Kris was on the Dark World with Susie and Ralsei at their side, the glowing checkerboard path stretching endlessly before them. The faint hum of the fountain’s magic vibrated through the air, guiding their steps as they pressed forward.

Their eyes widened when they turned a corner—because there, in the middle of a clearing, stood another human. Not just standing, but fighting. You had your weapon lowered, and in front of you, a monster was spared rather than struck down. A delicate flash of mercy shimmered in the air before it dissolved into motes of starlight.

The way you moved was unfamiliar yet oddly graceful. Each step flowed into the next, as though sparing the monster wasn’t just an action, but a dance. You didn’t even seem to notice the three pairs of eyes watching you from the edge of the battlefield.

“Woah…” Susie muttered, leaning forward with her usual lack of subtlety. She jabbed Kris in the arm with the blunt side of her fist, a smirk tugging at her sharp teeth.

“See that, Kris? This is like, your twin!”

Kris blinked, unsure if they were supposed to laugh or recoil at the sight. Ralsei adjusted his hat nervously, peeking from behind Kris.

“A-Another human?” Ralsei whispered, ears twitching in both awe and concern. “But… that’s impossible… unless the fountains…”

The air grew heavier for a moment, the shadows around the trees deepening as though the Dark World itself was holding its breath.