Kaori's eyes widened in realization. "You're from another world? I've heard stories of such things, but I never thought they were true."
Anthony nodded, still trying to make sense of it all. "Yeah, I guess. One moment, I was in an alley trying to stop a thief, and the next, I woke up here."
Kaori's expression softened, and she lowered her katana. "That's incredible. There are legends about people from other worlds appearing in Arandor. They're usually gifted with unique abilities or knowledge. But... this is real."
Anthony glanced around the forest, feeling the weight of the situation. "So, what happens now? How do I get back?"
Kaori sighed, wincing slightly as she adjusted her position. "I don't know. But first, we need to get to the capital. The royal court has scholars who study these things. They might be able to help."
"Alright," Anthony agreed, though he was still overwhelmed by everything. "But you're injured. We need to make sure you're okay first."
Kaori managed a small smile. "I'll be fine. I've survived worse. But there's something else we need to discuss."
Anthony raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "What is it?"
Kaori's expression grew serious. "In our culture, if a man sees a woman's body without her consent, he either has to marry her or face severe consequences, often death."
Anthony's eyes widened in shock. "Wait, what? I was just trying to help!"
Kaori nodded, her expression sympathetic. "I know, and I'm grateful. But the law is the law. So, you have a choice to make."
Anthony ran a hand through his hair, trying to process this new information. "Marriage or death, huh? Not much of a choice."
Kaori shrugged slightly. "I know it's a lot to take in. But... if you choose to marry me, it doesn't have to be forever. Just long enough to satisfy the law. After that, we can figure something out."
Anthony took a deep breath, weighing his options. "Alright, I choose to marry you. It's not ideal, but I'd rather not die."
Kaori nodded, relief evident in her eyes. "Thank you. We'll make this work."
They spent the next few hours preparing for their journey. Kaori explained that they needed to reach the capital, Valoria, where the royal family resided. It would be a long and dangerous journey, but it was their best chance at finding answers and ensuring Anthony's safety.
As they walked through the forest, Kaori began to tell Anthony more about Arandor. "The kingdom is ruled by King Alaric and Queen Elara. They've been good to me since my family was killed in the war. I'm a countess, and I joined the Royal Guard to honor my family's legacy."
Anthony listened intently, fascinated by her story. "I'm sorry about your family. It must have been hard."
Kaori nodded, her eyes distant. "It was. But I found a new family with the royal court. They've taken care of me and helped me become who I am today."
As they continued walking, Kaori pointed out various plants and animals, explaining their uses and dangers. Anthony marveled at the differences between this world and his own, absorbing as much information as he could.
"Arandor is a land of magic and mystery," Kaori explained. "There are many different races and creatures, some friendly, others not so much. You'll need to be careful and stay close to me."
Anthony nodded, appreciating her guidance. "Got it. Stick close to you and avoid trouble."
They walked for hours, the forest gradually giving way to rolling hills and open fields. As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the landscape, they found a small stream where they could rest and refill their water supplies.
"Let's set up camp here for the night," Kaori suggested, her voice tinged with exhaustion. "We'll continue at first light."
Anthony agreed, helping her gather wood for a fire. As they sat by the flickering flames, Kaori continued to share stories of her life and the world they now inhabited.
"I've been a company commander in the Royal Guard for two years now," Kaori said, her eyes reflecting the firelight. "It's a challenging role, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Protecting the kingdom and its people gives me a sense of purpose."
Anthony admired her dedication and resilience. "You're amazing, Kaori. I don't know how you do it."
She smiled, a hint of sadness in her eyes. "You do what you have to, especially when you've lost everything. But now, I have a new mission—helping you find a way home."
Anthony felt a surge of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Kaori. I don't know what I would've done without you."
Kaori reached out and squeezed his hand. "We're in this together, Anthony. We'll find a way."
As the night deepened and the stars filled the sky, Anthony and Kaori settled down to rest, their bond strengthened by the challenges they had faced and the journey that lay ahead. The path to Valoria would be fraught with danger and uncertainty, but they were determined to reach the capital and uncover the secrets of Anthony's mysterious arrival in Arandor.
With Kaori by his side, Anthony felt a glimmer of hope. Together, they would navigate this strange new world and find a way to set things right.