Today, several people who volunteered to fight against Searox were gathered in the palace courtyard, including Arthfael. Many of them were men, but there were also quite a few women among the crowd."It's strange, why are there so many women participating?" Valentina murmured, observing several women standing alongside them.Valentina was sure that these women were not palace servants but individuals who willingly joined the battle against Searox. Ever since the powerful tremors believed to be caused by Searox shook Verdantia, the citizens were called upon to participate in preparing for the war against the sea and underground dragon."Perhaps they are powerful sorceresses," Flare suggested.Arthfael turned his gaze to the women standing not far from where he was. Some of them were dressed in clean and beautiful garments, which differed greatly from the clothing of ordinary citizens."What are you looking at?" a woman suddenly felt uncomfortable being stared at by Arthfael.Arthfael i
"What are you doing here?" asked Arthfael, surprised to see Camilla standing confidently in front of him without a hint of guilt or shame."What else? I'm volunteering to be your fighting partner," Camilla replied, raising her hand and producing sparks of lightning magic from her fingertips, proving that she could harness electrical energy as requested.Arthfael was taken aback by Camilla's unexpected declaration. He had never imagined that Camilla, who had always been hesitant and unsure about her magic abilities, would step forward to be his partner in facing the formidable Searox."But Camilla, are you sure about this?" Arthfael asked with concern. "Facing Searox is no small feat. It's a dangerous and life threatening task."Camilla's determined expression didn't waver as she replied, "I know it's dangerous, but I believe in you, Arthfael. And I believe in myself too. I have been practicing diligently, and I want to prove to myself that I can be strong and useful."Arthfael looked
"Ah, I've actually been observing you, and I'm impressed. But I didn't expect you to be this timid," Lyrastra said, moving closer to Arthfael.In truth, Arthfael wasn't scared; he was merely taken aback by the contrast between the terrifying image he had in mind of Lyrastra and her graceful appearance."Are you seducing me?" Arthfael asked.Lyrastra nodded, "Well, in a way, you could say that."She continued to approach Arthfael until it seemed as though she might kiss him. Arthfael was bewildered and unsure of what to do."What are you doing?" Arthfael asked, realizing that Lyrastra was getting too close.Lyrastra flashed a mischievous smile and then stepped back, "Come, let me show you around."Arthfael was a bit puzzled by Lyrastra's invitation to explore a place that seemed like it existed in a different dimension. There was nothing there, just an endless empty space with water pooling on the floor.As Arthfael remained unmoved, Lyrastra immediately took his hand and led him away
Lyrastra gently shook her head in response to Arthfael's plea. "I'm afraid I cannot grant you magical abilities, young one. As I mentioned before, true power cannot be given. It must be earned," she said with a reassuring smile.Arthfael felt a mix of disappointment and understanding wash over him. Deep down, he knew that the path to greatness wasn't about seeking shortcuts or easy solutions. It was about hard work, dedication, and embracing his own inner strength."But don’t worry, Arthfael," Lyrastra continued, "You already possess a source of great power within you."She pointed at his Soulfire Sword, its Xodiac Jade Stone glowing with potential magic. "Your mighty Soulfire Sword holds ancient and powerful magic itself. The Xodiac Jade Stone is a conduit of immense energy and is already attuned to your spirit.""What? Didn't Gerhard receive his magical powers from you?" Arthfael asked."Of course not! Miss Lyrastra has never shared her magical powers with anyone!" Splash replied, j
As previously informed by Amara, Arthfael was invited to the birthday dinner to celebrate Seraphine's special day. Not alone, Arthfael arrived accompanied by Valentina, Camilla, Zeke, Ian, Flare, and Neptunis.The birthday dinner for Seraphine was held at a dining place in the city center. As Seraphine was not of noble birth, the event was a simple dinner party rather than an extravagant affair. There were no ornate decorations or elaborate dances like those held by the nobles. Nevertheless, the birthday party still felt lively and meaningful, with many invited guests in attendance."Is birthday parties always like this here?" Arthfael asked Valentina, who was flying beside him."Well, usually, it's much livelier. But since we're not nobles, it's kept modest," Valentina replied.Arthfael and the others stepped into the entrance area and were greeted by several guests engaged in conversations near the doorway. As Arthfael's arrival became apparent, all eyes turned to him. They instantl
The bright morning sun heralded the start of the day as Arthfael walked through the refreshing and cool forest. He wasn't alone; he walked alongside Camilla, who was still half-awake. Her steps were somewhat unsteady, and her eyes frequently fluttered closed. She occasionally slapped herself to stay alert.Plak!Another slapping sound echoed from behind Arthfael, causing him to quickly turn around. There stood Camilla, rubbing her cheek where she had slapped herself a bit too forcefully."Come on, we're almost there," Arthfael encouraged.Camilla let out a slightly labored breath, then resumed walking, shooting Arthfael an annoyed look."Do we really have to leave this early? The sun hasn't even fully risen yet!" Camilla complained, but she kept following Arthfael who was leading the way."Valentina is still asleep," Camilla added, remembering their friend who was likely still in bed."You need to get used to training in the morning. Your body's in its optimal state during this time,"
