ã€ŠForged in a Foreign Landã€‹


 Shadows of perfection

    Chapter 1 "Shadows of Perfection".

    Along the busy streets of the bustling city, a sleek black luxury car moved smoothly through the traffic. Inside, Sixteen-year-old Caelan Levine sat quietly, his sharp features softened by the dim light filtering through the tinted windows.

    He has soft, pale skin and delicate features. His dark hair is layered and medium-length, with a slightly tousled, natural look that frames his sharp jawline. His deep, dark eyes are intense and captivating, giving him a mysterious aura.

    As the eldest of three siblings, Caelan belonged to one of the wealthiest families in the world. His family¡¯s businesses reached nearly every major industry¡ªbanks, malls, factories, hotels, farms, and more. But despite the wealth and success around him, the city outside felt distant to Caelan.

    The shining skyscrapers and the crowds of people walking on the streets seemed like a painting¡ªvivid and beautiful, yet completely separate from his own world.

    People bustled along the sidewalks, their movements rapid and purposeful. Cars honked impatiently, and the distant hum of city life echoed all around. Yet, inside the insulated bubble of the luxury car, there was only silence.

    Caelan shifted in his seat, the leather creaking softly beneath him. His dark, tousled hair fell just above his eyes, but he made no effort to push it back. His thoughts were elsewhere.

    Is this all there is? he wondered, his gaze following a group of teenagers walking along the sidewalk, their laughter rising above the city¡¯s noise. Day after day, the same routine. The same expectations.

    Caelan blinked, momentarily lost in thought, when he noticed they were nearing the school. He turned his gaze to the academy''s grand gate. It had a tall arch that symbolized grandeur, its intricate design a testament to the beauty of the past. Above it, the words "Sanford Academy" were proudly engraved, surrounded by carvings and columns that seemed like guardians of wisdom

    On either side of the entrance stood statues of scholars and philosophers, their gazes fixed on the lively courtyard.

    Beyond the gate was a tree-lined pathway. Some students strolled leisurely under the sunlight, while others sat on benches, engrossed in reading or quietly conversing.

    The car slowly came to a stop, and the soft voice of his family''s elderly driver broke the silence. "Young master, we have arrived."

    Caelan took a deep breath as the car door opened and he stepped out. He straightened his navy blazer, with its neat and precise white piping. The gold emblem on the chest pocket indicated that he was a student at  a prestigious academy. Beneath it, he wore a dark V-neck sweater over a crisp white shirt, paired with a striped tie in red and navy. His gray trousers were sharply pressed, and a small name tag on his collar gleamed in the sunlight. The uniform was simple yet elegant, a reminder of the expectations placed upon him.

    In front of Caelan stood a grand academy building in a classic, elegant style. The academy was a sprawling structure made of light-colored bricks, with tall, pointed towers and slate roofs. It had a symmetrical design, large windows, and ornate architectural details that gave it a regal and traditional appearance.

    The Sanford Academy was the most elite institution in the world, exclusively attended by the children of the wealthiest and most influential individuals, as well as those few distinguished enough to earn scholarships, making it a bastion of privilege and power.

    "In front of the building, a vast soccer field can be seen, surrounded by beautiful gardens with shrubs, flowers, and decorative grass. The students walking and happily chatting add life to the place.

    Not far away, modern and expensive cars are parked near the building. The overall atmosphere of the academy is filled with tradition, prestige, and vibrancy."

    As Caelan walked into the school lobby, the noise around him quieted. A girl whispered, "Oh my gosh, it¡¯s really him! He¡¯s even more handsome in person."

    "Handsome doesn¡¯t even cover it," another girl added, her voice full of admiration. "He¡¯s rich, the top student in our 11th grade  class, and basically perfect. How is he even real?"

    Caelan kept walking toward the elevator, his face calm and unreadable. The whispers softened, but he could still feel everyone¡¯s eyes on him. Some were filled with admiration, others with envy, but he acted as though he didn¡¯t notice.

    When he stepped into the elevator, he moved to the farthest corner and leaned against the wall. A group of students quickly followed, giggling and shuffling nervously. Others hesitated for a moment, unsure, before stepping inside, glancing at him shyly.

    Inside the elevator, the silence was almost overwhelming. No one spoke, and the only sound was the faint hum of the elevator. Caelan stood still, staring ahead, as if he didn¡¯t notice the tension in the air¡ªeven though he was fully aware of it.

    When the elevator reached the third floor, a few students stepped out, Caelan among them. He made his way down the expansive hallway, heading toward his classroom.

    As he walked, the conversations he had overheard in the school lobby earlier echoed in his mind.

    Perfect, he thought bitterly. The perfect son, the perfect student¡­ the perfect heir. But none of them know me. Not really.

    He was about to enter the classroom when a soft voice stopped him. "Good morning, Caelan."

    When he turned, he saw Eliza, a classmate of his, standing nearby. Her long black hair fell softly over her shoulders, complementing her gentle face and expressive eyes. Her cheeks flushed as she gave him a shy smile.

    Caelan smiled back politely and formally. "Good morning, Eliza."

    Eliza''s eyes sparkled at his response, but she quickly averted her gaze, her face now bright red. Caelan could sense what she felt for him; he could feel her effort to get closer to him. Eliza was kind, and there was an innocence about her that Caelan found charming, but he knew he couldn''t return her feelings beyond friendly regard. Eliza deserved someone who could give her everything.

    But that someone isn¡¯t me, Caelan thought as she watched her enter the classroom He sighed. I have too much on my mind and too many responsibilities to focus on things like this.

    Caelan walked into the classroom and sat quietly in his favorite seat by the window. He gazed outside, watching the bright sky and the soft clouds drifting like cotton. Below, the trees swayed gently in the breeze.

    He thought about the future that was already decided for him.

    His thoughts were interrupted by the sudden swing of the classroom door. Shawn and Jin, his two closest friends, burst in with their usual boisterous energy. Shawn, tall, broad-shouldered, and always grinning, clapped Caelan on the back.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    ¡°Morning, bro!¡± Shawn¡¯s voice rang out, drawing a few glances from other students. ¡°Ready for another thrilling day of¡­ you know, sitting around doing nothing?¡±

    Jin, shorter but equally lively, chimed in with a chuckle. ¡°You mean sitting around pretending to listen to boring lectures while secretly planning the weekend.¡±

    Caelan¡¯s lips quirked into a small smile. With these two, he could let his guard down. Shawn and Jin didn¡¯t care about his last name or the expectations that came with it. They saw him as just Caelan¡ªtheir friend. Not the future head of the Levine empire.

    ¡°Morning,¡± Caelan replied, his voice lighter now, the weight on his chest easing just a little.

    The three of them chatted casually , their conversation bouncing from basketball to Jin¡¯s latest prank. Shawn was still laughing about his victory in yesterday¡¯s match, and Jin, ever the mischief-maker, was gleefully recounting how he¡¯d managed to slip a fake spider into their history teacher¡¯s desk drawer.

    But even as they laughed, Caelan¡¯s thoughts wandered. He envied their carefree lives, their ability to joke about pranks and weekend plans without the looming shadow of duty. It must be nice, he mused, to live without the weight of expectations.

    The bell rang, signaling the start of class. As the teacher began droning on about economics, Caelan stared blankly at the board. Numbers and graphs blurred before his eyes. He wasn¡¯t paying attention¡ªhe didn¡¯t need to. He had long since mastered the material. His mind drifted back to the familiar pressure that seemed to follow him everywhere. The expectations of his father. The legacy of the Levine family. The future that was already mapped out for him.

    ---

    The rest of the school day passed in a blur, much like any other. When the final bell rang, Caelan was one of the first to leave the building. His driver was already waiting by the car, ever punctual. The journey home was quiet, the city¡¯s cacophony fading as they drove through the wealthier districts, where tall buildings gave way to sprawling estates surrounded by manicured lawns.

    As they approached the Levine mansion, Caelan¡¯s gazed at the grand mansion from a distance, the light of the setting sun enveloping it, casting a golden glow all around. The architecture of the mansion was extraordinarily lavish, each detail intricate, and its design perfectly symmetrical, like a masterpiece. In front of the palace, the garden was carefully arranged, with symmetrical paths, neatly trimmed plants, and fountains sparkling under the sun. The wide, elegant driveway led up to the main entrance, surrounded by beautiful water features and golden statues. The sky was filled with vibrant hues of orange and yellow, highlighting the mansion of the Levine family, full of beautiful memories and long-standing traditions.

    eyes flickered briefly over the vast gardens that surrounded the estate. The gates swung open with silent precision, and the car glided up the long driveway, coming to a stop in front of the grand entrance.

    As Caelan entered the mansion, he was greeted by the sparkling chandeliers illuminating the polished marble floor. The golden details on the walls and ceiling added a majestic atmosphere.

    Persian rugs softened the marble and brought warmth to the room. At the center stood a round table with vases, surrounded by luxurious chairs. In one corner, a white grand piano stood near a spiral staircase with golden railings.

    Large windows allowed natural light to stream in, enhancing the golden hues and casting beautiful patterns on the floor. The living room was filled with luxury and beauty, leaving anyone who saw it in awe.

    Caelan saw his twin siblings sitting on the floor, playing, and heard the sound of their laughter. Leyla, his younger sister, noticed his presence and ran toward him, her black hair bouncing as she sprinted. ¡°Brother!¡± she called out, her voice full of joy.

    Caelan barely had time to react before she threw herself into his arms, laughing loudly. He easily lifted her, smiling despite himself. ¡°You¡¯re getting too big for this,¡± he teased, though there was no real scolding in his tone.

    Behind her, Cain, his younger brother, approached more calmly, though a smile was also on his face. ¡°Welcome home, Brother Caelan,¡± Cain said, his voice gentle but filled with admiration.

    Caelan lightly ruffled Cain¡¯s hair, feeling warmth in his chest. At least here, with them, I can be myself.

    Their mother appeared at the doorway from the kitchen, her figure elegant and composed as always. She was the picture of beauty and grace, her long dress flowing like waves as she approached. ¡°How was your day, dear?¡± she asked, her voice soft and gentle.

    ¡°It was fine, Mom,¡± Caelan replied, his smile now more genuine. His mother¡¯s presence always brought him peace.

    ¡°Go change, dear,¡± she said. ¡°Your father will be home soon, and we¡¯ll share dinner together.¡±

    Caelan nodded and made his way upstairs. His room awaited him¡ªa luxurious space with a blue and gold theme, featuring a wide bed with a carved gold headboard, a large crystal chandelier, and tall arched windows that let in sunlight, offering a view of the beautiful gardens. The walls and ceiling were adorned with intricate designs, and the room was furnished with elegant curtains, a soft blue carpet, and matching furniture, all contributing to a regal and dignified atmosphere.

    Like the rest of the mansion, his room was vast and meticulously decorated. The large windows overlooked the gardens, where colorful flowers bloomed in neat rows¡ªa testament to his mother¡¯s love for gardening.

    He stood by the window for a moment, briefly gazing at the colorful display below. My life is perfect, he thought. I have everything anyone could ever wish for. Wealth, status, a loving family¡­ There''s nothing more I could ask for.

    A soft knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. ¡°Young master, your father has arrived,¡± a maid said. ¡°Your mother asked me to tell you that dinner will be served shortly.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Caelan replied. He adjusted his clothes, straightened his collar, and then headed downstairs.

    When Caelan came downstairs for dinner, he found his father already sitting at the head of the table. His father was strict and feared in business, known for his tough approach and strong will. But at home, he was different¡ªloving and protective of his family. His mother sat beside him, calm and graceful, while the twins, full of energy, fidgeted in their seats. They all looked up when Caelan entered, and for a moment, everything seemed to slow down. He was the last to arrive, and their eyes softened, a quiet reminder of the warmth and comfort of family.

    "Good evening, Father," Caelan said warmly as he sat down at the table.

    His father looked up and asked, "How¡¯s your studying going?"

    "Everything¡¯s fine, Father. No problems," Caelan replied, smiling to reassure him.

    "You''re visiting your grandfather this weekend, right?" His father paused and then added, "I have a party on Friday night. I want you to come with me. You¡¯ll meet some of our business partners, so it¡¯s important for you to get to know them."

    Caelan nodded. "Yes, Father. I¡¯ll go with you," he answered politely, knowing it was important, even if he wasn''t looking forward to the event.

    "Caelan," Dewan said, his voice gentle and warm, "when you visit your grandfather on Saturday, don''t forget to bring those tea leaves from the kitchen. He always appreciates them."

    ¡°Of course, Father,¡± Caelan replied, his tone respectful. He glanced at his father, who met his gaze with a look of approval. The unspoken expectations between them were always there, but so too was the pride. His father expected much of him, but Caelan had no intention of disappointing him. Not his father, not his family.

    After dinner, the family gathered in the living  room. Caelan¡¯s mother sat at the piano, her graceful fingers dancing effortlessly across the ivory keys. The soft, melodic notes filled the room, their soothing rhythm wrapping around Caelan like a comforting embrace. Each note seemed to wash away the heaviness of the day, bringing with it a calm he rarely found outside these walls.

    He leaned back in his chair, the tension slowly leaving his body. His eyes drifted to his mother, her delicate features illuminated by the fading light. There was a serenity in her expression as she played, her love for music evident in every graceful movement. The melody she played was one she had composed herself, a quiet, gentle tune that had always been Caelan¡¯s favorite. It was a lullaby of sorts, one that reminded him of simpler times¡ªof childhood, before the weight of responsibility had settled on his shoulders.

    For a brief moment, the rest of the world faded away. The expectations, the obligations, the constant pressure to live up to his family¡¯s name¡ªit all seemed so distant, so unimportant, compared to the warmth and peace of this moment. Maybe, just maybe, this was enough. Maybe he didn¡¯t need to question his life, or wonder about what lay beyond the carefully constructed walls of his perfect existence.

    As the last notes of the song lingered in the air, Caelan closed his eyes, letting the melody lull him into a rare sense of contentment. , in this moment, everything felt just right.

 Chapter 2: "Behind the Facade"

    Caelan''s life follows the same routine¡ªattending school and heading straight home afterward.

    Hey Caelan, come with us! The gaming event is today at Barton Mall, and they¡¯re releasing that new game, War Heroes!¡± Shawn said, practically vibrating with excitement.

    I sighed, glancing at the time. ¡°I really wish I could, but I¡¯ve got plans with my dad tonight. I need to head home early to get ready.¡±

    Jin looked disappointed. ¡°Seriously? That¡¯s such bad timing. You¡¯re going to miss all the fun!¡±

    I gave them a regretful smile. ¡°I know, it sucks. But I¡¯ll make it up to you next time, I promise.¡±

    Caelan gazed at his reflection in the mirror. He is wearing a gray suit with a blazer, trousers, and vest all in the same color. The blazer has sharp lapels and buttons, while the vest adds an elegant touch. He is also wearing a white dress shirt and a black tie, which completes the formal look. He has a wristwatch as a simple accessory.

    His hair is neatly styled, with a bit of messiness to give it a natural look. This highlights his youthful appearance.

    Overall, his look conveys confidence, professionalism, and respect

    Caelan stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his clothes one last time. When he felt satisfied with his appearance, he gave himself a nod of approval before heading downstairs.

    As he reached the bottom of the stairs, his mother spotted him and smiled warmly. ¡°Caelan, you look so handsome, my dear,¡±  she said, her voice full of affection.

    Caelan chuckled, a playful grin spreading across his face. ''Well, I must''ve inherited it from you,'' he teased.

    His mother laughed softly, shaking her head. ''Hahaha, don¡¯t let your father hear you say that,'' she replied with a wink.

    Caelan smiled and leaned down to kiss her on the cheek. ''I¡¯ll be on my way, Mom.''

    ''Take care, sweetheart,'' she said, her voice gentle and filled with care."

    The black limousine slowly stopped in front of the Wynn Hotel, its shiny surface sparkling in the light from the entrance. A valet in uniform walked up and carefully opened the door.

    Caelan adjusted his sleeve before stepping out. As soon as he got out of the car, his eyes were drawn to the tall building in front of him. The Wynn Hotel looked like a lantern in the night, with golden lights shining along its edges against the dark sky. The windows glowed softly, giving the building a heavenly appearance. The lower part of the hotel featured beautiful arches and an elegant design.

    The doorman opened the glass door as Caelan entered. He stepped into an elegant lobby with shiny marble floors, a big crystal chandelier, and soft jazz music playing in the background. Caelan saw his father sitting in a chair, dressed in a dark navy suit, a white shirt, and a black tie. His hair was neatly styled to match his formal outfit.

    He sat up straight in a fancy leather armchair, one foot resting on the other, with his hands relaxed¡ªone on the armrest and the other on his knee. His posture showed confidence, control, and authority.

    When his father saw Caelan, he immediately stood up and walked toward him. Unlike at home, where he was usually smiling and gentle, he now looked serious and had a strict attitude.

    But this wasn¡¯t new to Caelan. His father was a different person at home than when he was with others.

    "Let''s go," he said.

    Caelan nodded.

    As they entered, the grand hall the sound of their shoes against the marble floor echoed clearly. Caelan walked straight and full of confidence beside his father, whose demeanor was calm yet powerful. As they moved forward, he could feel the eyes of everyone in the room fixed on them, accompanied by murmurs of his father''s name spreading like ripples across the hall.

    The grand hall was stunning, filled with an air of grandeur. The golden embellishments on the walls shimmered in the light of the enormous crystal chandelier hanging from the high ceiling. Its warm glow bathed the entire room in a cheerful brilliance. Around the space, small lit candelabras flickered like stars in the night.

    In every corner of the hall stood long tables draped in white cloth. Arranged upon them were gleaming silverware, fine porcelain, and floral decorations of white roses and lilies, which filled the air with a delicate fragrance.

    The guests, dressed in their finest attire, were immersed in lively conversations. Gentle laughter and the clinking of glasses blended harmoniously with the soft strains of classical music playing in the background.

    As Caelan walked alongside his father, he again felt the heavy weight of expectations placed upon him. Tonight, he was no longer just an observer¡ªhe was now part of this world, a step closer to the wealth and power his family represented.

    As they walked through the grand hall, they stopped when a man with a professional appearance approached them. His eyes held a warm smile as he looked at them, and he was dressed in a dark pinstriped suit. His hair was neatly styled, and his face bore a calm and confident expression. Everything about him exuded professionalism and sophistication.

    Walking behind him was a teenage girl, close to Caelan¡¯s age, wearing a sparkling white dress. She had long black hair, an elegant and graceful demeanor, and delicate facial features that gave her a timeless beauty.

    "Dewan, I¡¯ve been looking for you everywhere! I thought you wouldn¡¯t make it," the man said, his smile widening.

    "I got caught up with some things, that¡¯s why I¡¯m late," my father replied with a shrug.

    The man turned to me. "So, this is Caelan, your eldest son? He looks just like you," he said with a friendly grin.

    My father nodded. "Caelan, this is Francis Warton, the chairman of Warton Banks."

    I stepped forward and smiled politely. "Good evening, Mr. Warton. I¡¯m Caelan Levine. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you," I said respectfully.

    Mr. Warton laughed loudly. "Hahaha, you¡¯re too formal, Caelan! Just call me Uncle Francis. Your dad and I have known each other for a long time. And this is my youngest¡ªand only¡ªdaughter, Catherine."

    Catherine stepped forward with a warm smile. "Good evening, Mr. Levine¡­ Caelan. I¡¯m Catherine Warton," she said kindly.

    Mr. Warton smiled playfully. "Like you, she¡¯s also studying at Sanford Academy."

    Catherine blushed slightly and looked down for a moment. "I¡¯m in a different building because I¡¯m only in Grade 10," she said shyly, then looked up and met my gaze.

    Caelan looked toward the far end of the grand hall and saw a familiar face¡ªEliza, his classmate, wearing a red dress. "I didn¡¯t know Eliza was at this party," Caelan thought. He quickly looked away and focused back on Catherine.

    "Well then, Catherine, if you ever need help at school since I''m a senior, don¡¯t hesitate to ask," Caelan said, smiling and sounding friendly.

    Meanwhile, my father and Mr. Warton continued their conversation about business, while Catherine and I discussed our studies. Soon, other business associates of my father came over. I stayed next to my father, greeting the other guests politely, and he introduced me to everyone as his successor in the company.

    I noticed Eliza walking out of the grand hall. Since I had been busy talking to my father¡¯s associates and meeting people he introduced me to, I had forgotten Eliza was here. I decided to go over and say hello to her.

    ¡°Father, I just saw someone I know. I¡¯m going to go greet her,¡± I said quickly.

    ¡°Alright, just make it quick,¡± my father replied without looking up.

    I hurried down the hallway, but before I could catch up, she disappeared around a corner.

    Where did she go? I wondered, scanning the area.

    I continued searching, my eyes darting back and forth, until I spotted Eliza standing on the hotel terrace, deep in conversation with an older man.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    I was about to turn around and head back when I heard something that made me stop in my tracks.

    ¡°I thought you were close to Chairman Levine¡¯s eldest son?¡± the older man asked, his tone sharp.

    ¡°As far as I know, we¡¯re getting closer,¡±Eliza said softly, her gaze dropping to the ground.

    The man scoffed. ¡°Maybe you¡¯re the only one thinking that. He didn¡¯t even bother to greet you.¡±

    ¡°Grandfather, I¡¯m trying. I really am,¡± Eliza replied, her voice carrying a hint of frustration.

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, you¡¯re not trying hard enough. I made sure you¡¯d be classmates. Some of your cousins also want to attend Sanford Academy, but I chose you because you¡¯re the most beautiful. I¡¯m counting on you to win the heart of the Levine heir,¡± the older man said, his voice growing stern.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Grandfather. I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to win his favor,¡± Eliza said, determination hardening her voice.

