[HI3] Protocol Stigmata

Chapter 33 - Key of Corruption (2)

As the first light of dawn painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, we finally arrived at our destination, Yae-gu in Shinano, Japan. The village lay before us, serene and picturesque against the backdrop of the morning sun.

"Finally, we made it," I murmured, feeling a wave of relief wash over me.

Kiana's eyes widened in awe as she took in the scenery. "Wow, it's so beautiful here."

Fu Hua nodded, her expression serious as she surveyed the surroundings. "Indeed, but we must remain vigilant. The Key of Corruption may be hidden within this village."

Kiana pouted at Fu Hua's caution, "Come on, Class President, can't we enjoy the moment?"

Fu Hua relented with a sigh, "Fine, but remember, we're here on a mission."

"Got it!" Kiana grinned, her excitement undiminished.

Just then, the doors of the battleship opened slowly, revealing the path that lay ahead of us.

Even the air here is fresh.

As we stepped onto the soil of Yae-gu, the battleship departed, leaving us with nothing but our baggage.

"Let's move," Fu Hua stated, her tone firm as she took the lead.

I glanced around, feeling a sense of uncertainty in this unfamiliar place. "Do you know where we're going?"

Fu Hua nodded confidently. "Yes, Major Himeko briefed me while you two were resting."

I nodded, feeling a pang of guilt for sleeping through the briefing. "Sorry about that."

Fu Hua waved off my apology. "It's fine. Let's focus on the task at hand."

With Fu Hua leading the way, we followed the path towards the stairs of the shrine. The air was cool and refreshing, carrying the scent of nature with it.

As we ascended the steps, the solemn aura of the shrine enveloped us. Each footfall echoed softly against the stone walls, creating a reverent atmosphere.

Upon reaching the top of the stairs, we stood before the entrance to the shrine. The wooden doors stood tall and imposing, adorned with intricate carvings.

Fu Hua paused, her gaze fixed on the doors. "This is where we'll find the one we seek."

"Hm? A visitor?" A gentle voice interrupted our conversation, and we turned to see a woman putting a broom aside. She wore a shrine maiden's attire, and her cherry blossom pink hair cascaded gracefully around her. "Hm? That symbol... you must be from St. Freya?"

"Yes, we're here to investigate and retrieve the Key of Corruption," Fu Hua replied.

The shrine maiden paused, her smile warm and welcoming. "My name is Yae Sakura, the head shrine priestess." She bowed elegantly.

"Woah~ She's pretty, right?" Kiana whispered excitedly in my ear.

I couldn't help but agree. "Definitely."

"My name is Fu Hua, and this is Kiana Kaslana and Shin Watanabe," Fu Hua introduced us.

Yae Sakura nodded in acknowledgment, her eyes filled with a gentle understanding. "Welcome to Yae-gu. Please, follow me. You must be hungry after all the travel."

"Oh, no, we're really not-" Fu Hua began to decline the offer, but before she could finish, a loud rumble echoed from Kiana's stomach.

Fu Hua and I exchanged a bemused glance as Kiana laughed sheepishly. "Uhm~ Ehehe~" she chuckled, rubbing the back of her neck.