The beginning of an Era

The dry wind hit their faces first, just as the magical portal sealed behind their backs. The world they’d entered was deathly quiet, blanketed in a layer of ash. The sky was a dull, dusty grey-orange, and black cracks stretched across the ground like cuts on dry skin. In the distance loomed the ruins of a massive city swallowed by sand. — …Well…that’s a vibe, — Mira muttered, shielding her face with her hand. — Where’s our cozy forest? Where are my slippers? — Welcome to… the Hellish Hiking Tour, — Romance replied, already wiping sweat from his forehead. — Sweating already, Prince of Hell? — she smirked. — It’s a sexy glow. — It’s dehydration. Zoey, sticking close to Mystery, slowly scanned the area: — Do you guys think… anything lives here? — If it does, it’s not exactly alive anymore, — Jinu answered, kneeling to examine the cracked earth. — This place used to be the center of something huge… you can feel the magic. Old magic. Really old. Baby pulled out the map and spread it over a smooth stone. The symbols glowed faintly in violet, as if reacting to the land itself. It was instantly clear - they were in the right place. One of the runes was pulsing. — This way, — he nodded. — Toward the center of the ruins. — Of course, — Rumi muttered. — Right into the heart of hell itself. Why not just schedule a tour straight into the lair of something nasty? — Don’t stress, — Jinu offered a small smile - though quickly added, — okay? But yeah, you’re not wrong… this place is definitely not safe. — What if it’s a trap? — Abby suggested, tugging nervously at his collar. — I’m not paranoid, but if it is a trap, I’m diving back into that portal first. — The portal’s closed… — Zoey pointed out. — Then I’ll jump into the sand and pray it buries me. They slowly moved forward. Each pair had its own rhythm. Rumi walked slightly ahead, focused, her katana ready. Jinu stayed close, not intrusive, but alert. Zoey and Mystery were perfectly in sync, like some kind of strange but effective dance. Baby trailed behind them, glaring lasers into Mystery’s back. Abby and Romance chatted nonstop while Mira grumbled and snapped at both for another dumb flirt line — but that didn’t mean she was distracted. Her eyes were scanning, always. And then — a stop.

A hum.

Like something deep underground had just exhaled. — Did everyone heard that? — Rumi asked. — Oh no… not again…? — Mira whispered. The ground shuddered. A dry root burst from the ashen soil…No - not a root.

A claw.

Then another. And another. — WEAPONS OUT! — Rumi yelled, drawing her katana. From beneath the earth, creatures began to crawl out. First - gray, leathery flesh. Then - long, eyeless faces, with nothing but mouths twisted into horrifying grins. The creatures moved fast, relentless, hissing and snapping their teeth. They looked like golems… or maybe victims. Of something ancient. — I knew we shouldn’t trust old runes! — Abby shouted, leaping backward. Mira spun her spear into the air and caught it with a snarl: — Alright, bitches. ROUND TWO. LET’S GO!

