"So you never cross that line again."
Nolan punched.
Peter's jaw shattered under the impact. His body lifted into the air before crashing back down, blood spraying across the ground.
Peter screamed, clutching his face, writhing in agony.
Nolan didn't look back.
He turned and walked away.
Peter lay there, shaking, watching Nolan disappear—his mind broken long before his body gave out.
Nolan moved quickly, his steps light as he turned back and regrouped with Linda and Celia.
"Let's get going," he said.
"Master, why did you take so long?" Celia asked, tilting her head.
Nolan gave a small smile.
"Sorry. I went to check something."
Without another word, he led them down the path that stretched beyond the village center, toward the outer gates.
After a short walk, they arrived at the gate. Two armored knights stood guard, spears planted firmly against the ground.
Nolan stepped forward and presented his adventurer card.
