CHAPTER 34 — The Silverwind Plains

The Silverwind Plains stretched endlessly beneath the pale-blue sun, grass rippling like waves under the constant breath of the wind. Ivan walked steadily, cloak brushing against the tall blades, his silver sword resting at his side. Every step carried him closer to Ridmann… closer to Elen.But the plains were not empty.A guttural roar split the air. From the horizon, a pack of Ironfang Beasts surged forward — wolf-like monsters with jagged steel protrusions from their backs, eyes glowing with hunger.Ivan’s hand tightened on his sword.The Kingdom SquadBefore he could move, voices rang out.“Form ranks!”A squad of Ridmann soldiers appeared over the ridge, their armor gleaming with the kingdom’s crest. At their head was Captain Rynald, a seasoned warrior with a scar across his cheek. Beside him, three younger knights raised their spears, their faces tense but determined.They charged the beasts, steel clashing against fangs. But the monsters were too many, their iron hides deflecting ordinary blades.Ivan stepped forward, his aura calm but sharp. “Hold them. I’ll cut.”The soldiers glanced at him, confusion flashing in their eyes. “Who are you?” Rynald demanded.Ivan didn’t answer. He drew his sword.The BattleThe Ironfang Beasts lunged. One soldier was knocked to the ground, claws tearing at his shield. Ivan moved like wind, his blade flashing silver.SHHRAAK!The beast’s iron spine split cleanly, its body collapsing in silence. The soldiers froze, staring.Another beast roared, leaping for Rynald. Ivan’s sword moved again, severing the threads of its strength. The monster fell lifeless, its corruption dissipating into smoke.The squad regrouped, emboldened. Together, they fought alongside him — spears piercing, shields holding, while Ivan’s blade cut through what should have been unbreakable.Within moments, the plains were littered with fallen beasts. The wind carried away their smoke, leaving only silence.AftermathThe soldiers stood in awe, breathing hard. Rynald lowered his sword, eyes fixed on Ivan. “You… you cut them as if they were nothing. What kind of blade is that?”Ivan sheathed his sword, his voice calm. “Just a blade that severs what needs to be severed.”The younger knights exchanged glances, whispering. None of them recognized him. To them, he was only a nameless wanderer who had saved their lives.Rynald stepped forward, bowing his head slightly. “Whoever you are… Ridmann owes you thanks. If you’re heading to the kingdom, travel with us. The plains are dangerous, even for seasoned warriors.”Ivan’s gaze lingered on the horizon. Ridmann. Elen. He nodded once. “I’ll walk with you.”Closing NoteAs the squad marched across the Silverwind Plains, whispers spread among them of the mysterious swordsman who cut monsters like threads.Ivan said nothing. He didn’t care for their awe. His thoughts were only of her. Eleonora. But in his heart, she was still Elen.