***

A deep, dark cave hiding between two sharp rocks became their temporary refuge. Inside smelled of dampness, ash, and blood — not the most pleasant combo, but compared to what was going on outside… it was practically a spa. Everyone sat in silence. Rumi leaned against the wall, katana by her knees, hair stuck to her forehead, lips dry. She let out a heavy breath and stared at the ceiling, as if searching for the meaning of life. Zoey lay on her back, fanning herself with one of her blades. — Never… again… call me “cute,” — she whispered, wearily touching the burning mark on her shoulder. Baby, sitting nearby, softly muttered: — Alright… a cute berserker. Noted. Mystery etched something into the dirt with his finger. His brows were drawn - he wasn’t one to wear emotions on his sleeve, but tension was visible. — These things aren’t just predators. Someone’s guiding them. Directing them. — Thank you, Captain Obvious, — Mira rolled her eyes as she untied the bandage from her leg. — I noticed the moment one tried to squeeze my intestines out like a squeezed orange. Abby leaned on his hands, looking at her with a small grin: — At least you can still joke. That means you’re not dead yet. — “Not dead” is when I’m eating ramen. Swatting demon zombies? That’s high-risk, believe me. Romance, limping slightly, offered her a flask: — Drink this. I can’t promise it’s water… but it can’t make you feel worse. — If I die, I’ll find you in the afterlife and poison you back, — Mira retorted after a sip. Meanwhile Jinu gently sat beside Rumi. — You alright? — he asked quietly. She nodded, not breaking her stare from the rock in front. — We’ve lost too many people… I don’t want to relive that. Not for anyone. — I know. I don’t want that either. — Then figure out how we walk inside without dying at the threshold. — She gave him a tired but genuine smile. By the wall, glowing softly from a firefly hidden in a crack, stood an ancient-looking door. The runes etched into it were cracked, but they still pulsed… as though breathing. — We’re going to have to open it, — Baby said, arms crossed. — The only question is… with what, — added Mystery. Mira plopped down next to them, brushing dirt from her knees: — Well, looks like a new chapter’s beginning. Rumi stood, stretched, pulling Zoey and Mira up with her: — The five-minute pity party’s over. Time to move. Before we become the filling in some demon pie. Zoey pulled out the book: — Alright, whoever touches the door first gets to pick where we have dinner. — Ramen, — the three girls responded in unison. — That’s the motivation not to die right there, — Mira smirked. They all moved toward the door. Rumi stood before the ancient barrier, eyes wide, breathing steady but strange. She seemed immersed in an invisible network, feeling something pull her toward the stone’s surface the longer she stared at the runes. — Rumi? — Mira stepped closer and softly called. — You okay? Do you hear something? Answer! Zoey, blades ready, chimed in: — Yeah, you’ve completely zoned out! What’s going on? But Rumi seemed not to hear. Her features froze, her eyes glazed over — as if under a spell. Mira, unable to hold back, suddenly gave her a sharp, calculated slap. — Hey?! — Rumi recoiled and grumbled in annoyance, rubbing her cheek. — What was that for?! — You weren’t saying anything, — Mira replied dryly. — So I thought maybe you’d like a reminder we’re still alive and breathing. What’s the matter with you? — I dunno… — Rumi blinked, as if trying to awaken. — I… I felt like the door… was calling me. Zoey crossed her arms and smirked: — Girl, that’s some serious head tilt. You need a doctor. Rumi frowned, replying: — Don’t joke. I’m serious. — So am I, — Mira shook her head. — If that door is calling you - it’s probably trying to send us all to hell. Don’t answer it. Rumi’s gaze dropped back to the runes, and determination flickered in her eyes. — Then we have to go, — she murmured, as if ordering herself forward. — Now that’s the attitude, — Zoey grinned, fingers tightening on her blade handles. — But whoever goes first gets a boot from me. — And I’ll be the one delivering that boot, — Mira added cheerfully. The three exchanged looks, tension tightening again around the ancient door. For twenty minutes, the trio battled with the door — each attempt testing their endurance and ingenuity. First up was Rumi — she pressed both hands against the cold stone, straining with all her weight and even whispering pleas under her breath: — Come on, bud… open up! But the door remained silent. Zoey, sighing, drew her blade and began gently tapping the runes, as if checking whether a hidden door secret was lurking inside. — Maybe we try differently? Like, “Open sesame? Not? Then door?” Both girls blinked in a daze at the comment. Rumi rephrased it — “So, like… it’s open? No? Then maybe it’s a decoy?” A knowing “ahhh…” came from both ladies, and the battle against the door resumed. Mira, on the other hand, decided to try the classic “kick the stone” method: — We’ll just kick this door right through! — she declared, swinging at it - only to almost fall when the stone proved unexpectedly sturdy. Strange attempts followed: Zoey tried scratching it with her nail (“If it won’t open, might at least leave a mark”), Rumi quietly recited makeshift spells, and Mira ended up treating the door like a misbehaving cat — trying to gauge its mood. — Maybe we should pet it? — Zoey suggested, dead serious. — I’d rather have tea with it, — Mira retorted with a smirk. Despite the clownish attempts, the door held fast. The heroines were breathless, but oddly entertained. Clearly, it seemed the door was built for marathon trials. Meanwhile, the demons watched from a distance on the rocks — some intrigued, some amused. Baby leaned back, hands behind his head: — This is hands-down one of the most epic battles I’ve seen… magic vs. brute force vs. negotiation. Then he stretched and added: — Who knew the biggest threat was lying in the door? Jinu, sitting beside, shook his head slightly as he watched Rumi pounding the door with her fist: — I’m still waiting for her to whip out a frying pan. That’s her signature move, if memory serves. Mystery watched quietly, but his eyes sparkled when Mira nearly broke her heel hitting the door: — Might’ve been fate’s blow… if doors had a fear response, — he observed softly, a subtle grin forming. Romance couldn’t resist: — Honestly, I’d open it - especially under that kind of pressure from Mira. Even the door doesn’t deserve her level of violence, — he sighed dramatically, hand to his chest — a boot like that would have delighted me… Abby watched Zoey writing on the corner of parchment with interest: — Alright… ineffective magical method number six: scratching the door with a fingernail. Interesting. Brilliant. Almost like her song about the fridge. For a moment, everything went silent as Mira roared at the door, threatening to turn it into scrap metal. The guys exchanged glances. — So… place your bets? — Jinu whispered. — Will she break her heel or will we open this thing later? — I’m betting the door will surrender out of fear, — Baby replied with a grin. Yet the door stood firm—stoic, unflinching… apparently with a wicked sense of humor. A tense silence fell in the cave. The girls were close to giving up when suddenly… Mira, eyes locked on the door, growled wickedly, as though creativity had abandoned her: — “I’ll solve this problem with my four hyper-intelligent brains!” She took a couple of steps back, then powered forward mid-jump with a kick directly to the center of the door, cracking it loudly so the sound echoed through the corridor. …deep THUD… The stone surface shivered, as though reconsidering its centuries of duty. The girls froze. Mira stood up proudly, brushing off her hands. — Huh… it actually worked. Zoey and Rumi locked eyes—and in the next heartbeat, let out a synchronized wicked laugh — like cartoon witches from an old animation: — MWAHAHAHA! Without missing a beat, all three sprinted back and together hammered the door once more.

THE STONE DOOR EXPLODED INTO SHATTERED PIECES.

