The dawn broke gently over Violet Castle, casting hues of pink and gold across the sky. Raimon stirred from his sleep, the soft light filtering through the ornate curtains of his chamber. Today was the day they would depart for the northern frontier, a journey that promised both peril and the potential for great advancement. Rising from his bed, he dressed swiftly, his mind already focused on the tasks ahead.
Descending the grand staircase, Raimon made his way to the dining hall where his family and friends were gathered for breakfast. The long table was laden with an array of dishes—freshly baked bread, ripe fruits, cured meats, and steaming pots of tea. His father, Duke Raion, sat at the head of the table, his mother Reineza to his right. His grandfather Alaric occupied the seat to the Duke's left, his eyes sharp and alert despite the early hour. Morrison, March, Mancil, and Fenix were already seated, engaged in light conversation.
"Good morning, everyone," Raimon greeted as he took his place.
"Morning, Raimon," Morrison replied with a nod. "Ready for the big day?"
"As ready as ever," Raimon said, pouring himself a cup of tea. "We have much to do before we set out."
His mother smiled warmly at him. "Make sure you eat well. A long journey requires strength."
He returned her smile. "I will, Mother."
As they ate, the conversation shifted to the final preparations. The air was filled with a mixture of excitement and solemnity. The hunt for the Glacial Wolf Demon was not just any expedition—it was a significant undertaking that required meticulous planning.
After breakfast, Raimon and his friends moved to the courtyard where the knights were assembling. The sight before them was both impressive and solemn. Ninety knights stood in formation, their armor gleaming under the morning sun. These were not ordinary soldiers; they were the elite selected from Duke Raion's personal guard and veteran knights from the castle where Raimon had spent five years training.
Raimon began to address the assembled forces alongside his grandfather and the senior knights.
"Today, we embark on a journey beyond our borders," Raimon announced, his voice carrying across the courtyard. "Our mission is to hunt the Glacial Wolf Demon, a creature of immense power. Each of you has been chosen for your skill, courage, and dedication. Together, we will succeed."
He glanced over the ranks, taking note of the composition of their force:
40 Bronze Rank Knights, ranging from intermediate to maximum level. These knights were sturdy and reliable, their experience in battle evident in the way they held themselves.
35 Silver Rank Knights, from beginners to those at the peak of their rank. Their auras shimmered subtly, a testament to their advanced training and control.
10 Gold Rank Knights, each a formidable warrior in their own right. Among them stood Sir Leon, Sir Gareth, Sir Roland, and the butler Edmund—all Gold Rank maximum knights whose reputations preceded them.
Raimon noted the absence of Sir Oric, who was currently engaged in the eastern crusade alongside Marcus Crow. Nevertheless, the presence of his grandfather, Alaric Flower—a maximum Earth Knight—more than compensated for it. His aura alone was enough to bolster the morale of the entire company.
Turning to Tomas, who stood beside him, Raimon placed a hand on his shoulder. "This journey is especially significant for you," he said quietly. "Are you prepared?"
Tomas met his gaze with unwavering determination. "Yes, Lord Raimon. I am ready."
Raimon nodded. "Good. Remember, this is not just about strength but also about wisdom and restraint."
Nearby, Morrison observed the gathering with keen interest. "It's quite a sight," he remarked to March and Mancil. "An entire cavalry unit—a rarity in these times."
"Especially with mounts like these," March added, gesturing to the row of Frisian horses being prepared. "I've never seen such magnificent beasts."
Indeed, the Frisian horses were a sight to behold. This was the first time in recent history that a full squadron of mounted knights would ride into battle. The horses, transformed by Raimon's bloodline purification process, stood tall and proud, their coats gleaming with a mysterious sheen. They were larger and stronger than ordinary horses, exuding an aura that hinted at their enhanced capabilities.
Sir Leon approached Raimon, his expression serious yet respectful. "My Lord, the knights are ready, and the horses have been equipped. We've ensured that each rider is matched with a mount suitable to their aura level."
"Excellent work, Sir Leon," Raimon replied. "Today marks a new chapter in our military history."
As they finalized the preparations, Raimon took a moment to address his friends. "Morrison, March, Mancil, Fénix—this journey will be dangerous. We will be venturing into the demonic forest beyond our borders. Are you all still willing to accompany us?"
Morrison smirked confidently. "Wouldn't miss it for the world. Besides, it's about time we got some real combat experience."
March grinned. "I've been itching for a good fight."
Mancil nodded solemnly. "We're with you, Raimon."
Fénix adjusted her staff, her eyes reflecting both determination and a hint of apprehension. "I'll do my part."
With everything in order, it was time to depart. At the castle gates, Duke Raion and Duchess Reineza stood waiting to bid them farewell. The Duke approached his father and son, his expression a mixture of pride and concern.
"Father, Raimon—may the family ancestors watch over you," Raion said, his voice steady. "Return safely."
