The upturned corners of the mouth slightly restrained, the Judge snorted coldly, hiding the disdainful look under the shadow of the hood, and escorted the last team away.
...
In the northern part of Twilight Province, bordering the Rhode Kingdom, a merchant caravan laden with goods was setting up camp in a clearing within the dense forest.
The sunset's afterglow filtered through layers of red leaves, casting dappled golden light.
It was now late autumn.
Merchant Thomas leaned against a wagon filled with fabrics and exotic goods, caressing the heavy purse at his waist.
This business venture had been very fruitful for him and had led him through a lifetime's worth of unforgettable adventures, truly a worthwhile journey.
However, besides the joy of harvest, Thomas felt a complicated sensation that was difficult to describe.
This feeling was like a magnificent epic laid bare before him, yet he could only finish the prelude before having to close it.
Of course—
