Chapter 8: Rhapala Region

As the sun rises over the horizon, Garr, Ryu, Nina, and Peco approach the Checkpoint, the border between Windia and the Rhapala Region. The towering gates are heavily guarded by Windian soldiers, their sharp eyes scanning every traveler. Garr strides confidently ahead, holding the passport provided by the King of Windia.

When they reach the checkpoint, Garr hands over the passport to one of the guards. The guard scrutinizes the document, nods, and is about to wave them through when he catches sight of Ryu and Nina trailing behind. His eyes narrow as he looks at the two children, particularly at Nina, who is clad in Mage's Robes rather than the royal attire typically associated with her status. They give Peco an even stranger look as they have never seen such a creature.

"Wait a moment," the guard says, raising his hand to halt their progress. "Who are these children? And what is that creature following you?"

Garr sensing that it will be troublesome to explain why is he traveling with a dragon, the princess of Windia, and a mutated plant responds, "They are my children and our pet."

The guards exchange puzzled glances, clearly taken aback. The idea of a demon like Garr having children, especially with human appearances, sparks whispers among them. They eye Nina and Ryu with a mix of suspicion and curiosity.

One guard steps forward, squinting at Nina. "You look familiar... Have we seen you before?"

Nina, keeping her composure, replies, "We've traveled a long way. Maybe you've seen us in the city." She avoids directly revealing her identity, not wanting to cause more attention.

The guards murmur among themselves, still unconvinced but unsure of how to proceed. The situation becomes tense, with other travelers watching the exchange with interest.

Finally, another guard, likely the leader, steps in and addresses Garr. "We don't want to cause any trouble. Just go ahead, but remember, if anything suspicious happens, it'll be on you."

Garr nods solemnly, his expression unchanged. "Understood."

With a final nod from the guards, the heavy gate creaked open, granting passage to Garr, Ryu, Nina, and Peco. As they step through, Ryu and Nina exchange relieved glances, their tension momentarily eased. Garr, ever stoic, leads the way, his imposing figure undeterred by the curious stares.

The wind howls as they approached the narrow bridge spanning a deep chasm. The old wooden structure sways with each gust, the ropes groaning under the strain. Ryu and Nina grip the ropes tightly, their knuckles white, each step taken with cautious precision. The bridge rocked beneath Garr's weight, every footfall echoing ominously, but the demon warrior remains unfazed, his gaze fixed ahead.

As they step off the bridge and onto solid ground, Ryu and Nina breathe a collective sigh of relief. The Rhapala Region stretches out before them, a land of rolling hills and expansive plains. The distant sound of waves hints at the coastline, where they can catch a ship to the eastern continent.

Garr, ever stoic, leads the way, his heavy footsteps crunching on the dirt path. Ryu, Nina, and Peco follow closely, their eyes wide with curiosity and a hint of unease. The landscape is different from what they're used to, with unfamiliar flora and the salty tang of the sea in the air.

The road to the port town of Rhapala is relatively quiet, with few travelers passing by. Occasionally, they encounter small groups of people, merchants, and farmers, who eye Garr with a mix of shock and fear, clearly not accustomed to seeing such a formidable figure. Ryu and Nina stay close to him, finding an odd comfort in his imposing presence. Peco follows closely.

As they near the port town of Rhapala, the sights and sounds of the bustling harbor greet them. The docks are a hive of activity, with ships of various sizes anchored and docked, their masts swaying gently with the rhythm of the waves. The air is thick with the calls of sailors training, their voices mingling with the cries of gulls and the clamor of busy fishermen unloading their catches. The scent of saltwater is strong, mixed with the pungent aromas of fish and exotic spices wafting from nearby market stalls.

Ryu and Nina notice an unusual number of cats lounging around the town, often near fishermen who seem resigned to their presence. The large, scuttling water fleas—strange crustacean-like creatures—move around the concrete docks, a common sight in this coastal settlement.

As they make their way through the town, they come upon a guild hall marked by a sign with a picture of a cat. The group enters, the interior filled with the scent of sea air and aged wood. Garr approaches the desk, where a burly man sits, his broad shoulders and weathered face suggesting a lifetime spent at sea. Garr then inquires about securing passage to the eastern continent.

The man shakes his head regretfully. "I'm afraid all ships are currently docked and unable to sail. The lighthouse is out of order—monsters have taken up residence, and without its light, it's too dangerous to navigate the waters."

Garr's expression remains unchanged. "Then we wait," he says simply. He then leaves the guild hall, moving himself to the town square where he assumes his meditative posture, his eyes closed as if in deep thought.

Nina, puzzled by Garr's passive stance, turns to Ryu. "Why can't we help them clear out the monsters?" she asks, her voice filled with concern.

