Chapter 1: Journey to the Beastmen Continent
New Mission Orders
Morning sunlight spilled over Division 10's barracks — a calm that felt strange after the chaos at Lake Beck. Inside the briefing hall, Captain Elara stood before her unit, her posture firm and composed. Yet her eyes lingered on Synoh a moment longer than usual.
Elara:
"Our next mission takes us beyond the human border. We are to escort a noble family to the Demi-Human Continent — destination: the Grand Arena of Clawfang, where the annual Beastmen Fight Festival will be held."
A ripple of murmurs ran through the knights. Few humans ever crossed into beastmen territory. The borders were strict — and the tension even stricter.
Ursa:
"Beastmen continent, huh? Never thought I'd see it with my own eyes."
Meth (grinning):
"Heard their festivals are wild… literally."
Aloy:
"Hope these nobles aren't as spoiled as the last ones. That was torture."
Then Elara's gaze returned to Synoh.
Elara:
"Synoh. This time, you'll be my right hand. Observe. Learn. And lead if needed."
Synoh nodded. But inside, a familiar presence stirred.
Fel (telepathic whisper):
"You've changed, Synoh. Stronger… calmer. But something is still stirring inside you."
Synoh (thought):
"Maybe this journey will help me understand it."
---
The Caravan Departures
The next morning, Division 10 moved out alongside the noble caravan — House Eryndor, draped in gold-trimmed armor and wealth that practically shined.
Lord Eryndor:
"Captain Elara, we trust your division will ensure our safety across the border."
Elara:
"You have my word."
Along the road, Synoh sensed Fel growing restless.
Fel:
"This continent we're heading to… I feel something ancient there. Something tied to me."
Synoh:
"Part of your origin?"
Fel:
"Maybe. Or maybe… a memory I've forgotten."
---
Arrival at the Border
The border gate towered above them — a colossal stone monolith carved with tribal markings. Demi-human sentries stood ready, their eyes sharp.
The leader, Ragnar Clawfang, a tall lionkin warrior with a scar carved across his jaw, stepped forward.
Ragnar:
"Humans, huh? Haven't seen your kind here in some time. You'd best not cause trouble."
Elara:
"We come under peace. No conflict will come from us."
Ragnar's stern gaze softened slightly.
Ragnar:
"The festival begins in two days. Strength earns respect here — not titles."
Again, Fel's voice whispered.
Fel:
"This land… the air tastes like wild magic. Be careful, Synoh. Control yourself."
Synoh tightened his grip on his father's sword.
Synoh:
"Then this journey will be a test — for both of us."
---
The Port & A Familiar Face
The port city was alive — creaking ships, shouting merchants, gulls crying overhead. Division 10 assembled as the nobles boarded the massive trade-galleon.
Synoh was adjusting his new gear when—
???:
"Oi, Synoh!"
Synoh turned.
Edward jogged toward him, dressed in a sharp political coat that made him look less like a knight… and more like a noble mafia boss.
Synoh:
"Edward? What are you doing here?"
Edward grinned through his breathlessness.
Edward:
"I'm the Kingdom's official representative for this voyage. Ministers need someone to supervise — and I was the unlucky winner."
Synoh chuckled, but Edward's expression softened.
He placed a hand on Synoh's shoulder.
Edward:
"You've grown stronger. I heard about the village incident… the lake serpent… and your dark magic."
Synoh's body stiffened.
Edward leaned in slightly.
Edward (quietly):
"Relax. I won't reveal anything. Not your sword… and not your father."
Synoh's breath caught.
Edward looked into his eyes — sincere, gentle.
Edward:
"After entering politics, I studied old archives. I found your father's name — Synix Vindral. A royal guard… who disappeared in the Demon War."
He sighed.
Edward:
"I'm sorry you had to face everything alone."
Synoh looked away, unsure how to respond.
Synoh:
"I… didn't know anything about him."
Edward smiled warmly.
Edward:
"You don't need to carry your burdens alone anymore. You've got Division 10, Lux, Yuta… and me."
"And once I become Prime Minister, I really hope you or Lux become the next General."
Synoh smirked.
Synoh:
"So you're not choosing sides?"
Edward flicked his forehead.
Edward:
"As your friend, idiot. And maybe the only responsible adult in your chaotic life."
Synoh laughed.
From the ship, Elara shouted:
Elara:
"Synoh! We're boarding!"
Synoh nodded, turning back to Edward.
Synoh:
"Thanks… really."
Edward waved dramatically.
Edward:
"Stay alive! I don't want to explain to the ministers why the future hero got eaten at a Beastmen Festival!"
Synoh stepped onto the ship — standing taller, lighter.
Edward watched him go, his eyes steady.
Edward (thought):
Synix… your son carries a heavy fate. I'll make sure the world doesn't crush him before he reaches it.