A TRUE NARA

Upon awakening in the evening, Runica gazes at the back of a young girl across the room. She turns to him, expressing surprise at his rapid recovery. Curious about his whereabouts, Runica inquires. Introducing herself as Alice Draconic(17), the girl reveals they are in the Draconic village. Quickly rising from the bed, Runica peers out the window, observing the vibrant village below. Filled with excitement, he exclaims his joy at finally meeting true Naras. However, Alice shakes her head, reminding Runica of the events just hours prior. Reflecting for a moment, Runica recalls his skirmish with Belfar. Eager to learn what occurred afterward, he queries Alice. She recounts how her cousin, the captain of the gates, informed her of a nearby battle involving three Naras far away from their kingdom fighting Belfar and his gang. Rushing to investigate, they joined forces with the Naras to repel Belfar and his gang. Belfar ominously warned them of an impending war with the Draconic village in the coming year, once they were prepared.

Runica then inquires about what drove a Nara like Belfar to turn rogue. Alice explains that despite being in his late twenties, Belfar has already faced significant challenges in his life. She reveals that Belfar was exile from the Kingdom at the age of 16 due to his inability to unlock his soul weapon and soul armor, compounded by the stigma of having "Bronze" as his last name. Seeking refuge, Belfar found his way to the Draconic village where Alice's father took him under his wing, guiding him on the path of a true Nara. Eventually, at the age of 19, Belfar successfully unlocked his soul weapon. However, harboring a grudge against the kingdom, Belfar believed the Draconic village could provide him with the power to for his revenge. Yet, he was later ousted from the village. A decade later, he returned with outsiders, proclaiming his intent for war.

Reflecting on this information, Runica ponders why Belfar didn't simply settle in the Draconic village. He speculates that perhaps Belfar's childhood was really that bad to fuel his desire for vengeance against the kingdom and the Draconic Village. He then expresses his intention to immerse himself in the ways of a true Nara. Alice chuckles lightly, remarking on how youngsters like Runica are always curious about what it means to be a true Nara at his age. Undeterred, Runica asserts his belief that achieving greatness as a Nara within the Kingdom is insufficient; he desires to reconnect with his roots and understand the essence of being a true Nara. He also promise that he won't go rouge like Belfar. Alice acknowledges that Runica has much to learn and catch up on. In exchange for their knowledge, Runica offers his assistance in the impending war against Belfar and his gang. Alice, sensing immense promise and potential in Runica, smiles and agrees to his proposal.

Suddenly, the door bursts open, and Magnis rushes in, embracing Runica tightly, expressing disbelief that he survived. Runica reassures him and attempts to calm him down. However, Magnis insists that Runica is late for their nightly workouts. Runica informs him that Alice was just about to impart wisdom on becoming a true Nara. Before he can finish his sentence, Magnis eagerly pulls Runica outside, and they commence their rigorous training session. Observing from the window, Alice watches with hope brimming in her heart, noting the difference in Runica's eyes compared to Belfar's. She believes that Runica has the potential to become the greatest Nara.

Several months later, Runica delves into the history of the Nara alongside Alice, also immersing himself in magic studies and casting. During his studies, Runica discovered that long ago, numerous demon gates had manifested across the world of Terra. However, over time, one by one, these gates were eradicated, leaving only one remaining—the demon gate nestled in the caves near the Draconic village. Initially, a dragon was tasked with guarding this gate. However, as time elapsed, the demons emerging from the gate grew increasingly formidable. In response, the first Nara emerged, lending aid to the dragon in defending the Demon's Gate. As time progressed, the first Nara established a lineage dedicated to supporting the dragon. In return, they were bestowed with some of the dragon's powers, thus giving rise to the Draconics. Over generations, a select few Draconics devised a plan to venture beyond their confines and establish a kingdom. This endeavor served as a contingency against the escalating threat posed by the demons and offered respite from the perpetual duty of gate defense. This kingdom later evolved into the Nara Kingdom, serving as the cradle for the subsequent Nara clans. 

Runica also discovers that there are currently two teams, each comprising approximately 20-30 members. Team A, led by Keto(44), Alice's father, is currently stationed to defend the Demon Gate. Meanwhile, Team B, under the leadership of Alissa(40), is in a resting phase. The teams alternate between periods of defense and rest, with each team defending for six months and then resting for the subsequent six months. Within the village, Kuma(24) serves as the sole captain responsible for guarding the front gates. Upon learning this information, Runica realizes the vulnerability of the Draconic village to external threats, which explains Belfar's willingness to wage war against them, given their lack of preparedness for such conflicts. Alice further notes that they have already dispatched a message to the current king of the Nara Kingdom to help assist them in this war, but they have yet to receive a response. Runica expresses frustration, remarking that such indifference is typical of his father, a revelation that surprises Alice. 

