It had been a month since I joined Baku, Rio, Leon, and Vienna on the escort mission. Over this period, we had encountered numerous monsters and bandits, facing challenges that tested our skills and strengthened our bond. We had come a long way together, and now, standing at the gates of our destination city, it was time to bid farewell.
The merchant, a kind man who had shared many stories with me during our journey, approached us with a grateful smile. "Thank you all so much for ensuring our safe passage," he said, bowing deeply. His voice carried genuine gratitude, his eyes reflecting relief and admiration. "Your dedication and hard work are deeply appreciated."
Baku, the stalwart leader of our group, responded with his usual warmth and humility. "It was our job, sir. A pleasure working for you." Baku had been like a father figure during the mission, always offering advice and support. His experience and strength were evident in every battle, and his presence was reassuring.
The merchant nodded, his smile broadening. "I hope to have you as my escort again in the future." With that, he turned and departed, his carriage rolling away into the bustling streets of the city. His servants followed, casting grateful glances back at us.
As we stood there, watching the merchant leave, Rio broke the silence. His usual arrogance was tempered with a sense of satisfaction from the successful mission. "Alright, guys. That was a really good mission. We completed it successfully."
Baku turned to me, handing over my share of the reward. The pouch of coins felt heavy in my hand, a testament to our hard work and the dangers we had faced. "Here, Aric. You were a great help to us."
"Thank you, sir Baku. It was a pleasure working with all of you. I hope we meet again," I said earnestly. The month-long journey had been a formative experience, and I had learned much from my companions.
Vienna, her fiery crimson hair glowing in the sunlight, smiled warmly. Her nonchalant demeanor often masked her keen insights and strength. "Yes, Aric, we hope to see you again. Next time, I want to see you at the pinnacle of your potential, someone famous."
I nodded, determination in my heart. "I will, Vienna. Goodbye."
With final farewells exchanged, they mounted their horses and began their journey back to Elaria. They looked back at me one last time, and I watched them until they disappeared from sight. It was a poignant moment, realizing that the bonds we had formed might not be broken, but our paths were diverging.
Turning to face the road ahead, I felt a mix of emotions. It had been four long years since I last saw my family, and now it would take me another week to reach Skyfall. Despite the long journey ahead, my heart was light with the anticipation of reuniting with my loved ones. The road stretched out before me, filled with promise and the memories of my time with a team that had become like family.
As I started heading towards my hometown, the journey wasn't particularly long, but the excitement of reuniting with my family made it feel like an eternity. After years of being away, I couldn't wait to see them again. Yes, we had communicated through letters delivered by my mother using her arcane element, but nothing compared to the prospect of seeing them in person.
As the sun rose one day, I saw the familiar sight of the city gates, standing tall with guards diligently checking those who entered. Emotion welled up inside me as I took in the liveliness of the city, unchanged yet filled with new memories waiting to be made. After a brief inspection by the guards, I was allowed inside.
Over the past three years, my hair had grown long from the lack of regular haircuts, giving me an appearance that was more mature and perhaps more striking. I wondered how my mother would react to seeing me like this. The thought added a flutter of nerves to my excitement.
Walking through the bustling streets, memories of my childhood came flooding back. The familiar shops, the friendly faces, and the sounds of the city felt like a warm embrace. Each step brought me closer to my home, and with each step, my anticipation grew.
Finally, I stood in front of the door of my house, the place I had longed to return to. Taking a deep breath, I knocked a few times, my heart pounding in my chest. Moments later, the door swung open.
"Hey, Mom! I'm back!" I exclaimed, with the smiling face .