Chapter 179: Return To The Kazuichi Stronghold

Morning has broken once again, ending the memorable night spent with Harajuku Amane, a high-ranking member of the Tokyo Stronghold. Although it was just one day, Kazuichi and the two ladies had more than enough rest, and they’ve more or less recovered from the fatigue they experienced during their adventure.

Kazuichi, Arisu, and Lea stood at the gates of the Tokyo Stronghold, ready to embark on their journey back to the Kazuichi Stronghold. After spending another day in the Tokyo Stronghold and catching up with old friends, they felt rejuvenated and prepared for the trek ahead.

As they stepped out of the stronghold’s protective walls, Kazuichi couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. The road ahead was fraught with danger, but with Lea’s formidable defensive abilities, they felt a newfound confidence.

The sun was high in the sky, casting long shadows over the ruins of the city. The journey back to their stronghold was significant, but they were determined to make it with minimal stops.

Lea took point, her eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of movement. Her senses were heightened, her muscles ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. She was a living fortress, herself and she wanted Arisu and Kazuichi to leave their defenses to her.

"Let’s move quickly," Kazuichi said, his voice steady. "The sooner we get back, the better."

Arisu nodded, adjusting her blade. "Agreed. We’ve got what we came for, I guess it’s time to go home."

Moving through the desolate streets, the trio reveled at the ruins of the city that loomed around them. It was a stark reminder of the world that once was, drastically changing in a day when the apocalypse began. Now danger lurked around every corner, which had become more prevalent due to the zombies’ quick evolution.

The first zombies they encountered were stronger and faster than the usual undead they faced. These zombies had mutated, becoming more aggressive and resilient. But they were no match for Lea.

Despite being Aberrants, these zombies couldn’t even make a dent on Lea’s armor. She would just activate her Bulwark capabilities, and then proceeding to take them on melee-style.

It was still unclear whether Lea already awakened her Blood Arts or not, but judging from her strength, Kazuichi and Arisu believed that such was the case. Nevertheless, it was a pretty sensitive topic to talk about so they didn’t bother asking her just yet.

A group of five zombies lunged at them from an alleyway, their eyes glowing with malevolent hunger. Lea stepped forward, her body tensing as she activated her Bulwark abilities. Her muscles bulged, creating an impenetrable barrier around her torso.

The first zombie reached her, its claws slashing at her, but they glanced off her hardened muscles. With a swift motion, she grabbed the zombie by the neck and crushed its skull with a single squeeze. The other zombies hesitated, sensing the danger she posed, but it was too late.

Kazuichi and Arisu took advantage of the opening Lea created. Kazuichi, with his Synthesis Blood Art, moved with blinding speed, his fists smashing through zombie skulls with bone-crushing force. Arisu, with her Project Blood Art, caught up to the speedy Aberrants in an instant, decapitating them in one fell swoop.

Within moments, the zombies lay defeated at their feet. Lea’s defensive prowess had made all the difference, allowing them to dispatch the threat with ease.

"That was impressive," Arisu commented, barely even out of breath. "Having a Bulwark with us makes a world of difference."

Lea smiled, a rare expression on her usually stoic face. "I’m glad to be of help. Let’s keep moving."

They continued their journey, encountering more resistance as they ventured further from the Tokyo Stronghold. Each time, Lea’s Bulwark abilities proved invaluable.

At one point, they encountered a massive zombie, nearly twice the size of a normal human. Its skin was thick and leathery, its muscles rippling with unnatural strength. It roared, charging at them with terrifying speed.

Lea stepped forward, her muscles hardening into an impenetrable shield. The zombie collided with her, but she stood her ground, absorbing the impact without flinching. She grabbed its arm, twisting it with a sickening crack, and threw the creature to the ground. Kazuichi and Arisu moved in, finishing it off with precise strikes.

Even this particular Omega Zombie proved to be no match for her superior defense, and in the end, they managed to get another sizeable meteorite ore for them to absorb.

