At the border of Arlyne, the illustrious capital of Vidin, stood the formidable Arlyne Castle, the largest and most impregnable fortress in the kingdom. This majestic stronghold served as the primary line of defense for the capital, housing the royal palace at its heart. Arlyne itself was a city of unparalleled beauty, renowned across the continent for its serene weather, refined populace, and thriving economy. It was the crown jewel of a kingdom that led the world in trade and prosperity.

The air within and around the castle was thick with the cacophony of clashing swords and the resounding echoes of soldiers training. Some wielded swords, spears, or halberds with precision, while others grappled in unarmed combat. High-ranking knights observed the drills, issuing commands with authority and guiding the soldiers with unwavering discipline.

At the castle’s entrance, Captain Adam Aravos strode with an air of elegance and purpose. The guards at the barracks entrance snapped to attention, saluting him with utmost respect. In a place like this, Adam’s reputation preceded him—he was the paramount figure responsible for the palace’s security, a man of unparalleled skill and dedication.

Adam continued his path through the training grounds, his presence commanding reverence. As he approached the castle gates, the guards once again saluted and stepped aside, allowing him to pass without hindrance. Inside the castle, the atmosphere was more subdued, with officers moving about with quiet efficiency. This was, after all, the heart of the kingdom’s power.

Adam ascended the stairs with his characteristic composure, his calm demeanor captivating those around him. He reached the third floor, passing guards and officers who saluted him formally as he walked by. He entered a long hall lined with officers, each acknowledging him with respect, until he arrived at a wooden door flanked by two knights.

“Captain Adam!” the knights greeted in unison, their halberds held firmly as they saluted.

“I’m here to see General Rhaegel,” Adam declared with a stern expression. The knights exchanged surprised glances before one stammered, “O-of course, Captain. Just a moment while I inform the general.”

Inside the room, General Rhaegel was engrossed in drafting critical documents. His fierce countenance, marked by short black hair and dark, piercing eyes, was accentuated by his imposing armor and fur cape. He was a man of formidable strength and unyielding resolve.

A knock on the door interrupted his work. “Come in,” Rhaegel commanded, his voice firm yet tinged with curiosity.

The knight entered and bowed respectfully. “General, Captain Adam Aravos is here to see you.”

Adam stepped in, and Rhaegel’s initial surprise quickly gave way to his usual stern expression. “Take your leave, and ensure no one disturbs us,” Rhaegel ordered, his gaze fixed on Adam.

The knight bowed again and exited, closing the door behind him.

“Sit down, Adam. Why do you insist on standing?” Rhaegel asked, gathering the scattered documents on his desk.

“I’m not here for pleasantries, General,” Adam replied curtly.

“Whatever you wish to discuss doesn’t require you to remain on your feet. I know you prefer walking, and I’m certain you came here on foot. Sit and rest,” Rhaegel said while putting the documents back in a drawer, his tone calm but insistent.

Adam exhaled sharply and reluctantly took a seat across from the general.

“You can drop the formalities. There’s no need for titles when we’re alone,” Rhaegel remarked.

“We’re not friends, General. You may address me as you wish, but I’ll continue to address you by your rank,” Adam stated firmly.

Rhaegel sighed, a hint of disappointment in his eyes. “You haven’t changed, even after all these years.”

“As long as I remember what you did, don’t expect me to change,” Adam retorted, his voice laced with bitterness.

“For the thousandth time, I had no choice,” Rhaegel replied, his tone steady.

“You had options, General. But you chose the most severe punishment. I can still hear your words from that day. The day I was named the strongest spiritual knight in the kingdom, that’s when you began to treat me differently. Just admit it,” Adam challenged.

“You went after a hell grade dark caster alone, without orders. You could have been killed, even with your skills,” Rhaegel countered.

“Yet nothing happened. You were afraid I might surpass you, despite my youth. I saw the fear in your eyes,” Adam accused.

“The fear you saw wasn’t for myself. It was for you. Your father had the same fire, and it led to his downfall. I feared you would meet the same fate. You’re stronger than he was, but you share his recklessness. That’s why I made that decision,” Rhaegel explained, his voice heavy with conviction.

“You took away the one thing I aspired to be. If not for His Majesty, I would have been left in obscurity because of you. I trusted you to guide me, just as my father did. You taught me how to wield a sword when I was just a boy. But you shattered that trust,” Adam said, his anger palpable.

“I would have made a thousand harsher decisions to keep you safe, as I promised your father. You were blinded by youthful enthusiasm and your own skill. But look at you now, Adam. You’ve grown wiser under His Majesty’s guidance. You’re not the same reckless youth who sought to confront every evil without thought,” Rhaegel said, his tone softening.

