《The Brotherhood of the Legendary Party》


 Chapter 1: The Crocodile Dragon

    In a world over a thousand years old, various races and monstrous creatures coexist, forming alliances or engaging in deadly confrontations. They are known to harness various sources of power, often referred to as magical abilities.


    The first type is a gift bestowed by the gods. The second type is power inherited by the offspring of gods or goddesses. The third type comes from unique races born with abilities, believed to be descendants of those who were offspring of the gods and goddesses. The fourth type is dark magic used by the demon race, whose origins are unknown. The fifth type is magic created by humans known as mages, who seek power from unknown sources. Lastly, the sixth type is magic derived from various curses, believed to result from mages'' failed experiments or to have been created by the demons themselves.


    Nearly half of the population believes in benevolent deities¡ªgods and goddesses¡ªwho grant special abilities to their chosen ones. While most individuals receive distinct, random gifts, one village stands apart in which all its inhabitants share the same set of powers.


    The village of Omp, secluded deep within the dangerous Timul forest, is home to 38 families. These families reside in over 35 houses, surrounded by farm fields and bordered by a mountain river. Each family plays a vital role in the community, working as builders, farmers, guards, scouts, hunters, or merchants, ensuring the village''s self-sufficiency.


    What makes Omp unique among other blessed villages is that its people have been granted shared abilities by Fay, the Goddess of Nature. This overlap in powers creates a rare bond and collective strength, distinguishing Omp from other communities, where individual gifts are more varied and unique.


    To protect this rare blessing¡ªand for their own safety¡ªthe villagers are forbidden from leaving the forest. This isolation ensures that their shared abilities and way of life remain hidden from the outside world, preserving the village''s mysteries and safeguarding its future.


    The villagers have learned that their duty is to aid the Goddess in safeguarding the forest from all harm, and in doing so, they will be granted random favor in return. Across generations, numerous residents have been blessed with the ability to repel outsiders and dangerous creatures. A peculiar ritual observed by the villagers involves extinguishing all lights at night, believed to ward off malevolent entities drawn to light sources.


    Those fortunate enough to be imbued with Fay''s powers are known as the "gifted." This select group possesses one randomly assigned power from a range of abilities, including the manipulation of water, earth, night vision, plant growth, purification, and communication with animals.


    The "gifted" individuals are allocated to specific roles within the village. Those with water-manipulating abilities tend to the irrigation of the fields and provide for the village''s water needs. Earth manipulators are charged with constructing foundations for houses, farmland, and defensive structures. The plant-growers utilize their abilities to expedite the harvest and ensure a bountiful yield for all villagers. The purifiers are entrusted with the task of purifying water and food, while the animal communicators mobilize bird scouts to survey the forest. Lastly, those


    gifted with night vision are responsible for guarding the village when all lights are extinguished after dusk.


    In this village, a boy named Paul Alkantar lived alongside his family. While not one of the "gifted," Paul''s natural talents set him apart. At 14 years old, Paul had gained a formidable reputation for his exceptional hunting and archery skills. His expertise was so well-regarded that he was granted permission to venture into the forest by himself to hunt and gather food. His proficiency not only provided sustenance for his family but also demonstrated the potential of non-gifted villagers to contribute significantly to their community.


    Paul respectfully followed his parents'' instructions and refrained from venturing beyond the boundaries of the forest. However, this limitation did not hinder him from honing his hunting skills to perfection within the dense foliage.


    Paul was widely recognized for his impressive physique, porcelain white complexion, strikingly long, dark, emerald green hair, and piercing, uncommonly vibrant green eyes. His appearance often made him a topic of conversation among the villagers, who admired both his unique looks and exceptional talents.


    On a calm and peaceful day, Paul found himself perched high in the branches of a massive tree, patiently observing his prey. Down below, a graceful doe was peacefully grazing beside a gently bubbling brook. With unwavering focus and precision, he took careful aim and, in one swift and skillful motion, brought down the magnificent creature.


    As Paul made his way back to the village, the vibrant colors of the surrounding forest seemed to accentuate the bountiful harvest he had gathered. His heart swelled with gratitude as he reflected on the successful hunt, and he couldn''t help but feel a sense of triumph as he carried the spoils, a testament to his skill and perseverance. Approaching the village, he was met with approving nods from the sentries.


    "A splendid hunt," remarked one of the sentries, admiring the impressive catch Paul had just brought back from the depths of the forest.


    Paul''s agile movements and keen senses had led him to a magnificent buck, and the group of guards couldn''t help but express their admiration. Paul graciously acknowledged the sentiment with a nod and a humble smile, feeling proud of his successful expedition that would provide for his family.


    "Tell your father, the chief, that one of our scouts spotted a campfire about five miles to the north," instructed one of the sentries, sharing important information about potential outsiders who might be approaching their territory.


    "I will, thanks Mr. Ben," replied Paul respectfully before taking his leave, his every step displaying the confidence and strength of a seasoned hunter, eager to exhibit his remarkable feat to his parents, Will and Zen Alkantar. As he approached his home, he couldn''t help but reflect on the legacy of strength and beauty that his parents embodied.


    Will''s body was sculpted with defined, powerful muscles, each movement exuding effortless strength. His thick, black hair cascaded down his shoulders, sharply contrasting with his fair skin. His dark eyes were sharp and focused, holding an intensity that reflected his experience. Known as the strongest hunter in the village, he was a force to be reckoned with.


    Zen, on the other hand, was an exceptionally beautiful woman. She possessed striking, waist-length green hair and rare, captivating green eyes. Her skin was radiant, and she was known for her exceptional culinary skills.


    Thirty years ago, Will and Zen found themselves on the run from their past lives. Together, they embarked on a journey across the world, seeking refuge from their troubles. Their travels led them to the remote village of Omp, which was under siege by terrifying monsters. Will, a former hunter, demonstrated remarkable bravery and skill by defeating the monsters, earning the admiration of the village chief and its inhabitants. Despite initial resistance from the village elders, the outsiders were eventually embraced as part of the community. Over the course of the next 15 years, Will built a reputation for himself and eventually rose to become the village''s next chief.


    And so, Paul, a young boy, often listened to his father''s stories about the outside world. Each time, he felt an increasing desire to follow in his father''s footsteps, obtain a hunter''s license, and embark on a journey to hunt monsters, earn a living, and explore the world. His dream was to encounter all sorts of creatures and beings that inhabit the vast and diverse world.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Returning to the present, Will greeted him with a warm smile and a playful jeer, his eyes bright with amusement. "Well, well, well, what have we here?" he inquired, a twinkle in his eye. "I daresay, my son, you could very well be the second finest hunter in our humble settlement."


    Paul stood tall, his voice unwavering but with a smile as he addressed his father''s words and taunt. "I am well aware of your skill and status as the foremost hunter in our village, Father. Your praise and your teasing need not be repeated."


    Their lighthearted exchange filled the room with warmth and laughter, a familiar part of their routine. With a playful twinkle in her eye and a smile gracing her lips, Zen gently interjected, "Let us not boast, my dear boys. Come, let us partake of the delicious dinner that awaits us. It''s already late, and the darkness outside makes it feel even later. We should make sure to extinguish all the lights as soon as possible to avoid unwanted visitors."


    Paul and his father nodded while still grinning. This was a normal occurrence for the young boy¡¯s life. He would hunt and return to his family, where they would laugh, banter, and have meals together.


    As the radiant sun dipped below the horizon, its warm glow gradually gave way to the encroaching darkness, blanketing the small settlement in a soothing embrace. Inside their quaint and welcoming home, Paul and his parents nestled around the dining table, savoring the rich aroma of their hot cocoa after indulging in a delectable and nourishing meal. The crackling of the fireplace cast a soft glow across the room, adding to the cozy atmosphere.


    As Paul looked at his mother with gratitude, he uttered with a genuine smile and curiosity, "You''re the best, Mother¡­ I can''t wait to see what you''ll create with the doe meat tomorrow."


    "It''s a surprise, Paul," Zen responded with a playful smile, her green eyes twinkling with mischief. "But I promise it will be something special. You know how much I enjoy making meals for our family."


    "By the way, I could potentially fetch three gold coins by bartering half of the deer tomorrow!" Paul exclaimed while looking at his father.


    He then added, "And with diligent saving, I may eventually journey to the city of Paran to acquire a hunter¡¯s license. As you told me when I was a little kid, I can use it to get paid while killing monsters. It has been a long-held dream of mine to become a licensed hunter, and I have been working hard to save up for this opportunity so I can fulfill this ambition."


    Rejoicing in her son''s achievement, his mother remarked, "That is splendid, Paul. Pursuing your dream to become the foremost hunter in the realm is a noble goal."


    "Mother, I no longer harbor such ambitions. Rather, I aspire to amass wealth so we could laze all day and the three of us could even venture anywhere. Therefore, Father, I am asking for your permission."


    "I''m sorry, but we can''t leave the village, Paul. Even if I agree with you, you still need to ask the elders for permission. You also need more training. You''re also not familiar with city life and it''s too dangerous for you and your mother with those eyes," Will said, his expression serious as he emphasized the risks involved.


    Paul, feeling a mixture of confusion and curiosity, replied, "I am fourteen years old now. Don¡¯t you think I¡¯m old enough to finally learn the truth about these eyes? I believe I¡¯m almost as skilled as you, Father. And maybe someday the Goddess could bless me with a gift so I can protect myself from anything."


    Will and Zen locked eyes, their knowing glances silently expressing mutual understanding and agreement.


    "I think it''s finally time to confide everything in him," Zen said softly to Will.


    Nodding in agreement, Will turned to address Paul with a look of concern on his face. "My son, your mother and I believe in being open with you about everything, but it¡¯s late now. Let¡¯s save this discussion for tomorrow when we can all give it the time and attention it deserves."


    "Okay, Father. Oh, and before I forget, Mr. Ben passed along a message. He mentioned that one of our scouts spotted a campfire approximately five miles to the north," Paul informed. "Goodnight!"


    Will''s expression grew serious at the news. He then stepped outside and rang the village warning bell, calling out loudly, "Come on, everyone, it''s time to wind down for the night. Please shut off all the lights, lock all the doors, and have a peaceful and safe night!" He carefully and respectfully burned a food offering as a sacred gesture to the Goddess, tending to the fire before properly extinguishing it afterward.


    Once all the lights were off, Will made his way toward the gate. He approached Ben and issued his orders. "Ben, gather three skilled hunters to accompany you and scout the strangers at dawn tomorrow. It¡¯s crucial that you do not initiate any aggression unless your lives are in imminent danger. Additionally, send me a hawk with a report."


    "Understood, Chief," responded Ben with a firm nod.


    ***


    The next day, Paul braved the bustling village marketplace with the intention of trading half of the meat from the deer he had hunted. After negotiating with local vendors, he successfully exchanged the meat for a satisfying amount of coins, leaving him immensely pleased with the outcome.


    "Nice catch, Paul! You make the entire village proud," exclaimed the meat seller.


    "Thank you. I''ll sell half of the meat again if I catch any today," Paul said proudly.


    "I¡¯ll be waiting," said the vendor as he wiped his hands on his apron, the smell of raw meat lingering in the air.


    After concluding his business affairs for the day, Paul sought out his father to finally get answers to the pending questions he had from the night before.


    Paul then went home and approached his mother with a happy look on his face and asked, "Mother, have you seen Father?"


    With a gentle expression, she replied, "No, dear, I have not."


    "Alright, please let him know that I have set out on a hunting trip for now," Paul said to his mother, who then bid him farewell with a wave.


    "Take care, dear," his mother replied.


    As the radiant sun began its slow descent below the horizon, casting a mesmerizing display of elongated shadows across the forest floor, Paul took a deep breath and hoisted his trusty hunting bow onto his shoulder. With each step into the dense woods, the dwindling light filtered through the lush foliage, enveloping the surroundings in a soothing, golden glow.


    The forest came alive with the serene symphony of nature¡ªthe gentle rustle of leaves, the melodic chirping of birds, and the occasional scurrying of elusive woodland creatures, all contributing to the tranquil ambiance of his solitary journey.


    Paul found himself consumed by thoughts of the unsettled conversation he had shared with his father last night. It reverberated in his mind, making him oblivious to the passage of time.


    As the sun continued its slow descent toward the horizon behind the towering trees, and with the search yielding no results, Paul decided to head back to the village while there was still light. Suddenly, against the dimming evening sky, he noticed a faint, flickering glow and caught a whiff of the sharp, smoky aroma of burning wood drifting from his village.


    Paul immediately quickened his pace. He came face to face with a distressing scene¡ªthe peaceful settlement was being attacked by a formidable winged creature. The once lively village now stood in ruins, with deaths scattered across the landscape, while his father and the remaining sentries were locked in a courageous battle with the monstrous intruder.


    As panic gripped Paul, his heart raced and his hands trembled as he frantically reached for his bow. With shaking hands, he hastily knocked an arrow, his every movement fueled by a desperate urgency. In that intense moment, he caught sight of his father approaching, his figure a comforting presence amidst the chaos.


    "Father!" Paul exclaimed, the worry palpable in his voice as he sought his father''s guidance. "Please, let me help. Where is Mother?" he beseeched, his voice laced with concern and urgency.


    "Paul, find your mother as quickly as you can," his father urgently instructed. "I¡¯ll hold off the creature. Trust me!."


    With a confident gesture, he unleashed a rapid succession of arrows toward the menacing creature. Following his father''s commands, Paul swiftly secured his bow and quiver, preparing for the task ahead. He ran and saw many slain villagers, destroyed and burning homes. As he turned a corner, Paul''s eyes fell upon the lifeless body of the meat vendor, and what he saw filled him with a profound sense of despair.


    His heart pounded in his chest as he stumbled back, tears streaming down his face. The chaos before him was unlike anything he had ever witnessed, and fear gripped him with icy fingers. His mind reeling, Paul frantically made his way back to his home. It was already half destroyed. As he stepped inside, his eyes darted around, desperate to catch a glimpse of his mother.


    When she was nowhere to be found, he dashed back outside, scouring the area as he called out in anguished tones, "Mother! Mother! Where are you?!"


    The young boy felt his heart sink as he realized that his search for his mother had been fruitless. He desperately hoped that maybe his mother had already reunited with his father, and with a heavy heart, he turned around and headed back.


    Yet upon his arrival, he was met with a harrowing sight¡ªthe monster stood alone, and there was no sign of his father or the others. The realization that they may have all fallen victim to the beast plunged Paul into deep despair.


    "Father, no! No!" Paul''s anguished wails filled the air.


    Believing that everyone around him had perished, Paul found himself frozen in shock as he stood face to face with a magnificent, otherworldly beast. In return, the monster, sensing his intent, locked eyes with him.


    It was a rare Crocodile Dragon, a creature never seen even in the forest of Timul. With intense focus, it fixated its attention on Paul and began a relentless pursuit.


    He had no time to draw his weapon as the terrifying dragon lunged at him. Paul vaulted out of the way, narrowly avoiding the deadly bite. As he scrambled to his feet, the relentless pursuit of the dragon forced him into the dense forest.


