Chapter 39: A Celebration Without Swords

In the Kingdom of Mond, before the royal palace, there was a celebration of a different kind.

A celebration where swords were not raised—only memories.

A family, reunited after years of separation.

Regon and Eleanor arrived at the royal palace, where Rosari was waiting to welcome them with a warm smile.

Rosari said gently,

“What do you think of Mond?”

Eleanor smiled in response.

“It has become more beautiful than before. I also heard that you played an important role in what happened. That deserves a reward.”

Rosari lowered her head in a graceful, royal bow and replied calmly,

“Your return is the greatest reward of all. And besides… I did not do this alone. The entire kingdom took part.”

Eleanor stepped forward and embraced Rosari.

“I want to hear the story from the very beginning… inside.”

Rosari gestured toward the entrance and said,

“Please. By the way… where is Yoomia?”

Regon answered,

“She said she wanted to visit the knights’ headquarters.”

Rosari smiled.

“There will be a celebration held for your return. The invitations were sent in advance.”

⸻

At the Royal Knights’ Headquarters, Yoomia walked through the grounds, with Roderick and Yamamoto following behind her.

In the courtyard, some knights were seated, resting after duty, while others prepared for guard rotations. A group practiced archery, arrows thudding into targets, while elsewhere wooden swords clashed rhythmically as trainees sparred.

Yoomia smiled softly.

“I missed this place.”

They stopped before a large door.

Roderick said,

“This is the indoor training hall.”

Yoomia pushed the door open—and everyone inside froze for a brief moment.

The knights were gathered in a wide circle, watching two young women facing each other at the center of the hall, each holding a wooden sword.

Yoomia blinked in surprise.

“Looks like an intense duel.”

At the center of the arena, Aris took a firm combat stance and said with confidence,

“The last match was a draw. Today, I’ll win.”

Kaguya smiled faintly.

“I want to see you try.”

Both Aris and Kaguya began to gradually release their power.

In an instant, Kaguya vanished from sight—then reappeared behind Aris.

Aris twisted her body in a sharp, fluid motion. Their strikes collided, unleashing a powerful shockwave that echoed throughout the hall.

Yoomia watched in awe.

“What an incredible clash…”

A man’s voice suddenly came from behind them.

“It’s been a while, Roderick.”

Roderick turned and smiled.

“I heard you became the Captain of the Royal Knights, King.”

They clasped hands in greeting.

King nodded.

“It’s good to see you too, Yoomia.”

She returned the smile.

“Likewise. By the way… who are those two?”

Yamamoto stepped forward.

“The one with black hair is Kaguya, Princess of the Samurai Kingdom. As for the other… I don’t know.”

King watched the duel closely as he answered,

“The other girl is Aris… Y’s younger sister.”

A brief silence fell over the group.

Then the name alone echoed in their minds.

“Y’s sister?!”

King continued,

“Ever since Y appeared a few months ago, he’s become a target for many fighters. Everyone trains now—hoping to become strong enough to stand beside him.”

The duel continued until, with a sharp crack, both wooden swords shattered.

King raised his hand.

“That’s enough. The match is over.”

Kaguya exhaled slowly.

“Another draw.”

King stepped toward her.

“You have a visitor.”

Kaguya tilted her head.

“Who is it?”

Yamamoto stepped forward with a faint smile.

“You’ve grown stronger since the last time we met.”

Kaguya’s eyes widened.

“Master Yamamoto!”

He replied calmly,

“It seems you haven’t stopped training.”

She nodded with confidence.

“That’s right. I train every day.”

Aris stepped closer and said,

“So you’re Kaguya’s mentor? It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Kaguya smiled and added,

“Let me introduce her. This is my sister, Aris.”

Aris returned the smile quietly.

Yamamoto studied her carefully for a moment, then said,

“You’re strong… just like Y.”

Aris asked with clear curiosity,

“Do you know Y?”

Yamamoto shook his head.

“I don’t know him personally… but I fought him.”

In that instant, the eyes of Yoomia, Kaguya, and Aris all lit up.

Almost in unison, they said:

“We want the details.”

⸻

Within the Vampire Clan, where peace and calm had finally returned after countless sacrifices, Lin walked toward the royal palace. Her gaze drifted between laughing children and newly rebuilt homes—places that looked as though ruin had never touched them.

She smiled faintly and whispered,

“I missed this sight… it’s truly beautiful.”

She entered the palace and found Valzenor, the Crimson Dragon, in his human form, seated calmly on a side chair. Beside him sat Ragnaros, the Vampire Lord.

Lin bowed respectfully.

“Lord Valzenor… when did you return?”

He replied quietly,

“Just a short while ago.”

Ragnaros turned his gaze toward her.

“Is something wrong, Lin?”

She shook her head and pulled a letter from inside her coat, offering it to him.

“No… we’ve simply received a message from the Kingdom of Mond.”

Ragnaros opened the letter, read it quickly, then said,

“An invitation to attend a celebration in Mond.”

Lin smiled.

“That’s very kind of them. It would be a good chance to visit L… and enjoy ourselves for a while.”

Ragnaros nodded.

“Indeed.”

Lin turned toward the exit.

“I’ll go prepare.”

She left briskly.

Silence settled over the room.

Ragnaros looked at Valzenor and asked,

“Did you meet your friends?”

