The next morning, Hiori woke up with a slight heaviness in her head. She blinked a few times, staring at a ceiling she didn't recognize at all.
"Where… am I?" she murmured softly, her heart beginning to fill with confusion and a touch of anxiety.
Hiori sat up from the bed, her feet touching the cold floor. With hesitant steps, she approached the window. As she drew back the curtain, her eyes widened. Outside was not the familiar village view she knew—not meadows or distant woods—but white-painted houses, towering buildings, busy streets echoing with the sound of horses' hooves and steam carriages, and the unfamiliar bustle of a city.
"What is this…?" she whispered, as if unable to believe what she was seeing. Before she could process the situation further, the bedroom door slowly creaked open. Calm footsteps broke the silence.
"Hey, you're awake?" Gamiel appeared in the doorway, still wearing part of his light armor, looking as tough as ever. But this time, his voice was more relaxed—almost friendly. "How are you feeling now?"
Hiori turned around, looking at the man with confused eyes. "I-I'm fine now," she answered, a little uncertain. "But… you're the one who saved me, right? Your name is…"
Before she could finish her sentence, Gamiel raised his hand slightly, interrupting her calmly. "Gamiel Solarius," he said, his eyes sharp yet kind as they met hers. "That's my name."
Hiori looked at Gamiel for a moment before a small smile appeared on her lips. "I know… everyone knows who you are," she said quietly, though her voice carried a hint of mystery.
Gamiel raised an eyebrow, looking slightly intrigued. "Oh? What do you know about me?"
"Who doesn't know the 'Child of Light'? The legendary warrior who brings light into the darkness? Your stories are everywhere," Hiori replied, then gave a slight smirk, trying to lighten the mood. "But, if I'm being honest, I think you're actually a nice guy."
Gamiel chuckled softly, not expecting the young girl to crack a joke amid her shock. "Kindness doesn't determine strength. Remember that," he replied, crossing his arms as if trying to look serious, though the warmth in his tone said otherwise.
Hiori let out a deep sigh, then looked at Gamiel with a suddenly serious gaze. "So… why am I here? What happened to my village? Am I the only one who survived?"
Gamiel was silent for a moment, then stepped closer to Hiori. He looked out the window, watching the never-ending bustle of the city. "Yes," he finally replied. "Your village was completely destroyed, and you… you were the only one we managed to save."
Hiori bit her lower lip, her eyes starting to well up, but she held back her tears. She stared at the unfamiliar city, feeling so small amidst everything that had happened.
"But listen to me," Gamiel continued, his tone firm yet full of conviction. "Your life didn't end there. You survived for a reason. This world… is full of darkness. And maybe, Hiori, you're one of the lights that can change it."
Hiori looked at Gamiel in disbelief. "Me? A light? I couldn't even save my family…"
"Everyone starts in the dark, Hiori," Gamiel interrupted, turning to her. "I did too. You'll understand when the time comes."
Hiori fell silent, trying to process Gamiel's words. Even though she still felt small and powerless, there was something in the way Gamiel spoke—in the way he carried himself—that made her heart feel just a little bit stronger.
"All right," Hiori finally said, though her voice still trembled. "Then teach me… teach me how to fight the darkness."
Gamiel gave a small smile. "We'll see, Hiori. You've chosen a difficult path, but also the right one."
He stood by the window, watching as the city of Risin began to stir with morning activity. Behind him, Hiori remained seated on the bed, her eyes filled with curiosity. Gamiel turned and broke the silence.
"By the way, Panavia and I examined your body last night," he said seriously, his tone filled with concern. "We found something… unusual. When you woke up during the night, did you feel anything strange in your body?"
Hiori nodded slowly, trying to recall. "Hmm… yeah. When I woke up, my head was really dizzy and painful. My body felt heavy too, like I was carrying something."
Gamiel nodded in understanding. "That might be a side effect of the demonic magic that attacked your village. He's a powerful sorcerer. I'm sure he used magic to put you into a deep sleep—shielding you from harm… but also limiting your awareness. That's why you only woke up after everything was over."
Hiori lowered her head, trying to process Gamiel's explanation. It was still hard for her to believe she had survived all that chaos. Seeing the gloom beginning to cloud her expression, Gamiel gave her a faint smile.
"I think you've rested enough," he said. "How about taking a walk around the city? Risin is full of unique culture. It might help clear your mind."
Hiori looked uncertain. "Eh? Are you sure it's okay?"
Gamiel nodded. "Of course. I'm giving you permission. Here," he said, pulling out a few coins from his pocket. "Use these if you want to buy anything."
Hiori looked at the coins in surprise. "Sir Gamiel… this is too much. I… I can't accept this."
Gamiel only offered a gentle smile. "Just take it. You need something to start your day. Think of it as part of my duty to protect you."
Hiori finally accepted the money carefully. "Thank you, Sir Gamiel," she said softly, then hurried out of the room to explore the city.
Gamiel gave a small smile as he watched her leave. But just as he was about to close Hiori's door, he sensed a presence. His eyes shifted to the right—and there, leaning casually against the wall, was Panavia.
"Panavia," he said flatly, his eyes sharp. "What do you want?"
Panavia grinned, her fiery red hair flowing freely, eyes gleaming with mischief. "Oh, don't be so cold, Gamiel. We're partners, aren't we? What's wrong with a little teasing? Come on, smile~" she said, her tone like a whisper in the wind.
