Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

- Now, I looked this up a short while ago (3rd March 2024), and I literally found only a few books on this anime, with only a few being quite fleshed out, and with ONE specifically being its own original story with a completely new set of characters. SO, I will take it upon myself to create one!

- I've been trying to keep up with the manga, however as of now, I will be relying heavily on the info provided by the anime, so if I manage to complete the chapters that connect to Season 2 storyline of the anime, we will have to wait until the next season comes out. (I think that's around late 2024-25 :( )

- I would HIGHLY recommend either reading the manga or watching the anime, however I must warn you: The themes and elements explored in this story are HEAVY, so if you are disturbed easily, I would vote against you reading my story or watching the anime/manga.

Chapter Text

Y/N = Your name

Welcome to the Abyss = Narration

"Welcome to the Abyss." = Speaking

"Welcome to the Abyss" = Thoughts

Welcome to the Abyss = Previous Chapter 

------------------- = Change in perspective / time skip, or cut away to another event

- I have somewhat of a plan as to what I will write about, story beats and such, however there are still some wrinkles that I need to iron out in certain sections, so bear with me while I do this lol.

- As for the [S1], [S2] etc in the title. That refers to the season of the show that the chapter takes part in, so [S1] = Season 1 and so on. 

* NOTE: For the movie [Dawn of the Deep Soul] chapters, I will be listing them as [S1.5], because TECHNICALLY they take place between Season 1 & 2.

- I would HIGHLY recommend either reading the manga or watching the anime, however I must warn you: The themes and elements explored in this story are HEAVY, so if you are disturbed easily, I would vote against you reading my story or watching the anime/manga.

* NOTE: Please let me know what you think about the story in the comments, as this is one of the best anime's that I have watched, and I wanna make sure that this story is at least 10% as good as it's storytelling.

[OPTIONAL IMMERSION] - Season 1 OP & Ending

- Opening [ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e91G8m9uM_0&t=1s ]

(NOTE - Just for some 'immersion' if you want it. During this title sequence, Y/N appears in the same shot as Ozen and Marulk.)

(This is where Y/N appears, his back is turned, not showing his face.)

(This changes however, when Reg and Riko meet him in '[S1] Chapter 7'. His face will be turned around, his face now being shown, and his hood down.)

- Ending [ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=In2PzM9zaPQ&t=1s ]

(NOTE - Just for some 'immersion' if you want it. During this ending sequence, Y/N appears in the same shot as Ozen and Marulk. After which he is with them for the rest of the sequence)

[WHEN EATING - Y/N is standing up to the right of Reg, eating the food with a smile]

[WHEN ORBY APPEARS - Y/N jumps towards the Orb Piercer, sword in hand]

[WHEN FALLING ON BIG LEAFS - Y/N is upside-down / going head first]

[WHEN MEETING NANACHI - Y/N is standing with crossed arms, and a surprised expression]

[4TH LAYER WALK - Reg and Riko walk together, while Y/N and Nanachi walk together]

[RUBBING NANACHI IN CAVE SECTION - Riko is hugging Nanachi, and Y/N is bonking Reg on the head]

[WALK THROUGH THE CAVE - Riko is walking ahead, with Reg trying to keep up, Y/N is listening to Nanachi talk about something]

[GROUP FALLS DOWN CAVE - Reg extends his arm, holding Riko's hand, Riko holds Nanachi's hand, Y/N extends his arm, holding Nanachi's hand]

[GROUP LANDS ON GROUND - Y/N lands next in between Reg and Nanachi]

Chapter Text

NOTE - ALL OF THIS INFORMATION IS RELEVANT TO THE [S0] PORTION OF THE STORY.

Name: Y/N

Gender: Male

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Blue Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics: 

Hair - Dirty Brown hair with golden tips

Eyes - Light Shade of brown

Skin - Olive skin tone

Height - (Chapter 1) - 130cm / 4ft 2'

Height - (Chapter 6) - 170cm / 5ft 5'

Age - (Chapter 1) - 11 (By sheer looks alone)

Age - (Chapter 6) - 17 (Estimate)

Attitude / Personality: 

* Originally, very territorial and untrusting (due to Ozen's 'approach'). However, as time goes on, he has begun to trust those around him.

* Calm when with his group, however on edge whenever in the presence of Ozen.

* Over the years, has come to see Ozen as a mentor (even though it did take him a while to get Ozen to agree to him being her apprentice).

* Is eager to learn about the art of Cave raiding, however Ozen has refused to take him under her wing. (Y/N sneaks off from his duties to read about the abyss and what it means to be a 'cave raider'.).

* Surprisingly good when in combat (although he lacks skill and coordination).

* Has a severe case of amnesia, and could not even recall his own name (originally, Ozen wanted to call him 'shitbird', because when he was found, some hammer-beaks had used him as a toilet

(No cape or helmet, just the pants.)

(Also , the black lines are deep cuts in the metal of his arm, similar to the right side of Reg's helmet)

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Name: The Unmovable Sovereign - Ozen

Gender: Female

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (White Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Black and Grey

Eyes - Dull Black

Skin - Grey

Height - 230cm / 7ft 5'

Age - 60+ (Due to her use of a Relic, she has remained relatively unaffected by ageing).

Attitude / Personality:

* A coldness dominates her personality, and she can often be cruel, cynical and apathetic.

* She despises lying to children, and rarely lies to them, even if it means telling them brutal truths.

* She is not completely devoid of emotion, as it is has been shown that she secretly and dearly cares for people such as Lyza.

* She enjoys eating a variety of different things, whether they taste good or bad.

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Name: Marulk

Gender: Male (If you have a keen sense of smell, you can discover his secret)

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Blue Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Blue

Eyes - Blue

Skin - Pale

Height - 130cm / 4ft 2'

Age (Chapter 4) - 12

Age (Chapter 6) - 14

Attitude / Personality:

* He is a rather shy, but polite, individual who seems to be lonely because he manages the Seeker Camp as its Sentry.

* Fears pretty much everyone at the seeker camp, especially Ozen.

* He's very reluctant to talk about his clothing. When mentioned, he becomes very nervous.

* His first and only 'real' friend / role model has been Y/N, and even that's somewhat of a stretch ever since 'the accident'.

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Name: Simred / Zapo / Yelme

Gender: Male / Male / Male

Occupation: Cave Raiders - Ranks (Black Whistle / Moon Whistle / Moon Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Brown / White / Dark Green

Eyes - Black / Grey / Green

Skin - White / Tan / White

Height - 5ft 10' / 5ft 5' / 5ft 7'

Age (Chapter 1) - 21 / 54 / 17

Age (Chapter 6) - 27 / 60 / 23

Attitude / Personality:

* Some of, if not all of these members have a criminal record.

* All are usually laid back, however fall into line either when ordered to do something by Ozen.

* When on expeditions, they do attempt to secretly steal relics for their own gain. Ozen doesn't really care all too much. However, if something of value is found (3rd Grade or above), Ozen will take it and send it to the surface to be sold.

(MINUS MARULK)

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Name: Habolg

Gender: Male

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Black Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Bushy

Eyes - Brown

Skin - White (usually dirty)

Height - 200cm / 6ft 5'

Age - 36

Attitude / Personality:

* Hablog is a very bright and kind person with a rather high level of curiosity.

* He aims for the title of the legendary White Whistle, and remains optimistic, although he has remained a Black Whistle for several years.

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Name: Jiruo

Gender: Male

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Red Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - White

Eyes - Blue

Skin - White

Height - 130cm / 4ft 2'

Age - 14

Attitude / Personality:

* Although he misses his mentor, he strives to do as good a job as he can when it comes to Cave Raiding. He wishes to become a moon whistle as quickly as possible, both to impress his mentor, while also helping anyone lower than him to improve and excel.

* Although he keeps this to himself, he carries a deep care for his mentor's infant child. His mentor entrusted him to take care of the child while they were gone, and he has made sure to do so over his time at the Balchero Orphanage.

* Enjoys the times when his new friend Y/N visits the surface, however this is usually only for a breif period, as Y/N is seemingly only ever on the surface to run errands for Ozen / the Seeker Camp.

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(AUTHOR NOTE): This is a sort of 'BIO' chapter, however it gives info on all major characters present in Season 0 of the story, while also giving a bit on Y/N as well. Don't worry, there will be a chapter revolving around what Y/N looks like and what he can do, so for now, just wait I guess lol.

Chapter Text

The Abyss. The name alone carries a weight that sends shivers down the spines of those who hear it. It is a place of legend, of mystery, of both wonder and horror. A colossal chasm that stretches deep into the earth, its depths cloaked in darkness and secrets unknown to those who lived on the surface. For centuries, it has captured the imagination of adventurers, scholars, and the curious alike, drawing them in with promises of untold riches, forgotten knowledge, and relics of a bygone era.

But the Abyss is no ordinary pit. It is a world unto itself, with its own ecosystems, creatures and rules. Each layer of the Abyss is a distinct realm, progressively more dangerous and alien as one descends further into its depths. The surface is but a threshold to the vast unknown below, where even the bravest souls hesitate before taking the plunge.

The first layer, known as the "Edge of the Abyss," is a relatively tame environment, a place where novice cave raiders—those who dared to explore the Abyss—cut their teeth. Sunlight still reaches these depths, and the flora and fauna were reminiscent of those found on the surface. Yet, even here, the Abyss's mysteries begin to reveal themselves.

The second layer, "The Forest of Temptation," is where the true dangers begin. Thick jungles, towering trees, and treacherous landscapes test the mettle of those who ventured within. The creatures here are more aggressive, the environment more hostile. Yet, it is also here that the first hints of the Abyss's treasures can be found—relics from ancient civilizations, imbued with mystery.

Deeper still, the third layer, "The Great Fault," is a vertical chasm within the Abyss, a sheer drop that separates the explorers from the world above. Here, the curse of the Abyss—the mysterious force that afflicted those who tried to ascend—begins to take hold in earnest. Instead of mild headaches and vomiting, the mere attempt to return to the surface would cause intense nausea and hallucinations, often driving normal cave raiders insane.

The fourth layer, "The Goblet of Giants," is a realm of massive flora, where trees and plants grow to impossible sizes. It is a place where the curse intensifies, causing bleeding from every orifice for those who tried to ascend. The creatures here are monstrous and deadly, their forms twisted and enhanced by the Abyss's strange properties.

The fifth layer, "The Sea of Corpses," is an unforgiving cold landscape, filled with an even colder ocean. At this depth, the curse causes the loss of all senses, leaving raiders disoriented and vulnerable. Only the most experienced cave raiders dared venture here, and fewer still returned to tell the tale.

Beyond this lay the sixth layer, "The Capital of the Unreturned." A name that is both a warning and a promise. Those who attempt to return from this depth are said to lose their humanity, transforming into something other, or simply dying outright. The curse of the sixth layer is the most feared, as it marked the point of no return for all.

The seventh layer however, shrouded in mystery, is a place of legend. Few have ever seen it, but no one has returned from it. It is said to be the final destination for those who seek the TRUE bottom of the Abyss, the point where all secrets would be laid bare—if one could survive the journey down.

To navigate these layers, one needs more than just courage. Cave raiders are divided by rank, each denoted by the colour of their whistle, and thereby their skill:

The lowest rank, the Bells, are mere students, only allowed to learn about, but never venture into the Abyss. 

Above them are the Red Whistles, novices who can venture into the first layer but no further. 

Blue Whistles are intermediates, permitted to explore the second and third layers, whereas Moon Whistles are experienced raiders, skilled enough to reach the fourth layer.

The Black Whistles are masters of their craft, capable of surviving even the fifth layer, however few have actually tried. 

And at the pinnacle are the White Whistles—legends in their own right, individuals whose names are known throughout the world. They are the only ones who could delve into the sixth layer and beyond, their whistles fashioned through unknown means. 

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[5 YEARS SINCE LYZA'S LAST DIVE]

It was during one of Ozen's many patrols through the second layer, that something unusual caught her attention. The Forest of Temptation was as foreboding as ever, the massive trees casting long shadows over the dense undergrowth. The air was thick with the smell of damp earth, and the distant sounds of creatures echoed through the forest, creating an eerie symphony that few could listen to without a sense of dread.

Ozen moved through the forest with the ease of someone who had done so countless times. Her towering form brushed aside branches and foliage as if they were nothing, her steps silent despite her size. She was here not to explore, but to patrol, to ensure that nothing threatened the Seeker Camp she guarded so fiercely.

As she walked, something unusual caught her eye—a glint of light, something shiny reflecting the dim light of the Abyss. Frowning, Ozen altered her course, pushing through the thick undergrowth until she reached a small, hidden cave nestled between the massive roots of a tree.

The glint came again, more pronounced this time. Ozen's curiosity was piqued, though she would never admit to such a base emotion. She approached the cave with purpose, her sharp eyes scanning the interior as she pushed aside the branches blocking the entrance.

Inside the cave, partially hidden by rocks and dirt, was the body of what appeared to be a young boy. Ozen's eyes narrowed as she took in the sight. The boy looked to be around eleven years old, his small frame simply laying there, as if he had just suddenly collapsed. But something about him was decidedly off.

Ozen reached down and grabbed the figure by its leg, lifting it effortlessly into the air. Its body dangled limply, its head lolling to the side. Despite the rough treatment, there was a faint rise and fall to its chest—it was alive, though seemingly unconscious. Ozen's eyes roved over the relic's body, noting the strange metallic limbs that had replaced it's arms and legs. They were intricately designed, almost as if they were a natural part of it, yet undeniably artificial.

"What kind of relic are you?" Ozen mused aloud, her voice low and cold. She examined the body closely, noting the red markings that adorned its face, ribs, and shoulders. They were strange, to say the least. They weren't paint, or scarring, it was as if they too, were a part of its body.

"Tch." Ozen clicked her tongue, unimpressed yet slightly intrigued. She swung the strange body over her shoulder as if it weighed nothing, her thoughts already racing. It was a curiosity, certainly, but Ozen was not one to be moved by sentiment. The thing she was holding was either a valuable find or a potential threat—she would determine which soon enough.

As she made her way back through the forest, the boy's unconscious form hanging over her shoulder, Ozen's mind was already working. Who—or what—was this thing? Had someone from the depths of the Abyss sent it, or was it a relic that had somehow gained a form of life? The possibilities were quite literally endless, but Ozen would uncover the truth, she always did, one way or another.

For now, she would take him to a 'specialist'. There, under her watchful eye, it would either prove it's worth or be discarded like so many other failed experiments of the Abyss.

As she disappeared into the shadows of the forest, the boy's fate hanging in the balance, one thing was certain: Ozen the Immovable had just discovered something that would change the course of events in the Abyss forever.

Chapter Text

[ 5 YEARS SINCE LYZA'S LAST DIVE ]

The cold night air clung to the edges of Orth as the city slept under a blanket of stars. The streets were empty, save for a few stray animals and the occasional flickering lantern that cast long shadows on the cobblestone paths. The distant hum of the Abyss was ever-present, a constant reminder of the chasm that lay at the heart of the city's very existence.

On the outskirts of Orth, a lone figure moved with purpose through the darkened streets. Ozen the Immovable, her towering form cloaked in shadows, carried the unconscious body that she had found deep within the second layer. It's small, limp body draped over her shoulder like a rag doll, its mechanical limbs reflecting the dim light as she walked.

Ozen's face was set in its usual impassive expression, though her mind churned with thoughts of the strange child. "What are you?" she had wondered aloud when she first found it. Now, she was determined to find out.

Her destination was a small, nondescript building on the very edge of Orth, one that few knew existed. It was the home of a 'doctor' who specialised in the more... unusual ailments that came from the Abyss. Ozen had dealt with him before, though she held little respect for the man. He was useful, nothing more.

Ozen pushed open the door to the clinic, the wooden frame creaking under her strength. Inside, the doctor—a wiry man with thinning hair and a pair of large spectacles perched on his nose—looked up in surprise. His eyes widened as he recognised Ozen, and then they darted to the boy she carried.

"O-Ozen!" the doctor stammered, quickly setting aside the book he had been reading. "What brings you here at this hour?"

Ozen didn't bother with pleasantries. She stepped forward, unceremoniously dropping the boy onto the examination table in the centre of the room, causing a loud, metallic thud to echo throughout the room. "Examine it." she ordered, her tone leaving no room for argument.

The doctor hesitated for a moment, his eyes flicking between Ozen and the unconscious boy. "This... child... is he—"

"A relic," Ozen interrupted, her voice cold and matter-of-fact. "Or something akin to one. I need to know what it is."

The doctor swallowed hard but nodded, turning his attention to the unconscious boy. He began his examination, his hands trembling slightly as he touched the cold metal of the boy's limbs. The more he looked, the more confused he became. "These... these are no ordinary prosthetics," he muttered to himself, adjusting his spectacles as he peered closer. "They're... integrated... seamless. How is this possible?"

Ozen watched with growing impatience as the doctor continued to mutter and poke at the boy's limbs. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the doctor stepped back, shaking his head.

"I... I don't know what he is," the doctor admitted, his voice tinged with fear. "There's nothing I can do for him. He's not... human. At least, not entirely."

Ozen's eyes narrowed, her frustration slightly bubbling to the surface. "Useless," she spat, grabbing the boy by the arm and pulling him off the table. The doctor flinched but said nothing, his eyes wide with a mixture of fear and curiosity.

Ozen left the clinic without another word, the door slamming shut behind her. The boy's limp body swung slightly with each of her steps as she made her way back through the darkened streets. Her thoughts were darker still.

"If it's no use to me, then there's only one thing left to do," Ozen thought, her mind made up. The boy was an aubade—a dangerous relic that could bring ruin if left unchecked. She had seen enough of the Abyss's horrors to know that some things were better destroyed than studied.

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Back at the Seeker Camp, deep within the second layer, Ozen set to work. The camp was quiet at this hour, the other cave raiders either asleep or on patrol. Ozen preferred it that way—she didn't need anyone questioning her actions, though they wouldn't dare to.

The body of the boy lay motionless on the ground as Ozen prepared herself. She had no doubts about what needed to be done, but there was a slight curiosity, a nagging question in the back of her mind: why hadn't she been able to destroy it already?

Ozen didn't waste time with half measures. First, she tried to crush the body's limbs, her immense strength bearing down on the metal with a force that could shatter solid stone. But the limbs didn't even dent, the metal holding firm under her crushing grip, not bending an inch.

She tried to tear the limbs off, using every ounce of her inhuman strength. "Nothing." she growled, her frustration mounting. The relic's body remained intact, unyielding despite her efforts.

Ozen hurled him against the stone walls of the camp, the impact echoing through the empty corridors. The relic's body slid and slumped to the ground, but there was only dust on its body. She picked it up again, her eyes narrowing as she considered her next move.

"Stabbing, then." she muttered, retrieving a long, sharp blade from one of the nearby storage rooms. She drove the blade into the relic's chest with all the force she could muster. The blade struck it's chest with a resounding clang, but it didn't penetrate. The relic's body absorbed the blow as if it were nothing.

Ozen's eyes narrowed further, her patience wearing thin. "So be it." she said coldly, dragging the relic outside to one of the camp's deeper pools. The water was frigid, cold, and deep—perfect for drowning.

She held the relic under the water, her grip firm as she watched for any sign of struggle. But the relic's body remained limp, unresponsive. She kept it under for minutes that stretched into what felt like hours, the cold water soaking through it's tattered clothes and cooling the metal of it's limbs. Yet when she pulled it out, its chest still faintly rose and fell with breath.

Ozen's frustration reached its peak. "Why won't you break?" she snarled, her voice echoing through the empty camp. She had seen the Abyss claim countless lives, shatter countless bodies, but this thing—this boy—was different. It was indestructible, it seemed, a puzzle she could neither solve nor destroy.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Ozen's rage subsided, replaced by cold calculation. She had made no headway, despite hours of relentless effort. Her strength, formidable as it was, had met its match in this relic's body.

With a frustrated sigh, Ozen threw the boy's limp body into a storage closet at the back of the camp. "Out of sight, out of mind," she muttered, wiping the sweat from her brow. There was no use in wasting more time. She had errands to run on the surface, and the relic was a problem for another time.

As the relic's body landed in the closet, it tumbled into a pile of old electrical equipment—frayed wires, broken devices, and other discarded relics of the Abyss. The dim light from the single bulb in the room flickered as the relic's metal limbs made contact with the tangled mess.

For a moment, everything was still. Then, slowly, almost imperceptibly, the electricity within the wires began to stir, creeping toward the relic's body like a living thing. The wires sparked and crackled, the energy gathering, building, until it found its target.

With a sudden jolt, the electricity surged into the relic's metal limbs, racing through its body. The lights in the room flickered and dimmed as the energy coursed through it, illuminating the strange markings on it's skin with an eerie glow.

The room fell silent again, the lights returning to their dim glow. For a moment, nothing happened.

Then, the relic's eyes slowly opened.

They were a soft, glowing amber, the light within them flickering like the remnants of a dying fire. It blinked once, twice, its vision hazy as it tried to make sense of its surroundings.

"Where... am I?" the relic thought, his mind a blur of confusion and disorientation. Its limbs felt heavy, strange, as if they weren't entirely its own. It tried to move, but its body was sluggish, unresponsive.

But there was something else—a faint memory, a voice it couldn't quite place. "I'll see you soon..." it said, the words echoing in it's mind like a distant call.

The relic struggled to sit up, its movements slow and awkward. It glanced around the room, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings. The closet was cramped, filled with old equipment and relics that hummed with a faint energy.

It looked down at its hands—metallic, mechanical, yet somehow... alive. "What... am I?" it wondered, the question burning in its mind.

As it slowly began to piece together its fragmented thoughts, one thing became clear: whoever it was, whatever it was, it was not ordinary. It was something else, something different.

Chapter Text

The Seeker Camp was a place of constant activity, a haven for cave raiders deep within the second layer of the Abyss. Built into the very rock of the Forest of Temptation, the camp was a fortress against the dangers that lurked outside. Massive roots twisted through the stone walls, and the dim light of the Abyss filtered through cracks and crevices, casting long shadows over the corridors and rooms.

For Ozen the Immovable, this was home—a place where she ruled with an iron fist, her word law among those who were foolish enough to serve under her. The Subterranean Bandits, her newest team of once criminal cave raiders, moved through the camp with a quiet efficiency, preparing for their next descent into the depths.

But today, something unusual had caught Ozen's attention. As she made her way through the winding corridors, her sharp eyes caught a glimpse of movement—a small figure wandering aimlessly through the camp. It was the boy, the relic she had found a few days prior, the one she had so brutally tested in a vain attempt to destroy it.

"Aubade." she muttered to herself, her voice tinged with annoyance. That's all it was to her—a bothersome relic, a curiosity she couldn't quite understand, but one she had no interest in keeping around. And yet, here it was, wandering the camp as if it belonged, as if it were human.

Ozen's long strides brought her closer to the relic. It was walking slowly, its metallic feet thudding softly against the stone floor. Its eyes were wide with a mix of curiosity and confusion as it looked around, taking in its surroundings. Its mechanical limbs caught the dim light, reflecting it in a way that made them seem almost alive.

The relic turned, sensing her presence, and its eyes—glowing a soft amber—met hers. It froze, instinctively sensing the danger she represented.

"What are you doing out of the closet?" Ozen's voice was cold, devoid of any warmth or concern. To her, the relic was an "it," not a person, or even an object—just another annoyance in her day.

The relic blinked, its expression a mix of confusion and fear. "I... I don't know," it replied, its voice soft and uncertain. "I just... woke up here. I don't remember anything before that."

Ozen's eyes narrowed. "No memory, huh?" She circled it slowly, her gaze appraising. "So, you're just wandering around like a lost puppy, not knowing where you belong."

The relic didn't respond, its hands curling into fists at its sides. It looked down at itself, noticing the strange, metallic limbs attached to its body. It didn't know how they got there, didn't know why it had them. Everything was a blank, a void in its mind that it couldn't fill.

"Well, you're in my way," Ozen said flatly. She reached out, grabbing it by the collar and lifting it off the ground effortlessly. It dangled there, too stunned to even struggle. "Listen carefully, aubade. You do exactly what I say, when I say it, or I'll make sure you don't wake up next time. Understand?"

The relic nodded quickly, fear flashing in its eyes. Ozen dropped it unceremoniously, watching as it stumbled but managed to stay on his feet.

"First things first," Ozen continued, her voice sharp. "Those limbs of yours will attract attention. You'll cover them up. Boots, gloves—whatever it takes. And you'll keep them covered at all times. Even when you sleep."

The relic looked down at its hands, the cold metal gleaming under the dim light. It didn't understand why, but the command was clear. "Yes... ma'am," it stammered, unsure of what else to say.

Ozen grunted in response, turning her back on it. "Follow." she ordered, and the relic quickly fell into step behind her.

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[6 YEARS SINCE LYZA'S LAST DIVE]

The days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months. Life at the Seeker Camp settled into a routine for the living relic, though it was far from a pleasant one. It was given no name, no identity beyond "the aubade." It existed at the camp as little more than a servant, it's life dictated by Ozen's whims.

Ozen made it clear that it was her property. It cooked, cleaned, and ran errands for her, often working late into the night while the rest of the camp slept. There was no kindness in her commands, no acknowledgment of its potential humanity—only the cold, relentless expectation that it would do as it was told.

The relic quickly learned not to question Ozen's orders. The first and only time it had asked her why it had to keep its limbs covered, she had responded by flicking it across the room with enough force to crack the stone wall it collided with. The message was clear: obedience was not optional, it was required.

The Subterranean Bandits, Ozen's team, took little notice of it. They were seasoned cave raiders, focused on their work and on surviving the Abyss. To them, he was just another part of the camp's routine, a quiet presence that did the menial tasks no one else wanted.

Despite the harsh conditions, the relic found itself drawn to the idea of cave raiding. It didn't know why, but there was something about the Abyss that called to it, something that made it want to understand the depths below. It had no memory of who it was or where it had come from, but there was a strange comfort in the idea of exploring the unknown.

Whenever the Bandits prepared for a raid, the boy would watch from the shadows, his eyes following their every movement. He was fascinated by the way they talked about the Abyss, the relics they sought, and the dangers they faced. 

He wanted to join them, to see the Abyss for himself, but every time he asked, Ozen would flick him away, her answer a resounding "No."

Still, the boy was persistent. When Ozen wasn't watching, he would sneak into the camp's small library, borrowing books on cave raiding techniques and the known layers of the Abyss. He would read them by the dim light of his small closet quarters, absorbing every detail, every piece of information he could find.

He learned about the curse of the Abyss, the mysterious force that afflicted those who tried to ascend. He read about the creatures that lurked in the depths, the relics that cave raiders sought, and the history of those who had ventured into the Abyss before him. The more he learned, the more he wanted to see it for himself.

But Ozen kept him on a tight leash. Whenever the Bandits prepared for a raid, she would lock him in one of the camp's storage rooms, ensuring he couldn't follow them. He would pound on the door, shouting to be let out, but the walls were thick, and his cries went unheard.

As the months passed, the boy grew more and more accustomed to his routine. He was given a blue whistle—a token, really, to keep him from being harassed by other cave raiders. But he knew it meant nothing; he was no cave raider, just a servant bound to the camp. At the very least however, he had given himself a name: Y/N. He didn't know why, but it felt...right, to say the least.

He couldn't help but feel a sense of restlessness, a desire to break free from the life Ozen had forced upon him. He didn't know where it came from, but the urge to explore, to venture into the Abyss, gnawed at him constantly. It was as if the Abyss itself was calling to him, urging him to find out what lay in its depths.

And then, one day, he discovered something new about himself. It happened by accident, during one of his rare moments of solitude. He had been cleaning one of the storage rooms, moving crates and boxes filled with relics and supplies. As he reached for a box on a high shelf, he instinctively extended his arm.

He looked at it in shock, his arm had extended far beyond its normal length, the mechanical limb shooting out nearly twenty meters to grab the box. He froze, staring at his outstretched arm in disbelief.

"What... what was that?" he muttered to himself, retracting his arm slowly. The metal segments slid back into place, as if nothing had happened.

Curiosity got the better of him, and he began to experiment with his newfound ability. He discovered that he could extend his arms and legs at will, each limb reaching out to nearly twenty meters. He practiced in secret, honing his control over the extensions, making sure to only use them when he was alone.

But there were other discoveries as well. The boy noticed that his body was strangely resistant to physical damage. Cuts and bruises that would have left a normal person in pain for days healed rapidly, almost as if his body wasn't entirely human. He began to wonder just what he was, but there were no answers—only more questions.

Ozen's warnings echoed in his mind: "Don't let anyone see you." He kept his abilities hidden, afraid of what might happen if Ozen or the other cave raiders found out. The last thing he wanted was to give her another reason to flick him across the room—or worse.

Yet despite his fears, the boy couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to him than met the eye. He was different, that much was clear, but what that difference meant was still a mystery. All he knew was that the Abyss seemed to hold the answers he sought, and one day, he would find a way to uncover them.

But for now, he was trapped in the Seeker Camp, bound by Ozen's commands and the harsh routine she had imposed on him. Each day was a repetition of the last—cleaning, cooking, errands, all while hiding his true nature from those around him.

Yet, even in the monotony, the boy found moments of hope. In the quiet hours of the night, as he lay in his small, cramped quarters, he would close his eyes and imagine what it would be like to descend into the Abyss, to explore its depths and uncover its secrets.

He didn't know who he was or where he had come from, but he knew one thing for certain: he wasn't going to stay a servant forever. The Abyss called to him, and one day, he would answer that call.

And when he did, he would find out just what he was—whether he was human, relic, or something else entirely.

Chapter Text

[ 7 YEARS SINCE LYZA'S LAST DIVE ]

Two years had passed since Ozen had found Y/N wandering aimlessly in the Seeker Camp. Life had settled into a routine of sorts, a blend of monotonous chores, relentless, yet secret training, and a growing thirst for knowledge. Y/N, now around thirteen years old, had become accustomed to the harsh life under Ozen's command. His days were filled with tasks that kept him busy, but his mind was always elsewhere—on the Abyss, on the mysteries it held, and on the faint memories that sometimes flickered at the edge of his consciousness.

Ozen remained as unyielding as ever, her cold demeanour a constant reminder of his place in the camps food chain. Despite his persistent pleas, she refused to train him in the art of cave raiding. Each request was met with the same response: a dismissive flick that sent him crashing into the walls, leaving him bruised but undeterred.

"You're not ready." she would say in her deep, emotionless voice, though she never elaborated on what that meant. For Ozen, Y/N was still a nuisance—an enigma she couldn't quite pin down, but one she kept under her watchful eye. Whether it was out of curiosity or something else entirely, even Y/N couldn't say.

But if Ozen refused to train him, Y/N found other ways to learn. He continued to study the Abyss through the books he secretly borrowed, devouring every piece of information he could find. He practised his abilities in secret, honing the strange powers that had come to him naturally. His arms could extend, and his body was resilient—impervious, even—to damage that would have left others maimed or dead. He grew stronger, more confident, but still, he yearned for more. The Abyss called to him, and he wanted nothing more than to answer.

Ozen, however, had different plans. One day, after yet another failed attempt to convince her to train him, Ozen gave him a surprisingly new task: gathering supplies from the surface. It was a test of sorts, she told him, though her true intentions were obviously unclear. The surface was far removed from the dangers of the Abyss, but Y/N had learned not to question her orders.

The Gondola ride to the surface was a thrill Y/N hadn't expected. As the mechanical lift ascended, he watched as the layers of the Abyss passed by, the world growing brighter and more expansive. The harsh light of the surface world was something he had never grown accustomed to; after years in the dimly lit depths of the Abyss, the sun seemed blinding, too bright for comfort. He shielded his eyes with his gloved hand, squinting as the city of Orth came into view.

The sprawling city was a hive of activity, a stark contrast to the eerie silence of the Abyss. The air was fresher, less oppressive, and there was a sense of freedom here that he had never felt in the camp. "It's too bright," he muttered to himself, but there was a strange excitement in his voice.

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One of his first stops was a small spice shop near the market, run by a jolly Black Whistle named Habolg and his wife, Lafee. The shop was filled with the rich, heady aroma of spices, the shelves lined with jars of every colour imaginable. Habolg, a rotund man with a booming laugh, greeted Y/N warmly as he entered.

"Well, if it isn't a young Blue Whistle! What can I do for you today?" Habolg asked, his voice filled with genuine cheer.

Y/N couldn't help but smile at the man's infectious energy. "Just picking up some supplies for the camp," he replied, his voice a mix of politeness and childlike curiosity. "Ozen sent me up here to restock."

At the mention of Ozen's name, Habolg's smile faltered slightly. His eyes widened in surprise as he looked Y/N up and down. "Ozen, you say? And you're still sane? Living under that woman... not many can claim that."

Y/N shrugged, brushing off the concern. "It's fine. Kind of nice, in a way."

Habolg let out a hearty laugh, though there was a trace of unease in it. "Nice, you say? Boy, you've got a strong head on your shoulders if you can say that with a straight face." He shook his head in disbelief, then waved Y/N over to the counter. "Lafee, dear, come meet this brave lad!"

Lafee, Habolg's wife, appeared from the back of the shop, wiping her hands on her apron. She was a kind-faced woman, her eyes warm and welcoming. 

"Oh, a young cave raider! How wonderful!" she exclaimed, her voice soft but full of genuine kindness. "Are you sure you're getting enough to eat, dear? You're so thin!"

Y/N blushed slightly, unused to such attention. "I'm fine, ma'am. Ozen makes sure I'm well taken care of."

Lafee gave him a skeptical look, but she didn't press the matter. "Well, you just tell Ozen that if she ever lets you off her leash, you're welcome to come here for a proper meal, alright?"

