At the inn, Soren woke up feeling like he'd been run over by a cart, his body aching all over. As he squinted his eyes and pushed himself up, he made his way to the stairs, only to be greeted by a lively commotion. Curious, he went to check it out and noticed Rosalia and her mom glancing at him, quickly trying to hide something from his view. He leaned in, trying to catch a glimpse, when suddenly he heard a girl's voice. Rosalia and her mom exchanged a look, and then with a cheerful "Ta-da!" they stepped aside to reveal Yuri, and most surprisingly, Jaun dressed up as the inn's staff. Soren's jaw dropped in shock. Jaun, looking a bit nervous, asked if she looked okay, while Yuri chimed in too. Soren struggled to find the right words and finally managed a simple, "You two look fine," while rubbing his head. They seemed to think so too, looking satisfied with his answer, except for Rosalia and her mom, who promptly dragged them away for a makeover, calling him a jerk in the process.
As they sat down for breakfast at the inn's cafeteria, Soren couldn't help but ask why she chose to stay at the inn. Before she could answer, it was clear that Yuri was not comfortable, who was sitting between them, pouting. "Well… you see, the guild master Aster is actually my brother." Soren nearly choked on his food as Yuri offered him a drink. "Brother?" Jaun chimed in, nodding along. "We had a deal to keep my identity under the radar, but I slipped up just the other day. As a consequence, he told me to find a job to learn more about discipline so I ended up here." Looking a bit downcast, Soren tried to cheer her up, insisting it's a crime to hide a face like hers, which made her blush. Yuri shot a glare at Soren and growled at Jaun, clearly annoyed.
To do Rosalia a favor, the trio decided to help her out by picking up some supplies from a nearby market. Jaun, wanting to honor his brother's request, put on a disguise as they strolled through the market. Yuri spotted a candy store and eagerly dragged Soren inside, where they lost track of time enjoying their treats. As they wandered, they unexpectedly ran into Zereth, who was also shopping in front of a flower shop.
Soren waved and called out to him, and Zereth responded with a friendly greeting, asking what Soren was doing at the market. Soren learned that Zereth was picking up flowers to take to a nearby cemetery. Seeing the bouquet, Soren offered to help, and after exchanging glances, Jaun and Yuri decided to pitch in as well. They walked together along the cobbled path, and Zereth thanked them for their assistance.
As they made their way, he asked how they had been since the raid. Soren replied that they were doing well, just dealing with a few aches and pains. Zereth chuckled, recalling their last adventure as quite wild. He then asked Soren how he was finding life in Cardaltha so far. After a moment of thought, Soren said he was getting used to it and actually enjoying it. As they approached the cemetery, Soren felt a mix of amusement and sadness at the sight of so many graves lined up.
Zereth gently placed flowers at the gravestones of his fallen comrades, whispering a peaceful prayer as his friends joined him in this moment of remembrance. He shared his gratitude for their presence, expressing that the memories of those they lost would forever hold a special place in his heart. "Their sacrifice laid the foundation for our guild's success, ensuring our spot in society. I owe everything to them," he said, and Soren couldn't help but smile at his sincere words. Just then, a butterfly danced by, carried on the breeze, and landed softly on Zereth's shoulder, a tender reminder that their loved ones were still with them, despite all the challenges and adventures they had endured.
To return the favor, Zereth assisted his friends with their errands. Amidst the bustling crowd, Soren spotted an unusual figure, a man in a brown hood, with a muscular build and an aura that radiated strength. The man's gaze was fixed on him as he walked past, but Yuri quickly pulled him back to help choose the best products. When Soren looked again, the man had vanished, leaving him with a lingering sense of unease, the power he sensed felt dangerous, so he decided to stay alert.
The trio waved at Zereth as they part ways, leaving the market they are satisfied with their haul, Yuri looking merry as she also got a present from Soren, Jaun notice Soren's unease he asked what is wrong but Soren just shrugs it off dismissing her, they reached the inn and Rosalia was pleased to have collected all the goods.
That night, feeling a bit uneasy, Soren decided to step out for some training. He made his way to a secluded part of the forest outside Cardaltha, a place where he could practice his Ecrean powers without anyone watching. Vixra'al had told him about a new ability he had unlocked, conjuration. With her guidance he stood still, stretching out his arms, and began to visualize, the desires he held, and the material he wanted to create. "Let your power flow freely," he reminded himself, "feel every strand of your being react as you bring something from your imagination into existence."
Soren focused on his breathing, and soon energy began to surge around him. The air started to hum softly, then more intensely, as the energy began to take shape. But just as he was getting into it, a small distraction broke his concentration, causing the energy to dissipate. Disappointed, Soren felt like his efforts had been in vain. However, Vixra'al reassured him that this was normal at first and that the key was to keep trying until he mastered it.
