(Chapter unfolds : 19)
The words of that woman lingered in their minds like a heavy burden. Leaving the shop behind, the two of them began their trek toward the monastery on the hill.
"How much further to the monastery?" Haru asked.
"A little more," Jinso replied, checking the map in his hand.
Not a single villager was outside. They felt as though fear-filled eyes were watching them from inside every house they passed.
The path to the hilltop was overgrown and wild. As they climbed higher, the air grew increasingly cold.
"Haru..." Jinso stopped abruptly. He gripped the hilt of his sword and stood still for a moment, scanning the surroundings.
"What's wrong?" Haru asked.
"Do you remember those stones Nobaya showed us? My sword is feeling that same vibration right now."
Jinso held his sword tightly, sensing the tremors.
"It's a very strong one!"
Haru looked at his own sword. It, too, was shaking slightly.
"That means we've reached our destination. That Zek is somewhere nearby."
When they reached the hilltop, they saw a massive, crumbling building. What was once a sacred monastery now stood silent as a graveyard. The shadows of giant trees fell upon the structure like monstrous figures.
Suddenly!
A piercing scream echoed from inside the monastery. It was the cry of a small child.
"Jinso..." Haru said, tightening his grip on his sword. "The one we're looking for is inside!"
The two of them pushed open the massive doors of the monastery and entered. The sight inside made their blood run cold. In the center of the hall, amidst swirls of ashy smoke, stood a figure. His body was so distorted it was impossible to tell if he was human or something else. His eyes glowed with a brilliant red light.
At his feet, a small child lay shivering and crying in terror. A faint grey aura was spreading around the child's body. The Zek was attempting to pull the child's soul out.
"Let him go!"
Haru drew his sword.
Hearing the voice, the figure slowly turned around. A strange, twisted smile spread across his face.
"Sapahans... so Nobaya finally sent his hunting dogs, did he?"
"You... you know us?" Jinso asked, drawing his own sword.
"I know the scent of Shapta... the scent of that ancient power coming from your blades," the Zek said, rising slowly and walking toward them.
As he moved, he swept his hand through the air, and the skeletons of those he had killed rose as if coming to life, walking alongside him.
"You are too late. This child's soul is mine now!" he said with a laugh.
Haru and Jinso gripped their swords firmly, realizing they would have to put all their training to use here. Their first real battle was about to begin.