ɪɴꜰɪɴɪᴛᴇ ᴠᴀʟᴏʀ: ᴛʜᴇ ʜᴇʀᴏ'ꜱ ᴛᴀʟᴇ

ꜰᴏᴜʀᴛᴇᴇɴ - ᴛʜᴇ ᴄʜᴏꜱᴇɴ ʙᴏɴᴅ!

The sun was setting over the distant hills as Leo and Eleanor emerged from the depths of Celestira Forest, weary but triumphant. The long, arduous journey and the battles within the forest had taken their toll, yet their spirits were high, and the glow of accomplishment was unmistakable on their faces. They stood at the edge of the woods, the enchanted air of the forest fading as they stepped into the familiar landscapes that lead to their kingdoms.

Eleanor turned to Leo, brushing a few strands of hair from her face. She was still catching her breath, her cheeks flushed with excitement and exhaustion alike. “I can't thank you enough, Leo,” she said warmly, her eyes shining. “Griffin and I will always be grateful. You should visit Thundercrest soon. We’ll show you our own mystical sights.”

Leo chuckled, returning her gaze. “I wouldn’t miss it. Thundercrest sounds like a worthy adventure. But remember, you’re welcome in Glacialia too. Aisetsune and I will be waiting to show you our kingdom’s wonders.”

With a final smile and a heartfelt embrace, they bid each other farewell and set off toward their respective kingdoms, eager to share the tales of their journey. As Leo made his way back, Aisetsune trotted by his side, casting an imposing yet graceful presence. The legendary nine-tailed snow fox attracted the attention of everyone they passed, villagers and soldiers alike pausing in awe as Leo and his mystical companion entered Glacialia.

Word of Leo’s arrival had spread like wildfire, and by the time he reached the palace gates, a large crowd had gathered to witness the spectacle. Whispers and gasps rippled through the crowd as they took in the sight of the prince and his mythical companion. People of Glacialia revered snow and its wonders, and to see a creature of Aisetsune’s caliber—a living legend of the snow realms—was nothing short of miraculous.

Stepping into the palace courtyard, Leo was greeted by a flurry of activity. Courtiers, attendants, and nobles alike lined up to catch a glimpse of Aisetsune, some with wide eyes, others with reverent bows. But his attention was drawn immediately to his parents and sister standing near the palace entrance, awaiting him.

The Emperor and Empress stood proud, their eyes filled with pride and joy as they watched their son approach. Leo’s mother, the Empress, broke into a radiant smile the moment she spotted him. Her usual grace was momentarily forgotten as she dashed forward, enveloping him in a tight embrace.

“My dear Leo! Are you all right? Did you get hurt?” she asked, cupping his face and scanning him for any signs of injury. The worry in her eyes softened only when Leo laughed and reassured her.

“I’m fine, Mother,” he replied with a warm smile, his voice steady and calm. “I promise.”

At her brother’s side, his little sister, Lily, could hardly contain her excitement. She tugged on his arm, her eyes wide with fascination. “Big brother, is that your spiritual creature?” she asked breathlessly.

Leo nodded, guiding her hand to gently pat Aisetsune’s fur. “Yes, Lily. This is Aisetsune. He’s now part of our family.”

The fox watched her with keen, intelligent eyes, and as Lily touched his fur, Aisetsune let out a soft, melodious howl, resonating with a strange, soothing energy. A faint, shimmering glow enveloped Lily, and Leo could sense a ripple of power pass through her, as if Aisetsune had shared a small piece of his own strength with her. She gasped, feeling a surge of warmth and energy, her quirk suddenly amplified.

The onlookers gasped as well, whispering amongst themselves in awe. Even the Emperor seemed momentarily taken aback, though a pleased smile quickly formed on his face.

“Well, it appears that Aisetsune is not only loyal to Leo but also brings strength to our family,” the Emperor said, his voice filled with admiration. “A mystical creature indeed, capable of such wonders.”