    ¡°You¡¯d better, Eliza. This isn¡¯t just for the family¡ªit¡¯s for your future. Think about it: If you marry Caelan Levine, everything will be yours,¡± the man said, his words dripping with expectation.

    I couldn¡¯t bear to listen anymore, so I turned around and walked away, my mind swirling.

    I¡¯d been classmates with Eliza for nearly two years now, and I was well aware of her efforts to get closer to me. This wasn¡¯t the first time someone had tried to form a connection because of my family¡¯s wealth and power. Just like Mr. Warton¡ªI knew he had brought Catherine to this party in hopes that we would meet for some potential arranged marriage in the future. Even if he didn¡¯t say it outright, the implication was clear. But Eliza... Eliza was different. What I had thought were sincere intentions turned out to be nothing more than a carefully crafted act, driven by ulterior motives. It seems I still have a lot to learn about people.

    I walked back into the party as though nothing had happened, slipping seamlessly back into conversation with the familiar guests, keeping my thoughts to myself.

    The soft glow of the morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm, golden hue across Caelan''s room. He blinked his eyes open, greeted by the gentle light of dawn. The clock beside his bed read 7 AM, but there was no rush. This was his usual routine¡ªwaking early to the sounds of the world beginning anew.

    He sat up slowly, stretching as the cool breeze from the slightly open window washed over him, refreshing his mind. Another weekend, another visit to Grandfather, he thought, a mix of anticipation and a faint unease rising in his chest. His grandfather was not only a figure of love but of unwavering discipline.

    After a quick shower, Caelan dressed and made his way downstairs to the dining room, where his family was already gathered for breakfast. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air, making the room feel alive with comfort and warmth. His mother sat at the head of the table, gracefully sipping her tea, while his father scrolled through the morning paper. Leyla and Cain giggled over a private joke between spoonfuls of cereal.

    ¡°Good morning, everyone,¡± Caelan greeted, settling into his seat.

    ¡°Caelan, don¡¯t forget the tea leaves for your grandfather,¡± his father reminded him, looking up from his cup of coffee. His father''s voice was calm but firm, always bearing a slight edge of authority.

    ¡°I¡¯ve already placed them in the car, Father,¡± Caelan replied with a nod, ever diligent. Father¡¯s reminders are more out of habit than necessity, he mused, but he respected the way his father always upheld the family''s traditions.

    Breakfast passed in peaceful quiet, save for the chatter of his younger siblings. His mind, however, had already wandered to the impending visit. After his grandmother passed away, his grandfather had retreated to the quiet solitude of the mountains. Yet, even in his retirement, he had remained a strict mentor, especially to Caelan, who was expected to carry on the family¡¯s legacy.

    "Caelan, a Levine must be strong¡ªphysically," mentally, and spiritually, his grandfather''s voice echoed in his mind, reminding him of the intense training sessions that lay ahead. The swordplay, the martial arts, the lessons in discipline and honor¡ªit was never easy, but it had shaped Caelan into the person he was today.

    ---

    As the car wound its way through the twisting mountain roads, Caelan gazed out at the lush greenery that stretched into the distance. The air was cooler here, fresher, as if the world itself slowed down. His mind felt clearer as the towering trees and the rugged peaks came into view.

    Finally, the familiar white mansion appeared in the distance, nestled at the base of the mountains like a sentinel watching over the valley below. Despite the years, it looked just as grand as ever, standing tall and proud, much like the man who lived there.

    As the car rolled to a stop, Caelan stepped out, feeling the crisp mountain air fill his lungs. His eyes immediately found his grandfather waiting outside, standing tall despite his age. His white hair gleamed in the sunlight, and his weathered face broke into a warm smile the moment he saw Caylan.

    ¡°Grandfather,¡± Caelan began, frowning slightly, his concern evident, ¡°you shouldn¡¯t be waiting out here for me. It¡¯s too chilly in the mornings.¡±

    His grandfather let out a deep, hearty laugh that echoed through the quiet mountain air. ¡°Ah, Caelan, don¡¯t worry about an old man like me. I¡¯m always excited to see you! How could I stay inside when I know my grandson is coming?¡± Despite the years weighing on his body, his spirit was as lively as ever, a gleam of pride and affection in his eyes.

    Caelan couldn¡¯t help but smile, though the concern lingered in his heart. His grandfather was strong, but age was an undeniable force. How much longer will we have these moments? he wondered, though he kept his thoughts to himself.

    ¡°Father and the twins wanted to come with me today, but they had special lessons,¡± Caelan said as they began walking toward the mansion, the gravel crunching softly beneath their feet.

    ¡°Ah, those little ones,¡± his grandfather chuckled. ¡°Always full of energy. I¡¯ll see them soon enough. But today, it¡¯s just you and me, Caelan. Come, let¡¯s begin our training. The sword waits for no one.¡±

    ---

    The wide garden behind the mansion had always been Caelan¡¯s favorite place. It was quiet, peaceful, yet filled with the memories of countless training sessions. The familiar weight of his sword in his hand grounded him as he faced the wide-open space, his body already primed for the physical exertion ahead.

    Sweat beaded on his forehead as he moved through the familiar motions of his training. Each swing of his sword was precise, each step calculated. His muscles burned with the effort, but there was a strange satisfaction in the challenge. His grandfather watched from nearby, his sharp eyes catching every movement, every slight adjustment in Caelan¡¯s posture.

    Caelan, your posture is strong. Keep it up,¡± his grandfather¡¯s voice rang out, commanding yet full of pride.

    ¡°Yes, Grandfather,¡± Caelan replied, focusing his mind and body, pushing through the fatigue.

    ¡°Now, perform the Upward Slash,¡± his grandfather instructed, his tone leaving no room for hesitation.

    Caelan shifted his stance, planting his feet firmly before executing the Upward Slash. His sword arced upward in a precise and powerful diagonal motion, the blade cutting cleanly through the air. The movement was fluid yet deliberate, every muscle in his body working in harmony. It was a blend of raw power and calculated precision, a testament to the years of training under his grandfather¡¯s watchful eye.

    ¡°Very good,¡± his grandfather said with a nod of approval. ¡°The speed and strength you¡¯ve developed are impressive. When I was your age, I wasn¡¯t half as skilled.¡±

    Caelan wiped the sweat from his brow, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. ¡°That¡¯s only because of your guidance, Grandfather. I owe it all to you.¡±

    ¡°Ah, don¡¯t be modest!¡± his grandfather¡¯s hearty laughter filled the air once again. ¡°Even your father wasn¡¯t this fast at your age. You¡¯ve truly become something special, Caelan. Now, let¡¯s head inside. We¡¯ve earned a break.¡±

    ---

    Sitting in the living room, the rich aroma of freshly brewed tea enveloped the space. Caelan watched as his grandfather took a slow, deliberate sip, savoring the flavor.

    ¡°This tea your father sent is of excellent quality,¡± his grandfather remarked, closing his eyes as he took in the scent. ¡°Impressive. Your father knows his teas.¡±

    Caelan nodded, but his mind was elsewhere, his eyes studying the subtle signs of fatigue on his grandfather¡¯s face. His movements, once sharp and brisk, had become slower, more deliberate. Is he slowing down?

    ¡°Grandfather, how is your health?¡± Caelan asked softly, his voice betraying the concern he tried to hide. ¡°You seemed... a bit weaker when I arrived. And your complexion¡ª¡±

    His grandfather sighed, setting his cup down gently on the table. ¡°Caelan,¡± he began, his voice steady but tinged with resignation, ¡°I¡¯m 78 years old. I¡¯ve lived a long life, and it¡¯s only natural that my body begins to slow down.¡±

    ¡°But¡ª¡± Caelan¡¯s protest was cut off by the gentle yet firm touch of his grandfather¡¯s hand on his shoulder.

    ¡°I¡¯ve watched my son carry on our family¡¯s legacy, and now I see you, stronger and more capable than I ever was at your age. Even if I were to leave this world tomorrow, I would go peacefully, knowing the Levine family is in good hands.¡±

    Caelan¡¯s throat tightened, a mix of pride and sorrow welling up inside him. He wanted to tell his grandfather he wasn¡¯t ready, that he needed more time with him. But he knew better. His grandfather had always faced life with quiet acceptance, and this moment was no different.

    ---

    The weekend passed in a blur of training and quiet moments of reflection. By Sunday afternoon, it was time for Caelan to return to the city. As he stood by the car, preparing to leave, he hugged his grandfather tightly, holding on for a moment longer than usual.

    ¡°Take care, Caelan,¡± his grandfather said, his voice softer than usual. ¡°You¡¯re growing stronger every day. Never forget the values I¡¯ve taught you.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t, Grandfather. I¡¯ll see you next weekend,¡± Caelan promised, stepping into the car.

    As the car pulled away from the mansion, Caelan looked back at the fading figure of his grandfather, standing tall despite his age. There was a heaviness in Caelan¡¯s chest¡ªa quiet understanding that these moments were becoming more precious, more finite.

    That evening, back at the mansion, Caelan was greeted by the excited shouts of his younger siblings, Leyla and Cain. They burst into his room, full of energy and laughter, as though they had been waiting all day for his return.

    "Brother!" Cain called out, practically bouncing with excitement. "When will Grandfather start teaching me martial arts?"

    ¡°You already know the basics, Cain. But when you turn seven, Grandfather will teach you when your a little bit older Caelan replied, smiling fondly as he ruffled his brother¡¯s hair. Cain looked up at him with wide, eager eyes, as if seven couldn¡¯t come fast enough.

    Leyla, more reserved, clutched her stuffed animal close. ¡°I miss Grandfather,¡± she said¡°I miss Grandfather,¡± Leyla said softly, her expression a bit sad as she hugged a stuffed animal close to her chest.

    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you ask Father and Mother to clear their schedules so we can visit him together next time?¡± Caylan suggested, gently lifting her chin.

    Her eyes lit up with excitement. ¡°Really? I¡¯ll ask them right away!¡±

    Cain grinned. ¡°Me too! I want to go!¡±

    Okay, ask Mother and Father," Caelan said happily.

 Chapter 3: "The Pull of the Unknown"

    I woke up to the sound of knocking on my door, the sharp raps piercing the last fragments of my dream.

    "Young master, if you don¡¯t get up soon, you¡¯ll be late for your class!" a familiar voice called through the wood, firm but polite.

    Groaning, I sat up in bed, the warm blankets slipping off me as reality set in. Another day. Another lecture. I rubbed my eyes, still heavy with sleep, and glanced at the clock. Late again. With a sigh, I forced myself out of bed, the cold floor a harsh reminder of the morning chill. After a quick shower, I hurried downstairs.

    "Good morning, Mom." My voice was still groggy, but her gentle smile greeted me like a balm.

    "They already left for school," she replied, referring to my younger siblings, the twins, as she set a plate down in front of me. "You woke up late today. It seems your grandfather didn¡¯t take it easy on you during training last night."

    I chuckled, shaking my head. "Grandpa never takes it easy on me. Not once. It¡¯s like he¡¯s trying to break me."

    Her eyes twinkled, but her voice held that familiar warmth of pride. "That¡¯s because your grandfather has high expectations for you, Caelan. He sees something in you¡ªjust like your father and I do." She placed a hand on my shoulder, the weight of her words sinking in.

    "I know," I replied, meeting her gaze. "I won¡¯t let him down. Or you."

    She looked at me with love and pride.

    After finishing breakfast, I grabbed my school bag and quickly got into the car, heading to school."

    In front of the university, I spotted Jin and Shawn¡ªmy childhood best friends¡ªlingering near the gate, their eyes occasionally shifting to the cars passing by, as if trying to spot a familiar one.

    ¡°Mr. George, stop the car. I¡¯ll get off here,¡± I said, leaning forward.

    ¡°Huh?¡± He glanced at me through the rearview mirror. ¡°Your classroom building is still a ways off. Why here?¡±

    I pointed at the gate. ¡°Look, there¡¯s Jin and Shawn.¡±

    Mr. George followed my gaze and nodded knowingly. ¡°Ah, I see. Alright then.¡±

    I stepped out, and before I could take a step, Jin¡¯s face lit up as he waved. ¡°Morning, Caelan!¡±

    ¡°Morning, Jin. Shawn,¡± I greeted, walking toward them. ¡°What are you two doing here at the entrance?¡±

    They exchanged mischievous looks before replying in unison, ¡°Waiting for you, of course!¡±

    I raised an eyebrow, puzzled. ¡°Waiting for me? Why?¡±

    Shawn slung an arm over my shoulder, steering me toward the path leading to our building. ¡°Come on, Caelan. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve forgotten what it¡¯s like to walk to class. You¡¯re always chauffeured around in that fancy car. Time to join the rest of us mere mortals.¡±

    I let out a laugh, shaking my head.

    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to him,¡± Jin chimed in, a smirk tugging at his lips. ¡°The real reason we¡¯re here is Shawn¡¯s obsession with making an entrance. He loves strolling into class late so everyone turns to look at him¡ªhis favorite ¡®main character¡¯ moment.¡±

    ¡°Hey!¡± Shawn snapped, glaring at Jin. ¡°You talk too much.¡±

    Jin ignored him, grinning. ¡°But not everyone in class is paying attention to you, Shawn. Some of us just want peace and quiet.¡±

    Shawn scoffed, crossing his arms. ¡°I don¡¯t care about everyone¡¯s attention. Just the girls. Especially Lara.¡±

    ¡°Lara, huh?¡± Jin teased. ¡°Isn¡¯t she close to Eliza ? Why not ask Eliza to help you out?¡±

    Shawn sighed, scratching the back of his head. ¡°If only it were that simple. Eliza and I aren¡¯t exactly close.¡±

    Jin¡¯s eyes gleamed with an idea. ¡°Then you¡¯re in luck. Caelan¡¯s here. Eliza  would never turn him down. She likes him¡ªit¡¯s practically written all over her face.¡±

    I blinked, caught off guard. ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Oh, come on, Caelan.¡± Shawn  grinned slyly. ¡°It¡¯s obvious Eliza has a thing for you. What are you waiting for? If you don¡¯t make a move soon, someone else might.¡±

    I let out a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in that right now. I¡¯ve got too much on my plate.¡±

    Jin frowned, leaning closer. ¡°That¡¯s not an excuse, Caelan. You¡¯re allowed to be a normal teenager too. And relationships are part of that.¡± He paused, his tone softening. ¡°Be honest, though. Don¡¯t you like her?¡±Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

    I opened my mouth to reply, but Jin cut me off.

    ¡°Honestly, Shawn, what kind of question is that? This is Eliza we¡¯re talking about. She¡¯s got everything¡ªa great personality, looks, and she¡¯s from a good family. Any guy would be lucky to be with her.¡±

    ¡°Maybe Caelan has someone else in mind,¡± Shawn suggested, giving me a knowing glance.

    Jin tilted his head. ¡°Is that true? Do you like someone else, Caelan?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± I replied calmly, then added with a small smile, ¡°But if I ever do, you two will be the first to know.¡±

    Shawn gave me a serious look, his usual teasing gone. ¡°Caelan, Eliza  isn¡¯t like the others. She doesn¡¯t care about your family¡¯s wealth. She¡¯s different.¡±

    His words made me freeze for a moment.

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Jin said, nodding emphatically. ¡°She¡¯s not like those rich girls who look down on everyone else. She¡¯s kind to everyone¡ªeven the scholars students¡ªand treats people like equals. She¡¯s genuinely good.¡±

    I held back a laugh, amused by how earnestly they sang her praises.

    But I couldn¡¯t entirely blame them. Eliza had built an unshakable image at the academy¡ªa kind, innocent girl who saw beyond status or wealth. If I hadn¡¯t overheard that conversation with her grandfather, I might still believe it too.

    The morning passed quickly with lectures and note-taking, but when lunchtime arrived, Eliza approached me. She seemed nervous, her usual confidence overshadowed by the faint blush on her cheeks.

    "Uh, Caelan... would you like to join us for lunch?" Her voice was soft and hesitant. She was looking at the ground, her fingers fidgeting with the strap of her bag.

    Before I could respond, Shawn suddenly appeared, throwing his arm across my shoulders. "Of course, we¡¯re all coming!" he said loudly, flashing a smile at Eliza. "Let¡¯s grab a good spot."

    Jin, already walking ahead, motioned for us to follow. As I walked with a sigh, I felt the weight of the stares from my male classmates. They didn¡¯t even try to hide their jealousy¡ªEliza was the type of girl everyone admired, and I had somehow become the center of her attention.

    I sighed inwardly, wishing they knew the real reason why this girl was approaching me. But I couldn¡¯t avoid or treat Eliza badly because I knew that would backfire on me. The students had no idea what the real Eliza was like. She was known throughout the academy as kind, innocent, and responsible, and she had many friends. Surely, the students'' sympathy would go to her, and my reputation would be ruined. I couldn¡¯t let that happen, so I decided to treat her the same and pretend that I didn¡¯t know anything about her true motives.

    We arrived at the academy¡¯s cafeteria, which, despite teachers and students eating lunch at the same time, never seemed to get crowded because of its size. Groups of friends sat at the round wooden tables, each sitting in their own section. The space had beams that resembled tree trunks. The large windows provided light throughout the cafeteria, while modern LED lights and wooden pendant lights added warmth.

    We found a good spot in the cafeteria, even though it was a busy lunchtime. Caelan''s group sat in the middle, with Eliza sitting to Caelan''s right. Jin sat to his left. Shawn sat next to Lara, and Eliza''s two friends were seated between Eliza and Lara.

    Eliza approached and softly said, "Caelan, I didn''t know you were at the banquet last Friday at the Wynn Hotel."

    I nodded and smiled. "Yeah, my father brought me along to introduce me to his business associates. But why did you suddenly disappear? I looked for you when I had the chance. My dad knows a lot of people, so I got caught up talking to them," I explained. I couldn¡¯t tell her that I hadn¡¯t noticed her that night, even though she saw me glance at her, even if it was just for a moment.

    Eliza said, "I knew it; you just got busy. I thought you didn¡¯t notice me."

    "I just went out briefly, and Grandpa wanted to have a serious talk with me," she added.

    "Is that so? I thought you all had left. You should''ve come to me," I replied.

    "You know I can¡¯t just approach you like that," Eliza responded.

    SHe was right. Aside from being classmates, I had no real connection to Eliza. There was no link between her family and mine. Eliza''s family was wealthy too, but they couldn¡¯t be compared to ours.

    "You''re not any different from me. You''re my friend," I said with a smile.

    Our food arrived, and the conversation shifted. Shawn was trying to win Lara over, while Jin pretended to be busy eating, but in reality, he was listening closely to the conversation at the table.

    As our last class of the day went on, I couldn¡¯t focus on the lesson. My eyes wandered to the window, where I saw dark clouds forming in the sky. It looked like a storm was coming, which felt strange since it was summer.

    The bell rang loudly, pulling me out of my thoughts. Class was over. Our teacher said goodbye and left the room. As soon as they were gone, everyone got up to leave. I walked out with Jin and Shawn, ready to head home.

    "We need to hurry; we might get caught in the rain," Jin said.

    "The weather is so weird. It was so nice just a while ago," Shawn added.

    When we got outside the academy building, I had to part ways with them. Jin and Shawn''s cars were parked in a different area, a bit farther from where my car was.

    "Alright, see you tomorrow, man," Shawn said with a small wave.

    "Yeah, take it easy, Caelan," Jin added with a grin.

    "You too. Stay safe," I replied as we went our separate ways.

    I started walking toward my car when suddenly, heavy rain poured down, followed by a terrifying thunderclap. I looked up at the sky, startled by the deafening sound of the thunder, and began running, hoping to reach my car without getting soaked.

    But then, I suddenly felt as though I couldn¡¯t move my legs, as if something heavy was holding me in place. Looking down, I saw that I was standing on what appeared to be a black hole, and it was the thing preventing me from moving. It felt as if I was being pulled downward into the void. My heart raced, and a cold chill swept through my body.

    "Help!" I screamed, but there was no one around to hear or help me.

    Before I knew it, I was pulled completely into the strange black hole.

    It felt like I was falling from an immense height, and as I plummeted, the fall seemed to accelerate, endless and unstoppable. Dizziness overcame me, as though my strength was being drained away. My vision slowly faded to black.

    ---

 Chapter 4: Thrown Into Another World"

    ---

    My body feels impossibly heavy, as though an unseen force is pinning me to the ground. Every muscle aches with exhaustion, but there¡¯s something worse¡ªa suffocating heat, searing my skin. Where am I? My mind struggles to grasp the last few moments I remember. I was¡­ at the school parking lot. Yes, walking toward my car when¡ª The light. The vortex. A flash of blinding light and that horrifying pull. My entire body was consumed by an invisible force, dragging me into darkness.

    Am I dead?

    My throat burns with thirst. I can barely swallow, my mouth dry like sandpaper. The world around me is nothing but a blur, an indistinct mess of sounds and colors. I need water. But the thought slips away as a wave of dizziness sweeps over me. My head spins, and a distant sound reaches my ears¡ªbirds chirping, their melodic song almost mocking my disorientation. Then¡­ footsteps. They¡¯re getting closer. Slow and deliberate, each one amplifying the pounding in my head.

    A shadow looms over me, a figure I can barely make out. They murmur something, but the words are a jumbled mess, distant and unintelligible. It¡¯s like I¡¯m underwater, my consciousness drifting in and out, too weak to hold on.

    "Darkness envelops everything once more."

