Chapter 4 : The Fairy Forest

On a quiet night, L and the fox-girl sat by a crackling fire, roasting fish that L had caught before sunset. Smoke curled upward with a sharp scent, mingling with the night breeze, while stars shimmered above the thick trees surrounding them.

Y lay near the fire, his body still marked by the wounds of the recent battle. Ash watched him with concern and whispered softly:

Ash (worried):

“Has he always risked himself for the sake of others?”

L (calmly, turning the fish):

“I’ve only been with him for about two months, so I don’t know him completely… But what he did to save you—that was the only right move at that moment. He saved me from prison too, and never asked for anything in return.”

Ash:

“I wonder if he’ll be alright…”

Suddenly, Y sat up and turned his gaze toward the sky.

Ash (startled):

“You’re awake already?!”

L (with a faint smile):

“No, not the way you think… It’s just midnight. No matter his condition, he always wakes at this exact time. At first, I found it strange, but later… I understood why.”

Ash (curious):

“And why is that?”

L (smiling):

“He always looks at the moon.”

And indeed, Y lifted his eyes briefly toward the clear sky, where the moon shone in its fullest glory. Then he lay back down in silence. Ash and L exchanged a short glance before both let out a quiet laugh.

Ash (whispering):

“What a strange person…”

L (smiling):

“You’re right.”

Three Days Later

Y had fully recovered. He stood by a clear stream, testing the flexibility of his body, while Ash sat on a nearby rock, watching him in awe.

Ash:

“It’s amazing… you’ve completely healed in just three days.”

Y (with a faint smile):

“The credit goes to you, Ash… thank you for the treatment.”

Her cheeks reddened slightly as she answered shyly:

Ash:

“I should be the one thanking you…”

⸻

Gathered Around the Fire

The three of them sat together once again by the fire.

Ash:

“This is the first time in my life I’ve seen someone with such a weak amount of magic… I can barely sense it.”

L:

“Same here.”

Y:

“I think that’s an advantage… it makes it easier to stay hidden.”

Ash:

“I won’t deny that, but it also means you’ll be the least likely to grow stronger. For us, magic opens countless paths for development.”

Y:

“That’s logical… so what should I do, in your opinion?”

Ash (serious):

“You have to surpass your limits—refine everything you have—to stand on equal ground with the strongest warriors.”

L:

“You already have sharp senses, and your perception of auras is remarkably precise.”

Ash:

“And there are plenty of techniques that don’t require magic at all… those should be your target.”

Y extended his hand and drew his twin-bladed weapon, handing one of the blades to both L and Ash.

Ash (in surprise):

“It’s absorbing my magic.”

L:

“Mine too.”

Y:

“I expected as much… so this is what reduced the damage from the circle’s explosion back then.”

Ash:

“Where did you get it?”

Y:

“When I woke up… it was already with me.”

L:

“I don’t think that’s a coincidence.”

Y:

“Neither do I… but whoever gave it to me, I’m grateful.”

Ash:

“Could it be the reason your magic is so weak?”

Y:

“At first I thought so… but it turned out the weapon wasn’t the cause.”

L (thinking aloud):

“Now that I think of it… you left the weapon aside for three days. If it were draining your power, some of it should have returned by now.”

Ash:

“That’s true… but why didn’t it?”

Y paused for a moment, then looked at them and said:

Y:

“Since we’re all here, it’s time to decide our next destination. L and I are heading to the homeland of the Elves. What about you, Ash?”

Ash (with a firm tone):

“What a coincidence… while I was being held, I overheard demons talking about an imminent attack on the Fairy Forest. They were planning to use my magic for it. I feel it’s my duty to warn them—and help however I can.”

L (agreeing):

“Then our path is the same.”

Y stood up, his voice calm but resolute.

Y:

“Then it’s settled. Let’s move.”

Ash smiled quietly, as though she had finally found her purpose.

After a few days of travel, the group finally reached the Fairy Forest.

The forest stretched vast and majestic, with towering trees that seemed to brush against the heavens. Their leaves shimmered in emerald hues beneath the sunlight, while the wind whispered through the branches like ancient voices carrying forgotten secrets. The place felt like a world apart, immersed in its own magic and depth.

L (with contemplative eyes):

“I’ve heard the Elves have lived here for centuries…”

Ash (walking cautiously, her gaze fixed on the deep shadows):

“Yes… but things aren’t the same anymore. The Elves have come to despise humans, after the slavery and cruelty they endured in recent years.”

Y (pausing at the forest’s edge, his tone calm):

“Then don’t worry. I’ll remain outside and scout the area. Can you two find me a map—even an old one?”

L (turning to him):

“Is there something specific you want us to look for?”

