The five companions—Nia, Roderick, Thal, Wesley, and Uni—sat in stunned silence, watching the black-robed man devour the food set before them. He had already consumed the portions of four individuals and was now finishing the fifth.
Roderick murmured, "I had no idea Lady Nia's cooking was so delectable that it could drive one to such ravenous lengths."
Thal's brow furrowed. "It seems he's been famished for quite some time."
Wesley marveled, "Goodness, where does all that food go? His frame hardly seems able to accommodate it all."
As the black-robed man set down the empty bowl, an expression of lingering satisfaction crossed his features, chilling the others.
Nia tentatively inquired, "Do you require anything else?"
The man shook his head. "No, thank you."
Nia glanced at her companions, seeing their apprehensive expressions, and reluctantly said, "Very well, I shall prepare more."
Suddenly, a piercing, anguished cry echoed through the mountains, its haunting resonance persisting.
Uni reacted instantly, drawing her sword. "It's a monster."
The group rose to face the source of the sound. The black-robed man also slowly stood, positioning himself behind them.
A foul wind swept through, rustling the leaves. With a thunderous crash, a monstrous ape-like creature burst from the dense foliage. Its simian head and long limbs, black fur, and four protruding fangs were accompanied by a savage glint in its eyes.
Uni's heart raced as she recognized the fearsome "Ape Fiend," a powerful and vicious high-level monster, difficult to confront. She urgently warned the others, "Be careful, this is the formidable 'Ape Fiend.' It will not be easy to defeat..."
To her surprise, the black-robed stranger was the only one still standing behind her, the others having swiftly retreated to a safe distance.
"Cowards," Uni muttered under her breath, casting a curious glance at the man, who responded with a faint smile that inexplicably warmed her cheeks.
The Ape Fiend let out a deafening roar and charged forward. Uni steeled her resolve and prepared to engage the beast.
Observing the intense battle, Wesley quietly turned to Thal. "Aren't the dwarves renowned for their valor and martial prowess? Why aren't you helping?"
Thal rolled his eyes. "Have you ever seen an old, dying dwarf fight bravely?"
Wesley retorted, "And have you ever seen a thief engage in hand-to-hand combat like a warrior?"
"Hmph. Then what about you, the singer? Didn't you claim to be the greatest hero?" Thal shot back.
Roderick puffed out his chest. "My hands are for playing the lute for Lady Nia, not for engaging in savage brawling."
The three men collectively scoffed at Roderick's response.
Suddenly, Wesley turned to Nia. "Wait, don't you have offensive spells? Why aren't you helping Uni?"
Nia coughed nervously. "Well, Uni-sister is eager to hone her sword skills, so I'm letting her have the opportunity."
Roderick eyed her suspiciously. "Could it be that you're afraid..."
A resounding thud interrupted him as Roderick crumpled to the ground, stars dancing before his eyes.