Gamiel let out a short huff. "If you're only here to mess around, I'm not in the mood. I've got more important things to think about."
But Panavia stepped closer, her grin widening. "Strange to see you so concerned about that girl," she said, watching him closely. "Do you sense something different about her? Come on, tell me."
Gamiel remained silent, but suddenly Panavia was behind him, wrapping her arms tightly around his back. Her red hair brushed his shoulder, and her voice dropped to a whisper in his ear.
"If you tell me… I might just give you a reward tonight," she teased, chuckling softly.
Gamiel sighed deeply and gently pushed her hands away—firm, but not harsh. "Step aside, Panavia. I'll talk, but cut the games."
Panavia stepped back with a soft laugh. "Alright, alright~ So, tell me—what do you feel about that girl?"
Panavia stepped back with a soft laugh. "Alright, alright~ So, what do you feel about that girl?"
Gamiel turned to the window, his expression growing serious. "I'm not entirely sure," he said slowly. "But when I met her in that village, I felt… something. A different kind of aura. A hidden strength."
Panavia narrowed her eyes, trying to read Gamiel's intent. "Hidden strength? What do you mean? You think she has potential?"
Gamiel nodded. "Yes. Maybe I'm wrong, but my instincts have never failed me before. There's something inside her—something that hasn't awakened yet."
Panavia chuckled softly, her tone still laced with teasing. "And you want to make her your student? Or… your tool?"
Gamiel turned to her, his gaze sharp. "Not a tool, Panavia. She's human—like us. But I can't let her fall into the wrong hands. The world is changing, and I believe she's going to be an important part of that change."
Panavia went quiet for a moment, then offered a small smile. "Alright. If you're that sure, I'll help you protect her. But don't expect me to train her gently."
Gamiel gave a faint smile. "I wouldn't expect that from you."
Meanwhile, Hiori walked hesitantly through the bustling streets of Risin. Around her, the chatter of townsfolk mixed with the voices of merchants hawking their wares. The city was full of charm—from the towering stone architecture to the floating markets lining the canals.
"This city is so crowded. I feel like a tiny fish in a vast ocean," Hiori murmured as she observed the busy scene around her.
She walked further, her eyes drawn to various stalls selling strange and exotic items. There were vendors displaying brightly colored spices, swords that sparkled like they were made of crystal, and even strange pets that emitted sounds resembling songs. One small, blue-furred creature hopped toward Hiori, making her chuckle softly before its owner, an elderly woman, scooped it up.
"Sorry, young lady, he has a thing for strangers," the woman said with a warm smile.
"It's okay. He's really cute," Hiori replied with an awkward smile.
Her attention was then caught by the sound of a trumpet echoing in the air. She followed the source of the sound and saw a group of street musicians entertaining a crowd with lively melodies. One of the performers, a young boy with a wooden flute, smiled at her, and Hiori returned a shy smile.
As she walked farther, she reached the floating market along the canal. Merchants on small boats were selling everything from fresh fruits to shimmering silk that glowed under the sunlight. The sweet aroma of street food made her stomach growl.
"I should buy something," she thought. But before she could approach one of the food boats, she accidentally bumped into someone.
"Oh, I'm so sorry!" Hiori exclaimed as she fell to the ground. Her eyes immediately met the figure of a tall man dressed in all black, a long cloak swaying gently as he came to a stop. His face was mostly hidden beneath a hood.
"Huh? It's alright, I wasn't paying attention either," the man said with a light chuckle, then extended his hand to help her up.
Hiori took his hand, and the moment her fingers touched his skin, she felt something strange—it wasn't a human hand. It felt like a monster's hand, with sharp claws and a deep crimson hue. Her eyes widened in confusion as she stood up and stared at the man, but before she could say anything, he turned and walked away, disappearing into the crowd.
"His hand… it wasn't human. Who was he?" Hiori wondered to herself.
Curiosity pushed her to follow the man, even though her steps were slower as she weaved through the crowd. The man moved with incredible speed, and Hiori began to lose sight of him. She was about to give up when she caught a glimpse of the edge of his black cloak slipping into a narrow alley.
Hesitantly, Hiori followed. The alley was quiet, its walls covered with strange markings and symbols she didn't recognize. Her steps halted when she heard a sound—not from the man, but from a child crying.
She turned toward the corner of the alley and saw a small child in tattered clothes, sitting with knees hugged tightly to his chest. Tears streamed down his dirt-streaked cheeks.
"Are you alright?" Hiori asked, kneeling in front of the child.
The child shook his head silently. Hiori reached into her pocket and found a small piece of bread she had bought earlier. She offered it to him.
"Here, eat this. You must be hungry."
The child hesitated for a moment before accepting the bread and eating it hungrily. Hiori smiled, but before she could ask anything more, the sound of footsteps echoed behind her. She turned and saw the man in the black cloak standing at the end of the alley. His eyes, now visible beneath the hood, shimmered like liquid metal.
"Why are you following me?" he asked in a low voice, though it echoed as if coming from all directions at once.
Hiori froze, her body stiffening. Something felt deeply wrong about this man. But before she could respond, he raised his hand—and the air around them shifted. A heavy, unseen pressure pressed down, making it hard for Hiori to breathe.