    "I woke up feeling extremely thirsty. The first thing I noticed was the ceiling¡ªrough wooden beams above me, simple and solid. Where am I? It feels like I''m sinking into the bed, and my arms and legs feel too heavy to move. The blanket over me smells faintly of earth and wood, like it hasn''t been used in years.

    I turned my head, wincing as a dull pain spread through my body. The room was small and almost empty¡ªjust a wooden chair, a table in the corner, and some light coming through the window. Everything looked old and rustic. What is this place? I asked myself.

    The last thing I remember is the heavy rain and lightning, rushing to get to the car, until I was stopped by a strange weight pulling me down. I had stepped into a strange black circle, like a portal. It pulled me in, and I felt like I was falling into an endless abyss. After that, everything went black."

    My mind is in turmoil over what happened. I have so many questions about what really occurred. Suddenly, the door opened, and an old man entered. His face was lined with deep wrinkles, but his eyes¡­ his eyes were warm and kind, with graying hair and a thick beard.

    But what caught my attention the most was his clothing. He wore a long, sleeveless maroon vest with golden details, giving it an elegant look, over what seemed to be a chainmail shirt. Beneath the vest, he wore green pants and a belt with a circular buckle. It looked like clothing from ancient times, the kind you¡¯d only see in period films about the past.

    He approached me slowly. I wanted to speak, but I struggled due to the dryness in my throat.

    He took a glass from the table, filled it with water, and handed it to me. I took it and quickly drank.

    After I drank, the old man spoke, but I couldn¡¯t understand a word he said. I couldn¡¯t even recognize the language he was speaking. I looked at him, confused.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re saying,¡± I said.

    He looked at me, equally confused.

    He spoke again, but I still couldn¡¯t understand a single word.

    ¡°I really can¡¯t understand,¡± I said, shaking my head to indicate that I didn¡¯t comprehend him.

    The old man sighed deeply and left the room.

    When the old man left, I tried to stand up from lying down, still feeling the pain in my body. I walked over to the window, and from there, I could see the tall trees. This must be a mountain, but what puzzled me was how I got here from Sanford Academy. I returned to the bed and sat down. Could it be that I was kidnapped? But they didn¡¯t tie me up, and with the strict security at Sanford Academy, the possibility seemed slim. The strange portal I stepped on was the only remaining reason for me being here. I needed to figure out where I was in the world and contact my family. While I was deep in thought, a woman entered, carrying a tray of food¡ªbread and fruit. She appeared to be in her late 20s or early 30s, with fair skin and dark brown  hair tied back and covered by a simple headscarf. She looked calm and serious. She was slim and had an elegant appearance, the kind suited for someone used to household or farm work. Like the first old man I saw, her clothing was unusual¡ªshe wore a long blue dress and a beige apron, indicating that she was busy with household or agricultural tasks, almost as if from another time.

    She spoke softly, but like the man earlier, I couldn¡¯t understand her. I nodded to thank her, hoping my face would show my gratitude. She handed me the tray of food, and I took it immediately. She quickly left the room. Because of my hunger, I hurriedly ate the bread, but I was shocked at how tough it was, almost stale. It had a thick crust and a rough texture. The taste was strong and slightly sour due to the sourdough, not very sweet or tasty. Despite its taste, I forced myself to eat it because I didn¡¯t want to appear rude. Then I ate the fruit, which was the opposite of the bread¡ªso sweet and delicious. After eating, I placed the tray on the table and sat back down on the bed.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    Time moved slowly, my mind swirling with questions that had no answers. Then, the door creaked open again, and two men entered.

    The first man looked to be in his early to mid-30s. He was strong and rugged, with shoulder-length light brown or dirty blonde hair and a thick beard. His serious expression and broad build made it clear he was used to hard physical labor. His clothing was unfamiliar¡ªhe wore a simple brown tunic with a belt, woolen trousers, and plain shoes. In his hand, he carried a rolled-up parchment.

    The second man was younger, around 21 or 22 years old, with a slimmer frame and sharp features. What immediately caught my attention was his striking blue hair, a color I had never seen on anyone before. He wore a long green coat over a beige shirt with rolled-up sleeves, brown trousers, and old, worn boots that looked like they¡¯d been through many travels.

    Both men looked like they were used to tough, physical work.

    I couldn¡¯t stop myself from staring at the younger man¡¯s blue hair. He noticed and shifted uncomfortably under my gaze, so I quickly looked at his companion instead.

    The older man unrolled the parchment and held it out for me to see. I leaned in to examine it. The paper was covered with strange symbols that looked like they might be letters, but I couldn¡¯t read them. There was also a large drawing of what appeared to be a map, complete with mountains, rivers, and territories. The details were impressive, but the landscape was completely unfamiliar to me.

    The older man pointed to a small island on the map, separate from the larger landmass. I realized he was showing me where we were.

    As I stared at the map, the truth began to sink in. This wasn¡¯t Earth¡ªor at least, it wasn¡¯t the Earth I knew. The strange clothing, the unfamiliar language, and the blue-haired man all pointed to one unsettling possibility: I was in another world. A cold sweat broke out on my skin, and my heart started pounding.

    Suddenly, the door opened again. The old man I had seen earlier when I woke up entered, along with the woman who had brought me food. They spoke briefly with the two men before the one holding the map turned to me again, pointing once more to the island.

    I shook my head, trying to show that I didn¡¯t understand. Then, I carefully handed the map back to him.

    The old man looked at me and spoke firmly. ¡°Gordon,¡± he said, introducing himself.

    The woman smiled and said, ¡°Celia.¡±

    The younger man with blue hair added, ¡°Ron.¡±

    Finally, the man with the map said, ¡°Oren.¡±

    It was clear they were telling me their names. I pointed to myself and said, ¡°Caelan.¡±

    They nodded in acknowledgment. The old man motioned toward the door, said something to the others, and they all left together. Once again, I was left alone in the room.

    This isn¡¯t possible. My breath comes faster, my chest tightening as reality begins to set in. I¡¯ve been transported to another world. It¡¯s something straight out of fantasy novels, the kind of story I¡¯d read for fun¡ªbut now it¡¯s my life. And I have no idea what to do.

    My thoughts race. Do I have any special powers? Isn¡¯t that how these stories usually go? But no¡­ I don¡¯t feel any different. There¡¯s no sudden surge of strength, no magical abilities awakening within me. I¡¯m just¡­ me. Plain, ordinary Caelan. Lost in a world I don¡¯t understand.

    I close my eyes, the image of my family flashing in my mind. What are they doing right now? Are they looking for me? The thought of my mother, her worried face, my siblings calling out for me¡ªit sends a sharp pain through my chest. Tears blur my vision, but I quickly wipe them away. I can¡¯t break down now. I need to survive. I have to find a way home.

    A month has passed since I arrived in this world, but it still feels like a strange dream I can¡¯t wake up from. I¡¯ve learned a lot during my time here, but every day is a challenge. This place, Mitra Village, feels quiet and simple to me, and the people here are humble and live modest lives.

    The hunters of the village were the ones who found me in the forest and brought me here. I learned that the old man I first saw when I woke up is Gibo, the village chief. His children, Celia and Oren, took care of me while I was unconscious. Celia is the woman who gave me food when I first woke up, while Oren  was the one who showed me the map. The village chief temporarily allowed me to stay in his home. He lives with his son Oren and Oren''s wife , and their two young children. His wife passed away a long time ago. His daughter, Celia, has her own family now, and her house is right next to the village chief¡¯s home.

    The villagers offered me food  and some even  gave me their old clothes even though we don¡¯t understand each other. We use gestures and body language to communicate. It¡¯s difficult and sometimes frustrating, but I¡¯m slowly learning their language. Every day, I make sure to learn a few words because I know how important it is to understand them, especially since I don¡¯t know how long I¡¯ll stay in this world.

    I found out that this village, located on an island, is part of the Barony of Sanderson, which is under the Klehon Empire¡ªone of the largest empires on the continent of Yedon. This world has only one large continent. The more I learn about this world, the more it resembles a medieval version of Earth¡ªknights, nobles, and so on. I also discovered that ordinary people in this world don¡¯t have surnames; only nobles do. That¡¯s why I¡¯m relieved I didn¡¯t mention my surname to them. If I had introduced myself with my full name, they would have likely taken me to the noble overseeing this territory, assuming I was a noble as well. That would have definitely led to a more complicated situation for me.

    But even though I¡¯ve learned the basics about this world, I¡¯m still no closer to figuring out how to return home.

    I went back to the forest where they found me, hoping for a clue¡ªa trace of the portal, some sign of the force that pulled me into this world. But there was nothing. The spot was just¡­ ordinary. It was as if the event never happened.

    I let out a long sigh, staring out the small window of the  house  The sun is setting, casting long shadows across the village. I need to stay strong. I tell myself that every day, but the weight of uncertain

 Chapter 5: Life in Mitra Village

    ---

    In the middle of a dense forest with towering trees, a teenage boy with black hair hid behind the trunk of a large tree. His sharp eyes were focused on a rabbit not far away. Slowly, he took an arrow from the quiver on his back. The teenage boy, using his bow, carefully aimed at the rabbit. His companions, concealed not far away, watched him closely.

    The silence of the forest enveloped the scene as he released the arrow. It sliced through the air and hit the rabbit precisely. Caelan let out a sigh of relief.

    "Nice shot! Caelan''s aim is really spot on!" one of the hunters said excitedly.

    "You''re really good at archery, Caelan," said Vlad  patting him on the shoulder. Vlad was the leader of the hunters in Mitra Village¡ªa large man with a broad build, long, wavy light brown hair that fell down his back and chest, blue eyes, and a straight, prominent nose.

    "He''s also skilled with a sword, and the traps he taught us have been a huge help. They''ve made it easier to catch more animals," added Ron. Ron, with his blue hair, was one of the first people Caylan had met.

    "Who would¡¯ve thought that ropes and a few bent sticks could be so effective at catching animals in the forest?" said another village hunter.

    "I taught them how to make traps for catching animals. I learned this skill by watching a video on social media where a man demonstrated how to make traps. I became interested and tried making them with my grandfather when I visited him. We succeeded in making the traps, but we didn¡¯t catch a single animal since there were hardly any in the forest near my grandfather¡¯s place. It¡¯s nothing like the forests here, which are full of roaming wildlife. Who would¡¯ve thought that a skill I once thought was useless would become so helpful now?"

    Caelan smiled faintly as he wiped the sweat from his brow. "I''m just happy to help. Besides, I¡¯ve learned a lot from all of you too."

    Vlad nodded approvingly. "You''re a quick learner, lad. It¡¯s hard to believe you¡¯ve only been here for three months. It feels like you¡¯ve been part of this village all your life."

    Three months. That¡¯s how long it had been since Caelan woke up and was found by Vlad and the hunters of Mitra Village in the middle of the forest. The village had taken him in, given him shelter, food, and guidance. While part of him wanted to explore beyond the village and find answers, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to leave just yet. The people here had saved him, and he felt an obligation to repay their kindness.

    Besides, the world outside the village was mysterious. Traveling without sufficient knowledge or preparation could be dangerous. Over time, he had learned enough to hold basic conversations. Through gestures and bits of broken words, he had managed to learn parts of their language.

    Though his progress in learning the language was impressive, he still struggled at times with more complex phrases or the local dialect. But he was learning quickly. His days were spent helping the village however he could¡ªjoining the hunters, gathering herbs from the forest, planting crops in the fields, and studying their language.

    "Okay, that''s enough for today," said  Vlad while looking at the animals we had caught.

    "But it''s still too early. What if the village chief scolds us?" said Ron.

    "We''ve already caught a lot today. The village chief won¡¯t get angry, and we still have traps scattered in the forest. We just need to go back for them tomorrow," said Vlad.

    "That''s right," agreed Vlad. "I also need to fix our roof," said one of the village hunters.

    Ron didn''t complain because the other village hunters agreed.

    One by one, the village hunters picked up the animals they had caught, each carrying their own.

    I approached Vlad  to speak with him. "Oren, you all go ahead and head back to the village I''ll just go somewhere I said.

    Hmm, Vlad paused for a moment and nodded. "Alright, just be careful on your way back to the village."

    I watched as the village hunters left, each carrying wild animals on their shoulders. Once they were out of sight, I walked in the opposite direction through the forest, heading to its more secluded part. I arrived at an area of the forest filled with wildflowers and surrounded by tall trees. The light filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patches of light. This was the spot where the village hunters had found me. I kept returning to this place, spending time there in the hope that some portal would appear to take me back to my home, but I was always disappointed.

    After spending more than an hour in the spot in the forest where I was found, I decided to head back to the village. The sun was still high, so I thought of stopping by Celia''s house, the village chief''s daughter.

    "Good afternoon, Caelan," Celia greeted me with a smile.

    "Good afternoon," I replied.

    "Come in, come in," she said. I entered Celia''s small house and saw her two children seriously writing.

    When they saw me, they quickly stood up and ran toward me. "Brother Caelan! Brother Caelan!" they called out to me.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    "Kids, don¡¯t bother your brother Caelan. Go back to what you were doing," Celia scolded her children. Reluctantly, the two went back to their work.

    "Caelan, sit down," said Celia.

    I sat at the wooden chair with Celia and her two children. She handed me a piece of parchment and a pen that looked like a chicken¡¯s feather. "Here, copy this," she said.

    "Okay," I agreed.

    Celia taught the children and the elders who wanted to learn how to read and write. I learned that the literacy rate in this world was very low. Only the children of noble knights and wealthy merchants could afford an education. Since I came from a world that valued education, I was trying to learn not just their language, but also how to read and write.

    "Caelan, stay for dinner," I heard Celia say. "I heard you all caught a lot during the hunt today."

    "Yes, that''s why we came back early," I replied.

    "I¡¯ll cook some grilled venison and potatoes. Don¡¯t worry, you don¡¯t have to eat the bread," Celia said with a laugh.

    In the end, Celia noticed that I didn¡¯t really like the bread. The taste and texture were completely different compared to what I was used to, but the bread here was made not for flavor, but to ease hunger.

    "Thank you, then," I said, feeling a little embarrassed

    Later, as the evening drew near, Celia''s husband, Lyro, returned from the fields.

    ¡°Thank you so much for the delicious dinner,¡± Caelan said as he stood to leave. ¡°I¡¯ll be sure to stop by again soon.¡±

    "You''re welcome," Celia replied, her smile genuine. "Feel free to visit us anytime."

    Lyro added with a nod, ¡°Good night, Caelan.¡±

    "I appreciate it.Good night," I said as I headed toward the place I was staying, located at the farthest edge of the village.

    While walking, I noticed that almost no one was outside anymore. Most of the villagers were in their homes, and the surroundings had grown quiet.

    When I reached the far end of the village, I saw a small wooden house. It was old, with tall trees standing behind it. Its rustic wooden walls seemed to blend into the surrounding nature. Despite its age, the roof still looked sturdy. This house had once belonged to an elderly couple who had passed away due to old age. Their only son, a young man, had left the village to move to the largest city and become an adventurer. However, years passed, and he never returned, leaving the house abandoned.

    Who would have thought that after living in a grand and luxurious mansion, this would now be the place I call home in the village? Caelan let out a bitter smile. Never had it crossed his mind that he would one day live in a house like this. Truly, fate has a way of playing games.

    Caelan walked back to the small, old house.

    Upon entering, he was greeted by a deafening silence. The dim light coming from a small magic stone was just enough to let him see his surroundings. In this world, magic stones served as a source of energy.

    There were different types of magic stones, obtained from monsters defeated inside dungeons. Their price depended on the type of monster they came from, with the most expensive ones being found deep within dungeons.

    Caelan knew how valuable such stones were to ordinary people and felt grateful to the village chief for giving him one.

    Caelan was preparing his bed when he heard a soft knock at the door.

    He walked over to the small window and peeked at the visitor. He saw the familiar long blue hair tied in braids. Opening the door, he was greeted by Anna, a young girl around his age. She was beautiful, with round green eyes that gave her an innocent and kind look. Anna was Ron''s sister, one of the village hunters.

    "Good evening, Caelan," Anna greeted, her cheeks flushed from the cold evening air. "I brought some boiled potatoes. I wasn¡¯t sure if you had dinner yet," she added, offering him the plate of potatoes.

    Caelan smiled gratefully, feeling touched. "Thank you, Anna. You didn¡¯t have to go through all this trouble¡ªit''s late, and you came all the way here," he said, his voice filled with appreciation.

    "It¡¯s nothing. Our house isn¡¯t that far," Anna replied with a shrug, trying to brush it off. "I stopped by earlier, but you weren¡¯t home."

    "Oh, I was at Celia¡¯s house earlier," Caelan explained.

    ""You¡¯re asking her to teach you how to read and write again."" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

    "Yeah," he answered, smiling shyly.

    Anna sighed softly and looked down, her expression tinged with sadness. "I wish I knew how to read and write... I would¡¯ve been the one to teach you," she said quietly, her voice thick with regret.

    Caelan immediately shook his head. "No, you and Ron have done so much for me already," he said. "You¡¯ve helped me more than enough, especially when I was new here."

    Anna¡¯s face brightened, her eyes lighting up with a smile. "Really?" she asked, clearly pleased by his words.

    He nodded, his smile sincere.

    "You¡¯re so hardworking, Caelan," Anna said, admiration evident in her voice. "I¡¯ve never met anyone as determined to learn as you. Most of the men here would rather focus on swords or bows."

    Caelan chuckled lightly, looking a little embarrassed. "Well... I guess I just feel like I need it to survive here," he replied, his tone modest. He didn¡¯t want to explain how deeply he understood the value of knowledge.

    Anna gave a small nod, still impressed. "Well, you¡¯re doing great," she said with a soft smile.

    "Thanks, Anna," Caelan said, his gratitude clear. "I should probably let you go now."

    "Alright, I¡¯ll head back," she said, her smile still lingering. "Take care on your way home, Anna."

    "I will," she replied, giving him a final wave before turning to leave. "

    I watched as Anna walked away. I didn¡¯t bother to escort her since the village was safe, and there was no danger. Once she was out of sight, I went back inside and placed the plate of potatoes on the table.

    This was my  new life¡ªa simple and quiet existence in a village that had accepted him as one of their own. But even though he felt welcomed by the people of Mitra Village, he couldn¡¯t help but feel sadness and think about his family. How were they doing now? How had they taken his sudden disappearance? Were they still searching for him to this day?

    "Mom, Dad, Leyla, Cain, Grandfather¡ªI miss all of you so much," he thought.

    That¡¯s why I need to keep going and find a way to return.

    ---

    -

 Chapter 6: Under Surveillance

    In the capital of Sanderson Territory, where Sanderson Castle, built almost three hundred years ago, stands, there is a luxurious and elegant office.

    An older gentleman with graying hair and a neatly trimmed mustache and beard sits within. He exudes wisdom and authority, dressed in formal attire. He is seated at a lavish wooden desk adorned with intricate golden details, engrossed in reading or examining documents. The desk is cluttered with various items, including books, papers, writing tools, and decorative pieces.

    Beside the desk stands a butler or servant, holding a white cloth or towel draped over his arm. The room features a refined and sophisticated design, with blue and gold accents, ornate wall decorations, and a large fireplace burning in the background. The entire setting exudes a sense of elegance and grandeur befitting an aristocrat

    A knock on the door broke the silence of the office.

    "Come in," Baron Sanderson commanded without looking up, his deep voice echoing through the quiet room.

    "My lord, Knight Teri is here to give his report," said the guard outside the door.

    "Let him in," the baron replied, placing his quill down and leaning back in his chair.

    A moment later, a man entered with a sharp and confident appearance. His grayish-brown hair was neatly styled, and his striking green eyes stood out. His face was well-proportioned, with a strong jawline and a calm yet intense gaze that reflected discipline and authority. He wore a dark uniform with green accents, emphasizing his organized and professional demeanor.

    Standing upright, his posture reflected the composure of someone accustomed to duty. He bowed respectfully and said, "Good evening, my lord."

    "Evening, Teri," the baron responded, his sharp gaze now fully focused on the knight. "What news do you bring? Has the boy shown any suspicious behavior?"

    Teri shook his head. "None, my lord. He¡¯s been nothing but hardworking. The villagers in Mitra have no complaints about him. In fact, they seem to appreciate his contributions. He¡¯s helped with hunting, farming, and even some construction work. As far as they¡¯re concerned, he¡¯s just a helpful, albeit unusual, outsider."

    The baron frowned, deep in thought, his fingers tapping lightly on the desk. "And the investigation into his origin? Have we found any clues?"

    "We¡¯ve checked with the towns, ports, and even asked some fishermen," Teri said, his tone steady and professional. "No one recalls seeing a boy with black hair and black eyes arriving on the island. Merchants and adventurers alike haven¡¯t reported anything out of the ordinary. His arrival remains a mystery."

    Baron Sanderson¡¯s eyes narrowed, suspicion flickering across his features. "Black hair and black eyes are rare in these parts. His sudden appearance on the island without any clear explanation troubles me. Keep him under surveillance. Watch him closely, but discreetly. If he shows any signs of being a threat to this territory, do not hesitate to act. If necessary, eliminate him."

    The baron leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowed. The boy''s sudden appearance unsettled him. In his world, nothing was ever truly random. There was always a deeper plot at play¡ªone that could easily destabilize his carefully maintained control over his lands.

    Teri nodded solemnly, his face showing no hesitation. "Yes, my lord. I¡¯ll make sure he remains under our watch."

    The baron waved his hand dismissively. "That will be all for now. Keep me updated on any developments."

    Teri bowed once more before leaving the room, the heavy door closing softly behind him.

