《Infinite Points: Adventure to Oasis》


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    Dear Readers,


    This tale is a whimsical journey of pure fantasy, spun from the creative mind ofKhana_X, crafted solely to bring you enjoyment and a world full of imagination. Every name, place, object, and event you''ll encounter is entirely a work of fiction. Any resemblance to real people, places, or happenings is purely coincidental.


    Remember, what unfolds here isn''t tied to reality. It''s a fantastical adventure meant to sweep you away, and if by chance anything feels familiar, it''s just a lucky coincidence. The aim is to lift you beyond the ordinary into the extraordinary.


    Also, I know I''ve been publishing a lot of stories lately (and yes, I havequitea few unfinished ones, oops!). I apologize for the chaos, but this one just wouldn''t leave my mind. I had to share it with you¡ªso here we are! Hehe.


    Your understanding and willingness to dive into this magical world are deeply appreciated.


    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Prologue


    The gentle breeze whispered through the curtains of a small, sunlit room where an old woman lay, her silver hair spread across the pillow like a crown of wisdom. Her eyes fluttered shut for the last time, a peaceful smile tugging at her lips. She had lived a life filled with kindness, loved by everyone¡ªneighbors, children, even the local stray cats. But despite all the love she gave, she never had the chance to experience a love of her own¡ªno husband, no wild romance, just a simple, quiet life. And she was okay with that. She had no regrets, only gratitude.


    When her final breath left her, she thought it was the end. But when she opened her eyes again, she found herself standing in an ethereal place, facing a figure cloaked in light. No face, no features, just... light. Kind of blinding, honestly.


    "Welcome," the faceless god said, with a voice that sounded like a choir and a summer breeze had a baby. "You''ve lived a life full of kindness, selflessness, and¡ª"


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    "Wait, hold on," she interrupted, squinting at the glowing figure. "Are you... God?"


    The figure hesitated. "Sort of."


    She raised an eyebrow. "Sort of?"


    "Well, technicalities. Anyway!" The god waved it off like it wasn''t important. "You''ve been kind, never asked for anything, and I know deep down, you always wanted to experience real love. So, as a reward, I''m giving you a second chance. A fresh start, a new life¡ªthis time, with the love and excitement you missed out on."


    Her heart fluttered at the thought. A second chance? To live again, maybe fall in love, see the world through younger eyes? She was about to thank the god, but before she could, the world around her spun, andpoof¡ªeverything went black.


    When she opened her eyes, she was standing in a lush green field, the wind gently rustling through heryoungerhair. She blinked, feeling the strength and vitality in her new, youthful body. "Wow," she whispered, stretching her arms. "This is amazing! I actually feel... alive!"


    But her moment of awe was rudely interrupted by a loud, earth-shaking roar. She turned around, her heart sinking into her stomach. There, not too far away, was a creature straight out of her worst nightmares¡ªgiant, scaly, with way too many teeth for comfort.


    What the¡ª


    Before she could process the horror in front of her, words appeared in her vision, floating as if in some twisted video game HUD:


    "Level 1: Defeat the Lesser Dragon!"


    Her jaw dropped. "Excuse me?! Lesser Dragon? What lesser dragon? That big fella? Are you serious? That thing has more teeth than I have years left to live¡ªwell, HAD left!"


    Suddenly, a sword materialized in her hands, its weight pulling her arms down as she staggered under it. "Oh no, no, no, no! I didn''t sign up for this! I wanted a quiet love life, not an all-you-can-eat dragon buffet where I''m the main course!"


    The dragon roared again, and she took a few awkward steps back, the sword dragging on the ground behind her. "Listen, big fella little baby coo, can we just... talk about this? Maybe grab a coffee, discuss our differences? No? Okay!"


    She turned on her heel and sprinted in the opposite direction, flailing wildly, sword clanging as it bounced behind her. "This is NOT what I meant by a second chance!"


    As she ran, more game-like text appeared in front of her:


    "Warning: You have 0% luck but infinite points!" Please say Status Check for more information.


    "Oh, fantastic," she muttered sarcastically. "Zero luck butinfiniteways to die. What a deal!"


    From somewhere deep within, a part of her started to regret every nice thing she''d ever done in her old life.Was being nice really worth running from a dragon in her second life?Probably not

 Chapter 1

    Someone Point of View


    Whoo, I finally managed to escape from that beast... is that a dragon, of all things.


    Is this some kind of dream? It must be... or am I truly somewhere else now?


    I pause, taking a long, steady breath, feeling the unfamiliar terrain beneath my feet. I glance behind me cautiously, making sure that giant, fire-breathing creature isn''t still following. My heart is still racing, but not as wildly as before. I haven''t felt a rush like that in ages¡ªnot since I was much, much younger. Yet here I am, running like I''m still in my prime.


    How is any of this possible? This is actually no sense.


    The world around me is lush and vibrant, like a scene from a painting¡ªone I''d only ever dreamed of seeing in my lifetime. Colors so vivid they practically hum, trees swaying with an energy that feels almost alive. But something about it all feels off, like I''m not entirely part of it.


    Could this be the creator''s doing? Some sort of post-life trial? Or... a gift? For what, though?


    S???h????e???? ?????d?????o????e???s????n???''???t??? ???r????e?????m????e????m???b?????e???r???? ????a????n???d????? ????s????h????e??? ???c???o???n????t????i????n????u???e???? ????n?????o????t????? ????t???o???? ????r???e???m????e?????m????b???e?????r???? ????i????t?????


    And then there''s this... glowing blue light floating in front of me. It''s hovering just above my head, almost like a notification or a prompt.


    Something I am not familiar with.


    Mission Failed! Penalty has been applied. Please say ''Status Check'' for more information


    Penalty? What have I done to deserve that? And what is this... thing, anyway?


    I try to wave it away gently, as if it were a pesky fly, but it stays right where it is, flickering slightly.


    Odd. My hand feels different¡ªsmooth, unmarked by the passage of time. It''s not the hand I remember, not the one that''s aged and withered through the years of life I lived.


    I pause, staring down at it. My fingers are soft, youthful, with no signs of wear or age. How long has it been since I saw my hands like this? I can hardly remember.


    I touch my face cautiously. It feels... different too. Fuller, smoother. And then I catch sight of a lock of hair falling past my shoulder¡ªbright yellow. "Yellow?!"When was the last time my hair had this kind of color? Not since I was a girl or even in my life.


    This has to be a dream. But the sensations... the air feels too crisp, the earth beneath my feet too solid. I reach up, brushing the strange golden strands behind my ear, trying to make sense of it all.


    "But seriously, what is this blue light?" It reminds me of something... Ah, yes. One of the children at the orphanage had a game on their phone, with little floating icons like this. A strange thought hits me¡ª"am I in some kind of game?"


    I sigh softly. I''ve lived long enough to know that the universe has a strange way of twisting fate. Maybe this is another twist I''m meant to face.


    I decide to follow the prompt. Status Check,it had said.


    "Status check," I say, feeling somewhat foolish but going along with it.


    The blue light flickers and shifts, transforming into a floating screen filled with text, much like a menu in those video games I''ve seen that my children''s plays in their phones.


    Points: ¡Þ


    The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Strength: 10


    Agility: 15


    Stamina: 99


    Luck: -10


    Intelligence: 25


    Charisma: 5


    Mana: 100


    "Luck: negative ten?"I stare at the number in disbelief.


    Negative ten? What on earth could that mean? No wonder everything feels so uncertain. But negative ten... "Could that explain why that lizard thing was chasing me earlier?''


    I huff out a soft laugh. Life or death, it seems my luck hasn''t improved. Some things never change. I suppose I''ve always had to make do with what I had, bad luck and all.


    Well I might as well just live with it.


    I pinch myself gently, feeling the sharp sting.


    "Ouch."


    Well, that rules out the possibility of this being just a dream.


    I glance back at the screen. There''s more here. This information... it''s all about me, isn''t it? Or at least, this version of me. And then there''s the name section¡ªName: Unknown. It feels unsettling, seeing myself labeled like that, as if I''ve somehow lost my identity along the way. But no matter what''s changed about me physically, I know who I am.


    There''s a blinking message underneath: "Please click and state your name."


    "Click?"


    How can I click on something that isn''t even real?


    Hesitantly, I reach out, expecting my hand to pass through the light. Instead, my finger touches something solid¡ªlike glass. My brows knit in surprise as I press gently, a soft chime ringing in the air.


    Please enter your name:


    I thought it said state? Why am I going to enter it?


    The words flicker in front of me, and suddenly I feel... quiet. My name. My real name. It feels like such a distant memory now, even though I''ve lived with it for so long. I''ve carried it through decades of life, through every challenge, every joy, and every loss.


    That name is the last connection to the woman I used to be¡ªthe woman who lived in the quiet corners of life, who found joy in small things, even if she never found great adventure or glory.


    Should I leave that name behind? Should I start anew in this strange world?


    For a moment, I consider it. But no...


    "No".


    The person I was¡ªmy old life, my past¡ªit deserves to be remembered. This might be a new beginning, but I''m still


    "me".


    With a deep breath, I press the invisible keys, typing out each letter with care. There''s a weight to it, like I''m grounding myself in this strange new reality, refusing to let go of the life I led, the woman I was.


    "Lara Santos, your name has been confirmed."


    The soft blue light confirmed my name, and I couldn''t help but marvel at the surreal situation unfolding around me.


    Wow, this is really amazing, isn''t it? It felt like I''d been dropped straight into a video game, like the ones I used to see the kids at the orphanage glued to. I had always thought their obsession was a bit silly, but now... I understood. There was something mesmerizing about this strange new world.


    Also this blue thing is surreal.


    I smiled faintly. Oh, I miss them already.


    But then the thought hit me.


    Where am I, really?


    I glanced around, taking in the vast, breathtaking scenery. The sky stretched endlessly above me, clear and blue, while the air was so fresh it almost made my chest ache. Flowers swayed gently in the breeze, and the rolling hills in the distance seemed to go on forever.


    I''ve never seen a place like this before. It was far too beautiful to be real, but everything felt so vivid. So alive. I closed my eyes and breathed deeply, feeling the coolness of the air. It was nothing like the stagnant city air I had grown used to in my previous life.


    Then it all rushed back to me¡ªthe memory of dying, that faceless figure offering me another life, and then waking up here, being chased by a dragon of all things.


    Right. The faceless one said something about this life...


    W?????????????????????????????????????????????????h????????????????????????????????a???????????????????????????????????????????t????????????????????????? ??????????????????????????i???????????????????????????????????????t????????????????????????????? ?????????????i????????????????????????????s?????????????????????????? ??????????????????t????????????????????????????????????????????h??????????????????????????o??????????????????????????????????????????????????u?????????????????????????????g?????????????????????????????????h?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????


    I glanced back at the blue light. My age: 20 years old.


    I let out a soft laugh, incredulous. This body is way too young. I hadn''t been 20 in decades! It felt strange, like a distant memory, to be this spry again, full of energy and vitality. I raised my hands and ran them through my hair, noticing its smoothness. Even my hair''s different, I thought, seeing the long strands of yellow-blonde that definitely weren''t there when I was old.


    I looked down at my clothes¡ªa pair of brown leather pants and a simple white shirt. The feel of the fabric against my skin was oddly comforting, not unlike the dresses I wore when I was younger. When I hit 60, dresses became my staple for comfort, but now, this casual attire felt strangely refreshing.


    Then reality hit me. Do I even have any money?


    Instinctively, I reached into my pockets, feeling around for anything. My fingers came up empty. Of course. No money. I sighed, rubbing my temples as I tried to think about what to do next. I couldn''t survive in this world without something to trade or buy with.


    I might die hunger with this. Everything is so sudden now I''m stuck penniless.


    And as if reading my mind, the system¡ªthis strange guiding presence¡ªintervened, displaying more text.


    The system suggests traveling to the nearby city.


    A direction. Finally. But... could I trust it?


    I furrowed my brow.


    "Is this not a trap, then?" I asked out loud, half-expecting the system to respond. But silence was all I got in return. No answers, just the faint breeze rustling through the grass.


    Phew.


    I exhaled, feeling the weight of uncertainty settle over me. Should I follow this little blue light? The memory of the fire-breathing lizard that had chased me earlier flashed in my mind, and a chill ran down my spine.


    I almost died back there. I didn''t want to repeat that experience anytime soon.


    But what choice did I have?


    None.

 Chapter 2

    A Few Moments Later


    "Can you repeat that, dearie?" I asked the young woman in front of me, struggling to keep up with her fast-paced explanation. She looked at me with an expression that suggested I''d just asked her to solve a Rubik''s Cube blindfolded.


    "You talk to me like a grandmother," she shot back, rolling her eyes.


    "Anyway, to earn money, you need points. You buy items in the sell menu using those points. If you buy an item that''s level A-R, you can sell it and then earn some money." She ended her explanation with a huff, as if I should have already known this life-changing information.


    Points? I thought. I knew I had some, but they looked like a squished number 8. The blue light blinking next to me insisted it was unlimited, but I couldn''t make sense of it.


    "Earning points¡ªhow do you earn points?" I asked, trying to sound curious instead of clueless. She stared at me like I''d just sprouted a second head.


    "How could you not know that?" she snapped, her annoyance palpable. "This is the information area, for crying out loud! It''s not rocket science!"


    "Pardon?" I said, attempting to keep my composure. But her rude demeanor didn''t faze me. I just smiled politely, hoping it would help defuse the tension.


    "To earn points, you need to hunt monsters! Or if you can''t hunt monsters, you can work to earn money," she said, her tone softening slightly but still laced with impatience.


    Suddenly, a pop-up from the system suggested I hunt a monster.


    "Wait, what? But that involves killing, right?" I asked, my heart racing at the thought.


    "To hunt a monster, you need a card to see the system," she replied, as if explaining the intricacies of quantum physics.


    And I don''t understand any of it.


    "System?" I echoed, feeling even more lost. "Are you really unaware? The system is a guide that helps you on your adventure. It costs at least 100 gold to have one," she explained, her tone now dripping with sarcasm.


    A guide? Was that what the blue light was? I squinted at the glowing object beside me.


    "Is this the one that looks like a blue light?" I asked, pointing at it like it was the star of a sci-fi movie.


    "So you already have a system," she said, her voice flat and unimpressed, as if she couldn''t believe I was wasting her time.


    Well, things are hard for me! All I''ve done my whole life is take care of people. I earn money through my fast food business and help out wherever I can because it makes me happy. But I never expected to be here


    "Let me see your card so I can check your points," she demanded, crossing her arms like a teacher waiting for a student to hand in an overdue assignment.


    "But I don''t have a card!" I admitted, feeling a bit sheepish.


    "You don''t have a card? You''re telling me you have a system but no card? You must be lying about having a system!" she exclaimed, her eyes narrowing like a hawk eyeing its prey.


    "No, how could I lie?" I protested, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment.


    She looked at me as if she had just found a fly in her soup, clearly done with our interaction.


    Suddenly, a young man with jet-black hair, clad in an all-white outfit that looked straight out of a fantasy novel, approached. He handed me a book with a cheerful smile. The title read "All the Basics," and it seemed to glow with promise.


    "This might help," he said warmly. "You look new"


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    "Oh, and this is for free!" he added, as if that made it even better. I hesitated, eyeing the book as if it might bite me.


    "You sure?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "Yeah!" he replied with an enthusiastic nod.


    "Oh, thank you, young child!" I exclaimed, relieved. This book seemed to be just what I needed.


    "Thank you also, young lady," I said to the rude woman, who merely muttered, "Y-eyah," clearly still unimpressed by my existence.


    Then she turned to the man. "Priest Caelum, you came today!" she said, her voice brightening.


    The man, Priest Caelum, smiled back. "Oh, yeah, I''m here for a favor," he said casually, as if being a priest was just a side gig.


    A priest? He didn''t look old enough for that role! I was Catholic, and I knew that 25 was the typical age for a priest, yet he seemed to be in his teenage years. Maybe he just had a baby face. Well, either way, I seemed to be out of the conversation, and it might be best to leave before I became an even bigger nuisance.


    Youngsters nowadays really are impatient but well it work well for me.


    So, basically, the book said that items from Level A to R are sellable, but anything above that can''t be sold unless the owner dies.


    If that happens, those items can be sold for a high price since they''re hard to achieve through points. Level S items and above can be given to party members, but they can''t be sold; if they are, they''ll break and become useless.


    This world revolves around killing monsters¡ªbasically, brutality on a grand scale. I can''t help but wonder how the children in this world are doing. I bet a lot of them have lost their parents; how cruel is that?


    I mean, here I am, having lived a long life and died as an old woman, only to find myself in this strange new world. In my life, all I cared about was helping people. I never even considered the existence of systems like this!


    This world operates on hunting monsters and clearing levels. Once you get a card, you can start leveling up, with the highest current level being Diamond. When you start, you get assigned to Bronze, and they call you an adventurer. It''s complicated, and to be honest, I still can''t wrap my head around it. But I just confirmed¡ªI have infinite points! There is no thing said in this book about infinite points but seems I had it as one of the blessing.


    "So I won''t follow your system," I declared to the blue light that flickered in response. How can I even unsee this?


    While walking to this information area, I saw a lot of children in ragged clothes and people begging. What a disheartening sight! How cruel this world is!


    Is this why the creator sent me? To help them? I''ve honestly forgotten my purpose. But since I''m here, it''s clear that I have to do something. With infinite points at my disposal, I can buy all the items in this so-called shop. I could even sell this sword that appeared in front of me when I first opened my eyes here. It''s labeled as Class D, so it should at least be worth something.


    But my eyes is somehow annoying a box of blue light letter is appearing to every item I see.


    I should sell a lot of items and build a restaurant to help those who need to eat. Yeah, let''s do what I did before: help people, give them jobs, feed them, and everything. I could even build my own orphanage!


    Seeing those children begging for food is just heartbreaking. It seems so cruel. I see people covered in beautiful armor, but they ignore those helpless kids. People and adventurers in this world are typically unethical.


    I can''t even bear this.


    "Shop," I stated, and just like that, the system appeared¡ªa virtual storefront reminiscent of online shopping platforms like Amazon or Shopee. Ah, now this was familiar! As an old woman, I had spent quite a bit of time perusing online shops in my previous life.


    The reason I know I really have infinite points is that the book mentioned if you can''t buy an item, its price would appear in red. But for me? Everything is green! Even the highest-level items are green. That horizontal eight? It''s basically an infinity symbol! I felt a surge of gratitude, even if I couldn''t help but feel a bit unlucky remembering my past.


    With this newfound wealth, I should buy enough to build my own restaurant and secure a plot of land. Just how amazing this is.


    I can continue my old life.


    How is my children doing now in another world? Oh how I miss them.


    At the Sale Shop


    Upon arriving at the center, I approached the information desk and asked where I could sell an item. After a bit of wandering, I stumbled into some random sales shop guild.


    I bought a ton of items¡ªat least a thousand pieces, I think! But oddly enough, none of them seemed to appear in front of me. I figured that would be enough; I didn''t want to be greedy, after all.


    Suddenly, a small bag materialized in front of me, looking like a magical wallet. It claimed to be a "magical bag" where I could stash any item. The price? A whopping million points! But my points didn''t budge at all.


    At first, I struggled to lift it because it was so heavy. How could something so small weigh a ton? Then I noticed a section in my status labeled "strength." It seemed complicated, and I couldn''t help but wonder how youngsters today put up with all this nonsense. I decided to max out my strength, and suddenly, it said "Max!" Now I could carry it with ease. I can basically add points to my status to level up myself but the lucky one can''t be for some reason.


    Basically it''s an absurd thing that I can adjust my physical quality by just this things.


    "How many items do you have?" the man behind the counter asked, his eyebrows shooting up as if he was expecting a surprise.


    "Oh, here!" I said, pulling out the magical bag. His eyes widened as if he had just seen a ghost.

 Chapter 3

    Third Person Point of View


    "What do you mean someone brought a magical bag?" Jerncy, the Guild Master, asked, his brow furrowing in confusion as he looked at his employee.


    "Yes, Guild Master. A woman brought a magical bag, hoping to sell an item to us," the employee replied, glancing nervously at Jerncy.


    A magical bag? Those were typically reserved for seasoned adventurers, the kind who had climbed the ranks and gathered countless points. It cost a fortune to acquire one. Jerncy''s mind raced as he considered the implications.


    Who is she? What kind of adventurer would possess such a treasure?


    "Should we escort her to the VIP room?" the employee suggested, eyeing Jerncy for approval.


    "Do so," he said, his voice steady and authoritative, despite the curiosity bubbling inside him. It seemed they had hit the jackpot today.


    A Few Moments Later


    "I apologize for the wait," the Guild Master said, his tone professional as he approached Lara.


    Lara stood up, her posture straightening with a mix of confidence and nervousness. "Greetings," she said, offering a polite smile, though her eyes flickered with uncertainty.


    Jerncy observed her closely, noting the way her hands trembled slightly at her sides. She seems like a newbie, he thought, his mind cataloging her every movement.


    "I heard you''re here to sell something," Jerncy inquired, leaning forward slightly, his curiosity piqued.


    "Oh yes," Lara replied, her voice gaining strength as she get the magical bag. The air seemed to thrum with energy as the bag''s enchantment pulsed softly.


    The Guild Master hesitated for a moment, his hand hovering over the bag''s shimmering fabric. But when he finally gripped it, he was instantly shocked by its weight. It felt like he had just lifted a mountain, and he nearly stumbled back, the marble floor cracking beneath him with a dull thud.


    The collective gasp from the surrounding guild members echoed in the air, their eyes wide with disbelief.


    "Oh, I''m sorry about that," Lara said quickly, her cheeks flushing a deep shade of crimson. She bent down to retrieve the magical bag, her movements careful and deliberate as she placed it gently on the table.


    What the¡ª? That thing is so heavy! Jerncy''s mind raced, questions swirling like a storm. There must be a lot of items inside that bag. Who is this adventurer? She might seem fragile and inexperienced, but she''s no ordinary adventurer if she can lift that.


    In the back of her mind, Lara worried about the heaviness of the bag. Is he okay?


    "I might lose some of my strength due to being old," Jerncy said, trying to laugh off his embarrassment.


    But deep down, he knew he was one of the strongest men in the guild. Just who is this woman? He felt a mix of admiration and intrigue as he regarded Lara. Despite his reputation as one of the top ten strongest guild members, that small bag had nearly bested him.


    His heart raced with a newfound respect for the seemingly unassuming woman before him.


    Jerncy settled into a plush chair on the opposite side of the ornate oak desk, gesturing for Lara to take a seat across from him. As she settled in, the two employees¡ªone man and one woman¡ªstood behind the Guild Master, their expressions a mix of curiosity and awe.


    Is he the boss of this area? Lara wondered, her heart racing as she looked at the imposing figure of Jerncy.


    "Do you have an information card with you?" Jerncy asked, his tone shifting to one of business-like seriousness.


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    Lara paused, a sinking feeling in her stomach. I never had one, she thought, grappling with her unfamiliarity with this world.


    "I can''t show it," she replied, her voice steady but tinged with apprehension.


    The Guild Master regarded her with a thoughtful expression. Oh, she might be hiding her identity. It was typical for high-ranking adventurers to conceal themselves from the crowd to avoid the chaos that often ensued. She might be one of them.


    Please don''t ask for ID; I don''t have one, Lara pleaded silently.


    "It''s okay. Now, can we see the items you have in that bag?" the Guild Master prompted, his curiosity palpable.


    A Few Moments Later


    When Lara opened the magical bag, the room filled with gasps of disbelief. Each item seemed to shimmer as it emerged: from ornate mage wands to gleaming soldier armor, from elegant priest robes to various high-level weapons and gear¡ªall Level H and beyond. They were arranged like a magnificent display, catching the light in a dazzling array.


    I bought all these items since they might cost a lot, Lara thought, a sense of pride swelling within her. I think this will suffice for me to start a business.


    The Guild Master''s mind raced. This is a lot! We are going to be bankrupt for a while? He exchanged glances with his employees, who looked equally stunned. Just who is she, really? These items are all brand new and never used. They''re all class items, meaning she holds all classes. This is a unique type.


    "I may I ask your name?" the Guild Master asked, his voice regaining its composure.


    "Lara," she answered, feeling a flicker of hope.


    "Okay, Lara. We can buy everything, but since all items dropped at the same time, it will be less than 10 percent of their original price. Is that okay with you?" he inquired, assessing her reaction carefully.


    I can''t afford everything at full price, guild master thought, the implications of his offer sinking in. Might as well say yes to this little man since some of the shops asked for ID, which I don''t have. Lara thought


    "Sure," she said, her voice carrying a sense of determination.


    She is so generous with that?! Jerncy thought, feeling the weight of misunderstandings dissolve in the air.


    In total, Lara possessed 50 Level H items, each with a price tag of 1 Gold. The pricing system in this world was straightforward yet intriguing:


    ¡¤ 1 Gold = 10 Silver


    ¡¤ 1 Silver = 100 Bronze


    ¡¤ 1 Bronze can buy 10 loaves of bread.


    This translated to a remarkable conversion rate of 1 Gold = 1000 Bronze.


    As the Guild Master calculated the total value of Lara''s offerings, he marveled at the numbers:


    Total Value Before Discount:


    50 items ¡Á 1 Gold/item = 50 Gold


    A moment of pause settled in the air before the Guild Master continued, "Considering the current market, we will apply a 10% discount."


    Calculating the Discount:


    50 Gold ¡Á 0.10 = 5 Gold


    With a nod, he concluded, "Thus, the Total After Discount is:


    50 Gold - 5 Gold = 45 Gold


    Lara felt a mixture of relief and triumph. The numbers danced in her mind as he further detailed, "Now, converting this into Bronze for you:


    45 Gold ¡Á 1000 Bronze/Gold = 45000 Bronze


    But that wasn''t all. Lara''s magical bag held more secrets. She had amassed a total of 1000 additional items distributed across various levels, labeled from Level I to Level R. The Guild Master swiftly calculated, recognizing the significance of each level, and distributed the items evenly:


    ¡¤ Level I: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level J: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level K: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level L: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level M: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level N: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level O: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level P: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level Q: 100 items


    ¡¤ Level R: 100 items


    Lara had accumulated a staggering total of 5145 Gold from the various items she had acquired. (The author couldn''t keep up with the numbering anymore, )but it was clear that each level item came with its own escalating price. Level I items cost 2 Gold each, while Level J items were 3 Gold, and the prices continued to rise with each successive level.


    Lara- She could easily purchase a lavish mansion or acquire multiple plots of land¡ªperhaps ten or even more. The thought of her newfound riches sent a thrill through her.


