The return.

The intense battle against the dark figure had tested our limits, but we emerged victorious, clutching the precious knowledge we had sought. With the danger behind us, Elara and I began our journey back to the village. The forest, once a place of lurking threats, now felt almost serene as the tension gradually eased with each step.

Elara and I shared stories from our adventure, each tale punctuated with laughter that echoed through the trees. The camaraderie between us was undeniable, forged in the fires of our shared trials. Every anecdote brought another bout of mirth, lightening the burden of our weary bodies.

As the outlines of the village huts came into view, the atmosphere changed. The bustling activity of the villagers grew clearer, and soon their heads turned in unison, eyes widening as they recognized us. The initial surprise quickly turned into joyous cries that filled the air.

"We made it back!" someone shouted, and a wave of relief washed over the crowd. There were no signs of death or injuries among us, and the villagers' expressions shifted from concern to unrestrained joy.

Children ran up to us, their faces beaming with admiration, while elders nodded approvingly, their eyes shining with respect. We had returned, victorious and unscathed, and the village was ready to celebrate our success.

While some envy and jealous at our success, with them hissing at us, staring daggers at us, but no one cared about them as half of the village just celebrated at our successful attempt.

As we made our way through the crowd, I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride. We had faced unimaginable challenges and emerged stronger. The knowledge we had gained from the great library would benefit not just us, but the entire world.

The village elders prepared a grand feast in our honor. Long tables were set up in the village square, laden with food and drink. The villagers gathered around, sharing stories of their own and expressing their gratitude for our safe return. The air was filled with the sounds of celebration—laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses and the smell of old men drunkeness.

As after the "party" was over, elara and i were but quite drunk as i passed out in my bed.

As the days passed by, i grew stronger with the knowledge and fighting experience we had from the trial, i decided to venture out again but these time without elara, as i thought she wasn't "necessary" needed in my training to become even stronger, while the decision was quite harsh, but i knew that I cannot need help from someone else that would just be cheating, hence i decided to travel alone for now.