A While Back

Before Einz embarked on his solitary journey, his steps led him to a familiar place—the camp of Kallen's Redstone Party. It was a heartfelt reunion, and the camaraderie among the adventurers was evident. Kallen, Lyra, Garrick, Isabella, and Lucius welcomed Einz with open arms.

After the initial exchange of greetings and tales from their recent adventures, Einz cleared his throat, "I've come with a request, Redstone Party. In my absence, I entrust my companions, Kaedin, Jorin, and Elira, to your guidance. They've grown under my wing, and I believe your experiences can further shape them."

Kallen, with a grin, replied, "Einz, they're in good hands. We'll make sure they become formidable adventurers. But, before we seal this pact, there's a tradition among us."

Einz raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Kallen continued, "A duel. A friendly match to gauge your strength. We want to know if you're leaving them in capable hands."

A duel wasn't uncommon among adventurers, and Einz, despite his initial surprise, agreed. The clearing was chosen as the battleground, and the clashing of swords resonated through the air.

Kallen, the experienced swordsman, and Einz, the lone wanderer, faced off. Blades clashed with a rhythm that spoke of years of training. Kallen, fueled by the thrill of the contest, showed the prowess that had earned him renown. Einz, while not matching Kallen's finesse, displayed a strength born from his encounters in the wild.

The duel was intense, the metallic ring of swords echoing in the forest. It was a close match, but in the end, Kallen's blade found its mark. Einz, acknowledging the defeat, lowered his weapon.

Kallen, panting but exhilarated, extended a hand, "Einz, you may have lost this round, but your strength is undeniable. You're leaving them in capable hands, my friend."

The acceptance of Kallen's hand spoke of a bond that transcended the outcome of a duel. Einz, though defeated, felt a sense of reassurance. The Redstone Party had embraced his companions, and the seeds of friendship had been sown.

As the duel concluded, Kallen's excitement was palpable. His hand trembled slightly from the adrenaline. "Einz, you're strong. I can't wait to hear the stories you'll bring back from your solitary adventure."

With a shared understanding, Einz bid farewell, knowing that Kaedin, Jorin, and Elira were in the capable hands of friends who would guide them towards their own destinies. The echoes of clashing swords lingered in the forest, a testament to the bonds forged in the crucible of camaraderie.

As Einz prepared to set forth on his solitary journey, Isabella, with a playful glint in her eyes, approached him. "Einz," she said with a smirk, "when you return, I want a duel. I've seen your moves, and I think it's high time we test each other's strength."

Einz, taken aback for a moment, couldn't help but chuckle at the unexpected challenge. "You've got it, Isabella. Next time we meet, we'll settle this with a friendly duel. Just be ready for what you're asking for."

Isabella grinned, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Oh, I'll be more than ready. It'll be a duel to remember, Einz."

With that, the unspoken promise hung in the air, adding another layer to the bonds of friendship and camaraderie that defined their adventures. As Einz embarked on his journey, the thought of a future duel with Isabella lingered in the back of his mind, a testament to the spirited dynamics of the Blackrose Family.

Chapter End.