It was early morning when I woke up to my mom’s voice calling, "Hey, Nobiru! Hurry up, you're late for school!" Startled, I quickly brushed my teeth and took a shower. After breakfast, I said goodbye to my lovely mom and rushed off to school.

  The morning was filled with joy as I met my friends and spent time with them. When the final bell rang, our teacher concluded the lesson, saying, “That’s all for today. We’ll continue this topic after summer vacation. Have a great break, everyone!” After the teacher left, my friends and I hung out, discussing our plans for the break.

  One of my friends excitedly reminded us, “Listen! Let’s go over our plan again. Tomorrow morning, we’ll meet up and head to Mt. Ishiguro, okay?”

  “Done!” We all agreed.

  When I got home, I started thinking about what to pack. My mom gave me some helpful suggestions during dinner. My little sister, Hina, then piped up, “Brother, please take me with you! I want to see the famous waterfall on the mountain!”

  I frowned. “No, Hina. You’re too careless, and besides, who will help Mom while I’m gone? Definitely not!”

  But Mom interjected, “She’s asking so nicely. Why not take her along?”

  “No, Mom! If something happens to her, what will I do?” I protested.

  After dinner, I went to my room and started packing my clothes and other essentials. Excited for the adventure ahead, I fell asleep.

  The next morning, I was woken up by the sound of voices calling my name. I opened my eyes to see my friends, Gayu and Meyan, standing there—with a girl I didn’t recognize. I quickly got ready and, after saying goodbye to my mom and Hina, joined them outside. Meyan introduced the new girl.

  “She’s Sanu, my new neighbor. Sanu, meet Nobiru.”

  We made our way to the Fuji Railway Station and boarded a train headed for Mt. Ishiguro. As the train started its journey from Tokyo to Tomano, we settled into our seats.

  Meyan couldn’t contain his excitement. “I’m so thrilled! Sanu, what about you? Say something!”

  Sanu smiled. “Well, as you all know, I just moved here. Before this, I lived in London. It was such an amazing place! My dad was the CEO of Hamilton Co. Ltd.”

  “Wow, London!” Gayu exclaimed. “Were you living in an apartment?”

  “Yeah,” Sanu replied. “The company provided a really big apartment with two bedrooms, a large kitchen, and a spacious living room. London is a fantastic city.”

  Meyan sighed dreamily. “I’d love to live there someday.”

  “What about school?” I asked.

  “My parents are looking for a school to enroll me in,” Sanu explained.

  “Well, you should check out our school,” I suggested. “The teachers are great, and you’d have us as your friends!”

  “I’ll talk to my parents about it after this trip,” she said with a smile.

  As the train neared Tomano Station, Gayu pointed out, “Hey, look! We’re almost there.”

  Once we arrived, Meyan’s stomach growled loudly. “Let’s find something to eat!”

  We all laughed and agreed to stop for breakfast at a nearby canteen. While we waited for our food, I shared the itinerary.

  “Our first destination is Taimen,” I announced. “It has some stunning views, and I’ve already booked a resort for us.”

  Sanu asked, “How are we getting there after breakfast?”

  “I’ve arranged for a cab,” I replied.

  After breakfast, we hopped into the cab and drove towards Taimen. The journey was filled with playful bickering between Gayu and Meyan, which kept all of us entertained. When we reached the resort, however, we were in for a surprise.

  The resort, named Urahara’s Resort, looked old and run-down, with no other tourists in sight. Meyan groaned, “What is this place?”

  I defended my choice. “It’s famous for its hot springs. Let’s not judge before we check it out.”

  The owner, Taro Urahara, greeted us warmly and showed us to our rooms. Despite the resort’s shabby appearance, we settled in and unpacked. While opening a jammed window in our room, Gayu and I accidentally broke it. Taro apologized and quickly arranged a new room for us.

  That evening, we gathered in the dining room for dinner. Sanu served us with a cheerful smile, which didn’t escape Gayu’s notice.

  “Hey, Nobiru,” Gayu teased. “Why does Sanu keep smiling at you like that? Is there something going on between you two?”

  “Cut it out!” I snapped, flustered.

  Meyan chimed in, “Gayu, let it go. Let me eat in peace!”

  After dinner, Sanu shyly thanked me for complimenting her cooking and hurried to her room. Gayu couldn’t resist teasing me again, but I ignored him and went to bed.

  In the middle of the night, Gayu woke up to use the bathroom. On his way back, he noticed light coming from Sanu’s room and overheard a voice. Curiosity got the better of him, and he opened the door, only to let out a terrified scream.

  “Ghost! Ghost! Nobiru, Meyan, come quick!”

  Startled, we rushed to Sanu’s room and found Gayu on the floor, trembling. Sanu was unconscious, but soon regained consciousness and explained she had been talking to her dad when Gayu startled her by barging in. It was a simple misunderstanding, but we couldn’t stop laughing at Gayu’s overreaction.

  The next morning, we set off to climb Mt. Ishiguro, filled with excitement for the adventure ahead.

  Nobiru watched as Sanu quickly drank from her water bottle, her throat moving with each swallow. She set it down with a soft exhale, but then suddenly winced, her foot throbbing with pain. Sanu's face contorted in surprise as she blurted out, "Ouch!"

  Nobiru furrowed his brows in concern. "What happened?" he asked, stepping toward her. "Let me see."

  Sanu hesitated for a moment before pulling her foot out from beneath her skirt. A deep cut ran across the arch, blood slowly seeping out.

  Nobiru’s eyes widened in disbelief. "How did you get this? Sanu, you're just like my sister, Hina—too careless!"

  Sanu gave him a soft, teasing smile. "So your sister's name is Hina?"

  "Yes," Nobiru replied with a small chuckle, still worried but amused by her calm demeanor.

  He quickly reached for a bandage and carefully wrapped it around her foot, his fingers gentle yet precise as he slowly slid her shoes back on. Sanu winced at the pressure, a sharp breath escaping her lips.

  "Can you walk?" Nobiru asked, his voice tinged with concern.

  Sanu smiled, brushing off the pain. "Yes, Nobiru! It's nothing serious. I can walk."

  Still, Nobiru kept his arm around her waist, supporting her as they stood up. Slowly, carefully, the two of them made their way toward the waterfall. The sound of rushing water grew louder with each step, mingling with the rustling leaves around them.

  Meanwhile, at the waterfall, Meyan and Gayu were deep in conversation, their voices blending with the soft hum of nature around them.

  Meyan glanced at the path they’d come from and raised an eyebrow. "What took them so long? I thought something had happened. It's too late for them to be this late, Gayu. Let's go check on them."

  Gayu nodded. "Yeah, you're right. Let's go."

  As they started to walk toward the path, they spotted Nobiru and Sanu approaching. Meyan quickened his pace, his concern evident.

  "What happened? Why are you two so late?" Meyan asked, his eyes scanning both of them. His gaze immediately fell on Sanu's bandaged foot. "What happened to you, Sanu? Why is your foot all wrapped up?"

  Sanu waved it off with a smile, her tone light. "Nothing happened, guys. It's really nothing."

  Nobiru shot her a look, one that mixed irritation and worry. "She got a cut, but she tried to hide it from us. Now she can't walk properly."

  He looked at Sanu with a tense expression, though Sanu remained unbothered, her smile never faltering.

  Meyan's face softened. "Alright, alright. Come on, let's get you to the tent."

  With Nobiru’s help, Sanu carefully made her way to the tent. Once inside, Nobiru helped her sit down, gently removing her shoes and the bandage. He applied a bit of medicine to the wound and rewrapped it with fresh bandages.

  "Take this medicine, Sanu," he said softly, "It’ll help with the pain. And please, don’t try to walk on it for a while."

  Sanu shook her head playfully. "I’m fine, really."

  With a quiet sigh, Nobiru stepped outside the tent. "Rest up, okay?"

  As he left, Sanu closed her eyes for a moment, resting on the soft ground beneath her. She could hear the laughter and conversation outside the tent as Meyan and Gayu prepared food for her. But Sanu's thoughts were elsewhere, her mind filled with a warmth that wasn’t just from the fire outside.

  I’ve really got some good friends, she thought, smiling to herself. I never expected to find people like this. They feel so familiar, like I’ve known them forever. But... the one who stands out is...

  She peered cautiously through the tent flap, wanting to catch a glimpse of what they were doing. But before she could get a good look, Nobiru glanced back and caught her eye. Startled, she quickly ducked her head back inside, her cheeks flushing crimson.

  Ugh! That was close, she thought, her heart racing. If he sees me again, I’m sure he’ll scold me. But... Why do I feel this way when he looks at me? What’s this feeling? Why do I blush so much?

  She shook her head, trying to shake off the sensation. No... I can’t like him. Can I?

  Just then, Gayu entered the tent, a frown on his face as he slung his water bottle over his shoulder.

  "Ugh! Cooking is so hard," Gayu said, rolling his eyes dramatically. "How do you do this, Sanu?"

  Sanu smiled gently. "It’s hard, but not impossible. If you try, you can get the hang of it. After all, practice makes perfect, right?"

  Gayu sighed dramatically, then looked up at her with a smirk. "Hey, Sanu, can I ask you something?"

  "Sure, Gayu. What’s on your mind?"

  Gayu looked around to make sure no one was listening, then leaned in closer. "Tell me about Nobiru," he said with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "What's he like?"

  Sanu’s heart skipped a beat. "Nobiru?" She tried to keep her voice steady. "Well... he's a good guy. Caring, a little shy around girls, but he’s always there when any of us need him." She smiled, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks as she quickly added, "Why do you ask, Gayu?"

  Gayu chuckled and crossed his arms. "Oh, nothing. Just curious. You’re not... interested in him, are you?"

  Sanu’s cheeks flushed redder. "No, no! Nothing like that. I was just wondering."

  At that moment, Meyan called from outside the tent. "Gayu, get back here and help with the food!"

  Gayu rolled his eyes but gave Sanu a quick wink before heading out to join the others. As Sanu lay back down, her thoughts swirled, her mind racing with the possibilities of what she’d just learned about Nobiru. So, he’s shy around girls...

  Her mind wandered further. Does he feel the same way about me? Or am I just imagining things?

  Sanu closed her eyes and tried to relax. What is this feeling?

  Outside the tent, Meyan and Gayu continued their playful banter while Nobiru returned with a bucket full of fish, the catch from his fishing trip. He handed the bucket to Meyan, who couldn’t hide his delight at the haul.

  "Wow, that’s a lot, Nobiru!" Meyan said, his eyes wide. "This will be perfect."

  Nobiru grinned. "It should be enough for all of us. Are you sure you’re okay with it?"

  Meyan nodded. "Yeah, we’ve got everything we need."

  As they began preparing the meal, Nobiru glanced over at Gayu. "Where is he, anyway?"

  Meyan chuckled. "I gave him a task. He’s peeling potatoes."

  Nobiru shook his head, a smile on his lips. "Ah, I see."

  Later, when the meal was ready, Nobiru walked over to the tent with a plate of food for Sanu. As he entered, he saw her still lying there, her eyes closed. His voice softened as he called her name.

  "Sanu? Your lunch is ready."

  She opened her eyes slowly, her heart racing when she saw Nobiru standing there with the food. For a moment, she felt a nervous flutter in her chest. Why am I so nervous?

  "Here," Nobiru said, holding out the plate with a warm smile.

  Sanu took the plate from him, her fingers brushing against his. Her heart skipped again, and she smiled back, though her cheeks were slightly flushed.

  Before she could say anything, Meyan’s voice called from outside the tent. "Hey, Nobiru! Your lunch is getting cold!"

  "Alright," Nobiru replied, turning to leave. "You eat, Sanu. I’ll see you later."

  Sanu nodded, still smiling. "Thanks, Nobiru," she whispered as he left the tent.

  Once he was gone, she sighed softly, her fingers running over the plate in her hands. What is this feeling? she wondered. Is it love?

  Outside, Nobiru and Meyan sat down to eat, laughing over casual conversation, while Gayu tried to avoid their teasing.

  "You know, Meyan," Nobiru said between bites, "I didn’t realize you could cook like this. It’s actually really good!"

  Meyan laughed. "Thanks, Nobiru. I’m glad you like it."

  As they finished their meal, Meyan handed Gayu the dishes to clean. Gayu groaned in protest, but Nobiru laughed and told him to relax.

  "Give me the plates," he said. "I’ll wash them. You’ve done enough today."

  Meyan grinned. "Yeah, Gayu, let Nobiru do it. You’ve been busy."

  With a dramatic sigh, Gayu marched off to the tent to talk with Sanu, carrying the dirty plates. When he saw Sanu had finished her lunch and was about to get up, he stopped her.

  "Hold on, Sanu," he said. "Where are you going? Stay here and rest. We’re going to the waterfall tonight. You won’t want to miss it."

  Sanu laughed softly as Gayu took the plate from her hands. "Okay, okay," she replied, leaning back against the tent.

  As Gayu went to find Nobiru, Sanu lay back, a soft smile on her face. Maybe everything will be okay, she thought. Maybe I’m not alone after all.

  Gayu eagerly shared all the things that Nobiru liked to do, and Sanu felt a warmth spread through her heart, grateful for Gayu’s help. She was so happy to have his support. Just then, Nobiru appeared, casually greeting them. “Hey, guys, how are you doing? Sanu, how are your feet now?” he asked, his voice light but laced with concern.

  Sanu smiled softly, relieved. “It’s not hurting anymore. I think I can walk in the evening,” she replied.

  Nobiru’s face lit up with a smile. “That’s really good! So, you can see the sunset. It’s awesome.”

  Sanu’s eyes sparkled. “Yeah! It’s amazing.”

  Gayu glanced over at Sanu, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He wiggled his eyebrows and teased, “Sanu, why are you blushing?”

  Sanu flushed slightly, her cheeks turning pink. “Stop it, Gayu! He can hear you,” she muttered, trying to play it off.

  Gayu chuckled. “So what? Huh?”

  Nobiru looked at them, curiosity in his eyes. “What are you two talking about?”

  Sanu quickly glanced at Nobiru and stammered, “Nothing, Nobiru. Just… nothing.”

  Meyan, who had been quietly listening, spoke up. “Hey, Sanu, how are your feet?” he asked gently.

  Sanu nodded, grateful for the attention. “They’re good, Meyan. Thanks.”

  Nobiru turned to Meyan. “Meyan, have you finished your work?”

  Meyan nodded, holding up a small bag. “Yeah, I was just packing the dishes in a bag.”

  Nobiru smiled approvingly. “Good, good. Now sit here quickly. We need to rest because we’re waking up tonight to see the waterfall’s night view.”

  Meyan agreed. “Yes, Nobiru.”

  Gayu handed over a bedsheet to Meyan, but when he didn’t respond, Meyan frowned. “Gayu, can I have the bedsheet?” he asked.

  Gayu, however, ignored him completely.

  Meyan’s patience started to wear thin. “What’s wrong with you? Give me the bedsheet.”

  Sanu stepped in, trying to smooth things over. “Meyan, leave him. I’ll give you the bedsheet from my bag.”

  Nobiru, sensing something was off, asked Gayu, “What’s the matter, Gayu? Are you angry?”

  Sanu couldn’t help but smile. “You guys tease him too much. That’s why he’s not talking.”

  Gayu, lying down on his bed, muttered, “Sanu, don’t explain. I don’t like talking to people who always tease others.”

  Nobiru and Meyan, eager to lighten the mood, leapt onto Gayu’s bed and began tickling him.

  Gayu protested, his voice muffled. “Leave me alone, Meyan and Nobiru!”

  Both of them ignored his pleas. “Sorry, nah! Why are you taking it so seriously, Gayu? We’re just kidding.”

  After a long moment, Gayu sighed and gave in. “Fine, okay. But if you tease me again, I won’t talk to you anymore.”

  Both Nobiru and Meyan quickly apologized. “Okay, sorry. We won’t tease you again.”

  Gayu grumbled but then replied, “Okay. Leave it. Just tell me when we have to go.”

  Meyan glanced at the sky and answered, “After the sunset.”

  “Okay, then,” Gayu said, yawning. “I’m going to sleep now.”

  A few hours later, Meyan woke everyone up. “Guys, it’s evening,” he said softly.

  Nobiru, Sanu, and Gayu groggily woke up. Nobiru helped Sanu to her feet, his voice warm but practical. “Sanu, hold onto my shoulder with one hand, and take my hand with the other.”

  Sanu hesitated but then nodded, grateful for his support. “I can walk now, Nobiru. It’s not hurting anymore.”

  Gayu and Meyan gathered their bags, ready to begin their walk. After a while, Meyan turned to Sanu. “Are you okay now?”

  Sanu smiled at him. “Yeah, it’s fine, Meyan. No pain anymore.”

  Nobiru, ahead of them, called out, “Meyan, hurry up!” He broke into a run, and Meyan quickly followed.

  As they walked, Gayu leaned toward Sanu. “I have a plan,” he said quietly. “Once we get to the location, I’ll take Meyan with me. You and Nobiru can spend some time alone. What do you think?”

  Sanu felt her stomach flutter with nerves. “I’m nervous, Gayu. Do you really think I can do it alone?”

  Gayu raised an eyebrow, his voice teasing. “Yes, you can. Don’t be so childish.”

  Sanu blushed but nodded. “Okay. I’ll try.”

  Soon, they caught up to Nobiru and Meyan. Meyan smiled, noticing their slower pace. “Why are you both so late?” he asked.

  Gayu replied quickly, “Because you two were running.”

  Sanu laughed softly, but Nobiru, who had been waiting, called out, “Hurry up, guys. Let’s go!”

  They all hurried to catch up, reaching the top just in time to see the breathtaking view of the sunset.

  “Wow,” Sanu whispered in awe, her eyes wide as the sky shifted from gold to shades of purple and pink. “This is amazing. The city looks beautiful from here. I never imagined I’d see such a sight—the sun sinking below the horizon, the birds soaring as if they’re welcoming the night. It’s like a dream.”

  The group stood in silence, absorbing the scene, grateful for the moment. After a while, Gayu spoke up again. “We need to head to the waterfall before the sun sets completely. We won’t see it tonight if we don’t hurry.”

  Meyan and Nobiru nodded eagerly. “Let’s go then.”

  Sanu, catching her breath, agreed. “Yes, Nobiru.”

  The journey to the waterfall was swift, and soon it was night. They reached the site, and Nobiru turned to the group. “We need to set up camp here. Meyan, help me with the tent.”

  Meyan nodded and immediately got to work.

  Meanwhile, Gayu and Sanu stood near the waterfall. Gayu spoke in a low voice. “Sanu, as planned, I’m going to take Meyan with me. You have to tell Nobiru how you feel. Don’t hesitate.”

  Sanu felt her heart race. “I’m so nervous, Gayu. What if I mess it up?”

  Gayu’s expression softened, but his tone was firm. “You have to do this, Sanu. Don’t be so nervous. Just speak your heart.”

  Sanu took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. She wasn’t sure she could do it, but she knew she had to try.

  Meyan suddenly called, “Sanu, come here! Help us.”

  Sanu, feeling conflicted, thought to herself, Can I really do this? Does Nobiru even feel the same way?

  Her thoughts were interrupted as she heard Gayu, Meyan, and Nobiru calling her. She ran to join them and found that everything was ready.

  Nobiru, full of energy, grinned. “Let’s go, guys. The time has come.”

  The group rushed to the waterfall, mesmerized by the sight before them. The moon hung like a diamond in the sky, its light casting an ethereal glow on the water, and fireflies danced in the air, guiding their way.

  Sanu’s voice broke the silence. “It’s beautiful. It’s like I’m in a different world, far away from the city. This is incredible.”

  Nobiru pointed to the sky. “Look at the moon. It’s reflecting on the water. It’s perfect.”

  They all gazed in awe at the beauty around them, taking it in as though time had slowed.

  Then Gayu gave Sanu a subtle nod, signaling her to begin.

  Gayu turned to Meyan. “Meyan, come with me,” he said, pulling him away.

  Sanu’s heart raced. She turned to Nobiru. “I… I don’t know how to say this…”

  Nobiru looked at her, concern in his eyes. “What is it, Sanu?”

  Before she could speak, Gayu and Meyan suddenly appeared, running toward them with exaggerated fear. “Nobiru! There’s a ghost!” they yelled in unison.

  Gayu grabbed Nobiru and shoved him into the water. “Sorry!” he shouted, but immediately sneezed loudly.

  Sanu and Meyan helped pull them out.

  Nobiru, dripping wet, scowled. “Gayu, what did you do? Now I’m soaked!”

  Gayu looked guilty. “Sorry, but it was too much fun.”

  Sanu quickly handed them jackets to keep warm. Meyan, with swift hands, gathered dry branches for a fire.

  As they settled around the campfire, Nobiru shivered. “You, Gayu, I’ll get you back for this. Wait till I dry off. You’re in trouble.”

  Sanu smiled, trying to keep things light. “Let’s forget about it now. But seriously, why were you two running earlier?”

  Gayu and Meyan exchanged uneasy looks.

  “We saw a group of men,” Gayu said quietly, “They had weapons.”

  Nobiru raised an eyebrow. “That’s impossible. When we were coming here, there was no one.”

  Meyan, looking nervous, nodded. “It’s true. We saw them.”

  Nobiru’s skepticism was evident. “There’s no one here now. Maybe you two just imagined it.”

  Sanu, sensing the tension, offered, “Maybe they were already there before we arrived.”

  Nobiru, still unconvinced, nodded. “Fine. But let’s just enjoy the night. No ghosts tonight.”

  With that, the group made their way to the tent, each trying to shake off the strange feeling that lingered in the air. But Gayu, glancing over his shoulder at the direction they’d come from, couldn’t quite shake the feeling that something wasn’t right.

  A few minutes later, Sanu and Meyan called out to Nobiru and Gayu, "Dinner's ready! Come quickly!" Nobiru and Gayu made their way over to the campfire, where an array of dishes awaited them. The smell of fresh food filled the air, making their stomachs growl.

  Gayu's eyes widened at the sight of the spread. "Wow, Meyan and Sanu, this looks delicious! Let me have some first," he said, his voice full of excitement.

  "Alright, Gayu, go ahead and try it first. Tell me how it tastes!" Sanu replied with a grin.

  Gayu eagerly took his plate, and Sanu followed with one for herself. Nobiru hesitated for a moment, then said, "Sanu, you take the plate. I can serve my own."

  But Sanu shook her head, smiling. "No, no, you take it. I'm getting mine."

  "I insist," Nobiru replied with a slight chuckle. "I said you take it."

  Sanu finally relented, taking the plate from Nobiru’s hands. Nobiru served himself, filling his plate with rice, fry, and a variety of other dishes. They all gathered around the campfire to sit together, the warmth of the flames contrasting with the chill of the night air.

  Nobiru took his first bite, savoring the flavor. "Huh, this is delicious, Meyan, Sanu," he said, nodding approvingly.

  Gayu, taking his first bite as well, smiled. "Yes, Nobiru, it's really good!" He then turned to Sanu. "Give me some more of that fry!"

  Sanu chuckled and nodded. "Alright, Gayu. Here you go."

  Nobiru looked around at the others, asking, "Anyone want something else?"

  Meyan, shaking his head, replied, "Nothing for me." Nobiru glanced at Sanu, who simply smiled in response.

  They finished their dinner, and Meyan began collecting the plates to clean them. The sound of water splashing as he washed them was soothing, a gentle reminder of the peaceful night they had been enjoying. Nobiru stood up and fetched some water, sprinkling it onto the campfire to put it out before they went inside the tent to sleep.

