiled, though his expression was tinged with seriousness. "It was incredible, but we have to stay focused. Mikba's gone, but we need to get back to Windia and report everything that happened."

The three of them exchanged a nod of agreement. As the remnants of their battle smoldered around them, they left the dark chamber behind, their steps resolute as they began their journey back to Windia, ready to share the tale of their victory.

Back at the castle, Nina knelt before the grand throne in Windia's opulent palace, her head bowed in deference. Her father, the wise and regal king, leaned forward slightly, his sharp gaze fixed on her. Her mother nods quietly, happy to see her daughter home. She spoke clearly and with pride.

"Mother, Father, I bring news of our mission. Mikba is no more. I attempted to arrest him peacefully, but his strength far surpassed what I anticipated. If not for the bravery and strength of my companions, Rei and Ryu, I might not have returned safely."

The king's expression softened as he shifted his attention to Ryu and Rei, who stood at Nina's side. His eyes lingered on Ryu, and a flicker of recognition crossed his face.

"You," the king said, his voice warm with remembrance. "You're the young boy who saved Nina all those years ago, aren't you?"

Ryu nodded humbly. "Yes, Your Majesty."

The king smiled, his gratitude evident. "It seems you've grown into quite the protector. Both of you," he said, including Rei in his acknowledgment, "have my deepest thanks for ensuring my daughter's safe return."

He rose from his throne, clapping his hands together. "We shall hold a feast tonight in your honor. Windia will celebrate your bravery!"

And so, that evening, the grand dining hall was alive with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. Long tables were laden with steaming dishes and fresh fruit, and the scent of roasted meats and sweet pastries filled the air. Nina, Rei, and Ryu sat at the center of the hall, treated like heroes.

As they enjoyed the feast, a small, familiar creature hopped onto Nina's lap, squealing joyfully. Ryu blinked in surprise. "Peco?" he said, his voice filled with nostalgia. "You still have him?"

Nina stroked the little plant creature's head affectionately. "Of course! I've raised him all these years. He's part of the family now."

Ryu tilted his head curiously. "He doesn't look much different than he did when I last saw him. Hasn't he grown at all?"

Nina chuckled and gently set Peco on the ground. "Oh, he's grown plenty. But Peco can change his size at will. Let me show you." She looked at Peco and commanded softly, "Peco, assume your fighting form."

The tiny creature squealed in acknowledgment before closing its eyes. A faint green aura surrounded him as his body began to shift and expand. Within seconds, Peco had transformed into a towering, six-foot-tall humanoid plant creature, his body rippling with powerful muscles and vines.

The room fell silent as the guests stared in awe. Ryu and Rei exchanged astonished glances. "That's… incredible," Rei muttered.

Nina stood proudly beside Peco. "I've also hired one of the strongest masters in the land to train him. He's become quite the fighter."

Peco demonstrated his skills, moving with surprising agility for his size. He struck the air with powerful punches and swift kicks, his limbs a blur. When his performance ended, the room erupted into cheers.

With a happy squeal, Peco returned to his smaller form and hopped back onto Nina's lap. Ryu smiled warmly. "It's good to see that Peco has grown into such a strong companion. He's lucky to have you."

Nina returned the smile. "And I'm lucky to have all of you," she said, looking at Rei and Ryu. "I couldn't ask for better friends."

The night continued with celebration, their bonds strengthened by their shared triumph and camaraderie.

Later that evening, the warm light of the inn's fireplace cast flickering shadows on the walls as Ryu, Rei, Nina, and Garr gathered in a secluded corner of the common room. The air was heavy with the lingering tension from their encounter with Mikba, and all eyes were on Garr as he listened intently to the details of the fight.

When they finished recounting the events, particularly Mikba's transformation into a demon, Garr leaned back in his chair, his expression grim. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his brow furrowed.

"If what you're saying is true," Garr began, his voice low and serious, "then this matter is far more grave than any of us realized."

The others exchanged uneasy glances.

"What do you mean?" Nina asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Garr straightened, folding his arms across his broad chest. "Mikba's transformation reminds me of something I learned long ago—something tied to a dark chapter in our world's history. It's strikingly similar to what happened centuries ago with Deathevan."

"Deathevan?" Rei repeated, his ears twitching in curiosity. "What's that?"

Garr's eyes darkened. "Deathevan is a godlike demon and the son of the Goddess of chaos and destruction Tyr, a being of unimaginable power and malice who became our Goddess Myria. Long ago, he preyed upon humanity's desperation. Humans, unlike the other clans, lacked innate magic or special abilities. Deathevan exploited this weakness, offering them demonic powers in exchange for their very lives. Those who accepted his offer became monstrous beings, twisted by his dark influence. Entire civilizations were nearly wiped out by his followers."

Nina clasped her hands together, her face pale. "But Deathevan was defeated, wasn't he?"

"Not entirely," Garr said. "Deathevan is also an Endless, he couldn't be destroyed, not even by the combined power of the clans and the Kaiser Dragon. Instead, Yua's brother—the last user of the Kaiser form—sacrificed himself to seal Deathevan away. His body became the seal that holds the demon in eternal slumber."

Ryu stiffened at the mention of Yua's brother, his mind flashing back to the tales of his clan's tragic history. "What does this have to do with Mikba?"