Meanwhile, Magnis becomes captivated by a poster featuring Brawler Champions, leading him to devote himself to intensive hand-to-hand combat training. Meanwhile, Drais is at various bars, living the life of a drunk with the other drunks in the village. One day, Alice introduces Runica to her mother, Alissa, who awakens from her two month slumber. Alissa commends Alice on her progress since the beginning of the year, noting that she will soon turn 18 in four months and by then she will qualify to join her team. Runica expresses excitement for her, anticipating her immersion into the life of a true Nara. Alice smiles wistfully, acknowledging that leaving behind her cousin will be bittersweet. Alissa reassures her, affirming that Kuma, Alice's cousin, will manage just fine without her.

Curious about meeting Kuma, Runica inquires further. Alice reveals that no one in the village has expressed a desire to meet Kuma, prompting Runica to question why. Alice explains that it's due to Kuma's unique nature. Shortly afterward, they arrive at the front gates of the village and enter a nearby house where they find Kuma writhing in pain amidst a swirl of light and dark magic. Runica moves to assist Kuma, but Alice stops him, as they observe the clashes of light and dark particles. Alice explains that within Kuma's body reside two conflicting types of magic, locked in perpetual battle until equilibrium is achieved. As the particles gradually dissipate, Kuma struggles to his feet, breathing heavily. Alice inquires about his well-being, to which Kuma responds that he's alright, emphasizing the need for balance and composure in light of the impending war. Alice reassures Kuma, urging him not to burden himself excessively. However, Kuma asserts his position as the captain of the front gate, stating that the fate of the entire village hinges on his ability to maintain his vigilance because this village is not ready for a war. Runica steps forward, expressing his confidence that with him at their side, Kuma need not worry so much. In response, Kuma recognizes Runica as the boy Alice brought in months ago, seemingly on death's doorstep. He questions why he should place his trust in someone who nearly perished at the hands of Belfar.

Alice attempts to intervene, but Runica insists that he can demonstrate his potential to become the strongest Nara. Amused, Kuma suggests settling the matter through a spar. Shortly afterward, they find themselves outside near the front gates. Runica summons his silver soul armor and wields the platinum butcher blade. Kuma, surprised by the mismatched armor and weapon, explains that while he wasn't blessed with soul armor, he possesses a different kind of power. With dark magic enveloping him, he summons a demon wing short sword, stunning Runica. Kuma further surprises him by summoning an angel wing short sword in his other hand. Explaining his unique abilities, Kuma reveals that his mother was endowed with the power of Angel's wings, granting her extraordinary abilities. However, during her time stationed at the Demon's Gate, she encountered a demon of unparalleled strength who cast her into a demon egg, imbuing her with demonic DNA and causing her to become pregnant. Amidst the village's fears of a demon emerging from her womb, Kuma was born with unstoppable demonic magic. To restore balance, Kuma's mother passed on her Angel's wing powers to him, making him able to balance his magic power. 

Runica then say that it makes sense now that nobody in the village desires to meet Kuma due to his partial demonic heritage. Enraged, Kuma charges forward, engaging in a clash of weapons with Runica. Despite Kuma's aggression, Runica manages to slide back, adeptly parrying each of Kuma's strikes. Kuma then clashes both of his swords, unleashing a blast of light and dark energy toward Runica. However, a sudden magic barrier envelops Runica, blocking the blast as he has summon his silver magic staff. Astonished, Kuma turns to Alice, remarking on Runica's ability to wield multiple soul weapons.

Taking advantage of the moment, Runica retaliates by launching a magical blast at Kuma. Despite Kuma's attempt to block with his swords, the blast splinters into numerous smaller energy beams, striking him from behind and causing small explosions on his back. As Runica rushes forward, summoning his butcher blade, Kuma barely manages to block in time, but the force of Runica's strike sends him hurtling backward. Collapsing onto the ground, Kuma rises with palpable excitement, his eyes aglow with both light and dark magic. His muscles twitch rapidly as he assumes a stance with his swords, preparing to unleash a devastating attack.