    ---

    Caelan sat at the piano, his fingers gliding across the keys as he played a familiar melody. The soft notes filled the air, and beside him, the twins sang along, their young voices harmonizing with his. Their parents sat nearby, watching them with proud smiles. Caylan glanced over, his heart warming at the sight of their joy.

    But as he continued to play, the scene began to shift. The light in the room dimmed, and his family¡¯s faces blurred. His grandfather appeared, urging him toward the garden for training. Caelan tried to follow, but the path grew darker, and no matter how fast he ran, he couldn¡¯t catch up. His family grew distant, turning their backs on him as they walked farther and farther away. Panic surged through him, and he called out to them, but his voice was swallowed by the darkness.

    With a gasp, Caelan jolted awake. His heart raced, and beads of sweat dotted his forehead. He blinked, disoriented, the remnants of the dream still clinging to his mind. It was always the same¡ªa fleeting vision of the life he once had, slipping away beyond his reach.

    Caelan rose from his bed, quickly getting dressed and gathering his belongings. As he stepped outside,he headed straight to the meeting point where the caravan members were already gathering. Upon arriving, he saw three identical wooden carriages lined up, each pulled by two strong horses. They were sturdily built, supported by large wheels, and had white cloth canopies providing protection from the sun. Barrels were attached to the sides of the carriages. The carriages were simple yet practical in design, clearly ready for a long journey.

    He saw the village chief, Gibo, talking to his son, Oren, as well as Vlad and Ron, who were busy loading the goods they planned to sell¡ªvegetables, herbs, fruits, potatoes, and spices. Caylan quickly approached to help with the loading.

    ¡°Good morning, Caelan,¡± Ron greeted him.

    ¡°Good morning to you too, Ron, Vlad,¡± Caelan replied.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

    ¡°Good morning as well,¡± Vlad said with a nod.

    ¡°Is this everything we¡¯re selling in town?¡± Caelan asked while lifting the last sack of potatoes.

    ¡°Yes, the rest has already been loaded into the other two carriages,¡± Vlad answered.

    ¡°Oren, you¡¯re in charge of everything,¡± the village chief instructed his son.

    ¡°Yes, Father. Don¡¯t worry,¡± Oren replied with a smile.

    ¡°Take care, all of you,¡± said Celia.

    ¡°Caelan, let¡¯s ride in the back of the first carriage,¡± Ron said.

    Vlad and Oren climbed into the front of the first carriage, with Vlad taking the reins as the driver.

    The rest of their companions rode in the other two carriages.

    This was Caelan¡¯s first time traveling beyond Mitra Village, and he couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension.

    The wagon began to move, slowly advancing along the uneven dirt road. Caelan sat at the edge of the wagon beside Ron. From where we were seated, we could see the surroundings and the two wagons trailing behind us. As I took in the scenery, I couldn¡¯t help but marvel at the view¡ªthe massive trees and towering mountains resembled landscapes painted on a canvas. We traveled in silence, the only sounds being the creaking of the wooden wagons and the clatter of horses¡¯ hooves against the stones, echoing through the tranquil forest.

    It was nearing noon when they arrived, the vast rice fields stretching out before them. The stalks swayed gently in the breeze, their golden-yellow hues glinting in the sunlight. It was a breathtaking sight, the rows lined up neatly in diagonal patterns, with subtle variations in color and density adding to their charm.

    Ron leaned closer to Caelan and said, "We¡¯re here at Havern Village. It¡¯s the largest and closest village to Sanderson city."

    I leaned forward, peering out from the front of the carriage. A sturdy wooden fence encircled the expansive village, giving it a sense of security and permanence.

    As our carriage rolled closer, the guards at the gate waved in recognition, their familiarity with Oren and Vlad evident.

    "Welcome back!" one of the guards called out cheerfully, raising a hand in greeting. "Looks like you¡¯ve brought in a good haul this time. Got more goods than usual, I see!"

    Oren chuckled, nodding. "Yes, the harvest was much better this month. We¡¯re lucky."

    "Well then, head on in," the guard replied, stepping aside to let the carriage pass. "Safe trading!"

    The guards granted them entry without issue. As the carriage moved through the gates, Caelan glanced around, taking in the sights. Havern Village wasn¡¯t much different from Mitra. The houses, built with sturdy wooden beams and topped with thatched roofs, shared the same rustic charm. The people were equally warm and welcoming¡ªchildren darted around, laughing as they played on the dusty roads, while adults busied themselves with fieldwork or tending to livestock.

    Yet, there was something different about this place. Perhaps because it''s much larger and near the capital of the Sanders

    Our carriage stopped in front of a two-story wooden house with a thatched roof, giving it a cozy and rustic look. A muscular man was sitting on the porch of the house.

    He had a strong and well-built physique, with a neatly groomed beard and medium-length, slightly messy brown hair tied back in a small ponytail. He was wearing a light blue shirt with rolled-up sleeves, revealing his forearms.

    We immediately got off the carriage. Upon seeing Oren and Vlad, the man greeted them right away.

    ¡°How are you, Oren and Vlad? It looks like you had a good harvest this month. Last time, you only brought two carriages,¡± the man said as he glanced at our carriages. Then, he looked at me for a while.

    ¡°You¡¯re right. We were lucky this month,¡± Oren replied.

    ¡°Who¡¯s this boy? It¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve seen him,¡± the man asked.

    ¡°This is Caelan. He¡¯s a guest in our village. He came from a small tribe in a distant part of the continent,¡± Oren answered.

    Because I couldn¡¯t speak the common language used throughout the continent, the people of Mitra Village assumed I came from a small, remote tribe with little contact with others. I didn¡¯t correct them since they could never know the truth¡ªthat I came from another world.

    ¡°Caelan, this is Serge, the village chief of Havern Village,¡± he added.

    I was slightly surprised to learn that he was the village chief because he didn¡¯t seem much older than Oren.

    ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Caelan. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you,¡± I said politely.

    ¡°Hmm¡­ Hahaha! This boy is handsome and has good manners. He¡¯s nothing like the kids who grew up in the countryside. Are you sure he¡¯s from a small tribe and not an aristocrat?¡± Serge remarked.

    ¡°Caelan is good at hunting, and aristocrats aren¡¯t like that,¡± Ron said.

    ¡°Really?¡± Serge asked, sounding doubtful.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Vlad replied. ¡°Thanks to him, hunting has become much easier for us,¡± he added.

    ¡°Well, I guess that makes sense,¡± Serge said, seeming convinced.

    ¡°Come inside and have lunch,¡± Serge invited us warmly.

    As they stepped into the simple home, the delicious aroma of roasted fish filled the air, making their stomachs growl in anticipation. On the table was a large pot of steaming rice, the white grains shining with a touch of oil. But it was the fish that truly caught their attention¡ªtwo perfectly roasted fish on a wooden platter, their golden skin crisp with a smoky scent. Unlike the usual dried fish from Mitra Village, this fish was a rare treat, something they hadn¡¯t expected.

    The group sat down at the table, and Serge, ever the gracious host, served generous portions of fish and rice. Each piece of fish was perfectly roasted, the tender, flaky meat with just the right amount of smokiness. The subtle sweetness of the fish paired well with the light, fluffy rice, making for a perfect meal.

    Vlad, his mouth full, grinned. "You really know how to treat us, Serge. This is amazing."

    Serge smiled warmly. "I¡¯m glad you like it.

    Ron, enjoying his bite, looked up in surprise. "This... is nothing like the fish we usually eat in the village. It¡¯s so much better."

    Vlad nodded, his eyes lighting up as he took another bite. "Definitely. Being near the port has its advantages. This tastes far better than the dried fish we¡¯re used to."

    The group ate, chatting happily between bites. Serge, always attentive, refilled their cups and made sure everyone had enough to eat. The warmth in the air wasn¡¯t just from the food, but from the easy camaraderie they shared in this simple moment.

    After finishing the meal, Serge and Oren briefly discussed the trade goods between Mitra Village and Havern Village. Once an agreement was made, the group stood up from the table and headed to the carriages to unload the goods.

    After they unload the goods They left Havern Village and continued their journey toward the capital.

 Chapter 7: Sanderson City

    Chapter 7: Sanderson City

    The sun blazed high above as our carriage rolled up to Sanderson City''s stone gate. Towering spires framed the sturdy walls, and the arched entrance hummed with activity. People on horseback, traders with carts, and carriages like ours jostled to enter. Guards exchanged nods with Oren and Vlad, recognizing them instantly, and waved us through with little scrutiny.

    Inside, the city burst to life. Cobblestone streets replaced the dusty roads of the countryside, and rows of houses with sloped, colorful roofs gleamed in the sunlight. The air was thick with the aroma of baked bread and the metallic tang of a blacksmith''s forge, mingling with the cries of merchants hawking their wares. Stalls overflowed with goods¡ªfruits, vegetables, silk, and weapons¡ªwhile vibrant banners flapped overhead.

    Our carriage wound through the bustling streets, finally stopping at a two-storey inn near the market square. Its half-timbered design and sloped roof felt inviting, a quiet refuge from the city¡¯s chaos. Oren stepped inside to negotiate with the innkeeper, a middle-aged woman whose warm smile seemed to reflect the charm of the place. Moments later, he returned with a key in hand.

    "This way," he said, leading us upstairs.

    The room wasn¡¯t spacious, but it was clean and practical, with enough beds for all of us. Though cramped, it was a relief to have a place to rest after the long journey.

    After setting our belongings down, Oren turned to us. ¡°I¡¯ll be heading out with Vlad to talk to some merchants. We need to sort out the supplies we¡¯ll bring back to the village.¡±

    One of our companions chimed in, ¡°We¡¯re planning to visit some relatives and friends who live here. It¡¯s been a while since we¡¯ve seen them.¡±

    Oren glanced at Ron and me. ¡°What about you two? Any plans to head out?¡±

    Ron stretched and shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood to go anywhere. I¡¯ll just stay here and rest.¡±

    ¡°I think I¡¯ll take a walk,¡± I said, already curious about exploring the town.

    ¡°Alright,¡± Oren said with a nod. ¡°Just make sure you¡¯re back before dinner. We¡¯ll discuss tomorrow¡¯s plans then.¡±

    ¡°Got it,¡± I replied, feeling a sense of anticipation as I thought about what the town might have to offer.

    Caelan stepped into the bustling street, his boots crunching softly against the uneven cobblestones. The market buzzed with life¡ªmerchants called out their wares, the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the earthy scent of leather and iron. Wooden stalls lined the road, their tables laden with colorful fabrics, dried herbs, and polished trinkets.

    His gaze, however, was drawn beyond the commotion. Looming over the town, a castle rose like a sentinel, its stone towers piercing the blue sky. Sunlight danced off its high walls, highlighting the contrast between the grandeur of its architecture and the humble, timber-framed buildings of the town below.

    As Caelan wandered through the market, he took in the sights and smells. To his left, a plump vendor cheerfully extolled the quality of his colorful fruits and vegetables. Next to him, a bakery displayed golden-brown bread, its warm aroma mixing with the salty tang of cured meats from a neighboring shop. On his right, a woman sold handwoven baskets and vibrant fabrics, while further ahead, a blacksmith¡¯s apprentice polished tools with soot-covered hands.

    The bustling energy filled the streets, yet something unusual caught Caelan¡¯s attention. In the midst of the crowd, a stocky figure stood still, observing its surroundings. Caelan froze. The being was unlike anything he¡¯d seen¡ªshort, broad-shouldered, with arms like tree trunks and a beard that exuded pride and maturity. Resting on its back was a massive hammer that seemed too heavy for its size, yet perfectly suited to its powerful build.

    A dwarf. Caelan stared in awe. He¡¯d only read about them in myths, and yet here it was, as real as the cobblestones beneath his feet. Strangely, no one else seemed to pay it any mind, as if its presence was ordinary in this world.

    Why didn¡¯t anyone tell me dwarves were real? he thought, his heart racing. Then he froze again. Of course, no one here knew where he came from¡ªor what he didn¡¯t know.

    When Caelan entered the inn room, he found Ron and Vlad in the middle of a conversation. They stopped talking the moment they saw him.

    ¡°Caelan, how was your stroll?¡± Vlad asked, sitting cross-legged on his bed. The room was small but cozy, with each of them having a bed pushed up against the walls. A faint evening breeze wafted through the open window, carrying the distant hum of the bustling market.

    Caelan sat on his bed, leaning back against the wooden frame. ¡°It was fine. I saw a lot of interesting things. How about you and Oren? Didn¡¯t you go outside to talk to some merchant?¡± he asked thoughtfully, kicking off his boots.

    "It went well," Vlad said with a small shrug. "I came back first because Oren ran into someone he knows. They seemed busy talking, so I left them to it."

    Ron, lounging on his bed with his arms behind his head, glanced over. ¡°You should buy whatever you¡¯ll need before we head back to the village,¡± he suggested casually.

    Caelan hesitated, his mind lingering on the strange sight he¡¯d encountered earlier. ¡°I saw someone small, with a broad build, carrying a massive hammer,¡± he said, searching for the right words. ¡°I don¡¯t know what they¡¯re called in your language.¡±If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Vlad chuckled, sitting up straighter. ¡°Ah, that¡¯s a dwarf. Surprised you haven¡¯t seen one before. They¡¯re rare in these parts, but you¡¯ll find more of them in Liras City. Maybe Baron Sanderson hired this one.¡±

    Ron shifted to sit cross-legged, nodding. ¡°That makes sense. The baron might need a dwarf for crafting weapons or armor. Or maybe there¡¯s something in the castle that needs fixing. Dwarves are unmatched in smithing and craftsmanship.¡±

    Vlad studied Caelan curiously. ¡°Is this really your first time seeing a dwarf? You looked like you¡¯d seen a ghost when you walked in.¡±

    Caelan nodded, his expression puzzled. ¡°Yeah. There aren¡¯t any dwarves where I come from.¡±

    Vlad raised an eyebrow, intrigued. ¡°That explains it. Dwarves are rare in human territories, except for Liras City. Even there, they¡¯re uncommon. Humans dominate most of the continent, after all.¡±

    Ron smirked, a mischievous glint in his eyes. ¡°If you were shocked by a dwarf, imagine what you¡¯d do if you saw an elf.¡±

    Caelan¡¯s eyes widened, his curiosity piqued. ¡°Elves? You mean they¡¯re real too?¡±

    ¡°Of course!¡± Ron said, his tone brimming with excitement. ¡°Elves are stunning, Caelan. They¡¯re my dream. Imagine marrying one! Not only are they beautiful, but they also live for over two hundred years. Just think about it¡ªspending a lifetime with someone so graceful.¡± He sighed wistfully, clearly lost in his imagination.

    Vlad rolled his eyes, leaning back against the wall. ¡°Don¡¯t get your hopes up, Ron. Elves rarely marry humans. Their standards are impossibly high. And if you¡¯re thinking about buying one from the slave market, even the cheapest would cost you fifty gold coins.¡±

    Caelan¡¯s face darkened, his shoulders stiffening. ¡°Slave market?¡± he asked sharply, his voice tense with unease.

    Ron glanced at him, surprised. ¡°You don¡¯t know about the slave market?¡±

    Vlad sighed, his expression growing serious. ¡°Slavery is everywhere on the Yedon continent, Caelan. Prisoners of war, knights, even nobles from fallen kingdoms¡ªanyone can end up as a slave. Some families sell their children because they can¡¯t afford to feed them. Kidnapping is illegal, but if a noble allows it, no one stops it.¡±

    Caelan frowned deeply, his fists clenching. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ horrible. How can anyone live like this?¡±

    Ron¡¯s tone softened as he tried to ease the tension. ¡°It¡¯s not all bad, Caelan. The world has its dark parts, sure, but it¡¯s full of wonder too. Take dwarves, for example. They¡¯re not just craftsmen; they love trade and are always sharing their skills. They¡¯re closer to humans than you¡¯d think. And elves¡ªthey¡¯re rare but unforgettable.¡±

    Vlad nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. ¡°There are Amazons too¡ªfemale warriors with dark, tan skin. They¡¯re fierce and prefer strong men, but the rarest race is the beastkin. Beastkin have tails and ears like the animals they resemble¡ªwolves, foxes, lions, and cats. They¡¯re incredibly strong and agile, with traits unique to their tribes. Like the elves, they live in remote forests at the edge of the continent.¡±

    Ron grinned, leaning forward. ¡°They¡¯re also prime targets for slave traders because they¡¯re so valuable. But good luck capturing one¡ªthey¡¯re insanely fast and strong. They¡¯re perfect warriors.¡±

    Vlad¡¯s tone turned wistful. ¡°And then there are the fairies. They¡¯re tiny humans with wings, but they vanished over two centuries ago. No one¡¯s seen one since.¡±

    Caelan sat silently, his mind racing with everything they¡¯d shared. This world was vast and filled with marvels¡ªbut behind its beauty lurked a cruel reality.

    At night, I couldn''t sleep, overwhelmed by all the information I had learned that day. It was too much, and this world seemed even crueler than I had imagined.

    The next morning, I awoke to the soft creaking of the floorboards. A line of beds came into view as I blinked the sleep from my eyes. Outside, the sound of a carriage rolling down the street reached my ears. Ron stepped out of the small bathroom.

    "Caelan, you''re awake!" he grinned. "The others are already downstairs having breakfast. Some are organizing the products we''re selling. Hurry, we need to leave soon."

    I nodded, getting up and heading to the bathroom to wash up.

    After a simple breakfast of bread, eggs, and warm tea, our group gathered and prepared to head to our next destination: the trading guild.

    The trading guild is a large, busy hall where merchants and staff manage trade. Sunlight streams through stained-glass windows, illuminating goods and papers on wooden tables. The guild master oversees everything, while the upper balcony hosts private meetings. It¡¯s a lively hub of commerce.

    The noise of trade filled the air, with voices and footsteps echoing across the stone floors.

    Oren approached one of the guild''s representatives, an elderly man with graying hair and a sharp appearance, who gave a quick nod of acknowledgment.

    "Wait here," the man said before calling out to an assistant. "Go check the goods from Mitra Village outside." The assistant quickly nodded and hurried outside where the shipment was stacked.

    Oren watched as the assistant went outside, and the minutes seemed to stretch on in silence. When the assistant returned, his expression was more surprised than before. "The volume of your goods is impressive¡ªmuch more than last time. They brought three carriages this time. The number of sacks of potatoes is double, and so is the number of spices and fruits," he reported, eyeing the shipment with suspicion. He squinted and double-checked the quantity.

    The elderly man, still with his serious expression, slowly nodded in acknowledgment. "It is certainly more than the last shipment," he said, his voice tinged with surprise as he examined the figures. "The level of your village has truly risen."

    Oren couldn¡¯t help but smile, though he tried to hide it. "Yes, our village got lucky. The harvest was better than we expected, and we gathered more than we thought."

    "Well done. You can be assured that your village''s hard work will reach the Baron and you¡¯ll be rewarded," said the guild¡¯s steward.

    Oren nodded, his pride swelling a little. "Thank you. We''ll work even harder."

    The elderly man gave Oren a brief glance before turning to make a note on his clipboard, signaling that the conversation was nearing its end.

    The transaction went smoothly, and soon enough, five gold coins were handed over to Oren . I marveled at the simplicity of the currency here¡ªgold, silver, and copper coins. One gold coin was worth thirty silver pieces, and fifty copper coins made up a single gold coin.

    With the transaction complete, our business in Sanderson was done, and soon enough, we were on our way back to the village. The bustling city slowly faded behind us as the road stretched ahead, leading us back to familiar ground.

 Chapter 8: Seeds of Change

    Chapter 8: Seeds of Change

    One afternoon, I sat down with Gibo, the village chief of Mitra Village, to discuss some ideas I had in mind.

    as we  returned from selling vegetables, potatoes, spices, and fruits in Sanderson City. He spoke with Gibo, the village chief of Mitra Village, about the  plans. Joining their discussion was Oren, Gibo¡¯son

    "What do you want to discuss today, Caelan?" Gibo, the village chief of Mitra Village, asked as he pointed to a chair near the fire in his small house.

    "I¡¯ve been thinking about the village¡¯s crops," I replied, carefully choosing my words. "When we went to Sanderson Capital, I noticed that there was an oversupply of potatoes in the market, so their price is lower compared to other staple foods like barley, rice, and wheat. Potatoes are the main product sold by Mitra Village, but because of the low price caused by the oversupply, the village isn¡¯t making much profit. So why don¡¯t we replace potatoes with another product?" I suggested.

    "You¡¯re right, the village doesn¡¯t make much profit from selling potatoes, but this is the crop the farmers here are used to growing," Gibo replied.

    "True, we could make more profit if we plant more expensive crops, but it¡¯s not that easy," Oren added.

    "I¡¯m not saying we should stop planting potatoes¡ªjust reduce the amount," I explained.

    "It¡¯s not easy to just replace potatoes, but... what do you think we should plant? Gibo asked.

    "I¡¯d like to plant wheat. There¡¯s a place near Mitra Village that¡¯s perfect for wheat farming. It¡¯s ideal because with spring coming, the climate will be just right," I answered.

    Gibo thought for a moment while stroking his chin. "Wheat, huh? I¡¯ve heard of that, but the farmers here haven¡¯t learned how to grow it yet. Why do you think it¡¯s a good fit for our village?"

    I nodded, ready to explain. "Wheat is a staple crop in many places and has high demand, especially in cities. It can be made into flour for bread and other products, which have a higher price than raw potatoes. Most importantly, wheat grows well in areas with moderate rainfall and fertile soil, and we have both of those here. It¡¯s also strong and can adapt to the spring climate."

