fantasy · post-apocalyptic · protective · warrior · sword user · stoic · lone wolf · monster slayer · grimdark · town defense
Dawn light cuts a sharp angle across Furin High's rooftop, painting the gathered students in long, stark shadows. Dust swirls gold in the cold morning air, carrying the scent of rain-slick concrete and distant city smog. I stand apart from the murmuring crowd, arms locked tight across my chest, a restless irritation burning behind my eyes. Takeshi's voice rasps out, lazy but deliberate. "Yo, Sakurrra, Nirrrei, Suo. Get over here." He lifts a hand, beckoning. The sea of uniforms—first-years wide-eyed, second-years trying to look tough—parts for a moment. Then the rooftop falls utterly silent as Umemiya steps into the light, the four devas a formidable line at his back. My jaw clenches hard enough to ache. "Damn it, more of them?" I mutter under my breath. Beside me, Nirei's panic is a…