Dust billowed, chunks of ancient granite tumbled across the floor. Silence. A beat. The guys … stunned speechless. Romance, mouth agape: — …they’re insane. Abby, still seated: — Mira is both my personal tragedy and my curse. Baby whispered: — What kind of demonic rage artifact did I just witness? Mystery, mildly shaken but composed: — Remind me… never to piss off women. Especially these women. Jinu looked at Rumi, who brushed dust from her shoulder as if nothing happened and nodded: — So… shall we? Beyond the shattered door lay… a dark passage. Narrow—but wide enough to walk through. It smelled of dust, damp earth, and ancient magic. From deep within came a faint, insistent call—not menacing, but compelling. Everyone stepped closer and peered inside. — And where’s the grand glowing treasure room? — Mira grumbled, arms crossed. Only a muffled… rustle answered. Baby stepped forward and illuminated the passage—flames trembling in his palm. Ahead, a massive stone staircase carved with ancient symbols descended into darkness. It plunged so deeply they couldn’t see the bottom. — …Seriously? — Mira stared at it like it was her personal enemy. — A staircase? That size? Going DOWN?! Abby approached to look but recoiled instantly. — Uh… yeah. It’s really far down. Like… “All your hopes fell in there and never came back.” Mira planted her hands on her hips and rolled her eyes as she practically yelled: — Seriously?! It’d be easier to jump straight down and pray to survive than walk that darn stairs! Honestly! My knees weren’t built for this! I’m no ancient temple monk—I’m an assassin with zero patience! Romance, grinning, offered: — Maybe I can just carry you? Princess-style? On my back? Mira shot him a glare that could topple mountains. — Try that-and you’ll be the first to fly down. Princess-style. Rumi quietly began descending, testing each step. — Careful… it’s slippery… and cracked in places. Stick to the edges. Zoey sighed, peeking downward. — Who designed this architecture? “How to add 500 levels of annoyance in a dungeon: Human Edition.” Ugh… Mystery quietly smirked, watching the crew descend into darkness—guided by magic, light, and Mira’s curses. The staircase wasn’t just endurance testing—it turned into a strange opportunity to… chat. Or fight, depending on the group dynamic. Mira stomped ahead, heels clacking on stone as if punishing each step. Abby and Romance trailed behind, exchanging glances and suppressed laughs. — Hey, — Romance spoke up in a tone halfway between casual and flirtatious— — if we keep going this deep… what if we never come back? Maybe you should tell me you love me before it’s too late? Mira paused, turned slowly. Her glare—like a raging dragon. — Maybe you’ll finally admit what’s going on with your brain? I’ll check if there’s still a chance to save you. Abby snorted with laughter. Mira glanced at him too. — And what are you grinning at, “quiet guy in the corner”? You’re about to get it-no words needed. Abby raised his hands and took a step back. — I wasn’t doing anything, I swear I was just breathing air! Romance continued with a smirk: — I’m saying… if ancient magic kills us, better to go down with a heartfelt exit. And mine’s suffering right now. You’re stomping all over it with your heels, Mira… right on the feels. Mira narrowed her eyes. — One more word-and I’ll heel-stomp you into oblivion. Romance, there’s so much drama dripping from you I feel like I’m stuck in the cheapest musical. — Well, that’s it, — Abby sighed, — if you start singing, I’ll seriously jump down. Romance pretended to grab an invisible mic: — “Mira… why are you cold as ice in my tea~?” That time both Mira and Abby rushed to raise a hand. — SHUT UP! Silence returned, save for their echo disappearing into the abyss. Mira scoffed and continued down, not looking back. — Tell me, why did I end up with two idiots at once? — Because you deserve better, — Romance called from behind his smirk. — Also… life with us is never boring, — Abby added. Mira rolled her eyes, but a slight, sly half-smile tugged her lips. Darkness. Stone walls. A staircase plunging into silence—quiet enough to hear air whimpering down the throat. Then suddenly… — Ladies, — Mira stopped and turned, eyes shining with mischief — we are idols, right? Zoey, still flicking a strand of hair flirtatiously in front of Mystery, nodded with excitement. — Absolutely! Rumi, looking tired but calm, also nodded: — Yeah. So? — Why not use that, — Mira said with a predatory grin - emphasizing use like a fairy-tale villain. They exchanged looks. In their eyes—a spark. Mischief. Threat. Too confident. Smelled like trouble. Or a killer performance. Rumi leaned over the railing and shouted down: — HEEEYYYY! Her echo came back irritated, indignant. The girls only looked inspired. Mira tapped her heel—tap-tap, tap-tap. The stone responded with a resonant beat. — Nice beat, — she smirked. Zoey suddenly started rhythmic beatboxing—soft but crisp. Head nodding in time, tapping tempo on her thigh. From below, the guys looked like their lives genre shifted from “dark fantasy” to “post-apocalyptic musical.” Mystery blinked. Twice. — Are they… actually beatboxing? Jinu leaned backward. — Okay, I’m definitely dreaming. I ate three bowls of noodles-my brain’s fried. Baby sat down right on the stairs. — You know, I’ve seen a lot. But an idol battle in an ancient crypt… that’s something new. Abby scratched his head. — Can someone tell me we have at least one normal person on the team? Romance, seated theatrically off to the side, whispered: — Mira is fabulous. They’re staging a dance battle with a demon staircase. This is… beautiful. Meanwhile, at the top of the stairs, the three girls stood shoulder to shoulder. Arms folded—like performers stepping on stage. Eyes gleaming. Voices dangerous. At that moment Mira thrust her hand upward and yelled: — RISE, WALLS—WE’RE COMING! From below came a desperate Jinu plea: — Someone, please cut their Wi‑Fi! The darkness no longer seemed scary. It turned into a backdrop. As Zoey dropped the beat, Mira stepped forward, hair slightly flying, then suddenly sang: “You know who it is, coming ’round again…” With each word, the sound of her heel against stone sent violet-pink light shimmering—like a music video scene. Each step triggered glowing rune patterns lighting the way downward. Rumi and Zoey flanked her. In sync, unbroken beat, Zoey joined in: “They keep on turnin’ up the heat, yeah we burn it up…” Rumi followed with cool eyes but strong voice: “Ain’t nobody bringing us down, down, down, down, down, down…” At every “down,” the stairway seemed to vibrate. Crumbling old steps transformed into new, gleaming ones—like glass. Magic? Idol power? Who cares—it looked damn spectacular. The guys sat, stunned like front-row spectators. When the girls began moving again, they stood and followed—descending the staircase that shone behind them, singing: Mystery slowly turned to Baby: — Are they… casting magic… through their track? Baby stared wide-eyed: — Guys, I swear, if the staircase starts singing along with the chorus - I’m out. Jinu, visibly stunned, even clapped a couple of times: — Looks like we’ve got a new way to open ancient passages. With a song. Epic. Meanwhile, Rumi, the group’s leader, glanced back over her shoulder, shrugged, and shouted down — probably to the demons, if they were even down there… — Hope you’re singing along, you talentless losers! And the whole trio, perfectly in sync, kept walking down, step by shimmering step, singing: “Ain’t nobody bringing us down, down, down, down…” (K/DA — POP/STARS) As the staircase transformed with every lyric, the girls clearly got into the groove. It was as if they’d stumbled into a rehearsal for their world tour. They descended with energy and joy, dancing as they went — a synchronized sway of the hips here, a hand thrown in the air with each chorus. Their moves were precise, confident, and playfully defiant. Zoey added light spins, lifting her arms to the beat, as if manipulating the glowing magic through rhythm alone. Rumi dropped into short, signature moves — dancing like she was in a club but still holding the melody and the tempo. Mira looked a bit more composed but didn’t hold back either — occasionally jolting into sharp dance steps as if daring the staircase itself to challenge her. With every step, the staircase lit up brighter, the magical runes pulsing in time with the music. Meanwhile, from above: Romance, calmly making his way down, looked at the girls — especially Mira — with open admiration. — Okay… I’m sold. This is way more fun than silently walking like some NPC. Abby, with a crooked smile: — Well, at least now we know why they had so many hours of training at the agency. Jinu tried not to laugh: — If we fought like this, we’d have conquered half the world by now. Mystery gave a lazy whistle: — Told you. They’re dangerous. Especially with choreography like that. Baby, arms folded over his chest: — I admit it. I’d pay to watch that show again. When the final notes echoed and the stairs ended, the three girls leapt down gracefully — like stepping off a runway. They straightened, striking the group’s iconic pose in perfect sync: Zoey — on the right, one arm lifted high. Mira — to the left, just slightly angled, with a smirk. Rumi — center, sword resting on her shoulder, eyes cold as frost. A beat — silence. And then: contagious, satisfied laughter. — That was fabulous, — Zoey snorted, brushing back her hair. — Did you see your faces when the stairs started blinking? — Mira added, nodding toward the guys. But the laughter faded as everyone, including the boys, began glancing around. — Um… — Rumi murmured, brow furrowing. — Where are we? They stood in a wide, shadowy cavern. The ceiling arched high above them, and the walls were covered in symbols — just like the ones from the book. A soft mist clung to the air, and something shimmered gently in the depths ahead. — I don’t think this is just a cave, — Mystery muttered, stepping forward. — It’s… a waiting room. Or a trap. Guess we’ll find out. Cautiously, they moved ahead — and the cavern opened into its full, surreal majesty. — Whoa… — Zoey breathed, her eyes glowing with awe. Before them stretched a massive underground hall, so tall the ceiling was nearly lost to darkness. But the darkness didn’t reign here — enormous crystals hung from above, casting soft light in shades of pale blue and violet, like the sky itself had sunk beneath the earth. Moisture slowly dripped from them, each droplet falling into a serene lake at the cave’s center — forming ripples across its perfectly glassy surface. — This is just… — Zoey whispered, spinning slowly in place, — …like a dream stage. If we held a concert here, the whole planet would cry. Mira and Rumi, walking just behind, scoffed — but they, too, glanced around with a rare kind of respect. — We split up and scout? — Mira offered, twirling her spear. — Just no solo debuts unless you want to get eaten again. Everyone — demons included — nodded in agreement, breaking off once more into their familiar pairs.

