In Ikusaka Inn, earth-shattering changes were happening.
Sinister trees were constantly sprouting from the houses, their surging growth crushing buildings and roads alike.
Trunks swollen with gnarled knots wriggled like pulsating flesh, surging up and down. The densely packed branches rustled, covered with dark green leaves veined in blood-red.
Vast swathes of luscious Red Spider Lilies were spreading madly across all corners of Ikusaka Inn.
Both the sacred Fusan Trees and Red Spider Lilies were voraciously absorbing the land's nutrients.
"This way!"
Yuuki led his group near Anzai's house, spotting a small figure on the street.
It was a child, a boy of about seven or eight.
His soft, tousled hair was matted with blood, yet there wasn't a trace of metallic scent— instead, he exuded a heavy, tranquil aroma of incense.