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As Yamasaki and Khoi ventured deeper into the forest, the atmosphere grew increasingly ominous, much like what Yanato had sensed. However, neither of them seemed perturbed or unnerved by it. They displayed a stoic resolve, as if they had encountered and weathered far more menacing circumstances in the past.
"The atmosphere is becoming somewhat stifling, as if we're on the verge of something dangerous. Be prepared, Khoi," Yamasaki cautioned. His arm slowly transformed into a scythe-like blade, a manifestation of his readiness for any potential confrontations that might arise.
Khoi mirrored his father's preparations, with tree roots rising from the ground, attesting to his ability to command the forces of nature. Both of them readied themselves for what lay ahead as they pressed further into the forest, the palpable tension in the air intensifying with each step.
As Yamasaki and Khoi moved forward, their backs turned to the surroundings, a sudden figure charged toward them at rapid speed, preparing to launch an attack. Just in time, one of Khoi's roots shot up from the ground, intercepting and blocking the oncoming strike. The unexpected defense alerted both Yamasaki and Khoi to the threat.
In a swift and decisive move, Yamasaki retaliated, launching a powerful kick that sent the figure hurtling through the air. The attacker collided with a tree and let out a groan of pain, temporarily incapacitated. Yamasaki and Khoi stood ready, their senses heightened, as they observed the fallen figure and remained prepared for any further encounters.
The figure, who had limped back to his feet using a tree for support, combed his disheveled red hair back. He fixed his gaze upon Yamasaki and Khoi, regaining his composure.
"Hmph, mortals have certainly evolved and can now challenge their gods, but don't be so quick to assume you can defeat me... ME! RHYS! THE GOD OF LOVE!" he declared with immense pride, his chest puffed out.
Yamasaki and Khoi exchanged glances before turning their attention back to Rhys, the self-proclaimed God of Love. Yamasaki couldn't help but snicker to himself, finding the concept rather amusing. "God of Love? Well, that should be Fuuka's role if she were ever a god... I can't take this guy seriously," he remarked, lacing his words with a hint of sarcasm.
Rhys's face twisted with rage at the mocking comment, clearly not appreciating Yamasaki's humor.
Rhys paused, his gaze fixed on Yamasaki as he raised his hand and began reciting a curse. The air stirred, the winds growing stronger with each word he spoke:
"By the frigid heart, veiled in enigma deep,
Let concealed longings awaken from their sleep,
Cursed to love, turned to obsession's cruel thrall,
May lusting desires consume you, to oblivion's call."
However, before Rhys could complete the curse, his incantation was abruptly halted by a powerful punch delivered by Fuuka. "EAT THIS, YOU PIECE OF—"
Fuuka's words were cut short as she locked eyes with Yamasaki. A delighted smile spread across her face, and she exclaimed, "SAKIIIII!~" Her happiness at seeing her husband overshadowed any anger she might have felt towards Rhys.
Fuuka rushed to her husband, wrapping him in a warm and affectionate hug, her happiness at seeing him radiating from her. Yamasaki reciprocated the embrace, patting her back gently before looking around, his attention turning to their missing children.
"Where are the other kids?" Yamasaki inquired, his concern evident. Fuuka released the hug and met his gaze. "I'm still searching for them... but they're around here somewhere," she replied, her determination to find their children unwavering.
Yamasaki nodded in understanding, ready to continue the search for their missing children. However, Fuuka was resolute in her decision, insisting that he and Khoi should leave and that she would find their kids and resolve the issue on her own. She didn't want to burden her husband.
"I understand your concern, but seeing you take this *something* so seriously worries me, especially with the kids missing," Yamasaki expressed his concerns, but the discussion was interrupted.
Khoi's attention was diverted when he spotted Kadi emerging from the bushes. Kadi was completely out of breath, in a state of panic. Both Yamasaki and Fuuka rushed to their son's side, their concern palpable.
"Kadi! Are you okay? Where are the others?" Fuuka anxiously inquired. Kadi, still panting heavily and wheezing, explained the situation. Yanato, Louis, and Zumi had gotten into a confrontation with some so-called divines and had requested Kadi to seek his parents' help.
Overwhelmed with exhaustion and panic, Kadi ultimately passed out. Khoi swiftly caught his unconscious brother, slinging him over his shoulder. He assured his parents that he would take care of Kadi and that they should proceed to find the others. With a wave of his hand, tree roots gently set Kadi on the ground while Khoi began to tend to his brother. The two couples exchanged a determined glance and ran off to search for the missing trio, leaving Khoi and Kadi behind.
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[ 828 Words ]
