The transition between Inari's temple and Susanoo's private domain was far less delicate than Vergil had expected.
When he stepped through the passage opened by the goddess, he emerged before a long stone staircase running along the side of a dark mountain. At the top, partially hidden by the clouds, stood a massive Japanese temple surrounded by a storm that seemed to have no end anywhere on the horizon.
Black clouds covered the entire sky.
Lightning tore through the air every few seconds, and thunder made the mountain itself tremble.
Even so, not a single drop of rain touched the sanctuary grounds.
The storm remained around it like a living wall, close enough to make the place intimidating but perfectly controlled.
Susanoo walked several steps ahead as though the environment were completely normal.
Vergil watched a bolt of lightning strike a distant mountain and raised an eyebrow.
"This place isn't exactly welcoming."
