The med bay within the training room is a clean and well-organized space, bathed in soft, ambient lighting. White sterile walls surround the area, adorned with holographic displays showing vital signs and diagnostic information. The air carries a faint antiseptic scent, characteristic of medical facilities.

Each medical bed is equipped with advanced monitoring devices and adjustable features, providing comfort and functionality for the recovering phantoms and their users. The beds are complemented by storage units containing medical supplies, bandages, and various healing concoctions.

In one corner, a holographic interface displays detailed information about phantom users' conditions, allowing the resident healer or Kibou, currently taking a break from his training, to monitor their recovery progress.

The atmosphere, though clinical, exudes a sense of efficiency and care, offering a sanctuary for the phantoms to recuperate before their next venture into the unpredictable realm of phantom battles.

In the quiet moments of recovery, Ethan's mind echoed with the haunting memories of that fateful night when Salem, the orchestrator of his family's demise, had taken everything from him. The scars on his heart ran deep, fueled by the desire for vengeance.

Silver, sensing the weight in Ethan's silence, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "We'll find Salem, Ethan. And we'll make her pay for what she did to your family."

Ethan clenched his fists, determination burning in his eyes. "She won't escape justice this time."

Iris and Cinder enter the training room, catching Kibou in the midst of his intense training with the wooden scythe. Kibou, sweating and focused, notices their arrival and pauses, setting the scythe aside.

Iris: "Hey, Kibou! Training hard, I see."

Kibou, catching his breath, grins at them. "Yeah, gotta stay on my toes, especially after today's showdown."

Cinder: "Impressive. Your dedication is admirable."

Iris: "So, what's the plan? Any new techniques you're working on?"

Kibou: "Always trying to improve. And speaking of plans, Ethan and Sliver are in the med bay. We had a rough encounter with a dark phantom. They could use some rest."

Cinder: "Trouble seems to follow you, doesn't it?"

Kibou chuckles. "It's a phantom user's life. Shall we check in on them?"

Iris nods, and they make their way to the med bay, leaving Kibou to resume his training once they're out of sight.

Silver, feeling the lingering effects of the battle, confides in Assassin.

Silver: "Assassin, I can't let Salem roam freely. I need to be ready, no matter the cost."

Assassin, crossing his arms, responds with a stern tone.

Assassin: "Your determination is commendable, but pushing yourself to the limit won't benefit anyone. We must find a balance."

Silver, though still driven, acknowledges Assassin's advice.

Silver: "I get it, but I can't afford to be passive. Salem won't wait for me to recover."

Iris, having overheard the conversation between Silver and Assassin, decides to intervene, concerned for Sliver's well-being.

Iris: "Hey, Sliver. I couldn't help but hear your conversation with Assassin. It's clear you're determined, but pushing yourself too hard won't do any good. Rest is crucial for recovery, especially after what you faced today."

Sliver, looking at Iris with a mix of surprise and gratitude, considers her words.

Sliver: "I appreciate the concern, Iris. I can handle it; I need to be ready for whatever comes our way."

Iris, showing a gentle smile, attempts to persuade him otherwise.

Iris: "I understand your determination, but you're not alone in this. Trust your teammates, and let's go check on Ethan and Kibou together. They might need our support too."

Cinder, sensing the discussion, joins the conversation, her voice echoing a certain understanding.

Cinder: "Sliver, Iris has a point. Rest is a valuable asset, and your team relies on you being at your best. A weary fighter is a vulnerable one. Trust in your teammates, as she said."

Meanwhile, Assassin chimes in with a touch of practicality.

Assassin: "Heed their advice, Silver. A well-rested fighter is a formidable one. You won't be of much help if you're pushing yourself beyond your limits."

The combined voices of Iris, Cinder, and Assassin convey a unified plea for Sliver to prioritize his well-being.

Sliver, contemplating Iris's words, finally nods in agreement.

Sliver: "You're right. Let's go."

In the training room, the atmosphere is charged with energy as Kibou swings a wooden scythe with fluidity and precision. Each movement is a dance of controlled strength and focused intent. Beads of sweat trail down Kibou's face, reflecting the exertion and commitment he pours into each swing.

Ruby, with wide eyes, watches Kibou's impressive display. "You're really going all out, Kibou!"

Kibou, his breath steady despite the exertion, grins back at Ruby. "Gotta keep pushing, Ruby. Training never stops!"