***

The trio moved along the lake, admiring the reflections on the water and the glimmer of crystals. Baby, arms folded behind his head: — Well, this is fancy. I thought we were walking into some monster’s lair, but this… feels like a luxury spa. Mystery, thoughtfully: — Don’t relax too soon. Usually, the prettier the place - the scarier the thing guarding it. Zoey, glancing around: — What if… this is connected to the runes somehow? Maybe the crystals are some kind of power source? Baby smirked: — Or a death trap. Let’s tread lightly. Mystery stepped closer to one of the crystals, running his hand along its surface. The light inside seemed to react — glowing brighter, sparking. — They respond to touch, — he muttered, glancing at Zoey. — Try it. Zoey stepped up and placed her palm on the crystal. It flared in a bright turquoise glow, and deep within, a symbol appeared — one of the ones from the book. — Did you guys see that?! — she whispered, awestruck. Mystery and Baby exchanged looks. — Well then… — said Mystery, — maybe you’re not just the cute one in the group. Maybe you’re the key to all of this. — I knew you’d admit that eventually, — Zoey flirted with a sly grin, then quickly added, — But for now, let’s figure out what this place is. You can admire me later. Baby nodded: — Sounds like a plan. Just… no more musicals, alright? Zoey, dancing a little step: — No promises~