  But in the middle of the night, Gayu woke up, feeling an urgent need to relieve himself. Quietly, he slipped out of the tent, the cool night air greeting him as he made his way to the nearest tree. As he stood there, taking in the sounds of the forest, his eyes were drawn to the distant waterfall. Something caught his attention—a flicker of light.

  At first, he thought it was just his imagination, but then he saw it again. This time, he couldn’t ignore it. He approached the waterfall slowly, his heart racing. As he neared, the sight before him took his breath away. Behind the waterfall, he could see an empty space, a hidden passage.

  His curiosity piqued, Gayu stepped closer, reaching out to touch the falling water. The cool spray dampened his skin, but it was the space behind the waterfall that captured his focus. He peered inside and saw something—a figure. It was human-shaped, standing eerily still. Before he could process what he was seeing, the figure vanished.

  Gayu froze, his heart pounding in his chest. With a gasp, he turned and ran back toward the tent, screaming, "Nobiru! Meyan! Sanu! Wake up! I saw it! It’s there, behind the waterfall!"

  Nobiru groggily responded, his voice thick with sleep. "What? Not again, Gayu. Go back to sleep."

  But Gayu was desperate, his voice shaking with fear. "No, guys, I saw it. Please, you have to believe me!"

  Gayu’s urgency was palpable, and after a moment, Nobiru, Sanu, and Meyan reluctantly got up, following him back to the waterfall. When they arrived, their eyes widened in disbelief. What Gayu had described was true. Behind the cascading water was indeed a hidden path.

  Nobiru spoke first, his voice quiet with awe. "Gayu, did you really see this?"

  They ventured closer to the waterfall, stepping carefully behind the veil of water. Inside was a dark cave, the air damp and heavy with the scent of earth and water.

  "Guys, stay together," Nobiru said, his tone serious. "We don’t know what’s inside."

  They ventured deeper into the cave, the sound of their footsteps echoing in the stillness. Suddenly, a loud noise from behind made them spin around. The way they had come in was now completely blocked by a mass of rocks. Panic set in as they realized the path out was gone.

  Gayu, Sanu, and Meyan began shouting, their voices rising in fear. "How do we get out of this?" Sanu cried, tears streaming down her face. "What is happening?"

  Nobiru, his voice trembling, responded, "Wait, I’ll find a way. I’ll figure this out. Just... just give me a moment."

  The others quieted, watching him desperately search for an escape. But the rocks were too heavy, the way forward and backward both sealed off.

  Nobiru dropped to his knees, overcome with emotion. "It’s my fault... I’m the one who brought you all here," he whispered through his tears. "I never should have come."

  The others gathered around him, their concern evident. Sanu gently placed a hand on his shoulder. "No, Nobiru, it’s not your fault," she said softly. "It’s fate. We’re in this together. You gave us the best moments of our lives. All the beauty we’ve seen... it’s because of you."

  Sanu’s words were comforting, but Nobiru’s resolve remained strong. He stood up, wiping his tears. "I can’t let you all suffer because of me. I’ll find a way out. I promise."

  Nobiru’s determination gave them all hope. "Please, follow me," he said, his voice now firm. "We can’t give up. We have to move forward. We’ll make it out of here."

  He took Sanu’s hand, then turned and began running toward the far end of the cave. Meyan, Gayu, and Sanu hesitated for a moment, then followed. They ran together, their breaths ragged in the cold, damp air.

  After what felt like an eternity, they saw a faint light in the distance. Nobiru raised his hand, calling to them. "I found it! Come on!"

  They sprinted toward him, and when they reached his side, they hugged each other tightly, tears of relief and joy streaming down their faces.

  "Finally!" Meyan shouted, his voice full of emotion. "We’re not lost! We made it!"

  They stood in awe as they looked around. They had emerged from the darkness of the cave into a strange new world. Long canyons stretched out before them, dotted with lush grass and vibrant flowers. The sun seemed to rise anew, casting golden light over everything. It was a place unlike any they had seen before.

  Confusion mixed with wonder as they tried to process what had just happened. Where were they now? How had they ended up here?

  "Let’s find our way back to the city," Nobiru said, his voice steady, though uncertainty lingered in his eyes. "We can’t give up now."

  The group walked toward the horizon, their hearts filled with a mix of awe and apprehension. As they neared the edge of the strange land, they saw a small house nestled in the distance. Eager to find answers, they hurried toward it.

  But as they approached, they noticed something strange. A man was standing outside, watering his trees. He looked... off. His movements were stiff, and his features were almost too perfect, too doll-like. He wore a hat and clothes like a human, but something was deeply unsettling about him.

  "Stop! Wait!" Nobiru hissed, holding up his hand to stop the others. "What is that? That’s not like any human we’ve ever seen."

  They crept around the back of the house to get a better look. As they peered around a large tree, they saw him clearly—a figure with no fingers, his face smooth like porcelain, like a doll. He stood motionless, unaware of their presence.

  Sanu, her heart racing, whispered, "What... What is he? A doll?"

  Confusion and fear washed over them as they questioned whether this man was real, or if they were caught in some bizarre dream.

  But just then, the stillness was broken by a cry. "Father! Father!"

  Two small children came running toward the strange man, calling him "Father." But as they approached, the group saw something even more unnerving—these children looked just like the man. They had the same doll-like features, their expressions blank, their movements stiff.

  The sight was enough to send a shiver down their spines. Was this reality? Or had they entered some twisted nightmare?

  Before they could fully process what they were seeing, Gayu lost his footing and fell from the tree. The doll-man turned sharply, his gaze locking onto them. "Wait! Where are you going?"

  Nobiru, Meyan, and Gayu scrambled to their feet, but the doll-man was too fast. He reached them before they could escape.

  "Who are you? Why are you running?" he asked in a cold, emotionless voice.

  The group froze in terror, their minds racing. "Please... don’t kill us!" they begged in unison.

  The doll-man looked at them with a smile, his expression unnervingly calm. "Kill you?" he asked. "Why would I do that?"

  The group stood in stunned silence, unsure of what to make of this bizarre encounter. Their fear had been replaced by an even deeper confusion. What was this creature? And why was he so... detached from any human emotion?

  "You are all like my children. Come with me to my home," the doll said warmly, extending his hand toward Nobiru. Nobiru hesitated for a moment, then reached out, grasping the doll's hand. He rose to his feet, and the others followed, rising and walking alongside them.

  The house they approached was cozy, with a soft glow emanating from its windows, casting long shadows on the surrounding ground. Inside, the sound of laughter echoed. Two children, their giggles carrying a note of pure joy, darted around the room playing hide-and-seek.

  The doll called out, "Darling!"

  From another room, a figure emerged. It was another doll, but this one was a woman, her presence radiating warmth and grace. She joined them, and the first doll gestured for everyone to sit. As they took their seats, the doll introduced himself.

  "My name is Hanue Manthan," he said with a smile. "This is my wife, Lily Manthan, and these are our children, Hanma and Tanna."

  At his words, the two children stopped their game and approached. Their youthful energy was contagious as they clambered onto Hanue's lap, their curious eyes taking in the newcomers. Hanue gestured toward Nobiru and his companions.

  "Say hello to your elder brothers and sisters," Hanue said gently.

  The children turned their gaze to the group, their faces lighting up with charming smiles. "Hello, brother and sister!" Hanma and Tanna chorused.

  Nobiru, Meyan, Sanu, and Gayu exchanged amused glances before replying in unison, "Hello!"

  A moment of silence followed, thick with curiosity. The two groups studied one another, as though trying to piece together an unspoken mystery. Nobiru finally broke the silence, his tone polite but tinged with urgency.

  "Hanue, sir, can you please tell us about this city? From the beginning?"

  Hanue raised an eyebrow, puzzled. "Why, Nobiru? I don't know much about where you’re from, or how you came to be here."

  At that, Nobiru took a deep breath and recounted their journey in vivid detail. He spoke of the events that led them to this strange city and the cave that had brought them here. When he was done, Hanue shook his head, disbelief clouding his features.

  "That can’t be possible," Hanue said slowly. "The cave you speak of has been sealed for over a thousand years. No one knows what lies on the other side. It’s simply not something that can be."

  "But it’s true!" Nobiru insisted, his voice firm. "Everything I’ve told you really happened. Please, Hanue sir, believe me."

  Hanue considered this, his expression softening. "Very well," he said at last. "Let me start from the beginning, the origin of our civilization. It all began with The Living Tree."

  "The Living Tree?" Nobiru echoed, intrigued.

  Hanue nodded. "Yes, The Living Tree. When I was a child, I heard stories from my grandfather about this ancient tree, so old that its age cannot be determined. It is said to have existed since the beginning of the Earth. The tree is the core of the Earth itself."

  The group leaned in, captivated. Nobiru asked, "And the tree... it can talk?"

  "Indeed," Hanue replied. "The tree speaks, though only to our king. Its wisdom has guided us for countless generations. It tells us what we must do to preserve the Earth."

  "Your king?" Meyan interjected.

  "Yes," Hanue confirmed. "Our king, Dano. He is the only one permitted to communicate with the tree. Whatever he learns, he shares with us, and we act accordingly. To determine the next king, a grand tournament is held every fifty years."

  "A tournament?" Sanu asked, his interest piqued.

  "Yes," Hanue said, his voice growing animated. "It is a tradition, an event that determines the worthiest among us. Whoever triumphs in this tournament earns the right to become the next king."

  The group exchanged curious glances before Nobiru spoke again, his tone eager. "Hanue, please... tell us more about this tournament."

  Hanue continued, "As I mentioned before, the tournament is organized by the king to select the next ruler. The rules are straightforward: participants must be civilians, each with their own kabu. To qualify, they must earn three gold coins from the kabukes."

  Nobiru furrowed his brow. "Kabu? Kabukes? What do those mean?"

  Hanue smiled slightly. "A kabu is a dragon—each participant must have one. Kabukes are dragon killers, beings of immense strength and skill. They are as dangerous as they are rare, and defeating them is no small task."

  Before Nobiru could ask further questions, Hanue’s wife called him from another room. He excused himself, leaving the group to their thoughts.

  As soon as he was gone, Nobiru turned to the others, his expression grave. "Guys, I don’t think Hanue means us any harm. But this place… I thought there would be humans here. We need to find them and gather as much information as we can."

  The group nodded in agreement. Just as they began discussing their next steps, a heavy hand landed on Nobiru’s shoulder. The unexpected contact made them jump. Whirling around, they found themselves face-to-face with a towering, muscle-bound man. His bulky frame seemed almost too large for the room, and his booming voice cut through the tension.

  "Hey! Who are you?" the man demanded.

  Before anyone could answer, Hanue rushed back into the room. "Hanami! They are our guests!" he shouted.

  The man, Hanami, removed his hand from Nobiru’s shoulder, his intimidating demeanor softening into embarrassment. "Oh… I’m sorry, sir. Please forgive me," he stammered, his tone shifting into a panicked plea. Dropping to his knees, he raised his hands toward the ceiling. "Oh, Living Tree, have mercy on me! I’ve done wrong!" Tears streamed down his face as he began to cry loudly, then he bolted up the stairs, his sobs echoing behind him.

  The group stood frozen, unsure how to react.

  Hanue sighed, shaking his head. "I’m so sorry about that. Hanami means well, but he doesn’t always know how to behave. He’s got a good heart, even if he comes across as rough."

  Meyan chuckled awkwardly. "It’s okay, really," he said, but Sanu couldn’t hold back his curiosity.

  "Why was he crying like that?" Sanu asked.

  "Ah," Hanue said with a small laugh. "Hanami is softhearted. He looks tough on the outside, but inside, he’s as gentle as a lamb."

  "I see," Gayu remarked, nodding thoughtfully.

  "Oh, before I forget," Hanue said, turning to the group with a smile. "Here are some sweets for you all. Consider it a small gift."

  Gayu’s eyes lit up at the sight of the treats. "Sweets! Thank you, Hanue! I really love sweets."

  Meyan muttered under his breath, "Oh no, here he goes again, acting like he hasn’t eaten in ten days."

  Unfortunately for him, Gayu heard the comment. He turned sharply, glaring at Meyan. "What did you say? Huh? Tell me!"

  "Nothing," Meyan replied quickly, holding up his hands in mock surrender.

  But Gayu wasn’t letting it go. "You said something, didn’t you? If you don’t want your sweets, give them to me!" Without waiting for an answer, he snatched the sweets out of Meyan’s hands.

  "Hey! That’s mine!" Meyan protested, and the two began to bicker, their voices growing louder.

  Sanu groaned, exasperated. "You two are at it again? Stop fighting!"

  Nobiru stepped between them, delivering a light slap to both of their heads. "Enough! Both of you! We’re supposed to be figuring out how to escape, and you’re arguing over sweets?"

  Meyan rubbed his head, pouting. "It’s his fault! He took my sweets!"

  Gayu crossed his arms defensively. "You didn’t say you wanted them!"

  "Stop it, both of you," Nobiru snapped. "We need to focus. We have to gather more information about the Living Tree. I think it might be the key to getting back to our world."

  Chastened, Meyan and Gayu exchanged sheepish looks and nodded.

  Just then, Hanue returned. "Where was I? Ah, yes—the tournament. Whoever wins becomes the king and earns the right to speak with the Living Tree."

  Nobiru seized the moment. "Hanue, is it true the Living Tree knows everything?"

  "Yes," Hanue said earnestly. "The Living Tree has been here since the beginning of the Earth. Its wisdom is unmatched."

  "Thank you for sharing, Hanue," Nobiru said, standing up. "It’s been a pleasure meeting you, but we should get going."

  Hanue frowned. "Wait, where will you go? You don’t know this city. Stay here tonight. Tomorrow morning, I’ll show you around the city and explain the tournament in more detail."

  Nobiru hesitated but realized they had no better options. "Alright," he agreed reluctantly.

  Hanue smiled. "Good. I’ll prepare your rooms and bring you some clothes to wear."

  That evening, they settled into Hanue’s house, unsure of what the next day—and the mysterious tournament—would bring.

  As they settled for the evening, Nobiru remarked, "Hanue is a good man. He’s helped us a lot."

  Sanu nodded. "Yes, Nobiru. We should be grateful. He gave us shelter and support when we needed it most."

  The group agreed silently, the weight of their gratitude resting on their shoulders.

  Later that evening, Hanue called out, "Dinner is ready!"

  Nobiru, Meyan, Gayu, and Sanu hurried to the dining area, where Hanue and his wife were setting plates. Their children were already seated, chatting excitedly. Sanu, ever helpful, quickly joined Hanue’s wife, assisting her with serving the food.

  As everyone settled into their chairs, Sanu served Nobiru a portion of rice with a gentle smile. "Here, Nobiru. Take some rice. You’ve worked hard today."

  Nobiru gave a curt nod. "Thanks, Sanu."

  The lack of warmth in Nobiru's response stung, and Sanu’s smile faltered. He put down the serving spoon and sat down with a quiet huff, clearly upset.

  Meyan and Gayu, noticing the shift in mood, tried to lighten the situation. "Sanu, pass us the rice," Gayu said.

  Sanu crossed his arms. "Take it yourselves."

  Hanue’s wife stepped in with a smile. "Don’t worry. I’ll serve you." She gracefully distributed food to everyone.

  As the meal progressed, Hanue addressed Nobiru. "The tournament is the day after tomorrow. You should enter. If you win, you’ll be able to ask the Living Tree your questions."

  "But we don’t have dragons, let alone the skills to ride them," Nobiru replied, his concern evident.

  Hanue smiled reassuringly. "No need to worry. I know someone who can help—Taoi Makeo. He’s been training participants from the beginning of these tournaments. I’m sure he’ll guide you."

  Nobiru’s eyes lit up with relief. "Thank you, Hanue. Your kindness knows no bounds."

  The group nodded in agreement, expressing their gratitude. Hanue waved them off. "Think nothing of it. You’re like my own children."

  After dinner, everyone retired to their rooms. Sanu stayed with Hanue’s wife, while Nobiru, Meyan, and Gayu shared another room.

  In the middle of the night, they were startled awake by the sound of their door creaking open. Standing in the doorway were Hanue and the bulky man from earlier, Hanami.

  "Morning, guys!" Hanue greeted cheerfully.

  Hanami, however, walked straight toward Gayu and sat beside him on the bed. Without warning, he grabbed Gayu’s hand.

  Startled, Gayu let out a scream and bolted, sitting beside Meyan for safety. But Hanami followed, his face eager and wide-eyed.

  "Wait, Gayu! I just want to talk!" Hanami said, reaching out again.

  Panicking, Gayu leapt from the bed and darted down the stairs. Hanami, undeterred, chased after him.

  "Leave me alone!" Gayu shouted, his voice echoing through the house. "Meyan! Nobiru! Help me!"

  Hearing the commotion, Nobiru and Meyan ran outside to see what was happening. They froze, then burst into laughter at the sight of Gayu running in circles with Hanami hot on his heels.

  "Nobiru," Meyan said between fits of laughter, "look at Gayu!"

  "I can’t believe this!" Nobiru managed, clutching his stomach. "What does Hanami want? Hahaha!"

  Hanue arrived, bewildered by the chaos. "What’s going on?" he asked, only to see the bizarre chase unfolding before him. Sighing, he called out, "Hanami! Come here!"

  Reluctantly, Hanami stopped chasing Gayu and shuffled over.

  "Go help Lily in the kitchen," Hanue instructed.

  With a sheepish nod, Hanami obeyed, disappearing into the house.

  Gayu collapsed onto the ground, gasping for breath. Nobiru and Meyan sat down beside him, still chuckling.

  After a few moments, Gayu sat up, glaring at them. "You two! I called for help! Why didn’t you save me from that madman?"

  Meyan and Nobiru burst out laughing.

  "That was just too funny!" Meyan said, wiping away tears.

  Gayu glared at them. "You two are the worst! I can’t believe you’re still laughing."

  Shaking his head in frustration, Gayu stood and stormed off, leaving them behind to continue their laughter. He headed straight to Sanu’s room, curious to see what she was doing.

  As Gayu entered, he saw Sanu seated in front of a mirror, carefully applying makeup. She noticed him immediately and smiled. "Oh, Gayu. Come in and sit. What’s wrong? You look upset. And what’s with the racket downstairs? Who’s laughing so loud?"

  Gayu slumped into a chair. "Nobiru and Meyan."

  Sanu frowned. "Why? What happened?"

  "Don’t even ask," Gayu replied, his tone exasperated. "I don’t know those two anymore. They’re not my friends."

  Sanu chuckled knowingly. "So they teased you again?"

  "Yeah," Gayu said, sighing. "But forget it. I don’t want their apologies."

  Sanu handed Gayu a small plate of snacks, which he accepted gratefully. They sat together on the floor, the atmosphere easing.

  After a moment, Gayu spoke up. "Hey, Sanu, tell me—what happened back at the waterfall? When I took Meyan away, did you talk to Nobiru?"

  Sanu’s expression darkened. "Don’t ask about it, Gayu. I don’t want to talk about him. He doesn’t care about me."

  "Why do you say that?" Gayu asked gently. "Nobiru doesn’t know you like him. But honestly, I think he might have feelings for you too."

  Sanu’s eyes widened. "Really, Gayu? Do you mean that?" Her voice softened, tinged with hope. "But no… He’s so rude. Like yesterday, when I served him rice, he just said, ‘Thanks, Sanu.’ That’s it!"

  Gayu shook his head. "That’s just Nobiru being Nobiru. He doesn’t know how you feel. That’s why he acts so casually. Look, here’s an idea—stop talking to him for a while. Ignore him. See how he reacts. I bet you’ll find out if he likes you."

  Sanu thought about it, her lips pursed. "You think that’ll work?"

  "Trust me," Gayu said with a grin. "And if he asks me about it, don’t worry. I won’t say a thing."

  Sanu nodded slowly, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Alright, Gayu. Let’s try it. But remember, if he asks, you keep quiet."

  "Of course! I’m on your side," Gayu replied, patting her shoulder.

  Sanu chuckled. "Thanks, Gayu."

  A few moments later, they both went downstairs—Sanu heading to the kitchen to help Hanue’s wife, while Gayu joined Hanue to assist with cutting wood.

  Meanwhile, outside the house, Nobiru sat gazing up at the sky.

  "What do you think about Sanu?" he asked Meyan, his voice thoughtful.

  Meyan turned to him, surprised. "Sanu? Why are you asking about her all of a sudden?"

  Nobiru hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck. "I… I don’t know. When I first met her, she seemed just like anyone else. But now… I feel different. There’s something about her. I can’t stop thinking about her."

  Meyan’s eyes widened, then he broke into a grin. "Nobiru, what’s happening to you? Could it be…?"

  "Could it be what?" Nobiru asked nervously.

  "Love," Meyan said with a smirk.

  Nobiru’s face turned crimson, and he lay back on the ground, covering his face with his arm. "No way. I don’t know… Is this what love feels like? I’ve never been curious about anyone before, but Sanu… she’s different."

  Meyan shot to his feet, laughing. "Nobiru is in love with Sanu! Nobiru is in love with Sanu!"

  Panicked, Nobiru sprang up and grabbed Meyan, dragging him away from the house. "Don’t shout like that! What if she hears? I don’t even know what she thinks of me!"

  Meyan shrugged, grinning mischievously. "So what? Just tell her how you feel!"

  "No, no, I can’t!" Nobiru protested. "What if she doesn’t feel the same? It would make things so awkward."

  Meyan clapped him on the back. "Don’t overthink it. I’ll help you, okay?"

  "Help me?" Nobiru asked skeptically. "How?"

  "Leave it to me," Meyan said confidently, his grin widening.

  Nobiru shook his head, still deep in thought. He and Meyan headed back into the house, where they saw Sanu helping Hanue’s wife in the kitchen. Without disturbing them, the two slipped out the back and spotted Gayu and Hanue chopping wood for the fireplace.

  "Hey, Hanue!" Nobiru called out. "Can I do this?"

  Hanue smiled warmly. "Sure, why not? Take some wood from over there, and you’ll find an axe in my storeroom."

  Nobiru nodded and made his way to the storeroom. Inside, he found an assortment of tools and objects scattered about. As he rummaged through the clutter, his eyes fell on a photograph hanging on the wall. At first, he ignored it, intent on finding the axe, but something drew him back.

  Turning to look more closely, Nobiru saw the photo depicted a much younger Hanue holding a trophy and three gold coins. His heart skipped a beat. Hanue had spoken about the tournament the day before—but if he had won, why wasn’t he the king? Confusion swirled in Nobiru’s mind, the question haunting him.

  Clutching the axe, he stepped out of the storeroom, ready to confront Hanue. But as he approached, Hanue himself appeared, stopping him in his tracks.

  Hanue must have noticed the look on Nobiru’s face because he sighed deeply. "You saw the photo, didn’t you?"

  Nobiru nodded hesitantly.

  Hanue gestured to a nearby chair and sat down heavily. "It’s a story from fifty years ago… back when I was known as Tamo. I was the most unbeatable player, the top scorer. No one could match me."

  Curiosity burned in Nobiru’s eyes. "What happened, Hanue?"

  Hanue stared into the distance, his voice thick with old memories. "My friend Dano and I were inseparable. The best duo in the academy, the pride of our town. No one could rival us. When the tournament came, the entire crowd chanted our names: Tamo! Dano!"