"Stop." A firm voice cut through the tension. From behind the cloaked man, someone appeared—Panavia, her chained sickle swinging lightly in her hand. A mysterious smile curled on her lips. "Don't go scaring the poor girl too much. She's not a threat."
The man in the black cloak stared at Panavia for a few seconds, then slowly lowered his hand and pulled back his hood. His face was sharp, with jet-black eyelids, crimson-black eyes, and black hair streaked with white.
"She's no one important. But too many weak humans wander this world. They'll only become burdens when war comes."
Panavia stepped forward, placing herself protectively in front of Hiori. "She's not just an ordinary human. You should be more careful about who you talk to. Now leave before I lose my patience."
The man looked at Panavia one last time before vanishing in the blink of an eye, like a shadow dissolving into darkness.
Panavia turned to Hiori, who was still frozen in place. "You alright?" she asked, her voice softer now.
Hiori looked at Panavia with wide eyes. "Who was that?"
Panavia scratched the back of her neck awkwardly, searching for the right words. "Hmm… how do I put this... He's my little brother, Xander. He tends to wander a lot, and it just so happens he's here for some personal matters with me. But don't worry, I'll make sure he doesn't bother you again."
She gave a small smile, though something secretive lingered in her eyes. "And, um… please don't tell Gamiel about this, okay?"
Hiori frowned, feeling something off about the situation. "What!? But… why don't you just tell Gamiel? He'd probably understand better!"
She felt a bit uneasy, but then offered a hesitant smile. "Alright… I'll keep this a secret, but only because you looked a little panicked, Panavia."
Panavia chuckled, her smile widening. "Panicked? Me? Impossible, Hiori. It's just… there are things better left unsaid to Gamiel. For now."
Hiori nodded quickly, sensing there was much she didn't understand. "I-I'm not sure… But if you say so, I'll trust you."
Panavia looked at Hiori with a teasing grin, though there was a hint of warmth in her eyes. "By the way, you've been wandering the city alone, huh? If you don't mind, I could show you around. Risin's full of cool spots. Who knows, you might stumble upon something surprising."
Hiori quickly shook her head. "No need, really! That would just trouble you. Don't you have to deal with your brother?"
Panavia laughed, her voice light and cheerful. "Trouble? Please. Escorting you around town would be the easiest part of my day. But alright, if you're not comfortable, I won't push."
She gently patted Hiori on the shoulder, then stepped back. "Take care of yourself. If you ever need anything, just call. I'm always around."
Before Hiori could respond, Panavia vanished like mist, leaving her feeling a little awkward and confused about the strange encounter.
Hiori could only shake her head and let out a small laugh. "There's definitely something strange going on… but I guess I need to be more careful from now on."
"Ugh, I better get out of this alley," she muttered, quickly stepping out and returning to the bustling streets of Risin.
Hiori emerged from the narrow alley, trying to calm her nerves after the unexpected meeting. Panavia, with her cryptic smile, had vanished as swiftly as she had appeared. Hiori took a deep breath and continued her walk.
"This city… it's so different from the village where I used to live," she thought. Still, something about it stirred her curiosity—something that tugged at her heart, even as unease lingered at the back of her mind.
Along the main street of Risin, the atmosphere grew livelier. Merchants were offering all kinds of goods, from food to jewelry crafted from rare stones. Hiori stopped in front of a stall selling antiques—several ancient artifacts that looked quite valuable.
"Something catch your eye, miss?" asked a middle-aged merchant with a friendly smile.
Hiori stepped closer and noticed a pocket watch made of pure silver, adorned with intricate engravings along its edges. "This pocket watch… it looks really old. How much is it?" she asked, captivated by the craftsmanship.
The merchant chuckled softly. "Ah, that one's a rare piece. It once belonged to a noble, but now it's merely for display. The price is… steep, but for a young lady like you, I could offer a special deal."
Hiori gave an awkward laugh, realizing she probably couldn't afford it. "Thank you, but I think I'm just looking around for now."
Before she could turn away, a voice came from behind her. "That's a very rare pocket watch. If you're interested, I could get you a better price."
Hiori turned and saw a young man standing behind her. He wore very simple clothing, with a kind face that still held an air of mystery. His eyes were sharp, and his smile seemed genuine, though there was an inexplicable glint of something deeper behind it.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to intrude. I was just curious," Hiori replied, trying to smile.
The man nodded. "No problem. Risin is full of interesting things, but it's not just antiques that can catch your attention. Sometimes, there are things far more valuable—like knowledge about this place."
"Knowledge?" Hiori asked, her interest piqued.
The man stepped a little closer, his voice dropping lower. "This city holds many secrets, miss. Not just culture, but forgotten history. There's a lot people don't want others to know. If you're interested in learning more, I know places in this city that won't show up on any guidebooks."
Hiori fell silent for a moment, her eyes studying the man. "Why are you offering me that information?"
The man gave a faint smile but seemed unwilling to answer directly. "Sometimes, those who come to Risin with a pure heart are better at understanding the city's secrets. Just be careful—there are people who seek that knowledge for the wrong reasons."
Before Hiori could respond, the man turned and walked away, disappearing into the crowd that flowed endlessly through the streets. Hiori stood there, confused, yet an overwhelming urge to uncover the truth stirred within her.
"Why does everyone seem like they're hiding something?" she asked herself, her curiosity growing stronger.