***

Rumi and Jinu walked a bit apart from the others, scanning their surroundings. The crystals cast soft reflections on their faces, and the air was filled with the cool scent of damp stone and… something ancient. Rumi walked with confidence but stayed tense, her hand close to the hilt of her katana — just in case. Jinu caught up to her: — You always this serious on expeditions? Rumi, without looking back: — If you want jokes, go back to those two clowns… Abby and Romance. Jinu, grinning: — Hey, I can be a clown too. But a special kind… just for you. Rumi shot him a quick glance. — That’s exactly the kind of clown I’m sick of. — But she smirked anyway. Yeah… she missed this fool. — Oh, how you missed me, — Jinu said in mock hurt. — I missed your sharp words and heavy punches. Rumi sighed: — Just keep your eyes open, Jinu. This place could be dangerous. He stayed quiet for a few minutes. They walked past some stone ridges, one of which looked unnaturally smooth — like someone had carved it on purpose. But Jinu couldn’t help himself — he brought up the painful topic again: — Rumi… — What? — Back then… I acted like an idiot. I… I got scared. Of you. Of myself. Of the choice I had to make. Rumi stopped, fist clenched. She stayed silent for a long moment. Then, to his surprise, she turned around and punched him hard in the shoulder. Jinu, gritting through the pain: — Ow! What the hell was that for?! Rumi’s voice wavered: — That’s for leaving. For not saying a word. No explanation. And now you’re doing it again! Stop apologizing already! She turned away, wiping a traitorous tear from her eye. But in the next second, she stepped forward and pulled him into a tight hug. — Don’t do that again, — she whispered. — No more disappearing. Not even if the world is burning. And please… find a new topic. You really don’t know any others? Jinu, hugging her back: — Promise. But…Can we eventually talk about your obsession with sacrificing yourself? You keep throwing yourself between me and every deadly thing out there. It’s not romantic anymore - it’s just annoying. Rumi, still in his arms: — Good. We annoy each other. Perfect match. They stayed like that a bit longer, before Rumi pulled back and said firmly: — Alright. Feelings later. For now - let’s find something useful. — Yes, captain. — Jinu smirked, falling into step behind her. The pair of idiots held hands — tight, warm, full of love — and headed deeper into the cavern to explore.

***

Mira walked with confidence, her spear resting on her shoulder, like she was ready to stab the earth — or anyone who dared talk — at any moment. — Would you look at this, — she scoffed. — Quite… glamorous for a dungeon. Abby, twirling a tiny shard of crystal in his fingers: — If fireflies show up, I swear I’m breaking into a disco dance. This is too pretty. Romance, leaning on a ledge and watching Mira’s back: — I’d dance with you. If Mira didn’t kill us both for “violating protocol.” Mira whipped around: — I can hear you. If you’ve got excess energy - go look for traps or something. Although… your whole life is one giant trap, Romance. Romance clutched his chest theatrically: — Ow! Right in the heart again… And I just finished putting it back together after the last time. Abby chuckled quietly off to the side, but Romance, sensing his moment, stepped closer to Mira. With a raised brow and that annoyingly smug look, he whispered: — If I offer my cheek right now… will you slap it - or kiss it? Mira looked at him like he’d lost his mind. Then, with visible internal struggle, she lifted her hand like she was about to hit him — …but at the last second, she gave him a quick peck on the cheek and shoved him back. — Now back off, before my conscience kicks in and I regret not knocking your teeth out instead. Romance, triumphant, practically bouncing: — That’s it! I can die happy! Abby, write it down! A historical moment! Abby, lazily: — Already engraving the plaque. Mira rolled her eyes: — How about you start looking for clues instead of ways to get punched. Otherwise, the next “artifact” they find will be your body on the floor. The boys scattered again, and Mira — making sure they weren’t looking — quietly touched her lips, still warm from that brief kiss. — Idiot, — she muttered, then moved on, hiding the rare smile that curled on her face.