Garr's voice, though calm, carries a hint of finality. "The concerns of mortals are not mine to bear. They will resolve their own problems, in time."

Nina looks frustrated, her eyes darting to Ryu for support. "Ryu, can't you just fly us to the eastern continent in your dragon form?"

Ryu hesitates, uncertainty clouding his features. "I've never tried to fly as a dragon," he admits. "And even if I could, I don't know if I'd be able to carry all of you, especially across such a long way."

As they stand in the bustling square, the reality of their situation sets in. They are caught between the necessity of their journey and the immovable will of the sea, guarded by a problem that seems so simple yet insurmountable. The promise of adventure feels momentarily distant, overshadowed by the immediate challenge of finding a way forward.

After hours of waiting, Nina's patience wears thin. She fidgets restlessly, glancing repeatedly toward the distant lighthouse. Finally, she turns to Peco, gently instructing the small creature to stay with Garr. Peco, always compliant, settles next to Garr's meditative form, blinking up at him curiously.

"Nina, what are you thinking?" Ryu asks, noting the determined set of her jaw.

"We can't just sit here and do nothing," Nina replies, her eyes bright with resolve. "Let's go back to the guild and see if there's anything we can do to help with the lighthouse problem."

And so, together, they make their way back to the guild hall. Inside, the atmosphere is slightly less frenetic than before, though still busy. The burly man at the desk looks down as they approach, a questioning look in his eyes.

"We want to help with the lighthouse," Nina announces, her voice steady. "What can we do?"

The man regards them for a moment, as if weighing their sincerity. "If you're serious about helping, you'll need to talk to Guildmaster Sinkar. He's the one in charge of finding someone to deal with the lighthouse situation."

Nina and Ryu exchange a glance, a shared sense of purpose igniting between them. They thank the man and head back outside.

Ryu and Nina navigate through the bustling streets of Rhapala, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of Guildmaster Sinkar. They stop several locals, each directing them further into town towards the wharf. As they delve deeper, they come upon a group of sailors led by a formidable-looking man with a broad chest and a striped shirt, his voice booming as he commands the sailors through rigorous exercises.

"Just because the ships are docked doesn't mean you get to slack off!" the man shouts, his tone brooking no argument. Beside him, a Highlander with monkey-like features—long arms and a hairy body—hops about energetically, echoing the strong man's commands and hyping up the sailors.

Ryu leans toward Nina, whispering, "Do you think that might be the Guildmaster?"

Nina, equally unsure, replies, "He certainly looks important. Let's ask him."

They approach the pair, and Nina steps forward, her voice polite but firm. "Excuse me, sir, are you Guildmaster Sinkar?"

The strong man chuckles, shaking his head. "No, young miss. The name's Zig, head sailor around here," he says, crossing his arms over his chest. His presence is imposing, but there's a friendly gleam in his eyes. "Guildmaster Sinkar's in a meeting with the ship captains right now."

Ryu and Nina exchange a brief look of disappointment, but Nina presses on. "We're here to help with the lighthouse problem. Is there any way we can assist?"

Zig regards them thoughtfully for a moment before nodding. "Only Beyd has the authority and the means to grant access to it right now."

Nina perks up at this information. "Where can we find Beyd?"

Zig points across the harbor to a scrawny man standing near a pile of crates taking notes, his large coke bottle glasses glinting in the sunlight. "That's Beyd over there," Zig says. "He might not look like much, but he is in charge of the guild finances. He's the one you'll want to talk to about the lighthouse."

Thanking Zig, Ryu and Nina make their way toward Beyd, hopeful that they might finally find a way to help with the lighthouse and continue their journey.

Ryu and Nina approach Beyd, who is engrossed in his notes. Hearing their footsteps, Beyd looks down, adjusting his large glasses, and greets them with a soft, almost shy voice. "Hello, how can I help you?"

"We heard that the lighthouse has a monster problem," Ryu begins, glancing at Nina for support. "We'd like to help clear it out."

Beyd blinks in surprise, his eyes widening behind his thick glasses. "You? Two kids want to take on the monsters?" He shakes his head vigorously. "I'm sorry, but I can't let you go to the lighthouse. If something happened to you, I'd lose my job—or worse!"

Before Ryu and Nina can respond, a young woman strides over, her voice clear and commanding. "Beyd, what's the damage this week from the cargo losses?" The woman named Shadis, has a tomboyish charm, her blonde hair tied back in a practical ponytail with a bandanna. She wears denim boy shorts, a checkered shirt, and leather shoes, projecting a no-nonsense attitude.

Beyd fumbles with his papers, his cheeks reddening slightly. "Uh, Shadis, it's... it's about 120,670 zeny," he stammers, clearly flustered in her presence.

