In the darkness, the space was eerily silent, broken only by the faint sound of the sea and the steady hum of the ship's engine. A flicker of light danced across the walls, barely illuminating the cramped and dusty area.
Mei sighed in frustration, crossing her arms. "Is this what you call a place to travel? It's full of dust and crawling with insects! And to top it off, we're stuck next to the engine, with crowds of people stomping around upstairs. How can you call this hiding?"
Roy leaned back against the wall, his tone curt. "Stop complaining, Mei. If we had the time and materials, I'd have built us a small boat myself. But for now, this is what we've got. At least here, on this huge ship, we're safe."
Zen smirked, rolling his eyes. "I'm sorry, princess, but this is what we can afford. It's not exactly a luxury cruise."
Roy shot him a sharp look. "You'd better be thankful we're here. If it weren't for us needing this, I'd rather row a boat myself than rely on this mess."
Zen raised an eyebrow, his tone skeptical. "You? Build a boat?"
Roy nodded firmly. "Yes. Back in my village, I made boats. Not ships like this, but I know how to craft something that floats."
Zen's eyes widened slightly, his tone filled with amused surprise. "Well, that's unexpected. You're full of surprises, aren't you? But this engine reeks of burning coal."
At the mention of burning, Mei stiffened. Her fingers curled tightly, pressing against her palms as the smell tugged at memories she tried to bury.
Noticing her discomfort, Zen leaned closer, a sly grin spreading across his face. "What's the matter? Feeling uneasy around fire? Or…" His tone dropped mockingly. "Are you afraid of it?"
Her head snapped up, her glare sharp. "Is that funny to you? I know I can't hide it, but do you think you can use it against me?!"
"Enough!" Roy interjected, stepping between them. "Switch places with me, Mei. You'll be further from the engine." His tone softened as he added, "It's not shameful to have a weak point or a trauma. We've been through worse—like the fire we faced ten years ago."
Mei's voice lowered, laced with frustration. "Why would you tell him that?!"
"I didn't tell him anything important," Roy said firmly. "I only shared what we've been through. What's wrong with that?"
"Fine," Mei muttered, stepping aside. "But keep your voice down. If they hear us, it's over."
Zen narrowed his eyes, his expression thoughtful. "A fire… ten years ago?" His tone grew distant as if something clicked in his mind. That's the same time my life changed.
Mei noticed his shift in demeanor and quickly tried to change the subject. "Anyway, it doesn't matter. What I want to know is how you managed to find us again. It's starting to feel… strange."
Zen shrugged casually. "I was leaving the village and saw you heading toward that old man's house. From there, it wasn't hard to figure out."
Roy frowned slightly. "You should drop it, Mei. He helped us. He gave us something to hide the marks and even fakes to throw people off. What does it matter how he found us?"
"I didn't mean any harm," Mei said defensively, crossing her arms. "I'm just curious. And stop acting like he's some kind of hero—it's annoying."
Zen tilted his head, his tone sharp. "The part I can't figure out is why the old man didn't report you sooner. He kept you around longer than he does most people."
"Maybe he believed in that myth he mentioned," Roy suggested after a pause.
Mei scoffed. "He seemed strange enough to believe it. Who knows what's going on in his head."
Zen's eyes darkened, suspicion growing in his voice. "A myth? He's too cautious to believe in fairy tales. Whatever his reasons were, it wasn't something as simple as that."
Zen's eyes narrowed, curiosity tugging at his voice. "What was that myth about?"
Mei frowned, crossing her arms defensively. "Why would we tell you? Do you also believe in silly myths like that?"
Before Mei could press further, Roy answered without hesitation, his tone matter-of-fact. "He said he met a very old woman, someone who rarely appears to people. She told him he'd gain a great fortune after meeting two people—a man and a woman. According to him, this woman is a legend, known for predicting the future."
Zen's expression shifted as if something deep inside him had been struck. His eyes grew distant, his thoughts spiraling into a memory.
One year ago
The cold bit at his face, the icy air wrapping around him like a vice. Zen trudged through a small village nestled near a snowy white mountain. His hood was pulled low, a half-mask concealing most of his face. He moved swiftly, glancing over his shoulder every so often, as if expecting someone to follow.
Stopping by a vendor on the street, he leaned forward, his voice low and deliberate. "I'm just a traveler passing through. I've heard rumors—about people in the depths of the mountain who know everything. Is it true?"
The vendor squinted at him, scratching his beard. "Ah, the mountain seers, eh? Everyone's curious about that place. But listen, boy, don't waste your time. No one who's gone looking for them has ever come back—not a single one. Even the strongest warriors have disappeared. It's a cursed place."
The vendor droned on, but Zen had already turned and walked away, his mind set.
"Hey! Wait, boy!" the vendor called after him, but Zen didn't stop.
He made his way toward the mountain trail, the snow crunching under his boots. The wind howled, but he pushed forward until—
Thud!