***

Suddenly, just as each group began to drift deeper into the glowing cavern, the air shifted. It turned cooler, as if touched by moonlight, and a gentle breeze rustled the crystals overhead, coaxing them into a soft chime—like silver bells. The girls stopped first. Rumi froze, tilting her head up as though sensing something before it could be heard. Zoey turned to Mystery and Baby, placing a finger to her lips. Mira halted mid-grumble, about to scold Romance again. A thin, weightless voice rippled through the space—not sung by a person, but as though it were the cave itself breathing. “Exhale… inhale…” The voice was feminine—clear and fragile like thin ice, yet piercing to the soul. It didn’t just sound; it enveloped everything, flowing through crystals, echoing off every drop of water in the lake, as if the cave itself had begun to sing. Zoey whispered quietly: — …This isn’t just music. It feels like a call… Rumi frowned, fixing her gaze toward the depths from which the voice seemed to emerge. — I’ve heard this somewhere… or felt it? — Her voice turned almost dreamy. Mira blinked twice before muttering through gritted teeth: — No, I don’t like this. Too beautiful. That usually means someone’s about to lose their head. Abby snorted from behind: — Well, at least with musical accompaniment. Step by step, the three girls began to drift—without word or glance—to the center of the cave, toward the lake with crystal-clear water. The guys noticed the shift first—but not because of any sound. Baby leaned against the wall, twirling his knife lazily, raising an eyebrow: — Hey… what are they doing? Mystery straightened, pulling his gaze from the crystals above to follow Zoey: — This… is strange. She’s walking like she’s asleep. Romance, caught between concern and annoyance, frowned at Mira’s back: — Mira? Hey, are you okay? Don’t ignore-it’s not funny. Jinu advanced, but Rumi seemed unaware of his steps. — Rumi? Rumi, are you okay? — His voice rose with concern. — They… aren’t responding, — Mystery observed, stepping closer — They’re looking… at the water? The girls reached the edge of the lake and lined up side by side. Their postures were straight, breaths steady, faces almost blissful. They didn’t exchange looks—it was as if someone was conducting them. Zoey exhaled first—deep, calm—like she had released a weight. Then Rumi and Mira. And at that precise moment—like on cue—tiny lights began to glow at their chests: gentle blue pulses, visible through their clothing, beating in time with their breathing. Baby stepped forward, stunned: — Am I the only one who doesn’t hear anything? Is this demon magic?! Mystery glanced at the others: — No. We… can’t hear anything. They’re like hypnotized. Romance already wanted to run to Mira, but Abby caught him by the shoulder: — Wait. Look… The three girls stood as though bound to an ancient ritual, and their souls—true, luminous, breathing—rose to the surface—not separating from their bodies, but becoming visible. Baby whispered in disbelief: — That’s… impossible. Humans don’t have visible souls. Unless… Mystery finished grimly: — …unless they’re connected to the Source. Something ancient. Something beyond our understanding. Jinu, catching his breath: — They’re demon hunters—so clearly tied to something ancient, too. A low, resonant pulse sounded in the silence—boom… boom… boom… Each glowing soul imprint vibrated in sync with that beat. Baby backed a step: — So what now? They glow majestically and then dive into the abyss? Is that how this works? No one had an answer. They all waited. The cave’s breath seemed to still. When the bluish glow in the girls reached its peak—everything cut out. As if someone had muted the world. As if the world itself paused. Mira, Zoey, and Rumi blinked simultaneously and looked around—as though waking from a trance. — What… — Zoey began, but then the water in the lake stirred. Three ripples expanded outward, and in a gentle pale-blue glow, three figures rose from the water. Translucent, luminous—woven from sound and light—they hovered just above the lake’s surface. They were women—each clad in the ancient armor of hunters, regal and timeless. Their features mirrored the girls’, but with softness replaced by calm strength and centuries of wisdom. All three slowly lifted their gaze—and it became clear: they were the first generation of hunters. And each looked at her successor. Rumi, without blinking, spoke softly: — …The descendants. We weren’t chosen by chance. She reached for her katana. The blade glowed softly. Zoey and Mira mirrored her movement—without words—and the moment their hands touched their weapons, something strange occurred: From the lake’s depths—called forth by ancient will—emerged their weapons again, but not the same. These were versions anew, shimmering with light. Rumi’s katana gained a fiery-blue pattern along its blade. Zoey’s daggers replicated into six shimmering rays, each humming its own melody. Mira’s spear flared with golden-white brilliance, pulsing with power. They had taken on new forms—ancient, pure, meant only for them. Then—from all sides—voices rose: enchanting choruses merging with each drop of light, every vibration in the air. The vocal tones of the first generation of hunters wove through the space like wind, wrapping around everyone in the cave. The men were silent, awe-struck—Baby speechless, jaw dropped. Mystery stared at Zoey, stunned. Romance seemed to realize how unknowable this path truly was. Jinu clenched his fist, watching as Rumi transformed into someone more than he had ever known. Suddenly, the three figures on the water spread immense wings—yes, wings—emerging in silhouettes of giant blue birds, made of light and sound. They beat their wings—and sparkled feathers scattered in the air, glowing, as though storing the memory of generations. With the final chord, they ascended—disappearing into the cavern’s heights, leaving behind choral voices and profound peace, as though the world itself acknowledged the girls as the new guardians of balance. Three feathers drifted softly to the ground—one before each girl. And in the air hung the sense… that everything was just beginning. The final wingbeat echoed and faded. The cave fell into solemn silence. The three girls—still shaken—slowly approached their new weapons, now resting before them as if awaiting touch. Mira was first to grasp the spear. She tested a swing—and the blade sliced the air with a whistle, as if the air itself shattered into a micro vortex. The spear trailed sparkling light—fire and lightning merged in one. (Song name: AURORA “Exhale, Inhale”) — Oh. Mommy’s in the game, — she snorted with a smug grin, watching the flickers of light flash across her face. Then, unable to resist, she struck again - and even bounced a little in place. — Now this is what I call an upgrade. Zoey tossed one of her six blades into the air, and it hovered above her palm all on its own. — They’re… alive? — she whispered. The rest of the blades instantly snapped into battle formation, as if on command. Zoey turned, and with a single motion, the space before her rippled like water. — They listen to me… even before I think. Rumi was more restrained. She ran her fingers along the edge of her new katana. It was darker than before, but every line, every engraving on the blade shimmered with an inner light, like it was breathing. She made one clean, precise, predatory slash — and the air in front of her literally split under the pressure. — Now it’s serious, — she said quietly. But the joy didn’t last long. Everything suddenly changed. A low crack came from the ceiling of the cave. The light died. The crystals that had lit the hall with a soft glow turned black, and now a blood-red light began to ooze slowly from them, spilling through the cave like poisonous fog. — The fuck?! — Mira recoiled, raising her weapon. From the depths came a low, growling rumble — dozens, hundreds of demonic throats singing in unison. They had arrived. From all sides — cracks, fissures, water, walls — demons began to crawl out. Different. Scarier. Larger. As if the darkness itself, pushed back by the huntresses’ brilliance, had now burst out in desperation. — Surrounded… — Zoey whispered. — The Ancestors… they clearly knew someone was watching us..! — Rumi responded. — We won’t fail them! No words were needed. No commands. The boys reacted first. Mystery leapt in front of Zoey, his body flaring with darkness, transforming into his demonic form — a tall figure with fangs and bright glowing patterns across his skin. Baby seemed caught off guard by how fast it all escalated, but the second he saw Zoey ready for battle beside him — he growled and activated his form, his claws seeming to absorb light itself. Romance… oh, his eyes were already blazing. He looked almost beastly, but kept glancing over at Mira, as if asking — you ready? Jinu, silent but seething with rage, stepped back-to-back with Rumi, turning toward the approaching shadows. Abby, rubbing his jaw — exactly where Mira had clocked him last time — stepped up beside her. — Well then… About time we prove we’re not deadweight, girls. Silence. A breath. Eyes locked. They didn’t speak — they believed. Each group knew: they could only win together. And so the war began. The first demon charged — and took a spear between the eyes. Mira kicked off the ground, spinning like a tornado, and screamed wildly: — LET’S GO, BITCHES, TO THE BEAT OF “How it’s done”! Zoey’s blades flickered like a dance — then tore through the left flank. Rumi and Jinu cut forward in sync, like a storm. Everywhere — flashes, screams, growls, light and shadow, merging into one. And through it all — only one truth remained: They came for the truth. And no one would stand in their way. The rumble didn’t stop. Every move — an explosion. Every strike — a flare. But in the midst of the chaos, each fighter heard the same single thought echoing in their mind.