    Lara stood before the guild master, her eyes wide as she stared at the pile of gold coins laid out on the table. The gleaming metal seemed to shimmer in the light, and her heart raced.


    "Are you sure this is the right price?" she asked, incredulity lacing her voice.


    The guild master furrowed his brow, a hint of concern flickering in his expression. Is she thinking we''re scamming her? he wondered, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly.


    "Yes, that is all," he replied, attempting to sound confident despite the uncertainty creeping in. "I can even provide you with a detailed report if you''d like."


    "No, that''s not necessary," Lara interrupted, her voice slightly shaky. She was still in shock, the weight of the gold feeling surreal.


    The guild master studied her for a moment, his thoughts racing. She''s scary, he thought, trying to understand her reaction. I''ve dealt with many adventurers, but none have ever looked at a fortune like this with such disbelief.

 Chapter 4

    Lara Point of View


    With the wealth I had earned, I was able to build my own restaurant and even establish an orphanage nearby. I took pride in creating a place where the homeless could find work and shelter, carefully checking their attitudes and backgrounds before hiring them. Over the past six months, I had built a warm community filled with laughter, especially from the children who now had a home.


    I was content, but that persistent blue light kept nagging at me, urging me to engage in combat. The thought of killing someone, or worse, was something I couldn''t bear to entertain, so I chose to ignore it.


    "Lara! Lara!" a child''s voice broke through my thoughts. I turned to see a little girl, her eyes wide with excitement. "What is it?" I asked, kneeling to meet her gaze.


    "I see a big fairy above!" she exclaimed, pointing skyward. Just as I followed her gaze, the ground began to tremble beneath us. Panic surged through me as I quickly wrapped my arms around her, holding her close.


    "What''s happening?" she cried, fear creeping into her voice.


    "Isla, can you take Lily and hide under the house?" I urged, trying to keep my tone calm despite the chaos unfolding around us. The little girl hesitated, frozen in fear. "Lara! A dragon has shown up in front of the yard!" Isla shouted, her voice trembling.


    A dragon? I thought incredulously. You mean a big lizard?


    "Get Lily! I''m going to check it out," I instructed Isla. She nodded, finally pulling Lily away from my arms, and I dashed toward the door, my heart pounding. As I stepped outside, the blue light flickered in front of me, filling my vision.


    "Level 1: Defeat the Lesser Dragon!"


    "Why are you showing me this? I''m trying to run away from it!" I shouted at the light, frustration bubbling inside me.


    "Not defeating the dragon will result in -20 luck points. Death for all individuals around you."


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    My eyes widened in shock. Was this some kind of sick joke?


    Suddenly, I heard a roar that echoed through the air, shaking the very ground beneath me. I turned just in time to see the dragon launching its attack, flames erupting from its mouth as it unleashed a torrent of fire upon the garden. Panic coursed through me as I realized that there was no escaping this fight.


    The heat from the flames washed over me, and the garden erupted into chaos. Flowers were reduced to ash, and screams filled the air. I had to act. I couldn''t let this creature destroy everything I had worked so hard to build.


    "No! Not my home!" I shouted, steeling my resolve. I could feel the weight of the responsibility pressing down on me, the children''s lives depending on my actions.


    With no other choice, I took a deep breath, drawing upon the strength I had gained over the past months. This was my home, and I would protect it. I clenched my fists, focusing on the blue light that lingered at the edge of my vision, igniting a fierce determination within me.


    "Level 1: Defeat the Lesser Dragon!" it echoed again, as if mocking my hesitation.


    It hurts my brain.


    I charged forward, my heart pounding with a mix of fear, ready to confront the dragon looming before me.


    I had to do this¡ªnot just for myself, but for all the lives I had come to cherish in this new world. Every child''s laugh, every grateful smile, and every moment of joy at the restaurant and orphanage flooded my mind as I approached the massive beast.


    With every step, I felt the weight of responsibility heavy on my shoulders. The ground trembled beneath the dragon''s weight, and its fiery eyes bore into mine. I steeled myself, knowing that retreat was not an option.


    As the battle raged on, I pushed myself to the limit. I felt strength coursing through me, every ounce of energy directed at defeating the creature. I maximized my stats, harnessing magic that I had only recently learned to wield.


    But despite my resolve, as the dust settled and the dragon lay lifeless before me, a sickening realization washed over me. Blood was splattered across my face and hands, warm and sticky. I had taken a life. I had become what I swore I would never be.


    I am scared


    "What do you want from me?" I shouted at the flickering system, a white glow illuminating the area around me. The words it displayed felt like a cruel taunt:


    "Defeat the Demon Lord."


    Defeat the Demon Lord? Is this my purpose here?


    I wanted to deny it, to shake off the burden it imposed on me, but deep down, I knew I couldn''t escape this fate. The system flickered again, now glowing a deep blue.


    I hate this thing


    "Lara! Lara!" The distant voice of a child called out, pulling me from my spiraling thoughts. I turned, my heart racing as I saw the faces of the people I had come to care for, their eyes wide with shock and fear.


    I could see it clearly now: If I ignored the system, if I turned away from this new destiny, some of them might die. I felt the weight of their lives resting heavily on my conscience. Was this some kind of cruel joke?

 Chapter 5

    Third Point of View


    Lara had no choice but to follow the system''s insistent demand to defeat the Demon Lord. The thought of leaving behind her beloved orphanage and restaurant weighed heavily on her, but she entrusted their care to her faithful friend, Isla, with a promise to return as soon as possible. She had to admit, though, that the system wasn''t making it easy; her luck points had dwindled down to a pitiful nine, and it felt like every step of the journey was uphill.


    Determined to increase her chances, Lara set out to recruit allies


    Lara stood at the edge of the cliff, watching as the last rays of sunlight bled into the sky, painting it with deep purples and oranges. Below her, the kingdom stretched out in a sprawling tapestry of forests, rivers, and villages, each place brimming with life and stories yet untold. She took a deep breath, letting the cool evening air fill her lungs, then turned to look at her party gathered behind her.


    It was quite the motley crew. Bruni the dwarf was adjusting her axe belt, her burly arms bulging as she tested the weight of his weapon. She gave it a few playful swings, a grin spreading across her face as if imagining the next foe she''d cleave in two. Beside him, Zephyra the dyad looked completely at peace, his delicate green skin blending with the surrounding foliage as if he was more plant than person. He was humming softly, and small leaves seemed to dance around him with each note.


    Then there was Faye, flitting about in a cloud of sparkles and giggles, her wings catching the last of the sunlight as she buzzed over Kaida''s head. The half-dragon scowled, swatting half-heartedly at the glitter that seemed to coat her scales with every pass Faye made. Kaida huffed, blowing a small plume of smoke from her nose in frustration.


    Morven the witch stood slightly apart from the rest, his dark robes billowing in the wind as he leaned on his gnarled staff. He looked as if he were posing for a particularly dramatic painting, his beard trailing down his chest as he surveyed the scene with narrowed, thoughtful eyes. Thailon the elf, on the other hand, was barely visible. He moved with such stealth that even now, leaning casually against a tree, he seemed to melt into the shadows, his piercing blue eyes the only clue to his presence. Lastly, Priest Caelum stood near Lara, a soft, reassuring smile on his face. He clutched his staff close to his chest, his white robes gleaming in the fading light as he offered a small prayer to bless their journey.


    Lara crossed her arms, her gaze sweeping over them with a mix of affection and skepticism. Can they really help me defeat the Demon Lord? she wondered, chewing on her bottom lip. They seemed so young, so raw, and a part of her worried she was dragging them into a battle they weren''t ready for.


    "Well," she muttered to herself, "I did need a team. And these were the only people who weren''t weirded out by my plans to fight a demon." She sighed, shaking her head as the absurdity of it all hit her. "Great, looks like I''m basically babysitting seven overgrown children with magical powers."


    "Oi, Lara," Bruni called, breaking her train of thought. She stomped over, her armor clinking with each step. "What''s with that look? Are ye doubting us again?"


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    Lara smiled faintly. "Not exactly doubting, Bruni. Just... contemplating."


    Kaida rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. "Contemplating what? That we''re all too inexperienced for this? You say that every time we fight, and yet we keep winning."


    Lara smirked, feeling a surge of pride despite herself. "Maybe. But you''ve got to admit, we still have a lot to learn. I mean, you did nearly torch the entire village back there child."


    Kaida grinned, unbothered. "Hey, they were asking for it. Besides, I wasn''t the one who accidentally summoned a swarm of bees on us."


    "Oh, here we go," Faye piped up, her voice filled with mock exasperation. "Blame the fairy for a little bad luck! I did offer to fix it with a charm, didn''t I?"


    "Yes, and then we ended up with a sudden hailstorm. Quite the charm, that was," Morven said, his eyes twinkling with a dry humor.


    Caelum stepped forward, raising his hands in a placating gesture. "Now, now, let''s not argue. We''re all here for the same purpose, after all. Besides, our real test lies ahead."


    Thailon chuckled softly from his spot in the shadows. "Spoken like a true healer, Caelum. Ever the peacekeeper."


    Lara chuckled, shaking her head. "You know, you all are the weirdest bunch I''ve ever had the misfortune to lead." Her tone was fond, though, and they knew it.


    "Weird or not, we''re here, and we''re ready," Zephyra said, her voice soft yet resolute. "I feel it in the earth and the wind. We are stronger than you think, Lara."


    Bruni slapped a hand on Lara''s back, nearly knocking her off balance. "Aye! Ye keep sayin'' we''re novices, but look at us! We''ve been winnin'' every battle so far, thanks to this crew!" she gestured to the rest of the group, each of them standing a little taller, pride gleaming in their eyes.


    Lara looked at them, a warmth spreading through her chest.


    She didn''t want to admit it, but they''d all grown stronger¡ªperhaps even more than she realized. Each of them had their own quirks and oddities, but that was part of what made them work so well together. Somehow, despite her constant worrying, they managed to scrape by every time.


    "Alright, alright," she said, holding up her hands in surrender. "I get it. You''re not completely hopeless. I''ll try to complain less, but no promises."


    Kaida snorted, Faye giggled, and even Morven cracked a small smile. Lara turned back toward the horizon, the vast kingdom stretching out before them. With her motley crew by her side, she felt a strange, quiet confidence bubbling within her.


    Maybe they''re not as green as I thought, she mused, glancing over her shoulder at them once more. And with that, they set off, their laughter ringing out against the evening sky as they made their way toward whatever challenges lay ahead.


    But to be honest it''s Lara fault Luck:-20


    One fateful day, during a particularly harrowing quest to explore an ancient temple, Lara''s luck took a dark turn. While examining an ancient relic, she unwittingly triggered a curse¡ªa spell woven with threads of darkness that bound her fate. The air thickened, a chill settling over her.


    "You have awakened the wrath of the ancients," echoed a haunting voice from the depths of the temple.


    "Your fate is sealed; twenty years of life remain, and then you shall perish."


    The Ancient Forbiden Curse Activated. Remove the Curse / Kill the one who owned the Cursed


    Curse Origin: Demon King


    Penalty: Death


    Time Remaining: 19 years and 364 days 23 hours and 58 minutes.


    The words struck her like a physical blow. "What? No! There has to be a way to break it!" she shouted, panic rising within her.


    But despite her frantic searching, the ancient texts spoke only of acceptance.


    With a heavy heart, Lara decided to keep the curse a secret. She would not burden her friends with the knowledge of her impending doom. Instead, she resolved to make the most of her remaining years, pouring herself into her adventures and cherishing every moment with her party.

 Chapter 6

    Third Point of View


    Twenty years flew by in a whirlwind of battles, camaraderie, and countless acts of heroism. Lara and her team grew closer, their bonds forged in the fires of conflict. Together, they faced challenges that would''ve broken lesser groups, their teamwork transforming them into a legendary party. Yet, through it all, Lara felt a gnawing emptiness¡ªa hollow pit she couldn''t quite place.


    As they battled the final boss, a fearsome demon that threatened to plunge the world into darkness, Lara fought with everything she had. Her party stood at her side, each one determined to protect their leader.


    "Together!" Lara shouted, her heart swelling with pride for her friends.


    "You can do it, Lara! We believe in you!" Thailon encouraged, his voice steady and reassuring.


    "Just keep that demon busy; I''ll heal you if you need it!" Caelum added, his eyes focused on the fray.


    With one last, desperate strike, they defeated the demon. But as the dust settled, a dark shadow enveloped Lara. The curse activated, and she fell to her knees, gasping for breath.


    Lara felt an overwhelming sense of peace wash over her as the weight of life and battle faded. The pain, once gripping her body, dissipated, replaced by warmth. Her heartbeat slowed, her breaths coming in shallow whispers.


    The same day they defeated the demon lord is the same day Lara curse is activating.


    "I''m sorry," she murmured, her voice fragile but serene. "I''ve lived more than I ever dreamed... thank you... for everything." A faint smile graced her lips as she surrendered


    Everyone''s eyes widened as her body turned black, with blood streaming from her ears and eyes.


    Her party, her closest companions who had fought by her side through countless battles, could only stand frozen in horror as their beloved leader slipped away. The battlefield, once filled with the clamor of steel and cries of war, was now disturbingly silent, the air thick with the weight of their grief.


    Bruni, the fiercest among them, fell to her knees, her sword slipping from her trembling hands.


    "No... NO!" she screamed, her voice breaking with the rawness of her agony. "We can''t let this be the end! Not like this!" Her tears mixed with the bloodied earth as she clutched the ground, her heart shattered.


    They all run to her.


    Kaida, the resilient fighter, stared at Lara''s still form, her mind refusing to accept what had happened.


    She shook her head, refusing to believe the truth. "There has to be something... we can''t let her die like this!" she shouted, her fists clenched in desperation. She knelt beside Lara, her hands gripping her friend''s cold ones as if trying to will life back into her.


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    Thailon, the elven archer or the tank, stood back, his silver hair glinting in the fading sunlight, his sharp eyes filled with torment. His usually stoic demeanor cracked as his voice trembled. "There has to be a way," he muttered under his breath, frustration and sorrow evident in his features.


    "Lara cannot be gone... not her." His long fingers twitched toward his bow, as if grasping for something familiar to ground him in the face of this unbearable loss.


    Caelum, the priest, dropped to his knees beside Lara, his hands glowing with divine energy as he chanted prayer after prayer. His voice wavered, desperation seeping into his words. "Please, gods, hear me... don''t take her," he begged, tears streaming down his face. The light from his hands, however, flickered and faded, powerless against the finality of death. "It can''t end like this..."


    Morven, the sorcerer, clenched his trembling hands into fists, his mind racing with thoughts of ancient magic and forbidden rituals.


    "There are legends... spells... ancient incantations that can reverse fate," he muttered, his voice shaky. "We can bring her back... we just need to find them." But even he knew the chances were slipping through their fingers like sand.


    Zephyra, the Dyad, stood silently, his dark eyes fixed on Lara''s motionless body.


    The wind stirred around him, responding to his rising turmoil. A calm and powerful presence, Zephyra''s connection to the elements had always made him the voice of reason, but now even he seemed lost. His deep voice, usually steady as a mountain, wavered.


    "The cycles of life and death... I''ve always believed they cannot be broken," he whispered, his hands clenching by his sides.


    "But not like this... we can''t lose her like this." He reached out to the earth beneath him, channeling the energy of nature itself, but it was unresponsive. Nature remained indifferent to their pleas.


    Above them, Faye, the small but determined fairy, fluttered in desperation, her wings shimmering with magic. She circled over Lara, her tiny hands releasing bursts of fairy dust that glimmered in the dying light.


    "I can help! There must be something I can do!" she cried, her voice filled with a frantic hope. But the magic fizzled into the air, unable to bridge the gap between life and death. Her wings drooped, her glow dimming as despair set in.


    "Why isn''t it working? Why can''t I bring her back?"


    "We''re not done yet!" Bruni cried, her voice hoarse with grief but burning with determination. "There has to be a way¡ªthere must be something we can do!"


    Days blurred into weeks, and weeks into months. Their search to bring Lara back consumed them, driving them to the ends of the earth. They ventured through cursed forests, ancient ruins, and hidden tombs, seeking out every rumor and legend that promised the power to reverse death. Thailon scouted forgotten paths through enchanted lands, his sharp eyes ever vigilant, but no answers came. Kaida and Bruni faced countless dangers, their weapons never resting, but with every failure, their spirits dimmed.


    Caelum spent his days in endless prayer, invoking every god, every power he could think of, but even his divine connection yielded no results. Morven dove into the darkest corners of magic, researching forbidden spells and rituals, but each one led to another dead end. Faye scoured the world for the rarest artifacts, her tiny wings beating tirelessly as she searched for a miracle.


    Zephyra, ever composed and calm, reached deep into the natural forces, communing with spirits of the earth and sky, but even they were silent. His once unshakable belief in the cycle of life wavered, and for the first time, he doubted the wisdom of the elements.


    "We''re losing her all over again," Thailon said one night, his voice hollow as the campfire crackled before them.


    Bruni stared into the flames, her face shadowed with exhaustion. "No matter how hard we try... she''s gone, isn''t she?"


    A silence fell over the group, the weight of their failure settling in. Despite all their strength, all their efforts, the void left by Lara''s death remained. Their leader, their light, was truly gone.


    This is the end of their adventure.

 Chapter 7

    So they thought.


    Eventually, the party members parted ways, each carrying the weight of their loss differently, still trying to find ways to revived Lara. Bruni returned to the mountains, forging weapons in her grief. Zephyra wandered the forests, seeking solace among the trees. Faye flitted from one place to another, desperately trying to chase away the shadows of despair. Kaida traveled to distant lands, seeking the thrill of battle to drown out her sorrow. Morven returned to his hermitage, filled with knowledge yet empty of purpose. Thailon and Caelum, too, went their separate paths, burdened by the loss of their leader.


    Yet, amidst the sorrow, one truth remained¡ªthey would never forget Lara. She had taught them what it meant to be a true hero, to stand united against darkness, and to cherish the bonds of friendship.


    Though she was gone, her spirit lived on within each of them, a flicker of light in the darkest of times.


    And perhaps, just perhaps, they would find a way to honor her memory¡ªif not by bringing her back, then by living fully for the both of them. After all, Lara had faced her fate with bravery, and they owed it to her to do the same.


    And once she said "Even with mountains ahead and enemies all around, I guess I''m still the luckiest... because I have all of you. Be nice and achieve all the dreams you wanted. People only live once thought it might be different in times of how long we will leave let''s embrace the world and be happy"


    Someone Point of View


    "Then why am I alive?" I muttered, slowly opening my eyes to an unfamiliar place. The unbearable pain I had felt just moments before was gone. I couldn''t feel it anymore, but instead, I felt strangely refreshed¡ªtoo refreshed.


    "The System welcomes you to your second life."


    "Second life?" I whispered to myself, confusion creeping in. But then it clicked. Yes, this is my second life. I died before and reincarnated. That demon lord¡ªI remember defeating him, but this doesn''t feel like victory.


    Suddenly, a wave of recognition hit me, and I leapt from the bed, rushing toward the mirror nearby. The reflection that greeted me was familiar¡ªfar too familiar¡ªbut this isn''t who I am now.


    I stared in disbelief. "This isn''t me..."


    "But¡ªthis is me. My old self." The image in the mirror showed a younger version of me, back when I was in college. Long brown hair, black eyes... This was who I was in my first life. How could I forget?


    But why now? I stepped back, unable to take my eyes off the reflection. Am I back in my first life?


    No. I shook my head and looked around the room. Everything here was foreign. This wasn''t the Philippines, not even close. The world outside the window was peaceful, but the plants, the landscape¡ªit was nothing I''d ever seen before. No. I''m still in Landeon.


    "You have completed the mission. The reward has been put into effect."


    The silent message appeared in front of me, the system''s usual voice absent this time, replaced by the cold, emotionless text.


    "You can now live your life as you desired."


    The message flickered off, leaving me standing there, stunned. What just happened? I remember fighting, defeating the demon lord, but... why am I still in this world? And in a different body? I clenched my fists. This didn''t feel right.


    "Status check," I said, my voice firm.


    The familiar status screen appeared before me. My stats were still the same¡ªall maxed out as they were before. But then I noticed something odd. My luck¡ª40? I remember it being 10 last time. Is this part of the reward?


    Wait. Something else caught my attention. My name.


    Name: Lara (Amelia Landfield ), Age: 20.


    "Amelia?" I muttered, frowning at the parentheses around the name. Why Amelia? And why am I back to being 20 years old?


    I gripped the edge of the bed, the realization sinking in. "This is my third life..."


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    My gaze lingered on the name ''Amelia'' as a sense of dread washed over me. My luck had increased to 40, which meant I might finally have the peaceful life I longed for, but...


    "Oh, dear Amelia, you''re awake! Come downstairs, breakfast is ready," a warm voice called out from beyond the door.


    I stiffened. The woman sounded so familiar, yet so distant, like an echo of someone I once knew. It felt strange, hearing her call me Amelia. Still, the warmth in her tone tugged at something inside me.


    This is crazy!.


    I sat back on the bed, letting out a slow breath. So, this is my life now. I am Amelia, a 20-year-old adventurer.


    "This really is my third life..." I whispered to myself. Amelia''s parents, Bernin and Famelia, had raised me here. They said I had a brother, an adventurer working in Grenancine City, and that I, too, was an adventurer, just like him.


    It was strange, calling them ''mom'' and ''dad,'' but at the same time, it felt... nice. Warm. Familiar, in an odd way.


    Like I am really Amelia.


    "Status check." I focused again on my system.


    Skill: Amelia (Archer) | Lara (Undetected)


    The screen displayed my skills. Lara, the name I had in my second life, was still there, tucked away under the ability "Undetected." All my stats from before remained, maxed out, with infinite points available.


    I sighed, looking at the calendar on the wall. Two centuries had passed since I died¡ª200 years since I last walked this world. I died in the year 11016, and now it was 11216. So much had changed. and even though I had been reborn into the same world, everything felt... different.


    What about the people I once knew? My friends? The children in the orphanage¡ªwhat became of them? Are they all gone? The system that once spoke to me frequently was now silent, giving me only cold, clinical updates. There were no voices guiding me anymore, no messages popping up at every moment.


    "Can I really live my life now?" I asked, my voice softer this time, as if speaking to the system, though I knew it wouldn''t respond. A soft flicker of blue light from the system appeared briefly, then faded.


    I was alone.


    The Next Day


    "Get safe out there, please come back alive... and tell your brother we''re doing fine." Famelia''s voice trembled as tears streamed down her cheeks. She clung to me, her grip tight and desperate, as if letting go meant losing me forever. My heart clenched at the sight of her, so vulnerable, a woman who had loved and cared for me as if I had been her child all my life.


    But I wasn''t. Not really.


    She wasn''t my mother, and yet here she was, crying for me like a mother would.


    "Mother..." I whispered, trying to comfort her, though the words felt empty. Her sobs only grew louder, and I realized no amount of comforting would soothe the fear she had for my safety.


    Bernin, my father in this life, approached me then, his strong hands holding out a worn leather wallet. He pressed it into my hand, his touch gentle but firm. "I know it might not be much," he said, his voice steady despite the worry in his eyes. "But it will help you on your journey."


    I hesitated, looking down at the wallet, then back at him. When I opened it, I saw ten gold coins nestled inside. It wasn''t a fortune, but to them, it was everything. They had given me their best, their sacrifice in these few coins, and it weighed heavier on my heart than anything else.


    "I can''t take this," I said, shaking my head, trying to return the wallet. But Bernin closed my hands around it, his rough fingers warm against mine.


    "Yes, you can, my dear child," he insisted, smiling through the pain. His eyes, though gentle, were filled with the unspoken hope that I would return to them safely. His smile, though strained, was filled with pride.


    I glanced at Famelia again, her tear-streaked face etched with grief as she wiped her eyes with her apron. "We''ll be waiting for you. Don''t... don''t forget us," she whispered, her voice breaking as fresh tears spilled over.


    They were strangers to me, but to them, I was their daughter. They loved me as if I had been born to them. And for a moment, I wished I could remember more¡ªmore about this life, more about what it meant to be Amelia, their daughter, the one they raised with care. But the memories were distant, overshadowed by the ones from my past.


    Bernin was a man with slightly reddish hair and a neatly kept mustache, his broad shoulders and strong jaw giving him a rugged appearance. He smiled at me, though it didn''t reach his eyes. His pain was hidden behind his composure, but I could see it in the way his hand lingered on mine, not wanting to let go.


    Famelia, with her black hair and soft features, looked so much like someone I once knew. It was blurry at first, but as I really looked at her, I saw the resemblance¡ªmy mother from my first life. The same gentle smile, the same warmth. My breath hitched in my throat. It was as if Maria, my mother from a life long gone, stood before me again.


    The ache in my chest deepened.


    I didn''t belong here. This wasn''t my life. But for them... I was everything.


    "I''ll be fine," I lied, forcing a smile as I hugged Famelia one last time. Her sobs shook my body, but I held her tightly, memorizing the way her arms wrapped around me as if I was her own flesh and blood.


    The carriage arrived, and the clattering of the horses'' hooves echoed in the quiet morning. Bernin placed my belongings on the carriage, giving me one last look, his eyes filled with a mix of hope and sorrow.


    I turned back to them, standing side by side, their faces etched with worry, love, and fear. Famelia was still crying, clutching her apron as if it was the only thing keeping her together. Bernin rested a hand on her shoulder, offering her comfort, though his eyes glistened with unshed tears.


    I climbed into the carriage, my heart heavy with the weight of their love, a love I felt I didn''t deserve. As the carriage began to move, I looked back at them through the window. Famelia''s hand was raised in a shaky wave, her lips trembling, and Bernin stood tall beside her, his arm wrapped around her shoulders, holding her up as her strength faltered.


    They grew smaller in the distance, until they were just a blur on the horizon.

 Chapter 8

    Lara Point of View


    I arrived at Grenancine City after a three-day carriage ride.


    Truth be told, I could have used my powers to reach here within an hour, but the people from Falorath Village, who traveled with me, would have grown suspicious. Besides, it was... enjoyable. Yes, truly, spending those three days with them was more pleasant than I expected.


    Grenancine was surrounded by towering trees that seemed to cradle the village in their shadow.


    I remembered this place, though something felt off, different from what I recalled. From the distance, I could see a tall structure, its stone walls rising high like the fortress of an old castle. It was enormous, certainly not like the buildings from my first life, but still, it had a majestic air to it, and I found myself quietly admiring it.