She continued walking through the city. Along the way, she passed vibrant scenes: restaurants exuding mouth-watering aromas, cozy little cafés decorated with colorful lanterns, and a night market gradually coming to life with merchants offering souvenirs from all over the world.
As the sun began to set, Hiori arrived at a large city square. At its center stood a tall stone monument engraved with unfamiliar symbols. Several people gathered around it—some praying, others simply standing or sitting, gazing at it with solemn expressions.
"This monument… why does it feel like I've seen it before?" Hiori wondered as she approached.
Nearby, an elderly woman wearing a dark blue cloak stepped toward her. "Young one, do you know the history of this monument?" she asked, her voice calm yet filled with depth.
Hiori shook her head. "No, this is my first time seeing it."
The woman smiled gently, though her eyes held the weight of many years. "This monument is a symbol of a great battle that occurred 478 years ago. Back then, civilization was on the brink of collapse, and this was built to honor those who fought to protect this land. They didn't just fight enemies from outside, but also a dark force that tried to destroy everything."
Hiori listened intently, feeling that there was something important in the story. "A dark force? What do you mean?"
The woman looked deep into her eyes. "Be careful, young one. Risin is no ordinary city. Many come here with hope, but not all can withstand the truths they find. If you truly wish to know more, be sure you're ready for what lies ahead."
Hiori felt a strange tremor in her chest. "I… I'll be careful."
The woman nodded and slowly walked away. Hiori turned back to the monument, feeling the heavy presence of history surrounding her. Something deep inside her felt connected to this place, and she knew that soon, she would uncover secrets far greater than she had ever imagined.
The quiet stillness of the night wrapped around the city of Risin. Hiori had already returned home and was fast asleep in the guest room, while Gamiel and Panavia remained awake, sitting in the dimly lit main room. Only the flickering firelight danced across the walls, casting long shadows.
Panavia, looking more restless than usual, glanced at Gamiel, who sat staring blankly out the window, as if something troubled his mind.
"Gamiel," Panavia broke the silence, her voice softer than usual, "How long have you been staring out that window? Are you thinking about that girl again?"
Gamiel turned his gaze away from the window, his face filled with sorrow. "Yes, I'm thinking about Hiori. Her fate… it's like mine. She's lost the one she loved the most. I feel like I'm seeing a reflection of my past self," he replied in a heavy tone.
Panavia gave a faint smile, though her sharp eyes held a glimmer of empathy. "Heh, don't drown yourself too deeply in that sadness, Gamiel. You know I've always been by your side." She stepped closer, her movements light and purposeful, as if there was something more she wanted to do. "I won't let you feel alone," she added, her voice now teasing.
Gamiel remained silent, though his eyes showed a hint of doubt. "Panavia… what is it you really want?" He opened the window, letting the evening breeze rush in.
"Haha! You should've seen your face just now! So serious! You're always so stiff, Gamiel," Panavia chuckled, covering her mouth with the back of her hand.
Gamiel glanced at her, still wearing his cold expression.
"I'm just joking," Panavia continued, her mischievous grin widening. "Your expression was priceless. I almost felt sorry for you!"
Gamiel let out a soft snort.
"I don't have time for jokes."
Panavia shrugged, then stood and stretched. The evening wind lifted her black cloak, patterned with silver, and her slightly messy red hair fluttered in the breeze.
"Anyway," she said, slipping her hands into her pockets, "I'm going out for a bit. I'll probably be back by tomorrow evening."
Gamiel stared at her intently.
"What business do you have?" he asked, his tone still flat.
Panavia turned her head slightly, her gaze directed toward the darkening horizon.
"It's nothing… just a little visit. To see something."
Gamiel narrowed his eyes. "See something?"
Panavia gave a faint smile, but this time, it wasn't playful or mocking.
"There are things in this world even I can't ignore, Gamiel," she said, her voice softer than usual. "Sometimes, fate needs a little push. And sometimes… I just want to see how the world changes."
Gamiel was silent for a moment, watching Panavia with an unreadable expression.
"Don't cause trouble, Panavia," he finally said, his voice firmer than before.
Panavia let out a soft chuckle, her tone gentler this time.
"Me? Cause trouble? Ah, Gamiel, you really don't know me at all, do you?" She slowly turned around, beginning to walk away. But just before disappearing, she glanced back with a mysterious smile.
"Don't worry. I'm not the type to destroy… I simply want to see how everything unfolds."
The night wind began to blow, carrying Panavia's shadow as it slowly faded into the evening mist.
Gamiel remained where he stood, staring blankly in the direction she had gone.
"Fate, huh…" he murmured quietly. "You always speak of fate… but do you even know where it's taking you?"
Morning greeted the city of Risin with warm sunlight, illuminating the ground and buildings still glistening with dew from the night before. Hiori slowly awoke, her eyes blinking as the soft morning light touched her face. She stepped out of the guest room and saw Gamiel already outside, training in the yard. His sharp, focused movements immediately caught her attention.
"Hey, Hiori. You're awake," Gamiel greeted her without breaking his concentration. "How did you sleep?"
Hiori nodded slightly, still feeling a little dazed from everything, but a small smile formed on her lips. "I slept well, thank you. You're training, huh?" she asked as she walked closer, watching every move he made.
"Yeah, I usually train every morning. It's become a routine," Gamiel replied calmly, though there was a clear energy and determination in each movement of his body.
