Panel 1:*
A dimly lit alleyway, filled with the remnants of a recent heist. Neon lights from nearby signs cast a flickering glow. A group of criminals are gathered, discussing their loot with excitement.
*Criminal 1:* "We've hit it big tonight!"
*Criminal 2:* "Let's get out of here before anyone notices."
*Panel 2:*
A cold breeze sweeps through the alley. The criminals' conversation dies down as they sense something unsettling. They start looking around, uneasy.
*Criminal 3 (uneasily):* "Did anyone else feel that?"
*Panel 3:*
From above, a shadowy figure descends gracefully. Ardyn lands softly, his presence unnoticed until now. The criminals' faces shift from excitement to confusion.
*Criminal 1 (looking up, startled):* "Who's that?"
*Panel 4:*
Ardyn steps forward, his exoskeleton catching the neon light. He stands silent, his multifaceted eyes reflecting the criminals' growing apprehension.
*Criminal 2 (voice trembling):* "What do you want from us?"
*Panel 5:*
Ardyn extends his claws slightly, demonstrating their sharpness by slicing through a piece of metal on the ground. The metal clinks as it falls away. The criminals watch, wide-eyed.
*Ardyn:* "I'm here to assess those who might pose a threat to the order I seek to establish."
*Panel 6:*
The criminals try to make sense of the situation, their previous bravado replaced by nervousness. One of them stammers, attempting to negotiate.
*Criminal 3 (nervously):* "Look, we're just small-time crooks. We don't want any trouble."
*Panel 7:*
Ardyn doesn't speak, but his presence is imposing. He walks around them, observing closely. He pauses, his eyes scanning each criminal.
*Panel 8:*
Ardyn's gaze lands on a small device hidden among the loot—a device he knows to be a tracking tool. He picks it up and examines it with interest.
*Ardyn (thought bubble):* "This could be useful. It's a sign of something larger. Perhaps a test of influence."
*Panel 9:*
Ardyn places the device back and stands tall. He addresses the criminals with an air of authority.
*Ardyn:* "You're fortunate this time. This city has much to offer, and I'm only beginning to understand its potential."
*Panel 10:*
The criminals, relieved but still nervous, begin to retreat, avoiding eye contact with Ardyn. They leave the alley quickly, whispering among themselves.
*Criminal 1 (whispering):* "We should stay away from here."
*Panel 11:*
Ardyn watches them leave, his expression unreadable. He turns his attention to the city skyline, contemplating his next move.
*Caption:* "The city is vast and filled with hidden threats. Ardyn's hunt is only beginning."
*Panel 12:*
Ardyn stands on a high rooftop, overlooking the city. His eyes scan the horizon, filled with determination.
*Ardyn (thought bubble):* "This city holds many secrets. I will uncover them and establish my own order."
*Panel 13:*
A close-up of Ardyn's face, showing his cold resolve. His transformation is complete, and he is ready for the challenges ahead.
*Caption:* "The apex predator's journey is just beginning. The hunt continues."
*End of Chapter 2*