Next move

Next day...

Sinkon asked Shu, "What's our next move?" Shu replied, "First, we need to gather information. Specifically, we need to find information about the true flame, my mother's bodyguard Ana, and ultimately, information about my mother."

With his hoodie and facemask on, Shu set out on their mission, determined to uncover the truth.

Shu and Sinkon walked through the bustling plaza, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. Sinkon couldn't help but express fascination at how much had changed in the past 10,000 years. The advancements in technology and the overall development of the city were remarkable. It was a testament to the progress made by humanity over the centuries.

---

After a long day of searching, Shu and Sinkon managed to gather a clue that led them to the black market. It was a risky venture, but they were determined to find the information they sought. The black market was known to be a haven for illicit activities and shady dealings, but it was also a place where secrets could be uncovered for the right price. With their hoods pulled low and their identities concealed, they cautiously made their way towards the hidden entrance of the black market, ready to delve into the depths of the underworld to obtain the information they needed.

---

Shu, with a sense of urgency, looked at the black market lady and replied, "I'm in search of the True Flame. Do you have any information or leads that could help me find it?"

The black market lady studied Shu and Sinkon for a moment, her eyes filled with curiosity. After a brief pause, she leaned closer and whispered, "True Flame, huh? That's not an easy secret to uncover. But for the right price, I might be able to assist you."

Shu nodded, understanding the nature of the black market. He reached into his pouch and pulled out a bag of coins, placing it on the counter. "This should be enough to secure the information I seek," he said.

The black market lady's eyes sparkled with greed as she examined the bag of coins. 10,000!. She smiled and motioned for Shu to follow her. "Come with me. I know someone who might have the information you're looking for. But remember, discretion is key in the black market."

Shu and Sinkon followed the black market lady through dimly lit corridors, passing by stalls and booths filled with illegal merchandise. They finally arrived at a secluded corner where a mysterious figure awaited them.

The black market lady introduced the masked girl to Shu as their informant. Shu looked at her, intrigued by her mysterious appearance. "Do you have any information about the True Flame?" he asked eagerly.

The masked girl remained silent for a moment, studying Shu with her sharp gaze. Then, she spoke in a soft but confident voice, "True Flame... it is indeed a rare and powerful entity. But such knowledge comes at a price. Are you willing to pay?"

Shu nodded determinedly. "I am willing to pay whatever it takes to obtain the information I seek. The True Flame is of utmost importance to me."

"100,000 coins", said the mysterious girl.

Shu's eyes widened at the steep price mentioned by the mysterious girl. "100,000 coins?" he repeated, his voice reflecting a mix of surprise and concern. The black market could indeed be an expensive place for acquiring rare information.

~Shu said to Sinkon using inner transmission, "What should we do, Sinkon? I only have 40,000 coins left.".~

~Sinkon replied, "I don't know, maybe we should make some money first."~

"Hmmmm, can you tell me where I can quickly make some money?" Shu asked eagerly. The black market lady gave him a sly smile and replied, "If you want fast money, you can try your luck at the gambling den or participate in underground fights."

---

Fast forward....

Shu's decision to join the underground fights was fueled by a combination of desperation and curiosity. He needed a significant amount of money to acquire the information he sought, and the allure of the underground fight scene seemed like a potential solution. Additionally, Shu wanted to gauge his own progress and see how far he had come since his training with Sinkon.

Entering the dimly lit, gritty underground arena, Shu felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as spectators crowded around the ring, eagerly awaiting the start of the fights. Shu could hear the muffled sounds of conversations, the clinking of glasses, and occasional shouts of enthusiasm from the crowd.

As he stepped into the ring, Shu could feel the energy coursing through his veins. The air was heavy with tension and the scent of sweat and adrenaline. The ring was illuminated by a single spotlight, casting dramatic shadows on the canvas below. Shu tightened his grip on his fists, ready to unleash his martial prowess and magical abilities.

---

Shu's heart raced as he stood in the arena, facing his opponent. The crowd hushed in anticipation, their murmurs echoing through the air. The big guy, three times Shu's size, with a fierce face. "This my little opponent eh?" . The big guy belittle Shu.

To be continue...