The Library of Endings

The soft crunch of wheels against snow echoed through the frosty silence as the carriage moved steadily forward. Inside, Kayle, Silvia, Sara, Latty, James, Nana, and Rolex rode together, their breath forming faint clouds in the cold air as they approached their first official field assignment. The teleportation gate had safely brought them to the Western Territory, and now, their carriage rumbled along the path toward the grand estate of House Maklice. This prestigious noble family held sway over the entire western expanse of the Atheliya Empire, a vast domain stretching over 308,209 km². Making it second largest state in the Atheliya Empire.

Outside the window, Kayle gazed silently at the white world around him. Every tree branch, every field, every rooftop was blanketed in pure snow. The sky overhead was shrouded in thick clouds, heavy with the promise of more snow. Casting a silver hue over the frozen landscape.

"Here we are, the domain of House Maklice," Aeon's thoughts echoed. "This is one of the most prestigious noble families within the Atheliya Empire, and everyone wants to curry favor with Duke Harrison Maklice. He's a proud man, guarding the western fort single-handedly and governing this immense territory. House Maklice has produced many Grandmasters throughout the history of the Atheliya Empire, which is why they've been granted the title of Duke, placing them on equal footing with the Five Great Clans. The current head, Harrison Maklice, is one of the twelve Grandmasters and holds the esteemed title of 'Falcon of Chivalry,' commander of the Falcon chivalry order, one of the twelve Chavirly in the Atheliya Empire."

"And now, we're about to reach his house," he continued, a subtle smirk playing on his lips. "I've prepared many things over the past three years, and the very first is this Storage Ring."

He wore a plain black ring, unassuming save for a violet-colored diamond intricately engraved within it. This was the storage artifact he had meticulously crafted in his research lab, disguised as a mundane piece of jewelry—a "normal ring" he'd claimed to have bought in the market when purchasing gifts for his friends.

"This is the very first artifact I made with the things I 'borrowed' from the research facility," he mused with satisfaction. "It's a 'Rare Rank' artifact with 15 cubic meters of space. I've stored everything I've created in it. With this, I'm fully prepared for anything that comes our way." Aeon thought.

The carriage slowly came to a halt before the towering gates of Umgrad City—the capital of the Western Territory, and seat of House Maklice.

The guards at the gate recognized the emblem on the side of the carriage and quickly opened the gates. As they passed through, the city's charm unfolded before them like a painting come to life.

The carriage rolled inside, revealing a city transformed by winter. Houses, shops, inns, and restaurants alike wore thick caps of snow on their roofs. Snow clung softly to rooftops. Smoke spiraled gently from chimneys. Children's delighted shouts filled the air as they engaged in snowball fights and meticulously crafted snowmen. Merchants, stood cheerfully by their stalls, wrapped in fur coats and thick gloves, selling bread, trinkets, and hand-carved toys. Every corner of the city radiated warmth, despite the cold. The entire city vibrated with cheerful laughter and palpable joy.

"Wow, this city is absolutely beautiful, even though it's covered in snow!" Silvia exclaimed, pressing her face against the window, her breath fogging the glass. "Look at the houses here! Unlike Alofis, where you find marble and stone work everywhere, here they're built with various types of wood and bricks. And the design of the city itself is spectacular!"

"It's given," Sara chimed in, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "Umgrad City used to be surrounded by dense forests on all sides. When the city was designed, the engineers kept the future in mind and structured it in a circular form—every main road loops back to the centre, so no matter where you go, if you follow the main road, you'll always end up in the center of the city. So, if you get lost here, you'd be the number one moron!" She winked playfully at Silvia.

She tilted her head, snowflakes sticking to the window beside her.

"This place used to have a part of huge forest, actually," Sara continued, warming to the topic. "The forest we just came from was a small portion of it. When the city was developed, they cut down all the trees in the center and used the wood to build the houses, the fort, checkpoints, and watchtowers. The Western Territory boasts every precious tree in the Atheliya Empire. Here, you can find redwood trees, Polam Wood trees, Kerik Wood trees and the very precious white sandalwood, which is used to make musical instruments, arrows, spears, and so many other things!"

Nana looked impressed. "You know so much about this place, Sara!"

"It's given, Nana," Rolex added, a grin on his face. "Their families are connected through marriage, so she used to visit this place often, didn't you, Sara?"

Sara nodded. "I've spent most of my childhood winters here. It's perfect for training and gaining real-world experience. There's a lot to learn in these lands—especially if you want to grow stronger."

