The Regression Of A Grand Mercenary

The day of the celebration had finally arrived.

The new building, designed by Evelyn herself, towered proudly above the village in all its grandeur. It spanned three levels: a sturdy basement, an expansive ground floor, and a gracefully elevated second floor. This structure was the largest ever constructed in the village, a testament to ambition and perseverance, and its completion was an achievement worth celebrating.

Half the village had been invited to partake in the festivities, their excitement palpable. The spacious yard and ground floor could easily accommodate everyone, and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation of a day-long revelry. Despite the hardships brought on by a recent plague that halved their harvest, the villagers were determined to embrace this moment of joy and leave their troubles behind, even if just for a day.

By midmorning, the celebration was in full swing, and villagers began to arrive in their finest attire. Brightly colored dresses, carefully mended suits, and adorned hair told of a community that valued pride and hope even in adversity. Laughter mingled with music, and the aroma of roasted meat and freshly baked bread wafted through the air.

Around two hundred people gathered for the occasion, their chatter and cheer filling the space. It was then that a luxurious carriage, drawn by four majestic amber-colored horses, rolled into the village. Its polished frame glimmered in the sunlight, immediately drawing every gaze. Whispers rippled through the crowd as they recognized the arrival of Evelyn’s family, the illustrious Ambers.

The villagers stood still, admiration evident on their faces as the carriage came to a halt. The door opened, and one by one, the members of the Amber family emerged.

The first to step out was a young man who could only be described as radiant. Ronald Amber, the youngest son, had hair the golden hue of ripened wheat under the summer sun. His eyes mirrored the amber gemstone, gleaming warmly with kindness. He wore a tailored white tunic with intricate gold embroidery that caught the light with every movement, paired with dark trousers and polished leather boots. His smile was soft and approachable, drawing adoring glances from the young women in the crowd.

Following Ronald was Eliana Osirus, Evelyn’s older sister. She bore a striking resemblance to Evelyn but carried herself with an air of sharp authority. Her golden hair was tied in a practical braid, resting over a fitted deep-blue dress adorned with silver accents that shimmered like frost. Her amber eyes, piercing and commanding, scanned the crowd with the vigilance of a seasoned warrior. Strapped to her side was a sword, its hilt elegant but unmistakably utilitarian. Eliana was the image of grace and strength, a flower in bloom that could also wield the wind as a blade.

Close behind her came her husband, Escanor Osirus. The knight’s presence was undeniable. His dark gray hair was cropped short, and his chiseled jaw gave him a stoic demeanor. He wore a knight’s formal attire, a blend of dark steel and royal blue, adorned with the insignia of his rank. A long cape flowed behind him, and the sword at his side, though ceremonial, hinted at his formidable skills in battle. Together, Escanor and Eliana were a formidable pair, a portrait of dignity and quiet strength.

Next came Rosker Amber, the eldest son and heir to the family name. His auburn hair, streaked faintly with gray, gave him a distinguished air. Rosker’s presence was one of calm intelligence, his posture straight and deliberate. He wore a dark green coat with gold trim, reminiscent of the forests surrounding the village. Underneath was a high-collared shirt that emphasized his broad shoulders. Rosker had the aura of a man capable of great things, and his gentle nod to the villagers exuded both respect and assurance.

Following Rosker, Edith Sunborn emerged with her daughter, Emilia, perched on her hip. Edith, the eldest daughter, was elegance personified. She wore a flowing pastel-yellow gown with floral embroidery, delicate and light, as though spun from sunlight itself. Her chestnut hair cascaded in soft waves, adorned with a crown of fresh flowers. Little Emilia was dressed in a matching dress, complete with a tiny tiara. The child giggled and waved to the villagers, her innocent joy melting hearts.

Finally, the patriarch and matriarch of the Amber family stepped into view. Reginald Amber was an imposing figure, with broad shoulders and a chest that spoke of a life of labor despite his wealth. His well-groomed mustache and the decorated leather armor he wore over a fine shirt bespoke a man who had balanced strength and strategy to build his family’s fortune. The scabbard at his hip was a silent nod to his warrior past.

