Over ten kilometers southeast of Mist Rain Lake, amidst the lush forest, there lies a moderate-sized lake.
The lake district is heavily guarded.
Eighteen imposing warriors, mostly armed with battle axes, stand scattered throughout the forest, silently keeping watch.
On the lake's surface, a burly man is floating.
His short hair is disheveled, beard thick, and his body is bare, revealing bronze skin, defiantly showcasing his robust physique.
He doesn't care about others sneaking glances or admiring this perfect form.
In the icy lake water, he lies there with his eyes closed, floating on the surface.
As if he is... uh, sleeping?
"Alas..." A woman's sigh comes from the woods, "When will these days come to an end?"
"Shh! Keep it down!" A man holding a battle axe warns in a low voice.
Although the two are stationed far from the lake, in this serene environment, even the slightest noise stands out.