Days turned into weeks, and Camilla's training intensified with each passing day. Due to the distinct nature of her training compared to Arthfael's, coupled with their differing physical abilities, Arthfael eventually granted Camilla a day off from training.Camilla leaped with joy upon receiving permission from Arthfael, but there was a condition attached to it: the next day's training would be twice as challenging, as she would be combining magic with her sword techniques."I finally get to experience a break!" exclaimed Camilla joyfully as she received permission from Arthfael to take some time off."Don't get too excited, though. Your training will intensify tomorrow as the day to face Searox draws near," replied Arthfael.Camilla nodded eagerly, "Got it, Sir!""Well, then I'll take my leave. Today, I have a meeting with King Endeavor to strategize," Arthfael said, slipping on his shoes and bidding farewell to the others.Now only Zeke, Ian, Camilla, and Neptunis remained there as
On the way back home, suddenly, Camilla felt a tremor beneath her feet. Her steps halted immediately, and she tried to sense the tremor once again."What's wrong, Miss Camilla?" Zeke asked, perplexed as Camilla, who was at the front, stopped suddenly.Camilla turned and looked at Zeke. "Did you feel that?"Zeke furrowed his brow, as did Ian, who seemed puzzled by Camilla's question. "Feel what, Miss Camilla?" Ian asked, equally confused.Camilla's panic heightened as she felt the vibrations again, and she turned her gaze towards the source of the tremors. Eventually, Neptunis, sensing the vibrations that Camilla was referring to, also looked in the same direction.The vibrations grew stronger and closer. Trees began to sway, and animals that typically inhabited the trees took flight, as if something was rushing through.Not only that, the bushes around them started to rustle. Now Ian and Zeke were beginning to realize what Camilla was talking about, causing her to halt in her tracks.
A week had passed since Alvin's initiation into the corporate rhythm of Graham Company. As he approached the office building on that particular morning, he noticed Marshall standing near the entrance. The two exchanged a friendly nod, and without hesitation, they walked side by side into the bustling lobby.The elevator doors opened just as they reached it, and Alvin and Marshall stepped inside. The hum of the elevator's ascent enveloped them in a brief moment of solitude. It was within this confined space that Marshall broached a topic beyond the realm of work."Hey, Alvin," Marshall began, leaning casually against the elevator wall, "how's Camilla doing these days? Last time we talked, she had just lost Richard."Alvin's expression softened at the mention of Camilla. "She's doing much better now," he replied. "She's formed a contract with Neptunis and even mastered the art of lightning magic. It's incredible how resilient she is."Marshall's eyes widened in genuine amazement. "That'
With the introduction to his new workplace, Alvin felt a mix of excitement and anticipation. Sophia led him to the 3rd floor, where his workstation awaited. Upon entering the spacious, well-lit office area, Alvin noticed the hum of productivity and the scent of freshly printed documents.Sophia directed Alvin to a desk where a woman was working diligently on her computer. Alvin's eyes widened in recognition — it was the same woman from the elevator earlier. Sophia approached the desk and tapped Felicia gently on the shoulder."Felicia, this is Alvin, our newest addition to the team. Alvin, meet Felicia, your colleague here. She'll be showing you the ropes," Sophia announced with a warm smile.Felicia turned around, her face lighting up with recognition. "Ah, we did meet earlier, didn't we? Good to officially welcome you, Alvin!" Felicia extended her hand, and Alvin shook it warmly.Sophia, pleased with the positive atmosphere, continued, "Felicia, please help Alvin settle in and guide
Alvin, with a head full of new memories and a heart carrying the weight of two worlds, stepped off the bus into the familiar hustle and bustle of the city. The urban landscape, with its towering buildings and constant hum of activity, seemed both alien and strangely welcoming after his fantastical adventures.He strolled down the busy sidewalk, a stark contrast to the forest trails and mythical creatures that once accompanied him on his journey as Arthfael. The echoes of his footsteps resonated with the rhythm of city life, and he couldn't help but feel a twinge of nostalgia for the simplicity of the human world."Missed this place," he muttered to himself, his breath forming a small cloud in the chilly air. Despite the bustling crowd around him, Alvin found himself longing for the solitude of the forest, where every rustle of leaves told a story and every creature held a secret.Approaching the Graham Company building, Alvin gazed up at its sleek exterior, adorned with reflective gla