He bumped into an old woman, her frame small but steady. She looked up at him, her eyes piercing despite her frail appearance.
"Sorry," Zen muttered, stepping around her. He barely gave her a glance until he felt a bony hand clamp around his wrist.
He turned, startled, to find the old woman staring at him with unsettling intensity.
"Isn't this a fine day?" she said, her voice carrying an air of mystery.
Zen scowled, tugging his arm free. "Old lady, let me go. I don't want to hurt you, but I'm in a hurry."
Her grip tightened slightly, her eyes unblinking. "I know it's cold, but you should slow down. You'll meet two people—a man and a woman. They'll change your life. They'll help you with your revenge, and fate will bind you together. These two are special… just like you. Help them, and don't ignore what's to come."
Zen glared at her, his tone harsh. "Old lady, you'd better hide. Someone might hurt you out here."
She smiled softly, as if amused, then stepped back into the shadows. Before Zen could react, she disappeared, leaving him standing alone in the freezing wind.
Her words echoed in his mind, but he shook them off and turned back, abandoning his journey to the mountain.
Now
Zen sat in silence, his gaze unfocused as the memory replayed in his mind. No way… it can't be…
"Zen!" Roy's sharp voice pulled him back. "Were you even listening to us?"
Mei shot him a suspicious glance. "I don't think he was."
Zen blinked, snapping out of his thoughts. "Hey, young guy, could you stop calling me Zen? We're supposed to be hiding our identities, remember?"
Roy crossed his arms and leaned against the wall, his tone sharp. "If you call me 'young guy' again, I'll start calling you Zenny."
Mei groaned and pressed her hand to her temple. "Can you stop acting like a child, Roy?"
Roy's expression didn't soften as he turned to Mei. "Then can you stop hiding things from me?"
Mei's eyes widened, and she quickly raised her voice in defense. "Hiding? What are you talking about? I have nothing to hide!"
Roy glanced sharply at Zen, his tone accusatory. "Not just you, Mei—him too. Just the fact that both of you are hiding something is surprising!"
Zen, who had been leaning back with a faint smirk, straightened and crossed his arms, his demeanor cold. "Surprising, huh? Maybe you should focus on keeping your temper in check instead of throwing around accusations."
Mei glared at Roy, her tone defensive. "What are you even trying to say? I've been honest with you, Roy!"
Roy's gaze flickered between them, his voice lowering but no less intense. "You've been honest about a lot of things, Mei. But not everything. And him—" Roy jabbed a finger toward Zen. "—he's way too calm for someone who's just tagging along to help."
Zen raised an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "You think I'm hiding something? Maybe I just don't wear my heart on my sleeve like you do, young guy."
Roy clenched his fists, his tone firm. "I might be stupid, but just speaking of that dragon mark—it's fading, isn't it? Am I right, Zen?"
Mei gasped, her eyes darting between the two. Zen remained careless, his usual nonchalant air unchanged.
Roy pressed on, his voice growing steadier. "Let me continue—what do you have against this mark? I overheard your conversation earlier. Are they evil? Because if it's related to my dad, I want to know more! I'm sure they're not angels after spending days here. But if you have something against them, Zen, I'm with you. We're with you, right, Mei?"
Mei hesitated, struggling to find words. "Roy, stop it. You're harming yourself!"
Roy shook his head. "No, I'm not. I've realized not everyone is as good as we want them to be. But maybe, seeing their good side can help them change. Still, after hearing how this world works, I can't force myself to believe in foolishness anymore!"
Zen crossed his arms, his tone indifferent. "Well, what an emotional way to put it. But I have no grudge against you, young boy, so relax."
Roy opened his mouth to respond, but Zen interrupted, his tone suddenly curious. "Something's been bothering me—how old are you two, anyway?"
Roy tried to answer, but Mei quickly covered his mouth, her face red with embarrassment. "Why do you care? What about your age?"
Zen shrugged, his careless demeanor intact. "I'm twenty-one years old. It's not something I hide."
Roy pulled Mei's hand away with a grin. "So you're like our big brother! I'm 19, and she's 17—my little sister!"
Mei's face flushed even redder, and she glared at him. "What? Who are you calling big brother? Stop that, or I'll kill you!"
Zen smirked mischievously. "So the bossy, scary woman is still a baby. I thought she was older than her brother. Guess she wasn't taught how to respect her elders."
Mei's gaze darkened as she clenched her fists. "Can you stop? I'm really starting to get angry! And who are you calling a baby?"
Roy laughed at her reaction. "Because you are, Mei! I'm older than you!"
Mei punched Roy in the nose, making him yelp. "Are you crazy? My nose is bleeding!"
Roy pointed at her accusingly, trying to hold back laughter despite the pain. "It doesn't look like it, but all the younger boys in our village wanted Mei to be their wife. She was really popular!"
