Raimon stood in the courtyard of the Ducal Institute, overseeing the final preparations for his departure. After months immersed in alchemical research and the study of ancient bloodlines, it was time to address the pressing issues reported by Tomas. The southern villages of the duchy were experiencing disturbances—sightings of large, stealthy beasts that threatened the safety of the people.
He turned his attention to the carriage that would carry him on this journey. Unlike traditional designs, Raimon had incorporated modifications inspired by his previous life. The carriage was crafted from reinforced materials, its frame built with a combination of sturdy oak and light but strong alloys. The exterior was unassuming, but the interior boasted enhanced comfort and security features.
Soft leather seats were arranged to maximize space, and concealed compartments held emergency supplies and defensive mechanisms. The windows were made of transparent, impact-resistant crystal, allowing for clear visibility while providing protection. Underneath, the suspension system had been improved for a smoother ride over rough terrain.
Cedric approached, his travel gear neatly packed. "Impressive carriage," he remarked, running a hand along the polished surface. "You've outdone yourself."
Raimon smiled modestly. "I wanted to ensure we have a safe and comfortable journey. The roads to the southern villages can be unpredictable."
"Indeed," Cedric agreed. "Are the knights ready?"
"Yes," Raimon replied, glancing toward the group assembling nearby. "We'll be accompanied by six beginner Silver Rank knights. Three of them are earth element specialists, focusing on protection. Tomas will lead the contingent. His purification abilities will be invaluable."
Cedric nodded thoughtfully. "It's good to have him with us. I've heard much about his prowess."
"You'll get to see it firsthand," Raimon assured him.
As they boarded the carriage, Raimon took a moment to appreciate the crisp morning air. The sun cast a golden hue over the institute's spires, and a sense of purpose filled him.
"Ready?" he asked Cedric.
"Always," Cedric replied with a confident grin.
The carriage set off, the knights riding alongside on horseback. The early part of their journey took them through familiar landscapes—lush fields and well-trodden paths lined with sturdy oaks. As they progressed, the scenery began to change. The roads became less maintained, the forests denser.
Raimon observed the passing countryside, noting the improvements that had taken place since he had last traveled these roads. Thanks to the financial and structural reforms he had advised his father to implement, many villages now enjoyed better infrastructure and resources.
"Your influence is visible," Cedric commented, following Raimon's gaze. "The people seem more prosperous."
"It's a collective effort," Raimon replied. "But I'm glad to see the changes are making a difference."
They passed through a small town where the inhabitants greeted them warmly. Market stalls displayed an abundance of goods, and children played in the streets.
"Hard to imagine troubles brewing not far from here," Cedric mused.
"Which is why we must address them promptly," Raimon said. "The peace here is fragile."
As evening approached, they decided to make camp near a crossroads. The knights set up a perimeter, and a modest fire was lit. Over a simple meal, they discussed the situation ahead.
"Tomas's last report mentioned sightings of large beasts," Raimon began. "But no direct attacks yet. Our goal is to investigate and eliminate any threats."
One of the earth-element knights, Sir Galen, spoke up. "The terrain ahead is rugged. Our abilities will be well-suited to defensive measures if needed."
"Excellent," Raimon acknowledged. "Stay alert. We don't know what we might encounter."
The next morning, they resumed their journey. The path led them through a thick forest, the canopy above casting dappled shadows on the ground. The atmosphere grew tense as they ventured deeper.
Suddenly, the carriage slowed. The driver called back, "There's something on the road ahead!"
Raimon and Cedric disembarked to investigate. Before them lay the remnants of a small village—the structures damaged, smoke rising from smoldering ruins.
"This wasn't in any reports," Cedric said grimly.
Raimon signaled for caution. "Proceed carefully. Look for survivors."
As they moved through the village, they found signs of a recent attack—broken carts, scattered belongings, and tracks leading away into the woods.
"Over here!" one of the knights called out.
They approached to find a group of wagons, hastily abandoned. Upon closer inspection, Raimon noticed symbols associated with southern slave traders etched into the wood.
"Slavers," Cedric spat, his eyes narrowing. "They must have attacked the village."
Raimon examined the area. "But why leave their wagons behind?"
A faint sound caught his attention—a muffled cry coming from one of the wagons.
"Someone's inside," Raimon said. "Help me open this."
Together, they forced the wagon door open. Inside, they found several captives bound and gagged—men, women, and children with expressions of fear and exhaustion.
"You're safe now," Raimon assured them, cutting their restraints.
One of the captives, a villager with a bruised face, spoke urgently. "They took others deeper into the forest. Please, you must help them."
"Did you see where they went?" Cedric asked.