Y (his sharp eyes locked on the trees):

“Yes… I want to confirm something. Just beware of traitors. Our enemy is clever—he won’t rely on strength alone.”

Ash and L (in unison):

“Understood.”

With that, the two ventured deeper into the forest, while Y set off on his own path along the outskirts, his expression concealing a secret he had yet to reveal.

⸻

They pushed deeper into the thick forest, where colossal trees embraced the sky and sunlight pierced through the branches like golden threads painting glowing trails upon the damp earth. Suddenly, a group of Elves emerged, standing in defensive stances, weapons raised, sharp eyes following their every move.

Ash raised her voice with steady resolve:

Ash:

“Tell Freya that Ash wishes to meet her.”

From atop a massive tree, a deep, steady voice resounded. A man sat on a wide branch, his sword resting across his lap, features calm yet stern:

???:

“A spirit fox… and a vampire. A rare pairing.”

With the grace of a predator, he leapt from the height, landing before them with feline agility.

???:

“I am Leicht, commander of the forest guard. What is your true reason for coming here?”

Ash (meeting his gaze without flinching):

“The demons are planning an attack on your forest.”

Leicht gave a brief nod.

Leicht:

“We are already aware of that… is there something else?”

Ash hesitated for a moment, then spoke again, her tone grave:

Ash:

“My magic may be part of their plan. It ties to my story… and the reason I was imprisoned before.”

He studied her in silence, his expression softening with a hint of understanding. After a pause, he finally said:

Leicht:

“I see. Follow me—you’ll meet Freya.”

He guided them into the heart of the Elven city, where an enormous tree rose at the center, surrounded by scattered wooden huts connected by natural bridges of intertwined roots and trunks. The place radiated both reverence and beauty.

Leicht stopped and gestured ahead.

Leicht:

“Only the spirit may enter. The vampire stays here.”

Ash replied calmly, without protest:

Ash:

“That’s fine.”

Ash walked through a long tunnel carved into the trunk of the colossal tree. Its walls were covered in glowing flowers, casting an ethereal light that guided her steps. At the end, the path opened into an enchanting garden that looked like something out of a dream: a carpet of emerald grass bathed in radiant lights, while the sweet songs of birds filled the air.

At the center sat a woman with thick brown hair, calmly sipping tea, surrounded by tiny fairies that fluttered and sang around her.

Ash’s voice trembled with nostalgia:

Ash:

“Freya…”

Freya lifted her head and smiled warmly.

Freya:

“It’s been a long time, my friend… Welcome to my domain.”

Ash took the seat across from her and began recounting everything—from her capture to the moment she met Y. Freya listened in silence, her expression calm yet intent, until she finally spoke:

Freya (softly):

“I see… Thank you for telling me. But where is the human who saved you?”

Ash answered firmly:

Ash:

“Because of the strained relations between humans and Elves, he chose to wait outside the forest and scout the area.”

Freya did not comment. Instead, she raised her hand, weaving a magical communication spell. A faint glow shimmered around her as she spoke:

Freya:

“Leicht, bring the human.”

Ash interrupted quickly:

Ash:

“It would be safer if L goes with him.”

A faint smile curved Freya’s lips.

Freya:

“I heard that. Leicht, take L with you.”

She then lowered her gaze briefly to the teacup in her hand, whispering almost to herself:

Freya (murmuring):

“Is this human truly so special?”

Ash’s eyes gleamed with sincerity as she replied:

Ash:

“More than you can imagine.”

Freya’s voice carried a trace of astonishment:

Freya:

“And what is his name?”

Ash answered quietly:

Ash:

“Y.”

A mysterious smile spread across Freya’s lips.

Freya:

“Hm… It seems things are about to get very interesting.”

Ash leaned forward, her tone questioning:

Ash:

“What do you mean?”

On a high rock outside the forest, Y sat in silence, his sharp gaze scanning the terrain. He studied every path and slope with meticulous precision, as if committing the land to memory. Meanwhile, L was speaking to Leicht.

L:

“Do you have a map? Even an old one will do.”

Leicht pulled a rolled piece of parchment from his pack and replied:

Leicht:

“Yes, but why?”

A faint smile touched L’s lips.

L:

“It isn’t for me… it’s for Y.”

Leicht froze for a moment, his voice slipping out in surprise though he quickly steadied it:

Leicht:

“Y…?!”

Then, regaining his composure, he said firmly:

Leicht:

“Let’s go.”

⸻

In a shadowed corner of the forest, two figures whispered to one another.

First voice:

“We are moving according to plan… there are strangers, but they pose no threat.”

Second voice:

“They had better remain that way… tomorrow, we strike.”

⸻

On the edge of a nearby mountain, Y sat gazing into the horizon when Leicht and L arrived.

