Chapter 26: The Hunt Begins
A Dire Message
The sun had just begun to set over The Ashen Peaks, casting long shadows across the rugged mountains. Kairo, Renjiro, Ayaka, and Juno were finishing their intense training session under the guidance of the Phoenix Master when a messenger arrived, exhausted and breathless.
"Kairo Tenma!" the messenger called, bowing slightly before handing him a sealed scroll. "A message from Lady Kaida."
Kairo's heart pounded as he ripped the seal and quickly scanned the message. His face darkened with each line.
"Hizashi is dead. His body was found in the desert. A letter from Raizen was discovered on him—he vows to kill every warrior who fought alongside your father."
The scroll nearly slipped from Kairo's hands. His breath became heavy, and his fists clenched so tightly that his nails dug into his palms.
"He's really doing it…" Kairo muttered. His golden eyes burned with anger.
Reactions of Kairo's Friends
Ayaka stepped forward, her lunar fox aura flickering subtly around her. "Kairo… I know how much this hurts, but don't lose yourself in rage." Her voice was soft, but firm.
Renjiro crossed his arms, his usual carefree demeanor replaced with a serious look. "Raizen is hunting down the warriors who were with your father. If we don't stop him, more will die."
Juno, always the most level-headed of them, adjusted his glasses. "This confirms that Raizen isn't just after revenge—he has a plan. He's eliminating key warriors for a reason. We need to figure out his next target before it's too late."
Kairo exhaled sharply. He could feel his Phoenix Power stirring inside him, reacting to his emotions. He wanted to go after Raizen immediately, to end this once and for all.
But Ayaka's words rang in his ears—"Don't lose yourself."
Decision at The Ashen Peaks
The Phoenix Master stepped forward, his sharp gaze piercing into Kairo's soul. "You are not ready," he stated simply. "If you chase after Raizen now, you will lose. Control your power first, then face him as an equal."
Kairo took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. He hated it, but he knew the master was right.
He turned to his friends. "We'll finish my training. But once I've mastered my Phoenix Power… we're going after Raizen."
Ayaka, Renjiro, and Juno all nodded in agreement.
The hunt had begun.
To be continued-