I left the mansion in Vailor early in the morning, feeling the fresh air mark the beginning of a new step. This time, it wasn't a battle or an urgent mission. It was something different. I was going to take on another responsibility. The lands of the demi-dragons. The third kingdom under my control.
Scarlett walked beside me, observing everything carefully. Lyannis looked curious as always, analyzing every detail around her. Vespera followed in silence, but her presence was firm. Elara maintained her elegant posture, while Rai'kanna seemed quieter than usual. Her eyes carried something different. We were going to her homeland. Liriel, on the other hand, seemed light and calm, as if all of this were just another natural step.
Before leaving, I stopped by the guild. As soon as I entered, a few gazes turned toward me. It was expected. The title of Great Hero had spread.
I walked straight to the counter. The receptionist greeted me respectfully.
"Came to take a mission?"
I shook my head.
"No. I'll be away for a while. I just came to let you know."
She nodded.
"Understood. Good luck."
I didn't drag it out. I simply turned around and left. There was no point wasting time there.
Outside, the group was already waiting for me. We entered the carriage and soon continued the journey. The sound of the wheels on the dirt road accompanied the comfortable silence that formed between us.
Scarlett broke the silence.
"More lands… you really never stop."
"More responsibility," I replied.
Lyannis tilted her head.
"You seem way too calm for someone taking over another entire territory."
"I've gone through this before."
Vespera spoke in a low tone.
"This time you don't have a minister guiding you from the beginning."
I looked at all of them.
"I have you."
Rai'kanna looked away for a moment, but a faint smile appeared.
The journey was long. Little by little, the environment began to change. The ground became firmer, the vegetation denser, and the air heavier. It wasn't something negative. It was strong. It was as if the environment itself had a presence.
When we finally caught sight of the kingdom of the demi-dragons, it became clear just how different it was. Robust constructions, imposing architecture, and a constant feeling of power. It was a place that didn't hide its strength.
The carriage stopped in front of the main castle. Even before stepping out, it was already possible to feel the king's presence.
I stepped out first, followed by the others. The king of the demi-dragons stood before us. His posture was firm and imposing, as if every movement carried weight. Even so, there was something direct about him.
"Takumi," he said with a slight smile. "You arrived."
"I slightly bowed my head."
"Thank you for the reception."
His gaze passed over everyone, lingering a little longer on Rai'kanna.
"It's been a while."
"Yes," she replied.
There was more in that exchange than words.
The king looked back at me.
"I'm pleased that you came to take responsibility for these lands."
"So am I. I intend to manage them in the best way possible."
He let out a small laugh.
"I certainly hope so. After all… you'll become part of this family."
I understood what he meant. The marriage with Rai'kanna. Something that, sooner or later, would happen.
"I'll fulfill my responsibilities," I answered directly.
He seemed satisfied with that.
"Good. Come. I'll show you where you'll stay."
We walked through the castle. The structure was solid, with details that resembled scales and draconic forms. Everything there conveyed strength.
We exited through the side area and followed a short path to a large mansion near the castle. It was spacious, well-structured, and clearly prepared to receive someone important.
"This will be your residence," the king said.
I observed the place carefully. It was large, comfortable, and well located.
"It's more than adequate."
He nodded.
"Staff have already been assigned. Anything you need will be at your disposal."
Rai'kanna observed everything in silence. It was possible to see that this place was part of her.
We entered the mansion. Staff members lined up to receive us. Everything was organized.
Scarlett crossed her arms.
"Not bad."
Lyannis walked around the environment curiously.
"It's different… but interesting."
Liriel smiled faintly.
"It feels comfortable."
Vespera simply observed. Elara analyzed the details carefully.
After some time, we returned to the castle. The king had prepared a banquet.
The hall was spacious, with well-organized tables and a variety of dishes. The food was different from what we were used to, but it was good quality.
We sat down. The conversation flowed simply. The king spoke little, but directly. He wasn't someone who used unnecessary words.
Rai'kanna seemed more at ease there. It was her place.
After some time, the banquet came to an end. There were no excessive formalities. Just enough.
We said our goodbyes and returned to the mansion.
Night had already fallen. The environment was silent.
I went up to the room and sat down for a moment. I looked out the window. The kingdom of the demi-dragons stretched out before me.
Third territory.
Three responsibilities.
Three different kingdoms under my command.
I took a deep breath.
I already had experience. I had already learned from the others. But this time would be different.
This time, there wouldn't be someone guiding every step.
I would have to do this on my own.
I lay down on the bed, feeling the exhaustion from the journey.
The girls settled close by, as always.
I slowly closed my eyes.
Tomorrow, I would truly begin.
And this time… I would do everything alone.