    The ground shook with each massive step of the creature, toppling trees and sending boulders flying. With a primal roar, the dragon''s mighty jaws closed in on Paul, trapping his lower body and hurling him into the raging river, where he was swept away into the depths.

 Chapter 2: New Friend

    Within the Forest of Timul lives Dellie, a tiny fairy with delicate, iridescent wings that shimmer with a soft, pastel pink glow. Once recorded in books, fairies were thought to be extinct, unseen by humans or any beings for thousands of years. These rare and unknown creatures possess unlimited stamina and wield powerful healing and nature magic.


    Every day, Dellie would diligently perform her routine, using her gentle magic to mend the damaged or dying parts of nature that roam the forest endlessly. One afternoon, while busy fixing broken twigs, she heard a pack of wolves howling in the far distance. Alarmed, she followed them, as she hates to see animals getting hurt.


    As she followed the wolves further, Dellie caught the scent of blood near the river. Realizing this was what had drawn the wolves, she hurried and soon found someone floating and bleeding. She quickly scared off the approaching wolves with vines she summoned from the area, causing them to scurry away. Dellie then rushed to the wounded person, noting the severity of his injuries.


    To her dismay, she discovered that both half his legs were missing. With a solemn sense of determination, she used her healing magic to tend to his wounds, though she knew she could not restore his lost limbs.


    ¡®He is no longer in grave danger, but it looks like he lost a lot of blood,¡¯ she thought.


    Dellie carefully hauled the injured person through the overgrown forest, guided by the ominous vines that seemed to have a mind of their own. Weaving through the dense foliage, she finally reached her hidden sanctuary¡ªa magnificent treehouse nestled within the ancient branches of a colossal tree.


    The treehouse was constructed around a hollowed-out section of the tree trunk, surrounded by a riot of vibrant flowers that seemed to thrive in this magical place. Gently laying the injured figure on a soft bed of petals, Dellie gazed at him with a mix of curiosity and sympathy.


    "I''ve never encountered a being like this before," she mused quietly to herself, her thoughts lost amidst the rustling leaves.


    Stepping out into the dappled shadow of the forest, Dellie allowed herself to be drawn into her daily pursuits, the secrets of her forest home unfolding before her as she temporarily set aside the enigma of the stranger in her care.


    ***


    Three days had passed, and Paul lay in bed, lost in a dream, pondering the fate of his parents, the well-being of the village, and the secrets they might have kept from him. These thoughts consumed his mind, preventing him from waking up.


    Returning from her daily forest walk, Dellie approached her quaint home, her mind full of the delightful sights and sounds of the woods. She noticed a figure stirring in the flower bed.


    It was Paul, slowly rousing from a deep slumber. Perturbed, she rushed to hide behind a large pot of fragrant flowers, her heart racing with a mix of worry and intrigue.


    "Where am I?" Paul''s voice quivered as he took in the unfamiliar yet beautiful surroundings.


    The cozy home was adorned with delicate light fixtures that seemed to bloom within the trees, while the flowers in the garden dazzled like a constellation of stars. As he attempted to rise, a wave of panic engulfed him as he realized half his legs were nowhere to be found. The memories came flooding back¡ªthe vicious attack by the crocodile dragon that left him incapacitated.


    In a desperate attempt to seek solace, he called out for his parents, but the only response was the echoing silence of the deserted surroundings. Overwhelmed, his composure shattered, and tears streamed down his face as he grappled with the enormity of his situation.


    From her hidden vantage point, Dellie observed Paul''s profound sorrow, her own heart aching with empathy, yet too paralyzed by fear to step forward and offer comfort.


    Paul took a moment to carefully inspect his body. Aside from his missing legs, his other body parts were still intact, without any wounds.


    "Thank goodness I''m still alive," he murmured with a sense of relief. ¡°But how am I healed?¡±


    Paul then tried to stand up using his knee as his foot. He realized that his height was now different. Frustration set in as he muttered to himself, "What am I going to do now? I need to find my way back to the village, but where am I?"The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Paul was clearly feeling lost and confused. Observing Paul''s plight, Dellie couldn''t help but feel that he wasn''t such a bad person, especially considering the sadness she sensed in him. She hesitated, contemplating whether or not to reveal herself.


    After a few moments of uncertainty, she made the decision to show herself. Gliding right in front of him and then circling the house, she caught Paul''s confused gaze. Unable to speak, Dellie resorted to gesturing, waving her hand and making a body motion to say hello, hoping to communicate her presence to Paul.


    "What is that light? Is it a firefly?" Paul asked, squinting in confusion. Suddenly, the tiny creature flew close to his eyes, its delicate wings fluttering as it waved at him. "Wow, what kind of creature are you?"


    Dellie performed a graceful 360-degree body action as Paul looked on in astonishment.


    "You can''t talk?" Paul inquired, to which Dellie nodded in response.


    Undeterred by her inability to speak, Paul bombarded Dellie with a series of questions. "Are you the one who saved me? Is this your home? Why are you so tiny? And why do you have wings like a dragonfly?"


    Each question was met with a nod from Dellie. As Paul contemplated her mysterious nature, he proposed, "What kind of creature are you?"


    Dellie shrugged in response.


    "You don''t know?"


    Upon closer inspection, Paul was bewildered as he recalled the village tale of a creature called a fairy, said to glow and resemble dragonflies. He shared his thoughts with her, and Dellie, delighted, fluttered about radiantly.


    This made Paul smile. Eager to learn more about her, Paul inquired, "So, what''s your name? I''m Paul Alkantar."


    In response, Dellie presented him with a stunning flower.


    "Your name is Dellie flower?, or just Dellie?" Paul deduced, to which Dellie nodded enthusiastically, grinning from ear to ear.


    Expressing his deep gratitude. "Thank you, Dellie. You''re my hero," he exclaimed, bowing respectfully.


    In a heartwarming moment, Dellie mirrored his gesture with a beaming smile. Intrigued by the rapid healing of his wound, Paul queried, "So, how did my wound heal that fast?"


    Dellie demonstrated her healing abilities to Paul, who observed her radiant glow illuminating their surroundings and causing everything nearby to bloom.


    "Wow, you have healing magic? That''s amazing, Dellie," Paul exclaimed in awe. "Could you please show me the place where you found me?" Paul asked.


    Dellie pointed at Paul''s legs, their absence a poignant reminder of the loss Paul had suffered. Communicating through gestures, Paul asked Dellie if she could somehow help him regrow his legs. Dellie shook her head, indicating that regrowing his legs was beyond her abilities.


    Paul kinda knew but still hoped that perhaps Dellie didn¡¯t heal his missing body right away. Seeing that Paul was sad again, Dellie racked her brain for a solution. Then, a spark of inspiration lit up Dellie''s eyes.


    Dellie began to radiate an otherworldly energy, and with a wordless command, the vines surrounding them attached themselves to Paul¡¯s missing body parts. Paul watched in awe as the makeshift vines acted as his missing limbs. Under Dellie''s guidance, he once again experienced the sensation of walking.


    They then tested the temporary limbs, with Dellie skillfully manipulating the vines to make Paul walk slowly. Paul was once again amazed as the vines responded to Dellie¡¯s command. He could sense the connection at his knee joint, synchronizing with Dellie''s vine movements. Together, they started to seamlessly collaborate as a team.


    "Wow, Dellie, this is incredible!" Paul exclaimed, his voice filled with gratitude. "I can''t feel them, but it''s like I''m walking. With your help, I can move around as if I have real legs. Thank you so much, Dellie." His face broke into a wide, heartfelt smile, and Dellie beamed back at him, her eyes shining with pride.


    Dellie however was discontented as this measure was only temporary and didn¡¯t really give Paul the ability to walk again. Seeing this, Paul reassured the little fairy that her help was big enough for them to set off towards the spot where Dellie discovered Paul.


    They eventually reached the location. ¡°Could you help me find my home?¡± Paul asked, and Dellie nodded with a warm smile.


    As they followed the river¡¯s path, Paul hesitated before speaking again. ¡°Could you stay with me while I adjust to using my legs? You¡¯re the reason I can walk at all. I promise to repay you generously. I¡¯m sorry for asking for more of your help,¡± he implored, his tone hopeful and sincere.


    Overjoyed at the prospect of finally having a new friend, Dellie agreed wholeheartedly. To her, having been isolated for so long in a community where fairies rarely interacted due to their living in different parts of the forest, the chance to converse with someone was a genuine blessing.


    "Thank you, Dellie!" Paul beamed with gratitude. "Let''s become friends." His heart was filled with joy, but to his surprise, he couldn''t jump up in celebration. Despite this, both Dellie and Paul were elated about their newfound friendship.


    "Dellie, can you help me jump? I really want to mark this moment," Paul requested, his eyes filled with excitement. In response, Dellie gracefully waved her hand, and to Paul''s amazement, he soared 20 feet into the air.


    "No way! Your vines are incredibly strong. I feel like a superhuman!" Paul exclaimed in astonishment. Dellie''s magical abilities never failed to surprise him. "I''m truly grateful that you were the one who saved me," Paul expressed his deep respect and admiration for Dellie.


    As Paul saw the view along the riverbank, he took the opportunity to acquaint himself with the surroundings.


    "Dellie, I think this path leads that way. Let''s pick up the pace," Paul suggested, pointing in a specific direction.


    Dellie, with her incredible agility, effortlessly darted through the vines, leaving Paul struggling to keep up.


    "Hey, Dellie, could you slow down a little? I''m still getting the hang of matching my knee to your movement," Paul called out, marveling at Dellie''s extraordinary abilities once again.


    Seeing Paul''s difficulty, Dellie gestured apologetically.


    "It''s okay, Dellie. I just need to build up my weak stamina," Paul reassured her with a smile, and they both shared a lighthearted laugh.


    Soon they arrived at their destination. Immediately, Paul''s heart sank as he gazed upon the ruins of his once-thriving village.


    "There, Dellie, that''s my village," he uttered in disbelief.


    Dellie came to a halt at the sight of the broken wooden gate, and her expression mirrored Paul''s shock.


    "No, this can''t be real," Paul murmured, his voice trembling with emotion as tears welled up in his eyes.


    Dellie felt overwhelmed, unsure of how to console her distraught new friend in the face of such devastation.

 Chapter 3: Blessing and Curse

    Paul, setting aside his grievance, turned to Dellie, his voice trembling. ¡°Help me find my parents,¡± he pleaded.


    As they continued, they came across the slain sentries, many of whom Paul knew well. They had been like big brothers to him, making the sight of their scattered body parts even more distressing.


    Dellie, surveying the area, was also overcome with sorrow at the sight of the lifeless bodies strewn around. Feeling a deep sense of sadness, she sought solace in Paul''s embrace as they continued their search.


    They scoured the area near the last place Paul had seen his father. Every step revealed more dead sentries, grim reminders of the recent dragon attack. Approaching the river, they found it blocked by a jumble of stones and debris. The sight of the destroyed walls only added to the sense of desolation.


    Three days had passed since the terrifying assault, and the once-thriving village now lay in ruins. The burning houses had been reduced to smoldering ashes, and the lush greens of the farm were nowhere to be seen.


    When they finally reached Paul¡¯s home, he was devastated to find that the house had been severely damaged. Large rubble blocked their path to the entrance. Paul implored Dellie to use her powers to clear the debris.


    Dellie nodded and extended her hand, coaxing vines to shift the rubble. Once the path was clear, Paul frantically rushed inside. He was relieved to find that the interior of the house was not damaged. Still, he desperately searched for any sign of his mother or any clues as to where she might be. Despite their efforts, they found nothing.


    Paul felt immense gratitude to the gods that his mother was not among the dead, clinging to the hope that she might still be alive. Despite searching all day through every house, he could not find his parents; they were missing. Instead, he saw many dead bodies of his fellow villagers and some strangers clad in matching armor, which left him uneasy. It dawned on him that these could be the outsiders Mr. Ben had mentioned, the ones spotted by a scout bird in the woods.


    The two decided to rest for a while, sitting outside the last home they searched. Paul couldn''t shake the feeling that these strangers were responsible for the disappearance of his parents, the destruction of his beloved village, and the loss of his own legs.


    Dellie watched as Paul''s expression transformed into anger, and fear washed over her. She saw the seething rage in his eyes, hinting at a deadly resolve. Despite her own fear, she tried to soothe and calm him.


    "I will avenge all of them!" Paul declared loudly, but the anger in him slowly dissipated as he noticed Dellie¡¯s frightened expression.


    "I''m sorry, Dellie. I was just overwhelmed with anger towards those responsible for this crime," he said in a much calmer tone. "Could you please help me pay my respects to the fallen and assist me in burying each of them?"


    Dellie agreed and helped Paul gather the villagers'' bodies, placing them in the middle of the village. They then held a burial ceremony for the slain people of Omp. As they began the burial, they offered prayers to the Goddess Fay, imploring her to ensure the peaceful rest of the departed souls.


    "I pray to you, Goddess of Nature, heed my plea and aid me in seeking justice for my people. Grant me a gift that will help me uncover the truth and bring about justice. I implore you, Goddess, bless me with hope."


    As Paul silently prayed, Dellie summoned trees to grow atop the villagers'' tombs, envisioning them as symbols of rebirth in their next life.


    When Dellie glanced back at Paul, she saw a breathtaking, radiant figure approaching him. To her astonishment, the figure looked back at her, revealing itself to be none other than Dellie''s mother, Fay, the Goddess of Nature and mother of all Fairies. With a gentle wave and a kiss, Fay faded away as Dellie wept, overwhelmed with emotion. Simultaneously, Paul began to emit a radiant glow, enveloping the surroundings with a mystical aura.


    As Paul focused on his prayers, he felt a strange sensation of weightlessness, as if an invisible force was lifting him from the ground. Confusion quickly turned to panic as he opened his eyes to see that he was hovering five feet above the ground. His initial calm gave way to a desperate cry for help, his voice trembling with fear.


    Dellie, still in tears and lost in thought, was jolted by Paul¡¯s scream. Initially confused about why Paul, who lacked wings, was floating in mid-air, she soon remembered her mother¡¯s touch and smiled with relief, realizing that Paul had been blessed.


    ¡°Dellie, help me!¡± Paul shouted. Reacting quickly, Dellie used her vines to assist Paul in descending. Unable to speak, she communicated through gestures, trying to convey what she had witnessed. It took a while for Paul to understand her message.


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    Paul was completely taken by surprise upon learning that Goddess Fay had touched him. It was truly unbelievable to him. He couldn''t recall sensing anything at that moment and sought confirmation. His initial shock gradually transformed into pure amazement as the reality of being blessed by the Goddess sank in. Overwhelmed by this extraordinary experience, Paul felt compelled to seek out Dellie, hoping to gain a deeper understanding of his newfound abilities. He was now considered to be "gifted" with the rare ability of flight, previously unheard of in the village.


    ***


    Over the course of a week, Paul trained to fly with Dellie¡¯s assistance. She was responsible for catching him with vines if he fell. As a result, Paul no longer needed the temporary vines to walk and could now float effortlessly. Dellie also shared her own flying techniques and provided Paul with valuable tips, sparking new ideas for improving his skills. Their collaboration and Paul¡¯s determination paid off, and he eventually mastered the art of flight.