  He paused, a bitter smile crossing his lips. "We made a promise—that no matter who won, it wouldn’t affect our friendship. We were brothers, bonded by trust. But the final race… it changed everything."

  Hanue’s voice trembled as he continued. "The race began, and Dano and I outpaced everyone. We both collected the three golden coins needed to win. It was neck and neck as we approached the finish line. I overtook him, thinking it was all in good spirit. But then… Dano pulled up beside me and whispered, ‘I’m sorry, Tamo. I have to win.’ Before I could react, he knocked me off my mount."

  Nobiru’s eyes widened. "He did what?"

  Hanue nodded grimly. "I fell, tumbling into the dust as Dano crossed the finish line. The crowd roared his name—‘Dano! Dano!’—while no one noticed me lying there, betrayed and broken. That moment destroyed everything: our friendship, my career, my ambition. I left my old identity behind and became Hanue. No one knows me as Tamo anymore."

  Nobiru struggled to find words. "If Dano won… then why isn’t he just a champion? Why is he the king?"

  "Because he used his victory to seize power," Hanue said, his voice laced with regret. "I protested, but no one listened. Dano suppressed the truth, using his newfound influence to silence me. I gave up fighting. I moved on, built a life with my wife and children. But the pain never truly went away."

  Hanue placed a firm hand on Nobiru’s shoulder. "That’s why I need you, Nobiru. You’re my last hope. Win this tournament for me. Prove that justice can still prevail."

  Nobiru’s throat tightened. "But… how? I’ve never ridden before, and I don’t even have a dragon mount!"

  Hanue’s gaze burned with determination. "I will train you. I’ll teach you everything I know. Will you do it, Nobiru? Will you be my student?"

  The weight of Hanue’s plea hung in the air. After a long silence, Nobiru nodded. "Yes, I’ll do it. But how? There are only two days until the tournament!"

  Hanue smiled faintly. "Two days is all we need. I’ll handle everything."

  The two set to work, gathering supplies and preparing for the challenge ahead. As dusk settled, Hanue went inside to inform his wife. "Lily, I’m heading out with Nobiru. We’ll stay at a friend’s house tonight and return in the morning."

  Lily nodded, trusting her husband. Gayu, Meyan, and Sanu looked puzzled.

  "Where are you going, Nobiru?" Gayu asked.

  "Don’t worry," Nobiru said with a reassuring smile. "I’ll be back soon."

  With that, Hanue and Nobiru set out on their journey. As they walked toward the town, Nobiru’s curiosity got the better of him. "Hanue, where is your friend’s house?"

  "In the town," Hanue replied. "He’s a good man, someone I trust. He doesn’t know I’m Tamo, but I believe he’ll help us."

  Nobiru nodded, taking in the sights as they entered the bustling town. Stalls lined the streets, filled with vibrant wares and cheerful vendors. Humans and dolls mingled in the lively crowd, their laughter and chatter creating a warm hum.

  Hanue called out, "Nobiru, over here!"

  Nobiru turned, ready to take the next step toward his destiny.

  Then Nobiru followed Hanue to an old, worn-down house on the edge of the village. The walls were cracked, the roof sagged slightly, and a quiet stillness surrounded it, but as soon as Nobiru stepped inside, he froze. The house was alive—completely transformed.

  Music thrummed through the walls, vibrant and joyful. The sound of laughter filled the air as people danced and sang, their footsteps tapping against the wooden floor. Lanterns hung from the ceiling, casting a golden glow over the room. The warmth and celebration inside were so starkly different from the bleak, crumbling exterior that Nobiru could hardly believe his eyes.

  Hanue nudged him gently. “Come on,” he said.

  They wove through the crowd, passing smaller rooms filled with chattering groups. In one of the rooms, a man sat sprawled lazily on a cushion, a wine cup in his hand. Two women sat beside him, both laughing at something he’d said. When the man noticed them, he grinned lazily.

  “Hey, Hanue!” the man called out, his voice slightly slurred but hearty. “How are you?”

  Hanue frowned, his arms crossing over his chest. “Good, Kakoro. What are you doing? Have you started drinking again? I told you to stop.”

  Kakoro snorted, tipping his wine cup back before setting it aside. “You worry too much, Hanue.”

  Hanue sat across from him, motioning for Nobiru to sit as well. “Listen, Kakoro. I need your help to train this boy.”

  Kakoro’s smile faded, replaced by a look of mild surprise. “You know I stopped training, Hanue.”

  “Please, Kakoro,” Hanue said, his voice lowering. There was an edge of desperation to it. “This is my last chance. I’m begging you. I’ll pay whatever you want, but I need your help.”

  Kakoro sighed deeply, leaning back against the wall. His sharp eyes turned to Nobiru, studying him. “Do you even ride a kabu?”

  Nobiru swallowed nervously. “No… I don’t.”

  “See?” Kakoro said, shaking his head. “Hanue, the tournament is in two days. You’re mad.”

  “I know,” Hanue replied. “But you’re my last hope. Please.”

  For a moment, Kakoro was silent. Then he exhaled sharply and waved his hand. “Fine. You don’t need to pay me, but don’t expect miracles.” He stood, stretching. “Let’s go.”

  “I don’t drink, Kakoro,” Hanue muttered as Kakoro offered wine.

  Kakoro only chuckled and led them outside, his footsteps heavy and deliberate. As they walked toward a training ground in the distance, Nobiru whispered to Hanue, “Hanue… how is this man going to train me? He’s drunk.”

  Hanue replied quietly, “He’s Kakoro Ryūjin, the ex-chief leader of our kingdom.”

  Nobiru stared at him in disbelief. “What? That’s impossible. I don’t believe it.”

  “When Dano became king,” Hanue explained, “he replaced all the chief leaders. Kakoro was one of them. After he retired, he fell into drinking and spent everything he had.”

  “But… Why does he live like a commoner?”

  Hanue smiled faintly. “Because he’s kind. And back when he was chief, he was unmatched. He trained countless warriors for the tournament.”

  Ahead of them, Kakoro barked, “Hurry up, you two!”

  When they reached the training grounds, Nobiru’s eyes widened. The field was sprawling, scattered with weathered training equipment. Kakoro put two fingers to his lips and whistled sharply.

  A moment later, the ground trembled, and a shadow passed over them. A massive dragon descended, its wings beating against the earth before folding neatly at its sides. The beast landed beside Kakoro, its scales dark and shimmering faintly in the evening light.

  “Meet Guei,” Kakoro said proudly, patting the dragon’s side. “Guei, this is Nobiru.”

  The dragon turned its enormous head toward Nobiru, its golden eyes piercing. Nobiru gasped and stumbled back, hiding behind Hanue.

  Kakoro clicked his tongue. “Come here.” He grabbed Nobiru by the arm and dragged him closer. “Touch him.”

  Nobiru hesitated, his hand trembling as it reached for the dragon. As soon as his fingers brushed the rough scales, the dragon twitched, and Nobiru let out a yelp, stumbling back with a panicked cry.

  Hanue grabbed him. “What’s wrong? He won’t hurt you.”

  “No—I can’t do this!” Nobiru said, shaking his head.

  “You can,” Hanue said firmly, pulling him forward again. “Trust me.”

  Nobiru took a deep breath and reached out once more. This time, the dragon remained still. As Nobiru touched it, a strange sensation washed over him, like a distant voice whispering in his mind.

  “Did you say something?” Nobiru asked, looking at Kakoro.

  Kakoro laughed. “That’s Guei. He spoke to you.”

  Nobiru’s eyes widened. “The dragon can talk?”

  “If a kabu trusts you,” Hanue said, “you can hear them.”

  Kakoro stepped closer. “Focus, boy. Connect with him.”

  Nobiru closed his eyes, pressing his hand firmly against the dragon’s side. Slowly, the voice grew clearer in his mind. A deep, calm voice echoed through him: What is your name?

  Nobiru’s eyes snapped open, and he grinned. “I heard him!”

  Kakoro nodded approvingly. “Good. Now climb up.”

  With Hanue’s encouragement, Nobiru climbed onto the dragon’s back, his fingers digging into the scales as he found his balance. “Fly, Guei!”

  The dragon’s wings unfurled, and with a powerful beat, they soared into the sky. Nobiru clung tightly, the wind whipping past his face, his heart pounding. He looked down, his breath catching at the breathtaking view of the world below—the trees, the rivers, all shrinking beneath them.

  From the ground, Kakoro crossed his arms and smirked. “Unbelievable. The boy’s a natural.”

  Hanue smiled. “I knew it. He’s special.”

  Up in the sky, Nobiru heard Guei’s voice again: Your heart is pure. I can feel what you feel.

  Nobiru blushed. “What do you mean? Stop reading my thoughts!”

  Guei chuckled. You’re thinking about someone you care for.

  “Stop it!” Nobiru muttered, his face red. “Take me down. My friends are waiting.”

  Guei descended smoothly, landing back at the training ground. Nobiru dismounted, his face flushed but his smile wide.

  Hanue grabbed his hand, shaking it excitedly. “You did it, Nobiru. You did so well!”

  Kakoro approached Guei, murmuring, “How did he do?”

  His heart is pure, the dragon replied. He will succeed.

  “Don’t call me master,” Kakoro grumbled, earning another chuckle from the dragon.

  As the sun dipped lower, Hanue said, “Thank you, Kakoro. We’ll be back tomorrow.”

  They bid Kakoro and Guei farewell and began the walk home. Along the way, Nobiru said, “See, Hanue? I did it! But I need a dragon like Guei.”

  Hanue smiled. “You’ll get one. Just focus on training.”

  As they reached the village, they found Gayu, Meyan, and Sanu playing with Hanue’s children. Nobiru’s gaze lingered on Sanu. She was running through the grass, her hair catching the golden rays of the evening sun. Her smile was radiant, and her eyes… They looked like the ocean, deep and endless. Nobiru’s face turned red.

  “Hey, Nobiru! Why are you just standing there?” Hanue called out teasingly.

  Nobiru blinked, snapping out of his trance. “I’m coming!”

  He wandered toward the garden, sitting quietly on the grass as he watched Sanu from a distance, his heart pounding.

  They were overjoyed to see him return. Lily called out to everyone, announcing that she would bake some cookies. The group immediately rushed toward her, excitement lighting up their faces. As they gathered around, Gayu exclaimed, “Lily gave me two cookies!”

  Everyone groaned in unison, “Again, Gayu?”

  Gayu grinned mischievously, enjoying the playful scolding. They laughed together and eventually headed to their rooms to relax.

  A few hours later, Lily called them down again, this time for dinner. They made their way to the dining table, where Sanu and Lily busied themselves serving food. The warm, savory aroma filled the room as the group dug into their meal, chatting and laughing. Once dinner was done, they all retired to their rooms for the night, the comforting sounds of crickets filling the air.

  The next morning, Hanue burst into their room, flinging the door open. “Good morning, guys! Wake up fast!” he shouted, his voice brimming with urgency. “Nobiru, get up! We have to go. Kakoro’s waiting for us!”

  Groaning, but unable to resist Hanue’s energy, Nobiru and the others got up quickly and began getting ready. After a hearty breakfast, Hanue and Nobiru bid farewell to the group and set off toward Kakoro’s house.

  When they arrived, Nobiru pushed open the door, and a voice immediately boomed from inside. “Get me some more drinks!” Kakoro called out, his tone slurred and cheerful.

  Hanue sighed, shaking his head. “You again, Kakoro?”

  Kakoro turned around, blinking in surprise. “Oh, Hanue! My friend! You’re here!” he exclaimed. “Wait just a second!” Without another word, he dashed further inside, leaving Hanue and Nobiru standing there, utterly confused.

  A moment later, Kakoro returned, looking significantly more composed. “Haha, Hanue, I’m ready now! Let’s head to the ground. Boy,” he said, turning to Nobiru, “are you ready? Today is Day Two of your training!”

  Nobiru nodded, determination gleaming in his eyes. “Yes, I am.”

  The three of them arrived at the training grounds shortly after. Kakoro called out loudly, “Guei!”

  A moment later, the dragon descended from the sky, his massive wings casting a shadow over the ground as he landed. Guei’s sharp eyes focused on Nobiru as he approached him.

  At first, Nobiru felt a twinge of fear. Guei was imposing, his scales glinting like steel in the sunlight. But this time, Nobiru stood his ground. He had grown more confident.

  “Hey, Nobiru,” Guei greeted him, his voice rumbling like distant thunder.

  “Hey!” Nobiru replied, his voice steady.

  Kakoro observed them and grinned. “Well done, boy. It seems you’re starting to understand Guei. Now, take this.”

  He handed Nobiru a suit. It was old and worn, with several visible cuts and patches. Nobiru frowned. “What is this?” he asked skeptically.

  “It’s your training suit,” Kakoro replied.

  Nobiru hesitated. He didn’t like the idea of wearing something so battered, but Hanue placed a hand on his shoulder. “Please, just wear it. Trust me.”

  Reluctantly, Nobiru put it on. The material felt rough and scratchy against his skin, but it fit well enough.

  “It looks good on you,” Kakoro said with a satisfied nod. “Now, get on Guei and prepare yourself. Guei,” he added with a mischievous glint in his eyes, “make it a little challenging for him, okay?”

  Guei snorted, shaking his massive head before crouching to let Nobiru climb on.

  Nobiru took a deep breath, steeling his nerves. He climbed onto Guei’s back, gripping tightly as the dragon launched into the sky. The wind whipped past him, and his heart raced as Guei began to pick up speed, executing sharp turns and flips.

  At first, Nobiru struggled to keep his balance, but he quickly adapted, focusing on staying calm. He told himself it was just like a game, and with each maneuver, his confidence grew.

  Over the next two days, Nobiru trained tirelessly. With every challenge Guei threw at him, he became more skilled, eventually mastering the techniques needed to ride and fight alongside the dragon.

  On the final day of training, Kakoro turned to Hanue. “Hanue, I’ve done everything I could to make this boy a perfect player.”

  Hanue smiled warmly. “Thank you, Kakoro. None of this would have been possible without your help. I’m truly grateful.”

  The two men embraced, their bond of friendship evident.

  When it was time to leave, the mood turned somber. Kakoro and Guei both grew emotional, knowing Nobiru would be leaving after all the time they’d spent together.

  Kakoro placed a hand on Nobiru’s shoulder. “Goodbye, Nobiru. Go and win the tournament. Remember everything I’ve taught you.”

  Nobiru nodded. “I will. Thank you for everything… and for Guei.”

  “Don’t mention it,” Kakoro said, smiling faintly.

  Guei stepped forward, his eyes shimmering. “Nobiru, try your best—and don’t forget me.”

  Tears welled up in Guei’s eyes, and Nobiru hugged him tightly. “I’ll never forget you, Guei. You’re my best friend.”

  With a final wave, Nobiru and Hanue climbed onto another dragon and took off, soaring toward home.

  As they approached, Nobiru looked at Hanue and grinned. “Hanue, they’re all going to be so surprised when they see me like this.”

  Hanue replied, “Yes, Nobiru, but remember—the tournament is near, so be serious about it, okay?”

  Nobiru grinned and nodded. “Okay, Hanue!”

  As they approached the house, the sound of laughter and chatter floated through the air. The group outside was playing in the yard, their carefree voices carrying on the wind. But suddenly, Meyan froze. Her eyes widened as she pointed to the sky.

  “Run, guys, run! Look—a dragon is coming toward us!” she shouted, her voice trembling with urgency.

  Panic rippled through the group. They bolted for the house, stumbling over each other in their haste, and ducked behind its wooden walls. Heartbeats thundered in their ears as they cautiously peeked around the corner. A massive dragon landed in the yard, its wings stirring the dust as it touched down.

  Two figures dismounted from the dragon, their movements deliberate. Hanma whispered, his voice tight with fear, “Do you think they’re police? Or thieves here to rob us?”

  The group exchanged frightened glances, their imaginations running wild. But before the tension could build further, Sanu gasped. “Wait! Look closely—it’s Nobiru and Hanue!”

  Relief flooded through them as they slowly emerged from their hiding spots. They stared at the approaching pair, astonishment lighting their faces. Nobiru looked completely different. He wore a sleek, shining black suit that clung to his frame, with a cape-like shade draped over his shoulders. He looked every bit a hero stepping out of a legend.

  “Hey, guys! I’m back!” Nobiru called out, his voice brimming with excitement.

  A wave of joy washed over them. They ran to him, their faces breaking into wide grins as they enveloped him in hugs.

  “Nobiru is back! Yeah!” Sanu, Meyan, and Gayu cheered in unison.

  Meyan’s eyes sparkled with amazement. “Nobiru, you learned how to ride a dragon? That’s incredible!”

  “It’s so cool!” Gayu exclaimed. “Nobiru, can you teach me how to ride one too? Please?”

  Nobiru chuckled, shaking his head fondly. “Yes, guys, I’ll teach you. But do you know who helped me do all of this?” He gestured toward Hanue. “Hanue and Kakoro.”

  “Kakoro?” they echoed in unison, their curiosity piqued. “Who’s that?”

  Nobiru smiled. “He’s an incredible guy—a great trainer and a former chief leader of the kingdom.”

  Their jaws dropped. “An ex-chief leader?!” Meyan blurted out. “How did you meet someone like him? Did Hanue introduce you?”

  Nobiru nodded, but before he could elaborate, Gayu turned to Hanue. “Hanue, do you know how to ride a dragon too?”

  Hanue opened his mouth to respond, but Nobiru interrupted with a mischievous grin. “Yes, he does! He’s also—”

  “Enough!” Hanue hissed, dragging Nobiru aside. He leaned in close, his voice a sharp whisper. “I told you I’ve hidden my identity. Don’t go spilling everything!”

  “Sorry, Hanue,” Nobiru replied sheepishly. “I got carried away.”

  From the doorway, Lily called out, “Oh, Hanue! You’re here! Come on in—I’ll make some snacks for you and Nobiru.”

  They followed her inside. Nobiru changed into casual clothes and joined Hanue on the sofa. The aroma of freshly baked treats filled the air as Lily returned with a tray of snacks and glasses of water. They ate in comfortable silence before retreating to their rooms to rest.

  Later, Lily gathered everyone for dinner. The warm glow of the dining room lamp bathed the table as they sat down. Sanu glanced at Hanue with a playful smirk. “So, Hanue, why did you drag Nobiru away earlier? He was about to tell us something interesting about you.”

  Hanue tensed, a nervous chuckle escaping him. “It was nothing, Sanu.”

  Nobiru quickly chimed in. “Yeah, just nothing, Sanu.”

  She narrowed her eyes suspiciously but let it slide. After dinner, the group moved to the living room, settling in front of the crackling fireplace. The cozy warmth wrapped around them as they laughed and exchanged stories. Sanu turned to Hanue, her tone teasing.

  “Hanue, I heard you can sing really well. Let’s play a music game!”

  The others joined in enthusiastically. “Yes! Let’s do it!” Gayu, Meyan, Hanma, and Tanna chimed in.

  Hanue shook his head, waving his hands defensively. “No, no. I haven’t sung in ages. I’m out of practice. Absolutely not.”

  But their pleading eyes wore him down. Finally, he glanced at Lily, sighed, and said, “Fine. Just one song, okay?”

  Cheers erupted from the group. Hanue retrieved a large box from a corner and opened it, revealing an old, weathered guitar. He dusted it off, strummed a few chords, and began to sing. His voice was rich and soulful, carrying a bittersweet nostalgia.

  It’s that day we play, by the garden so green,

  Where laughter and joy fill the spaces between.

  We hide and we seek, as our parents once did,

  In the golden-hued moments of being a kid.

  Oh, the living tree, we gather beneath,

  Its branches our shelter, its roots our belief.

  We pray for our family, for friends far and near,

  For the time that we hold, for the love we hold dear.

  The sun paints the world in a shimmering light,

  The air whispers soft through the leaves’ gentle flight.

  And Grandmother speaks of the tree’s sacred way—

  You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

  A keeper of stories, of night and of day.

  Oh, oh, oh—the living tree,

  Oh, oh, oh—where hearts are free.

  It watches us grow, it watches us play,

  A silent protector, forever to stay.

  The room fell silent as Hanue finished. Applause broke out, the sound reverberating off the walls.

  “That was amazing!” Nobiru exclaimed. “Why didn’t you tell us you could sing like that?”

  Hanue set the guitar down, his smile tinged with melancholy. “It’s been a long time. My friends and I used to sing together every night by the campfire. Those days were so beautiful.” His voice cracked as he added, “I miss them.”

  He rubbed at his eyes, but the others could see the glint of unshed tears. Nobiru placed a hand on his shoulder, his voice soft. “Hanue, I promise we’ll make more memories—beautiful ones.”

  The mood lightened as Gayu stretched and yawned. “It’s late, guys. I’m heading to bed. Good night!”

  One by one, they echoed her goodnight, retreating to their rooms with hearts full of warmth.

  Morning came, and Hanue opened the door to find Nobiru already dressed, while Meyan and Gayu were still sound asleep. Hanue raised an eyebrow and said, “Nobiru, you’re awake? Very good! Come on, we have to leave for the tournament.”

  Nobiru, still groggy, glanced at Hanue and muttered, “Don’t rush me. I’m coming.”

  Suddenly, his eyes snapped open. He realized he was still in bed, and Hanue was standing in front of him. Meyan and Gayu were awake, looking amused. Hanue crossed his arms. “Nobiru, wake up! The tournament is today! Why are you not ready?”

  Rubbing his temple in confusion, Nobiru groaned, “Yeah, Hanue, I’m coming. Five minutes, okay?”

  Dragging himself out of bed, Nobiru put on the new suit Kakoro had gifted him. It was a sleek, deep blue ensemble with silver accents that shimmered in the morning light. When he stepped outside, everyone was waiting for him. Nobiru blew a sharp whistle, and a gust of wind whipped around them as a majestic dragon descended from the skies, landing gracefully in front of them.

  Hanue grinned and called out, “All aboard! Hold on tight!”

  The group climbed onto the dragon, gripping the reins as they settled in. Nobiru looked back. “Ready?”

  “Ready!” they all shouted in unison.

  “Go, Kai!” Nobiru commanded, and the dragon soared into the sky with powerful wingbeats.

  The wind rushed past them, and Gayu gasped. “What a view, Meyan!”

  Meyan’s eyes sparkled with wonder. “I’ve never flown this high in my life. It all feels like a dream.”

  “Yeah!” Gayu laughed.

  Sanu leaned forward, marveling at the sight below. “Wow! Look at the city—it’s so beautiful from up here. Guys, what’s that over there?”

  Hanue glanced where she was pointing. “That’s our famous magic market. People from all over come here to showcase their magic.”

  Sanu’s eyes lit up. “Can we go there? Please?”

  Hanue considered it for a moment. “Alright. Nobiru, take us down. We have time before the tournament.”

  Nobiru guided the dragon to the market, landing in an open square bustling with activity. They dismounted and wandered into the vibrant streets filled with colorful stalls and magical displays. Nobiru stopped in front of a jewelry vendor and called out, “Hey, Sanu! Come here. I’ll buy you some earrings.”

  Sanu glanced at him briefly before turning away. Meyan and Gayu stifled their laughter. Nobiru flushed and snapped, “What are you two laughing at?”

  Meyan smirked. “Trying to impress her, are we?”

  “Yeah, but she ignored me!” Nobiru groaned. “Why is she ignoring me? Meyan, help me out.”

  Meyan patted his shoulder. “Don’t worry. I’ll talk to her.”