Adam averted his gaze, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. “Let’s change the subject. My opinion won’t change, and this is a waste of time.”

“Then why are you here, Adam? What brings you to me after all these years?” Rhaegel asked, a note of sadness in his voice.

“I need your help with a delicate matter. You’re the only one who can assist me,” Adam admitted.

“If you’re seeking my help after all this time, it must be more than delicate,” Rhaegel observed.

“It is what it is. I can’t divulge much. His Majesty entrusted me with this task personally,” Adam said.

Rhaegel smiled faintly. “I’m proud that you’ve earned such trust from His Majesty. Your father would have wanted this for you.”

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“You have no right to be proud. My Knighthood could have ended because of you. The only pride you should feel is if you were the one who recommended me to His Majesty. But that’s not the case, so drop the act, General,” Adam said coldly.

“Even if you remain harsh toward me, I know the day will come when you’ll understand I did the right thing,” Rhaegel said calmly.

Adam looked away, his thoughts conflicted. Deep down, he couldn’t forgive Rhaegel, but he couldn’t be certain if the general’s actions back then were driven by fear or genuine concern.

“Will you help me or not?” Adam asked.

“You haven’t even told me what you need help with,” Rhaegel pointed out.

“You’re capable of helping me. I need to know if you’re willing,” Adam pressed.

“You know me better than that. Of course, I’ll help. If not for His Majesty, then for you,” Rhaegel said.

Adam’s expression softened slightly. “Fine. I’m searching for someone His Majesty urgently needs. Despite extensive investigations, I’ve hit a dead end. I only know the last place she was seen, but after that, there’s no trace of her.”

“What do you need from me?” Rhaegel asked.

“I need you to find someone connected to her,” Adam explained.

“I won’t ask how you know about this connection. When it comes to investigations, you’re unmatched. Just tell me who this person is,” Rhaegel said.

“The girl was a member of a thieves’ guild in Orstone called the Shadow Seekers,” Adam revealed.

“I’ve heard of them. They’re notoriously elusive,” Rhaegel remarked.

“They were, but they’ve been compromised,” Adam said.

“Did the authorities in Orstone finally deal with them?” Rhaegel asked.

“No. Someone else found their hideout and wiped them out,” Adam said.

Rhaegel’s eyes widened in surprise. “Does this have anything to do with the recent demon attack in Orstone?”

“Exactly. There’s a connection. The same assassin who destroyed the guild was after the girl. He also released the demon that caused the havoc,” Adam explained.

“That’s a lot to process. Why are you searching for this girl?” Rhaegel asked.

“I believe she holds the key to many unanswered questions,” Adam said.

Rhaegel smiled knowingly. “You’re not telling me everything, but I understand the sensitivity of the situation. It must be of great importance.”

Adam allowed a faint smile to cross his lips, which Rhaegel noticed.

“When I investigated their hideout, I found the leader’s corner. His name was Michael, and he was likely the one found dead near the office. I also discovered messages from someone named Lance, who was in regular contact with Michael and the guild. Lance was supposed to meet them, but he never revealed his origin. He might be dead, but if he’s alive, he could provide valuable information,” Adam explained.

“So, you want to find this Lance,” Rhaegel deduced.

“Exactly. Even if you don’t find him, any information would be useful,” Adam said.

“Don’t worry. I’ll use my connections to see if there’s any trace of Lance linked to the Shadow Seekers in Orstone,” Rhaegel assured him.

“That’s why I came to you. This is urgent, General,” Adam said.

“You’ve come to the right person. I’ll inform you as soon as I find anything,” Rhaegel said.

“Good. I think I’m done here,” Adam said, standing up.

“You haven’t had anything to drink. Why don’t you stay for a while? We could talk,” Rhaegel offered.

“I’m sorry, General. I have much to do,” Adam said, turning to leave.

“Adam,” Rhaegel called out as Adam reached the door.

Adam paused but didn’t turn around.

“It was good to see you after all this time,” Rhaegel said softly.

Adam nodded slightly before opening the door and stepping out. The knights saluted him as he left, and one entered the room.

“Do you need anything before I close the door, General?” the knight asked.

“No, just close it,” Rhaegel said, his stern demeanor returning.

The knight obeyed, leaving Rhaegel alone. He gazed out the window at the soldiers training below, a sense of hope stirring within him.

**Back at the Warehouse**

In a dimly lit warehouse, John stood by a window, gazing at the moon as night fell. Edward stood behind him, visibly anxious.

“Are you certain about this, John? What you’re planning is incredibly risky,” Edward said, his voice trembling with worry.

“Stay calm, Edward. I’ve considered every angle, and this is our best chance. Eliminating the hunter is the key to our victory,” John said, his eyes fixed on the moon.