As they continued through the heart of the city, the snow grew heavier. Soon, the towering gates of the Maklice Mansion came into view—grand, imposing, and wrapped in ancient stone and dark wood. The guards at the estate recognized the arrival and moved to receive them.

Kayle straightened up, brushing his coat and fixing his eyes forward.

"Alright, everyone. We've arrived. We'll be meeting Duke Harrison shortly, so make sure you're composed and respectful. This isn't just any noble—we're standing before one of the Twelve Grandmasters of the Empire." kayle said.

A hush fell over the group, their earlier excitement giving way to a shared sense of anticipation and nerves as the carriage pulled to a halt before the imposing Maklice family mansion.

The carriage slowed to a stop.

The carriage slowed to a halt before the towering iron gates of House Maklice. As the doors opened with a soft creak, Kayle and his group stepped out, greeted instantly by a biting breeze and a snow-laden estate that stretched like a silver canvas.

An elderly man in a crisp black suit stood before them, flanked by a line of neatly dressed maids. With refined elegance, he bowed low.

"Welcome, esteemed guests from Venessa Academy. I, Cessial Nuke, the Head Butler of House Maklice, greet you. Please, come in. Our master is waiting for you," Cessial said, his voice smooth and welcoming.

"Hello, Mister Cessial. I'm Kayle, and this is my group. Thank you for your warm welcome," Kayle replied, stepping forward.

Cessial straightened with a kind smile. "Oh, please, sir Kayle. No need for formality. Right this way."

The massive gates of the mansion swung open, revealing the sprawling estate of House Maklice. It was an incredibly vast and lavish property. As they entered, a beautifully manicured garden, every tree and bush covered in a fresh blanket of snow, stretched out before them. and frozen fountains glittering like crystal under the pale winter sun. They walked along a winding path that led them directly to the magnificent main mansion itself—a truly grand and luxurious edifice, its stately form softened by a pristine carpet of snow.

The mansion was immense—its ivory marble exterior exuding elegance and power. The grand steps leading to the entrance were flanked by tall columns, and the roof was crowned with intricate sculptures of winged lions.

As the maids opened the main doors, the group stepped inside. Warmth enveloped them instantly. The interior spoke volumes of its greatness: towering walls, a sweeping grand hall, floors of polished, gleaming marble, and enormous windows that promised breathtaking views. It was every bit as impressive as Sir Jackson's mansion, if not more so. The interior was opulent—flawless marble flooring, towering walls adorned with tapestries and paintings, golden chandeliers illuminating the grand foyer with soft amber light.

"Wow, this is even more luxurious than Sir Jackson's mansion, isn't it, Kayle?" Silvia whispered, her eyes wide with awe.

"It's the Duke's mansion, Silvia, so it's expected," Kayle replied, his gaze composed. "Let's focus on meeting with Sir Harrison."

Guided by Cessial, they made their way to the study. The group stopped before a tall mahogany door.

"Sir Kayle," Cessial said with a courteous bow, "the master awaits within. Please, enter."

Kayle and his group took a collective deep breath before entering the study.

The door creaked open. They stepped inside.

Standing before them was a man of formidable presence: tall, with taut muscles and a towering figure. His sharp, yellowish eyes, like those of a predatory wolf, and his distinguished grey hair commanded immediate attention. His very presence was enough to make people instinctively want to kneel.

He simply stood there, yet his aura alone was enough to intimidate everyone in the room.He exuded an aura of raw dominance.

Sir Harrison Maklice—Warden of the Western Border, Grandmaster of the Sword.

His very presence was suffocating.

Kayle glanced at his team members; they were all sweating, standing rigidly in place, so overwhelmed by his presence that they couldn't even blink.

Latty, Rolex, and Nana stood frozen, their breath caught. Even Silvia, Sara, and James seemed tense, struggling beneath the weight of Harrison's aura.

But then, James, Sara, and Silvia took a collective, deep breath, their eyes hardening with fierce determination. They stepped forward, their gazes meeting Harrison's directly.

Kayle smiled faintly. He moved ahead of them, meeting Harrison's piercing eyes without flinching.

Harrison, visibly impressed by Kayle, Silvia, Sara, and James's resolve, allowed a rare smile to cross his stern face and ceased radiating his overwhelming aura.

Latty, Nana, and Rolex let out collective, shaky breaths, as if they had just held them for an eternity.

