Chapter 39: Trial(12): Winter

Kyle laughed softly.

"I finally made it."

"We can go back."

"The gate will close."

His smile warm with a hint of shock. His face pale.

"Right, Val?"

"The five of us…"

He stared below the runes shining.

"We can all still leave togeth—"

The next second, a slash ran across his neck. Blood slowly emerging from his cut. His head falling down from his body. His gaze proud, even in his last breath.

The last one of his comrades now dead. Each second created pain in his heart. His heartbeat growing quicker each second. His chest aching, his mind resounding.

HOW…

CAN I BE SO USELESS!

Izanami right behind, the blade of Val's katana in her hand now away from her body.

Val stared, his emotions gone. His mind as empty as his eyes.

His hands beginning to grow cold. His head down low.

Izanami spoke, her voice vile and joyous.

"Oh, look at that…"