The group reached the academy shortly after sunrise, the warm hues of dawn painting the sky. Manzoor and Mehboob guided Bennet, Hugo, and their mother into the cafeteria, a place of refuge within the academy's walls.
Meanwhile, Robert and his men exchanged silent gestures, indicating their intent to conduct a thorough survey of the surrounding area. Their vigilance was palpable, a reminder of the ever-present need to remain vigilant against potential threats.
"Thank you for ensuring the safety of my children," Martha expressed with gratitude, her words carrying the weight of a mother's relief.
"No need for thanks, we are friends," Mehboob responded with humility, his voice warm and sincere.
"In all honesty, it was Albert's situation that truly compelled us to seriously consider the exchange." Mansoor's words were infused with a blend of honesty and compassion as he continued.
"I think I've come across your name before, though I can't quite place where," Bennet interjected, his curiosity evident.
"How did you meet my father?" Bennet inquired, hoping to gather more insights into the nature of their connection.
"Albert? Ah, he was the commander of the army that invaded our country," Mehboob responded with a touch of humor.
"And he's the one responsible for the death of our parents, uncles, and even grandparents," Mansoor added, his tone carrying a weight of somber remembrance.
The revelation left Hugo visibly bewildered, his thoughts swirling amidst the conflicting information presented by the two commanders.
"Why then did you choose to save us?" Bennet's question carried a genuine curiosity, a desire to understand the complex motivations at play.
"It's a twisted tale, but we eventually learned that Albert was opposed to the actions, yet he was bound by orders." Mehboob's response held a mixture of resignation and explanation.
"He relinquished his command, took us under his wing, and dedicated himself to rebuilding the country, ensuring that it could stand on its own feet once more." Mansoor continued, his voice reflecting admiration and gratitude.
"Have you ever come across the name Al-Mansooria?" inquired Mehboob.
"Certainly, I've learned that the economy of Al-Mansooria is quite diverse, with an emphasis on trade, agriculture, and modern technology," Benneth replied.
"Albert transitioned into becoming a merchant to aid our country's growth. He leveraged his connections to bolster our economy," Mansoor explained.
"Ah! You were the fat one, and you were the tall, thin kid! My father has a picture of all three of you together!" Bennet recalled with a spark of recognition.
"Fat? No, I'm just naturally solidly built," Mehboob retorted with a touch of offense, his expression indignant.
"He still has that picture?" Mansoor exclaimed in amazement.
"Yes, it's stored in the attic. Now it makes sense why he had so many pictures that seemed like they were taken in Al-Mansooria," Bennet responded, realization dawning on him.
"Yes, yes. You can't even imagine how many times he and Mama Mustafa clashed," Mehboob reminisced.
"Well, I'm just relieved they didn't end up killing each other," Mansoor added with a chuckle.
Curiosity gleamed in Hugo's eyes as he questioned, "Who was the stronger of the two?"
"In those days, your father certainly had the upper hand," Mansoor replied.
"But nowadays, Mama Mustafa has far surpassed him" Mehboob concluded with a grin.
"We owe him a great deal, my young friends," Mansoor stated sincerely.
"I do wish I had the chance to take down that treacherous Orion," he added, his tone carrying a hint of frustration and regret.
"Let's set aside thoughts of vengeance. What's done is done. Instead, let's focus on discussing our next steps," Mehboob suggested, redirecting the conversation toward more practical matters.
"The children will find refuge here at the academy. As for me, I'll have to relocate to a different region," Martha explained, outlining the plan they had devised for their safety.
Mansoor's thoughtful gaze shifted towards Martha, his eyes reflecting a mix of empathy and consideration.
"Martha," he began, his voice steady, "have you ever considered the possibility of moving to Al-Mansooria?"
Martha looked up, her expression a blend of surprise and curiosity. The suggestion hung in the air, carrying the weight of a potential solution.
"When do you think you'll return to your country?" Bennet asked Mansoor and Mehboob.
Mansoor exchanged a knowing glance with Mehboob before turning back to Bennet.
"We're planning to head back within the next three days," Mansoor replied.
"We appreciate your understanding and assistance, but we'll need some time as a family to finalize our decision. Is that alright?"
Mehboob nodded in understanding, his eyes conveying a sense of patience and support.
Amidst the ongoing conversation, the door swung open, and Robert entered the room with a focused expression. His presence commanded attention, and he wasted no time in delivering an update.
"I've thoroughly surveyed the immediate surroundings, and it appears that there's no discernible threat in the vicinity," Robert reported
"My main worry lies in the more public areas, such as the market and the hotel," he continued, his brow slightly furrowed.
"The hotel we're currently staying in is safe," Mehboob chimed in, seeking to offer reassurance. "We've stationed over a hundred of our soldiers there, and I can personally oversee the assignment of guarding duties."
"Thank you," Robert expressed on behalf of the Watchers. "We extend our gratitude to the Al-Nujaba Warriors."
