Morning sunlight filtered through the trees as Itsuki stood atop a hill, looking down at his village.
still a small settlement, but alive with walls, tools, and the hard work of its people.
"…Peace never lasts long, does it?"
A small twinge of unease settled in his chest.
At that moment, a scout rushed up to him.
"Itsuki-sama! Suspicious figures have been spotted entering the northern forest!"
Lyra's voice rang out, her bow slung over her shoulder, her face tight with concern.
Itsuki grabbed a pair of binoculars and scanned the treeline.
A group of dozens of men has been spotted they are poorly equipped, but organized. Their movements are coordinated. No doubt about it…
"…Selene's father's men."
Itsuki muttered.
Selene's father, a powerful merchant, had sent his mercenaries to drag her back.
Lyra gripped her sword tightly, eyes narrowing.
"This… they're coming for her."
Itsuki's hand rested on his dagger, his mind already calculating.
"We'll prepare. No one threatens our village while I'm here."
The villagers began to gather, readying makeshift weapons, reinforcing walls, and setting traps.
From the forest edge to the village gate, tension hung in the air like a storm about to break.
The first real threat to Itsuki's village had arrived.