As the night wore on and dawn approached, his persistence finally paid off. He managed to conjure an egg, encased in a hard exoskeleton. Curious, he tapped it, thinking it might be hollow, but Vixra'al cautioned him to be gentle, as he had created something special. In her mind, Vixra'al was incredibly impressed, Soren had exceeded her every expectation by conjuring an Ecrean seed, a feat with a one in a thousand chance of happening, a truly rare occurrence.
Feeling a bit dizzy, Vixra'al urged him to get some rest, so he carefully tucked the egg into his pouch and made his way back home.
The plaza buzzed with energy as the big news broke, Cardaltha was gearing up to host its very first festival, celebrating its newfound status as a nation strong enough to take down a powerful Ecrea. Flyers were being handed out left and right, and the plaza was decked out with colorful decorations. Citizens eagerly joined in to spruce up their surroundings, adding their own unique flair. At the same time, others pitched in to set up a statue in the heart of the plaza, showcasing an enigmatic figure with the nameplate Aldis. Aster, caught up in a mountain of paperwork, was approached by one of the guild's staff who handed him a report. He rested his chin on his hand, reading through it gracefully, but his expression shifted to one of irritation. He instructed the staff to send out scouts with a stern look on his face, running his fingers through his bangs. "Of all times, why now…" he muttered, clearly frustrated.
That afternoon, Zereth got a summon to Aster's office, he was handed a paper outlining his next mission. Aster made it clear that he wanted Zereth to take care of it along with subordinates for the investigation. Aster urged him to see this as more than just a task, it was a personal request. After exchanging pleasantries, Zereth set off to tackle the mission. He made his way to the inn to find Soren, but Jaun told him that Soren was out cold after training all night. Rosalia offered him a drink, but he just left his regards for Soren and continued on his way. Outside, his two companions were waiting for him, while Soren and Yuri enjoyed a peaceful nap in their room.
As they approached the gate, Zereth spotted Fira Lucia leaning against the wall, clearly waiting for them with a grin that radiated excitement. Beside her stood Thrun, equally eager to join the adventure. Zereth nodded in agreement, and as the gate swung open, the five of them set off on their perilous mission. He pulled out a parchment detailing their task and began briefing the group, urging them to pay close attention. "Our Master has tasked us with investigating the abduction of several citizens from Cardaltha, including members of other guilds. The plundering and sabotage are likely due to our rising popularity. He suspects the culprits are from one of Cardaltha's most notorious guilds, exiled for their history of murder and a terrible reputation." Fira Lucia, fired up, declared she was ready to fight, while Lilia felt a twinge of nervousness at the news. Arnac simply acknowledged the threat with a nod.
As they crossed the border, they stumbled upon their first clue, a broken caravan with supplies strewn about. Zereth knelt down to take a closer look, spotting fresh blood on the grass. While scanning the surroundings, he discovered a piece of torn fabric, its edges cut cleanly, suggesting that the attacker might be a skilled swordsman or someone with expert with sharp weapons. He stood up and guided the group toward a nearby forest where the trail seemed to lead. They carefully searched the area until a rustle in the bushes made them draw their weapons, only to find it was just a deer darting away.
They continued their investigation, and Thrun eventually spotted a broken twig that seemed to mark a trail leading to an abandoned village nearby. The atmosphere was unsettling, with dilapidated houses standing as grim reminders of the devastation Ecrea had wrought. At the edge of the village, they uncovered what appeared to be the most significant clue yet. Lilia turned away, gagging at the sight of an old, gnarled tree where corpses hung, feasted upon by crows.
Zereth's face twisted in anger as he swore to bring justice to those responsible. They carefully lowered the bodies of the missing villagers, offering prayers before laying them to rest. As dusk approached, they decided to take refuge in an empty house, setting up traps for any potential attacks. Lilia was still shaking from the sight of the dead villagers, but thankfully, Thrun was there to comfort her. Fira Lilia couldn't hide her frustration, she was eager to continue their investigation, but Zereth urged her to save her strength, promising he would give her all the fight she needs. As she finally settled down, Zereth stayed awake to keep watch while the others slept soundly. He noticed Arnac sitting quietly in a corner, also alert. Zereth thanked him for staying awake and insisted he get some rest, but Arnac simply closed his eyes, determined to remain vigilant. This brought a smile to Zereth's face.
As the night grew darker, a strange presence loomed in the distance. Arnac sprang to his feet, materializing his weapons on his arm, while Fira Lucia couldn't contain her excitement. "Finally!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. From afar, a horde of Ecrea was making its way toward them, drawing closer by the second. Zereth quickly shouted for everyone to dodge just as their shelter, the house where they had been resting, was crushed under the weight of a massive group of Ecrea that looked like boars, complete with menacing tusks and powerful legs.
