A chill ran through Raiden's body with each step down the street. Silence enveloped them, broken only by hesitant footsteps echoing in the air, while he held Ash's hand as she walked beside him, with the invisible Levi and Noelle flanking them.
Following Ash's directions, however, brought them to a familiar road leading to the slums of the sixth town square.
"I know this place," Levi whispered from the shadows, and everyone turned toward his voice.
"We're heading to the FIRMO hideout," he added.
Raiden and the others all paused as Raiden turned to Ash. When he looked at her, his heart dropped in terror and confusion.
For the first time since Ash manifested into human form, her dark aura began radiating from her. Raiden instantly felt a sudden heat, letting go of her hand immediately.
"What is going on?" Noelle asked while backing away from Ash.