"Phew!" Latty gasped, staggering slightly. "I thought I was going to pass out... was he trying to kill us?!"

"So this is the presence of a Grandmaster..." Rolex muttered. "His aura alone felt like a mountain crushing my lungs."

"So, He's someone who solely holds the Western border of the Atheliya Empire. Now I understand why people hold his words so highly," Nana said, her eyes wide. "He is one of the Grandmasters, who has reached the pinnacle of mastering Aura and swordsmanship."

Harrison offered them a faint smile and gestured for them to take a seat. "Hello, my young swordsmen and mages from Venessa Academy. Please, take a seat." He waited for them to settle.

They sat down, still a little shaken.

"Forgive the pressure," Harrison said with a small chuckle. "I simply wanted to gauge the mettle of the ones who accepted a mission under House Maklice. You know what this task entails, don't you?. As you all know, if you have accepted this mission, you understand what you are going to face."

"So, Sir Harrison, what did you see?" Kayle asked directly, cutting to the chase.

"I must say. I'm impressed," Harrison replied, his gaze fixed on Kayle. "Most people can't even stand before my aura, yet you all stood before me and moved forward, especially you four, and you." His eyes lingered on Kayle. "You're quite interesting. As I've heard: silver hair, heterochromatic eyes—green and blue like gemstones... and a physique far too refined for a typical mage. And then there's that handsome like no other face—rumors don't do you justice. You must be Kayle, aren't you?"

Kayle rose and gave a respectful bow. "Let me introduce myself formally. I'm Kayle, a student of Venessa Academy and leader of this mission group. It's a pleasure to meet you, Sir Harrison."

"Oh, please, young one, don't be so formal," Harrison waved a hand dismissively. "It's amazing to see that Venessa Academy has once again produced great warriors who can lead this Empire."

"Thank you, sir. Let me introduce my team," Kayle said, gesturing to his right. "This is Silvia, a 5th-circle mage. She serves as both our melee and ranged support."

Silvia offered a polite bow. "It's an honor to meet you, Sir Harrison."

"Surprisingly, this beautiful lady is already a 5th Circle Mage at such a young age, and both a melee and range dealer? You're an impressive girl," Harrison praised, a genuine smile on his face.

"Thank you, sir," Silvia replied with composure.

Kayle turned slightly. "You already know her well. Sara Vaviniya— also a 5th-circle mage, and our long-range specialist."

"Indeed I do," Harrison said fondly. "its very suprising to see that our little Sara has grown quite a lot in three years. And a 5th-circle mage already? Remarkable."

"Uncle, please! I'm not that little girl anymore, I'm an adult now!" Sara protested, her cheeks flushing.

"Oh ho, quite shy," Harrison teased, enjoying her reaction.

"She's like this in the academy also, always shy to talk," Kayle teased back, earning a glare from Sara.

"Look who's talking!" Sara retorted, pulling on his sleeve. "Someone who doesn't know anything about talking, always dozed off in his own world!"

Harrison watched their playful quarrel with amusement.

"Oh, Sir," Kayle said, moving on to Latty, "she is Latty Lonen, the best wind magic user in our academy. She specializes in many high-ranking spells and also uses hybrid spells. She can fight at the front and also provide support from the back."

"It's good to meet you, sir. I'm Latty Lonen," Latty said, bowing politely.

"Latty, from the prominent Lonen family that has given many famous mages throughout history? The pleasure is all mine," Harrison stated, acknowledging her lineage.

"And at last, these three are James, Nana Shrik, and Rolex Ridd. All of them are at the early stage of becoming a Gladiator," Kayle introduced, gesturing to his knight companions.

"Hello, Sir Harrison. It's a honor to meet you," they all said in unison.

"I'm also glad to meet you all," Harrison replied, his gaze thoughtful. "All of you are at the early stage of becoming a Gladiator at such a young age, which is impressive. Keep this up."

"Yes, sir," they replied, looking motivated.

Than Harrison moved forward.

"Now, shall we talk about the main business?" Harrison said, shifting to the mission. "As you all know, your assignment here is monster subjugation in the Garxiz Forest. This is a four-star difficulty mission, so it's not going to be an easy task. You might not know, but Garxiz Forest is very dense and home to many dangerous monsters. It's not going to be easy. Monsters from the forest are invading the baron's lands near the forest, destroying crops and farmlands. You have to wipe them all out. The forest is near the Western border of the Atheliya Empire, which borders the Larko Kingdom, so you all have to make sure that no monster can get near the Western Fortress, okay?"