    "You''re looking at that, Lara?" Julian''s voice pulled me from my thoughts. He was my age and one of my neighbors in Falorath. We had taken the system and became adventurers on the same day. Well as so he said.


    "Indeed," I replied, my voice steady. "What is that place?"


    "You don''t know?" he asked, raising an eyebrow at me, clearly surprised.


    I shook my head. "No, I don''t."


    He stared at me for a moment, as if trying to gauge whether I was serious. "Really? You''re serious?"


    I gave him a slow nod, and he chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, you are serious."


    Julian climbed down from the carriage, slinging his bag over his shoulder. His armor clanked softly as he moved, the kind of heavy, standard-issue gear that marked him as a warrior. I hadn''t asked him what class he took, but judging by his build, warrior seemed right.


    "That''s Laraeon Academy," he said, pointing toward the towering structure.


    "Built by the high elf, one of the greatest heroes."


    A high elf, huh? I mused to myself. Unlike normal elves like Thailon, who only lived for about 200 years or else, high elves lived for 1,000 years or more. Thailon, that tsundere little elf who loved hoarding items more than anyone else... He must be long gone by now. The thought of him made me smile¡ªthose distant memories of another time, another life. It''s just like tomorrow to me though-


    I just remember him smiling to me.


    "Why are you smiling?" Julian asked, curious.


    "Oh, it''s nothing," I replied, slipping back into the present. "Just a bit of nostalgia."


    "You speak oddly, you know that?" he said, frowning slightly, as though my words puzzled him.


    "Do I?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.


    He nodded, his youthful face framed by messy blond hair, his brown eyes studying me. He looked like someone foreign¡ªsomeone not of this place, but then again, we all had our differences here.


    "Let''s head to the gate. We need to get registered," Julian suggested, gesturing toward the city.


    I nodded and followed him. As we stepped away from the carriage, the villagers who had accompanied us called out their goodbyes.


    "Take care, you two! Make our village proud!" one of them shouted, waving as the carriage pulled away.


    Julian and I waved back, our hands lifted in a silent farewell as the people faded into the distance.


    Now, we stood in line, surrounded by adventurers from all walks of life. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and chatter, the crowd thick with seasoned warriors, mages, and archers, all aiming to enter Laraeon Academy.


    The city had changed so much¡ªthere had never been an academy here before, and it felt foreign compared to what I remembered. Grenancine had truly become unrecognizable after all these years.


    As I observed the adventurers around me, my thoughts drifted to the unfamiliarity of this era. I leaned toward Julian, who was glancing ahead, waiting for our turn.


    "Hey, Julian," I began carefully, "earlier you mentioned the Great Heroes. What are they, exactly?"


    Julian looked at me as if I''d lost my mind. "Did you hit your head or something?" he asked, disbelief etched across his face. "That''s a story everyone knows, especially someone from Falorath."


    His suspicion was understandable. Being from the same village, I should''ve known about the history. I needed to think of an excuse, quickly.


    "Oh! Uh, well... It''s not that I don''t know," I laughed awkwardly, trying to lighten the situation. "It''s just, you know, my family lives way deep in the forest. We don''t get much news out there. I''ve probably missed some updates or the details."


    Julian raised an eyebrow, but after a moment, his expression softened. "Ah, right. Your family does live in the more remote part of Falorath, huh? And you are the type who always stay in that forest" He chuckled. "I guess that explains it. You guys are pretty isolated over there."


    "Exactly," I said with a relieved grin. We are neighbor though- "We mostly keep to ourselves. So, I guess I''m a little out of the loop."


    "Well, you''ll need to catch up fast around here," he said, his voice back to normal. "


    "Demon King?" I muttered to myself, pondering Julian''s words.


    So it''s stronger than the Demon Lord we fought before? The Great Heroes... just how remarkable are they? Are they even cooler than my old team?" I thought aloud, feeling a touch of nostalgia.


    My team back then was full of children, brilliant minds who strategized every move. They may have been young, but they were strong¡ªcapable of defeating a dragon with one strike. And yet, we struggled to bring down a Demon Lord. I could barely imagine taking on a Demon King.


    "You better learn things quickly here, or you''ll be treated like a newbie," Julian added, snapping me out of my thoughts.


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    "I know, I know," I replied, feigning a sheepish smile.


    "By the way, you''re an archer, right?" Julian asked, giving me a curious look.


    "Yeah, why?" I responded, already sensing where this conversation was heading.


    "Where''s your bow?" He raised an eyebrow at me, clearly expecting me to produce it on the spot.


    Ah, the bow... I Amelia was the archer, but in this life, I am an undetected class¡ªmeaning I can control any skill and class at will. I left the physical bow behind since it was cumbersome. Class E or not, carrying it would''ve drawn unnecessary attention.


    "I can summon it whenever I need," I explained casually, waving off his concern.


    Julian''s eyes widened. "That''s amazing! If only I could do the same with my gear... this armor is such a hassle sometimes," he grumbled, shifting uncomfortably in his warrior''s attire.


    I smiled softly, but inwardly, my thoughts drifted again. I never wanted to be an adventurer. This path wasn''t mine to begin with.


    I''m here because I need to find my purpose in this world, and with little money to my name, I can''t start building the dream I''ve had for so long¡ªa restaurant and an orphanage for children who are less fortunate a world where a children can smile happily.


    That''s what I truly want. To provide a home and a warm meal, not to continue a life of battle and bloodshed. But I feel like I been forgetting something.


    I used to kill because the system demanded it. It threatened the people I cared for, and I had no choice but to follow.


    But now, for the first time, it''s silent. It said I can live my life as I please. Perhaps pursuing that dream of mine will bring me the peace I''ve sought for so long. I could still help people, but this time, with a smile rather than a sword. I''d build a home, not just for me but for Bernin and Famelia too. Yet, I''ll need at least a year away from them before returning. Any sooner, and they''ll get suspicious.


    But speaking of money... wait.


    "Inventory," I whispered under my breath, watching as the familiar screen appeared before my eyes. I scrolled through its contents, my heart skipping a beat as I saw something that had been there all along.


    A magical bag.


    It was still there?


    I stared at it for a moment, blinking in disbelief. Hesitating for a second, I grabbed it and opened it. Inside, I saw something that left me speechless.


    20,000 gold.


    My old money was still here. After all these years.


    I don''t need to sell items for money after all, do I?


    I thought, feeling an unexpected rush of relief. I had considered selling items to start building my dream, but that would''ve raised suspicion. After all, how could a newbie adventurer sell so many rare items?


    No, this was far better. It allowed me to move quietly, unnoticed. Selling item is really an attention seeker one.


    This magical bag was all I had left from my old life. I once had over a billion gold, but I''d given it all away before I died. I thought I had left with nothing. But here it was¡ªjust enough to begin again.


    With this, I could build my restaurant, start fresh, and earn money the right way. I didn''t want to abuse the fact that I had infinite points or gold.


    That wasn''t the life I wanted to lead anymore.


    I smiled to myself, knowing that this small fortune would be more than enough to create the future I longed for. It was a sign, perhaps, that even after everything, I still had a chance to build a life that wasn''t dictated by violence and the system''s demands. A life where I could help people without sacrificing my own peace.


    Upon entering the city , a bustling noise welcome me although Julian bid farewell to me since we have different paths I still find this place amazing it was lovely. For thing I didn''t saw in 20 years was people wearing uniform I see it and it was amazing,


    Now I should start my own journey-


    I sat across from him at the table, my arms crossed, studying his face. Fernin¡ªmy brother, or at least, that''s what everyone kept insisting. Sure, I knew the name, but his face? It was a mirror of our father, Bernin. That same sharp jawline, those piercing eyes, the way his eyebrows furrowed in frustration¡ªit was eerie, as if I were talking to a younger version of him.


    Still, I couldn''t help but find it amusing how he reacted the moment our eyes met earlier. He tried to bolt, probably thinking I was here to cause trouble. Suspicious, yes, but also completely awkward in that "long-lost-sibling-reunion" kind of way. Classic Fernin.


    "Mother said you became an adventurer," I remarked casually, testing the waters as I kept my voice calm. I wasn''t here to confront him¡ªyet¡ªbut to figure out what exactly made him so jumpy. The way he kept fidgeting in his seat told me there was more to the story than met the eye.


    Fernin sighed dramatically, shifting again as if he wanted to sink into the floor. "I''m still seven years older than you, so what''s with the tone?" he shot back, trying to deflect the obvious tension.


    I raised an eyebrow at his attempt to pull rank. Seven years older? Maybe in this life, little brother. If only he knew how many centuries separated us in truth. "That''s not the point," I said, brushing off his weak retort. "Did you quit your job?"


    He immediately looked anywhere but at me¡ªclassic avoidance technique. His gaze darted to the window, the ceiling, the floor, anywhere that wasn''t me. "Five years... a lot has changed in five years," he muttered, his voice trailing off.


    Changed? I wasn''t even here for those years, not in this body anyway, but I could tell he was stalling. "You''re dodging the question," I said, pressing him further. There was no way I was letting him off the hook that easily.


    Something fishy


    He sighed again, louder this time, like he was about to confess some great crime.


    "Don''t tell Mother and Father," he began, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "They think I''m still an adventurer. If they knew I was working as a financial advisor instead..." He looked down, rubbing his temples.


    "They''d be disappointed. But I didn''t want to lose their pride, so... I let them think I was still out there."


    I leaned back, struggling to hide my grin. A financial advisor? That''s why he freaked out the moment he saw me? He was terrified of me blowing his cover. I wanted to laugh, but I kept my composure. "I didn''t want to be an adventurer either," I said, locking eyes with him.


    His reaction was instant¡ªhis face turned a shade paler as his eyes widened in shock. "What?! No! You have to!" His voice shot up an octave as if I''d just told him I was planning to run away and join the circus.


    "You can''t just be a clerk or something! You''re supposed to be the pride of the family!"


    Oh, this was rich. I could see the panic swirling in his eyes, as if I was shattering some sacred family tradition. He was projecting his own insecurities, clearly still tied to the expectations his father had for us.


    "Relax," I said, waving him off. "I''m not going to tell Mother and Father. Your secret is safe with me." The moment I said that, he visibly deflated, letting out a huge sigh of relief like I''d just lifted a boulder off his chest.


    "Good," he mumbled, clearly relieved that his facade remained intact.


    "But..." I leaned forward, my eyes narrowing playfully. His relief was short-lived as I continued, "I''m also not going to be an adventurer."


    If I thought his reaction before was entertaining, this was ten times better. His jaw practically dropped, his face twisting in utter disbelief. "Wha¡ªNo! You have to! I won''t allow it!" He slammed his hands on the table, trying to assert some kind of authority.


    "You can''t just apply for some desk job!"


    I smirked at his little tantrum. Allow it? Oh, the audacity of this child.


    "Who said anything about applying for a job?" I shot back coolly, watching his confusion deepen.


    He blinked at me, utterly lost. "Then why are you here?"


    Oh, Fernin. I leaned back, "I''m here to find an assistant."


    His brows furrowed in genuine confusion. "An assistant? For what? They don''t hire assistants for adventurers here," he said, clearly not understanding where this was going.


    "I''m not becoming an adventurer," I reminded him again. "I''m building my own business."


    That statement completely broke him. He stared at me, slack-jawed, like I''d just announced I was planning to colonize a distant planet. "You? A business?" he asked incredulously.


    "Are you out of your mind? Do you even know what you''re talking about? You''d need at least 10,000 gold just to start anything remotely respectable!"


    I tilted my head, watching the gears in his brain come to a screeching halt. "You''re hallucinating," he added, leaning forward like he was about to check my temperature.


    "Are you okay? Little sister, you''re talking nonsense."


    I raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to finish his little meltdown. When he finally paused for breath, I smirked and dropped the bomb. "I''ve already got the funds."


    His hand, which had just reached up to pat my head in condescending big-brother fashion, froze mid-air. The look on his face was pure gold¡ªa mix of shock, disbelief, and confusion


    Like really he froze. Is he okay though?

 Chapter 9

    Lara Point of View


    Three Months Later


    Fernin glanced around the restaurant, a blend of pride and disbelief in his eyes. "You really managed to pull this off!" he exclaimed, marveling at the transformation. The neatly arranged tables, the soft glow of the lanterns, and the steady hum of the kitchen brought the place to life. He had been instrumental in helping me buy the land and set up everything here, although it wasn''t without its challenges.


    He had questioned me constantly¡ªwhere did I get that much money? Why didn''t I just go back to our parents, Bernin and Famelia? I couldn''t tell him the truth, not yet.


    Not yet that I would tell him that his sister is gone but someone else in this body.


    I feared that revealing I was in Amelia''s body, their daughter''s body, his sister , might cause him to hate me. So I kept it a secret saying I was sponsored by someone.


    I smiled warmly at Fernin, grateful for his help. "I couldn''t have done it without you."


    "Well, it''s my job after all," he replied, shrugging as if it was no big deal. But I could see the pride in his eyes. He wasn''t just my brother now¡ªhe had taken on a protective role, much like our father, Bernin. It felt odd, yet comforting.


    We had decided to keep this entire project from anyone we knew, especially our parents, until the restaurant became a success. Our plan was to bring them here to live with us, near the academy and the farm we had set up on the edge of the forest. Fernin had insisted we build a life worth showing them, and I agreed. We needed to create something solid first.


    For the first time I had a family.


    "Go ahead and take down the ''Opening Soon'' flyers around the city," I said, gesturing toward the growing crowd outside. People were already gathering, curious to see what this new place had to offer. "Replace them with ''Open Now.'' Let''s get the word out."


    "As you wish, my sister," Fernin responded with a grin, motioning for the staff to assist him. Though younger in age, he had assumed a role far greater than that. It was moments like these that reminded me just how much he had grown.


    I took a moment to glance at my checklist¡ªthere were still items I needed to pick up from the market before we officially opened. The flyers would take about three hours to replace, giving me the perfect window to get everything ready.


    "Better head out," I muttered to myself, pocketing my list. As I stepped outside, the cool breeze of the city greeted me. The marketplace would be bustling, no doubt, but it was one last task before my dream officially came to life.


    Third Point of View


    Lara walked through the bustling streets, her thoughts wandering as the city buzzed around her. She was headed back to her restaurant after a long day of shopping, her mind filled with memories of the past. As she passed by a narrow alley, a group of adventurers caught her eye. They were gathered around, laughing and discussing plans. The leader was a woman¡ªstrong, confident, and charismatic, guiding her group with ease.


    And she had a yellow hair just like Lara.


    The sight made Lara pause, her steps faltering as an unexpected ache pierced her heart. Memories from centuries ago flooded her mind, taking her back to the days when she herself had led a group of adventurers. Her party. Her comrades. Her family.


    They had followed her without question, trusted her with their lives, and fought by her side against impossible odds. And yet, here she was, alone, watching a new generation take up the mantle.


    The leader of the group reminded her so much of herself¡ªbold and determined, with a gleam of hope in her eyes. That same hope Lara once carried. But now... now, she was a shadow of who she used to be. Her heart ached not just with the weight of her memories, but with the loss that came with them. She had lost so much¡ªher friends, her time, and the chance to save the one she loved the most.


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    As the adventurers'' laughter filled the air, it contrasted sharply with the silence within Lara. She could still see the faces of her former comrades, the way they looked at her with trust, the way they fought with unwavering determination, and the way they fell... one by one.


    The woman''s voice snapped Lara out of her reverie. She watched as the leader rallied her group, her voice filled with passion. It was a voice that echoed the same resolve Lara had once carried, but now that fire felt distant¡ªlike a dream long forgotten.


    Lara''s chest tightened as she turned away, her steps heavier now. The laughter and excitement of the adventurers faded behind her, but the ache remained, gnawing at her like a wound that refused to heal. She couldn''t help but feel the weight of time press down on her shoulders, reminding her of the centuries that had passed, of the lives she couldn''t save, and of the dream she had once dared to believe in.


    She glanced up at the sky, the same sky she used to gaze at during her adventures. But now, it seemed darker, less welcoming.


    Lara point of View


    An Hour Later


    The doors had barely been open, and already the restaurant was packed. I hadn''t expected the marketing to work this well! People were lined up out the door, drawn in by the promise of discounted meals and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.


    "Get their orders right!" I shouted across the kitchen, trying to keep the team organized as the frenzy of customers rolled in. The buzz of excitement was contagious.


    "I''ve got an order for three buckets of fried chicken and fried rice!" one of my employees, Gen, called out, her voice barely cutting through the noise.


    "Got it, Gen! We hear you!" I shouted back, my hands already busy with the fryer. I couldn''t help but smile as the aroma of freshly fried chicken filled the air. The clatter of dishes, the chatter of customers, the sound of the kitchen working in harmony¡ªit was all so exhilarating.


    Fernin appeared beside me, wiping his hands on his apron. "Looks like we''re gonna need more tables if this keeps up."


    I laughed, wiping sweat from my brow. "If this pace continues, we''ll need a whole new building!"


    He chuckled and gave me a thumbs up. "Good problem to have, though."


    The thrill of it all¡ªseeing people enjoy the food I made, the sounds of laughter and satisfied chatter¡ªfilled me with a sense of fulfillment I hadn''t felt in a long time. This wasn''t just about the money or success; it was about creating something that brought joy to people.


    A family seated near the window waved me over. "Miss, your fried chicken is amazing! Can we order another round?"


    I grinned widely. "Of course! Coming right up!"


    As I hurried back to the kitchen, I felt a deep sense of pride. This little restaurant had turned into something more than I ever imagined. The money I earned today would help me not only sustain this business but also support others who needed a fresh start, just like I had gotten.


    The clamor of orders, the bustling atmosphere, the joy of feeding people¡ªit was exactly what I wanted. Life was busy, yes, but in this moment, it felt perfect.


    A Few Moments Later


    I never expected so many people to show up; it wore me out, but it was a lot of fun. "As expected, a lot of academy students came," Fernin said, a hint of pride in his voice.


    "Yeah, it''s true," I replied, glancing at the bustling crowd. My menu was mostly crafted to cater to students, offering them delightful options, and I was glad it was well received.


    "What if I continue to become an adventurer and let you enroll in the academy?" Fernin suggested, a tinge of regret in his tone. It seemed he still wished he hadn''t quit adventuring.


    "Killing monsters is scary, isn''t it? But that''s how life is. If you let me enroll in the academy, we wouldn''t be where we are right now," I countered, trying to reassure him. He smiled at my response.


    "You still talk maturely," he observed.


    "Talking maturely is just how I speak," I replied, rolling my eyes at his playful jab. This child had a knack for spouting nonsense.


    I stood up from the chair and noticed someone had dropped their academy badge nearby. "A badge?" I said, picking it up. "They can come back to get it."


    "Yeah, I know," he said, watching as I placed it on the counter.


    "May I ask what students do at the academy?" I inquired, my curiosity piqued.


    "You finally got curious," he teased. "Well


    He paused for a moment, gauging my reaction. "You can still enter. It''s not too late. You have enough gold, right? A thousand gold can get you in. I can manage here," Fernin suggested eagerly.


    "Like I said before, I don''t want to become an adventurer," I replied firmly.


    "But isn''t it a great opportunity for you?" he pressed.


    "Great for you, maybe," I shot back.


    "By the way, how long has this academy been around?" I asked, changing the subject.


    "It was built 200 years ago," he explained. "The High Elves wanted to create this school in memory of their leader, Laraeon, the great hero."


    Laraeon sounded like an incredible leader, one deserving of such a tribute. It struck me that his fellow adventurers built a school in his honor.


    "You could really enter," Fernin began again.


    "No," I interrupted, shaking my head. His persistence was endearing, but I had made up my mind.


    "Why not? "This child is so insistent, yet I found it cute. After all, I was his sister, and he wanted the best for me.


    I glanced around the restaurant, filled with laughter and chatter. This was where I belonged, helping others achieve their dreams. I just needed to find my own. But my own dream is to see people happy and surround by those happiness.


    Because all of my life all I see is suffering.

 Chapter 10

    Lara Point of View


    The Next Day


    "Oh, you''re a mage at your academy?" I asked the student in front of me, who was currently using her powers.


    "Yeah, I am," she replied enthusiastically. "By the way, what''s your secret ingredient for this fried chicken?" She pointed to the dish, speaking informally since we were about the same age. I felt a bit uneasy¡ªsure, I was 20, but still... it''s quite uncomfortable


    Dam* this system to be honest.


    "It''s a secret," I said with a playful smile.


    "Oh, by the way, since you learned it, do you use synthesis?" I asked her, curious.


    "You know synthesis?" she asked, surprise lighting up her face.


    "Yeah, I do. ," I explained. I used it all the time, allowing me to sense the auras of people around us.


    "Are you also from the academy?" she inquired.


    "Well apparently , I''m not," I replied, trying to keep it casual.


    "That''s shocking! It''s rare for an outsider to know about synthesis and its purpose," she said, her eyes widening. I thought to myself, Little do you know, I''m using it right now.


    "Well, I do find it hard to learn synthesis. Even a warrior struggles to learn Stygma," she mentioned.


    "Is that so?" I said, continuing to serve her. I recalled how she had left her badge the last time we met.


    "I also know someone who learned synthesis in just four months," I said, thinking of Thailon.


    "So that might be why you know about it," she concluded, and I smiled at her reaction.


    "But that guy must be incredible to learn synthesis in just four months¡ªit must be a lie!" she exclaimed.


    "Well, I''m not lying," I said, a grin spreading across my face.


    "It''s true¡ªhe learned synthesis in four months, and Stygma in three," I added, recalling his determination.


    "He also knows Stygma?" she asked, her disbelief evident. "If he learned both, he must have been an amazing adventurer."


    "Yes, he was," I answered, a bittersweet feeling washing over me as I remembered him. Yes, he was. But he might be too far gone now.


    Someone Point of View


    Lara, my sunshine.


    I still can''t find a way to bring her back. All I have now is the item she gave me¡ªthe one that lost its shine the moment she died. I''ve tried everything, but nothing works. Even building the academy she dreamed of, the one she wanted to call a "school," hasn''t helped. I created it hoping to discover a way to bring her back, but it''s all been for nothing.


    All for nothing.


    She is really gone but why is it so hard foor me to accept this? It''s been 200 years I don''t really somehow recall her voice but-


    Flashback


    "You really are clinging to me, child, just because of that little trinket," Lara teased as I polished the item she had given me, her voice soft but playful. She always called me a child, despite me being older than her¡ªat least in years. But that was Lara, always smiling, always teasing, treating me like I was still a little boy.


    I didn''t mind. I was used to it.


    "That''s the only reason you joined us, isn''t it?" she continued, handing me a plate of her signature fried rice and a simple, homey meal. It smelled as good as it always did, making my mouth water.


    "Youngsters nowadays, all for their own benefit," she added, shaking her head with a chuckle.


    She acted like I was still a kid, but I didn''t argue. Instead, I accepted the food, savoring the aroma as she sat down next to me, her scent mingling with the smell of herbs and spices.


    "You smell like an old person," I teased her, a small grin on my face. I want her to take it as an insult.


    She didn''t take offense¡ªshe never did.


    Instead, she laughed, that bright, infectious sound I always here from her that happiness she had. "All those medicinal herbs smell good. Don''t underestimate them," she said, her smile fading slightly as she looked up at the night sky.


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    It was something we all noticed¡ªhow her expression would change when she looked at the stars. She always seemed so... distant, as if her mind was somewhere else, somewhere far away.


    "Lara, why do you always stare at the stars?" I asked.


    She looked at me, her eyes thoughtful. "Thailon, do you want to hear a story?" she asked, her tone softening. She was treating me like a child again, but I let her, as always.


    "Sure," I said, more out of curiosity than anything else.


    "There''s another world beyond this one," she began, her voice taking on a solemn tone. "A world where monsters don''t exist."


    I raised an eyebrow, half-expecting more nonsense. But she continued.


    "In that world, people live their lives without the threat of demons or beasts. But even without monsters, people still suffer. Suffering isn''t something you can escape from."


    I nodded. "Suffering happens everywhere."


    "Exactly," she agreed. "But in that world, there are places called schools, where children can learn. And malls, where people gather to shop and laugh. I miss those things¡ªwatching children with dreams in their eyes, learning and growing. Oh and tall building, bustling sound of a car and so on so forth"


    "Why do you care so much about helping people?" I asked, my voice low. For me, defeating the demon lord was nothing more than a duty, a necessity. But Lara... she did it out of compassion.


    "Because there are people far less fortunate than us. They have dreams too, and I don''t want to see them trampled on. Everyone deserves the chance to dream."


    I sighed. "But we''re unfortunate too, you know."


    "Yes, we are," she said, her gaze still fixed on the stars. "But some people are more unfortunate than us¡ªthey can''t even afford a proper meal."


    That night, the sky was dark, the fire the only source of light. Yet, in that moment, Lara shone brighter than all the stars combined. I watched her, that warmth in my heart growing¡ªuntil everything changed.


    "No... no, no, no!" I had cried, dropping to my knees. Lara lay dying in front of me, cursed by something none of us had seen coming. Even the priest couldn''t help. She smiled at us, even as her life slipped away.


    "Don''t... don''t leave me," I whispered, my voice breaking.


    But she was gone.


    End of Flashback


    My head throbbed, and I squeezed my eyes shut, trying to push the memory away. Suddenly, the item in my hands¡ªthe one Lara had given me¡ªglimmered. Just for a moment, but it was enough to make me gasp.


    "Am I hallucinating?" I muttered to myself. It had been a long day, and maybe I was just seeing things.


    Then the phone rang, snapping me out of my thoughts. I picked it up quickly, my heart still racing from the sudden burst of light.


    "High Elder," the voice on the other end said, hurried and panicked, "the item that Laraeon, the Greatest Hero, owned... it shattered. Ynahva''s in a panic right now!"


    "Shattered?" I echoed, my pulse quickening. "How could a high-class wand just shatter? It''s level Z! Who''s the idiot responsible?"


    "No one knows," the voice replied, sounding equally frantic. "It just... it shattered out of nowhere."


    My heart pounded in my chest. Could it be...?


    "Lara..." I whispered, gripping the phone tightly. My mind raced, my emotions swirling with hope, fear, and longing. "Could she... could she be back?"


    After all these years... had one of those bastards finally done it? Had they finally found a way to bring her back?


    My sunshine.


    "Lara..." I breathed, my heart aching with the possibility. "You''re back."


    Lara''s Point of View


    I strolled through the shop, leisurely picking up the usual supplies for the restaurant¡ªflour, spices, and a few fresh vegetables. The familiar rustle of my list in hand gave a sense of normalcy, something I cherished in this quiet life. But, as expected, Fernin''s scrunched-up nose and disapproving glance broke that peace.