Shadis sighs, crossing her arms with a look of frustration. "That's a lot of money gone. We can't keep taking hits like this," she mutters, more to herself than to Beyd. "If this keeps up, we may have to shut the port down."

Beyd, trying to comfort her, says, "We'll figure something out, Shadis. You can always rely on me." His tone is earnest, his blush deepening as he speaks.

Shadis offers a small, appreciative smile. "Thanks, Beyd. I know I can."

As Shadis walks away, Nina nudges Ryu and whispers, "Did you see that? I think they like each other."

Ryu nods, smiling slightly at the observation. Turning back to Beyd, he says, "We actually have someone else who can help us with the lighthouse. Someone very strong."

Beyd looks skeptical but intrigued. "Someone else? Who?"

"He's an experienced warrior," Ryu explains, choosing his words carefully. "If you meet him, I think you'll reconsider letting us go."

Beyd hesitates, then sighs. "Alright, I'll meet this person. But no promises. I need to be sure it's safe."

Curious about the interaction she observed, Nina asks Beyd, "Who was that woman, Shadis? She seemed really concerned."

Beyd smiles faintly, a touch of affection in his eyes. "Shadis is Guildmaster Sinkar's daughter. She's been helping her father manage things around here, especially with all the trouble at the lighthouse."

Nina, sensing there might be more to the story, presses on gently. "How do you know each other?"

Beyd's smile widens, and he seems to relax a bit. "We've known each other since we were kids. Grew up in this same town, went to the same school. We've always been friends, even when she decided to take a more active role in the guild. I got a job as the guild finance advisor to help her and her father out." His expression softens as he speaks, clearly cherishing the bond they share.

Nina nods thoughtfully, sensing the deep connection between them. "She seems like a strong person," she says.

"She is," Beyd agrees, his voice carrying a mix of admiration and fondness. "Shadis has always been strong, both in character and in will. That's why she cares so much about the guild and the people here."

Nina nods, her expression resolute. With the information they needed now in hand, there was only one thing left to do—convince Garr to help them.

Without hesitation, she and Ryu make their way back to the town square, where Garr remains seated in quiet meditation. The sun overhead cast long shadows over his towering figure, his massive frame utterly still, save for the slow rise and fall of his chest. The townspeople pass by, giving the enigmatic Guardian a wide berth, as if instinctively sensing the immense power radiating from him.

Ryu and Nina exchange a glance before stepping forward, their footsteps barely making a sound against the worn cobblestone.

Ryu begins, "Garr, we need your help to clear out the monsters. If we can fix the lighthouse, the ships will be able to sail again, and we can reach the eastern continent much faster."

Garr, eyes closed and unmoved, responds with a low, steady voice, "The concerns of these people are not my responsibility. My duty is to the mission we are on, not to their troubles."

Nina, trying to appeal to Garr's sense of practicality, adds, "But helping them helps us too. If we don't do anything, we could be stuck here for who knows how long."

Garr opens his eyes slightly, his gaze impassive. "Time is meaningless to an Endless like me," he says. "Whether we leave now or later, it makes no difference. You are children; you have plenty of time to wait as well."

Ryu and Nina exchange glances, realizing that convincing Garr is a futile effort. With a sigh of resignation, Ryu says, "Alright, we'll wait."

As they walk away, Nina looks back at Garr, a mix of frustration and disappointment on her face. "I guess we just have to be patient," she says softly, more to herself than to Ryu.

That evening, the group set up camp near the town's edge. The soft glow of the campfire flickered against the encroaching darkness, the sound of owls and insects filling the air around them. Garrs sits close by, occasionally tossing in firewood to keep the flames alive. Nearby, Ryu and Nina busy themselves with cooking, roasting a few freshly caught fish over the fire, while Peco sleeps soundly a short distance away.

As they tend to their meal, Nina turns to Ryu, her voice curious. "What do you think about Beyd and Shadis?" she asks, watching the flames dance around the fish.

Ryu shrugged, poking at the fire with a stick. "It seemed a bit strange. If Beyd likes Shadis, why doesn't he just tell her?"

Nina's brow furrows in thought. "Maybe he's scared or unsure how she'll react," she suggests, her tone thoughtful. "But you know, if we're stuck here in Rhapala for a while, maybe we could help him confess."

Ryu looks at her, surprised. "Why? I mean, isn't that their business?"

Nina smiles, a glint of determination in her eyes. "As the princess of Windia, it's my duty to help people in need. And right now, Beyd seems like he could use a little push. Besides, it could be something for us to do while we wait for the lighthouse situation to get solved."

Ryu nods slowly, warming to the idea. "I guess you're right. It could be fun playing cupid for them, and who knows, maybe helping can make him trust us enough to get into the lighthouse."