Leicht’s tone carried a friendly warmth as he approached:

Leicht:

“At last, I meet you… Anna’s brother.”

L’s eyes widened in shock, while Y simply offered a calm smile.

Y:

“Just as I thought… Anna is one of the Elves.”

He stepped forward, standing opposite Leicht on a bare patch of earth.

With a confident smile, Leicht unsheathed his sword.

Leicht:

“I’ve heard much about you from Anna. Will you help me warm up?”

Y’s voice was steady, unwavering.

Y:

“With pleasure.”

In a sudden blur, Leicht surged forward with incredible speed, his body enhanced by wind magic, appearing behind Y with a sharp strike.

Y spun instantly, raising his twin blade as a shield, catching the violent blow that forced him a step back. Yet he regained his balance swiftly, his eyes burning with focus.

Leicht pressed in without hesitation, repeating his assault. This time, Y countered directly. Steel clashed with steel, ringing out like thunder, but Leicht twisted in mid-motion, bending the wind to alter his path, slipping past the counter and leaving a shallow cut across Y’s shoulder.

The fight pressed on. Y kept to evasions, adapting to his opponent’s speed, reading the rhythm, storing every detail in his mind.

Through the clash, Leicht demanded:

“What’s your magic?”

Y answered with a faint, enigmatic smile:

“I don’t have one.”

Leicht’s brows flicked upward in brief surprise.

“Strange…”

But before he could say more, the battle shifted. Y lunged forward, his speed doubling in an instant, his strikes sharper, heavier, relentless.

“My body just needed a warm-up.” His voice was calm, his smile cold, as he pressed the assault.

They exchanged blow after blow, movements flashing like lightning, until both pulled back at the same moment, preparing for the final strike. The air between them trembled, heavy with tension on the verge of explosion.

But before they could collide, the ground split open. A massive tree burst upward, roots tearing through the soil, separating them with raw force.

A voice drifted through the air, calm yet commanding—it was Freya, speaking through nature’s magic:

“I believe that’s enough.”

Lowering his blade, Leicht exhaled deeply and nodded.

“You’re right. Forgive my rashness… I am Leicht, Anna’s friend.” He extended his hand toward Y.

Y clasped it with a faint smile.

“Pleased to meet you.”

The tree slowly receded back into the earth as if it had never been there, and Freya’s voice echoed again:

“You, and those with you, are invited to enter the Elven forest. I shall be waiting.”

Leicht turned to Y with a genuine smile.

“You truly are just as Anna described you.”

Y inclined his head slightly in thanks.

“And you are a fine opponent… I enjoyed our fight.”

Sliding his sword back into its sheath, Leicht added with quiet conviction:

“Among warriors, combat is one of the purest forms of introduction. You’ll find many who use it.”

Y’s lips curved into a small smile.

“It’s a very effective way.”

They all moved toward the heart of the Elven forest.

Y walked with steady steps, his eyes scanning the surroundings with sharp precision—reading the lay of the land before the faces of its people. On either side of the path, the Elves stood in formation, weapons at the ready, eyes alert. The forest itself felt like a silent army.

Y asked quietly as he observed them:

“Are all Elves warriors?”

Leicht answered in a firm tone:

“Yes… we have no other choice. Within the forest, this is our home, but beyond its borders, there are many who seek to capture and sell us. If you wish to survive… strength is the key.”

He then stopped and gestured ahead.

“We’ve arrived.”

At the center of the forest rose an ancient, colossal tree, its branches stretching wide as if embracing the heavens. In front of it stood Freya, her thick brown hair flowing with the forest breeze, her eyes keen as they rested on the newcomers. As Y and L approached, she smiled gently and spoke in a calm voice weighted with wisdom:

“Welcome… I’ve heard much about you.”

Y gave only a brief, reserved nod, while L bowed her head respectfully in greeting.

Freya motioned with her hand.

“Come with me, please.”

She led them through a passage carved into the trunk of the massive tree, its walls entwined with glowing vines, clear waters running beneath their feet like living veins of the forest. At its end, a natural hall opened up, a sanctuary of green light, where Ash was already waiting.

Freya gestured toward the seats shaped from living wood around a table.

“Please, sit.”

Her gaze then turned to the map in Y’s hands.

“What do you intend to do with it?”

Y answered steadily:

“Knowing the battlefield is half the victory. I need to chart the possible movements of the demons.”

He bent over the map, comparing its details with the observations he had made earlier from the mountain peaks, questioning Leicht about the terrain, the paths, and weak points. His focus was sharp, the eyes of a seasoned warrior calculating every step.

After a moment of thought, he said:

“If our enemy is the same one who captured Ash… then he is clever, and his magic is intricate.”