“Aren’t you underestimating him?” Edward asked, his fear evident.

“No. This is the only way. He trusts no one but this man, and that’s his weakness. Any hesitation will lead to failure. I’m tired of living in fear. It’s time to act and carve my name in history as the one who brought the Crimson Child to her destiny. Can’t you feel it, Edward? We’re on the brink of glory,” John said, his voice filled with determination.

“I don’t know. I’m still terrified of what I’ve heard about the hunter,” Edward admitted.

“Consider him a relic of the past. He won’t see this coming,” John said calmly, his gaze shifting to the far end of the room where a bound figure lay unconscious, their face concealed by a sack!

At that moment, Shisk entered the room with a guard. “Yes, Mr. John,” Shisk said.

“It’s time. You know what to do. Stay silent and avoid drawing attention. And whatever happens, do not touch the hunter,” John instructed.

“At once, Mr. John,” Shisk replied before leaving with the guard.

“Relax, Edward. In an hour, you’ll send a crow to my father with a message. Tell him we’ve found the girl and that I’ll bring her to them in a few days. Inform him that I’ll bring honor to the Rascliffes,” John said proudly.

“Aren’t you worried at all, John?” Edward asked.

“Of course, I am. This is no simple matter. Worry is natural in such situations, but I have faith in my plan,” John said.

Edward looked at him, a mix of fear and admiration in his eyes. “I don’t know if this will work, but he’s never been this determined before. I hope it succeeds. John deserves more recognition from Mr. Alphonse,” Edward thought.

**Back at the Inn**

In their room at the inn, Jaxith and Irene sat together, the atmosphere relaxed.

“And that’s how Senka outran every horse on the farm,” Irene said proudly.

“Sounds like a busy day,” Jaxith remarked, inspecting his sword.

“Is something wrong with it?” Irene asked.

“Just ensuring it’s free of dust. I haven’t used it in a while,” Jaxith replied.

“You’re quite attached to that sword, aren’t you?” Irene teased, tapping the table between them.

“It’s important to me,” Jaxith said simply.

“How long have you had it?” Irene asked, resting her chin on her hands as she looked at him.

“A long time,” Jaxith said, his attention still on the sword, particularly the golden mark near the hilt.

“You could be more specific,” Irene prodded.

“Sixteen years,” Jaxith said.

Irene’s eyes widened in shock. “Wait, what? Did I hear that correctly?”

“You did,” Jaxith confirmed.

“That means you’ve had it since you were a child. But how is it still in such perfect condition? It looks brand new. The blade still shines. It’s made of a different metal, isn’t it? Not iron or silver,” Irene said, her curiosity piqued.

“Yes,” Jaxith said before sheathing the sword and setting it aside.

At that moment, Miller entered the room with a tray of food. “The best cook has returned,” Irene said cheerfully.

Jaxith smiled at her enthusiasm. “It seems I’ve made quite an impression on Irene,” Miller said with a smile as he placed the tray on the table.

“Thank you, Miller. I’ll miss you, but I’ll come back to visit once everything is resolved,” Irene said happily.

“I’ll miss you too, young lady. Now, eat up. I’ll be back shortly,” Miller said before leaving the room.

Jaxith watched him go, a hint of suspicion in his eyes, before taking a sip of his juice.

“I’m not waiting. I’m starving,” Irene said, digging into her meal.

Five minutes later, something strange happened. Jaxith suddenly clutched his chest in pain, dropping his glass, which shattered on the floor.

“Jax!” Irene screamed in panic as Jaxith collapsed.

“What’s happening?” Irene cried, rushing to his side.

Jaxith groaned in agony, unable to speak.

“I’ll get Miller. He’ll know what to do,” Irene said, standing up to leave, but Jaxith grabbed her leg.

“Run,” Jaxith managed to say through the pain.

“What are you talking about?” Irene asked, confused.

Miller walked in, his expression grim. “I’m sorry, Jaxith,” he said.

“Did you poison him?” Irene asked, tears streaming down her face.

“Run!” Jaxith shouted weakly.

Irene hesitated, unsure of what to do.

“Run!” Jaxith shouted again, his voice strained.

Irene tried to flee but suddenly felt dizzy. She stumbled, trying to steady herself, but eventually collapsed, unconscious.

“No, Irene!” Jaxith groaned, his vision blurring as two figures entered the room and approached Irene.

“I’m sorry, my friend. They have her. I had no choice,” Miller said sadly.

Jaxith’s eyes closed as he saw Irene being carried away.

“Take his sword, but don’t touch him,” a harsh voice commanded, the last thing Jaxith heard before darkness claimed him.