Sliver, feeling the intense energy, joins the practice. He observes Kibou's movements, recognizing the dedication and passion that fuels the hero of hope. The wooden scythe slices through the air, leaving a trail of determination in its wake. Despite his initial weariness, Sliver begins to feel rejuvenated by the spirited training atmosphere.

Ethan, sitting in the med bay with his eyes closed, is enveloped by the haunting memories of that gruesome night. The air grows heavy with the weight of sorrow as he vividly relives the merciless slaughter of his entire clan. The phantom of the past torments him, and the echoes of clashing swords and anguished cries reverberate through his mind.

The scene unfolds like a nightmare – shadows dancing with malevolence, flickering in the torchlight. The air is thick with the metallic scent of blood as ethereal wisps of phantom energy swirl around. The chilling laughter of Salem echoes, an ominous soundtrack to the tragedy unfolding.

In the chaotic tableau, Ethan sees the distinctive symbol of Salem, burned into his memory like a brand of despair. It's an emblem that represents the darkness that robbed him of his family, etching itself into the fabric of his nightmares.

As the flashback plays out, every agonizing detail etches itself deeper into Ethan's consciousness, a relentless reminder of the pain he endured that night. The room seems to echo with the unspeakable horror as the scars of the past reopen, leaving Ethan to grapple with the emotional turmoil that threatens to consume him.

Adam, sensing Ethan's torment, approaches him in the med bay. With a stern yet caring voice, he calls out to snap Ethan back to the present.

Adam: "Ethan, you need to focus. Don't let the past consume you."

He places a reassuring hand on Ethan's shoulder, grounding him in the tangible reality of the med bay. The memories may linger, but Adam's presence serves as an anchor, a reminder that there are allies by his side, ready to face the challenges ahead.

As Ethan steps into the training room, the echoes of his painful memories linger. Adam, sensing his internal struggle, approaches him.

Adam: "Ethan, focus on the training. It's the best way to channel that energy."

Ethan, clenching his fists, takes a deep breath. The clang of training weapons, the grunts of exertion, and the hum of phantoms fill the air as everyone continues their practice.

Senji, observing Ethan, offers a reassuring nod. "We're here for you. Let the training help you find your center."

Ethan, determined, joins the sparring sessions, his katana cutting through the phantom-filled air. The rhythmic clash of blades becomes a therapeutic symphony, helping him navigate the complex emotions within.

Meanwhile, the pale girl, masked by the shadows of the night, silently surveyed her surroundings in an alleyway. Bodies surrounded her, defeated and unconscious. Stepping into the moonlit night, she pondered, "What is... family?" Her emotionless demeanor contrasted with the mysterious energy that lingered in the darkened alley, leaving a trail of unanswered questions behind. As she vanished into the night, a chilling breeze carried whispers of an enigma waiting to unfold.

The morning sun painted the sky with hues of pink and orange as Kibou rode his bike to school. Ruby, his vigilant Phantom, soared gracefully beside him, her crimson wings slicing through the air.

Ruby: "Kibou, you're running late again! You know punctuality is crucial."

Kibou chuckled, pedaling a bit faster. "I know, I know! Just a few more minutes, and we'll make it."

As they approached the school gates, Ruby playfully scolded him, emphasizing the importance of being on time.

Sliver, accompanied by his Phantoms, Assassian and Senji, stood near the school gates, casting occasional glances at the horizon where Kibou should've appeared by now. Sighs escaped their lips, a routine occurrence for Kibou's perpetual tardiness.

Senji: "This is becoming a habit."

Assassian: "Perhaps we should start without him."

Just as they contemplated starting the day without Kibou, a sudden skid echoed, and Kibou appeared.

Kibou: "Safe!" he called out, coming to a stop with a grin. "Told you, always make it in time."

Ruby playfully remarked, "Late as always, Kibou. You should consider setting an alarm or something."

Kibou chuckled, "Nah, where's the fun in that? Besides, you guys make sure I never miss anything important."

Sliver: he sighs as he scolded Kibou, "You almost missed class again. You need to be more responsible."

As they entered the classroom, whispers about the pale girl echoed through the air. Sliver and Kibou exchanged concerned glances, sensing that something mysterious surrounded her. Ethan, focused on his book, seemed to absorb the rumors, contemplating their significance.

Whispers echoed in the classroom, weaving a chilling narrative about the pale girl.

Student 1: "Did you hear about the pale girl? They say she took down a whole gang in the alleyway."

