Ivan opened a glowing door and stepped through. Hina followed — and froze.
A massive auditorium stretched before her, glittering with lights and filled with people. She stared around in awe.
"Follow me," Ivan said. "I think I know where our seats are."
Hina followed, still admiring the towering walls and the giant screen below. The air buzzed with conversation — ranks, uniforms, and strange symbols everywhere.
Once they sat down, Ivan sighed. "I've got something to do. Stay here — I'll find Aiko and Asim."
Hina nodded, still overwhelmed by the scale of it all. Watching people mingle below. It all felt so surreal.
"HINAAA!!!"
A sudden hug from behind made her squeak. She spun around — and sighed. "Oh, hi Mera…"
Mera laughed brightly, her energy infectious. "Heeyaa! Sorry for startling you. I just saw you and couldn't resist!"
Hina smiled tiredly. "Can't wait to be with you," she admitted. Mera's cheerfulness always made things lighter.
"Mhm, same!" Mera chirped, Happily jumping until
A tall, broad figure approached — a man with a thick beard and a stern, intimidating aura. He spoke in a language Hina didn't understand.
"Mera, the meeting starts soon. Get back to your group," he said.
Mera sighed dramatically. "Alright, alright! You're just like Asim. No wonder he got his attitude from you."
The man sighed, then turned to Hina. "Hina, right? Ivan's student." His accent was deep and commanding. "I'm Laith Al-Harbi — mentor of Mera, and formerly of Asim. I've heard much about you. Nice to finally meet you." He nodded kindly.
"Oh, thank yo—"
"Oh, if it isn't the Arabian Dracula," Ivan's voice called out.
Laith chuckled deeply. "Ivan. Nice to meet you." He extended a hand, which Ivan shook firmly.
"I've got to go. We'll talk later," Laith said before leaving. Mera gave Hina one last hug and wave before following him.
"'Arabian Dracula?'" Hina asked, raising an eyebrow.
Ivan chuckled. "He's known for his bloodthirst in fights. Always ends them with a bloody mess — hence, Dracula."
Hina shivered, picturing Laith drenched in blood.
Ivan crossed his arms. "All his students follow a fist-based combat style."
"Hmm?" Hina hummed curiously.
"Asim used to be one of his strongest students. Until Aiko took him in." Ivan smirked faintly. "Ask him to teach you — it's a cool style."
The lights dimmed before Hina could reply. A firm, commanding voice echoed through the auditorium.
A woman appeared on the massive screen — stern eyes, perfect posture, radiating authority.
Ivan leaned close and whispered, "That's the founder of the Shadow Corp."
Hina stared silently. This is my life now, she thought.
Later…
The meeting ended. The mission was official: a search party for Veynar — a man with long black hair and unsettling eyes that sent chills through Hina.
As she and Ivan left, they met up with Aiko and Asim.
"Hey, Aik—" Ivan started.
"It's Tenshi," Aiko cut in sharply.
Ivan sighed. "Still the same."
While they talked, Asim turned to Hina. "You eat well? Today's going to be exhausting."
"Mhm. Ivan made pancakes."
"Pancakes?" Asim's tone sharpened. He interrupted the conversation. "I told you to make her a good meal, not sugary junk," he scolded Ivan.
Ivan threw up his hands. "Relax! Pancakes are a good meal!"
The conversation continued until Hina felt arms wrap around her from behind. She squeaked — it was Mera.
"HINNAAAA!" Mera whined, clinging tightly.
"What's wrong?" Hina asked, half laughing.
"I won't be with youuuuu!" Mera pouted beneath her veil.
Asim stepped in, trying to extricate Mera. "You clingy koala, hands off Hina!"
Mera tried to bite at his hand. "None of your business, big wall! I want to be with my bestie!"
Asim groaned. "I can't be asked to drag you to Mister Laith. Just go."
Mera sighed, stepping back. "You're always so annoying." Mera sighed before her tone went softer. "Be careful, okay?"
Asim smiled faintly. "I don't die easily, Mera. And we won't be near the target."
"Still," Mera said firmly, "take care of yourself — and Hina. If I see a single scratch on either of you, I'll personally slaughter you."
"Alright, alright," Asim chuckled.
Mera gave Hina one last tight hug, then waved goodbye before leaving.
"You both care for each other," Hina said softly.
"She also took a liking to you," Asim admitted. "Shocking, honestly."
"Shocking?"
"Forget it," he muttered.
Ivan appeared again. "Come on, time to prepare."
And together, they headed out to prepare — their search for Veynar