Tenma landed his overbike on a small platform. The engine's hum faded into silence, and with a swift gesture, he drew out his parchment and sealed the vehicle back inside.
Beside him, Fenril's eyes wandered across the skyline, captivated by the city's grandeur. Towering glass and steel buildings stretched high above, the place radiating a modern brilliance.
— First time in Raza? Tenma asked with a grin.
— Yeah, Fenril admitted. Not for you, I guess?
— Nope. I come here often. We're close to Lakou's place, he makes the best fruit juices you'll ever taste.
Fenril followed silently, his heart strangely heavy. For him, this was more than just a city; it was a new life. Back home, he had been scorned, belittled, always seen as less than nothing. But with Tenma, everything was different. Tenma treated him as an equal, no, more than that as a friend. He didn't judge strength or rank, he looked at the heart. Moved by this thought, Fenril couldn't hold back.
— Tenma!
— Yeah? Tenma turned, eyebrows raised.
— I promise you… I'll do everything I can to make you the next king!
— Hah! I wouldn't expect anything less, Fenril. Together, we'll accomplish everything!
They soon arrived at a small street stand. Behind the counter stood a tall man with pale skin, wearing a chef's hat and an apron. His face lit up the moment he saw Tenma.
— Well, if it isn't my boy Tenma! the man greeted warmly.
— Yo, Lakou! It's been a while! Same as usual, please.
— With pleasure! But where's Sora?
A flash of light burst beside them, revealing Sora, grinning from ear to ear.
— Hey, Lakou! he shouted, beaming. I'm starving!
— Hahaha, not surprised at all! Lakou chuckled. Your usual banana juice, then?
— Yeeees! Sora cried, jumping with joy.
Lakou glanced at Fenril.
— Oh, looks like we have a new face here.
— Nice to meet you. My name is Fenril, he said politely.
— Welcome, lad. Any friend of Tenma's is a friend of mine. First round's on the house!
— Not happening! Tenma protested instantly. I've got money, Lakou. This time, I'm paying!
The two men locked foreheads like dueling rams, glaring at each other with playful defiance.
— You looking for a fight, brat? Lakou sneered, lips curling into a wicked grin.
— Anytime you're ready, old man, Tenma shot back.
With that, they lunged at each other, wrestling to the ground in a whirlwind of fists and laughter, rolling in the dust as Fenril and Sora watched, half-shocked, half-amused.
— Uh… is this normal? Fenril asked cautiously.
— Totally, Sora said casually. They always do this. Come on, Tenma, you can win this one!
The scuffle lasted two solid minutes before Tenma finally tapped out, locked in a tight rear choke.
— And that's that, Lakou laughed, letting go.
— That was cheating! Tenma grumbled.
— Nope—you're just too naïve. Now drink, it'll calm you down.
He set a glass down and folded his arms.
— So, what brings you here anyway?
Tenma straightened his clothes and spoke with determination.
— I've decided to start a guild. Want to join?
— Don't be ridiculous. I left that life behind long ago. Still… I see the fire in your eyes. You're still chasing the crown, aren't you?
— Exactly. With a guild, I'll get access to tougher quests. I'll reach level 120 in no time.
Lakou's expression grew more serious.
— Perhaps. But that won't be enough to claim the title of Hero. Once you hit level 120, you'll need to descend back to level 80 to gain the title of Saint. And only after climbing again to 120 will you truly be recognized as a Hero. Do you really think you can achieve all that in just two years?
— Of course! No doubt about it! Tenma replied without hesitation.
— And what makes you so certain?
Tenma smiled with unwavering confidence.
— Because I have Sora and Fenril by my side.
At those words, Fenril's chest tightened. A tear rolled down his cheek. For the first time in his life, someone believed in him. And because of that, no matter what, he would believe in Tenma.
Suddenly, the sky above lit up. A colossal screen appeared, drawing the gaze of the entire city. As it flickered to life, the crowd gasped, then erupted in thunderous cheers the king himself had appeared. The love of the people was undeniable, echoing in every corner of Raza.
— So that's him… King Alden, Fenril whispered in awe. What incredible presence.
Tenma said nothing. His eyes remained fixed on the king, his jaw tight with determination.
The monarch raised a hand, and silence swept through the city.
— My people, I greet you and I ask forgiveness for interrupting your daily lives. I will be brief.
— We always have time for you, Your Majesty! someone shouted from the crowd.
— That's right! Always! another confirmed.
The cheers rose again, but Alden's voice cut through them with clarity.
— As you know, the Royal Quest will begin in two years' time. But this time… I will not be taking part.
The city roared in shock.
— What?!
— You can't leave us, Your Majesty!
— Stay our king forever! cried another, his voice breaking with emotion.
The king's expression softened, but his words carried the weight of history.
— It is true. I accomplished the impossible, winning the Quest three times in a row, making mine the longest reign ever recorded. But every era must come to an end. A new contender will rise and take the crown. He will lead our kingdom into an even brighter future. As for me… I will watch closely. May the best win.
A hush fell across the crowd, heavy with awe.
Tenma clenched his fists, his voice barely more than a whisper but filled with iron resolve.
— Don't worry, Alden. I'll win. I'll become the next king.