Reineza stepped forward, her gaze softening as she looked at Raimon. "Take care of yourself," she said gently. "And look after your friends."
Raimon embraced his mother. "I will, Mother. We'll be back before you know it."
Alaric clapped his son on the shoulder. "Don't worry, Raion. I'll keep an eye on our young prodigy here."
Raion managed a slight smile. "I know you will."
As they mounted their horses—Raimon on his own Frisian, a stallion named Shadowfax—they prepared to set off. The gates swung open, revealing the road that would lead them northward.
"Move out!" Sir Leon commanded, his voice echoing.
The company began to march, the sound of hooves and armor creating a rhythmic cadence. The sight was awe-inspiring—a unified force moving with purpose and precision.
Raimon rode at the forefront alongside his grandfather and the senior knights. His friends followed closely, their expressions reflecting a mixture of excitement and solemnity. This journey would not only test their abilities but also forge them into true warriors.
As they left the familiar surroundings of Violet Castle behind, Raimon couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but also with the potential for great achievement.
Their first destination was the Northern Border Fortress, a stronghold that guarded the edge of their territory. Beyond it lay the Demonic Forest, a vast expanse teeming with creatures of darkness and mystery. It was said that the deeper one ventured, the more formidable the beasts became.
During a brief halt, Raimon rode alongside Tomas. "Remember our objectives," he reminded. "Our primary goal is to locate and hunt the Glacial Wolf Demon. Stay focused."
Tomas nodded. "Understood. I've been studying the reports and familiarizing myself with its known patterns."
"Good. And stay close to the senior knights. Their experience will be invaluable."
As they continued their journey, the landscape began to change. The lush fields gave way to rugged terrain, and the air grew colder. The trees became denser, their branches intertwining to create a canopy that filtered the sunlight.
At the Northern Border Fortress, they were greeted by the garrison commander, a stern man named Captain Reynard. "Lord Alaric, Lord Raimon," he said with a bow. "We have been expecting you."
"Thank you, Captain," Alaric replied. "Any recent activity we should be aware of?"
Captain Reynard gestured toward the distant tree line. "We've had reports of increased demonic beast movements. The forest seems restless."
Raimon exchanged a glance with his grandfather. "Then we must be cautious."
They spent the night at the fortress, using the time to rest and strategize. Maps were spread across tables, and the knights gathered to discuss formations and contingency plans.
Morrison leaned over one of the maps. "According to this, the area we're heading into is uncharted."
"Mostly," Sir Gareth confirmed. "Few venture that deep and return to tell the tale."
Fenix studied the markings. "The magical energies in that region are likely to be intense. We should prepare accordingly."
The next morning, they crossed the border into the Demonic Forest. The atmosphere shifted immediately—a palpable sense of foreboding hung in the air. The sounds of distant creatures echoed through the trees.
"Stay alert," Sir Leon advised. "We're in enemy territory now."
As they advanced, they encountered smaller demonic beasts—creatures that tested their defenses but were swiftly dealt with. It served as both a warm-up and a reminder of the dangers that lurked within.
Raimon observed his friends as they engaged in combat. Morrison's wind-based aura allowed him to move swiftly, striking with precision. March wielded his sword with strength and confidence, while Mancil's strategic mind helped coordinate their efforts. Fenix provided magical support, her spells enhancing their abilities and shielding them from harm.
Tomas fought with a fervor that impressed even the seasoned knights. His dedication and training were evident in every move.
"He's improving rapidly," Sir Roland remarked to Raimon. "You chose well in making him your right hand."
Raimon nodded. "He has great potential. This journey will be the catalyst for his transformation."
As they ventured deeper, the challenges intensified. The creatures they faced grew more formidable, and the environment itself seemed to conspire against them. Yet, the knights remained resolute.
One evening, as they set up camp, Raimon gathered his friends around the fire. "How are you all holding up?"
"Tired but invigorated," March replied, stretching his arms. "This is what we've been training for."
Morrison nodded. "It's a valuable experience. Facing real threats is different from sparring at the Institute."
Fenix sipped from a cup of herbal tea. "The magical energies here are indeed stronger. I've been able to tap into spells I hadn't mastered before."
"That's good," Raimon said. "We'll need every advantage we can get."
As the night wore on, they shared stories and reinforced their camaraderie. The journey was as much about personal growth as it was about accomplishing their mission.
Before retiring, Raimon looked up at the stars visible through the canopy. The path ahead was uncertain, but he felt confident in their abilities. With his grandfather's guidance and the strength of their assembled forces, they were prepared to face whatever awaited them in the depths of the Demonic Forest.
"Rest well," he told his friends. "Tomorrow, we continue onward."
They nodded, each lost in their own thoughts.
The next phase of their journey would bring them closer to the Glacial Wolf Demon—and to the pivotal moment that could change their lives forever.