Sino Handler maintained his gaze on the unassuming young man that his son had brought along. A smile graced his middle-aged face as he extended his hand in greeting.
"Blatt, my son has spoken highly of you. It's a pleasure to finally meet you," he said, his voice carrying warmth and genuine interest.
'What a talent.'
Anom evaluated the family head in front of him and found that the guy really did justice to his reputation. Lowering himself to greet a low-level nobody was not something anybody could make themselves do.
It was not just about being humble but about taking note of their own position and standing.
While it could be said that his good attitude was only presented because of Anom's current identity as Blatt, an herb-gatherer who could help him in his schemes, it was still not easy for someone of Sino's level to humble himself like that.
It could be seen to what extent the Handler family could go to achieve success.
But while that might be the case, Anom was also not someone who was new to such acts.
"Thank you for your kind words, sir," Blatt replied, his expression composed.
Sino, perceptive as ever, sensed the underlying nervousness within Blatt. It was clear that the young man was unaccustomed to interacting with individuals of Sino's stature. This pleased the family head, as he preferred to work with those who humbled themselves in his presence.
Taking a seat in the living room, Sino gestured for everyone to join him.
"Selvo mentioned that you possess great knowledge of the forest," Sino began as they settled into the chairs arranged in a circular formation. "I'm interested in your expertise."
As Blatt sat, he replied, "Um, well, it's nothing much. Just some tricks I developed after years of living inside the forest."
Curiosity piqued, Sino inquired further, "Did your parents also share the same trade?"
"No." Blatt immediately shook his head. A faint hint of sadness momentarily flashed in his eyes before he said, "I don't know, actually. I have always been with my master since I was young. He was the one who taught me all that I know about the forest." Sensing Sino's anticipation, Blatt added, "When I turned eighteen, he left me, believing that I was capable enough to survive on my own."
A sigh escaped Blatt's lips, followed by a faint chuckle. "I don't know where he went, but I believe he's still wandering the deeper parts of the Zeru forest."
Sino's eyes flickered with a hint of intrigue before he nodded. "I apologize if my questions brought up unpleasant memories."
Blatt waved his hands dismissively. "No need to apologize. I've come to terms with it."
A brief pause enveloped the room before Sino began to speak with purpose.
"Blatt, I won't beat around the bush," Sino said. "I am in dire need of someone with your talent. From what I've heard from Selvo, you seem to be the perfect fit for the job. Your arrival has brought me a glimmer of hope during challenging times."
"No, Father," Selvo interrupted before Blatt could speak. "I've already told you that Blatt is someone who values his freedom." Selvo complained, seemingly annoyed. "How can you ask him to join us when I've already advised against it? You're making me look bad." He even gave Blatt an apologetic look, appearing genuinely concerned.
"You shouldn't say that, Son." Sino replied calmly, his expression unwavering. "If you truly care about your friend, then you should try to convince him not to waste his talents."
"A man should always aspire to be more than what he is. How can he simply discard his gifts like that? He enjoys exploring nature, doesn't he? Well, he can continue doing so. When have I ever said that joining us would hinder his exploration?"
Shifting his gaze to Blatt, who wore a hesitant expression, Sino continued, "Blatt, I understand that you may be worried about the constraints that come with employment, but believe me, the job I'm offering you is far from restrictive."
Noticing Blatt's indecisiveness, Sino sighed. "Blatt, my boy, I know you want to live freely in your favored habitat, but let me ask you this: Do you merely wish to reside in the same area, or do you aspire to venture further?"
Finally, Blatt spoke up. "Of course, I want to explore deeper into the Zeru forest. That's what I've always been working towards."
"You want to, don't you?" Sino said, as if waiting for those words. "Then have you considered if you have the capability to truly delve into the depths? Are you aware of the dangers that lurk beyond the familiar periphery you're accustomed to?" He paused momentarily before continuing, "Of course you are. After all, you live there."
"But, to be honest, you're quite vulnerable." Sino shook his head. "Please don't take offense, but I genuinely don't believe you'll be able to explore beyond the safe boundaries anytime soon. Am I mistaken?"
Blatt fell silent, conflicted in his expression. After a moment, he asked, "Then tell me, sir. What do you suggest I do?" His tone revealed a desire for guidance, which was precisely what Sino aimed to achieve.
Nodding satisfactorily, Sino offered his advice: "You don't have to abandon your current lifestyle. However, you can also work towards expanding your horizons and acquiring resources to strengthen yourself. And when the time is right, you can travel wherever you want. Isn't that wonderful?"
Blatt couldn't help but inquire, "By 'strengthen,' what do you mean?"
"Awakening your spirit, of course." Sino chuckled at the stunned expression on Blatt's face.
"Spirit..." Blatt muttered, somewhat breathless. Sino didn't find it strange since it was only natural for the inhabitants of their backward region to regard awakened spirits as something legendary. For them, such a level was far beyond their reach.
"Yes, you can, Blatt," Sino affirmed with a smile. "In fact, you must."
"The task I'm suggesting will require you to explore the treacherous corners of the forests, not just the Zeru forest. Throughout the entire kingdom, you'll find yourself living the life of freedom you've always desired. Moreover, you'll be compensated for your efforts with resources that can aid you on your path. A good deal, isn't it?"
Blatt stared at Sino for a moment before asking, "So, what exactly do I need to do?"
Sino smiled.