Beside him, his wife Emilia Amber glided with the grace of a swan. Her gown was a masterpiece of white silk, embroidered with delicate silver vines and stars that twinkled with every step. Her hair, a cascade of silver-blonde, seemed to glow in the sunlight, framing a face of serene beauty. Her dark, ink-black eyes held a depth that seemed to see beyond the surface, yet her smile was warm and inviting.

The Ambers stood together, a family whose wealth and grace were matched only by their humility. As they greeted the villagers, their presence added a layer of grandeur to the celebration, yet their gestures of kindness made everyone feel as though they belonged in their world.

Despite lacking an official title of nobility, the Amber family carried themselves with a grace and dignity that rivaled even the most esteemed lords and ladies. Their mere presence elevated the celebration, and the villagers, unable to contain their admiration, erupted into cheers. This day, marked by the Ambers’ arrival and the joyous gathering, would be etched into their memories as one of the most remarkable moments of their lives.

As the jubilant cheers filled the air, the grand door of the newly completed building creaked open, drawing every gaze toward it. The crowd fell silent in anticipation, their excitement mounting as the silhouette of a figure appeared against the light streaming from within.

Evelyn emerged, radiant and poised. She wore a flowing dress in a sun-yellow hue, the fabric catching the light and shimmering like golden rays at dawn. The gown was simple yet elegant, its high waist adorned with delicate embroidery of blooming flowers in soft whites and greens. Her long golden hair had been styled into loose waves, crowned with an intricate floral ornament made of woven petals and small gemstones that glimmered faintly in the sunlight.

“Father, mother, you finally came!” she said as she rushed to their sides.

And Reginald held out his arms open just to receive Evelyn.

“Oh Evelyn, you look simply marvelous. This dress suits you so well.”” said her mother.

“Oh, and this project… it’s magnificent.”she added as she brushes a stray strand of Evelyn’s hair back into place.

“Indeed. You’ve truly outdid yourself in the construction and design of this project. It’s as grand as a mansion.” said her father as he showed an expression filled with how proud he was of her.

“Thank you very much for your kind words mother, father, I did my utmost best in this project.”

“I can tell how the building is a show of your hardwork. Truly, you have outdone yourself little Evelyn.” said Rosker as he came forward with his arms open.

“Brother Rosker! You made it as well!” she said as she was smiling from ear to ear at the sight of her eldest brother. She couldn’t help but run up to him and embrace him, infecting him with the joy she felt for today.

“I’m here as well.” said Ronald as he smiled while his arms were crossed.

“Ronny!” as she recognized her dazzling brother, Ronald steps forward next with his cheerful demeanor lighting up the moment.

“Do I not get a hug too, or have you forgotten your favorite brother?” he said as he spreads his arms open for her.

“Ronald, you’re impossible! But of course, I could never forget you.”

She steps forward and gave him as tight of a hug as she did with Rosker.

“You look as dazzling as always.” she commented as she continued to embrace him.

Ronald then pushed her back and gave her a wink.

“I had to match the brilliance of the day, didn’t I?” he said.

After their talk, Eliana walks over, her stern yet loving gaze softening as Evelyn turns to her.

“Eliana! You’re here too!” she said excitedly as she pushes Ronald a bit too forcefully.

“Oof-” said Ronald as he rubbed his chest from the pain of Evelyn’s strength.

She tried to take a step towards her older sister but stops as she noticed the sword at her hip.

“Still as commanding as ever, I see. Do you ever take a day off from being so stern?” she asked.

“Not when my little sister is stealing all the attention.” said Eliana as she smirks. Where she then pulls Evelyn into a firm but affectionate embrace.

“You’ve outdone yourself, Evelyn. Truly, this is incredible work.” she said.

Escanor joins them, his stoic expression softening as Evelyn turns to him.

“Brother Escanor, it’s wonderful to see you again.” she said as she bowed to the knight before her.

“I hope I’ve impressed even the great knight with my work.”

“You have, Evelyn. Your vision and determination are unmatched. It’s quite an honor to be here today.” he said.

Finally, Edith approaches, holding little Emilia, who waves excitedly at Evelyn.

“Edith! And…oh my god, is that sweet little Emilia?!” she excitedly approached the two.

“Hello Evelyn.” said Edith as she smiled at the sight of her perfectly healthy little sister.

“Its so great to have you here Sis.” said Evelyn.

