Year X036
Eldric had a dream about his childhood, where monsters wreaked havoc on his former home, the orphanage. He woke up shaken but decided to carry on with his day as usual, not dwelling too much on the significance of the dream.
Upon arriving at the adventurers guild and perusing the quest board, Eldric overheard a conversation among fellow adventurers. They were discussing a village that had been destroyed twelve years ago. Intrigued by this news, Eldric eagerly joined the conversation, hoping to learn more.
"Do you know what happened to that village, the orphanage?" Eldric asked hastily, unable to contain his curiosity.
The adventurer paused for a moment, collecting their thoughts. "Well, from what people say, monsters descended upon the village, causing chaos and destruction. There are rumors of a few survivors who may have fled to a nearby village," they replied.
Eldric's heart sank as he listened to the adventurer's account. The mention of monsters and the destruction of the orphanage stirred memories and emotions within him
Without wasting another moment, Eldric thanked the adventurer for the information and going.
Before embarking on his journey, Eldric knew that he needed to be prepared for the long and perilous road ahead. He spent days gathering essential supplies, meticulously selecting gear, and stocking up on provisions. His backpack was filled with rations, a bedroll, a map, a compass, and various tools that would aid him in his travels. He ensured his weapons and armor were in prime condition, ready to face any challenges that awaited him.
With his gear neatly packed and his heart heavy with a mix of excitement and trepidation, Eldric made his way back to the orphanage—the place that had been his home for so many years.
The orphanage's caretaker, a kind-hearted woman who had watched over him and the other children, greeted him with a warm smile.
Eldric knew that his adventure will take a long time. Seeing as he is already 17 years old, he decided that it is time for him to leave the orphanage and start his independent journey.
"Miss caretaker, thank you so much for everything you've ever done for me, you are like family to me, a mother. I hope you will have the chance to see you again in the future" said Eldric, with a hint of sorrow in his face.
Sensing that this journey is going to be a very long one, the caretaker said his good bye to Eldric. "Farewell, my dear Eldric, know that if you ever had the chances, do please come by again, we will be waiting for your return." she said, her voice tinged with both pride and sadness.
Eldric embraced his caretaker, grateful for her unwavering support throughout the years. Memories of shared laughter, gentle guidance, and a sense of belonging flooded his mind. He vowed to return one day, to share his tales and show his gratitude for the love and care he had received.
Eldric packed his belongings, carefully folding his clothes and placing them inside his backpack. The room that had been his sanctuary for so long now stood empty, stripped of personal belongings and memories. He couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia as he gazed at the bare walls, the echoes of laughter and camaraderie resonating in his mind.
Closing his eyes, Eldric took a deep breath, allowing the weight of the moment to settle upon him. The orphanage had been his home, a place that had provided him shelter, and the nurturing he needed to grow.
It was where he had discovered his passion for adventure, honed his skills, and found a sense of purpose. The thought of leaving it all behind was bittersweet.
As he stood in the center of the empty room, Eldric took one last look around, etching the memories into his heart. The time he spent there, training, studying, and the feeling of belonging would forever be a part of him.
Eldric shouldered his backpack and walked out of the room, closing the door behind him.
Eldric's went back to the adventurers' guild. He sought information about the whereabouts of the village that had been destroyed years ago. Rumors were abound, making it a challenge to separate fact from fiction. He approached the familiar faces he had spoken to before and engaged in conversations with fellow adventurers.
"Hastily, he asked, 'Do you know what happened to that village, the one that was once an orphanage?'"
The adventurer hesitated for a moment before responding, "Um, yeah, people say that monsters invaded the village, causing chaos and destruction. There are rumors of a few survivors who may have sought refuge in a nearby village."
Eldric listened intently, his mind racing with thoughts and questions. He thanked the adventurer for the information and decided to explore further. He sought out a journalist who had written about the village's tragedy in the past. After a lengthy conversation, the journalist provided Eldric with more specific details about the village's location.
Although the village wasn't too far from his current location, Eldric learned that it was situated on dangerous grounds, attracting hordes of monsters. He thanked the journalist, and set to the Adventurer's Guild for his farewell with the receptionist.
The receptionist smiled warmly, their eyes reflecting a mixture of curiosity and concern. "I've heard about it Eldric, you're embarking on a perilous journey again. Are you prepared for what lies ahead?"
Eldric's gaze grew determined as he responded, "I understand the risks involved, but I must know the truth. The village and its people deserve answers."
The receptionist nodded, their supportive demeanor unwavering. "I admire your resolve." The receptionist's expression softened, a glimmer of pride shining in their eyes. "I believe in you, Eldric. May your journey be guided by truth and may you find the closure you seek. Return here safely."
With a grateful nod, Eldric turned away from the receptionist, ready to face the challenges that awaited him.
As Eldric descended from the floating island, his gaze couldn't help but be captivated by the breathtaking beauty that surrounded him. The vibrant hues of the floating flora, illuminated by the soft rays of sunlight, painted a picturesque landscape that seemed to come alive with each passing moment.
The floating island, now a distant speck in the sky, had been his sanctuary and training ground. It had tested his limits, pushed him to the edge of his abilities, and taught him the value of perseverance. The trials he had overcome, the victories he had celebrated, and even the moments of doubt and fear had shaped him into the person he was now.
As he set foot on solid ground, Eldric took a deep breath, immersing himself in the unfamiliar scents and sounds that surrounded him. The air was different here, charged with the energy of the unknown.