Freya leaned forward, her eyes glinting.

“Then we must think like demons. If you were him, how would you bring me down?”

Leicht was silent for a moment before he answered:

“Fire… but not from the outside.”

Freya’s lips curved faintly, her gaze burning with insight.

“Exactly… from within. Betrayal.”

Leicht’s voice hardened.

“Striking trust is the simplest way. Traitors are often more dangerous than armies.”

Ash hesitated before speaking:

“There’s something else… they gathered my magic. I believe they plan to use it to summon something dangerous.”

Y’s tone was analytical, cold in its clarity:

“A summoned beast, perhaps. If their goal is to bring you down, they’ll distract you with overwhelming force.”

Freya’s voice was calm, yet edged with deadly resolve:

“A composite assault, then… a monster of great power, a disciplined army, and a traitor striking from within. Perfect.”

Leicht nodded, the framework of a plan forming in his mind.

“I’ll order every soldier to watch those around them—without letting the others know. If the traitor moves, we’ll find him quickly.”

Y allowed himself a faint smile, his voice steady:

“A solid plan. Once the attack begins, the traitor will be forced to act… and that will save both time and lives.”

Their discussion carried on deep into the day, the sun sinking as they refined every detail, testing every possibility until the strategy was complete.

At last, Freya rose, her voice ringing with the authority of a leader sealing fate:

“Then it is decided. We will divide the roles and begin preparations immediately.”

The next day, the team gathered in a small planning room inside the trunk of the ancient tree.

The only one absent was Y, who had gone out early to scout the southern front.

Suddenly, the door opened quietly, and an Elf girl stepped inside. Her strides were confident, her gaze sharp. Long golden hair swayed with her movements, and her attire blended the elegance of nature with the firmness of a hunter. A sword rested at her waist, and a bow was slung across her back.

She spoke in a calm voice:

“I’ve returned from the mission… and I heard we have guests.”

Freya smiled gently:

“Let me introduce you… this is Anna, Y’s sister.”

L’s eyes widened in surprise before she whispered in admiration:

“You’re as beautiful as Y described…”

Then she introduced herself:

“I’m Y’s companion.”

Anna raised her brows in surprise, then laughed lightly:

“Y’s companion! And why didn’t anyone tell me he had arrived? You know how long I’ve waited for this moment.”

Freya took a step forward:

“He arrived yesterday.”

Anna smiled, her face glowing with nostalgia:

“It seems you truly are his companion… Y always had a talent for choosing remarkable people.”

L returned the smile warmly:

“Your words make me happy.”

Anna asked innocently:

“Where is Y now?”

Ash replied:

“On a scouting mission, but he’ll be back soon.”

Anna nodded, as though unsurprised:

“That’s just like him… Anyway, thank you for taking care of him. He has walked a long road through hardships.”

L smiled softly:

“It’s us who should be thanking him… he has helped us greatly.”

Leicht laid a stack of maps on the table, his voice firm:

“The attack will be tonight. Time is short.”

Anna answered seriously:

“I understand… we must be ready.”

Then Leicht, flipping through the papers, asked:

“By the way, where’s Diona? I haven’t seen her for a while.”

Anna replied:

“She went hunting a week ago, in the southern region… she was supposed to return today.”

A reassuring smile spread across Leicht’s face:

“It’s fine… Y went there. She’ll be safe.”

But before he could continue, a soldier burst into the hall, breathless:

“Commander Leicht! The demon army… they’re closing in on our borders!”

Leicht rose at once, his eyes blazing:

“Everyone to your positions… the war has begun.”

Freya exchanged a swift glance with him—a short nod was all it took before he vanished quickly toward the heart of the city, heading to his most dangerous mission: unmasking the traitor. Meanwhile, the others rushed to prepare the defenses.

The sky trembled with fiery explosions that tore through the horizon, as the demons unleashed a barrage of flame magic upon the forest’s edges. But Freya, calm as ever, raised her hand, and from the roots of the ancient tree surged a massive magical barrier. It absorbed the flames, shielding the forest from destruction.

Battles erupted on every front. The clash of steel and sorcery mingled with war cries, turning the forest into a theater of blood and fire.

Above the battlefield, Leicht soared among the ranks of the Elves, his eyes scanning the soldiers like a hunter stalking prey. Then suddenly, his gaze locked onto one of them. With a single step forward, the winds roared around him.

A violent storm descended in an instant, slamming the traitor to the ground.

Leicht’s voice rang out, cold as steel:

“I knew I’d find you here… in the only place you never wanted the fire to reach.”

The traitor’s eyes widened in shock:

“Leicht?!”

