City of Mokomo

The sun dipped below the horizon as the Allied Task Force arrived at Mokomo, the city sprawling before them like a jewel of old-world architecture and rugged stone walls. Tall, timber-framed buildings with thatched roofs and narrow cobblestone streets gave the city. The old timey feel, reminding me of stories from ancient tales. The sight was breathtaking; the grandeur of the large halls, towering watchtowers, and bustling marketplaces impressed everyone, especially Uriko and Terran, whose eyes lingered on every detail.

Reval leaned toward Poh, whispering with an eager grin. “You see that? Commander Sadie took down that wyvern king in one blow. Can you believe it? She’s incredible, like, truly awe-inspiring. A real hero.”

Poh nodded quietly, watching Sadie’s commanding figure as she coordinated the arrival of their group. “Yeah, she’s amazing… I mean, I’ve heard stories but seeing her in action—she’s on a whole other level.”

That night, after settling into cozy inns and exchanging stories over warm meals, Reval, Poh and I found themselves sharing a room. Their conversations drifted easily, the fatigue of the journey easing into camaraderie.

Later, as the night deepened, Sadie approached me quietly. Her expression was serious but gentle. “Can I speak with you in private?” she asked softly.

I nodded, sensing the importance. They made their way to the nearby guild hall, its sturdy wooden doors creaking open as they stepped inside. The hall was quiet but alive with the faint hum of activity. Sadie poured them each a drink, some local ale, before settling into seats at a corner table.

With a calm, measured tone, Sadie looked at him. “Little Man,” she said, using my old nickname with a care and tenderness, “I want to praise you for your growth. You’ve come so far. It’s like watching a boy turn into a man before my eyes. Tell me—what’s made you improve so much recently? What’s fueled this strength?”

I hesitated, trying to brush it off. “It’s just… hard work. Training, practice, pushing myself—nothing special.”

But Sadie shook her head, her expression unwavering. “No,” she said softly. “I don’t buy that. I know you better than anyone. You’ve always had that spark. So, tell me—what’s really changed?”

Enuma said in my head, "She want to know how you learned my technique, the breakthrough magic.", I replied to Enuma, "Got it."

I looked away, unsure if he should reveal the truth. “Honestly, I… I just wanted to impress you,” I admitted quietly. “That’s all. To be stronger, to make you proud.”

Sadie’s eyes softened, but her gaze held firm. “I won’t ask for lies,” she said. “But I want the truth. You don’t have to do this alone. We’ve been through too much. Whatever it is, I want to understand.”

I looked down at my hands, voice barely above a whisper. “The truth… it’s too unbelievable. You wouldn’t believe me.”

She leaned forward, her voice gentle but insistent. “Try me.”

He hesitated, then finally spoke. “I… I was motivated by the Breakthrough magic. It’s what I used to push myself past my limits. But… I don’t want to talk about it anymore.”

Sadie’s expression was unreadable for a moment. Then, she reached across the table, her voice warm but sincere. “Thank you for growing stronger. Truly. And… I understand more than you think. Sometimes, the pain we hide is what makes us stronger. I’ve been carrying my own burdens, too. The demon king destroying my hometown, killing my parents—that’s a wound I’ve buried long ago.”

Her voice faltered slightly, but she steadied herself. “You won’t tell me much about what’s happening—yet. But I won’t give up. We’ll find the truth, no matter what it takes. Together.”

I looked at her, feeling a strange mix of remorse and admiration. “I’m sorry for breaking your heart,” I murmured. “I didn’t mean to… I just… I never wanted it, I was feeling lost like I was drifting away.”

Sadie stared at him, stunned by his honesty. Her heart fluttered unexpectedly. She had always seen him as the brave, spirited boy she watched grow, but now—now she saw a man struggling to find his place, haunted by the past but driven by the future.

They sat in silence for a moment, the flickering candlelight casting shadows over their faces. In the quiet, both understood that their bond was stronger than ever.  I got up after finishing the last drink in my tankard.  I said good night and when back to Revel and Poh to find some sleep. 

Enuma interrupted my thoughts, "This is so weird to see you not running your mouth." and I replied, "I appreciate the moral support." 

Enuma confirmed to me, "Now is not a good time to talk about the former demon king being the source of your strength." and I asked, "I don't think there will ever be a good time."

She nodded softly, her voice barely a whisper. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t hurt. But I get it. You’re trying to find your way. And I want to help you, too. I want to help Big Sis Akari unravel the corruption in Mokomo. Not just for the mission, because I believe that healing old wounds is part of the fight too.”

And that night closes and tomorrow will begin anew as always. The road ahead, riddled with shadows and secrets, would require all of their strength together. Sadie knew that rejecting Terran would only make things worse. Making use of the newfound strength that rivals even the great hero is best solution. 

Sadie sat in the corner table, drinking her ale, staring at the candlelight sitting on the table.  Then was eventually interrupted by her retainer coming to pass her message.