Zen, holding back a laugh, smirked. "I guess they wanted her older because they knew she'd act like their grandma. Pfft—"
Mei, now enraged, clenched her fists. "You two better make your final death wish!"
Roy covered his mouth to stifle a laugh. "We should lower our voices, or they'll notice us, Mei!"
Mei, annoyed but reluctantly agreeing, glared. "For the first time, you're right, and I hate agreeing with you right now!"
She glanced at Zen, still irritated. "Stop laughing and answer me! What kind of place are we heading to, Kuroi Zen?"
Zen composed himself and cleared his throat. "Ahem. You should call me 'mister' next time. We're heading to Syrena Island. You'll see more lively people, street stands full of food and sweets, and goods from all the tribes. There's an event happening there where tribes choose women to represent them—you can even earn money from it. The clan whose mark we took is one I executed myself. They don't know their people are dead yet; they still think they exist. Four of them were registered to go there, so that's why I chose them."
Roy's eyes widened in shock. "You executed all of them?"
Mei, nonchalantly: "He's a wanted criminal. What did you expect from him? Right now, all that matters is our survival."
Zen: "Well, yes. We'll be safe there for maybe three days."
Roy, now calmer but curious: "Why did you execute all of them?"
Zen looked away, his tone low. "Because they deserved it."
Roy, now worried: "What's your tribe mark, Zen?"
Zen turned his gaze to the horizon. "We'll arrive soon. Plus, I don't have a tribe mark."
Roy, grinning: "Then you'll have to buy us some food and sweets at the stands—you're the only one with money!"
Zen, unimpressed: "Huh? Why would I do that?"
Mei: "Isn't it obvious? You earned money by selling the riches we had with us!"
Zen raised an eyebrow. "Riches? I never saw such a thing!"
Roy pointed at him, smirking. "Stop ignoring it, or Mei won't let you off!"
Zen sighed. "Fine, but you should start using the names of the tribe members we're pretending to be, or they'll notice us."
Mei nodded, adjusting her voice to sound deeper. "You're right. I'll go first. Northern," she said, trying to mimic a man's tone.
Roy whistled in surprise. "Wow, that's really good, Kavro!"
Zen smirked faintly. "I'm surprised you two even managed to make it, Diethor."
The three of them exchanged glances, their disguises now firmly in place as the journey continued.
The ship stopped moving, finally reaching its destination. Above, people began disembarking at the port of Syrena. Guards stood at their posts, verifying passengers as they arrived with their respective tribes or clans, allowing them to pass one by one.
Zen looked at Roy and Mei, giving them a signal to blend in with the visitors.
When their turn came, a guard reached out, stopping Mei by the arm.
"Who are you, sir?" the guard asked.
Mei, pretending to be a man, deepened her voice and forcefully moved the guard's arm aside. "I am Kavro from the Wolf Clan!"
The guard checked the registry and found the name. With a nod, he let her pass. She was followed by Roy and Zen, who also pretended to be Northen and Diethor from the Wolf Clan.
Once inside, the lively environment unfolded before them. The streets were full of people enjoying themselves—it looked like a festival. Stalls displayed a variety of food, objects, and products. Roy's eyes sparkled with excitement.
However, Mei's expression darkened as she observed the scene. Despite the cheerful atmosphere, one detail stood out: there were only men enjoying the festivities.
With a low, solemn voice, Mei spoke, "What a sad reality… only men can enjoy these kinds of festivities while women suffer, crying for help."
Roy's excitement dimmed for a moment. "You're right, Kavro," he said, glancing at her. "But I'm sure they'll all be free someday, so try to relax."
Mei sighed. "You seem too excited. Don't forget that we're being watched. Focus on your act."
Roy pouted. "You always ruin the fun, Kavro!" Then, turning to Zen, he grinned. "So, Mister Northen, give me some money! I need to try many things—for me and Kavro!"
Zen scratched his head, annoyed. "Fine, but don't waste too much. This money is key to our survival."
Mei sighed again. "I feel like a mother just watching him spend money, but… it does make me feel relieved."
Zen smirked. "You're just happy because it's your riches he's spending—and because it annoys me! Your village must've had a lot of wealth."
Mei crossed her arms. "Of course! We lived off what we gathered from our agriculture." Then, realizing she was engaging in conversation, she scoffed, "Wait a minute—why am I even talking to you?" She turned her face away and followed Roy.
"Hey! Diethor, you're moving too much!" Mei scolded in a deep voice, maintaining her disguise.
Roy, holding various snacks, grinned. "It's so delicious! Here, Kavro, try this and this!"
"I'm not hungry, Diethor," Mei said flatly.
Roy ignored her refusal, bringing a sweet chocolate-flavored ice cream with hazelnut cream close to her mouth, practically forcing her to take a bite. Mei stiffened as she tasted it, her face heating up from the unexpectedly delightful flavor.
