"Rai."

A soft voice echoes in my mind.

Surprised, I strain to listen, my attention fixed on the cozy wooden table before me.

...

"Rai, are you alright?" Amy's voice resonates clearly within me.

"Oh... Amy, could you repeat that?"

She giggles sweetly, "You're the one who was sharing the story, and then you just drifted away."

I look at Amy, who's sitting next to me, her face marked with a hint of worry.

"S-sorry. I think... I had a momentary nightmare," I grab my head slightly.

"Can you tell me about it?" Amy places her hand gently on my cheek, her words filled with concern.

I nod in understanding.

As I part my lips to recount the details, my vision suddenly warps, casting the surroundings in eerie shades of red and black. Flames greedily lick at the mini-bar positioned behind Amy, and the wooden chair I'm seated on appears to drift into the distance, blurring before my eyes.

Startled, I take a step back, my eyes locked onto Amy.

"Amy!!!"

She meets my gaze, a mournful smile gracing her face. The object behind her, once a harmless silhouette, gradually morphs into a grotesque, crimson, demonic creature wielding a malevolent giant sickle.

"AMY, RUN!!!"

I shout, my voice reverberating through the distorted nightmare realm, as I dash towards her. But before I can reach her, the creature lunges forward with its sickle, slicing her chest with cruel precision.

"Rai, please... stay... alive..."

"NO!!! AMY!!!"

!!!

I bolt awake, gasping for air, my heart racing within my chest.

...

Haah... haah...

...

"It was just a dream... Amy..."

My breathing gradually steadies, and the tight grip on my chest slowly eases. Tears stream down my cheeks as I fully awaken.

"Rise and shine," a familiar voice greets me.

I turn my attention to the source and find Alpha standing beside me, a young child playfully darting around him.

"Good morning," I reply, getting to my feet, my hand instinctively reaching for the handle of my reliable Iron Sword.

The survivors in our group are busy preparing themselves around the lit bonfire, gathering what little supplies they have.

"Today, we head to the capital city of Orie. I need to give a detailed account of what happened in our hometown and find shelter for the survivors," Alpha shouts loudly before facing in the deep forest's direction.

"Before that, swordsman in red," a survivor approaches Alpha, raising his hand to get his attention.

"What is it?" Alpha inquires, his focus on the survivor.

"We're running low on provisions. Some of us are too scared to venture beyond the camp. Is there any way we can find food? Meat or anything in this forest?" the survivor pleads with his voice a bit trembling.

Alpha nods, understanding the desperate situation, and then looks at me.

"Shall we go? It could be a good morning workout for you."

I nod, stepping forward to join him.

"Wait, I'm coming too," a familiar voice chimes in.

image [https://gdurl.com/NnyY]

The familiar bearded man in his sleeveless hunter suit emerges from among the survivors, his presence both comforting and bittersweet.

"Dad..." I whisper, emotions swirling inside me.

"I'm a Hunter, and I've hunted for pelts and food in this forest before," He reveals, stepping forward to join our group.

"... Master Rodger, so I see you're still helping around the village. Thank you for all your services," Alpha acknowledges, his voice tinged with gratitude.

Rodger, the hunter which I know as Amy's father, and one of the trusting hunter of the village, shakes his head, "Just call me Rodger. It's nothing comparing to the outside world where you venture, young lad."

Alpha smiles slightly.

I avert my gaze, still grappling with the recent revelations, until Rodger walks over to me.

"Let's face this challenge together. Remember the training I gave you in the past," he pets my shoulder firmly.

"This time, I think I can finally lending you a hand," I try to hide my certainty, in which I failed due to the pain that I hold throughout all my shoulders.

Rodger's grip on my shoulder tightens, a wordless reassurance. It makes me scream a bit, "Now isn't the time for doubt. Think of the villagers, not just yourself, or her..."

I nod after tapping his hand twice, the weight of responsibility settling firmly on my shoulders along with the pain.

"Let's go. Our mission isn't just for us; it's for the villagers," I declare.

Rodger grins at me, offering his support. "That's the spirit. Everybody, we'll be back within the hour!!"

Together, we set off on our mission, the forest looming ahead, our hearts united in purpose.

...