With a plan forming in their minds, they continue to cook their fish, sharing thoughts on how they might help Beyd muster the courage to confess his feelings to Shadis. As the night deepens and the fire crackles softly, their thoughts turn to the potential challenges ahead, not just with the lighthouse, but in aiding their newfound friends in Rhapala.

The following afternoon, Ryu and Nina set out to find Beyd along the bustling wharf. The air is filled with the sounds of dock workers shouting orders, the creaking of ships, and the ever-present calls of seagulls. Spotting Beyd amidst the activity, they make their way over and ask for a moment of his time.

Beyd, looking slightly wary, agrees, but Nina's next question catches him completely off guard. "Do you love Shadis?" she asks bluntly, causing nearby sailors and workers to stop what they are doing and turn their attention to the conversation. Beyd's face flushes a deep red with embarrassment, and he quickly leads the children away to a more secluded spot, out of earshot from the curious onlookers.

Once they are alone, Beyd stammers, "Why would you ask that? What made you think—"

Nina interrupts gently, "It's just that we noticed you seem to have feelings for her. We thought maybe you should tell her how you feel."

Beyd shakes his head frantically. "No, I can't. Shadis is too good for me. She's strong, confident, and destined to lead the guild. I'm just… a bookworm. She deserves someone better."

Before they can continue the conversation, a loud commotion erupts from the direction of the docks. Beyd, Ryu, and Nina hurry over to find out what is happening. There, they see Shadis confronting Zig, her voice filled with confusion and Shadis froze, her breath catching in her throat. She stared at Zig, disbelief flashing in her emerald eyes.

"What do you mean we're getting married?" she demanded, her voice sharp with shock.

Zig smirked, crossing his arms over his chest. His confidence was infuriating. "Simple. Your father promised me your hand in marriage if I cleared the lighthouse of monsters and repaired the light. It's all arranged."

Shadis felt the world tilt beneath her feet. "He what?!" Her hands clenched into fists. "My father would never..."

"You should be honored," Zig continued, tilting his chin up smugly. "With me as your husband, you'll have security, strength. You won't have to worry about a thing."

Shadis recoiled as if he'd struck her. "I—'won't have to worry about a thing'? Like I'm some helpless little girl who needs you to take care of me?" Her voice rose, drawing the attention of nearby townsfolk. "I never agreed to this! And I never will!"

Without another word, she turned and stormed away, fury burning in every step. She had to find her father. Had to put an end to this madness. As she disappeared down the street, Beyd stood frozen in place. His expression twisted in a mix of shock, despair, and barely restrained frustration. His fists clenched, but he said nothing.

Nina, watching carefully, saw her chance. She stepped closer to Beyd, lowering her voice. "Are you really going to let this happen?"

Beyd didn't answer. His gaze remained locked on the path Shadis had taken, his jaw tight with unspoken words.

Nina pressed on. "If you love her, then fight for her. Why don't you clear the lighthouse yourself, Beyd?" she suggests, her voice earnest. "You could prove yourself."

Beyd shakes his head. "I can't. I'm not strong enough to fight those monsters."

Ryu steps forward, determination in his eyes. "I can train you. I was in the Contest of Champions, and I did quite well. I came in second place."

Beyd looks skeptical, glancing at Ryu's youthful appearance. "You? Train me? But you're just a kid…"

Ryu stands his ground, confidence in his voice. "I may be young, but I've fought my share of battles. Let me help you."

Beyd hesitates, torn between his lack of confidence and the desperate situation. Finally, he nods, deciding to trust in Ryu's offer. He reaches into his pocket and hands Ryu a small pouch of coins. "This is all I have—1,000 zenny. Use it to buy a sword and armor for me."

With a plan in place, Nina and Ryu takes the money and prepares for the task ahead. As they set out to equip Beyd for his training, they can't help but feel the weight of the challenge. They hope to prove that sometimes, with a little courage and the right help, even the most unlikely heroes can change their fate.

As the evening settles in, Ryu and Nina observe Beyd, who is clad in armor that appears too bulky and heavy for his slender frame. The newly acquired sword trembles in his hands, betraying his nervousness and inexperience. Ryu, noticing Beyd's discomfort, begins offering basic advice on how to handle the weapon and move in the armor.

"Remember, keep your balance and don't grip the sword too tightly," Ryu instructs, demonstrating a proper stance. Beyd nods, though his eyes remain wide with anxiety.

Ryu then takes a step back and draws his own sword, assuming a defensive posture. "Now, try to attack me," he says encouragingly. The command causes Beyd to flinch, and instead of attacking, he ducks into a defensive position, his eyes squeezed shut in fear.

Ryu blinks, an awkward silence hanging in the air, "Well, we've got a lot of work to do."

Over the next several hours, they continue training. Ryu patiently guides Beyd through the basics, correcting his form and encouraging him to be more assertive. Nina watches, occasionally offering words of encouragement to boost Beyd's confidence.