Leicht advanced, his piercing gaze cutting straight through the soul:

“Do you know how much I despise betrayal? Were it not for it… my daughter would still live. Were it not for it… my wife would not have been taken. Were it not for it… I would not have endured the torment of chains, night and day.”

A fleeting image flashed before him—his little daughter smiling, calling out to him—before betrayal’s flames swallowed her whole. He did not hesitate, nor allow himself the mercy of doubt. With a single step, his sword traced a deadly arc, severing the traitor’s head from his body.

From the traitor’s limp hand slipped a black stone, and from it rose a distorted voice:

“You knew what would come… yet you failed. The Demon King… controls everything.”

Leicht did not waver. He crushed the stone beneath his boot until it crumbled into dust. Then he returned to the fray, his expression caught between seething fury and cold serenity—like a man who had sworn a new pact with blood.

On another side of the forest, a young girl—half-cat, half-human—sat quietly, nibbling on fish. Her ears twitched at every sound around her. Suddenly, the roar of battle reached her.

She murmured in surprise:

“What’s all this noise?”

A voice came from the shadows beside her:

“The demons are attacking the Elves.”

Her head snapped up sharply:

“Demons, huh? And who are you?”

The man only smiled calmly as he tasted a piece of fish:

“I’d say the Elves matter more than those questions.”

She hesitated for a moment, then exclaimed:

“You’re right… I have to help them!”

With feline grace, she leapt to her feet. As the shadows shifted, revealing a group of demons surrounding her, she faced them with astonishing agility. Her ears moved in rhythm with her breathing, her body flowing among them like air itself, evading their strikes with calculated steps.

From afar, Y watched with a sharp gaze, a faint smile curving his lips:

“She’s fast, indeed.”

Then he whispered to himself as he rose:

“And so am I… time to begin.”

He let her head toward the forest, while he slipped silently into the demons’ stronghold.

On the battlefield, war blazed.

Anna darted swiftly between the trees, her sword dancing with the wind, cutting down her foes with confidence and speed. When a massive shadow demon lunged at her, she leapt lightly into the air, drew her bow, and fired a flaming arrow that pierced its body and brought it crashing down.

L, in contrast, reigned like a queen upon her throne. Her scythe sliced through the demons with the gentlest of touches; their blood scattered in the air as though it were dancing with her—a chilling blend of terror and beauty.

At the heart of the chaos stood Ash. Magic poured endlessly from her hands: strengthening, shielding, healing. The Elves around her stared in awe.

“I’ve never seen anyone wield magic like this… she’s a genius!”

Meanwhile, Licht was a living tempest—rushing through the ranks of demons with the speed of a raging storm, leaving nothing behind but shredded corpses.

⸻

Deep within the shadows, Y reached his target. He saw the demon commander speaking to one of his followers.

The commander’s arrogant voice rang out:

“The time has come. Use teleportation magic to reach the heart of the Elven Kingdom. I’ll deal with Freya myself.”

At that very moment, four lights flared in different corners of the forest, and from each one, fresh waves of demons poured forth.

Y smiled faintly:

“So… I’ve found my mark.”

⸻

Explosions shook the battlefield as another light erupted at its center—out of it stepped a new demon.

L’s cold voice cut through the din:

“At last… the main course.”

Ash’s eyes flared with fire as she smiled:

“I’ll show you the price of my captivity.”

Anna raised her sword:

“Come on, no time for introductions.”

And Licht, drawing his blade with a thunderous voice, declared:

“It seems you’ve chosen your own end with your own feet.”

Deep within the forest, where the magical barrier pulsed like a beating heart, Freya stood guard with all her strength. Suddenly, a light burst open before her, and out stepped the demon commander, his eyes glowing with mocking fire.

“It’s been a long time, Freya… Busy with the barrier, are you? You won’t even be able to protect yourself.”

Freya knew that fighting this demon would mean risking the collapse of the barrier. She hadn’t expected him to reach this hidden place, but betrayal had led him here.

He lunged forward with blinding speed—yet a shadow overtook his movement, and a powerful punch struck him from behind.

The commander froze, stunned.

“Who are you?”

Y stood before him, his gaze unwavering.

“I am Y, just a wanderer. Freya is a little occupied… so I’ll be your opponent.”

The commander laughed mockingly.

“I see… then die.”

He vanished for a moment, then reappeared right in front of Y, unleashing a massive explosion. Dust and smoke filled the air, and the commander smirked in scorn.

“This is what happens when you let a weakling guard you.”

But a calm voice came from behind him.

“Impressive attack… but luckily, I’ve grown a bit used to explosions.”

The commander’s eyes widened.

“How are you still alive?!”

Y appeared behind him once more, dodged his strike, and delivered a crushing punch to his face.

The commander muttered in a tense voice:

“It seems I underestimated you. What’s your name, human?”