    "You stink," he muttered bluntly, crossing his arms. The boy had a sharp tongue and an even sharper sense of smell.


    I couldn''t help but laugh, tossing him a playful grin. "It''s just herbal oil, my dear brother. It''s refreshing, you know? Why don''t you give it a try? Might lighten up that gloomy aura of yours."


    "No thanks," he responded quickly, turning away in disgust, as though the very thought of touching the oil would ruin his day.


    The way he acted like that¡ªso picky, so serious¡ªit always made me chuckle. The kid was too much sometimes. I shrugged, watching him wander off to the other aisles, gathering whatever it was he needed.


    "Fine, you go on ahead. I still have a few things to grab," I called after him, and he waved dismissively without turning around. Always in a rush, that one.


    With a sigh, I turned back to my list, but my mind wandered as I moved through the shop. Living a life like this¡ªrunning a restaurant tucked away by the woods¡ªhadn''t been part of my grand plan. But now? Now, it felt right. The simplicity of it, the quiet... it had its charm. And yet, the weight of everything I had left behind still tugged at me. The memories, they lingered, haunting me even in the most mundane moments.


    Supplies in hand, I made my way back to the restaurant, breathing in the crisp, cool air of the surrounding forest.


    The restaurant sat nestled among the trees, peaceful and far removed from the chaos of the city. Business was good¡ªpeople came from miles around to taste the meals I poured my heart into. There was even talk of expanding, maybe adding a few rooms to offer shelter to travelers.


    But then I froze. My heart skipped a beat as I noticed a familiar figure standing near the entrance, tall and lean with platinum-blue hair glinting under the morning light. The sharp points of his ears¡ªthere was no mistaking it. Thailon.


    He stood there, staring up at the restaurant''s sign, seemingly lost in thought. For a moment, I could hardly breathe. After two hundred years, there he was, standing as though no time had passed at all. How was it possible? He should have been long gone, like the rest.


    Should I pretend not to know him? He never believed my stories the first time we met. Back then, he had brushed it all off as the wild imaginings of a child.


    Taking a steadying breath, I walked forward, keeping my expression neutral. "Sir," I called out, my voice surprisingly steady despite the storm inside me, "the restaurant doesn''t open until nine. I''m afraid you''ll have to come back later."


    Thailon turned, his sharp gaze locking onto mine. His face was unreadable, but the familiarity of his presence sent a shiver through me.


    "Are you the owner of this place?" he asked, his voice carrying the same quiet authority it had so long ago.


    I nodded. "Yes, I am."


    He glanced at the menu posted outside, and his brow furrowed. "This menu... who taught you how to make these dishes?"


    My breath caught in my throat. The menu¡ªit was the same one from centuries ago, the one I had crafted with him and the rest of our party in mind. Keeping my composure, I forced a smile. "My mother taught me."


    For a moment, he said nothing, just studying me. His silence hung heavy in the air, the unspoken questions thicker than the morning fog. And then, without warning, his stomach growled loudly, breaking the tension.


    I stifled a laugh. Of course, some things never change.


    "I can offer you some coffee while you wait," I said, gesturing to a small table outside. To my surprise, he sat down without protest.


    As I prepared the coffee, my mind raced. Did he suspect? Did he know? Thailon wasn''t the type to miss subtle details, but could he really believe that after all this time, I was still here? But still he sis alive and seems to be suffering.

 Chapter 11

    Thailon''s Point of View


    Four months. It''s been four long, agonizing months since I first felt her presence again. Lara. My sunshine, my light¡ªhow could she be here, after all these years? I searched endlessly, followed every lead, but no sign of her. Nothing but fleeting traces, whispers carried on the wind.


    Those fucker is also hiding I cannot even reach some of them.


    And now, I sit here at this quaint little restaurant. I stumbled upon it by accident, but the menu caught my eye¡ªher dishes. Every single one of them. My chest tightens at the sight, each dish pulling me back to our days together. It''s cruel, really, to see these pieces of her life scattered in a place like this.


    A young woman approached me earlier, offering me coffee. I didn''t want it, but something about her... it feels so familiar.


    The way she moved, the way she spoke. I sip the coffee, and the warmth floods me with memories. The smell, the taste¡ªit''s just like the mornings we used to share, back when everything was simpler. My vision blurs, and before I can stop it, a tear rolls down my cheek.


    "Are you alright child?" she asks, her voice soft with concern. She hands me a towel, and in that moment, the tone, the care in her words¡ªit''s unmistakable.


    It''s her.


    I look up, my heart pounding in my chest. "Lara?" I whisper, my voice trembling with disbelief.


    Her eyes widen, and for a split second, I see panic flicker across her face. But I know. Deep down, I know it''s her. She''s standing right in front of me, the same person I lost centuries ago.


    Lara''s Point of View


    His voice, whispering my name... Lara. My heart stutters. He remembers me. Even after all this time, all these lifetimes, Thailon knows me.


    He recognized me. This child.


    "Your Lara, right?" His voice is desperate, like he''s drowning and I''m the only lifeline he has left. I want to answer, but the weight of the moment crushes me. How could he still know me?


    Tears well up in his eyes, glistening under the morning light, and my heart breaks for him. This is the second time I''ve seen this child cry, and it feels just as painful as the first. He holds my hands tightly, as if he fears I might slip away again, and I can feel the warmth of his tears as they fall.


    I can''t lie to him. Not when he''s like this. Taking a deep breath, I give him a gentle smile. "How have you been, Thailon, my dear child?"


    His eyes widen, his breath catching. In that instant, he knows. His arms wrap around me, clinging to me like a lifeline.


    "I''m sorry... I''m so sorry," he sobs, his face buried against my side. His words tumble out, raw and broken, as if he''s been holding them in for centuries.


    I place a hand on his head, stroking his hair gently, just like I used to. "It''s alright, Thailon. I''m here now, everything going to be fine" I whisper, my voice thick with emotion.


    And for the first time in what feels like lifetimes, the world around us falls away, and it''s just us¡ªfinally, after all these years, reunited


    I bet he have a lot of story to tell.


    Lara''s Point of View


    "Your eyes are puffed," I said to Thailon, but he only stared at the ground, his head hung low. This boy, my dear Thailon, had always been intense¡ªperhaps even a yandere type, in his own way.


    "I''m glad you''re still alive," I added softly, noticing how my clothes were now damp from his tears. He was truly crying his heart out, and while I wanted to laugh at the absurdity of it all, I knew this wasn''t the time.


    "You''ve been here, but you''re not looking for us. What kind of leader are you?" he shot back, his voice a mixture of hurt and anger.


    "Three hundred years have passed, Thailon, I just waked up here I wouldn''t know" I reminded him gently, trying to ground us both in reality. Just then, I noticed the time ticking away, and in the distance, I caught sight of Fernin approaching.


    "I need to get back. It''s almost time for opening," I said, beginning to stand up.


    "Where are you going?" Thailon asked, gripping my wrist with a surprising strength.


    "The restaurant is about to open soon, I''m not going to leave" I reiterated, trying to pull away gently.


    A Few Moments Later


    "Hold that! Don''t destroy it! It''s only 8:30, and the shop is about to open!" I shouted as I watched Thaelon fumble with the dishes. For some reason, he seemed determined to help, but he was literally creating chaos in the kitchen.


    "It''s hard! I''d be better off killing some skeletons than doing this!" he exclaimed, frustration evident in his tone.


    "You''re basically just washing dishes!" I facepalmed, wondering what I expected from him. Even when we were adventuring, chores like this were not his strong suit. But somehow, it felt like I had been thrust back into our old adventures again.


    "Why is he here?" Fernin asked, disbelief clear in his voice. My other employees were equally shocked, their eyes wide as they took in the sight of Thailon¡ªa gorgeous young man, an ethereal elf¡ªattempting to wash dishes.


    "He''s my friend. He offered to help, but..." I sighed, glancing at the mess he was creating, "as you can see, he''s better off just killing things."


    "This is bull¡ª" Thailon started but then cut himself off.


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "Bull? What bull are you swearing about?" I asked, raising an eyebrow at him.


    "B-bullest, I mean," he corrected himself, his face flushing with embarrassment.


    "You offered help, so you better finish it off," I urged him, picking up my knife to continue chopping vegetables. "You all can watch him, but at least do some work¡ªwe''re opening soon!" I called out to my employees, who exchanged glances but remained frozen, seemingly enchanted by Thailon''s presence. Fernin, however, looked at me with a mix of disbelief and concern.


    "What?" I asked him, catching his gaze.


    "N-nothing," he stammered, clearly trying to process the situation.


    "Since you''re back, I wanted to show you some of my works," Thailon said, appearing in front of me, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes.


    "Are you done with your work?" I asked him, intrigued.


    "Oh, awesome! This guy offered to help," he said, pointing to Fernin my brother, who was diligently working on the dishes.


    Just ignore this, I can''t just slapped this child.


    "Just¡ªwhat kind of works?" I asked, curiosity piqued.


    "Things you wished for before?" he replied, a dreamy look in his eyes.


    "Unicorn?" I ventured, half-joking.


    "Yes -Un¡ªuh, you mean the flying horse you were talking about? It''s still one of your wishes?" he asked, disbelief evident in his tone.


    I couldn''t help but smile, feeling a warmth spread through me as I saw the childlike wonder in his expression. "Yes, Thailon. It''s still one of my wishes."


    As we worked side by side, I couldn''t shake the feeling that somehow, amidst the chaos and the years apart, we were rediscovering the bond we once shared¡ªan unbreakable thread woven through time.


    A few moments later, I prepared a gift for Thailon. This spoiled brat has always liked receiving items, so I thought it''d be a nice surprise for him. The item shop now has so many new and amazing things¡ªI couldn''t resist getting him something special.


    Since the restaurant was closed, Thailon had been "helping" in the kitchen. But honestly, I can''t trust him in the serving area¡ªhe''s too clumsy. I''d rather not deal with broken dishes or spilled food today.


    Now I saw him talking to Owen, one of my employees. Owen is a former academy student working under me to save enough to return to his studies. I gave him the opportunity, and he''s been doing well so far. Fernin also said he is a diligent man so I agreed.


    Their attention shifted to me as I approached.


    "You two know each other?" I asked.


    Owen nodded. "In the academy, ma''am."


    "I told you not to call me ma''am, Owen," I said with a sigh. Then I turned to Thailon. "Academy? Did you also study there, Thailon? Wow, that''s amazing!"


    Thailon''s eyes narrowed at me, clearly offended. "What do you mean, ''wow''? Are you saying I don''t seem like the type to study?"


    I couldn''t help but smirk. "You''re overreacting again, child," I teased. This was just so typical of him¡ªalways giving bigger meanings to simple comments.


    "He wasn''t my classmate, though," Owen chimed in, causing me to glance at him. Not a classmate?


    "You mean you weren''t in the same year?" I asked.


    "No," Owen replied simply.


    Ah, now I get it. They probably weren''t in the same batch. Thailon may look like he''s only 25, but he''s far older than that.


    "Oh, I see now," I said. Then I turned back to Owen. "Well, anyway, there''s food in the back. Eat up before we open again at 7. Gain your energy¡ªI have something to discuss with Thailon."


    Owen nodded, glancing at Thailon once more and giving a quick four-finger salute¡ªa gesture I assumed was an academy sign of respect for seniors. Then he left us.


    I invited Thaelon to sit down. "What is it?" he asked, curious.


    "Open inventory," I commanded softly, and my inventory appeared before me. I pulled out the box I had prepared and handed it to him.


    "What''s this?" he asked, looking at the box skeptically.


    "You were crying so much earlier," I teased, unable to stop myself from poking fun. His expression shifted to mild annoyance, making me chuckle inside.


    He opened the box, his eyes widening in surprise.


    "I noticed you''re not wearing the items I gave you before," I began, watching his reaction closely. "Well, it''s been 200 years, after all. So I thought it was time for an upgrade. I got you a new set¡ªcloak, tunic, boots, everything. And, of course, the trinket you liked. Oh, and it comes with an additional buff¡ª300% more mana. Not bad, huh?"


    Thailon stayed quiet for a moment, still staring at the gift, clearly taken aback.


    "Can I wear this?" he asked me, his voice soft, as if he couldn''t believe what he was holding.


    "Well, you are still in my party," I said with a playful smile.


    "Huh?" He looked at me, confused.


    "You''re still in my party. Go check it," I added, knowing he would be surprised.


    Thailon''s Point of View:


    "I noticed you''re not wearing the items I gave you before," she said, her words both nostalgic and teasing. It wasn''t that I didn''t want to wear them¡ªit''s just that I was afraid I''d damage them. After all, those items were precious, reminders of a time long past.


    "Well, it''s been 200 years, after all," she continued, her voice carrying a casual tone. "So I thought it was time for an upgrade. I got you a new set¡ªcloak, tunic, boots, everything. And, of course, the trinket you liked. Oh, and it comes with an additional buff¡ª300% more mana. Not bad, huh?"


    My hands trembled slightly as I held the box. The items inside were Level Z¡ªjust like the ones she used to give us before. The moment felt surreal. The woman standing before me was indeed Lara¡ªmy Lara.


    Even if everyone here called her Amelia, I knew better. She may have brown hair and black eyes now, but the aura, the essence of her soul, was unmistakable. She was still the Lara I had lost 200 years ago¡ªthe sunshine that lit up my life. After so long in the darkness, she had returned.


    But I couldn''t shake the guilt. I had failed to revive her, to bring her back as I promised. And now, here she was, gifting me these items like nothing had changed. I wanted to express how much this meant to me, but the words wouldn''t come out.


    "Can I wear this?" I asked her, my voice barely above a whisper.


    She smiled at me¡ªjust like she used to, warm and reassuring. "Well, you''re still in my party," she said.


    Her words took me by surprise. Still in her party? "Huh?" I asked, confused.


    I had been preparing myself to ask if I could join her party again, thinking that so much time had passed that I would need an invitation. But what did she mean by that?


    Third-Person Point of View:


    "You don''t know? You can check your status," Lara¡ªnow going by Amelia¡ªsaid with a smirk.


    Thaelon, still confused, blinked a few times. "Status check," he muttered. As his status screen popped up, he glanced at the party details and froze.


    Party Leader: Lara Santos (Amelia Landfield)


    Members: Thailon Geberne


    "It reactivated immediately when you hugged me earlier," Lara said nonchalantly, watching as Thailon''s eyes widened in shock, his cheeks flushing slightly with the realization.


    His heart pounded in his chest. All this time, I''ve still been in her party? He thought she might not want to adventure with him again, but this¡ªthis meant they were still connected.


    Lara watched him, a gentle smile tugging at her lips, though her thoughts were far from gentle. He might not want to stay in the party after everything that''s happened. After all, we''ve already achieved our goal from so long ago, she mused, feeling a slight pang of uncertainty.


    Thailon, however, was elated. This is amazing! he thought. I''ll be able to go on adventures with her again. My sunshine... she''s still here. His heart swelled with the idea of returning to the life they once knew.


    "If you don''t want to, though, I can cancel it," Lara said, her tone casual, but the underlying tension in her voice betrayed her real thoughts. Maybe he doesn''t want to be tied to me anymore, she wondered. But with the Level Z items I gave him, this child will surely change his mind. She eyed him knowingly.


    Thailon''s eyes widened again. Cancel it? What was she talking about? Why would I ever leave her side?


    "No!" he exclaimed, almost too quickly. "I will stay," he said firmly.


    Lara raised an eyebrow, chuckling inwardly. Of course he is. After all, I just gave him a set of Level Z items. This child really is predictable.


    Thailon''s thoughts, however, ran much deeper. I will never leave your side again, Lara. I won''t let history repeat itself. I''ll protect you this time, no matter what.

 Chapter 12

    Lara''s Point of View:


    "I can''t join you today, Thailon. As you can see, I''m busy preparing for the opening," I said gently, casting a quick glance his way. He had been hovering around, clearly eager for me to see something he had worked on.


    "But if you''d like, I can make time tomorrow to visit. Perhaps I''ll even get to meet your wife and children," I teased with a soft smile, my hands continuing to arrange the tables.


    His expression shifted, clearly confused. "What do you mean, wife and children?" he asked, completely perplexed.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle at his response. "Oh, come on. It''s been 300 years. I assumed you''d settled down by now, with a lovely family. I''d love to meet them, those little ones must take after you, that''s what we talked after all if we finished the mission you will marry the woman you love" I teased, my voice warm, almost motherly. But then, he grabbed the cloth from my hand, his grip firm yet controlled, and I noticed the seriousness in his gaze.


    "I don''t have anything like that," he said quietly but with weight behind his words, his tone serious and unwavering.


    I tilted my head, surprised by his conviction.


    "After all these years, child?" I asked, looking at him closely. He continued cleaning, but there was something in the way he held himself. It didn''t sit well with me.


    For an elf like him¡ªblessed with beauty, grace, and an agelessness that many could only envy¡ªit seemed strange that he hadn''t settled down.


    "Are you perhaps being too picky?" I asked, my voice carrying a note of gentle concern, almost as if I were speaking to a child who had missed out on something important. I watched him pause, considering his reaction.


    Ah. That pause. "You are picky," I concluded, amused.


    "You know, Thailon," I continued, my tone taking on a deeper sense of care,


    "200 years is plenty of time to find someone. You shouldn''t set your standards too high, or you''ll end up alone. Life is too short, even for us." I smiled softly, but he remained silent. The longer the silence stretched, the more something clicked in my mind.


    Then it hit me, and I couldn''t resist a little laugh. Oh, that''s it.


    I turned to him, catching his expression. "Wait¡ªcould it be... do you prefer boys?" I asked, my voice light but my eyes carefully watching his reaction. The way his cheeks immediately flushed told me everything. Oh, the poor thing,


    "In this day and age, there''s no need to hide it. If you like boys, that''s perfectly fine. There''s no shame in it. You know, I''ve known plenty of¡ª" Before I could finish, he abruptly dropped the cloth and turned to face me, his expression both embarrassed and exasperated.


    "I don''t like boys," he said firmly, locking eyes with me as if trying to make sure I understood.


    I couldn''t help but smile, gently shaking my head. "Oh, sweetheart, there''s no need to get so worked up. It''s alright," I said, watching him fume slightly.


    "Let''s just meet tomorrow, then. Don''t forget, and don''t keep me waiting."


    He grabbed the box I''d given him and muttered, "How could you even think that?" before turning to leave, clearly flustered.


    I chuckled softly to myself, watching him as he walked off in a huff.


    "Take care, child. I''ll be here when you''re ready," I called after him, my voice affectionate, almost like a mother watching her son storm off in frustration.


    Ah, that boy... I thought, smiling to myself.


    Thailon''s Point of View:


    How could she even think that? I thought, fuming as I walked away.


    Someone Point of View


    My name is Julen Red, and I am the Vice Chairman of the academy. As an elf, I serve as the assistant to the High Elf Thailon, a figure revered as the great hero.


    The night was draped in a veil of darkness, the moon casting a silvery glow over the academy''s stone walls, illuminating the pathways lined with ancient trees. The stillness of the night was broken only by the rustling leaves, whispering secrets of old battles and long-lost heroes. But inside, a different storm brewed.


    Thailon, a man whose very presence commanded reverence, was the kind of person who could easily test your patience.


    What I once regarded as dedication had morphed into something more unsettling¡ªan obsession. He still mourned the great hero Lareon, consumed by a relentless desire to resurrect him. He had built this academy not merely as a place of learning but as a temple dedicated to that singular purpose, driven by the last wishes of a man who was once revered.


    The wand that Lareon wielded, a symbol of his legendary status, lay shattered, much like Thailon''s sanity. Four months had passed since Lareon''s tragic fall he believed he is back, and it felt as if each day had taken a toll on Thailon''s mind, pushing him further into the abyss of despair. Though he wore the guise of a carefree hero, I could see the deepening shadows around his eyes, a reflection of the torment within.


    Now, at 10 PM, he summoned me. Couldn''t I have just one peaceful night? This relentless cycle of duty and worry was starting to wear on my nerves.


    I took a deep breath, steeling myself before entering his chamber. "You called?" I asked, the echo of my voice swallowed by the vastness of the room.


    To my astonishment, I found him in a frenzy, hurling the armor he had cherished for century. The moonlight caught the glint of metal and magic, reflecting the chaotic energy that filled the air.


    Has he finally lost it? I wondered, my heart heavy with concern. But just then, he pulled something from a box: a new armor, marked Level Z. He placed it carefully where the old armor had stood, almost reverently.


    And then, in a fleeting moment, a smile broke through his usual stoic demeanor. Thailon, the great hero, known for his strength and resolve, was smiling?


    "Oh, you''re here," he said, his expression shifting back to the familiar gloom I had grown accustomed to.


    "I want everything to be fine at the academy tomorrow," he stated, his voice resonating with an authority that sent a shiver down my spine.


    "May I know the reason for such a requirement?" I asked, curiosity mingling with apprehension.


    "I have a special guest coming tomorrow," he replied, his eyes gleaming with a mix of hope and uncertainty.


    A special guest? The thought sent my mind racing. Was it one of the great heroes? He had never deemed anyone worthy of such a title before.


    "Should I prepare something grand?" I inquired, my heart racing at the prospect of meeting another legend.


    "No, keep it simple," he commanded, a trace of urgency slipping into his tone.


    "Understood," I said, my heart heavy with the weight of unasked questions.


    Why didn''t I dare to probe deeper? A thousand thoughts swirled in my mind, yet his presence stifled my curiosity. He was the great man himself, after all, and I felt dwarfed by his legacy.


    As I turned to leave, the moonlight seemed to dim, casting elongated shadows that danced ominously along the walls. The night was thick with anticipation, as if the very fabric of the academy held its breath for what tomorrow would bring


    Lara Point of View


    "No." I pulled my wrist free from Thailon''s insistent grip. We stood in the kitchen, the early morning light just starting to peek through the small window above the sink. The faint smell of freshly baked bread lingered in the air, mixing with the warmth of the stove. Fernin worked quietly in the background, organizing the dishes. It was 6 a.m., far too early for whatever madness Thailon had in mind.


    "I want to show you something¡ªjust come," Thailon urged again, his grip tightening on the edge of my apron. His wide-eyed expression was almost childlike, making his plea hard to ignore. Outside, I could hear the soft hum of a car waiting. Was he serious?


    "I already said I''m busy," I replied, pulling my wrist free again. My patience was wearing thin. "Do I really need to see whatever this is child? Yes I do promise to come with you but it is to early"


    He looked at me with that same eager expression, like a boy desperate to show off some grand prize. I didn''t even need to guess; it was probably a room full of pointless trinkets. He was that kind of guy¡ªalways collecting things no one needed.


    "Why don''t you just go with him? I can manage the restaurant while you''re gone," Fernin chimed in, looking up from his task. His tone was casual, as if this was no big deal. Typical. He could never read the room when I needed him to.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    I sighed, not hiding my frustration.


    The last thing I wanted was a trip to the elf kingdom. Elves were exhausting¡ªfull of themselves, drowning in formality. The only thing bearable about that place was the children.


    "We''re not going to the elf kingdom," Thailon said, pulling my attention back to him. That was unexpected. I raised an eyebrow, surprised.


    "Really? Then where are you dragging me off to this time?" I asked, my tone sharp but filled with curiosity.


    He hesitated for a moment, his usual carefree expression faltering. "I can''t go back there even if I wanted to," he murmured, almost to himself. Then, louder, he added, "Just trust me. It''ll be worth it."


    Fernin, oblivious to my reluctance, chimed in again. "Go with him. I''ll handle things here. You need the break."


    I sighed again, giving in. This felt like dealing with two children, both eager in their own ways. I untied my apron and handed it to Fernin.


    "Fine. But this better not be a waste of time, and it better not be a room full of junk."


    Thailon grinned, his face lighting up as if he''d won some sort of battle. "It''s not. I promise."


    As I turned to follow Thailon, I glanced back at Fernin.


    "Are you sure you can handle the big crowds? Even I mess up sometimes, and I''ve been at this for years."


    Fernin gave me a reassuring smile. "Trust me. I''ve got it covered."


    Despite my reluctance, there was something about Thailon''s urgency that piqued my curiosity. Without another word, I followed him toward the door, the early morning stillness broken only by the distant hum of the car.


    A Few Moments Later


    "What are we doing here at the academy? Are you teaching here?" I asked Thailon, raising an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "Yeah, I do teach sometimes," he replied with a casual shrug, a soft smile forming on his lips as if this was an everyday thing for him. I couldn''t help but smile back, feeling a sense of pride seeing how much he had grown.


    "Wow, you''ve really come a long way," I said warmly. "You did well. But are you sure I''m welcome here?" I asked, a bit hesitant. I knew the owner of this place was a high elf, and it was likely that Thailon could get in trouble for bringing an outsider like me.


    Thailon chuckled lightly, shaking his head.


    "No, there''s nothing to worry about. You''re perfectly fine here," he assured me with a confident grin, his eyes twinkling with reassurance.


    Just as he said that, the gates opened, revealing the breathtaking landscape inside. My eyes widened in awe as the cool, fresh air brushed against my face. The academy grounds looked like something out of a dream, with fantastical structures and a grand fountain in the middle, featuring a statue of a veiled woman.


    "The woman in that statue... That must be Lareon, right? The one who defeated the demon king?" I mused out loud, admiring the beauty of the figure. "She must have been a remarkable person."


    Thailon''s face lit up as he watched me take in the surroundings.


    "Isn''t this place amazing?" he asked with a proud smile, his excitement contagious.


    "Well, indeed it is," I admitted, nodding as I continued to admire the scenery. His happiness was evident in the way he beamed, clearly proud of finding himself a place to teach and work.


    "Where are the students, by the way?" I asked as we strolled through the peaceful grounds.


    "They''re probably on their way here. It''s still a bit early," Thailon replied with a relaxed tone.


    We eventually walked into a classroom. The room was set up just like the classrooms I used to tell him about¡ªa blackboard, chairs, and a familiar, warm atmosphere.


    "Remember those things I used to tell you about?" I asked him, smiling at the nostalgic feeling.


    "What things? You told us a lot," he chuckled, scratching the back of his head. He wasn''t wrong; I had shared plenty of ideas with him.


    "In places like this, people find happiness. Here, they find friends or even their destiny. Most importantly, they discover their dreams," I said softly, recalling the lessons I had once imparted.


    "Yeah, I know," he said, his voice filled with understanding. He had grown into the role I once hoped he would. He was a teacher now.


    "You''ve done a great job, Thailon," I said, smiling proudly at him.


