Hey reader! Just a quick heads up! This chapter is a recap of the story so far. You don't have to read it if you're already caught up, but I won't stop you either, haha.
It's simply just a refresher on everything that's happened up to this point. If you do decide to stick around, I hope you enjoy it! I also plan to include more chapters like this after major arcs. You'll recognize them by the ".5" at the end of a chapter number, so you'll know it's a recap and can skip it if you'd rather jump straight into the action. It's totally up to you, depending on how much of a memory boost you need! I guess you can think of these as checkpoints, quick ways to look back and remember where things left off during a specific arc. ...Although, you can just decide to reread the whole story from the beginning if you'd like, I wouldn't stop you. Just kidding, do whatever makes you happy! Anyway, thanks for reading, and take care!
Beyond The Breach: The Story So Far...
Both Hollow Agents Hikari Amane and Captain were caught in the middle of a catastrophic event. Echos have unexpectedly broken free from their vaults, and now their world is threatened by these dangerous anomalies. With the help of a mysterious antique Artifact in Dr. Naru's possession - engraved with a White Star - a portal was opened which lead them to an entirely unknown world. Desperate and out of options they decided to step through it, hoping to find help on the other side.
They soon discover that they arrived in the city of Xevia. A land where powerful warriors and mysterious magic exist. There, they encountered two skilled Xevian warriors who wielded a unique power known as Emanation. Lumina Ashira, a graceful samurai with a green aura and a painful past. Slayer, a silver-armored knight with a blue aura and a cheerful, unshakable spirit. In exchange for helping Hikari save her world, Lumina made a single request: to help her find new recipes for her tavern. It was an odd bargain, but one they accepted. And so, a deal was struck and a bond was formed, one forged through trust and shared resolve.
A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.
Their arrival didn't feel like an accident. In this strange new world lay a powerful object, an obsidian-like artifact, oval in shape, with a Black Star engraved at its center. It was first uncovered by Lumina and Slayer, though its origin remains unknown. What they did discover was its ability to open a portal back to Hikari's world. Now, the artifact rests in Hikari's hands and something... or someone... continues to whisper from within it. Or at least, it seems that way.
Before returning to their world and arrive at Echohold-09. Hikari and Captain spent three relentless weeks training under Lumina and Slayer's guidance. In the quiet dojo and deep within the forest, they pushed themselves beyond their limits - enduring stamina trials, hardening their bodies, and sharpening their decision-making through mind-focused challenges. Along the way, they uncovered the true nature of their Emanations, and in the end, they faced their mentors in battle, awakening the strength they would need for the coming war against the Echos.
Hikari discovered her unique abilities: Cognitive Acceleration, which enhances her mind's processing speed. Healing and Boost Support, amplifying allies with her pink aura, mending wounds and even restoring damaged clothing or gear. And Aura Tech Link, a power that lets her hack through almost anything. To aid her further, she commands Aura Tech Link Drones, spherical machines that obey her every command.
Captain also unlocked his unique abilities. Crimson Bullets, specialized rounds infused with red aura that pierce through nearly any material. With Aura Reload, he channels his aura directly into his rifle, eliminating the need for magazines. And with Configuration Shift, his rifle transforms into three forms: shotgun, sniper, and SMG - adapting to any battlefield.
Together, they learned Aura Vanish, a common yet vital skill, allowing them to store items in the void and summon them back in an instant.
Now... with their training complete, their Emanations awakened, and the Artifact in their possession, Hikari and Captain stand ready. Alongside Lumina and Slayer, they reopen the portal - returning to Echohold-09, where Dr. Naru awaits their return.
The Containment War Arc begins.
Next Chapter: First Echo Contact
