The next day, Shadow left the inn with his hood drawn low. His body was still healing, each step stiff, but he forced himself forward. The gauntlets rested beneath his cloak, silent but warm, as though waiting for his decision.
He hadn't gone far before familiar voices called out.
"There you are!"
Ryn, Sera, and Lena hurried toward him from the marketplace, each carrying light packs. Sera frowned immediately when she saw his posture. "You should not be walking around already."
"I heal fast," Shadow replied simply, though the tension in his voice betrayed the lie.
Ryn shook his head, then noticed the faint bulge beneath the cloak. "It's the gauntlets, isn't it? They took damage during the fight."
Shadow didn't answer, but his silence was enough. Lena, who had been studying him quietly, spoke up. "You want to repair them. Not just repair—improve."
His eyes flicked toward her. Sharp. Perceptive. He gave the slightest nod.
"How?" Ryn asked, curiosity lighting his features.
"…By merging monster materials," Shadow said at last. His tone was low, as if the words themselves were dangerous. "Fangs, claws, scales. They're tougher than steel and brimming with mana. If I use them, the gauntlets will evolve."
Sera crossed her arms. "That's insane. You'd need rare beasts for that, not just common pests outside the walls."
"That's why I'm telling you now," Shadow said. His gaze drifted to the horizon beyond the city walls. "I can't do it alone—not while injured. But if you three…"
"You don't even need to finish," Ryn interrupted with a grin. "We'll help."
Sera groaned. "You're too softhearted, Ryn. He nearly got himself killed fighting Rena, and now you want to help him chase monsters?"
Ryn shrugged. "He saved lives before. If his weapon can grow, it helps all of us in the long run."
Lena nodded slowly. "Besides… I want to see it. A weapon that grows alongside its wielder."
Shadow regarded them in silence, then inclined his head slightly. "…Fine."
Before they could speak further, another voice cut in from behind. Calm. Measured. Familiar.
"You'll need me as well."
They turned. Rena stood at the end of the street, arms crossed, her presence unmistakable even out of battle gear. The trio stiffened immediately, and Sera whispered, "What's she doing here?"
Rena's gaze settled on Shadow. "I heard rumors you were looking for monster materials. You're reckless enough to try, but not reckless enough to do it while broken. Good. That means you'll accept help."
Shadow's eyes narrowed. "…And why would you offer?"
Rena smirked faintly. "Because I don't want our next fight to be boring. If you're planning to forge strength out of monsters, then I'll make sure you find the right ones."
The gauntlets pulsed faintly on his arms, as if amused by the growing company.
Shadow exhaled slowly, then spoke. "Fine. But keep in mind—we're not just hunting for trophies. We're hunting for steel."
The small group exchanged glances. The decision was made. Tomorrow, they would leave the city together, seeking beasts strong enough to scar them—and to strengthen them.