Chapter 11

Shizuku (addressing the captains):
We’ve secured the Earth Fragment, thanks to Azalea’s cooperation. The Sigil Chamber’s stable for now. Good work, Asche.

Asche (nodding, serious):
Insertion went smoother than expected. The balance is holding.

Berwick (leaning in, adjusting his glasses):
The floral kingdom is safe, but the sigil fragments are still scattered. Our next destination — the Outskirts of Meeresboden. The fragment of Caliginosity.

Eris (frowning):
Kifo. The Primordial of Darkness. Notorious for his temper and… unusual fashion choices.

Alto (crossing arms, amused):
Yeah, tribal wear and a dragon skull helmet isn’t exactly subtle.

Shizuku (serious):
Kifo stands at 5'6, dark-skinned, with that helmet. We can’t underestimate him. His fragment fuels a lot of the shadows in the universe — and if Kakia gains control of it, everything could collapse.

Lily (adjusting her glasses, focused):
What do we know about his current disposition? Is he cooperative?

Shizuku:
That’s unknown. Kifo is a primordial, but he’s notoriously distant and prideful. This won’t be a diplomatic handover. Prepare for resistance.

Astera (grinning):
Well, that sounds like fun. Right up our alley.

Berwick (dryly):
“Fun” isn’t exactly how I’d describe it.

Shizuku:
We move fast. We’re running out of time. The stability of the entire universe depends on collecting these fragments before Kakia or anyone else tries to consolidate power.

The holographic map zooms in on a rugged, shadow-streaked region on the outer edge of Meeresboden — the Outskirts.

Shizuku (pointing):
This is our next stop. The Outskirts of Meeresboden. Watch your backs. Kifo’s domain is dark in more ways than one.

Everyone exchanges determined looks.

Shizuku (firm): Universal Guard, prepare to mobilize.