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Ironwood Kingdom — Morning Proclamation
The bells of Valerion rang throughout the city, signaling a new royal decree. Citizens gathered in the square, whispering among themselves as the royal herald loudly read from a parchment.
> "By order of His Majesty the King, the Ironwood Kingdom officially announces the seizure and dismantling of the Valerion underground syndicate. Under the guidance of the Holy Church, justice has been delivered."
A wave of relief spread through the crowd.
However, the announcement made no mention of the Second Summoned Hero, Ryuto. For political reasons, his role in the incident was deliberately erased and concealed.
Among the silent crowd, a cloaked man listened for a moment before turning away — Kuro.
> "They took the glory," he murmured with a faint smile. "Just as planned."
---
Kuro and Rei's House — Later That Day
As Rei was preparing tea, a knock came at the door. When she opened it, she found Ryuto, dressed in simple travel clothes, smiling politely.
> "Good afternoon, Rei-san. Is Kuro at home?"
> "He is, Ryuto-kun. Please, come in," Rei replied with a slight bow.
When Ryuto entered, he noticed Kuro sitting calmly by the window. His eyes were cold and composed, as always.
> "Ryuto," Kuro greeted. "You seem busy, even after saving the city."
Ryuto sat across from him and chuckled softly.
> "I don't know what you mean. The Church did all the work, didn't they?"
Kuro's lips curved slightly — a faint smile.
> "Yes. The Church did."
Rei watched the two carefully, sensing the unspoken weight beneath their polite conversation.
---
Conversation — The Name 'Blade' Appears
As Rei poured the tea, Ryuto leaned forward inquisitively.
> "Kuro, have you heard of an adventurer named Blade? His reputation is spreading rapidly in Silverwood. They say he's defeating monsters alone and might reach the highest rank soon."
Kuro's eyes didn't move. He turned a page of his book before answering.
> "Blade…"
> "Yes, I've heard a little," he replied calmly. "I'd say he's walking the right path. He follows his own beliefs and moves forward because of them — something only a few can do."
Ryuto slowly nodded.
> "Hmm… you speak as if you understand him."
> "Perhaps," Kuro said softly, gazing out the window. "Those who carry heavier burdens don't need to explain themselves."
For a brief moment, Ryuto felt that same chilling atmosphere — the one he had sensed among the shadows of Rathmor.
But it faded quickly.
Kuro was too ordinary. Too human. Too peaceful.
> "I must be overthinking it," Ryuto thought with a smile. "There's no evidence… no reason to suspect him."
Yet, deep inside, something whispered otherwise.
---
Discussion — The Federation and the Elves
> "By the way," Ryuto continued, "have you heard? Aethelred's Federation of United Demon-humans has officially formed an alliance with the Eastern Elves."
Kuro seemed interested but kept his tone neutral.
> "I have. It's a bold move. I never expected demons and elves to cooperate."
> "That's why I plan to visit," Ryuto said. "I want to see whether their unity is real — whether peace between races is truly possible."
> "And if it isn't?" Kuro asked.
Ryuto's expression hardened.
> "Then I'll learn the truth myself. Justice isn't believing what others tell you — it's believing what you see with your own eyes."
Kuro closed his eyes and smiled.
> "You're learning well. The world needs eyes like yours, Ryuto — not blind faith."
> "You sound like a philosopher, Kuro," Ryuto laughed. "You should join the Church as a cardinal."
> "Impossible," Kuro said quietly as he stood. "I prefer the shadows."
Ryuto tilted his head but said nothing.
After finishing his tea, he stood and bowed politely.
> "Thank you for the tea, Rei-san. And Kuro… take care of yourself. The times ahead may test us all."
> "I know," Kuro replied. "Travel safely, Ryuto."
---
After Ryuto Leaves
Rei watched Ryuto depart, worry in her eyes.
> "He's kind… but if he keeps searching for the truth, he may put himself in danger."
> "Then we'll make sure he finds the right people," Kuro replied, his tone unreadable.
---
Rei's Question
Rei finally turned toward Kuro, her voice hesitant.
> "Kuro-sama… may I ask you something?"
> "You already have," he replied as he set his cup down.
> "In Silverwood… what are you doing there? I've heard rumors — of a powerful adventurer and a new leader rising in the Federation. Are you connected to them?"
Kuro's eyes gleamed faintly in the dim light.
> "Some questions are better left unanswered, Rei."
> "But why?" she asked, frowning. "You carry everything alone and never explain anything. I just… want to understand you."
He looked at her silently.
> "If you understand, you'll lose your peace."
Rei fell quiet. Her heart ached — not from fear, but from something left unsaid.
> Why do I care this much? she wondered. What is this feeling?
Before she could speak, Kuro picked up his coat.
> "It's time for me to go."
> "Again?" Rei asked softly, her eyes trembling. "You're always leaving…"
He walked toward the door — then stopped when Rei stepped forward and embraced him from behind.
> "Please," she whispered shakily, "don't do anything reckless. You always carry everything alone. Even the Darkness Lord could break someday."
For a moment, Kuro's cold expression softened. He didn't turn around, but his voice was gentle.
> "I'll be fine, Rei. But I can't stop."
> "Then at least…" she said, tears forming, "don't disappear without a word."
Kuro didn't answer. Instead, he reached back and gently placed her hand on his — a silent promise. He glanced back once more, then walked into the mist.
---
Silverwood Kingdom — Esmoril Adventurers' Guild
The large wooden doors creaked open as Blade entered, immediately drawing attention. Lance and Yuria waved cheerfully.
> "Blade-kun! You're right on time," Yuria said. "A new request just came in — 'Investigation of the Land of the Dead.' Sounds scary, right?"
Lance grinned.
> "They say undead are roaming near the ruins of Mor'Carth. The guild is paying double for confirmation."
Blade glanced at the parchment.
> "Undead Land… huh? Fine. Let's go."
The two spies exchanged a glance. He didn't notice. Their plan was progressing perfectly.
> "He trusts us completely," Yuria whispered. "We'll report to Lord Nyxarion."
> "Yes," Lance replied softly. "But first, we need proof of his true power."
Blade adjusted his gloves and walked ahead.
> "Are you two coming or not?" he called over his shoulder, his voice calm yet commanding.
Yuria smiled sweetly.
> "Of course, Captain."
As they left the guild, faint dark shadows flickered around Blade — unseen by anyone else.
> Undead Land… perfect, Shujin thought. A place where death sleeps, and truth awakens.
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✨ End of Chapter 25 — "The Calm Before the Shadow" ✨
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