    Paul gazed at Dellie with deep gratitude, marveling at how far he had come in just a week. "I think I can manage on my own now, Dellie. Thank you for everything," he said, his voice filled with newfound confidence.


    Overwhelmed with joy at Paul''s remarkable progress, Dellie enveloped him in a warm hug, her eyes sparkling with pride and affection.


    After their friendly embrace, Paul shared his plan to set out the following morning in search of his family. To express his gratitude, he offered Dellie a bag of coins as a token of his appreciation for her help and healing. However, Dellie gracefully declined the offer, shaking her head gently to indicate she needed no reward. In response, she tenderly embraced and kissed him. Both were overcome by a wave of emotion.


    "Do you want to come with me?" Paul inquired, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope as he envisioned a future with Dellie by his side. In a sad gesture, Dellie used her body language to convey that she could not leave the forest, as doing so would lead to her demise. She revealed that fairies were forbidden to leave Timul, as departing from it would result in their inevitable death.


    Paul''s heart ached at the thought of parting ways, and he embraced Dellie one more time, holding her tightly as if trying to memorize the moment. With a heavy sigh, he gently pulled away and looked at her with a mixture of sadness and determination.


    A heavy silence lingered between them, both feeling the sting of their unavoidable goodbye. To lift their spirits, Paul decided to change the subject. "Do you want to do something enjoyable?" he asked. Dellie nodded in response.


    "Help me scavenge my village for anything useful for my journey," he requested.


    Dellie smiled at the suggestion, and they spent half a day combing the area. Their search yielded many coins, his father''s bow, and a jar of cocoa powder along with a letter from his mother. Sitting in the corner of a building, Paul opened the letter slowly, and Dellie, noticing his silence, looked back at him with concern. Their initial smiles faded as they read the letter together.


    ¡°Paul,¡± he read aloud, ¡°I know you have many unanswered questions about our family history. It''s time for you to know the truth I''ve been holding back. I''ve struggled to find the courage to reveal everything, but I realized that I simply can''t. I deeply regret this and hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.¡±


    He paused, feeling the weight of her words. He took a deep breath and continued.


    ¡°The secret hidden in our eyes is tied to our royal lineage, and our bloodline has been relentlessly pursued by enemies seeking to eradicate every last one of our ancestors. You and I are the only remaining descendants, the last vestiges of our family''s legacy. Your father and I found each other amidst the chaos, and our love blossomed as I evaded those who sought to extinguish my existence. I''ve been hunted relentlessly, and Omp is the only place that has provided us with shelter. If you ever decide to explore the world, remember to guard the secret hidden within your eyes, for it holds the power to¡­¡±


    The letter abruptly ended, the lower portion wet and torn. Paul was devastated by the news his mother had shared. He searched frantically for the missing part of the paper but couldn''t find it. As evening descended and the shadows lengthened, Paul and Dellie decided to rest. Despite his exhaustion, Paul fell into a restless sleep, his mind tormented by thoughts of slaying a dragon, finding his parents, and uncovering the truth about his eyes.


    As the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, Paul awoke to the soft chirping of birds outside the broken window. A mix of nervousness and determination filled him as he prepared food and gathered supplies for his impending journey.


    Meanwhile, Dellie, who had formed a deep bond with Paul, felt a profound sadness at the thought of not being able to accompany him. Watching Paul prepare to depart, the weight of loneliness settled heavily upon her. Conflicted emotions swirled inside her. The new and uncertain feelings she harbored for Paul clashed with the fear of losing the only true friend she had ever known.


    As Paul packed the last of his supplies, he turned to Dellie, sensing her turmoil. "I¡¯ll come back, I promise," he said, his voice soft yet resolute. Dellie nodded, though her heart ached with the knowledge that promises could be hard to keep in such a dangerous world.


    Tears welled up in her eyes as she bid him a bittersweet farewell, her heart heavy with the thought of being alone once more.


    "It''s alright, Dellie," Paul assured her, embracing her tiny body with his cheek and hands as she mustered a small, brave smile. Dellie carefully presented Paul with three small crafted healing potions and two carved wooden legs she had spent the night creating while he slept.


    Gratefully accepting the potions and feeling thankful at the sight of the wooden legs, Paul expressed his heartfelt thanks. "You''re the best, Dellie. I promise I will always take care of myself." Dellie beamed with pride as she gently assisted Paul in attaching the wooden legs to his knees, ensuring they fit snugly for the journey ahead.


    Paul carefully gathered his belongings, making sure not to forget his father''s weathered leather bag, finely crafted bow, quiver of arrows, and a small amount of his mother¡¯s cocoa powder as he hid the large jar of cocoa powder somewhere in the house. With everything in tow, he prepared to embark on his journey.


    Paul then tested his newly fashioned wooden legs. Though he didn¡¯t really need them, he opted to use them to blend in. He struggled to maintain control and steady himself. Frustrated, he pondered his options until a spark of ingenuity struck him. Using his newly blessed flight ability to compensate for the rigid nature of the wooden legs, Paul finally found harmony between the artificial limbs and the bending joints of his knees, allowing him to confidently take his first steps on his own two feet.


    "Watch me, Dellie! I''m walking on my own again," Paul exclaimed with joy as he took a few steps. "You''ve made my life so much easier. I had been wondering for days how I would manage to travel without my legs, but with these prosthetic legs, it feels like I can be normal again. Thank you so much, Dellie. You truly are my lifesaver." He spoke with gratitude, gently patting Dellie''s tiny head. "I''ll come to visit you again soon," he promised, smiling at his faithful companion.


    Dellie''s eyes glistened with unshed tears as she put on a brave smile, not wanting to show her vulnerability in front of Paul. She found solace in the fact that she had brought a moment of happiness to Paul before his departure on a long and uncertain journey. As she looked at him, she mustered a smile and brushed away her tears, silently wishing she could accompany him and provide support. She held onto the hope that he would keep his promise to return to her once he had completed his quest to find his parents.


    With a farewell wave, Paul departed, his heart heavy with the bittersweet feeling of leaving Dellie behind. As he flew off, he watched as Dellie waved back until she was but a tiny glowing light in the distance. The mix of emotions weighed on him as he left, but the thought of returning to her kept his resolve strong.

 Chapter 4: Tracks

    Paul soared through the towering trees, determined to track the scouts Mr. Ben had reported. He remembered that the campfire had been spotted five miles north, but since that was a week ago, he feared they might have already moved farther away. This urgency drove Paul to master flying, knowing it was his only chance to catch up to them.


    Sure enough it only took him minutes to cover that destination. Finding it difficult to scout under all those trees blocking his view, Paul immediately descended onto a nearby tree where he then scouted for a campfire. He meticulously scanned the surroundings and was able to finally caught sight of an old campfire.


    He observed silently, flying closer and closer until he landed on a tree. Scanning for signs of danger and tracks, Paul found large footprints that didn''t belong to any humanoid species. This triggered nightmarish memories: images of the creature that had ravaged his village, the one responsible for the loss of his limbs and the devastation of his once-thriving community. Paul''s burning desire for vengeance fueled the deep-seated anger in his heart. He cursed the dragon and vowed to kill it just as it had mercilessly taken the lives of others.


    Paul tried to calm his emotions and decided to continue scouting. Soon, he found human footprints diverging from the creature''s tracks. He faced a decision: pursue the dragon or rescue potential survivors. Without hesitation, Paul chose to prioritize tracking the human footprints, hoping they would also lead him to his parents.


    That decision led him to discover more footprints, some showing signs of struggle. This lifted his spirits, indicating potential survivors. However, it also hinted at a grim possibility his father had spoken about, ¡®¡®Slavers who would stop at nothing to profit from the lives of others.¡¯¡¯


    Paul vividly remembered how Will felt disdain towards them. Now, he too was filled with contempt. Clutching his bow tightly, he muttered a vow of vengeance, "Bastards, they will pay for this. Wait for me, Father and Mother. I will make them pay."


    As his search continued through the dense Forest of Timul, Paul couldn''t help but wonder how the outsiders had discovered their secluded village in the first place. This thought fueled his growing rage, so he tried to distract himself by marveling at the vast expanse of the forest dedicated to his Goddess Fay. Under normal circumstances, he knew he would have enjoyed this journey. However, knowing that his parents and other survivors might have had to walk without stopping just to reach this place made it impossible for him to find any joy.


    As night fell, Paul decided to set up a small camp atop a towering tree. Below, he secured a small fire by gathering rocks and dry wood. This was done after ensuring the location was safe from intruders and suitable for making fire. He then began cooking a simple meal with the tools he had brought.


    After cooking, Paul retreated to the top of the tree, taking his tools and food with him. He made sure to extinguish the fire before it attracts attention. Settling down, he took a substantial bite of the savory, smoky jerky and sipped the hot cocoa, reminiscent of the recipe his mother used to lovingly prepare.


    "It feels like home," he thought, reminiscing about the times he and his parents would share meals filled with laughter. Paul missed them dearly and hoped they were safe, trusting his father to protect his mother.


    Consumed by recent events, he pondered the potential power in his eyes that his mother had mentioned in her letter. He concentrated intently, trying to will some ability into existence, but after several hours of effort, nothing happened. Disappointed, he drifted off to sleep.


    In the dead of night, a piercing scream jolted him awake. Alert, he scanned his surroundings, ready to fly if needed. When the scream sounded again, Paul instinctively but carefully sought its source. To his surprise, he discovered a small, terrified wolf cub entangled in a trap, one of its paws ensnared by a rope.


    Further exploring the area, Paul stumbled upon a grim scene: an adult wolf lying lifeless in a cruel spiked trap. With no immediate threats in sight, he turned his attention to a nearby cub, its leg caught in another trap. Gently freeing the small creature, he received a grateful lick in return.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    When the cub let out mournful cries beside the fallen wolf, Paul¡¯s heart ached. He couldn¡¯t bring himself to abandon it. He then destroyed all the remaining traps left by the intruders before returning to his camp with the cub.


    Back at camp, Paul shared his last piece of smoked jerky with the hungry cub. As night fell, the little creature nestled close to him for warmth. Paul softly stroked its fur, naming it "Black." Feeling an unexpected bond growing between them, he drifted off to sleep, the cub resting peacefully by his side.


    Paul woke up early and decided to head out to look for food. He soared into the sky with Black tucked beneath his clothes. Initially, he thought flying with the young wolf would be impossible, but to his surprise, Black enjoyed it. Eventually, they spotted a plump rabbit, and Paul swiftly took it down with precision. Heading back towards the camp with their catch, he saw a pack of wolves feasting on their kill.


    Glancing at Black, he pondered if the cub wanted to join the pack, but the young wolf showed no interest. Smiling, Paul continued, eager to prepare and savor their successful hunt. Once back at the camp, he skillfully cooked the rabbit, and they enjoyed a small portion, saving the rest for later.


    Paul continued their journey with Black snuggled comfortably in his arms, the wind gently ruffling their hair as they ventured through the forest. Each day, they moved quietly, doing their best to remain unnoticed while following the tracks. After several days of pursuit, they finally emerged at the forest''s edge. Paul felt a mix of emotions¡ªanticipation and a hint of anxiety. He readied himself for the adventures beyond, uncertain if their presence would be discovered.


    Paul marveled at the stunning grassy landscapes stretching before him, the sunlight catching his eyes as a refreshing breeze swept past. The brilliant blue sky seemed to stretch endlessly above, and as he soared with Black by his side, he felt a profound sense of freedom and tranquility, momentarily unburdened by his worries.


    Glancing over his shoulder, he took in the majestic line of towering trees marking the edge of Timul Forest. Their ancient trunks reached skyward, their leaves whispering secrets of the wild. A stirring sense of longing filled him as he thought of the great adventure ahead¡ªa quest to reunite with his people, a journey sure to be fraught with challenges.


    After a short rest, they continued flying to follow the tracks, but Paul flew higher for safety this time. However, after a while a sudden gust of wind caused them to fall rapidly. Paul fought the wind and managed to save them both just six feet above the ground. As he checked on Black, who was still sleeping, he couldn''t help but giggle loudly, which woke the cub.


    "That woke you up and not the fall?" Paul said, smiling at the cub. He looked up, wondering why the wind was so strong, and decided to just fly lower. However, when he was about to continue, the tracks were nowhere to be found.


    Paul anxiously scanned the landscape, hoping to find any trace of the tracks. Despite his efforts, he couldn''t find anything, and panic set in. Realizing he was lost with no sense of direction, he murmured, "I''ve made a huge mistake, Black. This is not good."


    Worry gnawed at Paul as he thought about his parents and the daunting reality of being stranded. He stood frozen for a moment, unsure whether to further think or take the risk and venture into the unknown, fearing he might never find the tracks again.


    After a deep breath, he forced himself to move forward, striving to clear his mind. As he considered his next move, the extent of his unpreparedness hit him hard. He tried to recall his father''s lessons on navigation and survival, but the details eluded him¡ªhe¡¯d never truly paid them much attention.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t I listen before? I¡¯m such a fool. I need a plan, and fast,¡± Paul muttered, absently stroking Black to calm his nerves.


    Determined to press on, Paul took a deep breath and chose to move forward, hoping it might lead somewhere familiar. As he took flight, he scanned the landscape, but nothing looked recognizable. His earlier sense of orientation was now completely gone, leaving him feeling even more lost. Meanwhile, Black relieved himself, unnoticed by Paul, who remained preoccupied with his growing anxiety.


    ***


    Days had passed, another sun began to set, casting long shadows for Paul and Black who were currently searching for a suitable place to camp. The open field felt too risky, so they continued looking for a tree but found none. Exhaustion set in as they ate their last ration. Just when they were beginning to feel weary, a distant light caught their attention. The darkness made it easier to spot the light from above, and they slowly glided down toward it.


    Approaching the light, they saw a tall, strong man cooking meat over the campfire. The flickering flames illuminated his face, revealing a young man who seemed to be around his age. His long silver-white hair cascaded down, and he had two shields on the ground, wearing leather armor, but there were no visible traveling bags.


    Paul drew his bow and arrow, aiming at the stranger, prepared to shoot at any moment from a nearby tree. Suddenly, Black, awakened by the smell of cooking meat, began to bark. The stranger, startled, quickly reached for his shields. Paul fired a warning shot, hitting the middle of the stranger''s hand and one of his shields. As the stranger looked around for the source of the arrow, Paul took aim again.


    "Stop! Who are you, and what are you doing here?!" Paul demanded loudly, pretending to be a local.


    "My name is Zaell Alafilido. I''m a newbie hunter. I just got my hunter''s license a few days ago. I''m not from around here because I travel a lot. Bandits stole my bag yesterday. I was just passing through this area looking for them. Who am I speaking to? Could you please show yourself? I am no threat," he said calmly, raising his hands to show he surrendered.

 Chapter 5: Rivalry

    As Paul heard Zaell mention "hunter license," his curiosity piqued. He glided down, approaching Zaell with his bow and arrow still aimed at him. With an inquisitive look in his eyes, Paul asked to see the license Zaell had mentioned. Paul had never laid eyes on a hunter license before; his father had lost his years ago, calling it unnecessary. The mystery of the license¡¯s appearance intrigued him, and he was eager to finally see one.