As the night wears on, Beyd finally musters the courage to make a move. He raises his sword and swings it down towards Ryu, but his fear causes him to miss by a wide margin. Ryu doesn't even bother to dodge, shaking his head with a supportive smile. "Try again," he urges, his tone gentle yet firm.

Beyd, breathing heavily and sweating under the weight of his armor, nods determinedly. He resets his stance, focusing on Ryu's instructions. With each swing, he improves slightly, his movements becoming more confident, though still clumsy. The training session continues, the sound of swords hitting the ground echoing through the night. As Beyd continues to practice, his determination shines through, fueled by the hope of earning Shadis' admiration and changing their fate.

Over the next four nights, Ryu and Beyd continue their training diligently. As Beyd becomes accustomed to the weight of the armor and the feel of the sword in his hands, he starts to make significant progress. He begins to land hits on Ryu, though they are often deflected. In one instance, their swords lock together, and Ryu, with a surge of strength, pushes Beyd back. Beyd staggers and loses his balance, but Ryu quickly helps him up, offering a smile of encouragement.

"You're getting better," Ryu remarks, genuinely impressed by Beyd's improvement. Beyd, panting and flushed with pride, grins back, but Ryu quickly adds, "But we can't rest yet. We have one more night to train."

On the final evening, the air is filled with a sense of culmination. Beyd, exhausted but determined, leans against a wall, catching his breath. Nina sits nearby, her legs swinging as she watches Ryu continue his training. The young warrior practices with his moon sword, his movements precise and fluid, evidence to his hard work and dedication.

Beyd, observing Ryu's discipline, can't help but voice his admiration. "Ryu is quite impressive. He may be just a kid, but he has the heart of a true warrior."

Nina, glancing at Ryu with a soft smile, responds, "Yeah, he really does." A faint blush colors her cheeks.

Beyd notices and, with a hint of curiosity, asks, "Do you like him?"

Caught off guard, Nina hesitates, then replies with a shy smile, "I hope we get married when we grow up."

Beyd is moved by her candidness, her words stirring a resolve within him. Inspired by the courage he sees in Ryu and the sincerity in Nina's dreams, he feels a sense of hope. Determined to prove himself worthy and to fight for his own happiness, Beyd steels himself for the challenge ahead. He resolves to confront the monsters in the lighthouse and, once victorious, to finally confess his feelings to Shadis.

The next afternoon, Ryu and Nina meet up with Beyd, ready to head to the lighthouse. Ryu asks if he's ready, and Beyd, with a determined look, responds, "I have to be." So they set off, marching toward the lighthouse with resolve.

As they leave the wharf headed towards the lighthouse, Zig steps in front of them, blocking their path. "Where do you think you're going, Beyd?" Zig demands, his tone condescending.

Beyd squares his shoulders and replies, "I'm going to the lighthouse to fix the light!"

Zig lets out a derisive laugh, then shoves Beyd, causing him to stagger and lose his balance. As he hits the floor, Zig chuckles and says, "You can't even stand straight with your armor! You think you can handle the monsters? The lighthouse is my responsibility, stay out of it," Zig says, towering over Beyd.

Beyd stands up, with his sword in hand. "I'm going to clear the lighthouse!" He shouts with courage in his voice. "That way, Shadis won't have to marry you. I may not be worthy of her, but neither are you!"

"Oh, that's what this is about," says Zig. "If you want to go, you'll have to beat me in a duel. The strongest person will go to the lighthouse and clear it out. Deal?"

The challenge hangs heavy in the air, and Beyd, seeing no other option, reluctantly agrees. Zig smirks, clearly confident in his advantage. "Meet me in the town square tonight," he says.

That evening, the square fills with a hushed crowd, eager to witness the duel. Beyd, Ryu, and Nina stand ready, with Zig accompanied by his Highlander partner and Shadis, who decided to watch with a worried expression. Beyd, initially confident, notices Zig's lack of armor or weaponry and assumes an advantage.

As they take their positions, the Highlander steps forward, addressing both combatants. "Remember, this duel determines who goes to the lighthouse," he says, his voice carrying a note of seriousness. Both men nod, understanding the stakes.

The Highlander raises his hand to signal the start of the fight. "Begin!" he shouts, his voice echoing through the arena.

With a loud, overly dramatic battle cry, Beyd charges forward, his sword held high above his head. "Hyaaah!" His face is contorted in a fierce expression that looks more constipated than intimidating.

Zig watches him approach, yawning exaggeratedly. Just as Beyd swings with all his might, Zig casually raises one hand and catches the hilt mid-swing, his fingers drumming lazily against the blade. He glances at Beyd and raises an eyebrow. "Really? That's your big move?"

