Chapter 19: Return to Astria

Kael Ardyn emerged from the dungeon, the morning sun casting golden light across the familiar city of Astria. The air was crisp, and the streets bustled with hunters, merchants, and villagers. But Kael saw it all with new eyes—he had changed, grown stronger, and gained a power that few could comprehend.

He clutched his sword, the Blade Core humming faintly, Void Slash ready at his command. The mark on his hand pulsed with energy, a reminder of the trials he had survived and the promise he had made to himself.

As he entered the city, whispers and curious glances followed him. Some hunters recognized the fledgling who had once been weak, now radiating an aura of strength and confidence. Others simply watched, unsure of what to make of him.

Kael’s eyes scanned the guild hall, and memories of his banishment stirred within him. The officials who had once mocked him, the guild members who had doubted his abilities—they were all part of the past now.

He stepped forward, shoulders squared. “I have returned,” Kael said quietly, though his voice carried the weight of newfound power. “I am no longer the weak hunter you dismissed. I am Kael Ardyn, and I will rise above any challenge.”

A group of lower-rank hunters approached, awe and respect mingling in their expressions. “Kael… you’ve changed. You’ve grown stronger,” one said.

Kael nodded, acknowledging them but keeping his focus on the guild hall. He knew that recognition was not the goal—survival and mastery were. Yet, he could not deny the sense of satisfaction that came from being seen, even if only in passing.

As he walked through the streets, memories of Lyra Selene surfaced. Her words, her presence, her unmatched skill—all were reminders of the standard he aimed to reach. Kael clenched his fist, determination burning brighter than ever.

“I’ve grown,” he whispered to himself. “But this is only the beginning. Astria may not recognize me yet, but I will prove that strength comes to those who endure, fight, and never falter.”

With each step, Kael felt the energy within him align more fully with his mark and Blade Core. The path of the hunter was long and perilous, but Kael Ardyn was ready. The city of Astria would soon see the rise of a hunter who would challenge fate itself.