Roy smirked. "Isn't it delicious, Kavro?"
Mei quickly masked her reaction. "Not bad."
Zen, watching the two with an annoyed expression, muttered, "I'm tired… Why am I even involved with these two?"
He suddenly recalled an old woman's voice in his mind: "They are special, just like you."
Zen scratched his head, exhaling. What was that old lady talking about?
Just then, a woman accompanied by guards and two other women walked past.
One of the women spoke with a haughty tone, "Can you believe it? He's the strongest one, and Father wants me to marry him! But he keeps ignoring me… Why?" She sighed dramatically. "Being the daughter of the leader is tough."
Roy tilted his head. "Why is this girl walking so freely?"
Zen crossed his arms. "Because she's the daughter of the Cactus Tribe's leader—the rulers of this island. They have the privilege of walking around with guards, but their duty is to marry the strongest man in the tribe and continue producing children—especially sons—to strengthen the tribe's power. Even so, they still don't move as freely as men."
Mei's expression darkened further. "So you're saying that, depending on your status, you can buy your freedom… even if only for a few seconds?"
A new commotion caught their attention.
A line of women, one after another, walked with expressions of sorrow, misery, and fear. Their bodies trembled. The men escorting them roughly shoved them forward.
One of the men struck a woman's back forcefully. "Walk properly, woman! Or do you want to become dog food?"
The last woman in the line cried out in desperation. "Please! I'm not ready! I swear, next year I'll participate—just give me a little more time!"
"Shut up!" A man raised his hand to strike her, but before his blow could land, a mysterious figure intercepted him, stopping his hand with the sheath of a sword.
The mysterious figure was small—far too small to be a man—but they had stepped in to interfere nonetheless.
Roy, Mei, and Zen watched from afar as the savior spoke.
"She's not included," the voice was firm and calm. "If you look closely at her mark, you'll see it's a griffin—the mark of the Golden Empire." The figure raised an arm, revealing the same mark. "She is with me."
The man hesitated, his face contorted with anger.
The mysterious savior continued, "She has been summoned to join one of our kingdom's events. If you try to interfere, your hands will be cut off, and you will make an enemy of the Golden Tribe, Millenius, and the Golden Empire."
The figure kept their hood low, concealing their face, leaving their identity a mystery.
The man leading the women hesitated but eventually gave up, allowing the mysterious savior to take the marked woman. Without another word, the two disappeared into the shadows. Annoyed, the man turned back to his task, continuing to force the remaining women inside.
Mei, observing the scene, suddenly noticed Zen hiding behind Roy.
"Sir Northen, why are you hiding behind Diethor?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
Roy turned around, startled. "Wow—what's wrong with you?"
Zen, pretending to be nonchalant, rubbed his head. "I had a headache… and that man—I thought he recognized me."
Mei narrowed her eyes. "Is that so? It looked more like you were trying to avoid someone."
Before Zen could respond, Roy abruptly cut in, his voice firm with conviction. "We have to save those women! I can't just stand here and do nothing—it's obvious they're being taken by force!"
Mei immediately grabbed Roy by the collar, pulling him close. "Lower your voice!" she hissed. "We can't do anything right now. Listen—if we get exposed here, we won't even make it out alive. Stay calm!"
Roy looked at Mei in disgust. "Where is your humanity?"
Mei's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of annoyance crossing her face.
Zen stepped in before the tension could rise further. "We can't help them," he said firmly. "This place is dangerous. It's full of different tribes and clans."
Roy turned to glare at Zen. "But you helped us!" His voice trembled with frustration. "If you see injustice right in front of you, you should interfere!"
Zen remained cold and composed. "Stop it. We can't. This is an event where all the tribes gather. If you interfere now, you and Kavro will end up captured. Compose yourself."
Roy clenched his fists but remained silent.
After a moment, he exhaled sharply. "Then… what if we make a plan? Kavro, you're great at this!"
Mei lowered her head, the hood casting a shadow over her face. She couldn't bring herself to answer.
Zen sighed. "Survival comes first, Roy. This event isn't as bad as you think. The women will just dance, and after that, the men from each tribe will choose a woman from their own tribe or clan mark. It's just one of the rules."
Roy's expression didn't change, but he said nothing.
Zen glanced at him. "Anyway, if you're done eating, let's move. Staying here any longer will draw attention."
Without waiting for a response, Zen walked ahead.
Roy, still frustrated, followed reluctantly, his hands tightening into fists.
Mei trailed behind them, her head lowered, lost in thought.
The three of them moved to a quieter corner.
Meanwhile, in a more abandoned part of the area, the mysterious savior helped the frightened girl. She trembled as she spoke, her voice shaky.
Girl: "Who are you, and why did you take me? I have no griffin! I don't know how it appeared, but I don't belong to this tribe. Why did you bring me here?"
