The town gate appeared near sunset, ending a long march that had consumed most of the afternoon.
Thick dust from the mine road clung to every boot in the small traveling column.
The boy stayed awake through the whole journey, studying every tree, bird, and passing cart from his post against Hajin's chest.
Word of their return reached the square first, so a crowd already waited inside the gate.
Nobody spoke at first. Every eye moved between their lord, the white-haired child, and one missing legendary corpse.
An older miner's wife finally called from the well while twisting her apron between both hands.
"My Lord, is the mountain beast truly gone from that peak for good?"
She searched his tired face while both hands strangled the apron without pause.
"Gone enough for men to work the veins safely," Hajin replied while the boy twisted toward the new voice.
"The mine opened today, and your husbands are already being paid," he added.