    He smiled back, clearly touched by the compliment. "Let me show you more of the academy," he said, gesturing for me to follow him.


    As we continued walking, we came across a training area where students practiced magic. There, I saw another elf¡ªa tall man with yellow hair and striking green eyes¡ªstanding beside a young woman who appeared to be a student. They both noticed us and immediately bowed in greeting. I quickly followed suit, returning the gesture out of respect.


    In this place, bowing was a sign of gratitude, greeting, or respect.


    Noticing that Thailon didn''t bow, I playfully reached out and gently pushed his head down to make him bow. His eyes widened in surprise as he straightened back up.


    "What was that for?" he asked, clearly confused.


    I chuckled softly. "Remember, I taught you how to greet back, right?" I reminded him, raising an eyebrow.


    "Yeah, you did, but why did you force me to bow?" he asked, still looking puzzled.


    "Someone just greeted us," I said, pointing to the two people who had bowed earlier.


    "Oh, you''re here, Julen," Thailon said, recognizing the male elf and waving to him.


    "Yes, I am," Julen responded with a formal nod as he approached us, the student following close behind.


    "Are you testing this area?" Thailon asked, glancing around curiously.


    "Yes, but we need more aptitude to test the defense of this zone," Julen explained, his voice calm yet focused.


    "Why do you need to test it?" I asked, realizing I had intruded into their conversation. "Oh, I''m sorry for interrupting."


    "It''s alright," Thailon said with a smile. "There''s going to be an entrance exam for the academy today. It''s just a precaution in case any prodigies show up."


    Prodigies, huh? Two hundred years had passed since my prime¡ªI was sure there were stronger adventurers now compared to my generation.


    "Why don''t you try it?" Thailon suddenly suggested, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.


    "Me? Are you sure about that?" I raised an eyebrow. My power might be rusty compared to these younger prodigies.


    "There''s no problem if she tries it, right?" Thailon asked, turning to Julen.


    Julen nodded in agreement. "It should be fine."


    "See? You can try it!" Thailon said, his grin growing wider.


    "You''re forcing them to agree," I teased, shaking my head.


    "No, I''m not! It''s been so long since I''ve seen you use magic. Why not give it a shot?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with childlike enthusiasm.


    "Erika can show you how it''s done first," Julen said, gesturing to the student behind him.


    The girl¡ªErika¡ªlooked strong and confident. She gave me a respectful nod, smiling warmly.


    "Alright, I guess that would help," I said with a small smile in return. This child was polite and kind, a refreshing contrast to some of the other young adventurers I had encountered over the years.


    There was a target area in the distance, at least two kilometers away. The place was surrounded by a glass-like barrier, majestic and shimmering in the light.


    "Are you sure you''re okay showing your powers to me?" I asked Erika, not wanting to make her uncomfortable. After all, I was just an unofficial guest.


    Erika smiled again, her confidence unwavering. "It''s no problem at all. I can show you my magic, but right now, I don''t have a wand."


    What a nice girl. She even smiled while explaining her situation.


    "Well, there''s no problem then. ''Open shop,''" I said, activating the system and selecting a wand for her. After some browsing, I picked out a Wand of the Moon.


    "What type of magic user are you?" I asked Erika.


    "I''m a mage," she replied, her eyes bright with excitement.


    I handed her the wand with a smile. "This should suffice. Unless, of course, you want to join my party, I can''t get anything stronger."


    Julen chuckled softly. "I think that wand will suffice. Go ahead, Erika."


    Erika gratefully accepted the wand. "Thank you," she said, her smile lighting up the room.


    "You''re welcome," I replied, watching as she prepared herself for the demonstration. This girl had such potential¡ªstrong, polite, and skilled. If only the other were like her.


    She took her position, and we stepped back to give her space. I watched her closely as she chanted, "From the wailing of water and breeze," and summoned the magic within her. The air around her shifted, swirling as she raised the wand toward the target. "Sylphe, I summon you," she called out, and in an instant, a powerful wave of energy shot toward the target like a cannon.


    It hit the mark perfectly. I couldn''t help but smile, genuinely impressed by her skill.


    "That was amazing," I said with admiration.


    "Why don''t you try it now?" Erika asked, looking at me with wide, expectant eyes.


    "The same technique?" I questioned, glancing briefly at Thailon, who stood observing with a slight smirk.


    "Yes. You are certainly capable, are you not?" Thailon replied, his tone carrying a hint of amusement.


    I nodded thoughtfully. "It''s a newly crafted spell, but I suppose I can modify the formula to recreate it." I paused before asking, "Did you teach her, Thailon?"


    Thailon chuckled softly. "No, I am the one who created the spell," he responded, pride evident in his voice.


    "Impressive," I acknowledged, "but why not utilize synthesis or even stigma? The spell could have been made significantly stronger."


    I offered the suggestion not as a critique but as an observation of how it could be further refined.


    Thailon shrugged lightly. "It could be, but I wanted Erika to focus on control and precision without relying on augmentation techniques."


    I smiled faintly. "Would you allow me to demonstrate the difference with the enhancements?"


    Thailon gave a nod of approval. "Feel free, but keep it at half your usual strength. We wouldn''t want to overdo it, after all."


    "Very well." I turned back to Erika, offering her a small smile. "You have great potential. Not many at your age are able to summon such magic with ease."


    I summoned my wand, allowing the energy to surge around me. The synthesis and stigma gathered swiftly as I focused my mind on the spell¡ªair magic, level 40 altitude and velocity, controlling a two-kilometer radius. I pulled in around 60% of the surrounding air, blending it with 20% of my power.


    I aligned the wand directly with the target. The spell shot forth, generating a resounding bang as it traveled toward the target, shattering it upon impact. Though not as powerful as what I was capable of, the precision was clear.


    "You still have that sharp touch," Thailon said, a satisfied grin on his face.


    I returned his smile. "That was only 20% of what I could manage, can''t risk of impact if more the wand would be destroyed so try to add that" I replied, not intending to boast, but stating it as fact.


    "As expected," Thailon said, nodding in approval.


    Handing him the wand, I turned to him. "Why don''t you try it yourself?" I offered.


    Before he could respond, Julen, who had been watching quietly, interjected nervously. "I don''t believe it''s necessary for him to demonstrate," he said, his voice slightly rushed.


    I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Julen''s sudden apprehension. "Has the time already come for the students to arrive?" I asked.


    "Yes, they are on their way now," Julen confirmed, his tone tense.


    I sighed lightly. "What a pity. I was hoping to see more of Erika''s abilities before they arrived."


    Turning back to Thailon, I shifted the conversation. "Are you still struggling with the technique I taught you? The barrier and offensive combination?"


    Thailon thought for a moment before responding. "You mean using light magic to simultaneously form both a shield and a sword?" he asked.


    "Exactly," I replied. "I suggest teaching it to Erika as well. She seems to have the affinity for light magic, and it would expand her skill set."


    Thailon looked at Erika, considering my words. "She may indeed be ready for that. Her control is developing at a remarkable pace."


    Erika stood silently, her expression respectful but focused. It was clear she had a deep potential for growth.


    Just then, the bell rang, signaling the students'' arrival.


    I glanced at the time, feeling the weight of fatigue creeping in. "It seems my time here is up," I remarked, my tone soft yet tired.


    Thailon gave a small smile. "Not quite yet. Come to my office¡ªI have something I want to show you."


    Curiosity flickered in my eyes. "I thought our business here was concluded," I replied, though not entirely surprised by his persistence.


    Thailon chuckled, shaking his head. "Trust me, you''ll find this worth the extra time."


    Though I often treated Thailon with a certain fondness that came from years of mentoring him, I could not deny his progress had been remarkable. I nodded, a smile tugging at the corner of my lips. Despite the exhaustion, there was still much to see.


    At another area


    ''I really think it''s a wrong idea for her to go!!" Fernin shouted in pain as the costumer surge in the restaurant


    UGHHHHHH" he shouted again.

 Chapter 13

    Lara Point of View


    "You''re kidding, right?" My voice was sharp, barely concealing the storm that raged inside. Thailon sat across from me, his face a calm mask, but the ridiculousness of the situation was too much to handle. My eyes narrowed at the glittering chaos on the table before us¡ªtrinkets. Dozens of them, each shining in their own absurd way. Trinkets of all shapes and sizes, like tiny stars someone had plucked from the sky and dropped here, hoping they would make sense. They didn''t.


    Thailon remained unfazed, nodding as if it were the most normal thing in the world. His expression unreadable, his platinum blue hair catching the light just so. "You stink," he had once told me, and now this.


    "Are you seriously still obsessed with these things?" My voice trembled with disbelief and frustration. I leaned in, eyes blazing. "You can''t be serious, Thailon. Trinkets? Again?"


    He didn''t flinch, didn''t even blink, as I motioned to the pile in front of us¡ªdozens, hundreds of enchanted knick-knacks.


    One, in particular, caught my eye. A small, round thing with a golden center, gleaming like a beacon of absurdity amidst the chaos. I picked it up, holding it between my fingers like it was a cursed object.


    "What''s this one for?" I asked, my tone sharp.


    "To wear," Thailon said, his voice calm and solemn, as if that explanation made everything clear.


    I stared at him, dumbfounded. "To wear?" My incredulity rose like a tide. "Are you joking?"


    His gaze remained steady, his expression serious, and it only made my frustration surge hotter. This child... this spoiled child. My chest tightened, and suddenly the room felt too small. Too thick with the weight of things unsaid.


    I couldn''t help it¡ªmy emotions burst forth like a tempest. "A trinket of life? Is that what you''re calling this?" I scoffed, sweeping up the trinkets in my hands. "This is absurd! I''m going to erase this nonsense right now!"


    Without a second thought, I began casting the spell to erase their enchantments, the magic swirling around my fingers, feeding off my frustration.


    Thailon''s reaction was immediate. "Why did you erase it?" His voice cracked, shock lacing his words, as if I had shattered something precious to him.


    "Don''t overreact!" I snapped, frustration spilling into my tone like fire. "I''ll give you something far better than these trinkets!" The irritation in my voice was impossible to hide. "Did you expect me to wear all of these? Do I look like I''m on the verge of dying again?" My words dripped with sarcasm, but beneath them was a truth I hadn''t spoken out loud in years.


    Thailon''s face tightened, and the weight of unspoken memories hung heavy between us. I softened, stepping closer to him. "I''m not cursed anymore, Thailon." My voice dropped, becoming almost tender. "If I wore all of these, I''d probably die again. Can you understand how absurd that is?"


    He said nothing, but I could feel the turmoil in him. It was as if the very air around us had thickened, filled with the weight of regret and unspoken fears.


    With a sigh, I stepped forward and pulled him into my arms, wrapping him in the warmth of our bond. It was a simple gesture, but in that moment, it carried the weight of everything we had been through. Everything we had lost. I felt him stiffen, then slowly relax into the embrace.


    "I''m sorry," I whispered, my voice trembling. "I didn''t tell you about the curse before I died. I know it burdened you... watching me die without knowing the truth. You thought it was your role to save me, but I never gave you the chance."


    He remained silent, the tension between us thick with shared pain. His small body trembled slightly in my embrace, and for a moment, we were just two souls, trying to navigate the endless sea of regret and lost time.


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    "But it was never your fault," I continued, pulling back just enough to look him in the eye. His usually stoic expression faltered, the pain in his gaze cutting through me like a blade. "You did everything you could, Thailon. You''ve always protected us."


    He opened his mouth to protest, but I placed a gentle finger against his lips. "No," I whispered, shaking my head. "Don''t carry that burden any longer. You were never meant to." My heart ached for him, this child who had carried too much for too long.


    Thailon''s voice trembled when he finally spoke. "But what if I fail again?"


    I cupped his face in my hands, forcing him to meet my gaze, my voice fierce with conviction. "Then you will rise again," I said, my words filled with a determination that burned in my chest. "And I will be there to remind you that not everything is within our control. Life is a tempest, Thailon, and we must learn to weather it together."


    For the first time in what felt like ages, I saw a flicker of understanding cross his face. His lips twitched, a sad smile pulling at the corners of his mouth. The weight between us seemed to lift just a little.


    I exhaled softly, my heart feeling lighter. "Promise me, no more trinkets." I tried to sound Sstern, though a smile tugged at my lips. "Or at least, not hundreds of them."


    Thailon chuckled, though his laughter was laced with melancholy. "I''ll try... but no promises."


    I sighed dramatically, leaning back and shaking my head. "What am I going to do with you, child?"


    His gaze softened, a flicker of amusement in his eyes. "You could always give me better ones."


    I couldn''t help but smile, despite the heaviness in my heart. "Always the ambitious one," I murmured, ruffling his hair affectionately. In that moment, it was just us¡ªtwo souls intertwined by the past, trying to find solace in the present.


    A Few Minutes Later


    "Clean this and this¡ªoh my god, Thailon! What on earth are you doing?" I exclaimed, my voice echoing off the grimy walls of his hidden bedroom. Using my synthesis earlier, I had detected this disaster zone, and it looked like a rat''s nest had taken up permanent residence. "This child takes care of his looks but not his surroundings," I muttered under my breath.


    "Also there!" I pointed dramatically at a corner overflowing with clothes that looked like they had been in a wrestling match and lost.


    Just as I was about to dive into the chaos, someone appeared in the room. "Uhm, excuse me, what is going on here?" It was Julen, the elf I had met earlier.


    "Oh, the colleague of Thailon! I''m sorry for the noise. It''s just that this child doesn''t know how to clean his own room," I replied, gesturing towards the mountains of clutter. I caught a glimpse of Thailon''s expression¡ªshock mingled with embarrassment, which was surprisingly adorable considering the circumstances.


    But how dare he act cute with this mess? Isn''t he basically a grown up?


    "Lara, I can''t do this anymore! This is my room! Why bother cleaning it? You won''t even rest here!" he protested, crossing his arms defiantly, but I could see a flicker of humor in his eyes.


    "This is the reason why I didn''t want you in my tent before ,clean it!" I shot back, frustration bubbling to the surface. "Why do you have so many clothes? Gather them up!"


    I bent down, picked up a shirt, and smelled it¡ªinstantly regretting my life choices. "This is laundry that''s been sitting for at least three weeks! You could start a whole new civilization with the smell coming from this pile!"


    Thailon grimaced, his cheeks turning a shade of crimson. "I... I didn''t think it was that bad!" he protested, but I could see the defeat in his eyes.


    "Clean this like you clean your face!" I ordered, pointing at him dramatically. "You know, with actual soap!"


    Julen, still standing there with wide eyes, finally found his voice. "Oh, I really apologize for seeing this. It must be hard for you to work with him. He must be a child with no sense of cleanliness, but you know, he''s still a nice child. I hope you understand him, sometimes he might be self delud and sometimes he might be annoying I hope you bear with him" I said to him. "Thailon"


    "Y-yes!" Thailon chimed in, looking utterly helpless.


    "Put it in a laundry basket, not on your bed!" I demanded, tossing some of his clothes at him like confetti.


    "Okay, okay! I''ll clean it!" Thailon exclaimed, throwing his hands up in surrender, but not before dramatically catching a rogue sock that had somehow landed on his head. "This is the last time I let you in my room!"


    "Sure, sure. Next time, I expect a five-star room," I teased, shooting him a smirk as I plucked more clothes from the floor, pretending to have an imaginary fashion show.


    "Look at this! Fashion from three weeks ago, in its natural habitat!" I twirled, holding up a particularly questionable shirt, and Julen burst out laughing, finally cracking under the ridiculousness of the situation.


    "Just remember, if I have to come back here again, I''m charging you for cleaning services!" I winked at Thailon, who was now struggling to maintain a straight face while also trying to pick up his clothes.


    "Can I at least charge you for emotional damage?" he replied, rolling his eyes but unable to suppress a grin.

 Chapter 14

    Julen''s Point of View


    I heard loud noises coming from the high elf''s quarters, and when I arrived, I was shocked to see my boss, the great hero¡ªone of the finest in our realm¡ªcleaning his own room, which looked like a disaster zone. "Oh, the colleague of Thailon! I''m sorry for the noise. It''s just that this child doesn''t know how to clean his own room" that woman said, waving a hand dismissively at the chaos. She was really something else! The way she talked to the great hero was beyond concerning. I had detected earlier that she was a normal human, but there was something about her strength that made me think she could be the headmaster''s lover. But now? I was witnessing what looked like a mother scolding her child.


    "Lara, I can''t do this anymore! This is my room! Why bother cleaning it? You won''t even rest here!" the great hero protested, his tone filled with frustration.


    My eyes widened.


    Did he just call her Lara?


    You mean the greatest hero, Laraeon?


    I thought she was a man, or perhaps just a legend¡ªa dead one, at that. But the only "Lara" the great hero called was Laraeon.


    I suddenly understood why there was a statue of her in the fountain; it represented the truth that Laraeon was indeed a woman! This person before me was the greatest hero who had led a party of legendary warriors to defeat the demon king! No it can''t be- her and the statue doesn''t loo the same at all.


    "This is the reason why I didn''t want you in my tent before¡ªclean it!" she shouted, her tone leaving no room for argument. Tent before? So, she really is Laraeon?


    "Why do you have so many clothes? Gather them up!" she barked again, making me gasp. What shocked me more was the sight of the great hero dutifully gathering his clothes as if she were the queen of his realm.


    She bent down, picked up a shirt, and smelled it, her face twisting into an expression of disgust. I almost found it funny. "This is laundry that''s been sitting for at least three weeks! You could start a whole new civilization with the smell coming from this pile!" she mocked, and I couldn''t help but chuckle.


    The great hero grimaced, his cheeks turning crimson. "I... I didn''t think it was that bad!" he protested, but I was astounded. This was truly happening¡ªthe almighty high elf, who had shown little emotion and perfect composure, was now acting like a child caught in a mess.


    "Clean this like you clean your face!" she said, punctuating her words with an air of authority. "You know, with actual soap!"


    Then she turned to me. "Oh, I really apologize for seeing this. It must be hard for you to work with him. He must be a child with no sense of cleanliness, but you know, he''s still a nice child. I hope you understand him," she said, her tone like that of a caring mother.


    Isn''t he younger than the great hero? But if she really is Laraeon...


    "Thailon," she called him softly but when she called him softly it was scary enough to put shivers down to my spine.


    "Y-yes!" he immediately answered, almost as if he were a dog responding to a command. Am I really seeing this?


    "Put it in a laundry basket, not on your bed!" she demanded, hands on her hips like a true matriarch.


    "Okay, okay! I''ll clean it!" the great hero replied, now obediently gathering his clothes. Was I dreaming? Am I dying today to witness this? Then she tossed some clothes toward him like confetti, and he glared at her.


    "This is the last time I let you in my room!"


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    "Sure, sure. Next time, I expect a five-star room," she teased, and the playful banter was both frightening and charming.


    "Look at this! Fashion from three weeks ago, in its natural habitat!" she exclaimed, twirling a shirt like she was on a runway. I couldn''t help but laugh, even as I noticed the redness creeping up the great hero''s face.


    "Just remember, if I have to come back here again, I''m charging you for cleaning services!" she winked at him, her confidence shining through.


    "Can I at least charge you for emotional damage?" he shot back, but I could see the happiness in his eyes, as if he had just discovered something precious.


    Could it be that he has feelings for her? Is he really losing his mind, falling for a woman who bears no resemblance to the legendary Laraeon? I thought she would be someone with blonde hair and golden eyes, as I had been informed. But this woman had brown hair and dark eyes¡ªso ordinary in appearance.


    As I stood there, I realized that ever since Laraeon had been lost for two hundred years, Head master might just be going crazy, mistaking random people for her. I could only watch as this peculiar bond blossomed in front of me, unsure of what it all meant for our world¡ªand for the great hero himself. This is something else.


    Lara''s Point of View: At Night


    "See? I told you this is why I can''t leave! Look what happened to you!" I exclaimed, my voice tinged with frustration as I knelt beside Fernin, who lay on the ground, his face contorted in pain. I


    "Is he overreacting?" I glanced at Owen, who stood ready to shift, his muscles tense and coiled like a spring.


    "I think he is," Owen replied, his tone laced with skepticism.


    Fernin. He turned to me, a slight smile breaking through his seriousness. "My dear sister, did you have fun?"


    "Well, he did show some amazing things" I admitted, my mind racing back to the impressive display of magic I had witnessed.


    "Oh, and he''s actually a teacher at the academy."


    "A teacher? You''re not mistaken about that?" Owen interjected, raising an eyebrow.


    "Trust me, I''m not. He also has a colleague named Julen who seems to be quite stiff about me," I added, my thoughts still tangled in the day''s events.


    "Oh, here''s your day''s payment," I said, reaching into my pouch and offering Owen fifty-five silver coins. He took them gratefully, his fingers brushing against mine.


    "Thank you," he said immediately, his eyes gleaming with appreciation.


    "Where are you going to stay for tonight?" I asked, shifting my gaze from Fernin to Owen, concern etched on my face.


    I''ve been concern.


    "I think I''ll find a nearby inn," he replied, glancing around the darkening street. "Just wait at least a month. I''ll build us a home; I just need some materials to get started."


    "You mean all high-class materials that are waterproof, fireproof, and monster-proof? It''s not like we''re going to war," Fernin scoffed, as if insulting me. I simply nudge him in his shoulder as a reaction.


    "It''s better to be cautious," I countered, my resolve hardening. My heart raced at the thought of danger lurking around every corner.


    Silence settled over us, heavy and foreboding. The night was thick with tension, and I felt the weight of the system lurking in the background, its presence an ominous shadow. I couldn''t shake the feeling that it was waiting, watching, deciding if it would let me work again¡ªif it would send me back into the fray, endangering the very people who meant the most to me.


    And most of all it will get my hands dirty again.


    With a sigh, I looked down at Fernin, who still grimaced in discomfort. "You should have listened," I murmured softly, guilt gnawing at me.


    Somewhere in Veladrin


    Third Person Point of View


    In a dimly lit alleyway, tucked in between crumbling buildings, sat a bar in the perfect location for those seeking discreet exchanges. The atmosphere was thick with shadows, and the patrons inside kept to themselves. A man in a black robe silently approached the counter, taking a seat before the bartender.


    "I''m here for the Golden Shot," he said, his voice low and purposeful.


    The bartender immediately understood. Without a word, he began preparing the requested drink, but this time, it came with a note¡ªa small, folded piece of parchment slipped beneath the shot glass. The man in the black robe opened it, his eyes scanning the contents.


    All items belonging to Lara, the Great Hero, have been destroyed. Shattered into pieces by no known hand.


    His eyes widened in shock. He stood abruptly, the sudden movement causing his hood to fall, revealing his identity to the room. The man''s black hair gleamed under the dim light, and his yellow eyes caught the attention of everyone present.


    He is the descendant of Priest Caelum, one of the legendary heroes.


    Gasps filled the bar as adventurers recognized him. Flustered, he quickly pulled his hood back up, trying to regain his composure.


    "If this information is true... why does no one else seem to know anything?" he muttered to himself, his brows furrowed in confusion.


    Because the only reason that the item Lara would shattered in the hands of others is if the owner is alive.

 Chapter 15

    Somewhere in the Kingdom of Banolea


    In a chamber steeped in ethereal light, the body of Laraeon, the great hero, lay in a glass coffin. Surrounded by fragrant flowers and tall, ancient trees, she rested in the sun''s gentle embrace. Her golden hair flowed around her like strands of silk, untouched by decay, her beauty preserved for eternity. This was done by no other the


    The body laying in that coffin only been seen by few by mean of the few is the only party member of the Greatest Hero.


    "You are all going crazy!" a voice echoed through the stillness, slicing through the mournful atmosphere. It was Faye, one of the great heroes, the Fairy Queen herself, who entered the room radiating an aura of power and light. Her presence commanded attention as she stepped closer to the coffin, her expression a mix of pity and sorrow.


    "No, you are the one who is going crazy- How dare you enter this sacred space with that attitude of yours?" Zephyra, the King of Dyad, replied, his voice calm yet laced with barely contained anger. His light green hair fell into his ocean eyes, betraying the tempest brewing within him. He stood tall, a beacon of peace among his people, yet his obsession shone through.


    "Did you find a way to bring her back?" he demanded, his tone sharp.


    Faye met his gaze, unwavering. "You are seeking the impossible, Zephyra. We all know that."


    "Yet it seems you have brought nothing but empty promises- Leave if you have no answers." Zephyra snapped, his frustration is so obvious as he looked at Lara body.


    Faye stepped forward, with a serious emotion. "Are you deaf after all these years? We''ve searched tirelessly for a way to restore her, but we''ve uncovered zero results! Can we not at least allow her to rest in peace? This torment is cruel, both for her and for her soul."


    Zephyra''s face tightened, his calm demeanor slipping. "You are not the one to talk about her peace! Letting her go was one of our greatest mistakes! We cannot repeat it once again we still have a way" he thundered, his voice echoing off the walls.


    Faye stood her ground, her own emotions swirling like a tempest. "A way? 200 years have past... others agree with it to, You think that holding on to her like this is the right thing to do? It only causes more pain, not just for her but for us all! You can''t accept the fact that she is gone to us! The other is far perish already, what even is the purpose of bringing her back to us? You''re just putting her to hardship"


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    "Enough!" Zephyra said, his voice low but firm, the calm barely masking his anger. "Your words are an affront to her memory! I will not have you poison this place with your defeatism!"


    Faye''s heart ached, the weight of his words pressing down on her. "You think this is easy for me? To stand here and watch her body languish in this glass coffin? I can feel her spirit, trapped in this limbo! You''re driving yourself mad with this obsession, and for what? For the chance of a miracle?"


    "This is not madness!" Zephyra asserted, his hands balled into fists. "This is hope! I will do whatever it takes to bring her back, especially now that the Demon King is rumored to be rising again. We need her! She is only our hope ¨C she is the only one"


    Faye''s voice trembled with desperation. "You think the Demon King needs her? No, it''s you, Zephyra! You can''t accept that she is gone to us! It''s been 2 century for Lara sake - You are technically torturing her! Every day we keep her here is another day she suffers! We must respect her choice, even if it hurts us! You''re not the only one who been hurting and you been only doing it just for her"


    "Leave this room, Faye," Zephyra commanded, his voice steady but strained. "You are no longer welcome here. Your disrespecting the greatest ¨C leave this instance"


    Stunned, Faye turned away, hurt flashing in her eyes. "You may silence me, but you cannot silence the truth. The longer you hold on to her, the further you push her from us. We face a dire threat, yes, but that does not justify torturing her spirit! Do you think she will be happy knowing this?"


