Rowen found himself standing at the edge of a magical city surrounded by towering mountains. The buildings within were tall and shimmering with enchantment, and the streets were bustling with creatures and people from fantastical realms. It was a place of wonder and magic, unlike anything he had ever seen in his life.
As Rowen approached the city, the guards standing in front of the city gate blocked his way. They looked at Rowen with serious express on their face, creating a hurdle for him before he could enter and explore the magical streets.
Guards said "Stop right there! Who are you, and where are you from?" The guards stared at Rowen's strange clothes, looking serious and suspicious, wondering about him.
Rowen, to his surprise, realized that the guards were speaking the same language as the old man. But even more surprising was the fact that he could understand every word they said. Without feeling tense, Rowen replied, "I'm Rowen, and I come from a faraway place. Now, can you let me in?"
The guards, unmoved by his words, stated firmly, "We don't care where you're from. Everyone entering the city must pay an entrance fee." They pointed towards a line of individuals giving their dues before entering, gesturing towards the other side of the gate.
Rowen exclaimed, "An entrance fee? But I don't have any money with me."
The guards, in a rude manner, retorted, "Then step aside. We don't allow beggars into the city," wearing smug smiles as they glanced down at Rowen.
Just as Rowen was feeling hopeless, a voice rang out from behind him. "I'll pay for his entrance fee."
Everyone turned towards the voice and saw a middle-aged man with a strong build standing there. The guards, in a shocked and somewhat fearful voice, exclaimed, "Ah, Mister Gavin Ironstride!"
One of the guards approached Gavin, saying, "Sir, you don't need to pay. We'll let him pass as you say."
Gavin looked at Rowen and said, "You may pass."
The guards gazed at Gavin with a mix of respect and caution, acknowledging his authority.
Rowen expressed his gratitude to the middle-aged man, saying, "Thank you," before entering the city.
As Rowen entered the city, he couldn't help but notice the peculiar creatures bustling about. Curiosity gripped him as he ventured deeper into the enchanting streets, eager to uncover the secrets hidden within this fantastical metropolis.
Rowen thought to himself, "Now I may be able to find some clues about the old man and how I got here." Suddenly, he tried to remember, "What was the name of the old man... Ah yes, his name was Cedric Elderwood."
As he wandered through the city, Rowen marveled at every scene, thoroughly enjoying the sights and experiences around him. Deep in thought, Rowen considered the magical city and wondered about the adventures that awaited him within its enchanting streets.
As Rowen continued exploring, he stumbled upon a peculiar marketplace filled with mystical items and curious creatures. The vibrant colors and magical aura heightened his excitement for the mysteries ahead.
As Rowen immersed himself in the market's wonders, to find some clues about his situation, But his exploration was interrupted when a group of dubious-looking thugs took notice of the mysterious locket he wore. Approaching him with sly intentions, they sneered, "Hey, kid, are you lost? Let us give you a hand."
Despite the thugs' seemingly helpful approach, Rowen felt a sense of unease. He tightened his grip on the mysterious locket and cautiously considered his options, unsure of whether to trust these strangers in the bustling market.
Rowen, sensing potential danger, decided to politely decline their offer. "No thanks, I'm fine on my own," he replied, taking a step back. The thugs exchanged glances, their intentions unclear as they continued to eye the mysteries locket around Rowen's neck.
Before the thugs could make a move, Rowen noticed Gavin standing behind him. A sense of relief washed over Rowen as the thugs, now aware of Gavin's presence, reconsidered their dubious intentions.
Gavin looked at the thugs, and they ran away, fearing him. After they left, Gavin said to Rowen, "You're a smart kid. You noticed me standing behind you, interesting. What is your name again? I can't remember. And how old are you?"
Rowen replied, "First of all, thank you for saving me again. And I'm not a kid. My name is Rowen, and I am 16 years old."
Gavin asked, "So, Rowen, can you tell me why you're here in this city?"
Seeing Rowen hesitate, Gavin changed the question to make him more comfortable. "Do you have any place to stay?"
Rowen replied, "No, I just came here for the first time. I don't know what to do."
Gavin replied, "Good. Would you like to come and stay with us? I live here with my family. You remind me of my younger self, clueless when I started my journey."
