Chapter 6 – The Capture of the Bandits
The forest road slowly returned to silence.
The clash was over. Only crushed grass, broken branches, and scattered weapons bore witness to what had happened moments earlier. Three bandits knelt on the ground, their hands bound by glowing magical restraints. Shock and fear were etched deep into their faces.
"P‑Please… don't kill us…" one of them stammered, his voice trembling.
The boy stood calmly before them, his sword already returned to its sheath. There was no rage in his eyes—only cold, steady composure.
"We didn't come to kill you," he said evenly. "The guild wants you alive."
The armored girl circled the prisoners, checking the bindings and kicking away any remaining weapons. The blue crystal embedded in her chestplate pulsed faintly, a quiet reminder that she could move again at any moment if needed.
"You've attacked multiple caravans," she added. "It's time you answered for it."
Their third companion remained silent, watching carefully. After a moment, one of the bandits noticed the emblem on the boy's cloak and let out a weak, humorless laugh.
"So… you really are adventurers…"
"The first of many," the boy replied. "But not the last."
They began the journey back toward the city, the bandits tied together and forced to walk ahead. As the forest slowly thinned, the boy felt it again—a faint pressure in the air. Not hostility, but attention.
This was a simple mission, he thought. And yet… someone is watching.
As if sensing his thoughts, the armored girl spoke quietly beside him.
"The guild will be pleased."
"This is only the beginning," he answered.
Between the trees, the city's towers finally came into view. Their first mission was complete. The reward was secured. And more importantly—
Their names had begun to spread.
Three new adventurers had appeared…and with their very first job, they had already started changing the rules of this world.