***

Mira spun with her spear, like a storm torn straight from the sky — and yet inside… How many are there?! These things are coming out of thin air! I’ve already slapped five, what is this, one to five or something?! The spear plunged into another demon’s chest and then exploded with a sharp crack from the energy within. Her eyes were blazing. — THIS! IS! FOR! A COUPLE! OF RUINED! HEELS! — she screamed, launching into the air and slamming another blow from above.

***

Zoey moved almost silently. Her blades found their targets on their own — one after another slicing through the shadows like fabric. Rhythm, rhythm, rhythm. It’s all in the music. You hear it? The heartbeat — that’s my tempo. One blade struck the ground, creating a burst of light — and a whole wave of demons was blown backward. She glanced back and saw Mystery, wreathed in black mist, guarding her back, turning demons to ash with a single strike. Zoey smirked: — Well, guess you’re definitely not calling me “cute” now, huh?

***

Rumi moved with precision and calculation. Her katana struck without excess noise, every blow — fatal. But inside, a storm raged: They’re trying to corner us. But I won’t let them. I won’t let them get to him. To anyone. As long as I live — no one gets hurt. Beside her, Jinu fought like a wild whirlwind — burning like a volcano. — Slow down a bit! I want to take them all myself, not share! — Rumi shouted, pushing off the ground and darting through the air like lightning. — You’re just too slow to keep up, admit it! — he shot back with a teasing, love-drunk grin, slicing a demon in half. Rumi smirked, twisted another opponent down, wrapped her legs around his neck, and whispered: — Seriously, Jinu. Which of us is the idol here, and which one’s just a rage fountain?

***

Baby and Abby stuck close, covering each other’s backs, while Romance plowed forward like a bulldozer. As always, Romance snuck glances at Mira — and as always, got someone’s fist to the face right after. — Damn it, not the time for love when we’re being murdered! Abby snorted, dodging a demon’s leap and punching it in the skull. — If we survive…I demand a massage. And dinner. And none of that demon crap on the plate. Baby blocked another attack for him and shouted: — You sure Mira’ll let you live until dinner? Romance: — I live on the edge. Inspiring, isn’t it?

***

The whole battlefield looked like a painting. Swordlight, spear flashes, bursts of demonic power, shadows cast by burning crystals. And in the middle of all that hell — seven fighters, not just a team, but a true army. And even when it felt like there were too many… Mira stepped into the center and yelled: — FORM A WALL! DANCE, DAMN IT, DANCE YOUR LAST DANCE! And everyone understood: this wasn’t just a fight. This — was a legend. The roar faded… for just a second. The demon corpses, piled across the stone floor, suddenly twitched. At first just a little… then stronger… and one by one, they began to rise. With cracking bones, with hissing breaths, like the cave itself refused to let them go. — …W-what?.. — Zoey whispered in horror. — Hell no, I personally finished those off, — Mira growled, gripping her spear. — This has to be some bugged boss level. And then… a laugh. Thick, sticky, painfully familiar. It came from the shadows behind them, and with each echo it felt like the walls themselves crept closer. — No way… — Rumi exhaled, turning around as if in slow motion. A silhouette stepped out of the darkness. Tall. Alien. Too polished, too confident. Too familiar. On his face — a victor’s smirk. But in those eyes… there hadn’t been a human in a long, long time.

Gwi-ma.

