Echoes of the past

The days in Rahman village passed like a peaceful dream. Jin-Won and his companions found themselves settling into the quiet life, but deep inside, they knew it wouldn't last forever.

One evening, as they sat around a bonfire near the river, Elder Dan approached them.

"You've done a lot for our village," he said with a kind smile. "But I can see it in your eyes—you are warriors, not simple travelers."

Jin-Won exchanged glances with his team. "We appreciate the peace here, but… we can't stay forever."

Elder Dan nodded knowingly. "I thought so. But before you leave, there's something you must know."

He looked towards the ancient stone temple at the edge of the village.

"A long time ago, Rahman was not just a village—it was a sanctuary for lost souls, a place where great warriors came to seek wisdom." His voice grew heavier. "But something happened. A darkness came, and many were lost."

Jin-Won frowned. "Darkness?"

Elder Dan hesitated before speaking. "Legends say that deep beneath that temple, a great evil was sealed away. No one has entered in decades… but lately, strange things have started happening."

Si-Yeon shivered. "Like what?"

"Whispers at night. Shadows moving when no one is there. Some villagers have disappeared near the temple."

Lyria hugged herself. "That doesn't sound like a coincidence."

Elder Dan nodded. "I do not wish to ask this of you, but if you could investigate… we would be in your debt."

Jin-Won stood up, gripping his sword. "You don't even have to ask. If there's something threatening this village, we'll stop it."

Hori cracked his knuckles. "Finally! I was getting bored of all this peaceful stuff."

Lyria sighed. "You just don't like working, do you?"

Hori smirked. "Nope."

Si-Yeon smiled slightly before looking at the temple. "I have a bad feeling about this…"

With the moonlight guiding their path, the group made their way toward the ancient temple, ready to face whatever lay within.

— To be continued…