Habolg and Lafee packed up Y/N's supplies with care, the two of them exchanging worried glances as they worked. It was clear that the thought of someone so young living under Ozen's command troubled them, but Y/N remained oblivious to their concern. To him, Orth was a breath of fresh air—both literally and figuratively—a world of possibilities far removed from the dark depths of the Abyss.

And hey, rather than being called 'Shitbird', people actually used his name, so that was a plus.

As Y/N left the spice shop, his thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a struggle nearby. Curious, he followed the noise down a narrow alley, where he found a group of older, rough-looking cave raiders surrounding a younger boy. The boy, a little older than Y/N himself, was wearing a blue whistle around his neck, but he was clearly outmatched by the thugs who had cornered him.

"Give it up, kid. Hand over the relics, and we won't hurt you... much," one of the raiders sneered, his hand outstretched in a threatening manner.

The younger boy, despite his fear, held his ground, glaring defiantly at his attackers. "No way! These belong to the orphanage! I'm not letting you take them!"

Y/N felt a surge of anger at the sight. Without thinking, he stepped forward, his metal limbs moving faster than the raiders could react. With a swift motion, he grabbed one of the thugs by the back of the neck and slammed him into the ground, knocking him out cold. The other two turned in shock, but Y/N was already on them, his movements precise and efficient. A well-placed kick sent the second raider sprawling, while the third received a punch to the gut that left him gasping for air.

The fight was over in seconds. The three raiders lay unconscious in the alley, their stolen relics scattered around them. Y/N stood over them, his chest heaving as he fought to control himself.

The younger boy stared at him in awe. "Whoa... I've never seen you around before. Are you a cave raider too?"

"Sort of," Y/N replied, his tone suddenly shy. "I... live under Ozen, in the Second Layer."

The boy's eyes widened even further. "Ozen? You mean Ozen the Immovable? And you're still alive?" He shook his head in disbelief, then extended a hand. "I'm Jiruo, by the way. Thanks for the help."

(Blue Whistle lol)

Y/N hesitated for a moment before shaking Jiruo's hand, a small smile on his face. "I'm Y/N. And don't worry about it—it was nothing."

Jiruo looked at him with a mixture of admiration and curiosity. "Well, Y/N, that was pretty cool. You've got to tell me more about living under Ozen. She asked me to be her apprentice once, but I declined."

Y/N's smile widened. "Definitely. And good choice, she's a scary person to be around."

Jiruo notices the blue whistle that hung around Y/N's neck. "Hey, when did you become a blue whistle?" Jiruo asked.

"Hmm? Oh, just recently I guess." Y/N said as he rubbed the back of his head, not ready to admit that he wasn't actually a cave raider.

"Well I've been a blue whistle for a bit over a year now. I'm hoping that I'll be promoted to Moon whistle soon though."

Growing a smile, Y/N playfully pointed at Jiruo. "Well, I'll beat you and become a purple whistle first, just you watch!"

Jiruo grinned, the tension from the earlier fight completely forgotten. "We'll see about that! But you better keep your word—I'm going to hold you to it!"

The two boys parted ways, with Y/N making his way back to the Gondola. The city of Orth had been an unexpected adventure, but as the Gondola descended back into the Abyss, Y/N couldn't shake the feeling that he was leaving something important behind. The sky was too bright, the air too clean—it was almost unnatural after so long in the depths. Yet, despite this, he found himself yearning for the next opportunity to return.

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The return to the Seeker Camp was uneventful at first. Y/N arrived at the camp late in the evening, expecting to find the Bandits and Ozen going about their usual routines. But as he stepped off the Gondola, he noticed something strange—the camp was eerily quiet, devoid of the usual activity. There was no sign of Ozen or the Bandits, and a sense of unease settled over him.

"Where is everyone?" Y/N wondered aloud, his voice echoing through the empty corridors. He dropped the supplies off in the storage room, his mind racing with possibilities. It wasn't like Ozen to just leave the camp without a trace, and despite his current situation, the thought of something happening to her or the Bandits made his stomach twist.

Taking the opportunity, Y/N hurried to his quarters and retrieved his 'borrowed' cave raider gear. Over the past year, he had been secretly collecting bits and pieces of equipment, slowly assembling a set of gear that would allow him to venture into the Abyss on his own. He hadn't planned to use it so soon, but there was no time to waste.

Dressed in his makeshift cave raider outfit, Y/N set out to find Ozen and the Bandits. "They've probably gone to the Third Layer. I think I heard Zapo talking about it." he guessed, heading toward the entrance that led to the deeper parts of the Abyss. His heart pounded with a mix of excitement and fear—this was his chance to prove himself, to show Ozen that he was capable of more than just menial tasks.

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As Y/N neared the entrance to the Third Layer, the sound of fight reached his ears. The unmistakable clutter of equipment and the guttural roars of creatures filled the air, and Y/N quickened his pace, his covered mechanical limbs carrying him swiftly across the rough terrain.

He arrived at the scene to find Ozen and the Subterranean Bandits locked in a fierce battle with a large group of Inbyo, massive arthropod creatures with green fur and armoured exoskeletons.

Ozen stood at the forefront, her immense strength allowing her to hold the creatures at bay, but the Bandits were struggling. They were cut up and sluggish, their movements slow and laboured as they fought to keep the Inbyo from overwhelming them.

Y/N's eyes widened in horror. "No!" Without thinking, he grabbed a nearby boulder—one far larger than any normal human could lift—and hurled it down the slope. The boulder crashed into a group of four Inbyo, sending them tumbling down the cliffside with ear-piercing shrieks.

Ozen turned, her eyes narrowing as she spotted Y/N. "Why are you here?" she barked, her voice sharp with anger.

But Y/N didn't have time to respond. He leaped down the slope, landing next to Ozen just as an Inbyo lunged at them. Without hesitation, he extended his right arm, the mechanical limb shooting out and striking the creature square in the face. The force of the impact sent it flying off the cliffside, its screeches fading into the abyss below.

Ignoring Ozen's intense glare, Y/N grabbed the cable of his extended arm with his left hand and began to swing it in a wide arc. The arm whipped through the air, colliding with multiple Inbyo and sending them scattering. The creatures shrieked in rage and confusion, their attack momentarily halted by the unexpected assault.

Y/N's heart raced with adrenaline. This was what he had been yearning for—the chance to fight, to prove himself, to protect those who couldn't protect themselves, minus Ozen—she could protect herself. He swung his arm again, the cable slicing through the air with a sharp whistle, and sent another group of Inbyo tumbling into the abyss.

The battle was over as quickly as it had begun. The remaining Inbyo, realising they were outmatched, retreated into the shadows, their armoured bodies disappearing into the darkness. Y/N stood there, breathing heavily, a wide smile on his face. He had done it—he had fought alongside Ozen and the Bandits, and he had held his own.

But the moment of triumph was short-lived. Ozen's eyes flashed with fury, and before Y/N could react, she slammed her fist into his head, knocking him out cold.

---------------------------------

Y/N awoke hours later, his head throbbing with pain. He was back in the Seeker Camp, lying on the cold stone floor of the storage room. The events of the battle came rushing back to him, and he scrambled to his feet, only to be met with the sight of Ozen standing over him, her expression unreadable.

"You disobeyed." she said flatly, her voice devoid of emotion. "You ignored my orders, and you risked exposing your true nature to the others."

Y/N opened his mouth to protest, but Ozen cut him off. "You're done, aubade. You're nothing but a mechanical doll playing at being a cave raider."

Her words stung, but Y/N refused to back down. "I'm not just a doll! I saved you—I saved the Bandits! I can fight! I'm strong!"

Ozen's eyes narrowed. "You think strength alone is enough? You're more foolish than I thought."

With a sudden, brutal motion, she struck him again, her fist slamming into his chest with the force of a battering ram. Y/N gasped for breath, his vision swimming as pain radiated through his body. Panic surged within him—this wasn't like the other times she had hit him. This was different. There was a coldness in her eyes that terrified him, a ruthlessness he had never seen before.

In his fear, something within Y/N snapped. Memories he didn't recognise flashed through his mind—images of battle, of destruction, of power. His palm of his right arm began to glow, a soft amber light that grew brighter with each passing second.

Ozen's eyes widened slightly in surprise. "What are you—" she began, but the words were cut off as Y/N's arm erupted with a beam of light.

The force of the blast was overwhelming. Y/N's body jerked back from the recoil, and the beam shot past Ozen, missing her by inches. It struck the wall behind her, tearing through the stone as if it were paper and blasting a hole clean through the camp's outer wall.

The room fell silent, the air thick with the acrid smell of scorched stone. Y/N stared at his arm in shock, his breathing ragged. He had no idea what he had just done, but the power that had surged through him was unlike anything he had ever felt. He watched as the lens in the centre of his palm let out a small amount of steam, and the metal plating return to what resembled a hand.

Ozen, for her part, was silent as well, her expression unreadable. After a moment, she let out a low, thoughtful hum, as if reassessing the boy before her. "Interesting." she finally said, her voice calm and measured.

Y/N flinched, expecting another blow, but none came. Instead, Ozen folded her arms across her chest and regarded him with a calculating gaze. "It seems I've underestimated your capabilities, aubade." she admitted, her tone betraying no emotion. "You'll come on cave raids with me. But don't think for a second that you're ready for what lies ahead, just because you can "Fight". "

Y/N's heart leaped with excitement, despite the lingering fear. He nodded eagerly, his earlier terror forgotten in the face of this unexpected victory. "Thank you, Ozen! I won't let you down, I—"

But before he could say anything more, his vision darkened, and he felt himself slipping into unconsciousness. The strain of the blast had taken its toll, and his body gave out, sending him spiralling into a deep, dreamless sleep.

Ozen watched as the aubade collapsed, face planting onto the floor. Curious, she bent down to inspect it. It was breathing, but it would not wake up.

She concluded that it was due to the light that it had just emitted from its arm, so she simply got back up and exited the room, awaiting for the boy to wake up.

Chapter Text

[ 8 YEARS SINCE LYZA'S LAST DIVE ]

A year had passed since Y/N had fired that beam of light at Ozen, a moment that marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. At fifteen years old, Y/N had undergone a transformation, evolving from a tool into something closer to an apprentice—though with Ozen, that term was still loose. His days were now filled with gruelling training sessions, dangerous expeditions, and responsibilities that few his age could handle. But it was exactly what he had wanted, and despite the harshness of his mentor, Y/N had come to appreciate the twisted care that lay beneath her cold exterior.

Ozen's treatment of Y/N had shifted ever so slightly over the past year. Where once she had seen him as nothing more than a bothersome relic, she now acknowledged his growing skills and potential. Hell, she was even using his name.

It wasn't affection—Ozen was not one for such trivialities—but there was a grudging respect in the way she now spoke to him, a recognition of his abilities that hadn't been there before. Y/N had even noticed that she had stopped referring to him as "it," a small but significant change.

Y/N had also achieved something remarkable during this time: he had been promoted to a Moon Whistle. It was an extraordinary accomplishment, making him one of the youngest Moon Whistles in history. The cave raider association had been impressed by his exceptional skills, his ability to navigate the Abyss with a proficiency far beyond his years, and the raw strength and dedication he had displayed. His promotion was both a recognition of his abilities and a testament to the harsh training Ozen had put him through. It also helped that Ozen had put in a good word for him, which was a startling shock to say the least.

But Y/N's excitement at this achievement was dampened when he returned to the surface to find that his friend, Jiruo, had already beaten him to the rank. "The time dilation of the Abyss, that's gotta be it!" Y/N had argued in frustration, trying to explain away the difference in their promotions. "It's not fair!"

Jiruo, ever the mature one despite only being a few years older, had simply laughed it off. "Excuses, excuses," he teased, a smirk playing on his lips. "Face it, Y/N, I'm just better than you. But hey, I'll give you a head start to catch up if you want."

Y/N had grumbled, his competitive spirit ignited, but there was no real malice in their rivalry. They were friends, after all, and this friendly competition only strengthened their bond. Still, Y/N was determined to surpass Jiruo, and he threw himself even harder into his cave raiding with Ozen.

---------------------------------

During this year of intense training, Ozen and Y/N had stumbled upon a peculiar discovery during one of their expeditions. They had been exploring the wreckage of a foreign country's blimp that had crashed landed around the entrance of the third layer, its twisted wooden and metal frame jutting out from the rocky terrain like a skeleton picked clean. 

Among the wreckage and its now dead occupants, they found two children—a young boy named Marulk and a young girl named Aurora, hidden in the rubble, both small, malnourished and afraid. It was evident that they had been there for days.

Marulk, a shy and soft-spoken boy, had immediately taken to the safety of the Seeker Camp. There was something about the camp that seemed to suit him, and he quickly settled into the role of a sentry, keeping watch and helping with the daily tasks. Aurora, on the other hand, was full of energy and curiosity, always asking questions and eager to explore the world around her.

She was particularly fascinated by Y/N, often trailing after him whenever he ventured out into the first or second layers. Because of this, Y/N would need to pause his expedition and return Aurora back to the Seeker Camp.

Ozen had taken both children in, though Y/N noticed something odd: Ozen insisted that Marulk wear a dress while at the camp. The reason for this was never explained, and though it puzzled Y/N, he knew better than to question Ozen's 'decisions'. The Subterranean Bandits, who had come to accept Y/N as one of their own, even after the reveal that he was not human, also welcomed Marulk and Aurora into their ranks. They didn't mind the children's presence, though they often exchanged knowing glances when Y/N wasn't looking, as if they were aware of some secret he didn't yet understand, or was oblivious to.

Despite his new responsibilities as a Moon Whistle, Y/N still found time to explore the Abyss on his own, as well as visit Orth every so often. He was allowed to venture as deep as the third layer, though he found it somewhat dull compared to the more dangerous and mysterious layers below. The caves and narrow passages held little interest for him, and he often used these solo expeditions to train his abilities in secret, testing the limits of what his mechanical limbs could REALLY do.

Occasionally, Y/N would accompany Ozen on her expeditions to the fourth layer, and even once to the fifth layer—a place he had now come to despise. The fifth layer, known as the "Sea of Corpses," was a place of despair, where the curse of the Abyss was at its strongest. Y/N had met the Sovereign of Dawn there, and the encounter had left him shaken in a way that few things could. Y/N avoided thinking about that place, and whenever Ozen mentioned returning, he would find an excuse to stay behind. He didn't want to experience what had happened last time again.

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One day, while Y/N and Ozen were walking along the edge of the third layers entrance, she had informed him that the Bandits were heading on an expedition deep into the third layer, and Ozen gave Y/N a specific task. "You're in charge of keeping an eye on the Bandits," she said, her voice carrying a tone of authority that brooked no argument. "And you'll also be training Marulk and Aurora."

Y/N had looked at her in disbelief. "Wait, I had to wait forever to be trained, and you're letting them start immediately?" He couldn't help the grin that spread across his face. "What gives, Ozen? Going soft on me?"

For a moment, something unexpected happened—Ozen chuckled. The sound was low and brief, but unmistakable. "You've got some nerve," she said, and before Y/N could react, she gave him a shove, sending him tumbling over the edge of the third layer's drop-off.

As Y/N fell, he crossed his arms, shouting up at her in mock indignation. "That was uncalled for!" His voice echoed as he disappeared into the depths below, the sound of Ozen's faint laughter following him.

The relationship between Ozen and Y/N had evolved into something almost familial, albeit in a twisted, Abyss-like way. There was a bond between them, a mutual respect and understanding that had developed through years of harsh training and shared experiences. Ozen often found herself reminded of Lyza whenever she interacted with Y/N—a comparison she would never admit aloud but...one that lingered in her thoughts nonetheless.

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While Marulk preferred the safety of the Seeker Camp, Aurora was a different story altogether. She had a fierce curiosity and an unyielding determination to follow Y/N wherever he went. Initially, Y/N had to send her back, telling her that the Abyss was too dangerous for someone as young as her. But Aurora was stubborn, and after a few failed attempts to dissuade her, Y/N eventually gave in.

"Fine, but you're going to have to keep up," he had said, half-expecting her to give up after the first day. But to his surprise, Aurora was resilient, keeping pace with him and absorbing everything he did with an enthusiasm that reminded him of himself when he had first arrived at the camp.

Over time, Y/N began to train her seriously, teaching her the basics of cave raiding and how to navigate the treacherous terrain of the Abyss. He was careful, though, never revealing the true extent of his abilities. The Subterranean Bandits knew what he was capable of—they had seen it firsthand—but Marulk and Aurora remained blissfully unaware of the truth. Y/N preferred it that way. The last thing he wanted was for them to see him as something other than human and tell everyone on the surface about him.

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The memories of his first 'official' cave raid were still fresh in Y/N's mind, though they felt like a lifetime ago. It had been during his time as a Blue Whistle, a rank that now seemed so far beneath him, yet it had been a pivotal moment in his journey.

He had been exploring the second layer, keeping a careful eye out for any signs of unexplored territory. The thrill of discovery had always driven him, and that day had been no different. After hours of searching, he had stumbled upon a small, hidden cave—a place that had remained untouched by other raiders.

The cave was narrow and winding, its walls lined with strange, bioluminescent plants that cast an eerie glow. Y/N had ventured deeper, his excitement growing with each step. And then, in a small alcove at the very back of the cave, he found it—a relic unlike anything he had ever seen before.

It was some kind of shirt with scales, shimmering in the dim light. The scales themselves seemingly alive as they shifted colours in response to his movements. Y/N's breath had caught in his throat as he reached out to touch it, the cool, smooth texture of the scales sending a shiver down his spine. He knew immediately that this was something special, something valuable.

When he returned to the surface, the scaled shirt was put up for auction. Y/N had watched eagerly as the bids came in, his heart racing with excitement. He had wanted that relic more than anything, convinced that it would be his. But as the auction went on, the price quickly soared beyond his reach. No matter how much he offered, there was always someone with deeper pockets, someone more determined to win.

Frustrated and defeated, Y/N had eventually given up, leaving the auction hall with a heavy heart. He had returned to the Seeker Camp, his mind still lingering on the relic he had lost. He threw himself into his work, trying to distract himself from the disappointment gnawing at him.

A few hours later, Y/N was in the camp's workshop, sharpening some cave raider tools, when he noticed Ozen returning. She had been out for most of the day, and there was something about the way she carried herself that caught his attention. In her hands was a package, wrapped tightly in brown cloth.

"What's that?" Y/N asked, his curiosity getting the better of him.

Ozen glanced at him, her expression unreadable, before tossing the package at him. "I can't have my apprentice looking so depressed," she said flatly. "It'll ruin my image."

Y/N caught the package, raising an eyebrow in confusion. But as he unwrapped it, his eyes widened in shock. Inside was the scaled shirt—the very relic he had been so desperate to own.

"You... you bought it?" Y/N's voice was filled with disbelief, his hands trembling as he held the relic. "For... me?"

Ozen's only response was a slight smirk, though it was gone almost as quickly as it appeared. "Don't read too much into it. It's just a useless relic for a useless mechanical doll."

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Y/N impulsively moved to hug her, his emotions getting the better of him. But before he could even get close, Ozen swung her arm, sending him crashing into the wall with a single, effortless motion.

Marulk, who had been in the room, jumped in fright, his eyes wide with shock. "Ozen! You can't just—" he began, but Ozen silenced him with a sharp look.

"He'll be fine," she said dismissively, her gaze already shifting back to the tasks at hand.

Y/N groaned as he pulled himself out of the wall, his body aching from the impact, but his heart light with happiness. He glanced over at Marulk, offering a reassuring smile. "It's alright, Marulk. I'm sturdier than I look."

Marulk looked at him with a mixture of concern and admiration, clearly unsure how to respond. "If you say so...," he muttered, though the worry didn't leave his eyes.

Y/N, however, was too focused on the scaled shirt to care about the pain. He ran his fingers over the scales, marveling at the way they slightly shifted colours at his touch. It was his—Ozen had made sure of that. And though she would never admit it, Y/N knew that this was her way of showing that she cared, in her own dark and twisted way.

As he carefully put the scaled shirt away, Y/N felt a renewed sense of confidence. The Abyss was his to conquer, and with Ozen's guidance, he would continue to grow. Whatever challenges lay ahead, he would face them head-on, just as he always had.

And as for Ozen... well, he would figure her out eventually. For now, it was enough to know that he was no longer just a tool or a relic in her eyes. He was her apprentice, and that was a title he intended to live up to.

Chapter Text

[ 9 YEARS SINCE LYZA'S LAST DIVE ]

A year had passed since Y/N had received his scaled shirt from Ozen, and in that time, much had changed. Now sixteen years old, Y/N had grown into a formidable cave raider, his reputation spreading throughout Orth and beyond. He had become one of the most respected Moon Whistles in the city, known not just for his impressive relic finds but also for the rumours that followed him—rumours of his ferocity in combat and the destructive methods he employed both in delving and in battle.

With his growing status, Y/N's appearance had also shifted. He had adopted a darker color scheme, taking inspiration from his mentor, Ozen's uniform. His new attire consisted of the self-repairing black scaled shirt that Ozen had gifted him, a pair of sturdy brown jeans, and black combat boots. His hands were covered by leather gloves and bracers, which offered both protection and a sense of anonymity. 

But Y/N was no longer just a solitary figure within the Seeker Camp. Over the past year, he had come to be the de facto leader of the Subterranean Bandits, a title he had earned through countless successful cave raids and his unwavering dedication to the group. The Bandits—Simred, Zapo, Yelme, and now Aurora—looked up to him, not just as a superior but as someone they could trust to lead them through the perils of the Abyss.

Aurora, the youngest member of the Bandits, had grown significantly under Y/N's guidance. The bond they shared was almost sibling-like, with Y/N adopting the role of an older brother while also being her mentor. She was the eager student, always ready to learn, while he was the patient teacher, guiding her through the complexities of cave raiding. The other Bandits often joked that Y/N's relationship with Aurora mirrored his own dynamic with Ozen when he was in training, a comparison that Y/N found both amusing and slightly uncomfortable.

"You've got your own little shadow now," Simred would tease, watching as Aurora followed Y/N around the Seeker Camp, hanging on his every word.

"Yeah, she's practically glued to you," Zapo would add, grinning. "Just like you used to be with Ozen."

Y/N would chuckle, though there was a part of him that took the responsibility seriously. Aurora was more than just a student to him; she was like a little sister, someone he felt compelled to protect and nurture. He saw in her the same spark of curiosity and determination that had driven him when he was younger, and he was determined to help her grow into a skilled and capable cave raider.

-------------------------------------

The Subterranean Bandits had become a well-oiled machine under Y/N's leadership. Their expeditions were often quick and efficient, focusing on gathering relics, scouting new areas, and dealing with the occasional illegal cave raider here and there. Ozen frequently assigned them tasks that required precision and speed, trusting Y/N and the squad to handle whatever challenges came their way.

Aurora had proven herself to be a valuable member of the team, her skills improving rapidly under Y/N's tutelage. She was quick, nimble, resourceful, and had a sharp eye for spotting potential dangers before they became a threat. She was also fiercely loyal to Y/N, often acting as his second-in-command during their expeditions, despite her age and rank as a Blue Whistle.

However, there was a growing tension within the team when it came to those illegal foreign cave raiders. While Simred, Zapo, and Yelme were content to take relics whenever possible, Y/N took a different approach. He saw these encounters as opportunities—both to rid the Abyss of those who didn't belong and to collect relics without having to delve deeper into the more dangerous layers.

"It's easy money," Y/N would argue, his tone matter-of-fact. "We don't even have to go deeper to find valuable relics. Just a quick fight, and we're done. Efficient and profitable."

Zapo, the oldest of the Bandits, would often shake his head in disagreement. "It's not worth the risk, Y/N. We're cave raiders, not enforcers. Let the White Whistles deal with them."

But Y/N was relentless. He knew that most of the relics these illegal raiders carried were fourth-grade at best—unsellable in Orth, but still valuable in their own right. The Bandits had amassed a small collection of these relics already, stored away in boxes in the washroom at the Seeker Camp. They were a testament to the efficiency Y/N prized, a way to ensure that every mission yielded something of value.

Aurora often sided with Y/N, eager to prove herself and to support her mentor's decisions. She admired his strength and his willingness to take risks, and she was determined to follow his lead, no matter the cost. The bond between them grew stronger with each expedition, their sibling-like relationship deepening as they faced the dangers of the Abyss together.

On one such mission, the Bandits had just finished dealing with a small group of illegal raiders near the entrance to the third layer. The encounter had been brief, with Y/N and Aurora taking the lead while Simred, Zapo, and Yelme provided support. The illegal raiders had been caught off guard, and within minutes, the Bandits had them subdued and their relics confiscated.

As they sorted through the spoils, Yelme let out a low whistle. "Not bad for a day's work," he remarked, holding up a small, intricately carved box. "This one might actually be worth something."

Aurora grinned, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "See? I told you we'd find something good!" She turned to Y/N, who was examining a peculiar-looking amulet. "What do you think, Y/N? Worth keeping?"

Y/N nodded thoughtfully. "Definitely. We'll add it to the stash. Good work, everyone."

But just as they began to pack up, Y/N's sharp eyes caught movement at the edge of the clearing. He instinctively raised a hand, signalling the group to halt. "We're not alone." he murmured, his voice low and tense.

The Bandits immediately fell silent, their hands moving to their weapons. They had learned to trust Y/N's instincts, and the sudden shift in his demeanour set them on edge.

Another group of foreign cave raiders emerged from the shadows, their faces twisted in grim satisfaction. They were clearly not the inexperienced type Y/N usually dealt with—these were seasoned raiders from another country, and they had numbers on their side.

"Well, well," one of the raiders sneered, his hand resting on the hilt of a jagged blade. "Looks like we've found ourselves some prey."

"You're trespassing in our territory," Y/N responded coolly, his eyes narrowing. "Leave now, and we'll pretend this never happened."

The lead raider laughed, a harsh, grating sound. "You've got guts, kid, though I doubt that you'd wanna see 'em. Hand over everything, and we'll let you live."

Y/N's gaze spread across the rest of the forigen raider's faces, noting each member's equipment and position. Looking back at the lead raider, a knowing smile reached Y/N's face. "No you won't."

The lead raider raised his blade towards Y/N and the bandits, letting out a much darker chuckle. "Heh...No, we won't."

Y/N's gaze flicked to Aurora, who was already poised to spring into action. He gave her a subtle nod, signalling that they would fight. "I'm taking left." he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Aurora's eyes flashed with determination. "Right."

With that, the Subterranean Bandits exploded into motion. Y/N lunged forward, his concealed mechanical limbs propelling him with inhuman speed. He targeted the lead raider first, his fist connecting with the man's jaw with a sickening crunch.

The raider crumpled to the ground, unconscious before he even hit the dirt. Y/N didn't pause, his momentum carrying him into the next opponent. The second raider swung his pickaxe, but Y/N easily sidestepped the attack, delivering a swift kick to the man's midsection.

Meanwhile, Aurora was a blur of motion on the right flank, her smaller stature allowing her to dart between the raiders with ease. She dodged an incoming strike on her left, spinning around to deliver a quick slash across her attacker's leg. The raider yelped in pain, dropping to one knee as Aurora followed up with a blow to the back of his head.

Simred, Zapo, and Yelme joined the fray, their combined efforts creating a whirlwind of steel and chaos. Simred, wielding a heavy mace, smashed through the defences of one raider, caving his head in and sending him sprawling over the side of a cliff. Zapo and Yelme worked in tandem, their pickaxes flashing as they engaged the remaining foes.

Despite the foreign raiders' numbers, they were no match for the Bandits coordination and skill. Y/N moved through the battlefield with precision, his mechanical limbs giving him an edge that few could counter. He grabbed one raider by the arm, and using his increased strength, hurled the man into a rock formation with bone-shattering force, killing him instantly.

Another raider, seeing the tide of battle turning against them, made a desperate lunge at Y/N's back. But Y/N was ready—he spun around, blocking the raider's blade with his metal forearm. The weapon screeched against the unyielding surface, and before the raider could register what had happened, Y/N's other arm lashed out, delivering a powerful blow that sent the man flying.

"Finish them off!" Y/N called out, his voice carrying over the sounds of battle.

Aurora, hearing the command, moved in to deliver the final strike to her downed opponent. She drove her dagger into the man's shoulder, pinning him to the ground and rendering him helpless.

The remaining raiders, realising they were outmatched, began to retreat, their confidence shattered. But Y/N wasn't about to let them escape. While hidden behind some foliage, he extended his arm, firing off a hand that wrapped around and grabbed the leg of one fleeing raider. With a sharp tug, he yanked the man back, slamming him into the ground with a resounding thud.

As the dust settled, the Subterranean Bandits stood victorious, their enemies either ded, incapacitated or fleeing. Y/N surveyed the scene, his breathing steady despite the intensity of the fight.

"Good work, everyone," Y/N said, his voice calm as he turned to his team. "Let's finish up here and head back to the Seeker Camp."

Aurora flashed him a grin, wiping the sweat from her brow. "You were right, Y/N. Easy money."

Y/N allowed himself a small smile, as he ruffled her hair, but there was no denying the tension that lingered in the air. The Abyss was a place of constant danger, and every encounter was a reminder of just how fragile life could be.

Months passed.

The expeditions continued, but something had shifted. The Bandits carried on with their work, completing their assignments with the same efficiency, but there was an undercurrent of silence that none of them could ignore. Y/N, once the cornerstone of their camaraderie, seemed different—more distant, more focused on his tasks than on the team.

One evening, Y/N found himself standing outside a familiar door in the Seeker Camp. Aurora's room. He hesitated, his hand resting just above the handle, the weight of the past few months heavy on his mind.

He stood there for a long moment, but in the end, he didn't open the door. Instead, he turned away, his footsteps heavy and mechanical as he walked down the corridor.

Chapter Text

[ 10 YEARS SINCE LYZA'S LAST DIVE ]

Picking up the black whistle from his nightstand, Y/N stepped out the door, the cold metal brushing against his chest as he secured it around his neck. The whistle was a mark of his rank, his status as a Black Whistle cave raider—one of the youngest ever to achieve such a distinction. At seventeen, Y/N was already a growing legend among his peers, his feats in the Abyss earning him a reputation as a fearsome and efficient raider.

But the boy who had once been an eager and lively cave raider was now gone. In his place was a cold, towering figure, a teen whose demeanour had shifted from exuberant to withdrawn, from hopeful to hardened. His once bright eyes now carried a weight that few could understand, and his every movement spoke of someone who had seen too much, too soon.

Y/N's footsteps were heavy as he descended the stairs of the Seeker Camp, the familiar sound echoing through the stone corridors. He was no longer the ecstatic, outgoing teen who had thrived on the thrill of discovery. Instead, he had become something more dangerous—an enforcer, someone who dealt with problems in the Abyss that others either couldn't or wouldn't handle.

His mission today was no different. There had been reports of an illegal cave raider squad operating in the area, and it was Y/N's task to "deal with them." The bounty was clear: "Dead or Alive." He didn't need to ask for details; he knew what was expected of him. He had become a bounty hunter of sorts, the Association's go-to for cleaning up the messes that others left behind.

-----------------------------------

The sun had barely risen by the time Y/N reached the location described in the reports. The air was thick with the familiar tension of the Abyss, a mix of anticipation and dread that always accompanied these missions. Y/N moved with purpose, his senses honed by years of experience, his mind focused on the task at hand.

He found the illegal cave raiders near the edge of a steep cliff, their makeshift camp hidden among the rocks. There were four of them—hardened men and women, each bearing the marks of countless expeditions. They were arguing over something, their voices rising in anger as Y/N approached, unnoticed in the shadows.

Without a word, Y/N stepped into their midst, his presence causing them to fall silent. They turned to face him, surprise and fear flickering across their faces as they recognized the black whistle hanging around his neck.

"Who the hell are you?" one of them demanded, his hand reaching for the weapon at his side.

Y/N didn't bother to respond. Instead, he moved with the speed and precision that had become his trademark. His metal limbs extended with a hiss, grabbing the man by the throat and lifting him off the ground before he could draw his weapon. The man's eyes bulged in terror as Y/N squeezed, cutting off his air supply.

"You're trespassing," Y/N said coldly, his voice devoid of emotion. "The bounty on you is 'Dead or Alive.' Which will it be?"

The other raiders hesitated, their hands hovering over their weapons as they weighed their options. But Y/N's grip tightened, and the man in his grasp began to choke, his struggles weakening with each passing second.

"Wait, wait!" one of the raiders shouted, dropping her weapon and raising her hands in surrender. "We didn't know—please, let him go!"

Y/N's eyes narrowed as he studied them, his grip loosening just enough to allow the man to gasp for air. But his cold gaze never wavered. "Leave." he ordered, his voice icy. "Before I decide your fate for you."

But one of the raiders, a burly man with a scar running down his cheek, didn't take kindly to being threatened. He pulled out a jagged blade and lunged at Y/N, his intent clear in the deadly glint of the weapon.

Y/N reacted with a fluid motion, releasing the man in his grip and stepping aside as the scarred raider's blade sliced through the air where he had been. With a swift movement, Y/N extended his arm, the metal limb snapping out like a whip to catch the raider's wrist. The sound of bones snapping echoed through the clearing as Y/N twisted, forcing the raider to drop his weapon.

The man cried out in pain, but Y/N showed no mercy. He yanked the raider forward, using his momentum to hurl him toward the edge of the cliff. The man stumbled, his eyes widening in panic as he realised what was about to happen.

"No—" The raider's scream was cut off as Y/N delivered a brutal kick to his chest, sending him tumbling over the edge. His body disappeared into the abyss below, his final cry lost in the depths.

The remaining raiders watched in horror as their comrade fell to his death. They turned to Y/N, their expressions a mix of fear and disbelief.

Y/N's cold gaze swept over them, his voice cutting through the silence. "Anyone else want to try their luck?"

The woman who had surrendered earlier shook her head frantically, tears streaming down her face. "Please... just let us go," she pleaded, her voice trembling.