    Zaell rose slowly, keeping his arms raised in a gesture of surrender. The sight of the stranger levitating moments ago still stunned him, and the campfire''s dim light revealed the stranger¡¯s striking emerald eyes. Those eyes were mesmerizing, stirring memories of grim tales about the extinct green-eyed people. With cautious movements, Zaell retrieved his hunter¡¯s license from his pocket, ensuring his other arm remained raised in a non-threatening manner.


    "This license is genuine," he said, extending it towards the enigmatic figure.


    Paul''s eyes gleamed as he took the license. Just as he was about to examine it, Black, mistaking it for food, snatched it with a quick bite. Paul dropped his bow and arrow, frantically grabbing at Black¡¯s jaws to retrieve the license, hoping it wasn''t too late.


    "No, Black, that''s not food. Give it back," he grunted, struggling to pry open the cub''s strong jaws. After several attempts, he managed to retrieve the license, now wet and damaged.


    "You stupid little wolf, why did you do that? I just fed you," Paul scolded Black, a mix of anger and disappointment in his voice.


    After witnessing his hard-earned license being destroyed, Zaell was consumed with rage. He after all had poured all his savings into acquiring that license, hoping for a profitable return to pull himself out of debt.


    Seeing Paul drop his weapon and get distracted, Zaell charged at him, delivering a powerful blow that sent Paul flying into a nearby tree. Black, tucked inside Paul¡¯s clothing, fell to the ground with a startled whine before barking wildly at Zaell.


    This onslaught caused Paul''s face to bleed, crimson streaks running down his cheeks and dripping onto the forest floor. Realizing the imminent danger, Paul quickly countered, weaving through Zaell''s furious punches and retaliating with a swift, powerful kick that sent Zaell stumbling backward. Paul didn''t waste a moment; he swiftly recovered, and flew towards Zaell to deliver a series of  ferocious punches. He tried to lift Zaell off the ground but struggled with his opponent''s weight.


    Seizing the opportunity, Zaell grabbed Paul''s legs with a strong grip, yanking him off balance. With a swift, brutal motion, Zaell then grasped Paul''s neck, slamming him forcefully into the hard earth. Paul gasped for air, his lungs burning, his vision blurring around the edges. Desperate, he fumbled for a nearby rock and, summoning all his remaining strength, hurled it at Zaell.


    In a startling display of ability, Zaell held out his hand, and the rock shrank, crumbling into a grain of sand as it reached him. Paul was left stunned, his mind struggling to grasp the reality of what he had just witnessed. Before he could react, Zaell pounced again, his body poised to deliver a devastating body slam.


    Paul evaded the attack at the last possible second by slipping using his flying ability, causing Zaell to crash into the ground with a painful thud, injuring himself. As Paul descended toward Zaell, breathing heavily, he said, "Let''s stop before we kill each other. We''ve already taken enough of a beating."


    He extended a hand and proposed a truce, acknowledging the toll their conflict had taken on both of them. Reluctantly, Zaell accepted the gesture, signaling an end to their confrontation. They both limped towards the campfire, checking their fresh injuries as they went. Settling in front of the fire, they began to laugh about the absurdity of their fight.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    "You''re strong, Zaell. You almost killed me," Paul said, a grin spreading across his face. "By the way, my name is Paul Alkantar, and this is Black, my stupid wolf. Sorry about your license. Believe me, I know the pain of saving up for something important. I should pay to repair your license."


    Paul extended his hand in introduction. Zaell shook it, showing respect. "I''m sorry I snapped," he replied. He took a piece of meat from the campfire. "Here, feed your hungry wolf before he decides to eat us," he joked.


    Paul laughed as he stroked Black, scolding him lightly. "So, how much is that license?" he asked.


    "Fifteen silver. I know it''s expensive; it took me months to save that money," Zaell replied.


    Paul was stunned, recalling his father telling him it was 100 gold pieces. He had a lot of gold coins in his bag, saved from his earnings and the coins he looted from his slain fellow villagers. "What do you mean fifteen silver? How much silver is one gold piece?" Paul asked, perplexed by the price discrepancy, thinking his father must have lied to keep him in the village longer.


    "One gold coin is equal to a hundred silver. Why? Can''t you afford it?" Zaell asked, hoping Paul could repair his license.


    Paul was in disbelief as he reached into his bag and began counting the gold pieces within. The realization dawned on him that his humble village was secretly prosperous, awash in a wealth of currency.


    ''But why are the homes so modest only constructed in rocks and wood...'' He thought as he further struggled to comprehend the village''s unexpected wealth.


    He remembered his trips to the Omp village market, where gold coins were the only currency he ever saw. His mind raced back to the times he sold half a doe¡¯s meat, each sale bringing in three gold coins, equivalent to 300 silver coins. The figures were staggering¡ªhe could have earned enough to buy a license in just one day. As this realization settled in, he was consumed by confusion and frustration, questioning why his parents had kept this hidden from him despite their knowledge of the outside world.


    Thoughts raced through his mind, and a realization struck him¡ªthis hidden wealth might be why their village was attacked and why so many of his fellow villagers, including his parents, were taken. He remembered losing track of the trail he had been following earlier that day. Urgency seized him, and he hurried to Zaell''s side.


    "Do you know if there are any slavers operating around here?" Paul asked, his voice trembling with adrenaline.


    "I do," Zaell replied firmly. "I think they are the same people who took my bag as they are also known for being bandits."


    Paul stood up, grabbed his bow and arrow from the ground, and began emptying his bag, removing items he no longer needed to make space inside. He placed Black inside the bag, the wolf cub''s head popping out before it immediately fell asleep.


    "Zaell, do you want to get your bag back?" Paul asked.


    Zaell nodded, anger flashing in his eyes.


    "Good. I want you to join me and lead me to their location. Do you have any clues? I''ll pay you three gold coins for any information about their hideout now, and ten more if you help me eliminate them," Paul said seriously, handing Zaell three gold coins.


    Zaell accepted the coins, having never had gold coins before, his expression determined. Paul appeared ready to act at any moment, the fire of resolve burning brightly in his eyes.


    "I can sense you''re troubled, Paul. It''s clear from your eyes that it has something to do with the slavers you''re searching for. I don¡¯t have the exact location of their base, but I have a strong suspicion about where it might be. I was planning to head there alone tomorrow, but since we have a common enemy, I''m willing to join forces. I''ve dealt with a few bandits on my journeys, and it seems urgent¡ªwaiting until morning might not be wise. We should leave now while it''s still dark," Zaell said.


    Paul carefully took one of the potions Dellie had given him as a gift. As he slowly drank half of it, a radiant glow spread through his body, causing his wounds to miraculously heal. Recognizing the potion''s effectiveness, he offered the remaining half to Zaell, hoping they would both be in top condition for the battle ahead.


    Zaell was utterly mesmerized by the effects of the high-quality potion, feeling a surge of healing energy as he drank the second half. As he observed Paul¡¯s simple wooden equipment and accessories, Zaell couldn''t help but be puzzled about Paul''s possible affluent background. When he noticed Paul''s wooden prosthetic legs beneath his clothing, he marveled at how Paul managed to fight so effectively and move so skillfully. Witnessing Paul''s remarkable ability to take flight, Zaell felt confident that they could work well together as a team.


    "Paul, before we start, I think it¡¯s important to share some background about ourselves. It will help us work better as a team. I''ll begin by telling you about my abilities. I''m skilled in blocking and protecting those around me. Additionally, I¡¯m versed in boxing and with durability to that of a carabao. I also have the unique ability to shrink and regrow any item I touch. Watch this." Zaell demonstrated his ability by adjusting the size of his shields.


    Despite feeling unsettled, Paul viewed Zaell as a reliable ally in battle. He introduced himself, detailing his skills with a bow and his wooden legs. In return, Paul shared the tragic story of his village and parents, explaining his deep desire for vengeance. As night fell deeper around them, they prepared for the battle ahead.

 Chapter 6: Captives

    As they ventured into the night, Paul and Zaell made their way through the forest, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight. The stars twinkled above, adding an almost magical quality to their journey. Paul hovered above Zaell as they moved forward, the hours passing in silent anticipation.


    "How much farther, Zaell?" Paul broke the silence.


    Zaell squinted at the map before answering, "Not sure. I¡¯m just following the directions he gave me."


    "Who exactly gave you this information?" Paul asked, curiosity evident in his tone.


    ¡°I managed to interrogate one of them before I left him hanging from a tree in the forest,¡± Zaell replied, a note of coldness in his voice.


    ¡°Well done, but I would¡¯ve finished him off if I were you,¡± Paul muttered, frustration tightening his jaw.


    They continued westward, Zaell¡¯s footsteps the only sound in the stillness of the forest. Soon, they came across a hidden campsite, its fire pit casting flickering shadows on the figures gathered around it. Zaell¡¯s sharp eyes quickly recognized one of them.


    "Paul, I know that man. He¡¯s one of the key figures in the guild I visited. I think it¡¯s safe for us to show ourselves," Zaell whispered with confidence.


    "If you¡¯re sure," Paul replied.


    Paul descended to join Zaell, and together they approached the camp. As they neared, the hunters on watch quickly noticed them.


    A guard stepped forward, his voice sharp, "Who goes there?!" He leveled his spear at them, and every eye in the camp turned their way, the tension thickening.


    Both raised their hands in a gesture of peace. "I¡¯m a hunter," Zaell announced, "and this is my brother. We¡¯re here to speak with Sir Chris."


    Paul couldn¡¯t help but smile when Zaell referred to him as "brother." Chris rose from his seat, initially cautious, and asked, "Who¡¯s asking?" But as soon as he recognized Zaell, a warm smile broke across his face. "Oh, young Zaell! What brings you here? Please, sit." He motioned for the others to lower their weapons and relax.


    As Paul and Zaell entered the camp, they noticed ten hunters, including Chris, who was among those gathered around the crackling fire. Their figures danced in the warm light, and the atmosphere gradually relaxed as they settled in.


    "Zaell, I¡¯m surprised to see an F-rank hunter like you here. This quest is meant for D to C-rank hunters," Chris said, his suspicion clear.


    In response, Zaell smirked and shot back, "I could ask you the same thing¡ªwhat¡¯s an A-rank hunter like you doing on a D to C-rank mission?" His remark was met with hearty laughter from the group.


    Zaell then said, "Let¡¯s not waste time¡ªmy brother and I are on a different mission. We¡¯re heading to the bandits¡¯ and slavers¡¯ hideout near here. We are here to wipe them out and reclaim what they stole from us.¡¯¡¯


    The camp fell into a sudden silence, everyone¡¯s eyes locked on the two of them. Zaell then added, ¡®¡®Paul¡¯s parents and some villagers were taken, so there¡¯s no time to lose. I wanted to inform you, hoping you could recommend this mission to the guild master to stress its urgency. That¡¯s all. Thanks for your time. We should be going."


    As the duo strolled out, Chris let out a lighthearted chuckle, a smile playing on his lips. He placed a reassuring hand on Zaell¡¯s shoulder, his brow furrowing in confusion. "But you just said Paul was your brother?" he asked, searching Zaell''s eyes for clarity.


    Zaell turned slightly, his expression softening as he replied, "What I meant was that Paul was more than just a friend to me¡ªhe was someone I held dear, like a brother from another mother."


    "Hmm¡­ Anyway, what a coincidence! We''re on the same mission¡ªrescuing those civilians. Some of the hunters here are dealing with the same problem. We¡¯re planning to move out tomorrow morning.¡±


    Then Chris'' face became serious as he added, ¡®¡®But you Zaell,  just got your license a few days ago. I can¡¯t let you take on something this dangerous. It¡¯s too risky. Even as second-in-command at the guild, I don¡¯t have the authority to let a newcomer like you engage in something this reckless,"


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    "Who do you think you are, telling us what to do?" Paul snapped, shoving Chris¡¯s hand away from Zaell. His face twisted in anger as he turned to his brother. "Let¡¯s get out of here, bro. We¡¯re wasting time."


    Chris stepped forward, his voice firm. "And who do you think you are, refusing a guild command? No hunter disobeys the guild leader¡¯s orders."


    "I¡¯m not a hunter! Get in our way again, and I¡¯ll consider you as my enemy!" Paul¡¯s response was ice-cold, his grip tightening on his bow as he glared at Chris.


    Chris could sense a deep, unsettling fear reflected in Paul¡¯s eyes. Despite being a respected A-rank hunter and a knight, he stood frozen in place, his lips parted in shock.


    ¡°Apologies for that,¡± Zaell said, bowing his head in an earnest gesture of remorse. ¡°He was a bit angry and overwhelmed.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, Zaell," Chris replied, his voice steady and understanding. "I empathize with what he¡¯s going through. Just be careful, and remember, we¡¯re not far behind.¡± Zaell nodded.


    Paul and Zaell walked out of the camp, two young hunters trailing behind them, ignoring the strict rules that governed their profession.


    Chris could only rub his forehead upon seeing the two hunters following Paul and Zaell, then muttered, "Eijay and Rhyz..."


    Eijay Piritus was a half-giant, towering at an imposing seven feet tall. Despite being only 14, he exuded strength and confidence. His short brown hair framed a face with determined features, while a floating grimoire¡ªa manifestation of his ability¡ªhovered beside him. Eijay typically wore a sleeveless brown robe, a distinctive choice that set him apart.


    Rhyz Dehes, also 14, was a normal-sized teenager with striking long black hair. He wielded two self-designed guns with a dagger on the tip and had the remarkable ability to teleport, a gift from the Gods. He usually wore a long black cloak, mirroring his mysterious nature. Both Eijay and Rhyz were recognized as C-rank hunters.


    "Wait up, you two!" Eijay called out urgently.


    "We want to join you. Our friend was taken by those bandits a few days ago. Our group¡¯s moving too slowly because they¡¯re overly cautious. We don¡¯t care if we lose our license¡ªwe just want to save our friend as quickly as possible. You guys seem to be in a rush, so let¡¯s join forces."


    Paul looked up at the towering figure as Eijay extended his hand. In response, Paul accepted the hand, sealing the forming of an unlikely party.


    As the hours passed, Zaell continued to lead the group toward their destination. Their journey brought them to the enemy¡¯s stronghold, perched atop a mountain. The hideout had a small cave entrance, reinforced with wooden walls and watchtowers manned by archers.


    Paul flew up a tall tree and positioned Black at the top, placing the bag on a nearby branch. Black slept peacefully inside the bag, as serene as a baby. Paul glided down from the tree and silently signaled the rest of the group to commence the attack. They spread out in different directions, moving with practiced stealth. Together, they launched a coordinated ambush, taking out the enemy one by one.


    Paul and Rhyz led the charge, each showcasing their extraordinary skills. Paul soared high into the sky, positioning himself near two towering structures. With precision, he drew his bow and expertly struck his targets. Meanwhile, Rhyz used his teleportation ability to instantly appear behind one of the guards stationed in a tower. In one swift motion, he dispatched the guard with a well-placed gun dagger, swiftly neutralizing the threat.


    Meanwhile, Zaell and Eijay approached the gate. With a powerful heave, Eijay lifted Zaell and launched him across the gate. He then scaled the wall with ease. Once on the other side, he quickly used his spell book to cast a thick fog, enveloping the entire base in mist to conceal their movements.