Tears welled up in her eyes, and she sobbed. The mysterious figure removed their hood, revealing long, golden hair that shimmered like sunlight. Their deep blue eyes, small but piercing, studied the girl with intensity. They wore a white dress with golden buttons, brown knee-high boots, and held a beautifully crafted sword.
Raising a finger to their lips, the figure gestured for silence.
The girl gasped, recognizing her savior.
Girl: "You... you are Princess Lumina!"
Lumina's expression hardened, her voice firm yet quiet.
Lumina: "Lower your voice! I'm not here for introductions—we don't have time. Do you have a family?"
The girl sniffled and wiped her tears.
Girl: "Yes... my father was the one who abandoned me. My mother... you know what happened to her."
Lumina's gaze darkened.
Lumina: "We need to hurry before they discover your true origins. Listen carefully. Can you speak a few words, offer a drop of your blood, and board a boat marked with my sign? It will transport you directly to my kingdom. Once there, tell them you are an apprentice of Madam Fallon and show them your mark. She will protect you. Tell her, 'Princess Lumina sent me.' Do you understand?"
The girl trembled, shaking her head.
Girl: "I—I can't. They'll kill me! I'm afraid!"
She sobbed harder, her body trembling violently. Lumina placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.
Lumina: "You can do it. This is your only chance. Be brave—for yourself."
The girl hesitated before nodding weakly.
Girl: "I… I'll try."
Lumina offered a small, reassuring smile.
Lumina: "Good. But you must change your appearance. Cut your hair, put on a mask, and disguise yourself before you reach my kingdom."
The girl froze in fear.
Girl: "I can't. I'm too scared."
Lumina's expression turned grave.
Lumina: "We have only a few minutes left. They've likely realized my plan by now. You must do this—I can't risk my life for someone unwilling to save themselves. Can you, Saya?"
The girl flinched at the name.
Girl: "Saya?"
Lumina: "That will be your name from now on. You are not a tool—you are a person."
Saya's eyes welled up again, but this time, her tears weren't just of fear, but of gratitude.
Saya: "Why would someone like you help me? You know all the girls envy your bravery and strength. No one else would dare to defy fate like this."
Lumina's voice softened.
Lumina: "Then let this be the first time you defy fate, too. Follow my orders, Saya. Be brave."
Saya clenched her fists, her breath shaky.
Saya: "Thank you... for giving me a name, Princess. I'll do my best."
Lumina exhaled in relief.
Lumina: "That's the spirit. Now go."
She pressed her bloodied hand to Saya's palm, and Saya added a drop of her own blood. A radiant light surrounded her, and in an instant, she vanished.
Lumina sighed, watching the spot where Saya had stood.
Lumina: "I hope you survive, Saya. I've been playing this dangerous game for days… I'll be captured sooner or later."
She muttered to herself, exhaustion creeping into her voice.
Meanwhile, with Mei, Roy, and Zen…
Roy crossed his arms, looking at Zen with frustration.
Roy: "Tell me, Northen. What's your plan to save them?"
Zen's expression was grim.
Zen: "I have no plan. We're already being followed. If we make a move, the three of us are doomed."
Roy turned to Mei.
Roy: "Kavro?"
Mei hesitated before speaking.
Mei: "I have no plan either. Staying hidden is our only option. I'm sorry, Deithor, but… I feel powerless."
Frustrated, Roy clenched his fist and punched a nearby wall. Loose stones crumbled to the ground. Mei and Zen both jumped in surprise.
Zen: "Whoa! Calm down! Do you even realize what you just did?"
Roy exhaled sharply.
Zen: "I was just thinking about money. What if we participate in this event? Every clan gets a share of the earnings if they follow the rules."
Looking at Mei, she let out a short, disbelieving laugh.
Mei: "Are you serious, Northen? I might lose a hand or a finger if I do that. I can't control myself!"
Roy clenched his fists, his frustration evident. "I feel powerless too, but I'm not letting Kavro participate! It's more than dangerous!"
Mei shot him an annoyed glance. "As if I always listen to you. Yay!"
Roy smirked. "Of course, I am your big brother, after all."
They glared at each other, irritation simmering between them.
Zen sighed. "So, there's no other way to make money?"
Mei's eyes suddenly lit up. "What about forgery? Roy and I are experts. We forged our own weapons using rare materials."
Zen clapped his hands in surprise. "You never fail to amaze me. You've got skills to offer, that's good! We need to find a forgery."
Curious, Zen unsheathed his twin swords. "So, experts, what do you think of these?"
Roy inspected them closely. "One of a kind. The materials are really rare. Where did you get them?"
Zen thought for a moment. "Let me think... They were gifts from someone."
Mei nodded. "Looks like it. But how do we forge anything? We don't have any materials! We already sold all our riches."
As Mei adjusted her hoodie, which kept slipping off, Zen handed her a mask to cover her nose and mouth, along with a one-eyed mask and a beret.
