The heavy gates of Castle Town creaked open as Juichi and Sakura made their way through the crowded streets. Their mission was complete—yet an uneasy silence hung between them. They carried more than evidence of the Duke's treachery; they carried the knowledge that an even greater enemy lurked unseen.
In Sakura's hands rested a sealed scroll, its contents powerful enough to annihilate an entire kingdom. Proof of forbidden magic. Proof that could turn the world upside down.
Their path led them to the Adventurer's Guild. The familiar emblem of a sword and shield swayed above the door, a reminder of the world they fought to protect.
Inside, behind the worn oak desk, sat the Guildmaster—Bariston. His sharp eyes met theirs immediately.
"So, you've returned," Bariston said, his voice gruff. "And you've brought more than a report, I see."
Sakura placed the scroll before him.
"This is the proof you requested."
Bariston leaned forward, studying the ancient seals with a frown. His gaze darkened. "You've done something remarkable. This will shake the roots of Castle Town."
He signaled to the staff to prepare their rewards, but Juichi and Sakura exchanged a brief glance. They both knew: the Duke was merely a pawn. The true mastermind remained hidden, beyond the Guild's reach.
As they stepped back into the cool evening air, the city's lights glowed around them.
"It's over... for now," Sakura said quietly.
Juichi's eyes hardened. "We've finished this battle. The real war is still ahead."
Together, they made their way toward Dragon's Rest Inn—their home.
The warm lights from its windows shone like a beacon against the deepening night. At the entrance, Alira waved excitedly.
"Onii-san! You're back!"
Inside, Lyrae welcomed them with a soft smile. The table was already set—plates of roasted meat, baked bread, and fresh fruits awaited them.
They celebrated quietly, laughter gradually replacing the lingering weight of battle. The room was filled with the comfort of family and hope.
Juichi raised his glass.
"To our success—and the future."
Sakura smiled faintly.
"And to the friends we met along the way."
For the first time in days, the night felt safe.
---
[Flashback - A Few Hours Earlier, in Brunhild City]
"Juichi... there's something I want to ask of you," Edgar said, his voice solemn.
Juichi turned to him. "What is it?"
Beside him, Mira sat quietly, her hand resting over Edgar's.
"You saved us both. I can never truly repay that debt," Edgar continued. "But I want to tie our futures together. If fate allows it... Promise me this: that one day, your child and mine will marry."
Juichi blinked, caught off guard. He hesitated only for a moment before smiling.
"I accept your promise, Edgar. If fate wills it, let our children be united."
The fire crackled warmly in the hearth, sealing their promise under its gentle glow.
Outside, the silver moon bathed Brunhild City in light, bearing silent witness to a vow that would one day shape the course of destiny.
---
[End of Volume 1]
Next Volume will come in a week
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> **In a world trembling on the edge of chaos, a single promise beneath the moonlight will echo across generations.
The true battle has yet to begin.**