Y replied with a faint smile.

“I already introduced myself… my name is Y.”

“I’ll remember you well… My name is Leo.”

“Then… let’s begin.”

The two clashed, their first collision erupting into a massive explosion. They traded blows barehanded, every punch met with another. Y unleashed a flurry of strikes, but Leo grabbed him, slamming his forehead against him twice in succession. On the third attempt, Y seized the moment, driving his knee upward into Leo’s jaw with brutal force.

On the other side of the battlefield, Anna, Ash, Liecht, and L had already defeated their foes one after another. Yet the breath of war had not ended… the shadows still hid more to come.

The scene shifted back to Y and Leo. They exchanged a silent glance, then a brief smile, each acknowledging the other’s strength.

Leo clenched his fists, surrounded by a crimson aura of explosive magic, while Y drew his twin-bladed weapon, his grip steady and his eyes unblinking.

They charged at one another, and with every clash of blade and fist, sparks erupted, explosions booming across the forest. Y swung a side strike—Leo blocked it with raw force and countered instantly, but Y exploited the smallest opening, leaving another fresh wound across his body.

Both were pushed back by the sheer power of their blows. Leo’s body was bleeding, his wounds multiplying, while Y’s skin was marked with burns and bruises.

Y calmly sheathed his weapon and smiled with quiet confidence, as if declaring: “This isn’t over yet.”

Leo smiled back, his eyes shining with a pure fighting spirit.

“You’re the first… to face me with true fairness.”

Y asked, watching his breathing:

“And who do you usually face?”

Leo’s voice was tired, yet filled with raw honesty.

“Warriors who come prepared with special techniques made just to kill us. The dwarves, for example… they devised a strike that destroys us from within.”

Y raised an eyebrow with keen interest.

“That sounds like a fascinating technique… I’d like to learn it someday.”

They launched forward again, fists blazing. Both landed a punch at the exact same moment, the impact rippling through the air and forcing them a step back before they regained balance.

Then it began anew—punch after punch, no defense, no dodging, just two bodies testing their absolute limits.

Y drove a powerful blow into Leo’s chest, but Leo answered with a harder strike, making Y stagger. Leo tried to finish it, but Y twisted his momentum, countering with a sudden strike that threw Leo off balance.

Yet Leo refused to yield. Before he could fall, he unleashed his final card: the explosive magic he had planted on Y’s body throughout the battle.

A massive detonation thundered, engulfing the field in smoke and shaking the ground beneath their feet.

Leo emerged from the haze, his legs barely holding him, his body drenched in blood and wounds—yet he smiled.

“You’re the first warrior… to face me like this. But… forgive me, the victory is mine.”

As he panted heavily, the smoke began to fade. From its heart, a shadow walked forward with steady steps.

In the next instant, Y’s fist shot upward, slamming directly into Leo’s face, hurling him to the ground.

Y stood amidst the fading smoke, his hand still raised, declaring victory. His body could barely remain upright, but his eyes still carried the same unwavering resolve.

Freya lifted her head in astonishment, her eyes widening as she watched the scene. She stepped forward lightly, whispering:

“This man… continues to amaze me.”

Suddenly, Y lost his balance. Freya quickly extended her hand, catching him with her magic and lowering him gently to the ground.

She examined him swiftly, then exhaled in relief.

“Just unconscious… good.”

Her hands began to glow with healing magic, washing his battered body in a warm light.

At that moment, Leo raised his head with difficulty, his voice broken.

“The mastermind behind all this… is the Demon King. If our plan fails… it will take him some time before he moves again.”

Freya looked at him cautiously.

“And why are you telling us this?”

Leo chuckled faintly, his voice barely audible.

“Isn’t it obvious…? I’m no longer of any use to him.”

Suddenly, his body began to glow with a faint inner fire, as though flames were consuming him from within.

He lifted his gaze to the sky, his eyes shimmering with an unfinished tear.

“I’m glad… that my final battle… was against a warrior like you… Thank you.”

Then his body burned quietly, dissolving into ash that scattered into the forest air—leaving behind only the echo of respect for a fighter who had never known defeat… until he fell with honor.

Anna rushed in, her voice urgent:

“Freya, you need to see this.”

She approached and found Y lying on the ground, his body covered in burns and blood. Her voice trembled with a mix of pain and awe as she whispered:

“He never changes…”

Freya gave a reassuring smile.

“Don’t worry, he’s only asleep.”

Liecht stepped forward with steady resolve.

“I’ll handle things here.”

Anna answered firmly:

“Let’s go.”

Freya asked:

“And what about your brother?”

Anna smiled with quiet confidence, catching her breath.

“I’ll carry him with me. Don’t worry about him… no matter the problem, he always comes back.”