    Upon landing, the first thing Zaell did was move stealthily into a tent where the guards were resting. As he entered, Zaell enlarged his normally shrunken shields and, without hesitation, delivered swift blows to the bandits'' heads, knocking them all unconscious.


    In one fluid motion, Zaell then bound their arms and legs and gagged them to silence any unwanted cries for help. With the guards neutralized, Zaell met with the others, and they continued their methodical sweep. Working with precision, the team managed to eliminate all the remaining guards without raising any alarms.


    Eijay and Rhyz stood in awe, captivated by the extraordinary skills displayed by Paul and Zaell. Despite Zaell being an F-rank hunter and Paul lacking any hunter classification, both Eijay and Rhyz were impressed.


    "Stay hidden and keep an eye on that cave entrance," Paul instructed his comrades in a low whisper. Determined to rescue the captives, he entered the tent and approached an unconscious bandit. Paul then tapped the bandit¡¯s face with the back of his hand to rouse him from unconsciousness.


    As the bandit stirred groggily, Paul drew an arrow and pressed it against the bandit''s throat. "Where are the captives?" he demanded, his eyes locked on the bandit, ready to act if the bandit didn¡¯t cooperate.


    In the dim light of the tent, the bandit''s desperate pleas continued. Paul, intent on extracting crucial information, pressed further. "How many guards are there?" he asked.


    The bandit¡¯s voice quivered as he responded, ¡°There are about 70 bandits, including our leader.¡±


    Paul then pressed the arrow slightly deeper, drawing a small drop of blood. He then said, "Tell me more."


    Realizing the gravity of the situation, the bandit quickly added, ¡°The cave has 11th floors. The prisoners are on floors 9th and 10th. The other floors serve as sleeping quarters for the bandits. The 11th floor houses the vault, the slavers, and my master''s room. That¡¯s all I know¡ªplease, spare my life,¡± he begged.


    Paul¡¯s eyes narrowed as he warned, "If you¡¯re lying, you know what will happen." He re-applied the gag and knocked the bandit unconscious.


    Paul¡¯s mind raced with worry for his parents and community, his anxiety palpable. His heart pounded as he struggled to maintain his composure. Yet, as he glanced at his steadfast team, a surge of courage helped him focus on the task. He shared the crucial information with his comrades, prompting a strategy session.


    "We''re outnumbered and can''t confront them head-on," Eijay said. "We should move quietly to floors 9 and 10 to rescue the hostages, then make a quick retreat."


    Rhyz voiced his concern, "What if someone spots us and wakes up everyone at once? We could end up as prisoners or worse."


    "Can you teleport them out with you?" Zaell asked, hopeful.


    "Unfortunately, I can only teleport myself within a 50-foot radius," Rhyz replied.


    Turning to Eijay urgently, Paul asked, "Do you have any magic that can help us rescue the hostages without being seen?"


    Paul had seen Eijay use magic before, and from that, he assumed Eijay was a mage.


    Yet the half-giant only smiled and said, "I¡¯m not actually a mage. What I¡¯m using is called a spell."


    Eijay then flipped through his grimoire, unfazed by the confused expressions of Paul and Zaell, the scent of old parchment filling the air. After a moment, he found what he was looking for. "How about a sleeping spell?" he suggested. "I can put everyone to sleep, and if they wake up, I can put them back to sleep again."


    The team, though nervous, agreed to the plan. As they approached the dark and foreboding cave, Zaell led the way with his shields raised. Paul, bow at the ready, followed closely behind. Rhyz held his guns, and Eijay cast a small light spell above Zaell to illuminate their path. They cautiously advanced deeper into the cave, passing closed doors and the distant sounds of snoring.

 Chapter 7: Depression

    They slipped onto the eighth floor, undetected, but their luck almost ran out when a patrol guard caught sight of the faint glow from Eijay¡¯s light spell. The guard was seconds away from raising the alarm when Rhyz reacted in a flash. He teleported behind the guard and delivered a sharp strike with the tip of his gun, knocking him out cold. The keys fell from the guard''s hand, and Rhyz snatched them up. The boys exchanged quick thumbs-up, silently acknowledging Rhyz''s quick thinking.


    They moved deeper into the dungeon, descending toward the 9th floor. The corridor narrowed, dimly lit and rank with the stench of decay¡ªa grim sign that some prisoners had been rotting away here for far too long. As they passed by cell after cell, Paul¡¯s heart pounded in his chest. He peered into each darkened room, his eyes searching desperately for his parents.


    "Mother, Father, where are you?" Paul¡¯s voice was a whisper, barely audible, yet heavy with anxiety.


    Eijay and Rhyz were equally focused, their eyes scanning the cells for any sign of their friend. Eijay continued casting small orbs of light into the shadows, revealing the gaunt faces of prisoners who stirred, their eyes pleading for salvation. A chorus of desperate voices filled the air, echoing down the corridor. Quickly, the boys hushed them, urging the prisoners to stay calm and quiet. With grim determination, they began unlocking each cell, freeing as many captives as they could.


    ¡°Hey, you guys made it,¡± a familiar voice cut through the tension, startling Eijay and Rhyz. They spun around to see Jeyel Lanos, looking gaunt and weak, as if he hadn¡¯t been fed properly for days.


    Jeyel, who was around their age, stood with short, dark blue hair and piercing blue eyes that still held a spark of life. Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Eijay and Rhyz embraced their friend, ignoring the foul stench clinging to him. The sheer relief of seeing a familiar face in this nightmare was overwhelming.


    As they pulled back, Eijay wrinkled his nose and waved a hand in front of his face. "Okay, buddy, we¡¯re thrilled to see you, but you smell like you¡¯ve been marinating in a garbage heap."


    Jeyel offered a sheepish grin, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, I noticed."


    Eijay smirked and said, "Hold still," before casting a quick spell. "Hygienous!" A soft light shimmered around Jeyel, and in an instant, the grime vanished from his skin, his clothes fresh and clean. The stench dissipated, replaced by a faint scent of lavender.


    Jeyel looked down at himself, blinking in surprise. "Thanks... but they took my blade and locked it in the vault," he said, his voice tinged with both anger and sadness. His katana, his usual weapon, was missing¡ªconfiscated, no doubt. But his ability to wield ice, a power no prison could strip from him, remained intact.


    Rhyz chuckled. "You smell better, but you¡¯re still the same old Jeyel."


    ¡°However, we¡¯ll deal with that later,¡± Rhyz added, his tone firm. ¡°Right now, we need to focus on getting everyone out of here. Take this¡ª" he handed Jeyel an extra knife¡ª"It¡¯ll have to do for now.¡±


    Paul, meanwhile, scanned the faces of the prisoners milling about on the cellar floor, his desperation growing with each passing second. His parents weren¡¯t among them. A knot of frustration and fear tightened in his chest. They had to be on another floor.


    ''''I''m going to check the next floor," Paul announced, urgency lacing his voice as he began to move.


    "Wait, who are you looking for?" Jeyel called after him.


    "My parents," Paul replied, his voice trembling with the anguish he was trying to contain. "My mother has green eyes like mine, and my father has black hair. Have you seen them?"


    Jeyel froze, his eyes widening in horror and disbelief. The past few days in the dark cellar had taken a heavy toll on him, and the atrocities he¡¯d witnessed weighed heavily on his soul. The brutal treatment of the captives was something he desperately wished he could forget. He vividly recalled overhearing the bandits discussing a woman with green eyes who had arrived with a group of captives just weeks before him. This group had been particularly defiant, resisting their captors¡¯ demands.


    Jeyel''s heart sank as he realized he couldn¡¯t give Paul the answer he so desperately wanted. Overcome with profound sadness, he stood in silence, and Paul didn¡¯t need to hear a word to understand the grim truth.


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    Without hesitation, Paul turned and descended the stairs alone, his friends hurrying to catch up with him. They instructed the civilians to stay put, remain silent, and wait for their return.


    Paul moved swiftly down the dimly lit staircase, his heart pounding in his chest. He gripped his bow tightly, knowing danger could be lurking at any moment. But his thoughts were singular¡ªhe had to find his parents and make sure they were safe.


    At the bottom of the stairs, the scene was eerily similar to the floor above, but this time the cellars were empty, their walls stained with blood. Paul¡¯s heart clenched with fear, his mind racing with terrible possibilities. He could only hope he wasn¡¯t too late.


    As the others caught up to him, they saw the worry etched on his face. He looked on the verge of breaking, but they intervened just in time, offering words of reassurance.


    "Don¡¯t lose hope, Paul," Zaell said, placing a steadying hand on his shoulder. "I¡¯m sure they¡¯re okay. We just need to keep searching."


    Paul met each of their gazes, conveying his gratitude with a simple nod. As they descended to the final floor, they tightened their formation, Jeyel now also positioned behind Zaell. At the bottom, they were met by a large, cluttered cellar filled with chests and scattered items¡ªlikely the vault the bandit had mentioned.


    Jeyel''s sharp eyes quickly zeroed in on his katana, but his excitement faded when he noticed the heavy door blocking it together with other piles of valuables. Without hesitation, Eijay stepped forward, extending his hand as he channeled his magical energy. The door responded to his spell, creaking open effortlessly. Jeyel wasted no time, darting inside to retrieve his beloved weapon.


    Likewise, Zaell spotted his missing bag amidst the piles of valuables. But despite the allure of the riches around them, the group stayed focused on their mission, taking only what belonged to them and nothing more. They scoured the area thoroughly, knowing their true objective lay elsewhere.


    Their search led them to a nearby room without a door. Inside, they found a fat man asleep, surrounded by a group of chained women who bore the unmistakable marks of enslavement. This had to be the leader of the slavers. The group exchanged a silent signal, ready to act.


    Paul moved first, waking the man and drawing his bow, an arrow aimed directly at his heart. The others quietly roused the enslaved women, whispering reassurances that they meant no harm. They swiftly unchained each woman, instructing them to head up a few floors to join the rest of the freed captives.


    As the women filed out of the room, Paul leaned in close to the overweight man, his voice low and menacing. "Tell me where the other captives are."


    The man didn¡¯t flinch, but something in Paul¡¯s eyes caught his attention. Recognition flickered in the man''s gaze¡ªthose eyes looked familiar. He remembered seeing them not long ago, here in this very camp. A memory surfaced: the wild confrontation he¡¯d had with a woman just a few days earlier.


    "Who the hell are you people, and why are you interrupting my sleep?" he demanded, his tone laced with irritation.


    "Answer the question," Paul pressed, shoving the arrowhead harder against the man¡¯s chest.


    The man understood the stakes. The stranger in front of him was deadly serious, with no time for games. Yet he showed no fear, even as the arrow dug into his flesh, the pain reminding him of the gravity of the situation.


    "Do you really think you can scare me?" the man sneered. "Could it be¡­ you''re related to that woman? Those people never did what they were told, not since the day they arrived." He smirked, the memory amusing him. "Do you know what we do with people like that?"


    Paul pushed the arrow deeper, drawing a grunt of pain from the man. "I said answer me!"


    The man coughed, blood staining his lips. "You little brat! You¡¯re just like that black-haired man who thought he could play the hero. It all started with him." He laughed, blood speckling his teeth. "In fact, you look just like him. You must be his kid, huh? And those eyes... they''re the same as that crazy woman with witch-like magic."


    "WHAT DID YOU DO TO THEM?!" Paul¡¯s voice erupted, his rage no longer containable. He yanked the arrow free and drove it into the man¡¯s shoulder. "TELL ME!"


    The man¡¯s laughter turned to a wet, rattling sound as he coughed up more blood. "What a crazy family!" he spat out, his voice fading as death closed in. "Your father tried to kill me when I was about to have some fun with your bitch of a mother. I had no choice but to punish them¡ª punish all of them¡ª because they refused to obey. They fought back, those fools. I could have sold them for a fortune, but no¡­ They had to resist. What a damn waste!.¡¯¡¯


    Paul¡¯s worst fears crystallized with every word, each one a dagger to his heart. His mind went blank as he stabbed the man again and again with an arrow, driven by blind, consuming fury. The fat man¡¯s eyes drifted to the wide hole in the floor at the edge of the room, and even in death, a twisted smile lingered on his lips.


    Paul followed his gaze and saw the gaping hole. He dropped the bloody arrow, his heart plummeting. Rushing to the edge, he was hit by the overwhelming stench of decaying flesh. Tears welled up as dread clawed at his insides.


    Without a second thought, Paul plunged into the darkness of the pit. Eijay quickly cast a ball of light to guide his descent. The rest of the group could only watch in sorrow as Paul disappeared into the unknown depths below, swallowed by the shadows and the horrors they feared lay waiting.

 Chapter 8: Awakening

    Paul''s mind slipped into numbness as he descended into the dark chasm, the dim ball of light casting eerie shadows on the walls around him. The stench of decay grew stronger with each step, seeping into his senses until it became almost unbearable. Though he''d been descending for what felt like an eternity, the bottom remained elusive, the cave stretching downward, seemingly endless, swallowing him in its cold, oppressive isolation.


    His heart pounded faster with every second, fear gnawing at the edges of his mind. As the light illuminated the space below, a grotesque sight greeted him¡ªpiles of rotting corpses tangled together. His stomach churned as he recognized familiar faces¡ªfriends, elders from his village, people he had once known and cherished. His eyes darted frantically, scanning the horrific mess until his sight landed on a decapitated head lying apart from the others, the only person with black hair in their village¡ªit was his father.


    Paul rushed forward, barely able to breathe as he turned the head, his worst fears confirmed. A soul-wrenching cry tore from his throat, echoing through the cavern and up to the surface, a sound so raw and full of anguish that his comrades above felt it reverberate through their bones.


    After some time, still suffocating with grief, Paul forced himself to search for his mother. He moved slowly through the pile of bodies, anxiety intensifying with each step. Eventually, he found a woman¡¯s corpse with torn clothes. His heart hammered as he drew closer, praying it wasn''t her. But as the light washed over the woman''s face, his heart shattered¡ªthere she was, his mother, lifeless and broken.


    He collapsed to his knees, cradling her body, tears flowing freely. "No... Mother, Father... I swear, I will avenge you!. I will avenge our people!. Whoever did this will pay!!."


    Anger surged through Paul¡¯s veins, his blood boiling. His eyes began to glow an intense, unnatural green, and a radiant aura flared around him, lighting up the cave like the sun. Power coursed through him¡ªforeign, overwhelming¡ªand his grip on reality began to slip. With a burst of speed, Paul shot up from the hole, his body glowing as he hovered above his stunned comrades.


    ¡°Paul? Is that you?¡± Zaell¡¯s voice trembled with confusion, his gaze locking onto the glowing figure. It was unlike anything they had ever seen before.


    Paul¡¯s glowing eyes focused on the lifeless corpse of a fat man nearby. In a blur, he kicked the body with such force that it decimated in an instant. His comrades stood frozen, awe-struck, as Paul darted through the remaining rooms, flinging doors open with terrifying speed. They scrambled to keep up, uncertain of what was driving him.