With an effortless flick of his wrist, Zig disarms Beyd, the sword flying out of his grip and spinning through the air before landing with an undignified clatter behind him. For a moment, Beyd stares dumbly at his empty hands.

"Uh… timeout?" Beyd stammers, but Zig just grins.

"No sword? No problem!" Zig cackles, grabbing Beyd's wrists and forcing him to slap his own face. "Why are you hitting yourself, huh? Why are you hitting yourself?" he teases, twisting Beyd's arms around in absurd angles.

The crowd watches, half in confusion and half in amusement, as Beyd's own hands repeatedly smack his cheeks, leaving red imprints. "Stop it!" Beyd whines, trying to pull his hands free.

"Oh no, we're just getting started!" Zig laughs, finally letting go. Beyd stumbles backward, his face flushed and his hair a mess.

Then, Zig rolls up his sleeves, his face turning mock-serious. "Alright, playtime's over." He delivers a flurry of punches—not hard enough to hurt but enough to send Beyd staggering backward like a wobbling toddler.

One punch lands squarely on Beyd's armored chest, producing a comical "CLANG!" that reverberates through the square. The crowd erupts into laughter. Beyd looks down at his dented chest plate, his eyes wide in disbelief.

From the sidelines, Ryu and Nina try to cheer him on, their faces straining to maintain hopeful smiles. "You can do it, Beyd!" Nina shouts, though her voice sounds more like she's trying to convince herself.

"Yeah, just… stop letting him hit you!" Ryu adds, wincing as Zig spins Beyd around by the shoulders and gives him a swift kick in the backside, sending him sprawling face-first into the floor.

Covered in dirt, Beyd tries to rise, his limbs shaking like a newborn deer. Zig looms over him, dusting his hands off. "Well, this was fun. But I think we both know how this ends."

With one final, light flick to the forehead, Beyd flops backward, his body splayed out comically as he lets out a pitiful groan.

The crowd cheers half-heartedly, unsure whether they just watched a fight or a slapstick comedy routine. Meanwhile, Zig strikes a triumphant pose, flexing his arms and grinning like a fool. Beyd just lies there, his pride more bruised than his body.

Zig, basking in his victory, waves at Shadis, a smug smile on his face. "Better start picking out a wedding dress, Shadis," he calls out. "We'll be married very soon."

Shadis stood frozen, her shoulders trembling as tears streamed down her face, each drop glistening in the dim light. Her quiet sobs echoed in the heavy silence, raw and heart-wrenching. The sound pierced through Beyd like a blade, shattering the last of his resolve.

His chest tightened, his fists clenching so hard his knuckles turned white. In his mind, he saw it—Shadis, his childhood friend, trapped in a hollow life beside that arrogant brute, Zig. He imagined her laughter fading, her warm smile replaced by vacant eyes. A life where she was no longer free to be herself, where they could never share another carefree moment together.

The thought sent a searing pain through him, igniting a fury he had never known. His heart pounded in his chest, each beat echoing with indignation. "No." He couldn't let that happen. He wouldn't let that happen.

A fierce, burning rage surged through him, shaking him to his core. His body trembled, not from fear, but from an unyielding determination. The world around him blurred, but Shadis remained in sharp focus, her tears fueling the fire within him.

Beyd's jaw tightened, his eyes blazing with newfound purpose. "No more," he muttered under his breath, his voice low and steady. He wouldn't stand by and watch Shadis be forced into a loveless marriage. He wouldn't lose his best friend—not like this.

His body moved before his mind could catch up, his feet pressing onto the ground as he stood up, shoulders squared and fists at his sides. He could feel the raw power coursing through him, the intensity of his emotions driving him forward.

His gaze locked onto Zig, who stood smugly basking in his so-called victory. Beyd's rage flared, but beneath it was something far more powerful—resolve. "I won't let you take her." His voice cut through the air, clear and unwavering. "Not now. Not ever." This fight wasn't just about honor or strength. It was about Shadis. It was about protecting the one person who mattered most to him. And he would fight with every ounce of his being to do just that.

With newfound determination, Beyd struggles to shed his heavy armor. As the steel crashes on the ground, the crowd watches him with interest. "If you think I will let you marry Shadis, I got one thing to say to you." he declares, his voice steady and resolute. "I will not fucking have it!"

Zig, sensing a challenge, scoffs and shakes his head. "Stay down, Beyd," he warns. "Don't be stupid."

But Beyd stands firm, raising his fists. "I didn't hear any bell," he retorts, his eyes blazing with resolve. "This fight isn't over!"

Zig's face contorted with fury, his muscles tensing as he lunged at Beyd, his fists flying with brute force. Each punch was meant to crush, to break, to end this fight once and for all. But Beyd, now freed from his heavy armor, moved with a speed and grace no one had anticipated.

