As Zeix strolled through the vibrant green fiels encircling the capital of Khandbari, he couldn't help but be captivated by the sheer beauty of the scenery. The sunlight filtered through the canopy of towering trees, creating a mosaic of light and shadow on the ground where children played with uninhibited joy. Their laughter rang out, blending harmoniously with the gentle rustling of the wind through the leaves.
Amid this serene backdrop, a sudden, piercing scream shattered the tranquility, pulling Zeix out of his reverie. He swiftly turned to see a child lying on the ground, clutching a reddened leg. Without hesitation, Zeix hurried over, concern etched deeply on his face. "What happened?" he asked gently, kneeling beside the child. The young boy looked up with wide eyes, a mix of pain and surprise evident in his expression. Zeix carefully examined the injury and, with a whispered incantation, channeled healing magic into the child's leg.
Relief washed over the boy's face as the pain subsided. "Thank you, Brother," he said softly, waving gratefully as Zeix rose to resume his journey.
Approaching the towering gates of the capital, Zeix was greeted by a vigilant guard. "Hello, sir. Welcome to Capital Khandbari," the guard greeted warmly, his posture respectful yet vigilant. Zeix nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Mr. Guard," he replied courteously, passing through the grand entrance into the bustling heart of the city.
Inside, Khandbari unfolded before Zeix like a tapestry woven with the threads of life. Massive buildings loomed overhead, each telling a story through its intricate architecture that spoke of centuries of history. Streets thronged with people of diverse backgrounds, their footsteps echoing off the cobblestones as they moved purposefully among shops bursting with a kaleidoscope of goods and merchandise.
A friendly voice beckoned to Zeix from a nearby fruit stall, where an elderly lady greeted him with a warm smile. "Hey there, young man! Care for some fresh purple apples?" she offered, presenting him with two juicy slices. Zeix accepted graciously, taking a bite and savoring the delightful sweetness. As he enjoyed the fruit, he couldn't help but reflect inwardly. The contrast between the warmth of the people here and the coldness he had experienced in the past was stark. "It's delicious," he remarked with a smile, genuinely appreciative of the gesture. The old lady's eyes twinkled with delight. "I'm delighted you enjoy it!"
Impressed by the flavor, Zeix decided to purchase a bag. "I'll take a bag, please," he requested, and the lady promptly packed the apples for him. Retrieving money he had brought from the elves, Zeix paid her generously, conveying his gratitude for the treat.
Before departing, Zeix politely inquired, "Excuse me, ma'am, could you kindly direct me to the inn and the adventure guild?" The old lady nodded knowingly. "Ah, a newcomer! Let me find something for you." With practiced ease, she rummaged through a drawer and produced a map, handing it to Zeix with a warm smile. "Take this with you; it'll guide you well," she said kindly, refusing payment. "Consider it a gift for enjoying my fruits."
"Thank you," Zeix said sincerely, touched by her generosity. With the map securely in hand, he resumed his exploration of the bustling city streets. As he walked, he couldn't help but contrast the genuine warmth and hospitality of the people here with memories of less welcoming encounters from his past.
"It's truly wonderful to be in this world," Zeix reflected silently, feeling a newfound sense of belonging that had eluded him for so long. Embracing the warmth and goodwill around him, he continued his journey through the bustling capital of Khandbari, eager to uncover more about the city's secrets and the adventures that awaited him.
To be continued...