The Forgotten Tide: Rebirth Before the Pirate Era

The first light of dawn crept over the horizon, casting long shadows across the bustling port town of Ravelle. The sea shimmered like molten gold, but the beauty was lost on Kaizen as he stood atop a weathered rooftop, eyes scanning the docks below. His instincts screamed that something was amiss.

The town, usually vibrant with fishermen, traders, and townsfolk, carried an unusual tension. Armed men lurked in alleyways, their movements too calculated to be mere dockhands. Their cloaks did little to hide the glint of steel beneath. Kaizen's gaze hardened.

Lio joined him, breath visible in the cool morning air. "You feel it too, huh?"

Kaizen nodded, his mind racing. "They're not here for trade. They're looking for someone."

Before Lio could respond, a commotion erupted near the central square. Shouts, the clash of steel, and the unmistakable crackle of gunfire filled the morning air. Kaizen didn't hesitate. He vaulted off the rooftop, landing with cat-like grace, and sprinted towards the chaos.

The square was in turmoil. A group of cloaked figures had surrounded a young woman, her back against a crumbling stone wall. She fought fiercely, dual blades flashing with deadly precision, but the numbers were against her.

Kaizen moved without thought. He was a blur, weaving through the attackers with fluid efficiency. His fists and feet struck with bone-crushing force, sending foes sprawling. The woman met his eyes briefly, a flicker of surprise crossing her face before she nodded and fought back-to-back with him.

The battle was swift. The remaining attackers fled, disappearing into the labyrinthine streets.

Kaizen turned to the woman, breathing heavily. "Who are you? And why are they after you?"

She sheathed her blades, her sharp eyes scanning their surroundings. "Name's Selene. They're hunters from the Black Crest Syndicate. I carry something they want."

Lio arrived, panting. "What could be so valuable?"

Selene hesitated, then pulled a small, ancient-looking artifact from her cloak. It shimmered faintly with an otherworldly glow.

Kaizen's heart skipped. This... feels familiar.

Selene noticed his reaction. "You know what this is, don't you?"

Kaizen clenched his fists. "No. But I intend to find out."

The dawn had risen, but for Kaizen and his companions, shadows still lingered—and they were growing darker.