The gates of Dawnstead came into view just as the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting the sky in hues of orange and purple. The sight of the fortified walls brought a wave of relief to Ryan, Arya, and Grent. The journey down the Shattered Peaks had taken its toll, but they had made it back with the Core intact.
The guards at the gate straightened as the trio approached, their eyes widening at the sight of the reinforced container strapped to Arya's back. One of them stepped forward, his voice tinged with awe.
"You've returned. Did you—"
"We secured the Core," Arya interrupted, her tone brisk. "But we need to get it inside. Now."
The guard nodded quickly, signaling for the gates to be opened. The heavy wooden doors creaked as they swung inward, and the trio stepped into the bustling city. Despite the late hour, the streets were alive with activity. News of their mission had clearly spread, and adventurers and townsfolk alike stopped to watch as they passed.
"Looks like we're celebrities now," Grent said with a grin.
Arya rolled her eyes. "Let's just focus on getting this to the guild."
The Adventurer's Guild was quieter than usual, the usual chatter subdued as the trio entered the main hall. The guildmaster was waiting for them, along with several high-ranking members of the guild. Their eyes were fixed on the glowing container, their expressions a mix of curiosity and caution.
"You've done well," the guildmaster said, his voice solemn. "The Core is secure, thanks to you."
Arya set the container down on the table, stepping back as the mages moved forward to examine it. "It wasn't easy," she said. "The Guardian was stronger than anything we've faced before, and the journey back wasn't exactly a walk in the park."
Ryan nodded. "There were other creatures too. Shadow Stalkers. Smaller, but just as dangerous."
The guildmaster's brow furrowed. "The Peaks are known for their dangers, but this confirms our fears. The energy from the Cores is attracting these creatures, drawing them out of the shadows."
Grent crossed his arms. "Then we need to move fast. If there are more Cores out there, the longer we wait, the worse it'll get."
The guildmaster nodded. "Agreed. But for now, you've earned some rest. We'll analyze this Core and determine our next move. Be ready—your skills will be needed again soon."
The trio left the guildhall, the weight of their mission momentarily lifted. They made their way to a familiar tavern, its warm glow and lively chatter a welcome contrast to the cold, dangerous journey they had just endured.
Grent ordered a round of drinks, his booming laughter filling the room as he recounted their battle with the Guardian to an eager audience. Arya sat at the corner of their table, her eyes scanning the room even as she sipped her drink. Ryan, meanwhile, leaned back in his chair, letting the warmth of the fire and the noise of the tavern wash over him.
"You did good out there," Arya said, her voice cutting through the din. Her tone was softer than usual, almost approving.
Ryan glanced at her, surprised. "Thanks. But I couldn't have done it without you two."
Grent grinned, raising his mug. "Damn right you couldn't! But you're learning, kid. Fast. Keep it up, and you might just survive this."
Ryan chuckled, lifting his own mug in response. For the first time since entering this world, he felt like he belonged—not just as a player, but as part of a team.
As the night wore on, the trio eventually made their way to the rooms the guild had arranged for them. Ryan lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling. The events of the past few days played over in his mind—the battles, the challenges, the moment he had unlocked [Final Strike].
There was still so much he didn't understand about this world, about the Cores and the forces driving the shadows. But for now, he allowed himself a moment of peace, knowing that tomorrow would bring new challenges.
With that thought, he closed his eyes, letting exhaustion finally take hold.