Valzenor answered without changing his tone,

“Only one of them…”

He exhaled slowly.

“I couldn’t find the other. I heard he settled in another dimension.”

Ragnaros spoke in a low voice,

“Another dimension…

finding someone there is no simple matter.”

Silence returned once more.

⸻

In the Fairy Forest…

The silence within Freya’s domain was no longer comforting.

It was not the silence that accompanied healing—

but the silence of anticipation, when everyone knows that something is about to change.

Kozue spoke sharply,

“Have you lost your mind?”

Liecht exhaled slowly before replying,

“I’m sorry, Y… but this time, I’m against you. This is far too reckless.”

Merath added in a calm yet unforgiving tone,

“Whether you succeed or fail doesn’t matter.

The consequences will be severe in both cases.”

Y looked at them one by one.

“Even you…?”

Then he turned toward Freya.

“What about you?”

Freya asked, her voice heavy and measured,

“Why this plan in particular?

You’re not the type to propose something reckless just because you want to.

But even I can’t see any major benefits in it.”

Y answered without hesitation,

“I believe it’s the most suitable plan.”

Liecht replied immediately,

“Suitable… but not the best.”

“Explaining why would take too long,” Y said simply.

Freya asked,

“Who knows about this?”

“For now? Only my family… and a few others.

I’ll explain everything in detail once I return to Mond.”

Freya nodded.

“That’s good.”

At that moment, the roots of one of the trees lowered, carrying a white envelope.

Freya accepted it and said,

“We’ve received an invitation to attend a celebration in Mond.

We’ll hear the details there.”

Y muttered,

“A celebration…”

Then he added,

“Not a bad idea. Take Merath and Asuna with you to Mond.”

Kozue frowned.

“Mond is a human kingdom.

I can already imagine their reaction when they see a demon there.”

Merath said quietly,

“It would turn into chaos.”

Y answered calmly, pulling out a piece of paper and handing it to them,

“Don’t worry. I’ll take responsibility for protecting you.

Just show this paper… and you’ll be fine.”

Freya looked at Kozue and asked,

“What do you think? Will you join us?”

Kozue smiled faintly.

“I have nothing better to do.

And I want to hear the details of this insane plan myself.”

Y turned away.

“I’ll disappear for a few days.

I’ll see you in Mond.”

Then he left… slowly.

Liecht stared at where he had been and said in a low voice,

“He’s already begun preparing for his plan… starting now.”

⸻

Four days later,

at the borders of the Kingdom of Mond,

a carriage was making its way toward the celebration.

Its path was suddenly blocked by several demons.

The driver didn’t hesitate for long—

he abandoned the carriage and fled at full speed.

One of the demons stepped closer to the carriage door.

And then—

A massive sword pierced straight through the carriage and the demon’s body alike,

before snapping back inside.

The corpse collapsed to the ground, motionless.

At the same moment,

a powerful surge of magic erupted from within the carriage.

Two more demons fell instantly,

while the rest staggered backward in alarm.

The carriage door opened.

Two men stepped out.

The first was powerfully built—

his very presence alone was proof of his strength.

He wore silver armor and held a colossal sword with unwavering steadiness.

The second emanated a calm, restrained aura of magic.

One hand rested on the hilt of his sword,

and he wore an ornate cloak marked with the symbol of the moon.

They were the King of the Dwarves…

and the Emperor of the Samurai.

The Samurai Emperor partially drew his blade and said,

“Look, Ragnar…

it seems the demons have grown more active lately.”

Ragnar replied calmly,

“That means they’re planning something.”

Several demons raised their hands,

beginning to gather magic in their palms—

But a streak of purple lightning suddenly tore through them,

ripping their heads apart before the attack could even form.

Ragnar smiled.

“It’s good to see you fight, Raiden.”

Suddenly,

a massive shadow blanketed the area.

A gigantic demon descended to the ground—

many times larger than ordinary demons.

Ragnar planted his sword into the earth

and stepped forward, cracking his knuckles.

“This should make for a decent warm-up.”

The demon reinforced its fists with magic

and charged straight at Ragnar.

Ragnar merely raised one hand.

Before the attack could reach him,

magic burst from his palm,

grasping the giant demon’s arm with ease.

He said calmly,

“You call this… an attack?”

With a powerful shove, he threw the demon off balance.

Then came a rapid series of strikes to its abdomen.

Afterward, Ragnar gathered magic into his hand and said,

“This is a real attack.”

A single blow.

The demon was sent flying,

crashing to the ground without moving again.

The remaining demons panicked and tried to flee by air—

But in an instant,

all their wings were severed.

They fell to the ground… dead.

A voice came from atop the carriage.

“I didn’t expect to see you here.”

Ragnar and Raiden turned at the same time.

Ragnar said,

“We didn’t sense you.”

Raiden sheathed his sword slightly.

“Y?

What are you doing here?”

Y answered calmly,

“I was hunting demons.”

The carriage door opened once more,

and the Samurai Empress, Akime, appeared.

She laughed in surprise.

“Y! What are you doing here?”

He replied evenly,

“If I remember correctly,

one of the conditions was that I protect you whenever you decided to visit Mond.”

Akime laughed.

“That condition was only meant so you could see Kaguya.”

Raiden said,

“We’re glad to meet you again.”