We find ourselves in the vast expanse of Sylph Forest.

Living up to its name, with a rich variety of trees that cast a captivating aura all around. However, it doesn't offer much in the way of valuable resources, except for the occasional rats and slithering snakes that roam its depths.

My mind drifts, captivated by the serene beauty of the forest, until a sudden call snaps me back to reality.

Standing in the middle of a small path surrounding by trees, a snake is diving itself toward me in a distance!

"Rai, it's heading your way!"

I quickly refocus, spotting a snake inching closer, ready to strike at any moment.

"Hi-yah!!!" I shout, deftly sidestepping as the snake lunges towards me, venomous fangs on display. With a precise move, I block its attack, guiding its bite toward the edge of my blade.

"Excellent work. Allow me to finish it," Alpha steps in, charging towards me and effortlessly beheading the snake, leaving the bodiless snake gradually opening and closing its mouth before stopping.

I glance over at Rodger, his presence radiating mastery. He skillfully shoots arrows, dispatching rats with practiced ease.

"I can't help but regret not learning from him in the past..." I mumble to myself.

"Don't dwell on those thoughts. You've made significant progress," Alpha reassures, brimming me with encouragement.

"Thank you, Alpha."

Rodger joins us, bearing the results of his successful hunt, with a good number of creatures in tow.

"I've caught quite a few. These should be enough for sustenance," he proudly announces.

"Alright. We just need some firewood," Alpha responds.

"Got it," I acknowledge.

Rodger and I start gathering branches together.

Alpha observes both of us, letting out a relieved sigh as he ponders our journey.

"The road ahead might be tough for you, my friend," he says softly. "Let's head back."

We nod in agreement, carrying the collected firewood, and return to where the other survivors are waiting.

…

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"We have returned!" I announce, drawing the attention of all the survivors. They gather around us, anticipation evident in their eyes.

Rodger and I step up, placing the gathered firewood in an open area along the path we traveled.

"Clear the way," Alpha orders, drawing his sword. With a swift motion, he skillfully grazes the ground, setting the firewood ablaze in a dazzling burst of flames.

Whoosh!!

"Finished," Alpha declares, sheathing his sword.

… Whoa.

My eyes are entranced by Alpha's incredible skill, and it seems the villagers are equally amazed.

"Is this the power of an adventurer? It's incredible..." I hear villagers murmuring and whispering amongst themselves.

"Alright, everyone, let's roast our spoils and enjoy a hearty feast. We need to fill our bellies for the long journey ahead!"

As Alpha finished talking, the survivors begin their moves, helping each other, skewering freshly hunted meats onto sticks and placing them near the fire, eagerly anticipating the delicious roasting.

I feel a little spark of nostalgia of these view. It feels like the usual day in the village back then.

Looking at Alpha's direction, I can't help myself but to wonder about the other person.

"Alpha," I address him, the lingering questions in my mind compelling me to ask. "Did you and Josh ever cross paths in the past?"

"We did," he answers, a touch of nostalgia in his voice. "We weren't exactly partners, but we did take on several quests together."

Alpha falls silent, his expression briefly clouded by unspoken thoughts.

"Is something bothering you?" Curiosity aroused around me after seeing his expression.

He chuckles softly. "Nothing of consequence. Somehow, he found a place to call home."

His response leaves me with more questions than answers.

"The food is almost ready. Get ready to eat and prepare for our journey," he advises.

"Of course, Alpha."

I reach for the cooked meats, joining the survivors in their hearty feast. Alpha, however, maintains a solitary spot, watching from a distance. As I relish the nourishing meal, my thoughts drift back to the events of the previous day.

It's hard to believe that I'm still here, among the living, after all the challenges we've faced.

Alpha's voice breaks through my reverie. "We can't afford to waste any more time. Let's leave before nightfall. Finding another safe spot like this won't be easy."

The survivors express their agreement, and we begin our journey once more. Some of the children continue to eat as they walk, their youthful energy propelling them forward.

…

Several hours later, we delve deeper into the forest, with Alpha leading the way, his presence bringing a comforting sense of security. I walk alongside him, while Rodger keeps a watchful eye at the rear. Along our path, forest rats and snakes cross our way, but their threats are swiftly neutralized with the combined efforts of Alpha and my father. I seize every opportunity to sharpen my skills with the Iron Sword that Alpha entrusted to me.