  She motioned for Gayu to follow, and once they were out of earshot, Meyan leaned in. “So, Gayu, does Sanu actually like Nobiru?”

  Gayu hesitated, wondering if it was the right time to share. Finally, she nodded. “Yes, she does. But she’s too shy to tell him.”

  Meyan grinned mischievously. “Perfect. Let’s have some fun with this.”

  “Fun? What do you mean?” Gayu asked.

  “Listen,” Meyan said. “You tell Sanu that Nobiru has feelings for her but isn’t sure how she feels. I’ll tell Nobiru the same thing. Let’s see them try to impress each other.”

  Gayu laughed. “You’re evil! But I like it. Let’s do it.”

  The two split up, Gayu heading toward Sanu and Meyan returning to Nobiru. Meyan approached Nobiru with a conspiratorial look. “I talked to Sanu,” she said. “She told me she has some feelings for you, but she’s not sure if you’d accept her.”

  “Seriously?” Nobiru’s face lit up. “Then I’ll tell her I like her too!”

  “Not so fast,” Meyan cautioned. “She said she isn’t completely in love with you yet. You need to impress her first.”

  “Impress her? How?” Nobiru asked, scratching his head.

  “Just trust me,” Meyan said. “Do what I say, and it’ll work.”

  Meanwhile, Gayu found Sanu browsing a stall of magical tools. “Hey, Sanu, can I ask you something?”

  “Sure, what’s up?” Sanu replied, examining a glowing amulet.

  “When Nobiru called you earlier, you ignored him. He looked so sad after that,” Gayu said. “When I asked him why, he told me he’s trying to impress you because he likes you.”

  Sanu’s cheeks flushed. “Really? He said that?”

  “Yep,” Gayu replied. “But he’s nervous, so he hasn’t told you directly.”

  Sanu smiled shyly. “If that’s true, I’ll buy you whatever you want from this market!”

  “Deal! But don’t tell him you like him yet,” Gayu said quickly. “You need to impress him first.”

  “Impress him? How?” Sanu frowned.

  “Trust me,” Gayu said. “Just follow my lead.”

  Later, Meyan and Gayu regrouped, sharing a triumphant high five. “It’s all set,” Meyan said.

  “I can’t wait to see how this plays out,” Gayu giggled.

  Hanue walked up, raising an eyebrow. “What’s so funny?”

  “Nothing!” Meyan said quickly, pointing to a monkey performing tricks nearby. “Just laughing at that monkey.”

  Hanue chuckled. “Yeah, they’re hilarious. But come with me. There’s a man over there throwing knives at a woman, and they vanish before they hit her!”

  “What? Really?” Meyan and Gayu said in unison, their curiosity piqued.

  The three hurried over to the performance, amazed by the vanishing knives. Nearby, a vendor was selling similar enchanted knives. Gayu begged Hanue to buy one, and Hanue eventually gave in. Gayu grinned. “Thanks, Hanue! You’re the best!”

  Hearing a familiar voice, Sanu turned and spotted Nobiru standing at a distance. At the same time, Nobiru was searching for her, his gaze scanning the bustling marketplace. When he noticed Sanu standing near Lily, his heart skipped a beat. Gathering his courage, he started walking toward her with the small envelope containing the earrings he had bought earlier. But before he could reach her, he realized she was already heading in his direction. His palms grew sweaty, and nervousness swirled in his chest.

  As Sanu approached, her voice broke through his thoughts. “Hey, Nobiru! What are you looking for?”

  Caught off guard, Nobiru flushed a deep red. “N-nothing, Sanu. What were you doing over there with Lily?”

  Sanu’s thoughts flickered to what Gayu had said earlier, and she smiled softly, trying to keep her composure. “Oh, Lily and I were just buying a few things,” she replied casually.

  Nobiru nodded, shuffling awkwardly. “I see,” he mumbled, his voice barely audible. After a moment’s hesitation, he took a deep breath and spoke again. “Sanu, I... I want to give you something.”

  Sanu tilted her head, curiosity lighting her eyes. “Oh? What is it, Nobiru?”

  Reaching into his pocket, Nobiru fumbled slightly before pulling out a small envelope. He handed it to her with trembling hands. “Here. Open it,” he said, his voice barely hiding his nervous excitement.

  Sanu accepted the envelope, her fingers brushing lightly against his, making his face turn even redder. She opened it carefully, her eyes widening as she pulled out a pair of delicate earrings. For a moment, she stood frozen, her cheeks blooming with a rosy blush. Then, her gaze shifted to Nobiru. A warm smile spread across her lips, and without a word, she turned and ran toward Lily, clutching the earrings tightly.

  Nobiru stood there, stunned and blushing furiously. When the realization of what had just happened hit him, he couldn’t contain his joy. He jumped in the air, punching the sky as a wide grin spread across his face.

  Suddenly, Meyan and Gayu appeared, smirking mischievously. “Nobiru, we saw everything!” Meyan teased, his tone dripping with playful amusement.

  Gayu chimed in, his grin as wide as ever. “Yeah, Nobiru, we saw it all! You can’t hide from us!”

  Nobiru’s face turned an even deeper shade of crimson. “What are you two talking about? Leave me alone!” he sputtered, trying to walk away quickly. But Meyan and Gayu followed him, their laughter echoing behind him.

  “Nobuuuu!” they called after him in unison, drawing out the nickname with exaggerated glee.

  Groaning, Nobiru broke into a light jog, trying to escape their teasing, but their laughter only grew louder as they stopped and watched him flee.

  “He’s so easy to fluster,” Gayu chuckled.

  Meyan smirked. “Our plan is working perfectly.”

  “What’s next?” Gayu asked eagerly.

  “Not now,” Meyan replied, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “I’ll let you know when the time is right.”

  “Alright, alright,” Gayu said with a shrug. The two turned their attention to Sanu and Lily, who were browsing at a nearby shop. They approached to see what the girls were doing.

  “Hey, guys!” Sanu greeted them warmly. “Did you buy anything?”

  Meyan shook his head. “Nope.”

  “Why not?” Sanu asked, raising an eyebrow.

  Meyan sighed dramatically. “Because of Gayu. All he buys is food.”

  “Hey, that’s not true!” Gayu protested, his face lighting up in defense. “I just asked him if he bought anything, and when he said no, I went and got some snacks. That’s it!”

  Meyan rolled his eyes. “I told you I was still deciding what to buy, Gayu.”

  Sanu couldn’t help but laugh at their banter. “You two are like kids, I swear.”

  Before their conversation could continue, Nobiru’s voice called out, “Hey, everyone, come here!” Turning, they saw Nobiru standing beside Hanue, waving them over.

  “What’s going on?” Meyan asked as they approached.

  Hanue smiled. “It’s time to go, guys. We need to leave now.”

  “Now?” Gayu asked, looking surprised. “Why the rush?”

  Hanue nodded. “Yes, or we’ll be late for the tournament.”

  With that, Nobiru let out a sharp whistle, and in an instant, a majestic dragon descended from the skies, its scales shimmering under the sun. Everyone climbed aboard, and the dragon soared upward, giving them a breathtaking view of the market below.

  As they flew, Hanue spoke up. “The tournament starts in two hours, but we need to get there early for some formalities.”

  Meyan leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. “Hanue, where is the tournament being held?”

  Hanue pointed ahead. “There.”

  Meyan’s jaw dropped as he caught sight of their destination. “What... what is that?” he stammered, his voice filled with awe.

  Hanue chuckled. “That’s the Living Tree.”

  All of them were struck speechless. The tree was massive, its colossal trunk stretching impossibly high into the sky, its branches seeming to cradle the heavens. Its sheer size made it seem otherworldly, ancient, and alive in a way that defied comprehension.

  Meyan finally found his voice. “So... this is the Living Tree? Wow...”

  Hanue smiled. “Yes, this is the Living Tree—the heart of this world. They say it stands at the very center of the earth, watching over everything.”

  The group stared in awe, the enormity of the tree leaving them humbled and amazed as they approached the tournament grounds nestled in its shadow.

  As they flew closer to the Living Tree, Sanu marveled at its grandeur. “Wow,” she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper.

  Hanue smiled knowingly. “Yes. It’s not just the largest tree in existence; it’s also the heart of this world.”

  The group finally landed near the tree’s entrance, where the tournament grounds were bustling with activity. Nobiru and his friends took in the sight of several players gathered, chatting among themselves, or eyeing their opponents with determination. The air was thick with anticipation and the hum of excited voices.

  As they approached the entrance, two stern-faced guards stepped forward, blocking their way. “ID, please,” one of them demanded, his deep voice cutting through the noise.

  Hanue reached into his pocket, pulling out an ID card and handing it over. “These are our ID cards,” he said calmly.

  The guards inspected the cards closely before nodding. “Welcome to the Tournament of the Next Kings,” one said. “But listen carefully—there are rules you must follow. First, no fighting with other players outside the matches. Second, each group has an assigned box, and you are to remain in yours. Third and most importantly, when the king arrives to announce the tournament’s start, you must bow to him. Is that understood?”

  “Yes,” they all replied in unison.

  The guards escorted them to their assigned box, a designated seating area overlooking the main grounds. Once there, Hanue turned to the group. “Alright, everyone, sit here and follow the rules. Nobiru, come with me. We need to go to the registration box to enter your name.”

  Nobiru nodded. “Okay, Hanue.”

  Hanue glanced at him. “And call your dragon. We need to register Kai too.”

  “Kai too?” Nobiru asked, surprised.

  Hanue nodded. “Yes. It’s required to confirm ownership of your dragon.”

  Nobiru let out a sharp whistle, and moments later, Kai, his majestic dragon, descended gracefully, landing beside him. Nobiru placed a hand on Kai’s head, closing his eyes. “Kai, are you ready for the tournament?”

  Kai’s deep, rumbling voice echoed in Nobiru’s mind. “Yes, Nobiru.”

  Onlookers gasped in awe at the sight of Kai, who was noticeably larger and more imposing than the other dragons present. Whispers spread among the crowd as a young man approached them, introducing himself. “I’m Karami Sanju,” he said, his sharp gaze fixed on Nobiru.

  Hanue leaned closer to Nobiru, whispering, “He’s the top graduate of the Dragon Academy.”

  Nobiru nodded politely and introduced himself. “I’m Nobiru Taigin.”

  Karami’s eyes flicked to Kai. “Your dragon is impressive—bigger than most I’ve seen.”

  Nobiru smiled faintly. “Thank you. His name is Kai.”

  Karami smirked. “He’s cool. What’s your number?”

  “Number?” Nobiru echoed, puzzled.

  Hanue stepped in. “Players are assigned numbers when they register. It helps organize the matches.”

  “Oh, I see,” Nobiru replied.

  Karami narrowed his eyes. “You don’t know the rules? Where are you from, Nobiru?”

  Nobiru hesitated, feeling a wave of nervousness, but Hanue quickly intervened. “Excuse us. We’re late for registration.”

  Karami’s eyes lingered on Nobiru, suspicion evident in his expression, but he didn’t press further. Nobiru nodded quickly. “Goodbye,” he said, hurrying after Hanue, though Karami’s creepy smile sent a shiver down his spine.

  At the registration desk, Hanue addressed the clerk in charge. “Hello. I’m Hanue Manthan. I need to register this player.”

  The clerk looked up, clipboard in hand. “Name?”

  “Nobiru Taigin,” Hanue replied.

  The clerk scribbled it down, handing them a card. “Here’s your number. Report to the box assigned to you on this card. Understood?”

  “Yes, thank you,” Nobiru replied, taking the card.

  As they turned to leave, Karami reappeared, his smile as unsettling as ever. “What’s your number, Nobiru?”

  Nobiru glanced at the card. “One.”

  Karami’s eyes widened in mock surprise. “Wow. I’m number two. Looks like we’ll be seeing a lot of each other. Get ready for the tournament.” He laughed ominously and walked away.

  Hanue’s expression darkened. “Be careful, Nobiru. I have a feeling he’s up to something.”

  Nobiru nodded. “Yeah. There’s something about him... He’s so creepy. I’ve never met anyone like him before.”

  Hanue agreed. “Let’s head back. The others are waiting, and you need to send Kai to the dragon enclosure to rest.”

  Nobiru turned to Kai, placing a hand on his head again. “Kai, go to the enclosure and get some rest, alright?”

  Kai let out a low growl of agreement before spreading his massive wings and soaring away. Nobiru and Hanue returned to their box, where Meyan was complaining.

  “Hanue, I’m starving,” Meyan groaned.

  Lily chuckled, handing him a small package. “Here, have some cookies. I brought extra.”

  Meyan’s eyes lit up. “Thanks, Lily!”

  Gayu grinned, reaching out. “Lily, give me one too!”

  The group laughed as Lily rolled her eyes. “Again, Gayu?”

  Their laughter was interrupted by a loud sound echoing through the arena. All eyes turned skyward as the king, Dano, descended onto a grand podium. Everyone, including Nobiru’s group, bowed in respect.

  As Nobiru straightened, his eyes burned with anger. “Why do you bow to someone who betrayed you?” he whispered to Hanue.

  Hanue’s expression was grim. “I have no choice. We all must bow to the king.”

  Nobiru clenched his fists. “I won’t bow to someone who betrayed you to take the throne.”

  “Don’t do anything reckless,” Hanue warned. “The keepers will disqualify you if they see.”

  Nobiru’s eyes locked onto Dano with fiery determination. “I’ll defeat you and take the throne from you. Just wait.”

  Dano sat on the throne, his voice booming across the arena as he declared, “Let the tournament begin!” Trumpets sounded, and the crowd erupted in cheers. The announcement echoed through the air, organizing the participants according to their numbers.

  Hanue leaned toward Nobiru with a confident smile. “Do your best, Nobiru.”

  Nobiru nodded firmly, determination gleaming in his eyes. “Yes, I will.”

  He called for Kai, his trusted dragon, and together they soared toward Block No. 1. As they landed, Nobiru spotted Karami already waiting, a crooked grin on his face.

  “Hey, Nobiru!” Karami sneered, his voice dripping with mockery. “So, you’ve come. Good! I’ve been waiting.”

  “Yes, Karami,” Nobiru replied evenly, his voice steady but resolute. “I’m here to win—and to remove Dano from the throne.”

  Karami raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his sharp eyes. “Oh? You know him?”

  “As a king, yes,” Nobiru answered, trying to keep his voice calm, though his heart betrayed him. Karami’s piercing gaze seemed to see straight through his words, spotting the smoldering anger buried within.

  Karami chuckled darkly, his laugh echoing unnervingly. “I see that hunger in your eyes, Nobiru—the thirst for the throne. It’s going to be fun fighting you.”

  Nobiru frowned. “Funny? What’s so funny about this?”

  “You’ll understand soon,” Karami said cryptically, turning away as the drums rolled, signaling the start of the race. Nobiru’s thoughts wandered to Hanue’s warning: Stay alert around Karami.

  The crowd roared as the race began, their excitement palpable. Nobiru glanced at his friends—Hanue, Lily, Gayu, Meyan, Sanu—and even Kakoro, who had come to watch. He raised his hand toward them, and Kakoro responded with a wave.

  The signal was given, and the dragons launched into the sky. Nobiru leaned forward on Kai, the wind tearing at his face as they flew with lightning speed. Karami surged ahead, overtaking him, but Nobiru pushed Kai harder and regained the lead. Back and forth they went, each refusing to yield.

  Reaching the first checkpoint, Nobiru leaped off Kai and sprinted toward the golden coin that glimmered in the distance. The area was lush and serene, the coin resting in the heart of it all. He tried to grab it, but an invisible barrier pushed him back. Frustrated, he recalled Hanue’s advice and called for Kai. Together, they managed to break through, seizing the coin just as Karami arrived.

  Karami smirked. “You’re fast, but not fast enough, Nobiru.”

  Nobiru ignored him, urging Kai to take off. The course grew treacherous, with rocks flying and obstacles appearing at every turn. Nobiru and Karami weaved and dodged, neck and neck, their rivalry like two tigers battling for dominance.

  “Having fun, Nobiru?” Karami shouted over the wind.

  “Yes!” Nobiru shouted back, the thrill of the race coursing through him.

  They reached a towering vertical rock, its surface covered in dense trees. Nobiru and Karami raced to the top, each determined to claim the lead. But as Nobiru approached, Karami made his move. With a sly grin, he rammed into Nobiru, sending him tumbling from the sky.

  The crowd gasped, their cheers silenced in an instant. Hanue fell to his knees, his face pale with shock. “Not again… It’s happening again…” Tears filled his eyes as the others cried out in despair. Sanu buried her face in her hands, unable to watch.

  Nobiru plummeted through the air, the ground rushing to meet him. Branches whipped at his body as he fell, breaking his momentum but leaving him battered. He hit the forest floor with a thud and lost consciousness.

  When he woke, pain shot through his body. He was lying beneath a massive tree. Ignoring the ache in his limbs, he called for Kai, his voice echoing in desperation. His eyes burned with tears as he searched frantically.

  Then, a faint sound reached his ears. Following it, he discovered a cave hidden among the trees. Inside, he found a deep chasm. Without hesitation, he jumped, landing in a cavern illuminated by strange, ethereal light. In the center stood an enormous dragon statue, its presence both majestic and ominous.

  Compelled, Nobiru approached and touched it. Suddenly, the statue’s eyes opened, glowing like molten gold. A deep voice rumbled, “Who awakens me?”

  Terrified, Nobiru stepped back, but the dragon’s gaze pinned him in place. “I am Kaiba, King of Dragons, imprisoned here for thousands of years.”

  “Who imprisoned you?” Nobiru asked, his voice trembling.

  “The king,” Kaiba growled. “He changed the kingdom’s laws, and I opposed him. For that, he sealed me here.”

  Nobiru hesitated, then pleaded, “Kaiba, will you help me win the race? Please.”

  Kaiba studied him for a moment before replying, “Your heart is pure, Nobiru. I will help you.”

  The ground trembled as Kaiba shattered the cavern, emerging into the sky with Nobiru on his back. The crowd gasped in astonishment. “Kaiba!” someone shouted. “The King of Dragons exists!”

  Hanue and Kakoro were stunned. “Is that… Nobiru?” Hanue whispered.

  Riding Kaiba, Nobiru overtook every competitor, soaring like a comet. He claimed the final coin and crossed the finish line, the crowd chanting his name. “Nobiru! Nobiru!”

  But the celebration was short-lived. As Nobiru prepared to claim the throne, Dano appeared, flanked by soldiers. “This is treachery!” Dano declared. “He changed his dragon mid-race! He is not the true king!”

  Kaiba’s voice boomed. “Do you know what Dano has done? He promised our kingdom to Nabu!”

  Gasps rippled through the hall. The chiefs demanded answers, but before Dano could respond, a commotion outside drew their attention. Nabu’s forces had arrived.

  Nobiru raised his voice, rallying the soldiers. “Dano has betrayed us. I am your king now, and I will protect our kingdom—but I can’t do it without you!”

  The soldiers shouted their loyalty, and with Nobiru leading, they prepared for battle. Nobiru turned to his friends. “Hanue, Gayu, Meyan—this is our fight. Let’s protect our kingdom.”

  All the soldiers shouted in unison, “Yes, King Nobiru!” Without hesitation, they rushed to arm themselves, mounting their dragons with swift precision. Nobiru, wasting no time, sprinted toward Hanue, Meyan, Gayu, Lily, and Sanu. His voice was firm yet urgent as he commanded, “Hanue, come with me. Meyan and Gayu, you two need to take up your dragons. Hanue will assist you.”

  Meyan and Gayu exchanged nervous glances. “But we don’t know how to ride!” they protested in unison.

  Grasping their hands tightly, Nobiru looked at them with unwavering determination. “You must try your best—for Hanue, for everyone! If you don’t, the enemy will slaughter us all. Trust Hanue. When you're in danger, he’ll help you. Don’t forget that.”

  Bolstered by Nobiru’s conviction, Meyan and Gayu nodded, their resolve strengthening. “We’ll try our best, Nobiru—for Hanue and for this kingdom!”

  Nobiru gave a resolute nod and turned, racing outside. He called for Kaiba, his loyal dragon. With a leap, he mounted Kaiba, soaring into the skies toward King Nabu.

  Meanwhile, Hanue turned to Lily and Sanu. “Lily, get Sanu out of here. Now!”

  Lily hesitated, a flicker of confusion crossing her face. “Wait, Hanue—you know how to ride a Kabu?”

  “It’s a long story,” Hanue replied, urgency etched into his tone. “I’ll explain later. Just go. Run!”

  Without another word, Lily grabbed Sanu’s arm and led her out of the palace. Hanue spun on his heel, addressing Meyan and Gayu. “Come with me!” He dashed off, the two trailing closely behind.

  They soon arrived at the weapons house. Hanue gestured toward a sleek, winged dragon perched nearby. “Meyan, take that dragon and this bow,” he said, handing over an intricately crafted weapon. “Use it to attack from above.”

  Meyan nodded hesitantly. “Alright, I’ll try.”

  He approached the dragon cautiously, climbing onto its back. To his astonishment, a voice echoed in his mind. “Hanue! I hear a voice!” Meyan exclaimed, bewildered.

  Hanue smiled. “That’s the dragon. It’s connecting with your heart. Focus, Meyan. Trust the connection.”

  Meyan closed his eyes, concentrating on the bond. Moments later, the dragon stilled, responding to his intent. “I did it!” Meyan exclaimed.

  Hanue nodded approvingly. “Good. Just like that. Gayu, take this gun—it’s enchanted. Stay at a distance and provide cover. That way, you won’t be easily located. Got it?”

  “Got it!” Gayu replied, gripping the weapon.

  Meyan glanced at the gun, curiosity flickering in his eyes. “Why didn’t you give me a gun?”

  Hanue smirked. “That bow isn’t ordinary. Watch this.” He pressed a small button on the bow, and a shimmering shield unfolded before Meyan’s astonished gaze.

  “Whoa! It’s incredible!” Meyan exclaimed.

  “Exactly,” Hanue said. “It has features like auto-aim and more. Use it wisely. Gayu, your gun is also enchanted. Now, both of you connect with your dragons and take to the skies. I have to join Nobiru—he’s alone out there.”

  Hanue mounted his dragon and soared away, leaving Meyan and Gayu to face their own challenge. Gayu struggled at first to connect with his dragon, frustration clouding his efforts.

  “Come on, Gayu, you can do this!” Meyan called out. “We’re doing this for Hanue, Lily, and everyone else. Don’t give up!”

  Gritting his teeth, Gayu focused harder, finally forging a connection with the dragon. “I did it!” he cried triumphantly.

  “Yes, you did it!” Meyan cheered. “Now, let’s go!”

  The two launched into the air, racing to join Hanue and Nobiru. Nobiru, astride Kaiba, called out to Hanue as they approached. “Take the chiefs and lead the soldiers against the enemy! I’ll handle King Nabu myself.”

  Hanue’s eyes widened in alarm. “It’s too dangerous, Nobiru! You can’t take him alone.”

  “Trust me,” Nobiru said firmly. Kaiba’s voice rumbled in agreement. “Do as Nobiru says, Hanue.”

  Reluctantly, Hanue nodded. He turned to the chiefs. “Take your soldiers and capture the enemy forces. Nobiru will distract King Nabu.”

  One of the chiefs protested, “What? Why leave the king alone?”

  “It’s his order,” Hanue replied with a heavy heart.