“My, haven’t you grown! You’re a little lady now.” she added as she pinched the little baby’s cheeks. She couldn’t help but be drawn by the cuteness brought about be her niece.

“Kyahh~~” Little Emilia joyfully accepted Evelyn’s affection towards her as she squeaked at the pinch of her own cheeks.

“She looks like a princess with how she’s wearing that cute little tiara on her head.” she commented.

“Thank you for coming, Edith. It means so much to me.”

“Of course, Evelyn. This is your day, and we wouldn’t miss it for the world.” she said as she glanced at the building.

“You’ve created something truly remarkable. I hope you’re as proud of yourself as we are of you.”

Evelyn then looks around at her family, her heart swelling with joy.

“Thank you all for being here. It means everything to me to share this moment with all of you.”

And as their greeting was set and over, Evelyn then lead them inside to the building, where she would provide them with a short tour around.

The day went on as she planned. First was for her to give a tour to her family, after that was done, what followed then was the arrival of a priest who came to bless the house in proper tradition.

With holy water on hand, the priest prayed an incantation and started wandering the building, spraying the water to the columns, the walls, the floors, the rooms and such.

Finally as that was done, came the main event for today which was the feasting.

Separated from the outside to the inside, the outside were the people who were invited; gathered and came to enjoy the food prepared by many chefs she hired.

There were so many people in line to eat, yet in the inside of the home, she and her family dined properly with the same form of delicacy from the outside. An equal form of dining.

And as they dined, Evelyn started telling her stories about her days here in the village.

From the start which she had issues from the storm, the the most exciting, where she had witness the sight of the killing of the dragon, she excitedly told these stories to her family.

And in return, they listened with intrigued.

“Incredible, so the rumors of this boy was true…I would have never believed it.” said her father as he was deep in thought.

“And you say that the person who killed the dragon was also the ame person who saved you from the wretched bandits?” asked her mother.

“Indeed mother…to me, it felt like fate has brought us both together to meet again.” she said as she looked dignified with her words.

“His name is Thill Cicial correct? A blacksmith?” asked Rosker.

“Yes, and a talented one at that.” said Evelyn.

“And why is that?” asked Rosker in question to Thill’s talents as a Blacksmith.

“Well…it was supposed to be a surprised, but Thill has proposed to make an armor and a weapon made from the material harvested from the dragon’s corpse. And he intends to showcase it to you as an event today.”

“Have you seen his work?” asked her father.

“Yes…and I won’t spoil the surprise, but the armor he made is one of a kind. Its an armor I’ve never seen before in all my life as a merchant.” she said.

“Hmm, that truly is intriguing. Now I can’t wait to meet this boy…” said Reginald as a smile of curiosity appeared in his expression.

“Hmm, a talented blacksmith and a strong warrior…he is quite a find, isn’t he?” said Eliana as she turned to her husband.

“…Indeed, it truly is grand that you’ve met such a talent. I too cannot wait to meet this boy.” said Escanor.

“Evelyn, you surely do talk to this boy with such joy in your tone. Tell me, are you interested in him?” asked Edith as she was spoon feeding her daughter, little Emilia.

“Ah-…Umm…” Evelyn could not find it in her words to express her feelings towards the boy in front of her family.

“The answer from her silence is quite as clear as day…don’t you think so mother?” said Ronald as he turned to his mother with a playful grin put out.

And in turn, her mother smiled at the thought of her daughter’s feelings coming to show.

“It is indeed, what do you think dear?” asked Emilia as she turned to her husband.

“…Hmm, I feel conflicted.” he said.

“What?” Evelyn was a bit shocked.

“I’ve yet to meet this boy, so I cannot give my opinion on his affection towards my daughter.”

Ah- no the thing is-” Evelyn tried to cut in her father’s words, but he was too forward and more authoritative.

“But seeing his achievements so far, I can see the appeal.” he said.

“…R-really father? You see his appeal?” she asked with a tone of excitement.

“…We’ll just see when he finally comes to present his work to us. I have many questions for him.” said Reginald as he smiled towards Evelyn.

“Desmond, you have been with Evelyn since the start of this project, tell us, what is your opinion on this Thill boy?” asked Emilia.

“…” Desmond thought deep.