Y/N looked at her, his eyes cold and dull. "Then run."

They didn't need to be told twice. The remaining raiders scrambled to their feet and fled, their footsteps echoing through the rocky terrain as they disappeared into the shadows. Y/N watched them go, his expression unreadable as he listened to their retreating cries.

With the job done, Y/N turned back to the cliff's edge, his thoughts as cold and unyielding as the stone beneath his feet. The bounty had been clear—"Dead or Alive"—and he had fulfilled it without hesitation. There was no room for mercy in the Abyss, no place for kindness. It was a lesson he had learned the hard way, and one he now enforced with brutal efficiency.

By the time Y/N returned to the Seeker Camp, the sun was high in the sky, casting harsh shadows across the stone walls. He removed his gear with practised ease, leaving him in his black scaled shirt, brown jeans, boots, and gloves. The coldness of the Abyss clung to him, even as he sat down at his desk to write his report.

The words came easily, his hand moving swiftly across the page. The illegal raider squad had been dealt with, and a message balloon was sent up to the Cave Raider Association to confirm the mission's completion. It was a routine report, one of many that Y/N had written over the past year. But as he finished the final sentence, a knock on the door broke the silence.

Y/N didn't look up as the door creaked open. "What is it?" he asked, his voice flat.

Marulk's small frame appeared in the doorway, his eyes wide with trepidation. "O-Ozen requested your presence," he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.

Y/N sighed, setting down his pen and finally looking up at the boy. "Alright, thanks." He stood up, his movements slow and deliberate as he left the room, not sparing a glance at Marulk.

As Y/N passed by, Marulk's eyes filled with tears, which he quickly wiped away with the back of his hand. "Y/N... you haven't been the same since last year," he whispered to himself, his voice tinged with sadness. "But I understand... why you've shut down like this."

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Y/N found Ozen in her office, staring at the White Cube that sat ominously in the corner of the room. The dim light cast eerie shadows on the walls, but Ozen's expression was as unreadable as ever.

"You called?" Y/N asked, crossing his arms as he approached her.

Ozen didn't respond immediately, her gaze fixed on the relic. The silence stretched on, but Y/N didn't press her. He was used to her ways by now.

Finally, Ozen spoke, her voice low and commanding. "We're heading to the Abyss's fourth layer. Get ready."

Y/N raised an eyebrow, his tone flat as he asked, "Why now?"

"There's been a report of something strange near the edge of the fourth layer," Ozen replied, turning her head slightly to look at him. "We're leaving in thirty minutes."

Y/N shrugged, not particularly interested in the details. "Fine," he muttered, turning to leave. "I'll gear up."

As he returned to his room, Y/N moved with a sense of detachment, as if the motions of preparing for the expedition were automatic. He tightened his boots and gloves, clenching and unclenching his right hand before sliding the glove over it. The action was routine, but it served as a reminder of the destructive power he wielded in the palms of his hands—and the control he had to maintain.

Draped over his shoulders was a hooded cape, the fabric dark and heavy, with the cape portion reaching just to the small of his back. The ensemble gave him a menacing silhouette, one that commanded both respect and fear among those who saw him. His sword, a constant companion, was the last thing he strapped to his back. The weight of it was comforting, a familiar burden that grounded him as he prepared for the journey ahead.

An hour later, Y/N was leaping from cave to cave, the jagged walls of the third layer rushing past him as he descended deeper into the Abyss. Ozen was in front, her presence a constant reminder of the authority she held over him and the others. The silence between them was heavy, filled only by the sound of their boots hitting the stone and the distant echoes of the Abyss.

As they made their way down, Y/N's mind drifted to the mission at hand. "Why the sudden trip to the fourth layer?" he asked, his voice carrying over the wind.

"There's something down there that needs investigating," Ozen replied curtly, her gaze fixed ahead. "A report from someone who's made the fifth layer his home."

Y/N's expression darkened, his scowl deepening. "Bondrewd..." he muttered under his breath, the name laced with disdain.

Ozen didn't respond to his tone, simply shrugging as she continued her descent. Y/N bit back any further comment, knowing that arguing with Ozen was pointless. His dislike for Bondrewd was no secret, but there was little he could do about it now. The idea of dealing with anything connected to the "Sovereign of Dawn" left a bitter taste in his mouth, but Ozen seemed unfazed, as usual.

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As they traversed down through the fourth layer, the landscape opened up before them, revealing a vast and eerie beauty of the Field of Eternal Fortunes. Massive trees with twisted, gnarled roots stretched high into the abyss, their leaves glowing faintly in the dim light. The air was thick with moisture, and the sound of distant waterfalls echoed through the expanse.

For a moment, Y/N allowed himself to take in the view. Despite the danger, there was something awe-inspiring about the Abyss—its beauty as deceptive as its tranquility. He couldn't deny the pull it had on him, the way it lured him deeper and deeper, even as it threatened to consume him.

But his moment of reflection was cut short when his senses suddenly went on high alert. His eyes snapped to a seemingly random direction, his instincts screaming that something was there, something watching.

Ozen noticed his reaction and raised an eyebrow. "What?" she asked, her tone more curious than concerned.

Y/N hesitated, scanning the area with narrowed eyes. "...It's nothing..." he finally said, though the unease in his voice lingered. "Let's keep moving."

As they continued through the Field of Eternal Fortitudes, Y/N found himself drifting further from Ozen's side, his thoughts occupied by a nagging feeling of unease. The fourth layer was known for its treacherous terrain and dangerous creatures, but something about this place felt different.

Jolting him out of his thoughts, he heard Ozen call out to him, telling him to move to her location. Even though he was a distance away, Y/N was still able to get to Ozen relatively quickly, using his mechanical limbs to close the gap with ease.

As he reached the site, Y/N's eyes widened in shock. There, wedged into the top of what appeared to be a grave, was a weapon he had only heard about in Ozen's stories—Lyza the Annihilator's signature weapon, the Blaze Reap.

The massive blade gleamed in the dim light, its edge sharp and deadly. The sight of it stirred something within Y/N, a mix of awe and disbelief. He had learned about the weapon from Ozen during one of her many drunken tales, but seeing it in person was something else entirely.

For a moment, neither of them spoke, the weight of the discovery settling over them. Ozen, usually so composed and indifferent, seemed genuinely surprised—something Y/N had rarely seen from her.

"Is this...?" Y/N asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Ozen nodded slowly, her eyes never leaving the weapon. "It seems so..." she replied, her tone betraying a rare hint of emotion. "Lyza's Blaze Reap."

Y/N reached out to touch the hilt, his gloved fingers brushing against the cool metal. The weapon felt heavy with history, with the countless battles it had seen, the lives it had taken. And now, it was here, buried in the depths of the fourth layer.

"Why would it be here?" Y/N wondered aloud, his mind racing with possibilities.

Ozen didn't answer immediately, her gaze shifting to an object at the base of the grave. "That's what we're here to find out," she finally said, her voice regaining its usual calm. "But whatever the reason...it's something important."

Y/N's thoughts were a whirlwind of emotions. The discovery of the Blaze Reap raised more questions than answers, but one thing was clear: this expedition had just become far more significant than he had anticipated.

As Ozen ripped the Pickaxe out of the ground, Y/N's mind buzzed with the possibilities. The Abyss had always been a place of mystery and danger, but now, more than ever, it felt like it was drawing him into something that he could never fully comprehend.

Chapter Text

Hey guys! Sorry for the long wait for another chapter, been busy with my other stories as well as Uni work (don't worry, semester is about to finish, so some chapters should be coming soon ;) )

Anyways, I've been playing with some music sites for a bit in my off time (AI is kinda weird to use), and I've actually written a song. YES, you've heard me right, a SONG.

Now, I KNOW what you're thinking: "AI MUSIC IS TRASH". Which is true, HOWEVER, I have ONLY used AI to sing the song, while I have written and tweaked the lyrics and music. For some context, I spent a good hour at my desk listening, reworking lyrics etc, and when I listened to the finished product for the first time, I was genuinely surprised at how good (at least to me) it turned out!

Specifically, I wrote it with the idea that Y/N was singing it (no shocker there) towards the end of [S0]. Now he isn't canonically singing it (THIS ISN'T STEVEN UNIVERSE LOL), but I am basically using this as practice for my 'Green and Gold' story, as I have a few musical numbers planned for that story.

Anyways, below are two seperate video's. They are the same song, same lyrics etc, however they have a different voice as well as beat / music.  The song is called "Beneath the Abyss".

[Version 1] - [ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cy7fhW9CzRg ]

[Version 2] - [ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOyHBApORWU ]

LYRICS:

♫   ♫   ♫

In the silence, shadows crawl,

Whispers of a world below.

I walk the edge, I feel it all,

But no one sees the scars I show.

Once a light, now dimmed and cold,

Dreams of rising, lost to time.

Through the void, through the fold,

I'm a ghost, waiting for a sign.

And I fall, I fall—

Through the depths of everything I've known.

Chasing echoes in the dark,

All alone, so far from home.

But I won't break, I won't bend,

In this cage I call my skin,

I fight the memories again.

They called me fierce, they called me strong,

But they don't know the wars I've lost.

I bear the weight, I carry on,

A heart that's frozen in the frost.

I've seen the depths, I've felt the fall,

I've buried love beneath the stone.

The price I paid, the blood, the call,

The silence tells me I'm alone.

And I fall, I fall—

Through the depths of everything I've known.

Chasing echoes in the dark,

All alone, so far from home.

But I won't break, I won't bend,

In this cage I call my skin,

I fight the memories again.

Her voice still lingers in the Abyss,

Like shattered glass beneath my feet.

Her face, a memory I miss,

But even ghosts fade, incomplete.

And I fall, I fall—

Through the depths of everything I've known.

Chasing echoes in the dark,

All alone, so far from home.

But I won't break, I won't bend,

In this cage I call my skin,

I'll fight the shadows till the end.

I fight the memories again...

Beneath the Abyss,

Where it all begins.

♫   ♫   ♫

Chapter Text

NOTE - ALL OF THIS INFORMATION IS RELEVANT TO THE [S1] PORTION OF THE STORY.

Name: Y/N

Gender: Male

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Black Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Dirty Brown hair with golden tips

Eyes - Light Shade of brown

Skin - Olive skin tone

Height  - 170cm / 5ft 5'

Age -  17 (By looks alone)

Attitude / Personality:

* Somewhat laid back when with allies, cautious / alert when with enemies, strangers, or in new territory.

* Slightly more gentle and charismatic when it comes to teaching or interacting with younger cave raiders.

* Does have his moments where he lashes out (has been known to get into fights in the Tumble Tavern)

* Strict when on expeditions with the cave raider squad, though when needed, puts himself in the line of fire rather than his teammates.

* Respectful to those above him or those of the same rank (I.e - Ozen, Hablog etc.)

* Quiet / Stoic when visiting the city of Orth, only speaking when spoken to (does get flustered easily when 'fans' approach him).

* Efficient in combat (has had to fight a number of foreign cave raiders).

* Has come to dislike his mechanical limbs, and one day wishes for the opportunity to remove them in exchange for actual flesh and blood limbs.

Equipment:

(Replace Cape with the cloak above)

(No helmet or pants, just overall body type)

(Also , the black lines are deep cuts in the metal of his forearm, similar to the right side of Reg's helmet)

-----------------------------------

Name: Reg

Gender: Male

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Red Whistle [DISSMISSED])

Characteristics:

Hair - Dark Brown

Eyes - Light shade of Yellow

Skin - Olive Skin tone, with red accents on his face and chest

Height - 130cm / 4ft 2'

Age - 12 (Actually Unknown, but this was estimated by Riko)

Attitude / Personality:

* While a formidable fighter, he is rather timid, naive and unassertive. He gets flustered easily and cries when in distress.

* While a pushover, when push comes to shove, Reg will not hesitate to put up a fight when Riko is in danger. He has made it his sworn duty to protect Riko as they descend into the depths of the Abyss.

* Enjoy's the fluffiness of Nanachi, much to her annoyance.

* Is somewhat jealous of Y/N (height is a major reason).

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Name: Riko

Gender: Female

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Red Whistle [DISSMISSED])

Characteristics:

Hair - Blonde

Eyes - Emerald / green

Skin - White

Height - 133cm / 4ft 3'

Age - 12

Attitude / Personality:

* Dreams of reaching the legendary title of a White Whistle.

* Riko is a good-natured, joyful, and energetic child with a kind and gentle heart who deeply cares for her friends.

* Compared to Reg, she is fragile and lacking in physical prowess. However, her ability to keep a cool head under pressure to make rational decisions allows her to tackle the Abyss, even without assistance from the team.

* She is an amazing cook, using her knowledge of the Abyss and its creatures to make delicious meals.

* She prioritises her own desires, so she has made and suffered from rash actions. She also has no sense of personal space.

* Geeks out when either meeting higher ranking cave raiders or when discovering something new.

-----------------------------

Name: Nanachi

Gender: Female

Occupation: Resident of the Abyss (Not by choice)

Characteristics:

Hair - White

Eyes - Yellow

Skin / Fur - Grey-ish + Light Brown fur

Height - 130cm / 4ft 2'

Age - 16 - 17 (While she has been living in the Abyss for several years now, she has estimated that she is around the age of 16 - 17, due to both the time dilation of the 4th and 5th layer, as well as her 'condition'.)

Attitude / Personality:

* For the most part, she is cool and reserved, keeping her distance emotionally and physically.

* Her attitude often borders on being sarcastic and even cynical, however, behind this mask, Nanachi hides a kind and gentle soul, capable of deep compassion and selfless devotion.

* She is also quite bashful when complimented, seen in her reaction to being called "fluffy" or "cute". She also express discomfort at being petted, specifically by Reg. Is not as bothered when being pet by other members of the team (basically only Riko and Y/N).

-----------------------------

Name: Mitty

Gender: Female

Occupation: Resident of the Abyss (Not by choice)

Characteristics:

Hair - Pinkish / Red

Eyes - Pinkish / Red

Skin - White

Height - 135cm / 4ft 4'

Age - 12 (Before 'the incident')

Attitude / Personality:

* Very upbeat and positive, forever thinking about the world around her while always trying to look on the bright side of things, even if Nanachi was negative or dismissive.

* Dreams about becoming a White Whistle, with Nanachi as her Cave Raiding Partner.

* She is very outgoing, as she was the one who first approached Nanachi and insisted on being friends.

------------------------------

Name: The Unmovable Sovereign - Ozen

Gender: Female

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (White Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Black and Grey

Eyes - Dull Black

Skin - Grey

Height - 230cm / 7ft 5'

Age - 60+ (Due to her use of a Relic, she has remained relatively unaffected by ageing).

Attitude / Personality:

* A coldness dominates her personality, and she can often be cruel, cynical and apathetic. However, behind the cold and deadly exterior, she still has the capacity to show compassion, in her own 'twisted' way.

* She despises lying to children, and rarely lies to them, even if it means telling them brutal truths.

* She is not completely devoid of emotion, as it is has been shown that she secretly and dearly cares for people such as Lyza, Marulk and Y/N.

* She enjoys eating a variety of different things, whether they taste good or bad. Usually, she has Y/N hunt a creature of the abyss anytime she wishes to eat something 'different'.

--------------------------

Name: Marulk

Gender: Male (If you have a keen sense of smell, you can discover his secret)

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Blue Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Blue

Eyes - Blue

Skin - Pale

Height - 130cm / 4ft 2'

Age - 14

Attitude / Personality:

* He is a rather shy, but polite, individual who misses having the chance to talk with people of the same age because he manages the Seeker Camp as its Sentry.

* While he does fear Ozen at times, he knows her well and trusts her.

* He's very reluctant to talk about his clothing. When mentioned, he becomes very nervous.

* His first and only 'real' friend / guardian at the Seeker Camp was Y/N, and even that's somewhat of a stretch as of late, however he has gotten Y/N to open up slightly since 'the accident'.

--------------------------------

Name: Simred / Zapo / Yelme

Gender: Male / Male / Male

Occupation: Cave Raiders - Ranks (Black Whistle / Moon Whistle / Moon Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Brown / White / Dark Green

Eyes - Black / Grey / Green

Skin - White / Tan / White

Height - 5ft 10' / 5ft 5' / 5ft 7'

Age  - 27 / 60 / 23

Attitude / Personality:

* All of these members have a criminal record.

* All are usually laid back, however fall into line either when ordered to do something by Ozen or Y/N.

* When on expeditions, they do attempt to secretly steal relics for their own gain. Neither Ozen nor Y/N really care all too much. However, if something of value is found (3rd Grade or above), Ozen will take it and send it to the surface to be sold.

--------------------------

Name: Habolg

Gender: Male

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Black Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - Bushy

Eyes - Brown

Skin - White (usually dirty)

Height - 200cm / 6ft 5'

Age - 41

Attitude / Personality:

* Hablog is a very bright and kind person with a rather high level of curiosity, as is seen when he first meets Reg.

* He aims for the title of the legendary White Whistle, and remains optimistic, although he has remained a Black Whistle for several years.

* Has met Y/N on quite a few occasions, and sees him as an exceptional cave raider and an equal, even though Y/N reminds him somewhat of Ozen.

---------------------------------

Name: Jiruo

Gender: Male

Occupation: Cave Raider - Rank (Moon Whistle [ACTIVE])

Characteristics:

Hair - White

Eyes - Blue

Skin - White

Height - 170cm / 5ft 5'

Age - 22

Attitude / Personality:

* Now as a Moon Whistle, he strives to teach / mentor the next generation of Cave Raiders. However sometimes, he still wonders if Lyza, his mentor, would be proud of what he has accomplished.

* Although seemingly annoyed of her antics, Jiruo cares deeply for Riko, as if he was her older brother / carer. However, he keeps this to himself.

* Hasn't heard from Y/N in quite some time. However, he's heard that Y/N has been going on multiple solo expeditions.

* On some occasions, he has had to assist Y/N when he is in the Tumble Tavern (usually as the peace maker, however he lets Y/N go nuts if the other party doesn't back down.)

Chapter Text

[OPENING] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e91G8m9uM_0

The air within the Abyss was thick and humid, almost palpable, clinging to the skin as Riko and Nat made their way deeper into the First Layer. All around them, the atmosphere teemed with an eerie stillness, a quiet that only the Abyss could provide. The towering rock formations cast long shadows over their path, making the natural glow from the vegetation seem faint and flickering, like the heartbeat of a slumbering giant.

"Come on, Nat! Why are you following me?" Riko's voice rang out, echoing faintly off the stone walls of the ravine as she glanced back at her companion.

Nat, trailing just a few steps behind, scowled in response. "Shut up! I'm responsible for the area just above yours, Riko." His voice held a defensive tone, as if he had no interest in her scavenging but simply followed orders.

Riko scratched her neck in thought, her blonde hair bouncing slightly as she tilted her head. "Oh, right...," she murmured. Despite the constant teasing between them, there was a comfort in Nat's presence—an unspoken understanding forged through their friendship and shared trials as apprentice cave raiders.

Riko threw down a rope from the edge of a small cliff. She peered down with wide, determined eyes before starting her descent, her fingers gripping the rope tightly as she rappelled down the stone face. The faint light of her headlamp flickered over the uneven terrain below.

"Well, at least help me carry the relics on the way home then," Riko said, her voice slightly strained as she manoeuvred down the cliffside.

Nat crossed his arms, unimpressed by the request. "Why?!"

Riko's feet hit the ground, and she stood tall with a grin. "Because today my haul needs to get the highest valuation out of all the Red Whistles!"

Nat scoffed, adjusting his pack as he leaped down after her. "Doubt that'll happen. This area's mostly been searched already."

A look of determination burned in Riko's eyes as she clenched her fists. "That's why it's gonna come down to quantity!" she declared, marching ahead with newfound vigor. Nat trailed after her, shaking his head. "You really okay with that?"

They continued to descend deeper into the layer, the walls narrowing around them, covered in strange markings left by the many raiders who had come before them. The misty air carried the scent of damp earth, mingling with something ancient and forgotten—the undeniable allure of the Abyss.

Riko pressed on, her excitement palpable. "How about fudging the numbers...with that thing you swiped the other day?" Nat teased, his eyes glinting with a hint of mischief.

"The Star Compass?" Riko nearly choked on her words. "I can't do that! It guides its user toward the truth of the Abyss, after all!" Her voice quivered slightly as she continued, "Besides... if it's found out that I was hiding it, I'll get a worse punishment than being strung up naked again!"

She winced, her mind flashing back to that embarrassing and humiliating moment. Her hands slapped the ground as she knelt, a dramatic display of frustration. "Talk about traumatising a little girl!"

Nat's cheeks flushed slightly, his expression softening despite his usual stoic attitude. "Well... be careful," he muttered, half hoping to drop the topic entirely.

Just as he spoke, movement from up ahead caught their attention. Nat's sharp eyes scanned the horizon. A little further down the slope was the unmistakable gleam of the golden gondola used to send cave raiders deeper into the Abyss.

"Ah, the big Gondola!" Nat pointed out.

Riko's face lit up with excitement, and she quickly grabbed Nat by the arm, tugging him towards the edge for a better view. "Wow! Nat, look at that! It's the 600-metre group!"

"I know," Nat replied, slightly exasperated but entertained by Riko's endless energy.

They watched in awe as the massive gondola slowly descended, disappearing into the swirling mists below. The clouds, thick and heavy, swallowed it whole, leaving behind only the faintest outline of its shadow.

"Aww, it's already out of sight..." Riko's voice carried a hint of envy as her eyes lingered on the now-empty space where the gondola had been. "Lucky them... I wish I could ride it."

Nat scanned their surroundings, his brow furrowing. "Say... isn't it kinda quiet today?"

Riko's expression became thoughtful for a moment before she shrugged. "Probably 'cause there aren't any hammerbeaks around... I can't hear them singing at all, anyway."

Her words sent a ripple of unease through Nat. The hammerbeaks, large bird-like creatures native to the upper layers of the Abyss, were known for their incessant calls. Their absence now felt almost... unnatural.

"You're right," Nat said after a pause. "Well, it should make it easier to work. Those guys take anything shiny back to their nests, after all."

Riko's determination returned with full force as she moved ahead, casting a quick glance over her shoulder. "Wait! Why are you going ahead of me?! I'm the one who takes the lead!"

Nat, startled, stopped in his tracks, glancing back at her in surprise. "Huh?!"

------------------------------------

The faint light from Riko's headlamp illuminated the narrow cave they had found. Her pickaxe hit the stone with rhythmic, steady thuds, chipping away at the wall. Each swing echoed in the tight space, reverberating in time with her breath.

"I'm gonna go all out excavating today!" she declared, her voice echoing slightly. "I'll get so much stuff, Leader will be lost for words!"

With one final swing, the rock wall before her cracked and broke away, revealing a small, hollow space filled with dust-covered relics. Riko's eyes sparkled with excitement as she dusted off her hands and moved in closer.

"Alright, let's do this! I'm gonna get the number one assignment!"

She carefully removed some vines covering the wall, revealing a sphere-shaped relic embedded within. Her fingers traced the shape of the object, a relic untouched by time and the countless other raiders who had passed this way. A little further down, she spotted another relic half-buried in the dirt.

Using her pickaxe again, she tapped the wall gently, listening for hollow spaces. After locating another one, she swung hard, the stone giving way to reveal even more relics hidden beneath.

"I'm on fire!" she grinned, pulling a large shovel-shaped relic from the cave. The weight of it nearly toppled her backward, but she steadied herself, her body straining against the burden.

A few moments later, Riko gritted her teeth and heaved a large stone slab from the ground. Her triumph was short-lived, though, as her eyes landed on something far more chilling than relics.

A skull.

The sight of it made her gasp, and her hands slipped, dropping the slab with a loud crash. She stumbled backward, her heart racing as the pieces of the broken stone settled around her feet.

After a few deep breaths, she calmed herself, peering once more at the skeleton that lay before her, hands clasped in prayer. "A skeleton of someone in prayer..." she muttered softly. "First time I've seen one in a while, so it came as a shock."

With a quiet, solemn moment, Riko placed her hands together in a prayerful gesture, whispering an apology. "Sorry for disturbing you."

---------------------------------------

The sound of rustling leaves and distant whispers of wind accompanied the peaceful scene of Riko resting in a small clearing outside the cave. Her bag, now overflowing with relics, sat beside her as she devoured one of her infamous "Riko Bombs."

Taking a massive bite, she spoke between chews. "I can carry it up if I just try."

Another bite.

"At this rate, it's only a matter of time till I'm bumped up to the 600-metre group."

She smiled brightly, eyes sparkling with the excitement of her ever-present ambition. The Abyss held mysteries and dangers alike, but to Riko, it was also a place of endless adventure. Little did she know that the greatest mystery of all was about to find her.Riko trudged forward, her bag now heavy with relics, the weight of her ambition threatening to bring her to her knees. Her breath came in shallow gasps, and with each step, her legs trembled beneath the strain.

"Nat!" Riko's voice cracked as she struggled under the burden. "It's heavy... Hey, Nat! Help me out!"

There was no answer. The oppressive quiet of the Abyss settled around her, broken only by the sound of her own laboured breathing and the distant hum of the environment. She paused, leaning against a stone wall for support. Her hands shook as she wiped sweat from her brow. "Where did Nat run off to?" she muttered, her eyes scanning the dim surroundings.

The mist clung to everything, giving the Abyss an otherworldly feel, as if it were alive, breathing along with her. The towering rock formations cast long, eerie shadows that seemed to shift and dance with the faintest breeze. Riko's heart pounded in her chest, an unsettling quiet weighing on her like a shroud.

She rounded a corner, still catching her breath when she froze, her eyes widening in terror. Floating through the air, just a few metres away, was a massive, eyeless creature—a Crimson Splitjaw. Its massive, serpentine body drifted lazily above the ground, its movements slow and deliberate. 

Riko's mouth went dry as she whispered, "A C-Crimson Splitjaw? What's it doing this far up?"

The creature's presence was a nightmare come to life. Its gaping maw hung open, revealing rows of razor-sharp teeth. The splitjaw moved with an eerie grace, its massive body undulating through the air as though it weighed nothing. Riko's breath caught in her throat as she crouched down, praying it hadn't noticed her.

It floated toward a small cave opening, where an unconscious figure lay slumped against the rocks. Riko's heart nearly stopped when she recognized the bag slung over the figure's shoulder—Nat's bag. "N-Nat...!?" she gasped, her voice barely more than a whisper. Her eyes locked onto a smear of dark red on his forehead. "Oh no... is that blood?!"

Her mind raced, panic threatening to take over. "What should I do? Nat's... Nat's gonna be eaten!"

The splitjaw hovered over Nat, its massive jaws slowly opening, preparing to consume him whole. Riko's hands shook as she clutched her red whistle. There was no time to think. She blew into the whistle with all her strength, the shrill sound piercing through the air like a blade.

The splitjaw froze mid-motion, its attention now fixated on her. Its eyeless face seemed to lock onto her, and a deep, guttural growl echoed from its throat. Riko's legs trembled as she watched the creature rear back, its mouth widening in an enraged snarl before it lunged at her.

"Ahhh!" Riko turned on her heels and ran as fast as her legs would carry her. The ground beneath her feet was uneven, and she stumbled, the weight of her bag throwing her off balance. But the adrenaline coursing through her veins pushed her forward. Behind her, the splitjaw's massive form crashed through the underbrush, its tail whipping through the air with a force that sent rocks and dirt flying.

With a deafening roar, the creature lashed out with its tail, striking her square in the back. The force of the blow sent Riko hurtling through the air, her vision blurring as she slammed into a stone cliff. The impact knocked the wind from her lungs, and she tumbled backward into a dark hole in the ground, her bag of relics spilling open and scattering across the rocky floor.

She hit the ground hard, the air driven from her lungs. Gasping for breath, she instinctively grabbed her left arm, wincing in pain. "Ow... M-my arm... is it broken?" She winced, bracing herself for the worst. But when she stretched it out, she realised it wasn't. "Oh, it's not!"

She barely had time to recover before she heard the rumble of movement above her. "Nat?" she called out weakly, looking up at the hole she had fallen through. But instead of Nat, she saw the monstrous head of the Crimson Splitjaw squeezing its way through the narrow opening. It thrashed wildly, its massive form scraping against the stone walls as it forced itself down into the pit after her.

Riko's heart pounded in her chest, and fear gripped her like a vise. The splitjaw let out a deafening roar and lunged toward her with its maw wide open. Riko screamed, diving out of the way just in time to avoid being crushed beneath its massive jaws.

She scrambled to her feet, her eyes darting around for an escape route. There! A narrow tunnel at the other end of the cave. She bolted toward it, her pulse racing in her ears. The splitjaw thrashed behind her, its massive body tearing through the tight space as it gave chase.

Riko's lungs burned as she ran, her feet slipping on the slick stone floor. Up ahead, she saw light filtering in through a gap in the rock. She ran toward it, hoping for an escape, but when she reached the end of the tunnel, her heart sank. It wasn't an exit—it was a drop-off. The cliff extended over a yawning chasm, the sheer drop sending a wave of vertigo through her.

She skidded to a halt, stumbling backward, her breath coming in ragged gasps. The splitjaw loomed behind her, cutting off any chance of retreat. It moved in slowly, its eyeless gaze fixed on her as it opened its jaws once again. Riko fell to the ground, her hands trembling as she raised them in a futile attempt to shield herself.

In a last-ditch effort, she screamed, "Help!"

The splitjaw lunged.

But just before its massive fangs could sink into her, a blinding beam of orange light seared through the tunnel, striking the splitjaw in the side with devastating force. A massive chunk of its body was vaporised, leaving behind smouldering flesh and exposed bone. The splitjaw thrashed in agony, its tail whipping through the air as it shrieked in pain.

Riko watched in stunned silence as the creature retreated, its wounded form disappearing into the sky beyond the cliff.

For a moment, the cave was silent. The only sound was the faint echo of the splitjaw's distant cries. Riko's breath came in shallow gasps as she slowly lowered her arms, her body trembling from the adrenaline still coursing through her veins. She pushed herself to her feet, her legs shaky beneath her.

"What... what just happened?" she muttered to herself, her eyes wide with disbelief.

She turned toward the direction where the beam had come from, her curiosity piqued. The wall of the cave had been scorched, and trees outside were blackened and melted from the intensity of the blast. Something—or someone—had saved her.

Her heart still racing, she began to follow the trail of destruction left by the beam. The rocks around her were charred, and the petrified trees were melted into strange, twisted shapes. It was as if the very air had been scorched by whatever had unleashed the attack.

"Amazing..." Riko whispered in awe. "The petrified trees... they're melted! Did... someone save me?"

As she continued down the path, something caught her eye. A glint of blue on the ground. She knelt down and picked up a small pendant, its sapphire glow soft and ethereal in the dim light. "Wow... beautiful," she murmured, pocketing the mysterious trinket.

Then, just ahead, she saw it. A figure lying on the ground, motionless.

Riko's heart skipped a beat as she rushed toward the figure. She crouched down beside it, her breath catching in her throat. It was a boy—or at least, it looked like one. His hand, which had been glowing faintly, let out a small puff of steam before the light flickered and disappeared.

"H-hello there?" Riko's voice was soft and hesitant. She reached out, gently brushing his dark hair away from his face. But then she froze. "No way... He's not breathing!"

Panic set in as she flipped him onto his back. "He needs artificial respiration!" she cried, preparing to administer CPR. But as her hands touched his skin, she paused, her brow furrowing in confusion. "What's with this texture...?"

She poked and prodded at his cheek, her curiosity overriding her panic. A grin spread across her face. "He's not human!"

Now fully intrigued, Riko examined his body, her eyes wide with wonder. His limbs were mechanical, covered in intricate designs, and his helmet gleamed in the faint light. "Is he... a machine?" she whispered, her excitement growing.

"This is big!" Riko pumped her fist in the air, her exhaustion forgotten in the face of such an extraordinary discovery. "I've never seen anything like this before! He's still warm... so he must've been moving until a moment ago."

Her thoughts were interrupted by a cold gust of wind that swept through the tunnel, chilling her to the bone. She turned her gaze to the vast expanse of the Abyss before her, a question forming on her lips. "But... where did this boy come from?"

With the boy slung awkwardly over her shoulder, Riko trudged forward, every step a struggle. His weight was far more than she had anticipated, and her knees buckled beneath the strain. She grit her teeth, determined not to give up.

"Nat... Where are you?" she muttered under her breath. The weight of the boy's limp body was too much for her alone. Just as her strength was about to fail her, she heard a familiar voice calling from above.

"Riko! Riko, are you okay?"

Her heart leaped with relief as she looked up to see Nat peering down at her from a ledge above. She waved her free arm, her voice weak but full of hope. "Nat! I found something! Help me!"

Within moments, Nat was at her side, his brow furrowing in confusion as he laid eyes on the unconscious boy. "What the...? This isn't a cave raider... What is this thing?"

Riko collapsed onto her back, gasping for air. "Please... Nat... help me bring him to the surface," she pleaded, her voice barely a whisper.

Nat sighed, rolling his eyes as he handed her helmet and glasses back to her. "Fine," he muttered, "but I don't like this..."

With their combined strength, the two of them set up a pulley system, carefully manoeuvring the boy's unconscious form up the cliff. It was a slow and arduous process, each tug on the rope sending waves of exhaustion through their arms.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, they managed to hoist the boy to safety. Nat, now carrying the boy over his shoulder, grumbled under his breath. "This better be worth it..."

Riko, despite her fatigue, flashed him a grateful smile. "Thanks, Nat... You're the best."

As they walked toward the city, the stone path winding its way upward, Riko glanced up at the guard standing at the entrance. He gave them a confused look, but said nothing as they passed. Riko hurried ahead, eager to get the boy to safety.

Stopping a passing farmer with a cart, she flashed her best smile and asked, "Excuse me, could we catch a ride?"