Zen smirked. "Take this. It'll be better. You look really funny like that!"
Mei rolled her eyes. "I just look suspicious to everyone."
Zen suddenly had an idea. "I know a forgery nearby. Let's go! Just show them your marks. If you truly have skills, they'll pay us well."
When they arrived at a large building specializing in forging weapons, Mei narrowed her eyes. "This is what you call helping us? We'll be suspected immediately."
Roy scoffed. "He's not listening, Kavro. His eyes are filled with money."
Mei, lowering her voice in frustration, muttered, "Just remembering that he sold our best weapons for a ridiculously low price makes me want to kill him."
Zen gave her a warning glance. "You should shut your mouth and follow your responsible leader, Northen."
A towering man stood at the entrance, his voice deep and gruff. "Who are you? What tribe are you from, and what do you want?"
They revealed their wolf clan marks.
Zen stepped forward. "Ahem. I am Northen. I've brought two impressive forgers. They're highly skilled and just need a bit of money. For a few hours, they can create magnificent weapons. We're leaving tomorrow. Can we meet the owner?"
The scary man scoffed. "No visitor day. Leave."
Mei stepped up. "I am Kavro. Let me prove my skills. If I impress you, call the owner. Is that fair?"
The man eyed Mei with skepticism. "You sound weak. How can you forge? And what's with your appearance?"
Mei smiled confidently. "Skill isn't always about strength."
Roy added, "Can we at least check the materials?"
The scary man grunted. "We're short on materials lately."
Mei narrowed her eyes. "You're testing us, aren't you? Fine. We'll work with whatever you can provide."
The man smirked. "You, Northen, the leader, stay outside."
Zen nodded. "Fine. But I assure you, you'll be surprised."
As Zen waited outside, he thought to himself, Should I prepare to avoid trouble and leave if they fail? No… What nonsense am I thinking? Staying here is still better than meeting that person…
Inside, Mei and Roy worked tirelessly for an hour, carefully forging the weapon. Roy glanced at Mei. "We need something strong to finish this knife."
Mei hesitated, then pulled out a strand of her hair. "What if I use this?"
Roy whispered urgently, "He's watching us, Kavro!"
Mei smirked. "I know something you don't, Deithor. Trust me."
When the hour was up, the scarred man examined the knife. "It's well-made for just one hour, but nothing extraordinary."
Zen entered, looking slightly worried. "I guess you're done?"
The man tested their knife against the hardest gems, comparing its precision to his own sword. His eyes widened. "Impressive. Better precision than my own sword. Maybe I should call the owner."
Zen let out a breath of relief. They actually did it. We're saved from these scary forgers.
Roy and Mei exchanged a victorious high-five.
A large, older man entered, his presence commanding. "I am Yan, the owner of this forgery. I'm impressed. You crafted this in an hour? I guess your leader was right about your skills. I'll offer you four hours of work. Any weapons you forge, if I like them, I'll pay you in gold or whatever you need."
He eyed the knife. "How much for this?"
Roy smiled. "Consider it a gift. It came from our hard work. But don't worry, Mister Yan. In four hours, you'll have a variety of weapons—if you allow us access to all the materials here."
Yan chuckled. "The wolf clan is lucky to have such talented people. Makes me want to work with them again. Now, start! You can help them, Northen. You're their leader and know them best."
Zen nodded. "I'll do my best."
As Yan and the scarred man left, Zen turned to them. "You're really talented. Who taught you?"
Mei smirked. "You wouldn't believe me, but an old lady taught us everything we know."
Zen raised an eyebrow. "An old lady?"
Mei: "Yes, but let's stop speaking. I have an idea, Diethor!"
Roy: "Fine!"
They began working, forcing Zen to join them reluctantly. He had no choice but to comply as they assigned him various tasks. Hours passed—four in total—and by the end, Mei, Roy, and Zen were completely exhausted.
Just then, Yan returned with his towering guard.
Yan: "It must be tiring to work nonstop. So, what have you created for us in four hours?"
Zen, answering with a sigh: "A sword, an armor set, a spear, a shield, and a bow."
Yan, visibly shocked: "Wow... All of these weapons? You must have a great deal of experience to accomplish this in such a short time. Perhaps I should contact your leader from the Wolves and propose an alliance in forging weapons."
Mei quickly put on an innocent, fearful expression, her voice trembling as she spoke with a man voice:
Mei: "Sir, we are not allowed to forge there..."
Zen, feigning anger and authority, interrupted her:
Zen: "Kovro! Speak respectfully about him. Do you want to relive that suffering?"
Mei flinched, hesitantly raising a hand to her masked eye as if haunted by a painful memory.
Mei: "No... not again..."
Yan frowned, concern flickering in his eyes.
Yan: "I am sorry. It was merely a suggestion—I meant no harm. Do not blame this skilled boy for my words."