Hiori nodded again, intrigued by Gamiel's disciplined practice. She glanced around, looking for Panavia, but saw no sign of her. "Where's Panavia?" she asked, eyes scanning the area.
"She's out of town on a little visit," Gamiel answered firmly, still swinging his sword with unwavering focus.
Hiori carefully observed Gamiel's movements. His hands were precise, and his motions so swift it felt like nothing could stand in his way. Inspired by his skill and passion, a growing determination rose within her.
"Gamiel… Can I train with you?" Hiori asked with enthusiasm, her face showing genuine eagerness.
Gamiel paused, studying her with sharp eyes. Then he gave a faint smile, recognizing the spark in her spirit. "Of course. If you want to learn, I'll teach you," he said, granting her permission.
He tossed a wooden sword toward Hiori. It flew lightly through the air, and Hiori, though a bit surprised, caught it with both hands.
"This is a wooden sword. It won't hurt, but you'll have to be serious. Show me what you can do with it," Gamiel said, his voice carrying a challenge.
Hiori stared at the wooden sword with determination. Though inexperienced, her spirit burned bright. "Alright!" she replied with enthusiasm, then assumed a basic stance, the wooden sword slightly heavy in her grip.
She stepped forward confidently, trying to mimic the movements she had seen Gamiel perform earlier. Though her motions were stiff and lacked the fluid grace of her teacher, there was a fierce desire within her—to learn, to surpass her own limits.
Gamiel observed her carefully, saying nothing at first, but a faint smile formed on his lips. "Good, you've got spirit. But pay attention to your posture and balance," he said, offering guidance.
Hiori kept practicing—at times stumbling, sometimes overzealous to the point of losing her footing—but each time she fell, she rose again with renewed resolve. Gamiel didn't say much, but each time Hiori made progress, his smile grew, as if pleased with the fire he saw in her.
The two stood facing each other under the morning sun that bathed them in warm light. A breeze swept past, lifting strands of Gamiel's white hair, while Hiori gripped her wooden sword tightly, trying to calm her racing heart.
Gamiel gave a thin, challenging smile. "Come on, Hiori. Show me. Don't hesitate—attack me," he said in a calm but provoking tone.
Hiori nodded, taking a deep breath to steady herself. "Alright! I won't back down!" she shouted with determination. She ran toward Gamiel and swung her sword in a wild arc, her strike full of passion but lacking direction.
Gamiel, moving almost like a dancer, dodged with ease. His feet glided lightly across the ground, his body shifting to the side without losing balance. "Calm yourself, Hiori," he said as he gently deflected another strike with his sword. "A sword is an extension of your body, not a weapon you fling around wildly. Feel its flow."
Hiori gritted her teeth. "You make it sound so easy!" she cried in frustration. She attacked again, this time with more force, but Gamiel only had to shift his sword slightly to block her. The sharp sound of wood clashing against wood echoed.
Gamiel smiled, but this time with a more serious tone. "Try to think like water, Hiori. Don't be stiff. Water doesn't fight with force—it flows, it finds the opening. Now, try again."
Hiori took a deep breath, this time trying to absorb his words. She held the sword firmly, but let her body relax. "Like water, huh… Alright, I'll give it a try."
She stepped forward again, this time slower, her eyes locked on Gamiel with sharper focus. She swung her sword from the side, but midway through the motion, she shifted direction, attempting a low strike from below. Gamiel looked slightly surprised, but still managed to block it with graceful precision.
"Good, Hiori! You're starting to think like a fighter," Gamiel praised, stepping forward this time to launch a counterattack. He swung his wooden sword at a moderate speed—just enough to force Hiori on the defensive. "Your defense! Don't just attack. A good warrior knows when to strike and when to hold their ground!"
Hiori nervously raised her sword to block. The clash of wood sent a tingling jolt through her arms, but she managed to hold off the strike. "N-not bad, right?" she asked, breathing heavily.
"Not bad," Gamiel replied as he stepped back. "But you're still too hasty. Breathe, think about your next move before you act. Again!"
The training continued. Hiori began to sense Gamiel's rhythm. Each of her attacks, though still flawed, became more focused. She tried to mimic Gamiel's nimble footwork, tried to read his movements. Sweat started to bead on her forehead, but her determination didn't waver.
Gamiel eventually increased the intensity. His attacks came faster now, his sword moving like a whirlwind, unpredictable and swift. Hiori did her best to keep up, often forced to retreat. When Gamiel swung his sword in a circular arc, Hiori nearly lost her balance, but she managed to spin her body and use the momentum to strike back.
Gamiel blocked her attack effortlessly, then let out a small chuckle. "Ha, there it is! You're learning faster than I expected. But…" He spun his sword with one hand, creating a dazzling circular motion that was nearly impossible to track. In a blink, the tip of his wooden blade gently tapped Hiori's neck, halting her movement.
"You're still not fast enough," Gamiel said with a confident smile.
Hiori exhaled, her face flushed from exhaustion. But she smiled—proud of herself. "I'm not giving up! I'll keep training, and one day, I'll beat you!"
Gamiel chuckled and patted her shoulder. "That's the spirit I want to see. You've got potential, Hiori. But remember, being a warrior isn't just about strength or speed. It's about the mind, the heart, and conviction. You're going to become strong—I can see it."
Hiori grinned widely, her eyes shining with renewed determination. "I won't let you down, Gamiel."