Y nodded.

“Likewise.”

Then he asked,

“Are you heading to Mond?”

Akime answered,

“Yes. The invitation arrived a few days ago.”

Ragnar glanced at the demon corpses scattered around them.

“But… why are demons here to begin with?”

Y turned away slightly.

“Let’s talk on the way.”

On the road leading to Mond,

A deep, booming laugh echoed through the air.

Ragnar was laughing as he drove the carriage.

“Even the Demon King couldn’t escape you!”

Raiden sat beside him,

while Y was seated atop the carriage,

and inside, near the window, Akime watched the road in quiet composure.

Raiden spoke in a thoughtful tone,

“I haven’t seen the demons this agitated in a long time…

That means the Demon King is genuinely interested in you.”

Akime smiled faintly.

“That’s not the kind of attention anyone wants.”

Y replied calmly,

“It’s time to finish what I started.”

Akime asked,

“You don’t plan to celebrate?”

“I’ll think about it after I check the surrounding areas,” he answered.

“Fighting the demons was a decision I made.

I need to make sure everyone can celebrate in peace.”

Then he jumped down from the carriage

and continued ahead with steady steps.

After a moment, Ragnar said,

“We’ve arrived at Mond.”

Raiden and Ragnar both leapt down from the carriage.

Raiden stepped forward, opened the door, and offered his hand to Akime,

who took it and stepped down gracefully.

At that very moment,

a strangely crafted carriage arrived—

made of living wood and pulled by forest deer.

Freya stepped out,

accompanied by Merath and her daughter Asuna,

with Lecht standing nearby,

while Kozue hovered lightly above his shoulder.

Akime stepped forward and inclined her head slightly.

“It has been a long time, Queen of the Fairies.”

Freya smiled.

“There’s no need for that… we’re friends.”

Kozue fluttered forward and said,

“How have you been, Akime?”

Akime smiled in return.

“Well. And you?”

“As always. Nothing new.”

Raiden spoke from behind them,

“I didn’t know you were acquainted with the Queen of the Fairies.”

Akime replied,

“I used to visit her often when I was younger.”

Then she gestured toward the men beside her.

“Allow me to introduce you. This is Raiden, my husband, the Emperor of the Samurai.

And the other is Ragnar, King of the Dwarves.”

Freya nodded politely.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both.”

She then gestured toward Lecht.

“And this is Lecht.”

Ragnar extended his hand.

“I’ve heard of you.

The elf who combines magic with martial skill.”

Raiden added,

“The man striving to free all elves.”

Lecht bowed respectfully.

“I’m honored to hear that from figures of your stature.”

Ragnar chuckled.

“I’d wager that reputation has made finding elves more difficult.”

Freya replied calmly,

“It’s fine… we move forward slowly.”

She then looked toward Merath.

“And the others?”

Akime answered smoothly,

“Don’t worry. Y has already told us about them.”

Merath stepped forward.

“I am Merath, and this is my daughter, Asuna.”

A knight approached from the city gate.

“We’ve been expecting you. Welcome to Mond.

Please, follow me.”

Merath whispered softly,

“Is this truly the right decision?”

Freya answered without hesitation,

“Trust Y.”

They stepped forward—Freya, Kozue, and Akime—

with the others following behind.

They paused.

Mond lay before them…

a small kingdom,

yet brimming with life.

Different races worked side by side, preparing for the celebration.

Banners fluttered in the air,

shops stood open,

tables and chairs filled the square,

and food and decorations spread everywhere.

Kozue spoke first.

“This place… isn’t bad.”

Akime replied thoughtfully,

“It feels like something is missing.”

Freya smiled.

“It lacks a touch of nature.”

Akime nodded.

“Exactly.”

She stepped into the center of the square.

A gentle storm of sakura petals blossomed around her, drifting calmly through the air.

All eyes turned toward her.

She began to dance slowly,

and with every movement, the petals adorned the streets of the kingdom.

Freya said warmly,

“Your dance is still beautiful.”

Akime smiled back.

“I’m glad you liked it.

Now… it’s your turn.”

Freya clasped her hands.

Plants began to climb the buildings,

decorating the roads,

forming tables and seats enough for everyone.

Kozue clapped.

“Exquisite work!”

From afar, a voice rang out:

“Mother! Father! You’re here!”

It was Kaguya, with Aris beside her.

Kaguya called out,

“We came to welcome you!”

Akime hurried forward and embraced Kaguya.

“My little one…”

Aris watched quietly—

then suddenly Akime pulled her into the embrace as well.

“Don’t forget… you’re my daughter too.”

Aris closed her eyes,

giving in to the warmth of the hug.

⸻

At Mond’s gate, Kraidon and his guard Nova watched from afar.

Suddenly, voices rose.

The people of Mond began gathering around Merath and Asuna.

Kozue murmured,

“This is the first trial.”

Gail, representative of the people, stepped forward.

“Today is a day of celebration.

We don’t want anything to ruin it.

So we ask you to leave… peacefully.”

Merath answered calmly,

“I have a letter.”

She handed it to him.

Gail opened it, read in silence,

then passed it to the man beside him.

The man read aloud:

People of Mond, how are you?

I’ve heard much about you from Aris.

I want to thank you for welcoming my family and friends.

Please welcome Merath and her daughter, Asuna, as well.

