X weeks ago, the West Yamanashi Stronghold
The dense forest of West Yamanashi was home to many dangers, but for Natsuki Lea, it was a sanctuary. As a Bulwark Hybrid, her unique ability to cover her torso with impenetrable muscle made her a formidable hunter. She roamed the woods, her senses keen and her spirit fierce, taking down zombies that dared to threaten her peace.
Little did she know that her peace would be threatened once again, and this time, the undead wasn't involved.
The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the treetops, when Lea heard the unmistakable sound of footsteps—human footsteps. She tensed, her body instinctively hardening in preparation for a fight. But these footsteps were not the shambling gait of zombies; they were quick and purposeful.
A group of men emerged from the trees, clad in their usual shabby clothing. One look and Lea knew that they came from one of the Yamanashi Strongholds.