The corrupted manor lay behind them, its malevolent presence a fading memory as the companions ventured into the welcoming embrace of the forest. The moon hung high in the night sky, casting a gentle silver glow upon the world below.

As they made camp beneath a canopy of ancient trees, the crackling of a warm fire filled the air, casting flickering shadows that danced upon their faces. The sense of relief and accomplishment was palpable, their spirits lifted by the weight of their recent victory.

Midas, gazing into the crackling flames, spoke first. "To think that we faced Salvos and emerged victorious. It's almost surreal."

Boreas, reclining comfortably against a moss-covered rock, added with a wry grin, "Well, we did have the Primordial Hunter on our side. Can't say I'm surprised."

Mori, ever modest, rolled her eyes playfully. "Let's not forget whose idea it was to throw that vial of drake root powder."

Neres, his bow resting beside him, chimed in with a chuckle. "It was a team effort, as always. We complement each other."

Midas leaned back, feeling the warmth of the fire on his skin. "Speaking of which, let's consolidate our gains. I reached level 42 during the battle—a level unheard of in these parts, at least according to what you all had told me earlier."

Mori raised an eyebrow, impressed. "That's true, Midas. Isn't our King level 33?"

Boreas responded, "Or thereabout. He might have gained a level or two. Although even level 20 beasts are a rarity outside this forest."

Neres nodded his agreement and added, "I've reached level 25, and Mori is at the same level. Boreas, you're at 29. We've all grown significantly."

Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

Boreas nodded, a note of caution in his voice. "Indeed, we have. And with great power comes great responsibility. We must tread with caution from now on. Our strength will not be a secret for very long, and the power dynamic in our kingdom could shift with a simple word."

Midas understood the gravity of Boreas's words. "You're right, Boreas. We must use our newfound strength wisely. Our goal is to protect our kingdom from the darkness that threatens it."

Neres added, "And to help those who can't defend themselves. We have a duty to the people."

Mori's eyes gleamed with determination. "Our journey is far from over. There are more threats out there, more battles to be fought."

The night wore on, the crackling fire dwindling to a bed of smoldering embers. The companions had talked well into the night, swapping stories of their past adventures, the challenges they had faced, and the camaraderie that had grown among them.

Boreas stretched his arms and let out a contented sigh. "You know, I can't remember the last time we had a moment like this. Just sitting around, no monsters to fight, no impending doom."

Neres chuckled, his eyes fixed on the star-studded sky above. "It's a welcome change, that's for sure. I was getting tired of being cooped up in that manor."

Mori, her bow resting beside her, leaned back and stared into the dying flames. "It's moments like these that make it all worth it. The battles, the risks, the trials... they lead us to nights like this."

Midas nodded, a sense of gratitude washing over him. "I feel truly fortunate to have you all by my side. Without your guidance, I wouldn't have made it this far."

Boreas clapped him on the back with a grin. "You're way too humble for your own good, Midas. You've saved our skins time and again. I'd say you're well on your path to becoming a legend. Or rather you are already one. I don't know a single person that can defeat you in a fair fight."

Mori chimed in, her tone soft and sincere. "Thank you Midas, for everything."

Neres glanced at the others, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Speaking of legends, I heard a rumor that there's a hidden treasure deep within these woods. They say it's guarded by a fearsome beast, but the rewards are unimaginable."

Boreas raised an eyebrow. "I hope you aren't referring to the Forgotten Ruins? As far as I know, its a myth. But, I'm always up for a good adventure."

Mori grinned, her competitive spirit ignited. "And if there's a beast, it's just another challenge for us."

Midas chuckled, feeling a sense of purpose among them. "Then it's settled. After we've had some rest, we'll embark on our next adventure. Together."