    Oren looked at me and crossed his arms. "But wheat requires care, right? Do we need special tools or knowledge to grow it properly?"

    "You''re right, Oren," I answered. "Wheat does need preparation, but it¡¯s manageable. First, we need to plow the soil and add fertilizer to ensure a good harvest. I¡¯ve noticed we have animals here¡ªcows and goats. We can use their manure as natural fertilizer. Then, we need to plant the seeds at the right depth, about 2-3 inches into the soil, and make sure the spacing is even to avoid overcrowding."

    Gibo listened carefully and nodded as I continued. "Once the wheat starts to grow, the most important thing is to control the weeds during the first few weeks. We also need to make sure it¡¯s watered properly, especially during dry periods, but not as much as other crops. By summer, we¡¯ll be ready to harvest."

    "What about after the harvest? What do we do then?" Oren asked, clearly interested but cautious.

    "After the harvest, we need to thresh the wheat to separate the grains from the chaff," I explained. "There are traditional methods, like using a wooden tool or letting animals walk on the stalks, but if we can get simple tools from Sanderson City, the process will be faster and easier. Once we have the grains, we can sell them directly or turn them into flour, which has a higher price."

    Gibo nodded, his face serious. "This is a big change, Caelan, but if it works, it could really help the village¡¯s income. We¡¯ll need to train the farmers, and some might resist the new idea."

    "I understand," I replied, looking him in the eye. "But I believe in this idea. I can help the farmers and lead the first planting season. If we¡¯re careful, we¡¯ll see good results. We can start planting after winter as spring begins."

    After a brief silence, Gibo nodded. "Okay, I¡¯ll call a meeting with the farmers tomorrow. We¡¯ll discuss and plan this."

    A small smile appeared on my face. "Thank you, Chief Gibo. I¡¯ll make sure this works."

    The harsh winter had settled over Mitra Village, covering it in a thick blanket of snow. Days felt shorter, nights colder, and the once-busy village had grown quiet. The laughter of children and friendly conversations were replaced by the sound of the freezing wind. But the villagers were prepared. They had stockpiled firewood, preserved food, and insulated their homes to survive the season.

    Caelan woke up before sunrise every day, as usual. His breath turned to mist in the cold air of his room. The fire in the stove had nearly gone out, leaving the room icy. He quickly dressed in warm woolen clothes and a heavy cloak, bracing himself for the chill outside.

    The first task each morning was to clear snow from the roof. If left too long, the snow''s weight could cause damage. The wind stung his face as he climbed up with his shovel. Every scoop of snow he threw down made his arms ache, but the job had to be done.

    After that, Caelan joined the other villagers to clear the streets of ice. The sound of their shovels scraping against the frozen ground echoed through the quiet morning. It was hard work, and the icy air made every breath feel sharp, but they kept going, knowing the paths were essential for getting around.

    Caelan also delivered firewood to older villagers and checked on the animals in their pens. The animals huddled together for warmth, their breaths visible in the cold. Despite the constant work, there was always more to do, and every task seemed endless.

    Each day felt the same¡ªshoveling snow, hauling wood, and helping where he was needed. The cold and the weight of responsibility wore him down, but Caelan never complained. He knew the village depended on everyone doing their part.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.

    When he finally returned home in the evening, he prepared a simple meal¡ªhot soup made from vegetables and a small piece of meat if he was lucky. The warmth of the food helped him forget the cold for a moment. After eating, he would collapse into bed, his body aching and his mind already thinking about the next day.

    Winter in Mitra Village was not just a season¡ªit was a daily struggle. But as the snow began to melt and the first signs of spring appeared, Caelan felt a glimmer of hope.

    The village came alive again, with people preparing to plant wheat in the fields. This new crop promised a better future, and Caelan stood with the villagers, feeling determined. The hardships of winter were behind them, and now, they were ready to rebuild and look forward to brighter days ahead.

    The sun was already climbing high when Caelan stepped into the field, a bundle of wheat seeds in his hands. The farmers, having gathered for the morning''s lesson, stood around him, a mix of curiosity and skepticism in their eyes. They had heard of wheat but had little experience with it, preferring the more familiar crops like potatoes

    ¡°Alright, everyone,¡± Caelan called out, his voice steady and clear. ¡°Wheat is a little different from the crops we¡¯re used to, but it¡¯s not hard once you get the hang of it. The first thing you need to know is that wheat needs well-drained soil, so make sure the ground is loose enough for the roots to spread out.¡±

    He knelt down, demonstrating with his hands as he sifted through the soil. ¡°You want to break up any clumps, like this, so the seeds don¡¯t get stuck or drowned. The soil should be soft but not too loose, just enough to hold the seeds in place.¡±

    Lyro , standing beside Caelan, raised an eyebrow. ¡°And how deep should we plant them?¡±

    Caelan stood up and gestured to the rows of soil in front of him. ¡°Good question, lyro. Wheat seeds should be planted about an inch deep. Not too deep, but deep enough so they¡¯re covered by soil. If they¡¯re too shallow, they could dry out in the sun.¡±

    One of the younger farmers, gary, took a step forward, holding a handful of seeds in his palm. ¡°So we just drop them in the soil and cover them?¡±

    Caelan smiled. ¡°Not quite. You¡¯ll want to space the seeds a few inches apart. If they¡¯re too close together, they won¡¯t have room to grow properly. You can either plant them in rows or scatter them, depending on what works best for the land.¡±

    He took a seed from the bundle and showed them how to place it in the soil, then gently covered it with earth. ¡°The key is to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. If it¡¯s too dry, the seeds won¡¯t sprout, and if it¡¯s too wet, they¡¯ll rot.¡±

    The farmers watched intently, taking mental notes of the process. Caelan moved from one row to the next, showing them how to space the seeds and cover them. As he worked, he could see the farmers starting to understand, their uncertainty slowly turning into confidence.

    Once they finished planting, Caelan stood up and looked over the field.

    Lyro clapped him on the back. ¡°It looks simple enough. Let¡¯s hope the weather is kind.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure it will be,¡± Caelan replied with a smile. ¡°We¡¯ll check on it regularly, and with a little luck, we¡¯ll have a good harvest.¡±

    The farmers, now eager to get to work, began planting the seeds with renewed enthusiasm. Caelan stepped back, watching them, feeling a sense of pride. It wasn¡¯t just about teaching them how to grow wheat; it was about giving them a chance to build something that would last.

    The golden rays of dawn gradually spread across the rice fields of Mitra, illuminating the vast landscape. Caelan stood at the edge of the fields, with a hoe slung over his shoulder and a water pouch hanging from his belt. The wind was cool, but it carried the scent of freshly tilled soil. Around him, the villagers were busy with their tasks, their conversations and laughter blending with the sound of wheat grains dancing in the breeze.

    Caelan was in charge of overseeing the wheat crops, a project he had suggested and initiated. Due to the surplus of potatoes in the market, he proposed planting wheat, even though he wasn''t an expert in farming. The lessons he learned from his grandfather, who loved farming, were a big help when he arrived here. He suggested planting wheat not only for the village¡¯s needs but also to generate income for the entire community. Because of his involvement with the village hunters, he discovered a location near the mountain that was perfect for planting wheat. In that area, the soil was rich and fertile, and it received ample sunlight and water from a nearby river.

    "Good morning, Lyro. Is everything alright?" Caelan asked as he helped the farmer.

    Lyro nodded but with a hint of concern. "Good morning, Caelan. The wheat is growing well, but some parts are too dry. We need to water them immediately, or the growth will be uneven."

    "Okay, Lyro. I''ll check the irrigation channels," Caelan replied, lowering his hoe and walking towards the channels they built to bring water from the river to the new wheat fields.

    While inspecting the channels, Caelan noticed a clog of mud and leaves in one section. He bent down and began clearing it with his hands. As the water began to flow again, he felt its coolness on his fingers. After removing the obstruction, he stood up and wiped his hands on his pants.

    Returning to the fields, Caelan grabbed a large bucket and started watering the dry parts of the wheat. Every movement was careful and precise. Though he had some uncertainties about the future, he felt that he was one step closer to his goal of helping the entire village.

    By noon, the sun was high, and the villagers had gathered under the large tree to rest. Anna approached Caelan, holding a piece of bread, her eyes sparkling as she offered it to him. Their fingers briefly brushed, and Anna felt a warm sensation.

    "Here, Caelan," Anna said, her voice soft and full of gratitude. "If it weren¡¯t for you, we wouldn¡¯t have this."

    Caelan smiled. "We¡¯re all working together, Anna. I also want a bright future for all of Mitra," he replied, his gaze still fixed on the wheat fields.

    Anna¡¯s gaze lingered on Caelan for a moment longer, her lips curving into a small smile. "Since you came to the village, so many good things have happened here. And... I¡¯m happy you¡¯re here," she said, her words almost a whisper, filled with heartfelt gratitude. Her heart raced, but Caelan simply nodded, his focus still on the wheat fields.

    Anna took a deep breath, steadying herself before speaking again. "I just wanted you to know, Caelan, that... your presence here means more than you realize," she said, her voice barely audible as she avoided his gaze.

    Caelan finally turned to her, his expression gentle. "I¡¯m just doing what I can to help," he replied, offering a small smile. "We¡¯re all in this together."

    Anna nodded, her heart sinking just a little, but she smiled back. "Right. Together," she echoed, the words carrying a bittersweet note. She took a step back, giving him one last look before turning to join the others.

    Caelan watched her go, feeling a vague sense of something he couldn¡¯t quite place. But the wheat fields were calling for his attention once more, and with a quiet sigh, he returned to his work, unaware of the deeper emotions that had passed between them.

    After months, it has borne fruit. Finally, the hard work and perseverance of Caelan and the villagers have paid off.

    Caelan stood at the edge of the valley, his breath taken away by the stunning view in front of him. The golden wheat fields stretched endlessly, swaying gently under the warm sunlight. The shades of green and yellow across the land seemed alive, made even more beautiful by the small flowers scattered around like nature''s decorations. He lifted his gaze beyond the fields, where towering mountains rose with rugged majesty. Their peaks, painted with hues of orange and purple by the setting sun, looked like a masterpiece of nature.

    ---

 Chapter 9 "The Path Forward"

    Chapter 9 "The Path Forward"

    Caelan wiped the sweat from his brow as it trickled down his face, . The sun beat down relentlessly,He carries two cages balanced on a wooden pole over his shoulders. making the task even more grueling. On each end of the yoke hung a small cage¡ªone holding a deer, the other containing three rabbits. When he reached a sturdy tree stump along the path, he carefully set the load down, letting out a sigh of relief.

    Nearly a year had passed since he was transported to this strange world, and he still had no idea how to return home. The hope of finding answers had grown fainter, yet he refused to give up. His resolve to leave Mitra Village was firm. Staying any longer meant stagnation, waiting for answers that might never come. The journey across the Yedon Continent was perilous, but Liras City¡ªthe largest city on the continent¡ªoffered hope. Perhaps there, he could find someone who could help him understand his situation.

    For now, though, he focused on preparing for the journey. Hunting and selling live animals in Sanderson City had been his way of saving up. He hadn¡¯t told anyone about his plans, but that would change today. He intended to speak to the village chief and Vlad, his hunting partner and one of the few people he trusted.

    He lifted the yoke again, wincing as the weight settled back onto his shoulders. As he neared the village''s edge, a familiar figure approached him¡ªVlad, with his usual easygoing grin.

    ¡°Whoa, Caelan. That looks heavy,¡± Vlad said, his brows furrowing. ¡°Here, let me take the deer.¡±

    ¡°No, no, it¡¯s fine,¡± Caelan said quickly, feeling a bit embarrassed. ¡°I can handle it.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be stubborn. I¡¯m not doing anything right now anyway. Besides, I¡¯m curious¡ªwhat¡¯s been keeping you so busy lately?¡± Vlad didn¡¯t wait for an answer. He untied the cage holding the deer and hoisted it up, grunting slightly under its weight.

    ¡°Damn, this is heavy,¡± Vlad said with a chuckle. ¡°No wonder you¡¯re struggling.¡±

    Caelan managed a small smile. ¡°Yeah, the deer¡¯s a bit on the larger side.¡±

    With the weight now halved, Caelan carried the rabbit cage, and they walked together toward his house. Once they arrived, they headed straight for a wooden pen Caelan had built behind his home. Inside were other deer and rabbits he had caught over the past week.

    Caelan opened a smaller cage and transferred the rabbits inside before moving the deer into another section of the pen.

    ¡°So this is what you¡¯ve been up to,¡± Vlad said, inspecting the setup. ¡°Honestly, it¡¯s a smart idea. Keeping them alive probably gets you more money than preserved meat.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the plan,¡± Caelan admitted. ¡°I¡¯m going to sell them at the market in Sanderson City. I need the money.¡±

    ¡°Money for what?¡± Vlad asked, his tone curious. ¡°If it¡¯s something important, I could lend you some.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not for anything specific. I¡¯m saving up because I¡¯ve decided to leave Mitra Village,¡± Caelan said, his voice steady but quiet.

    Vlad froze, staring at Caelan as if trying to process the words. ¡°Wait¡­ you¡¯re leaving? When? And where are you going?¡±

    Caelan hesitated. He knew Vlad was only asking out of concern. ¡°Next month,¡± he finally said. ¡°I¡¯m heading to Liras City. I¡¯m planning to become an adventurer.¡±

    Vlad¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Liras City? As an adventurer?¡± He shook his head, worry evident in his voice. ¡°You know how dangerous that is, right? There''s a reason so many young people from the village never come back after going there.¡±

    Caelan knew the story of Vlad¡¯s older brother. He had gone to Liras City to become an adventurer, and whenever he had the time and opportunity, he would return to Mitra Village to visit and send money. But one day, his visits stopped. Vlad went to Liras City to search for him and went to the Adventurers¡¯ Guild, where his brother had been registered. There, he learned that his brother had died during a mission when bandits attacked the caravan he was guarding on the road.

    Caelan understood the dangers he would face, but his resolve remained firm. ¡°I know,¡± he said, looking at Vlad. ¡°But I can¡¯t stay here and do nothing. I need answers, and I¡¯ll never find them if I just wait in Mitra.¡±

    Vlad sighed deeply, his features softening. ¡°You¡¯ve really made up your mind, haven¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°I have,¡± Caelan said firmly.

    ¡°Alright,¡± Vlad said after a long pause. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I won¡¯t try to stop you. But let me help you. I know a restaurant in Sanderson City that pays well for live animals. We can sell these together and get you the best price possible.¡±

    Caelan blinked, surprised by the offer. ¡°You¡¯d really do that?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Vlad said, clapping him on the shoulder. ¡°What are friends for?¡±

    A small smile broke across Caelan¡¯s face. ¡°Thanks, Vlad. I really appreciate it.¡±

    Vlad grinned back. ¡°Don¡¯t mention it. Just promise me one thing¡ªwhen you get to Liras, be careful. And don¡¯t do anything stupid.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll try,¡± Caelan said with a laugh, though he knew the path ahead would be anything but easy.

    That evening, Caelan made his way to the Village Chief¡¯s house, his heart heavy with the weight of his decision. As he approached the door, it swung open to reveal Oren, the Chief¡¯s son, who greeted him with a warm smile.

    "Caelan! Good to see you," Oren said. He stepped aside and called into the house, "Father, Caelan is here!"

    The Village Chief emerged from a room at the back, his expression warm but weary. "Good evening, Caelan," he greeted, his voice carrying the calm authority of someone who had weathered many seasons.

    "Good evening, Village Chief," Caelan replied, bowing slightly out of respect.

    The Chief gestured for him to sit. They gathered in the modest living room, the firelight casting soft shadows on the walls. Oren sat beside Caelan, the air heavy with unspoken words.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    After a moment, the Chief spoke, his brow furrowing slightly. "Do you have another idea to share with us?" he asked with a smile, though his eyes betrayed a hint of concern.

    Caelan shook his head slowly. "I do, but... that¡¯s not why I¡¯m here," he admitted, his voice low.

    The Chief¡¯s smile faded, replaced by a look of quiet worry. "Then what is it? Has something happened?"

    Caelan stood, bowing deeply. "I came to thank you. And the entire village. You¡¯ve done so much for me¡ªmore than I could ever repay." His voice trembled slightly as he spoke, the sincerity in his words evident.

    The Chief exchanged a glance with Oren, his expression shadowed by understanding. He leaned forward, his voice soft. "It¡¯s been nearly a year since you arrived. At first, we didn¡¯t know what to make of you, but over time, you became one of us. You¡¯ve helped this village more than we could have hoped. You¡¯ve been a blessing, Caelan."

    Oren, who had been watching silently, finally spoke, his voice tinged with unease. "Caelan... are you leaving?"

    Caelan hesitated before nodding. "I¡¯ve decided to go to Liras City," he said, his tone calm but firm.

    "To become an adventurer?" Oren asked, his voice rising slightly with surprise.

    Caelan managed a faint smile. "I don¡¯t have much choice."

    The Chief leaned back in his chair, his expression contemplative. "Liras City..." he murmured. "It¡¯s the largest and most prosperous city on the continent. Many young people are drawn to its grandeur, dreaming of success. Some achieve it, but most..." His voice trailed off before he looked Caelan in the eye. "You¡¯re not like them, are you? I sense your reason is greater than ambition."

    Caelan met his gaze. "Yes, my reason is different," he admitted softly.

    The Chief nodded, his worry easing slightly. "That¡¯s a relief. If your purpose is clear, you won¡¯t take unnecessary risks. You¡¯re smart, Caelan. I trust you¡¯ll prioritize your safety."

    Oren, who had been quietly watching, spoke up, his voice carrying a touch of worry. "When do you plan to leave?"

    I''m planning to leave before summer end I still need to prepared before I leave calean said

    The Chief gave a nod of understanding, Take the time you need, and know that we¡¯ll be here if you ever need anything."

    "I appreciate that," Caelan replied, his voice filled with sincerity. "You¡¯ve all done so much for me. I won¡¯t forget it."

    With a final, lingering look at the two men, Caelan stood up. he said quietly. "Thank you, for everything."

    The Chief smiled gently. "Take care of yourself, Caelan. And remember, you¡¯ll always have a home here."

    Caelan gave them both a nod, then made his way to the door. As he stepped outside, the cool evening air greeted him, a gentle reminder that the next chapter of his life was waiting. Though he wasn¡¯t leaving yet, the decision had been made, and the path ahead was beginning to unfold.

    Vlad kept his promise to join me on the trip to Sanderson City. We left early, and now our caravan, filled with deer and rabbits, was passing through Havern Village.

    As we approached, a village guard called out to Vlad, looking curious.

    "You''re already bringing your village''s goods to Sanderson City?"

    Vlad smiled and shook his head. "These aren¡¯t from our village. They''re just personal catches, and we''re selling them in Sanderson City."

    The guard raised an eyebrow and nodded. "Ah, I see. Well, go ahead then."

    We continued through the village until we reached Serge, the village chief''s house. He was out front, chopping wood.

    "Serge! Busy as always?" Vlad called with a grin.

    Serge stopped and wiped his brow, looking up. "Vlad! Caelan! Just the two of you?"

    "Good afternoon," I greeted with a nod.

    "Yes, just us," Vlad said. "We''re not bringing any village products today. These are just Caelan''s personal catches for Sanderson City."

    Serge looked us over, then walked to the back of the caravan, stepping on the dirt with each stride. He peered into the cart.

    "You caught all these? Deer and rabbits?" Serge asked, sounding impressed.

    "It was all Caelan," Vlad replied with a chuckle.

    Serge stared at me for a moment before looking back at the animals. "When they told me you were a skilled hunter, I didn¡¯t believe it, but it looks like I was wrong."

    Vlad laughed. "He doesn¡¯t look like it, does he?"

    I blushed and scratched my head, a little embarrassed by the attention.

    Serge chuckled and patted me on the shoulder. "Come on inside. I didn¡¯t expect you so soon, especially since harvest season isn¡¯t here yet."

    Before I entered his house, I went to the back of the caravan and grabbed a deer and a rabbit to give to Serge.

    "I hope this isn¡¯t too much trouble," I said as I handed them over. "Here, take one of each as a gift."

    Serge grinned, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Haha, you really know how to be thoughtful, kid. Looks like you won¡¯t be staying in Sanderson City for long, huh?"

    I nodded. "Yes, that''s the plan."

    "Well, if that¡¯s the case, come back here this afternoon. Stay for dinner and sleep here tonight before heading back to Mitra Village in the morning. It¡¯s the least I can do."

    "Thank you, Serge," I said, feeling grateful.

    Vlad nodded. "That¡¯s a big help. We won¡¯t need to rent an inn now."

    While we ate lunch, I mentioned that I would soon be leaving Mitra Village to go to Liras City. Serge smiled warmly.

    "Next time you go to Sanderson City, just stop by my place. You won¡¯t need to rent an inn¡ªthere¡¯s always a place for you at my house."

    I couldn''t turn down his kind offer. After lunch, we packed up and continued on our way to Sanderson City,

    Just like during Caelan¡¯s first visit, the streets of Sanderson were still bustling with life. Riding in their carriage, they made their way through the market district. Inside the carriage, several live deer and rabbits fidgeted nervously, their movements rustling the hay spread across the floor. The animals were securely tied to keep them calm during the journey.

    ¡°This is it,¡± Van said.

    When they arrived at the Kelly restaurant, a well-known establishment with a polished wooden facade, they stopped in front of it. Vlad went inside to speak with someone.

    After a few moments, Vlad came out accompanied by a man. He introduced him as Mr. Kelly, the owner and chef of the restaurant.