Student 2: "Yeah, I heard she moves like a phantom, quick and silent. Nobody sees her coming."

Student 3: "I heard she doesn't say a word, just defeats her targets and disappears into the shadows."

Student 4: "People are saying she's emotionless, like a ghost haunting our town. It's giving me the creeps."

Student 5: "I heard she's got some dark connection with phantoms, like she controls them."

The classroom buzzed with a mix of fascination and fear as the rumors painted a mysterious and ominous picture of the pale girl's actions.

Kibou and Sliver approached Ethan, concern etched on their faces.

Kibou: "Hey, Ethan. We've been hearing some rumors about a pale girl causing trouble in the town. What's going on?"

Sliver nodded, echoing Kibou's sentiment, "Yeah, everyone's talking about her. Something we should be worried about?"

Ethan looked up from his book, his eyes reflecting a mixture of seriousness and contemplation. "There's definitely something happening. The pale girl seems to be involved in a series of incidents. We need to keep an eye on it. It might be connected to the recent phantom disturbances."

Kibou and Sliver exchanged glances, realizing that the situation was more complex than they initially thought.

Assassin, Senji, and Ruby listened intently as Kibou and Sliver sought more information from Ethan.

Assassin: "I've heard whispers among the shadows. The pale girl's presence has stirred up a lot of fear among the phantoms."

Senji added, "It's not just fear. It's a strange aura surrounding her, something that even I find unsettling."

Ruby chimed in, "I flew around the town, and everyone seems on edge. It's like they've seen a ghost."

Ethan nodded, acknowledging their input. "We need to find out more about her. She might hold clues to the disturbances we've been experiencing."

Kibou, determined to help, approached Ethan and Sliver with a plan.

Kibou: "Guys, I'll take the lead on this one. You both are still recovering, and it's not the best idea to dive headfirst into unknown territory. Let me and Ruby handle this."

Ethan frowned, concerned about Kibou's safety. "Kibou, you're still getting used to Ruby's power. It's risky."

Sliver added, "He's right. We appreciate the offer, but we should strategize and gather more intel first."

Kibou, however, was confident, "I can handle it. Besides, it's the hero's duty to protect, right? Well that's exactly what I will do!" he said with his usual confident smile on his face.

Assassin: "Sliver, I share your concern. Kibou is still learning to wield Ruby's power effectively."

Senji: "He's got the spirit, but rushing in might not be the best approach against an unknown threat."

Ruby, however, still rallied behind Kibou's enthusiasm, "Come on, guys! Kibou can handle it, and I'll be there to support him!"

The debate among the phantoms continued, each expressing their perspective on the matter as soon the school bell rings.

As the class began, the phantom history teacher, Mr. Hikari, delved into the subject matter with enthusiasm. He spoke of the ancient battles between powerful phantom users and the importance of understanding the history of these extraordinary beings.

Mr. Hikari: "Phantom users, throughout history, have faced formidable challenges. The battles they fought, the alliances they formed, all shaped the course of our world. It's crucial for you, as future phantom users, to learn from their experiences."

Meanwhile, Kibou, Sliver, and Ethan listened attentively, their minds focused on the recent events and the looming threat of the pale girl.

During lunchtime, Kibou found himself engrossed in his research, trying to locate any information on the pale girl. However, his efforts were met with frustration.

Iris, noticing his struggle, approached with a teasing smirk. "Having trouble, Kibou? Need a Phantom Huntress to assist?"

Kibou chuckled, appreciating the offer. "I wouldn't mind some help, Iris. This pale girl is proving elusive."

Iris: "True, but tackling her alone is risky. You should wait for Ethan and Sliver to recover. Teamwork makes the dream work, you know?"

Kibou, however, shook his head. "I appreciate the concern, but I can't just sit around. I need to prove myself as a phantom user."

Iris sighed, realizing Kibou's determination. "Just promise me you won't do anything too reckless, okay?"

Kibou grinned. "No promises, but I'll do my best. Thanks for the help, Iris."

Iris, softening her expression, handed Kibou a note with a potential location for the pale girl. "Here you go, Kibou. Be careful, and don't get yourself into too much trouble."

Kibou took the note, giving her a grateful smile. "I'll do my best. Thanks, Iris. And hey, if I find her, maybe I can prove that my reckless nature has its charm."

Iris chuckled. "Just don't overdo it, hero boy. I'd hate to see you end up in the med bay again."