He ducked under a wild swing, his body twisting fluidly as Zig's fist sailed past his head, grazing nothing but air. Beyd's feet were light, his steps quick as he dodged another ferocious punch, the force of which cracked the ground beneath. The crowd watched in stunned silence, eyes wide as Beyd danced around Zig's attacks, evading each strike with hair's-breadth precision.

On the sidelines, Ryu's fists were clenched, his eyes blazing with determination. "You've got this, Beyd! Don't let up!" Nina's voice followed, her face alight with hope. "Fight for her!" Their shouts echoed across the arena, cutting through the tense air.

Shadis stood at the edge, her hands clasped tightly to her chest, her heart pounding as she watched Beyd fight like a man reborn. Her tears had dried, replaced by awe and admiration. This was no longer the timid boy she once knew. This was a warrior—a man fighting for her honor, her future.

Zig's rage boiled over, his face red with frustration. He charged, his body a blur of muscle and fury, throwing a barrage of punches meant to overwhelm. But Beyd was already moving, weaving through the onslaught like water around stone. Zig's fists met only shadows, his growls of anger growing more desperate.

"Hold still, damn you!" Zig roared, swinging wildly, his movements growing erratic, his breathing ragged. But Beyd saw it—the opening he'd been waiting for.

As Zig overextended, his balance faltering, Beyd's eyes narrowed, his body coiling like a spring. In one swift motion, he surged forward, his fist driving into Zig's side with pinpoint precision—a perfect shot to the kidneys.

The impact echoed like thunder, the force rippling through Zig's body. His eyes widened, a gasp of pain escaping his lips as his body seized. He staggered backward, his legs buckling beneath him. His strength evaporated, his face twisted in agony before his eyes rolled back, and he collapsed to the ground, motionless.

As the adrenaline fades, Beyd's body succumbs to the pain of his injuries. He collapses to the ground, breathing heavily, every muscle and bone aching from the intense fight. Shadis rushes to his side, her eyes wide with concern. "You're all beat up," she says, her voice thick with worry. "Why? Why would you do this? You know you can't fight!"

Beyd, despite the pain, manages a weak smile. "I did it for you," he confesses, his voice soft but sincere. "Because I love you, Shadis."

Overcome with emotion, Shadis blinks back tears. "I love you too," she whispers, her voice trembling with joy. "I've loved you since we were kids."

Gathering his strength, Beyd looks up at her, his eyes shining with hope and determination. "Shadis, will you marry me?"

Shadis nods, a radiant smile spreading across her face. "Yes, Beyd, I will," she answers, her voice full of warmth and love. As they lean in and share a tender kiss, the crowd erupts into cheers, celebrating the couple's newfound happiness. The atmosphere is filled with joy and relief, the tension of the duel forgotten as everyone witnesses the blossoming of a love story long in the making. Even Ryu and Nina can't help but to get a little bit emotional watching them.

The next day, Ryu and Nina meet with Beyd, who is covered in bandages. His arm is in a sling, his other hand wrapped in gauze, and his forehead is adorned with a large bandage. Despite his injuries, Beyd greets them with a sheepish laugh, clearly embarrassed by his current state. "Well," he chuckles, "after everything we've been through, it looks like I still can't go to the lighthouse and fight those monsters."

Ryu, ever focused, cuts to the heart of the matter. "We need to get to the eastern continent. Is there anything we can do to help?"

Beyd, his expression turning serious, reaches into his pocket and hands Ryu a small, ornate badge. "Take this," he says. "It's the guild badge. It will grant you access to the lighthouse. I'm trusting you to take care of the monsters and figure out how to fix the light."

As Ryu accepts the badge, Beyd looks him in the eye. "I'm sorry for doubting you earlier. But after seeing you train and fight, I know you can handle this. Good luck, and thank you for everything."

With the badge in hand, Ryu and Nina set off for the lighthouse. They present the badge to the sailor guarding the bridge, who, after a cursory inspection, grants them passage. As they approach the towering structure, they marvel at its enormity. The lighthouse is more than just a beacon; it's a sprawling complex, almost a small city unto itself, with various buildings that once bustled with sailors dedicated to keeping the light operational.

Navigating the labyrinthine corridors, they soon come across rusted pipes, long devoid of the magical energy that once coursed through them. A nearby sign offers instructions on how to turn on and maintain the Crysm furnace in the basement. With a sense of purpose, Ryu and Nina venture deeper into the lighthouse.

The journey is fraught with danger. The dilapidated halls are infested with monsters and eerie spirits that attack without warning. Room by room, Ryu and Nina fight off these threats, determined to cleanse the lighthouse of its infestation. Their battles are intense, but Nina's magic and Ryu's recovery spells were the ingredients for teamwork and resolve to see them through each encounter.