The farmer nodded, gesturing for them to hop onto the back of his cart. With a sigh of relief, Riko climbed aboard, glancing back at the mysterious boy who had saved her life. Whatever he was, wherever he had come from, one thing was certain. The Abyss had just revealed a new mystery.

As the cart trundled along the cobblestone path, its wheels clattering with a familiar rhythm, Riko and Nat approached their destination—the orphanage they both called home. The atmosphere in the air was calmer now, but Riko's heart still beat with an adrenaline-fueled rush. She looked over her shoulder at the unconscious robot boy, nestled between Nat's arms.

"Thanks!" Riko called out to the farmer who had given them a ride. He waved back nonchalantly as his cart rolled away into the growing shadows of the afternoon.

Turning to Nat with a renewed energy, Riko puffed her chest out, smiling despite the exhausting day they'd had. "Alright! Nat, just a bit more to go!"

Nat, however, wasn't as enthusiastic. His face twisted with annoyance, and he shot Riko an exasperated look. "Screw you! The hardest part is just starting now! He's heavy, you know!"

Before Riko could respond, a voice from behind startled them both.

"What's going on here?"

They whirled around, only to find their friend Shiggy standing a few feet away, his usual curious expression plastered on his face. 

Riko let out a relieved sigh. "Oh, it's just you, Shiggy. You startled us."

Shiggy's eyes quickly locked onto the strange figure slung over Nat's back, his brow furrowing with confusion. "Who's that?" he asked, nodding toward the mysterious boy.

Riko scratched her head, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Don't know. But, for the time being, I'm calling him 'Robot Boy.'" She grinned, though her excitement was laced with a nervous energy. Shiggy raised an eyebrow at her explanation, clearly perplexed. "Robot Boy?"

They continued walking, now with Shiggy trailing beside them, and Riko filled him in on what had happened. After a few minutes, Shiggy nodded in understanding. "Ah, I get it now. So you've swiped something again, huh, Riko?"

Riko puffed up defensively, waving her hand as if to dismiss the accusation. "I'm just sheltering him, okay?"

"Either way is fine by me," Nat grumbled, readjusting his grip on the robot boy.

The trio pressed on, growing more cautious as they neared the orphanage. As the stone walls of their home came into view, Nat suddenly paused, peeking cautiously around the corner. His face paled slightly, and he grimaced, quickly retreating to the safety of the wall's edge. "Ah, I knew she'd be here," he muttered under his breath.

Riko and Shiggy peered around the corner too, their eyes landing on the figure of the Director of the orphanage, standing like a sentinel near the entrance, her sharp eyes scanning the path for the returning children. Her presence was as intimidating as ever, her stern gaze capable of freezing even the bravest of the orphans in their tracks.

"How are we gonna get past her?" Nat whispered, his voice tinged with unease.

Riko bit her lip, her mind racing as she tried to concoct a plan. But before she could speak, Shiggy piped up. "I think we can manage it. Just give me a sec."

With quiet determination, Shiggy crept around the outer perimeter of the orphanage, sticking close to the stone wall to avoid being seen by the Director. His heart pounded in his chest as he slipped into the shadows, trying to avoid the dry leaves that threatened to crunch underfoot.

Once he reached the far side of the building, Shiggy spotted Kiyui, a younger orphan, sitting on the balcony with a book in hand, flipping through its pages. Shiggy whispered up to him, "Kiyui!" He waved his hands, motioning frantically to get the boy's attention.

Kiyui looked down, and for a moment, it seemed like he was going to shout out a greeting, but Shiggy quickly raised a finger to his lips, shushing him.

After a few confused blinks, Kiyui squinted at Shiggy's hand motions, his head tilting as he tried to decipher the improvised signals. Shiggy gestured to the book in Kiyui's hand, then pointed to the ground, mimicking a drop with his hand. Kiyui's eyes widened with understanding, and he nodded, albeit somewhat hesitantly.

Watching from the shadows, Nat muttered under his breath, "You think he'll understand that?" Riko, though equally uncertain, shrugged and whispered back, "I hope so..."

Moments later, they saw the plan set into motion. Kiyui, with deliberate clumsiness, let the book slip from his hands. It tumbled through the air, landing with a soft thud on the ground below. Almost immediately, the Director's sharp ears picked up the sound, and she turned toward the disturbance, her cold gaze narrowing as she spotted the fallen book.

"Book! Book!" Kiyui's small voice echoed from the balcony, his innocent tone laced with the perfect amount of childlike ignorance.

The Director stormed over to the side of the building, glaring up at Kiyui with her hands on her hips. "How many times do I have to tell you?! Don't read books out on the veranda!" Her voice was stern, a warning tone that promised consequences. "Do it again, and I'll take it away for good!"

As the Director's attention remained fixed on Kiyui, Riko, Nat, and Shiggy seized their chance. Riko darted forward, waving them along as she checked that the coast was clear. With Shiggy and Nat carrying the robot boy between them, they slipped into the orphanage, successfully avoiding the Director's hawk-like gaze.

Once inside, they ducked into a quiet corridor, breathing a collective sigh of relief. Riko leaned against the wall, wiping the sweat from her brow. "Phew! That was close."

Shiggy nodded, his heart still racing from the narrow escape. "Yeah, but now what? We can't just leave him in the hall."

Nat scowled, his arms aching from carrying the robot boy. "I didn't sign up for this. Where are we even gonna hide him?"

Riko's eyes gleamed with excitement. "There's only one place we can keep him for now. We've gotta sneak him into my room!" Nat raised an eyebrow. "Your room? What if the Director comes snooping around?"

"She won't," Riko assured him confidently, though her tone didn't completely mask her own nerves. "Besides, I can hide him under my bed. She never checks there!"

Shiggy crossed his arms, considering their options. "It's risky, but I don't see another choice. We need to figure out what he is and what to do next."

Riko grinned, her excitement bubbling over once again. "Exactly! I mean, come on, a robot boy? This could be the discovery of a lifetime!"

With a plan in place, they moved swiftly through the orphanage's dimly lit hallways, careful to avoid any of the older students or the watchful eyes of the other staff members. The weight of their secret—and the unconscious robot boy—hung heavy between them as they made their way to Riko's room.

--------------------------------------------

The next morning, sunlight filtered through the high windows of the orphanage, casting long rays across the dusty classroom. The room buzzed with chatter as the young students prepared for another day of learning, their red whistles hanging around their necks like badges of honour. The smell of old books and parchment filled the air, mingling with the faint, musty scent that always seemed to linger in the orphanage.

Jiruo, the Moon Whistle and their instructor, stood at the front of the room, addressing the class in his calm, measured tone. "Good work out there yesterday. You didn't manage to excavate all that much, but it was the first time working solo for most of you, so that's only to be expected."

Riko shifted in her chair, her legs swinging back and forth restlessly. The lesson had barely started, and she was already feeling impatient. Her mind wasn't on cave raiding techniques or the orphanage's rules. It was on the events of the previous day and the strange, mechanical boy now lying hidden in her room. Every moment that passed felt like a small eternity.

Jiruo flipped a page on his clipboard, his sharp eyes scanning the list of names before continuing. "Once again next week, I'll have you base yourselves at the same site, 100 meters down, and continue working. For those of you who have lost their equipment, file a request with General Affairs. That is all."

The students, including Riko, began to stir in their seats, ready to be dismissed. But before they could move, a sharp tap echoed through the room. The director, standing off to the side, tapped her cane lightly on the floor, signaling she had something to say.

Jiruo's eyes flickered to her immediately, and he addressed the class. "Now, a word from the Director."

The room fell into an uneasy silence as the director slowly rose to her feet, her cold, calculating gaze sweeping over the students like a hawk surveying its prey. "There's just one thing I want to say," she began, her voice low and deliberate. "Realise that your possession of a whistle is based on being a student of the guild's orphanage. Strive to work hard, as to not shame your parents who fell so nobly."

Riko shrank slightly in her seat, feeling the weight of the director's words. Her parents had died in the depths of the Abyss, leaving behind a legacy that she both admired and felt burdened by. Every time the director mentioned parents, it stirred something complicated in her chest—something she wasn't ready to deal with just yet.

The director paused, letting her words settle over the class before continuing. "Ah, one more thing."

From the back of the room, Nat and Shiggy exchanged glances, their thoughts synchronised in silent agreement. "That's two things now..." they thought to themselves, but they wisely kept quiet.

"Helping yourself to relics is strictly forbidden," the director announced, her gaze suddenly locking onto Riko with laser-like intensity. Riko's heart leaped into her throat, her pulse quickening. "Relics provide valuable income for the orphanage, so pocketing them is inexcusable. No matter the punishment... I don't want to hear any complaints!"

Riko felt a bead of sweat trickle down the side of her face. Her mind raced, trying to stay composed under the weight of the director's piercing stare. "She knows!" Riko thought, a wave of panic crashing over her. She had stashed the strange relic boy in her room. If the director found out, there would be more than just punishment waiting for her.

The director's gaze lingered for a moment longer before she turned her attention back to the rest of the class. "Next time, it won't stop at just being strung up naked. Keep that in mind. That is all. You are dismissed."

As the students began to file out of the classroom, Riko let out a long, shaky breath of relief, slumping against her desk. "She doesn't know... I'm safe."

Her moment of peace was short-lived, however, as Jiruo called from the front of the room, "Riko. Can I talk to you for a sec?"

Riko's stomach tightened. She hesitated for a moment before nodding and making her way down the creaking wooden steps to where Jiruo stood. He was gathering a few books from the desk, his brow furrowed in thought.

"Nat tells me he lost his backpack due to being attacked by a Crimson Splitjaw," Jiruo began without looking up.

Riko, trying to appear nonchalant, puffed out her chest proudly and put her hands on her hips. "That's right! If I didn't save him, he'd be snake droppings right about now. Oh, that Nat!" she added with a teasing smile.

Jiruo, hearing this, looked up, his eyebrows raised in mild surprise. "You saved him?" His tone was sceptical, as if the idea of Riko saving anyone was a bit hard to believe.

With her usual over-the-top enthusiasm, Riko beamed, her eyes lighting up as she animatedly re-enacted the moment. "Yes! I blew my whistle like this—" she mimicked blowing the whistle, her expression exaggerated "—and made myself a decoy!"

Jiruo folded his arms, still not entirely convinced. "And how did you get saved then?"

The question caught Riko off guard, and her eyes widened. Her mouth opened, the words on the tip of her tongue. "That's also surprising! A light like none I've ever seen just—" But before she could blurt it out, her hand flew to her mouth. "Ah, that was close!" she thought frantically, realising she was about to spill everything about the robot boy.

Jiruo watched her curiously for a moment before shrugging it off. "Well, whatever. Even at a relatively safe 100 metres, you never know what's going to happen." He gave her a serious look, his eyes narrowing. "From now on, don't let your guard down."

He turned to leave, his back straight as he made his way toward the exit, but Riko wasn't finished yet. She clenched her fists, biting her lip before calling out, "Leader! Wait!"

Jiruo stopped, turning back around with a tired yet curious expression. "What?"

Riko hesitated, her hands fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. But she gathered her courage, running up to him and bowing deeply. "U-umm... I have a favour to ask! Please assign me somewhere deeper!"

Jiruo's face remained unchanged as he regarded her with calm patience. "I thought I told you I'd consider it if your haul was assessed to be the most valuable."

He crouched down to her level, his expression softening just a fraction as he gave her a more understanding look. "First, develop some skills that allow you to cave-raid more efficiently."

Riko straightened up, a determined look crossing her face. "I... I want to quickly build up experience at deeper depths." Her voice grew more fervent as she went on, her eyes shining with the same fierce passion she always had when talking about the Abyss. "I want to become a White Whistle as soon as I can... and catch up with my mother!"

Jiruo's eyes flickered with something unreadable as she continued, her words tumbling out in a rush. "I'll go as deep as she has and—"

But Jiruo cut her off, his voice firm. "You can't."

His words hung in the air like a lead weight, and Riko's heart sank.

Jiruo continued, his tone as steady as ever. "To begin with, if you were to go down 400 metres with your current level of experience, simply heading back up again would be all you could handle."

He rose to his full height, turning to walk away as if the conversation was over. "For the time being, keep your head down and work hard."

Riko stood there, her hands clenched into fists, her frustration mounting. Tears pricked the corners of her eyes, but she quickly wiped them away when she heard footsteps approaching. Nat, Shiggy, and Kiyui peeked around the doorway, their faces filled with concern.

Nat sauntered in, a smirk playing at the corner of his lips. "Well, that's too bad, miss 'Saved-my-life!'"

Riko huffed, rubbing at her eyes in a futile attempt to hide her embarrassment. "What of it? Eavesdropping like that isn't cool, you know!"

Nat shrugged, clearly unfazed. "More importantly, Riko, what are you going to do about that thing in your room?"

Shiggy and Kiyui exchanged nervous glances, while Riko's face lit up with renewed excitement. "The robot? I'll wake him up, of course!"

Nat raised an eyebrow, incredulous. "He's still asleep? Really?"

Riko's grin widened, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she grabbed her friends by the arm. "Yep! We've gotta hurry and wake him up! So help me out, everyone!"

--------------------------------------------

The robot boy stirred slowly, his senses gradually coming online, each fragment of sound registering with a delayed sense of awareness. His body felt stiff, his systems humming in a low, rhythmic pattern. Through the haze, the faint voices of children floated toward him, carrying a tone of curiosity and excitement.

"So? How's that?" one of the voices asked, somewhat expectantly.

"I think maybe he moved a little," another answered, hopeful but uncertain.

"Really?!" The pitch of excitement in the third voice hinted at anticipation.

The robot boy's thoughts swam in and out of coherence. "Is someone there?" he wondered, still too drowsy to open his eyes fully. A fog hung over his mind as if he were still lost in a dream. He heard them but couldn't quite place their significance yet.

"Maybe we should try turning up the power a little bit?" another voice suggested, this one closer.

"The voices of children..." the robot boy mused, his head heavy, barely stirring from the overwhelming lethargy. He felt the small hands of curiosity prodding, something being adjusted, though he remained still.

"Good idea," came another response, this one authoritative. "Riko, set the dial to two."

"Got it!" a girl replied enthusiastically.

"Whatever..." the robot boy thought to himself, his eyes drooping as if under an immense weight. "I'll sleep a little longer..." His body began to sink back into the comforting embrace of darkness.

However, his plan to rest was cut short when he heard one last comment: "Riko, isn't it actually set to twenty?"

Before he could make sense of it, an immense jolt of electricity shot through his entire being. His body jerked violently as the shock surged through his circuits, and his eyes snapped open, glowing dimly with a spark of panic.

"Aaargh!" The shock rattled him, and his breath hitched as his systems suddenly rebooted. Pain, unfamiliar and disorienting, wracked through his body, sending his once-dormant senses into overdrive.

The moment the jolt subsided, the children surrounding him erupted with excitement.

"He's up!" the girl—Riko—shouted triumphantly, eyes wide with awe.

In a frantic scramble, the three children crowded around him, their faces filled with wonder and excitement. Riko, still riding the high of her success, turned to the others with a proud smirk. "See? I told you electricity would do the trick!" she boasted.

Nat, the boy with the exasperated look, folded his arms, unimpressed. "And who's the one who fed him hot coals earlier?" he quipped dryly.

The robot boy coughed suddenly, black smoke curling from his mouth, evidence of the earlier ill-fated experiment.

Unfazed, Riko leaned in close, her hands gripping his shoulders with an intensity that matched her curiosity. "Hey, hey, Robot Boy, do you recognize me? You saved me! How did you attack that snake from so far away? Ah, but first, tell me your name!" Her words tumbled out so quickly that the boy—still reeling from his forced awakening—could hardly process them.

He blinked at her, wide-eyed and confused. The girl's energy was overwhelming, her questions flying at him one after the other.

Nat interjected, shaking his head. "Hey, don't get carried away! He looks overwhelmed."

Riko stopped, realising she might have come on too strong. She took a breath and softened her tone. "Ah, I'm sorry," she said more gently. "My name's Riko!"

The robot boy stared back at them, trying to make sense of what was happening. He had no recollection of these children. No memory of how he had ended up in this room—or any memory at all, for that matter.

"I'm sorry about replying to a question with a question," the robot boy finally spoke, his voice sounding mechanical yet soft. The children leaned in, listening with rapt attention. Riko's eyes widened with glee.

"He spoke! How cute!" Riko squealed.

The boy, still struggling to grasp his surroundings, continued. "But... there's something I want to ask." His voice held a note of confusion, curiosity, and unease. "What... is this place?"

Riko took a step back, throwing her arms wide with a proud smile. "Here? This is my room! In Belchero Orphanage!" she announced as if it were the grandest place in the world.

The robot boy's gaze shifted around the dimly lit room. The space was cluttered with chains, hooks, and tools of unknown purpose. His mind tried to piece together the meaning behind these objects. "Do you guys work as torturers?" he asked, his tone more analytical than fearful.

Nat answered him, laughing a little at the question. "Huh? No. Riko's room is actually an old execution chamber. She got into too much trouble and was moved here."

The robot boy processed this, still unsure of what to make of these children or the environment they lived in. The boy called Nat showed him a small, red whistle hanging from his neck. "Anyway, we work as cave raiders. Well, strictly speaking, we're apprentices called Red Whistles."

Before Nat could elaborate further, Riko shoved him aside, all but bouncing with excitement. "Hey, hey, Robot Boy! What's your name? What kind of stuff can you do? Who made you?"

Her barrage of questions left him dazed. The robot boy looked down at his hands—mechanical, foreign—and flexed his fingers experimentally. "I'm... a robot?" he asked, more to himself than to anyone else. The realisation was startling, as if he had been confronted by the truth of his own existence for the first time.

"Yep! You're a robot!" Riko declared, her enthusiasm undimmed. "Electricity made you move! You totally withstood fire! And there's not a single scratch on you!" Her awe was palpable, but the robot boy was still struggling to wrap his mind around the concept.

Riko, noticing his confusion, tilted her head. "So, uh... you don't even remember that you're a robot?" she asked, her excitement dampened just a little.

Nat chimed in, crossing his arms thoughtfully. "Maybe that jolt of electricity messed with his memory?"

Before anyone could speculate further, Shiggy burst back into the room, his expression frantic. "Everyone, this is bad! The lights are out throughout the whole orphanage!" he exclaimed, skidding to a stop in the centre of the room.

Riko and Nat spun around, their faces mirroring Shiggy's panic.

"What?!" Riko cried, her voice rising in alarm.

Nat slapped a hand to his forehead, groaning. "I think we overdid it by going full throttle earlier," he muttered, clearly regretting the earlier decision.

Shiggy's eyes darted around the room. "Hide, quick! Leader is heading straight over here!" he warned.

Riko's eyes went wide, her heart racing. "Huh?! How does he know it was us?!" she stammered.

Nat gave her a pointed look, his voice dry. "Probably because you're always pulling stuff like this."

Thinking quickly, Riko looked toward the robot boy. "Can you stand?" Nat asked the robot, glancing at the wires and contraptions still hooked to him. "Hmm, it'll take too long to unhook you."

Just then, Shiggy tossed a blanket at Riko. "Here, cover him!" he urged.

Catching the blanket, Riko turned back to the robot boy, unsure of what to do. "Don't come out of there, got it?" she whispered urgently as she threw the blanket over his head. "We'll be in a world of trouble if you do!"

Before she could finish, a voice boomed from the hallway.

"Riko! Open up!" Jiruo's voice was unmistakable, sharp and commanding.

Riko froze, her heart pounding. She quickly tucked the blanket around the robot boy as best she could, her hands shaking. "O-okay!" she called back, trying to keep her voice steady. Her mind raced, frantically trying to figure out how to explain the mysterious, unconscious robot boy in her room.

As Riko darted towards the door, shouting, "Coming no-!" she suddenly let out a sharp yelp as her foot collided painfully with the metal controls attached to the electric chair. Hopping on one foot, she clumsily stumbled towards the door, struggling to regain her balance. Her heart raced as she quickly unlocked it, fully aware that Jiruo's sharp eyes would be scrutinising every detail.

Jiruo's head poked through the doorway, his gaze stern and furrowed. "So, what the heck did you do this time?" he asked, his tone carrying the weariness of someone who'd seen this routine far too often.

Riko, doing her best to appear innocent, backed up a little. "Huh? Nothing... much really..." She tried to keep her voice steady, but a nervous tremor lingered.

Jiruo wasn't convinced, not in the slightest. As he stepped into the room, Riko panicked and attempted to divert his attention. "Ah, m-more importantly, I banged my foot! Caught it at a bad angle, too. I-it hurts really bad... I just bumped it the wrong way..."

Jiruo, unfazed, walked deeper into the room, scanning the surroundings with a knowing eye. As he moved closer to the electric chair covered with a green sheet, Riko's stomach sank. He was getting too close. Too curious.

With one swift motion, Jiruo ripped the sheet off, revealing the chair beneath. But to Riko's shock, the robot had vanished.

Confusion flickered across Jiruo's face. He frowned at the strange contraption connected to the chair and muttered, "So, this is Shiggy's handiwork? Once again, no idea what he's up to..."

He turned to Riko and bonked her lightly on the head. "Hey. Do you have anything to say for yourself?"

Riko winced, clasping her hands together. She turned her wide, innocent eyes to Jiruo and mumbled, "S-sorry, I won't do it again."

Jiruo sighed, his gaze softening slightly. "I know you're frustrated, given that your cave raiding didn't go well... That said, there's simply no sense in causing a blackout at the orphanage."

Riko nodded, though her mind was far from calm. Her eyes darted towards the ceiling, where she spotted something moving. Her heart skipped a beat. It was the robot boy, clinging to the ceiling by his extending arm, blending into the shadows above.

Jiruo's voice cut through her thoughts. "You listening to me, Riko?"

She jolted, looking back at him just as he placed a firm hand on her head. "Before I hear your explanation of this mess, I think I'll have you clean the orphanage and write a sincere apology."

Riko's face fell, and she was about to protest, but Jiruo was already dragging her towards the door. "Ah... I'm sorry!" she pleaded, her feet barely keeping up with his pace.

As they disappeared down the hall, the robot boy remained suspended from the ceiling, watching quietly. He sighed in relief once the door closed behind them.

"I get it now," he thought to himself. "If he was to find me, there'd be hell to pay..."

Carefully, he lowered himself to the ground, using his extendable arm to drop with precision. As his feet touched the floor, the robot studied his mechanical limb, flexing the metallic fingers. "Nevertheless, my arms can extend..." His thoughts trailed off as the arm suddenly landed on his head, smacking him in the face with an audible thunk.

Rubbing his head, the boy grumbled, "I've got extending metal arms..."

He wandered over to the strange chair, eyeing the setup that had been used to jolt him awake. The helmet attached to the chair caught his attention. He picked it up, feeling its weight, examining its intricacies. "And this helmet too..."

As he stood before the mirror, the sight of his reflection struck him as foreign. He had no memory of who—or what—he was. "What exactly am I?" His gaze shifted to his belly button, and he prodded at it curiously. "Does a robot really need a belly button?" He frowned, tugging the waistband of his pants forward. His eyes widened in shock, and he muttered, "Huh?! D-do I need this thing, too?!"

Before he could ponder further, the door to the room suddenly swung open, and he jumped back in alarm. But when he saw who it was, his tense posture relaxed slightly. It was the girl—Riko.

"Shhh!" Riko hushed him, holding a finger to her lips.

The robot quickly nodded, his heart still racing from the sudden intrusion. Riko hurried over to him, her voice low and urgent. "I took the chance to sneak away when Shiggy and Nat got caught. Oh, what now? You're getting all dressed up in front of the mirror?"

The robot stammered, embarrassed. "U-uh, n-no..."

But before he could explain further, the booming voice of Jiruo echoed from the hallway. "Riko! Where'd you go?!"

Riko's face turned pale, her eyes wide with panic. "What are we gonna do?! We need to get out of here!"

The robot didn't hesitate. "Grab onto me! Quick!" he instructed, extending his arm towards the window.

Without thinking, Riko threw her arms around his neck, and with a swift motion, the boy extended his arm out through the balcony window. The mechanism whirred as the arm shot out, pulling them both through the window and out into the night air. Riko let out a cry of surprise, a mix of fear and exhilaration as they soared through the air, landing softly on the grass below.

Once on the ground, Riko let go of the boy, her eyes sparkling with awe. "Amazing! What a handy hand! So cool!"

From above, Jiruo's voice called out again from Riko's room. "Riko! Where'd you go?!"

The robot glanced up at the window, then back at Riko. "Doesn't look like things are gonna calm down anytime soon."

Riko nodded, but her face brightened with a sudden idea. "Oh, right! Reg, there's something I've been wanting to show you!"

The robot boy blinked in confusion. "Reg?" he echoed.

Riko grinned. "That's your name! Not having one is pretty inconvenient, right? So, what do you think?"

He thought for a moment. "Reg..." It wasn't a bad name. "I don't mind it, but... how'd you come up with it exactly?"

Riko turned around, smiling brightly as she began to walk away. "It was the name of a dog I used to have."

Reg's brow furrowed in disbelief. "A... dog..."

"Come on, Reg!" Riko called out cheerfully. "Hurry, we've gotta go!" She motioned for him to follow, and without a moment's hesitation, he sprinted after her, his mind still processing his newfound identity.

-----------------------------------------------

As the cool early morning air brushed against their faces, Riko eagerly led Reg through the winding paths that surrounded Orth. The city's early risers were already beginning to bustle about, preparing for the day ahead, but Riko's focus was entirely on showing Reg the next breathtaking view she had in mind. With excitement in every step, she guided him toward a vantage point on the outskirts of the city.

The terrain gradually grew steeper, and Reg noticed how Riko struggled slightly to keep up the pace. She was breathing hard but kept pressing on, clearly determined to show him something important. After a short, but demanding climb, they finally reached the top of the slope.

Riko, hands on her knees and catching her breath, lifted her head with a triumphant smile. "We're here!" she said between laboured breaths.

Reg, who hadn't felt even a fraction of the exertion Riko had, gazed around curiously. The place she had led him to was quiet, almost serene, and offered a clear view of Orth. Near them stood a weathered windmill, its wooden blades slowly turning in the light breeze. Reg could hear the faint creaking of its movement, adding to the peacefulness of the scene.

Riko, regaining her composure, stood up fully and excitedly pointed toward the horizon. "Look, Reg! It's almost time!" Her eyes sparkled with anticipation.

Reg followed her gaze, his own expression curious but calm, as the first rays of sunlight broke over the edge of the horizon. The entire city of Orth was bathed in golden light, the warm hues illuminating the towering buildings, the homes that climbed up the steep slopes, and most prominently, the massive pit that stretched down into the earth—the Abyss.

As the sunlight slowly filled the sky, Riko had to squint and raise her hand to shield her eyes from the intensity of the rising sun. Reg, however, didn't seem bothered by the brightness at all. His mechanical eyes absorbed the view effortlessly, taking in every detail without having to avert his gaze.

The shadows that had once clung to the city gradually disappeared, giving way to the vibrant golden light that painted the entire landscape in a stunning display of colour. It was a sight that would leave anyone in awe, and even though she had seen it countless times before, Riko still felt her heart lift every time.

With a proud smile, she turned back to Reg and gestured to the vast cityscape before them. "Reg, this is the city all of us live in—the city of the great pit. It's called Orth!"

Reg's eyes widened, mesmerised by the sight. He had never seen anything like it before. The city was so much larger than anything he could have imagined, stretching out in every direction like a maze of life and activity. But what truly held his attention was the immense, yawning chasm at the centre of the city, a dark and foreboding pit that seemed to draw his gaze deeper the longer he stared at it.

Riko, noticing his wonder, spoke again with enthusiasm. "Welcome to Orth, Reg!"

Reg's eyes remained glued to the massive hole in the ground. His thoughts seemed to wander as he processed everything he was seeing. After a long pause, he finally spoke, his voice soft and contemplative. "So... this pit..."

Riko blinked, realising that Reg was referring to the Abyss itself. She tilted her head slightly in surprise. "Huh? Reg, you've even forgotten about the Abyss?"

Reg turned toward her, confusion evident on his face. "Abyss?"

The question was simple, but to Riko, it revealed just how much Reg had truly lost from his memory. She let out a small gasp before explaining, "This great pit is called the Abyss. And I found you in the depths of the Abyss!"

Reg glanced back at the massive pit, and something about it tugged at him, though he couldn't quite understand what. The sight of it made his heart beat faster, as if it held the answers to all of his questions, but those answers remained just out of reach.

Riko smiled softly as she saw the way Reg gazed into the Abyss, understanding that he must feel a connection to it, even if he didn't remember why. After a brief silence, she added with a gentle voice, "I thought that... maybe you came up from the bottom of the Abyss, Reg."

Reg blinked and turned back to her, surprised by her words. "Huh? Really?"

Riko nodded earnestly, her eyes filled with conviction. "I mean, I've never seen any kind of robot like you before! That's gotta be right! You must've come from the bottom of the Abyss, which no one has ever seen..."

Reg's eyes widened as her words began to sink in. The bottom of the Abyss... the place that no one had ever reached. Was that truly where he came from? He felt a strange pull, a deep, instinctual urge to find out if it was true. But at the same time, the idea filled him with an odd sense of dread. If he had come from the bottom of the Abyss, why couldn't he remember anything?

As he stared at the dark chasm, trying to piece together fragments of a life he couldn't recall, Reg murmured to himself, "The Abyss..."

About 1,900 years ago, a huge pit was discovered on a remote island in the southern sea of Beoluska. With a diameter of around 1,000 metres and a depth that is still unknown to this day, the mysterious formation mesmerised people. 

Valuable and dangerous primaeval creatures and mysterious relics that are beyond comprehension beckoned adventurers looking to strike it rich, which in time gave rise to a giant city. 

Over the span of many years, with a spirit of adventure for the unknown and countless legends luring them in, the world's only remaining unexplored chasm has swallowed up a great many people. It is known... as the Abyss.

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[ENDING] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=In2PzM9zaPQ

Chapter Text

[OPENING] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e91G8m9uM_0

The sun was just beginning to set over the city of Orth, casting a soft glow on the buildings that clung to the edge of the Abyss. The streets were quiet, with only the night owls continuing on with their day. In a small room at the Belchero Orphanage, Riko stood on the narrow balcony connected to her room, holding her most prized possession—a small, mysterious instrument known as the Star Compass.

"This is my Star Compass," Riko began, her voice tinged with awe as she gazed at the tiny object in her hand. "It's a mysterious relic that always points to the far reaches of the sky. But that's what everyone else thinks."

She paused, a small smile playing on her lips as she turned the compass slightly in her hands. "I believe it's actually pointing to the very bottom of the Abyss. That's where the true mysteries lie—the places that no one has ever seen."

Reg and Kiyui, who were sitting nearby, listened with wide-eyed wonder as Riko spoke. They leaned in closer, captivated by the excitement in her voice. Riko's enthusiasm was infectious, and even the normally stoic Reg found himself drawn into her world of dreams and adventure.

Nat and Shiggy, however, looked at her with mild amusement. Shiggy, a thoughtful boy with a keen interest in the knowledge of the Abyss, couldn't help but chuckle at Riko's familiar antics.

"Here we go again," Shiggy muttered under his breath, sharing a knowing glance with Nat.

"I'm serious!" Riko protested, catching the look between them. "This compass is special. Just like Reg! He's a treasure of the Netherworld that's come to the surface."

Reg blinked in surprise, caught off guard by her words. The idea of being a treasure—a relic—was still something he was struggling to comprehend, but Riko's unwavering belief in it made him feel strangely comforted.

After this declaration, Shiggy pulled out a thick, well-worn book from his bag, flipping through the pages until he found what he was looking for. "Speaking of the Abyss," he began, his tone taking on a more serious note, "let's talk about the Curse of the Abyss."

The room grew quiet as Shiggy began to read aloud from the book. "The Curse of the Abyss is a mysterious force that affects anyone who tries to ascend from the depths. The deeper you go, the more severe the effects. At first, it's just nausea and headaches, but as you descend further, it can cause hallucinations, bleeding, and even death."

Riko listened intently, her mind racing with possibilities. "But Reg's a robot, right? He should be immune to the Curse of the Abyss!" she exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "That means he could have come from the very bottom, the deepest part of the Netherworld!"

Reg, still grappling with his lack of memories, voiced the question that had been on his mind since waking up. "Assuming that's true... then what did I come up here to do?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with uncertainty. Shiggy, always the researcher, pulled out another book, this one even thicker and more imposing than the last. Riko's eyes widened in recognition.

"That's the 'Compilation of Recorded Relics'!" she exclaimed, leaning closer to get a better look.

Shiggy nodded, flipping through the pages with practised ease. "It's a field guide to all the major relics that have been found within the Abyss. I was hoping that we could find something in here that matches Reg's features."

The first page he turned to displayed a detailed illustration of a sword. "That's the Burst Saber!" Nat said, his voice filled with admiration. "It's a second-grade relic that was found in the third layer by the soon-to-be Lord of Ferocity."

"That's so cool!" Riko said, unable to keep the excitement out of her voice. "But we're looking for something that explains Reg, not just any old relic."

"Still," Nat continued, his voice taking on a fangirl-like enthusiasm, "can you imagine wielding something like that? Apparently it can cause explosions! I even got his autograph last week!"

Riko rolled her eyes playfully. "Nat, focus! We're trying to figure out who Reg is, not daydream about swords or swoon over that guy."

Nat blushed slightly, embarrassed by his outburst. "Yeah, yeah, I know. Sorry."

Shiggy flipped to another page, revealing a bell-like relic with intricate engravings. "This is the Unheard Bell." he explained. "It's classified as a special-grade relic. Supposedly, it can stop time."