I ask you a favor…

I want Merath and her daughter to live among you.

No one will blame you if you refuse.

But I guarantee they are kind—just like you.

— Y

Gail spoke firmly,

“As you’ve heard… this message is from Y himself.

So what is your answer?”

“Will you repay the one who made your lives better?

Or will you drive away those who carry his message?”

“I will bear the responsibility.”

Suddenly, a voice rose from within the crowd.

The people stepped aside.

Aris sat down on the ground and said,

“I’ll bear the responsibility instead of Y.”

Whispers spread.

“Aris…”

Kaguya sat beside her.

“Me too.”

Gail shouted angrily,

“Shame on you, people of Mond!

You doubt the one who stayed awake night and day to protect you?

The one who helped rebuild your homes?

The one who healed your children?”

“Raise your voices! I can’t hear you!”

“Who fulfilled your requests without asking for payment?

Wasn’t it Y’s team?”

The crowd answered:

“Yes!”

“And who treated your children for free?

Wasn’t it Clara, Y’s sister?”

“Yes!”

“Then… what is your answer to Y’s message?”

The voices roared together:

“Welcome to Mond!”

Gail raised his hand.

“Let the celebration begin!”

Cheers erupted across the square.

Merath whispered in disbelief,

“All of this… because of a single letter.”

Gail approached her.

“I apologize for what happened.

They just needed a push.”

Aris said quietly,

“If Y were here, we wouldn’t have needed this.”

Kaguya added,

“I don’t think they’ve ever truly seen Y.”

Gail nodded.

“That’s right.

He walked among them…

and no one knew who he really was.”

Asuna stepped forward.

“There’s another letter.”

Gail blinked.

“Another one?”

Aris took it and read:

“Thank you, Gail.

— Y”

Gail smiled.

“No thanks needed.”

Asuna asked softly,

“Did Y plan all of this?”

Gail replied,

“Maybe… or maybe not.”

A shadow fell behind Aris and Kaguya.

It was Akime, embracing them both.

“Well done, my daughters.”

They smiled.

Watching from afar, Kraidon said,

“When was the last time we saw a celebration like this… without hatred or envy?”

Nova replied quietly,

“Even now… I still can’t believe it.”

Suddenly, a man’s voice carried through the main street:

“Thank you all for coming.”

Kraidon smiled faintly.

“We’ve begun.”

All eyes turned toward the source of the voice.

A man stepped forward with confident strides until he stood at the center of the square.

He spoke clearly:

“I am Regon, King of Mond.

I thank you all for being here,

and I hope you enjoy our kingdom.”

He raised his hand slightly.

“I hereby declare… the Mond Festival officially open!”

With those words, the square burst into life.

Voices rose in every direction.

Music began, laughter followed,

people danced, and the scent of food and drink filled the air.

Challenges were formed, stories exchanged,

and every corner of the city came alive.

On this day—

forget your worries.

Celebrate.

Live as if it were your last day.

Before long, groups formed naturally,

and every table carried its own story.

⸻

At the center of the square,

Regon sat at the table,

with the Emperor of the Samurai at his side,

and the Vampire Lord across from them.

Ragnaros spoke first:

“Thank you for the invitation, King of Mond.”

Regon replied with a smile:

“There’s no need for formality.

You and your clan are always welcome in Mond.”

Ragnaros nodded.

“The Vampire Clan will always stand with you.”

Regon lifted his cup slightly.

“Then… let us enjoy ourselves.”

Raiden asked,

“Where is Ragnar, by the way?”

Regon answered calmly:

“He said he wanted to visit the blacksmiths.”

⸻

On one side of the square,

a table forged entirely from steel had been set up,

surrounded by a crowd of hunters.

The announcer standing atop the table shouted:

“We’ve reached the semifinals!

King versus Roderick!”

The match ended quickly.

“The winner… King!”

Roderick exhaled, shaking his head.

“Man… I swear his body is made of something else.”

Yamamoto commented,

“Even you lost?”

Roderick smirked.

“Then the final match is going to be special.”

The announcer raised his voice again:

“True to his name, King is undefeated in arm wrestling!”

A massive hand slammed onto the table.

“Challenge accepted.”

It was Zinger.

“We’ve reached the finals!

King… versus Zinger, an S-rank hunter!”

Their hands clasped.

Valdrin muttered,

“Finally… a worthy opponent.”

Zeral grinned.

“That means it’s betting time!

King on the right, Zinger on the left!”

Valdrin placed down a heavy pouch of coins.

“I’m betting on King.”

Another pouch hit the table.

“I’m betting on my father.”

It was Scarlet.

The crowd erupted in noise.

Suddenly, someone placed a chair between the two tables.

“I’m betting on a draw.”

It was Lecht.

Jean stepped forward.

“I’ll be the referee.”

“Get ready… begin!”

Some spectators swore they saw their auras collide.

The match ended with the steel table shattering apart.

Jean announced calmly:

“A draw.

All the money goes to Lecht.”

Lecht nodded.

“That covers the material damages.”

Zinger smiled.

“You’re not bad, King.”

King replied evenly,

“The honor is mine.”

They shook hands.

⸻

The Family Without Blood Ties

They sat together in calm comfort.

Nival exhaled in relief.

“Finally… a drink and some rest.”

