The Journey of the Illusory Swordsman

Chapter 17 - Hi

Suddenly, a woman who was walking ahead of the group stumbled and fell to the ground. Concerned, Hiro and his friends rushed to her aid. Hikari quickly checked the woman's vital signs as Ace licked her face, trying to wake her up.

The woman slowly opened her eyes and looked at the group weakly. Hiro asked with compassion, "What happened? Are you okay?"

The woman responded with difficulty, "It's the lack of energy... All of us... are suffering. The God of the Sun... grants us light and life... but also consumes our strength..."

Hikari looked surprised and questioned, "What do you mean? The God of the Sun gives us life, but also takes away our energy?"

The woman nodded, explaining that the incessant sunlight prevented people from getting proper rest. Without the darkness and natural pause that night provided, their bodies couldn't fully recover, and everyone faced constant physical and emotional exhaustion.

Upon hearing that, the group grew concerned about the well-being of the city's people. They realized that, despite the beauty and magic of the place, the blessing of the God of the Sun also brought challenges and undesirable consequences.

Hiro said determinedly, "We need to find a way to help these people. Perhaps this Sun god is not as divine as people think..."

Hikari agreed, adding, "Yes, we need to find a way for these people to rest again."

King chimed in, saying, "But it's no use going after him or seeking more information if we don't rest for a bit. We've been traveling for three days; we need to stop and recharge our energies."

Hiro was surprised by King's cleverness and couldn't resist teasing, "Hikari, Ace, I can't believe the rat can think so much, ahah!"

In response, King jumped from Hikari's shoulder to Hiro's hair and, with his unique ability, tied a bow with the boy's hair. Then, he returned to Hikari's shoulder, sticking out his tongue playfully and eliciting laughter from Hikari and Ace.

"You look quite elegant, master!" Ace said, enjoying the situation.

Hikari continued laughing, while Hiro, feeling a bit embarrassed and amused, said, "You'll see, King, when I catch you!"

Hikari suggested, "Well, boys, let's find a place to rest for a bit." They all agreed promptly, knowing that taking a break to recharge their energies was essential to continue their journey.

They walked through the bustling streets of Hi, marveling at the city's unique architecture that never experienced nightfall. The houses had vibrant colors and intricate designs, while lush gardens adorned every corner.

With the sun still high in the sky, they spotted a cozy tavern near the central square. They entered the tavern, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. The place was filled with people, sharing laughter and stories while enjoying their drinks and meals. The aroma of delicious dishes filled the air, making their stomachs growl with hunger.

Hikari spotted an empty table in a quieter corner, away from the bustle, and suggested to the group, "Let's sit there to rest a bit and enjoy a good meal."

They sat at the table, and soon a friendly server approached to take their orders. Everyone chose delicious dishes and revitalizing drinks to replenish their energies.

While waiting for the food, Hikari decided to resume the conversation about the city of Hi and the God of the Sun. "What do you think might be causing this exhaustion in everyone? Could the God of the Sun have something to do with it?"

Hiro pondered the question while stroking Ace's head. "It's hard to say, but it might be related to the Signs of Light..."

King and Ace, always vigilant, kept their eyes watchful around them, ensuring they were safe amid the bustling tavern. Soon, the dishes arrived, and the food was as delicious as it smelled. They ate voraciously, replenishing their energies and strengthening themselves for the next stage of the journey.

After satisfying their hunger, Hiro called the server again to inquire about the available rooms in the tavern. With a friendly smile, the server replied, "Yes, we have two rooms available for the night. Can I reserve them for you?"

Hiro looked at Hikari, and she nodded in agreement. "Yes, please reserve the two rooms for us," Hiro said, thanking the server.

The server nodded and booked the rooms for the group. While waiting, they took the opportunity to rest a little longer in the tavern, observing the surroundings and enjoying the cozy atmosphere.

When it was time to rest, the server led Hiro and Hikari to the reserved rooms, which were comfortable and well-decorated. Hiro thanked the server again for the hospitality and bid him farewell.

Inside the rooms, Hikari and Hiro expressed gratitude for the hospitality of the city of Hi and settled down to rest. Ace and King, exhausted, found their usual spots and soon fell asleep by their masters' sides.

Before falling asleep in the room, Hiro and Ace placed the magical letter on a table. As they settled in to rest, without realizing it, the letter began to glow softly, indicating that Arthur had already responded.

However, everyone was so exhausted from their day's adventures that they didn't notice the letter's glow. Weariness won, and they drifted off to sleep without the opportunity to see Arthur's message's contents.

While Hiro and his friends enjoyed a well-deserved slumber, the letter continued to glow softly in the dimness of the room, eager to reveal what Arthur had to say. But the mystery would have to wait.

What did Arthur discover?