As long as Naomi remembers from her young life, she never really could see anything. She always wonders what everyone else beholds that makes them pity or scorn her so deeply.

To her, the tragedy of never seeing the world's wonders from birth isn't all that devastating if you were born into it.

After all, what does it matter to her if she never yearns for the breathtaking sights the world has to offer?

And within her heart— 

"Instead of grieving for what I couldn't experience, I choose to embrace the vast possibilities that lie ahead, so please don't be sad for me." That was what Naomi always said, attempting to console her two young childhood friends when they witnessed her being mistreated.

But Frela and Christ, two children of an aristocrat and a merchant who sees Naomi as their beloved older sister, only made a huge ruckus in the village whenever she was bullied. Causing the village to be in a state of disarray, forcing the adults to wearily try to comfort the two child prodigies.

'Naomi is always like that' people kept saying, whether with a cynical smile or a resigned expression.

To them, observing a young blind child steadfastly clinging to her lofty ideals and optimistic thoughts and perceiving her own vulnerability as an opportunity for her so-called adventure is nothing more than observing a blind fool, literally. And most adults shared this sentiment, hence their merciless indifference toward such a troublesome child.

So let her explore her so-called possibilities. For no one would truly be affected if such a child were to perish or go missing. And because she always causes trouble, her existence is rather an eyesore and a blemish on their village.

A child who is not only sightless but also an orphan possesses no value in a world teeming with demons, dungeons, magic, nobility, and strife.

But Naomi never really seems to discard her thoughts, even with the verbal lashing she gets as she grows up. Rather, their jeers and scoffs only strengthened her determination to keep pushing forward. Despite the hurt she felt inside her heart, that she actually kept locked away for the sake of the two children. She is still stubbornly continuing on with her training and studies to hopefully become an adventurer when the Rights of Passage commence.

Who knows, maybe her luck will finally turn for the better when she finally has confirmation that all her perseverance will lead to something worthwhile. The adventure she always craves

But as life would have it, the world isn't all that kind.

————

Location: Bellard Village, Naomi's Home.

Time: 8:01 a.m.

Change Pov:

Waking up and seeing.. nothing was the life I was used to, at the beginning and, presumably, at the end.

Was blindness a curse? Yes.

Can I do anything about it? No.

Despite my words to both poor Christ and Frela, no human can deny, especially myself, that the villager's words didn't hurt.

It truly hurts. But as time went on, I became numb. I would always hear the villagers hateful and petty remarks about my eyes. Every day, every morning and night, without fail, all I could hear in their presence was their opinion of me.

Of how I wouldn't amount to anything. That I was delusional for attaching myself to Christ and Frela and for being a fool to still have the drive to better myself.

Actually, because of my training, I'm proficient in using my sonar blade in fighting. The sonar blade was enchanted to possess the ability to sense any monster lurking around while pointing it in their direction, vibrating whenever danger approached too.

It was a gift from Christ, and.. for Frela, she gave me a puppy who is now a full grown dog.

He was a guide puppy I named Argy. He was a golden retriever, so I was told, and he was a helpful little fella. And when he grew up, I could feel his fluffy coat in its prime!

Best for pets and hugs.

But bad for my sleep schedule with all his strange bouts of howling.

"Awwoooooooo~!"

And speaking of howling. Suddenly, I felt a heavy mass atop of me. I felt a wet tongue touch my left cheek, and soon slubber was dripping down on my bed. I groaned at the smell.

"Argy, come down.." I stretch my hands and push the giant golden retriever gently. Hearing a soft thud and a whine from my left, my mouth twitched.

Then, as if hearing a loud bomb, I suddenly remembered the date.

Spring.

Day 25, 28XXØ.

Rights of Passage. Simply put, the ceremony that determines my stats and my fate as an adventurer.

Unlike other kingdoms, Ravenspire was the cream of the crop when it came to cultivating prowess.

A nation filled with strong, capable adventurers, mercenaries, soldiers, and leaders.

They only accept the best of the best. So long as your stats are impressive, you could get a one-way ticket to the good life. Giving you an allowance, luxuries, good training, and even a high-paying job if you retire.