  The chiefs exchanged uncertain glances but ultimately complied, leading their soldiers into battle. Nobiru turned to face King Nabu, his voice steady. “I am Nobiru, the new king of this kingdom. I will defeat you.”

  Nabu erupted into laughter. “You? A mere child? Do you think riding Kaiba makes you a warrior?” His mocking laughter echoed through the skies.

  Nobiru’s gaze was unwavering. “I am a warrior.”

  Drawing his sword, he charged at Nabu. Their blades clashed in a fiery explosion of sparks, their eyes burning with intensity. Again and again, they clashed, each strike ringing through the air like thunder.

  From afar, Hanue and the chiefs watched in awe as Nobiru’s determination lit up the battlefield. Hanue called out, “The soldiers are defeated! We need to go to Nobiru—he needs us now!”

  The group rushed toward the battle just as Nobiru, with one final, powerful strike, severed King Nabu’s head. Nabu’s lifeless body plummeted from the sky. Nobiru raised his sword high, his voice triumphant. “It’s done!”

  Hanue flew to Nobiru, placing a steadying hand on his shoulder. “You did it,” he said softly. “Now rest, Nobiru. You’ve saved our civilization. You’re our king.”

  Exhausted, Nobiru slumped onto Kaiba’s back. The dragon descended gracefully, landing near the palace. Hanue carried Nobiru inside, laying him gently on his bed. After closing the door, Hanue stepped outside to address the assembled chiefs and soldiers.

  One of the chiefs approached. “Is King Nobiru alright?”

  Hanue nodded. “Yes, he’s resting now.”

  The chief bowed respectfully. “We’ll stay here until he recovers. Call us if you need anything.”

  “Thank you,” Hanue replied. “I’ll send him to the palace once he wakes. You can return for now.”

  The chiefs and soldiers mounted their dragons and departed. Inside, Hanue collapsed onto the sofa, exhausted. Lily approached, taking his coat to his room. She returned moments later with a tray of water and cookies, setting it before the group.

  Hanue took a sip of water and spoke softly, “Nobiru is sleeping now. Let him rest.”

  Lily looked at Hanue with a mix of curiosity and frustration. “Hanue, I have a question,” she said, her voice firm yet hesitant.

  Hanue glanced up at her. “Yeah, tell me,” he replied, sensing the weight behind her words.

  “Why didn’t you tell us that you could ride a dragon? You always said you’d never ridden one before.” Her tone grew sharper, her eyes narrowing.

  Hanue sighed, his gaze dropping momentarily before meeting hers again. “Lily, I wanted to tell you, but... the circumstances...”

  Lily’s expression hardened. “So you lied to us,” she interrupted, her voice laced with disappointment.

  “No, Lily,” Hanue said quickly, shaking his head. “It wasn’t a lie. But if you want to know the truth, then listen. My name isn’t Hanue Manthan. It’s Tamo Jtanji.”

  Lily froze, her brows knitting together in confusion. “What? Then who is Hanue Manthan?”

  Hanue straightened his posture, as if bracing himself. “Hanue Manthan is the name I took after... an incident. A long time ago.”

  Gayu, who had been silent until now, leaned forward, his voice tinged with curiosity and concern. “What happened, Hanue?”

  Hanue exhaled slowly, the memories visibly weighing on him. “Dano and I... we were good friends, the best duo at our academy. We worked hard, trained tirelessly, dreaming of becoming the next king. We promised each other that, no matter what, if one of us became king, we would support the other, with no hard feelings.”

  Lily’s eyes glistened as she listened, her voice trembling. “So... you changed your name because of him?”

  Hanue reached out, gently holding Lily’s hand. “I wanted to tell you, but I was afraid. Afraid of how you’d see me. You deserve to know the truth.”

  The room fell silent, the air heavy with tension. Meyan and Gayu exchanged uncertain glances, trying to process what they had just heard.

  Hanue’s voice grew softer, tinged with bitterness. “Dano forced me to change my identity, Lily.”

  “Why?” Lily asked, her voice barely a whisper.

  “It was fifty years ago,” Hanue began, his eyes distant. “Dano and I were inseparable. We pushed each other, always striving to be better. On the day of the dragon-riding tournament, we stood side by side at the starting line. I told him, ‘Dano, let’s give it our all. May the best man win.’ He didn’t reply, and I thought he was just focused.”

  Hanue’s voice faltered, but he pushed on. “When the race started, we flew together, outpacing all the others. We were neck and neck as we approached the finish line. Then... in an instant, everything changed. I overtook him, just barely ahead. And that’s when it happened.”

  Lily’s grip tightened on his hand, her face etched with worry.

  “He came up beside me and whispered, ‘I’m sorry, Tamo.’ Before I could react, he pushed me. I fell from my dragon, tumbling through the air. I barely survived. Meanwhile, Dano crossed the finish line to thunderous applause. No one saw what he did. No one cared that I was missing.”

  The room was silent, the gravity of his words sinking in.

  “I couldn’t believe it,” Hanue continued, his voice filled with quiet anger. “My best friend betrayed me. After that day, I gave up everything—my name, my dreams, my identity. I wandered, searching for meaning. And then... I found Nobiru. I saw in him the potential to achieve what I couldn’t. That’s why I trained him. That’s why I supported him.”

  Meyan spoke up, his voice filled with awe. “So that’s why you trained Nobiru—to help him participate in the tournament.”

  Hanue nodded. “Yes, Meyan. And Nobiru knows everything.”

  Meyan, Gayu, and Sanu were stunned. “What? Really?” Gayu asked, his eyes wide.

  “Yes, guys,” Hanue replied firmly.

  Just then, Nobiru descended the stairs, his steps unsteady but determined. “What happened, Hanue? Did I defeat the king?”

  Hanue rushed to his side, steadying him. “Why did you come down? You need to rest, Nobiru.”

  “I’m fine, Hanue,” Nobiru said, his voice weak but resolute. “Tell me what happened.”

  Hanue smiled softly. “Yes, Nobiru. You defeated King Nabu. You’re the king now. But you need to recover first. After that, we’ll go to the palace to receive your honor.”

  Nobiru’s eyes brightened. “Hanue, can I talk to the Living Tree now?”

  Hanue hesitated, then nodded. “Yes, Nobiru, you can. But not now. Rest first.”

  Nobiru sank into the sofa, visibly exhausted. Lily approached with a tray, her voice gentle. “Here, Nobiru. Eat something. You fought a great fight.”

  “Thanks, Lily,” Nobiru replied, taking a cookie and nibbling on it. “But I need to go to the palace. I need to speak with the Living Tree and make things right.”

  Hanue frowned, his tone firm. “No, Nobiru. You’re not fully recovered. You can’t go now.”

  Nobiru shook his head. “I have to, Hanue. I need to fix my mistake.”

  Gayu, Meyan, and Sanu stepped closer, their voices filled with reassurance. “No, Nobiru. That wasn’t your mistake. It could have happened to any of us,” Meyan said earnestly.

  “Thanks, guys,” Nobiru replied, his voice softening. “But I’m the one who led you into that cave. And now it’s sealed forever.”

  Sanu placed a comforting hand on Nobiru’s shoulder. “You don’t have to do this now. You’re the king. We can figure it out together.”

  Nobiru sighed, leaning back into the cushions. “Okay, then. For now.”

  A sudden knock echoed through the quiet room. Hanue rose from his seat and opened the door to find a royal messenger standing there. The man, dressed in formal attire and slightly breathless, spoke quickly. “If King Nobiru has recovered, please send him to the palace as soon as possible.”

  Hanue nodded. “He has recovered. Inform the chiefs that we will arrive shortly.”

  The messenger bowed. “Understood. I will notify them immediately.” Without delay, he mounted his dragon, its massive wings beating against the air as it lifted off and disappeared into the sky.

  Hanue returned inside, letting out a small sigh as he sank into the sofa. Nobiru, curious, looked up. “What’s the matter, Hanue?”

  “You’ve been summoned to the palace,” Hanue replied.

  Nobiru straightened. “Then let’s prepare right away.”

  Everyone dispersed to their rooms to dress appropriately. Hanue handed Nobiru a finely tailored formal coat, suitable for the occasion. Soon, the group reconvened, dressed in their finest attire, and mounted Kaiba, their majestic dragon, for the journey to the palace.

  When they arrived, they were greeted with a grand welcome. Rows of soldiers stood in perfect formation, their polished armor gleaming under the sunlight. Nobiru stepped forward, and as he did, the soldiers saluted in unison. The head chief approached with the king’s crown, a symbol of authority and responsibility. Nobiru accepted it and took his place on the royal throne. Everyone else settled into their respective seats, and the meeting commenced.

  Nobiru stood, addressing the assembly with a calm yet commanding voice. “As we all know, Dano, the previous king, betrayed us.”

  A murmur spread through the crowd, some voicing their outrage. Nobiru raised a hand. “Silence, please.”

  The room quieted, and he continued. “There is a high probability that Dano will seek revenge. We must prepare ourselves for this possibility. I believe he has already begun laying plans in the shadows. Therefore, I am issuing new orders. Soldiers will double their efforts in guarding our borders. Chiefs, I expect you to ensure the safety and welfare of our towns and cities. We must remain vigilant.”

  The room erupted with a unified response. “Yes, King Nobiru!”

  Nobiru’s gaze swept across the assembly. “One more thing. I announce Hanue Manthan as our new Chief Commander and Taoi Makeo as the Head Commander.”

  Gasps rippled through the crowd. Questions buzzed in hushed tones. One of the chiefs stood. “But why such a sudden decision, Your Majesty?”

  Nobiru’s expression remained steady. “I trust their dedication and capability. They have proven themselves time and again, and I am confident they will serve the kingdom well.”

  Hanue and Kakoro exchanged stunned glances as Nobiru called their names. They approached him, standing tall before the throne. The head chief stepped forward, presenting them with the insignias of their new titles. With solemn pride, they accepted their honors.

  As the formalities concluded, the soldiers dispersed, and the palace servants led Nobiru and his companions inside. The grand hall left them awestruck. Massive chandeliers hung from the vaulted ceilings, and the walls were adorned with portraits of past kings.

  Nobiru’s gaze lingered on one portrait. “Who is he?” he asked, pointing to an imposing figure.

  The servant, Yuna, bowed slightly. “That is King Arthur, the first ruler of this kingdom. Next to him is King Alexander.”

  Nobiru’s eyes widened as Yuna gestured toward the rows of portraits. “There have been 120 kings before you, my lord. You are the 121st ruler of this great kingdom.”

  “Really?” Nobiru’s voice held a mix of awe and disbelief.

  “Yes, my king,” Yuna replied with a small smile.

  “By the way, what’s your name?” Nobiru asked.

  “My name is Yuna,” she said.

  Yuna then guided Nobiru to his room, which was a sprawling chamber filled with opulent furnishings. Meyan peeked in and gasped. “Nobiru, is this really your room? It’s enormous!”

  Nobiru chuckled nervously. “Even I’m overwhelmed, Meyan. I’ve never seen anything like this.”

  Hanue smirked. “Enjoy it, Nobiru. It’s yours now.”

  As the others left to explore their own rooms, Nobiru sat on the plush bed. He bounced slightly, laughing to himself. “It’s so soft!” His eyes roamed the room, landing on a massive wardrobe. Curiosity piqued, he opened it to reveal rows of finely crafted coats and garments. “Incredible,” he murmured, running his fingers over the fabrics.

  A knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts. “Come in,” he called.

  The door opened to reveal Sanu, dressed in a delicate light-blue gown with a flower adorning her hair. She looked radiant, almost like a queen herself. Nobiru’s cheeks turned crimson. “Ye… yes, Sanu? What do you need?”

  Sanu smiled shyly. “I just wanted to see you.”

  “To… to see me?” Nobiru stammered, his face growing even redder.

  Sanu’s blush deepened. “Yes, Nobiru. I have something to tell you.”

  Nobiru’s thoughts spiraled. Is she going to confess? No, no. Meyan told me she doesn’t fully like me. Maybe she needs help with something else. He cleared his throat. “What is it, Sanu?”

  She stepped closer, her voice soft. “I think I’m in love with you.”

  Before Nobiru could process her words, Meyan and Gayu burst into the room, laughing. “Sanu confessed to Nobiru! She loves him!”

  Nobiru’s face burned with embarrassment. “Stop this nonsense!” he shouted, but Sanu, overwhelmed, fled the room.

  Nobiru glared at his friends. “Look what you’ve done! She ran off!”

  Gayu grinned. “Relax. She really does love you. And honestly, you love her too.”

  “You knew and didn’t tell me?” Nobiru demanded.

  Meyan shrugged. “We wanted to let things unfold naturally. It’s more fun that way.”

  “You two!” Nobiru growled, chasing after them as they darted through the palace. Their laughter echoed through the halls until they finally collapsed onto the floor, out of breath.

  Gayu panted. “I… I can’t run anymore.”

  “Me neither,” Meyan added, gasping for air.

  Nobiru flopped beside them, exasperated. “Why do you two always do this? I don’t know what to do now!”

  Meyan crossed his arms and said confidently, "We’ll manage this, okay?"

  Nobiru frowned, doubt flickering in his eyes. "But how?"

  With a sly smile, Meyan reassured him, "I have plans. Don’t worry."

  "Okay, then," Nobiru replied, though his uncertainty lingered.

  Suddenly, Yuna came sprinting toward them, her hurried steps kicking up dust. She collided headfirst into Meyan, sending him stumbling backward.

  "What are you doing, Yuna?" Meyan snapped, glaring at her.

  Yuna straightened up quickly and, with an awkward smile, exclaimed, "Applause, friend of King Nobiru! Applaud me!"

  Meyan raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "What? 'Friend of King Nobiru?' I have a name, and it’s Meyan."

  "Oh! Sorry, Meyan," Yuna said sheepishly. Then, turning to Nobiru, she asked, "But, King Nobiru, why were you running so fast? I was trying to keep up, but I couldn’t match your pace."

  Nobiru shrugged nonchalantly. "Oh, nothing, Yuna. Is that why you were running after us?"

  "Yes, King Nobiru," she replied earnestly.

  Meyan, exasperated, waved her off. "Yuna, go and take a rest. If we need anything, I’ll call for you."

  Yuna shook her head firmly. "Sorry, but I can’t follow your orders."

  Meyan’s voice rose with irritation. "What? I’m the king’s friend! Why won’t you listen to me?"

  "Because you’re not the king," Yuna replied simply, with a small bow of defiance.

  Meyan turned away, muttering angrily under his breath. Nobiru chuckled, trying to diffuse the tension. "Ha ha, okay, okay, Meyan, no need to get angry. Yuna, you can go now."

  "Okay, King Nobiru," Yuna said, flashing a quick smile before hurrying off.

  Meyan huffed, throwing his hands in the air. "That girl is absolutely impossible!"

  "Come on, let it go," Nobiru said, shaking his head. "Let’s go see Sanu. I need to talk to her."

  "Alright, let’s go," Meyan and Gayu agreed in unison.

  Meanwhile, in her room, Sanu slammed the door shut, leaned against it, and sighed heavily. She dashed to her bed, flopping onto it with her hands covering her face.

  "Ugh... Meyan and Gayu, those bullies," she muttered to herself. "They always interfere. I tried to gather the courage to tell Nobiru how I feel, but they ruined everything! I even wore this dress just to impress him, but they had to mess it all up."

  Sitting up, she gazed into the mirror, taking in her reflection. Her fingers trailed over the fabric of her carefully chosen dress. "Does Nobiru even like it? Ugh... What a mess. And what if I confess? What will he say? Will he accept it?"

  With a resigned sigh, Sanu slipped out of the dress and changed into something simpler. Just as she adjusted her sleeves, a knock sounded at her door. She hesitated, then opened it to find Nobiru, Meyan, and Gayu standing there.

  They walked into the room without waiting for an invitation, settling on her bed. Meyan and Gayu looked sheepish.

  "We’re sorry, Sanu," Meyan said, his tone genuinely apologetic. "It was our fault. We shouldn’t have interrupted you two."

  "Please don’t be mad at us," Gayu chimed in, his voice pleading.

  Sanu crossed her arms, glaring at them. "Never do that again, or I swear I’ll kill you two."

  Both Meyan and Gayu frantically waved their hands in surrender. "No! No! We promise we won’t!" Gayu exclaimed.

  A reluctant smile tugged at Sanu’s lips, and soon all of them were laughing. Nobiru caught her eye, and they exchanged a soft smile.

  After a while, Yuna appeared at the door. "King Nobiru, lunch is ready. Please come."

  "Alright, Yuna, we’re coming," Nobiru replied.

  The group headed to the dining room, where their eyes widened in awe. A long table with thirteen seats was set, each spot adorned with different dishes, their tantalizing aromas filling the air. They sat down, still marveling at the spread. Moments later, Hanue and Kakoro entered the room.

  "Oh, Hanue! Kakoro! You’re here!" Nobiru said, waving them over. "Come, sit!"

  Yuna quickly instructed the waiters to serve the newcomers. As everyone settled in, Nobiru turned to Hanue. "Where are Lily and the others?"

  "They won’t be here until the evening party," Hanue explained.

  "Ah, I see. Well, meet Yuna," Nobiru said. "She’s my personal assistant."

  Hanue and Kakoro both nodded politely. "Oh, hello!"

  Yuna smiled graciously. "Hello! Nice to meet you. How’s the lunch?"

  "It’s delicious! Really, really good!" Gayu said enthusiastically, earning chuckles from the table.

  After the meal, Hanue leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "So, Nobiru, what’s your plan for the evening party?"

  "I’m not sure yet," Nobiru admitted, leaning back in his chair. "But I think I might dance."

  "Dance?" Hanue said, grinning. "That’s a great idea! You’ll have the attention of all the queens attending the party."

  Nobiru laughed, though his thoughts drifted elsewhere.

  "You can dance with them."

  Nobiru glanced at Sanu and smiled, replying, "I don’t think I need a partner that I might dance with at the party." Sanu’s lips curved into a gentle smile.

  Hanue, intrigued, raised an eyebrow. "Who is she?"

  Nobiru grinned. "You’ll see this evening."

  Kakoro chuckled and nudged Hanue. "See? Hanue, Nobiru is now the king of our kingdom. He can dance with anyone here, but we’re all waiting to see that, aren't we?"

  "Yes, Kakoro," Nobiru said with a faint smile, his voice light with amusement.

  The conversation shifted, and after a few moments, they all stood up.

  Hanue stretched and said, "Well, Nobiru, I must head to the army camp."

  Kakoro nodded in agreement. "I, too, need to go to the chief's headquarters to place a safety guard over the palace for the evening party."

  Nobiru sighed and nodded, "Oh… okay then. We’ll meet at the evening party. Now, I need to rest, or I won’t be able to participate in the party later. See you, everyone."

  "See you!" they all said in unison before heading to their respective rooms.

  Meyan closed the door behind him, his mind still buzzing with the conversation. He quickly changed into a loose outfit. However, just as he was about to sit, a knock echoed from the door. He opened it, surprised to find Yuna standing there.

  "What happened, Yuna? Why did you come to my room?"

  Yuna lowered her gaze. "I... I’m sorry, King’s friend," she muttered, barely audible.

  Meyan’s voice rose slightly, edged with irritation. "Why don’t you pronounce my name properly? My name is Meyan Kanata. Just call me Meyan, okay?"

  Yuna’s eyes flicked up to meet his, and she quickly turned away, trying to stifle her laugh.

  Meyan raised an eyebrow. "What’s so funny? Why are you turning away? Look at me!"

  Yuna’s behavior felt strange, and Meyan couldn’t help but wonder what she was hiding. He stepped closer, but Yuna swiftly turned again.

  "Why are you turning away, Yuna?" Meyan asked, his tone sharp now.

  Yuna couldn't hold it in any longer and burst into laughter. "Meyan, your dress is so funny!" she laughed, clutching her stomach.

  Meyan’s face flushed with frustration. "So what? It’s just loose wear. You’ve never seen that before?"

  Yuna’s laughter continued, but she quickly composed herself. "I’m sorry, Meyan. I couldn’t control myself."

  "It’s fine," Meyan grumbled, though his annoyance lingered. "But never do it again, okay?"

  Yuna nodded, still smiling. "Okay. I won’t."

  Then, she looked up at him with a somewhat serious expression. "Meyan, can I ask you something?"

  Meyan, still slightly irritated, replied, "Sure, what’s on your mind?"

  Yuna hesitated before asking, "Can I be your friend?"

  Meyan blinked, surprised. "Yeah, why not? But… why are you asking me this now?"

  Yuna’s face flushed, and she quickly turned away, running out of the room without another word.

  Meyan stood there, confused, wondering why she had asked to be his friend. What had triggered that question?

  Meanwhile, Gayu wandered the hallways and soon found Yuna. But before he could speak, someone shoved him from behind, and he stumbled forward, crashing onto the floor.

  "Who pushed me?" Gayu growled, his eyes scanning the room.

  As he looked around, he saw Yuna had also fallen. He quickly stood, rushing over to her.

  "Hey, Yuna, what’s going on?" he asked, extending a hand to help her up.

  Yuna glanced up at him, her face full of regret. "I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to—please forgive me."

  Gayu raised an eyebrow. "You’re in a hurry?"

  Yuna nodded quickly. "Yes. I need to go to the kitchen for the evening celebration."

  Gayu chuckled softly. "Well then, can I join you?"

  Yuna blinked in surprise but nodded. "Of course. You can come with me."

  "Alright," Gayu said with a smile. "Let’s go." They stood together, heading toward the kitchen.

  As they walked, Gayu looked over at Yuna. "So, what’s on the menu for the evening party?"

  Yuna smiled softly. "There will be several dishes—both savory and sweet."

  Gayu’s eyes lit up. "Sweets? Now you’ve got my attention," he said with a playful grin. "I have a favor to ask."

  Yuna tilted her head, curious. "What do you need?"

  Gayu leaned in slightly. "Can you get me some sweets?"

  Yuna laughed. "Of course, Gayu. I’ll send them to your room later."

  "Thanks, Yuna. You’re too kind."

  "It’s my duty, Sir Gayu," she replied with a playful bow.

  Gayu rolled his eyes. "Don’t call me 'sir.' Just call me Gayu, okay?"

  Yuna smiled warmly. "Alright, Gayu. I’ll remember."

  As they reached the kitchen, Gayu turned to leave but stopped when Yuna called out to him.

  "Gayu, I have a favor to ask as well."

  "Sure, what is it?" Gayu responded.

  Yuna hesitated before asking, "Now that we’re friends, can you tell me about your friendships with Meyan, Nobiru, and Sanu?"

  Gayu chuckled lightly at the unexpected question. "Friendship, huh? Well, Nobiru and Meyan have been friends for over ten years. Sanu is Meyan’s new neighbor, but now he’s also part of the group."

  Yuna nodded, absorbing the information. "I see. But… can you tell me more about Meyan?"

  Gayu blinked in surprise. "Meyan? Why do you want to know?"

  Yuna grew nervous. "Oh, no reason. Just curious."

  Gayu shrugged. "Well, Meyan’s 18 now. He’s a decent guy—thoughtful, kind, almost like a brother to me. He’s also really helpful, and believe it or not, he’s an amazing cook."

  Yuna raised an eyebrow. "He can cook? I didn’t think he could do that."

  Gayu chuckled. "Yeah, me neither. But trust me, he’s great at it."

