The massive bodies of the ant monsters began to move slowly. Their antennae waved, and their legs scraped against the earthen walls of the nest, producing a harsh, echoing sound. Their shadows loomed over Draven and Lylia, making both of them hold their breath.
Unconsciously, Lylia grabbed Draven's hand, her fingers trembling.
"I… I'm scared…" she whispered softly.
Draven didn't respond. His breath caught in his throat as he stared at the approaching ants.
The monsters paused for a moment, observing, as if assessing their target. Some moved their mandibles, others lifted their front legs, preparing to strike. The tension in the air was suffocating.
Lylia pressed her hand more firmly against Draven's, trying to calm herself despite the fear.
Then, the ant monsters launched their attack.
Draven and Lylia shut their eyes, bracing for the pain.
But… there was no impact at all.
When they opened their eyes, the sight before them left them stunned.
The ant monsters lay destroyed, their massive bodies scattered across the ground. Amid the carnage stood a figure clad in complete black armor, his sword still gleaming. From the slit of his visor, his eyes glowed blue, piercing and fearsome.
Draven froze, his heart pounding.
Amazing…
The knight stepped forward.
"Are you two alright?" His voice was calm, deep, and authoritative.
Draven nodded slowly.
"Y-yes… we're fine."
The knight gave a brief nod.
"Come. Let's get out of this nest."
Draven swallowed hard and answered,
"O‑okay, sir."
They followed the knight out of the nest. The night air was chilly, and a thin mist began to settle. The danger would only increase the longer they stayed.
Along the way, Draven stole glances at the knight, eyes full of admiration. The figure walked with perfect composure, as if the threats around them were mere shadows.
When they finally reached the village, the worried villagers immediately rushed out. Draven and Lylia ran straight to their parents.
Draven embraced his father tightly.
"Father… I was so scared…"
His father stroked his hair gently.
"It's okay, it's okay… I'm here."
Draven's father turned to the black-armored knight, bowing deeply in gratitude.
"Sir… may I know your name?"
The knight removed his helmet. A young man's face was revealed—around twenty years old, with faint pink hair and glowing blue eyes.
"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Rainer, a royal knight. One of the Four Legendary Knights." The Knight of the Cursed Sword
Draven's father was astonished.
"Forgive my rudeness, Sir Rainer. I did not recognize you."
Rainer smiled lightly.
"It's alright. Protecting the people is every knight's duty."
As he was about to leave, a small voice stopped him.
"Sir… could you teach me how to fight?"
Rainer paused, smiled, bowed slightly, and ruffled Draven's hair.
"Very well. I will teach you… soon."
"R‑really?" Draven's eyes sparkled.
"Yes. Next week. But for now, I am too tired and need to rest."
"All right!" Draven replied with a smile.
Rainer began walking away. From a distance, Draven waved.
Rainer waved back and murmured,
"This child… is quite intriguing."
Slowly, his figure disappeared, swallowed by the night's mist.
To Be Continued