The next day, Riley walked down the winding dirt path that led toward the tavern. The morning air was crisp, the sun barely peeking over the hills.
He felt a sense of urgency in his steps, though he couldn't fully explain why. Perhaps it was the dreams from the night before, their shadows still clinging to his mind, or maybe it was the feeling that there was something he needed to learn—something vital.
As he rounded a corner, he spotted a familiar face. Raymond, a boy his age with dark hair and a mischievous glint in his eye, was walking toward him from the opposite direction. Raymond waved as he approached, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
"Riley! Heading to the tavern again?" Raymond asked, falling into step beside him. "I thought we agreed we'd visit Old Man Jolima today. You know, since he's been around forever. He might know more about the First Ascender than anyone in the village."
