Eternal Shadows: The Black Blade Chronicles

Chapter 1: The Shadow's Veil (Part 2)

Part 2: The Merchant's Dilemma and the First Encounter

Enryu walked steadily toward the city gates, the morning sun now fully risen, casting long shadows across the bustling streets. As he neared the exit of the capital, he noticed a commotion near the gates. A large merchant group, accompanied by their guards, was engaged in a heated argument with a staff member from the Adventurer Bureau. The tension was palpable, drawing the attention of passersby.

Curious, Enryu paused and glanced at the magic clock strapped to his wrist. The device was more than just a timepiece; it measured the burden of his ability, "Watch-Guard of Darkness," ensuring that his sealed power didn't strain his body excessively. The clock indicated no current risk, so he decided to use his ability. With a subtle gesture, he activated the "Watch-Guard of Darkness," creating an invisible observer that drifted silently toward the argument, allowing him to eavesdrop on the conversation.

The leader of the merchant group, a middle-aged man with a weathered face and a sturdy build, was speaking urgently to the Adventurer Bureau staff member. "We've been on a long business trip, planned to split into two groups. My son, Rian, led the other half to the western sector to secure deals with local producers, while the rest of us stayed behind to handle trade here in the capital. But just as we arrived, we received news of an evacuation order for residents in the remote areas!"

The staff member, a young man trying his best to maintain his composure, responded, "I understand your concern, but the evacuation is a direct order from the territory authority. Due to the recent increase in monster activity, we've had to prioritize getting everyone to safety. The residents who live in the city work as ranchers and farmers during the spring and summer in remote areas, and they're currently being evacuated to safer locations."

The merchant leader's wife, a woman with a stern yet worried expression, chimed in, her voice trembling slightly. "But our son, our family-he's out there, and we can't get to him! We don't even know if he's safe. We can't just sit here and wait."

The staff member sighed, his face a mix of empathy and frustration. "According to our records, the sector your son was heading to was evacuated before he arrived. The priority now is to ensure the safety of those who are still there. But with most of our adventurers and soldiers already assigned to the evacuation effort, there simply aren't enough resources to send anyone else."

The merchant leader's voice dropped to a near growl. "This is unacceptable. We demand immediate assistance to reach our son. He's handling vital business for our family, and any delays could ruin us. We need to get to him now."

Enryu observed the situation quietly, weighing his options. His mission aligned with the western sector, and he knew the urgency of investigating the increased monster activity. The merchant group's plight, while unfortunate, also presented an opportunity.

Deactivating his observer, Enryu approached the group, his presence instantly shifting the dynamic of the conversation. "I overheard your situation," he said calmly, addressing the merchant leader. "I'm an A-Class adventurer, and I'm heading to the western sector as part of my mission. If you wish, I can escort you to meet your son."

The merchant leader, whose name was Darian, looked at Enryu with a mixture of hope and desperation. "You're an A-Class adventurer? That's a blessing! If you could guide us to our son, we'd be eternally grateful. We need to reach him as soon as possible and then head to the nearest big city to return to the capital via teleportation."

Enryu nodded but raised a hand to temper their enthusiasm. "I can't guarantee your safety if you all come along. The western sector is dangerous, and I'm on a mission that involves more than just escorting a group of merchants. Are you sure your guards are up to the task?"