The man pointed shakily. "That way. They have a camp near the river."
Raimon turned to Tomas. "Assemble a team. We need to move quickly."
"At once," Tomas responded, rallying the knights.
As they prepared to depart, Raimon noticed a young girl sitting quietly at the back of the wagon. She appeared to be around nine years old, her eyes a striking shade of amber that seemed to reflect the light. Her hair was a deep matte black, contrasting sharply with her pale skin. Despite her age, there was a certain poise in her posture.
He approached her gently. "Are you hurt?"
She looked up at him, her gaze piercing yet unreadable. "I'm fine," she said softly.
"What's your name?" he asked.
"Elara," she replied.
"Elara, we'll get you to safety. Stay close to the others."
She nodded but didn't move to join the group.
Raimon sensed something unusual about her. There was an aura of quiet strength that belied her youthful appearance.
Cedric touched his shoulder. "We need to go."
"Right," Raimon agreed. "Tomas, leave some knights to protect the villagers. The rest of us will pursue the slavers."
They followed the trail through the forest, moving swiftly yet cautiously. The sounds of the river grew louder, and soon they spotted the slavers' camp nestled among the trees.
From their vantage point, they observed a group of armed men guarding additional captives.
"We need a plan," Cedric whispered. "They outnumber us."
Raimon assessed the situation. "We'll use the element of surprise. Sir Galen, can you manipulate the earth to create a distraction?"
Galen nodded. "Consider it done."
"On my signal, Tomas and Cedric will lead the charge to free the captives. The rest of us will provide support."
They moved into position. Galen focused his energy, causing the ground beneath the camp to tremble. The slavers shouted in alarm as fissures opened, disrupting their formation.
"Now!" Raimon commanded.
Their group surged forward. Tomas led the way, his purification aura shining as he disarmed opponents with precision. Cedric moved with agility, his dark-attribute aura allowing him to strike swiftly from the shadows.
Raimon engaged the slavers who attempted to regroup, his swordsmanship honed by years of training. Despite their numbers, the slavers were unprepared for such a coordinated assault.
Within minutes, the captives were freed, and the remaining slavers surrendered or fled into the forest.
One of the freed captives, a woman clutching her young son, tearfully thanked them. "We thought all hope was lost."
"You're safe now," Raimon assured her. "We'll escort you back to the village."
As they gathered the captives, Cedric approached Raimon with a puzzled expression. "I saw Elara among the prisoners. How did she get here?"
Raimon's brow furrowed. "She was with the group we rescued earlier."
They found Elara standing calmly near the riverbank. Raimon approached her cautiously.
"Elara, how did you get here?" he asked gently.
She met his gaze. "I wanted to help."
"Help? It's dangerous out here."
She glanced toward the forest. "The slavers won't bother anyone anymore."
Cedric exchanged a wary look with Raimon. "What do you mean?"
Before she could answer, one of the knights called out. "My lord, you need to see this."
They followed him to a clearing where several slavers lay unconscious, some showing signs of injuries that didn't match any weapons the knights had used.
"What happened here?" Tomas wondered aloud.
Elara stepped forward. "I stopped them."
Raimon looked at her incredulously. "How?"
She raised her hand, and for a brief moment, a faint glow emanated from her palm. "I can protect myself."
Cedric's eyes widened. "She possesses abilities."
Raimon knelt to her level. "Elara, where are you from?"
She hesitated. "I don't remember. They've kept me captive for as long as I can recall."
Raimon considered the situation. "We can't leave her here. She may be in danger."
"Agreed," Cedric said. "But we should proceed carefully."
"Elara, would you like to come with us?" Raimon offered.
She nodded slowly. "Yes. Thank you."
As they made their way back to the village, Raimon couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Elara than met the eye. Her physical appearance—the amber eyes, the matte black hair, and the maturity in her demeanor—suggested a deeper mystery.
Back at the village, they ensured all the captives were tended to. The villagers expressed their profound gratitude, offering food and shelter.
That evening, Raimon and Cedric discussed their next steps.
"Elara's abilities are unusual," Cedric remarked. "Do you think she could be related to the disturbances reported by Tomas?"
"It's possible," Raimon admitted. "She may hold answers."
"Should we inform the others?"
"Not yet," Raimon decided. "Let's keep this between us until we know more."
They approached Elara, who was sitting quietly by the fire.
"Elara," Raimon began, "do you know anything about the large beasts that have been sighted in these areas?"
She looked into the flames. "I've sensed them. They're drawn to something."
"To what?" Cedric asked.
She met their eyes. "To me."
Raimon's mind raced. "Why would they be drawn to you?"
"Because of what I am," she replied softly. "I'm not... entirely human."