    As she exited the room, the heavy door closing behind her echoed like the tolling of a funeral bell, sealing off the light of reason from the darkness of obsession that enveloped Zephyra.


    Alone now, Zephyra stood in silence, the weight of his own torment pressing down on him like a storm ready to break.


    He stepped closer to the coffin, laying his hands on its cool surface. His eyes traced her serene face, untouched by time. His light green hair fell forward, shadowing his ocean eyes, which were now glazed with a grief he could not contain.


    Zephyra lowered his head, resting it gently on the glass, as if by doing so he could be closer to her. His voice came out as a strained whisper, thick with emotion. "My sun and everything... my greatest tree... I will make sure that you come back to us, even if it costs me everything I have."


    The words hung in the air, a vow forged from desperation and an undying love that defied the passage of time. He could feel the faint pulse of hope, mingled with the sharp sting of sorrow. There was nothing he wouldn''t give, nothing he wouldn''t sacrifice to bring her back, even if it meant surrendering his own soul.


    The gentle light from the sun filtered through the trees, casting a warm glow over the chamber, as if Laraeon herself were listening, bound in a silent slumber. And so, Zephyra remained, a king caught between duty and love, willing to pay any price to hold on to the last glimmer of hope he had left.


    This is what he would done wrong,

 Chapter 16

    Lara Point of View


    "I swear it''s better if Faye or Zephyra were here. Just what are you doing, Thailon? We only need to transfer it to the center of the city¡ªwhy are you making such a mess?" I called out, watching as Thailon lugged the items we needed for the festival.


    I''d decided to set up a small stall in the city center since the upcoming festival might draw fewer customers to our shop at the city''s edge.


    Although we''ve had plenty of traffic recently, the influx of people during festivals often leaves us a bit short-staffed.


    "Why are you comparing me to them? I''m definitely better, my good look ¨C my fashion my-" Thailon said with a smirk, though his actions betrayed his words as he nearly dropped a box filled with precious ingredients. My heart skipped a beat watching it wobble.


    "Oh really? Just get on with it and carry this to your cart. For goodness'' sake, it cost a lot, you know," I chided, shaking my head as he clumsily handled the boxes.


    As he worked, I decided to change the topic, curiosity getting the best of me.


    "By the way, have you heard any news about the others? I''ve been wondering what they''ve been up to. I want to at least apologize to them and have a proper goodbye"


    Thailon glanced at me as he secured the boxes in the cart, his face thoughtful.


    "Not much. After you... well, after everything, we all went our separate ways. The only news I''ve had since then was about Caelum''s passing. That''s all," he said quietly, his voice a bit distant.


    The mention of Caelum struck a chord within me¡ªa kind soul and a good priest, now truly gone.


    He and I are human after all compare to others.


    "So, the adventuring days really did come to an end after all," I murmured, more to myself than to him.


    Thailon didn''t respond, simply nodding as he focused on finishing the task. Sensing the somber mood, I decided it was time to lighten things up a bit.


    "Alright, well, I''ve got your favorite snack on the shelf in the room. Go ahead and grab it. I''ll take care of the rest of this, and we can head out after."


    A Few Moments Later


    The city was alive with vibrant energy as the festival buzzed around me. Massive screens showcased the faces of renowned adventurers, honoring their legendary deeds and celebrating their enduring legacies. This event was a tribute to the heroes of old, and it marked the founding of the academy right here in the heart of the city. Pride swelled in me as I watched. The laughter of children, the joy of couples, and the booming music filled the air, wrapping me in a warmth I hadn''t felt in ages.


    Earlier, I''d had Fernin by my side, but somehow, I lost him in the crowd. Thailon too¡ªthey had both wandered off, leaving me alone amidst the bustling streets.


    "Where''s even Juanica? Did they really just leave me here?" I muttered, a little annoyed and feeling slightly lost.


    Suddenly, a young voice cut through my thoughts. "News! News! The King of Dyad is visiting the city!" A child dashed past, yelling with the boundless energy of youth.


    I paused, the name resonating in my mind. King Dyad. Could it really be him?


    Memories of a boy with that same gentle kindness surfaced, and I found myself wondering how he''d grown over the years that dyad I wonder how is he? That boy really like chasing girls, I bet he have many wives now.


    Lost in thought, I didn''t notice a small child approach me until he spoke, offering a folded newspaper. "Miss, would you like a newspaper? Only two copper."


    His wide, hopeful eyes reminded me of the children from the orphanage, those little ones who used to call me ''granny'' with so much love and mischief. I reached into my pocket, pulled out a silver coin, and handed it to him with a smile. "Here, take this."


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    "Oh, let me get your change!" he exclaimed, reaching for his coin pouch.


    "No, no need," I said, waving him off with a grin.


    He looked up, his eyes bright with surprise. "Are you sure, miss?"


    I chuckled and nodded. "Yes, keep it. Buy yourself a snack, little one."


    "Thank you, miss!" he beamed, darting away with a lightness in his step that brought a smile to my face.


    As I watched him disappear into the crowd, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. I glanced around, suddenly aware of how alone I was. That fool, Fernin, my own brother, had wandered off without a care. I sighed, making a mental note to scold him later.


    The name Hennessy tugged at my heartstrings. Could it be Caelum''s family? The gentle priest had found his own path, started a family, while Thailon, always the lone wanderer, remained on his solitary journey. I should have felt happiness for Caelum and his legacy, yet I found myself feeling an unexpected pang of sadness. For everyone else, decades had passed. They had lived, loved, and built families. But for me, it all felt like it had happened just yesterday.


    A bittersweet smile touched my lips. "I''m glad," I murmured, trying to embrace the warmth in my chest. "I''m happy for them. They deserve the lives they dreamed of." But the truth remained, lingering heavily: I felt like a ghost, standing apart, watching the world move forward without me.


    "They move on so I also need to" I said.


    Third-Person POV: The World of Landeon


    The world of Landeon was filled with danger, where monsters roamed freely, threatening the peace of every kingdom. In response, adventurers rose to protect their lands, setting off on countless journeys to hunt these creatures. The most revered of these adventurers were those who succeeded in defeating the Demon Lord¡ªheroes whose bravery ensured the safety of the world.


    Two hundred years ago, a party of legendary adventurers embarked on a quest to slay the Demon Lord. Their leader was Lara, a hero with golden hair that shimmered under the sun. It was a mysterious figure with no known background, yet the hero gathered an extraordinary group of companions. A priest, an elf, a dragon, a fairy, a dyad, and a dwarf¡ªall united under Lara leadership. For two decades, they battled monsters across the world, never resting in their pursuit of peace. Finally, they defeated the Demon Lord, but the victory came at a great cost. Lara the hero fell victim to an unknown curse and perished after the final battle.


    Even in the hero absence, the heroes continued her dream. They built the Laraeon Academy in Grenancine City within the area vast of collected forect, a place where future adventurers could train. Lara''s legacy also extended to the Benocalce City Orphanage, one of the largest orphanages, ensuring children from all walks of life had a future. In the Kingdom of Benirchachy, the heroes established the largest trading post, securing peace and prosperity for all. These were the monuments left behind by those who followed the great hero Lara''s vision.


    Yet, true peace had not been achieved, and adventurers still ventured out, inspired by the teachings and guidance of the legendary hero. Many young warriors sought out the wisdom of Laraeon''s legacy, hoping to follow in her footsteps and bring about a world free of chaos.


    A lot of them actually.


    A Few Moments Later


    "Are you an adventurer?" A woman with buff arms and bright yellow hair asked me. She was big, muscular, and radiated an intimidating yet friendly vibe.


    "Yes," I replied curtly, hoping that would be enough.


    She raised an eyebrow at me and grinned. "Then why are you looking so gloomy about joining this competition? Did you already lose your guts?" She patted me on the back so hard that I nearly tipped forward. I was sitting in an area full of adventurers, all decked out in fancy armor and glistening with expensive items. Meanwhile, I had... nothing. Not even a fancy belt.


    "You don''t even have a single item on you? Did you actually intend to join?" she asked, clearly entertained by my lack of gear. I rested my face in my hands, trying to piece together how exactly I''d ended up here.


    No. No, I did not intend to be here! I was dragged here, and somehow, I found myself in the middle of this chaos. Should I call someone for help? This was like that time I accidentally ended up chasing a Lesser Dragon¡ªa big shock, to say the least.


    "So, what class did you choose?" she continued, utterly oblivious to my internal crisis.


    "I haven''t chosen yet," I admitted, wincing as her eyes widened in surprise.


    "Well, the system suggests you choose Mage,"


    "Finally, now you''re making sense. Can you contact Thailon? You know, that child?" I asked the system.


    Of course, it just flickered in response. Useless. Typical.


    Just then, a woman in a sleek suit appeared out of nowhere, holding an envelope. She was smiling at me¡ªway too cheerfully for someone responsible for dragging me here. She thrust the letter toward me with a look of pure satisfaction. "Please choose your skill," she said, as if she were offering me a piece of candy.


    "Are you kidding me?" I muttered. How was I supposed to choose a skill? I barely knew what I was doing here! I had no gear, no plan, and apparently, no escape route either.


    "Come on!" the yellow-haired woman boomed, nudging me forward. "You got this!"


    Right. Sure. Because who doesn''t love being thrown into a high-stakes competition with absolutely no preparation? I glanced around the crowd, wondering if there was some emergency exit I could discreetly sneak through. And then I saw it¡ªa line of adventurers, each one scarier than the last. Fantastic.

 Chapter 17

    Flashback


    It was not long ago when I had been wandering the city streets, looking for Fernin. That reckless fool was always disappearing when I needed him most. Where did he go this time? I had been thinking of giving up and heading back to the restaurant when I felt a nudge at my side.


    Turning, I saw a woman with dark braids and freckled cheeks. Her eyes, wide with anxiety, darted around as if she were being watched.


    "Yes? How can I help you?" I asked, calm but curious.


    "Do you have a system?" she blurted out, her voice low but insistent. It was clear she was in some kind of trouble.


    I narrowed my eyes slightly. "I do. What''s this about?"


    She hesitated, then nodded quickly. "Can you come with me?" Her words were rushed, but her fear was palpable.


    "Do you need help?" I asked, studying her carefully.


    She nodded again, more urgently this time. I had no reason to refuse, so I followed her.


    Back to the Present


    "Where are you?" Thailon''s voice came through the system, a touch of worry coloring his usually steady tone. It was strange; we''d always communicated by letter before, and this new calling feature felt both convenient and intrusive. Like when I have in my fist life.


    But it feels new since it''s been long time ago.


    "I''m not entirely sure," I replied, scanning the surroundings. "I seem to have been dragged into some impromptu competition."


    "Are you displaying your abilities, then?" he asked, sounding half-curious, half-amused.


    I let out a measured sigh. "I''d rather not. I didn''t choose to be here, after all." Then I softened my tone a bit. "Is everything going smoothly at the stall?"


    "Yes, things are under control," he assured me. "But where are you exactly? I''ll come to you."


    "There''s no need for that," I replied, keeping my voice steady. "I''ll manage to find my way out."


    Of course, that was easier said than done. I might have decades of experience under my belt, but my sense of direction was another story entirely. I could get lost in a straight hallway if I wasn''t careful. Still, I wasn''t about to admit that to Thailon.


    "Well, thank you for checking in," I added, a touch more warmly. "I''ll make sure to show my appreciation once I''m back."


    Then the woman with buff muscle and yellow hair come sit next to me again "So did you choose your class?" she asked me.


    "Mage" I answer


    "You talk like you''re older than you look," she observed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "How old are you?"


    "I''m 20," I said, though there was a part of me that felt far older. Life¡ªand the system¡ªhad a way of making you feel as though time stretched longer than it should.


    She chuckled. "Well, I''m older than you then!"


    I smiled faintly, amused by her playful tone. "Perhaps physically," I replied quietly, "but not in every sense."


    Someone point of View


    "You want me to heal the competitors in this tournament? Did Thailon, that meddling elf, send you to ask this of me?" I asked, my gaze fixed on the man bowing before me. The audacity.


    Thailon had been acting as if he was suddenly in charge ever since Lara had been gone, as if her absence had somehow elevated him to leadership. I scoffed, barely holding back my disdain. Is he serious?


    The man shifted uncomfortably, nervously clearing his throat. "N-no, Master Caelum. This request comes from the vice headmaster. The great hero Thailon would never impose on you for such... things."


    Things? My eyes narrowed, a chill creeping into my tone. "Are you insulting me?" I asked, watching him pale as my words sank in.


    "No, " he stammered, his head bowing even lower.


    Ah, yes. The Fifth. I glanced down at myself. Actually, this was my fourth body.


    "Tell them I''m unavailable," I said curtly, standing up and pushing the chair back with a deliberate slowness. "I have neither the time nor the interest to waste on healing random participants. They''ll have to find someone else. I will not impose myself to those useless individual" I hadn''t even planned on staying here; somehow, I''d been dragged into this whole situation.


    Turning away, I felt the familiar weight of my responsibilities bearing down on me. I


    had already failed to bring Lara back¡ªhow could they expect me to spend my time on a meaningless task like this? And now, with the knowledge that Lara was indeed alive, I had more pressing matters at hand. I needed to find everyone and piece together how this was even possible.


    And more importantly find her.


    "But Master, if you refuse," the man''s voice wavered, and he hesitated. "The vice headmaster warned that you would no longer be welcome at the academy."


    I stopped mid-step, barely turning my head as I spoke. "You''re serious?" I asked, my voice cold and biting. "The academy¡ªthat place? You think I''d care about being banished from a building erected by a mere elf?"


    The man trembled, lowering his head even further. "I-I apologize, Master! I didn''t mean to offend¡ª"


    This is god damn annoying


    I want to go back to the past- if I just can.


    Flashback


    "You really want to help people?" I had asked Lara once, marveling at the optimism that poured from her every word. She stood under the fading sun, its warmth reflecting off her like a beacon of hope, a light I could never quite understand.


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    "Yeah, I do." She flashed that bright, radiant smile that made the world seem less daunting. "That''s why I''m going to fight the Demon Lord."


    I could never quite grasp it¡ªher idealistic view of the world, so different from mine. She spoke of hope and justice like they were absolutes, truths etched in stone. Lara was different from anyone I had ever known.


    She wasn''t just capable¡ªshe was unstoppable, a prodigy in her own right. She could heal the gravest wounds, wield any weapon with grace, and master any class as if the gods themselves had molded her for this purpose. And yet, she chose to surround herself with people like me.


    People like us.


    "You can heal people," I had pointed out, more curious than questioning. "Why would you even bother accepting someone like me into your party?"


    I wasn''t worthy of her light. I had only wanted to join out of curiosity, a selfish desire to see what someone like her was capable of. How could someone talk so casually about defeating a Demon Lord? It felt absurd to me, even laughable, but when Lara spoke, I believed her.


    Her answer, though, was not what I expected.


    "Because you''re nice," she had said, her smile soft, never faltering. "And you seem like you''d fit well in my team."


    Nice? The word had hit me like a gust of cold wind. No one had ever called me that before, not in earnest. It felt foreign, almost laughable. But Lara¡ªshe had a way of making everyone feel seen, of making you believe that you were more than your past, more than your scars.


    "You know priests can''t have wives, right? Are you sure you won''t regret it someday?" she teased, like she always did, a playful glint in her eyes as if I were just a child dreaming too big.


    I had laughed then, trying to mask the warmth creeping up my cheeks. "I became a priest to help people and study the holy arts. I''m not bound by the same restrictions. If I want to, I can take off my robes and live like anyone else."


    Her teasing smile had deepened, and she ruffled my hair like I was some little kid.


    "Oh, you''re such a nice boy," she had said, her tone light but laced with something else. Something I couldn''t see at the time.


    I had brushed it off as just Lara being Lara¡ªalways lighthearted, always warm. But now, thinking back, I realized that smile had carried a weight I had failed to notice. There was something deeper, something darker hiding behind that unwavering kindness. A sadness in her eyes that flickered just beneath the surface.


    But by the time I recognized it, it was already too late.


    -------------------------


    Don''t push yourself, Caelum. I''m destined to die anyway," Lara had whispered through blood-stained lips, her voice barely a breath as I frantically tried to save her. The curse was spreading, a vile and malevolent force stronger than anything I had ever encountered. My hands trembled as I cast healing after healing, but nothing could undo the darkness wrapping around her like chains.


    "No! I won''t let it take you!" I had screamed, my voice cracking with desperation as I poured every ounce of power I had into the spell, my soul burning with the effort. The light of the divine flickered around us, but it wasn''t enough. It was never enough.


    Lara''s hand, cold and trembling, reached up to my head, her touch gentle despite the agony she was in. "It''s already been decided," she murmured, her smile weak but kind, that same soft smile she always wore, even in the face of death. "Don''t waste your strength on me."


    The elf beside me, his voice sharp with anger, had screamed at me, accused me of failing. "You were supposed to protect her!" he shouted, his words like knives cutting into me, but I wasn''t listening. I wasn''t done.


    I wasn''t ready to let go.


    The world had narrowed down to just the two of us, Lara''s fading heartbeat against my frantic prayers. I was ready to call upon every divine power I could muster, ready to sacrifice anything, everything, to save her. My hands shook as I gathered the last of my strength.


    But then her hand, weak and trembling, tightened on mine.


    "I said, don''t push it," she whispered, her voice barely a breath, her eyes closing as she exhaled one last time.


    And just like that, it was over.


    The light I had tried so desperately to hold onto flickered and died in my hands, leaving nothing but emptiness. The world went silent, and all I could do was stare at her still face, her soft smile frozen in time, as if she had simply fallen asleep.


    I had failed. The weight of that realization crushed me, suffocating the last spark of hope that had been keeping me standing. Lara was gone, and no amount of magic, no divine intervention, could bring her back.


    I fell to my knees beside her, the warmth of her hand still lingering in mine, though it was rapidly fading. The curse had taken her, just like she said it would. And in that moment, everything in me shattered.


    It was not a victory.


    Back to Present


    I clenched my fists, memories of her final moments washing over me.


    I shook the memory from my mind and faced the bowing man.


    "Tell your vice head master this: I''m not healing anyone in that competition, nor will I ever step foot in the academy again if that''s his condition. I have more important things to do than entertain the whims of lesser men."


    The gods did not grant my wish, and I still lost her. Being nice? That doesn''t change anything. Screw being nice- Being nice doesn''t help all the people I help doesn''t even help me when I needed to.


    I vowed that I would bring her back, no matter what it takes. I''ve already placed a curse on myself¡ªuntil I achieve my goal, I''ll be reincarnated again and again, taking on new bodies. Until I can revive her, I don''t care how many years or lifetimes it takes.


    I will bring her back I want to see that smile again


    I was brooding over my latest failure when a voice suddenly interrupted my thoughts.


    "Oh, did I get lost?" A woman''s voice filled the room as she stepped through the door. She looked at me with wide eyes, as if she recognized me. The shock on her face was unmistakable.


    What is she doing here? I thought.


    "Are you from the Henessy family?" she asked abruptly.


    "Yes, she is, miss, and he is the fifth master... kindly show your respect" the old man beside me replied, his tone sharp. "But what brings you here?"


    The woman fumbled an apology, looking anxious. "I didn''t mean to intrude. I was looking for the resting room for the competition. I must''ve taken a wrong turn, but a child begged me to join this tournament, so I couldn''t just leave. Can you point me in the right direction?"


    She looked vaguely familiar, but I couldn''t place her. Something about the way she spoke¡ªit was unsettling that it felt so familiar.


    The old man sighed and replied, "The room you''re looking for is on the floor below. You''ve gone one floor too high."


    "Ah, I see. The elevator must''ve had an error," she muttered as if speaking to herself, still slightly flustered. "Thank you and sorry for the bother," she said quickly, turning to leave.


    Just as I thought she was gone, the door creaked open again, and she poked her head back in. "Oh, before I go¡ª" she began, her eyes locking onto mine. A slight smirk played on her lips.


    "Black doesn''t really suit you, child. You should wear white. You look like someone I once knew, and white suited him much better. Well it just suggestion so-" She pulled out a white priest''s cloak and matching boots, and without another word, dropped them on the floor. "Consider this my blessing. It''s a gift for my old friend"


    She closed the door behind her before I could respond.


    The old man eyed the items warily. "Should I throw these out?" he asked.


    I stared at the cloak for a long moment before replying. "No."


    Flashback


    "Child, don''t wear black. It makes you look like an antagonist or something," Lara had teased, her voice light and playful, fingers clicking at the air as if she was adjusting something in an invisible system only she could see. Her eyes sparkled with mischief, and her laughter, always so full of life, echoed through the quiet room.


    I had glanced down at my black robes, raising an eyebrow. "I thought it made me look mysterious," I had joked back, but deep down, I knew her words had a point. Lara always saw the light in everyone, and in her eyes, black was a color that dimmed that brightness.


    With a flourish, she had handed me a white priest''s cloak, the fabric soft and adorned with intricate golden threads that shimmered in the light. "Wear this instead," she insisted, pressing the cloak into my hands. "Black really doesn''t suit you. And we already had enough darkness because of Morven"


    Her smile, so warm and vibrant, had made me feel lighter in that moment, like everything would be alright just because she was there.


    And back then, I believed it. She seemed so invincible, so full of life.


    End OF Flashback


    But now, that smile lived only in my memories.


    This robe can only be gifted by one person, and while it may seem ordinary, it''s anything but this is Level S. She can''t be Lara, despite the resemblance, but...


    "I will heal the players," I announced, my resolve hardening.


    "What made you change your mind?" the old man asked, his brow furrowing in confusion.


    "Are you really going to ask me that? Just make sure I don''t see that elf lurking around, or I will destroy this entire area," I warned him.


    Something is amiss and I need to make sure something that woman I feel that she might have a connection with Lara.

 Chapter 18

    Lara''s Point of View


    That must be a descendant of Caelum. He really looks like the young Caelum I once knew. I wanted to attend his wedding, but it''s okay¡ªI''ve seen his descendant, and it feels right.


    He indeed get married I''m so happy for him


    So, this is the mage resting room. I really want to find the exit but this building is so big I got lost should I asked Thailon for help? But if that child entered here haysst-


    A Few Moments Later


    I take a deep breath, channeling my magic and casting a protective spell around myself. "Here goes nothing," I whisper, feeling the familiar energy envelop me.


    "Bina," she replies, her voice steady and sure.


    "Can you please handle this with care?" I ask, trying to maintain an air of composure.


    "That''s not a problem for me," she assures, confidence radiating from her.


    Bina begins to wave her wand, causing the earth around us to shift. "In calibra of light¡ª"


    Suddenly, I sense impending danger as a large chunk of earth lurches toward me. Reacting instinctively, I summon my own magic, countering the attack.


    "Is this how we welcome newcomers? Because I must say, I prefer a more civilized introduction," I remark, narrowly avoiding the dirt that threatened to engulf me.


    Bina glances at me, slightly flustered. "This isn''t a game; we''re in serious competition here!" this spell it''s familiar.


    Flashback


    The system had suggested I take on the King of Earth Destroyer¡ªMission 30.


    "What do you mean I should defeat that monstrosity? It''s utterly dangerous!" I exclaimed at the system, exasperation clear in my voice. The screen flickered mockingly in response.


    "What''s our plan?" Thailon asked, his tone steady yet laced with concern.


    "We defeat it, simple as that," I declared, trying to project confidence despite the knot in my stomach.


    "Are you certain about that?" Morvan asked, skepticism heavy in the air.


    "Do we have any other option? Did you glimpse something unsettling about the future?" I shot back, meeting his gaze with determination.


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    "We''ve been fighting for hours, that''s my concern" Morvan grumbled, tapping his pouch in frustration.


    "Enough with the chatter! We just need to focus on defeating it. I have items to test," Burnin interjected, brandishing her axe with a determined flourish.


    "I''m feeling rather drowsy," Faye murmured, her eyes half-closed.


    "Stay awake, We''re in the midst of a critical battle" I replied, shaking her gently.


    "I''ve sealed the exit here," Zephyra announced, his voice authoritative. Just then, I felt a light touch on my arm.


    "You''ve sustained an injury," Caelum observed, concern etched on his face as he examined my arm.


    "It''s nothing significant," I reassured him. "Children, are you prepared to proceed?" I asked, attempting to rally my companions.


    "Yes!" they answered in unison, their enthusiasm infectious.


    But then the earth shifted once more, locking us in place like a poorly arranged game of Jenga. I looked up, disbelief etched across my features as the ground rumbled ominously.


    "You''ve got to be joking!" I muttered, exasperation spilling over


    End of Flashback


    There was only one spell I had ever used to defeat earth before¡ªa clever combination of elements that my opponents typically found unsettling. Water. It was simple in concept, but potent in execution. I would turn it into mud, then freeze it to solid ice. The others rarely appreciated the ingenuity of that idea, but it had served me well in the past.


    I took a deep breath, centering myself. Levitating above the ground, I extended my hands, fingers outstretched, creating a shimmering circle of energy around me. The spell began to take shape, and I could feel the magic coursing through me, a vibrant pulse of power. "Let''s see if you can keep up, child" I muttered under my breath, eyes locked onto Bina.


    Her brow furrowed as she nodded, determination etched into her features. I could see the tension in her body as she concentrated, her lips pressed together as if summoning every ounce of her strength. With a deep breath, she raised her hands, and the air around us thickened with moisture. I felt the humidity rise, a harbinger of the torrent she was about to unleash.


    In an instant, a wave of water surged forth from her, crashing like a tidal wave against the ground. I braced myself, channeling my energy. With a swift motion, I waved my hand again, redirecting the water as it collided with the earth beneath us.


    "Not so fast!" I exclaimed, my voice steady despite the chaos around us. The water and earth intertwined, melding together as I guided them with my will. The chaotic elements danced around us, transforming into a stunning, swirling vortex of mud and water, a mesmerizing display of raw power. The colors blended beautifully¡ªearthy browns and shimmering blues twirling in a wild symphony.


    As the storm of magic surged, I felt exhilarated, my heart racing with the thrill of our combined efforts. It was as if the very elements themselves were bowing to our power, responding to our intentions with an almost sentient grace.


    "That was amazing!" I shouted, breathless from the surge of energy as the swirling magic began to settle. "But that''s still not enough to defeat me, though. Well, it''s almost as impressive as Zephyra''s magic," I added, teasingly, a smirk playing on my lips.


    Bina''s confidence began to wane as fatigue set in. "I surrender!" she shouted, her cheeks flushed with exhaustion, the sparkle of her earlier bravado dimming in the face of my spell.


