Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix - C.280: Tense return

"We thought that you were at war against the dragons, but only the young ones came," Rain said. "They also come in small groups. Are they looking down on you?"

The atmosphere in the room grew tense in the wake of Rain's words. Despite the fact that he had asked a legitimate question, it was perceived by some as potentially insulting, and this tension hung heavily in the air. content-source-MVLeMpYr

"... it appears so," Josar said after a long sigh. "Now and then, a five-hundred-year-old dragon appears to attack us, and even while holding back, they are basically unstoppable. Many think that they are only sending the greenhorns to make them prove their worth."

"I guess they don't have many ways to do that without fighting each other," Rain said. "What kind of dragons have appeared so far?"

"Fire, water, wind, earth, and ice… they usually evolve or transform after living for five hundred years. It is rare for them to be born on their second stage of power," Josar said.

Rain found himself in a situation where he could continue probing for information about the group. Josar's willingness to respond to his questions, likely due to their gratitude for his assistance with the black-haired woman, presented an opportunity for Rain to learn more. However, he chose a path of caution.

He didn't want to become overly entangled with a group whose true objectives remained elusive. There was lingering uncertainty about their intentions and goals. Given this dilemma, Rain made a conscious decision. He opted not to press further for information, preferring to maintain a certain level of distance.

"Well, that is it then," Rain said. "We are returning home until the next time."

As the group prepared to depart in the wagons they had arrived in, Josar stepped forward to bid them farewell. His demeanor was cordial, and he wore a faint smile, a contrast to his initially guarded disposition.

"Safe travels to all of you," Josar said, addressing the group collectively. "Your assistance has been invaluable, and we are grateful for your aid in dealing with the dragon threat. Should our paths cross again, I hope it will be under more peaceful circumstances."

Rain and his friends nodded in acknowledgment of Josar's words, appreciating the gesture of goodwill. With that, they climbed aboard the wagons, and as the horses began to move, they waved their farewells to Josar and his group.

Upon their return to the capital, the group's journey proved surprisingly swift, thanks to their lack of cargo. They arrived a full day earlier than expected, greeted by the familiar sights of the bustling city.

As they entered the capital, a council representative approached Rain, extending their gratitude for the group's unwavering dedication and service.

"Welcome back," the representative said with a respectful nod. "In recognition of your valor, please accept these rewards as a token of our appreciation."

In the representative's hands were several boxes, each containing a variety of meticulously labeled potions. Alongside the potions, bags laden with glistening gold coins were presented, a tangible symbol of the council's acknowledgment of their heroic deeds. Rain accepted the rewards with a nod, understanding the council's recognition of their achievements.

"You should take half of it, Rain," Jori said. "You deserve more than us, we can share the other half."

"All right," Rain readily said.

"... You could at least deny it for the sake of appearances a bit," Jori said while frowning.

"I am not into that kind of stuff," Rain said.

As the group celebrated Rain's newfound riches and openness to them, they couldn't help but share a collective laughter. It was evident that Rain was undergoing some changes, perhaps becoming more comfortable with their companionship. Jori couldn't resist a playful jab, suggesting that Rain might be trying to impress the female members of their group.

However, Rain's imposing physique and rugged demeanor made such a notion seem unlikely. Nevertheless, they all continued their journey through the city for the day, their laughter filling the streets as they looked forward to their return.

Throughout their three-week journey back home, the group utilized their time effectively, strengthening their bonds and honing their abilities. Rain engaged in rigorous sparring sessions with Jori and Reca, challenging themselves by wearing weighted training attire. These sessions pushed their physical limits and enhanced their combat skills.

Rain also dedicated time to mentor Liss and Asche in some magic. Armed with a single point of mana, they trained and tried to master wind manipulation. They began with the basics, crafting small wind projectiles, gradually refining their control and technique. One particularly demanding exercise involved creating spinning wind projectiles, a test of precision and concentration.

Terra took the opportunity to explore her magical talents during the journey. She delved into her mana reserves to conduct a thorough examination of Rain's injuries. To her surprise, she detected traces of the fire dragon's energy within him. This unexpected presence explained the slowed pace of Rain's natural healing.

It underscored the remarkable strength of the fire dragon and deepened the group's appreciation for their shared experiences and challenges.

"It feels like poison, but it is a lot more dense," Terra said while checking Rain's wounds in his back. "I can probably nullify with mana, but the vestiges are quite powerful, it will take some time."

"Note to my future self, run away when a dragon is about to explode itself," Rain said.

"I won't raise any weird flags by saying that we won't work for a while, so it will be fine," Rain said. "Anyway, I probably won't have to fight that much against powerful enemies, so it is fine… I am digging my grave here."

Upon their return to the capital, the group promptly submitted their mission report to the organization. However, Branden wasn't around, so they will have to talk to him later. Despite the absence of Branden, the group was in high spirits as they celebrated their triumphant return.

Rain's house, which had become a familiar gathering place for them, was filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses.

As the night progressed, their bonds grew even stronger, cementing their camaraderie. While they were aware that more challenges awaited them in the future, they savored the joy of their shared accomplishments and looked forward to what lay ahead. Still, when morning came, they heard that the port city under Orcis control was attacked…