Sarah nodded.

“I know exactly how you feel.

A day away from work at last.”

Phoenix smirked.

“But your entire job is just registering missions.”

Sarah shot him a sharp glare.

“I was joking!”

Anna laughed softly.

Clara waved a hand.

“No need to argue… look, the food’s here.”

Everyone stared at the waitress—

then burst out laughing.

It was Leona.

She frowned.

“What’s so funny?”

Clara smiled warmly.

“Don’t worry, dear—you look lovely.”

Then she added teasingly,

“Isn’t that right, Nival?”

Phoenix laughed.

“Is a hunter’s life so hard that you end up working in a restaurant?”

Leona promptly snatched his glass.

“No drink for you.”

Then she took Nival’s glass as well.

“And why me?!”

“It’s bad for your health.”

Lara smiled proudly.

“That’s my daughter.”

Anna asked,

“Was it Margaret who asked for help?”

Leona nodded.

“Yes. She said the customers would be a lot.”

Anna glanced around.

“What about Diona and Lauma?”

Leona pointed.

“Look over there.”

Diona was playing with stacks of plates between her fingers,

earning cheers from the crowd,

while Lauma moved dishes at incredible speed,

opening and closing portals as she worked.

Clara smiled.

“She looks like she’s having fun.”

⸻

Nearby — The Girls’ Table

Laughter rang out loudly.

Aris, Kaguya, Lunaria, Klee, and Angela were gathered together.

A gentle voice spoke from behind them.

“I’m glad to see you all so happy.”

They turned around.

It was Rose, accompanied by their teacher, Sylvia.

Klee blinked in surprise.

“You came to the celebration?!”

Sylvia smiled.

“Lauma brought an invitation.

Fortunately, we had some free time.”

Rose stepped closer.

“How have you all been?”

Klee nodded.

“We’re doing well.

Let me introduce you…”

She gestured one by one.

“This is Aris, with the golden hair,

and this is Kaguya, with black hair.

We all live together in the same place.”

Lunaria smiled politely.

“It’s good to see you again.”

Rose returned the smile.

“And you as well.”

Angela asked, a hint of concern in her voice,

“Is my brother with you?”

A voice answered from behind.

“I’m here.”

It was Leonard.

Angela rushed forward and hugged him tightly.

“There’s no need for that,” he said awkwardly.

“I’m just happy to see you,” she replied.

“And I’m happy too.”

Angela turned back to the others.

“This is my older brother, Leonard.”

Leonard bowed slightly.

“Thank you for taking care of my sister.”

Sylvia added calmly,

“She’s changed for the better since her fight against Y.”

Aris and Kaguya froze, eyes widening at the same time.

“You fought Y?!”

Leonard shook his head.

“It wasn’t really a fight…

He won before it even began.”

Lunaria chuckled softly.

“You two get really excited whenever Y’s name comes up.”

Aris replied without hesitation.

“That’s normal… we’re his sisters.”

Silence fell.

“…What?!”

Lunaria tilted her head.

“We never mentioned that before, did we?”

Kaguya smiled faintly.

“Well then…

I suppose the story starts like this…”

⸻

In a quiet corner, far from the crowds,

a couple sat side by side, calmly taking in the atmosphere.

Soran spoke as he watched the square,

“I think we owe Y our thanks for creating such a wonderful place.”

Robin smiled softly.

“It feels like I’m inside a festival from a game…”

She raised her glass slightly.

“A toast—to you.”

⸻

On the other side of the square,

at a small food stall, L stood with her sister Lin, accompanied by Rosari and Yoomia.

Rosari said with a smile,

“We’ve arrived.”

L gestured toward a small dish.

“Try this.”

Lin asked curiously,

“What is it?”

L replied,

“Something new… it’s called ice cream.”

Yoomia blinked in surprise.

“I’ve never heard of it before.”

Rosari added,

“A new invention.”

Lin and Yoomia each took a spoon and tasted it.

Their eyes widened at the exact same moment.

Yoomia exclaimed,

“It’s cold… and delicious!”

Lin tilted her head.

“Is this frozen milk?”

Yoomia finished the entire serving in one go, then suddenly grabbed her head.

“My head… it froze!”

Rosari laughed.

Lin immediately said,

“I’ll heal you.”

Then she paused.

Yoomia blinked in surprise.

“The pain’s gone.”

Lin frowned slightly.

“I didn’t even start the healing.”

L said calmly,

“That happens when you eat ice cream too quickly.”

Lin noticed the ring on L’s hand and stopped for a moment.

“Did you get married?”

She looked again more carefully.

“No… it’s on your middle finger.”

Rosari asked,

“Is it a gift from Y?”

L nodded.

“Yes.”

Yoomia said admiringly,

“He has refined taste… I’ll give him that.”

L continued,

“It’s not an ordinary gift.”

She lightly pricked the tip of her finger.

A faint trace of blood appeared.

“Try it, Lin.”

Lin tasted a single drop—and her expression changed instantly.

“This is… Y’s blood.”

Yoomia froze.

“Blood?!”

Rosari asked quietly,

“How is that possible?”

L explained,

“The secret is the red stone inside the ring.

It’s used to create a weapon—or an artifact—that synchronizes with its user through blood.”

Lin nodded in understanding.

“So Y used his own blood to make this gift for you.”