A man with black shirt, still caught in the hazy transition from one reality to another, found himself in a small, cozy room. The remnants of dreams clung to his consciousness as he heard the persistent knocks on the door. The voice outside, insistent and slightly annoyed, belonged to someone who seemed to know him well."Alvin! Alvin! Wake up, it's already morning! I've cooked breakfast, and if the food gets cold, I'll hit you!"The words echoed in his ears, and Alvin groaned, trying to make sense of the unfamiliar surroundings. The name "Alvin" echoed in his mind, and he muttered to himself, asking aloud, "Who's Alvin?"Reality asserted itself, and with a jolt, Alvin's memory clicked into place. He wasn't Arthfael, the hero navigating a magical realm. He was Alvin, and this room was his own. He rubbed his eyes, willing himself to wake up from the lingering traces of the fantastical adventure.As he stirred, the room revealed familiar details—a worn-out poster on the wall, a collecti
The room, adorned with the regal elegance of the Kingdom of Dragomir, became a sanctuary for Arthfael, Valentina, and Flare. As they entered, Arthfael locked the door behind them, enveloping the space in a cocoon of privacy. The air within held a palpable weight, a prelude to the poignant moments that would unfold.Valentina, with her tiny form and delicate wings, sighed audibly. "This might be our last meeting, Arthfael. We may not see each other again."Flare, the Pyroblaze Phoenix, who had accompanied Arthfael through battles and triumphs, let out a cry tinged with sorrow. The fiery aura surrounding her seemed to flicker, revealing an underlying emotion.Arthfael, perceptive to their sentiments, inquired, "Flare, are you crying?"Flare, attempting to conceal her emotions, retorted, "No, it's just something in my eye."Arthfael, recognizing Flare's attempt to mask her true feelings, chuckled and pulled her into a tight embrace. Unlike her usual blazing form, Flare's body now held a
The night settled over the Kingdom of Dragomir, casting a gentle glow on the palace gardens. Arthfael, Camilla, Neptunis, Flare, and Valentina gathered under the twinkling stars, surrounded by the fragrant blossoms of the palace garden. The soft hum of crickets and the distant murmur of the celebration in the courtyard provided a serene backdrop.Seated on a stone bench, Camilla began reminiscing about the first encounter between her and Arthfael in the Esteria Kingdom castle during Prince Frederick's birthday celebration. The memory brought a nostalgic smile to her face."Ah, that was quite the eventful night," Camilla chuckled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Who would have thought that a simple escape plan would lead to such extraordinary adventures?"Arthfael, leaning back against the bench, nodded with a grin. "It was a night of unexpected turns, and I'm grateful for every moment."Neptunis, the calm and observant one, added, "Fate has a way of weaving its threads in the most
The wedding celebration continued with an air of jubilation that permeated every corner of the grand hall. Arthfael, standing amidst the joyous crowd, felt a warmth in his heart as he witnessed the union of Zeke and Ian with their brides. The bonds of love, forged through trials and triumphs, now culminated in a celebration that seemed to transcend the boundaries of kingdoms.Camilla, with her innate grace, approached Zeke and Ian, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "Gentlemen, it is customary at this point to seal your vows with a kiss," she announced, her voice carrying across the hall.The guests, caught up in the enchantment of the moment, erupted into cheers and applause. Arthfael, smiling at the genuine happiness surrounding him, couldn't help but appreciate the beauty of this tradition. Zeke and Ian, their eyes locked with their brides, exchanged a glance that communicated a shared excitement.Zeke, turning to Molly, took her hands in his and pulled her close. The room fell int
The day of Zeke and Ian's wedding arrived, and the air in the groom's preparation room was charged with a mix of excitement and nervous energy. The room was adorned with elegant white suits hanging on racks, symbolizing the union of two souls about to embark on a journey of love and commitment.Zeke, a mix of anticipation and nervousness etched on his face, adjusted his tie in front of the mirror. Ian, standing nearby, mirrored his feelings, his hands betraying the subtle tremor of anticipation. Both grooms, resplendent in their white suits, exchanged glances that spoke volumes about the emotions swirling within them."How are you feeling, Ian?" Zeke inquired, turning to his partner.Ian, attempting a confident smile, replied, "My heart won't stop racing, Zeke. I've never been this nervous in my life."Zeke chuckled, his eyes softening with affection. "Well, they say it's a good sign. It means you're ready for this, and so am I."As the two grooms shared a moment of reassurance, the d
Arthfael, standing in the room that served as a temporary sanctuary within the Dragomir palace, took a moment to collect his thoughts. The events that had transpired — battles fought, alliances forged, and the sacrifices made — weighed heavy on his mind. He couldn't shake the memory of Freya's selfless sacrifice, a haunting reminder of the costs endured in the face of darkness.In an instinctive motion, Arthfael raised his hand, and a holographic screen materialized before him, displaying a series of information. His eyes focused on the screen as he rotated his hand, prompting a pop-up that revealed a number: 999.Arthfael's level, a reflection of his strength and capabilities, stood at the pinnacle. The enormity of his power, however, was juxtaposed with the feeling of inadequacy that lingered within him."Freya," Arthfael murmured, his voice tinged with regret. "I'm sorry. You sacrificed so much for me, and yet I couldn't protect you. I was too weak."At the bottom of the holographi