"Yes, sir," they all affirmed, their expressions serious.

"Sir Harrison," Kayle interjected, "I'd like you to provide us with a detailed map of the Western part, including the Garxiz Forest and the border, so that we have a clear understanding of the ground reality."

"You'll have it," Harrison said. "Anything else?"

"Is anyone going with us on the mission?" Kayle inquired.

"I'm sending my third son and two knights with you as an escort," Harrison explained. "They know the terrain well. You guys aren't very familiar with the Western Territory, so they will escort you. But they won't help you in the mission unless they see it fit; if you guys are in grave danger, they would step in to protect you. But I don't think it'll be needed."

"Okay, understood" Kayle said, accepting the terms.

"So, all of you, please go to your designated rooms and take some rest. Tomorrow, you all will depart for the mission. Okay?" Harrison concluded.

"Understood, sir," they all replied, rising from their seats.

As they began to leave the room, Harrison's voice stopped Sara. "Sara, meet me tonight. I want to talk to you."

"Okay, Uncle," Sara replied, a hint of curiosity in her eyes.

– – –

At Night.

After a bustling dinner with Sir Harrison and his family, everyone retired to their rooms, seeking as much rest as possible before their early departure for the mission.

Knock, Knock.

A soft knock echoed on the study door.

"Sir Harrison, it's me, Kayle," Kayle's voice called from outside.

"Come in, Kayle," Harrison replied, his deep voice carrying clearly.

Kayle entered the room. Harrison was seated on a plush sofa, a steaming cup of tea in his hand. He glanced up at Kayle, his sharp, yellowish eyes assessing.

"Please take a seat, Kayle," Harrison offered, gesturing to the opposite sofa.

Kayle sat, maintaining a quiet and composed demeanor.

"Have some tea, Kayle. It's Gerris tea; it will keep your body warm, In the cold night." Harrison said, pushing a cup towards him.

"Thank you, sir," Kayle replied, taking the offered cup.

They sat together in comfortable silence for a few moments, sipping their tea. Kayle looked at Harrison, his expression unreadable.

"Sir, why did you call me for after dinner?" Kayle finally asked.

"I just wanted to have a conversation with you regarding the mission," Harrison replied, his gaze unwavering.

"Yes, I'm listening, sir," Kayle said, leaning slightly forward.

"Let me get straight to the point, Kayle. What do you think about this mission?" Harrison inquired, his tone direct.

"This mission is more than what it seems," Kayle stated, his voice calm but firm.

"How so?" Harrison probed, intrigued.

"We all know that Garxiz Forest is one of the most dangerous monster zones in the Atheliya Empire," Kayle explained. "It's incredibly dense and a home to some of the most brutal monsters. Everyone has tried to complete an expedition of this forest, but it changes its form at night, releasing toxic gases that cause people to hallucinate and suffocate. You have already cleared most of the forest, but because of its vastness, it's become too hard to locate the monsters' exact locations."

"Of course," Kayle thought, a subtle smirk playing on his lips. "This is why people wouldn't be able to find out how this incident truly happened in the original timeline. But Silvia burnt down half the forest, forcing the Black Mages to run for their lives and leaving behind traces of their teleportation array."

"Yes, you're right," Harrison conceded, a hint of surprise in his voice. "The Western Territory is very vast and consists of two deadly monster zones: Garxiz and the Dead Mountains. You might not know this, but I actually sent two letters to the academy, but I only received a reply for one—and that was yours. So, Kayle, are you truly ready for this? You may face the most horrible things there, and you will have to exterminate the monsters in daylight, because night is truly their turf."

Kayle's sharp gaze met Harrison's, filled with sheer determination. "It doesn't matter whether you're ready or not. In the face of death, you only have one choice: kill or be killed."

Harrison's eyes widened, watching the unshakeable resolve in Kayle's gaze. It wasn't the look of someone who had just entered adulthood. Kayle's eyes were sharp, fierce like a predator, or a warrior who had fought in countless life-and-death battles and survived. The look in Kayle's eyes sent shivers down Harrison's spine, a thrilling sensation. He smiled, a genuine, appreciative smile.

"I hope that you return triumphant," Harrison said, his voice tinged with respect.

"I will, sir. So, can I go now?" Kayle asked, rising from his seat.