And surely enough, the memory of when Thill saved Desmond from the storm came to mind as well as the day when he subjugated the dragon.

Those were clearly the acts of a strong person. Someone who isn’t normal by any sense.

Yet along those fearful memories, he also saw the bond and care Thill has for his siblings. He learned of the tragic accident caused by the plague, and with it, Thill was given the responsibility to take care of them. It showed that Thill has a soft heart for his family…and slowly, he too noticed the soft affection Thill showed for Evelyn…

“To me…he is a wonderful man.” said Desmond with a clear tone.

“Hmm, you are a good judge of character. I’ll keep your words in mind Desmond. Thank you.” said Reginald as he accepted Desmond’s answer.

After a while, when they finished dining, it was time to show some fun and activity.

By asking around and spreading a few words, a few villagers were willing to show their talents to people on the stage built on the yard.

Some people sang a choir, others danced like amateurs, a few young children even put out a short play and even the village elder told the origins and the making of the village.

After these events were made over the hours, the sun was almost at the set. At that time, the final event to be shown was for Thill to present his creation.

The armor he made for days on end and the blades he created that were made through sweat and blood.

As he walked up on the stage, the Amber family has finally witness the person named Thill Cicial.

The one who slayed the dragon.

“He’s taller than I expected.” said Rosker.

“Indeed…and no matter how much you try, you can easily notice those well-defined muscles.” said Ronald as he could see Thill’s biceps even as Thill stood normally.

It was the result of his training for two months.

Easily did he create a body that could handle the 3^rd stage of the Pure Core.

“You can feel it can’t you, dear?” asked Eliana to her husband.

“…The 3^rd stage of the pure core…at such a young age at that.” said Escanor as he observed Thill with such a keen eye.

“But is the 3^rd stage of the pure core enough for him to kill the dragon?” asked Eliana.

“I doubt it…only those who have reached the 5^th stage at least could have a chance…but this boy, he’s clearly only at the 3^rd stage.” said Escanor as he tried evaluating the presence brought about by Thill’s simple standing.

“If that is the case, either he’s killed the dragon at a weakened state, or that he’s hiding something.” said Eliana.

“Sister, please…Thill isn’t hiding anything.” said Evelyn as she could hear them talking.

“We’ll see about that.”

With Thill on the stage, what happened next was Thomas coming by while pushing a cart that was carrying the armor stand where it was draped over by a fabric, hiding it from everyone else to see.

And next to come was Theodore who followed Thomas as he carried two swords that were inside a sword scabbard that was also wrapped in a fabric.

“Those two must be his brothers, they look alike.” said Reginald.

“Y-yes, their names are Thomas and Theodore.” said Evelyn nervously.

With the swords and armor displayed before the crowd, Thill asked his brothers to leave.

“Thanks you two.” he said.

“Give them a nice show to remember bro!” said Thomas as he rushed out of the stage cheering.

“Do your best brother!” said Theodore as he followed Thomas out.

Finally, as Thill was alone on the stage, he began his presentation to the Amber family.

“Thank you all for coming here on such a joyous day. For some of you who don’t know my name, I am Thill Cicial…and I work as a blacksmith in the Cicial Shop.”

The crowd murmured and cheered as he introduced himself. After all, he was a hero in their eyes for saving the village from the dragon.

“WooooH!! the hero is here!” shouted someone from the crowd.

“Thill! Thill! Look over here!” shouted some kids.

“Okay, settle down…I’m here today to show my work towards the Amber family and present my work as a gift to them to show how we, as the whole village, appreciate their kind presence. A welcoming gift if anything to our new neighbors.”

The crowd cheered over the kind gesture he shared in words.

Originally, his work was supposed to be sold to the amber family, but he had a change of heart. To truly welcome a new member of the village, he wanted to show gratitude by gifting them his latest and grandest work yet.

‘…this wasn’t our deal though.’ thought Evelyn as she looked to Thill.

Finally, as he shared his words, he finally gave the people the moment of seeing his work.

“Okay, without wasting anymore time, I will now present you my works.”

First things first were the two swords that was inside a scabbard which was wrapped in a fabric.