Kibou laughed, appreciating her concern. "Deal. I'll see you later, Iris."

Iris blushed, watching Kibou leave with Ruby. Cinder, noticing Iris's reaction, teased her, "Looks like someone has a soft spot for our hero in training, huh?"

Iris rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her smile. "Shut up, Cinder. It's not like that. He's just... determined, you know?"

Cinder chuckled. "Sure, sure. Determined. That's what they all say."

Iris sighed, realizing there might be a bit more truth to Cinder's playful banter than she cared to admit.

After a long day of classes, the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the school courtyard. Kibou, Sliver, and Ethan gathered near the school gates, preparing for their quest to find the mysterious pale girl.

Kibou: "Alright, guys, this is it. We need to be on our guard and work together."

Sliver: nodding "Agreed. Let's not underestimate her."

Ethan: "Remember, we don't know her capabilities. Stay sharp, and we'll reconvene back here after searching."

As the trio set off, the fading daylight painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, creating a serene yet tense atmosphere.

Soon Kibou stood in the park, his eyes scanning the surroundings, waiting for any sign of the pale girl. Ruby hovered by his side, her form ready for action. The air was tense as Kibou mentally prepared himself for the confrontation, unaware of the danger that lurked in the shadows.

Kibou, standing in the quiet park, felt an eerie presence. Suddenly, the pale girl emerged from the shadows, her ghostly appearance capturing Kibou's attention. Ruby, vigilant and ready, stood by Kibou's side.

Kibou: "Hey, are you... the pale girl everyone's talking about?"

The pale girl stared at Kibou, her expression blank, as if trying to comprehend his words. She tilted her head slightly, adding an air of innocence to her mysterious aura.

Kibou: "Look, we don't want trouble. Can we talk or something?"

The pale girl continued to observe him, her eyes revealing nothing but an enigmatic emptiness. Kibou, unsure if she understood him, felt a mixture of curiosity and caution. In a soft, emotionless voice, the pale girl finally spoke, her words devoid of any warmth or familiarity.

Pale Girl: "What is... family?"

Kibou: "Family is... well, it's people you care about, who care about you. They're there for you no matter what."

Ruby: "Yeah, family is like a special bond, a connection that goes beyond anything else. Friends can be like family too!"

The pale girl continued to look at them with a perplexed expression, still struggling to grasp the concept.

Kibou: "What's your name? And why are you doing this?"

The pale girl stared at Kibou for a moment before responding.

Pale Girl: "Name... unimportant. Purpose... survival. Power... necessary."

Kibou and Ruby exchanged glances, trying to comprehend the cryptic answers.

The pale girl's eyes flickered, revealing a longing for something she couldn't quite express. She hesitated for a moment, seemingly grappling with her emotions.

Pale Girl: "Warmth... in families. I saw... wanted. But... don't understand."

Kibou, sensing the confusion and isolation in her words, felt a pang of empathy. He took a step closer, trying to bridge the gap.

Kibou: "You don't have to do this alone. We can help you understand, find a different way."

The pale girl looked at him, still uncertain but intrigued by the offer. Soon, the pale girl screamed in pain, gripping her head, as she heard a voice compelling her to fight.

The atmosphere in the park grew tense as Rose and the pale girl prepared for combat. A mysterious voice echoed through the girl's mind, compelling her to fight against her will. Ruby and Kibou, sensing the distress, Phantomized, merging into the formidable being known as Rose. The two were determined to help the pale girl, unaware of the external force controlling her actions.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the park, Kibou, Phantomized alongside Ruby, transformed into Rose to confront the pale girl. Her features were obscured by the dimming light, and an unsettling air surrounded her, signaling that something was amiss.

Rose: "We don't have to fight! What's happening to you?"

The pale girl, under the influence of an unseen force, remained silent. Her eyes, once filled with emotion, now reflected an emptiness that sent shivers down Rose's spine.

The first clash erupted, and Rose's movements were a haunting display of unnatural grace. Swift and precise, they weaved through the pale girl's strikes with an eerie elegance, the pale glow of phantom energy enhancing every move.

Rose: "We need to be careful. She's not in control of herself."

The pale girl, driven by the mysterious force, countered with a series of acrobatic spins, each movement seamlessly blending into the next. The park became a surreal battleground as the fight unfolded, with the haunting beauty of the pale girl's attacks contrasting sharply with Rose's determination to break her free.