"Yes, you may," Harrison replied, gesturing to the door.

Kayle walked to the door and opened it. As he did, he found Sara standing there, her hand raised as if about to knock.

"Kayle, what are you doing here?" Sara asked, surprised.

"Just had a conversation with Sir Harrison," Kayle replied casually.

"Oh, okay," Sara said, stepping aside.

"Go on, he's waiting inside," Kayle told her before leaving the room. Sara stood there for a moment, then entered.

"Uncle, why was he here? What were you guys talking about?" Sara immediately questioned, her curiosity piqued.

Harrison stood by the window, looking out into the snowy night, a thoughtful expression on his face. He didn't answer Sara immediately.

"Uncle, why aren't you saying anything?" she asked again, a hint of impatience in her voice.

"I'm just lost in my thoughts, Sara," he finally said, his gaze still distant.

Sara didn't quite understand what he meant.

"Let me ask you, Sara," Harrison said, turning to face her, a teasing glint in his eyes. "What do you think about this boy, Kayle?"

"What, ummm," Sara stammered, caught off guard. "If you ask, then I'd say he's a genius. He doesn't talk much, and sometimes he sounds like someone very old. But he's reliable. He's sweet, always stands by his friends. He can guide you, he's active with everything, handsome, caring, loving, always makes people happy, doesn't care about his life to save his friends, sometimes quite shy..." She kept going, listing his qualities.

"Alright, alright, I understand," Harrison chuckled, stopping Sara mid-sentence.

"I can't believe it, Sara, it's you who is praising someone that much! I can't believe what I just heard," Harrison continued, his amusement growing. "I think I understand why you love him."

"Wh-wh-what do you mean by 'love him'?" Sara spluttered, her cheeks instantly turning a deep shade of red, making her look like a ripe apple.

"Don't be like this, Sara," Harrison said, his smile widening. "I've seen you since your childhood. You never opened up to anyone that easily. You were always a proud girl, always in your own league. You never cared much about anything or anyone; you didn't even like to talk to people who you considered inferior to you. However, you stood so close to him, even though he's a commoner—that's what I saw today. And your reaction right now simply confirms it: you love him."

Sara's eyes widened in disbelief. "No, it's not like this! We're just good friends!"

"So you don't love him?" Harrison pressed, a knowing smirk on his face.

"No, it's not like this... I do like him, or maybe there could be a possibility in the future..." Sara's voice trailed off, a desperate blush still coloring her face.

Harrison chuckled, a teasing smile still playing on his lips. "Well, if that's the case, I think he would be a good match for scarlet."

Sara gasped, her eyes wide with shock. "Scarlet? You mean your youngest daughter? You want to marry her to him?!"

"Yes, just as you said, Sara," Harrison replied, his tone suddenly serious. "He's a genius, someone who has already changed the fundamentals of magic itself. His name will be known in the history of the world. And he's a commoner with four elemental affinities! Even if he doesn't become a Seventh Circle Mage, he has already made great contributions. I'm sure many noble houses have their eyes on him and his friend Silvia. He isn't under anyone's wing right now. When he leaves the academy, everyone will try to make a connection with him through marriage, just so he could become part of their families. What do you think, Sara, if your Headmaster, Miss Elizabeth, takes him under her wing? What would happen then?"

"He'd be the most powerful person in the entire Atheliya Empire, becoming the pupil of the Ice Sage," Sara quickly stated, her mind racing. "He'd have power, authority, and wealth in his hands. Having someone like him as a son-in-law would guarantee authority within the Empire."

"However, more than anything," Harrison continued, his gaze becoming distant, "what I liked about him was his determination. When you all stood in my presence, you couldn't move an inch and started sweating, but he looked back into my eyes. He was smiling at me, his expression as calm as if he were standing in a garden. The look in his eyes made my blood race. Sara, he isn't your average boy. He's destined to reach greatness. That's why I truly think he's more than capable of becoming my son-in-law."

Sara took a step forward, directly facing him, her body radiating a furious, violet mana. "No, Uncle! Kayle is mine, and I won't let anyone have him!"

"But you denied it a few moments ago," Harrison teased, still enjoying the show.