Riko's eyes sparkled with admiration as she leaned in closer. "My mom found that one! She always talked about how amazing it was."

As she spoke, she moved closer to Reg, her enthusiasm drawing her closer without her realising it. Reg, on the other hand, blushed slightly, his mind racing as he found himself suddenly hyper-aware of her proximity.

"But," Shiggy continued, trying to steer the conversation back on track, "I've searched through this entire book, and there's nothing here that even comes close to what Reg is and what he can do."

Riko's brow furrowed as she considered this. "What do you mean, Shiggy?"

Shiggy closed the book with a thud, turning to face Riko directly. "What I mean is that Reg's features—his abilities—would likely be classified as grade-one or even special-grade relics if we listed them out individually."

Riko's eyes widened in understanding. "You're saying... he's like a bundle of special-grade relics all in one?"

Shiggy nodded. "Exactly. Reg might be one of the most valuable relics in the history of the Abyss. A so-called 'Aubade,' a supreme treasure of the Netherworld."

Riko's face lit up with excitement. "That's amazing! Reg, you're incredible!" She wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug, nearly knocking him off balance. "Not even my mom found something like you!"

Reg's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as he awkwardly returned the hug, unsure of how to respond to such praise. But as Riko continued to hold him, her grip tightening with excitement, Shiggy's expression grew more serious.

"If I'm right..." Shiggy began, his voice low, "then Reg will be quickly taken away. His existence will be concealed... and he'll most likely be dismantled."

Riko's excitement vanished in an instant, replaced by a cold dread. "No... I don't want that to happen to him." She tightened her grip on Reg, as if trying to protect him from the very idea.

"Riko," Shiggy continued gently, "our usual classes resume tomorrow. We won't be able to stay with Reg all the time."

Riko's eyes filled with determination as she shoved Reg into her lap, clutching him protectively. "Then I'll keep him hidden in my room! No one will find him here."

Nat frowned, his expression serious. "Remember what happened with your old dog, Riko? They found him almost immediately."

Riko's resolve wavered for a moment, the memory of losing her pet still painful. But before she could say anything more, Shiggy closed the book with a decisive snap, his expression brightening as an idea came to him.

"Actually, I think I've got a solution," Shiggy said, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "We can keep Reg safe, and we'll still be able to keep an eye on him at the same time."

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[THE NEXT DAY]

The following morning, the sun was just beginning to rise over the city of Orth, casting long shadows across the cobbled streets. The Belchero Orphanage, nestled within an open area of the city, was already bustling with the sounds of children starting their day. Near the entrance of the orphanage, a small figure stood alone, his posture tense as he waited.

It was Reg, but his appearance was strikingly different from before. Instead of the tattered, patchwork clothing he'd been found in, he now wore worn, threadbare clothes that looked like they had seen better days. The outfit was clearly from the slums of Orth's lower districts, and Reg tugged nervously at the frayed edges of his shirt, trying to adjust to the unfamiliar garments.

The heavy wooden door of the orphanage creaked open, revealing Jiruo, the stern yet kind-hearted caretaker of Belchero Orphanage. He was a tall man in his early twenties, with a lean build and a presence that commanded respect. His eyes, sharp yet gentle, scanned Reg from head to toe, taking in the boy's unusual appearance with a critical gaze.

"So," Jiruo began, his voice echoing slightly in the still morning air, "you want to become a cave raider?"

Reg nodded, swallowing nervously. "Yes, sir. I—I want to become a cave raider."

Jiruo folded his arms across his chest, regarding Reg with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. "What happened to your family?" he asked, his tone probing.

Reg recited the story that Nat had drilled into him the night before. "I... I have no family. My big sister died, so I came here. I heard that if I worked here, I could become a cave raider."

Jiruo's eyes narrowed slightly, his suspicion deepening. "You don't look like you were born in Orth?"

Reg hesitated, but then remembered the next part of the story. "My sister found me a year ago..." he said, trying to keep his voice steady. "I don't remember anything before that... because of an accident. After that, we started rag-picking in a cliffside neighbourhood of Orth's South District."

From their hiding spot behind a nearby wall, Riko, Nat, and Shiggy listened intently to the conversation. Shiggy, his face etched with worry, whispered to the others, "Do you think Leader will believe it?"

Nat nodded confidently. "It should work. I doubt Leader's ever been to the slums. There's no way he'd know for sure."

Jiruo's gaze drifted down to Reg's arm, where a glint of light had caught his attention. "What happened to your arms?" he asked, reaching out to inspect them more closely.

Riko, Nat, and Shiggy tensed, their hearts pounding as they realised they hadn't prepared Reg for this question. They exchanged panicked glances, fearing that their plan was about to unravel.

But Reg, to their surprise, improvised with remarkable composure. "They've been like this for as long as I can remember." he replied, his voice steady. "An old man in the cliffside neighbourhood said they were foreign technology, but I don't know much more than that."

Jiruo studied the metallic limbs with a keen eye, his fingers brushing lightly over the smooth surface, as if he had dealt with something akin to this before. "Clench your fists for me." he instructed.

Reg obeyed, his hands forming tight fists with ease. Jiruo watched intently, noting the strength and precision in the movement. "Hmm... your grip seems strong enough." he murmured thoughtfully.

He straightened up, his expression still unreadable. "What's your name?"

"Reg." the boy responded without hesitation, his voice firm.

From their hiding spot, the three children could barely contain their excitement. Riko, her eyes shining with pride, whispered to the others, "He did it! Reg really is an aubade!"

Jiruo, seemingly satisfied with Reg's answers, nodded and stepped aside. "Alright, come inside. We'll get your attendance sorted."

As Reg followed Jirou into the orphanage, Riko, Shiggy, and Nat scrambled to follow them, eager to see how the plan would unfold.

And just like that, Reg had become a student at Belchero Orphanage, setting his sights on becoming a cave raider.

The transition was surprisingly smooth. Reg was introduced to the class, where he quickly became a subject of curiosity among the other children. His unusual appearance and mysterious backstory made him an instant topic of conversation, but Reg did his best to blend in, adopting the routines of the orphanage as if he had been there all along.

He helped with the orphanage chores, his enhanced strength making tasks like cleaning and carrying supplies easier than they were for the other children. Reg found that he enjoyed the simple tasks, especially since they gave him time to observe and learn more about his surroundings. He absorbed the knowledge from the cave raiding classes with enthusiasm, eager to understand more about the world he had found himself in.

But despite his efforts to fit in, there were moments when Reg couldn't help but stand out. His strength was far beyond that of an ordinary child, and his agility and reflexes often surprised those around him. Jiruo, though observant, chose not to question Reg's abilities too deeply, instead focusing on helping the boy integrate into the orphanage life.

In class, Riko often found herself in trouble for her overzealous nature. She frequently interrupted lessons with her endless questions and theories about the Abyss, much to the amusement of her classmates and the exasperation of Jiruo. Reg couldn't help but admire her passion, even if it often got her into trouble, resulting in her being strung up naked by the orphanage's headmaster.

Reg also shared a room with Riko. Despite the clutter, Reg found comfort in the arrangement. It was a small space, but it was warm and filled with Riko's infectious energy, something Reg found himself growing fond of.

The days passed in a blur of activity. Reg learned how to clean the cave raider tools, a task that required both precision and care. He helped prepare the orphanage's lunches, his mechanical limbs allowing him to chop vegetables with impressive speed. He aired the laundry out to dry, his extending arms making the task easier than it was for the younger children.

And throughout it all, he watched as Riko continued to get punished for her interruptions, her enthusiasm never waning despite the consequences. Reg couldn't help but admire her determination, even if it often landed her in hot water.

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A week had passed since Reg's arrival at Belchero Orphanage, and life had settled into a comfortable routine. The days were filled with lessons, chores, and the camaraderie of the other children, while the nights were spent sharing stories and dreams. Now, with the weekend upon them, Riko had decided to bring Reg along to help at her aunt's spice shop in Orth's bustling shopping district.

The shop was a quaint little establishment, nestled among the many stalls and storefronts that lined the busy streets. The air was thick with the scent of exotic spices, herbs, and teas, all neatly arranged in rows of colourful jars and sacks. The shop's wooden shelves creaked under the weight of the merchandise, adding to the cozy, lived-in atmosphere that seemed to envelop the place.

Riko was perched on a stool near the window, peering through a small telescope she had set up. She was focused on a Hammer-beak nest in the distance, watching as the mother bird attempted to feed her young a wriggling fish. The Hammer-beaks were fascinating creatures, known for their unique, hammer-shaped beaks and their surprisingly aggressive nature.

Suddenly, Riko gasped, her eyes widening as she witnessed a larger, dragon-esk creature swoop down from above. With a single, swift motion, the predator snatched the Hammer-beak mother in its jaws, swallowing her whole. "Whoa!" she exclaimed, startled by the sudden turn of events.

She quickly zoomed out with the telescope, watching as the remaining Hammer-beaks swarmed the dragon-esk creature in a frenzy of wings and beaks. "Get him! Bite him good!" she cheered, her fists clenched in excitement as the smaller birds fought back against the larger predator.

Laffi, Riko's aunt, glanced over at her niece with a warm smile. She was a kind woman with a gentle demeanour, always patient with Riko's boundless energy and enthusiasm for the Abyss. "You never get bored of watching the Abyss, do you?" Laffi remarked, her tone affectionate.

Riko turned away from the telescope, her eyes still shining with excitement. "I'll never get bored of the Abyss, Auntie Laffi! There's always something new and amazing to see down there."

Laffi chuckled, her gaze shifting to a letter she was reading. "Your uncle Habo just wrote to me. He's about to head to the Second Layer's Inverted Forest."

Riko's face lit up at the mention of the Inverted Forest. "The Inverted Forest? That's amazing! The trees, the grass, everything grows upside down there! It's like a whole other world!"

Reg, who had been quietly sorting jars behind the counter, listened intently as Riko talked excitedly with her aunt. The mention of the Second Layer piqued his curiosity, though he kept his thoughts to himself.

Laffi smiled at Riko's enthusiasm, watching her niece with fondness. "You talk about it like you've been there yourself," she said, her voice teasing.

Riko puffed out her chest proudly, tapping it with her fist. "I have to know these things, Auntie! I'm aiming to be a White Whistle one day!"

Laffi leaned back in her chair, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. "Your uncle Habo still dreams of becoming a White Whistle, too, even though he's not as young as he used to be." Her eyes drifted to a framed photo on the wall, depicting Habo on the day he became a Black Whistle. She smiled softly at the memory, but the smile faded slightly as a more somber thought crossed her mind. "But... is becoming a White Whistle really that great?"

Riko, noticing the change in her aunt's demeanor, tilted her head in confusion. "What do you mean, Auntie?"

Laffi didn't respond immediately, her gaze lingering on the photo of Habo. The question hung in the air, its weight evident in the sudden silence that filled the room. Reg, who had been placing jars on a nearby shelf, glanced over, sensing the tension but unsure of what to say.

Before the conversation could continue, the shop door chimed, signalling the arrival of a customer. Laffi quickly rose from her seat, putting on a welcoming smile as she greeted the newcomer.

"Good morning!" Laffi said warmly, as an older man entered the shop. He was tall and slightly hunched, with a weathered face that spoke of years spent under the sun. He handed Laffi a small piece of paper with a list of items written on it.

"Do you have these in stock?" the man asked, his voice gruff but polite.

Laffi scanned the list, nodding as she recognised the items. "Yes, I believe we do. Some of them are on a high shelf, so I'll need to grab a chair to reach them. But we have a few under the counter as well."

As Laffi busied herself behind the counter, Reg noticed the older man glancing at the high shelf. Without a word, Reg extended his arm, the metal limb silently snaking through the air towards the jar the man needed. With precise control, he grabbed the jar and retracted his arm, handing it to Laffi just as she finished collecting the other items.

Laffi blinked in surprise, taking the jar from Reg with a smile. "Well, aren't you quick! Thank you, Reg."

The older man looked equally impressed, though he said nothing as he accepted the jar from Laffi. He paid for his items and left the shop with a nod of thanks, leaving Laffi, Riko, and Reg to resume their conversation.

A short while later, Reg, Riko, and Kiyui left the shop, making their way through the bustling streets of Orth. The city was alive with activity, the weekend bringing out crowds of people eager to shop, socialise, and enjoy the pleasant weather.

As they walked, they met up with Shiggy, who was waiting for them at a nearby corner. "Ready to go?" Shiggy asked, adjusting the strap of his satchel.

"Yep!" Riko replied excitedly, practically bouncing on her heels. "Let's go!"

Reg took Kiyui's hand, helping the younger boy over a gap in the cobblestone road. The group of four then continued their journey, weaving through the crowded streets as they headed towards the northern part of the city.

As they walked, Riko and Shiggy started talking about the White Whistles—those legendary cave raiders who had earned the highest rank possible. "White Whistles are the best of the best," Riko declared, her eyes shining with admiration. "They have no depth limit, and they're the only ones allowed to explore the deepest parts of the Abyss. I want to be one so I can go anywhere and discover everything!"

Shiggy nodded thoughtfully. "Admiring them is one thing, but wanting to be one is another thing entirely."

Riko puffed out her chest again, her determination unwavering. "I know it's tough, but that's why I want to do it! From the day I become a White Whistle, I'll give birth to hundreds of legends!"

Shiggy scratched the back of his neck, a small smile playing on his lips. "You're really determined, huh? I guess that's what makes you, well, you."

Reg listened quietly as they spoke, absorbing their words. He was still new to this world, still trying to understand the significance of the ranks and the dangers of the Abyss. But one thing was clear—Riko's dream of becoming a White Whistle was more than just a passing fancy. It was her life's ambition, something that drove her forward with unshakeable resolve.

As they continued their walk through the city, the conversation shifted to lighter topics, with Riko and Shiggy playfully teasing each other about their knowledge of the Abyss. Reg found himself smiling as he watched them, feeling a warmth in his chest that he couldn't quite explain. It was a feeling of belonging, of being part of something larger than himself.

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[2 Months Later]

Two months had passed since Reg first arrived at the Belchero Orphanage, and in that time, he had slowly but surely become part of the community. The days blended together in a rhythm of chores, lessons, and moments of camaraderie with his new friends. Despite the oddity of his situation—being a robot boy with no memories—Reg found that he was surprisingly at ease in this new life. Orth, with its bustling streets and towering buildings perched on the edge of the Abyss, had started to feel like a strange but comforting home.

Now, standing on the rooftop of the orphanage, Reg gazed out over the sprawling city below. The early morning light bathed the buildings in a warm glow, casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. The city was just beginning to wake, the sounds of merchants setting up their stalls in the marketplace and the distant chatter of people drifting up to where he stood.

Next to him, Kiyui, the youngest of their little group, leaned against the railing, his small hands gripping the wooden slats as he looked out at the city with wide, curious eyes. The two of them had found themselves here often over the past few weeks, enjoying the quiet moments before the day's activities began.

Reg's thoughts drifted as he absently fiddled with the small golden bell that hung around his neck. He lifted it up to eye level, letting it dangle between his fingers as he considered what it represented. "Three more days," he thought to himself, "three days until my first cave raid as a Red Whistle."

Kiyui, noticing Reg's quiet demeanor, glanced up at him with a small smile. "You're lucky, Reg," he said softly, his voice barely louder than a whisper.

Reg blinked, surprised by the comment. "Lucky? Why do you say that?"

Kiyui looked down at the city below, kicking his feet idly against the railing. "You're already going on cave raids. I'm too young. But someday, I'll get to go too, right?"

Reg smiled gently, ruffling Kiyui's hair. "Of course you will. You'll keep growing, getting stronger. Who knows? Maybe you'll even become a White Whistle someday."

Kiyui's eyes sparkled with excitement at the thought. "That would be amazing!"

Reg chuckled softly, his mind wandering back to his own situation. He wondered if he would ever truly fit into this world, whether he would grow and change like the others. He doubted it, as things like his hair hadn't even grown out over the months. But those thoughts were quickly interrupted as a familiar voice called out from behind them.

"Reg! Kiyui!" Riko's excited voice rang out as she bounded up the stairs to the rooftop, her face flushed with excitement. "You won't believe it! Habo's squad is returning to the surface!"

Reg and Kiyui turned to greet her, both smiling at her infectious enthusiasm. "Really?" Reg asked, curious. "Isn't that a big deal?"

Riko nodded vigorously, grabbing Reg by the arm and pulling him toward the stairs. "Yeah! Come on, we have to go meet them at the Grand Pier!"

As Riko began to drag Reg away, she turned to Kiyui, her expression turning serious. "It's dangerous there, Kiyui. You should head back inside, okay?"

Kiyui nodded obediently, giving them both a wave as he turned back toward the orphanage entrance. "Got it! Be careful, you two!"

Reg barely had time to respond before Riko was already pulling him through the winding streets of Orth, her energy seemingly boundless as she led the way to the Grand Pier.

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The Grand Pier was a hive of activity as they arrived, bustling with townsfolk eager to catch a glimpse of the returning cave raider squad. Riko and Reg had to push their way through the crowd, weaving between excited onlookers who jostled for a better view. The anticipation in the air was palpable, everyone waiting with bated breath for the gondola's arrival.

"There it is!" someone shouted, pointing towards the horizon where the massive gondola was slowly coming into view.

The crowd erupted into cheers, the noise nearly deafening as the gondola drew closer to the dock. Riko and Reg finally managed to find a spot near the front, just in time to see the gondola's large doors open, revealing the returning cave raiders.

Riko's eyes scanned the group eagerly, searching for the familiar face of her uncle, Habolg. But as the raiders began to step out of the gondola, her attention was caught by someone else entirely.

A tall, imposing figure clad in dark clothing stepped out next to Habolg, his presence commanding the attention of everyone around him. His appearance glinting faintly in the sunlight, and the sword strapped to his back immediately caught Reg's eye.

"Who's that?" Reg asked, noticing Riko's sudden focus on the figure.

Before Riko could answer, whispers began to spread through the crowd like wildfire. "Hey! Is that the Black Whistle Y/N?" one person said, their voice filled with awe.

"Wait! Y/N is over there, next to Habolg!" another added, excitement building in their tone.

"That's the soon-to-be White Whistle over there!" someone else exclaimed, pointing toward Y/N with reverence.

"Isn't he the youngest Black Whistle in Orth?" a woman nearby asked, her eyes wide with admiration.

"Forget Orth, he's the youngest Black Whistle in history!" another voice chimed in, drawing even more attention to the mysterious figure.

"Not to mention that he has the record for the most Illegal Raider bounty kills," a man added, his tone hushed as if speaking of some legendary figure.

Reg's enhanced senses allowed him to take in every detail of Y/N's appearance. The young man's outfit was clearly designed for combat, with a black, seemingly armoured shirt that offered protection without sacrificing mobility. His brown jeans were worn, yet sturdy, his black shin-length boots looked like they'd seen countless expeditions, and the brown gloves and bracers he wore seemed well-worn from use. The black hood and cape gave him an air of mystery, while the sword on his back spoke of experience and danger.

As Habolg and Y/N stepped off the gondola, Habolg turned to Y/N with a smile, patting him on the back. Y/N nodded in response, then stepped to the side, crossing his arms as if uninterested in the crowd's reaction. However, his eyes scanned the sea of faces, his gaze sharp and observant. After a moment, he gave a brief wave, causing a nearby woman to swoon and faint on the spot.

"Uncle Habo!" Riko called out, her voice barely audible over the noise of the crowd.

But Habolg didn't seem to hear her. He was focused on handing a red letter, with something white on top of it, to two men dressed in the distinctive purple cloaks of the Cave Raider Association.

Reg's eyes zoomed in on the white object atop the letter, and his breath caught in his throat. "Riko," he said, his voice hushed. "Habo's handing them... a White Whistle?"

Riko's excitement grew even more at this revelation. "A White Whistle?" she repeated, her voice filled with awe.

Suddenly, a member of the crowd cried out, his voice filled with excitement. "I figured it out! It's Lyza the Annihilator's White Whistle!"

The reaction was immediate. The crowd erupted into cheers, shouts, and gasps, the realisation spreading like wildfire. "Lyza the Annihilator! It's her White Whistle!" people exclaimed, their voices filled with admiration and reverence.

Reg, however, felt a chill run down his spine at the mention of the name. "The Annihilator?" he echoed, the name sounding ominous and unsettling. "Why would someone be called that?"

But as he turned to Riko for an explanation, he noticed something unusual. Riko, usually so animated and full of energy, had gone completely silent. Her eyes were wide, her face pale as she stared at the scene unfolding before them.

Reg placed a hand on her shoulder, concern evident in his voice. "Riko? What's wrong?"

Riko turned to face him, her expression a mixture of shock and something deeper—something that looked like a mix of both pride and shock. She swallowed hard before finally speaking, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Lyza is... my mother's name..."

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A few days had passed since the Grand Pier ceremony, where Riko had learned of her mother's return—Lyza the Annihilator. The festival commemorating her final dive was now in full swing, a lively celebration of the Abyss, its mysteries, and the brave cave raiders who risked their lives to uncover its secrets.

The streets of Orth were alive with excitement. Colorful banners and lanterns adorned every building, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the chatter of people enjoying the festivities. Stalls lined the streets, offering a variety of foods, trinkets, and games. Children ran about, their faces painted with images of creatures from the Abyss, while adults gathered in groups, discussing the latest discoveries or sharing stories of the legendary White Whistles.

In the midst of this vibrant celebration, a large crowd had gathered in front of a stage where a play about the Abyss and its cave raiders was being performed. The presenter, a man dressed in the traditional garb of a storyteller, stood before a large fabric screen, his voice booming over the excited chatter of the audience.

"And so, the brave cave raiders venture into the Abyss," the presenter began, gesturing dramatically as a child dressed as a Red Whistle took the stage. "The Red Whistles, the first to descend, to learn and explore the mysteries of the First Layer!"

The children in the audience cheered as the Red Whistle actor mimicked climbing down a rope, his movements exaggerated for comedic effect. The presenter then introduced a Blue Whistle, who appeared on stage with a mock pickaxe, "The Blue Whistles, delving deeper, braving the dangers of the Second and Third Layers!" Once again, the children erupted into cheers and applause, their eyes wide with admiration.

The presenter continued, introducing the Moon Whistles and then the Black Whistles, who were depicted as courageous and resourceful, taking on more perilous expeditions. The actors on stage played out scenes of battling monsters and discovering ancient relics, each performance drawing more cheers from the audience.

Finally, the presenter reached the pinnacle of his presentation, his voice taking on a reverent tone. "And now, the heroes of Orth, the ones who have brought us the greatest discoveries of our time, the legendary rank of the White Whistles!" He gestured grandly as a large cutout of Lyza the Annihilator was revealed on the stage, her image larger than life, standing tall and proud with her signature weapon, the Blaze Reap, in hand.

The children in the audience erupted into applause, their cheers echoing through the square. Lyza's image dominated the stage, her figure representing the ultimate goal for any aspiring cave raider. To them, she was more than just a hero; she was a symbol of what they could achieve if they were brave enough to face the unknown depths.

The presenter smiled at the enthusiastic response, his voice booming as he continued. "The White Whistles have ventured deeper than any other, bringing back knowledge and relics that have changed our world forever. No matter how deep they go, they remain Orth's brilliantly shining nether stars!"

As the crowd cheered once more, the presenter's tone grew more somber. "And now, the soul of the one who stood out even among the greatest of the White Whistles has at last returned home, after more than ten years. Her last dive has finally reached its conclusion."

He paused for dramatic effect, allowing the weight of his words to sink in. "She has slain countless creatures that rose from the depths, turned the tide against twelve separate foreign cave raider attacks, and brought back relics of unimaginable power. People called her... LYZA THE ANNIHILATOR!"

With a flourish, the presenter signalled to a young boy standing by the projector. The boy flipped a switch, and the screen lit up, displaying an image of Lyza in the depths of the Abyss, her hands digging through the earth with raw, brutal strength. The image was almost monstrous, depicting her as a force of nature, unstoppable and fierce.

The children watching the play erupted into cheers, their admiration for Lyza only growing with each story of her exploits. She was a hero to them, a legend who had conquered the Abyss.

As the presenter continued to regale the audience with tales of Lyza's accomplishments, the scene shifted to Riko, who was walking alone through the festival. Her mind was elsewhere, replaying the events of the past few days in her head, particularly the moment when she had received her mother's White Whistle.

She wandered through the bustling streets, her thoughts swirling as she tried to make sense of everything. The festival was supposed to be a celebration, but for Riko, it was a bittersweet reminder of the mother she never really knew.

As she walked, she noticed the Black Whistle, Y/N, moving through the crowd. People flocked to him, asking for autographs, photographs, or simply a moment of his time. His presence was intense, yet despite the clear signs of weariness on his face, he continued to interact with the civilians, answering their questions and engaging in brief conversations.

Riko felt a pang of curiosity. She had heard so much about Y/N—the youngest Black Whistle in history, a prodigy, and a man known for his ruthlessness in dealing with illegal cave raiders. She wanted to ask him so many questions, to learn more about his experiences in the Abyss. But as the crowd around him grew, she realised it would be impossible to get close to him.

Frustrated, Riko continued walking until she found a quiet spot, away from the noise and excitement of the festival. She sat down on a crate, pulling out the White Whistle from her pocket. The small, intricately carved whistle felt heavy in her hands, not just in weight but in significance.

Her mind drifted back to earlier that day, to the moment she had first held the whistle in the headmaster's office. The memory played out vividly in her mind.

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Earlier, at the orphanage, Riko had stood in the headmaster's office, holding the White Whistle that had once belonged to her mother. Habolg, who had been there when she received it, watched her with a gentle smile.

"Are you sure it's alright for me to have this?" Riko had asked, her voice uncertain as she stared at the whistle in her hands.

Habolg had nodded, his expression warm and reassuring. "It's fine, Riko. Unlike other whistles, this one can only be used by its original owner. It's not just a tool; it's a part of her. And as her daughter, it's only right that you have it."

Riko had looked down at the whistle, her brow furrowed in thought. "But... isn't there someone more worthy to receive it? Someone who knew her better?"

Habolg's smile had softened further as he crouched down to her level. "It's customary for a relative to receive the whistle in these circumstances. Everyone will be fine with you taking it, Riko."

Riko had remained silent, her eyes downcast as she struggled with the weight of the responsibility. Habolg, sensing her hesitation, had placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"If the burden is too heavy for you right now," he had offered gently, "the guild can hold onto it until you're ready. But remember, this is a piece of your mother, something she left behind for you."

Riko had clutched the whistle tightly to her chest, her resolve hardening. "No... I'll keep it."

Habolg had smiled, standing back up. "Alright, Riko. It's yours."

He had then informed her that apart from the whistle, he had also received a sealed document from a sentry at the Seeker Camp in the Second Layer. "They're still being examined," he had explained, "but it might take some time before we know what's inside."

Riko's eyes had lit up at the mention of a document, her curiosity piqued. "Do you think it's a letter from my mom?" she had asked eagerly.

Habolg had laughed, ruffling her hair affectionately. "I'm sure it is. Knowing Lyza, it's probably addressed to you, filled with all sorts of stories and advice."

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The memory faded as Riko's thoughts returned to the present. She stared down at the White Whistle in her hands, her mind a swirl of emotions. This small object was the last tangible connection she had to her mother, a woman who was more of a legend than a person to her.

"What was she really like?" Riko wondered aloud, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You're still sitting around here?" A familiar voice broke through her thoughts, causing Riko to jump slightly. She looked up to see Jiruo standing nearby, his expression one of mild concern.

"Leader!" Riko exclaimed, startled by his sudden appearance. She quickly tried to compose herself, but Jiruo's knowing look told her that he had already seen the turmoil she was in.

"This festival is meant to show just how great your mother was," Jiruo said, sitting down beside her on the crate. "It's an important day for you, too. You should try your best to take it all in."

Riko glanced down at the White Whistle in her hands, her grip tightening around it. "Leader... my mother was your instructor, right? What kind of person was she?"

Jiruo hesitated for a moment, the question catching him off guard. But as he looked at Riko's earnest expression, his eyes softened, and he let out a small sigh.

"Lyza went on her last dive when you were only two years old," he began, his voice gentle. "It's no wonder you don't remember her. But as a cave raider, she was every bit the legendary White Whistle people say she was."

He paused, his gaze distant as he recalled memories from the past. "But... most of what I know about her is from her time on the surface. She was a heavy drinker, quick to get into fights, and you could never tell if she was being honest or not. She had an incredibly unbalanced diet, too." He chuckled softly, shaking his head. "If she wasn't a White Whistle, she would've just been another weirdo."

Riko listened intently, a small smile tugging at her lips as she imagined the larger-than-life figure Jiruo was describing.

Jiruo's expression then grew more serious, and he turned to Riko with a concerned look. "How are your eyes?" he asked, his tone full of genuine worry.

Riko blinked, caught off guard by the question. "They're fine," she replied, though her voice held a note of uncertainty.

Jiruo sighed, his gaze falling to the ground. "You know, your poor eyesight is a result of the curse of the Abyss. It's not something that can be fixed by staying up late or anything like that. It's an ailment you carry because of how and where you were born."

Riko tilted her head in confusion. "But... what does that mean?"

Jiruo took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting a mix of sadness and resolve. "Just as Lyza had become pregnant with you, she was tasked by a foreign power to go on a long cave expedition into the Fourth Layer with a large team. They were tasked with retrieving the Unheard Bell, a special-grade relic. But the expedition was dangerous. They encountered foreign cave raiders, and the team was nearly wiped out. It was during all this... that you were born."

Riko's eyes widened in surprise. "I was born in the depths of the Abyss?"

Jiruo nodded. "Yes. Lyza was determined to bring you out of the Abyss safely, even though it meant abandoning the relic and the bodies of her comrades. She used a curse-repelling vessel, a special-grade relic, to protect you, but she couldn't fully shield you from the curse. That's why your eyes are the way they are."

Riko stared at Jiruo, her heart heavy with the weight of the revelation. Her mother had sacrificed so much to bring her into this world, choosing her life over fame, fortune, and the trust of her comrades. Jiruo's voice softened as he continued. "Lyza gave up everything for you, Riko. She chose you over everything else. And now, in the face of the pressure of having a mother of such stature, you're trying to choose your own path."

He stood up, turning to face her fully. "Now, this life that the legendary White Whistle Lyza the Annihilator has given you... How will you use it?"

Riko felt a surge of determination well up inside her. Gripping the White Whistle tightly in her hands, she stood up from the crate, her eyes filled with a newfound resolve. She quickly bowed to Jiruo, thanking him for his words, before turning and running off into the bustling festival crowd.

As she disappeared into the sea of people, Jiruo watched her go, a small smile on his lips. "Good luck, Riko." he whispered, his voice lost in the noise of the festival.

Jiruo stood silently, watching Riko disappear into the festival crowd. A small, satisfied smile played on his lips. He was relieved to see that her spirit was still strong, even after all the revelations and weight that had been placed on her young shoulders. Riko was resilient, just like her mother.

As he turned to leave, a thought crossed his mind—Y/N should be somewhere in town. It had been a while since Jiruo had seen him, and with everything happening, it felt like a good time to check in on his old friend. Knowing Y/N's habits, Jiruo suspected he'd find him in one of the more well-known pubs of Orth, a place called the Tumble Tavern.

-----------------------------------------

Making his way through the lively streets of Orth, Jiruo noticed how the festival had brought out an even larger crowd than usual. People laughed, drank, and shared stories, their faces lit with the glow of lanterns and the excitement of the ongoing celebrations. 

As he approached the tavern, he immediately noticed two things: The front window of the pub had been shattered, and a bloodied man lay unconscious underneath it, surrounded by glass. 

Jiruo shook his head as he walked towards the door, thinking to himself "His work I'm guessing..."

Pushing open the heavy wooden door of the Tumble Tavern, Jiruo was immediately hit by the loud chatter and clinking of glasses. The tavern was more lively than usual, most likely due to the festival. The air was thick with the smell of alcohol, smoke, and the subtle scent of cooked meat. As he moved further inside, Jiruo began scanning the room for any sign of Y/N.

It didn't take long to spot him. Y/N was seated at the bar, wearing his usual attire—a black, scaled shirt, leather gauntlets, brown jeans, and shin-length boots. His cloak was hung over his chair, and he had his back to the door, but Jiruo could tell it was him by the way the patrons around him seemed to keep their distance. The tables nearby were empty, and those that WERE near him were either on the floor unconscious or looked uncomfortable, casting wary glances his way.

Jiruo knew why. Y/N had a...reputation...especially in places like this. His nickname, the soon-to-be "Lord of Ferocity," wasn't just for show. He was known for being brutal in fights, and it didn't help that he often took on physically demanding jobs, specifically collecting bounties on illegal cave raiders and criminals. The very sight of him usually meant trouble, which explained why the other patrons were so on edge.

As Jiruo approached, Y/N spoke without turning around. "I'm surprised to see you in a place like this, Jiruo."

"How'd you know it was me?" Jiruo asked, taking a seat beside him.

Y/N shrugged, finally glancing over at him. "Good sense of smell."

Jiruo snorted, rolling his eyes. "You've got the skills of a dog."

"Woof." Y/N replied dryly, before taking a sip from the half-empty bottle of alcohol in front of him.

Jiruo noticed the bottle and frowned. "Should you really be drinking that?" he asked, reaching out to take it from him.

In an instant, Y/N's hand shot out, gripping Jiruo's arm with surprising strength. His eyes were cold, and his voice was equally chilling. "I outrank you, so don't go and tell me what I can and can't do."

Jiruo hesitated, then slowly withdrew his hand. "Alright, alright..." he said, rubbing his arm where Y/N had grabbed him. "No need to get all aggressive."

Y/N didn't respond, instead raising the bottle to his lips and finishing it off. "Sorry," he muttered after a moment, his tone a bit softer. "That was out of line."