"These zombies are getting tougher," Arisu remarked, wiping sweat from her brow. "But with Lea, we’re handling them much better than before."

Kazuichi nodded in agreement. "Still, we shouldn’t let our guard down. Let’s move cautiously."

The challenges grew more formidable, but each battle only served to strengthen their resolve. Lea’s presence allowed them to take on more zombies with greater confidence, their progress swift and efficient.

As they moved through the city, they encountered more powerful zombies. But each time, they emerged victorious, their teamwork and Lea’s defensive abilities making all the difference.

The experience they had gathered also solidified their teamwork. Inwardly, though, Kazuichi was just thankful that Lea was on their side. The bite on his shoulder throbbed in grave reminder of how she once was an enemy.

(Kazuichi kept on reminding himself that it wasn’t her fault, but still, a part of his mind told him that the bite was personal)

Finally, they reached the outskirts of the city, the ruins giving way to open fields and forests.

"We’re making good time," Arisu said, glancing at the horizon. "If we keep this pace, we’ll be back at the stronghold by nightfall."

With a smile, Arisu looked at Lea, her respect for her growing with each passing moment. "You’ve been incredible, Lea. I don’t know how we would’ve managed without you."

Lea’s expression softened, a hint of gratitude in her eyes. "Thank you, Arisu. I’m just glad to be part of the team."

They pressed on, the sun beginning to set behind them. The landscape changed, the dense forests giving way to rolling hills. The air was cooler, a welcome relief after the heat of the city.

As they walked, they shared stories and memories, the camaraderie between them growing stronger. They spoke of their pasts, their hopes for the future, and the challenges they had faced. Lea shared her journey as a Bulwark Hybrid, the hardships she had endured, and the strength she had gained.

Kazuichi and Arisu listened with empathy and respect, their bond growing stronger with each shared experience. As night began to fall, they set up camp in a sheltered grove. The fire crackled, its warmth and light a comforting presence in the darkness.

They sat around the fire, eating a simple meal and talking about their plans for the future. The Omega Gigantic Zombie was still a looming threat, but with the meteorite ores and their combined efforts, they felt they had a fighting chance.

"We’ve got the tracking devices and scouts in place," Arisu said. "We’ll know its movements and be ready to respond."

Kazuichi’s eyes gleamed with determination. "I guess... it’s only a matter of time before we deal with that. Well, we’ll cross the bridge when the time comes."

The firelight danced on their faces, casting long shadows on the ground. They were a team, a family, bound by their shared determination to fight for a better future. The challenges ahead were daunting, but they knew they could face them together.

As the night deepened, they took turns keeping watch, the others finding some much-needed rest. The journey had been long and arduous, but they were nearing their destination.

The next day dawned bright and clear, the sky a brilliant blue. They packed up their camp and continued their journey, the Kazuichi Stronghold growing closer with each step. They encountered more zombies along the way, but each battle only served to strengthen their resolve. Lea’s presence was a constant reassurance, her Bulwark abilities allowing them to take on even the most formidable foes with confidence.

Finally, as the sun began to set once more, they reached the outskirts of the Kazuichi Stronghold. The sight of the stronghold’s walls filled them with a sense of relief and accomplishment. They had made it back, their mission a success.

The gates opened, and they were greeted by familiar faces, their comrades welcoming them home. Kazuichi, Arisu, and Lea felt a deep sense of pride and gratitude. They had faced countless dangers, but they had emerged stronger and more united than ever.

As they entered the stronghold, the weight of their journey began to lift. It had only been three days but it felt like they had been traveling for months.

"Welcome back, young master." Jurou greeted Kazuichi as he slightly bowed his head.

Amaya, who had also been expecting their arrival, ran up to Kazuichi, giving him a big hug as she smiled at her. Well, her sister had a different form of greeting— she just punched Kazuichi in the gut as thanks for not bringing her with him.