It had been roughly two months since Orvell and Minerva first met, and in that time, Orvell had accomplished an impressive array of quests. Minerva's own adventure rank had risen from around forty to forty-seven, with the daunting prospect of her rank fifty achievement quest looming ahead. This next challenge would undoubtedly test her abilities like never before.
After returning from a quest to thwart goblins and secure a treasured recipe for tomato soup, Orvell and Minerva were startled by a cacophony of sounds—sword clashes, magical explosions, and the unmistakable roar of a dragon. Curious and concerned, they followed the noise to discover a fierce battle unfolding in a nearby field.
In the midst of this chaotic scene stood a knight wielding a greatsword, locked in combat with a formidable Buster Dragon. Minerva, unfamiliar with such creatures, listened intently as Orvell explained the unique abilities and purpose of a Buster Dragon—to vanquish other dragons and challenge skilled adventurers.
Despite the knight's valiant effort, Minerva noticed telltale signs of exhaustion and injury—bleeding from the waist, a crushed helmet, and shattered armor. Without hesitation, Orvell rushed to aid the struggling knight, intercepting a deadly lightning spear aimed at the knight's helmet.
Singed and injured from the dragon's relentless assault, Orvell knew he needed to act swiftly to turn the tide of battle. Gripping his sword with determination, he focused his energy, channeling his magical abilities into a powerful sword skill.
With a swift motion, Orvell unleashed his enchanted blade, imbued with crackling energy, aiming for the vulnerable neck of the Buster Dragon. The dragon, caught off guard by the sudden burst of magical force, attempted to evade the strike but was too slow.
Orvell's blade connected with precision, slicing through scales and sinew, delivering a decisive blow that severed the dragon's neck from its body. As the dragon collapsed, Orvell stood amidst the aftermath, his sword humming with residual magic.
The defeated dragon, now silent and still, marked the end of their harrowing battle. Orvell turned his attention to the wounded knight and his companions, ready to assist in any way he could.
With the dragon vanquished, attention turned to the wounded knight. To their surprise, the knight was revealed to be a young woman once her armor was removed. Orvell and Minerva assisted in tending to her injuries, including removing a jammed chest plate.
Later, at the One-Eyed Orc Inn in a quaint village, Orvell ventured out to gather healing supplies while Minerva and the knight rested. Upon returning, Orvell introduced himself to the recovering knight, named Beatrice Whitewalker, daughter of King Reginald Whitewalker of Iron Hall.
Beatrice expressed her gratitude to Orvell for his bravery and skill in defeating the dragon. In a candid moment, she shared the motivations behind her daring quest—to prove herself and gain strength, even at great risk. Orvell learned of Beatrice's struggles and her desire for independence amidst expectations of royalty. They then discussed returning to Iron Hall, as it was Beatrice's home. Orvell agreed, and Minerva was excited as it was her first time visiting.
As they continued their journey toward Iron Hall, Beatrice revealed her engagement to Captain Jason Stryke, who had subjected her to degrading and abusive treatment. Orvell and Minerva listened empathetically, offering support and understanding.
Upon reaching Iron Hall, Orvell, Minerva, and Beatrice were welcomed by King Reginald. He expressed relief at Beatrice's return and regret for the challenging quest she had undertaken.
The trio attended a celebratory feast, where Minerva engaged Beatrice in conversation and learned more about her experiences. Orvell found himself drawn into a tense confrontation with Jason, Beatrice's betrothed, culminating in a duel to settle their dispute.
In the arena, facing a hostile crowd, Orvell battled Jason, whose arrogance and aggression masked a lack of true combat skill. With expert precision and swift swordplay, Orvell proved his mettle, earning respect from the onlookers.
Beatrice intervened, her eyes blazing with determination as she faced Jason. "Enough, Jason," she declared, her voice cutting through the tension. "I will no longer tolerate your cruelty or abuse."
Jason sneered, his tone filled with arrogance. "You dare challenge me, Beatrice? I am your future husband, your superior."
Beatrice's resolve hardened. "No longer. I am free from your grasp, from your tyranny. You will answer for your deeds."
As the crowd murmured, Beatrice took a step forward, her sword raised. "You've underestimated me for the last time."
With a swift movement, Beatrice struck, her blade meeting Jason's with unyielding force. Their clash echoed in the arena, a testament to Beatrice's strength and determination.
"As an adventurer rank sixty," Beatrice declared, her voice unwavering, "I will not back down."
As Jason stumbled back, Beatrice's voice rang out. "You have no power over me anymore."
With one final strike, Beatrice delivered a decisive blow that ended Jason's reign of terror. The crowd fell silent, witnessing the triumph of courage and resilience.
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Adventure Bound
Aventurein the realm of Grass Mark. there is a system where people become adventurers, to take on quest, dungeons, raids. to keep monsters at bay.
