Tower of Biringan City

CHAPTER 4: The Love in his Eyes are true.

Days came into weeks, and despite the passing of time, the Guardians’ memories of Eris and their meeting with the hooded person persisted like a lingering shadow. Illumi, in particular, struggled to forget the horrific monster they had encountered. The conflict, the strange darkness, and Eris’ puzzling thoughts filled his mind.

Illumi chose to spend a quiet evening with Coleen in order to find comfort and relaxation. They selected their favorite restaurant, one that will be remembered fondly by them. Illumi looked into Coleen’s eyes, trying to find solace in her company.

“You seem distant, Illumi,” Coleen observed, her voice concerned. “Is something bothering you?”

Illumi paused for a bit before speaking. “It’s the monster we fought, and Eris. I can’t shake off the feeling that something bigger is going on, something beyond our understanding.”

Coleen softly squeezed Illumi’s hand across the table. “We’ll face whatever comes our way together. You’re not alone in this you have your friends now, Illumi.”

Her comments brought a brief sense of comfort, but as they walked home, Illumi found it difficult to escape the haunting recollections. After saying goodnight to Coleen, Illumi returned to his training room, hoping that the usual routine would help him relax.

Illumi’s motions were optimal and his attention was precise amid the peaceful silence of his training environment. He launched a barrage of punches, his body moving with elegance. Despite his physical strength, his mind kept returning to the encounter with the monster. The way it had erupted from the shadows, the overwhelming force it had – it all felt unearthly, unlike anything they had ever encountered.

He was frustrated as he resumed his exercise, his muscles aching with each action. He couldn’t let fear or uncertainty dominate him. SF-Zero relied on his power and leadership. He increased his exercise intensity, expecting to weary his body sufficiently to hush his worried mind.

Hours passed, but Illumi saw no relief. The monster entity’s recollection and Eris’ cryptic remarks tormented him, making him restless and uncomfortable. He vowed to dive further into their objective, looking for any insight or edge that may help them fight against the coming threat.

Illumi immediately pressed his phone, calling all SF-Zero members for an emergency meeting. As the Guardians gathered in the traditional conference room, his powerful and uncompromising voice boomed throughout the headquarters.

“Guardians of SF-Zero,” Illumi said in a commanding voice, “the time has come. We have a plan, and we are prepared. Tomorrow at dawn, we launch our raid on the Tower’s first stage. Our city depends on us, and I have complete faith in each one of you.”

The Guardians exchanged resolute glances, their preparation gleaming in their eyes, filling the chamber with a strong air of purpose.

“We’ll face challenges, but we’ll face them together,” Illumi said calmly. “Trust in your training, trust in each other, and let our unity be our strength. Together, we will prevail. Let’s make SF-Zero proud.”

The Guardians nodded in unison as those words strengthened their commitment. The gathering ended with a sense of purpose and resolve. Each member of SF-Zero exited the room, ready to confront the impending raid with unyielding courage, confident that their togetherness and dedication would guide them through the darkness that lied ahead.

In the conference room of SF-Zero’s headquarters, Illumi stood tall, his voice resonating with authority as he addressed the gathering of brave souls. The room was adorned with ancient maps and mystical artifacts, an ambiance reminiscent of a forgotten era. The members of SF-Zero, along with the valiant members of White Maidens and Phantom of Death, gathered around, their eyes reflecting the determination that burned within their hearts.

“My fellow Awakeners and allies,” Illumi began, his words carrying the weight of responsibility, “today I’ll ask for your cooperation for the day we execute the plan to raid the unknown depths of Sulu, the first sub-stage of this treacherous realm. The Dangga, a cunning and captivating creature, guards the key we seek. With the combined strength of our guilds, we shall prevail.”

Cristina, the courageous captain and her Vice Captain Lei of White Maidens, met Illumi’s gaze, their eyes shimmering with resolve. Despite their initial disappointment, they understood the gravity of their mission and the necessity of their roles.

With a flicker of anticipation in the air, Illumi continued to explain the intricacies of their plan, detailing the weaknesses of the Amalanhig, he explained that Amalanhig are zombie like creatures that scared of water and the importance of luring the Dangga away from the key. Dangga was a handsome creatures that baits the women to become his victim. The room was filled with hushed murmurs and nods of understanding as the guild members absorbed the information.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the room, Illumi called for a moment of unity. His voice resonating with a deep, sonorous and confident tone, “This will be an easy task as you have me on your side.”

Hands joined together at that honored moment, a sense of solidarity pervaded the crowd. The Guardians and their friends stayed firm, united by a common goal and unwavering commitment. They prepared to go on the risky voyage into the unknown, their hearts reinforced and spirits blazing, their trust in each other gleaming brighter than the stars that decorated the night sky.

And so, as the clock struck midnight, Illumi, alongside his fellow awakeners, White Maidens, and Phantom of Death, stepped into the mystical realm of Sulu. Their fate hung in the balance, but their determination was unbreakable, for in the face of darkness, the light of their unity would guide them through the shadows and into the heart of the enemy’s lair.