The courtyard of the palace was alive with the clash of steel and the cheers of onlookers. Kuro and Raga were locked in an intense sparring session, their blades moving with lightning speed. The guards around them watched in awe, captivated by the display of skill and power.High above, on a balcony overlooking the courtyard, Lyra and Empress Raftiyl observed the match with keen interest. The sun cast a golden hue over the scene, highlighting the sweat and determination on the faces of the two warriors below.Kuro moved with a fluid grace, his Rune Sword a blur as he parried Raga's powerful strikes. Raga's unique blue hair whipped around as he swung his massive two-handed sword with precision and strength. The air was thick with anticipation, each clash of their blades sending sparks flying."Impressive," Lyra remarked, leaning on the balcony rail. "Kuro has improved significantly since he first arrived."The Empress nodded. "Indeed. His dedication is evident, and Raga is a worthy opponent. This match will be one for the books."Below, Kuro and Raga circled each other, their eyes locked in a silent challenge. With a burst of speed, Kuro lunged, his sword aimed at Raga's midsection. Raga deflected the blow and countered with a powerful overhead strike. Kuro dodged, rolling to the side and coming up with a swift slash that grazed Raga's arm.Raga grinned, acknowledging the hit. "Not bad, Kuro. But can you keep up?"Kuro smirked. "Let's find out."The intensity of the fight increased, each warrior pushing the other to their limits. The guards cheered louder, urging them on. Finally, with a deft maneuver, Kuro disarmed Raga, sending his sword flying. Kuro's blade was at Raga's throat, signaling the end of the match.A chorus of applause erupted from the spectators as Kuro stepped back, offering Raga a hand. "Good fight," he said, helping his friend to his feet.Raga laughed, clapping Kuro on the back. "You got me this time, but I'll get you next time."Lyra and the Empress descended from the balcony to join them. The Empress smiled, her eyes shining with approval. "Well done, both of you. That was a spectacular display of skill and camaraderie."Lyra approached Kuro, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Wait a minute, Lyra!" Kuro exclaimed, his eyes widening in surprise. "What the hell are you doing here?"Lyra chuckled, crossing her arms. "Can't a girl come to see an old friend? Besides, I had to see for myself if you were still up to the challenge."Kuro shook his head, a smile tugging at his lips. "You never change, do you?""Nope," Lyra said with a wink. "Congratulations on the win, Kuro. You've come a long way."The Empress stepped forward, addressing both Kuro and Raga. "You've earned yourselves a free day. Enjoy it, relax, and take in the city. You both deserve it."Kuro and Raga exchanged excited glances. "Thank you, Your Majesty," they said in unison, bowing respectfully.Without wasting a moment, they ran to change into casual clothes. Dressed in simple tunics and trousers, they looked like any other young men eager for a day of adventure. They darted out of the palace gates, eager to explore Frtion before the Empress could change her mind.The bustling streets of Frtion welcomed them with open arms. Market stalls lined the roads, offering everything from exotic fruits to finely crafted jewelry. The air was filled with the sounds of merchants haggling and children laughing.Kuro and Raga wandered through the market, sampling food and admiring the wares. They chatted easily, their bond of friendship evident in their relaxed demeanor. They shared stories of their past adventures, laughed at each other's jokes, and enjoyed the simple pleasure of each other's company.As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the city, Kuro and Raga found themselves at a quiet spot overlooking a serene lake. They sat down on the grass, taking in the peaceful view."It's been quite a journey, hasn't it?" Kuro said, breaking the comfortable silence.Raga nodded. "Yeah. From strangers to comrades, and now friends. I wouldn't have it any other way."Kuro looked out at the lake, his expression thoughtful. "You know, after everything that happened, I swore I'd stay away from killing. But with this war growing and the allies I've made, I don't know if I can keep that vow much longer."Raga placed a hand on Kuro's shoulder. "We do what we must to protect those we care about. Just remember, you're not alone in this. We'll face whatever comes together."Kuro smiled, feeling a renewed sense of determination, albeit tinged with a darker realization. The path ahead was uncertain, but with friends like Raga and the support of the beast folk, he knew he had the strength to face it.Back at the palace, Lyra and Empress Raftiyl stood on the balcony, watching the distant city lights."You know, Lyra," the Empress said thoughtfully, "Kuro is quite the remarkable individual. He's not only strong but also rather good-looking."Lyra laughed. "Oh, I noticed. But more importantly, he has a good heart. He'll do great things, I'm sure of it."The Empress nodded in agreement, a soft smile playing on her lips as they continued to talk about Kuro and his potential, the chapter slowly fading out with their conversation.