The War Era had ended.
The players' Flame of Yore event had also come to an end. Having passed through five eras, it happened to correspond to the Altar Flameglow's five flashes.
Without the Extinguishers causing trouble, the players and Firewood Collectors successfully obtained every Rekindled Flame from all five eras, without missing a single one.
Candlewood Island had also gained a deeper understanding of its past history.
Xilugaron, this "resident npc," had finally completed her storyline and learned what the War Era's promise had truly been.
After welcoming the players back as before, Rogue distributed all the rewards accordingly. They were generous without being excessive, ensuring the players remained as motivated as possible.
Compared to before, however, without the Extinguishers' involvement, the players had felt more like they were sightseeing.
Afterward, Rogue met with the returned Xilugaron.
"Thank you, Candle Keeper." Xilugaron solemnly thanked him. "I found the answer."
"No need for formalities." Rogue looked at her. "So, what are your plans from here on?"
She had indeed found the answer.
But neither the promise nor the Hometown Xilugaron had wished to protect had reached a happy ending.
She had failed to fulfill her promise to the War Kindling. Tainted by corruption, she had been sent into the Suspended Sun Frost Tower, where she spent an unknown number of years in a daze.
The Canyon of Falling Flowers had likely long since vanished into the passage of time.
Anyone who experienced such a fate would find it difficult to remain calm.
Yet Xilugaron seemed to have worked through much of it. She had also heard the concern beneath Rogue's words.
"You needn't worry about me."
"I will continue training warriors, and I will await the day Candlefire illuminates the world."
That was what Xilugaron said.
She had once hoped