But inwardly, Yan couldn't shake his doubts. I have never heard of the Wolves excelling in weapon forging… And yet, these three carry powerful weapons.
Mei and Roy quickly nodded in agreement.
Mei & Roy: "Yeah, yeah!"
Zen, keeping up the act, also agreed with an affirming nod.
Yan, smiling warmly: "Well, you seem very tired. How about sharing a cup of tea with me in the hall?"
The three of them were taken aback by the sudden kindness.
Roy was the first to recover, offering a polite smile.
Roy: "Yes, Mister Yan, we would be honored to share tea with you."
Zen leaned toward Mei and whispered, "Since when was he this polite?"
Mei murmured back, "He was always like this before."
Yan smiled again.
Yan: "The three of you are good people. It is sad to see you in such circumstances."
Then he called out to his wife.
Yan: "Dear, we have proper visitors. Prepare some tea and bring it here."
A woman appeared from another room, nodding in response.
Woman: "As you wish, dear."
The three of them sat in the hall with Yan as he dismissed his guard. Once they were alone, he began speaking.
Yan: "Do not be surprised. The Sword Tribe has existed since the legend of the Moon Tribe—the tale of the man who sought to create a just world where all had equal rights. That is why we do not seek to take multiple wives or treat women as objects. In our customs, we choose only one woman to be our beloved. However, not everyone follows this path… Perhaps the influence of other tribes has corrupted some."
At that moment, Yan's wife returned with tea and cookies. Yan gestured for her to sit with them, and she did so without hesitation.
The moment she settled, she noticed the way Zen, Roy, and Mei were staring at her.
Woman, smiling softly: "Why are you looking at me like that, boys? Do I seem strange to you?"
The three of them remained silent.
She chuckled lightly.
Woman: "Of course… I suppose I am a rare sight. After all, I can speak freely. But do not be mistaken—I have no power."
Her gaze softened as she exchanged a warm look with Yan before continuing.
Woman: "I was once a young girl, the daughter of a commoner, forced into the Selection when I was just sixteen. I cried so much that day..."
She trailed off, her eyes drifting as memories surfaced.
Flashback—Years Ago
A sixteen-year-old girl sobbed quietly, trembling.
Girl: "How am I supposed to dance and be chosen by some filthy man…?"
That day, Yan—a respected man of the tribe, then only twenty-six—had entered the hall out of curiosity.
The girl stepped forward, beginning her dance with a sorrowful expression. Tears fell with every graceful movement.
Yan watched, captivated by her sadness. Something in her broken expression moved him.
Then, he raised his hand.
Yan: "I choose that girl."
The announcer hesitated.
Man: "Are you certain, Mister Yan? She cried through the entire dance—"
Yan shot him a sharp glance, and the man quickly backed down.
Man: "She is yours."
The girl froze. Her heart pounded as she processed what had just happened. Slowly, she bowed.
Girl: "I am glad you chose me, Master. I will serve you properly from now on."
Yan remained silent as she lowered her head, following him outside.
The night sky was illuminated by the stars and the pale glow of the moon.
The girl hesitated before speaking.
Girl: "Sir… what should I—?"
Her voice cracked, and she shivered from the cold.
Without a word, Yan removed his jacket and placed it over her trembling shoulders.
She flinched, instinctively turning her face away, fearing he might strike her.
Instead, Yan's voice was gentle.
Yan: "Do not call me 'Master.' Speak to me comfortably from now on. Because from this moment forward… you are my wife."
Then, to her shock, he knelt before her and presented a simple ring engraved with a sword.
Her breath hitched. Her face turned red, but soon, fresh tears welled up—not from fear, but from relief.
For the first time that night, she felt truly lucky.
Girl: "I—I'm sorry… Of course, I will speak comfortably. Thank you, sir… Thank you!"
Yan took her trembling hand and slid the ring onto her finger. Then, he smiled warmly.
Yan: "It's alright. After all… I thought you were even more beautiful when you cried. That was the moment I fell for you, my one and only wife—Isabelle."
Present—Back to the Hall
Isabelle smiled as she finished her story.
Isabelle: "From that day onward, he respected my choices… He still does. I am so lucky to have met him that day. Right, dear?"
Yan took her hand, squeezing it gently.
Yan: "Yes. We have grown together."
Mei, Roy, and Zen were openly crying.
Isabelle: "Oh, boys… Did I make you cry?"
Roy wiped his tears.
Roy: "I just can't imagine such a beautiful story… What an emotional tale!"
Mei, curiosity sparking in her eyes, asked:
Mei: "Do you have children?"
Yan sighed.
Yan: "We lost many sons in battle. But we still have one young boy… and another son who left on a journey to find rare ingredients for our forge."
Roy sniffled, shaking his head.
Roy: "How can such good people suffer so much?"
