The deafening sound of destruction reverberated through the air. The house, once a cozy refuge, split cleanly in half and collapsed into a heap of debris. It was a scene so surreal it bordered on the fantastical. Just moments earlier, everything had been tranquil; now, the fading light of the setting sun poured through the shattered remains, painting the sky in hues of crimson and gold.0

"…Wow," Leo muttered, his voice tinged with awe as he drew Sylphid from its scabbard. He locked his gaze ahead, where a man stood motionless.0

The man's platinum-blond hair shimmered with the glow of twilight. His features appeared youthful, no older than mid-thirties, while his well-toned physique exuded a disciplined strength. He wore a jet-black coat that seemed to radiate an oppressive aura, intimidating all who laid eyes on him.0

"…Caron," Leon murmured under his breath, his voice barely audible. It took only a glance for him to realize how dangerous this man was.1

"Everyone, stand back," Caron ordered his comrades without hesitation. His tone was calm yet firm, "That man… He's an 8-Star knight."0

Just as Caron had suspected, the man before him was Kerra Acht, who had reached the fabled 8-Star level. Despite over fifty years passing since...0