Five days had passed since the war.
The battle with the royal soldiers had shifted into a fierce fight against a magical beast, manipulated by the ruler's power of Memory manipulation changing the memory of people.
Ren, weighed down by sorrow, managed to recover after a few days—yet Akito's death still haunted his heart.
Ryota approached Ren.
"What are you doing, Ren?" he asked.
Ren looked down. "Nothing," he replied quietly.
Ryota continued, "You remember that day at Kenji's house? Why did you suddenly propose to Haruka?"
Flustered, Ren replied, "I just… wanted to tell her what I felt. After all, we might never meet again."
Ryota smiled. "Don't think like that. You'll see her again, I'm sure. She'll accept your proposal. You'll marry her, and live a peaceful life."
Ren turned red, trying to hide his expression.
But Ryota's tone changed—more serious now.
"When will we leave this village? I think it's time."
Ren nodded. "Yeah, you're right. We can't stay here forever."
Ryota thought to himself, I really don't want to talk about Misaki and Airi right now…
Together, they stepped outside and told the villagers they would be leaving.
One villager stepped forward. "We have something for you," he said.
The villagers came together, offering different kinds of food and supplies for their journey.
"For bravely defending our village," one of them said, "we can never repay you. This is only a small gift, but thank you for saving Madi Village."
Ryota replied with a proud smile, "It's nothing. A man should protect those in need."
Then he nudged Ren. "Say something, man."
Ren looked down. "Sorry… there's nothing to say."
They waved at the villagers as they left, and the villagers waved back, filled with gratitude.
Days passed as Ren and Ryota continued their journey, walking far and wide. Eventually, they reached a vast plain. Ahead stood a village—unlike any they had seen before.
The village was highly developed, even from a distance. As they got closer, they noticed its unique architecture—built in the style of warriors.
It looked more like a fortress than a village. Castles lined the area, and in the very center stood a massive structure designed in a samurai style. Ren and Ryota were shocked—they had never seen anything like it.
As they stepped forward, a presence suddenly appeared behind them.
They both felt it instantly.
A man approached, carrying a long katana. His eyes sharp, his voice steady.
"Are you the royal soldiers?" he asked.