Finally, they reach the basement and locate the Crysm furnace. Following the instructions from the sign, they manage to ignite it, watching as the pipes fill with a radiant, magical energy. The energy pulses and hums, a sign that the lighthouse is slowly coming back to life.

Their task is not yet complete. They follow the now-glowing pipes upward, navigating through more rooms and dispatching lingering threats. As they ascend, the magic energy flows steadily, illuminating their path.

At last, they arrive at the top of the lighthouse. The view is breathtaking, but there's no time to admire it. They find the control panel and, with a deep breath, Ryu pulls the switch. The massive crystal at the top of the lighthouse flares to life, casting a brilliant light that pierces the sky. The beam sweeps across the sea, a guiding star for the ships below.

With their mission accomplished, Ryu and Nina stand together, gazing out at the horizon. The lighthouse is once again a beacon of hope, ready to guide sailors safely to shore.

Ryu and Nina return to Beyd, their faces alight with the success of their mission. Beyd, though still swathed in bandages, beams at the news that the lighthouse is operational once more. However, he informs them that preparing a ship for their journey to the eastern continent will take a few days.

"Well done, you two," Beyd says, his voice filled with gratitude. "I can't thank you enough for what you've done."

Ryu grins. "It was nothing, really. We're just glad to help."

Seizing the moment, Beyd extends an invitation to his wedding with Shadis. "Since you'll be here for a few days, would you both like to attend my wedding? It would mean a lot to us."

Nina's eyes light up. "We'd love to! It sounds wonderful."

The town buzzes with excitement as preparations for the ceremony get underway. A couple of days later, the town square is transformed into a picturesque wedding venue. Flowers adorn the area, and townsfolk gather, eager to witness the union. Ryu and Nina find seats near the front, their eyes wide with anticipation.

As the ceremony begins, Shadis walks down the aisle, radiant in her wedding gown. Beyd waits at the altar, his injuries forgotten in the glow of his happiness. The officiant leads them through their vows, each word filled with love and commitment.

"Beyd," Shadis begins, her voice trembling with emotion, "from the moment we were children, I knew you were special. You've always been there for me, and I promise to stand by you, no matter what."

Beyd takes a deep breath, his eyes glistening. "Shadis, you are my heart, my strength. I never thought I could be so lucky to have you by my side. I promise to love and protect you always."

When Beyd and Shadis exchange rings, there is not a dry eye in the crowd. Finally, they seal their vows with a kiss, and the entire town erupts into cheers.

"Isn't this amazing?" Nina whispers to Ryu, her eyes shining.

Ryu nods. "Yeah, it's really something. I'm glad we could be here."

The celebration continues long into the night, with music, dancing, and laughter filling the air. Ryu and Nina join in the festivities, their hearts light and their spirits high.

As they dance and celebrate, Beyd approaches them, a smile on his face. "Thank you again, both of you. This wouldn't have been possible without your help."

Nina smiles back. "We're just happy to see you so happy, Beyd."

Ryu adds, "Yeah, it's been a great experience for us too."

Beyd nods, his eyes full of gratitude. "Here's to new beginnings and to friends who make the impossible possible."

As they continue to dance and celebrate, they know that their adventure is far from over, but for now, they revel in this moment of pure joy.

The next day dawns bright and clear, a perfect day for setting sail. The ship heading to the eastern continent is finally ready, its sails billowing in the morning breeze. Ryu, Nina, Garr, and Peco stand on the deck, their belongings securely packed and their hearts filled with anticipation.

As the ship begins to drift away from the port town of Rhapala, they look back at the shore. Beyd and Shadis are standing at the edge of the dock, waving enthusiastically.

"Take care!" Beyd calls out, his voice carrying over the water. "Promise to visit soon!"

Nina waves back, her eyes misty. "We will! Take care of each other!"

Ryu raises his hand in farewell. "We'll check on you as soon as we can!"

Shadis, her arm linked with Beyd's, shouts, "Safe travels! And good luck on your journey!"

As the distance between the ship and the shore grows, their figures become smaller, but the warmth of their smiles remains vivid in the hearts of the departing friends.

Garr, standing tall and resolute, looks toward the horizon. "Next stop, Angel Tower."

Nina nods, excitement and apprehension mixing in her gaze. "Where all of Ryu's questions will be answered."

Ryu takes a deep breath, feeling the weight of the journey ahead. "I'm ready."

Peco, ever the enigma, simply bounces happily, seemingly unfazed by the adventure awaiting them.

The ship cuts through the waves, the port town of Rhapala fading into the distance. Ahead lies Angel Tower, a place shrouded in mystery and promise. As the sea stretches out before them, they feel the pull of destiny guiding their way. Together, they sail toward the unknown, ready to face whatever challenges and revelations lie ahead.