Jiruo looked at him, surprised by the sudden apology. "It's fine, I just... well, with what happened last year, I can understand why—"

Before he could finish his sentence, Y/N cut him off. "Okay."

Jiruo sighed. "Too much?"

"Too much," Y/N agreed.

The two sat in silence for a while, the noise of the tavern filling the gap between them. After a few minutes, Y/N broke the silence, his voice low. "How did Lyza's kid take the news?"

Jiruo was caught off guard by the question but quickly recovered. "Riko? She took it well enough." he said, leaning back in his chair. "I had to have a talk with her a little while ago. She's stronger than she looks."

"That's good..." Y/N murmured, almost to himself, as he absentmindedly swirled the last drops of alcohol in his bottle.

Their conversation was interrupted by a young male Blue Whistle who approached their section of the bar. The boy was clearly nervous, stuttering slightly as he asked if they would like to order anything.

Y/N surprised Jiruo by politely ordering two 'Hamoroge Bowls'. The boy seemed taken aback by Y/N's unexpectedly polite demeanour, standing there for a moment before quickly writing down the order and hurrying away.

"Why two?" Jiruo asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Sorry for earlier." Y/N said, leaning on the table. "Consider the food part of the apology."

Another stretch of silence settled between them, but this time it was less tense, more comfortable. Out of nowhere, Y/N asked, "So, the orphanage doing well?"

Jiruo blinked at the sudden shift in topic but nodded. "Yeah, it's doing well. We had a bit of a scare a few months back, though. Some of the Red Whistles had a run-in with a Crimson Splitjaw."

Y/N's brow furrowed. "A Splitjaw? That high up?"

"Yeah." Jiruo replied, his tone serious. "It was strange. But it seems like it was just a one-time thing."

Before Y/N could ask more, the Blue Whistle returned with their food. Y/N thanked the boy and paid the bill, but as the boy turned to leave, Y/N leaned in, speaking quietly.

"Hey, kid." Y/N said, showing the boy a small picture. "Keep an eye out for this guy. If you see him, let me know. I'll leave part of the bounty as a tip."

The boy nodded quickly and hurried away, eager to avoid any further interaction.

Jiruo watched the exchange with a mix of curiosity and concern. "You're in the middle of another 'job,' aren't you?" he asked.

Y/N nodded, not looking up from his food. "Been tracking this guy for about a week now. He's been moving contraband around and causing trouble—attacking and killing other raiders, robbing them, illegal raiding, the whole shebang. I was tipped off about this place being where he's usually seen, so try not to screw this up for me."

"Yeah, yeah..." Jiruo muttered, his eyes narrowing as he studied Y/N's face. "You look like you haven't slept in days. You sure you're okay?"

Y/N didn't answer directly. Instead, Y/N grunted, his expression unreadable. "I'm fine." he said, his voice flat.

The conversation was interrupted by the Blue Whistle from before, who had returned with a nervous expression. "I... I found him," the boy stammered, pointing towards the back of the tavern. "He's near the back."

Y/N's eyes darkened, and a small, dangerous smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Good." he said, standing up. "Stay here." he ordered Jiruo.

"Like hell." Jiruo muttered, getting up to follow him.

Y/N sighed but didn't argue, instead simply advising. He threw on his cloak and began walking to the back area of the tavern. "Fine. Watch the rear, incase he runs."

They made their way through the tavern, the crowd parting as they passed. The tension was palpable, and even the rowdiest patrons fell silent as they noticed Y/N's approach.

When they reached the back of the tavern, Y/N found his target sitting at a table, nursing a drink. The man didn't notice the two figures approaching him at first, but when he did, he immediately bristled, his eyes narrowing in anger.

"F-fuck off..." the man slurred, his speech thick with alcohol.

Y/N's smile widened, as he slid and tapped the bounty paper on the table in front of the man. "I don't think you understand your situation, friend."

The man looked down at the paper, his eyes widening as he recognised the description. "Shit." he muttered, taking a last swig of his drink. Suddenly, he swung the bottle at Y/N, hitting him square in the head, causing glass to shatter everywhere. Jiruo watched on, startled, however he noticed that Y/N had not moved. Almost all of the patrons had gone silent at this point, simply silently watching as the scene played out.

As the man pulled back his outstretched arm, he was stunned to see Y/N had not taken any damage. Before he could react further, Y/N grabbed his arm and twisted it, the sound of breaking bone echoing through the tavern.

The man screamed, and in an instant, Y/N slammed his head down on the table, knocking him out cold.

The silence in the tavern remained after this, the tension thick in the air. Then, as if nothing had happened, the patrons slowly began to resume their activities, though many kept a wary eye on Y/N as he hoisted the unconscious man over his shoulder.

Jiruo gave Y/N a disapproving look. "Really?" Y/N shrugged, unbothered as he shook off the remaining glass. "He struck first. I had to defend myself."

They made their way out of the tavern, Y/N stopping only to slip a few hundred Orth to the Blue Whistle who had helped him. "Keep up the good work, kid." he said, ruffling the boy's hair before leaving.

--------------------------------------

After dropping the man off at one of the city's bounty lock-up sites, Jiruo and Y/N decided to take a walk around Orth. They ended up at a nearby dock overlooking a portion of the city, the sound of waves lapping against the shore providing a soothing background to their conversation.

Y/N was quietly counting the bounty reward, while Jiruo stood silently nearby, lost in thought. "You know, it's been forever since I've seen you up on the surface," Jiruo commented, breaking the silence.

Y/N grunted in response. "Haven't had a reason to come up here, apart from bounty collecting."

"Then why are you still here?" Jiruo pressed, genuinely curious.

Y/N hesitated, then looked away. "I wanted...to see how things were going."

Jiruo smirked. "What was that? I didn't quite catch it." Y/N glared at him, then sighed, the tension draining from his shoulders. "I wanted to apologise, okay?"

Jiruo crossed his arms, watching Y/N with a mix of amusement and concern. "For what?"

Y/N shifted uncomfortably, his gaze fixed on the ground. "For everything. I couldn't bear to come to the surface after...that. But I... I'm sorry, Jiruo. For giving you the cold shoulder and all that."

Jiruo's expression softened. "I'm sorry too. I should've been more considerate of what you were going through back then."

Y/N let out a breath he hadn't realised he was holding, the weight of the past year slightly lifting off of his shoulders. "Yeah, well... let's just move past it, alright?"

"Alright." Jiruo agreed, leaning on the stone fence beside Y/N. "So, you heading back to the Seeker Camp?"

"Yeah." Y/N replied, looking up at the sky. "I've spent more time up here than I was supposed to. Ozen's probably going to give me hell for it."

Jiruo chuckled. "Think she can actually hurt you?"

Y/N smirked. "Please, you and I both know she couldn't hurt me if she tried." He glanced around, then leaned in, whispering, "Just don't let her hear that, alright?"

Jiruo laughed, and Y/N couldn't help but join in. It felt good, letting go, at least for a moment, of the tension that had been building up inside him for so long.

Pulling his hood over his head, Y/N turned to leave. "We're cool now, right?" Jiruo called after him. Y/N looked back, nodding. "Yeah. I'll see you when I see you, Jiruo."

With a small wave, Y/N walked away, disappearing into the night. Jiruo watched him go, a smile playing on his lips. "Take care, Y/N." he whispered, before turning to head back to the orphanage

--------------------------------------

[The Next Day]

The next day dawned bright and clear, with the bustling streets of Orth returning to their usual rhythm after the previous day's festivities. However, within the walls of the orphanage, something was decidedly different. Riko was practically glowing with excitement as she swept the floors, her cheerful voice echoing through the halls as she sang, "Abyss, Abyss, I'm comin' for ya. I'm going down there, Abyss!"

From a room nearby, Shiggy, Nat, and Reg watched her with a mix of amusement and concern.

"Hey, don't you think Riko's been acting a bit strange lately?" Shiggy asked, glancing at the others.

Nat nodded slightly, a sweat drop forming on his temple. "Yeah, she's been oddly cheerful... almost too cheerful."

Shiggy crossed his arms, frowning thoughtfully. "It's like she's forcing herself to be happy. Maybe it's because of the whole thing with her mother being MIA."

Nat scoffed, shaking his head. "I doubt it. Riko's not the type to have a personality that complex."

Reg, who had been silently observing, finally spoke up. "Let's just go ask her."

The three boys exchanged looks, then nodded in agreement. Together, they walked over to Riko, who was still lost in her own world, singing and sweeping with gusto.

Reg was about to ask if she was okay, but before he could get the words out, Jiruo's voice rang out from another room. "Riko, where are you?"

Riko snapped out of her reverie and called back, "I'm by the classroom!"

A moment later, Jiruo appeared in the doorway, his expression serious. "Riko, you've received permission to view the sealed document. You need to be at Headquarters by 18:00, or you'll miss your chance. So hurry."

Riko stared at him, wide-eyed and speechless.

Jiruo raised an eyebrow, his tone softening slightly. "Are you gonna say anything, or just stand there?"

His words seemed to jolt Riko back to reality, and she quickly nodded. "O-okay!" Without another word, she dropped her broom and dashed out of the orphanage, barefoot and barely aware of anything else around her.

Jiruo watched her go, a sigh escaping his lips. "She didn't even take the time to put on her shoes..." He turned to Reg, a worried look in his eyes. "Reg, could you go with her? Make sure she doesn't do anything too... erratic. I don't like seeing her like this."

Reg smiled and saluted, his tone light-hearted despite the underlying concern. "Understood, Leader." With that, he quickly followed after Riko, determined to keep her from doing anything reckless.

--------------------------------------

Thirty minutes later, Riko and Reg found themselves at the imposing entrance of the Cave Raider Guild Headquarters. The building loomed over them, its stone walls and towering arches a stark reminder of the history and power that lay within.

A younger man in a purple robe led them through the grand halls, his footsteps echoing off the polished floors. As they walked, Riko and Reg couldn't help but be captivated by the various relics and artifacts displayed along the walls, each one a testament to Orth's rich history and the daring cave raiders who had brought them back from the Abyss.

"It's just up ahead," the robed man said, his voice quiet but firm. "I'll be accompanying you two as an observer."

They arrived at a large set of wooden doors, which creaked ominously as they were pushed open. The room beyond was shrouded in darkness, so thick that it seemed to swallow the light from the hallway.

The man lit a small lamp, its warm glow illuminating the immediate area around them. "The room is kept in darkness to protect the artifacts from potential light damage," he explained, leading them to a table at the far end of the room. "Please refrain from touching anything, as the documents are very delicate."

On the table were several old, yellowed papers, carefully spread out for viewing. Riko and Reg leaned in, their curiosity piqued, but they were immediately struck by how different these documents were from what they had expected.

"What is all this...?" Riko murmured, her brows furrowing in confusion.

She had anticipated a simple letter from her mother, but these papers were filled with detailed drawings and descriptions of creatures from the Abyss—creatures she had never seen or heard of before. "Mother went down there 10 years ago... and yet none of what's detailed here is in any field guide."

Riko's eyes scanned the drawings, trying to make sense of them. "I've never seen any of these creatures before."

Suddenly, something caught her eye, making her freeze. Her heart skipped a beat as her gaze locked onto one particular drawing, and her eyes widened in shock.

"Riko, what's wrong?" Reg asked, noticing her sudden change in demeanour.

Riko pointed to the drawing, her hand trembling slightly. "Look at this..."

Reg followed her gaze and his breath caught in his throat. The drawing depicted a figure that bore an uncanny resemblance to him. The details were slightly different, but there was no mistaking it—this was him, or at least something very close to him.

"This... this looks just like me," Reg whispered, his voice filled with a mix of wonder and fear.

"Some parts are different, but... yeah, it's you," Riko agreed, her mind racing.

Beside the drawing was another page, this one smaller and covered in writing. Reg squinted at the text, noting that it was brief.

"There's something written here," Riko said, shining the lamp's light onto the page so they could read it more clearly.

Riko began to read the words aloud, her voice soft and filled with uncertainty. "At the netherworld's... bottom... I'll be waiting...!"

She read the sentence again, this time in one breath, as if trying to fully grasp its meaning. "At the netherworld's bottom... I'll be waiting."

Reg and Riko exchanged a look, their minds reeling from the implications of what they had just discovered.

"Do you think...?" Reg began, but he didn't need to finish the sentence. Riko was already nodding, her eyes shining with a mixture of determination and fear.

"Yes," Riko said, her voice filled with conviction. "My mother... she's waiting for me at the bottom of the Abyss."

-------------------------------------------------------------------

[ENDING] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=In2PzM9zaPQ

Chapter Text

[OPENING] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e91G8m9uM_0

Night had fallen, casting the orphanage in deep shadows, with only the faint glow of moonlight streaming through the small window of Riko's room. Inside, the atmosphere was thick with anticipation and unspoken thoughts. Riko, Reg, Nat, Shiggy, and a peacefully sleeping Kiyui were huddled together, each wrapped in their own blanket. The room was quiet, save for the rustle of fabric and the distant sounds of the festival's aftermath, slowly fading away outside.

In the centre of their small circle, the worn page from Riko's mother lay carefully spread out on the floor, illuminated by the dim light of a lantern. All eyes were on it, each of the children lost in their thoughts.

Shiggy broke the silence, his voice low and laced with concern. "Riko, why did you swipe that page from the headquarters? You know you could get in serious trouble for this."

Riko, holding her blanket tightly around her shoulders, looked up with a determined expression. "Because it's a letter addressed to me. That makes it mine!" she justified, her tone firm but not without a trace of defensiveness.

Nat, who had been unusually quiet until now, finally spoke up, his voice tense. "So, you're really going to do it, then?" He looked at Riko, his gaze searching hers for any hint of doubt.

Riko nodded, her eyes bright with resolve. "Yes, and that's why I need your help." She glanced around at her friends, her expression softening as she continued, "My mother is waiting for me, and I have to go to her."

Shiggy leaned forward, his brow furrowed with concern. "But what's your plan, Riko? Once you get past the Seeker Camp, what are you going to do? The Abyss isn't just a hole you can walk down."

Riko's eyes sparkled with excitement, as if she had been waiting for this moment to explain everything. "I'll head straight to the bottom of the Abyss, where my mother is waiting. I've been thinking about it for a long time, and I-"

But before she could continue, Nat abruptly stood up, his blanket falling to the floor with a soft thud. His face was etched with worry and anger, his fists clenched at his sides.

Riko, Shiggy, and Reg looked up at him in surprise, taken aback by his sudden outburst. "Nat, what's wrong?" Riko asked, her voice wavering slightly.

Nat's voice was loud and full of frustration as he finally let out everything he had been holding back. "I'm against this, Riko! You're talking like it's no big deal, but the Abyss is quite literally the REAL DEAL! Once you go down there, you won't ever be able to return!" His words hung heavily in the air, the reality of what he was saying sinking into everyone's minds.

Riko stared at him, her own emotions beginning to boil over. "Where's all of this coming from, Nat?" she demanded, her voice shaking with a mix of anger and desperation. "You know I've always wanted to be a White Whistle! I've already prepared myself for this!"

Nat shook his head, his frustration only growing. "You don't get it, Riko! Once you go down there, you'll never be able to see any of us again!"

Riko's anger flared as she stomped her foot on the ground. "That's right!" she shouted, her voice trembling.

But Nat wasn't done. He took a step closer, his expression intense as he continued, "You won't ever be able to hang out at your auntie's shop, attend Leader's lessons, or play with any of us ever again!"

Shiggy, who had been silent until now, lowered his gaze, his heart heavy with the harsh truth of Nat's words. Reg, on the other hand, remained quiet, his face a mask of contemplation as he absorbed everything being said.

Riko clenched her fists, her eyes welling up with tears as she repeated, "That's right!" Her voice cracked as she continued, her emotions spilling over. "Like I said... I know that, okay!?"

Nat pointed at her, his own voice rising as he noticed the tears streaming down her cheeks. "Then why are you crying, Riko? If you're so sure, why are you doing this?"

Riko's frustration reached its breaking point, and she launched herself at Nat, her fists swinging as she yelled, "You're crying too, idiot!" The two of them tumbled to the floor in a flurry of flailing limbs, their emotions finally erupting into a physical scuffle.

Shiggy and Reg watched the chaotic scene unfold, the former shaking his head in exasperation. "We should call it a night," Shiggy suggested, his tone weary. "We've got Reg's first cave raid tomorrow, remember?"

Reg, who had been silently observing the entire time, finally spoke up, saluting Shiggy with a determined look. "Understood!" But as he did, his eyes drifted back to the small piece of paper Riko had stolen from the headquarters. The words written there echoed in his mind, lingering like a haunting refrain: "The bottom of the netherworld..."

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5th Layer: In the Sandstone area of the Sea of Corpses, I came across a seven-tailed scorpion. It exceeded two meters in size...so I've decided to call it a "Stingerhead".

6th Layer: While sheltering from the rain on the Sixth Layer, I encountered this one...a lizard that grows up while still inside its eggshell. Thanks to its shell, it appears to be completely unfazed by the iron rain. I'll call it an "Emperorshell".

Nearing the Seventh Layer, I came across a human-looking silhouette. Not sure what it really was...For a while now, it has been intently observing me. Hehe, damn idiot, I'm watching you too you know. It's about the size of a human child.

It didn't give off the impression of being a hollow...so perhaps it's actually a person? In the first place, where did it come from? I do not know...But, I'm getting closer to the answer.

[THE NEXT DAY]

The next morning, the sun rose high in the sky, casting a bright golden glow over the lush greenery of the First Layer of the Abyss. The day had barely begun, but the young cave raiders were already hard at work, their eager hands digging into the soil and stone in search of relics. The air was filled with the sound of pickaxes striking stone and the rustle of leaves as the wind swept through the trees.

Reg was kneeling on the ground, kitted out in his new cave raider uniform. His metalic hands dug at the dirt with surprising efficiency, his fingers slicing through the earth as though it were nothing more than soft clay. As he worked, he kept his thoughts focused on the task at hand, trying to push aside the questions that had been swirling in his mind since the night before.

"Hey, Reg!" a voice called out, breaking through his concentration.

Reg looked up to see Nat standing a few feet away, his pickaxe resting on his shoulder. "If you keep digging like that, all you're gonna find is dirt and bugs," Nat said, a teasing smile on his face. He pointed his pickaxe toward a nearby slab of stone, indicating that Reg should focus his efforts there. "Look for things like that instead."

Reg nodded, rising to his feet and walking over to the slab. With little effort, he reached down and casually lifted the heavy stone, revealing a weird-looking green ball underneath.

Picking it up, Reg examined the strange object, curiosity gleaming in his eyes. "What is this? It's round and squishy," he said, giving it a gentle squeeze.

Nat peered at the relic over Reg's shoulder, furrowing his brow in thought. "That's some kind of relic of the Abyss, but I have no idea what it actually is." he admitted. "It's probably just junk, though. Raiders usually only find low-grade relics up here in the First Layer."

Reg turned the green orb over in his hands, intrigued by its odd texture and the strange force that seemed to hold it together. "I don't know... It feels like there's something amazing inside it," he mused. "Maybe it's a special-grade relic?"

Nat chuckled and shook his head, quickly dispelling Reg's enthusiasm. "Yeah, right. Special-grade relics don't show up this high. All you'll find here is junk," he said as Reg dropping the slab he had lifted with a loud thud. "But even junk can fetch a good price in foreign markets, so don't get any ideas about keeping it for yourself."

Reg frowned, disappointed by Nat's blunt dismissal. "But if it's junk, why can't I keep it?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of defiance.

Nat ruffled Reg's hair with a smirk, amused by his persistence. "Because even junk can be valuable to someone," he explained. "And you'll get strung up naked if Leader finds out you're pocketing relics."

Reg winced at the mental image that conjured, quickly deciding to drop the subject. He sighed, letting the green orb fall into his bag.

Nat pointed to a small cave entrance nearby with his pickaxe. "There's an unchecked opening over there. Why don't you give that a try?"

Reg's eyes lit up with renewed excitement as he hurried over to the cave, eager to discover what might be hidden inside. He crouched down and stuck his hands into the opening, feeling around for anything unusual.

His search quickly paid off as he pulled out two more of those squishy green orbs. "There's no end to these things," Reg muttered, half to himself as he examined the new finds.

But as he crawled deeper into the cave, his eyes adjusting to the dim light, he suddenly froze in place. Mere inches from his face was a human skull, its empty eye sockets staring back at him.

Reg yelped in shock, scrambling backward out of the cave with lightning speed. He pressed his back against the nearest rock, his heart pounding in his chest as he tried to catch his breath.

Nat, seeing Reg's panicked state, walked over to the cave and peered inside. "Oh, that?" he said nonchalantly, as if discovering a skull was an everyday occurrence. "That's the skeleton of someone in prayer. They're all over the place in the First Layer. Those remains are probably 2,000 years old."

Reg's fear quickly faded, replaced by a sense of morbid curiosity. "2,000 years old...?" he echoed, still shaken by the sudden encounter. "And they're all posed like that?"

Nat nodded, his expression serious as he studied the ancient bones. "Yeah, it's weird, right? No one knows why they're posed like that though."

Reg finally let go of Nat, shaking his head in disbelief. "Oh..." was all he could manage, feeling a bit foolish for his earlier panic.

Nat turned to Reg with a mischievous grin, sensing an opportunity to mess with his friend. "You know, Reg, there's a story that goes around about kids who eagerly wait for their birthdays..." he began, his voice taking on a spooky tone.

Reg looked at Nat, his interest piqued. "A story?"

Nat nodded, his grin widening as he continued. "Yeah, it's said that those kids die one after the other when their birthday arrives. The causes of death are different each time, but they all die on their birthdays. In the west district alone, there have been eight cases recently."

Reg's eyes widened slightly, though he tried to remain calm. "That's...pretty creepy," he admitted.

But Nat wasn't done yet. He slid closer to Reg, lowering his voice to a whisper. "And there's this rumour, you see... If you look into a mirror on the morning of your birthday, your reflection will have a twisted neck...And once you see it...!"

Reg stood up, his body tense as he glanced around nervously. "I d-don't believe in that kind of s-stuff!" he said, trying to sound confident, though his voice betrayed his unease.

Nat noticed Reg's discomfort and burst out laughing. "You're sweating, Reg! I knew you'd be freaked out by that!" he teased, slapping Reg on the back.

Reg sighed, his attempt to appear unfazed clearly failing. "Okay, okay, you got me," he admitted, though his mind was still racing with thoughts far more serious than birthday curses. "But there is one thing I want to believe in..."

Nat raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Reg's sudden shift in tone. "What's that?"

Reg's gaze drifted back to the horizon, where the Abyss stretched out before them like an endless void. "It's that 'answers lie waiting at the bottom of the Netherworld'," he said quietly. "The true nature of the relics, the curse of the Abyss, maybe even the reason behind my creation... Or the reason I came here. I feel like I'll find those answers if I reach the bottom of the Abyss."

Nat stared at Reg, his usual playful demeanor fading as he took in the seriousness of his friend's words. He turned away, his expression conflicted as he tried to process what Reg was saying.

"You and Riko both..." Nat muttered, his voice laced with frustration. "You're crazy, you know that? Like I said yesterday, I'm against going down there, okay!? You're both Red Whistles, and she's only twelve years old!"

Nat grabbed his bag and slung it over his shoulder, turning to leave the area in a huff. "I'm against it," he repeated, more to himself than to Reg.

Reg watched Nat walk away, feeling a pang of guilt in his chest. But the pull of the Abyss was too strong, the questions it held too important to ignore.

Meanwhile, Jiruo had been observing the young raiders from a distance, his sharp eyes noting the tension between Nat and Reg. As he turned his attention to the other end of the area, his gaze fell on Riko, who was noticeably quieter than usual.

She was using her pickaxe to chip away at a rock on the ground, but there was a distant, almost vacant look in her eyes. Jiruo frowned, sensing that something was off.

----------------------------------------------

[LATE AFTERNOON]

A few hours later, as the group made their way back to the orphanage, Reg walked alongside Nat, his mind still swirling with thoughts. "Even after my first cave raid, my memories haven't come back..." he mused internally. "In that case, the key indeed must be..."

His thoughts were interrupted by Nat, who had fallen behind, his face pale. "Reg, wait up," Nat called out, trying to keep pace.

Reg slowed down, turning back to check on his friend. "What's wrong?" he asked, concerned.

Nat wiped the sweat from his brow, his breathing laboured. "It's the curse of the Abyss..." he muttered, before suddenly doubling over and vomiting onto the ground.

Reg rushed to his side, alarmed by Nat's condition. "Are you okay? Should I go get someone?"

But Nat shook his head, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. "No, I'm fine..." he insisted, though his voice was weak. "So, you really aren't fazed by it... And you're going at a hell of a pace, too..."

Reg's concern deepened as he watched Nat push himself to keep walking. "I'm sorry, I didn't realise..." he began, but Nat waved him off.

"Don't worry about it." Nat said, forcing a smile as he continued trudging forward.

As Reg watched Nat walk ahead, his thoughts turned inward once more. "I don't even feel it... I guess I really am a robot, huh?" The realisation was both comforting and disconcerting, a reminder of his true nature.

His mind flashed back to the moment at the Guild HQ when he and Riko had discovered the drawing that resembled him. "In that case, that silhouette must also..." he thought, piecing together the fragments of his past.

Shiggy had mentioned something about an 'aubade,' and the term echoed in Reg's mind like a haunting refrain. "So, I'm... just a relic, then?" he wondered, grappling with the implications.

The questions continued to spiral in his mind, growing more urgent with each passing moment. "Why did I come here? And if that isn't me... Why doesn't that silhouette come up here? Did I come from the bottom of the Netherworld? What the hell is down there?"

As they neared the orphanage, Reg's determination solidified into a single, burning desire. "I want to know... Just what it is that I am..."

------------------------------------

[LATER THAT NIGHT]

As the moon climbed higher into the night sky, casting its pale light over the city of Orth, the orphanage was enveloped in a stillness that was almost suffocating. The soft rustling of leaves in the wind was the only sound that accompanied the young cave raiders, huddled together in Riko's dimly lit room. The atmosphere was tense, a quiet unease settling over them as they contemplated the enormity of what lay ahead.

Nat sat on the small balcony connected to Riko's room, his back against the railing as he stared out into the abyss beyond the city walls. His thoughts were a turbulent storm, swirling with fear, doubt, and a growing sense of dread. The weight of Riko's impending departure hung heavy on his heart, and he couldn't shake the feeling that something terrible was going to happen.

Inside, Riko and Shiggy were going over her plan, the map of the Abyss spread out between them. Riko's fingers traced the lines and markings, her expression determined but tinged with a hint of sadness.

"Well then... have you decided the day you're gonna set off?" Shiggy asked, his voice low, almost hesitant.

Riko nodded, her resolve unwavering. "I'll head out tomorrow just before daybreak," she said, her words slicing through the air like a knife.

Nat's head snapped around, his eyes wide with shock. "Tomorrow?" he repeated, disbelief colouring his tone.

Riko turned to look at him, her expression softening. "Yeah... I've already packed everything I'll need," she explained, her voice gentle but firm. "I can't wait any longer. My mom is waiting for me."

Shiggy sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "You're not wasting any time, huh?" he muttered, though there was a hint of admiration in his voice. "But, how exactly are you planning on slipping into the Abyss? They keep watch all the time."

Riko opened her mouth to respond, but no words came out. She hadn't actually thought that far ahead. A sense of unease began to creep in, but before she could dwell on it, Reg spoke up.

"I'll use my extending arms to lower her down." Reg suggested, his voice calm and confident.

The room fell silent as everyone turned to look at him, surprise etched on their faces. Even Riko seemed taken aback by his declaration.

Reg met her gaze, his eyes filled with quiet determination. "I'm going all the way to the bottom of the Netherworld with you," he said, the conviction in his voice leaving no room for doubt.

Riko's eyes widened, a flicker of emotion crossing her face. She opened her mouth to speak, but Shiggy beat her to it.

"I thought you were going to try and stop her..." Shiggy said, his brow furrowed in confusion.

Nat, who had been silently processing everything, suddenly accused Riko of enticing Reg to go. "You put this idea into his head, didn't you?" he said, his voice laced with anger.

Riko shook her head vehemently. "I didn't! I swear I didn't!" she protested, but before the argument could escalate, Reg stepped in.

"Riko didn't say anything to make me want to go with her," Reg said firmly. "I decided on my own. I want to find out who I am and why I was made."

His honesty struck a chord with Riko, and tears welled up in her eyes. Before she could stop herself, she lunged at Reg, wrapping her arms around his head and pulling him into a tight embrace.

"I couldn't bring myself to say anything," she sobbed, her voice muffled by Reg's shoulder. "I'm going down to meet my mom, so hogging you all to myself... I didn't think that would be right..."

Reg, taken aback by her sudden outburst, hesitated for a moment before gently patting her back. "You were the one who found me in the first place," he reminded her softly, his words a balm to her aching heart.

Nat watched the exchange with a mixture of anger and frustration, his fists clenching at his sides. Unable to bear the sight of Riko and Reg's closeness, he turned back toward the balcony, his heart heavy with conflicting emotions.

As Riko finally released Reg, a string of snot clung between her nose and Reg's head, but he paid it no mind. "I've already climbed the Abyss once, right?" Reg said, his voice steady. "Even if my memory doesn't return, I still have this sturdy body all the same. I'll protect you all the way down to the bottom of the Netherworld."

Riko nodded silently, her tears finally subsiding as she looked at him with gratitude. "Thank you, Reg..." she whispered, her voice trembling.

Shiggy, who had been watching the entire scene unfold, placed his hands on his hips and sighed. "Guess there's no stopping you..." he muttered, though there was a note of acceptance in his tone.

Riko turned to him, her expression softening. "Sorry... I'll be sad to leave you guys, but my curiosity got the better of me..." she admitted, her voice tinged with regret.

Shiggy waved her off, a small smile playing on his lips. "It's fine. I'm pretty sure even if we tried to stop you, you'd find a way to go on your own anyway."

Riko chuckled softly, though there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. She knew he was right. Once her mind was set on something, there was no turning back.

Shiggy then turned his attention to Reg, his expression growing serious. "Do you have any idea what's going to be in your path on the way to the bottom of the Abyss?" he asked, his tone cautious.

Reg nodded, his gaze unwavering. "I know there are a lot of dangerous creatures, as well as relics and stuff..."

Shiggy raised an eyebrow, skepticism colouring his features. "Don't tell me... you think you can just reach the bottom by using your arms to descend little by little... is that more or less your plan?"

Reg met his gaze head-on, his expression unchanging. "I suppose there will be a few obstacles in the way, but to be honest, yeah, that's my plan."

Shiggy stared at him for a moment before standing up and pointing at Reg, his voice filled with urgency. "You're far too optimistic! The Abyss is filled with dangers beyond your imagination!"

As he spoke, Shiggy pulled out a large rolled-up page from his bag, catching everyone's attention. Reg and Riko exchanged curious glances as Shiggy unrolled the paper, revealing a detailed map of the Abyss.

Nat, who had been sulking in the corner, finally turned around, his curiosity piqued. He leaned in, studying the map with a frown.

"This is the current state of the Abyss," Shiggy explained, his finger tracing the lines of the map. "Down to 1,350 meters is the first layer, the 'Edge of the Abyss.' The creatures and environment don't really change, but beasts from the second layer sometimes come up here to feed, so keep your guard up."

He then pointed to the second section, his expression growing more serious. "Starting here is the second layer, the 'Forest of Temptation.' The strain of ascending is said to suddenly become more severe. If a Red Whistle descends that far, no help will be sent after them... That's because both heading down there and returning home become much more difficult. It's treated as a suicide."

Riko shifted uncomfortably, the weight of his words sinking in. She knew the risks, but hearing them spelled out so plainly made her stomach churn with anxiety.

Shiggy continued, pointing to the third section. "The forest eventually takes the shape of a rat guard, and at that point, you enter the Inverted Forest. The air currents are super unstable, and savage predators fill the skies, so be careful."

He then moved his finger to the fourth section. "The third layer, the 'Great Fault.' Here, you'll find a vertical cliff face of over 4,000 meters standing in your way."

Riko's eyes widened at the sheer scale of the cliff, her heart racing at the thought of trying to navigate such a treacherous landscape. But she knew there was no turning back now. She had to keep going, no matter what.

Shiggy pointed to the fifth section, his expression grim. "The fourth layer, only Black Whistles and above can go here. The depth is about 7,000 meters. They call it the 'Goblet of Giants.'"

Riko's breath hitched in her throat as she took in the information. Each layer seemed more dangerous than the last, and the reality of what they were about to undertake was beginning to settle in.

Shiggy pointed to the sixth section, his voice growing softer. "The fifth layer, the 'Sea of Corpses.' This is the domain of White Whistles alone, and you can count the number of people who've returned from here on your hands."

A cold chill ran down Riko's spine as she imagined the dangers that lay ahead. She had always known the Abyss was dangerous, but hearing it laid out in such detail made it all the more real.

Finally, Shiggy pointed to the seventh section, his voice barely above a whisper. "The sixth layer, the 'Capital of the Unreturned.' When a White Whistle descends to the sixth layer, people call it their 'last dive.' That's because they'll never be able to return home."

Reg, who had been silent throughout the explanation, finally spoke up. "Are there any cases of someone who's not a White Whistle going down lower than the sixth?"

Shiggy hesitated for a moment before answering. "Perhaps there are... But if someone other than a White Whistle sends information up from the Abyss, it will be considered 'mere rumour.' That's because it's possible the Curse of the Abyss caused the person to become confused or even go crazy. However, if the voice of a White Whistle reaches the surface, it will be considered 'truth.'"

He looked at each of them in turn, his expression grave. "The voices of White Whistles are the voices of the Abyss. Even if a White Whistle loses their life, they live on as a voice of the Abyss... guiding everyone."