    He eventually reached a set of large double doors. With a single powerful kick, they flew open, revealing a grand chamber. Inside, a heavily armored man stood, gripping a massive sword. He eyed Paul warily.


    "Who are you?!¡¯¡¯ the man demanded, his voice thick with authority. His appearance matched the description of the bandit leader.


    Paul wasted no time. In a flash, he soared to the ceiling, unleashing a barrage of arrows at the man. The bandit deflected most of them with his sword and, with a wave of his hand, cast a dark magic that coated the blade in black flames. He leaped toward Paul, delivering a deadly swing, but Zaell, who had just arrived in time, intervened, enlarging his shields to block the attack. However, the intense heat began to melt one of Zaell¡¯s shields, forcing him to retreat.


    "What are you doing, Paul? This wasn¡¯t the plan!" Zaell shouted, his voice filled with frustration. But Paul didn¡¯t respond; it was as if he wasn''t himself anymore.


    "What''s wrong with him?" Jeyel asked, his voice edged with concern.


    "Listen up, everyone. This is not the time to let our guard down. We''ve got a serious problem here," Rhys declared as he raised his weapons, taking aim at the bandit boss. With lightning-fast reflexes, he teleported around the room, unleashing a barrage of gunfire in all directions. However, the bandit dodged every shot with uncanny agility, moving as if he could predict Rhys''s every move.


    "Stay alert!" Rhys called out, frustration evident in his voice. "This guy is no ordinary foe," he warned, quickly teleporting back to their position to reload, his eyes never leaving the bandit.


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    "I¡¯ll handle this!" Eijay shouted, imbuing his skin with a fire resistance spell. He charged at the bandit, unleashing heavy blows, but each strike was swiftly blocked by the bandit¡¯s flaming sword.


    ¡°Not bad for a bunch of hunters,¡± the bandit sneered. Eijay gritted his teeth as the heat from the blade seared through his spells. Realizing brute force wasn¡¯t enough, Eijay backed away, trying to strategize.


    Jeyel jumped onto Eijay¡¯s back and launched himself at the bandit, his katana shimmering with ice magic. He struck the bandit¡¯s blade, freezing it yet only momentarily as the dark flames appeared to be stronger, melting the ice.


    ¡°Our attacks aren¡¯t working!¡± Zaell shouted, trying to devise a new plan.


    But Paul wasn¡¯t finished. He bombarded the bandit with arrows that accurately hit the bandit''s vital spots. The bandit knew that if it weren''t for his armor and the flames hovering around his sword, those hits would have been dangerous.


    Nevertheless, Paul soon ran out of ammo, causing the bandit to grin. Yet, in one swift motion, Paul dropped his bow and flew at high speed toward the bandit, delivering a kick powerful enough to crack the blade and send shockwaves through the chamber. His prosthetic leg melted from the heat, but Paul didn¡¯t stop¡ªhe kept attacking, even as his other leg melted. His glowing aura intensified as he punched the bandit relentlessly, his hands burning with every strike.


    Noticing it, Eijay quickly cast a fire resistance spell on Paul¡¯s arms to prevent further damage. Ignoring the pain, Paul continued his assault, while the bandit blocked each strike with his sword, causing more cracks to form on the weapon.


    Stunned by Paul''s tenacity, the bandit summoned even more dark flames to his sword, their clashes sending embers flying and igniting fires around the room. Undeterred, Paul channeled all his energy into his knuckles. With a roar of fury, he delivered a devastating punch that shattered the bandit''s sword in half, sending a shockwave through the chamber.


    While the force staggered the bandit, it came at a terrible cost¡ªPaul¡¯s arm was severed in the exchange. Despite the broken blade, it still pulsed with dark energy as the bandit, still standing, lunged at Paul for a killing strike.


    Before the blow could land, Zaell, Eijay, Rhys, and Jeyel acted in unison¡ªEijay held the bandit in place with his immense strength, Zaell enlarging his shield, smashed it into the bandit¡¯s face, Rhys riddled his back with bullets, and Jeyel plunged his icy blade through the bandit¡¯s heart.


    The bandit crumpled to the ground, lifeless, his large broken sword clattering beside him as the dark flames flickered and died. Yet the fire it produces remains and continues to grow, the heat and smoke becoming more intense with each passing second.


    Zaell rushed to Paul, who lay on the ground, his arm severed, bleeding out. Desperately, Zaell searched Paul''s pockets and found the familiar vial of healing potion, quickly pouring it into his mouth. The potion closed the wounds and stopped the bleeding, but the severed arm did not regenerate, leaving Paul with a stump where his arm used to be.


    Eijay then carried Paul on his shoulders, rushing out of the burning cave with the captives. As they all ascended, they noticed all the rooms where the bandits had been sleeping were now eerily empty. Climbing higher, a loud noise from outside grabbed their attention, signaling a fierce battle on the cave''s surface.


    Rushing outside, they found Chris and a group of hunters locked in battle with the remaining bandits. While most of the freed captives, now able to use magic, fought by flanking the bandits and launching surprise attacks, a few quivered at the sight of their captors, their trauma clearly lingering. Eijay carefully laid Paul down at the cave entrance, ready to join the fray alongside his companions.


    Rhys rushed his relentless assault, shooting down enemies one by one, his teleportation faster than the eye could track, while Eijay''s sleep spell rendered more bandits helpless. Jeyel methodically moved through the incapacitated foes, his blade flashing in the dim light. Zaell opened his bag and grabbed a small amount of pebbles, with a swift motion, hurled  a handful of pebbles, each transforming mid-air into massive boulders that crashed into the enemy forces, causing chaos and devastation. Chris, with a disarming smile, bewitched more adversaries to fall in love with him, their infatuated gazes turning to horror as his sword claimed their lives.


    Hours later, the battle began to wane. Paul awoke, missing both legs and an arm, disoriented. He wondered how he got there yet when he saw the cave which was already burning, all the memories came flooding back into his mind.


    Paull recalled hugging the lifeless body of her mother. This causes him grief but at the same time a burning rage. That was why when he saw the ongoing battle that was happening just across, he grabbed a sword nearby and flew into the battle, despite his missing limbs. Each swing of his sword was driven by fury, his weakened body fueled only by vengeance.


    As the sun set, casting an orange glow over the battlefield, the bandits¡¯ lines finally broke. The fight was over. Paul, breathing heavily, stood with Zaell and the others. He once again looked back at the cave who was now burning even more. He then dropped the sword to the ground. Tears welled in his eyes as he remembered his slain parents and people. He landed on the floor, praying for the souls of his loved ones, vowing to never fail again.

 Chapter 9: Confession

    As the sunlight faded, the air grew thick with the acrid scent of burned bandit corpses. The camp teemed with activity; survivors mended torn tents while others searched for usable supplies left behind by the fallen. Exhausted but determined, they used the camp as a temporary refuge before eventually heading back to town.


    ¡°Zaell, what happened? When did we get out of the cave?¡± Paul asked, his voice tinged with confusion. Jeyel, Rhyz, and Eijay turned toward Zaell, their faces showing a mix of concern and anticipation.


    Zaell¡¯s tone was gentle but firm. ¡°Paul, can you recall what happened? What¡¯s the last thing you remember?¡±


    Paul struggled to piece together his fractured memories, but all he could summon was the heart-wrenching image of holding his lifeless mother in his arms. ¡°I¡¯m not sure... everything¡¯s a blur after I saw my parents lying there,¡± Paul replied, straining to remember the events that followed.


    Zaell recounted the astonishing sight they had witnessed. ¡°We saw a bright green light approaching the hole. We knew it was you when you flew above us, glowing with that intense green light, just after we heard your anguished scream.


    Paul stared at them in disbelief. ¡°What exactly did I do? And why was I glowing?¡±


    Eijay chimed in, excitement bubbling in his voice. ¡°We don¡¯t know for sure; we just assumed it was part of your ability.¡±


    Paul shook his head in confusion. ¡°The gift I received was the magic of flight. How could I possibly radiate light?¡±


    Jeyel abruptly spoke up, his tone serious. ¡°I might have an idea.¡±


    As the group gathered around the crackling campfire, their attention turned to Jeyel, eagerly awaiting his explanation. Despite the din of the bustling camp around them, they remained focused on him, curious about what he had to reveal.


    ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry for your loss, Paul,¡± Jeyel began, his voice trembling. ¡°Though I don¡¯t know you well, I can sense the kindness in your heart and the deep love you had for your parents. I regret not telling you earlier, but I believe I know what happened to them.¡±


    Paul looked at Jeyel, confusion and sorrow etched on his face. Jeyel¡¯s voice wavered as he continued, ¡°When you first described them, I recognized their fate. I thought it would be better for you to uncover the truth on your own.¡± He took a deep breath, his expression heavy with emotion. ¡°I saw them trying to fight back as the bandits forced them below the floor. Just before they were pushed toward the stairs, I saw your mother¡¯s eyes glow like yours.¡±


    ¡°The same as mine?¡± Paul asked, grief lacing his tone. ¡°What happened then?¡±


    Jeyel''s voice grew softer, filled with sorrow. ¡°Yes, but her ability was different; she could manipulate the flesh of others. She was powerful¡ªunstoppable. The bandits fell one by one, their bodies disfigured beyond recognition. But despite her strength, the sheer number of bandits eventually wore her down. Then the bandit leader arrived.¡±


    Paul clenched his fists, the pain in his heart intensifying.


    ¡°Your father was strong too,¡± Jeyel continued, his eyes downcast. ¡°He fought the bandits and the leader using only his bare hands. But he, too, was eventually worn out. They were taken below, and we heard screams until the noise stopped. That was the last time I saw them.¡±


    ¡°What happened after?¡± Paul pressed, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Jeyel shook his head, a deep sadness in his eyes. ¡°We wanted to help, but the cells had magic items that shut off our abilities.¡±


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    Jeyel hugged Paul before returning to his seat, still ashamed of the lie he had kept. Paul sat in silence, the devastating news settling heavily on him. His emotions churned beneath a calm facade as he processed the truth about what had been done to his parents and his people.


    "I understand. You did the right thing. Thank you for telling me. And if what Zaell says is true, you helped me avenge them. I saw you all gave your best in the battle today," Paul acknowledged Jeyel as they turned to see Chris standing behind them.


    Chris politely asked, "Pardon me, lads, but did I hear correctly? Did you say someone was glowing?" They nodded in confirmation.


    ¡°Paul, is it?¡± Chris turned to him. "You¡¯ve been through quite an ordeal, haven¡¯t you? But let¡¯s not stray off-topic. You must be one of the green-eyed people from the stories I¡¯ve heard in every tavern I¡¯ve visited. They say that clan members possess the most fearsome abilities and that when they awaken, they gain the power they most desire. They don¡¯t need a god¡¯s blessing; they grant themselves their own. It¡¯s said that this power can be anything¡ªanything they desire most, with endless possibilities.''''


    Paul was puzzled. "I don¡¯t quite understand what you¡¯re saying."


    Chris¡¯s tone was straightforward. "Let me explain it simply. Imagine I¡¯m from your clan. If I want metallic skin, I can make it happen if my awakening is successful. But according to legend, they only get one awakening in their lifetime. Once they unlock a power, they cannot change it until they die."


    Chris then locked eyes with Paul, whose striking green eyes reflected the firelight. "So, young man, what is it that you desire most?"


    Paul thought for a moment, his mind drifting back to his mother¡¯s letter. "I had no idea. My mother actually wrote me a letter about our clan."


    He pulled the letter from his pocket and showed it to the group, who eagerly read it together, hoping to learn more about his family¡¯s history and secrets.


    Chris stroked his beard, a look of disbelief crossing his face. "So the legends are true," he murmured. The group turned to Paul, their eyes filled with curiosity and anticipation.


    "You could be the last living member of your clan, based on your mother¡¯s lineage," Chris said, his voice laced with urgency. "Tell us, what is it that you desire most?"


    Paul pondered, trying to recall his deepest wish. "I¡¯ve always longed for the blessing of our God from back home. She gave me the gift of flight." His thoughts drifted to the memory of holding his mother, his heart burning with a desire for revenge.


    "I think I understand now," he finally spoke, his voice carrying a new resolve. "Zaell, could you lend me a hand real quick?" Paul urgently asked.


    Zaell recoiled in horror at the sight of Paul¡¯s missing arm. "I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t give you my arm. Are you feeling okay?"


    ¡°Not that, bro, I meant help me with something else," Paul chuckled, finally breaking into laughter after maintaining a serious demeanor for so long.


    Zaell joined in the laughter, asking, "What do you need me to do?"


    Paul requested, "I need you to provoke me, make me angry."


    Without hesitation, Zaell delivered a swift, powerful punch to Paul¡¯s face, sending him sprawling to the ground. As Paul fell, his body was enveloped in a vibrant, green aura that pulsed and shimmered around him.


    Paul lay there, stunned as he observed the radiant glow surrounding him¡ªa sensation he had never experienced before. It was the first time he had seen himself glowing, and the light gradually faded. It dawned on him that he possessed a second ability, though he was entirely ignorant of its nature and potential.


    The camp grew quiet as everyone noticed Paul, whispers and murmurs spreading like wildfire. He quickly became the center of attention, with everyone having something to say about him.


    Chris was astonished. "I can¡¯t believe it! The only person in this entire world with a second ability is standing right in front of us."


    ¡°What about me?¡± Eijay said, his brow furrowed in confusion.


    ¡°You''re different because you''re a cheat,¡± Chris replied, a smirk creeping onto his lips as he crossed his arms, clearly enjoying the moment. Laughter erupted around them.


    Eijay touched Paul¡¯s arm as he flipped through the pages of his weathered grimoire, searching for the flight ability he had recently recorded. "Strange," he muttered, furrowing his brow. "I can¡¯t seem to copy your other ability."


    He then explained, "My grimoire is supposed to permanently copy the abilities of those I touch, albeit in a weaker form than the original user. So why hasn¡¯t it copied your new ability?" Eijay was puzzled by this unexpected development.


    "Maybe it¡¯s because his magic is so rare that you can¡¯t replicate it," Rhyz suggested. "So if you wanted the power to bring about the end of the world, could you get it?" he asked Paul.


    "That might explain why our entire clan was targeted for extermination," Paul said thoughtfully. "Many must have desired to see us eradicated, just as my mother¡¯s letter indicated."


    "Luckily, the outcome seems to be less destructive, not the end-of-the-world kind," Zaell remarked, and the rest of the group nodded in agreement.


    Amid the intense conversation, Paul suddenly remembered his pet wolf nearby. Hovering three feet above the ground, Paul said, ¡°I¡¯ll be back, guys,¡± giving his friends a confident nod before soaring into the trees to retrieve Black. The loyal wolf greeted him eagerly, licking his face and barking hopefully for food. Though Paul was missing a few limbs, Black¡¯s unwavering enthusiasm for a treat didn¡¯t wane.


    When Paul returned, he couldn¡¯t wait to introduce Black to his new friends. But before he could, a familiar face approached¡ªa girl he had previously seen in the company of the obese slaver. She was striking, with curly brown hair and warm, deep brown eyes.


    "Before anything else, I want to express my deep gratitude to all of you for rescuing us," she said, turning to Paul. "And to you, sir, I want to offer my heartfelt apologies for the loss of your parents and the suffering of your people. It was I who disclosed the location of your village to the bandits," she sobbed, sinking to her knees.

