Chapter 5: The Witch's Prophecy

Day after day, Kiryu, Selena, and Liliana braved a blizzard, testing their endurance against the extreme cold. Finally, they arrived in Avalon, a city blanketed in eternal snow. Many adventurers seemed uneasy, talking about the appearance of a Shadow Behemoth near a lake in the forest. However, Kiryu paid them no mind; his only focus was finding the first hero he had to persuade.

The trio found an inn, and after resting, they explored the city. In the main square, a festive crowd drew their attention. A parade was being held to celebrate the birthday of the city's most powerful mage, Merlin. The figure of an old man with a white beard and hair, Merlin, appeared, greeting his citizens.

Merlin: "As a birthday gift, I shall grant one small wish for all of you!"

Merlin uttered an ancient spell. Magical light flowed from his hands, granting the wishes of the people. Selena and Liliana received what they wanted—a gold coin and a gem. However, the magic had no effect on Kiryu, as if his wish was too immense to be granted. A curious Merlin stared at Kiryu.

Merlin: "Why didn't your wish come true, young man?"

Kiryu: "My wish is not for wealth, a throne, or a woman. But, to reunite the heroes."

Merlin's eyes widened in shock, and he became intensely intrigued by the young man's words.

Merlin: "May I know your name? I am very interested in what you said."

Kiryu: "My name is Ozama Kiryu. I am just a simple adventurer."

Merlin: "Oh, is that so? In that case, I invite you to my residence this afternoon. There are some things I would like to discuss with you further."

Kiryu agreed. Liliana, who had witnessed the interaction, grew even more suspicious. She knew an ordinary person wouldn't be a magnet for important figures like Merlin.

In the afternoon, Kiryu arrived alone at Merlin's residence, a magnificent mansion surrounded by a snowy garden. He was welcomed by servants from various races.

Servant: "Welcome to Merlin's Residence, Sir Kiryu." One of the servants bowed respectfully. "You are expected in the garden by Lord Merlin. Please follow me."

Kiryu arrived in the garden. Merlin was already seated, a small table in front of him. A servant poured him a cup of warm tea and offered some cakes.

Merlin: "It's about your wish, Sir Kiryu. Why would you ask for something so impossible?"

Merlin, by accident, saw the mark on Kiryu's hand. He flinched, his face turning pale. The glass in his hand fell and shattered. The servants in the garden were startled.

Merlin: "Forgive my presumption, Lord Arbiter! I truly had no idea that you had returned!" Merlin bowed his head, kneeling before Kiryu.

Kiryu: "Wait, wait! Raise your head." Kiryu felt embarrassed. "It is I who am honored to meet such a powerful and legendary mage, even in the world above!"

Merlin lifted his head, his eyes shining. "My name is famous in the world above?" He laughed with joy. "I'm so grateful to have met you! No wonder my magic had no effect on you."

The two of them laughed together, then began to discuss the threats in Avalon and the Capital of Venicia. Merlin explained that the most terrifying threats were the Shadow Behemoth and a snow dragon named Avalanche. Merlin recounted how the dragon had once razed the city, freezing its inhabitants into ice. Fortunately, the dragon was sealed on a mountain. Merlin pointed to a towering ice mountain in the distance.

Merlin: "According to my father, the dragon was sealed with the help of someone from the Capital of Belguts. But I believe the prophecy. If the Shadow Behemoth appears, then the dragon will surely awaken."

Suddenly, a commander ran, out of breath.

Commander: "Lord Merlin! This is serious! Your granddaughter, Vivian Ambrosius, has run away from the academy!"

Merlin stood up, shocked. "What do you mean? Where did she go?!"

Commander: "Lady Vivian... she ran into the forest! She felt challenged to fight the Shadow Behemoth!"

Merlin: "What did you say?! Damn it! Why now of all times?!"

Kiryu stood up. "Lord Merlin, allow me to find your granddaughter. I'm also curious about what the Shadow Behemoth looks like and how many there are!"

Merlin: "But I don't want you to be troubled by this matter."

Kiryu: "This is also for the safety of the city's people, the people you love."

Merlin saw the sincerity in Kiryu's eyes. "Very well. I beg of you, please bring my stubborn and foolish granddaughter back home."

As Merlin turned to look at the mountain, Kiryu said something.

Kiryu: "Oh, and I want all of you to be on high alert. I have a feeling that Avalanche is about to awaken."

When Merlin turned back, Kiryu had already vanished. "Sir Kiryu?"

Merlin immediately activated his magic, sounding the alarm throughout the city. The ringing bells announced that Avalanche would awaken, and citizens were instructed to evacuate to the bunkers. The entire city was thrown into a panic.

Kiryu arrived at the inn. Selena and Liliana, who had heard the alarm, asked what was happening. Kiryu explained everything, asking for their help to find Vivian in the forest. They agreed. Their urgent mission had begun: to find Merlin's granddaughter before it was too late.