The journey back to the Oasis of Al'Khem was quiet and somber. The usual bickering and teasing was replaced by a heavy silence, the memory of Matsui's explosive end casting a long shadow over their victory.
As they entered the bustling city, they were immediately spotted by the merchant, Omar, who rushed to greet them with a wide, joyous smile.
"Brave adventurers! You have returned!" he exclaimed. "Your escort was a blessing! We arrived safely thanks to your valor." His eyes scanned the party, his smile faltering slightly. "But... where is the other young man? The one with the blue hair and the action figure?"
The party went silent. DragonSlayer looked at the ground. Kaito's ears drooped. Kenjiro met the merchant's gaze, his own expression unreadable. Without a word, he reached into the small purse at his hip and pulled out the small, plastic action figure he had found on the pyramid floor. He held it for a moment, then tucked it safely back inside.
