Chapter 22: The Message Wrapped in Blood

Akari didn't lower her sword.

But she didn't strike either.

After a long, brutal silence, she sheathed her blade in one fluid motion and stepped back.

"You have three days," she said flatly.

"To prove you're not what they say you are."

"To prove the gods are wrong."

Kai exhaled like he'd been holding his breath for years.

Then nodded. "Three days."

[System Update: Divine Hunter Pact Initiated]

Target: Kai Veyron

Hunter: Akari Morimoto

Trial Duration: 72 hours

Victory Conditions:

[1] Hunter changes allegiance

[2] Hero willingly surrenders

[3] Hunter eliminates the Catalyst

Later that night, tension buzzed through the camp like static.

No one trusted Akari.

Especially Elira — who hadn't taken her hand off her sword since the standoff.

"She's going to try to kill you," she said quietly, pulling Kai aside.

"I know."

"Then why let her stay?"