Thirty kilometers from the capital of Altheris lay a dense, untamed forest.
The forest was uninhabited. Even intercity merchants avoided it, choosing safer routes instead.
Even if the longer route took more time, it was far safer than risking their lives.
Through the forest's darkness, the black horse carrying Nolan and Seira raced like the wind.
Seria glanced around cautiously. The forest was pitch-black, filled with the hooting of owls and faint growls of distant monsters.
"Nolan, don't you think this path is dangerous?" she asked, anxiety in her voice.
Nolan patted the back of her hand and gave her a reassuring smile.
"Don't worry. Nothing can harm us. I promise."
His words carried a calm magic that eased Seira's tension.
"Um… I trust you," she murmured softly.
The security Nolan gave her stirred a memory from the past, something etched clearly in her mind.
…
Fourteen years ago…
"It's so annoying. That woman keeps scolding me. I didn't even do anything wrong."
