After leaving Orleaf, they walked quietly back to the hermit's old hut. Yoshiya studied the road carefully, mapping it in his mind, while Omina busied herself gathering herbs and roots from the roadside.
Before long, their stomachs began to growl. They had picked some fruit, but it wasn't enough. Then, by chance, they spotted a small rabbit nibbling on grass.
"Perfect timing," Yoshiya whispered, gripping his sword. He crept forward like a soldier stalking a fearsome beast - but the rabbit darted away every time he moved.
"So fast..." he growled, frustrated.
Omina finally lost her patience. She stepped forward, and before the animal could escape - *crack!* Her wand struck its head. The rabbit slumped instantly.
Holding the wand, Omina sighed. "You know... this thing feels wasted on me. I can't even use it properly. It feels... pointless."
Yoshiya froze, staring at her. The weight of the sword in his hands suddenly felt ridiculous compared to her single, decisive strike.
---
After catching the rabbit, they returned to the hut to prepare dinner. As always, Omina handled the cooking, while Yoshiya set the table.
With the herbs she had gathered and the rabbit meat, Omina made a rich stew, its fragrance filling the hut.
"I didn't think you could make rabbit taste this good," Yoshiya joked as he sipped.
Omina smiled. "With the right herbs, any meat can be delicious." But her gaze drifted again to the wand lying on the table. "But this... it doesn't suit me at all."
Yoshiya was quiet, then said, "Earlier, one strike from you and the rabbit was done. Me? I tried so many times, but failed."
Their eyes met across the table.
"Maybe we've been thinking about our roles the wrong way," Yoshiya said. "You're faster, more decisive. The sword and magic fit you better. I'm calmer, more careful - I fit better as protector and support."
Omina nodded. "So... we switch roles?"
"Not just switch," Yoshiya replied. "This is our new beginning. You'll be the blade - spellblade. I'll be the shield, and the healer."
They both laughed, then finished their stew. That simple meal became witness to their pact.
Before sleep, Omina whispered, "Tomorrow, let's hunt goblins again. Let's see if this new setup really works."
Yoshiya smiled with his eyes closed. "Yes. Tomorrow, our real trial begins."
And that night, the first chapter of their journey came to an end.
**Thus began their path - as Blade and Shield.**