Their training session ended beneath the warm morning sun, as if the light itself was blessing the beginning of Hiori's journey—one filled with hope and challenges ahead.
Hiori let out a deep breath and wiped the sweat from her forehead. She gulped down water from her cup eagerly, then slumped into a chair in Gamiel's yard.
"Phew… that was exhausting," she said, trying to catch her breath.
Gamiel sat beside her, sipping his water calmly. "You learn pretty fast," he said with a satisfied tone, though his expression remained composed.
"Ah, not really..." Hiori replied, but her eyes were fixed on the sword hanging at Gamiel's waist. Her thoughts wandered back to the moment he had protected her. "Master Gamiel, I've been wondering... when you fought those demons, your sword looked different from a normal weapon. Is it special?"
Gamiel gave a faint smile and drew the sword from his waist, resting it across his lap. "Oh, you mean this?" he said, then called its name with a firm voice. "Sandelpone!"
In an instant, the blade shimmered with a gentle light and transformed, revealing its gleaming edge adorned with mysterious engravings.
Hiori gasped, almost dropping her cup. "Your sword… it looks dangerous. But also beautiful," she murmured in awe.
"It's natural to think that," Gamiel said as he gently ran his fingers along the blade. "This is Sandelpone—one of the Twelve Divine Weapons, the strongest weapons in the world. This sword isn't just a tool for battle; it's a symbol of power and responsibility."
Hiori's eyes widened. "Huh? Twelve Divine Weapons? Are you serious?"
Gamiel nodded calmly. "Yes. Each weapon has its own power and destiny, and only those chosen can wield them. Besides me, there are a few other known wielders. For instance, Xue Mingzhu—she holds the legendary spear, Fang of Leviathan. Then there's Draco, wielder of Astrael, a rapier said to cut through light itself."
Hiori's curiosity grew. "Wow… who else do you know?"
Gamiel took a deep breath before answering. "Xander Von Lynch, wielder of a scythe known as Erebus' Fang." His voice turned colder. "He's not someone you can just approach."
Hiori's eyes widened again, sensing something unspoken. "Wait, what? Xander? Why, Master Gamiel? What's wrong with him?"
Gamiel looked at her seriously, as if trying to impress something important upon her. "Trust me, Hiori. Stay away from him. You don't need to know the reason right now—just avoid him if you ever meet."
"But—"
"No buts," Gamiel cut her off firmly. "Xander is a threat not only to the world, but to the very soul of anyone near him. You have to trust me on this."
Hiori lowered her gaze, confused and a little afraid. "Alright… I'll stay away from him," she said quietly.
Gamiel nodded, then re-sheathed Sandelpone at his side. "Good. Now, you've rested enough, haven't you?"
Hiori looked up, confused. "Eh? You mean…"
Gamiel stood, patting his sword with confidence. "Come on. Time for more training. This time, I'll teach you how to read your opponent's movements. This world is dangerous, Hiori. If you want to survive, you need to learn more."
Hiori gave a small smile despite her exhaustion. "Alright, I'm ready. Don't hold back, Master Gamiel!"
"Don't worry," Gamiel replied with a chuckle. "I never hold back."
They trained until the afternoon sun began to dip, eventually deciding to call it a day and rest.
Later, Hiori lay in her bed, staring at the ceiling as it glowed orange with the light of the setting sun. Her body felt heavy after the long day of training. She placed a hand on her chest, trying to calm the sudden wave of longing that surged within her.
"Ugh… I'm so tired…" she murmured, her eyes beginning to well up. "Everyone… I miss you. Mom, Dad Leon, Grandma… why did you all have to leave so soon?"
Tears slowly slid down her cheeks. She bit her lip, trying to suppress the sound of her sobs. But the loneliness only grew heavier, like a dark shadow lurking at the edges of her thoughts.
The scene shifted to Gamiel's small study. In the dimly lit room, he sat on a wooden stool, carefully inspecting Sandelpone's blade. The orange glow from the window reflected a soft gleam on the sword's magical engravings.
"Still looking good… Sandelpone, you've really fought hard," Gamiel said gently. His touch on the blade was almost like a father speaking to his child.
But the peaceful moment was interrupted as the door creaked open.
Panavia entered with a cheerful smile, her fiery red hair flowing wildly like a blaze.
"So, how was your visit?" Gamiel asked, glancing her way with a slightly raised eyebrow.
Panavia casually waved her hand and shut the door with her foot. "The visit? It's already done! You know I'm always quick to respond~"
"Oh... quick, huh?" Gamiel placed his sword on the table, watching Panavia as she approached him.
"Of course! I'm always reliable." Panavia flopped down on the sofa next to Gamiel's table, stretching out lazily. She rested her head on the back of the sofa, her eyes looking a bit tired as she stared at the ceiling.
Gamiel observed her for a moment, noticing something different.
"You look tired. Was the mission tough?" he asked, his voice softer.
Panavia snorted and laughed. "Tough? Not really… but kind of boring. No challenges at all. I even hoped some giant demon would show up to make the day more exciting!"
Gamiel smiled faintly and leaned back in his chair. "You never change. Always looking for trouble."
"Hey, it's not trouble, it's called a challenge!" Panavia shot back, pointing at Gamiel with a mock offended look. "By the way, how's that little kid? Hiori, right? Is she giving you a hard time?"