Yoomia asked,

“But why his blood specifically?”

Lin answered softly,

“Y’s blood has powerful healing properties for vampires.”

Rosari said in a low, thoughtful voice,

“That makes it… an incredibly precious gift.”

A brief silence fell between them—

a silence of realization.

⸻

Before the gates of Mond,

Ash stood waiting for the arrivals.

She said calmly,

“I’m sorry for being late.”

Alfred replied,

“You made it.

What about your brother?”

After a brief hesitation, Alfred added,

“He’s still… trying to atone for his mistakes.”

Ash let out a quiet breath.

“He never changes.”

⸻

On the opposite side,

far from the noise of music,

stood a building where the sound of hammering iron echoed steadily.

At the entrance stood the King of the Dwarves.

Ragnar said,

“So you still don’t like celebrations, Thuram?”

Thuram replied coldly,

“Drink alone is celebration enough.”

Ragnar glanced around.

“Looks like you’re working with a rather diverse group…

Elves, dwarves, and vampires.”

Thuram nodded.

“Yes.

We’re working on something… interesting.”

Ragnar asked,

“And what brought all of them together?”

Thuram gave a faint smile and stepped toward a wooden door.

“See for yourself.”

Ragnar entered.

Spread across the table were countless schematics.

He stopped, studying them.

“These are… weapon designs.”

He fell silent for a moment.

“No… not just weapons.

Armor… accessories as well.”

Then he added,

“But they’re unfinished.”

Thuram replied,

“And that’s what makes them exciting.”

Ragnar asked,

“Who designed these?”

“All of us,” Thuram answered.

“Each person added what they excel at.”

He continued,

“It was Y’s idea.

He studied dwarf schematics, elven designs, and vampire armaments—

everything related to weapons and equipment.

Then he discussed them with us.”

Ragnar said,

“And there was a problem.”

Thuram nodded.

“Resources.”

Ragnar understood immediately.

“Scarcity.”

“Yes,” Thuram said.

“But somehow… most of the required materials are now in our possession.”

Ragnar frowned slightly.

“I saw Kraydon in Mond.

Was he the one who brought them?”

Thuram shook his head.

“I don’t know the details.

But the elves, the vampires, and Kraydon…

they all contributed.”

Then his voice grew heavier.

“And I’m not talking about ordinary materials—

these are of the highest quality imaginable.”

Thuram opened a small box on the table.

Inside lay a black ring,

set with a glowing crimson gem at its center.

Ragnar picked it up, turning it slowly between his fingers.

“A stone—wait.

What kind of stone is this?”

A voice spoke from behind him.

“As expected of the King of the Dwarves…

you have sharp eyes.”

Ragnar turned.

“This is a Bloodstone.

And not just any Bloodstone—

the finest ever created.”

Thuram added,

“Allow me to introduce him.

This is Lunar, a blacksmith from the Vampire Clan.”

Lunar continued,

“When Y told us about his plan,

I said it was impossible.”

He paused briefly.

“But after his battle against Lord Valzenor,

he locked himself away for several days.”

“He studied vampire weapons in detail,

and managed to create this ring.”

Lunar fell silent for a moment.

“At first, it wasn’t polished properly…

but his resolve changed us.”

He added quietly,

“Once things settled,

it took us fifteen days

to forge a perfect version.”

“He took it with him personally.”

Ragnar looked at the ring one last time,

then smiled—genuinely impressed.

“So this ring…”

“A fusion of dwarf craftsmanship and vampire techniques.”

He raised his gaze.

“Well done. Truly.”

⸻

Before the gates of Mond,

Y finally arrived—

a white wolf walking calmly at his side.

He was about to step inside when a voice stopped him.

“I heard you wanted to speak with me.”

Kraydon was seated near the gate, Nova standing beside him.

Y replied calmly,

“Yes…

but it seems I ended up enjoying the festival first.”

Nova looked at him, then at his torn clothes.

“Wait…

you’re going in like that?”

Y answered,

“Unfortunately, I don’t have any other clothes at the moment.”

Nova stepped closer.

“Hold still.”

Suddenly, thin strands of magic extended into the air,

weaving and stitching seamlessly,

repairing Y’s clothes in moments.

Y said, mildly surprised,

“I didn’t expect this to be your magic.”

Nova smiled.

“Thread magic.

I can create threads and control them.

It’s quite useful after missions.”

“Thank you,” Y said.

Kraydon stood up.

“We’ll head inside ahead of you.”

Then he glanced at Nova.

“That was kind of you.”

Nova replied casually,

“Fixing clothes is simple.”

Kraydon smiled.

“Then dinner’s on me tonight.”

Nova laughed softly.

“That’s very kind of you.”

⸻

Inside the kingdom,

Ash and L were already waiting for him.

Ash asked,

“So… what’s the story with the wolf?”

Y glanced at the wolf and replied calmly,

“They left him to die. So I helped him.”

L said softly,

“He resembles you… a little.”

The wolf let out a quiet howl.

Y said simply,

“We’re brothers.”

Ash exhaled deeply, then added,

“At this point, nothing you do surprises me anymore.”

Y gently patted the wolf’s head.

“Enjoy yourself, brother.”

Ash nodded.

“Let’s begin.”

Y tilted his head.

“Is there a problem?”