  Yuna laughed too, feeling more at ease. "Thanks for sharing, Gayu. And thank you again for coming with me. I’ll send the sweets to your room soon."

  "Don’t mention it," Gayu said with a wave. "No thanks, no apologies, alright? Take care, Yuna."

  "Okay, Gayu. Bye."

  As Gayu left for his room, Yuna entered the kitchen and called all the chefs to gather. They lined up, awaiting her instructions.

  "As per the menu for the evening celebration, I’ll be providing all the materials. I want everything ready before the party starts. Understood? Let’s get to work!"

  Yuna stepped out of the kitchen, her mind restless with thoughts of Meyan. Meyan is such a nice guy, but... would he ever accept someone like me? she wondered, her hands nervously wringing her apron. He's the king's friend, someone important. And me? I'm just... ordinary. Fear crept into her heart. What do I do? How could someone like him ever see me the way I see him?

  Her thoughts spiraled until an idea struck her. She snapped her fingers and exclaimed under her breath, “Yes! I’ve got it! Gayu—he can help me! If anyone can, it’s him. But... what if he doesn’t? No, no, he will. He has to.”

  Buoyed by this decision, Yuna hurried toward Gayu’s room. Halfway there, she suddenly remembered something. Oh no! The sweets he ordered! Pivoting on her heel, she rushed back to the kitchen. “Send some sweets to Mr. Gayu’s room,” she instructed the chef breathlessly.

  “Right away, ma’am,” came the prompt reply.

  Satisfied, Yuna turned back toward Gayu’s room. However, when she arrived, the room was empty. She frowned, her brows knitting in frustration as she glanced around. “Where could he be?” she murmured, pacing the corridor. After searching for him to no avail, she sighed. I’ll have to speak to him this evening, she decided, though unease still tugged at her.

  Meanwhile, Meyan closed his bedroom door behind him, his mind preoccupied with Yuna. He leaned back against the door and sighed. Why did she run off like that? he wondered. He crossed the room, collapsing onto his bed. Staring at the ceiling, he tried to make sense of it. It felt like she wanted to tell me something. But what? He shook his head. “Should I ask her? No... no, that’d be awkward. Better to wait. I’ll figure it out later.” A yawn escaped him. “I’m too tired right now,” he mumbled before shutting his eyes.

  Elsewhere, Nobiru knocked lightly before entering Sanu’s room. He peeked inside with a smile. “Hey, Sanu! What are you up to?”

  Sanu, startled, turned toward him, holding a dress in her hands. “Oh! Nobiru! I was just... um, trying to figure out what to wear for the party this evening.”

  Nobiru chuckled. “Oh? Need some help?”

  Sanu’s eyes lit up. “Yeah, why not?”

  Together, they walked over to her wardrobe. Nobiru opened the doors, sifting through the colorful array of dresses. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Sanu reaching for a cabinet above the wardrobe, standing on tiptoes but struggling to reach it.

  “Sanu, wait!” he said, stepping closer.

  Before she could protest, he bent down, wrapping his arms around her legs and lifting her onto his shoulders. Sanu gasped, her cheeks flushing. “N-Nobiru!”

  “Relax,” he said with a grin. “Go ahead. Grab what you need.”

  Sanu, still blushing, steadied herself and reached for the cabinet. Her fingers brushed against its contents, and she pulled out a box. “Got it,” she said softly, glancing down at Nobiru with a shy smile.

  “Good,” Nobiru replied as he gently set her back down. “What did you get?”

  Sanu didn’t answer immediately. Instead, she stood still, her eyes locked on his. Nobiru blinked, slightly confused. “Sanu? Did you find what you were looking for?”

  Her voice came out in a whisper. “Yes. I found it.” Then, before he could respond, she leaned forward and hugged him tightly.

  Nobiru stiffened, his face heating up. “W-what’s this?”

  Sanu chuckled, resting her head against his chest. “Thank you, Nobiru. For always helping me.”

  After a moment’s hesitation, Nobiru returned the embrace, his voice soft. “I’ll always be here to help you, Sanu. But for now, my priority is to get us home. I promise, I’ll make it happen.”

  Sanu’s smile faltered slightly as she pulled back to look at him. “Nobiru... what about your parents? Do you think they’re okay?”

  “They’ll be fine,” Nobiru reassured her. “Once this party is over, I’ll talk to the Living Tree. We’ll find a way back to them.”

  Sanu nodded, her worry easing slightly. “Okay. But in the meantime... can you help me figure out what to wear tonight? I want to look my best.”

  “Of course,” Nobiru said with a grin. “Give me a moment.” Together, they searched through her dresses until Nobiru held one up, his face lighting up. “This one! And pair it with this jewelry. You’ll look stunning.”

  Sanu took the dress, holding it against herself. “You think so?”

  “Definitely,” Nobiru said.

  She stepped into the changing room. A few minutes later, she emerged, wearing the elegant dress. “How do I look?”

  Nobiru froze, his breath catching as he took her in. The dress hugged her frame perfectly, the jewelry adding a radiant touch to her beauty.

  “Sanu?” she prompted, tilting her head.

  “You... you look amazing,” he finally managed. “Like a princess.”

  Her cheeks reddened as she smiled. “Thank you, Nobiru.”

  He grinned. “Wear this to the party. Everyone will be stunned when they see you.”

  Sanu shook her head lightly. “It doesn’t matter what everyone else thinks. The only opinion that matters is yours.”

  Nobiru reached for her hand, his voice firm. “Then hear it clearly. You’re my queen, Sanu. And I love you.”

  Gayu strolled through the sprawling palace garden, his eyes marveling at the vibrant bursts of life around him—small fountains bubbling serenely, trees swaying gently in the breeze, and meticulously arranged flower beds glowing under the sun. He muttered to himself, "Amazing... this place has so much to see."

  After wandering for a while, Gayu spotted an elderly gardener tending to a tree near one of the fountains. The man, dressed in worn but neat clothing, worked with deliberate care. Gayu approached him and asked, "How many years have you been doing this, old man?"

  The gardener straightened, wiping sweat from his brow. "Sixty years, sir," he replied with a weathered smile.

  "Sixty years? That’s a long time!" Gayu exclaimed.

  The gardener nodded. "Yes, sir. It’s our family’s heritage to serve under the king. I’ve been here most of my life."

  "I see," Gayu said thoughtfully. "Then you must know everyone who works here quite well?"

  "Yes, sir," the gardener said, his tone confident.

  "Good! Then can you help me find my way back to the palace? I seem to have gotten lost in this enormous garden," Gayu admitted sheepishly.

  The gardener chuckled. "Of course, sir. Follow me."

  With the gardener leading, Gayu soon found his way back to the palace. As they parted ways, Gayu said, "Thank you, Kaito."

  The old man tipped his hat and disappeared among the trees.

  Inside the palace, Gayu bumped into Hanue and greeted him. "Hey, Hanue! What are you doing here?"

  "Nothing much," Hanue replied. "But what about you? You look flustered."

  Gayu laughed. "I got lost in the garden, and an old man helped me find my way back."

  "An old man?" Hanue asked, frowning.

  "Yes, he was kind. His name is Kaito," Gayu said.

  Hanue’s expression darkened. "Kaito? But all the staff are in the main hall for preparations. Describe him to me—what did he look like?"

  Gayu thought for a moment. "He wore loose clothing and a hat. Oh, and there was a symbol on his hand—a cross, I think."

  Hanue’s eyes widened in alarm. "A cross? Are you certain?"

  "Yes," Gayu said, now concerned. "Why? Do you know him?"

  Hanue’s voice became urgent. "That man is Dano, the traitor! Tell me, where did he go?"

  Gayu pointed toward one of the palace exits. Without a word, Hanue sprinted toward the direction, and Gayu followed close behind.

  Reaching the exit, the two men searched frantically, but Dano was nowhere to be found. Hanue slammed his fist into the gate. "We’ve lost him!"

  "But how did he even get inside the palace with such tight security?" Gayu asked, bewildered.

  Hanue shook his head, his voice grim. "The real question is: what was his purpose for entering the palace?"

  "I think he’s planning something for the evening party," Gayu suggested. "But it’s nearly impossible to breach the event with all the security in place."

  Hanue clenched his jaw. "We can’t take that chance. I’ll prepare the guards and inform the chiefs. You must alert King Nobiru immediately."

  "On it!" Gayu said and dashed toward the palace.

  After Gayu left, Hanue noticed a small wooden box near the palace gate. Suspicious, he approached it and opened the lid. Inside, he found an envelope. His heart sank as he read the chilling message scrawled on the paper:

  "Be ready for the show."

  His face pale, Hanue bolted to the headquarters and summoned the palace chiefs. He placed the letter on the table, and silence gripped the room as everyone read it.

  "This is an emergency," one chief said. "We must postpone the evening party immediately."

  Hanue shook his head. "We can’t. Cancelling the event would harm our relationships with the neighboring kingdoms. All their leaders are already on their way."

  "But protecting the king is our top priority!" the chief argued.

  "I know," Hanue said. "That’s why I’ll coordinate with the Marine and Toppian kings for support."

  The chiefs nodded reluctantly, and messengers were sent to convene a conference.

  In the meeting room, King Nobiru sat with the rulers of Marine and Toppian. Both kings listened intently as Hanue explained, "As you may know, our former king, Dano, betrayed us and allied with the defeated King Nabu. However, Dano remains at large, and we have reason to believe he plans to strike during tonight’s party."

  The Marine King frowned. "This is troubling news. We’ll send reinforcements to assist in securing the event."

  "Thank you," Hanue said. "But we still don’t know Dano’s exact plan. Cancelling the party may cause alarm. I propose we proceed but with heightened security."

  The Toppian King agreed. "We stand with King Nobiru. Do what must be done to protect him and maintain peace."

  Hanue nodded. "Thank you for your support. I’ll ensure every soldier is ready for tonight."

  As the conference ended, Hanue steeled himself for the night ahead, knowing the safety of the kingdom—and perhaps its future—rested on their vigilance.

  The kings nodded in agreement. "Very well, then," one of them said. "The conference is adjourned."

  Hanue stood, bowing respectfully. "Thank you for your cooperation. We’ll proceed as planned."

  As the kings left the conference room, Hanue turned to his chiefs. "Everything is set. Ensure every detail is followed to the letter."

  The chiefs saluted in unison before leaving to carry out their orders.

  Hanue exited the room, his mind racing with thoughts about the evening’s event. As he stepped into the corridor, he saw King Nobiru approaching, his expression a mix of concern and resolve.

  "Hanue," Nobiru called out, his tone steady, "did you find any clues? Gayu told me everything."

  Hanue shook his head. "Not yet, Nobiru. But we’ve informed the neighboring kingdoms, and they’ve agreed to support us. Everything is in place."

  Nobiru’s gaze sharpened. "So, will the party go on as planned?"

  "Yes," Hanue affirmed. "We’ll use it as an opportunity to see what Dano is plotting. Our soldiers are prepared for anything."

  Nobiru paused for a moment, his eyes narrowing. "Good. Make sure no one lowers their guard. If Dano dares to strike tonight, he won’t escape unscathed."

  Hanue nodded. "Understood, Nobiru. We’ll remain vigilant."

  Nobiru adjusted his robes and gave a slight nod to Hanue. "Alright, Hanue. I’m heading off for now."

  Hanue acknowledged him with a steady gaze. "Very well, Nobiru. Let’s reconvene this evening."

  Hours passed, and the sun dipped low, painting the sky in hues of amber and crimson. A knock echoed on Nobiru’s door. Inside, the young king was meticulously dressing, fastening the intricate clasps of his royal attire. He paused at the sound and called out, "I’m coming!"

  From the other side of the door, Yuna’s voice came through, calm and efficient. "Majesty, is everything in order? The preparations are complete."

  Nobiru opened the door, and before him stood Yuna, Sanu, Meyan, and Gayu, each dressed in exquisite outfits that reflected their stature and the importance of the evening. Their appearances were radiant under the soft glow of the corridor’s lanterns.

  "Well?" Nobiru asked, a hint of nervousness slipping into his voice. "How do I look?"

  Yuna stepped forward, offering a warm smile. "You look regal, Majesty."

  "Absolutely stunning," Meyan added cheerfully.

  Gayu smirked, crossing her arms. "Not bad, Nobiru. You’ll definitely turn heads."

  Sanu stepped closer, her expression gentle. "You look perfect. Tonight will go just fine."

  Nobiru’s lips curled into a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, everyone. Let’s head to the hall."

  The group made their way toward the grand hall, their footsteps echoing softly in the marble corridors. As they approached, the sounds of music and laughter grew louder. When they entered the hall, Nobiru paused to take it all in.

  The space was breathtaking, adorned with flowing banners in rich, vibrant colors and illuminated by the glow of countless lanterns and chandeliers. The aroma of delicacies wafted through the air as guests mingled, their attire just as dazzling as the décor. A stage had been set up at one end, where musicians performed enchanting melodies that complemented the electric atmosphere.

  Nobiru glanced at Sanu, leaning slightly toward her. "I’m so nervous," he whispered, his voice barely audible over the music.

  Sanu chuckled softly, her tone reassuring. "Me too. But don’t let it show. Just act natural—you’ll be fine."

  Taking a deep breath, Nobiru nodded. "You’re right. And, Sanu, I have a special announcement to make tonight."

  Sanu’s brow furrowed slightly as she turned to him. "An announcement? What kind of announcement?"

  He offered her a cryptic smile. "You’ll see soon enough."

  As they descended the staircase, the heralds at the base of the stairs raised their voices in unison.

  "Presenting His Majesty, King Nobiru!"

  The music softened, and all eyes turned toward the staircase. The room stilled for a moment before a wave of applause and cheers erupted from the crowd. Nobiru and his companions descended gracefully, their poise drawing admiration from all present.

  At the base of the stairs, kings from neighboring realms stepped forward to greet him. "Welcome, King Nobiru," one said, inclining his head in respect.

  "Thank you," Nobiru replied with a slight bow, his voice steady despite the fluttering nerves in his chest.

  As the festivities continued around him, Nobiru remained focused. Tonight was not only a celebration but also a moment of significance. With Sanu and his closest allies at his side, he felt a surge of determination. Whatever challenges lay ahead, he was ready to face them.

  Nobiru descended the grand staircase, greeting the guests with a warm smile and a nod. The hall was alive with energy—cheers, laughter, and the rhythm of lively music filled the air. As the festivities picked up, the crowd erupted in excitement, singing and dancing along to the performers on stage.

  Standing beside him, Sanu leaned in. "This is quite the celebration," she remarked.

  Nobiru glanced at her, a playful grin on his face. "Sanu, let’s dance."

  Sanu raised an eyebrow but smiled. "Alright, Nobiru. Let’s."

  The two stepped onto the dance floor, the crowd parting slightly to make room for the king and his companion. Nobiru gently placed his hand on Sanu’s waist, and she rested hers on his shoulder. As the music swelled, their movements synced effortlessly. They smiled at each other, their steps light and graceful, drawing admiring gazes from those around them.

  At the food court, Meyan and Gayu watched the scene unfold. Meyan nudged Gayu with his elbow. "Hey, Gayu. Looks like they’re having fun. Have you finished eating? Let’s join in!"

  Gayu chuckled. "Alright, I’m done. Let’s go."

  As they approached the dance floor, Meyan’s eyes caught sight of a woman in the crowd. Her movements were fluid, her dress shimmering under the chandelier’s light. Something about her drew his attention. He tried to see her face, but she turned away, laughing as she danced with another man.

  Not one to let curiosity go unanswered, Meyan approached her. "Excuse me, ma’am!" he called out.

  She turned, and recognition hit them both at the same time. "You!" they exclaimed in unison.

  It was Yuna. She crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow at him. "What do you want, Meyan? Can’t you see I’m dancing?"

  Meyan scratched the back of his head, suddenly sheepish. "Uh, yeah, I noticed. But I was wondering… shall we dance?"

  Yuna hesitated for a moment before giving a small shrug. "Fine. Let’s dance."

  Before she could change her mind, Meyan grabbed her hand and led her onto the dance floor. The two began to move in time with the music, their steps surprisingly in sync. As they danced, Meyan couldn’t help but glance at her outfit.

  "By the way, Yuna," he began, "why are you dressed so… different tonight?"

  Yuna blushed, looking away. "What do you mean? It’s a party. I dressed appropriately."

  Meyan chuckled, shaking his head. "No, no. I mean, you look… really pretty."

  Yuna’s cheeks turned a deeper shade of pink, and she gave him a small smile. "Thanks, Meyan. You’re not looking too bad yourself."

  "Appreciate it," Meyan replied with a grin. He nodded toward the king and Sanu, who were still dancing. "Look at Nobiru and Sanu. Don’t they look amazing tonight?"

  Yuna glanced over and nodded. "They do. But, Meyan…" Her tone shifted, becoming more serious.

  Meyan glanced at her curiously. "Yeah? What’s up?"

  Yuna took a deep breath. "I’m not one to beat around the bush, so I’ll just say it. I’m an extrovert, and I know what I want." She paused, her gaze steady. "I want to marry you. So… get ready."

  Meyan froze mid-step, his eyes wide. "Wait, what?" he stammered, but Yuna didn’t give him a chance to respond. She spun away and ran up the staircase, leaving him standing there in shock.

  Gayu appeared moments later, looking confused. "Meyan, did you find a dance partner?"

  Meyan turned to him, still dazed. "Yeah… I think I found a life partner."

  Gayu blinked. "What?" He tilted his head, his curiosity piqued. "Life partner? What are you talking about?"

  Meyan walked over to a nearby seating area and sank into a chair. Gayu followed, sitting beside him. "Alright, Meyan. Spill it. What’s going on?"

  Meyan sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It’s Yuna. She… she just proposed to me."

  Gayu’s jaw dropped. "Wait, what? She proposed? Are you serious?"

  "Yeah," Meyan muttered. "She just told me she wants to marry me and ran off before I could say anything."

  Gayu leaned back, stunned. "Wow. That explains why she was asking me all those questions about you earlier."

  Meyan’s eyes narrowed. "She was asking about me? Why didn’t you tell me?"

  "I didn’t think much of it!" Gayu defended himself. "I thought she was just curious."

  Meyan groaned, burying his face in his hands. "What am I supposed to do now?"

  Gayu smirked, nudging him lightly. "What do you mean? Go after her and tell her you feel the same!"

  Meyan looked up at him, his expression exasperated. "Are you serious? Stop joking around!"

  "I’m not joking," Gayu said with a laugh. "You’ve got someone who clearly likes you. Don’t mess it up."

  Meyan sighed, his mind spinning as he tried to process everything. Meanwhile, Gayu watched him, his grin widening. This party was turning out to be far more entertaining than he’d anticipated.

  Gayu crossed his arms, his tone firm. "You don’t have any other option left."

  Meyan let out a frustrated sigh. "This isn’t the time for that. You know Dano could attack at any moment."

  "Then let’s go to Hanue," Gayu said without hesitation.

  Meyan nodded, and the two hurried down the corridor.

  Meanwhile, in another part of the palace, Nobiru turned to Sanu. "Sanu, shall we head to the headquarters now? I have a bad feeling about this."

  Sanu, leaning against Nobiru’s shoulder with a playful smirk, replied, "Wait, nah! Let’s just enjoy the party a little longer."

  Nobiru frowned, about to insist, but before he could respond, a deafening crack split the air. The palace ceiling shuddered, then—without warning—came crashing down.

  Panic erupted. Guests screamed and ran in all directions, the once-lively celebration turning to chaos in an instant.

  Nobiru hit the ground hard, the impact jolting through his bones. Dust and debris clouded his vision. He coughed, pushing himself up, his heart pounding. "Sanu… Sanu!" His voice was desperate, his eyes scanning the wreckage.

  Frantically, he shoved aside the fallen beams and shattered stone, his hands trembling. Then, amid the rubble, he saw it—a pale, lifeless hand.

  His breath caught.

  Nobiru lunged forward, his fingers grasping the debris, tossing it aside with reckless urgency. When he uncovered her body, his blood ran cold. Sanu lay motionless, her dress soaked in crimson, her skin far too pale.

  "Sanu!" He lifted her into his arms, shaking with terror. "Stay with me!"

  Tears burned in his eyes as he turned, shouting, "Gayu! Meyan! Where are you?"

  In the distance, hurried footsteps approached. Gayu and Meyan rushed toward him, their expressions grim.

  "Nobiru!" Gayu panted. "Dano attacked—he brought an entire army with him!"

  Nobiru’s gaze darkened. His grip tightened around Sanu’s fragile body. "Take her to safety." His voice was low, steady—but filled with unyielding rage.

  Meyan hesitated. "What about you?"

  Nobiru’s jaw clenched. "I’m going to end this."

  "You can’t do this alone!" Meyan protested.

  Nobiru’s eyes blazed with fury, the sheer force of his presence making Meyan take a step back. "I can," he said, his voice like steel. Then, with a mighty leap, he soared into the sky, his sights set on the battlefield.

  Dano stood in the distance, his soldiers lined up in perfect formation, their armor gleaming beneath the moonlight. Seeing Nobiru approach, he let out a cold, mocking laugh.

  "So, the great King Nobiru finally shows himself," Dano sneered. "Ha! 'King'—what a joke."

  Nobiru’s grip on his sword tightened, his knuckles turning white. "This is where your reign ends, Dano. Your time is up."

  Dano’s smirk twisted into a cruel grin. "We’ll see about that. Kill him!"

  At his command, the enemy forces surged forward like a tidal wave.

  Nobiru’s soldiers roared in response, their own battle cries shaking the very air.

  "Attack!" Nobiru bellowed, his voice cutting through the battlefield like a blade.

  The clash was instant and brutal. Swords met with sparks, the metallic clang of steel against steel ringing through the air. The once-peaceful night was now drowned in the screams of the fallen. The sky, once clear, seemed painted in shades of red, reflecting the blood staining the ground.

  Amid the chaos, Nobiru carved his way through the enemy ranks, his blade a blur of silver and fury. His eyes locked onto Dano, who stood at the heart of the battlefield, waiting for him.

  With a fierce cry, Nobiru lunged.

  Dano met his strike head-on, their swords colliding in a shower of sparks. Blow after blow, they fought, their movements precise and deadly. Each strike carried the weight of their hatred, their years of rivalry culminating in this one decisive battle.

  Dano gritted his teeth. "You can’t win!"

  Nobiru’s eyes burned with defiance. "Watch me."

  Summoning every ounce of strength, Nobiru unleashed his final attack. His sword flashed through the air, cutting clean through Dano’s defenses—

  And in one swift motion, he severed Dano’s head.

  Silence fell.

  The enemy forces, seeing their leader slain, dropped their weapons in surrender. Cheers erupted from Nobiru’s soldiers as the last remnants of Dano’s army were wiped out.

  Hanue approached, his expression unreadable. "It’s over," he said quietly. "You did it, Nobiru."

  Nobiru, still gripping his blood-stained sword, remained silent. Then, all at once, the weight of everything crashed down on him.

  "Haaaa!" He let out a guttural roar, the raw emotion pouring out of him.

  Meyan and Gayu ran to his side, their eyes widening at the sight of their king, his face streaked with blood, his body trembling from exhaustion and rage.

  Hanue placed a firm hand on his shoulder. "Meyan, Gayu—take him to his chambers."

  Without hesitation, they led Nobiru away, his footsteps heavy with exhaustion.

  Meanwhile, in a quiet chamber, Yuna sat beside Sanu, gently dabbing a cloth against her forehead. "Sanu, are you feeling any better?"

  Sanu stirred, blinking slowly. "Where… where am I?" Her voice was weak. "Where is Nobiru?"

  Yuna offered a reassuring smile. "Dano attacked, but Nobiru defeated him. He’s safe—he’s resting now with Meyan and Gayu. You should’ve seen him, Sanu… when he found you injured, he lost all control. He went after Dano’s entire army alone."

  Sanu’s heart clenched. "I want to see him."

  At that moment, the door creaked open.

  Nobiru stepped inside. His clothes were still stained with blood, his face exhausted yet filled with relief. "Sanu…" His voice was quiet, almost hesitant. "How are you feeling?"

  Sanu managed a soft smile. "I’m okay, Nobiru. I heard… you won."

  He nodded. "Dano is gone. His tyranny is over."

  Yuna stepped forward. "My king, tomorrow you will be honored as the greatest warrior in our kingdom’s history."

  Nobiru let out a tired chuckle. "Oh? Well then, can I speak to the Living Tree?"

  Yuna bowed. "Of course, my lord."

  Sanu reached for Nobiru’s hand, squeezing it weakly. "Then… after the ceremony, we’ll ask the Living Tree for our way home."

  Nobiru gave a small nod, brushing a hand through her hair. "Yes. But for now, rest. Yuna, take care of her."

  "Yes, Your Majesty," Yuna responded dutifully.

  As dawn broke, Hanue entered Nobiru’s room. "Nobiru, come quickly. Everyone is waiting."

  With a deep breath, Nobiru stood. Today, he would be honored as a hero.

  But in his heart, he knew—the war was far from over.

  Nobiru exhaled deeply, steadying himself. "Yeah, I'm coming," he called out. He and Hanue descended the stairs, their footsteps echoing against the stone walls. As they reached the hall, the grand doors creaked open, revealing a vast gathering. Soldiers stood in disciplined rows, while Meyan, Gayu, Yuna, Sanu, and countless citizens filled the chamber. The weight of their expectant gazes settled on Nobiru, making his heart pound.

  The head chief, standing at the center of the hall, raised his hand and called out, "Nobiru, step forward to receive the highest honor—greatest warrior in the history of all kingdoms!"

  A hush fell over the room as Nobiru took measured steps toward the throne, his pulse quickening. As he reached the chief, the elder held up a gleaming crown. "King Nobiru, you are the greatest fighter our civilization has ever seen. Take this crown, and take your place upon the throne."

  Nobiru hesitated for a moment before accepting the crown. As he lowered himself onto the throne, a deafening cheer erupted. Applause rang through the hall, and the celebration began.

  After a while, Nobiru turned to Hanue. "Hanue!"

  Hanue stepped forward. "Yes, Nobiru? You called me?"

  Nobiru nodded. "Can we talk to the Living Tree now?"

  Hanue's expression shifted slightly, but he gave a firm nod. "Yeah. Come with me."

  Nobiru turned to the others. "Guys, let's go!"

  They followed Hanue through the grand corridors, deeper into the heart of the kingdom. Eventually, they arrived at an enormous, ancient door. The moment they approached, the door groaned and slowly swung open. A wave of cool, earthy air swept past them.

  Hanue hesitated at the entrance. "I don't have permission to enter. Nobiru, Meyan, Gayu, and Sanu—you must go alone and speak with the Living Tree."

  Exchanging glances, Nobiru and the others stepped inside. As soon as they crossed the threshold, a brilliant light cascaded from above, momentarily blinding them. Nobiru instinctively shielded his eyes. "Where is that light coming from?"

  Meyan placed a hand on his shoulder. "Nobiru, let's move forward."

  Sanu grasped Nobiru’s hand, and they continued deeper into the chamber. Their surroundings soon became clearer, revealing massive roots twisting and sprawling like ancient veins across the ground. As they looked up, their breath caught. The Living Tree was colossal, its vast trunk stretching far beyond their line of sight. It was as if it touched the heavens themselves.

  Gayu took a step forward, awe evident in her voice. "Nobiru… call upon the Living Tree."

  Nobiru steadied himself and raised his voice. "I am King Nobiru, ruler of this kingdom. I seek your guidance!"

  A deep, resonant voice rumbled through the chamber, shaking the very air around them. "I see… The one who defeated King Dano last night now stands before me. And I know the answer you seek."

  Nobiru clenched his fists. "Please, Living Tree! Help us find a way back home."

  The ancient voice responded with a solemn tone. "I cannot guide you directly. But I know who can. There is a hidden village."

  Nobiru’s eyes narrowed. "A hidden village?"

  "Yes," the Living Tree affirmed. "A place lost to time—the Witch Village. Long ago, it vanished from this world, but an old prophecy speaks of four travelers emerging from the Eternal Way, which was sealed many years ago."

  A small glow appeared before them, and from it, an artifact materialized—a compass-like device with a faint, pulsating light. "Take this navigator," the Living Tree instructed. "It will guide you to the Witch Village. But be warned—the witches are dangerous. If they sense anything amiss, they will claim your souls."

  Sanu's grip tightened on his weapon. "And if it comes to a fight?"

  The Living Tree hummed. "I have foreseen this possibility. Take this locket." Another object manifested, an ornate silver pendant with runes etched into its surface. "This will protect you from their spells."

  Gayu took a deep breath and turned to Nobiru. "Then let's go."

  Nobiru bowed deeply. "Thank you, Living Tree. We are in your debt."

  The ancient entity rumbled one last time. "Go forth."

  With that, they hurried from the chamber. Hanue was waiting just outside, his expression tight with curiosity. "What happened in there?"

  Nobiru held up the navigator. "We found the way—the Witch Village exists."

  Hanue's face twisted in disbelief. "What? That’s just a myth! There’s no such place!"

  "The Living Tree wouldn't lie," Nobiru countered. "It gave us this navigator to find it."

  Hanue hesitated before exhaling sharply. "Fine. Then we move out. I'll bring Kakoro with me."

  Nobiru nodded. "Good. Come with him."

  Meyan suddenly spoke up. "Take Yuna too."

  Nobiru furrowed his brows. "Why?"

  Gayu smirked. "There's a reason you need her there."

  Nobiru crossed his arms. "And that reason is?"

  Gayu’s smile didn’t waver. "I'll tell you later."

  Nobiru sighed. "Alright. Let’s move."

  Minutes later, Kakoro and Yuna arrived. Hanue swung onto his dragon. "Let’s go."

  Nobiru climbed onto his own. "Kaiba, fly!"

  Hanue called over the rushing wind. "Where to?"

  Nobiru glanced at the navigator as the glowing arrow shifted. "Left, Hanue!" Moments later, the arrow pulsed again. "Now right!"

  For hours, they followed the device’s directions, flying through vast landscapes, crossing mountains, and weaving through valleys. Then, abruptly, the arrow stopped moving.

  Hanue frowned. "Why did we stop?"

  Nobiru tapped the navigator. "I thought it malfunctioned."

  "Give it to me," Hanue said, inspecting it carefully. After a moment, he sighed. "I don’t get it. It’s not broken, but it’s not pointing anywhere either."

  Nobiru suddenly took off, diving forward before returning moments later. He landed in front of them, eyes shining. "I found it."

  Hanue narrowed his eyes. "Found what?"

  Nobiru pointed downward. "The village isn’t ahead of us—it’s below."

  Hanue’s eyes widened in realization. "I see. Then let’s go."

  They descended into the dense forest below. Nobiru patted Kaiba's side. "Go now, Kaiba." The dragon took to the skies, disappearing into the clouds.

  Meyan suddenly tensed. "Guys, I hear something."

  Nobiru scanned the area. "Where?"

  Gayu listened closely. "It sounds like… a waterfall."

  Sanu nodded. "Yeah! Nobiru, let’s check it out."

  Hanue crossed his arms. "Agreed. Let’s go."

  As they walked forward, the roar of cascading water grew louder. Then, as they cleared the foliage, they saw it—the same waterfall they had encountered before.

  Sanu’s breath caught. "Nobiru… that’s—"

  Nobiru’s eyes narrowed. "Yes. It is."

  Gayu suddenly stepped forward, gazing into the water. Without hesitation, she leaped in.

  "Gayu!" Nobiru shouted as he and the others rushed after her. Without thinking, he and Hanue dove in, followed by Meyan.

  The moment they breached the surface, they found themselves in an entirely different world. A cavern stretched out before them, glowing faintly with bioluminescent flora.

  Nobiru’s breath hitched. "A cave… beneath the water?" He straightened. "Wait, I need to bring Yuna and Sanu."

  Moments later, he returned with them. As they took in their surroundings, their eyes widened in astonishment.

  "This is it…" Yuna whispered. "The Witch Village."

  Just then, Hanue called out, "Guys! Over here!"

  They turned to see him standing before a massive, ancient door. As they approached, it began to creak open.

  But before they could step inside, three figures materialized before them—witches. Their eerie, glowing eyes bore into them.

  "Who are you?" one of them demanded.

  Nobiru met their gaze steadily. "I am the new king of this kingdom."

  One of the witches sneered. “Oh! I hear the previous king was defeated by the new ruler. But he was so powerful… and yet you, just a normal kid, managed to defeat him?”

  Hanue stepped forward, his tone firm. “I am the head commander. Yes, he defeated Dano.”

  One of the witches scoffed. “I don’t care. No one can defeat us.”

  Nobiru took a step forward. “I want to speak with your queen—Queen Yamaba.”

  The witches erupted into laughter. One of them, a woman with piercing yellow eyes, smirked. “What? Ha! You want to meet Queen Yamaba? First, you have to prove yourself worthy to enter the Palace of Witches.” She crossed her arms. “My name is Tabitha—Grade 3.”

  Another witch stepped beside her, her silver hair glinting under the moonlight. “Aurora—Grade 3.”

  The third witch, with dark, ink-like marks running across her arms, smirked. “Ursula—Grade 3.”

  Together, they spoke in unison. “We are the Three Daughters of Taija.”

  Nobiru’s gaze remained steady. “I am ready to face you three.”

  Hanue’s expression darkened. “Nobiru, you can’t fight them alone.”

  Kakoro clenched his fists. “Yeah, we should fight them together.”

  Nobiru shook his head, a faint smirk forming. “Don’t worry. I have a plan.”

  Hanue frowned. “A plan?”

  Nobiru tossed them each a weapon. “Take these. They’ll help you in battle.”

  Hanue caught his and inspected it with wide eyes. “Where did you get these weapons?”

  Nobiru’s smirk deepened. “The Living Tree gave them to me.”

  Kakoro and Hanue exchanged glances. “But… when?”

  “Now’s not the time for questions.” Nobiru’s tone was resolute. “Just take them.”

  Aurora’s patience snapped. She lunged at Nobiru, unsheathing her sword in a blur of silver. “I’ll kill that kid first!”

  She swung with all her strength, but before her blade could even reach him, she was suddenly thrown back. With a gasp, she crashed into the ground, unconscious.

  Tabitha and Ursula’s eyes widened in shock. “He… he defeated Aurora without even drawing his sword?”

  Hanue and Kakoro were equally stunned.

  Nobiru remained still. His voice was calm but absolute. “You can’t defeat me with magic alone.”

  Ursula’s expression twisted with frustration. “Then let’s see you handle this!”

  She brandished her sword, eyes blazing with fury. “Eternal Space Attack!”

  A wave of energy surged from her blade, roaring toward Nobiru. But just as it was about to reach him, it was repelled as if hitting an invisible wall. Ursula staggered back, confusion flashing across her face.

  “What… what is this?” she muttered. “How did he block my special attack without even lifting his sword?”

  Tabitha narrowed her eyes. “Ursula… there’s a barrier.”

  Ursula gritted her teeth. “Impossible! No one can block my special attack!”

  Tabitha took a shaky breath. “He’s way stronger than us.”

  Before they could act, a powerful presence filled the air. A new figure emerged from the shadows, her aura suffocating.

  Ursula and Tabitha immediately bowed.

  “Ms. Tankhi—Grade 1. Welcome,” they said in unison.

  Ms. Tankhi’s crimson eyes flickered toward Nobiru. “Who’s the kid?”

  Ursula answered quickly. “He’s the new king of this kingdom. He’s trying to meet Queen Yamaba. We tried to stop him, but he’s too strong. He blocked my special attack without even drawing his sword.”

  Aurora stirred, groaning as she sat up. “Ms. Tankhi… you’re here. We… we can’t defeat him.”

  Ms. Tankhi crossed her arms, her voice dripping with disdain. “You three useless witches… Pathetic.” She turned to Nobiru, eyes narrowing. “Hey, kid. I’m Ms. Tankhi—Grade 1 witch. I challenge you.”

  Nobiru met her gaze without hesitation. “I am Nobiru, the new king. I want to meet Queen Yamaba.”

  Ms. Tankhi raised her hand. A crimson beam of magic shot toward Nobiru like a lightning bolt. He instinctively tried to reflect it, but the power was far stronger than the other witches’.

  For a split second, doubt crept into his mind.

  Then he remembered the words of the Living Tree.

  This locket will reflect all kinds of spells, but you must be brave in battle.

  Gritting his teeth, Nobiru stood firm. “You can’t defeat me.”

  The moment the magic hit him, it was repelled. The red beam vanished as if swallowed by the air itself.

  Ms. Tankhi’s eyes widened, but instead of frustration, she smirked. “Well done, boy.”

  But suddenly, she dashed forward with her sword drawn. In one swift motion, she shattered the barrier protecting Nobiru.

  Nobiru’s breath hitched as he leaped back, finally drawing his sword. “How… did she break my shield?”

  Hanue and Kakoro immediately unsheathed their swords.

  “She’s stronger than the others,” Hanue said grimly.

  “We’re ready, Nobiru,” Kakoro added.

  Ms. Tankhi chuckled. “Oh? So now you’re taking this seriously?” She pointed her blade at Nobiru. “The fun is just beginning, kid.”

  Nobiru tightened his grip. “Yeah. It is.”

  They charged at each other. Their swords clashed, shaking the ground beneath them. A massive shockwave burst outward from the impact, sending ripples through the air.

  Ms. Tankhi’s eyes gleamed with excitement. “Then take this, Nobiru—Special Attack: The Void of Fire!”

  A firestorm erupted from her blade, its heat overwhelming.

  “This flame burns at 5,500 degrees Celsius—just like the sun,” she declared. “It will incinerate everything in its path.”

  Nobiru clenched his jaw. How do I stop this?

  Then, realization struck him. His hand flew to his pocket. He pulled out a small round container.

  “So what?” He smirked. “I don’t fear you.”

  The moment Ms. Tankhi’s flames reached him, they vanished. The fire flickered out like a dying candle.

  “What…?” Ms. Tankhi’s confidence wavered for the first time. “How are you still alive?”

  Nobiru lifted his sword. Its surface shimmered, reflecting her flames.

  Ms. Tankhi’s breath hitched. “No… That sword… Why does it feel like my own? Does it… possess the same power?”

  Nobiru’s smirk widened. “I stole your power.”

  The three witches gasped.

  Ms. Tankhi took a step back. “That’s impossible! How did you steal my special attack?”

  Nobiru’s gaze darkened. “Your sword is useless now. I’m going inside.”

  He turned and walked toward the massive palace doors.

  But before he could reach them, the three witches attacked from behind.

  Nobiru didn’t even turn. With a single slash, his sword released a wave of fire. The witches screamed as they were engulfed in flames, their bodies collapsing to the ground.

  Hanue and Kakoro joined him as they stood before the colossal doors.

  Without hesitation, Nobiru raised his sword and struck.

  With a deafening crack, the doors split in two.

  Nobiru stepped forward, his voice steady. “Queen Yamaba… I’m coming.”

  As he entered the Witch Village, the others followed closely.

  Hanue spoke in a hushed tone. “Nobiru, we should disguise ourselves to avoid unnecessary fights.”

  Nobiru nodded. “You’re right. But first, we need to find Mr. Kaiju.”

  Kakoro frowned. “Who is he?”

  “He’ll help us enter the palace.”

  Meyan clenched his fists. “Then let’s find him quickly.”

  Gayu, Sanu, and Yuna nodded in agreement.

  Hanue sighed. “The longer we stay here, the more likely we’ll have to fight again.”

  “Then let’s move,” Nobiru commanded.

  Gayu groaned. “Wait! Can we at least eat first? I’m starving.”

  Sanu laughed. “Yeah, Nobiru. I’m hungry too.”

  Nobiru exhaled. “Fine. Let’s eat.”

  As they entered a nearby tavern, the scent of roasted meat and ale filled the air. But before Nobiru could settle in, Kakoro ran ahead—straight to the bar.

  Nobiru sighed. “Kakoro, we don’t have time for this.”

  “Just one drink?” Kakoro pleaded.

  Before Nobiru could argue, a drunken man stumbled into him.

  “Sorry,” the man slurred. “I’m… too drunk.”

  Kakoro steadied him. “What’s your name?”

  The man swayed slightly. “Kaiju.”

  Kakoro froze.

  Nobiru’s eyes widened. “What? Then why did you let him go?!”

  Kakoro hesitated for a moment before shaking his head. "I just forgot the name!"

  Nobiru didn't waste time on frustration. "Let's go! We have to find him."

  Without another word, Nobiru and Kakoro sprinted toward Gayu, Meyan, Sanu, and Yuna. As they approached, Sanu furrowed his brows in concern. "What happened? Why are you two running?"

  Kakoro caught his breath and asked urgently, "Did any of you see a man with a scar on his face?"

  Hanue nodded, pointing toward a crowded section of the street. "Yeah, he went that way. But why?"

  "I’ll explain later!" Nobiru cut in, his voice firm. "Right now, just run!"

  Without hesitation, they all rushed in the direction Hanue had pointed. The streets were packed, a sea of bodies pushing and moving in every direction, making it nearly impossible to navigate.

  "There! There!" Kakoro shouted, pointing ahead.

  Nobiru and the others followed his gaze and pushed forward through the throng of people. "Where?" Nobiru asked, scanning the mass of figures.

  Kakoro raised his hand and pointed straight ahead. "That’s him. That’s Kaiju."

  Nobiru didn’t hesitate. He strode forward and placed a firm hand on the man’s shoulder. "Kaiju!"

  The man turned, and the moment his eyes met Nobiru’s, they widened in shock. His breath caught in his throat. "You?! But… how did you get here?"

  "The Living Tree sent us," Nobiru explained. "It told us that you would help us with an important matter."

  Kaiju’s expression darkened. "That tree…" He exhaled sharply before narrowing his eyes. "But who are all of you?"

  Before Nobiru could answer, Yuna stepped forward. "He is the king of this kingdom," she declared with pride. "The man who defeated the unbeatable King Dano and earned the title The Greatest Warrior on Earth."

  Kaiju’s eyes widened even further. He immediately bowed, his posture tense with respect. "Forgive me, Your Majesty, for my rudeness!"

  Nobiru shook his head. "It’s fine. Now stand up. What matters is that you help us reach Queen Yamaba’s palace."

  Kaiju stiffened. "You… want to enter the Palace of Queen Yamaba?" He hesitated before lowering his voice. "But…"

  "Then why don't you help us?" Nobiru asked, his tone unwavering. "Hanue, Kakoro—let’s go. We can defeat the witches on our own and speak to the Queen."

  Kaiju quickly raised his hands. "Wait—wait, Your Majesty! I’ll help you, but you must understand… it won’t be easy. The palace is heavily guarded, and its soldiers are of various grades, each more powerful than the last."

  Nobiru met his gaze without hesitation. "I know," he said firmly. "I just defeated four witches. Three were Grade 3, and one was Grade 1."

  Kaiju’s jaw nearly dropped. "What… what?! You defeated a Grade 1 witch?!"

  "It was a difficult fight," Nobiru admitted. "But I won. Now, tell me—will you help us get inside the palace?"

  Kaiju still looked stunned, but after a moment, he gave a sharp nod. "Y-Yeah… yeah, come with me."

  He led them down a winding path, past dark alleys and narrow side streets, until they reached a small, inconspicuous shop. At the back, partially hidden from view, was an unmarked wooden door. Kaiju pushed it open, revealing a dimly lit passageway. "Come inside," he whispered.

  As they stepped in, they found themselves standing before a house concealed behind the shop. The moment Kaiju opened the door, an intense, radiant light burst forth from within.

  Everyone shielded their eyes instinctively.

  Meyan squinted through the brightness. "What… where is this light coming from?"

  Gayu groaned, covering his face. "It’s so bright—I can’t see a thing!"

  They stood there, stunned, as the blinding light filled the hidden chamber before them.

  After walking for a while, they entered a massive room, its high ceiling adorned with intricate carvings. The air was thick with the scent of aged wood and something faintly metallic. Kaiju gestured toward a set of wooden chairs near a low table.

  "Sit here," he said. "I'll bring some drinks."

  As Kaiju turned to leave, Nobiru spoke up. "I don’t drink."

  Kaiju paused, tilting his head slightly. "Then what would you like, King?" he asked, emphasizing the title with a smirk.

  "Coffee," Nobiru replied without hesitation.

  Kaiju nodded. "Alright, coffee it is."

  After a few minutes, Kaiju returned carrying a tray with drinks, coffee, and an assortment of snacks. He placed everything on the table and took a seat. The warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the room, mixing with the subtle scent of spiced tea and dried fruits.

  "Now," Kaiju began, his voice lowering slightly, "the main issue is getting into Queen Yamaba’s palace. Before we discuss the plan, I need to explain the ranking system and some history. That way, you’ll understand what we’re dealing with. Sound good?"

  Nobiru and the others nodded. "Got it."

  Kaiju leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "There are three grades of witches, classified by numbers. Since you said you defeated a Grade 1 witch, do you remember her number, Nobiru?"

  Nobiru furrowed his brows, thinking. "Wait, let me remember… Ah, yes. It was Number 11."

  Kaiju’s expression turned serious. "So, you took down Number 11. That’s impressive. There are only fifteen Grade 1 witches in existence. Below them, there are fifty Grade 2 witches, and the weakest rank—Grade 3—has over a thousand witches."

  Everyone’s eyes widened in disbelief.

  "Wait, what?" Hanue exclaimed. "There are that many witches?"

  Kaiju nodded. "Yes. And that’s just in this world. A long time ago—about ten thousand years ago—King Jain ruled over all the kingdoms. Back then, a great war broke out between the three kingdoms and the witches. It was one of the most devastating battles in history. But… we won."

  Meyan frowned. "If the witches were defeated, then why are they still around?"

  Kaiju exhaled slowly, his fingers drumming against the table. "Some survived. They created a hidden world, a place sealed away from the rest of us. For centuries, my ancestors have dedicated their lives to tracking that world. My father, and his father before him, were given the responsibility of watching over it. And now… that responsibility falls to me."

  A heavy silence followed his words.

  Nobiru finally spoke. "Why did the war happen in the first place?"

  Kaiju’s expression darkened. "Good question. Originally, witches and humans coexisted peacefully. In fact, witches used to help us. But over time, we noticed something disturbing—our people were dying in large numbers. At first, no one knew why. Then, we discovered the truth: witches consume human souls to fuel their magic. The more powerful the soul, the greater their abilities."

  A cold chill ran through the group.

  Kaiju continued, his voice grim. "When the kings of the three kingdoms uncovered the truth, they had no choice but to act. A decree was passed: eradicate all witches. And that was the reason for the war."