    Just as I was about to bask in my victory, the voice of the announcer boomed over the arena, cutting through the tension like a knife. "And we have a winner! Amelia for this round!"


    The crowd erupted into cheers, the sound echoing around the vast arena. I lowered myself back to the ground, the remnants of my spell dissipating into the air, and turned to Bina


    Now they tell us to returned to the resting room for the next round

 Chapter 19

    Lara Point of View


    "I don''t have any bruises to be healed," I said, attempting to lighten the mood. His gaze fixed on me, skepticism etched on his youthful face. "Just who are you?" he asked, his tone sharper than I remembered.


    And he is quite rude.


    I hesitated, glancing at the doorplate. It confirmed that this was indeed my room.


    "I''m Amelia," I introduced myself, my voice steady, but he seems to flinch


    "You''re lying," he replied bluntly, his voice laced with a challenge. The rudeness in his tone felt out of place, especially coming from someone who resembled the kind and gentle Caelum I once knew.


    He really looked like Caelum from hair to eyes and everything. The resemblance is uncanny.


    "How could I possibly lie about my identity?" I countered, annoyance creeping into my tone.


    "You''re really not lying," he conceded, rising to his feet, the way he carried himself radiating a mix of confidence and uncertainty.


    Similar to how Caelum carried himself, the child in front of me seems to have black feathers surrounding him, in contrast to Caelum, who radiates light behind his back.


    I noticed he wore the very robe I had gifted to him, its fabric flowing around him like a whisper from the past. A wave of nostalgia washed over me.


    "Wow, this takes me back," I murmured, memories flooding my mind. But just as I began to feel a sense of familiarity, he abruptly grasped my wrist, his grip firm.


    "This child..." I started to say, but before I could finish, a green light began to emanate from him, illuminating the room. It was his power, a reminder of who he was meant to be.


    A healer.


    Suddenly, the system flickered to life, bright alerts surrounding us.


    Caelum Hennesy is back to the Party


    Huh? Who is back? I stammered, confusion overwhelming me. No, this is Caelum¡ªCaelum is dead. Thailon already said so.


    Caelum is dead


    "I am done healing you," he said matter-of-factly, the glow between us pulsing with energy.


    "Are you Caelum?" I asked, searching his eyes for the truth.


    "I am," he replied, his tone steady, yet something felt off.


    "No, I mean, are you really Caelum?" I pressed, needing to hear the familiar truth from him.


    "I am Caelum the Fifth," he affirmed, his voice firm but still tinged with doubt.


    "Healing you is just my payment for this robe."


    "Like I said, white does suit you, child," I remarked, trying to keep the moment light. I touch his hair even though he is taller than me.


    "Oh¡ªI apologize!" I exclaimed, instinctively pulling my hand away, flustered. "That''s just my hobby," I added, trying to brush off the sudden intimacy.


    Yet his grip tightened, a shadow of doubt flickering across his face.


    "Who are you really?" he demanded, suspicion evident in his tone.


    This child was not the Caelum I remembered; he was far too rude, too guarded. Perhaps the system had truly made an error.


    This is not Caelum I know


    Before I could respond, a voice cut through the tension like a blade.


    "What are you doing, you little pest?"


    It was Thailon, stepping into the room with an air of authority. Relief washed over me at his presence, though I couldn''t help but notice the trinket I had given him hanging around his neck, while the others were absent.


    Thailon pulled me and face to face to the child.


    "Oh, you''re here!" I said, forcing a smile, hoping to ease the charged atmosphere.


    "Are you okay? I finally found you- " Thailon asked, concern etched into his features as he assessed the situation. Then he checked my body if I am injured or something.


    "Yeah, he actually healed me," I replied.


    "What are you doing here?" I asked Thailon, eager for some clarity.


    "I am¡ªno," he hesitated, casting a wary glance at Caelum.


    "How dare you come near her after what you''ve done!" Thailon''s voice was fierce, protective, as he stepped between us, shielding me from the child.


    "Her? What you mean after what I''ve done ?! Wait, don''t¡ªtell me," Caelum the Fifth said pointing to me he stopped.


    "Can you not recognize him?" Thailon shot back, incredulous.


    "I do! He is Caelum, descendant of Caelum , he is the Fifth, he really looks like Caelum that child isn''t so?" I said but immediately Thailon disagree to me. I am confused.


    "No! He is Caelum that damn priest-" Thailon insisted, frustration bleeding into his words.


    "Yeah, Caelum, descendant of Caelum, you said Cailum is far gone to us" I said to Thailon but then Caelum stepped forward and came near to which Thailon stopped with his arm.


    "Are you Lara?" Caelum the fifth asked suddenly, taking a step forward, his voice shifting to something softer, almost hopeful.


    As if he is begging for this moment.


    "If you are Lara, it''s me, Caelum," he said, determination filling his gaze as he locked eyes with me.


    "Yes, you are Caelum!" I exclaimed, my heart pounding as the realization hit me, unraveling the confusion that clouded my mind.


    "No! It''s me, Caelum!" he insisted pointing to himself, and I looked back at the system, the alerts blinking rapidly before me.


    "Yo¡ªare you the Caelum I know?!" I gasped, my breath catching in my throat as everything fell into place.


    The moment I felt his aura¡ªa familiar, radiant energy¡ªit sent goosebumps racing across my skin. How had I not noticed this light surrounding him before? I had barely opened my synthesis when it struck me like a lightning bolt.


    Before I could fully process my thoughts, he suddenly grabbed my hand and kissed it with a flourish.


    "Oh, how I''ve wished for this! You are truly the Lara I know," he exclaimed, his eyes shining with a mixture of joy and nostalgia. He was shaking, almost as if he were on the verge of tears.


    Then, to my utter disbelief, he knelt before me as though I were some royal figure. "W-Wait, what are you doing, child? Stand up!" I urged, quickly placing my hands on his shoulders to pull him back to his feet. I wasn''t ready for such theatrics.


    "Don''t help or bother him, Lara! He sinned too much!" Thailon chimed in, crossing his arms and glaring at Caelum as if he were judging a misbehaved child.


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    "What are you saying? Who sinned against whom?" I asked, bewildered, glancing between the two of them. The whole scenario felt like an absurd comedy sketch unfolding right in front of me.


    "Stand up, child," I insisted again, my voice firm yet laced with amusement as I nudged Thailon.


    Thailon is now obviously annoyed.


    A Few Moments Later


    Lara Point of View


    "So you two blamed each other and fought?" I asked, my voice echoing in the tense silence.


    Before me, Caelum and Thailon knelt on the floor, their hands raised as part of their punishment.


    "What is the rule of our party?" I demanded, adopting a stern tone to emphasize the seriousness of the situation.


    "DON''T FIGHT!" they both shouted in unison, their voices resonating with a newfound clarity.


    "Then why are you two fighting? You even smacked each other in the face right in front of me!" I exclaimed, frustration boiling beneath the surface as I helped Caelum to his feet. The two resumed their argument, blaming one another for their reckless behavior, and I noticed the bruises forming on their cheeks¡ªa physical reminder of their quarrel earlier.


    "What do I hate the most?" I asked, my voice firm as I tried to reign in the situation.


    "Fighting inside the circle!" they responded, their voices shout like as if in military.


    "Then why did you fight?" I pressed, watching as silence enveloped them once more, their stubbornness evident.


    "Are you- no this is my assume but-... are you two blaming each other because of my death?" I probed, my heart aching at the thought. Their silence spoke volumes, and I felt frustration creeping in once again.


    They went silent.


    These two were really pushing my patience. I sat up straight, trying to maintain my composure. "Stand up," I ordered. They complied slowly, still looking like scolded children. "As I said before, it''s my fault. So why are you arguing even in my death all I whispered to all of you that this is my choice?" I challenged them, but they fell into another silence, their stubbornness returning with a vengeance.


    "I said, ANSWER!" I commanded, my tone sharpening.


    "It''s the role of the priest to heal you, yet he failed," Thailon finally spoke, his voice heavy with regret.


    "And it''s his role to check on you, and he failed," Caelum added, his gaze fixed on the ground, shame radiating from him.


    "This is none of your fault. I didn''t mean to put so much pressure on you two because of my death but I didn''t expect to go this far, I didn''t expect that my fault would go this far, you are like my children to me but if my death lead to this mean I failed miserably" I said, my heart aching for them. I hadn''t realized the burden they had placed upon themselves, believing they had failed me.


    "No¡ªyou did not pressure us," Caelum insisted, shaking his head vehemently.


    "It is truly my fault for being unable to heal you, for not stopping you from dying." His self-blame cut deep, and I could see the turmoil in his eyes. A regret is all I can see.


    Is my death this deep?


    "Child-...sigh* Like I said, it''s none of your faults. It''s mine," I reiterated, feeling the weight of their guilt pressing against my heart. I stood up, brushing some stray hair from his face, my fingers lingering a moment longer than necessary.


    "You''re being too nice again," I said softly, a hint of a smile breaking through the tension. "My death is my own fault."


    Caelum looked up at me, his eyes filled with a mixture of sorrow and determination. "But we should have done more. I should have done more," he insisted, the pain in his voice clear. I hug him.


    This is my fault he felt this way.


    "Sometimes, things happen that are beyond our control," I replied gently, hoping to ease his burdensome thoughts.


    "You both did your best, and that''s all anyone can ask for." I


    This is my fault


    Their expressions softened slightly, but I knew the struggle within them wasn''t over. It would take time for them to let go of the guilt.


    Caelum Point of View


    The moment I saw her on the stage, everything inside me twisted into knots. Every movement she made¡ªso precise, so familiar¡ªit was impossible not to notice. The way she waved her wand, the precise magic she conjured, the rhythm in her gestures... it all echoed Lara.


    My Lara. It was as though she had stolen Lara''s very essence, mimicked her down to the smallest detail. But that''s impossible. Lara would have recognized me. Lara should have recognized me.


    When they announced her victory, the crowd cheered, but my heart pounded in disbelief. All I wanted to do was confront her, demand answers. How dare she copy someone so intimately? How dare she mirror every piece of the woman I once knew?


    How dare she?


    I waited outside her chamber, my body thrumming with a mixture of anger, confusion, and something I couldn''t quite name. My chest was tight, each breath shaky as her footsteps echoed in the corridor, soft but purposeful, growing louder as she neared the door. I clenched my fists, bracing myself for the confrontation, for whatever truth lay ahead.


    The door creaked open. As soon as she entered, I didn''t waste a second.


    "Who are you?" The words flew from my mouth, sharp and accusatory, before I could stop myself.


    "I don''t have bruises to be healed," she replied coolly, her eyes glancing over me like I was nothing more than an inconvenience. She didn''t even spare me a proper look, dismissing my presence as if it were beneath her concern. Her voice was steady, with a sharpness that dared me to push further.


    My patience snapped. I took a step closer, my voice hardening. "Who are you?" I demanded again, more forceful this time. I wasn''t letting this go. She turned her gaze toward the door, as if contemplating an escape, her aloofness infuriating me further.


    "I''m Amelia," she finally said, her tone calm, her expression unreadable. But that wasn''t the answer I needed. I could feel my pulse thundering in my ears, frustration boiling in my veins. Amelia? No. That couldn''t be the truth.


    "You''re lying," I said, my eyes narrowing as I studied her face, her every movement. "You''re not Amelia."


    "How could I possibly lie about my identity?" she countered smoothly, her voice not betraying a hint of unease. But even as she spoke, I could hear it¡ªher heartbeat. It hammered beneath her calm exterior, a faint tremor betraying her composed fa?ade.


    I paused, my mind racing. Maybe she wasn''t lying about her name. But something about her¡ªher presence, her essence¡ªwas all too familiar. Before I could respond, my gaze drifted to her left hand, where a faint bruise marred her skin. An old instinct kicked in¡ªthe healer in me. Heal everyone as long as you can, a voice whispered in the back of my mind.


    Without thinking, I reached for her hand. She flinched at my touch, muttering under her breath, "This child..." Her words were barely audible, but they stung.


    I worked silently, letting the magic flow through me, mending the bruise as her eyes drifted upward, distant. Was she thinking of something¡ªor someone¡ªelse?


    "I''m done healing you," I said softly as I released her hand, stepping back. But I wasn''t done with her¡ªnot by a long shot. I needed answers. I needed to know who had taught her this magic, Lara''s magic. I needed to know why everything about her felt so painfully familiar.


    She broke the silence first. "Are you Caelum?" she asked, her voice carrying a note of hesitation that caught me off guard.


    "I am," I replied, my voice cautious. Where was she going with this?


    "No, are you really Caelum?" she pressed, her eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that sent a chill down my spine. It was as if she were peeling back the layers of my soul, searching for something hidden.


    I frowned, thrown off balance by the question. "I am Caelum the Fifth," I answered firmly, trying to regain control of the situation.


    "Healing you was just payment for this robe," I added, clearing my throat, grasping at anything to steady myself. But she only smiled, and it was that smile that made my heart stutter.


    "Like I said before, white does suit you," she teased lightly, her voice softening, playful.


    And just like that, my composure crumbled. Her words¡ªthose words. My heart skipped a beat, and for a fleeting moment, it was as if Lara herself stood before me. I could feel it, the weight of her memory pressing against my chest, her laughter echoing in my ears. Her smile. Her touch. The way she used to brush her fingers through my hair.


    Then, she did it. She reached out and brushed her fingers through my hair.


    Exactly like Lara.


    I froze. The world around me blurred as the memory of Lara washed over me in a flood of emotion. It felt the same. Exactly the same.


    She immediately pulled her hand back, her expression shifting to one of mild embarrassment. "Oh, I apologize. That''s just... my hobby," she laughed, trying to shrug it off like it was nothing.


    But it wasn''t nothing. Not to me.


    I clenched my jaw, every nerve in my body screaming that something wasn''t right. There was something deeper here, something she wasn''t telling me. My frustration bubbled over, and before I knew it, I grabbed her wrist, my voice trembling with a raw, unrestrained emotion. "Who are you really?" I demanded.


    Before she could answer, the door slammed open, and an all-too-familiar elf barged in.


    "What are you doing, you little pest?" the elf snarled, shoving my hand away from her. His protectiveness grated on my nerves, but what gnawed at me even more was why he was so protective. Why was he so close to her?


    "Oh, you''re here!" Her voice shifted, warming as she greeted him, her demeanor softening too easily, too comfortably.


    "Are you okay? I finally found you-" the elf asked, his voice tender, as if she were someone precious to him.


    "Yeah, he actually healed me," she replied, as if I were nothing more than a footnote, as though I had just faded into the background of their story.


    "What are you doing here?" the elf hissed at me, his eyes full of disdain. "How dare you come near her after what you''ve done?"


    What I''ve done? He spoke as if I had wronged her before, as if we had a history. No. No, it couldn''t be.


    The question that had been clawing at my mind finally broke free, tumbling out of my mouth before I could stop it.


    "Are you Lara?"


    Silence.


    The word hung in the air, thick and suffocating. My chest tightened as I searched her face for any hint of the truth, my heart pounding harder than ever. Lara... could it be?


    "If you are Lara, it''s me¡ª Caelum," I whispered, my voice barely a breath. Desperate for the truth. Desperate for her.


    "Yes, you are Caelum," she replied, her voice unnervingly calm, but her eyes¡ªher eyes flickered, a shadow of recognition passing through them. She knew. She always had.


    "No¡ªit''s me. I''m Caelum," I said again, stepping closer, my voice trembling now. Her eyes widened, and the truth, the truth I had been aching for, broke through the surface.


    "You... are Caelum, I know," she whispered, her voice faltering as if she were fighting to hold back the flood of emotions threatening to spill over.

 Chapter 20

    Lara''s Point of View


    "You two better not start fighting again," I muttered, rolling my eyes as I heard my name called for the competition.


    Caelum stood next to me, and I turned to him with a frown. "By the way, Caelum, what''s the deal with this competition? What happens if I win?" I asked, feeling a bit out of place. I mean, I just joined this thing without much thought.


    "You should probably ask the elf over there," Caelum replied, pointing lazily at Thailon.


    Thailon, who was standing not far from us, overheard the conversation and shrugged. "Well, if you win, you''ll be announced as the greatest adventurer of the year. You know, with all the incentives and praise and stuff."


    "That sounds... like a good thing?" I asked hesitantly.


    "Well, people might recruit you, and you''ll get a bunch of missions," Thailon explained with a casual wave of his hand. "Could be a good thing. Or... maybe not, depending on how much you like people hounding you."


    Nope, definitely not. That sounded like a nightmare.


    "Oh, yeah, okay..." I trailed off, my enthusiasm quickly fizzling out. "Can I... like, leave the competition?" I asked, hoping I could slip away quietly before things got too serious.


    Thailon raised a brow. "Why would you want to leave? You''re already in it."


    Well, there was that whole awkward thing about someone pushing me into this mess, and now I had no clue what I was doing. But I couldn''t exactly explain that without sounding like a total idiot. "Oh, never mind," I sighed... PEOPLE ALWAYS NEVER LISTENNNN. Guess I''ll just... pretend to lose or something.


    Third Person Point of View


    As Amelia stepped onto the stage, the crowd erupted in cheers, excited for the semi-final match between her and a boy named Jack. However, the crowd''s focus soon shifted from the competitors to the unexpected arrival of two familiar faces.


    There, standing at the edge of the stage, was none other than Thailon, the High Elf of the Academy, alongside Caelum the Fifth, the Young Master of the Hennesy family. It was the first time the two had appeared together in public, and it was a sight to behold. Though they both looked elegant as always, they were... a little worse for wear. Bruises marked their cheeks, and their usually pristine hair was a mess. Still, they managed to radiate the sort of attention-seeking elegance that only they could pull off.


    The crowd watched in stunned silence for a moment, unsure what to make of the situation, until suddenly¡ª


    "GO! SMASH HIS HEAD IN!" Thailon yelled out, his voice echoing across the arena, causing a collective gasp from the audience. This was the elf who organized the competition, and here he was, openly rooting for one of the contestants.


    "Don''t worry about injuring him, I can heal him as many times as needed!" Caelum added cheerfully, waving his hands like an overenthusiastic parent at a school play.


    Caelum, not to be outdone, chimed in, "If she fails, I''ll finish him off for her."


    The horrified look that swept through the audience was priceless. The crowd exchanged nervous glances, unsure if they should cheer or start running for the exits.


    But one thing is for sure those two are idiots.


    Lara''s Point of View


    A Few Moments Later...


    "Kid, chill!!" I shouted at the mage in front of me, barely dodging yet another barrage of flying fireballs and magic whatevers he kept tossing my way. How on earth was I supposed to let him win if he kept attacking me like this? The kid was relentless!


    "This is a competition! Why would I chill?!" he shot back, his voice full of righteous fury. His determination was admirable, but also... exhausting. Was it really that serious?


    System suggests you defeat the kid.


    I blinked. "You''re serious right now? You want me to defeat that kid? No way. I can''t hurt a child!"


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    Reward for defeating the kid: Luck +10.


    "Luck +10?" I muttered, squinting at the system message. "Wait, hold on, that''s actually a big deal..."


    I looked over at the kid, who was now summoning something that looked suspiciously like a lightning storm. Ugh, this was going to be a problem. I needed to get out of here¡ªI had way too much on my plate already to be stuck in this mess. But I also couldn''t bring myself to seriously hurt the poor kid.


    A fireball whizzed past my head, narrowly missing me. "Can''t we just talk this out?" I called, trying to reason with him.


    "No! Fight me!" he yelled, charging up another spell.


    Sighing, I dodged his next attack. This was going to be a long match. Then I find the chance to play dead


    Third Person Point of View


    The arena was filled with cheers, excitement, and anticipation. But all of that quickly turned into stunned silence as Lara collapsed in the middle of the ring. The crowd collectively held its breath, their cheers dying down as they watched the scene unfold.


    Lara, having deliberately put herself to sleep to lose the match casually, lay motionless on the ground, her chest rising and falling peacefully. However, the crowd didn''t know this. They stared at her lifeless form with concern, not understanding what had happened. But more than anything, what shocked the audience wasn''t Lara''s fall, but the two figures who suddenly dashed from the sidelines with inhuman speed.


    Thailon and Caelum, who had been watching the match, vanished from their seats in the blink of an eye. The air around them shimmered as they moved with a swiftness beyond mortal comprehension. One moment they were standing in the audience, and the next, they appeared at Lara''s side in the center of the ring, as if time had momentarily bent to their will.


    The crowd gasped. Even the announcer, who had been ready to declare the match over, faltered in disbelief. Their speed was something only seen in legends¡ªalmost as if magic itself had carried them to Lara''s side.


    Thailon, the elegant High Elf, the great hero itself, knelt beside Lara with a grace that belied the concern etched on his face. His normally composed demeanor cracked as he carefully cradled her limp body in his arms, his long, silver hair shimmering under the arena''s light. His fingers glowed faintly with a soft, golden magic as he checked for any signs of injury. His sharp eyes narrowed, scanning her face for any hint of consciousness.


    "Lara? Can you hear me?" he murmured, his voice unusually soft but filled with urgency.


    Meanwhile, Caelum, the young master of the Hennessy family, was already in action. His hands flared with vibrant, arcane energy, casting spell after spell as he attempted to revive her. The magic surged around them in a display of raw power, swirling in vivid hues of blue and silver. Caelum''s brow furrowed in concentration, sweat glistening on his forehead as he poured his strength into his spells.


    "Come on, Lara. Wake up," he muttered, frustration evident in his tone. His magic was powerful, capable of healing and protection, but he was used to battle, not delicate situations like this. He worked feverishly, his hands glowing brighter with each passing second.


    They are in fear.


    The crowd, still in shock, could only watch as these two extraordinary figures gave their full attention to the unconscious woman. Even though the match had technically ended, with Jack being declared the winner, no one cared about the result anymore. Their eyes were glued to the scene before them¡ªthe High Elf and the noble heir, both deeply worried for Amelia''s safety.


    The air around the ring pulsed with energy, a magical tension that the audience could feel. The very atmosphere seemed to ripple as Thailon and Caelum''s combined magic swirled around Lara''s body. The faint smell of ozone lingered in the air, and sparks of light flickered across the arena floor.


    A murmur spread through the crowd. Whispers of awe and confusion rippled like a wave.


    "Is she alright?"


    "Why are they so concerned about her?"


    "Who is this girl that has both the great hero and the young heir of Caelum so worried?"


    Thailon''s hand, still glowing with magic, gently brushed Lara''s cheek. "She''s breathing," he said softly, though his voice held an edge of worry. "She''s just... asleep?"


    Caelum''s spell finally settled, and he stared at her, dumbfounded. "She put herself to sleep?" he asked, incredulity lacing his voice. "She''s fine... She did this on purpose?"


    Thailon blinked, then let out a long breath, his shoulders sagging slightly in relief. "You''ve got to be kidding me," he muttered. "She made us panic for nothing."


    Caelum ran a hand through his hair, his relieved . "Unbelievable. All that magic for¡ªwhat? She wanted to lose casually?"


    The crowd, unaware of the full conversation, only saw the worried looks on their faces turn into baffled amusement. But they couldn''t shake the image of the two powerhouses rushing to Lara''s side with such speed and concern, as if they''d do anything to protect her.


    Still holding Lara gently, Thailon stood, his arms supporting her effortlessly. The great hero elf shot a glance at the crowd, his earlier embarrassment now hidden behind his usual calm facade. Caelum, on the other hand, waved dismissively at the audience, as if trying to downplay the entire spectacle.


    "Alright, show''s over," Caelum called out to the crowd, his voice tinged with mock exasperation. "She''s fine. Just... tired."


    But the crowd didn''t disperse so easily. They continued to watch, transfixed, as Thailon carried Lara''s sleeping form with the elegance of a prince holding a rare treasure. Even though the match had officially ended, and Jack had been declared the victor, it was clear that the attention had long since shifted to Lara, the mysterious adventurer who had captured the concern of two of the most powerful figures in the land.


    The murmurs grew louder, the whispers of speculation echoing through the arena.


    "She must be important."


    "To have both the High Elf and the Young Master at her side? She''s no ordinary adventurer."


    And as Thailon and Caelum made their way off the stage, still carrying the peacefully sleeping Lara, the crowd remained, their eyes following the trio with awe and intrigue. The competition''s outcome had been decided, but the true spectacle¡ªLara and the two powerful figures by her side¡ªhad only just begun.

 Chapter 21

    A Few Moments Later


    "Are you two angry with me?" I asked, looking at Thailon and Caelum, who stood in front of me with arms crossed and stern expressions.


    "We were dead worried about what might happen," Thailon huffed, crossing his arms tighter, his lips forming a slight pout. "You just put yourself to sleep without any warning! At least give us a heads-up next time."


    I smiled at his reaction. "I thought you''d notice. You know me better than that." I said, raising a brow at the Thailon "The magic I used should have been obvious to the two of you."


    "That''s exactly why I was suspicious of that gold light around you," Caelum added, scratching his head. "So, it was sleeping magic, huh?"


    I nodded, a little sheepish. "I''m sorry if I worried you both, but honestly, I figured you''d catch on."


    Thailon narrowed his eyes, clearly unimpressed. His usual tsundere nature shone through as he clicked his tongue, avoiding my gaze. "Hmph, we''re not mind readers, Lara."


    "I thought you two could at least figure it out without me needing to explain every little thing. After all, you''ve known me long enough," I teased, treating them like the children I still viewed them as¡ªdespite their youthful appearances, I was far older than both. "But I do apologize for worrying you."


    Thailon glared at me, though I could see the soft blush rising on his cheeks. "You better be sorry."


    Caelum, ever the nicer one, stepped in. "It''s okay. Honestly, Thailon and I should''ve noticed sooner." He glanced over at Thailon, giving him a knowing smile. "Right?"


    Thailon''s eyebrow twitched. "Are you seriously taking her side?"


    "Why not?" Caelum replied, grinning as if he enjoyed pushing Thailon''s buttons.


    I laughed lightly, shaking my head at their bickering. "Alright, alright, no need to fight over it. How about this¡ªlet me make it up to you both. I''ll treat you to dinner tonight. I know how much you both miss my spaghetti and Leche Flan. What do you say? I also want to catch up with you two" I offered, knowing that would break the tension.


    A brief moment of silence passed between them, their eyes flickering with interest. Finally, Thailon looked away, trying to mask his excitement. "You''re treating us like children, you know," he muttered, but his tsundere nature couldn''t hide his eagerness. "But... since you''re offering, I suppose it wouldn''t hurt."


    Caelum''s eyes lit up, always the easygoing one. "It''s fine with me-I''d never turn down your cooking."


