The road to the Capital was long, stretching far across hills, rivers, and open fields, but it was far from boring. With bright skies above and good company around, the journey felt more like an adventure than just travel. The Rising Heroes were in high spirits. After everything they had faced in the Dungeon of the Black Wolf, this trip felt like a reward.
Everyone was excited to finally see the Royal Capital. Except for Adrian, none of them had ever been there before. The Capital was the heart of the kingdom, and they had all heard stories about it since they were young. But now, they were going to see it with their own eyes. As they walked, Adrian took the lead with a grin on his face. His steps were light, his eyes full of excitement. He couldn't help himself — he began to talk. A lot.
"The Royal Capital," Adrian began, raising one finger like a teacher. "Is the center of everything important in the kingdom. Trade, politics, festivals, all of it happens there." He looked back at the group, clearly enjoying being the one with all the knowledge.
"The Capital is ruled by the Lumina Clan. They're the royal family — the ones who sit on the throne. But they're not the only powerful family there. In total, there are twelve noble clans that support the kingdom. Four of those clans live right in the Capital."
Fizzle blinked. "Twelve clans? That's a lot of nobles…"
Adrian nodded. "Yes! And the city is divided into five districts. The west is ruled by the Cloudia Clan — known for air magic and wind-based technology. The east is watched over by the Falco Clan, who are famous for their flying beasts and sky patrols."
He took a deep breath and kept going. "The north is guarded by the Sitara Clan, experts in ice magic and crystal defense. The south is under the Gloria Clan, famous for their warriors and combat schools. And finally, the central district is directly ruled by the Lumina Clan. That's where the palace is, and where the Carnival is held." Everyone listened closely. Even Drakar, who usually stayed quiet, looked interested. "And the royal family," Adrian said, "has seven members. The King and Queen, of course. Then two princesses and three princes."
He paused for dramatic effect. "No one knows which of them will be the next ruler," he added with a whisper, "but people have their guesses." Then, with even more excitement, Adrian started listing places they could visit once they got there. "There's the Grand Bazaar," he said, raising his hands. "The biggest market in the entire kingdom. You can find food, weapons, books, magical items, clothes — everything!"
He continued without even stopping for breath. "The Royal Arena, where fighters from all over come to compete and show their strength. The Essence Bath House, which uses magic water to heal your body and refresh your spirit. The Lumina Garden, full of rare magical plants and glowing trees. And the Capital Museum, where history comes alive with enchanted displays!"
Lila chuckled. "You really memorized everything, didn't you?" Adrian smiled proudly. "Of course. You have to be prepared." Then came the real excitement. "And now," he said, lowering his voice and walking backward to face them, "the Carnival." Everyone's eyes lit up.
"The Royal Carnival is the biggest event of the year. It lasts for five days, and every day is full of surprises. No one knows exactly what the events will be until the Opening Day. That's part of the fun — they change it every year!" He looked at each of them.
"There will be food from all over the kingdom." "Wow!" Fizzle exclaimed, licking her lips already.
"There will be magic workshops and learning events." "Yay!" Sera raised her hand with a big smile.
"There will be blacksmiths showing off their work." "I will show them who's the best," Doran said, full of pride.
"And… there will be a tournament," Adrian added. "Really?" Lila's eyes widened, her heartbeat quickening.
Adrian nodded. "Yes. And many top adventurers will be there with their teams." The excitement among the group grew stronger. They laughed, talked, and imagined all the fun they would have. But one person remained quiet — Drakar. He walked behind them, calm and silent, but there was a slight tension in his eyes. Something didn't feel right to him, though he said nothing. He just kept walking.
Zora, who was also traveling with them, stayed alert. He looked around constantly, watching for any signs of danger. Though he trusted Lila and her friends, he couldn't help but worry. He was a father, after all. And this was the Royal Capital , a place filled with both wonder and unknown risks.
Still, he knew he couldn't protect Lila forever. He had to let her grow.
---
As the sun set, they stopped at a small hotel along the road. The building was warm and cozy, with soft beds and good food. After washing up and having dinner, they all sat together in the dining area, talking more about the Capital.
Adrian, of course, kept the conversation going.
"So… do you guys know about the strongest dungeon boss ever?" he asked with a sparkle in his eyes.
"Let me guess," Sera said with a laugh. "You're going to tell us." Adrian grinned. "Zortheus. The Uncrowned King of Dungeons. The Dungeon Ruler that no one has ever defeated. No one even knows what kind of being he is." Zora, who had been quietly sipping water, suddenly choked. He coughed a little, trying to hide his surprise.
"You okay?" Adrian asked. "Yeah… just swallowed wrong," Zora said, trying to stay calm. Adrian leaned closer. "Hey, Zora, you've been around a long time, right? Ever heard of Zortheus?" Zora paused. "I don't know much… just what I've heard. I wasn't an adventurer, so I wouldn't know the details." "Oh come on," Adrian laughed, "You must have heard stories! Zortheus is a legend!" Zora gave a nervous smile. "Only rumors. Nothing special."
Adrian kept going on, praising Zortheus and describing the things he had read about the legendary boss. Zora stayed quiet, hoping the topic would shift soon. Thankfully, after some time, the conversation drifted away, and everyone began heading to their rooms.
As Zora closed his door behind him, he let out a quiet sigh of relief.
---
The next morning, they began the final leg of their journey. And it was more of the same.
Adrian couldn't stop talking. More stories, more facts, more things they had to see. But no one minded. His excitement was contagious, and even Zora smiled a few times as he listened.
Finally, after the long journey, the Capital came into view. Tall towers, wide stone roads, glowing lights, and the distant sound of music filled the air. The walls of the city stood strong, and beyond them, life was bustling. The Royal Capital.
The moment they had waited for had finally arrived. Their hearts raced. Their eyes sparkled. They had made it.
Now, the real fun was about to begin.