Isabelle, ever calm, replied gently:
Isabelle: "You three… you are not like the men from other tribes. You are too softhearted. Do not feel sorry for us. Perhaps this fate befell me because I once wished never to have a daughter—I could not bear to see a girl suffer in this world."
She smiled wistfully.
Isabelle: "But at least my husband takes me on picnics sometimes."
Roy, still overwhelmed, exclaimed:
Roy: "You both are like angels from the sky!"
Zen, now composed, stood.
Zen: "Sir, we still need to leave."
Yan nodded and stood as well.
Isabelle showed a warm look : i hope you find your suitable one too !looking at Mei ,Roy and Zen
Yan with smile : " it wasn't for too long but Fine. Take this gold… and a small gift."
Mei and Roy bowed, thanking him. The moment they stepped outside, they ran as fast as they could toward the village forest.
As they ran through the dense forest, Mei cast a doubtful glance at Zen.
Mei: "Where are you taking us? And why are we running into the forest?"
Zen: "To avoid bumping into unnecessary tribes and clans. But honestly, I wish we had stayed and participated in that event to earn more money."
Mei, annoyed: "In your dreams!"
Roy remained silent for a moment before finally speaking, his voice uneasy.
Roy: "I feel bad for lying to those people… They were the first ones to treat us kindly."
Mei fell into thought, her expression conflicted.
Mei: "Now that you mention it, pretending to be tortured makes me feel bad too… They truly believed us. But we had no choice! We couldn't predict their reaction to our true identities."
Zen, with a careless demeanor: "Exactly. That's why we should always be cautious, even with people who seem good."
Suddenly, a sharp voice echoed through the trees.
Voice: "Capture her now!"
Mei's expression hardened.
Mei: "Someone's having a fight."
Meanwhile—Inside the Selection Event
Princess Lumina entered the crowded hall with her hood up and a mask covering her face. Women—some young, some barely older than girls—danced under the flickering lights. Lumina's gaze darkened as she watched them, a powerless sorrow filling her eyes.
Lumina, thinking to herself: I'm sorry, girls… I wish I could help you, but I can't.
She sat near a table, disguising her voice to sound like a man.
Lumina (disguised voice): "What an interesting event, don't you think?"
A man from a certain tribe scoffed.
Tribal Man: "Frustrating, more like it. These women mean nothing. Ever since word spread about Princess Lumina, all the leaders have become obsessed with her!"
Lumina responded smoothly, keeping up her act.
Lumina (disguised voice): "But her highness deserves death for betraying her country. That's what our leader told us."
The man shot her a sharp glance.
Tribal Man: "You must be from the Griffin tribe… Of course, you'd want her dead. But every tribe is after her. Some say she's hiding in this village, others claim she was spotted in the west. But the strongest rumor is that she's here, right under our noses."
His eyes narrowed with suspicion.
Tribal Man: "Wait a minute… Why are you hiding your face? And if you're from Griffin… that must mean—"
Lumina, thinking quickly: Damn it… I need to leave—now!
She forced a casual response.
Lumina: "We're just gathering information, sir."
Tribal Man: "Show your face."
Lumina: "I can't."
Before he could react, she bolted toward the exit.
Tribal Man, shouting: "She's Princess Lumina! Capture her now!"
The crowd erupted into chaos.
Lumina ran, drawing a golden line with her sword to activate a teleportation spell, but just as she was about to vanish, her hood slipped off, revealing her face.
Men: "Attack her! Capture her—she's the princess!"
Swords were drawn as the men lunged at her, but Lumina only smirked, running toward the forest.
A group of warriors blocked her path, their weapons raised.
Lumina, primping her hair with a confident smirk: "I never knew I was this popular. But I'm only after one man."
She raised her sword, blood dripping onto the blade. As it absorbed the crimson liquid, a brilliant light flared from the steel, blinding everyone around her.
Back in the forest, Roy's eyes widened in excitement.
Roy: "What a coincidence! Is she really Princess Lumina? She looks so cool! Shouldn't we help her? Let's go, Mei!"
He stepped forward, but Mei grabbed his arm.
Mei: "Wait! Revealing yourself all of a sudden—" She paused, turning to Zen. "And why are you hiding behind Roy?"
Zen was clinging tightly to Roy's back, his face pale.
Zen: "Stay calm… She can handle them, so don't move!"
Mei, suspicious: "What have you done to her?"
Zen avoided her gaze.
Zen: "I'll be gone for a moment. We'll meet at the harbor in the village!"
Mei: "Wait a minute! Why are you still clinging to Roy's back and hiding?"
Zen: "Just for two hundred meters, please!"
Mei grabbed him by the back of his collar.
Mei: "You're not going anywhere, Kuroi Zen!"
Meanwhile, Roy was still mesmerized by the fight.
At that moment, Lumina slashed her sword, and a dazzling light erupted from it, momentarily blinding everyone.
Mei, shielding her eyes: "What the hell is that?!"