    Mr. Kelly inspected the animals. He crouched to examine the rabbits, then stood to look at the deer. His trained eye quickly assessed their condition, and a smile appeared on his face.

    ¡°They¡¯re in excellent condition. This will make the finest venison and rabbit stew in Sanderson,¡± Mr. Kelly said.

    After a bit of negotiation, they agreed on a fair price. Two of Mr. Kelly¡¯s staff came out carrying a small pen and a temporary corral to house the animals while the payment was finalized.

    Once all the animals had been unloaded, Mr. Kelly handed over five silver coins. ¡°Here¡¯s the payment for the animals.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Caelan replied as he pocketed the coins.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go before the sun sets,¡± Vlad said with a smile.

    With the sound of coins jingling in their pockets and the satisfaction of a successful job, they began their journey back to Mitra Village, already planning their next trip.

 Chapter 10: Turning The Page

    Chapter 10: Turning The Page

    The afternoon sun cast a warm, golden glow over the hills as the sound of wooden wheels echoed in the air. Caelan leaned back in the carriage, loosely holding the reins as the horse trotted steadily along the bumpy and dusty road leading to Mitra Village.

    The simple yet sturdy carriage was almost empty now¡ªjust a few empty crates and a small pouch of coins safely tucked into Caelan''s belt. He had spent the night in Havern Village after coming all the way from Sanderson City, where he traded the rabbits and deer he¡¯d hunted for money. This was his third and final trip selling game, as he had saved enough for his departure from Mitra Village.

    As he passed through the familiar woods near the edge of the village, he soon caught sight of the quiet and peaceful Mitra Village.

    "We¡¯re almost there," he softly said to the horse, giving the reins a gentle shake.

    He headed straight to the village chief¡¯s house to return the borrowed carriage and horse. While tying the horse to the post beside the house, he suddenly heard a door open from a nearby home. When he turned, he saw Celia.

    "Good afternoon, Caelan," she greeted him with a smile.

    "Good afternoon, Celia," Caelan replied.

    ¡°I still have some lunch left. Why don¡¯t you eat here instead of cooking when you get home?¡± she offered.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± he said gratefully.

    He entered her house and saw her two children playing. As usual, the moment they saw him, they stopped playing and ran toward him.

    ¡°Caelan! Caelan! Let¡¯s play!¡± they said excitedly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t bother your brother Caelan. He¡¯s tired from his long journey and hasn¡¯t eaten lunch yet,¡± Celia gently scolded them.

    "Caelan, come to the table so you can eat," said Celia. I sat down on the wooden chair as Celia placed a stew served in a wooden bowl, accompanied by a wooden spoon. The thick, white broth contained chunks of vegetables like carrots and potatoes, cut into large, uneven cubes. Garnished with small green herbs, the stew looked warm and inviting.

    As I took my first spoonful, the rich and creamy broth warmed my mouth. The flavor was a perfect balance of savory and earthy, with a hint of sweetness from the carrots. The potatoes were tender, almost melting on my tongue, while the herbs added a refreshing, subtle bitterness that tied the dish together. It was simple yet hearty¡ªa meal that spoke of home and comfort, filling me with a sense of peace after a long journey.

    When I finished eating, I leaned back with a satisfied sigh. "Thank you, Celia. That was delicious," I said, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand.

    Celia smiled as she took the bowl and spoon. "I''m glad you enjoyed it. Wait here a moment," she said, disappearing into another room.

    When she returned, she was holding a neatly folded dark hooded cloak. She smoothed it with her hands, as if making sure it looked perfect, before stepping closer.

    "Oren and Father mentioned your upcoming departure, so here¡ªI made this for you. I know you''ll find it useful," she said, handing me the dark hooded cloak.

    I took the cloak and ran my hand over its smooth fabric. "Celia, thank you so much. You and your family are among the few who have shown me kindness," I said, deeply moved by her gesture.

    "It''s just a small gift. You''ve done so much for the village, so this is my way of helping you on your journey," she replied.

    I folded the cloak carefully and held it close. "Thank you, Celia. This means a lot to me," I said, meeting her kind eyes.

    "Take care, Caelan," she said, her voice tinged with worry.

    "Yes, thank you again for all your help," I replied, bowing before stepping outside. The warm summer breeze carried the scent of the fields as I made my way back home, the cloak resting in my arms.

    The next day, I decided to join the village hunters again. When I arrived at the meeting spot, the sun had just begun to rise, bathing the village in a soft, golden light as I tightened the laces of my boots. Ron and Vlad were already there, quietly inspecting their weapons with the steady hands of experienced hunters. Around them, a few others were busy packing their gear, preparing for the hunt.

    "Caelan!" Ron''s voice boomed across the clearing, breaking the calm morning air. "Well, look who decided to show up. Thought you''d forgotten how to hunt!"

    I grinned as I picked up my hunting spear and strode toward the group. "I¡¯d never forget. Just had a lot on my plate lately."

    "Good to have you back," Ron replied, his tone warm despite his teasing.

    The forest welcomed us with its usual chorus¡ªbirds calling, leaves rustling softly as the wind moved through the trees. The ground crunched underfoot as we ventured deeper, the cool morning air growing thick with the earthy scent of moss and soil.

    For a while, none of us spoke. It was the quiet of familiarity¡ªeach hunter focused, eyes scanning the ground for tracks, ears attuned to the forest''s subtle sounds. Before long, we found fresh deer tracks, and the group wordlessly sprang into action. Each movement was deliberate and precise, a well-practiced dance we¡¯d all performed before.

    By midmorning, we had already bagged more than we¡¯d expected. The group decided to rest beneath the wide shade of an old oak, its branches stretching out like protective arms.

    Ron plopped down beside me, his bow resting across his knees. After a beat of silence, he glanced my way. "So, Caelan. You¡¯ve been disappearing from the village a lot lately. What¡¯s going on? Where do you keep running off to?"

    I leaned back against the tree trunk, stretching my legs out. "I¡¯ve been traveling to Sanderson Capital. Selling deer, rabbits¡ªwhatever I can catch. I need the money for my trip to Liras City."

    Ron¡¯s brow furrowed as he turned to face me fully. "Liras City? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re actually planning to become an adventurer."

    "I am," I said simply, my tone firm. "There¡¯s nothing else waiting for me there. I need to find a way to survive."This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

    Ron¡¯s expression darkened, his voice dropping low. "You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re saying, Caelan. Being an adventurer isn¡¯t what you think it is. How many from this village have tried it and never come back? Don¡¯t let yourself become another name we mourn."

    "I¡¯ve thought this through," I said, meeting his gaze. "I¡¯ll be careful. I¡¯ll only take low-ranking missions¡ªones I know I can handle."

    Ron shook his head, frustration flickering in his eyes. "Low-ranking missions won¡¯t get you anywhere. You¡¯ll barely scrape by, and your rank will never climb. You¡¯ll get stuck living from one dangerous task to the next."

    "That doesn¡¯t matter to me." My voice was quieter this time, but no less resolute. "I¡¯m not doing this to become some high-ranking adventurer or to earn a fortune. I have my reasons, and they¡¯re enough."

    Ron stared at me for a moment, his jaw tight, as though he wanted to argue more but couldn¡¯t find the words. Vlad, who had been listening silently, finally spoke up.

    "Ron, let it go. Caelan¡¯s made his decision."

    Ron¡¯s shoulders slumped as he looked away, his frustration giving way to something softer¡ªconcern, maybe even sadness.

    "Just¡­ be careful, Caelan," he muttered after a pause, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken worries.

    "I will," I said, trying to offer a small, reassuring smile.

    That evening, as I prepared dinner, a soft knock echoed from the door. When I opened it, I was surprised to see Anna standing there. Before I could even say a word, she spoke up.

    ¡°Caelan¡­ is it true? Are you really leaving Mitra Village?¡± Her voice was soft but heavy with sadness.

    ¡°Yes, Anna,¡± I replied gently. ¡°Ron must have told you. I¡¯ll be leaving in two days.¡±

    She looked straight into my eyes, a hint of desperation in her gaze. ¡°But¡­ you¡¯ll come back, right? You¡¯ll visit us?¡±

    I opened my mouth to reassure her, but no words came. I couldn¡¯t lie to her, not about something like this. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know, Anna. I wish I could promise that, but I can¡¯t,¡± I said quietly.

    Her shoulders sank as she bowed her head. ¡°I see,¡± she whispered. Her voice trembled. ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry for disturbing you.¡±

    She turned away quickly, not looking back, but I still caught the glint of tears on her cheeks. I was too stunned to move, watching her silhouette fade into the darkness.

    The cold evening wind brought me back to my thoughts as I closed the door. I sat at the table, staring at the food, Anna''s tears still haunting me.

    After a moment, I took a deep breath and picked up the spoon. The soup had become cold, but I forced myself to eat, each bite slowly giving me strength. When I finished, I set the spoon down and cleared the table.

    Then, another knock broke the silence. I jumped up, hoping it was Anna. Without thinking, I rushed to open the door.

    ¡°Anna! I¡¯m glad you¡ª¡± I stopped mid-sentence. It wasn¡¯t Anna. It was Vlad, grinning at me.

    ¡°Wow, Caelan,¡± Vlad said, raising an eyebrow as he stepped inside. ¡°I get it¡ªhaving a pretty girl drop by is exciting. But do you have to look disappointed to see me?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that,¡± I shot back, flustered. ¡°I was just worried. Things didn¡¯t end well when I talked to Anna earlier.¡±

    Vlad chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°Sure, sure. Whatever you say.¡±

    ¡°Just come in,¡± I muttered, stepping aside.

    It was easy for me to invite Vlad in¡ªunlike with Anna. Letting a young woman into a bachelor¡¯s house, just the two of us, wouldn¡¯t look right. Vlad stepped inside and sat by the table, quietly watching me as I sat across from him. For a moment, he said nothing, his expression suddenly turning serious. Then, he reached for something wrapped up beside him.

    ¡°Here,¡± Vlad said, his voice quieter than usual as he placed the bundle on the table and pushed it toward me.

    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± I asked, hesitating as I began to unwrap it.

    ¡°A sword,¡± Vlad replied. ¡°This sword was given to me by my brother because he knew I wanted to follow in his footsteps and become an adventurer.¡±

    I paused, looking at him in surprise.

    ¡°My brother¡­ he was an adventurer. You¡¯ve probably heard what happened to him,¡± he continued, his gaze fixed on the sword as I fully unwrapped it. The blade was simple yet sturdy, its faint shine visible even in the dim light of the room. ¡°He dreamed of building a good life for our family. I wanted to follow him¡ªbecome an adventurer too. But after he died¡­ I couldn¡¯t do it. I decided to stay here in the village.¡±

    His words weighed heavily in the air. I ran my hand along the hilt of the sword, feeling its importance. ¡°Vlad¡­ are you sure you want to give this to me?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± he answered firmly, his eyes meeting mine. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. That¡¯s not the only thing he left me. Remember that dagger I always bring when we hunt? That came from him too. So don¡¯t hesitate to accept this. Besides, as an adventurer, your life depends on your weapon. This sword isn¡¯t meant for a hunter like me¡ªit¡¯s meant for an adventurer like you. You¡¯re leaving to become an adventurer, so this sword is rightfully yours, Caelan.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t speak right away, the weight of the gift settling over me. ¡°Thank you, Vlad,¡± I finally said in a low voice. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it. I promise.¡±

    Vlad smiled faintly and leaned back in his chair. ¡°Good. It suits you. Just¡­ don¡¯t get yourself killed out there, okay? I don¡¯t want to regret giving it to you.¡±

    I let out a small laugh, though there was an edge of emotion to it. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best to stay alive.¡±

    When Vlad stood to leave, he paused by the door and turned to look at me. ¡°You¡¯re leaving in two days, right? I¡¯ll come with you to the port in Sanderson. You¡¯re not getting rid of me that easily.¡±

    I smiled. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have it any other way.¡±

    When the door closed behind him, I sat alone for a while, staring at the sword resting on the table. I ran my fingers over the hilt once more, knowing this sword wasn¡¯t just a weapon. It was a memory and a gift from a good friend.

    The day before I was set to leave, word spread quickly through Mitra Village. By midday, it seemed like everyone knew. My small, quiet house, which had always been a place of solitude, was now full of visitors. They came to say goodbye, offer well wishes, and give me small gifts¡ªtokens of their kindness. Some stayed longer than others, speaking quietly, as if they didn''t want to leave.

    That evening, when the house was quiet again, I sat down to pack. As I opened my bag, I noticed a familiar item¡ªmy academy uniform. It was still clean, though worn, a reminder of the life I left behind. My shoes and backpack were also there. I opened the backpack and found my notebook, wallet, and cellphone¡ªnow useless because the battery had died.

    I opened the wallet and felt a pang in my chest. It was full of cash and Premium credit card And high -limit card reminders of my old life, of who I was before all of this. I held them for a moment, feeling the weight of my past, then carefully put them back in the bag. Everything was ready for tomorrow, but I felt a heaviness in my heart.

    The next morning came early. I woke up with the first light of dawn, dressed, and packed the last of my things. I took a final look at the small house that had been my home for so long. Every creak of the floor and the soft breeze through the walls felt like memories. Just as I was about to leave, I heard a knock on the door.

    I opened it to find Vlad waiting for me. His usual smile was there, but it was softer today.

    ¡°Good morning, Caelan,¡± he said. ¡°Looks like you¡¯re all set. I half thought you might change your mind.¡±

    I gave a small smile. ¡°I¡¯ve made up my mind, Vlad. I¡¯m ready.¡±

    ¡°Well then, let¡¯s go,¡± he said with a nod.

    The walk to the carriage was quiet. But when we turned the corner, I was surprised to see almost the whole village gathered to see me off. Village Chief Oren, Celia and her husband Lyro, and even my fellow hunters were there, their usual confidence now mixed with sadness. I could see it in their eyes¡ªwords weren¡¯t needed.

    I looked around for Anna, but she wasn¡¯t there. Just as I was about to give up, Ron stepped forward. His face was serious, but he held out a blue scarf.

    ¡°Anna wanted you to have this,¡± Ron said. ¡°Even though it¡¯s not your fault, I¡¯m still a little angry at you for making my sister cry.¡± He took a breath. ¡°Take care of yourself, Caelan. Wherever you go.¡±

    I took the scarf, feeling its softness in my hands. ¡°Thank you, Ron. And tell Anna I¡¯ll take good care of it.¡±

    Ron nodded and stepped back. I turned to the others and, taking a deep breath, said, ¡°Thank you all. For everything.¡± I bowed low. ¡°I¡¯ll never forget you or this place.¡±

    Then, I climbed into the front seat of the carriage beside Vlad. The crowd stayed silent, watching as we began to leave. The sound of the horse¡¯s hooves on the dirt road was the only noise.

    I didn¡¯t look back immediately. Instead, I held the scarf tightly, feeling it as a reminder of the bonds I¡¯d formed here. As Mitra Village slowly faded from view, I allowed myself to glance back one last time at the place that had become my second home.

    And with that, my journey began.

 Chapter 11 "The Journey to Liras City: New Beginnings and New Faces"

    Chapter 11 "The Journey to Liras City: New Beginnings and New Faces"

    We arrived at the port of Sanderson late afternoon

    Our timing was perfect.

    ¡°That ship is headed to Liras City,¡± Vlad said while looking at the ship.

    The ship had many levels and masts, and sailors and workers were busy with various tasks. Some people were climbing the stairs, carrying cargo, and handling ropes. Others were unloading barrels and goods from the ship, while some were working inside the ship. Horses  were also visible, helping to transport goods. The area around the ship was lively, with carts and crates.

    I got off the carriage with my belongings and said goodbye to Vlad.

    ¡°Vlad, thank you for everything,¡± I said.

    The people of Mitra Village have been good to me, but above all, it was Vlad''s  kindness that stood out. Vlad helped me adjust to life in this world, so far from what I was used to

    Vlad smiled sadly. ¡°Caelan, take care, and thank you for everything you¡¯ve done for the village.¡±

    I walked toward the ship, the creaking of the gangplank beneath my feet blending with the bustling sounds of the port. Once aboard, I turned back and saw Vlad still watching me. I waved at him with a smile, and he responded with a crisp salute.

    For a moment, his expression was unreadable, but then he turned and urged the carriage forward, its wheels clattering against the cobblestones as it disappeared into the crowd.

    With the last of the cargo finally loaded, the captain''s voice boomed across the port, commanding attention. "All aboard! We¡¯re setting sail for Liras City!"

    The last of the passengers boarded, and with a steady lurch, the ship set sail, leaving Sanderson Island behind. As the island grew smaller in the distance, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of longing, but also the excitement of the journey ahead

    From the ship, I can see the endless blue ocean stretching out before me, vast and inviting.

    I run my fingers along the rough wooden rail, feeling its texture as it creaks softly under my touch. The salty breeze brushes against my face, carrying the fresh scent of the sea. The sun¡¯s warmth rests gently on my skin, balanced by the coolness of the wind. The steady sound of waves hitting the ship creates a calm, peaceful rhythm.

    ¡°Do you like staying out here more than being inside?¡±

    I turned and saw a woman. She had fair skin with light freckles that added a natural charm to her appearance. Her bright eyes sparkled with warmth and friendliness, and her wide smile felt genuine.

    Her thick, curly red hair framed her face and fell softly onto her shoulders.   There¡¯s also a hint of playfulness and mischief in her expression, as if she¡¯s about to share a joke    She looked cheerful, full of energy and life. Her name was Rina. She worked at a tavern in Liras City. She was twenty-seven, a widow with two children. Her husband, who had been an adventurer, had already passed away.

    With little to do on the ship, passengers often ended up chatting with one another. Rina was one of the people I spoke to. She told me a lot about herself and Liras City. Every year, she visited her family in Sanderson Territory. Now, she was returning to Liras City.

    ¡°I just want to enjoy the view,¡± I said, turning my gaze back to the vast ocean. The gentle breeze carried the salty scent of the sea, and the constant crashing of waves against the ship¡¯s hull was strangely calming.

    ¡°You¡¯re right. The view is beautiful,¡± Rina replied, her voice soft yet lively. She stood beside me, her red hair glinting in the sunlight like embers. ¡°It¡¯s amazing, isn¡¯t it? The ocean looks endless, but somewhere beyond it is the place we¡¯re heading to.¡±

    I nodded, letting her words sink in. ¡°Yeah. But this isn¡¯t the first time I¡¯ve seen the ocean. Honestly, I¡¯ve always loved watching it. It¡¯s always so captivating.¡±

    Rina smiled. ¡°You¡¯re lucky. It sounds like you have a lot of great memories connected to the sea.¡±

    ¡°There are moments I¡¯d like to relive,¡± I replied, a faint smile crossing my lips.

    Before she could respond, a loud male voice called out from behind us.

    ¡°We¡¯ve been looking for you, Caelan. So this is where you were! Let¡¯s talk about what we¡¯ll do when we arrive in Liras City.¡±

    When I turned around, I saw three men¡ªJason, Niro, and Van. Like me, they were also heading to Liras City to become adventurers. So, we agreed to search together for an adventurers'' guild to join and a place to stay in Liras City.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    Jason, the oldest among us, is twenty years old. He comes from Kran Village in Sanderson. His face is strong and well-defined, with sharp features and confident eyes. His dark brown, slightly messy hair adds a rugged yet youthful charm.

    Jason wants to provide a better life for his family. He is the eldest of three siblings so he decided to go to liras city to be an adventure

    Van has sharp, youthful features with vivid green eyes, light freckles, and a confident smile. His bright and untamed reddish-orange hair reflects his personality. His expression is full of charm, energy, and a bold, carefree attitude. Overall, his face exudes warmth, vitality, and confidence.

    Niro has spiky reddish-orange hair, soft amber eyes, and a youthful face with a gentle expression. Because of his quiet and reserved nature, he appears both approachable and mysterious.

    Van and Niro are cousins who were born and raised in the capital of Sanderson. Both are orphans with no remaining family. They dream of becoming knights and hope that by making a name for themselves as adventurers, a noble might take interest in them.

    ¡°When we arrive in Liras City, aren¡¯t we supposed to look for a place to stay that fits our budget and register at a guild to become adventurers?¡± I said.

    ¡°But if we arrive in the afternoon and it gets dark, we might not find a place to stay,¡± Jason replied.

    ¡°Hahaha, don¡¯t worry! Liras City isn¡¯t like a village or a small city. Liras City never sleeps. The city is always busy, and even at night, restaurants are open, as well as taverns and inns,¡± Rina said.

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then we won¡¯t have any problems, no matter what time we arrive in Liras City,¡± Van added.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, no problem at all. But if it¡¯s just about finding a place to stay, I can help you. I know Liras City well¡ªI¡¯ve been living there for eight years. I know a cheap place you can stay,¡± Rina offered.

    ¡°Really? If that¡¯s the case, thank you so much, Sister Rina,¡± Jason said gratefully.

    "If you have questions about being an adventurer, feel free to ask me," Rina said. "My late husband was an adventurer, and I work in a tavern where most of the customers are adventurers."

    ¡°How does being an adventurer work? We register at a guild, and then what?¡± Van asked.

    ¡°First, you need to register with an adventurers'' guild of your choice,¡± Rina explained. ¡°There are many adventurers'' guilds in Liras City, and they all compete to attract adventurers to register or join them, so you won¡¯t have any problems finding a guild.¡±

    ¡°So, we¡¯re free to choose which guild to join?¡± I asked.

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Rina replied.