Gamiel sighed and glanced out the window. "She learns fast. But…" He paused for a moment, then continued seriously, "I feel like she's hiding something more than just fighting skills. There's something different about her, but I don't know what yet."
Panavia sat up straighter, intrigued. "Oh? You mean she has some hidden potential?"
"I don't know. It's more than potential," Gamiel replied, narrowing his eyes as if trying to solve a puzzle. "But one thing I'm sure of — she's going to be important, either for this world… or for its destruction."
Panavia chuckled softly. "Wow, that's a heavy feeling. But don't be too hard on her, okay? She's just a kid."
Gamiel gave a faint smile. "I know. But this world won't give us the luxury of staying kids forever."
Panavia fell silent for a moment, then stood up and stretched.
"Well then, I'm going to take a bath. Your training earlier kicked up dust all over the yard!" she said as she walked toward the door. But before stepping out, she turned with a teasing smile. "Oh, and don't get lost in thought for too long, Gamiel. Remember, you've got a reliable partner — me."
Gamiel just shook his head with a quiet chuckle, lifting Sandelpone back onto his lap. "Go, Panavia. Before I change my mind and make you clean the yard."
Panavia laughed, waving her hand as she left, leaving Gamiel alone once more. He looked down at his sword again, then closed his eyes for a moment.
"Something's coming... I can feel it."
Hiori stepped out of her room with sluggish movements, her face clouded like a sky heavy with rain. Gamiel, who was sitting in the main room polishing his sword, looked up when he heard her footsteps.
"Hiori?" Gamiel called softly, noticing the change in her demeanor. "What's wrong? You look sad. Are you missing your family?"
Hiori stopped in the middle of the room, her head lowered. She clutched her hands to her chest, as if trying to calm something heavy inside. In a voice barely above a whisper, she answered, "Yes... I miss my family."
Gamiel was silent for a moment, setting his sword down on the table. His blue eyes, calm like the sea, looked at Hiori with sympathy. He knew that feeling — the pain of loss. He had felt it too, and the wound still lingered.
"Come, sit," Gamiel said, gesturing to the chair in front of him. "Let's talk."
Hiori obeyed, sitting down slowly in the seat he indicated. Her head was still lowered, and tears began to form at the corners of her eyes. Gamiel watched her, then took a deep breath. He leaned back slightly, choosing his words carefully.
"I know how heavy loss can be, Hiori," Gamiel said gently. "I lost my family too. All of them. I know what it's like to wake up every morning wishing it was just a nightmare, but realizing it's not. But you need to understand one thing: they wouldn't want you to be stuck in sorrow."
Hiori slowly lifted her gaze, looking at Gamiel with tearful eyes.
"But... I don't know how to stop missing them. Everything feels so empty... I feel alone."
Gamiel nodded slowly, fully understanding the feeling.
"That longing will never truly disappear, Hiori. But you can turn it into something better—a strength to move forward. The people who love us wouldn't want us to drown in sorrow."
Hiori was silent, digesting his words. Then she wiped her tears with her small hands.
"I want to believe that... But how, Master Gamiel? I'm just a little girl who doesn't even know what to do now."
Gamiel gave a faint smile, one full of patience and understanding. He reached out his hand to her, gently resting it on her shoulder.
"You may not realize it yet, but you have strength within you, Hiori. I can see it. If you want, I'll help you find it. I'll guide you, like family."
Those words left Hiori speechless. Her eyes widened a bit, and something inside her felt warm, even if only slightly. She gripped her skirt tightly, then nodded softly.
"Thank you... Master Gamiel. I'll try."
Gamiel nodded. He knew Hiori's journey to accept her loss wouldn't be easy, but at least she had taken the first step.
Outside, the sky began to change color, painting the horizon with the warm hues of sunset. Gamiel stood up from his chair and glanced at his sword lying on the table. He picked it up, inspected the engravings for a moment, then looked back at Hiori.
"Do you want to train some more? Or do you need some time to yourself?" he asked.
Hiori thought for a moment, then stood up.
"Master Gamiel... May I learn more from you? I want to be strong. I want to protect others, just like you protected me."
Gamiel smiled. Her answer reassured him that he had made the right choice in training her.
"Of course you may. But I must warn you, the road won't be easy."
Hiori smiled faintly, the first genuine smile of the day.
"I don't mind. I'll do my best."
Gamiel picked up a wooden sword from the corner of the room and handed it to Hiori.
"All right then. Let's start again. It's late, but there's still enough sunlight for a short training session."
Hiori gripped the sword tightly, ready to face the challenge ahead. Slowly, the choking feeling of longing began to ease, replaced by a new determination. She knew the path was long, but now, she no longer felt alone.
In the distance, from atop a building, Panavia watched them with a small smile.
"That kid really does have potential," she murmured. "Let's see how far she can go."
"I'd better prepare dinner for them."
In the fading twilight, Panavia strolled leisurely toward the kitchen. She tied her fiery red hair back, ready to cook something special. With nimble hands, she pulled out ingredients from the cupboards and baskets: fresh vegetables, several root crops, and tender-looking cuts of meat.
"Hmm, on a cold night like this, warm food is the best," she murmured as she turned the tap to fill a large pot with water.
Panavia lit the traditional hearth in the kitchen, placing some firewood into the stove. With a graceful snap of her fingers, a small flame flickered at her fingertip, perfectly igniting the wood.
"The perks of being a fire magic user," she said with a small smile.