The two of them stepped out together, Anna carrying Y on her shoulder. But suddenly, the ground quaked beneath them, and a colossal beast rose, its body towering higher than the forest trees. It began gathering immense magical energy for an attack.

At that very moment, Diona appeared. Relief spread across Anna’s face as she called out:

“Perfect timing… help me bring this monster down. You and I will launch a joint attack.”

Diona hesitated, her voice uneasy:

“But… I still can’t control my magic.”

Anna placed her hand firmly on Diona’s shoulder.

“It’s fine. Just trust me.”

The two began gathering their magical power, but the monster was faster, unleashing a massive wave of magic. Freya intercepted it with her barrier, but her brow furrowed as she strained.

“You’ll only have one chance… I won’t be able to block the next strike.”

Flames erupted in the hands of Anna and Diona, their powers merging into a blazing orb. But at the last moment, Diona faltered, losing balance—the attack veered past the monster, leaving it unharmed.

Diona collapsed to the ground, her eyes brimming with regret.

“I ruined everything…”

Anna knelt beside her, whispering with a calm smile:

“Don’t worry… everything’s fine.”

But the monster was already charging a second attack. The forest trembled, trees cracking under the pressure of its growing power. Everyone braced for the end—

And then, cutting through the dark, came a familiar voice.

Y appeared once more, his body barely able to move. He swung his weapon with sheer willpower, deflecting the monster’s magic off course.

His voice was faint, but a light smile touched his lips.

“I knew… you were a remarkable weapon.”

He staggered toward Diona, placed his trembling hand gently on her head.

“I’m counting on you.”

Then his strength gave out, and he collapsed beside them, unconscious once again.

In that instant, Diona’s eyes burned with new fire—as if the spark of trust had reignited her heart. Flames roared to life around her, this time steady and fierce.

She rose, meeting L’s gaze. L gave a firm nod.

Their joint attack ignited—an immense blaze that pierced through the monster’s chest. It let out a thunderous roar before collapsing, its massive body reduced to a charred husk.

The battle was over, and the cries of the Elves’ victory echoed through the forest. Yet, our heroes did not join the celebration. Instead, they sat around a small fire, their faces weary, the flickering flames reflecting the remnants of battle in their eyes.

The scent of burnt wood and smoke hung thick in the air. Ash lifted her gaze toward Y, who lay beside them, and spoke with quiet reassurance:

“He’ll be fine… Freya healed all his wounds.”

Anna gave a faint smile.

“He hasn’t changed… not at all.”

L raised an eyebrow in curiosity.

“Hasn’t changed?”

Anna’s eyes lingered on Y’s face for a moment before she replied:

“It seems you’re all eager to hear his story.”

Everyone leaned in at once, their voices filled with anticipation, as if they’d been waiting for this very moment:

“Yes!”

Anna chuckled softly, then said:

“But on one condition… story for story. Each of you must share something in return.”

Her eyes turned toward Ash.

“What do you want to know about him?”

Ash hesitated, then answered:

“It’s hard to choose just one thing… but maybe the beginning? How he grew up?”

A short silence fell. Anna’s gaze shifted to the fire, as though she could see a distant memory flickering in its flames. Her voice carried both sadness and weight:

“I’m sorry… I’m not the right person to answer that. The only one who could is our older sister… But I can tell you about the first time I met Y.”

The group leaned closer, holding their breath.

Anna began:

“I was twelve years old. We lived in a poor town, barely a place for children to survive. I worked in a small shop, cleaning, doing simple tasks. I was lucky, because that job was better than the other choices in a city where some sold even their dignity for coin.”

She let out a sigh before continuing:

“One day, after I collected my wages, I went out to buy food. But I ran into a gang—infamous, ruthless. They stole everything: money, food… even children. I tried to run, but they chased me. I ended up in a forbidden zone—rumored to be the lair of a monster that appeared only at night. In daylight, it was just ruins.”

Ash raised a brow in surprise.

“A forbidden zone?”

Anna nodded.

*“I was screaming for help, but people only watched in silence. No one dared intervene. One of the men struck me with a stone, and I fell. He grabbed my hair, laughing as he said:

‘We’re going to have some fun tonight.’

I bit his hand and fled deeper into the darkness… and there, he appeared.”*

She paused, her eyes glowing with the memory.

*“A boy about my age… his hair long, his body frail, barely covered in rags. The men froze at the sight of him. One of them whispered in fear:

‘It’s the monster.’

One lunged at him with a club, but the boy dodged effortlessly and tore the man’s face with his nails. He moved with terrifying speed, as if the night itself guided him. Anyone who tried to touch him ended up bloodied. Then he turned to their leader and spoke in a broken, low voice:

‘Leave.’