L stepped behind him

and tied a blindfold over his eyes.

“Why all this?” he asked.

Ash replied,

“It’s a surprise.

And don’t forget his ears.”

L covered his ears with her hands.

Ash took Y’s hand

and guided him forward,

with L following closely behind.

After a short walk…

they finally stopped.

L said,

“You can sit now.”

Y sat down.

Ash asked with a smile,

“Do you know what the gift is?”

Y replied,

“Maybe.”

L slowly removed the blindfold.

Y looked ahead.

There was a dish.

Not just any dish—

but that meal.

The one he thought he would never taste again.

Ash said,

“Lara taught us how to make it.”

L added,

“She said you love this dish.”

Y spoke quietly,

“It’s the first meal Lara ever cooked for me.”

Ash hesitated.

“It might not be—”

Before she could finish,

Y took a bite without hesitation.

Pure happiness spread across his face.

“It’s good,” he said.

A hand appeared seemingly from nowhere

and took a bite as well.

It was Anna.

She said,

“It really is good.

You did well.

Even I can’t make it like this.”

She called out,

“Sarah, Phoenix—come try it.”

They did.

Phoenix said,

“It’s better than Sarah’s.”

Sarah looked at him.

“…Unfortunately, he’s right.”

Phoenix laughed.

“I’m always right.”

Lara tasted it and said,

“I trained them harshly…

until they perfected it without mistakes.”

Y nodded.

“That much is obvious.

It’s delicious.”

A quiet moment settled over them.

Anna gently gestured toward the piano.

“Would you honor us… by playing?”

Y stood up without hesitation

and walked toward the piano with steady steps.

He sat down,

placing his hands over the keys.

He didn’t play immediately.

Ash whispered softly,

“Can he play?”

Anna replied,

“Yes…”

He had played countless times before—in games, in memories long past.

The crowd noticed.

The news spread in whispers.

Voices gradually faded,

as though the open square itself

had agreed to fall silent.

Margaret gently nudged Elin.

“He needs someone to sing.”

Liz stepped closer,

took Elin’s hand and squeezed it.

“I trust you…

You’re an amazing singer.”

Elin glanced at Mia,

who answered with a brief smile.

Then Elin stepped forward

and stood beside the piano.

At that moment—

Y’s fingers moved.

One note…

low, deep,

as if drawn from an ancient memory.

Then a second.

Then a third.

The melody began slowly,

softly,

carrying a weight that could not be explained.

Elin took a deep breath,

and sang—

⸻

Before the tales were ever born,

Before time learned where paths would turn,

From drifting clouds a long shadow came,

Walking in silence… a heavy blade in hand.

The piano paved the way for every word,

Never rising above them,

Never falling behind.

⸻

No one saw him ever smile,

No one heard a word worthwhile,

Yet his presence was the answer still,

As if the earth itself understood—without a voice.

With this verse, the melody slowed,

grew heavier,

each note lingering longer in the air.

⸻

He did not speak… nor was he an echo,

Yet we began to hear him… in every call,

Not a name… not a bloodline,

But meaning itself—born before words.

At the word meaning,

Y softened the music—

one long, sustained note,

leaving the voice alone in the square.

⸻

Dragons watched him from afar,

Eyes of fire that never turned away,

Yet they did not roar… nor did they flee,

As if something bound them—beyond reason.

Here the melody widened slightly,

as if gazing from above,

then gently returned.

⸻

He carved no name upon the walls,

He called for no glory, no victory,

Yet when he stood… the roads began,

And silence became the spark of war.

Y did not move.

He did not turn.

His fingers played on, unwavering—

like standing fearless at the heart of a storm.

⸻

And if you ask who opened the gate,

Who lit the dawn after absence,

History will whisper without pause:

The First Hunter… the First of Heroes.

The melody rose slightly—

not in force,

but in weight.

⸻

He did not speak… yet he led,

He did not command… yet legends burned,

In every blade… his shadow remains,

In every dream… his name beyond reach.

The music began to fade,

one note… then softer…

then softer still.

⸻

If one day he returns… he will not speak,

Yet he will be… as he always was—

Silent.

Imposing.

The First Hunter.

The First Hero.

⸻

With the final word,

Y lifted his hands from the keys.

No one applauded at once,

as if everyone feared breaking

something greater than music.

Then Y stood,

left the piano behind,

and walked out of the square

the same way he had entered it—

Silent.

Unyielding.

After Y left the square,

a brief silence followed.

It was not an empty silence—

but one of reverence,

for something that could not be repeated.

Then, applause began.

Eleanor said with genuine admiration,

“That was a wonderful performance.”

Freya nodded softly.

“I agree.”

Elin returned to her mother, Margaret.

Margaret smiled with quiet pride.

“You sang beautifully.”

Elin lowered her gaze, slightly embarrassed.

“Thank you…

but the truly amazing part was Y.

He matched my voice perfectly

without even knowing the song beforehand.”

Margaret chuckled softly.

“He’s heard you sing before.”

She continued,

“He told me he wanted to hear the song in its entirety.

That’s why he asked for this piano to be made.”

Elin’s eyes widened.

“That’s… embarrassing.”

Margaret smiled gently.

“He said that this song…

was something that drew him in.”

⸻

Inside the Smithy

Far from the atmosphere of celebration,

within the forge building filled with the clash of iron and the roar of fire,

Y entered.