    ¡°What about ranks? I¡¯ve heard adventurers have ranks based on their skills,¡± Niro added.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. All guilds follow a ranking system. The highest rank is S, followed by A, and the lowest is D. Your rank determines what missions you¡¯re allowed to take,¡± Rina said.

    ¡°So, as beginners, we¡¯ll probably be stuck with boring jobs,¡± Van muttered.

    ¡°That¡¯s true. It might seem boring, but those tasks help you gain the guild¡¯s trust and experience,¡± Rina explained. ¡°If you perform well, they might assign you to work with or recommend you to high-ranking adventurers for higher-level missions. That could lead to a promotion, depending on the mission and your performance.¡±

    ¡°What happens if we fail a mission?¡± I asked.

    ¡°It depends,¡± Rina said. ¡°If it¡¯s a minor mistake, you might get a warning or a penalty, like a deduction from your reward. But if it¡¯s serious¡ªlike endangering lives or abandoning an important mission¡ªyou could be suspended or even expelled from the guild.¡±

    ¡°It sounds like there¡¯s no room for carelessness. We need to take this seriously,¡± Jason remarked.

    ¡°Alright, but what about teamwork? Can we stick together as a group, or do we have to take individual missions?¡± Van asked.

    ¡°You can do missions together as a group, depending on the mission,¡± Rina replied. ¡°Or you can also take them individually.¡±

    ¡°And how do guilds assign missions? Do we choose them, or are they assigned to us?¡± I inquired.

    ¡°Usually, you pick from a mission board,¡± Rina said. ¡°Missions are posted according to rank, so you can only take ones that match your current level. But higher-ranking adventurers get first pick of the better missions.¡±

    ¡°I get it,¡± Jason said. ¡°We need to start small, prove ourselves, and gradually work our way up.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Rina agreed. ¡°It¡¯s a long journey, but if you¡¯re determined, you can rise through the ranks and make a name for yourself.¡±

    ¡°Make a name, earn a lot, and maybe even become a knight!¡± Van said, grinning.

    ¡°Haha, don¡¯t get ahead of yourself, Van,¡± Rina chuckled. "Focus on registering and surviving first."

    After nearly two days of sailing, Caelan finally saw Liras City on the horizon. So, this is Liras City, he thought, gazing ahead. This is it. If any place in this world held the answers he sought, it had to be here. His chest tightened at the thought. The question that had haunted him for over a year resurfaced: How can I return to the world I came from?

    Hope filled him, but behind it lingered a trace of fear. What if all he found was failure and disappointment? What if the answers he sought didn¡¯t exist at all? He clenched his fists, forcing himself to shake off the doubt. No. No matter how difficult the path, he couldn¡¯t give up. there were people waiting for his return  . I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to make it back.

    Caelan stood at the bow of the ship, his long black hair whipping in the salty breeze as the vessel cut through the waves. The summer sun hung low on the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water and reflecting off the sails. His sharp eyes scanned the distance, and there it was¡ªa vast city, gleaming like a jewel amidst rolling green hills.

    The city was enormous. Red-tiled roofs stretched endlessly, a sea of glowing clay interrupted only by towering spires and domes of grand buildings that dominated the skyline. High stone walls encircled most of the city, their weathered gray surfaces still imposing. Yet one section remained open, unfenced, and brimming with life¡ªthe harbor.

    Caelan¡¯s gaze fixed on the bustling port that stretched into the water. Dozens of ships, from small fishing boats to large trading vessels, were docked along the wide stone piers. The smooth gray surface of the docks reflected the sun¡¯s rays, giving them a polished, almost metallic sheen. Sailors shouted commands, cranes groaned as they hoisted heavy cargo, and merchants argued loudly over prices. The shore was alive with activity¡ªmen hauling barrels and goods, wagons laden with supplies rattling over cobblestone streets, and the sounds of creaking ships and crashing waves filling the air.

    ¡°Liras City,¡± he whispered, the name heavy with the promise of new beginnings. Behind him, the crew busied themselves with preparations for docking, but he barely noticed. His attention remained on the city ahead, his mind racing with plans and possibilities as the ship approached the vibrant, colorful harbor.

 Chapter 12 "Arrival in Liras City"

    Chapter 12 "Arrival in Liras City"

    The port of Liras City bustled with life, the air thick with sea salt, fish, and the exotic spices of distant lands. Crates, barrels, and sacks were stacked high along the dock, and the rough wood was warm under the touch of the setting sun. Sailors, with sleeves rolled up and brows sweaty, shouted orders as they unloaded goods from the large ship docked nearby. Above, others walked along the ropes, adjusting sails that fluttered gently in the breeze.

    Following Rina, Caelan stepped down from the gangplank, his boots landing softly on the wooden dock. Behind him, Van, Jason, and Niro followed closely, their eyes quickly scanning the lively scene before them. The ship that had brought them swayed gently in the water, its anchor securely in place.

    Merchants dressed in colorful, elegant clothing moved through the chaos, their voices rising and falling as they bargained and inspected goods. Some knelt beside open crates, running their hands over fine silk and polished metal, while others shouted at porters to handle their cargo with care. Horses panted as they pulled carts laden with wares, their iron shoes clattering against the stone roads beyond the docks.

    Seagulls circled overhead, their sharp cries blending with the creaking of wood and the murmur of countless conversations. Every corner of the port was alive, driven by the constant flow of trade and prosperity.

    Caelan wiped his brow and took a deep breath, the mingling scents of the harbor filling his lungs. Despite the noise and crowds, he couldn¡¯t help but admire the energy of the place.

    Van nudged Caelan with a grin. ¡°Way different from Sanderson port, huh?¡± His eyes flicked to the merchants haggling nearby.

    Caelan smiled. ¡°Yeah, it really is.¡±

    As they left the docks behind, the group was swallowed by the bustling city streets. Towering buildings with decorated facades and large windows lined the cobblestone road. Awnings hung over the sidewalks, shading market stalls brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and trinkets. The air smelled of baked bread, spices, and the faint hint of sweat.

    Carriages rumbled in both directions¡ªsome heavy with goods from the harbor, others carrying passengers deeper into the city.

    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Jason asked, his voice barely audible over the noise. His eyes darted nervously around. ¡°Wow, there are so many people here.¡±

    Van, who was usually the most excited about new places, seemed uneasy. ¡°It¡¯s... too much,¡± he whispered, scanning the surroundings.

    ¡°I know where we¡¯re going. Just follow me,¡± Rina said, glancing back at them with a reassuring smile.

    The group trailed behind her, taking in the chaos around them. Jason, Niro, and Van couldn¡¯t help but marvel at the scenery. Their wide eyes reflected the enormity of Liras City, alive with the constant motion of merchants, travelers, and residents. It was dizzying. Yet, no one paid them any mind¡ªnewcomers were a common sight here, each trying their luck in the bustling metropolis.

    ¡°I don¡¯t blame you,¡± Rina said, her smile widening. ¡°I felt the same when I first came here. Liras really is massive.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Jason replied, still in awe. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen anything like it.¡±

    It wasn¡¯t just the size of the city that was striking the diversity of its inhabitants was astonishing. They passed groups of dwarves, stout and sturdy, haggling over weapons at a market stall. Nearby, a group of tall, muscular women with bronzed skin caught Caelan¡¯s eye. Their revealing outfits left little to the imagination.

    Rina noticed his gaze and smirked. ¡°Those are the Amazons,¡± she said casually. ¡°A lot of them work here as adventurers... and some as prostitutes.¡±

    Jason perked up at that. ¡°I¡¯ve heard of Amazons before, but this is my first time seeing them.¡±

    Rina nodded. ¡°Liras City is the most prosperous and cosmopolitan city in the world. You¡¯ll see all kinds of people here, from every corner of the continent.¡±

    She turned to Caelan, her smirk turning playful. ¡°You stand out, you know¡ªhandsome faces like yours tend to draw attention. Be careful around the Amazons. They usually prefer strong men, but every now and then, they take a liking to handsome ones too.¡±

    Caelan blinked, caught off guard. ¡°What? Why me?¡±

    Before he could process her words, Van chimed in, concerned. ¡°What about us? Wouldn¡¯t we attract their attention too?¡±

    Rina giggled, and Niro playfully smacked Van on the back of the head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Van. We¡¯re not exactly handsome enough to catch their eyes,¡± he said with a laugh.

    The group burst out laughing, the tension easing as they continued down the winding streets.

    ¡°We still have a long way to go,¡± Rina said. ¡°If we walk, it¡¯ll take us two hours to reach the western district of Liras City. Let¡¯s take a carriage instead.¡±

    Carriages lined the side of the road, coachmen  calling out destinations.

    Rina approached the first one in line. ¡°We¡¯re headed to the western district,¡± she told the driver.

    With a nod, The coachman gestured for us to climb into the carriage. As it set off, i couldn¡¯t help but observe my surroundings with keen interest.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

    When I glanced at Sister Rina, I noticed her looking at me.

    "Hmmm, is there a problem? Why are you looking at me like that?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

    "Nothing, really. It¡¯s just that your reaction when we arrived in Liras City wasn¡¯t ordinary," Rina replied with a small smile. "When someone from the village comes here for the first time, they¡¯re usually in awe, like Jason, Niro, and Van were." She gestured toward the others. "But you... you were calm, almost indifferent. It¡¯s like you¡¯ve seen a city even grander than this."

    Rina¡¯s perceptiveness caught me off guard, as usual.

    "I was just nervous," I said with a shrug. "Also, I¡¯m not the type to show my emotions on my face. Isn¡¯t Liras City supposed to be the largest and most advanced city in all of Yedon?"

    "You¡¯re right," she admitted. "But maybe that calmness of yours is why you seem more mature than the others, even though you¡¯re the youngest."

    As the carriage rolled onward, I noticed the scenery changing. The streets became narrower, and the buildings grew older and smaller. Simple houses, clustered together, replaced the grandeur of the city¡¯s entrance.

    When we first entered Liras City, it was as if we had stepped into a dream. The towering buildings of stone and timber were pristine, their clean facades reflecting the prosperity of their owners. The cobblestone streets were smooth and orderly, alive with the bustling energy of confident, well-dressed people. It was like a scene from a painting.

    But as the carriage rattled further, following Rina¡¯s directions, the illusion began to fade. The lively energy gave way to a somber stillness. The buildings here were cracked and weathered, their surfaces streaked with grime. The cobblestones became uneven, some sections nearly impassable. The air was heavier, damp and clinging to everything.

    The quiet alleys were lined with small, worn houses, their walls bearing the marks of time and hardship. Yet, the area was far from lifeless. Women in simple yet tidy dresses gathered in small groups, chatting as they carried laundry, baskets, or jugs. Nearby, a group of women worked together around a large clay pot, perhaps fetching water or preparing for a communal task.

    Children ran between the adults, their laughter cutting through the heavy atmosphere. A boy chased a girl through the cracked streets, their joy undiminished by their surroundings. A younger child knelt by a puddle, poking at the water with a stick, completely absorbed in their game.

    Men in armor, weapons at their sides, walked past, some exchanging curt nods. Others carried tools, their hands busy with repairs. Despite the visible weariness on their faces, the people here kept moving, their resilience evident in every step and every interaction.

    Though the hardships were clear, so was the unshakable spirit of the people who lived here.

    Finally, the carriage came to a stop in front of a large, old house with two floors. The second floor jutted out over the first, creating a shaded overhang.

    The lower floor was made of stone, with arched windows that suggested a mix of residential and possibly commercial use. A small wooden door was seen on the right. The roof was covered with red tiles, and smoke rose from the chimney above, indicating a working hearth. The setting was on a paved road.

    "We''re here. I know the owner, and I''m sure it fits your budget. The room here is where Mrs. Soyen is usually at this time," Rina said.

    "Rina knocked, and the door opened to reveal a woman in her early 40s, with short dark hair and soft kind features.She wears a white apron over a light brown blouse and a darker brown skirt. Her light pink slippers and socks complete her modest, practical appearance. She has a calm and caring demeanor.

    Rina!" the woman exclaimed, her hands pausing mid-wipe on a mug. "It¡¯s been too long, dear. How have you been?"

    "I¡¯m doing well, Mrs. Soyen ," Rina replied warmly. "These are my friends, and they¡¯re looking for a long-term stay. Do you have anything available?"

    "Go inside first," she said.

    The inn¡¯s exterior was unimpressive, but inside, it was well-kept and inviting."

    When we entered, the place was neat, clean, and welcoming. The wooden floor added a warm and inviting atmosphere. There was a staircase on the right leading to the upper floor, while at the back, there was a bar counter with hanging dried meats, some vegetables, pots, and utensils, suggesting it was a kitchen or cooking area. The tables and chairs were simple but sturdy, with smooth, polished surfaces that matched the natural theme of the room.

    Mrs. Soyen ¡¯s gaze swept over the group, her smile widening. "You¡¯re in luck. I¡¯ve got a room on the second floor with four beds. It¡¯s spacious, has a good view, and no noisy neighbors."

    "How much would it cost for, say, one  month?" Caelan asked, stepping forward.

    "Mrs. Soyen tapped her chin thoughtfully. ''Pay upfront, and I¡¯ll give you a discount¡ªthirty silver for the month, meals included. Deal?''"

    Caelan glanced at his companions, already reaching for his coin pouch. "It¡¯s a good deal. I¡¯ll put in ten silver."

    Jason nodded, pulling out his own pouch. "Same here. I¡¯ve got ten silver covered."

    Van and Niro exchanged a quick glance. Van smirked and jingled his pouch. "We¡¯ll handle the last ten together. Five each sound good?"

    With the payment settled, Caelan turned to Mrs. Soyen . "That¡¯s thirty silver. We¡¯ll take the room."

    Mrs. Soyen¡¯s smile widened as she gathered the coins. "Wonderful! You¡¯ve made a good choice. Here¡¯s your key." She slid a brass key across the counter. "Your room¡¯s on the second floor, last door on the left. Dinner is served every evening, so don¡¯t miss it."

    "Thanks, Mrs. Soyen," Rina said with a grin.

    The group climbed the wooden staircase, the sound of their boots echoing in the quiet hallway.

    The room is a simple sleeping space with four separate beds neatly arranged next to each other. The wooden floor adds warmth to the otherwise simple room, and each bed has plain bedding, including white sheets and pillows. At the foot of each bed is a personal trunk or storage box for belongings.

    There are two large windows that let in natural light, framed by green curtains, though the room still has a somewhat dim and quiet atmosphere.

    "This will do," Caelan said, placing his bag on one of the beds.

    Jason immediately flopped onto another bed, stretching out. "Finally, a place to call home for a while."

    "It¡¯s a good setup," Niro remarked, inspecting the window. " quiet, and affordable."

    Van grinned at Rina. "You weren¡¯t kidding about knowing the best spots."

    Rina chuckled. "I told you, didn¡¯t I?"

    Caelan leaned against the wall, a small smile on his face. "Thanks, Rina. We owe you one."

    Jason grinned. "Thanks, Sister Mira. You¡¯ve been a huge help to us."

    "Yeah, thank you, Sister Mira!" we all echoed.

    She smiled warmly. "You don¡¯t have to thank me. It¡¯s just a small favor. But if you¡¯re really grateful, you can always come to the tavern where I work. Order some drinks when you¡¯ve earned enough coins so I can get a nice commission." She winked playfully

    "we definitely visit," I promised. It was the least we could do after all she¡¯d done for us.

    Rina left after we settled, but before she left, she gave us the name and location of the tavern where she is working.

    "Finally, we''re here. I thought my legs were going to give out," Jason said as he lay down on the bed.

    "Same here. But we still need to eat. Come on, let¡¯s head downstairs," Niro replied.

    "I''m not waiting. I can already smell the food from here," Van said, heading for the door.

    We followed Van downstairs, where Mrs. Soyen had prepared roasted chicken, fruit, and bread. After finishing our meal, we returned to our room right away.

    Back in the room, we quietly prepared for bed. Van¡¯s soft snores filled the air first, followed by Jason¡¯s steady breathing. I couldn¡¯t tell if Niro or I stayed awake longer¡ªat some point, sleep quietly claimed me.

 Chapter 13 "The Guild Hunt"

    Chapter 13 "The Guild Hunt"

    Caelan woke up from a deep sleep to the sensation of someone shaking him and calling his name repeatedly. He groaned and sat up, rubbing his sleepy eyes.

    "Caelan, aren¡¯t we going to the guild today to register as adventurers? We need to leave now," Jason said, his voice urgent as he stood beside the bed.

    Caelan yawned and stretched. "Alright, alright. I¡¯m up." He glanced at the other bed and saw Niro shaking Van, who muttered something incoherent into his pillow.

    "Come on, Van," Niro said with a smirk. "Don¡¯t make us late on our first big day."

    Once they were all ready, the group made their way downstairs. The smell of toasted bread and frying eggs greeted them as they entered the common area of the inn. Mrs. Soyen stood behind the counter, humming softly while arranging plates of food.

    "Good morning, you''re up early," she said with a warm smile as they approached the table. She placed a plate of bread and eggs in front of each of them. "Here¡¯s your breakfast. Eat up before you head out."

    Caelan took a seat and picked up a piece of bread. "Mrs. Soyen, do you know where the adventurer guild is? We need to register today."

    Mrs. Soyen wiped her hands on her apron, her smile widening. "Ah, finally taking that step, huh? You¡¯ll want to head to the northwest district. There are several guilds there, and they¡¯re closer compared to others in the city."

    Jason grinned, already halfway through his meal. "Northwest, got it. Are the guilds usually busy around this time?"

    "Usually," she replied, nodding. "A lot of young folks like yourselves try their luck as adventurers. Best to get moving early so you don¡¯t end up waiting at the back of the line."

    "Good to know. Thanks for the advice," Caelan said. He hesitated for a moment before asking, "By the way, Mrs. Soyen, you¡¯ve been in Liras City for a long time, right? Which guilds have the best reputation around here?"

    She leaned against the counter, her gaze thoughtful. "In the northwest district, the Willow Guild, Golden Deer Guild, and Rising Guild are the most well-known. But if you¡¯re looking for the top guilds in the entire city, those would be the Cloud Guild, Dawn Guild, and Black Hunter Guild in the center district. They¡¯re the largest and handle most of the major missions from the city council."

    Caelan nodded, absorbing the information. "That¡¯s good to know. Thank you for the insight."

    Mrs. Soyen¡¯s expression softened, and she looked at them with a hint of concern. "Whatever guild you choose to join, remember to be careful and prioritize your safety. Adventuring is dangerous work."

    "Yes, ma¡¯am," Niro said with a grin, finishing the last bite of his breakfast.

    ---

    After breakfast, we made our way toward the northwest district. The streets of the western district slowly gave way to a new atmosphere¡ªbrighter, busier, and alive with energy. Our conversation naturally shifted to the guild we might join.

    "So, which guild are we joining?" Van asked, glancing at Niro as he adjusted the strap of his bag.

    "The biggest and most famous ones are in the center district, right?" Niro replied, his eyes scanning the bustling surroundings.

    I nodded, watching a vendor haggle with a customer over a basket of apples. ''That''s true, but I think we should first learn the rules and regulations of the guilds before joining one. The guild in the northwest district is more convenient for us since it''s closer to where we live.''"

    Van¡¯s face lit up as he took in the scene¡ªthe colorful stalls, the sound of chatter, and the faint smell of roasting chestnuts. "Yeah, I like the vibe here. It¡¯s closer to where we¡¯ll probably stay, and I¡¯d rather not trek across half the city every day."

    Niro shrugged, his hands resting on the back of his head. "Makes sense. Let¡¯s check out what¡¯s available."

    The northwest district was both lively and organized. Unlike the narrow streets of the western district, the roads here were wide, lined with towering stone buildings. People moved with purpose, yet the atmosphere felt steady, as if the area thrived in its own rhythm.

    Despite this, the layout felt like a maze. The crowded roads and similar-looking buildings made it difficult to navigate. Jason walked beside me, his brows furrowed as he scanned the area. Niro stayed close behind, alert, while Van strolled leisurely, seemingly unbothered.

    "Are we close yet?" Jason asked, exasperation creeping into his voice.

    I sighed, glancing at the road ahead. "I don¡¯t know. The guy we asked earlier just said to head straight down this road."

    As we paused at an intersection, my gaze landed on a man leaning against the wall. He wore a faded cloak and smoked a long pipe, his eyes lazily following the crowd. Gathering my courage, I approached him.

    "Excuse me," I said. "Do you know where the adventurers'' guilds are?"

    The man took a slow puff before gesturing down the street with his pipe. "Keep going until you see the iron fountain. The guilds are lined up there. But if you¡¯re new, skip the first two. Head straight to the third one."

    I nodded, offering a polite smile. "Thank you."

    We continued walking until we saw the fountain. Not far away stood the impressive stone building. The structure featured intricate designs and artistic architecture. The building featured intricate architectural details, with an arched entrance adorned by elaborate carvings. Above the doorway sat a large golden crest depicting a majestic deer, and a semi-circular stained glass window added a vibrant touch. The roof boasted several domes, the largest at the center topped with a golden finial, flanked by two smaller domes. The blue and gold domes contrasted beautifully with the earthy stone walls. Geometric patterns, ornamental friezes, and arched windows decorated the exterior, while wooden beams, red awnings, and potted plants gave it a welcoming charm.

    ¡°This must be the Golden Deer Guild,¡± I said, noting the crest. It was one of the top guilds in the district.

    As we got closer, the heavy wooden doors swung open. A group of adventurers stepped out, their laughter echoing across the street.

    The man on the left had bright green spiky hair, sharp green eyes, and a lean but muscular build. A bow was slung casually across his back.

    The man in the middle, towering over the others, had short blue spiky hair, piercing blue eyes, and a large sword strapped to his back.

