As the protagonist entered the village of Oakwood, the guards' eyes widened in surprise. They had given up hope of ever seeing him again, thinking that he had fallen prey to the dangers of the forest. It had been two days since he had ventured in, and they had assumed the worst.
But here he was, standing before them, looking a bit worse for wear but very much alive. The guards' surprise turned to awe as they took in the sight of the four missing villagers standing behind him.
The protagonist approached the guards, a hint of exhaustion still evident in his voice. "I found a Goblin village deep in the forest," he said, his words drawing the guards' attention. "I didn't destroy the village, but some of the goblins escaped. I apologize for not being able to kill them all."
The guards exchanged stunned glances. They couldn't believe that the protagonist had taken on a Goblin village by himself and come out on top. The gods themselves seemed to be watching over him, and they couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence towards the young hero.
One of the guards stepped forward, his voice filled with respect. "Please, enter the village and meet with the chief. He will want to hear your tale and reward you for your bravery."
The protagonist nodded, leading the way as the guards ushered him into the village. As they walked, the villagers emerged from their homes, their faces filled with curiosity and admiration. They had heard rumors of the protagonist's exploits, but to see him in person, surrounded by the people he had saved, was a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Finally, they arrived at the chief's hut, where the village leader sat waiting. His face broke into a wide smile as he saw the protagonist, and he rose from his seat to greet him.
"Ah, young hero," the chief said, his voice filled with gratitude. "You have done the impossible. You have brought back our people, and for that, we are eternally grateful."
The chief handed the protagonist a parchment, adorned with the village's seal. "You have completed the quest to rescue the missing villagers. This paper is your proof, and it will grant you access to any reward you desire within the village."