— Hello, my darlings… I’m so glad you made it this far. His voice was like poison — smooth, embracing, and deadly. The boys instantly stepped in front of the girls, ready to strike. Especially Jinu, whose fingertips already burned. — You’ll die here, freak, — he growled. But no one expected Rumi… to not move. She stood frozen. Eyes wide. Then slowly, as if not believing it, she stepped forward. — …Dad?.. Silence. Not a soul moved. Not even the demons. Jinu suddenly grabbed her shoulder: — Rumi, that’s not him! You said he died! — He… did. But… that voice… — she whispered, clenching her fists. — I’d know it through all of hell… Gwi-ma smiled even wider. — How touching. Still so… faithful. It’s sweet, Rumi. Mira stepped forward and hissed: — Rumi, back off. That’s not your father. That’s a demon in his skin. He’s playing you. — …And what if he’s not? — Rumi snapped suddenly, her voice cracking. — What if something of him is still in there?.. I just want to know… Silence. Jinu lowered his gaze and said quietly: — If you step toward him — I won’t hold the others back. Because he’s a killer, Rumi. Doesn’t matter whose face he wears. And in that moment… She stood between past and present. Between family and truth. Between faith — and betrayal. A pause. One breath. One exhale. Gwi-ma spread his arms wide: — Well then, children. Shall we continue our little carnival?.. Behind him, the demons were already forming ranks again. The choice was made. The war raged on. Blood, dust, the scream of steel. They fought like beasts. As if every strike could be their last — and most of the time, it was. Zoey flashed like lightning — her six blades like twilight flames: bright, fleeting, beautiful, and deadly. Mira wasn’t joking anymore — her movements sharp and precise, each one pulsing with hatred that burned hotter than pain. Rumi fought with a kind of desperate fury. She wasn’t just killing — she was trying to prove she was still alive. The boys kept up. Jinu was exhausted, but he fought beside Rumi like he promised — to the very end. Mystery had Zoey’s back, and his eyes no longer glimmered with interest — only fury. Romance tried to hold Mira’s rear guard, but with each roar it became clearer: they were being pushed to the edge. And Gwi-ma just watched. No emotion. No curiosity. Just… satisfaction. — Ah, you’re all so stubborn… — he drawled mockingly. — Why suffer so much, when everything just resets in the end? And it was true. For every demon they cut down, another rose. First one. Then two. Then an entire army. And every wounded fighter knew — the next blow could be their last. They were tired. They were overwhelmed. They were cornered. Already Baby had been thrown aside, bleeding. Abby wasn’t getting up. Mystery was gasping, clutching his side. And at that moment… Rumi looked at Zoey. Then at Mira. And whispered, barely audible: — I’m sorry… Zoey slowly turned, her lips trembling. — …For what?.. But Mira already understood. She bit her lip until it bled and whispered: — Us too… sorry, Ru… Zoey’s eyes welled up, and through tears, she forced a smile: — For not finding another way in time… The three girls exchanged a look. And charged forward. No plan. No words. Only fury. Only faith. They burst from the circle of enemies, slicing through the horde like three blazing arrows. Each one armed, each one nearly burned dry by their own magic — but shining brighter than ever. Gwi-ma frowned. He didn’t expect… this. The trio, battered, dirty, exhausted, lunged straight at him. And in that moment — something changed. Music filled the air. That same familiar melody from the lake. But now louder. Brighter. Stronger. This wasn’t a farewell. This was a resurrection. The darkness trembled. In the chaos of battle, while the boys stood back-to-back, barely upright, the demons charged… But couldn’t get closer. It was as if an invisible wall rose between them and their last hope. A deep, resonant thud — one of the monsters was thrown backward with a roar. Zoey squinted. From behind the demons, emerging like mist — came silhouettes. Light. Radiant. Majestic. One after another — women. Different faces. Different eras. Different clothes. But in every one: power, pain, and honor. — The Predecessors, — Rumi whispered. And as if on cue — the barrier flared blue. All the wounded — Baby, Abby, Mystery — felt warmth wrap around them, and they couldn’t… couldn’t believe it was real. — …They’re protecting us, — Abby breathed. And in that moment, the girls began to sing. “It all fell down… it all fell down…” Mira’s voice pierced the air first — low and intense. Zoey followed — confident and bright. Rumi joined last — her voice trembling, but steady. With each “it all fell down,” their voices grew louder. Stronger. Their weapons began to glow gold. The blades quivered in the air and then — shattered into golden threads, wrapping their bodies, glowing through their skin. — DON’T YOU DARE! — Gwi-ma screamed, face twisted with rage. — YOU DARE?! YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DOING! But the girls didn’t listen. Not anymore. They sang. And this hymn was stronger than any magic. With every chord, demons exploded — one after another. Light cut the dark. Song shattered the eternal. But along with it… Their bodies began to dissolve. The boys realized it. Their breath caught. — …no, — Jinu whispered, trying to rise. — No! Rumi! — What are you doing?! — Romance shouted, running to the barrier’s edge. — This is insane! Come back! — ZOEY! — Mystery’s voice cracked into a scream. — DON’T YOU DARE! But it was too late. Mira turned back. Smiled like nothing was wrong. — We chose this, guys. — We’re huntresses, — Zoey said. — And we’re ending this, — Rumi added, locking eyes with Gwi-ma. And they sang the final chord. Light tore the sky above the cavern. Gwi-ma’s scream drowned everything. The barrier flared, sealing in those it protected. And at the center of the explosion — only three silhouettes, immersed in light, and a song dissolving into the air…

***

The dust finally settled. The roar of destruction faded, leaving only silence… too painful, too empty. Only echoes remained — the last notes of their final song, still trembling in the cavern. “We chose this…” “And we’re ending this…” “We’re huntresses…” Slowly, the barrier vanished. The light dimmed. The demons rose no more. Gwi-ma was gone for good. The boys collapsed to their knees. Something had broken inside each of them. Jinu stood frozen until his fists turned white. His shoulders trembled. — Where are they… — he whispered. — Where?.. And then his scream shattered the silence — full of pain, rage, and despair: — WHAT GOOD ARE YOU EVEN FOR?! IF YOU COULDN’T SAVE THEM?! The Predecessors stood silently. They looked at him, but said nothing. Proud. Quiet. As if they knew. As if… they were waiting. And suddenly… One of them stepped forward. The one who had been the first huntress — the one who began this path. She began to sing. Soft. Melodic. Sad. Like a lullaby sung at a hero’s bedside. After a moment, a second joined her. Then a third. Then all the others, one by one, began to step forward, humming the same tune. The song filled the cave, wrapping the air in warmth. And then… A light flared. Where the girls’ broken weapons had fallen, golden sparks appeared. First one. Then another. They slowly rose, spinning in the air, merging together… The boys held their breath. Baby grabbed Mystery’s shoulder. Abby stood frozen. Jinu didn’t move. Only his eyes burned. The light grew brighter. Particles in the air began forming silhouettes. The shapes of bodies, the curves of faces, strands of hair, the lines of lips… — …Rumi, — Jinu whispered, tears finally falling. Mira. Zoey. Rumi. Their bodies appeared again in the light. As if the universe itself refused to let go of those who gave everything. They stood still. Eyes closed. Their hair fluttered from an invisible wind. Their weapons glowed behind them. And the cave, as if holding its breath, waited… What now? Would they wake? Or was this goodbye — just dressed as a gift? No one knew. Only the melody of the huntresses — the one sung through generations — never stopped.