Garr's gaze locked with Ryu's, his expression grave. "The fact that Mikba—a human—was able to transform into a demon suggests that Deathevan's influence is returning. If the goddess is working to revive Deathevan, she may be granting humans the same twisted powers as before, luring them into her web of destruction."

Rei's claws tapped nervously against the wooden table. "So how do we stop it? There's got to be a way to cut this off at the source, right?"

Garr shook his head solemnly. "It's not that simple. The goddess and Deathevan are forces beyond mortal comprehension. Even with the Kaiser Dragon's power, they cannot be killed. That's why Yua's brother chose to seal Deathevan rather than try to destroy him. But…" He hesitated, his voice heavy with foreboding.

"But what?" Ryu prompted, his heart sinking.

"The seal can only hold as long as the Brood Clan exists," Garr explained. "If the Brood is completely destroyed, the seal will break, and Deathevan will rise again. That must be why the Goddess orchestrated the genocide of your people, Ryu. She sought to ensure that nothing could stop Deathevan's return."

The room fell silent as the weight of Garr's words sank in. Ryu clenched his fists, his dragon blood boiling with a mix of anger and determination.

"We can't let that happen," Nina said firmly, breaking the silence. "We have to find a way to stop this before it's too late."

Garr nodded. "Agreed. But we'll need more than strength and resolve. If Deathevan's influence is spreading, we'll need to uncover the goddess's location and find a way to strengthen the seal—or risk the end of all life on this planet."

Ryu looked at his friends, his voice steady and resolute. "Then we'll do whatever it takes. We'll stop the Goddess, protect the Brood, and make sure Deathevan never rises again."

The team exchanged determined nods, united in their resolve. The road ahead would be perilous, but together, they were ready to face whatever darkness awaited them.

Nina's brow furrowed as she leaned forward, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. "That's all well and good, Garr, but how exactly are we supposed to stop the goddess? If Deathevan can't be destroyed and the Goddess's influence is growing, what's our plan?"

The room fell silent as the question hung in the air. Ryu and Rei exchanged glances, their determination unwavering but tinged with uncertainty. Garr, seated at the head of the table, closed his eyes for a moment, deep in thought. When he finally spoke, his voice was calm but resolute.

"To stop the Goddess," Garr began, "we must first ensure that Ryu can fully control the power of the Kaiser Dragon. Without that control, he risks losing himself to the transformation, and we'll have no chance of facing the goddess or protecting the Brood's legacy."

Ryu frowned. "I've been able to control my transformations so far. Why would the Kaiser Dragon be different?"

Garr's gaze was heavy as he met Ryu's eyes. "The Kaiser Dragon is unlike any other form. It embodies the raw, unchecked power of the Brood. Without the proper balance, that power will consume you, leaving nothing of yourself behind."

"Then how do we make sure that doesn't happen?" Rei asked, his tail flicking anxiously.

"There's only one way," Garr said. "We need to find the remaining members of the Brood. They possess the gene necessary to stabilize the transformation. With their help, Ryu will be able to unlock the full potential of the Kaiser Dragon without losing control."

Nina tilted her head, curiosity evident in her expression. "The Brood? I thought they were all wiped out."

Garr's lips pressed into a thin line. "Most were. But I've heard whispers of survivors—those who went into hiding during the genocide. They still exist, they're the key to everything. I have been looking for them for centuries until I met Ryu. I am sure he is not the last."

"And where do we find them?" Ryu asked. "If you haven't found them, what chance do we have?"

"That," Garr said, leaning forward, "is where things get complicated. Only one being knows where the surviving Brood can be found—a being known as Deis."

"Deis?" Nina repeated, the name unfamiliar to her.

Garr nodded. "Deis was once an ally of the Brood, a powerful entity who opposed the Goddess during the Great War centuries ago. She sided with the Brood to protect the balance of the world, but after the guardians won the Great War against the Brood, Deis was captured and we tried to get her to tell us where the remaining Brood are hiding. Deis, never revealed their location, so she was sealed away to prevent her from interfering with the Goddess's plan ever again."

"Sealed away where?" Rei asked.

"In Angel Tower," Garr answered. "Her prison is hidden deep within the tower, locked away behind a powerful barrier."

Ryu's jaw tightened. "Then we'll go there and free her. If she knows where to find the Brood, we need her."

"It's not that simple," Garr said, his expression darkening. "The seal on Deis can't be broken by just anyone. The key to unsealing her lies with a specific being—a Guardian who has lost the Goddess's blessing. Only this Guardian can break the seal and release Deis."

"Then we'll find this Guardian," Nina said firmly. "Who is it?"

Garr hesitated for a moment before answering. "The Guardian's name is Gaist. I do know where he is hiding. After losing the Goddess's blessing, he fled to a secret place, far from her reach. I can take you there."

Rei smirked, cracking his knuckles. "Sounds like a plan to me. Let's find this Gaist and get that seal broken."

Ryu nodded, his resolve firm. "If Deis can help us, then we'll do whatever it takes to find her. Lead the way, Garr."

Garr rose from his seat, his towering presence commanding attention. "Prepare yourselves. The path ahead won't be easy, but it's the only way to stop the Goddess and ensure Deathevan stays sealed."

The team exchanged determined glances, their purpose clear. The road to Angel Tower and beyond would be fraught with danger, but together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead. The fate of the world depended on it.