Rowen hesitated and said, "How can I? I can't trouble you anymore; you've already helped me so much." Gavin reassured him, saying, "Don't worry, you're not a trouble for me. I already told you."
Rowen thought to himself, It's better to be in safe hands than wandering around the city without any knowledge. "Then I'll be in your care."
Gavin laughed and said, "Good. Now let's go to my house. My wife and daughter will be waiting for me. By the way, my daughter is the same age as you."
They walked through the streets toward Gavin's house and finally arrived at their destination.
Gavin opened the door, welcoming Rowen into his home. As they entered, warmth and the aroma of a home-cooked meal filled the air.
Gavin shouted, "Honey, I'm home!" His wife and daughter came out to see him, their faces lighting up with joy at his return.
Gavin introduced Rowen to his wife and daughter, explaining how he encountered him in the city. His family welcomed Rowen warmly.
As Rowen settled into Gavin's home, he couldn't shake the feeling of gratitude for the kindness he had received. Gavin's wife, whose name was Elara, welcomed Rowen with open arms, treating him as if he were her own son. She had a gentle demeanor and a warm smile that made Rowen feel instantly at ease.
Gavin's daughter, named Lily, was a bright and lively girl who is 17 years old. She had a curious nature and a mischievous twinkle in her eye that reminded Rowen of his younger self. She is also very intelligent for her age. Despite their differences in background, Rowen felt a sense of camaraderie with Lily, as if they had known each other for years.
As they sat down for dinner, Rowen marveled at the delicious home-cooked meal spread out before him. The aroma of roasted meats, fresh vegetables, and savory herbs filled the air, making his mouth water with anticipation. It was a far cry from the simple meals he had grown accustomed to during his life.
It was Rowen's first time in his life having dinner with a family. As an orphan, the experience stirred deep emotions, and he nearly cried with gratitude for the warmth and inclusion he felt at the dinner table.
Gavin's wife noticed Rowen's emotional reaction and asked, "Is the food not to your liking?" concerned about his well-being.
Rowen replied, "No, ma'am. The food is very tasty. In fact, it's my first time having homemade food this good."
Gavin asked, "So what happened? You can tell us." Rowen opened up, sharing that he's an orphan. Gavin responded warmly, saying, "Who said you're an orphan? Now you also have a family. We are your family."with a cheerful smile on his face.
During the meal, Gavin regaled Rowen with tales of his own adventures in the magical city and beyond. He spoke of daring quests, ancient mysteries, and encounters with fantastical creatures that seemed straight out of a storybook. Rowen listened intently, captivated by Gavin's words and the sense of wonder they inspired.
After dinner, Gavin showed Rowen to his room, a cozy space with a comfortable bed and a small window overlooking the city below. Rowen felt a sense of peace wash over him as he settled into bed, the events of the day swirling through his mind.
As he drifted off to sleep, Rowen couldn't help but feel grateful for the unexpected turn his journey had taken. He had started out as a lone traveler, unsure of what lay ahead, but now he had found a place where he belonged, a family who welcomed him with open arms.
The next morning, Rowen woke to the sound of birds chirping outside his window. He rose from bed and made his way downstairs, where Gavin and his family were already gathered for breakfast. The table was laden with fresh fruit, warm bread, and steaming cups of tea, filling the room with a sense of warmth and contentment.
As they ate, Gavin turned to Rowen and said, "So, Rowen, what are your plans now that you're here in the city? Do you have any goals or aspirations?"
Rowen paused, considering Gavin's question carefully. He had come to the city in search of answers about the old man and the mysterious locket, but now that he was here, he realized that his journey was far from over. There were still mysteries to unravel, adventures to be had, and new friendships to forge.
I'm not sure what lies ahead," Rowen replied honestly, "but I know that I want to explore this city" , And thought to himself "perhaps uncover the truth about my own past". And after that who knows," he added with a smile, "maybe I'll find some new adventures along the way."
Gavin nodded approvingly, a proud smile spreading across his face. "That's the spirit, Rowen," he said, clapping him on the shoulder. "I have no doubt that you'll find what you're looking for here in the city. And remember, if you ever need help or guidance, Elara, Lily, and I are always here for you."
With those words of encouragement ringing in his ears, Rowen set out to explore the magical city, eager to discover what wonders awaited him around every corner. As he wandered through the bustling streets, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead.