The throne room of Frtion was grand and imposing, its high ceilings adorned with intricate carvings depicting the history and legends of the demi-human realm. Kuro and Raga stood before Empress Raftiyl, her presence commanding yet serene. The Empress read Lyra's letter with a thoughtful expression, then looked up, her eyes piercing yet kind.

"Welcome to Frtion, Kuro Tenebrax and Raga," she began, her voice echoing softly in the vast hall. "Lyra speaks highly of you both. Kuro, your journey from the demon realm and your integration into our society is commendable. Raga, your loyalty and service to the settlement are well noted."

Kuro and Raga exchanged glances, feeling a mix of pride and anticipation. "Thank you, Your Majesty," Kuro said respectfully. "We are honored to be here."

Empress Raftiyl nodded. "I understand you seek knowledge and understanding, Kuro. Our realm holds many secrets, and there is much you can learn here. However, the times are perilous. There are forces at play that threaten the stability of our world."

Kuro's interest was piqued. "What kind of forces, Your Majesty?"

The Empress leaned forward slightly. "There have been reports of strange occurrences at the borders of our realm. Shadows moving in ways they shouldn't, whispers in the wind, and disappearances. I fear that these may be signs of a greater threat—one that could endanger not just the demi-human realm, but all realms."

Raga stepped forward. "What do you need us to do, Empress?"

Empress Raftiyl considered for a moment. "Before we discuss that, I must tell you both that your combat abilities are well-known. If you were ranked by humans, you would be considered at least A-rank warriors. Together, you are even more formidable."

Kuro and Raga nodded, acknowledging the compliment. The Empress then continued, her tone growing more serious. "There is a mission I need you to undertake. It is delicate and dangerous, but it is vital for the well-being of our people."

Kuro and Raga listened intently as the Empress explained. "In the human kingdom of Arkertonia, the slavery of beast folk is rampant. Despite the kingdom's slave laws, nothing has changed, and our people are still being forced into servitude. We call this mission a 'Slave Save'."

Kuro's expression darkened at the mention of slavery. "What do you need us to do?"

The Empress nodded, appreciating their readiness. "There is a slave caravan that will pass through the Woods of Beastly Faith. I want you to ambush them and free our people. Ensure everyone is brought back safely."

She then added with a sly smile, "You might even get to play the knight in shining armor for some damsels in distress."

Raga chuckled at the remark, but both he and Kuro understood the gravity of the mission. As they prepared to leave, the Empress delivered one final directive. "With all the conflict between humans and demons, the last thing we want is for either side to be on our tails. Take prisoners if necessary, but do not kill a single human."

Kuro and Raga bowed deeply. "Understood, Your Majesty," Kuro said. "We will not fail."

With their mission clear, the two warriors set off, determined to succeed.

The journey to the Woods of Beastly Faith was swift, their resolve propelling them forward. They moved with purpose, discussing strategies and potential scenarios they might face. As they neared the designated area, Kuro and Raga scouted the terrain, identifying the best spots for an ambush.

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The woods were dense, with towering trees and thick underbrush providing ample cover. They found a vantage point overlooking the road where the caravan would pass, giving them a clear view of their targets without being seen.

As they waited, Kuro and Raga remained silent, their senses alert. The sound of distant wheels and the clinking of chains reached their ears, signaling the approach of the caravan. Kuro's grip on his Rune Sword tightened, the weight of the mission pressing down on him.

Finally, the caravan appeared—a long line of wagons and guards, with beast folk chained and shackled inside. Kuro's heart ached at the sight, but he steeled himself, knowing they had to act quickly and decisively.

"Remember, no killing," Kuro whispered to Raga.

Raga nodded. "Let's do this."

With a signal from Kuro, the ambush began. They moved with precision and speed, Kuro using his agility to disarm the guards and incapacitate them with minimal force. Raga's strength and skill with his two-handed sword allowed him to subdue multiple opponents at once, his movements swift and controlled.

The guards were taken by surprise, their attempts to retaliate quickly thwarted by Kuro and Raga's coordinated attacks. Within minutes, the caravan was subdued, the guards bound and disarmed.

Kuro turned to the captives, his voice gentle yet firm. "We are here to free you. Stay calm, and we will get you out of here safely."

With Raga's help, Kuro unlocked the chains and shackles, liberating the beast folk one by one. The expressions of fear and despair on their faces slowly turned to relief and gratitude.

As they guided the freed captives away from the caravan, Kuro noticed a young beast kin woman who seemed particularly frightened. He approached her, offering a reassuring smile. "You're safe now. We're taking you home."

Tears filled her eyes as she whispered, "Thank you."

Once the captives were safe, Kuro and Raga gathered the bound guards, ensuring they were secure. They would bring them back to Frtion as prisoners, as the Empress had instructed.

With the mission complete, Kuro and Raga led the group back through the woods, their hearts filled with a sense of accomplishment. The journey back to Frtion was long, but the gratitude and hope in the eyes of those they had rescued made it worthwhile.

As they approached Frtion, Kuro and Raga felt a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. The city gates opened to welcome them, and they were greeted by a contingent of guards who took custody of the prisoners.

Empress Raftiyl awaited them in the palace, her expression one of pride and relief. "You have done well," she said, her voice filled with warmth. "You have brought hope to our people and shown the strength of our unity."

Kuro and Raga bowed deeply. "Thank you, Your Majesty," Kuro replied. "We are honored to serve."

The Empress smiled. "Rest now. You have earned it. But know that there will be more challenges ahead. Our world is changing, and we must be ready for whatever comes."

Kuro nodded, understanding the weight of her words. The journey was far from over, but he was ready to face whatever lay ahead, united with his newfound allies and the wisdom he had gained along the way.

As he and Raga left the throne room, Kuro felt a renewed sense of purpose. Yet, beneath that resolve, a darker realization simmered. He had sworn never to kill again after his father's death, but with the allies he had made and the side he had taken, that vow felt increasingly fragile. The war between humans and demons was escalating, and Kuro knew that the day might come when he would have to break his vow. The thought weighed heavily on his heart, a shadow lurking at the edges of his mind.

Meanwhile, in the Empress's private chamber, Lyra and Empress Raftiyl sat discussing the recent events.

"Raga and Kuro make quite a team," Lyra said, sipping her tea. "Who do you think would win in a fight between them?"

The Empress smiled thoughtfully. "Raga is experienced, no doubt. His skills with a two-handed sword are unparalleled. But Kuro... there's something about him. A raw potential and a fierce determination. I believe Kuro would have the upper hand."

Lyra nodded in agreement. "I've seen that determination in his eyes. He's driven by something deeper."

The Empress leaned back, a playful glint in her eyes. "And he's quite the sight to behold, isn't he? Handsome and strong. I can see why many might be drawn to him."

Lyra chuckled. "Indeed. He has a certain charm."

As their conversation shifted to lighter topics, the two women shared a moment of camaraderie, their laughter echoing softly in the room.