 Chapter 10: Brotherhood

    The girl wept, asking Paul for forgiveness. She knew she had been an accomplice to the crimes, forced into actions that had stained her hands. Paul, sensing her sincerity, understood that she was also a victim. He was willing to forgive her, but he saw this as an opportunity to gather information.


    Paul accepted the girl''s apology and asked to speak with her in private. She agreed, and they left together. Others watched as they disappeared into the encroaching darkness, the tall grass swallowing them whole.


    Walking beside Paul, who hovered slightly above the ground, the rising moon cast an ethereal glow over them. After a few minutes, Paul finally said, "I think this place is far enough."


    The girl nodded. Paul spoke gently, ¡°Can you tell me everything?¡±


    Her eyes filled with sadness, and she began to speak. "My name is Juna. When I was a child, bandits took me."


    Juna¡¯s voice trembled, but she continued, "On my twelfth birthday, I discovered I had a gift¡ªa unique ability to search. I was overjoyed at first, but the bandits found out and exploited it."


    "They made me find people with rare abilities. Once I located them, the bandits would plan attacks to capture these people. Soon, they returned with more captives, who they sold into slavery," she said, pausing to wipe away her tears.


    "I¡¯ve been their prisoner for years. If I disobeyed, they¡¯d hurt me or starve me. My ability has caused so much suffering. Then one day, I saw you. In my vision, you and your people were living peacefully in a village. I longed for that life, and for a moment, I smiled. But my joy was short-lived. The master saw my expression and demanded to know what I had seen. I had no choice but to tell him." Juna¡¯s voice cracked as she knelt before Paul, pleading for forgiveness.


    Paul felt her pain. He took her hand, gently helping her to her feet. His voice was calm and reassuring. "You did what you had to do to survive, Juna. I don¡¯t blame you. My people have sacrificed for their beliefs, and now you are safe. They will never hurt you again. Go, start your new life in the city."


    With Paul''s comforting words, Juna wept as if his forgiveness had cleansed her soul. They stayed there for a while, as Paul asked her for more information about the crocodile dragon.


    He learned his hunch was correct¡ªthe bandits and the crocodile dragon were not connected. It was only by chance that the bandits exploited the dragon¡¯s attack to abduct the villagers and his parents. He also learned, to his dismay, that Juna could only track people, not monsters.


    As the night deepened, Paul and Juna decided to make their way back to the group, talking along the way. Juna expressed her amazement that despite Paul¡¯s missing limbs, he was still strong.


    She also asked about his ability to fly until they reached the camp. Paul then warmly introduced her to the rest of the group, who welcomed her with open arms. They all gathered for a meal and engaging conversation that lasted well into the night, finally retiring to bed after hours of lively discussion and getting to know each other.


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    When morning came, the group set out on their journey toward the City of Paran, using the wagons and horses that once belonged to the bandits to ease their travel. The road ahead was long and winding, stretching out before them with miles to go before they would reach the city.


    Chris, the high-ranking adventurer among them, took the lead, his face set with determination. He was committed to ensuring that all the captives they had rescued would be able to return home or reintegrate into normal life. The faces of those they had saved, filled with hope and relief, fueled his resolve. Paul and the rest of his group had agreed to accompany Chris.


    As they traveled, the group discussed their plans. Chris spoke of the City of Paran, a bustling hub of trade and culture, where the guild headquarters stood. He was eager to report the successful outcome of their hard-fought battle. The thought of sharing the victory filled him with pride; one less criminal group to terrorize the city meant safety and peace for countless people.


    The five companions traveled together in the same wagon. As they reintroduced themselves, they found common ground and recognized their potential as a team. They shared a goal of exploring the world and gaining new experiences. They also discovered they had a similar fate: all were orphaned. This realization drew them even closer, and they began to see each other as brothers, united by their shared experiences and love for adventure.


    Eijay, Rhyz, and Jeyel first met at a local orphanage in a country devastated by a catastrophic flood a decade ago. The disaster had wiped out many villages, but the three of them had survived. Despite coming from different villages, they formed an unbreakable bond and became inseparable. To support themselves, they honed their skills to become licensed hunters, working together to meet their daily needs.


    In contrast, high in the mountains, Zaell lived alone in a small cabin after the passing of his beloved grandmother two years ago. Since then, he has faced the challenges of survival while traveling through various regions of the world. Despite the hardships, Zaell managed to make a modest living.


    After sharing their stories, they agreed to stay together as a group, calling one another brothers. They then planned their activities for when they arrived in the city. Paul expressed his desire to tour the city and, as soon as possible, obtain a hunter''s license. Similarly, Zaell needed to renew his license.


    "Once I have my hunter''s license, I''d like all of you to join me on a hunting expedition," Paul said, hinting at an adventure.


    In response, the group nodded enthusiastically. They were excited about the idea of hunting and eager to learn more about it.


    "After getting my license, I need to consult the guild to gather information on a certain monster¡ªsomething I learned about from my father. I can assure you, it''s going to be a tough challenge," Paul said, his expression growing serious as he spoke about the monster.


    "Can you give us a clue? What exactly are we up against?" Jeyel asked, his curiosity evident.


    "In my hometown, I fought an entity that not only took away my ability to walk but also destroyed my entire village," Paul revealed, his eyes glowing an eerie green. The group felt the gravity of the situation as they saw the subtle aura around their friend.


    "Paul, hold on a second. Before all that, you need new prosthetic limbs. Also, it won¡¯t be easy to wield a bow with just one arm," Zaell pointed out, concerned.


    Paul reassured them, "No need to worry. We can visit my friend. She has the skills to craft me a new prosthetic arm and legs." He omitted details about his friend''s expertise.


    "I can craft a prosthetic limbs for you. I¡¯ve never mentioned this before, but I¡¯m actually an inventor," Rhyz said, revealing his skill for creating innovative solutions.


    "Wow! Really? Thank you so much, Bro Rhyz. I¡¯m excited to see what you come up with. Your offer has me absolutely thrilled!" Paul expressed his gratitude, eagerly anticipating Rhyz¡¯s work.


    "I''ll need to know your size so I can craft it perfectly for you, and I''ll also need some funds for materials once we reach town," Rhyz said, his voice trailing off as he settled into a makeshift bed of blankets and cushions. "But for now, I could really use some rest. I was on guard duty last night and had to keep watch to make sure nothing sneaked up on us."


    The sun was bright, and the wind was chilly, making it a perfect moment for a brief respite. As Rhyz lay down, his breathing gradually slowed, and he began to drift into a well-deserved slumber. With that, he closed his eyes, letting the rhythmic motion of the moving wagon lull him to sleep.


    Paul was thrilled when he heard the news about Rhyz''s offer to craft him a new set of prosthetics. He eagerly anticipated that the outcome would be as impressive as the prosthetic Dellie had created for him, which had already exceeded his expectations. The thought of having such skillful support from his new companions filled him with gratitude.


    Paul was deeply appreciative of how his new family had consistently proven themselves to be dependable and supportive. Their unwavering commitment to each other and their shared adventures had forged a bond that Paul valued greatly. As he thought about the future, he felt a renewed sense of hope and excitement, knowing he could rely on his friends as he faced the challenges ahead.

 Chapter 11: City of Paran

    After days of travel, they finally caught sight of their destination: the City of Paran. However, to reach it, they first had to cross the world¡¯s longest bridge, which served as the gateway to the city. Paul couldn¡¯t believe his eyes; this was his first visit, and the reality of Paran¡¯s grandeur far exceeded his wildest dreams.


    The city''s grandeur was overwhelming, with towering walls surrounding a vast lake and colossal buildings rising from within. Crowds of people queued to cross the bridge, and Paul noticed a diverse array of races among them.


    At that moment, many were showcasing their unique traveling abilities: some soared effortlessly over the walls, while a young woman used her fire powers to levitate gracefully above the others.


    In this marvelous city, Paul felt a sense of belonging, knowing he didn''t have to hide his abilities. However, he knew he had to control his uncontrollable rage¡ªa challenge that set him apart and remained a personal burden.


    Meanwhile, as the rest of the group enjoyed their idle chatter, Eijay couldn''t help himself. He scanned his surroundings, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he eagerly hoped to discover new spells to add to his collection. Seeing his enthusiasm, the others chuckled at their friend.


    Soon enough, it was their turn to face the imposing gate guards at the entrance. Tension filled the air as they approached, with the guards'' stern faces and heavy armor standing in stark contrast to the lively city behind them.


    Adding to the pressure were the murmurs of voices and the shuffling of feet from the crowd of onlookers. The spectators gawked at the sight of the grimy, injured group, their curiosity evident. Whispers spread through the crowd, and the collective gaze made the moment feel even more charged.


    But when Chris raised his hand and called out, "Make way for the survivors, please," the atmosphere shifted. Both the guards and bystanders relaxed as they realized these were people rescued from bandits, and that the one leading the group was Chris¡ªa knight of the City of Paran, a hunter, and a respected figure.


    The guards quickly assisted them inside the city, guiding them through the bustling streets. As the news spread rapidly, many citizens recognized their missing loved ones, leading to a wave of emotions that surged through the city. The streets were soon filled with the sounds of joyous reunions, celebration, and heartfelt tears as families embraced their returned members.


    Meanwhile, Chris made his way to the guild house to report the news personally. The rest of the group followed closely behind, each with their own tasks in mind. This included the newly formed brotherhood: Eijay, Jeyel, Rhyz, and Zaell, who walked beside Paul as he levitated above the ground using his flying ability.


    While Paul and Zaell hurried to the front desk to request new licenses, Jeyel, Rhyz, and Eijay waited by the door, chatting among themselves and observing the bustling activity around them.


    "I need to request a replacement for my damaged license. A wolf chewed on it," Zaell chuckled, pointing at Black, who was sleeping inside Paul''s bag.


    "Hey, I said I¡¯d pay for it," Paul replied firmly, reaching into his bag and pulling out a single glinting gold piece.


    As Paul handed the gold piece to the lady at the front desk, he said, ¡°I¡¯d also like to purchase a license, please.¡±


    The lady¡¯s stern gaze softened with a touch of kindness. ¡°That will be 30 silver for both of you,¡± she replied, handing over a small form. ¡°Please sign this, and I¡¯ll need a drop of blood.¡±


    Paul extended his arm, and the lady pricked his finger, catching a single drop of blood in a vial. As the blood touched the card, it glowed with an ethereal light, and his name appeared magically on the license. At that moment, Paul was officially recognized as an F-rank hunter.


    ¡°You can rank up by completing various tasks, each offering its own rewards,¡± the lady explained as she handed back their change.


    ¡°Good luck, hunter,¡± she added with a reassuring smile.


    Feeling emboldened, Paul asked, ¡°Excuse me, do you have any information about the Green Dragon Crocodile? I¡¯m particularly interested in its weaknesses. Any details would be greatly appreciated.¡±


    The lady¡¯s expression shifted from friendly to one of shock and disbelief. ¡°The Green Dragon Crocodile? How do you know about that creature? It¡¯s been thousands of years since anyone¡¯s seen one,¡± she exclaimed, her astonishment mirrored by the surprised faces of Paul¡¯s companions who had overheard the exchange.


    Paul suddenly realized that asking about such a mythical beast was unusual. ¡°Um, nothing much,¡± he said, trying to mask his genuine curiosity with a casual tone. ¡°I just wanted to gather some information in case I ever come across one.¡±


    The woman chuckled softly. ¡°Let me check the back office for any information on that creature,¡± she said before heading into the office. Meanwhile, Paul¡¯s companions gathered around him, their curiosity clearly piqued.


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    ¡°What do you mean by a dragon?¡± they asked in unison, their voices filled with bewilderment.


    Paul, with a mischievous smirk, replied, ¡°It¡¯s probably best if I explain over dinner. Trust me, it¡¯ll be worth the wait.¡±


    The lady soon returned with an apologetic expression. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I couldn¡¯t find any information on the Green Dragon Crocodile,¡± she said.


    Paul masked his disappointment with a smile. ¡°Thank you for checking,¡± he said gratefully. ¡°I appreciate the effort.¡±


    As they left the guild house, Paul couldn¡¯t shake off his sense of disappointment. The lack of information weighed on him, yet he quickly reminded himself that there would be other chances to find what he was looking for.


    After a brief moment of reflection, he broke the silence with a question to lighten the mood. ¡°So, where should we eat?¡±


    All of them nodded, appreciating that Paul was making an effort to stay in good spirits. If their friend¡ªnow brother¡ªneeded to share his troubles, they would listen and support him to the best of their abilities.


    "Hey, Jeyel and Eijay," Rhyz suggested, "we should definitely take them to that cozy tavern we all enjoy." Both of his brothers agreed with a nod.


    As they strolled through town, they were captivated by the stunning beauty surrounding them. The colorful storefronts and lively atmosphere filled the streets with joy. Their journey led them to the Coffee Tavern, a charming establishment known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance.


    Zaell¡¯s face lit up with a warm smile as he saw the quaint, weathered sign that proudly displayed the tavern¡¯s name. He had a deep fondness for coffee, often joking that he drank at least 30 cups a day.


    Inside, they were greeted by the intense gazes of various groups of hunters scattered among the tables. However, their rough exteriors were softened by the warm glow of the room. The group was unbothered, given the formidable foes they had faced in recent days.


    They made their way to a table near the edge of the bustling hall, and Jeyel called out to Mrs. Lorry, the tavern keeper.


    "Mrs. Lorry, could we please have five orders of your finest meat, along with your renowned coffee and a few beers to wash it all down?"


    "Welcome back, Jeyel," Mrs. Lorry said warmly. "You look like you¡¯ve had a rough time. I knew your brothers would find you. Today, I¡¯ll give you all a 70% discount." The group cheered in response.


    When Mrs. Lorry arrived with the food and drinks, the brothers eagerly dug into the delicious spread. Their laughter filled the air as they enjoyed the well-prepared meals and shared joyful moments together.


    A few hours later, a group of hunters, clearly new to the City of Paran, approached them with apparent intent to cause trouble. This group had deliberately chosen this caf¨¦ as their new territory, having spent several days frequenting it because its owner was a woman and there were no men present to challenge them.


    When the group saw Paul and his companions enter the caf¨¦, they immediately became alert, especially when they realized that some of them seemed to know the owner.


    Their initial attempts at intimidation failed to provoke the desired reaction, so they decided to escalate the situation.


    The leader of the group stepped forward, brandishing two knives. ¡°What do we have here? A cripple having fun?¡± he sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. The group laughed harshly. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with your eyes?¡± he taunted, aiming one of his knives at Paul¡¯s face.


    Known for their ruthless behavior, these hunters relished tormenting those they deemed weaker. To them, Paul¡¯s perceived vulnerability made him an easy target for their cruel amusement.


    Yet, despite the threat, Paul remained calm. His voice steady, he simply replied, ¡°Just looking for a place to eat.¡±


    The leader¡¯s sneer widened, but he lowered his knife. ¡°There¡¯s another tavern not far from here. You should leave.¡±


    Before the leader could make another move, Rhyz swiftly teleported behind him, disarming him with precision and pinning him to the ground. Jeyel and Eijay quickly moved to secure the area, ensuring that none of the leader¡¯s group dared to intervene.