  Nobiru leaned back slightly, his fingers tightening around his coffee cup. "And what about the Grade 1 witches? What kind of powers do they possess?"

  Kaiju's eyes sharpened. "The most dangerous of them all is Ujakhi, the Number One witch of Grade 1. She is the second most powerful witch—second only to Queen Yamaba herself. She is undefeatable."

  Nobiru’s jaw clenched. "Then how am I supposed to defeat her?"

  Kaiju hesitated before finally answering. "There is a way. A sword known as The Eternal Sword. It is the most powerful weapon across all three dimensions."

  Nobiru narrowed his eyes. "And where is this sword?"

  Kaiju let out a slow breath. "No one knows. It is said to be The God’s Sword—a weapon so powerful that no mortal has ever been able to lift it. Its history is buried in legend, and many believe it is nothing more than a myth…"

  The room fell silent, the weight of Kaiju’s words pressing down on everyone.

  If the Eternal Sword truly existed… then it might be the only way to stand a chance against Queen Yamaba and her army of witches.

  But finding it would be another challenge entirely.

  Nobiru frowned. "If no one can lift the Eternal Sword, then how am I supposed to?"

  Kaiju exhaled slowly. "That sword is our last hope to defeat Ujakhi and Queen Yamaba. If there's even a chance you can wield it… we have to try."

  "Then we need to get to it fast," Nobiru declared.

  Kaiju nodded. "We’ll reach the location by nightfall."

  Hanue, standing nearby, spoke up. "But we need powerful weapons. We can’t rely on just one sword."

  Kaiju smirked. "I have some magical swords that will help in battle. But Nobiru, you… you need something even greater. Come with me—I know a man, the best sword maker there is. He’ll forge a weapon worthy of you."

  Nobiru unsheathed his sword and handed it to Kaiju, who studied it carefully. A faint, crimson glow pulsed along its blade.

  "This sword holds the power of fire," Kaiju noted.

  Nobiru nodded. "I captured that power from the Grade 1 witch I defeated."

  Kaiju’s eyebrows raised slightly. "I see… interesting. Then let’s get moving."

  Hanue stepped forward. "Wait, why can’t we come with you? Don’t we deserve strong weapons too?"

  Kaiju shook his head. "Your swords don’t have inherent power like Nobiru’s. His is unique. That’s why only he needs to go."NG

  Hanue exhaled, reluctantly stepping back. "Fine. We’ll stay here until you return."

  The group nodded in agreement, and with that, Kaiju led Nobiru toward the sword maker’s hidden forge.

  They arrived at a secluded workshop, tucked away behind layers of thick stone walls. The air was thick with the scent of burning coal and molten metal. Inside, a man with silver-streaked hair and a rugged beard was working on a blade. His arms were covered in soot and scars, proof of his years at the forge.

  Kaiju called out, "Haruto!"

  The swordsmith turned, revealing sharp eyes that glimmered with curiosity. He wiped sweat from his brow and grinned. "Kaiju! Long time no see."

  Then, with an effortless flick of his wrist, he unsheathed his own sword. The moment it left its scabbard, a powerful gust of wind erupted through the workshop. Before Nobiru could react, Haruto was suddenly standing in the sky, balancing effortlessly on the blade as if it were an extension of his own body.

  With a swift motion, he descended, landing gracefully before them. He sheathed his sword and crossed his arms.

  "Alright, kid, who are you?" Haruto asked, glancing at Nobiru. "Why did you bring a child here, Kaiju? I told you this place is hidden from the witches."

  Nobiru’s eyes flared with anger. "I am not a kid!" he snapped. "I am the King of the Three Kingdoms!"

  Haruto blinked. "What?" He turned to Kaiju. "Is he serious?"

  Kaiju smirked. "Dead serious. And he's powerful too—he defeated a Grade 1 witch with his own sword."

  Haruto’s demeanor shifted instantly. His amused expression hardened into something unreadable. "Wait… he defeated a Grade 1? How is that even possible?"

  Kaiju gestured toward Nobiru’s sword. "That’s why we’re here. His sword is… unique. We need your help to forge it into something even greater."

  Haruto extended his hand. "Let me see it."

  Nobiru handed over his blade, and Haruto inspected it with a practiced eye. His fingers traced the edge, feeling the subtle hum of magic coursing through it. Then, his gaze darkened.

  "This isn’t just any enchanted weapon…" Haruto muttered. "This sword holds the power of Capturesion—it allows its wielder to absorb the abilities of those they defeat."

  Kaiju nodded. "That’s why we need you to refine it. Nobiru is going to face Ujakhi—the Number 1 witch."

  Haruto let out a low whistle. "With just a sword?" He shook his head. "That’s crazy."

  "That’s why you’re going to make it stronger," Kaiju said firmly.

  Haruto cracked his knuckles. "Alright, fine. I’ll do it. But this is going to take everything I’ve got."

  Haruto walked over to the furnace and tossed Nobiru’s sword into the roaring flames. The metal glowed an intense orange as it melted down.

  "Kaiju, bring me the magic metal bar," Haruto ordered.

  Kaiju quickly handed him a silver-hued bar. Haruto threw it into the furnace, watching as the two metals fused together.

  Kaiju furrowed his brows. "What’s special about this metal?"

  Haruto smirked. "This metal enhances magical abilities tenfold. Not only will the sword’s power grow stronger, but it will also create a protective shield for its wielder—something you’ll desperately need against an opponent like Ujakhi."

  Suddenly, the flames surged violently. Haruto’s eyes widened. "Shut it down! Now!"

  Nobiru rushed to the lever and yanked it down. The furnace groaned, the flames dying instantly. The molten metal slowly poured into a mold, cooling rapidly. After a few moments, Haruto carefully lifted the newly forged blade from the mold and placed it on the anvil.

  With a deep breath, he picked up his hammer and began striking. Sparks flew with each powerful blow, illuminating the workshop in bursts of golden light.

  CLANG!

  CLANG!

  CLANG!

  Each strike resonated like thunder, as if the very essence of the sword was being reforged by the will of the gods themselves.

  After what felt like an eternity, Haruto stopped. His muscles tensed as he lifted the finished sword, its polished blade gleaming under the forge’s light. He turned to Nobiru and extended it toward him.

  "It’s done," Haruto said. "Now… move it."

  Nobiru reached out, gripping the hilt firmly. The moment his fingers wrapped around it, a pulse of energy surged through his body. He took a step forward and swung.

  A single slash.

  A massive shockwave erupted from the blade.

  The force was so overwhelming that every shop in the area was instantly obliterated—reduced to rubble in mere seconds.

  Kaiju and Haruto stood frozen, their eyes wide in disbelief.

  Nobiru looked at the destruction before him, then smirked.

  "I’m coming," he said.

  Meanwhile…

  Hanue paced back and forth, arms crossed. "It's taking too long. When are they coming back?"

  Sanu leaned against a wall, watching her with an amused expression. "Why are you so worried, Hanue? Nobiru can handle anything."

  Before she could respond, the door burst open. Kaiju and Nobiru strode in, their presence commanding attention.

  Everyone turned toward them. "What happened?" they asked in unison.

  Nobiru unsheathed his new sword, the blade gleaming with raw power. "I’m ready for the fight!" His voice carried an unshakable determination.

  Kaiju nodded. "Then let’s go." He paused, as if remembering something. "Oh, right—your weapons." He clapped his hands together, and suddenly, the wall behind them shimmered before vanishing into thin air.

  Gasps filled the room. Behind the wall lay a massive armory, stocked with an array of swords, axes, and mystical artifacts.

  Kaiju gestured toward them. "Hanue, Kakoro—take those two. And you two"—he pointed to another pair—"take those. They’ll help us heal after the battle."

  With their weapons secured, the group made their way to the palace gates. Hanue and Kakoro stepped forward, pushing open the heavy doors. The moment they entered, an eerie silence engulfed them.

  They had only taken a few steps when a figure emerged from the shadows.

  A witch.

  She smirked, her dark eyes gleaming with malice. "Oh? You finally arrived. I’ve been waiting for you for a long time."

  Nobiru’s expression remained cold. "Where is Queen Yamaba?"

  The witch chuckled. "First, tell me—who defeated Number Eleven?"

  Nobiru didn’t hesitate. "I killed her. And who are you?"

  The witch’s smirk deepened. "So, you’re the one who killed Number Eleven… I see. Impressive. But now you’ll regret it. My name is Yami. Grade-One, Number Nine."

  Nobiru gave a slight nod. "Happy to meet you."

  Before she could react, her body split in two.

  For a moment, Yami’s eyes widened in disbelief. "W-What…? But how…? You didn’t even draw your sword!"

  Nobiru calmly slid his weapon back into its sheath. "I did. You just couldn’t see it." He turned away. "Farewell."

  The others barely had time to process what had happened before Nobiru moved forward.

  As they advanced deeper into the palace, the path split into two separate corridors. Nobiru glanced at his team. "We’ll divide here. Sanu, Gayu—you’re with me. Hanue, Kakoro, Yuna, Meyan—you take the other path."

  Hanue and Kakoro nodded. "Let’s go!" Without another word, they sprinted into the left corridor.

  Nobiru glanced back. "Stay together. Sanu, take out the healing serum—we’ll need it soon."

  They rushed ahead, reaching a vast, open space. A single path stretched before them. A figure stood at its center.

  A witch.

  She smiled.

  Meanwhile, on Hanue’s side…

  Hanue led the group down the dimly lit corridor. "Look, there’s the way forward!"

  Just as they were about to proceed, another witch appeared, stepping into their path.

  "Hey! Sorry for being late," she said in a mocking tone. "I was supposed to kill all of you, but today, I’m in a good mood. Let’s play a game instead."

  Hanue narrowed her eyes. "Who are you?"

  The witch frowned, offended. "What kind of attitude is that? You don’t know my name?"

  Hanue crossed her arms. "No. I’m Hanue, head commander of this kingdom."

  The witch’s scowl deepened. "Hmph. I am Mizuki. Grade-Two, Number Twelve."

  Hanue’s grip on her sword tightened. "We don’t have time for this. Let’s fight."

  Mizuki sighed dramatically. "I told you, I don’t feel like killing you today. Instead, I’ve decided on a little game. If you win, you can go."

  Hanue and Kakoro exchanged glances. "What kind of game?"

  Mizuki grinned. "Roll the ball."

  Meyan blinked. "What?"

  Raising her hand, Mizuki conjured a massive ball in midair. The ground trembled as enormous walls rose around them, forming a giant maze.

  Mizuki floated above them, smirking. "The rules are simple. Get to the finish line. If you succeed, you already know your prize."

  Kakoro clenched his fists. "This witch is different from the others… We have to finish this fast and regroup with Nobiru."

  Hanue and Meyan nodded. "Let’s go!"

  They dashed forward.

  Time passed. Their breaths grew heavier, their pace slowing.

  Kakoro wiped the sweat from his brow. "We can’t find the end. We’re lost."

  Meyan glanced around. "There are only two options: either we break through these walls, or we climb to see where the exit is."

  Hanue exhaled sharply. "That’s impossible. The walls are too high."

  Meyan’s eyes hardened. "Then we have no choice—we’ll break through."

  Kakoro nodded. "Agreed. Everyone, take out your swords!"

  With renewed determination, they unleashed their strength, hacking away at the walls. Stone crumbled beneath their relentless attacks. One wall after another fell until, finally, an opening emerged.

  They stepped through—only to find Mizuki sitting comfortably on a rock, sipping a glass of juice.

  She smirked. "Oh? You made it? By breaking the walls? That’s cheating!"

  Meyan’s eyes darkened. "I don’t care." He stepped forward, sword in hand. "I’ll kill you for wasting our time."

  Mizuki lazily raised her hand, deflecting his attack. "You humans can’t defeat me with your bare hands."

  Meyan tightened his grip. "Then see for yourself."

  His next strike sent a shockwave through the air, forcing Mizuki back. Her eyes widened. "W-What is this sudden change in power?"

  Meyan’s voice was cold. "We’re ending this now. Attack her!"

  Hanue and Kakoro didn’t hesitate. Together, they struck Mizuki from all sides.

  The witch screamed as fatal wounds tore through her body. Blood pooled at her feet.

  "You humans…" she rasped.

  Meyan delivered the final blow, his blade slicing through her neck.

  Mizuki’s head hit the ground with a dull thud. Her lips trembled as she whispered, "Queen Yamaba… I am honored to have served you…"

  Silence.

  Meyan exhaled and turned to the others. "Let’s go. We need to regroup with Nobiru."

  Without another word, they ran forward, disappearing into the shadows.

  Meanwhile, back with Nobiru, Sanu, and Yuna, the battle raged on. Nobiru and the witch, Yakumo, clashed swords, the sheer force of their strikes sending a powerful gust through the air. Sparks danced around them as metal met metal.

  “You wield the power of natural elements with incredible mastery,” Nobiru acknowledged, gripping his sword tighter.

  Yakumo smirked. “And your power is just as extraordinary. But that flame erupting from your blade… It’s dangerous. However, your sword—” her sharp eyes narrowed, “is that your true strength?”

  Nobiru's lips curled into a confident smile. “You want to see my real power? Then watch closely.”

  With a swift movement, he swung his sword toward Yakumo. She raised her blade in defense, but the moment their weapons clashed, Nobiru’s sword began to glow with an ethereal radiance. Yakumo instinctively leaped back, her expression shifting from confidence to caution.

  “What is that light?!” she demanded, eyes widening.

  Nobiru raised his sword high. “This… is its true power—Capturesion. It doesn’t just cut—it absorbs.”

  Yakumo gasped, glancing at her weapon. A look of horror spread across her face. The elemental energy within her blade had vanished. It was nothing more than a lifeless hunk of metal now.

  “H-How? How can you steal my power?!” she stammered, stepping forward.

  But before she could react further, she felt something—an invisible force slicing through her very being. Her breath hitched as crimson lines appeared across her body. Time seemed to slow as the realization sank in.

  Nobiru exhaled. “Your skills are incredible. You’re the toughest opponent I’ve faced so far… but this is where it ends.”

  Yakumo's strength failed her. She collapsed to her knees, her body giving in to the inevitable.

  Nobiru turned, eyes set ahead. “We need to find Hanue, Meyan, and Kakoro.”

  With that, he strode forward. Sanu and Yuna followed close behind, their expressions grim yet determined. They hurried through a massive doorway, and as they emerged on the other side, their eyes fell upon a familiar sight—Meyan, Hanue, and Kakoro standing before them.

  Meyan’s eyes lit up. “Look! Nobiru and the others are here!”

  Without hesitation, Nobiru rushed toward them. “Are you all okay?”

  Meyan nodded, but before he could answer, Yuna hurried to his side. “I was worried about you, Meyan…” she murmured, her voice laced with relief.

  Meyan, caught off guard, felt warmth rise to his cheeks. He hesitated for a moment before responding softly, “Me too, Yuna.”

  Yuna’s blush deepened, and without thinking, she took his hand. Meyan smiled, holding hers in return, squeezing gently.

  Nobiru, watching them for a brief moment, then turned toward the towering gate ahead. His eyes burned with resolve. “Let’s move forward. We have no time to waste.”

  The group followed his lead, pushing open the massive gate. Beyond it lay a grand hall, its vastness overwhelming. Seated within were countless witches, their eyes cold and calculating. At the center, upon a throne of darkened gold, sat Queen Yamaba herself.

  To her right, another witch sat with an air of quiet authority. But what caught Nobiru’s eye was the golden sword encased in glass, positioned in the heart of the room like a sacred relic.

  They stepped forward, and Nobiru raised his voice. “I am Nobiru, King of this kingdom, and I have come to request your aid in returning to our world.”

  Queen Yamaba’s gaze remained unreadable. Then, in a voice as commanding as a storm, she replied, “You must prove yourself first.”

  Nobiru did not hesitate. “I am ready—for the sake of my friends.”

  Yamaba lifted a hand, and instantly, her witches rose to their feet. “My daughters, test him.”

  The air grew thick with anticipation. The witches surged forward, surrounding Nobiru in an instant. He only grinned, his blood singing with the thrill of battle.

  “Come at me!” he shouted.

  The witches lunged. Nobiru drew his sword, meeting them head-on. Sparks erupted as he clashed with all of them at once. With a single, powerful slash, he sent them reeling back. But more came.

  He turned his head sharply. “Kakoro! Hanue! Help me!”

  But his companions remained firm. “You have to fight alone,” Hanue called out. “We’re protecting Sanu and the others!”

  “Protecting them from who?!” Nobiru barked in frustration as the witches attacked again. He gritted his teeth and dodged, using the momentum to gain some distance. Then, channeling his mana, he swung his sword forward.

  A fire tornado erupted, spiraling through the hall.

  Some witches dodged in time. Others were not so lucky—the flames consumed them, their shrieks echoing through the chamber.

  But Nobiru wasn’t done.

  With another swift motion, he unleashed a hydro cannon.

  Water exploded from his blade like a roaring tidal wave, crashing through the palace. The chamber flooded instantly. The witches struggled against the force, but one by one, they were swallowed by the surging waters.

  And then… silence.

  The witches lay still. Defeated. Drowned.

  But before Nobiru could even take a breath, a presence heavier than anything before filled the air.

  A lone figure stepped forward. Unlike the others, she did not falter. Her aura was suffocating, her gaze piercing like a blade.

  “Impressive, boy,” she spoke, her voice carrying the weight of centuries. “I am the strongest witch here after our queen—Grade-1 No.1 Ujakhi, the oldest witch.”

  A slow, chilling smile spread across her face. “Let’s see if you can handle me.”

  Nobiru smirked, his voice laced with arrogance. “I heard about you from Mr. Kaiju. He said you were powerful—but that won’t stop me from defeating you and going home!”

  Ujakhi tilted her head, unimpressed. “Oh? Then try it if you can.”

  Without hesitation, Nobiru dashed forward, sword gleaming under the dim light of the palace. But just as he closed the distance, his body stiffened. His legs refused to move. His arms, frozen mid-swing, trembled with resistance.

  His eyes widened in confusion. “Why… Why can’t I move?”

  A cold, mocking laugh echoed through the grand hall. “I manipulated your mind and stopped you from running,” Ujakhi said, her voice dripping with amusement.

  Nobiru’s chest tightened with rage. “Let me move, you coward!” he shouted, struggling against the invisible force gripping him.

  Ujakhi only chuckled as she took slow, deliberate steps toward him. With each step, her nails elongated, morphing into razor-sharp claws that glinted like polished steel. Nobiru gritted his teeth and fought against the paralysis, but his body felt unbearably heavy, as if all his strength was being drained away.

  From the sides, Hanue and Kakoro lunged at Ujakhi, weapons drawn, their attacks aimed with deadly precision. But before they could reach her, an unseen force struck them with crushing power. In the blink of an eye, they were hurled backward, their bodies crashing against the towering palace pillars with a sickening thud.

  "Hanue! Kakoro!" Sanu and Yuna screamed in horror.

  Gayu and Meyan, their eyes burning with fury, rushed in next. But Ujakhi didn’t even glance in their direction. With a flick of her wrist, an invisible force sent them flying, their bodies colliding hard against the marble floor.

  Sanu and Yuna cried out again. “Meyan! Gayuuuu!”

  Nobiru’s rage reached its peak. His entire body burned with fury, his soul screaming for vengeance. He reached deep within himself, calling forth the stolen power of every witch he had slain. The air around him crackled with raw energy, his veins pulsating with an unnatural force as he merged their magic into one overwhelming surge.

  A sudden pulse of power erupted from his body. The paralysis shattered.

  Ujakhi's smug expression faltered.

  Taking advantage of her surprise, Nobiru lunged forward, his sword cutting through the air. Ujakhi barely had time to react before the blade slashed across her chest. A crimson spray followed, staining the pristine marble beneath them.

  Ujakhi stumbled back, clutching her wound. Her breath came in ragged gasps. “H-How did you move?!” she shrieked.

  Nobiru exhaled, his voice calm yet firm. “I combined the powers of all the witches I killed. Their strength is now mine.”

  Not wasting another second, he struck again. Ujakhi, still reeling from the first wound, raised her sword just in time to deflect his blow. The impact sent a shockwave through the palace, shattering the glass cage behind them. Shards rained down like fallen stars.

  From across the battlefield, Hanue’s voice rang out. “NOBIRU, USE THAT SWORD!”

  Nobiru's eyes darted toward the legendary blade resting upon its pedestal. Without hesitation, he sprinted toward it. His fingers wrapped around the hilt, and with a powerful pull, he lifted it high.

  A stunned silence filled the hall.

  From her throne, Yamaba rose, her eyes wide with realization. “You… You are the chosen one.”

  Then, to everyone’s shock, she knelt. The Queen of Witches bowed before him.

  Ujakhi, still bleeding, gaped at her. “Why are you bowing to him, my queen?”

  Yamaba’s voice was absolute. “Bow down, Ujakhi.”

  Reluctantly, the wounded warrior obeyed, lowering herself to one knee.

  Yamaba turned to Nobiru, her voice unsteady. “What do you desire, my king?”

  Nobiru exhaled. “I’ll explain everything.” And for the next two hours, he recounted his journey from the very beginning.

  Once he finished, Yamaba nodded in understanding. “Then let us send you home, King Nobiru.” She gestured toward the great doors. “Follow me. To the portal room.”

  The grand procession moved through the palace, their footsteps echoing through the dim corridors.

  Inside the portal chamber, witches stood in formation. At Yamaba’s command, they formed a perfect circle around Nobiru. Their lips moved in synchronized incantations, their voices weaving an eerie, ancient chant.

  The air trembled. The space in front of them distorted.

  And then, a portal ripped open. A swirling vortex of light and shadow, leading to his world.

  Yamaba spoke, her voice solemn. “Go quickly. The portal remains open for only five minutes.”

  Nobiru turned to Hanue and Kakoro, embracing them one last time. “Thank you. For everything.”

  He then declared, “From this day forth, Hanue shall be king. And Kakoro, you are once again the head chief leader.”

  Hanue and Kakoro bowed deeply. “We are honored, King Nobiru.”

  Nearby, Meyan hesitated before turning to Yuna. “Will you come with me?”

  Yuna’s gaze wavered. Then, after a moment, she nodded. “Yes.”

  With everything settled, Nobiru, Meyan, Gayu, Sanu, and Yuna stepped into the portal.

  And then—

  It closed.

  Forever.

  The Next Morning

  Nobiru’s eyes fluttered open.

  Sunlight streamed through the window, casting warm golden hues across his room. He blinked in confusion before bolting upright.

  His gaze snapped to his alarm clock.

  He was late.

  “Hey! Nobiru!” His mother’s voice called from downstairs. “Hurry up, you’re late for school!”

  The world spun in his mind, but instincts took over. He rushed through his morning routine—brushing, bathing, dressing—all while his thoughts raced.

  Had it all been real?

  Had he truly been a king?

  Brushing aside the questions, he scarfed down breakfast, hugged his mother goodbye, and sprinted to school.

  The morning was filled with the usual chaos—chatter, laughter, and teasing from friends. The first bell rang, signaling the start of class.

  Their teacher entered, standing before them with a warm smile. “Good morning, children.”

  “Good morning, teacher!” the class greeted in unison.

  The teacher continued, “We have a new student joining us today. Please welcome her.” She turned toward the door. “Yuna, come in.”

  Nobiru, Gayu, Meyan, and Sanu jumped from their seats.

  Their eyes widened in disbelief.

  “Yuna?!”

  STORY END