Chapter 4 - A New Path

It has been a month since Kira left for her journey. Yet Arin can't seem to snap out of his funk! His life felt dreary, and without purpose. Day after day, Arin chops wood again and again. Though with a noticeable lack of motivation, as if he is just a slave to the actions he takes. Then one day he opens his grandfather's dresser and finally pulls out the letter. He began to read," Arin if you are reading this then I have passed on. This letter is to tell you everything I believe you should know. So I'll start with your parents, and you believe they abandoned you not too long after your birth. Truth is they died In a dungeon expedition gone wrong, but they would come home quite often to see you. They just couldn't help but heed the dungeon call. So they continued in the adventurer work, both for the pay but also their instinctual desire. So don't hate them they just wanted a good life you. Lastly, is your overdependence on my presence is going to leave you in ruins after I'm gone. Stop being a charcoal burner, it's not our calling. I started so I had safe job to stay near and keep those I love safe. Go forth and find yourself, cause I know you feel it too. Everytime you picked up your axe, your face told me it felt wrong for you. So go, become a hunter, a treasure seeker or whatever it is you desire. For you are just like me, but better." After reading the last words, tears began to fall again. Arin rubs desperately at his face, trying hard to compose himself. Hours pass by, leaving the confused young man to wollow in self doubt and inaction. Eventually, he steeled his resolve and began packing a travel kit. As he was packing, Carol arrived to check on him in the early morning. She asks," What are you doing Arin, we haven't heard from you in days.", as she enters. She turns around only to see the young man packing a bag. Her words spill out," So you are leaving, what will you do?" She says this as she pulls out a loaf of bread and a bag of Jerry, quickly handing it to Arin. She sat down and starting talking with him about his goal. Hours pass and the sun has fully risen. But now, as the conversation comes to an end Arin knows where to go in order to become an adventurer. Later that day, several people visit Arin giving him advice or equipment. However, it all ended as Arin finally left axe in hand and pack on back.