So long as you protect the kingdom when you are needed, you're basically set for life.

But to me, what I want from the Rights of Passage is not luxury and all the fancy items that come with them, but recognition and rank.

Recognition from the heavens above showed that, despite my eyes... I could chase my dreams.

I can't settle for an E, D, or C rank. Those ranks wouldn't cut it for me. After all, adventurers need to be fit, strong, reliable, and, most importantly, they should not have any other defects that hinder the adventurer's mission.

And the last part was, sadly, the one that got in the way.

Even if I denied it, no one would really hire me with my eyes. That's the truth, and that hurt.

I have no desire to see the world because I'm content with nothingness entering my so-called vision. I'm not upset at that; rather.. I'm upset that people could only see me as a blind fool, someone to pity, and someone to be bullied by.

A fool who could do nothing worthwhile, an idiot who rejects the truth. 

And I took that personally.

So I turned their barbs and jabs into motivation for doing my best.

And the results of my endeavor are given today.

So, slightly feeling giddy yet nervous, I tried to sit up. Feeling my skin brushing my warm blanket to let the air grace my exposed skin. A cold shiver runs through my back as I realize how anxious I really am now.

"Roooooahh...?" Argy abruptly made a confused sound behind me as I jolted a bit.

Turning to where Argy was supposed to be, I lifted my hands a bit in the air. I waved it slightly until I could feel my fingers brushing Argy's soft fur.

He whined, sounding content. And I smiled, feeling a bit better. "Thanks Argy. Good boy." I whispered, leaning my head towards his. I did mess up to meet his muzzle, which resorted to another lick.

I groaned at that. But made no move to reprimand my dog.

"Let's go, Argy."

———

Location: Bellard Village Plaza

Time: 9:30 a.m.

Change Pov.

In the tranquil morning hours, the bustling plaza of Bellard Village came to life, vibrant and teeming with activities, especially for the Rights of Passage happening today. The sun's golden rays gently bathe the square, casting a warm glow upon the scene.

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and scents, a pair of siblings— friends— was (im)patiently waiting for their older friend, Naomi, to come. 

Their gazes wander from the ornate fountain adorned with intricate sculptures to the grand archways that lead to an unknown destinations. They exchanged knowing glances at a lone house from above the hill; one was exasperated, and the other was tapping her foot impatiently, her arms crossed.

"Ahhh..!? We've been waiting for hours, Where's Naomi!" A childish female voice shouted out, amidst to the excited hordes of crowds whispering about.

"Haaaa... Could you please lower your volume, Frela? At least learn some manners in our new life." A boy with unruly brown hair that cascades around his head in a wild and untamed manner. The boy's golden eyes glistened with a lively spark, reflecting his vibrant personality, but for the girl at his side, he only gave a nonchalant look towards his company.

Clad in clothes appropriate for an adventurer's attire. It didn't hide his status as the son of an aristocrat. The boy's attire reflects his prestigious lineage. The fabric of his garments was of the finest quality, displaying intricate patterns and delicate embellishments despite its rough appearance. 

Fitted with a brown tunic made of sturdy yet comfortable fabric, designed for mobility and durability. His trousers were crafted from tough yet flexible materials, with sturdy black leather boots and a black hooded cape made from durable fabric with patterns.

Simply put— his attire was perfect for being stealthy. But for the girl beside him, it was the complete opposite.

The girl, Frela, stands out like a sore thumb with her striking appearance (much to the dismay of the boy)—long pink hair that covers down her back, capturing attention wherever she goes with her long sparkling hair. Her enchanting gray eyes sparked with fire. And despite her short stature, she exudes confidence and short-temperedness, clad in a white, expensive garment—an adventurer's robe that speaks to her appearance.

"Can you not blurt out that we are reincarnators, idiot Christ!" Frela bristled as she whispered-shouted to the boy. At this Christ only rolled his eyes.

"Please. Like I'll blurt out such a thing." He waves his hand rather indifferently before gaining a slight teasing look. "Although.."

He slowly looked at Frela with a smirk.

"If I were to tell them we were reincarnators... I might finally have the chance to tell them that we were actually siblings. Twin siblings. That may actually stop Naomi from seeing us as her OTP." He air quoted the "One True Ship" with a disturbed look.