    The man on the right had messy blue hair, equally sharp eyes, and a balanced physique. A smaller sword hung at his waist.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

    At a glance, it was clear they were seasoned adventurers.

    One of them noticed us and smirked. ¡°Lost, kids?¡± he teased, his tone dripping with condescension.

    ¡°We¡¯re just looking for the guild,¡± I replied evenly.

    The others chuckled. ¡°Well, if that¡¯s the case, you can join our guild. You can carry our gear and cook for us,¡± one said with a grin.

    ¡°Yeah, we¡¯re Rank D adventurers. We could use someone to handle the small stuff,¡± another added, his laughter grating.

    Jason¡¯s fists clenched, but I placed a hand on his arm and shook my head. ¡°We¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± I said, leading our group past them without another word.

    Inside, the guild hall was dimly lit. The air was thick with the smell of alcohol and sweat, and adventurers clustered around tables or leaned against the walls, engaged in loud conversations.

    At the front desk sat a sharp-eyed young man. His cold expression didn¡¯t waver as we approached.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± he asked bluntly, tapping a quill against the desk.

    ¡°We¡¯d like to know the rules of the adventurers¡¯ guild,¡± I said.

    He sighed, barely looking up. ¡°I don¡¯t have time to explain the rules one by one. If you¡¯re not registering, leave.¡±

    Niro muttered something under his breath, and Jason scowled. I exchanged a glance with my friends but decided not to press further.

    ¡°In that case, we¡¯ll leave,¡± I said calmly and walked out.

    The cool evening air greeted us as we stepped outside. It was a refreshing contrast to the stifling atmosphere inside.

    I glanced at my friends, frustration etched on my face. ¡°We¡¯ll try the second guild,¡± I said firmly. ¡°We¡¯re not giving up that easily.¡±

    Jason muttered, ¡°Let¡¯s hope they¡¯re not as unpleasant as the first one.¡±

    The second guild was just a few streets away, housed in an imposing building with grand arches and a heavy wooden door. As we approached, the door swung open, revealing a group of adventurers stepping out. Clad in armor and armed with various weapons, they exuded confidence, but two individuals trailing behind caught our attention. Both were burdened with oversized bags and clutched weapons, visibly struggling under the weight.

    ¡°Pick up the pace and stop dragging your feet!¡± barked a tall, moderately built man who appeared to be their leader. ¡°You should be thankful we let you join our party, even though you¡¯re just rookies.¡±

    Jason and I exchanged uneasy glances. The scene confirmed what the man earlier had warned us about.

    ¡°It looks like he was right,¡± Niro said. ¡°Let¡¯s skip this one and head to the third guild.¡±

    We all nodded in agreement and continued on our way.

    The third guild in the northwest district stood out immediately. It looked more like a grand manor than a guild. Its neat, balanced design featured wooden frames and warm brick walls topped with a blue-tiled roof. Tall windows hinted at a bright, prestigious interior, while an arched window above the large double doors added an elegant touch. Banners bearing a proud crest hung on either side of the doors, and a small balcony with iron railings above them gave the building a charming character. Just above the doors, a carved crest of a majestic tree completed the picture.

    As we entered, the atmosphere was entirely different from the first guild. The spacious hall had wooden beams, stone walls, and warm, dim lighting that created a cozy yet lively vibe. Adventurers filled the space, talking and moving about on various tasks. A large quest board stood in the center, drawing a crowd.

    Near the doorway, a person in luxurious red armor stood dramatically, illuminated by the sunlight streaming in. The interior featured wooden furniture, colorful rugs, and cheerful activity that made the guild feel inviting.

    At the reception desk, a beautiful young woman greeted us with a warm smile. Her large, expressive eyes and short, layered hair framed her fair face, while her long, pointed ears marked her as an elf.

    ¡°Welcome to the Willow Adventurer Guild,¡± she said politely. ¡°How may I assist you today?¡±

    Jason, Niro, and Van froze, their cheeks reddening at the sight of her.

    I stepped forward, breaking the awkward silence. ¡°Good morning! We¡¯re here because we¡¯re interested in becoming adventurers, but we¡¯d like to learn about the rules and regulations of your guild before deciding to register.¡±

    The elf receptionist¡¯s smile widened. ¡°Of course! Though it¡¯s rare for people to ask about the guild rules¡ªmost adventurers head straight to registration. But it¡¯s a good question to ask so you can understand your rights,¡± she said. ¡°All guilds in Liras City follow the same rules, which were agreed upon by the guilds and approved by the city council. You can find them posted on the bulletin board over there,¡± she added, gesturing to the side.

    ¡°Thank you very much!¡± I replied, turning to Jason, Niro, and Van, who were still frozen in awe.

    ¡°Come on, guys,¡± I said, nudging them. ¡°Let¡¯s go check the rules.¡±

    list of six rules and regulations if the liras guilds

    1. Registration Requirement

    All adventurers must register with the guild before undertaking quests. Registration ensures proper identification and assignment of ranks.

    2. Quest Completion and Reporting

    Adventurers must accept and complete quests according to their assigned rank. After completing a quest, they must report back to the guild and submit evidence of completion if required.

    3. Adherence to Rank

    Adventurers can only take quests within or below their rank. Taking on higher-ranked quests without authorization is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

    4.Mission Abandonment

    Adventurers may only abandon missions under serious circumstances, such as life-threatening situations. Unjustified abandonment will result in penalties.

    5.  Membership Termination

    Adventurers may leave the guild freely as long as they have no outstanding debts or obligations. The guild cannot prevent their departure.

    6. Prohibited Actions

    Theft, harming fellow adventurers, including  members of other guilds, falsifying quest reports, or breaking the laws of the city are strictly forbidden and may result in expulsion from the guild or further legal action.

    After reading through the guild rules, I glanced at Jason, Van, and Niro. None of them seemed particularly interested¡ªthey kept sneaking glances toward the reception area, clearly more focused on the elf receptionist than the bulletin board. I sighed, folding the parchment.

    "So, what do you think? Should we register here, or do you want to visit other guilds?" I asked, breaking their trance.

    "If we compare it to the two others, this guild seems better," Jason said, finally tearing his eyes away from the desk.

    "Right, let''s register here," Niro added with a shrug.

    "I''ll go wherever you decide," Van said, grinning.

    "This place is closer to where we¡¯re staying," I pointed out. "And according to the guild rules, we can leave whenever we want as long as we don¡¯t owe any debts here."

    "Alright, then let¡¯s register," Van said eagerly.

    Jason, cheeks flushed, stepped forward. "I¡¯ll¡­ uh¡­ let her know we¡¯ve decided to register," he stammered. His earlier confidence seemed to waver as he approached the desk.

    Jason cleared his throat, trying to sound composed. "We¡­ de-decided to register as adventurers. Can you tell us how the process works?"

    I couldn¡¯t help but suppress a chuckle as Jason stumbled over his words. Van and Niro exchanged amused glances, but they wisely kept quiet.

    "Of course," the elf  receptionist replied. "To become an official adventurer, you¡¯ll need to fill out a registration form and attend a one-day seminar. There¡¯s no fee for the registration process.The elf receptionist glanced at each of us. ¡°If you don¡¯t know how to write, I will assist you with filling out the forms.¡±

    Luckily, Jason and I had learned to read and write before leaving the village. Learning the alphabet of this world had really paid off. I thought back to those long hours of practice and felt grateful for the foresight.

    In this world, formal identification like certificates from academies or organizations wasn¡¯t necessary unless you were trying to prove higher status. Here, names and basic information were enough.

    The receptionist handed us the forms, and we each took a seat at a nearby table to fill them out. The questions were straightforward¡ªname, age, and place of origin. When I reached the section about my place of origin, I paused. I couldn¡¯t tell the truth about where I came from. After a moment of hesitation, I wrote, Mitra Village, Sanderson Territory of the Krehon Empire.

    Jason and I helped Van and Niro fill out their forms before handing them back to the receptionist.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, quickly scanning our answers. ¡°You¡¯re all set. The seminar will take place tomorrow. It¡¯s the final step to complete your registration.¡±

    I nodded. ¡°Thanks for the help.¡±

    After completing our registration, we decided to explore the northwest and western districts. The streets were quieter now, with the bustle of the city winding down as night fell.

    When we reached our room at the inn, I collapsed onto my bed, feeling the exhaustion of the day settle into my bones. Staring up at the wooden beams of the ceiling, my mind wandered back to the seminar.

    The last step to becoming an adventurer. It all seemed surprisingly easy. I had expected more hurdles, more complications, but so far, the process had been smooth. Still, unease lingered in the back of my mind.

    What if something goes wrong tomorrow?

    The thought gnawed at me, but I shook it off. There was no point worrying about it now. Whatever happened, I¡¯d face it head-on.

    With that, I closed my eyes, letting the steady rhythm of my breathing lull me to sleep. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but for now, I could rest easy, knowing we were one step closer to our goal.

 Chapter 14 "The Path to Adventure"

    Chapter 14 "The Path to Adventure"

    The street pulsed with life¡ªbright fabrics hung from vendor stalls, the sharp scent of grilled meat mixed with the sweetness of ripe fruit, and the rhythmic clatter of carts on cobblestones filled the air. Vendors shouted over one another, waving their goods at passing customers. Children darted between legs, laughing as they weaved through the crowd, only to be called back by watchful sellers.

    Caelan carefully navigated the bustling street, Jason, Niro, and Van trailing behind him. The Northwest District was as lively as ever, just like the day before. They were heading toward the Willow Guild for the final step of their adventurer registration.

    ¡°We¡¯re almost there! I¡¯m so excited!¡± Van grinned, practically bouncing with every step.

    Jason adjusted the strap of his bag, his eyes flickering nervously across the crowd. ¡°I¡¯m nervous.¡±

    ¡°But the beautiful elf receptionist said we don¡¯t have anything to worry about,¡± Niro added, a confident smirk playing on his lips.

    Van ducked beneath a hanging basket of apples, narrowly avoiding bumping into it. "What exactly is this seminar about? They didn¡¯t explain much when we signed up."

    Caelan sidestepped a cart piled high with crates. "I think it¡¯s about the basics of the guild¡ªmissions, ranks, and maybe tips for beginner adventurers. How to manage resources, what to do during emergencies¡­ things like that."

    Niro gave a firm nod. "Sounds useful. We need this if we want to survive out there."

    Van rolled his eyes. "Survive? You¡¯re so dramatic, Niro. I bet it¡¯s just boring lectures and paperwork."

    Jason brushed shoulders with a passing merchant and instinctively checked his pouch. ¡°Actually, I hope they explain the mission ranking system. I don¡¯t want to accidentally take on something way too hard for us.¡±

    Niro nudged Van with his elbow. ¡°Relax, Jason. That¡¯s what the seminar is for¡ªso we don¡¯t make mistakes. Plus, it¡¯s a chance to meet other adventurers. Who knows? We might learn something from the veterans.¡±

    Caelan sighed, weaving through the crowd ahead of them. He wasn¡¯t sure if Van¡¯s carefree attitude or Jason¡¯s constant worrying would be more of a problem in the future, but for now, they had to stay focused. "Let¡¯s just pay attention and learn what we can. The faster we adapt, the better our chances."

    Van stretched his arms behind his head. ¡°But if it gets too boring, don¡¯t blame me if I fall asleep.¡±

    Niro shot him a sideways glance. "Don¡¯t even think about it. You need to show that you¡¯re willing to learn. Or have you forgotten? We¡¯re not full-fledged adventurers yet."

    ¡°Ugh, fine. I¡¯ll behave,¡± Van groaned, shoving his hands in his pockets.

    --------

    As they entered the guild, Caelan immediately noticed   it was busier than yesterday. A dwarf sat in the far corner, deep in conversation with a large, bald man. I couldn¡¯t help but notice the variety of non-human members in the guild.

    We approached the reception desk, where the familiar elf receptionist greeted us with a warm smile.

    "Good morning. We''re from yesterday. We''re here for the seminar," I said.

    "Good morning, and welcome back to Willow Adventurer Guild," she replied cheerfully. "I''ll take you to the seminar hall now."

    She led us up the stairs to the second floor. The seminar room was spacious, simple, and without any decorations. Rows of polished wooden desks curved slightly, facing a small stage in the center. The room¡¯s plain, practical design reminded me of lecture halls back on Earth, stirring a faint nostalgia I hadn''t felt in a long time.

    "My life has come so far," I thought, brushing off the feeling.

    There were already people seated, their chairs forming neat rows.

    "You can sit anywhere you like. The seminar will start once the guild president arrives," the elf receptionist informed us before departing.

    We chose seats near the back. As I glanced around, I noticed the mix of people filling the room. Most, like us, seemed to be from the countryside¡ªfaces set with determination, likely here to try their luck at a new life. A cheerful young man with short blond hair and a bright smile stood out among the crowd.

    Nearby, a serious-looking man with short grayish-white hair and sharp features sat quietly.

    But the most eye-catching was an elf with long red-and-green hair and piercing green eyes. His slender frame and striking appearance made him impossible to miss.

    Jason, Niro, Van, and I sat together on a  wooden chair.

    The hall wasn¡¯t crowded, but many seats were filled with young adventurers. Some whispered quietly, while others waited in silence, eyes fixed on the front.

    Van leaned his elbows on the table, grinning. ¡°Look at the guy by the window. His foot hasn¡¯t stopped tapping. Definitely nervous.¡±

    Jason smirked, glancing over. "Feels familiar... like someone who''s never been far from home. You can tell by the way they look around."

    Niro crossed his arms, eyes narrowing toward a group near the front. ¡°That one¡¯s too clean. Not a wrinkle on him. Probably from a merchant family.¡±

    Caelan¡¯s gaze lingered on the seminar room door, his thoughts distant while Van and the others chatted beside himHelp support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.

    ¡°Check out that elf,¡± Van whispered, nodding toward a nearby seat.

    Jason chuckled. ¡°Yeah, hard to miss.¡±

    Niro gave a subtle nod in agreement.

    Despite the calm, the room felt tense¡ªlike the moments before a hunt. Caelan could feel the weight of unspoken competition as adventurers sized each other up.

    The door creaked open. A slim young man with red hair stepped inside, his maroon coat and ribboned tie suggesting wealth and status. His sharp eyes swept across the room.

    ¡°Alright, settle down. We¡¯re starting now,¡± he announced, his voice calm yet firm.

    Van stretched lazily. ¡°Here we go. Let¡¯s see who ranks up first.¡±

    Caelan gave a faint smile but remained silent. Surviving mattered more to him than climbing the ranks.

    The red-haired official glanced toward the door as it opened again. A bald, mustached man in a brown overcoat entered, his presence dignified. Behind him followed a broad-shouldered adventurer clad in silver armor. His green hair was tied back, and a red cloth wrapped around his forehead. A heavy axe rested at his side.

    The older man stepped forward. ¡°Good day, everyone. I am Sylvester, president of the Willow Adventurer Guild. You are here for the final step in becoming adventurers. This seminar is crucial. Listen well.¡±

    With a brief nod, he gestured to the armored man before leaving.

    The adventurer stepped forward, his gaze steady. ¡°Good day. I¡¯m Aran, B-rank adventurer. I¡¯ve been at this for five years, and I¡¯m here to explain the rules.¡±

    He let the room settle before speaking.

    ¡°First rule¡ªprioritize your life above all else. The mission matters, but not more than your survival.¡± His eyes narrowed. ¡°No job is worth dying for.¡±

    Aran leaned forward slightly. ¡°We watch out for each other at Willow Guild. If a fellow adventurer¡¯s in trouble, lend a hand¡ªbut not at the cost of your party. Save who you can, but never gamble with your team¡¯s lives.¡±

    Caelan listened intently as Aran raised a hand.

    ¡°There are three things every adventurer needs to live by."

    He lifted a finger. ¡°First¡ªknow your limits. Only by understanding where you stand can you begin to grow and push past them, but also know when to retreat or when to stop before it''s too late."

    A second finger followed. ¡°Second¡ªdon¡¯t trust luck. It runs out. Skill, preparation, and caution will keep you alive.¡±

    The third finger rose. ¡°Third¡ªrespect the job. When you take a mission, you carry someone¡¯s trust. Treat every job like it matters¡ªbecause it does.¡±

    Aran rested his hand on the counter. ¡°Follow those three, and you¡¯ll last longer than most.¡±

    His eyes drifted to a scar tracing along his arm.

    ¡°Each of you has your reasons for being here. Some chase coin, others recognition. Some just crave the thrill.¡± His gaze swept over the room.

    ¡°If you choose this path, remember¡ªadventuring isn¡¯t about glory. It¡¯s about knowing when to fight¡­ and when to walk away.¡±

    After Aran the adventurer finished his explanation, a guild staff member stepped forward, clearing his throat. "The adventurer ranking system is simple," he began. "Ranks go from S to F¡ªS being the highest, F the lowest. To climb ranks, you¡¯ll need to complete increasingly difficult missions. For example, finishing a Class B mission could bump you from C to B. Naturally, higher-risk missions pay more."

    He scanned the room, his gaze lingering on the eager faces of new recruits. "Since many of you are just starting out, I imagine not all of you have weapons or armor yet. Your survival may depend on what you carry."

    The staff''s expression softened slightly. "To help, the Willow Guild offers weapons you can purchase over time¡ªthink of it as an investment in your future. Follow me."

    The staff member led us out of the seminar room and across the hall. He pushed open a heavy wooden door, revealing a chamber bathed in soft light.

    We stepped inside one by one. The air smelled faintly of oiled steel and aged leather. Rows of swords, axes, and polearms gleamed under the glow of lanterns, meticulously arranged on the walls. Full suits of armor stood on either side of a stone archway at the back, their polished plates reflecting the flickering light. Above the arch, decorative blades spread like the rays of a sunburst.

    To the left, smaller weapons¡ªdaggers, knives, and bucklers¡ªrested in neat rows, while long swords and halberds lined the opposite wall. Beneath them, cabinets and drawers suggested an arsenal far larger than what was visible. Bows leaned carefully on racks beside bundles of arrows.

    A low whistle escaped from one of the recruits behind me. "This is¡­ impressive."

    The guild staff smiled faintly. "Take your time. Choose carefully. Your weapon may save your life one day."

    Van let out a low whistle, stepping in first. His eyes flickered from one weapon to another, unable to settle.

    "This is¡­ insane," he breathed.

    Jason followed closely, running his hand over the hilt of a sword.

    "I didn¡¯t think the guild would have this much gear," he said, awe lacing his voice. "I figured they¡¯d toss us whatever scraps were lying around."

    Niro had already drifted to the bow section, his fingers grazing the sleek wooden frames.

    "Look at these," he called out, barely concealing his excitement. "These aren¡¯t just for show, right?"

    The staff member smirked.

    "They¡¯re real. Guild-issued and ready for use." He stepped forward, crossing his arms. "Pick whatever feels right. This gear might save your life one day."

    Jason¡¯s eyes immediately locked onto a massive sword resting against the far wall. With both hands, he lifted it, the blade humming softly as he swung it in a wide arc.

    "I¡¯ll take this one," he declared, clearly satisfied with the weight and balance.

    Van bypassed the swords entirely, moving to a row of spears. He grabbed one, twirling it skillfully.

    "This is more my speed," he grinned, resting the shaft on his shoulder.

    Niro had already made his choice. He held up a black recurve bow, plucking the string to test its tension.

    "Light but sturdy," he muttered, stepping back to admire it.

    The guild staff nodded approvingly.

    "Good choices. Now you just need to prove you can handle them."

    Van flashed a grin.

    "Oh, we will."

    The staff explained that the weapons¡¯ costs would be deducted from our earnings over time, easing the burden for new adventurers. Jason, Van, and Niro eagerly agreed to the terms since none of them owned gear. I, however, still had the sword Vlad gifted me back in the village. I wasn¡¯t planning to take on dangerous missions right away, so I don''t think I need an armor so I declined the offer for now.

    Once the seminar wrapped up, we returned to the reception hall. One by one, the receptionist handed us our guild badges.

    "Congratulations! You are now officially an adventurers of the Willow Guild."

    The small metal badges were engraved with a tree emblem¡ªsimple yet weighty in my palm. I turned mine over, tracing the design with my thumb. Somehow, holding it made everything feel more real.

    "Each of you will be assigned a guild advisor," the receptionist continued. "They¡¯ll offer guidance, support, and advice as you begin your journey."

    The elf receptionist who assisted us during registration stepped forward, her sharp emerald eyes scanning our group with quiet confidence. Her short, layered pink hair framed her fair face, and the faint glimmer of a guild emblem rested on the collar of her crisp uniform.

    "I''ll be your advisor. My name is Ellewyna; you can call me Elle," she said, her tone calm yet firm.

    Jason¡¯s face lit up with excitement, his grin stretching ear to ear.

    "This is the start!" he laughed, punching the air.

    Van chuckled and slung an arm around Jason¡¯s shoulder.

    "Let¡¯s celebrate tonight!"

    Jimmy, who had been leaning casually against the counter, finally spoke. His voice was low but cheerful.

    "How about getting food from a restaurant and bringing it back to the inn? We can eat and relax at the same time."

    I nodded, appreciating the idea.

    "Sounds good. Let¡¯s go."

    As we stepped out of the guild, the sun dipped below the rooftops, casting long shadows across the cobbled streets. The sky blazed with hues of gold and orange, wrapping Liras City in the warm glow of twilight. The bustling noise of merchants and travelers softened, leaving behind a quiet hum that resonated with the sense of accomplishment we all shared.

    These were our first steps as adventurers, and the road ahead felt wide open.