"You're most welcome, my friend. As our army's motto emphasizes, we do these actions in the service of faith and justice," Mansoor replied with a nod of camaraderie.
"Mashallah," Mehboob added, an expression of affirmation and gratitude, reflecting their shared commitment to their cause.
"Once the Al-Nujaba Warriors depart from this city, I need both of you to promise that you won't venture beyond the boundaries of this academy," Robert stated with a tone of authority and concern.
"We'll have designated watchers keeping an eye on the town, but prioritizing caution is essential," he continued
"Understood," both Bennet and Hugo concurred, their voices reflecting their acknowledgment of the directive.
As the party's plan was set in motion, they decided to move from the academy to the hotel where they would be staying. The streets of the town unfurled before them, revealing the intricate beauty and subtle nuances that had previously existed only within the pages of books and the realms of tales.
Bennet and Hugo's eyes widened as they took in the scenes around them. The bustling markets showcased a rich tapestry of colors, scents, and sounds—the vibrant heart of the town's commerce. Merchants beckoned passersby with their wares, offering intricate textiles, spices, and crafts that spoke to the town's history and culture.
As they continued their walk, gentle laughter and snippets of conversation filled the air, intertwining with the distant melody of the call to prayer. Their footsteps echoed against the backdrop of this vibrant town, their senses alive with the realization that they were experiencing the essence of Aurelium firsthand.
"This place is even more captivating than I imagined," Bennet murmured to Hugo, his voice tinged with wonder and awe.
Hugo nodded in agreement, his gaze fixed on the intricate details that adorned every corner. "It's like stepping into a story," he replied, his tone a mixture of amazement and gratitude.
If there's anything that Bennet can compare the city to in his previous life, in his mind, the closest was the city of "Prontera" from the game Ragnarok.
Their steps carried them further into the heart of the town, allowing them to savor each moment as they moved to the hotel.
But as they strolled through the picturesque streets of the city, a sudden heaviness settled over Bennet. The realization of their father's absence hit him like a wave, washing away the allure of the beautiful surroundings. The vibrant markets, ornate architecture, and bustling streets seemed to lose their luster in an instant.
Bennet's steps grew slower, his gaze growing distant as he grappled with the weight of his emotions. Memories of his father flooded his mind—
"I took everything for granted, this is my second life yet I still have regrets" he murmured to himself.
Hugo, sensing his brother's sadness, slowed his pace as well, casting a concerned glance at Bennet. Without a word, he understood the depth of his brother's pain. Grief was a force that could eclipse even the most enchanting surroundings, rendering them insignificant in comparison to the loss they had suffered.
Hugo placed a comforting hand on Bennet's shoulder, offering silent solidarity and understanding.
"I'm here, brother," Hugo's voice was gentle but unwavering. "No matter what"
Bennet looked at Hugo, his eyes welling with unspoken gratitude. In the midst of their grief, their brotherly connection remained unbreakable.
Two years had done little to erase the memory of the day when Hugo's father had passed away. The pain still lingered, a heavy presence in their lives. If there was anyone who could truly empathize with the sorrow that Bennet was grappling with, it was Hugo.
"Sometimes, I can't help but wonder if I am truly cursed," Hugo's voice was a mere whisper, his words carrying a weight of doubt and introspection.
Bennett, his older brother, walked beside him, a silent pillar of support in their shared moment of vulnerability. "Don't utter such words, Hugo. You are not cursed," he countered gently, his voice a reassuring presence.
"It's like there's always death surrounding me," he continued, his voice cracking as the rawness of his emotions spilled forth, tears tracing a path down his cheeks.
The echoes of their relatives' words, words that hinted at a curse entwined with Hugo's presence, seemed to replay in his mind like a haunting song.
Bennett's expression softened with empathy, his heart aching for his younger brother's pain.
"Hugo, you are the greatest blessing our family has received," he said with sincerity, a gentle smile lighting up his features.
His hand found Hugo's shoulder, offering a comforting squeeze.
"And if there's any source of thankfulness to be found, it's in knowing that I still have you and our mother," Bennett continued, his words imbued with a sense of reassurance.
"Please, never belittle yourself by suggesting that you're cursed," Bennett's words were a blend of sternness and tenderness, a plea for Hugo to see his own worth through the eyes of those who loved him.
Hugo brushed away his tears, his heart gradually finding comfort in his brother's words. He nodded, a silent agreement that held within it a promise to see himself differently, to recognize the value of his existence.
"We've arrived, my dear friends," Mansoor announced, his finger pointing toward a hotel resembling a majestic castle.
On the outskirts, men armed with swords and arrows stood guard. As soon as they heard Mansoor's voice, they snapped to attention, saluting in a show of respect and recognition.
"Let's go, and step inside the hotel. The food here is exceptional, and all of it is halal," Mehboob chimed in, his tone inviting and enthusiastic.