After several hours of navigating the unfamiliar terrain, we find ourselves in a secluded area deep within the forest. The tired survivors seek a well-deserved break, resting and recuperating, while Alpha, Rodger, and I remain vigilant, guarding over them.

The day has been long, and weariness seeps into my bones. My aching feet long for relief.

Two survivors depart to fetch water, while the children engage in a playful chase, occasionally seeking comfort by the side of the adults.

Suddenly, one of the survivors points in a specific direction, capturing everyone's attention.

"Look, over there!"

"What is it?" I ask, my curiosity fully piqued.

"I just spotted a series of treehouses over there in the distance. Maybe we can find supplies and take shelter for the night!" the survivor says while pointing at the thicker part of the forest, in which some shadow resembling the houses can be seen.

Alpha's expression darkens. "I don't think it's wise," he cautions.

"Why not?" I tilt my head while gazing at the shades of the treehouses.

"They are inhabited by elves, the native inhabitants of this forest. They have a strong dislike for humans and prefer to stay isolated deep within these woods."

"Elves? You mean those beings with pointed ears, like in folklore?"

Alpha nods solemnly.

"However, given our current situation, though, we desperately need shelter and food. Besides, nightfall is approaching fast. To ensure our safety, I'll go ahead and assess the situation. Rai, come with me," Alpha decides, his tone resolute.

I nod in agreement, walking alongside Alpha.

"I'll stay here," Rodger states.

"I trust in your skills, Dad."

I give him a wave and then follow Alpha towards the treehouses.

...

Moments later, we find ourselves in front of a fancy double gate made of wood. The shape is out of the human-made with some several twirls by the end of the middle.

Alpha readies his sword.

"Rai, stand behind me!"

Before he even finishes his sentence, a barrage of arrows comes flying at us.

Alpha quickly unsheathes his sword, deflecting the arrows with precise and expert strokes. I step back, ensuring my safety, while I watch in awe as he skillfully wards off the projectiles.

My eyes remain fixed on what lies ahead.

image [https://gdurl.com/z5_D]

Standing before us is an enchanting female elf, her alabaster skin a stark contrast to her intricately woven hair. She wears a snug, dark leather dress with a gracefully flowing short skirt, and a silver rapier hangs at her waist. Her bare feet make no sound as she takes a poised stance, her eyes sharp and her bow ready to strike.

"Humans. Leave this sacred ground," she commands, her bow unwaveringly aimed at us.

"I have a valid reason for being here, milady," Alpha responds, showing no aggressive intent as he lowers his sword. Nevertheless, the elf remains steadfast, her bow steady.

"Regardless of your reasons, I won't allow humans to trespass upon this sacred place. I won't warn you again. Go!" she declares, loosing another arrow. Alpha swiftly sidesteps to the right, advancing toward the elf with incredible agility.

With a fluid motion, the elf sets aside her bow, drawing her rapier with precision, her stance fierce and unwaveringly directed at Alpha.

Alpha swings his sword, but the elf effortlessly evades, displaying astonishing speed. Unfazed, she launches a series of thrusts, her rapier dancing gracefully through the air.

Alpha skillfully parries each strike, his defenses flawless.

"Not bad," he comments, a hint of admiration in his voice.

The elf maintains her focused stance, her eyes locked on Alpha, the tension between them palpable.

"Do not underestimate me! This is no mere skirmish! I intend to end your life here and now!" she retorts fiercely as she feels irritated of Alpha's out-of-seriousness behavior.

"Come. Show me your skills," Alpha challenges, a hint of amusement dancing on his lips as he assumes a defensive stance.

The female elf charges forward, her unwavering determination driving her to pierce Alpha with her rapier.

In response, Alpha raises his sword, taking an offensive position.

"[Crescent Slash]!!"

Alpha executes a lightning-fast slash, his sword forming a wide "V" shape as it moves swiftly toward the elf.

The sheer force of his attack creates a shockwave that momentarily unsettles the elf. She attempts to evade by spinning her body and raising her rapier.

"[Gale Thrust]!!"

