Mitchell and Ange left the guild hall after the encounter with Roland, a mix of relief and exhilaration surging through Mitchell. The sun dipped low in the sky, casting a golden hue upon the meticulously cared-for landscape, a stark contrast to the wild and rugged terrain of his cave home.
"So, how do you feel?" Ange asked, glancing up at him with those keen eyes, still sparkling with the excitement of the day's events.
"Honestly? I'm exhausted but relieved." Mitchell replied, he was in in his own thoughts but e managed to answer ange. To himself. "I expected your father to test me, but I didn't realize how intense it would be. He's formidable, even when holding back."
Ange nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Most adventurers wouldn't stand a chance against him, regardless of his state. You did well, Mitchell. Really well."
Mitchell nodded, the warmth of her praise easing some of the day's tension. But beneath that warmth lay underlying apprehension—the weight of Roland's expectations felt heavy on his shoulders. Earning a man like Roland's acceptance was no small feat.
He was well on his way to being accepted in this realm.
"I appreciate it, truly," Mitchell said, his voice low. "But I know this won't be the last time I'm tested. I can feel that underneath his approval, there's still a lot of skepticism."
"Don't worry," Ange reassured him. " You'll figure this out .Am sure of it.My father just wants to ensure I'm safe, that's all. He's protective, but—"
"—but you're not a little girl anymore," Mitchell finished for her, a faint smirk crossing his lips. "I get it. But the way he looked at me... it was like I was the target in a hunter's sights."
Ange laughed. "Good thing you're used to being hunted then." She was trying to lighten the mood, and it worked.
The two continued their walk, and as they did, Mitchell's thoughts drifted to his cave. The small, dimly lit space that had been both a refuge and a training ground felt far away now. Even if he had scarcely counted any of the days since he started his adventuring journey, it was very comforting and a very nice place for him to rest. Unlike in his former life.
They soon reached the edge of the garden, where Ange's mother, Elara, met them. She had a serene smile on her face, a stark contrast to the sternness of Roland. "How did it go?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with motherly curiosity.
"He passed my test," Roland's voice rumbled from behind, startling both Mitchell and Ange. They hadn't noticed him approach.
"I didn't pass anything." Mitchell interjected, shaking his head. "I just survived."
Elara laughed lightly, a melodic sound that eased the surrounding tension. "Surviving against Roland's scrutiny is no small feat. You should be proud, dear."
Mitchell said nothing at the compliment but was proud nevertheless"I appreciate that, Mrs. Elara."
"Please, call me Elara," she said, waving her hand dismissively. "Skill aside, I believe what matters more is your character. I've seen how you care for Ange and how hard you've worked. That counts for a lot."
Roland snorted but didn't argue. Instead, he crossed his arms over his chest, a contemplative look on his face. "You've taken the first step toward winning my approval. Keep it up, and perhaps I'll become more lenient. Just remember what I've said about Ange."
"Understood," Mitchell replied, his voice firm.
"Good." Roland's expression softened, just a bit. "Now, there's still time before dusk. Perhaps you should stay for dinner?"
Ange brightened at the suggestion, while Mitchell hesitated. He had intended to return to his cave, but the offer lingered in the air and felt inviting enough for him to entertain. After all, an evening spent with both of them seemed almost comforting.
"I wouldn't want to intrude, it'd be better if i was on my way''. Mitchell said finally.
"Of course it's no trouble!" Elara exclaimed. "It's been a while since we had someone new at our table. Let's celebrate your accomplishments today!"
Mitchell resigned and decided to join them since Ange beckoned him with her eyes, almost begging him to come. He sighed.
And so, the evening unfolded with laughter and chatter, an unexpected warmth enveloping Mitchell as he joined Ange and her family in the dining room. Elara's cooking was exquisite, filled with flavor and variety that seemed to transport him far from the simplistic meals he prepared in his cave. The atmosphere was light, filled with teasing exchanges between Roland and Elara, punctuated by Ange's infectious laughter.
As they sat around the table, Mitchell felt a sense of belonging that had begun to cultivate deeper roots within him. The family each shared a story, each joke exchanged, was a tight bond. He gave a wry smile in his heart and knew he didn't belong here.He noticed how Elara's keen eyes glimmered with affection for Roland, and how they teased each other like old friends—an understanding that surpassed mere words.
After dinner, as they settled into the living area, Roland unexpectedly turned to Mitchell, his serious demeanor returning. "You've got guts, and you matter to my daughter. But don't think that this changes anything overnight. It'll take time to fully earn my trust."
Mitchell nodded, swallowing the last bite of pie.
"That's the spirit," Roland said gruffly, a hint of approval creeping back into his tone.
As the night drew on, Mitchell felt contentment swell within him, a sensation he hadn't experienced in a while. The warmth of acceptance and the soft glow of camaraderie wrapped around him like a blanket. Eventually, once the stars sparkled high above, he stood up, ready to depart and head back to his cave.
"Thank you for the hospitality," he said, his voice earnest. "I had a wonderful time. I never imagined I would enjoy an evening like this so much."
Ange smiled brightly. "We're glad you could join us. Don't be a stranger, okay?"
"I won't," he promised, glancing toward Roland and Elara, both watching him with expressions that hinted at respect, if not full acceptance yet.
As he made his way outside, the cool evening air brushed against him, refreshing and freeing. He glanced back at the mansion, a beacon of light against the darkening sky.
Entering his cave felt different now; he had a sense of purpose, a reason to push forward. With his thoughts swirling about the day, Mitchell strode onward, feeling the tension in his shoulders ease. Though the road ahead remained uncertain, he felt a flicker of determination igniting within him—a desire to grow stronger, he missed his home, but he knew there was nothing he could do about it. After all, jack said that he could not leave in his current cultivation state .
He stood atop the cave and sat down in the lotus position, he looked at the starry sky, how different it looked from when he was still on earth. He closed his eyes and soon entered a semi conscious state.