And Frela copied his expression; she went so far as to gag at the words.

"Ugh. Don't remind me. Like I'll date a dick like you. I'm neither into incest nor a masochist, even if we aren't siblings anymore."

Hearing her sudden jab made Christ to frown unhappily.

"I'm not a dick." He pointed at himself for good measure.

Frela only looked down at her plain fingernails in a bored manner after Christ adamantly repeated, as if she had heard these exact words for the millionth time. "Oh? Wasn't there a scene at school where you got hit by your ex-girlfriend because you were flirting with the exchange student?"

Flushing at the sudden mention of the incident made Christ stutter, but not out of guilt but with a genuine helpless look.

"I-I was not flirting!? She was just asking for the location of the library! My ex was paranoid! I did not deserve that slap in the face. Especially when my reputation tanked afterwards!"

Frela only raised a delicate brow at that. Having the look of, 'Is this guy serious?' In her face.

"Bro. It's because of your willingness and her lovestruck expression. Everyone could see she had the hots for you at first sight on the first day. And you were the idiot who couldn't see and led her alone while she was blushing up a storm. And so, lo and behold, your girlfriend saw you, got dumped at the start of our second semester, and got the reputation of being a dick afterwards. And.. stayed single ever since." She snickered as Christ glowered. His fist clenched but he soon loosened his hold and smiled sinisterly towards Frela, as the latter blinked at his sudden change.

Somehow feeling ominous.

"Well I don't see much improvement on your part either. By the way, when did you ever get a boyfriend? Huh? Silence? I think so too." But looking at her miffed look, he thought that wasn't enough.

Christ then slowly lifted a hand over his mouth. Feigning a pitying look.

"Hmm.. it might be because of your poor attitude. Seriously, as a girl with a tactless mind and heart, no wonder you were rejected! 3 times in fact!"

Seeing her madly twitching made Christ to add the finishing blow. He gently moved his hand back to his side, finally showing his smug smile.

"And not to mention the fourth rejection. Heey~ remember that confession? Not only were you rejected, but you were also criticized because of your short height and small boo—!?" Suddenly he was cut off as his tunic was grabbed violently by the enraged pipsqueak. His body was actually lifted.

"Son-of-a-bitc—!?"

But before Christ and Frela could fight, a bark was suddenly heard from the distance. Looking up to see Naomi's barreling form as Argy was literally dragging the poor blind girl behind made both previous siblings to sigh in relief, withdrawing their fists.

If Naomi took too long just now, the plaza might not even be standing anymore.

———

Time: 10:20 a.m.

Change Pov.

Somehow or another, I felt a bit of tension as I arrived.

Did they have a lover's quarrel? I mean, they are only 13, but.. they'll soon grow up and realize their affection sooner too, so I guess it's just their development. Though I'm so going to laugh at their faces when they married in the end.

""Naomi, please, whatever you are thinking, just stop."" Somehow, as if they could hear my thoughts, both Frela and Christ sounded out in sync. Then I felt both of my shoulders being pressed with intensity as I slightly sweated.

"Ahhooo..?" Argy, probably sensing my unease, let out a confused sound. Not really knowing why I was uneasy when I was with familiar company.

Feeling their grip tightening the longer I stayed silent, I nodded my head frantically, facing in their direction. Or rather, what I thought was their direction. It was hard to tell when I was nervous.

"Hmmph, good." Frela was the first to let me go, as she muttered, now to my side.

"..." Christ only stayed silent and then I felt him moved to my other side.

Five minutes of silence later made me sigh. Good grief. I really didn't believe how they wouldn't get married with how close they were with each other.

Even if they fight, they'll soon forgive each other and be dotting in the next time.

Oh well. You can't force them, Naomi.

You can't—

*Clank! *Clank! *Clank!

Suddenly, I heard the unmistakable sound of heavy footsteps approaching. My ears perked up, listening intently to the sounds around me. Somehow, despite my lack of sight, I knew that it was the knights.

And hearing the noisy whispering, now hushed, confirmed my suspicions.

It was time.