"Goodbye, Grandma Elizabeth," Alan bowed and took his leave.
Elizabeth, lost in thought, pondered whether Alan should pursue an adventurer's life or consider applying for the merchant's guild exam. She found herself incredibly impressed with his grasp of the fundamentals in trade and economics.
Their interactions had evolved into discussions and debates, with Alan contributing actively. Despite his lack of life experience and exposure to corruption and hardships, his knowledge seemed sufficient for managing a small town's trade and economy in an ideal scenario.
Alan during their discussion also came to know about the family names and its importance. The family name of John was "Morgan" an old and reputed family in the Wilden region. His grandfather Alec's familyname was also the same as Alec was raised by John's father after finding him abandoned as a newbon at their doorstep.
Alan exited the mansion and made his way to the training area, where he found Williams standing outside, lost in thought. "Wil, why are you standing outside? What's on your mind?" Alan inquired.
Williams snapped back to reality, his expression determined. "Al, I asked you to be my training partner, and you agreed. But now, I feel like I might drag you down," he admitted, falling silent.
Alan smiled at this unexpected serious side of William and approached him, patting his shoulder. "Wil, let's start practicing. You'll have your time to improve, and so will I. When we practice, let's just enjoy it. Don't overthink it," Alan reassured.
Williams visibly relaxed, saying, "Thank you, Al. Let's start."
A week passed in the blink of an eye, and Alan and Williams settled into a routine. They explored the inner area of the town in the morning, followed by Alan's painting and calligraphy lessons with Jane, and Williams' healing lessons. Later, they both went to Elizabeth's chambers to learn about trade and economics.
After a couple of sessions with Alan, Elizabeth intentionally included Williams. Initially reluctant, Williams eventually joined their discussions. While not at Alan's level, he proved to be smart and a fast learner. His experiences with other kids and adults provided a different perspective and expanded Alan's knowledge.
They engaged in sparring sessions for nearly an hour before practicing separately. Alan had the family's private training room, while Williams happily utilized the common training area. As they honed their combat skills and hand-to-hand combat, Alan learned to mask his true strength, using less than 5% of his total power. This was nearly equivalent to a C-class Adventurer's strength, but it was his limit, and he couldn't suppress his strength any further.
Williams was thrilled by Alan's display of strength and began sparring with his full power. The two became the talk of their estate.
After a few weeks, they expanded their exploration to the outer area of the town, visiting permanent shops and the outer market. Elizabeth started challenged them with tasks: each given a gold coin, they had to buy five items, including lunch,for them from the outer market. The one who managed this while having some coins left would be declared the winner.
This exercise improved their haggling skills. Initially, Alan spent almost 8 silver coins on one item and a meal. And lost to Williams. When Williams learned of the reason for his loss , he taught Alan the art of haggling and when to concede, preventing their haggling from going too far. Alan quickly picked up on these skills. He even began observing people and their behavior in the outer region, noting the differences from the inner region.
In this industrious community, people toiled hard for their livelihoods, clad in simple and often worn-out clothing. Initially, the attention drawn by their finer garments prompted Alan and Williams to adopt older attire to blend in. Gold coins were scarce in this environment, so after their initial outing, they transitioned to using copper and silver coins. Instead of full lunches, they opted for snacks, particularly those not available in the inner area—delicious treats that added joy to their excursions.
During these outings, Alan and Williams formed a few acquaintances, thanks to the help of some local kids. Their trips to the outer area and the market became enjoyable affairs.
Evening dinners became a family reunion, with everyone sharing in the joy. Williams and Alan discussed their daily excursions and planned for the next day. The adults were relieved to witness the strong bond forming between the two boys.
Helen successfully set up her healing hall, and three months passed without any incidents.
Alan and Williams had became best of friends, inseparable except to attend their different lessons.
Williams was getting better in his healing skills. The family healer a girl of around 25, named Gina showed her interest to work and learn with Helen for which she agreed readily.
Alan on the other had was getting proficient in calligraphy and painting. Jane could be seen praising him infront of anyone and everyone.