    I smiled warmly, watching them both. "It''s settled, then. Dinner at my place tonight. And this time, I promise I won''t fall asleep."


    Thailon and Caelum exchanged looks, and though they tried to keep their cool, I could tell they were looking forward to it. Even after all these years, some things never changed.


    Third Point of View


    "What kind of useless thing to say," Thailon muttered, pushing himself up from his chair with a deliberate slowness. His eyes were dark, smoldering with a simmering anger as he straightened his suit.


    Julen, standing nearby, took a cautious step back. "Your esteemed image as the great hero and headmaster of this school is at stake. You can''t just go to the king unannounced and request approval for a mere girl," he warned, his tone respectful but firm.


    Thailon''s expression hardened, his gaze narrowing as he processed Julen''s words. "A mere girl? A piece of paper?" he repeated, his voice low, barely containing his disdain. His eyes locked onto Jule with such intensity that the younger man immediately bowed to the ground, his head nearly touching the floor.


    "I don''t mean to disrespect you, sir," Julen stammered, his voice trembling as he pressed his palms against the cold floor. "But going to the king without prior notice¡ªit could undermine your status. It''s not fitting for someone as revered as you."


    Thailon let out a harsh, bitter laugh, his lips twisting in a snarl. "Their mere existence annoys me. Respect? They sit on that throne, taking lives, claiming merits, and basking in titles they''ve done nothing to earn." He glanced at the door, his fists clenching at his sides. "They should consider themselves lucky to even encounter someone like me. Long ago, I wanted to end them, to put a stop to their empty reign. But instead of fulfilling my wishes, they gave me a useless title. They are not them without us"


    He reached for his suit jacket, slipping it on with a renewed sense of purpose. "I''ll no longer let my sunshine suffer. Not anymore. I won''t disappoint her as I have in the past, I already done so much that could disappoint her I will not go it up" he said, his voice tinged with a rare softness that quickly vanished as he turned his gaze back to Jule.


    Jule, still on his knees, tried to speak, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. "B-but¡ª"


    "Don''t disappoint me any further," Thailon commanded, his voice cutting through the air like a blade. Without waiting for a response, he strode towards the door, his resolve unshakable.


    Jule watched him go, his heart pounding in his chest, feeling the weight of Thailon''s expectations press down on him like an invisible hand.


    Julen can''t do anything.


    Third Point of View


    Somewhere in the heart of a grand estate


    "Where are you going, Master?" The old butler''s voice trembled as he hurried after Caelum, his wrinkled hands clutching the edge of his uniform.


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    "The entire country awaits your return. They''re expecting you to take your rightful place as master of the house. You can''t just leave so casually!" His gaze fell on Caelum''s attire, and his eyes widened at the sight of the unfamiliar garments.


    "And why are you dressed as a priest? Are you... planning to go to the church?"


    Caelum did not respond, his gaze fixed resolutely ahead as he strode through the marble hallways with silent purpose. His silence was as cold as the polished floors beneath his feet, and he moved with such determination that the butler felt a chill run down his spine.


    "Master?" the butler called again, his voice wavering between worry and bewilderment. He could only watch as Caelum disappeared down the corridor, the heavy doors of the mansion closing behind him with a resounding finality.


    For a moment, the old man stood alone in the echoing silence, his hand still extended as if he could somehow hold Caelum back. Yet no one dared to stop him. Even the walls of the mansion seemed to understand that they should not stand in his way.


    -


    Lara gently patted Caelum''s head, a warm smile softening her features. "Aigoo¡ªyou''re always such a good kid, aren''t you?" she teased, watching as he carefully tended to the wound on her hand.


    Caelum returned her smile, his eyes crinkling with gentle amusement. "I''ve told you before, you need to be more careful," he chided, his tone full of quiet affection.


    Lara shrugged and let out a little laugh. "How can I avoid it? You know I''ve always been clumsy. Remember all those times I got hurt when we worked together? I can heal others, but my own injuries?" She raised her hand, now fully healed, as if in proof. "Useless."


    Caelum''s smile faltered, a shadow flickering across his face. "And that''s how we lost you..." he mumbled under his breath, too softly for Lara to hear. She was already glancing out the window, her thoughts drifting to the bustling street beyond.


    "Did you say something?" she asked, turning back to him, but Caelum merely shook his head and rose from his seat, brushing off her question.


    "I''m finished with your hand. Now, what''s this proposal you wanted to talk about?" he asked, shifting the conversation smoothly.


    "Oh, right! Thanks for reminding me." Lara snapped her fingers as if to jog her memory. She leaned forward, her eyes glimmering.


    "You once told me it was your dream to find ways to help as many people as possible. Ring any bells?"


    Caelum paused, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face. Did I say that? he wondered, but before he could reply, Lara continued, her tone taking on a rare gravity.


    "You said you wanted to help people quickly and effectively. And I think I have an idea how you can do just that." She handed him a worn book, which Caelum accepted without question, flipping through the pages as he settled back in his chair. Lara''s smile grew as she watched him, a sense of anticipation in her gaze.


    "What about establishing an institute or hospital?" she suggested, leaning closer as if confiding a secret.


    Caelum raised an eyebrow, glancing up from the book. "This city already has those," he pointed out. "Plenty of them, actually."


    "Yes, but only for those who can afford it," Lara replied, a hint of frustration in her tone. "Sure, people can go to the church for help, but even the church has its limitations. You know that better than anyone."


    Caelum''s skepticism deepened. "Helping people is often a thankless task. One misstep, and suddenly they turn against you," he murmured, more to himself than to her.


    Lara placed a steadying hand on his shoulder. "Caelum, you have a gift. You understand medicine, and you''re a natural caregiver. Imagine creating a place where you could share that gift with others¡ªa place where you could make a real difference, you said it is your dream to be the best isn''t it?" she said, her voice full of quiet conviction.


    Caelum looked up from the book, meeting her gaze. This wasn''t just a suggestion from an old friend; there was a fierce determination in her eyes that he hadn''t noticed before. He leaned back, considering her words carefully. "You really believe in this, don''t you?"


    "Absolutely," Lara replied, her gaze unwavering. "And I believe in you. So, what do you say?"


    "Why do you always believe in me?" Caelum asked, his expression softening as he regarded her with genuine curiosity.


    "Because you''re kind," Lara answered simply, a radiant smile lighting up her face.


    A few moments later, Lara was preparing to leave, gathering her things with a swift efficiency.


    "You sure you''re not coming along?" she asked as she turned toward Caelum, looking hopeful.


    "Yeah, no, you go on ahead," Caelum replied, waving her off with a faint smile. He wasn''t particularly in the mood to face the Academy crowd that day.


    "Are you really sure?" Lara pressed, raising an eyebrow.


    "Yes, yes." Caelum chuckled, brushing her off. "Go on, enjoy yourself."


    "Alright, if you say so." She laughed, rolling her eyes as though she knew he''d regret it later.


    Turning to her brother, Fernin, who was wiping down the counter, she asked, "How about you? Care to join me?"


    Fernin sighed dramatically, surveying the messy restaurant. "Haah, you handle it. I''ll stay and tackle this disaster zone. It''s a mess in here¡ªyou go have fun for the both of us."


    "Alright then. See you both later at dinner!" she called, waving as she stepped out into the city''s bustling streets.


    A Few Moments Later


    At the gates of Lareon Academy, Lara approached the guard, who was built like a brick wall and seemed about as friendly as one too.


    "Sorry, without any prior notice, you can''t meet him," the guard said, crossing his arms and standing firmly in her way.


    Lara''s shoulders slumped a little. "Is that so? What a hassle. I even brought his favorite sandwich!" She held up the basket, peeking inside as if to make sure the sandwich was still there¡ªas if it had suddenly disappeared from sheer disappointment.


    This is ridiculous, she thought. I came all the way here to see Thailon because he promised me the approval paper by today. But it''s almost night, and he''s nowhere to be found. Typical Thailon, always making things difficult I should just go with him.


    "Can you just give it to him?" Lara asked, her voice turning sweet as she tried to pass the basket to the guard.


    "No, we cannot," the guard replied, almost barking at her. His stern expression didn''t waver, not even for a second.


    Lara groaned inwardly. Why is he so popular that even getting past his guards is like trying to break into a fortress? But atleast he became popular I''m still proud of him She sighed, realizing that the guard looked like he''d taken an oath never to let anyone through unless it was a matter of life and death.


    "But isn''t she the one from the competition¡ªthe one who¡ª" the second guard started to whisper, but before he could finish, a carriage rolled up to the front gate, drawing everyone''s attention.


    Thailon stepped out with his usual air of authority, looking like he''d just conquered an empire. But then, his eyes met Lara''s, and his expression melted from serious to something resembling... puppy-like eagerness?


    Lara blinked, not expecting to see him rush toward her with that expression on his face. In a split second, Thailon was moving¡ªno, practically sprinting¡ªtoward her, causing the guards and everyone around to stare in shock.


    He came to a stop in front of her, catching his breath. "What are you doing here?" he asked, trying to sound casual but clearly excited to see her.


    Lara crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. "You promised me something, didn''t you?" She wasn''t going to let him off the hook that easily.


    Thailon blinked, his expression shifting back to his usual stoic self. "Oh, right. The approval paper." He cleared his throat, suddenly feeling awkward. Gah, I knew she''d call me out on that!


    Lara smirked, holding up the basket with the sandwich. "I brought your favorite, too. Don''t say I never did anything for you."


    Thailon chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Fine, fine. I''ll get you the paper." He reached for the sandwich, but she pulled it back, making him look even more like a scolded puppy.


    "Paper first, then sandwich," she quipped, shooting him a mischievous grin.


    Thailon sighed, resigned, but a smile played on his lips as he turned to get her the paper. She really knows how to keep me on my toes.

 Chapter 22

    Third Point of View


    "Here, you happy now?" Thailon asked, handing the paper to Lara with a hint of impatience.


    Lara took it with a bright smile. "You did a good job there, child," she teased, exchanging the paper for the basket. "Woah! You actually got the king''s approval! Must be nice to have that kind of pull, huh?" She scanned the paper, impressed by the official stamp and signatures.


    Thailon shrugged, trying to act nonchalant. "You should be," he replied, but there was a flicker of pride in his eyes.


    Lara folded the paper neatly, tucking it away. "Now I can finally build what I want!" She looked back at him, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "I''m heading back to the restaurant. Care to join? I know I gave you the sandwich, but this paper means a lot, kid."


    Thailon chuckled and raised an eyebrow. "Did I ever refuse your food?"


    "No, you never did," Lara admitted, shaking her head. But she thought to herself, Though you are picky as hell, aren''t you? She couldn''t help but smile, recalling all the times he''d wrinkle his nose at her cooking, only to eat every last bite anyway.


    "Well, then, let''s go," Thailon said, already taking a few steps ahead as he held the basket protectively, like it was his most prized possession.


    Lara followed, feeling a warmth settle over her. "You know, you don''t have to be so tough all the time," she commented, half-joking, as they walked side by side.


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    He gave her a sideways glance, the corners of his mouth lifting just slightly. "You make it hard to be," he said quietly, but with a smile.


    As they walked together through the dimly lit streets towards Lara''s restaurant, the evening air was thick with an unusual hush. The night had fallen, casting a soft glow from the lanterns along the path, and Thailon, known for his stoic demeanor, moved through the crowd with a relaxed presence that startled those around him.


    People who passed by couldn''t help but stare. Some paused mid-stride, their eyes widening as they recognized Thailon, the man whose face rarely betrayed emotion. Tonight, however, was different. There was a hint of warmth in his expression, a slight curve to his lips that nearly bordered on a smile. For a man who usually wore a mask of seriousness, the sight was nothing short of astounding.


    Thailon is respected by everyone because of the presence he carried.


    Those familiar with Thailon''s reputation whispered to each other in astonishment. A few even stopped in their tracks, blinking as if to make sure they weren''t imagining things. It was as though a new side of him had been unveiled under the cover of night, catching everyone off guard. For once, Thailon appeared approachable, almost gentle, as he walked beside Lara.


    The faint rustle of leaves accompanied their footsteps, and as they passed through the marketplace, vendors and late-night wanderers watched them with stunned curiosity. It wasn''t just that Thailon was smiling¡ªalbeit subtly¡ªit was that he seemed genuinely at ease. For the people of the city, accustomed to seeing him as a distant, unapproachable figure, this small shift in his demeanor felt monumental.


    As they continued down the lantern-lit path, the murmurs behind them grew fainter, but the impression Thailon left lingered. The night, it seemed, had allowed a rare glimpse into a side of him that no one had expected to see, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had witnessed it.


    "By the way why even bothered going in the academy I could just go straight to your restaurant?" Thailon asked.

 Chapter 23

    Lara''s Point of View


    "You mean I just need to go collect the materials in what country?" I asked, furrowing my brow at Fernin. I couldn''t help but feel a little frustrated. It seemed every time we needed something, it was always from some far-off place.


    "The Kingdom of Benirchachy, where all trades happen," Fernin responded, barely looking up as he continued tidying the table.


    Benirchachy? I wracked my brain, trying to place the name. "Where''s that?"


    "It used to be called the Kingdom of Crafts," Caelum chimed in, sipping his juice without a care in the world.


    My mind clicked into place. "Oh! The place where they sell everything and you can trade goods too! I remember it now. It''s far, though," I said, a sinking feeling creeping into my chest. I wasn''t exactly thrilled about the prospect of another long journey.


    Fernin continued cleaning, barely phased. "Every item you need¡ªwaterproof, fireproof, stoneproof, you name it¡ªit''s all there."


    I paused, my hand frozen mid-motion as I counted our earnings. "That''s great, but... The Kingdom of Crafts? If I''m remembering right, it only took me three days to get there last time on foot." I looked at him, trying to shake off the unease building in my chest. I wasn''t in the mood for another long trek, especially not if we were short on time and just the monster on the way also make it exhausted.


    Fernin raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Three days? It takes six months on foot also to considered the monster it might take longer" He gave me a look as if I had forgotten how long distances worked.


    I laughed, trying to hide my irritation. Really? Last time, I made it in three days with a little bit of speed. Still, the idea of walking for days, even with my speed, wasn''t appealing. It would be exhausting, and I didn''t have the luxury of wasting time. I can use my teleportation power but if I did I might get stuck in a wall since so much time is past I need to change my coordinates.


    Thailon, who had been silently helping with the cleaning, suddenly spoke up he is wearing an apron and all other employee leaves early too. "Why not use the teleportation portals?"


    I turned to him, feeling a mix of curiosity and skepticism. "Teleportation portals? What are you talking about child?"


    Thialon glanced at me, clearly surprised I wasn''t aware. "Remember the portals we used when we entered and exited dungeons?"


    I nodded slowly. "Yeah, but those were for dungeon use. What''s the connection?"


    "Well, they use them for travel now," he said, almost too casually.


    Wait... what? My mind raced. They''re using dungeon portals for regular travel now? That''s... genius. I stared at him, my thoughts spinning. "So, you''re saying I could just teleport to the Kingdom of Benirchachy instead of walking?"


    Caelum, still munching on his food, nodded from across the room. "Yup. They''re everywhere now."


    I blinked, trying to wrap my mind around this newfound information. This changes everything. If we had access to teleportation, I wouldn''t have to waste time on the road. I could get there in an instant and back again. It would make everything easier. But there''s always a catch...


    Fernin didn''t seem as enthusiastic as I was. "Teleportation portals are only accessible to high-status individuals," he muttered, and the frown on his face deepened.


    I felt a small surge of disappointment. Of course there''s a catch. "That''s a problem," I sighed. "We don''t exactly have the status for something like that."


    "No, it''s not," Caelum piped up again, his tone far too relaxed for my liking. "I can get us access," Thialon added confidently, a grin spreading across his face.


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    I looked at them, suddenly feeling a flicker of hope. "Really?"


    "Yeah, we can get through easily," Caelum said, putting on an apron and getting ready to help with the dishes. "So, when are you planning on going?"


    I crossed my arms, considering the logistics. If I can teleport, I won''t have to worry about the journey at all. Everything could be handled in a day, maybe even less. "As soon as I can. There''s a lot of things I need to buy, and if I use my magical bag, I can store everything without any trouble." The thought of getting everything done so quickly filled me with relief. No more long treks. No more exhausting trips.


    Thailon raised an eyebrow, looking at me thoughtfully. "How about tomorrow?"


    "That''s what I was thinking too," I said, feeling the excitement building. If this teleportation portal works, I could be back before anyone even realizes I''m gone. "I''ve got enough money for the trip, and if I don''t, I can always sell a few items along the way."


    "Tomorrow works. I can handle things here while you''re gone," Fernin said, his tone casual as if the decision was final.


    I snapped my head towards him. "What do you mean you can handle things here? You''re coming with me" Did he seriously think I''d let him stay behind? I needed him¡ªhe was my financial advisor, my brother. There was no way I''d be doing this without him and also not with my sense of direction and I always get scammed nowadays so-


    Fernin looked at me with wide eyes. "Wait... are you dragging me along on this trip?"


    "Of course I am, is that even a question" I said, . He should''ve known better by now. There''s no way I''m doing this alone.


    He hesitated, clearly uncomfortable with the idea. "But what about the shop?"


    I waved his concern away. "We can just close it for a day. We''ve earned enough during the festival. One day off won''t hurt us."


    Caelum, who had been silently watching the exchange, suddenly spoke up. "How about I join you instead of Fernin?"


    I blinked in surprise. Caelum? He never volunteers for anything. "Oh, no, Caelum, I don''t want to bother you with this," I said quickly, feeling a little flustered. I didn''t expect him to offer, and while the help was tempting, I didn''t want to impose.


    Thialon stepped in, a grin on his face. "What about me? I could come."


    I shot him a look. Thialon, as much as I appreciate your enthusiasm, this isn''t your problem. "Not you either."


    "They''re offering to help, Amelia," Fernin said, looking almost relieved. "You should accept it. It''d be better for them to come along than dragging me into it."


    I glanced between all of them, my thoughts swirling. Should I really let them come along?


    "I can''t let them come; they''re both busy with their lives," I said, trying to dissuade them.


    "No, we''re not," they both said at the same time, their voices in perfect sync.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle. They''re always like this, aren''t they?


    "I also have some business in that place, so it''s better if I come along," Thialon added, folding his arms like it was a done deal.


    "Yeah, same here," Caelum chimed in, wiping down the window as if this conversation didn''t need his full attention.


    I raised an eyebrow at them, my suspicions growing. "Are you two sure you''re not just saying that so you can tag along? I mean, what are you, children?" I shot them a playful glare, trying to get to the bottom of their eagerness.


    Caelum shook his head, clearly amused. "Do I look like a child to you?" he asked, wiping the last of the grime from the glass. "Besides, we both know who the real troublemaker is here."


    I crossed my arms, a grin tugging at my lips. "It''s no problem if you both come along, but... I''m just worried you two might destroy something along the way." I raised an eyebrow, half-joking, though I knew full well their combined chaos could lead to exactly that.


    Their reactions were immediate¡ªshock and disbelief written all over their faces.


    "Are you seriously calling us the troublemakers?" Caelum asked, his voice tinged with mock offense. He turned to Thailon, pointing a finger at him dramatically. "Who''s the one always destroying things? This elf over here, not me"


    Thailon glared at Caelum, slapping his hand away. "Excuse me? Why are you pointing the blame at me? I''m not the one always causing problems. Even you considered yourself a priest but you kept on destroying things, just remember the times you burned a church and how does even happen you don''t even have affinity to fire?"


    I groaned, rubbing my temples as the bickering began. "If you two are going to start a fight, then it''s never mind. I can do this alone."


    "We''re not starting a fight!" they both said at the same time, their protests loud enough to make me laugh. They can be such children sometimes.


    I sighed, shaking my head. They''re determined, I''ll give them that. "Alright, alright. I suppose you both can come. But¡ª" I held up a finger, silencing their protests before they even started, "¡ªno fighting, no destruction, and you both have to follow my lead. Got it?"


    "That''s not a problem for me" Caelum said "Same here" Thailon said a he finished drinking his wine.


    Caelum smirked, throwing his cleaning rag over his shoulder. "As a deal you are our leader as always so-. But if anything gets destroyed, it won''t be my fault. Blame that elf"


    Thialon rolled his eyes. "Same here. I''ll keep everything in one piece... mostly. So if something happen it''s not me"


    I couldn''t help but smile at them. They might be trouble, but they''re my trouble. "Alright, tomorrow it is then. Let''s get ready."

 Chapter 24

    Lara Point of View


    The Next Day


    "We''re only going for a day, Thailon s What''s with all these items you''re lugging around?!" I said firmly, my voice carrying more frustration than I intended.


    Thailon stood before me, gleaming in full armor, with an excessive array of weapons and supplies strapped to his back. It was as if he were preparing for a war, not a simple trip, and the sight was already giving me a headache.


    Caelum, leaning against the doorway, sighed dramatically. "You''re being brainless again," he said, eyeing Thailon''s bulky gear with a smirk.


    Thailon glared at him, clearly insulted. "Huh? What did you just say?!"


    Caelum rolled his eyes. "Maybe you''ve gone deaf with old age, but I said¡ªyou''re being brainless. Again."


    "Stop that, Caelum," I interrupted, shooting him a warning glance. "That''s not nice."


    "Well, he is being excessive! We''re not battling demons or anything. Why carry so much junk?" Caelum shot back, folding his arms.


    I couldn''t help but agree. "That''s true,child " I muttered with a sigh. "Thailon, leave all that behind, or Caelum and I will go without you."


    He went silent for a moment, clearly sulking, before finally muttering, "Fine."


    He is basically gathering everyone attention well we all know that he is somehow a attention seeker but it is so much to deal today.


    A few moments later...


    "Are you serious? You still don''t know how to tie this?" I asked, exasperated, as I adjusted Thailon''s outfit for the trip. He was fumbling with the straps of his robe, clearly uncomfortable with the whole thing.


    "Well, I''ve never been a fan of wearing this¡ªit''s so out of fashion," Thailon grumbled as I finished securing his gear.


    I looked at him with amusement. "Yeah, ''fashion.'' Sure," I teased. "Why do you even bother with fashion? You''re old."


    Thailon snickered from the side. "Exactly. And if we''re talking about fashion crimes, why are you even wearing that priest''s robe? You''re not a priest."


    Caelum shrugged nonchalantly. "Uh, this is what I was given, and it''s my setup as the team healer."


    Thailon crossed his arms, still sulking. "And what I''m wearing earlier is my setup as the team tank."


    I couldn''t help but groan. "You two¡ªit''s already 8:30 in the morning. Can we please just go?" I asked, feeling my patience wearing thin.


    "Yeah, right," Thailon said, finally dropping the argument. "I''ve already arranged our teleportation. If we leave now, we''ll be able to teleport immediately upon arrival."


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    "Well, that''s a good thing," I said, relieved that at least something was going smoothly. Thailon, for all his quirks, was incredibly helpful when he wanted to be.


    Without warning, Caelum grabbed my wrist and started pulling me along. "Let''s go, then!" he said cheerfully, already walking ahead.


    "Wait!" I protested, but he didn''t seem to hear me, or maybe he just didn''t care. He continued walking, dragging me behind him.


    This child...


    Third Point of View


    As they approached the portal checkpoint, the attendant¡ªa man with glasses and a nervous air about him¡ªstood up, barely glancing at the group.


    "We need to confirm what your business is in the Kingdom of Benichary," he said flatly, focusing on his papers rather than looking at who he was speaking to.


    Thailon and Caelum exchanged a glance, clearly annoyed by the man''s dismissive tone. Without missing a beat, they responded in unison, their voices dangerously low. "You''re really asking us that?"


    The attendant, startled by the synchronized response, finally looked up¡ªand froze. His face turned pale as recognition set in. Before him stood Caelum, the young master of the prestigious Hennessy family, and Thailon, one of the great heroes known across kingdoms. His hand began to shake slightly, and his eyes widened with fear.


    Amelia, noticing how the two were starting to intimidate the poor man, immediately stepped in between them. "Oh, I apologize for that¡ªthey''re a bit... intense sometimes, aren''t they?" She flashed the man a disarming smile, trying to ease the tension.


    "Thailon here mentioned that he already set an appointment for us to use the portal," Amelia said kindly. "Could you please check that?"


    The attendant, visibly relieved to have a calm voice addressing him, quickly nodded and typed something into his device. "Oh¡ªyes, I see it here. You do have an appointment. But may I ask the reason for your travel?"


    Thailon scoffed, clearly irritated. "This guy is really asking us that?" he muttered under his breath.


    "Should I crush him?" Caelum added, his tone almost casual, but the dangerous gleam in his eyes suggested he might not be entirely joking.


    Amelia, caught between the two, snapped at them. "What are you, thugs?" she hissed, glaring at them both. "Have you two learned nothing about socializing?" She turned to Caelum, her frustration evident. "Caelum, I expected this from Thailon, but you? Really?"


    Both men averted their eyes like chastised children, not saying another word.


    Amelia sighed and turned back to the now visibly shaking attendant. "I apologize again for their behavior," she said with a tight smile. "Here''s my adventurer card and the permit from the king." She handed over the documents. "We''re on business in Benichary to purchase supplies for a building we''re constructing. Caelum and Thailon here are part of my party, and they''ll be helping with the project. I think that should be a valid enough reason, don''t you?"


    The attendant quickly glanced over her adventurer card and the permit. "Y-Yes, this is a valid reason," he stammered, handing them back. "Let me just add you to the list of adventurers traveling today. However, I''ll need the cards of your two companions as well... for safety purposes."


    Thailon growled under his breath, "What kind of bullshit¡ª"


    "Thailon!" Amelia cut him off, shooting him a sharp look. "Are you really swearing right now?"


    Thailon crossed his arms, his expression stubborn. "He knows who we are. Why does he need to see our cards? He could just put our names down."


    Caelum, ever the more reasonable of the two, sighed and pulled out his adventurer card. "He said he needs the numbers. Let''s just get this over with so we can leave." He handed the card to Amelia, who nodded appreciatively.


    Amelia held out her hand toward Thailon expectantly. With a huff, Thailon reluctantly handed over his card as well, grumbling like a child being scolded.


    The attendant accepted the cards with shaky hands, quickly processing their details before handing them back. "T-Thank you, everything''s in order," he stammered, clearly relieved to be done with the interaction.


    Amelia nodded graciously. "Thank you for your help," she said, her tone polite as ever "See , it''s not that hard" Amelia said gaving back the card to the two.


    As they walked away from the checkpoint, Thailon muttered, "Still think we should''ve crushed him."


    "Thailon" Amelia said.