She started by chopping the vegetables—carrots, potatoes, and radishes sliced with precision. The kitchen knife glided swiftly in her hands, producing uniform cuts. Her skill revealed that this was far from her first time cooking. Next, she crushed garlic and shallots under the tip of the knife before finely mincing them.
With all the ingredients ready, Panavia heated a pan over the fire. She poured in some oil, then added the minced onions. The kitchen soon filled with the fragrant aroma as the onions turned golden brown.
"This is already tempting," she said, adding herbs like bay leaves, black pepper, and cumin powder.
Meanwhile, the water in the pot began to boil. Panavia dropped in the vegetables and root crops. The hot steam brushed her face, but she seemed to savor every moment of the cooking process.
"How about I add a little personal touch?" she murmured, rubbing her hands together. With a flick of magic, she produced a pinch of dried herbs from a small pouch. This secret blend gave the dish a unique flavor known only to her.
The meat, already seasoned beforehand, was tossed into the pan for sautéing. The sizzle filled the air as the meat hit the hot surface, enhancing the kitchen's aroma.
"Almost done," Panavia said as she transferred the cooked meat into the soup pot. She stirred gently, making sure every ingredient blended perfectly.
After a few minutes, Panavia tasted the soup with a wooden spoon. She smiled in satisfaction. It tasted exactly as she had imagined. Adding a final pinch of salt to balance the flavor, she turned off the heat.
"Dinner is ready. Hope they like it," she said, ladling the soup into a large bowl.
Panavia carefully set the dining table, placing the warm soup in the center. She also added some fresh whole wheat bread she found in the pantry, served with butter.
"All right, time to call them," she said eagerly as she walked out of the kitchen.
In the yard, she spotted Gamiel and Hiori, both looking tired after their long training. Yet their spirit remained unbroken. Panavia grinned, folding her arms across her chest.
"Hey, you two! If you keep training without rest, you'll pass out. Come to the table—I cooked something delicious," she shouted.
Hiori turned around, eyes shining.
"Wow, Panavia cooked? I can't wait to try it!"
Gamiel looked over with a slight smile.
"I'm curious—did you use your magic again while cooking?"
Panavia chuckled, waving her hand at them.
"Don't worry, my magic was just for lighting the fire. The rest was pure hard work. Come on, before the soup gets cold."
Gamiel and Hiori walked closer, greeted by the inviting aroma of the soup. That evening, the dining table bore witness to the simple warmth of a moment that strengthened the bond between the three of them.
They sat around the table, enjoying the warm soup Panavia had prepared. The atmosphere was cozy, but Hiori, curious as ever, decided to start a conversation. She glanced between Gamiel and Panavia.
"You two... how long have you known each other?" she asked, her voice full of curiosity.
Panavia, sipping her soup, glanced at Gamiel with a small smirk on her face.
"Hmm... when was it? Feels like ages ago. If I'm not mistaken, the first time I met him, I was... 21, right?" she said, her tone a mix of teasing and nostalgia.
Gamiel snorted softly, leaning back in his chair as he chewed slowly.
"Yeah, back then I was still part of the Templars of the Divine Light. And you... you were the troublemaker with a top-tier fugitive reputation."
Panavia chuckled quietly, but her cheeks flushed a little. She lightly punched Gamiel's arm.
"Ah, don't bring up my past~ That was a long time ago. I've changed!"
Hiori, who was initially just curious, now looked shocked. Her eyes widened as she stared at Panavia like she had just uncovered a big secret.
"Wait... Kak Panavia was a fugitive?!" she exclaimed in disbelief.
Panavia smiled awkwardly, lowering her head slightly.
"Y-yeah... I did have a bit of a... messy past," she admitted quietly, sounding a bit embarrassed.
But Gamiel didn't let her off the hook that easily. He grinned mischievously, pointing at Panavia with his spoon.
"More than that, actually. She was part of a major criminal organization. Mafia, to be exact," he added teasingly.
Panavia sighed deeply, covering her face with her hands, though the blush on her cheeks made everything quite obvious.
"Ugh, stop talking about that! I've reformed, you know!" she snapped, annoyed but unable to hide a small smile.
Hiori burst out laughing, practically rolling with amusement.
"So Panavia used to be a thug? Wow, I never would've guessed! Now you seem like such a caring sister."
Panavia finally shot Hiori a sharp glance, but her smile stayed on.
"If you don't stop laughing, Hiori, I might make you do the dishes later," she joked, enough to make Hiori fall silent.
Gamiel just shook his head gently, suppressing his own laughter.
"She really has changed, Hiori. Panavia is now one of the most loyal and tough people I know. But her past… well, it's still part of who she is."
Panavia nodded in agreement, narrowing her eyes at Gamiel.
"True. I have a dark past, but it's what made me who I am. And hey, if it weren't for that past, I might never have met this stiff here," she said, patting Gamiel's shoulder warmly.
Hiori watched them both, a small smile appearing on her face. Despite their constant teasing, she could feel the strong bond between them.
"You two are like family. I'm happy to see that," Hiori said softly.
Panavia paused for a moment, looking at Hiori with a gentle expression before returning her warm smile.
"You're part of this family now too, Hiori. Don't forget that," she said warmly.
That night ended with laughter and heartfelt conversation. Simple moments like these served as a reminder that, though they came from different backgrounds and carried heavy pasts, they found strength together in their bond.