Ragnar was waiting for him.

“We’ve been expecting you,” Ragnar said.

Y walked beside him until they reached a heavy iron door.

Ragnar pushed it open.

Inside, a massive table lay covered in blueprints—

weapons, armor, and accessories—

surrounded by people who had devoted their lives

to refining the art of craftsmanship.

Y took a seat, Ragnar beside him.

Auren spoke first.

“At last… we can begin.”

Y said calmly,

“Then… will you accept my request?”

Thuram answered without hesitation.

“There’s no need to ask such a question.”

Colm added with a faint smile,

“Why would we be working together

if we intended to refuse?”

Ragnar nodded.

“I’ll support you with everything I have.”

Auren turned to Ragnar, studying him.

“I don’t doubt you, King of the Dwarves…

but I have to ask—

why such generosity?”

Ragnar replied simply,

“An investment in the future.”

Y rose to his feet and said with a faint smile,

“Then it seems you don’t need me here for now.”

He turned and left,

heading toward the Hunters’ Guild.

⸻

Hunters’ Guild – The Library

While most were celebrating,

some chose to keep searching.

Inside the Hunters’ Guild library,

Jean was seated with a book resting over her face.

Y spoke quietly,

“I was wondering… where you’d gone, Jean.”

Jean lowered the book.

“Your performance was wonderful.

It reminded me of how you used to play in the games.”

“Thank you,” Y said.

“So… any leads on Daniel?”

Jean exhaled slowly.

“Unfortunately, no.

All we know is that he’s still in this world.”

“And your next plan?” Y asked.

“To keep searching,” she replied.

“The frozen region is all that remains.”

Y nodded.

“I forgot about that…

I was planning to head there once things settled down.”

Jean looked up.

“Forgot about what?”

Y answered,

“I had a dream.

A snow-covered mountain…

a castle carved into it,

and beneath it, a girl sealed inside a massive crystal.”

Jean’s expression hardened.

“That doesn’t sound like an ordinary dream.”

“I agree,” Y said.

“I think it’s connected to a family called Solstice.”

Jean frowned.

“I’ve never heard of them.”

“That’s normal,” Y replied.

“It’s an old story.”

Then he added,

“And about your father…

he must be searching for you.”

Jean paused.

“Your reputation here is well known,” Y continued.

“That means there’s a reason he hasn’t been able to reach you.”

“You think he’s trapped somewhere?” Jean asked.

“Maybe,” Y said.

“I’ve heard the Abyss is considered another world to many.”

Jean nodded slowly.

“Anything is possible.”

“Either way,” Y said,

“I’ll check the frozen region myself…

for a few days.”

Jean hesitated.

“I’m sorry for dragging you into this…

I know you already have so much to do.”

“Don’t say that,” Y replied.

“Daniel is an old friend of mine.”

Jean smiled faintly.

“Thank you.”

“I’ll leave after the celebration ends,” Y said.

“That’s fine,” Jean replied.

Y paused.

“Any progress on finding Rin’s sister?”

Jean closed her book.

“Follow me.”

⸻

The Map Room

Y followed Jean through the library corridors

until they reached a room overflowing with books, maps, and scattered notes.

Jean spoke,

“Serene, Rin… we have a guest.”

Without looking up, Serene replied,

“A guest? Who—”

She stopped mid-sentence.

“Y?

It’s been a long time!”

“How have you been, Serene?” Y asked.

“I’m fine…

and it looks like you are too.”

“Where’s Rin?” Y asked.

Serene raised her voice,

“Rin! Someone wants to see you!”

Rin appeared almost instantly.

“Who’s calling me? I’m in the middle of searching for—”

She froze.

“Y…?”

“You look well,” Y said.

Rin’s face lit up.

“It really is Y…

You’re finally back!”

“Any news about your sister?” Y asked.

Rin nodded.

“We’re making progress… but slowly.

There are many false trails and hidden locations.”

Jean stepped toward a massive map.

“Y, can you take a look at this?”

Serene added,

“This is the latest map we’ve compiled.”

Y studied it in silence.

Rin explained,

“The red markers are places we’ve already searched.

The blue ones are locations that may hold information.”

Jean asked,

“What do you think?”

Y spoke calmly,

“Rin…

how long did you stay in the Dwarven Kingdom?”

“About two months,” Rin replied.

“And before that?” Y asked.

Rin hesitated.

“I was in some kind of palace…

I don’t remember much.

Just… a lot of corpses.”

“Corpses?” Y repeated.

“Who did it?”

“A human wearing black armor,” Rin said quietly.

“He killed everyone without mercy…

then killed himself.”

Y’s voice grew heavy.

“A human…

black armor…”

“When did this happen?” he asked.

“A long time ago,” Rin replied.

Y nodded slowly.

“I think there’s a thread we can follow…

but it’s a delicate matter.”

He paused.

“I need time to think.”

Then he said,

“Go and enjoy the celebration for now.”

Serene protested,

“But—”

Jean cut in firmly,

“No ‘buts.’

Rest is important.”

She continued,

“There will be a major meeting after the celebration.”

Serene blinked.

“A meeting?”

Rin looked curious.

“About what?”

Y said quietly,

“A meeting…

one that will determine the course of the coming years for all of us.”