Rose propelled themselves into the air with a shot from Crescent Rose, attempting to gain a vantage point. The pale girl responded with a breathtaking leap, effortlessly dodging the sniper shots and landing with an otherworldly grace.

Rose: "Her movements are mesmerizing. It's like she's dancing."

The pale girl's scythe, wreathed in phantom energy, clashed with Crescent Rose in a dazzling display of sparks. Each strike resonated with an otherworldly power, creating a surreal symphony of clashing metal and eerie energy.

Rose: "I've never faced anything like this. Be ready for anything!"

As the fight continued, the pale girl's attacks became more unpredictable, defying the laws of natural movement. Yet, Rose matched her with calculated precision, blending their own phantom-infused strikes with the acrobatic prowess they had honed through countless battles.

The park witnessed a clash of opposing forces—one bound by the chains of an unseen puppeteer, the other driven by the unwavering will to break those chains. The choreography of the battle unfolded like a mesmerizing dance, each move a testament to the struggle between the pale girl's haunting elegance and Rose's determination to bring light to the shadows.

In the heat of the confrontation, Rose, the amalgamation of Kibou and Ruby, faced the pale girl's relentless attacks. As the battle reached its zenith, Rose unleashed their finishing move, aptly named "Blossom Strike." With swift and fluid movements, the scythe traced a beautiful arc through the air, leaving behind a trail of luminescent rose petals.

The Blossom Strike culminated in a precise and potent strike, incapacitating the pale girl. The air lingered with the faint aroma of roses as Rose stood victorious, their fusion of power proving to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of phantoms.

As Kibou embraces the pale girl, his necklace gently makes contact with her chest. A warm, ethereal glow emanates from the necklace, enveloping her with healing energy. Gradually, her eyes flutter open, revealing a mix of confusion and vulnerability.

Kibou: "You're safe now. What's your name?" He asked as he was happy that a life was not lost today.

Pale Girl: *softly* "......Celina" as she hugs Kibou back "So warm..."

Ruby hovers nearby, casting a protective gaze over the trio, sensing the newfound connection and hoping for answers.

As Kibou holds Celina, her eyes slowly open, revealing a mix of confusion and vulnerability.

Kibou: "Celina... You're safe now. Can you tell us what happened?"

Celina: softly "I don't... I don't know. It hurts."

Ruby, still hovering nearby, watches with concern, ready to assist in any way possible.

Kibou gently carries Celina on his back, offering her a sense of support and comfort. Ruby flies alongside them, observing the newfound connection between Kibou and Celina.

Kibou: "Don't worry, Celina. You're not alone anymore. We're here for you."

Celina, still processing the events, clings to Kibou as they make their way back, a fragile but growing bond forming in the face of the unknown.

Kibou, with Celina on his back, meets up with Sliver and Ethan, who notice the battle damage on Kibou. They scold him for being reckless, but Kibou laughs it off, unapologetic.

Sliver: "Kibou, seriously? You can't just charge into every battle without thinking!"

Ethan: "Look at the state you're in! What if something happened to you?"

Kibou: *laughs* "Relax, guys! We got Celina out of it, and I'm fine. Plus, I found out her name is Celina."

Celina, still on Kibou's back, looks at them with a mix of curiosity and gratitude.

Sliver: "Celina, huh? Well, it's a pleasure meeting you. But seriously, be more careful next time."

Ethan: *sighs* "You're impossible, Kibou."

Kibou grins, unfazed by the scolding, as they continue their journey back, a new dynamic forming within their group.

As the day winds down, the group heads home. Kibou, with Celina on his back, takes her to his place to provide care and shelter. The sunset paints the sky with warm hues, signifying the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. In the quiet moments that follow, new connections form, bonds strengthen, and the city's phantoms prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

Iris, seated in her room, engages in a mysterious video chat with someone significant.

Iris: "They might be reckless, but they've got potential. Kibou and Sliver are a force to be reckoned with."

Unknown Figure (on video chat): "Interesting choices. The catacombs will reveal their true worth. Keep an eye on them, Iris."

Iris: "Oh, I plan to. This tournament is going to be more thrilling than ever."

Meanwhile, Iris is on a video chat in her room with someone important, the glow of the screen illuminating her intent expression.

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Here you go guys Episode 3 sorry for the long wait for episode 2 and 3 but the wait is no more!!

Again thanks to Tempest68 Crimson-Pendragon-X