With remarkable speed, she thrusts her rapier at Alpha repeatedly, launching a rapid assault.

Alpha adeptly dodges some of the attacks, but a few strikes find their mark, piercing his left shoulder and right foot, clanging against his armor. Nevertheless, he promptly parries her final strike and readies himself for another attack.

"Enough!!!"

A powerful scream reverberates through the air, accompanied by the soaring trajectory of a flaming arrow. It pierces the ground between Alpha and the elf, causing both combatants to step back, releasing their hold on each other.

"Elder, these humans sought to claim our sacred grounds. I believe you should-"

A figure with striking cerulean hair steps forward, clad in blue attire and a fur coat that looks like a mountain bandit. He lowers his large wooden bow and places a reassuring hand on the elf's shoulder.

"Don't forget, I am a human too," he emphasizes while glaring at the elf.

I'm taken aback by this revelation, and Alpha visibly composes himself, sheathing his sword. The female elf, her face perspiring, bows her head and sheathes her rapier.

"Forgive me," she mutters, taking a few steps back.

Alpha exchanges a knowing smirk with the blue-haired individual and approaches him. The person with cerulean hair grins back, leaning in for a whispered conversation, nodding several times.

The grin on the cerulean-haired person's face widens as he walks towards me. An eerie feeling washes over me as I observe the exchanged expressions between them.

What are they planning? My body tenses up, rendering me unable to move, as if they're conspiring against me.

"Please... spare me?" I manage to say, my smile tinged with fear.

With a malevolent grin etched on his face, the blue-haired person slowly advances toward me, savoring my fear.

The bewildered elf watches, while Alpha turns his gaze away, trying to suppress his laughter.

"Please, what kind of prank are you pulling... Hey!" I stammer, my legs shaking uncontrollably.

I can only imagine a future filled with suffering and torment. The blue-haired individual stops his approach, halting just inches from my face, his malevolent grin intact.

"H... hi? Do I know y... you?" I stammer, my voice trembling.

Suddenly, in an instant, he embraces me, chuckling all the while.

"LONG TIME NO SEE, YELLOW BROOM-HAIRED GUY!! GLAD YOU'RE STILL DAMN ALIVE AND WELL, DAMMIT!!"

Confusion washes over me, and the elf appears equally bewildered. Alpha, unable to contain himself, bursts into fits of laughter.

It hits me like a lightning bolt. I realize who he is—Joshua! One of my dearest childhood friends.

image [https://gdurl.com/z0-i]

His changed appearance surprises me, and I can't help but wonder about the transformation in his hair.

"It's me, silly! Long time no see, Rai! I thought you were dead already!"

"How absurd! But I'm genuinely glad. It's really you!" I exclaim.

Alpha, patting Josh's shoulder, faces me.

"You still remember him, huh?"

Of course I do. He is Josh, one of my closest childhood friends. It puzzles me how he came to be an elder in this elf forest, his peculiar attributes, and how I never realized he lived so close to our village all this time!

"Allow me to introduce you. This playful elf here is Galvana, the village's guardian. Don't be fooled by her fierce expression; deep down, she has a kind heart," Josh explains.

Kind-hearted? I find it hard to see past her ferocity, resembling that of a ravenous lioness intent on devouring both Alpha and me.

"Uh... okay..."

"Pleasure to see you again," Alpha interjects.

Galvana, clearly annoyed, shoots Josh a sharp glare with her piercing eyes.

"Enough already! I had no idea they were your acquaintances!" she exclaims, her face flushed with either embarrassment or anger.

Wait, why the sudden shift in attitude? Where did her icy traits and fierce countenance disappear to?

"I'm leaving! Handle things on your own!" Galvana declares, storming off towards a large treehouse with an irritated expression.

"I should gather the survivors and provide them shelter for the night before we depart," Alpha announces.

"Very well. I shall prepare some tea to accompany the old sake. Feel free to join me at my abode," Josh suggests.

"And what about me?" I inquire.

"Rai, my dear friend, you shall be my honored guest. Follow me and regale me with your stories," he replies.

"A-alright then..."

I follow behind Josh as Alpha heads towards the gate to invite the other survivors.

#

End of Chapter 5