    The tension was thick as Rhyz tightened his grip on the leader, his gaze unwavering. ¡°Don¡¯t mess with my brother or this establishment, rookie!¡±


    Startled by the sudden display of strength, the leader¡¯s group fled in panic. Jeyel and Eijay stood by, their expressions hardened with a menacing aura.


    ¡°Let him go, Rhyz. It¡¯s not worth it,¡± Zaell said as the man fled through the door. Rhyz returned to the table and resumed his seat.


    ¡°Normally, we¡¯d handle thugs like those in front of everyone. It¡¯s the hunter¡¯s law to eliminate threats,¡± Rhyz added.


    Zaell sighed. ¡°I understand that, Rhyz, but we have to choose our battles. Not every fight is worth the bloodshed.¡±


    Rhyz nodded reluctantly. ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right, but it goes against everything we¡¯ve been taught.¡±


    Zaell hesitated before replying, ¡°I know, but I think it¡¯s for the best,¡± as he ordered his tenth glass of perfectly brewed, aromatic coffee. The conversation turned light-hearted as they resumed their laughter and banter.


    Paul chuckled, ¡°What a crazy bunch,¡± savoring another delicious bite of succulent meat. "Look who''s talking," they all chimed in, savoring every moment of their delightful dinner.


    The group continued to enjoy their meal, reminiscing about old adventures and sharing stories of their latest exploits.


    As they enjoyed their conversation and laughter, the heavy oak tavern door creaked open, and they looked up to see Chris entering. They waved at him warmly.


    Chris limped into the dimly lit tavern with his men, momentarily silencing the murmurs and clinking of goblets. He made his way over to the group, his expression a mix of intensity and warmth.


    ¡°The guild master has requested a meeting with all of you, and I¡¯ve briefed him on everything,¡± he announced, pride evident in his voice. ¡°Would you all mind if I joined you for dinner?¡±


    The group exchanged glances and nodded in agreement, making room for Chris and his men at the table.


    Mrs. Lorry carefully arranged a fresh spread of delicious food and cold beer on the table, then leaned down to tenderly kiss her husband, Chris. ¡°How was the mission, darling? Are you alright?¡± she asked, her concern deepening as she noticed his injured leg.


    Chris met her gaze with gratitude. ¡°The mission went well. I¡¯m okay dear. How¡¯s the caf¨¦ been while I was gone?¡±


    Mrs. Lorry smiled warmly. ¡°There was a new group causing a bit of trouble these past few days, but Jeyel and his companions handled it swiftly.¡± Chris smiled.


    Curious, Mrs. Lorry then asked, ¡°How did you come to know these boys?¡±


    Chris nodded appreciatively. ¡°They joined my rescue mission and saved many lives.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± she replied, her eyes lighting up with admiration. ¡°Drinks are on the house!¡± she announced.


    Paul and his brothers exchanged warm smiles with the couple, grateful for the gesture.


    As the entire tavern erupted in cheers and applause, the joyful sound mingled with the lively music that filled the night air, making for a memorable evening.


    After some well-deserved drinking, Paul¡¯s companions shifted their focus back to the topic of the dragon. Curious and eager to learn more, they urged Paul to elaborate on his encounter with the mythical creature.


    Paul¡¯s recounting of the tale drew the room into an attentive silence. As he spoke, his brothers and Chris listened intently, captivated by the vivid details of his experiences. Paul described the dragon''s awe-inspiring presence, the challenges he faced, and the mysteries that surrounded the beast, painting a compelling picture that held everyone¡¯s rapt attention.

 Chapter 12: Visitor

    After Paul finished recounting his story, the table remained silent for several minutes. The weight of what he had shared seemed to settle heavily on everyone. They each conveyed their condolences, offering words of support.


    Paul, though quiet, accepted their sympathy and then asked his newfound brothers for help in seeking revenge. While his request was readily agreed to, it stirred a blend of emotions, leaving everyone feeling both excited and nervous.


    Zaell wondered aloud if his shield could withstand a dragon¡¯s attack, while Jeyel eagerly expressed his desire to see the creature at once. Eijay, deep in thought, sifted through his mental arsenal of spells, trying to determine which could be effective against such a powerful foe, while Rhyz excitedly mused about testing his latest invention on the dragon.


    Chris, breaking the moment of contemplation, spoke with a serious tone. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, you need to report this to the guild master tomorrow. This information is crucial.¡¯¡¯


    Paul finished the last of his beer and nodded at Chris, assuring him that they would. Paul then added, ¡°We should find somewhere to rest for the night,¡± fatigue evident in his voice.


    "You can use my son¡¯s room upstairs while he¡¯s out of town," Mrs. Lorry offered kindly.


    "Thank you, that would be great," Zaell responded, and the others echoed their gratitude.


    "I¡¯ll go tidy up the room and add a few extra pillows," Mrs. Lorry said kindly, leaving the table.


    Chris rose from his seat, the floorboards creaking beneath him. He walked to the door, closing it after the last patron had left. Turning back to Paul, his voice steady and firm, he said, "Be sure to report your encounter with the dragon to the guild master. It¡¯s vital."


    Paul and his brothers nodded silently, acknowledging the reminder. After lingering for a while, they made their way up the stairs. The air grew heavier with each step, a testament to their exhaustion. When they reached the room Mrs. Lorry had thoughtfully prepared, they exchanged tired glances, grateful for the brief respite. Weary from the day¡¯s trials, they each found a spot to rest. As soon as they lay down, sleep quickly claimed them, their bodies sinking into the comfort of the bed and embracing the deep rest they so desperately needed.


    Paul found himself in a surreal, dreamlike landscape, back in his childhood home. He saw his parents joyfully sharing a meal at the dining table, but as he moved closer, they vanished into thin air, leaving him feeling disoriented and confused. His mother¡¯s voice then echoed from the fire pit, hauntingly repeating: ¡°Never return, never return.¡±


    Suddenly, the ground beneath him began to tremble, and he looked up to see a dragon shattering the roof of his house. Overwhelmed with fear, he closed his eyes, only to be engulfed by eerie darkness. Sprinting through the void, his panic escalated. A sudden jolt sent him tumbling to the ground, where he was confronted with a chilling sight¡ªthe lifeless bodies of his fellow villagers scattered across the landscape.


    In the distance, he saw the motionless forms of his parents, their presence intensifying the dream''s unsettling nature. Struggling to make sense of the nightmarish scenes, Paul closed his eyes again, only to find himself witnessing a tiny creature darting frantically through a dense forest, pursued by an unseen threat.


    Paul snapped awake, finding himself momentarily suspended in mid-air before crashing back onto his bed. The room was cloaked in darkness, but he could make out the shapes of his sleeping brothers. His heart sank as he realized his beloved pet wolf, Black, was missing. Frantically searching the room, Paul''s anxiety grew as he noticed that Black was nowhere to be found.


    Descending the stairs, Paul noticed movement in the kitchen. As he approached, he found what seemed to be Black voraciously devouring all the meat. A pang of guilt struck him for forgetting to feed his companion during dinner. However, as he drew closer, he noticed something alarming: Black¡¯s fur was bristling, and his size had inexplicably increased. Paul¡¯s commands to stop went unheard, and Black¡¯s red eyes and drooling mouth revealed a sinister presence.


    In the dimly lit kitchen, Paul''s terror intensified as he realized the creature before him was not Black, but a towering werewolf. Paralyzed with fear, he watched as the monstrous figure rose to a height of seven feet. Moonlight streaming through the window cast an eerie glow on the creature''s snarling face, revealing its true nature. Unable to move, Paul was frozen, his mind racing with panic while his body remained immobilized mid-air.


    The ferocious werewolf lunged at him, its razor-sharp claws extended menacingly. Despite Paul¡¯s desperate attempts to will his body to move, he remained stuck in place. The beast¡¯s sheer force sent him hurtling across the room. As he collided with the wall, the kitchen tools suspended above him crashed down, adding to the chaos. The impact was so severe that Paul lost consciousness instantly.


    ***


    When he awoke, it was in a dimly lit hospital room. Waves of pain radiated from his chest, where tightly bound bandages indicated his injuries. Confused and vulnerable, Paul noticed he was alone except for his faithful wolf curled up beside him. A moment of disorienting panic gripped him as he glimpsed a shape in the corner, but he quickly realized it was merely a benign shadow from the faint light filtering through the corridor.


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    Desperate for answers, he mustered all his strength to croak out a question to a passing nurse, his voice barely audible over the relentless rattling of leaves outside, stirred by the wind.


    The nurse quickly left the room to call for the healer, leaving Paul alone with his thoughts. He struggled to piece together the events that had led him here, but his mind was blank.


    Moments later, the nurse returned with the healer. Both wore concerned expressions as they approached his bedside.


    "How are you feeling, sir? Can you tell us what you remember?" the healer asked gently but with a probing tone.


    Paul furrowed his brow, trying hard to recall the events. "I remember waking up in the middle of the night, searching frantically for my pet wolf. Then I saw something massive lurking in the darkness," he recounted.


    The healer nodded as he examined Paul. "You were attacked by a werewolf," he confirmed, making notes. "It''s miraculous that you survived. Your brothers arrived just in time to fend off the creature. They were here earlier, by the way."


    "How long have I been out?" Paul asked, his voice reflecting his confusion.


    "You¡¯ve been in a deep sleep for four weeks. We feared the worst. You had lost a significant amount of blood, and it''s puzzling how the bleeding stopped. However, your wounds haven¡¯t fully healed. It¡¯s been quite a mystery to us," the healer explained gravely.


    He paused, glancing at Paul with a mixture of concern and curiosity before continuing, "I¡¯ll leave you with your medication. If you need anything, don¡¯t hesitate to ask the nurse. We¡¯ll keep a close watch on you for a few more days before considering your discharge." With that, the healer left, leaving Paul to ponder the surreal turn of events.


    Paul nodded with a heavy heart, closing his eyes in exhaustion. He was immediately submerged in another dream. In this vision, his mother¡¯s voice echoed in his mind, repeatedly saying, "Never return!"


    Paul tried to understand her cryptic message while observing a tiny creature in the forest, chased by a threat that was perilously close. Despite his strong urge to help, he found himself immobilized, drifting deeper into the mysterious dreamworld.


    Suddenly, the scene shifted to a nightmarish landscape of a burning forest, where panicked animals fled from the encroaching wildfire. The air was thick with smoke, obscuring the sky and shrouding the land.


    Amidst the chaos, Paul saw a familiar face¡ªDellie, the fairy. She was bravely guiding the frightened animals to safety, using her magical vines to combat the relentless flames, though it seemed an insurmountable task for a single fairy.


    As the intense flames raged on, a towering figure emerged from the smoky inferno¡ªthe menacing dragon from his recurring dreams. Overcome with helplessness, Paul cried out Dellie¡¯s name before abruptly waking up to find himself back in the real world, with his concerned brothers standing by his side.


    "Hey, bro, how are you feeling?" Zaell asked, concern etched on his face. "You''re sweating quite a bit¡ªdo you feel hot in here?"


    "I''m fine, just had a nightmare," Paul replied, trying to recall the details but coming up empty. "Hey, bro, can you tell me what happened in the tavern?" he asked.


    Eijay spoke up, "We woke up after hearing a loud bang downstairs and noticed you weren''t in the room. We rushed down to check and found Black barking at something while guarding you. You were bleeding and unconscious. When I cast a ball of light, we saw a werewolf trying to finish you off. We had to act fast to stop it. The tavern was pretty much wrecked in the process. Werewolf attacks are common in town during the full moon."


    Paul looked at his brothers with relief. "Thank you, brothers. I owe you my life. I''ll be extra careful during every full moon from now on."


    Rhys interrupted with a grin. "Not so fast, bro." He handed Paul a list of bills. "Mrs. Lorry charged us for the damage to the tavern. Zaell mentioned you had a lot of coins to spare, and we promise to pay you back because we''re broke at the moment."


    Paul smiled. "No problem. Though, I think you guys did more damage to the tavern than the werewolf did," he laughed.


    "And here," Rhys continued, handing Paul a bundle, "I''ve finished crafting your prosthetics and a new bow. Give them a try. The materials cost about 5 gold coins. We used parts from the werewolf and hunted dungeons for the rest, but it all came together."


    Rhys helped Paul attach the prosthetics. Paul was amazed and expressed his gratitude. "You''re awesome, Rhys. You even made me a new bow. The design is perfect."


    "Eijay helped with some spell adjustments," Rhys added. "The prosthetics should respond to your brain like real limbs." Rhys and Eijay shook hands, proud of their work.


    Paul took a moment to absorb the incredible sensation of standing on his new metal prosthetics. They felt like supercharged legs, providing immense strength and stability. Tentatively, he tried drawing a new bow with his prosthetic arm and was astounded by the force it exerted, feeling as powerful as a beastly punch. The overwhelming joy he felt was akin to celebrating his birthday with a deluge of extraordinary gifts.


    Zaell joined him, proudly presenting a remarkable shield crafted from tough metal and parts of formidable monsters. "Look, they made me a shield too," he announced, beaming with pride.


    "Fantastic! I can''t wait to test it against some monsters," Paul exclaimed, bubbling with anticipation. However, the realization that he would need to remain in the hospital for a few more days slightly dampened his excitement.


    In his rush, Paul nearly forgot to pay. "Where is my bag?" he asked in a panic.


    "Here," Zaell said, pulling the bag from his pocket and magically restoring it to its original size.


    Paul then took out gold coins to pay his brothers for their help, adding a bonus as a token of appreciation. They all sat down and chatted for a while.


    As they were talking, Chris arrived with Mrs. Lorry to visit Paul.


    "How are you feeling, Paul?" Mrs. Lorry inquired.


    "I''m doing fine. Please accept this payment for the tavern," Paul responded graciously, handing over the payment.


    Mrs. Lorry chuckled and remarked on how Paul''s brothers had gone above and beyond in dispatching the werewolf, drawing laughter from everyone present. "It sounds like you all had quite the adventure," she added, her tone warm with admiration.


    After a moment, Chris stepped forward, his demeanor shifting to one of formality. "Paul, the guild master has arrived," he announced, making a deep bow and gesturing toward the entrance.


    The door creaked open, and an elderly man entered. His long white robes trailed behind him, and he was almost completely bald, with only a wispy crown of white hair encircling his head like a halo. His flowing beard reached down to his chest. Despite his age, he exuded an undeniable aura of authority and wisdom.


    "So you are the young man being hailed as savior," the guild master said, his voice filled with respect.


    "I''ve heard much about you and had to see for myself. Leading your party on a dangerous mission, you saved many lives and achieved what no one else has before. Your actions have certainly caught my attention."


    He paused, letting the significance of his words resonate. "And surviving a werewolf attack is no small feat. I deeply apologize for the ordeals you¡¯ve faced. We¡¯ve been struggling with the threat of their kind for some time now. Additionally, I understand you have information about a dragon?"


    As he spoke, he handed over a pouch filled with reward money for the successful quest, his eyes never leaving Paul''s face.