Zereth and the others leapt to higher ground, scrambling onto the roofs of the houses. The Ecrea locked onto their target, setting their sights on Thrun, who stood atop one of the houses. Bracing himself, he jumped down just in time to avoid being buried under the rubble. He conjured his knuckled weapon, ready for a fight. Fira Lucia followed suit, landing beside him as they faced the charging Ecrea.
Just then, Zereth swooped down from the sky, his lance piercing one of the boars and crushing it in the process. The remaining Ecrea charged at him, but Arnac was quick to intercept, taking down another one. One by one, they dispatched the group of Ecrea, and after a fierce battle, they stood panting from exhaustion. Suddenly, they heard applause coming from a nearby chapel, and their eyes were drawn to it, curious about who was watching.
As they stepped into the chapel, the entrance was their only source of light, with the moon casting a gentle glow over them. They made their way down the nave and spotted a figure sitting cross-legged at the altar, accompanied by four others. Zereth approached and asked, "Are you Ryker?" The man grinned and replied, "And what if I am?" Without hesitation, Zereth summoned his lance and said, "That's all I needed to know." Ryker's laughter echoed menacingly through the chapel as he signaled one of his subordinates to step forward.
Emerging into the light from the window was a seasoned warrior, his eyes were blank and his broad shoulders adorned with heavy spaulders, reminiscent of a knight. he drew his broadsword and planted it firmly on the chapel's chancel. Zereth realized Ryker's plan was to wear them down, so he decided to engage in a one-on-one fight. Just as he accepted the challenge, Arnac placed a hand on his shoulder and stepped forward, "Brave move, I like this guy… finish him off, Hark." Hark readied his weapon, preparing for battle while Ryker watched with amusement. The two warriors clashed fiercely, exchanging a flurry of strikes without giving each other a moment's respite.
Arnac tapped into his newfound abilities, morphing his arms into sharp blades, and unleashed a powerful double slash attack. But to his surprise, Hark didn't even attempt to block it, which sent a wave of unease in him. Hark simply stood there, and as the impact drew near, there was a thunderous boom when Arnac's blade struck the surface of Hark's armor, sending a tingling sensation through his hands. "Impossible!" Arnac exclaimed. In response, Hark raised his right arm and delivered a powerful punch, followed by a brutal knee to his abdomen. He yanked Arnac's hair and tossed him aside, signaling for the next challenger to step up. Ryker's subordinates chuckled, clearly enjoying the spectacle. Zereth couldn't shake the thought of how Hark had survived that attack, his mind raced as he searched for a solution. Just then, Fira Lucia stepped forward, saying, "There's no need to get so worked up about this. All we have to do is finish them off, right?" She cracked her knuckles, ready to challenge Hark next, rallying Zereth's spirits.
The fight wrapped up almost like it did with Arnac. Hark absorbed all of Fira Lucia's attacks effortlessly, just standing there with his broadsword planted, waiting for her next move. As she prepared to unleash her Belligerent Factor, Zereth called out, "Wait!" He had pieced together a theory, "It's not that he's an invincible warrior, someone on his team must have the ability to cancel out momentum on impact, like an invisible cushion." Ryker, clearly impressed, whistled and shot back, "What are you going to do about it?" It felt like an insult given their current predicament. Lilia glanced at Zereth, with worry etched on her face. He nodded and signaled Arnac to make a run for it. Arnac stood up and followed suit. Frustrated, Fira Lucia had no choice but to flee as well. Once they reached the forest, they regrouped, catching their breath. "Is it over?" Lilia asked, but Zereth shook his head. "No, this is far from over." Thrun scanned the area, sensing a shift in the air. "Here they come." Sure enough, Hark emerged from the shadows, flanked by all of Ryker's party members. "Looks like we have no choice but to end this," Zereth said as they braced themselves. In a surprising twist, Zereth's party suddenly split up, scattering in different directions. Ryker found this bold move amusing, and each of his subordinates chose their opponents. "Get them," he ordered as they prepared for the final showdown.
Fira Lucia found herself on a rocky patch of the forest, and there, looming above a boulder, was Hark, eyeing her like she was his next meal. He casually rested his sword on his shoulder before leaping down with a bone-rattling thud. The moon cast a silvery glow over their makeshift battlefield as Hark brandished his sword, ready for the fight they both had been waiting for. Fira Lucia, not one to back down, ignited her fiery claws, eager for the clash, while others scrambled away, fleeing from Ryker's relentless group.
Meanwhile, back at the inn, Soren stirred awake to find Jaun greeting her. Feeling a bit hungry, Soren asked what was for dinner as she served him a meal. Just then, Yuri came down the stairs, looking for Soren. They both enjoyed the inn's famous omelet rice together. Jaun joined them and reminisced about earlier when Zereth had left a message for him, saying they were heading out on a mission. Soren paused for a moment, contemplating, before diving into her meal. Aster gazed out the window, silently praying for Zereth and his team to have a successful mission.
In his room, tucked away in a storage box, the egg was bulging and shaking as if something inside was ready to break free.