But the leader grew furious and charged with a knife. He never landed the blow—the boy severed his finger. I was trembling, paralyzed with fear.”*

Anna pressed a hand to her chest, as if she still felt that fear.

*“The leader shot him, hitting his hand… but the boy didn’t retreat. He attacked again, as if he could see the bullets before they fired. He knocked the man down and slashed his face.

Then, the leader aimed the gun at me. The boy stepped in front of me and took the bullet instead.”*

Her breath shook as she continued:

*“The leader kicked him aside and aimed again. I grabbed a stone and smashed it against his head with all my strength. He turned on me, raised the gun—

And suddenly, the boy was behind him, standing, his eyes glowing red. He struck the leader down… but he didn’t kill him. He only stared for a long, heavy moment before turning away, staggering, bleeding with every step.

I called out:

‘Wait!’

And I followed him…”*

Everyone fell silent, as if holding their breath, waiting for the end of the tale.

Anna continued in a softer voice:

“I found him collapsed on the ground. I tried to stop the bleeding, then ran to bring my older sister… she was a healer. She came with me, sat beside him in silence, and began to treat him. She removed the bullet from his body and wrapped his wounds with great care.”

Her eyes lingered on the fire, and she smiled faintly:

“I asked her then, ‘I wonder what his name is.’

She answered me: ‘His name is Y… I was there when he was born.’”

She paused, as if weighed down by the meaning of those words, then went on:

“But that is a story for another time… what mattered then was that he survived, that he was safe.”

Anna’s smile grew as she echoed her sister’s words:

“She told me: ‘Your first aid was good… you did an excellent job.’”

Her gaze dropped briefly, and she whispered:

“That was the first time we met… and from that day on, we stayed together… until we were separated once again.”

A short silence followed, and all eyes turned toward Y, lying peacefully nearby. For a brief moment, he opened his eyes, gazing at the moon, before closing them again and surrendering to sleep.

The group laughed softly, as though they had grown used to his strangeness. Y was, as always, mysterious… and strange.

After the battle

Ash found herself standing beside Freya. They exchanged a silent glance before Freya spoke in a gentle tone:

“It seems you’ve found wonderful companions.”

Ash let out a small sigh.

“I don’t know if I can really call them companions… we’ve only been together for a few days.”

Freya smiled faintly and shook her head.

“Still as naïve as ever…”

She stepped closer, her voice dropping to a whisper as if afraid someone might overhear:

“Tell me, Ash… when was the last time you visited the Spirit Kingdom?”

Ash hesitated, then answered:

“A long time ago.”

Freya’s expression grew tense, her face paling.

“Something strange is happening… I heard that the ruler of the spirits has died… and that his second son has taken his place.”

Ash’s eyes widened in shock.

“His second son?! Not Alfred? That’s… impossible. There must be some mistake.”

She stared into the fire for a long moment, then whispered, her voice barely audible against the crackle of the flames:

“No… something unnatural is happening.”

⸻

Elsewhere, under the quiet veil of night, Anna spoke with L.

Out of nowhere, Anna asked:

“What do you think of Y?”

L smiled faintly.

“That’s a sudden question… He’s a very strange person. I’ve been with him for two months, and we hardly exchange words. We trained together more than we ever talked. Sometimes, he feels like the closest person to you… yet at the same time, you realize you don’t know him at all.”

She lowered her gaze, then added:

“At first glance, he seems ordinary. But the more you watch him, the more you see how different he is. I used to think he was just lucky… but then I realized he makes his own luck.”

L sighed softly.

“Honestly… I thought about leaving after repaying my debt to him. He saved my life. But… somehow, I ended up staying by his side longer. Strange, isn’t it?”

Anna smiled gently.

“I understand. Only a few truly recognize Y’s worth. I used to think I was lucky to have someone who helps me… but then I wondered, who will help Y? That’s why… I’ll do anything for him.”

At that moment, L’s gaze rested quietly on Diona, who slept curled up beside Y, her tail wrapped protectively around him. A faint smile touched L’s lips.

“Looks like she loves him.”

Anna chuckled.

“Seeing her like this makes me smile. In truth… she was abandoned by her own family. They forced her to give up her name, cast her aside because she couldn’t use her innate magic. Leicht was the one who found her, hiding in a cave.”

Anna sat gently beside the girl, her eyes soft with warmth.

“Today… after so long, she finally managed to use her magic. She was so overjoyed she kept jumping until she collapsed from exhaustion. She told me she feels at ease near him… She really is like a cat.”

L laughed lightly.

“Cats always choose the quietest place to sleep… maybe that’s the reason.”

The two laughed together, before Anna rose and said kindly:

“Let’s leave them to rest… and get some sleep ourselves.”