“These two swords were made from the tooth of the dragon I myself subjugated. And as you know, the dragon that I killed was a lesser Ashened dragon. The teeth themselves are tougher than steel and could cut through steel like butter, and for a demonstration…”

Thill unwrapped the fabric from it’s scabbard, showing an ashed-colored scabbard resembling the color of the dragon’s scale.

And from it, he pulled one sword out of its scabbard.

“Behold, the Ashened Fang.”

A name simply brought upon from the origins of the dragon’s tooth.

A sword that was glistening like a star, yet it emmited a fearful presence around it.

And the moment Thill pulled out such a sword, Eliana, Escanor and Reginald, all three of them stood up to the sight of the power that was being emmited from the blade.

“T-this power…incredible!” said Escanor.

“…” Eliana was silently gazing down on the weapon. She could see just how fearful it was even from where they were.

As for Reginald, sweat started to drip from his forehead out of nervousness.

And Thill can see their expressions as clear as day.

Now for the demonstration, Andel, the mercenary came about carrying three pieces of thick logs, all a meter wide. And he placed them right next to Thill.

“Thanks for the help.” he said.

“No prob.” soon, Andel left.

As the logs were placed in a linking position, Thill then positioned himself in a amateurish manner of a warrior. He was holding the sword like a child would, and he then slowly but surely, dragged the blade all across the three linked logs.

The crowd watched and noticed that even with so little effort, the blade ran through as if it had not come across the log.

And one simple kick later, the logs suddenly fell into six pieces.

“OhhH!!”

“Oh my!”

The crowd cheered on just how sharp the blade was. As for Escanor, he sat back down and observed quietly on the two swords.

He could tell just how authentic those swords were as they were not embued with the control of the pure core.

“Now, as you can see, there are two swords, and both were made in the same manner…” he said.

“But other than it’s sharpness, these swords are special in a different manner. But I won’t show it to the people. It’s too dangerous for anyone to witness…I’m sorry, but if I did it right here, surely I’ll be yelled at later. So for now, just admire the swords as they are.” he said apologetically.

“It’s fine!”

“Don’t worry about.”

“If you have the time, do you think you can sharpen my knife as well? My wife keeps buggering me about it. Hahaha!” said a man from the crowd.

And soon, other laughs followed.

Next to show was the armor.

As he placed back the swords into the scabbard, he then turned his way to the armor.

Draped over by a piece of fabric, as he pulled, the people were shicked to find a glorious decorative armor put on its stand.

Just at the sight of it, it reminded a few of the villagers the visage of when the dragon attacked.

The armor shimmered faintly in the dim light, a masterpiece forged from the scales of the Ashened Dragon itself. Each piece seemed alive, as though the dragon’s essence still lingered within. The breastplate bore interlocking scales, dark as obsidian, with veins of ember-red glowing faintly like molten lava beneath stone. Its pauldrons flared outward, sharp and jagged like the creature’s claws, while the helm mirrored the dragon’s fearsome visage, complete with sweeping horns and glowing eye slits that pierced through the shadows. The gauntlets curved into talon-like shapes. The greaves and sabatons clung to the wearer’s form like sinewy muscle, tapering into clawed tips that gripped the ground with predatory precision. A tattered black mantle hung from the shoulders, its fiery red trim flickering like embers caught in the wind. Every detail of the armor—its shifting hues, draconic curves, and fiery glow—made the wearer a living embodiment of the dragon’s might, a creature reborn to walk among mortals once more.

And from a single look at it, the people were silent to its wonder.

‘…This work, I can’t believe it…but it’s no doubt about it. It’s a Master work.’ Thought Reginald the moment he saw the armor isplayed before him.

And all but immediately, he turned to his in-law, Escanor and asked him to do a favor.

“Hide the armor and bring it inside, quickly!” he said.

And Escanor knew all to well, why his father-in-law would ask for such a thing during this event.

So as quick as sound, Escanor leaped over the many people that were watching the event. And from it, he appeared before Thill and he grabbed the fabric. Quickly, he draped over it and asked Thill to follow them inside the building.

“…Follow us inside.” he said.

“…I see.” Thill understood.

And as quick as Escanor left with the armor, so did Thill follow.

His appearance and their disappearance all happened too quickly.

And although some had witness the interruption, some couldn’t comprehend why. It was like a magic trick to their eyes.

And it was at that moment, they realized that the event was over.