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Noel and Kyle: The Way of the Sword – Chapter 1
The morning was gray when the footsteps of Noel and Kyle crossed the southern gates of the city. The sun barely slipped through the heavy clouds, and the wind played with Noel's long cloak as his gaze remained fixed on the horizon. It wasn't their first journey, but something about this one felt different. The air carried a whisper — this trip would not be like the others.
With his usual grin and mischievous eyes, Kyle tugged his horse along the muddy road and said, "You know, Noel? The next city is famous for its beautiful women and delicious food. I have a feeling I'll fall in love this time."
Noel raised an eyebrow with faint disdain, adjusting the sword at his waist. "You'll end up in bed long before you fall in love, as always, Kyle."
Kyle laughed loudly, glancing at his friend with half a smirk. "That's what makes me more fun than you, my noble and uptight companion."
Noel was of noble blood, but he chose a life of wandering. No one knew the truth except Kyle. It was one of many secrets — like his piercing gaze that saw through what others missed, and the sword at his side, nearly invisible in motion.
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Hours of walking passed before they reached the outskirts of Lindra, a medium-sized town nestled near the southwestern border, surrounded by forests and small rivers. They entered quietly, observing the alleys and markets with careful eyes.
"Inn or tavern?" Kyle asked, eyeing the signs and buildings.
"Inn first. We need a warm bath and hot food," Noel replied without looking back.
They arrived at a small place called The Raven's Shadow. Modest, but clean enough. An old, nearsighted woman greeted them and handed them two adjacent rooms. Noel entered his without a word, while Kyle stayed back, flashing his charming smile at the innkeeper.
That night, they sat in the lower hall, where the scent of fresh bread mingled with the warmth of a crackling fire. Someone played a sad tune on a stringed instrument. Over dinner, they discussed their next destination.
"The next city is called Lystera, right?" Kyle asked.
"Yes. We need to get tickets by morning. We'll walk through the forest and then take the river ferry," Noel answered.
"I heard Lystera has a huge marketplace. We might make some coin there. Or find some fun," Kyle grinned.
Noel didn't respond. He simply sipped his drink and stared into the flames.
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Two days passed in Lindra. Kyle spent his time flirting and joking, while Noel wandered the market, silently observing, buying herbs for an old wound, and chatting with merchants.
A chestnut-haired girl with wide eyes approached him, placing a hand on his chest and smiling seductively. "You're not from around here… your eyes say too much. What's your name?"
Noel gave a half-smile and replied, "Tell me first — how many hearts have you broken this week?"
She laughed, but Noel calmly walked away, as always.
Meanwhile, Kyle was the soul of the tavern, making friends as if he'd lived there for years.
On their final night, under the moonlight on the inn's rooftop, Kyle spoke, "Do you feel it, Noel? Like we're being pulled into something... bigger than just a journey?"
Noel looked up at the sky. "I've felt it since we left the first city."
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The next morning, they left Lindra, heading toward Lystera. The road stretched between towering trees, the air damp with pine and mud. The journey took two days, filled with jokes, stories, and long silences.
When they reached Lystera, the city was alive with noise. Markets bustled, children ran through the streets, and the smell of roasted meat filled the air. They rented a new inn — bigger, more elegant.
On their second night, they headed to The Gray Phoenix, one of the city's most famous taverns. They sat in a corner, ordered drinks, and Kyle quickly resumed flirting with the waitresses.
But that night… was different.
As the tavern buzzed, a girl in a dark cloak entered, her face half-covered. She sat alone and ordered a drink. Moments later, three men surrounded her, laughing and leaning in too close.
Kyle stood up. "I can't stand guys like that."
But before he could act, something unexpected happened.
The girl rose in a flash, punching one of them so hard he collapsed, kicking another in the knee, and grabbing the third by his collar. "Don't test my patience."
The tavern froze — then laughter and applause erupted.
Kyle, stunned, returned to his seat. "I want her on our team."
Noel smirked. "She's... intriguing."
The girl approached their table, eyes sharp. "I saw you watching. You're not from around here."
Noel gestured to the empty seat. "Join us. I have a feeling we have much to talk about."
"My name is Lian," she said.
Noel and Kyle exchanged a look. Something had shifted.
Perhaps this... was where their story truly began.
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