Prologue

They say midnight's the worst time, 'cause it's when trouble finds you. I always brushed it off as old superstition, but what's happening now... It's the trouble I never thought I'd see. Here I am, backed into a corner, blood seeping from my stomach, staring at his face. Blood splattered across it, making a twisted mess against his skin. As I lay there, my back against the cold concrete, I couldn't help but notice the vibrant murals surrounding me. The alley was a canvas of colorful characters from beloved cartoons, each mural telling its own story. A mischievous mouse grinned from one wall, while a heroic figure with a flowing cape soared across another.

The alley seemed to come alive with the energy of these larger-than-life characters, their expressions frozen in time but still full of vitality. A sense of whimsy clashed with the grim reality of my situation, creating an eerie contradiction that sent shivers down my spine.

Despite the chaos around me, I found myself drawn to the intricate details of each mural. Every stroke of paint told a tale of creativity and imagination, offering a brief escape from the harshness of the world outside.

Yet, even amidst this vibrant display, the darkness of the alley loomed menacingly, serving as a stark reminder of the danger lurking in the shadows. The murals, while captivating, couldn't shield me from the harsh reality of the present moment.

'Is this how it all goes down?' I wonder, staring at the murals. Killed by someone trying to cover up another murder.

My thoughts raced as I struggled to comprehend the gravity of the situation. Pain pulsed through my body, each heartbeat sending waves of agony. I could feel the warmth of my own blood pooling beneath me, the metallic scent filling the air.

But in the darkness behind the murderer, a glimmer catches my eye.

"Radiant Blade!" she shouts.

Suddenly, a beam of light rushes toward me.