The afternoon sun bathed the village in golden light as Ari and his companions made their way down the cobblestone streets. The village wasn’t particularly large, but it bustled with life—merchants calling out from stalls, children laughing as they played near the fountain, and villagers waving at the group as they passed.

Though the world had moved on from the days of heroes and dark lords, Ari’s presence still commanded attention. People recognized him, whispered his name with awe, and sometimes approached with a mix of reverence and shyness. Ari handled it all with his usual calm demeanor, offering polite nods and the occasional word of thanks.

“You’d think they’d be used to us by now,” Yuri muttered, folding her arms across her chest. She was clearly uncomfortable with the attention, her green eyes darting to anyone who stared too long.

“Well, we are legends,” Kimi said, her voice carrying a soft pride. “I think it’s sweet how much they appreciate us.”

“Appreciate you, maybe,” Yuri shot back. “They’re staring because you dress like that.”

Kimi blinked, feigning innocence. “Like what?”

“You know what I mean!”

“Relax,” Finoria cut in, tossing her golden hair over her shoulder. “Some of them are staring at me too, you know. Can’t blame them—I am the most attractive one here.”

“Not this again,” Yuri groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose.

“Oh, please.” Kimi rolled her eyes, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “If anyone here has elegance and charm, it’s me.”

Finoria smirked. “Sure, if charm is another word for clinging to Ari like a lovesick puppy.”

Kimi’s cheeks flushed pink, but she maintained her composure. “And what about you? Teasing him every chance you get? You’re hardly subtle.”

Ari let out a slow breath, walking a few paces ahead as the argument escalated. It wasn’t that he disliked the bickering—it was entertaining in small doses—but he had no intention of getting dragged into it.

A cheerful voice cut through the tension. “Ari! Over here!”

Turning toward the sound, Ari spotted a familiar face waving at him from a nearby fruit stand. It was Elric, the village elder’s grandson, a boy of no more than twelve. Ari offered a small smile and walked over.

“Good afternoon, Elric,” he said, crouching slightly to meet the boy’s eager gaze.

Elric grinned and held up a basket brimming with apples. “Grandpa told me to bring these for you. He says they’re the best ones from this year’s harvest.”

“Tell your grandfather I appreciate it,” Ari replied, taking the basket with ease. “These look great.”

Behind him, the girls had momentarily stopped arguing to watch the interaction.

“Aww,” Finoria said, her voice teasing. “Look at that. The great hero, adored by children everywhere.”

“Of course they adore him,” Kimi said, smiling softly. “Ari’s wonderful with kids.”

Yuri snorted. “Well, someone has to set a good example around here.”

As Elric scampered off, Ari straightened and turned back to the group. “Ready to head back?”

“Hold on,” Kimi said, stepping forward. “Since we’re in the village, why don’t we stop by the tailor’s shop? I’ve been meaning to pick up some new fabrics for enchantments.”

“Why not?” Finoria said with a shrug. “I could use a new outfit. Something that shows off my—”

“Don’t finish that sentence,” Yuri cut in, glaring at her.

“I was going to say style,” Finoria replied, smirking.

“Right,” Yuri muttered. “And I’m sure it has nothing to do with trying to distract every guy who looks at you.”

Finoria gave a dramatic sigh. “Yuri, darling, you’re so transparent. It’s obvious you’re just jealous.”

“Jealous? Of you?” Yuri’s voice rose, her face turning red.

“Girls,” Ari said, his voice calm but firm enough to catch their attention. He nodded toward the tailor’s shop at the end of the street. “If you’re going, go. But try not to argue loud enough to scare the tailor.”

Kimi giggled, linking her arm with Ari’s. “Of course, Ari. I’ll behave, I promise.”

“Let go of him,” Yuri snapped, trying to pry Kimi away.

Finoria laughed as she followed behind them, her shield slung casually over her back. “I swear, you two are more fun than a tavern brawl.”

The group made their way to the shop, their playful banter filling the quiet village streets. For all the teasing, bickering, and chaos they brought, they were at home here. And even as Ari shook his head at their antics, he couldn’t help but feel a faint smile tug at his lips.

This was his life now—a far cry from the battles and bloodshed of his past, but no less fulfilling in its own, chaotic way.