With the challenge of concealing Akio's true form lingering in their minds, Makoto, Saki, and their loyal lion companion began their walk back to the town. The situation weighed heavily on them, as bringing such a magnificent beast into town could raise suspicion and potentially jeopardize their plans. Sensing their concern, Akio dutifully shrank down to a more inconspicuous size, blending seamlessly into the surrounding environment.

As they continued their stroll, Saki voiced her desire for a place they could call their own—a private space where they could train and where Akio could roam freely in his true form, alongside her summoned beasts. Makoto wholeheartedly agreed, sharing in the vision of a home where their dreams could flourish.

Determined to make Saki's dream come true, Makoto decided to inquire about purchasing a house from the mayor. They sought guidance from the guards they had become acquainted with, who informed them that the mayor was the one to approach but warned that it would cost at least 1000 gold. Undeterred by the steep price, Makoto led the way to the adventurers' guild to find work and start earning the necessary funds.

Inside the guild, their eyes fell upon a job posting—an escort mission to accompany a traveler to the kingdom, promising a reward of 500 gold. Curiosity piqued, they approached the front desk with the poster in hand and requested to accept the job. The clerk's gaze bore into them, a hint of concern evident in their eyes. The route had grown perilous in recent months, with few adventurers returning unharmed. It seemed that no one had been willing to undertake the task. Despite the warning, Makoto and Saki exchanged determined glances, unwilling to let go of the opportunity to earn the much-needed funds. They accepted the quest, knowing the risks that lay ahead.

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Dawn arrived, marking the beginning of their arduous journey. They found a young woman anxiously waiting outside the guild, her hair poorly dyed and dressed in commoner's attire, yet adorned with a beautiful gold amulet. Saki called out to introduce themselves, and together with the traveler, they set off from the town's gates.

Once a safe distance away, Makoto called out to Akio, who gracefully grew back to his true, magnificent form. The young woman let out a startled scream and instinctively started running away in fear. Saki swiftly chased after her, using her soothing words to calm her down. Eventually, they returned to where Makoto and Akio stood, reassuring the girl that there was nothing to fear.

Makoto's reassuring voice filled the air as he explained that Akio was a loyal companion, there to aid and protect them on their journey. With the misunderstanding cleared, Akio lowered his majestic form so that the girl and the duo could climb onto his back, creating a secure perch for their shared adventure.

With everyone situated, the trio embarked on their journey, Akio's powerful strides propelling them forward with breathtaking speed. The young woman's astonishment was evident as she exclaimed, realizing that a trip that was supposed to take three weeks would now be completed in a mere three days.

The wind whispered through their hair, carrying them toward an unknown horizon. Makoto, Saki, and their newfound travel companion braced themselves for the challenges that awaited them on this perilous route, their hearts aflame with determination and the promise of a rewarding future. And as they raced toward the kingdom, the bonds of friendship and unity grew stronger, propelling them forward into the unknown.