Riko's eyes softened, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Just as I thought, that letter is for real," she murmured, her heart swelling with determination.

Suddenly, Nat broke the silence, turning to Riko with a look of desperation. "Look, Riko, sorry to bring this up when you're so fired up to go..." he began, his voice trembling with emotion.

But Riko cut him off, her tone sharp. "No matter what you say, I'm still going! My mom is waiting for me, after all!"

Nat's frustration boiled over, and he clenched his fists, his voice rising with anger. "Have you even been paying attention? Think anyone could live somewhere like that for 10 years?!" he shouted, his words laced with bitterness.

Riko stared at him, her eyes wide with shock. "Wh-what are...?" she stammered, but Nat didn't let her finish.

"Think about it!" Nat continued, his voice trembling. "Why did her Whistle make its way to the surface? Your mom died a long time ago!"

The words hung in the air like a death sentence, the weight of them crashing down on Riko like a tidal wave. Kiyui, who had been silently listening, began to cry, his small body trembling with fear.

Nat took a step back, his own tears welling up as the realisation of what he had just said hit him like a punch to the gut. "Riko, I..." he began, but the damage was already done.

Riko's face crumpled with grief, tears streaming down her cheeks as she turned and bolted from the room, her sobs echoing in the hallway. Shiggy called after her, but she didn't stop, her heart shattering with each step she took.

Reg, still trying to comfort the crying Kiyui, looked up at Nat with a mixture of sympathy and disappointment. He knew Nat hadn't meant to hurt Riko, but the words had cut deeper than any blade.

Nat, his own tears now flowing freely, sank to the floor, his shoulders shaking with silent sobs. He had wanted to protect Riko, to keep her from making a terrible mistake, but in the end, all he had done was push her further away.

The room was heavy with the weight of unspoken words and shattered dreams, the silence punctuated only by the sound of Kiyui's soft cries. Each of them was left to grapple with the harsh reality of the journey that lay ahead, and the painful truths that could no longer be ignored.

---------------------------------------

[A FEW HOURS LATER]

The quiet of the night wrapped around Orth like a thick blanket, muffling all sounds except for the occasional breeze rustling through the trees. The city was at peace, its inhabitants deep in sleep, unaware of the preparations taking place within the walls of the Belchero Orphanage. It was the final few hours before dawn, and in the dim light of the orphanage, Riko, Reg, and Shiggy were making their final arrangements.

Reg was standing on the balcony outside Riko's room, his metal arms extended down to the ground below as he carefully lowered their bags of equipment. The soft thud of the bags hitting the ground was barely audible, but it was enough to make Reg glance around nervously, ensuring they hadn't drawn any unwanted attention.

"Bags are down." Reg whispered as he reeled his arm back up. He turned to face Riko and Shiggy, who were still inside, making last-minute adjustments to their disguises.

Riko was inspecting herself in a small mirror, pulling the hood of her cloak over her head. "You think anyone will recognise me like this?" she asked, her voice a mixture of excitement and anxiety.

Shiggy looked her over, nodding in approval. "It's unlikely," he assured her. "Just keep the hood low and try not to draw attention to yourself."

As Reg stepped back inside, he glanced around the room and asked, "Where's Nat?" His question hung in the air for a moment, tension building as they all recalled the harsh exchange from earlier.

Before Shiggy could respond, Riko's face contorted with anger, and she snapped, "I don't care what that guy is doing!" Her voice was sharp, the words cutting through the quiet like a knife.

Shiggy sighed, trying to reason with her. "Riko, you know Nat was just worried about you. He crossed a line, sure, but it's only because he cares."

Riko huffed and turned away, arms crossed defensively. The hurt was still fresh, and she wasn't ready to forgive him so easily.

Reg, sensing the deeper emotions at play, approached her cautiously. "Riko..." he began gently, "you might never get the chance to see him again. Do you really want to leave things unresolved like this?"

Riko's tough exterior crumbled slightly, her eyes welling up with tears as she looked down at the floor. "I don't," she admitted quietly. "But he's against us going... and he said some really nasty stuff."

Reg placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "If Nat apologises, would you forgive him?" he asked, his voice steady and reassuring.

Riko hesitated, then nodded. "Y-yeah... but he can be really stubborn."

"He regretted what he said," Reg assured her, causing Riko to look up at him in surprise. "I could see it in his eyes."

Shiggy watched their interaction with a soft smile. "Alright, you two," he interrupted, gently but firmly. "If you don't get going soon, you'll run out of time. To avoid drawing attention, we'll all leave one by one in ten minutes. Got it?"

Reg nodded, and after one last glance at the room that had been her home for so long, Riko agreed as well. There was no turning back now.

Reg, Shiggy, and Riko, now cloaked and hooded, descended from the balcony, their movements silent and precise. Reg's mechanical arms allowed him to lower each of them to the ground with ease, their footsteps barely making a sound as they landed.

As they reached the ground, Reg suddenly remembered something. "I've got to do something really quick," he said, his voice low but urgent. "You two go on ahead. I'll catch up."

Shiggy nodded, though there was a hint of concern in his eyes. "Be careful," he warned. "You don't want to get caught by Leader."

"I know," Reg replied, his expression serious. He watched as Shiggy and Riko slipped into the shadows, their figures quickly disappearing into the night.

Turning back to the orphanage, Reg entered the dark, quiet corridors, his footsteps soft against the cold floor. His first stop was Nat's room. He knocked softly, calling out to his friend in a hushed tone. "Nat? You in there?"

There was no answer. Frowning, Reg cautiously opened the door, peering inside. The room was empty, the bed neatly made as if Nat had never returned.

Reg sighed, closing the door quietly behind him. "Where could he be?" he wondered aloud, his mind racing with possibilities. Was Nat avoiding them on purpose? Or had he already left?

Pushing the thought aside for now, Reg made his way to the younger orphans' room. He wanted to say a proper goodbye to Kiyui, the youngest of their little group.

Kiyui was fast asleep, his small form curled up under the blankets. Reg hesitated for a moment, not wanting to disturb him, but then he gently shook Kiyui's arm, waking him from his peaceful slumber.

Kiyui blinked up at Reg, his eyes bleary with sleep. "Reg...? What's going on?" he asked, his voice soft and confused.

Reg smiled down at him, though there was a hint of sadness in his eyes. "I just wanted to say goodbye, Kiyui," he said quietly.

Kiyui unexpectedly coughed, the sound startling Reg. He quickly placed a hand on Kiyui's forehead, checking for a fever. "Are you feeling okay?" he asked, concern lacing his tone. "You've been looking sleepy lately."

Kiyui smiled weakly, shaking his head. "I'm fine. The day after tomorrow is my birthday, you know."

Reg's smile widened, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "That's right. I hope you get better before your big day," he said, trying to sound cheerful.

But then, the memory of Nat's ominous story from the other day resurfaced in Reg's mind, sending a chill down his spine. He crouched down to Kiyui's level, his expression serious. "Hey, Kiyui... on your birthday, don't look in any mirrors, okay?"

Kiyui's brow furrowed in confusion. "Why not?" he asked, his voice small and unsure.

Reg hesitated, not wanting to scare him. "Just... don't, alright?" he said firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Kiyui nodded slowly, his eyes wide. "Got it... see you, Reg..." he mumbled, already drifting back to sleep.

As Kiyui's breathing evened out, Reg whispered a final farewell. "Farewell, Kiyui," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

He left the room quietly, closing the door behind him with a soft click. As he turned to make his way back to the others, a beam of light suddenly illuminated the hallway, casting long shadows against the walls.

Reg froze, his heart skipping a beat. "Where are you going?" Jiruo's voice cut through the silence, stern yet laced with a hint of concern.

Reg spun around, his mind racing. "T-to the bathroom..." he stammered, his voice unconvincing even to his own ears.

Jiruo raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "There aren't any toilets in that room, you know," he pointed out, his gaze sharp.

"I-I was still half asleep..." Reg lied, his heart pounding in his chest.

Jiruo's expression softened slightly, though his suspicion didn't fully dissipate. "And what are you doing up in the middle of the night yourself, Leader?" Reg asked, hoping to divert the conversation.

Jiruo shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. "You fool, I'm on patrol. I do this every night after you all fall asleep."

Reg swallowed hard, his mind racing for an excuse. "Do you know where Riko is? She doesn't seem to be in her room..." Jiruo asked, his tone casual but his eyes sharp, watching Reg closely.

Reg panicked, blurting out the first thing that came to mind. "She's taking a dump!"

Jiruo's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "At this time of night?"

"She... she has the runs," Reg continued, cringing internally at the ridiculousness of his own words.

Jiruo sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "She's scavenging for food again? Jeez, that girl..." he muttered, shaking his head in exasperation.

He looked down at Reg, his gaze softening. "You're on your way to the toilet too, right?" he asked, patting Reg hard on the back.

Reg nodded vigorously, trying to keep his composure. "R-right, Leader!"

Jiruo studied him for a moment longer, then finally relented. His eyes softening, as if a sudden sadness had overcome him. "Stay with her and make sure she's okay." he instructed, his tone much gentler than usual.

Reg saluted, his relief palpable. "R-roger!" he responded, trying to mask the trembling in his voice.

Reg raced down the hallway, his mind spinning with everything that had just happened. "That was close," he thought, his heart still pounding in his chest. "I need to hurry back to Riko and Shiggy before anything else happens."

As Reg hurried off, Jiruo watched him go, a thoughtful expression on his face. He stood there for a few moments, lost in his own thoughts. Looking down for a moment, he let out a sigh, before finally turning and continuing his patrol.

-------------------------------------

The city of Orth was still under the cover of night, the horizon only beginning to show faint hints of light as the dawn approached. The cobblestone streets were silent, save for the soft whispers of three cloaked figures standing together, their hearts heavy with the weight of what was to come.

Riko, her hood pulled low over her face, glanced down the deserted street. "Oh! Here he comes!" she called out, waving at the approaching figure.

Reg jogged up to them, his own cloak drawn tight around him. "Sorry for taking so long," he apologised, slightly out of breath.

Riko turned to Shiggy, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Shiggy, we're heading off to the Wharf Quarter now, right?"

Shiggy nodded, the seriousness of the situation reflected in his tone. "Yeah, the usual Gate to the Netherworld is always guarded. I hear the Wharf Quarter in the slums has a good spot to enter from."

Reg, still catching his breath, tilted his head in curiosity. "You 'hear'?"

Shiggy smiled a little sheepishly. "Yep. We've never actually been to the Wharf Quarter before... so I called someone to help us."

As if on cue, a small figure emerged from a nearby alley, stepping into the dim light of a nearby streetlamp. The figure's face was obscured by a hood and face coverings, but there was something familiar about the way they moved.

Shiggy greeted the figure with a quiet nod. "We're in your hands."

Reg sniffed the air, instantly recognising the scent. But before he could say anything, Riko crossed her arms, her tone accusatory. "Nat! What are you doing here?"

The figure hesitated, then reluctantly pulled down the face coverings, revealing Nat's solemn expression. "...Sorry. That was wrong... what I did yesterday," he began, his voice barely above a whisper.

Riko's eyes softened immediately. "I forgive you," she said before he could continue, her tone sincere and unhesitating.

Both Shiggy and Reg blinked in surprise, clearly taken aback by how quickly Riko had let it go. "S-so, even though I said such terrible things, you still...?" Nat stammered, his disbelief evident.

Riko smiled warmly. "It's fine! I want us to make up. This is the day we say farewell after all..."

Nat's eyes began to well up, his emotions overwhelming him. He quickly turned away, pulling his face coverings back up. "Y-you don't know the way to the Wharf Quarter, do you? Follow me," he muttered, his voice thick with tears.

The group fell in behind him, the atmosphere sombre but laced with a sense of urgency. The streets grew narrower and darker as they entered the slums, the buildings towering above them like sentinels guarding secrets.

As they walked, Riko asked, "So, Nat, you're helping us out because you're okay with us going now, right?"

Nat's response was immediate and firm. "I'm still against it!" His words hung in the air, leaving Riko momentarily confused.

Reg, however, offered a different perspective. "I'm glad you came to see us off, Nat. Now both Riko and I can leave without any regrets."

Nat shook his head, frustration creeping into his voice. "You're such a dummy. The first and second layers are one thing, but from where you're going, a mail balloon will never make it to the surface."

Reg frowned, realising the gravity of their situation. "Is that so?"

Shiggy nodded grimly. "Even for a white whistle, the odds of a mail balloon making it to the surface from the deeper depths are VERY low."

Riko, however, remained optimistic, clutching her mother's letter close. "It'll be alright! I'll send a TON of 'em, okay? I bet my mother did the same thing."

She smiled, her voice filled with hope. "I mean, this letter looks like it was written out hastily, and maybe she sent multiple 'sealed documents' and then put one of these inside each of them."

The boys exchanged sceptical glances, but Nat was the first to voice his thoughts. "Well, Riko, I was thinking one of your fanciful ideas surprisingly makes sense for a change."

Riko pouted, crossing her arms. "That's so mean!"

Shiggy chuckled, unable to hold back his amusement. "Well, it's true!"

As they descended deeper into the slums, the atmosphere grew heavier, the air thick with the scent of decay and garbage. The buildings were dilapidated, and the streets were filled with shadowy figures lurking in the dark corners.

Reg looked around in awe. "Is this place still part of Orth?" he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

Shiggy nodded, his tone serious. "The Wharf district, you see, was founded by people who were cave-raiding illegally. Buildings kept being added on as the quarter grew, and now half of it is encroaching into the abyss."

Reg could only manage a quiet, "W-woah..."

Nat glanced back at them, his voice a hushed whisper. "Shh! You're being too loud. And don't look around at everything so much."

Riko, ever curious, asked, "Nat, have you been here before?"

Nat nodded, his gaze distant. "Well, this is where I was born."

Riko's eyes widened in surprise. "Really?"

Nat's tone grew more sombre as he continued. "I was rag-picking ever since I can remember. My big sis died, so I was left without any relatives, and then I was taken in by the orphanage."

Reg's mind flashed back to the story he had told Leader when he first entered the orphanage, realising now that it wasn't entirely a lie.

Nat continued, his voice steady but tinged with the pain of past memories. "Kids around here all see that Gate to the Netherworld and start aspiring to be cave raiders... I got lucky and was taken off the streets. Otherwise, like everyone else, I would've gotten sick from the toxins in the garbage or died."

As they reached a set of stairs leading down into the shadows, Nat's voice softened further. "If I can become a Moon Whistle like Leader, or a Black Whistle like Y/N, I'd like to use that influence to open an orphanage here."

Riko's expression brightened, her admiration for Nat clear in her voice. "Nat! You, of all people, can do it! You're just about as good at cave-raiding as I am, and you're full of energy!"

Nat couldn't help but chuckle, despite the weight of the situation. "Can't you come up with some better compliments than that?"

As they reached the bottom of the stairs, the reality of their situation hit them like a cold wave. They stood at the edge of a deep drop-off, the abyss yawning before them, an endless void waiting to swallow them whole.

Nat's voice was barely a whisper. "Oh man... we're already here..."

Reg began removing his disguise, quickly changing back into his original cave-raider gear. As he put on his helmet, he couldn't help but comment, "This thing really does fit me to a T, doesn't it?"

He dug through his bag, preparing for the descent, when his fingers brushed against something unfamiliar in the pocket of his orphanage pants. He pulled it out, his eyes widening in surprise as he recognised what it was.

Shiggy and Riko were busy talking, unaware of Reg's discovery. "I think there's a real possibility," Shiggy was saying. "You'll have an Aubade with you, so I'll definitely be a believer if one of your mail balloons makes it here."

Riko grinned, her spirits high despite the looming danger. "Then I'll make sure to include a souvenir with each of them!"

Nat stood apart from the group, his fists clenched as he struggled with his emotions. He whispered Riko's name, his voice thick with unshed tears.

Riko noticed his distress and immediately rushed over to him. "You're really amazing, Nat! I never thought we'd make it out here with so little trouble!"

She took both of his hands in hers, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thanks, Nat!"

Nat's tears finally broke free, spilling down his cheeks as he tried to find the right words. "U-uumm, Riko..." he began, his voice trembling. "...L-listen..."

But the words wouldn't come. He looked away, berating himself for not being able to say what he truly felt. "Even though I thought about it so much..." he thought, his frustration building.

Riko shook his arms gently, her smile unwavering despite the tears in her own eyes. "It's alright!" she assured him, her voice steady despite the emotion behind it.

Nat looked up, surprised by her unwavering confidence. "Even if... even if we never get to see each other again, we'll be connected by the Abyss." she continued, her words filled with conviction. "Whether on the surface... or in the far reaches of the cursed Netherworld... the two of us... are connected by the Abyss!"

Her voice softened as she added, "I'll never forget about the time I spent up here, okay? So it'll be alright!"

Nat couldn't help but smile through his tears. "There you go again..." he muttered, his heart aching at the thought of saying goodbye.

Riko wiped her tears away, her smile brightening. "That's Right! I'm at it again!"

Their moment was abruptly cut short by a loud, angry voice from above, telling them to shut the hell up. "Oh, crap! Some of the residents are awake now!" Nat exclaimed, his panic returning.

Riko turned to Reg, signalling that she was ready. "Let's go!" she said, her voice filled with determination.

Reg nodded, carefully placing the mysterious package back in his bag before shouldering it. He braced himself, taking a deep breath as Riko climbed onto his back, her arms securely around his shoulders.

Nat gripped the railing, his voice thick with emotion as he called out, "You better send some letters! I'll make sure to find them, okay!"

Shiggy echoed the sentiment, his voice trembling slightly. "Be careful, alright? And it's fine if you decide to head right on back here, you know!"

Nat turned to Reg, his voice earnest as he said, "I'm counting on you to protect Riko!"

Reg responded with a firm nod. "Understood. You guys take care of yourselves, too."

Riko gave a final wave, her voice steady as she said, "Thanks, Nat and Shiggy. Keep an eye out for the good news I'll be sending up!"

With that, she saluted them, her eyes shining with determination as she gave Reg the go-ahead. "Well then, we're off now!"

Reg tightened his grip on the railing, and with one final look at their friends, he launched them both into the darkness. His extendable arm slowed their descent as they plunged into the abyss, the world above growing smaller and smaller until it was nothing more than a distant memory.

Nat and Shiggy watched as their friends disappeared into the inky blackness, their hearts heavy with the knowledge that this might be the last time they ever saw them. They stood there in silence, the weight of the farewell pressing down on them as Reg's arm gave a final thumbs up before retracting into the void.

And then, they were gone.

Heading into the chasm for which even darkness is no match...

For those who offer up their bodies and challenge it, the Abyss is said to provide all...Life and Death, Curses and Blessings - all of it...

At the end of their journeys, what will they come to finally choose? Will that be determined by the will of the Netherworld? Or will it be determined solely by those who challenge it?

---------------------------------------------

[ENDING] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=In2PzM9zaPQ

Chapter Text

[OPENING] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e91G8m9uM_0

Shiggy voice echoed through the air, his voice trembling slightly. "Be careful, alright? And it's fine if you both decide to head right on back here, you know!"

Nat turned to Reg, his voice earnest as he said, "I'm counting on you to protect Riko!"

Reg responded with a firm nod. "Understood. You guys take care of yourselves, too."

Riko gave a final wave, her voice steady as she said, "Thanks, you two. Keep an eye out for the good news I'll be sending up!"

With that, she saluted them, her eyes shining with determination as she gave Reg the go-ahead. "Well then, we're off now!"

Reg tightened his grip on the railing, and with one final look at their friends, he launched them both into the darkness. His extendable arm slowed their descent as they plunged into the abyss, the world above growing smaller and smaller until it was nothing more than a distant memory.

Nat and Shiggy watched as their friends disappeared into the inky blackness, their hearts heavy with the knowledge that this might be the last time they ever saw them. They stood there in silence, the weight of the farewell pressing down on them as Reg's arm gave a final thumbs up before retracting into the void.

And then, they were gone.

These new adventurers...Welling up inside them is courage, wit and curiosity... On their path, hope and despair alike are lying in wait.

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[HOURS LATER]

The faint light of dawn slipped through the thick layers of brush above, dappling the ground in soft gold as the sun rose over the first layer of the Abyss. Riko stirred, her eyelids fluttering open to meet the delicate dance of sunlight breaking through the trees. Her vision was blurry at first, the warmth and soft rustle of leaves gently coaxing her awake. 

As her eyes adjusted to the brightness, her gaze fell on the sleeping figure above her—Reg, hunched over protectively, his arms loosely coiled around the area like a protective web of steel cables.

Reg's face was calm in sleep, his chest rising and falling with steady breaths. Riko shifted slowly, taking in the sight of the tripwire system he'd set up—his extendable arms wrapped around the nearby trees, a precaution he'd taken to ensure they were safe as they slept. She couldn't help but smile at his thoughtfulness.

Riko let her head fall back down onto Reg's chest, gently nudging him with the top of her head. "Uh, Reg... wake up." she whispered, her voice soft as the early morning breeze. But Reg didn't stir. His breathing remained slow and deep, his face still peaceful. "Reg?" she tried again, lightly tapping him on the chest, but still no response.

Sighing, Riko spotted one of Reg's cables stretched near her, shimmering faintly in the sunlight. Curiosity got the better of her. "What if I just..." She reached out and gave the cable the lightest of taps.

Instantly, Reg shot up, his eyes wide and panicked as if responding to an imminent threat. His body tensed, every muscle coiled, ready for any threat. "WAAAAAAHHHHH! Who's there?!" he yelled, his voice sharp and filled with alarm.

Riko flinched, her heart racing at his sudden outburst. She raised her hands in surrender, her eyes wide with surprise. "R-Reg!" she stammered.

It took a moment, but as Reg's eyes settled on Riko, recognition and calm slowly washed over him. His tense shoulders relaxed, and he took a deep breath, grounding himself. "Oh... good morning, Riko." he said, his tone much softer now, as if nothing out of the ordinary had just happened.

They stared at each other in the soft morning light, the air still and quiet around them, save for the faint rustle of leaves and the distant calls of Abyss creatures.

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Twenty minutes later, the light shined brighter in the sky, casting long shadows across the dense foliage surrounding them. Riko and Reg worked together to untangle his arm cables from the trees. The air smelled fresh and earthy, the vibrant colours of the Abyss filling the space around them with an almost serene beauty. It was hard to believe this was the same place filled with danger at every turn.

"Reg." Riko said, as she carefully gathered one of the remaining cables from a tree, "I wonder when I drifted off to sleep." She tossed him the coiled cable, which he caught effortlessly. "Sorry about sleeping on you. Your belly was just so warm, I couldn't help it."

Reg chuckled softly as he reeled the cables back into his arms. "It's understandable. We hardly ever stay up that late, after all."

Riko adjusted herself and took a moment to scan their surroundings. The thick foliage of the Abyss gave off an ethereal glow as sunlight filtered through the trees. The air was crisp, and the world around them was teeming with life—chirping insects, distant growls from creatures they couldn't see, the whispering of leaves in the wind.

"Reg." Riko asked, her voice slightly more serious."Do you have any idea where we are?"

Reg glanced around for a moment, his brow furrowing slightly. "We dropped directly down from the Wharf District, but... I'm not entirely sure which part of the First Layer we've landed in." He glanced at his depth gauge, the small, round device in his pocket. "It's reading 820 meters."

Riko's eyes widened with excitement. She darted off ahead, her feet barely touching the ground as she sprinted toward a nearby clearing. Reg was caught off guard, watching her run off with a bewildered look. "Riko, what is it?!" he called, chasing after her.

As they both emerged from the thick brush, they were met with a breathtaking sight. Before them lay a wide expanse, revealing the true scope of the Abyss. The layers stretched below them like a series of endless cliffs, each one covered in strange, alien vegetation. The soft light of the morning bathed the land in an otherworldly glow.

"Amazing..." Riko whispered, her voice barely audible as she took in the view. The vastness of the Abyss lay before them, filled with mystery and danger. The air felt electric with possibility.

Reg stood beside her, just as awestruck. "It's way brighter here than up on the surface, huh?" he said, glancing up toward the canopy. Above them, the towering rock formations of the Abyss loomed like ancient sentinels.

Riko pointed toward the distant horizon, her voice filled with wonder. "Look! Over there! It's the Rock Ark at 600 meters! We've come so far already." She beamed at the sight, her eyes shining with excitement. "Not long ago, I was aiming for just 400 meters. Now we can't even see it anymore!"

Reg followed her gaze, marvelling at the massive stone structures towering far above them. "So... due to the distortion in the force field, we can't see the surface? Is the distortion carrying and amplifying the light downward?"

Without warning, Riko turned sharply to face Reg, her expression intense. She stared at him with a fire in her eyes that made Reg slightly uncomfortable, and yet he couldn't look away. "Reg..." Riko began, her voice serious, but soon after, her eyes went wide, and she returned to her hyper and excited self.

"How terrific! At this pace, we can make it to the bottom of the Netherworld!" Reg blinked, taken aback by her sudden declaration.

"Of course, we can't let our guard down just yet. There's still a long way to go." She shook him lightly by the shoulders, her excitement infectious. "We might even reach the second layer before anyone catches up with us!"

Reg smiled, feeling her excitement lift his spirits as well. "Well... that's good to hear." he said, though he was still slightly unnerved by her boundless energy. "By the way, Riko..."

But before he could finish his thought, the sound of their stomachs growling loudly interrupted the moment. Both of them froze, and then burst into laughter at the same time.

"I guess that means it's time for breakfast!" Riko said, grinning.

----------------------------------------------------

Half an hour later, the soft light of the morning sun shimmered across the surface of a small, crystal-clear pond nestled deep within the first layer of the Abyss. Reg was submerged in the water, his sharp eyes tracking the shadows of fish following the current. 

His heart beat steadily in his chest as he extended both of his mechanical arms toward a silvery fish swimming just in front of him. In one swift motion, Reg's hands closed around the slippery creature. It wriggled violently in his grip, its scales flashing in the sunlight. With the fish firmly in hand, Reg surfaced, droplets of water clinging to his skin as he tried to hold onto the squirming fish.

Nearby, Riko crouched on the forest floor, focused on getting a fire started. She struck her knife against some flint, sending small sparks into the dried leaves and twigs she had gathered. After several tries, the kindling ignited, and a small flame flickered to life. Riko grinned triumphantly as the fire began to grow. 

She turned to see Reg approaching, holding not one, but two large fish and a bundle of green herbs he'd gathered from the surrounding area. "Nice catch, Reg!" Riko called, dusting her hands off as she took the fish and herbs from him. Her face was alight with excitement as she began to prepare their breakfast.

Reg handed her the ingredients, his mechanical arms retracting back to their normal length with a soft metallic hum. He watched as Riko immediately began gutting the fish with precision, muttering instructions to herself.

"Take out the demonfish innards while making sure not to damage them, and smoke them to keep as preserved food," Riko narrated as she worked, her hands moving quickly and deftly. "As for the meat, put a hearty helping in a pot and sprinkle a bit of ground-up Eternal Fortunes on top. Mix in some stick miso, and then once you throw in a bunch of diced sainona greens..."

Reg watched her with wide eyes, unsure if she was talking to him or just lost in her own culinary world. He was still amazed at how Riko could be so cheerful and focused, even in the middle of the Abyss. He sat down on a rock, shaking the water from his hair as he tried to dry off, though his mind kept drifting back to the previous night's events—their descent into the Abyss and the uncertainty that lay ahead.

Riko, now beaming with pride, ladled some of the finished stew into a small wooden bowl. She turned to Reg, holding the bowl out to him with a flourish. "Ta-da! My special 'Riko Soup' is ready!"

Reg hesitated for a moment, eyeing the bowl cautiously. The stew was thick and had an earthy smell, the ingredients floating together in a strange mix of green, brown, and yellow hues. He wasn't sure what to expect—Riko's cooking had a reputation of being... unique. Slowly, he took the bowl from her hands.

"Irredeemable..." Reg thought silently, staring at the concoction with mild trepidation. But after a brief pause, he took a cautious sip. His eyes widened in surprise as the warm, rich flavours washed over his tongue. It was... actually good. 

Reg blinked, then looked up at Riko in shock. "Oh, it tastes even better than Riko Bombs!" he exclaimed before eagerly diving in for another bite. Riko grinned, pleased with herself. "See? I told you! My cooking skills are improving!"

The two ate in companionable silence for a while, both of them savouring the brief moment of calm. Around them, the Abyss buzzed with life, the distant sounds of creatures echoing through the forest as the first layer's flora swayed gently in the breeze.

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Twenty minutes later, after breakfast was finished, Reg cleaned out his bowl while Riko sat cross-legged, fiddling with something in her hands. Reg glanced over at her, noticing the gleam of a small, intricately designed compass.

"Riko, what's that you're playing around with?" Reg asked curiously, still wiping the remnants of breakfast from his bowl.

Riko looked up, beaming with excitement. "Oh, this?" She held the small object up for him to see. "It's my Star Compass!" She practically glowed with pride as she spoke, clearly fond of the relic.

Reg tilted his head. "A compass? Is it something to help you tell which way is up or down?"

Riko immediately pouted, her cheeks puffing out in annoyance. "Wrong! It points to the bottom of the netherworld!" She thrust the compass toward him, as if daring him to doubt its capabilities.

Intrigued, Reg took the compass from her and examined it closely. He shook it lightly, watching the needle inside. "It's not magnetic or weighted," he said thoughtfully, turning it over in his hands. "Even if you shake it or rotate it around, the direction of the needle doesn't budge a bit."

Riko's eyes lit up at this new observation. "Really?!" she exclaimed, snatching the compass back from him and shaking it excitedly. "I didn't even notice that!" She twirled the compass around in her hands, a wide grin spreading across her face. "Isn't it amazing?"

Reg couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. "Another relic of the Abyss, huh?" he mused to himself. "I get the feeling there's some incomprehensible principle at work here... But is that thing even useful?"

Before Reg could voice his doubts, the compass suddenly slipped from Riko's hands, tumbling through the air toward the pond. Time seemed to slow as both of them reached out instinctively, but they were too late. Reg quickly extended his arm, trying to grab it before it was lost, but his fingers missed by inches. The compass plummeted into the water with a soft plop, vanishing beneath the surface.

Riko watched in horror as the compass sank out of sight, falling down into the depths of the Abyss with the waterfall beyond. "Oh no..." Riko whispered, staring at the rippling water where the compass had disappeared.

Minutes passed, and Riko sat quietly on the ground, sulking. Her gaze was fixed on the pond, her shoulders slumped in defeat. Reg, feeling guilty, placed a hand on her head, gently patting her hair.

"It's fine..." Riko muttered, her voice barely audible. "It's fine, really... There's this old saying: 'All that which is taken from the Abyss will someday be returned to it. Whether that be an object or a life...' The Abyss is greedy like that, you know?"

Reg removed his hand, his heart heavy with sympathy. "The teachings of cave raiders are quite humble..."

"Yeah." Riko said softly, "Leader taught that to me."

The mention of Leader made Reg remember something important. His eyes widened as he sat up straight. "Ah! That's right!" he exclaimed, rummaging through his bag. "We were rushing around so much that I forgot all about this!"

Riko turned to him, curious as he pulled out a small envelope from his pants pocket. "Hmm? What's this? An envelope?" Reg handed it to her with a slight smile. "Go ahead and take a look inside."

Opening the envelope, Riko's eyes widened in surprise. Inside were several fresh, pristine sheets of white paper. She pulled one out and examined it closely, recognising what it was immediately. "This is... my mother's sealed letter!" she gasped. She looked up at Reg in disbelief. "Reg, did you make off with this?!"

Reg shook his head quickly. "Nope! Take a closer look. The pages we saw last time were all tattered. So, this is probably just a copy, right?" Riko blinked, her surprise turning into understanding. "You're right."

Leaning back, Reg scratched the back of his head. "Before we left the orphanage, I actually bumped into Leader."

"Leader?" Riko's eyes widened. 

"Yeah... I thought I had him fooled, but when I checked my pockets later, that letter was in there," Reg explained. "He's pretty much the only one who could have done it."

A soft smile crossed Riko's face. "Leader... I wonder if he's cheering us on..."

As she began to carefully put the papers back into the envelope, she noticed a smaller, red-coloured paper tucked between the sheets. She pulled it out, her curiosity piqued. "Huh? There's a page that's a different size than the others..." Her eyes scanned the paper quickly, and her expression shifted from curiosity to panic.

"What's wrong?" Reg asked, immediately noting the shift in Riko's demeanour. Riko held up the red paper, her face pale. Reg leaned closer, reading the words aloud. "I'll depart at dawn to come capture you?!"

Riko shot to her feet, her heart pounding in her chest. "Reg!" she shouted, her voice filled with urgency. "Do you have any idea how long it's been since dawn?!"

Reg glanced upward, his expression calm but thoughtful. "Nope... But considering it was already bright out when we woke up..."

Before he could finish, Riko was already scrambling to gather their belongings, her panic growing by the second. "Hurry! We've gotta get going quick! Reg, go hide any traces of the campfire!"

Reg leaped to his feet, rushing to do as she instructed. "On it!"

While Reg hurried to cover their tracks, Riko frantically paced around their campsite, checking to make sure they hadn't left anything behind. Her mind raced as she thought of Leader closing in on them, and the consequences that might follow if they were caught.

-------------------------------------------------------------

After packing all of their equipment, Reg and Riko stood side by side, gazing over the edge of a long, steep drop-off. Below them, the depths of the Abyss stretched out endlessly, shrouded in mist and faint shadows. The rocky cliff face was uneven and jagged, with lush vegetation growing out from various cracks and ledges, adding to the wildness of the scene. The air around them hummed with an eerie stillness, the weight of the Abyss heavy on their small frames.