"Yes, I admit that what you said is true—that I'm shy and can't express my feelings!" Sara retorted, her voice trembling with emotion. "However, after listening to your talk, I realized that you also want to use Kayle! Everyone who wants to get close to him just wants to use him! Just like others, I've spent three years with him, and I know him better than you. He is someone who cherishes the bonds he has created. He says that Venessa Academy is his home and we are all his family. That's why he put his life in danger to save Silvia —twice! He is kind-hearted. He is always ready to take any difficulty and pain for his friends in this selfish world where people sell their dignity and pride for power! I won't let him become a tool for anyone's greed, even if I have to go up against this Empire, my clan, and even you, Uncle!" Sara's gaze was furious, her violet mana flaring around her.

Harrison simply stared at Sara, a wide grin slowly spreading across his face.

"Pffff, hahahaha, oh my, Sara, look at you! You're like a knight!" Harrison roared with laughter, slapping his thigh. "I was just joking, Sara, so that you'd confess your feelings!"

Sara's cheeks immediately turned scarlet, even redder than before. "You... you're so mean, Uncle! I won't talk to you!"

"What was that again? 'Kayle is mine and I won't let anyone have him'?" he mimicked, still laughing heartily. "Oh my god, Sara, say it once again!"

"You're a meanie! I don't want to talk! I'm leaving!" Sara spun on her heel, intending to storm out.

Then, Harrison placed a hand gently on Sara's shoulder, stopping her. "But I'm proud of you, Sara. You have found a great man for yourself, a rare soul. And truthfully... I don't think there is anyone better than him in this world for you."

"Do... do you really think that?" Sara asked, turning back, her anger replaced by a fragile hope.

"Yeah, kid," Harrison said, his voice softening. "Your love for him is real because you want him to be happy... That's what makes a good couple. Now, go."

"Thank you, Uncle," Sara said, a genuine smile finally breaking through her blush, and she left the room.

Harrison stood alone in the room, his laughter slowly fading.

"It's been so long since I laughed like this, and met someone with that much guts and determination," he murmured to himself. "I can't forget the look in his eyes. I'm sorry, Sara, but I seriously want him to become part of my family. Now, it will be up to Scarlet if she can capture the heart of that boy, because he isn't someone to be forced to do what he doesn't want to. Well, would my daughter even like him? Oh, what am I thinking? With his looks, there is hardly any girl who can resist him."

And the night ended like this, with the Duke's schemes and a niece's burgeoning love.

– – –

The next morning, everyone was up early, preparing themselves for the expedition.

Kayle, Silvia, Sara, Latty, James, Nana, and Rolex were all geared up. James, Nana, and Rolex wore their gleaming knight armor, holding their swords at their sides, all donned long black coats of Venessa Academy to resist the biting cold. Kayle, Silvia, Sara, and Latty were similarly dressed in the official Venessa Academy mage coats, their magical staves and grimoires secured.

Before them, on the snowy grounds, stood the magnificent symbols of the Falcon of Chavirly: very large, powerful falcons, their feathers a striking mix of brown and black with golden eyes.

"Woah, we're going to ride them?!" Silvia exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement.

"Yes, the roads are filled with snow, so we're going to ride them," Sara confirmed, a hint of anticipation in her voice.

"Then let's go!" Latty cheered, eager to begin their journey into the vast, snowy expanse.

Just then, the heavy gates of the mansion opened again. Harrison approached, flanked by two knights. His tall figure cast a long shadow over the snow-covered courtyard.

"How's it going, young warriors?" Harrison's voice echoed with both pride and authority. "These falcons will serve as your transport. They are the pride of the Falcon Chivalry, specially trained for border operations."

With a brief glance, he gestured toward a young knight standing beside him—a well-built young man with silver-streaked dark hair and steady amber eyes.

"This is my third son, Bryan Maklice. He will accompany you as your escort."

Bryan stepped forward and gave a respectful nod. His aura was steady, clearly a trained gladiator.

"Don't worry, Father. I'll ensure their safety and return without fail."

Harrison gave a small smile, full of fatherly pride.

"Good. Make sure they don't get lost in those cursed woods."

Turning to the students, Bryan raised his hand slightly.

"Please, follow me. I'll help you mount the falcons and brief you on the flight route."

With practiced ease, they followed Bryan to the falcons. One by one, they mounted the majestic creatures, tightening their belts and checking their weapons and artifacts.

As the falcons began to flap their massive wings, snow kicked up from the courtyard. The air filled with swirling frost, and the sound of feathers slicing through wind echoed in every direction.

Standing by the gates, Harrison watched them rise into the sky, his sharp eyes following Kayle's figure as he took the lead.

It was the beginning of the mission.