Noticing Kuma's heightened state, Alice attempts to intervene, but Kuma moves with incredible speed, infused with both light and dark magic. Runica bellows with platinum magic enveloping him as he engages in a fierce clash with Kuma, their respective magics colliding with such intensity that the ground quakes, drawing many villagers to witness the spectacle. Even Magnis joins the spectators, utterly astounded by the unfolding battle. Alissa approaches Alice, commending the remarkable power displayed by Runica at his young age, acknowledging Alice's role in discovering such an extraordinary Nara. Meanwhile, Kuma lets out a ferocious roar as his magic gradually gains the upper hand over Runica's. One by one, pieces of Runica's silver armor fall away, his nose beginning to bleed under the strain. Undeterred, Runica roars in response, his eyes shimmering with magical energy. Suddenly, his magic staff materializes behind him, granting him a surge of magic power. The collision of their magics escalates into a towering spiral that pierces the sky. Surprised by Runica's determination, Kuma watches as their magic reaches its breaking point, culminating in a massive explosion.

The force of the explosion sends Kuma crashing into his house while Runica is propelled into a nearby bar where Drais happens to be drinking. Annoyed by the interruption, Drais insists that Runica compensate him for his spilled drink. Runica rises to his feet, brushing off the alcohol from his head. Alissa enters the bar and tosses a coin to Drais, expressing her admiration for Runica's abilities. She suggests that he might be deemed worthy to defend at the Demon's Gate. Overjoyed, Runica bows gratefully, expressing his eagerness to join her and Alice in defending the gate. Alissa smiles warmly, confirming that she will see him in four months. As she exits the bar, Runica celebrates by embracing Drais, inadvertently causing him to spill his drink once more. Kuma and Alice stride into the bar, where Kuma extends his hand to shake Runica's, acknowledging his newfound understanding of Alice's dedication to Runica.

Over the course of four months, Alissa assembles her team and introduces them to Alice and Runica. The team is taken aback to see Runica, given that he is only 14 years old, whereas the minimum age requirement for the team is 18. Alissa steps forward, asserting that Runica possesses exceptional abilities that qualify him to defend the Demon's Gate. This declaration ignites excitement among the team members. As the team gathers at the entrance of the cave, they encounter Team A emerging from within. Keto exchanges kisses with Alissa before noticing Alice standing alongside Runica. Expressing doubt about Runica's readiness for the challenges ahead, Keto approaches them. Unfazed, Runica strikes a confident pose, affirming his readiness to embrace his destiny as a true Nara, eliciting laughter from those present. Undeterred, Team B ventures into the cave, paying homage at the grave of the first Nara before proceeding to another chamber, where they encounter a colossal dragon. Fixing its gaze upon Runica, the dragon remarks that this Nara is unlike any other.

The dragon proceeds to lead them through the cavernous dwellings, where the team settles in. As they gather, Runica gazes up at the imposing gate. Alice explains that beyond it lies the Demon's Gate, where their most significant battles will take place. Runica, feeling the weight of proximity to the gate, admits to feeling nervous, having to see demons only in books. Alice reassures him, emphasizing his potential to become the greatest Nara, urging him to view this as his opportunity to prove himself. Encouraged, Runica eagerly pushes open the gates, revealing a vast arena with the imposing Demon's Gate at its end. The dragon gracefully enters the arena, beckoning Runica and Alice to follow. Approaching the dragon, they are met with its solemn guidance, admonishing them to maintain composure regardless of what they may encounter. Fueled with determination, Runica expresses his eagerness to be the first to defend when the Demon's Gate opens. The dragon chuckles, noting the resemblance of Runica's eyes to those of the first Nara. It further explains that they must wait until the room is suffused with magical light, signaling the emergence of a demon from the gate, a process that may span days, weeks, or even months.

Upon hearing this, Runica's expression shifts to one of disappointment, expressing his hope to engage in combat with demons today. As they prepare to depart from the arena, the entire space is suddenly bathed in magical light. Startled, they quickly turn back to witness the Demon's Gate aglow with dark energy. The dragon emits a resounding roar, and the rest of Team B converges in the arena. In response, Runica summons his silver armor and brandishes his platinum butcher swords. With the Demon's Gate now open and a demon's hand emerging, adrenaline surges through Runica's veins. He declares that he has anticipated this moment since birth, and with determination, he charges forward towards the Demon's Gate.