Riko gripped Reg's hand tightly. She took in a deep breath, letting the excitement of the descent rush through her. "Are you ready?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Despite her excitement, there was an undercurrent of nerves that she couldn't quite shake off.

Reg nodded, his expression calm but focused. "Of course." he replied with a determined smile.

Riko grinned back at him, her eyes shining. "Okay. Let's go!" she said, the thrill of the journey ahead lighting up her entire face.

With one fluid motion, Reg placed one hand on the cliff's edge while gripping Riko securely with the other. As they dangled over the precipice, the wind swirled around them, tugging at their clothes and hair. Below, the mist-covered Abyss loomed, a vast, mysterious world waiting to be explored. Reg tightened his grip on Riko as they both steadied their breathing, knowing the dangers that awaited them. Despite their courage, the sight was daunting.

As Reg began lowering them down the cliff face with his extendable arms, the sound of wind whipping through the crags was the only thing that broke the silence. His arm retracted and extended with precise movements, their descent smooth yet deliberate.

While they descended, Reg recalled something Shiggy had told him. His voice, calm but curious, cut through the sound of the wind. "Shiggy said that if we make it to the second layer, no one will come after us."

Reg pushed off the cliff face gently, gaining momentum in their descent. "But, why would Leader do something so contrary to normal?" he asked, the question nagging at him since their departure.

Riko glanced up at Reg briefly, her lips curling into a small smile. "He must be testing us." she said, her voice filled with conviction. "This is our final lesson." Her eyes shone with understanding as she continued. "The point is, if we get caught now, we never had any chance of making it to the bottom of the netherworld."

Reg mulled over her words and nodded. "That makes sense." he replied as they finally reached solid ground.

Once both their feet touched down on a wide ledge, Reg began retracting his arm, the metallic whirr of his cables echoing faintly against the rocky walls of the Abyss. Riko stood beside him, adjusting herself and taking in the surroundings. Everything seemed so much closer now—so much more dangerous and real. The Abyss was no longer the distant mystery it had been from the safety of Orth; it was now a tangible and looming presence.

But before they could continue further, something caught Riko's attention. She froze mid-step, her brow furrowing as she glanced down. "Reg..." she whispered, her voice laced with unease.

Reg stopped, noticing her sudden change in demeanour. He followed her gaze, his eyes widening as he realised what she was stepping on— some kind of thick, white string which stretched across the ground.

Riko's voice trembled as she pointed behind them. "Reg... behind us."

Reg's heart raced as he slowly turned, his stomach sinking as he saw the creature that had appeared from a hole in the cliff face. A massive, spider-like beast, its long, spindly legs clicking against the rocks as it crawled toward them with unsettling grace. Its body was covered in a smooth, glistening exoskeleton, and where eyes should have been, there was nothing—just pale, blank space. The creature's mouth was a twisted maw of sharp, dripping fangs, ready to tear into its prey.

Reg and Riko stood frozen, the creature's presence casting a paralyzing fear over them both. It was a Silkfang—a monstrous predator of the Abyss.

Without warning, the Silkfang pounced. Its massive body launched into the air, aiming directly at them. Reg's instincts kicked in, and in one swift motion, he extended his arm, the metallic cable shooting out like a whip and latching onto the creature's head. The force of the impact knocked the creature back, halting its advance for a moment. "Reg!" Riko shouted, her voice urgent. "Jump right now! Silkfangs can't leave their territory! It'll act as an anchor!"

Without hesitation, Reg wrapped his free arm around Riko's waist, pulling her close as they sprinted toward the edge of the platform. "What an irredeemable plan!" Reg shouted as they leaped off the ledge, his extended arm keeping the Silkfang at bay.

The Silkfang thrashed violently, trying to drag them back, but just as Riko had said, it was bound to its territory, unable to leave the safety of its nest. The creature skittered to the edge, its claws digging into the ground, but it refused to follow them any further.

As Reg and Riko plummeted down the cliff face, Reg retracted his arm, releasing the Silkfang and letting the beast slip out of sight. They landed on a lower ledge, tumbling slightly from the impact before scrambling back to their feet.

Reg glanced at his arm, which was now covered in a thick, viscous mucous-like substance from the Silkfang's body. He grimaced, shaking his arm to try and dislodge the sticky membrane. "Seems like it gave up and left..." he muttered, relieved that they had narrowly escaped the encounter.

Riko, still catching her breath, turned to look at Reg with wide eyes. Her chest heaved as she tried to steady her breathing. "That was way too close..." she whispered, her voice shaky with adrenaline.

Reg nodded, wiping the mucous off his arm with a piece of cloth from his bag. "Yeah... Silkfangs are no joke."

The area around them was eerily quiet now, the Silkfang no longer a threat, but the tension still hung in the air. The Abyss was full of dangers like this, and they both knew that this wouldn't be the last time they'd encounter a deadly creature.

After a moment of silence, Riko forced a smile, her usual optimism creeping back into her voice. "Well, that's one more Abyss creature we survived!" she said, trying to lighten the mood. "We're practically pros now!"

Reg chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I don't know about that... but yeah, I guess we're getting better."

They stood together for a moment, the rush of adrenaline fading as they caught their breath and gathered their bearings. The ledge they were on stretched out before them, a narrow path that wound down further into the depths of the Abyss. The air was thick and humid, and the strange flora of the Abyss glowed faintly around them, casting an otherworldly light on the path ahead.

Riko adjusted her pack, her determination returning. "Let's keep moving." she said, her voice filled with resolve. "We've got a long way to go if we want to make it to the second layer."

Reg nodded in agreement, extending his arm once more to scan the area ahead. The Abyss was vast and unpredictable, but together, they knew they could face whatever came next.

-------------------------------------------------------

After about ten minutes of rapid descent, the air around them felt thicker, the light from above growing more diffused as they ventured deeper into the first layer. Riko's breath had become heavier, her pace slower. Her once energetic steps now dragged slightly, and her shoulders sagged as fatigue caught up with her.

Reg glanced at her, noticing the strain in her movements. "Riko, are you okay?" His concern was clear in his voice as he slowed his pace to match hers.

Riko flashed him a reassuring smile, wiping the sweat from her brow. "Yeah, I'm okay." She gave him a small thumbs-up, but her heavy breathing betrayed her words.

As she turned back to focus on their path, Reg watched her carefully, worry creeping into his mind. "She's not used to this..." he thought. "It's her first time this deep." His eyes scanned the rocky terrain they were walking through, taking in the steep cliffs and jagged rocks. "We're on an untracked path..". The terrain here wasn't as familiar, and the absence of a defined route made it harder to navigate.

"We've strayed from the usual route." Reg said aloud, his voice thoughtful. "Seems like our pursuers still haven't caught up with us yet." He glanced behind them, his eyes scanning the tree line and cliffs in the distance. "Even if they come after us, they won't find us that easily."

Riko, her breath slowing as she recovered from the constant travel, grinned. "Besides, the search parties move in groups of at least three people, so we should see them com—" She abruptly stopped mid-sentence, her gaze locking on something below them.

Reg immediately noticed her change in demeanour. He turned to her with concern. "What is it, Riko?" he asked, stepping closer to her.

Riko pointed with a wide-eyed smile, excitement bubbling in her voice. "Look at that, Reg!"

Reg followed her gaze down into the lower portion of the first layer, and his breath caught. Below them, the clouds had parted just enough to reveal a lush, dark green forest sprawling out in the distance, the canopy thick and inviting. The air shimmered with the strange glow of the Abyss's unique flora. It was breathtaking.

"The break in the clouds there..." Riko whispered, her voice filled with awe. "It's the second layer: The Forest of Temptation!"

Reg's eyes widened at the sight. "So this is the entrance to the second layer..." he thought. The vastness of the forest below was unlike anything he had imagined. "If a red whistle goes down there, it's treated as a suicide." The warning echoed in his mind as he stared at the thick, dark green expanse.

As he gazed downward, Reg suddenly winced, his head jerking slightly as a sharp, fleeting pain shot through his skull. It was quick, like a sudden jolt of electricity coursing through his brain, but it left an unsettling aftereffect. A strange voice echoed inside his mind—his own voice, but distorted. "Where? " it whispered, the sound distant yet unnervingly familiar.

Reg blinked several times, furrowing his brows. "What was that...? " His hand instinctively reached for his head as the voice faded. "My... own voice? " But before he could make sense of it, he heard a soft thud behind him.

"Riko?!" Reg's voice was filled with panic as he turned to see Riko collapsing onto the ground. She swayed slightly before falling back, her body limp.

He quickly crouched down beside her, his heart racing. "Riko, are you okay?!" His hands hovered nervously over her, unsure of what to do.

Riko's eyes fluttered open, and she gave him a weak smile. "The view's so amazing that I just kinda collapsed." she joked, trying to laugh but failing as her exhaustion caught up with her.

Reg let out a breath he didn't realise he was holding, relief washing over him. Without hesitation, he scooped her up into his arms, carrying her bridal style. "Let's take a little break," he said gently, cradling her close as he carried her to a safer, more sheltered spot.

As they reached a flat area with a bit of shade, Riko mumbled, "I need to pee, anyway." Her voice was quiet, almost shy, despite her usual bold nature.

Reg almost stumbled at her words, a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks. "O-oh!" he stammered, trying to regain his composure. "Well, then I will too..."

--------------------------------------------------

Once they had taken care of their needs and found a more comfortable spot to rest, Reg sat beside Riko, nursing a cup of water. The tension in the air had eased slightly, and they allowed themselves a moment of peace in the otherwise relentless Abyss.

Riko, regaining some of her energy, sat cross-legged as she sipped her own water. She glanced over at Reg, noticing the pensive look on his face. "Riko..." Reg started, his voice thoughtful. "I've been thinking about your delusion about the meaning of the letter..."

Riko perked up at his words, a spark of excitement in her eyes. "You mean about it being our final lesson?" she asked eagerly. "That's no delusion!" Her conviction was clear.

Reg nodded, acknowledging her enthusiasm. "Yeah... I have a feeling you're not wrong." He leaned back against the stone wall behind them, resting his head against the cool surface. His gaze shifted to the sky above them as he continued. "Leader said it's necessary for him to patrol every night. Perhaps he was able to see through us and uncover our nightly plotting, and even the fact that I'm a robot..."

Riko furrowed her brow at his words, but she remained silent, listening intently.

Reg turned to face her, his eyes filled with determination. "On top of that, if he went to the trouble of placing that envelope in my pocket, we need to make a clean escape and show him that we're up to the task."

Riko's face brightened with a smile. "Yeah!" she said, her excitement infectious as always.

The two of them settled into a quiet moment, Riko closing her eyes to regain her stamina while Reg kept a watchful eye on their surroundings. The peace, however, didn't last long.

Reg, always attuned to his senses, suddenly felt something. A subtle shift in the air—a disturbance. His senses immediately went on high alert. He sat up straight, his eyes darting around the area. His gaze locked on something in the distance, a brief flash from the treeline above them.

He quickly stood, moving in front of Riko to shield her. "What's that?" Reg whispered, his voice tense as his eyes narrowed. "Something flashed over there."

Riko, sensing his sudden urgency, scrambled to her feet. "Huh?!" she exclaimed, her heart pounding in her chest.

Reg pointed towards the upper treeline, just above a group of large boulders. "It was around that group of three boulders up there..." he said, his voice low but filled with suspicion.

Riko squinted, trying to make out what Reg had seen. Her pulse quickened. "Y-you think it's a search party?" she asked, her voice tinged with anxiety.

Reg didn't answer immediately. His pupils dilated as he focused his vision, zooming in on the area above. His heart skipped a beat when he saw it—movement. A figure moving along the treeline, swift and purposeful.

"It's a cave raider." Reg said grimly. He quickly turned to Riko, his voice urgent. "There's just one of them, but they're heading straight for us!"

Riko's eyes widened in panic. "What gives?!" she exclaimed. "We even took care to stay off the usual route..."

Grabbing Riko's hand, Reg wasted no time. He pulled her along as they dashed towards a lower section of the first layer. "Let's hurry!" he shouted over his shoulder. His heart raced as they leaped over rocks and roots, his mind racing just as quickly. "Taking the trouble to head down this way off the main route... They're definitely targeting us! "

As they neared a gap in the cliff, Reg extended his arm, grabbing onto a sturdy branch and using it to swing them across the gap in a single fluid motion. His grip on Riko tightened as they soared over the abyss below, their pursuer gaining ground behind them.

They landed safely on the other side, but there was no time to rest. Reg and Riko continued to run, their hearts pounding in sync as they raced deeper into the first layer of the Abyss.

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After about ten minutes of running through the rough terrain of the Abyss, Reg and Riko finally came across a small, sheltered space beneath a rock formation. Both of them stopped, gasping for breath, their hearts pounding in their chests. The oppressive heat of the Abyss had taken its toll, sweat dripping from their foreheads as they bent over, trying to recover.

"Reg...do you...see our pursuers anywhere?" Riko asked between heavy breaths, her voice trembling slightly with exhaustion.

Reg straightened up, peering up through the cracks of the rock formations and into the treetops and cliffs above. His enhanced senses kicked in, scanning the environment for any signs of movement. "I'm trying to look now." he replied, his eyes narrowing as they adjusted to the dim light filtering through the thick canopy above them.

Riko leaned against the rock wall, wiping the sweat from her face. "Think we can give him the slip before we reach the second layer?" she asked, trying to sound hopeful, though her voice betrayed her uncertainty.

Reg was about to answer when he suddenly froze, his entire body tensing up. His sharp eyes caught something—just the faintest hint of a shadow. Slowly, he raised his head to look upward. "He's...right above us," Reg whispered, his voice filled with dread.

Riko's eyes widened in panic. "Huh?!"

Without making any sudden movements, Reg continued to stare upwards, trying to assess the situation. The silhouette of a figure loomed just above them, peering down from the rocky ledge. "What the heck?" Reg muttered to himself. "He's way too fast."

Before either of them could react, a rope suddenly hit the ground nearby with a soft thud, followed by the sound of someone sliding down it with incredible speed. The figure descended swiftly, kicking up a cloud of dust and dirt as he landed with surprising grace, his silhouette becoming clearer through the swirling debris.

Riko took a step back, her voice trembling. "H-he's caught up to us..." She instinctively stood behind Reg, who had raised his arms slightly in a defensive posture, trying to shield her from the incoming threat.

"It's just one person..." Reg thought to himself, his mind racing. "Can we somehow slip away? "

As the dust cleared, the figure straightened up and spoke, his deep, familiar voice breaking the tense silence. "I'd expect nothing less from Lyza's daughter... You're pretty darn fast, huh, Riko?"

Both Riko and Reg blinked in surprise, recognising the voice immediately. The man standing before them was none other than Habolg, or Habo, the Black Whistle they knew from the orphanage.

"Habo?!" Riko exclaimed, her voice filled with confusion. "But why?"

Habo tipped his hat slightly, a grin spreading across his rugged face. "How about that? I've got some skills of my own, don't you think?"

Reg, still on edge, took a moment to assess the situation. "Black Whistle Habolg..." he thought. "I remember Nat mentioning him being on the same level as the Black Whistle Y/N. To think someone who's not a White Whistle could be this skilled..." His mind raced, trying to think of a plan. "What should I do? Should I let Riko escape first? "

But before Reg could act on his thoughts, Habo reached down with his massive hands, lifting Reg into the air as if he weighed nothing at all.

"That being said..." Habo began, hoisting Reg higher. The boy's feet dangled in the air, and he looked down in bewilderment. "Well, I never suspected it! You were a supreme treasure of the Netherworld, I mean." Habo's voice was filled with awe as he inspected Reg closely.

Both Reg and Riko were caught off guard by the statement, neither of them sure how to respond. Reg could only blink, wide-eyed and confused.

Habo continued, his rough fingers tracing over Reg's skin, his thumbs pressing lightly against the boy's arms and shoulders. "Is even your skin a relic?" Habo wondered aloud. "You sure can't tell just by looking at it!" His hands roamed with curiosity, feeling the smoothness of Reg's skin.

Reg, not used to this kind of physical examination, began to giggle uncontrollably as Habo's fingers tickled him. "Stop it! Let me go!" Reg protested, but Habo's curiosity wasn't satisfied just yet.

Grinning, Habo suddenly tugged at the waistband of Reg's pants, peeking down for a moment before bursting into laughter. "HoHO! Nothing mechanical about those balls of yours, I see!"

Reg's face turned bright red, and he thrashed in Habo's grip, desperately trying to escape. "Cut it out!" he shouted, his voice filled with embarrassment. "Let me down!"

Watching this bizarre spectacle unfold, Riko stood frozen for a moment, trying to suppress her own laughter. But soon, she began gesturing frantically with her hands, trying to signal something to Reg. She used quick, subtle movements to communicate: Reg, when you get the chance, run!

Reg blinked at her, utterly confused by the signals she was making. His expression said it all—he had no idea what she was trying to tell him. Riko sighed inwardly, realising that her attempt at hand signals had fallen flat. "I guess he still hasn't learned the hand signals..."

Habo, catching on to their silent exchange, chuckled heartily and finally let go of Reg, dropping him unceremoniously back onto the ground. Reg immediately scrambled to Riko's side, shooting Habo an annoyed glare as he rubbed his sore arms.

"Sorry, my bad." Habo said, still grinning. "I haven't even told you what I'm here for." Both Reg and Riko looked up at him, curiosity and confusion battling for dominance on their faces. Placing his hands on his hips, Habo continued, "You see, I'm not actually here to capture you two."

The words caught both children off guard, and they exchanged surprised glances. "What?!" Riko exclaimed. Habo leaned back, a smile playing on his lips. "Nat and Shiggy came to pay me a little visit."

------------------------

[FLASHBACK - HABO's HOUSE]

Shiggy and Nat stood in front of Habo, who was still dressed in his pajamas, looking a bit groggy but intrigued. They both looked nervous but determined.

"Please!" Shiggy pleaded, his voice full of desperation.

Nat chimed in quickly, "I'm not asking you to take them all the way to the Seeker Camp! Just... at least help them escape to the second layer!"

Shiggy nodded, continuing the two's plea. "Besides, this is your last chance to see the true form of a supreme treasure of the netherworld!"

Nat stood up, backing Shiggy's words. "Reg was really fast... but I'm sure, Habo, with your speed, you could catch up to them and—"

Before Nat could finish his sentence, Habo interrupted with a yawn, rubbing his eyes lazily. "So... you're telling me Reg is really a treasure of the Netherworld, right?"

Both Nat and Shiggy nodded vigorously. "Y-yes!" they said in unison, their eyes wide with hope.

Habo chuckled softly, finally standing up from his chair. "Hehe... Alright, I'm going!"

--------------------

Back in the present, Habo crossed his arms, still grinning. "So, you see, I came to pay my respects to this 'supreme treasure of the Netherworld.'"

Reg's face turned beet red as he muttered, "I wish paying your respects was all you did..." The embarrassment of the earlier situation still lingered, and he couldn't shake it off.

Habo laughed heartily, his deep voice echoing through the Abyss.

After he'd finished laughing, Habo turned serious for a moment, lowering his voice. "By the way, the search party's looking for you two by the Twisting Crag. They'll take a while to get down here."

Reg and Riko exchanged relieved glances, grateful for the extra time. It seemed they were in the clear, for now.

Habo adjusted his hat and stood up straighter, looking ready to get moving. "Well then... I've had my look at the treasure of the Netherworld, so I'd better fulfill my promise to those boys." He gave a nod to Reg and Riko, a determined look on his face. "Let's get going, you two! I'm coming along with you to the Seeker Camp!"

Riko's eyes lit up with surprise and excitement. "Really?!" she asked, her voice filled with hope. "You bet!" Habo replied, nodding confidently. Reg, feeling a sense of relief, glanced at Riko. "It'll be reassuring to have a Black Whistle with us. Right, Riko?"

But as he turned to Riko, he noticed that she had a thoughtful, almost conflicted expression on her face. She wasn't smiling anymore. Riko stood up straight, clasping her hands together as if gathering her courage. "Habo... um..." she began, her voice wavering slightly. Habo tilted his head slightly, confused. "Oh? What is it, Riko?"

In one swift motion, Riko jumped up from her seat and bowed deeply, her face filled with resolve. "I'm sorry!" she said firmly. "But I can't allow that!" 

Habo blinked, taken aback. "Huh? You must be kidding..." But Riko stood her ground, her eyes filled with determination. "This right here... is our final lesson." Habo furrowed his brows, confused by her words. "Hmm? Final lesson?"

--------------------------------------------------------

After reading the documents Leader had sneakily given to Reg, Habo leaned back, the edges of his lips curling into a faint smile. "Oh, I see! That's pretty clever of him, really," he said, his voice a mixture of admiration and respect.

Habo carefully folded the letter and handed it back to Riko, the serious tone returning to his voice. "Well, if this is indeed your final lesson, I won't get in your way." His eyes flickered with warmth, but there was an underlying sadness there too. He glanced toward the Abyss. "But he should have come himself to see you off one last time... Ah, but that wouldn't work, huh? He'd catch you right away if he did!" His laugh was gentle, trying to lighten the air.

Riko held the letter tightly, her brows furrowing as she looked up at Habo with sad eyes. "I'm sorry, Habo. You came all the way down here just for us..."

Habo waved her off with a grin, brushing away her apology like it was nothing. "Ah, no problem! Actually, I've got some other business down here anyway." He reached into his pocket, pulling out a small vial filled with a strange blue liquid, the faint light from the Abyss reflecting off its surface. "Here you go," he said, handing the vial to Riko.

"What's this?" she asked, turning it over in her hand, watching the blue liquid swirl inside.

"It's a vaccine for the second layer that blue whistles and up take. It'll generally spare you from picking up diving illnesses down there." Habo's tone shifted slightly, becoming more serious.

As Riko pocketed the vial, Habo dug deeper into his back pocket, pulling out a small green packet wrapped tightly. "And these are leftovers from yesterday—mustard steamed buns. They'll keep you going for a while. But don't wait too long to eat 'em!" He handed the packet to Riko, who beamed up at him with gratitude.

"Thanks, Habo!" she said brightly.

Habo chuckled, but the laugh was fleeting. His expression darkened, the smile fading from his face. His eyes grew distant, the weight of the Abyss suddenly palpable between them. His voice, when he spoke again, was grave, pulling Riko and Reg into a deeper, more serious moment.

"Lastly, and also most importantly..." Habo began, his tone lowering, "Since I won't be accompanying you any further, I should tell you this now." Riko and Reg exchanged nervous glances. The sudden shift in atmosphere wasn't lost on them. Riko's grip tightened on the green packet as she gave Habo her full attention.

"About that monitoring base you're heading to, the Seeker Camp..." Habo continued, choosing his words carefully, "The two guardians that reside there are a bit... strange."

Riko tilted her head, curiosity sparking in her eyes. "You mean the group who found the sealed letter from my mom?" she asked.

Habo nodded solemnly. "Yes. The Unmoveable Sovereign, 'Ozen the Immoveable', a White Whistle who's still active."

"After you were born in the depths of the Abyss, she was the one who carried you to the surface, along with your mother, Lyza."

Riko's face lit up with excitement. "A White Whistle?! And the very one who saved my life?! Wow!" Her voice brimmed with enthusiasm, her thoughts already racing ahead to all the questions she wanted to ask. Habo watched silently as her excitement grew. before speaking once again.

"And..." He paused briefly, his tone carrying a faint edge of caution. "And Y/N, a Black Whistle, who, although much younger than myself, possesses skills that may far exceed my own."

Reg listened intently. His eyes flickered with recognition as the name Y/N crossed Habo's lips.

As Habo finished, Reg scratched his chin, less certain about Habo's warnings. "But Habo, that doesn't sound like something to be too worried about..."

Habo's expression darkened further, casting a shadow over their optimism. His voice lowered, filled with quiet intensity. 

"Please, be wary of Ozen. I can't personally go into the details, but Riko might encounter some distressing things there... Please be prepared."

Reg's mind reeled with questions. "Distressing things? " What did that mean? He could feel the hairs on the back of his neck prickling with unease, though he tried not to show it.

But before he could voice his concerns, Habo pressed on, his focus shifting to Reg and a name that carried an ominous weight. "And be especially cautious around Ozen's apprentice... Y/N. I've known him for a while, and I can attest to his capabilities as both an ally and a cave raider. Although I promised him I wouldn't speak of what happened, what I can say is that he hasn't been acting like his usual self. Something's off with him. So keep your eye on him."

The name Y/N resonated with Reg. He thought back to the time Riko had taken him to the Grand Gondola, where he had caught a glimpse of this enigmatic Black Whistle. There had been something unsettling about him—a presence that stirred an unknown feeling inside Reg, a sense of foreboding that had stuck with him since. 

And the whispers from the people of Orth... 'The soon-to-be Lord of Ferocity', they called him. They all spoke of him with such high regard, and even Nat had gotten an autograph from him, and yet...something in the back of Reg's mind told Reg him to be wary.

Riko, however, remained undeterred, her spirit unbroken by Habo's warnings. She smiled brightly, her eyes filled with determination. "It's alright! I'd love to meet a White Whistle, in any case! And I want to learn about my mom... and about the Black Whistle Y/N... and when they found my mom's sealed letter... I've got so many questions to ask them!"

Habo watched her closely, a faint smile returning to his face, though his eyes remained troubled. He admired her enthusiasm—her strength—but the Abyss was unforgiving, and he knew what awaited her below. Still, he kept his reservations to himself. Instead, he wrapped his strong arms around both Riko and Reg, pulling them into a tight, protective hug.

"You're right." Habo whispered, his voice softer now, almost tender. "You'll be fine. You've got a reassuring partner with you, after all." He pulled back slightly, his eyes meeting Reg's. "Reg. Take care of Riko."

Reg's chest tightened, feeling the weight of the responsibility Habo had just handed him. He nodded, his expression serious. "Understood. Leave it to me."

Habo smiled gently at that, satisfied with Reg's resolve. He released them from the hug, though a deep sadness lingered in his eyes.

------------------------------------------------------------

[A FEW MINUTES LATER]

After packing up their gear, Reg adjusted the bag on his back, making sure everything was secure. Riko stood beside him, shaking Habo's hand one last time. Her small hand was dwarfed by his, but the gesture was filled with warmth and respect.

"We're heading out now, Habo!" she said cheerfully, her voice full of excitement for the journey ahead.

Habo grinned down at her, his rugged face softening. "Alright, off you go. But don't dawdle around too long! If you do, I'll become a White Whistle and catch up to you, you know!" His voice was teasing, but there was a genuine fondness behind his words.

Riko smiled and waved as she and Reg began to walk toward the path that led to the entrance of the second layer. "Okay! Give my best to Auntie!" she called back, her voice filled with joy.

Habo waved back, the smile lingering on his lips. "Sure thing!"

As they continued to walk, their figures growing smaller in the distance, Habo's smile slowly faded. His arm, once raised in a carefree wave, fell to his side. His eyes grew distant, watching them disappear down the path. He felt the weight of the Abyss pressing down on him, the knowledge of its dangers swirling in his mind. 

His thoughts turned somber as he whispered to himself, "At any rate, we're all just the Netherworld's lost children..."

-----------------

[FLASHBACK - 7 YEARS AGO]

The image of a young Riko flashed through Habo's mind—just a tiny girl, barely able to stand on her own two feet. She had been reaching up, trying to peer over the edge of a wall to catch a glimpse of the Abyss, her tiny fingers grasping at the stones.

Habo had been there that day, a younger man with fewer worries on his shoulders. He remembered picking her up, holding her on his shoulder so she could get a proper view of the Abyss. Her face had lit up with joy and wonder, her laughter echoing in the air as she marvelled at the vast, mysterious chasm below.

Off to the side, Jirou, who was a red whistle, had watched, his eyes filled with quiet concern even then. He'd always been more careful with Riko, more cautious.

But Riko... even as a child, she had been captivated by the Abyss, her heart drawn to its depths like a moth to a flame.

--------------------

[BACK TO THE PRESENT]

As Habo stood there, watching Riko vanish down the path with Reg by her side, a tear threatened to roll down his weathered cheek. He blinked it away, his lips pressing into a thin line as he pulled his hat lower over his eyes.

"Sooner or later, I knew this day would come..."

The thought weighed heavily on him, the reality of Riko's journey finally sinking in. The Abyss had claimed so many before her, and while he admired her spirit, he feared for her safety.

With one final glance down the path, Habo turned and began to walk away, his footsteps slow and deliberate. His heart ached with worry, but there was nothing more he could do now. He could only hope that the Abyss would show mercy.

"Good luck, Riko..." he whispered into the air, his voice carried away by the wind as he disappeared into the shadows of the Abyss.

---------------------------------------------------

As Reg and Riko pressed on, their journey took them deeper into the mysterious world of the Abyss. The air around them grew thicker with fog, obscuring the path ahead and blurring the distant shapes of the towering trees and rocky cliffs. Every step felt heavier, the weight of their new reality slowly settling in, as if the Abyss itself was reaching out to envelop them.

Reg used his extendable arms to lower both himself and Riko further into the depths, the ground below vanishing beneath the swirling fog. The sound of their breathing was muffled, swallowed up by the silence of the Abyss. Even though the descent felt endless, Reg's grip remained firm on Riko's hand as they moved deeper, trusting each other completely.

Riko, chewing on one of the mustard buns that Habo had given her, scanned their surroundings eagerly. Her eyes widened as she spotted something through the thick mist. She stopped in her tracks, her excitement bubbling to the surface. "Reg, over there! It's a wind-riding windmill!" She pointed towards a strange structure peeking out from the fog.

Reg turned his gaze to where she was pointing. "Oh? What's that?" he asked, genuinely curious. The windmill's blades turned lazily in the foggy updraft, an eerie relic of the past.

"A long time ago..." Riko explained with enthusiasm, "They used those to capture updrafts, apparently. I hear they've been around for more than 4,000 years."

Reg looked at it, impressed by its longevity. "They've done well to last so long." he remarked, his eyes tracing the contours of the ancient structure. The fog swirled gently around the windmill, giving it an almost mystical appearance.

Riko beamed with excitement, her energy returning after the long trek. "The fact that we've passed by them means... we must be there!"

As their feet finally touched solid ground, Reg retracted his arms, and the fog around them began to part, revealing more of their surroundings. They stood still for a moment, their eyes adjusting to the strange environment around them. A thick, lush forest stretched out before them, the trees twisted and knotted, their bark a deep, rich green with flecks of dark purple. Strange plants adorned the forest floor, some glowing faintly in the mist, others twitching slightly, as if alive and aware of their presence.

Riko took a few eager steps forward, looking in awe at the dense foliage and towering trees. The air here was humid, filled with the scent of wet earth and moss. Her heart swelled with excitement, and a wide smile spread across her face. Reg, meanwhile, stood by her side, his mouth slightly open in shock at the beauty and eeriness of the scene before him.

They had done it. They had reached the second layer: The Forest of Temptation.

"So this is the second layer..." Reg said softly, his voice filled with a mixture of wonder and apprehension. The dense forest seemed alive, breathing with the rhythm of the Abyss itself.

Riko, unable to contain her excitement, suddenly leaped forward and wrapped her arms around Reg in a tight hug. "We did it, Reg! We survived our final lesson!" she exclaimed, her voice full of joy and relief.

Reg blushed slightly, startled by her sudden embrace but quickly smiled, patting her back. "Is that so?" he said, trying to keep his cool, though he felt the weight of their accomplishment settling in.

"Sure is!" Riko replied, pulling back slightly to look him in the eye. There was a spark of triumph in her gaze. They had taken the first major step in their journey, and she was ready for whatever came next.

Looking up at the vast canopy above, Riko clasped her hands together and called out toward the sky, her voice echoing in the stillness. "Leader, we pulled it off!" She smiled brightly, feeling as if Leader was watching over them even from this distance.

Reg looked around, still processing everything that had happened. "It hasn't really hit me yet... Did we really get away from them?" he asked, as if doubting that they had actually managed to escape Orth and the search parties.

Riko waved her hands in the air, her excitement bubbling over. "That's right! We don't have to worry about anyone pursuing us anymore!"

Just as her words left her mouth, a piercing screech cut through the air, making both of them jump. The sound echoed through the forest, sharp and chilling, unlike anything they had heard before. It sent a shiver down their spines. They instinctively ducked, looking up to the source of the noise.

A large bird-like creature soared out of the thick foliage, its wings flapping powerfully as it ascended higher into the misty sky. Its elongated maw snapped at the air, and its sharp talons gleamed in the pale light. It let out another screech as it disappeared into the fog above them, leaving an eerie silence in its wake.

Reg watched the creature vanish into the mist, his heart pounding in his chest. His thoughts began to race. "If we descended down this far, no help will be sent after us..." he thought to himself, remembering what Shiggy had said back in Orth. "Both heading here and returning home becomes difficult. Down here, even the search party would find that it itself is the one being pursued." The realisation sent a chill through him.

Riko, still wide-eyed from the encounter, nodded to herself. "Let's hurry on, Reg. It might be calling all of its buddies over here." she whispered, her voice filled with urgency.

Reg snapped out of his thoughts and nodded quickly. "Y-yeah!" he replied, already feeling the need to move, to put distance between them and whatever else might be lurking in the fog.

But as they continued down the path, Reg couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that crept over him. He looked back one last time at the departing bird, its shadowy form now barely visible in the mist. A knot of dread twisted in his stomach as he thought to himself. "It's not that we've successfully escaped... Isn't it rather that we're now being pursued by all kinds of things that exist outside the territory of man? "

The Abyss, with all its untold mysteries and dangers, stretched out before them. They had made it to the second layer, but the challenges ahead were far from over. Every step they took deeper into the Abyss would bring them closer to its heart—and closer to its darkest secrets.

---------------------------------------------

[ENDING] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=In2PzM9zaPQ