The wooden barricades of the Eastern Forest loomed ahead, marking the line between safety and uncertainty. Asiel and his party slowed their pace as they approached the gate.
They weren't alone.
A group of four adventurers stood near the entrance, their presence immediately noticeable. Even without looking closely, Asiel could feel it — their Kairo was steady, controlled… experienced.
He focused.
Each of them carried a visible aura, but one stood above the rest.
A man in a deep blue shirt, his left arm fully covered, a sword resting across his back. A jagged scar ran from his neck up to his jawline, giving his already sharp expression an intimidating edge. The Kairo around him burned strong and dense — far heavier than the others.
Even heavier than most Asiel had seen.
(So this is what real experience looks like…)
A faint chill ran down Asiel's spine.
(Everything here is new to me… but I'm ready. I'll face it. No matter what.)
He straightened his posture, keeping his expression calm and composed.
One of the adventurers stepped forward and extended his hand.
"Hello," he said in a deep, steady voice. "Myself, Raemond Shin, C-rank. Leader of this party."
He gestured behind him.
"This is my brother, Noragami Shin, D-rank. Our healer, Erisk. And that one over there—" he nodded toward the gate, "—Intri, currently speaking with the guard."
Asiel returned the handshake with a polite smile.
"It's a pleasure working with you, Sir Raemond. My name is Asiel. This is Yrion… and Silver." He paused slightly before continuing, his tone firm. "I hope we can resolve this situation before those minions spread any further."
Raemond studied him for a brief moment, then gave a short nod.
"Agreed."
Together, both parties moved toward the gate.
A guard clad in full chainmail armor stood at attention, his spear planted firmly beside him. He looked at each of them carefully before pulling out a register.
"Names," he said.
Each adventurer stepped forward, giving their identity one by one. The guard noted everything down with practiced precision.
Once finished, he looked up, his expression serious.
"Stay alert inside the forest. Reports suggest increased movement deeper in." He paused. "We have units stationed on the far end. If anything goes wrong — call out. We'll respond."
Raemond nodded. "Understood."
Yrion adjusted his grip on his sword. Silver tightened his hold on his staff.
Asiel took one last glance at the light behind them.
Then—
They stepped forward.
Past the gate.
Into the Eastern Forest.
The atmosphere changed instantly.
The sunlight struggled to pass through the thick canopy above. Shadows stretched unnaturally long, and the air felt heavier — quieter. Even the wind seemed cautious here.
Leaves crunched softly beneath their feet as both parties advanced deeper into the gloom.
Every sense sharpened.
Every step measured.
They were no longer in the safety of the city.
Now… they were in the hunting ground.