Chapter 68: Journey to Yuki’s Village
The morning sun cast golden rays through the thick canopy as Lyra, Ella, Yuki, and Mizu emerged from the ruins, their recent battle still fresh in their minds. The black sword Lyra had claimed rested securely in a magically reinforced sheath on her back, its ominous energy faint but ever-present.
Before they could take another step toward the capital, Yuki turned to the group with an unusual expression—both excitement and nervousness flashing in her silver eyes.
“Hey,” she started, adjusting the straps of her bag, “before we head back to the capital… how would you guys feel about visiting my village?”
Lyra blinked in surprise. “Your village?”
Yuki nodded. “It’s not too far. Maybe a four-day journey if we keep a steady pace. It’s been a long time since I visited, and, well… I’d like you all to see it.”
Ella smirked. “Didn’t take you for the sentimental type, Yuki.”
Yuki rolled her eyes. “I just think you guys would like it. It’s deep in the mountains, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, and the people there are really strong warriors.”
Mizu, perched on Lyra’s shoulder in her fox form, flicked her tail. “Hmm… a hidden warrior village? Sounds interesting.”
Lyra smiled. “I’d love to go. It sounds like an amazing place.”
Yuki grinned. “Alright then! Let’s go!”
And just like that, their journey took a new turn, leading them toward the mountains where Yuki’s past awaited.
Day 1 – Through the Wildlands
The first day of travel was peaceful. They followed a winding road leading away from the ruins, crossing over gentle hills and open fields that stretched as far as the eye could see. Birds soared overhead, and small animals darted between the tall grass, watching the travelers with cautious curiosity.
As they walked, Yuki shared stories about her village.
“My village is called Ketsuyama,” she explained. “It’s hidden deep in the mountains, protected by natural barriers and strong warriors. Most people there are trained in combat from childhood. We don’t rely on magic as much as the outside world—we believe in strength through skill and discipline.”
Ella raised an eyebrow. “No magic? That’s rare.”
Yuki nodded. “It’s not that we hate magic, but we see it as a tool rather than a necessity. Most of our techniques focus on speed, precision, and raw strength.”
Lyra was fascinated. A warrior village that emphasized skill over magic was a rarity in this world, where magical power often determined one’s status.
As the sun began to set, they set up camp near a small stream, the sound of running water blending with the chirping of crickets.
That night, as they sat around the campfire, Yuki’s expression turned thoughtful.
“I wonder if my family is still the same,” she mused. “It’s been years since I left.”
Lyra placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “No matter what, we’re with you.”
Yuki smiled softly. “Thanks, Lyra.”
Day 2 – The Forest of Echoes
The second day led them into a vast forest known as the Forest of Echoes. Towering trees stretched high into the sky, their thick branches intertwining to create a natural roof that dimmed the sunlight. The air was cool and damp, carrying the scent of moss and earth.
As they ventured deeper, strange whispers echoed through the woods.
Ella tensed. “Are those voices?”
Yuki nodded. “The forest is said to carry the voices of the past. Some say it’s the spirits of fallen warriors.”
Mizu’s fur bristled. “Or it could be something more sinister.”
They continued cautiously, ears alert for any unusual sounds.
Suddenly, a shadow darted across the path ahead.
Lyra stopped, her eyes narrowing. “Something’s here.”
A low growl rumbled through the trees. Then, without warning, three large creatures leaped from the underbrush—Shadowfang Wolves, their black fur blending into the darkness of the forest.
Yuki was the first to react. She dashed forward, her sword flashing as she parried one of the wolves’ lunges. Ella spun her spear, blocking another attack while Lyra summoned a barrier to protect Mizu.
Mizu transformed into her human form, summoning a torrent of water to push the wolves back. “They’re fast,” she muttered.
Lyra unleashed a spell. “Lightning Bind!”
Golden chains of electricity shot out, wrapping around one of the wolves and paralyzing it. Yuki took the opportunity to strike, her blade cutting through its hide.
Ella finished off another with a precise thrust, while Mizu trapped the last one in a sphere of water, suffocating it until it went limp.
As the battle ended, they took a moment to catch their breath.
Ella wiped her spear clean. “That was unexpected.”
Yuki smirked. “Good warm-up for what’s ahead.”
Day 3 – The Ascent
By the third day, they had reached the base of the Dragon’s Spine Mountains. The terrain grew steeper, and the air thinner. The once lush forests gave way to rocky paths and jagged cliffs.
Yuki led the way, moving effortlessly over the rough terrain. “We’re getting close,” she said.
As they climbed, Lyra noticed something in the distance—a massive stone gate built into the side of the mountain, flanked by two warrior statues.
Yuki took a deep breath. “That’s it. The entrance to Ketsuyama.”
But as they approached, the ground suddenly trembled.
A deep, guttural roar echoed through the mountains.
Ella cursed. “That doesn’t sound friendly.”
From behind the gate, a massive creature emerged—a Mountain Goliath, its stone-like skin blending with the rocky surroundings. Its red eyes locked onto them, and with a deafening roar, it charged.
Yuki’s grip tightened on her sword. “Looks like we’ll have to fight our way in.”
The Battle Against the Mountain Goliath
The Goliath swung its massive arm, sending chunks of rock flying. Lyra and Mizu leaped back, while Ella and Yuki rushed forward.
Ella struck first, her spear piercing its thick hide, but it barely flinched. “Damn, this thing’s tough!”
Yuki dodged a counterattack and slashed at its leg. “We need to find a weak point!”
Lyra analyzed the creature, her eyes glowing with magic. “Its core! Aim for the glowing mark on its chest!”
Mizu summoned a torrent of water, blasting the Goliath back. “Then let’s expose it!”
Working together, they created an opening. Yuki dashed forward, her sword glowing with energy. “Take this!”
With one final strike, she drove her blade into the core, shattering it.
The Goliath let out a final roar before collapsing into rubble.
Arrival at Ketsuyama
With the guardian defeated, the gates slowly creaked open, revealing a village nestled within the mountains. Traditional wooden houses stood against the cliffs, smoke rising from chimneys. Warriors trained in courtyards, their movements precise and powerful.
As they stepped inside, villagers turned to look at them—some with curiosity, others with recognition.
An older woman stepped forward, her sharp eyes studying Yuki. “You’ve returned,” she said.
Yuki’s expression softened. “It’s good to be home.”
And with that, they entered Ketsuyama, ready to face whatever awaited them.
To be continued…
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