Ryan had spent seven days in Pendragon territory, and during that time, he experienced a sense of peace he hadn't felt since awakening his memories. His bond with Seraphina had grown unexpectedly close, and they shared moments of quiet understanding. It had been the most relaxing period for him in this new world.
As he walked toward the carriage that would take him home, Ryan felt an unexpected tug of reluctance in his chest. His face, however, remained calm as ever, hiding his mixed emotions beneath a neutral expression. Seraphina, Duke Robert, and his parents stood nearby, ready to say their goodbyes.
Duke Robert smiled warmly at Ryan. "You're welcome here anytime, Ryan. Don't hesitate to visit."
Ryan nodded with respect. "Thank you, Uncle. I've truly enjoyed my time here."
Helena, Ryan's mother, gave him a knowing smile. "It was nice to see you relax for once."
Roger chuckled, placing a hand on Ryan's shoulder. "Must've been good company, eh?" he teased, his tone lighthearted. Ryan felt his mouth twitch slightly in amusement, but he kept his composure.
Seraphina's blush was barely noticeable as she looked at Ryan. "I hope you'll come back soon, Ryan," she said, her voice soft but sincere.
Ryan turned to her, offering a small, genuine smile. "I'll do my best. Thank you, Seraphina, for everything."
"Take care of yourself," she replied with a faint smile of her own.
As he climbed into the carriage, Ryan glanced back at them one last time. There was a weight in his chest he hadn't expected, a reluctance to leave. The Pendragon estate gleamed in the morning light, and for a moment, he almost wished to stay. But with a deep breath, he turned his focus forward, knowing he had other plans to follow.
Before their departure, Ryan had requested his parents to take a small detour. He had one more stop to make—a village that held importance in the future he knew. This village was the birthplace of Scarlet, the flame witch. In the game, she had been an outcast, feared and mistreated. But Ryan remembered her power, her potential, and he had a plan.
The carriage arrived in the village—an old, crumbling place that looked as though it had been forgotten by time. The tension in the air was palpable, and as Ryan stepped out, he could see why. The villagers had gathered near the center of town, their voices rising in anger and fear.
At the heart of the commotion stood a young girl, no older than himself, with fiery red hair that shimmered in the sunlight. She stood tall, defiant, despite the malice directed at her. Her fists were clenched, and her sharp gaze never wavered, even as the crowd hurled insults.
"Monster!" a villager shouted, pointing an accusing finger at her. "Get out of here with your cursed flames!"
"Leave before you burn us all down!" another yelled.
The girl—Scarlet—stood her ground, but there was a flicker of pain in her eyes, as if their words had struck a chord. Ryan could see the loneliness beneath her defiance, the hurt she tried so hard to hide.
Without a word, Ryan walked toward the crowd. His noble attire and confident stride immediately silenced the mob. The villagers, recognizing his status, stepped back, murmuring among themselves.
Scarlet's sharp eyes turned to him, wary and guarded. "What do you want?" she asked, her voice edged with bitterness.
Ryan met her gaze, his own calm and steady. "I want to offer you something," he said simply.
She narrowed her eyes. "I don't need your pity."
Ryan shook his head, his tone measured. "It's not pity. I see something in you that they don't. You're not a monster, Scarlet. You're a flame witch—one with talent and power. That's something worth nurturing, not fearing."
Scarlet's expression softened slightly, though her wariness remained. "What are you getting at?"
Ryan extended his hand toward her, his voice gentle but firm. "Work for me. I'll give you food, housing, protection—everything you need. You won't have to face this alone anymore."
Scarlet hesitated, her gaze flickering between his outstretched hand and his calm expression. "And what's my use?" she asked, her voice quieter now.
Ryan smiled slightly. "Your flame magic doesn't make you a monster, Scarlet. It makes you strong. A witch with power like yours has value, even if they don't see it."
Scarlet's eyes searched his face, looking for any sign of deceit. But Ryan's expression remained sincere, and slowly, her guard lowered. For the first time, a hint of hope appeared in her gaze.
"Alright," she said, her voice steady as she reached out and took his hand. "I'll work for you."
As Ryan helped her into the carriage, he glanced back at the village one last time. The villagers were still watching, their faces a mixture of confusion and fear. But Ryan felt no need to linger. He had gained a valuable ally—one who would play a crucial role in the days to come.
As the carriage pulled away, Ryan glanced at Scarlet beside him. She stared out the window, her fiery hair catching the sunlight, and Ryan couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Things were falling into place, and as the road ahead stretched before him, he knew this was just the beginning.
to be continued...
Hello guys! author here i want a suggestion on what give kind of cheat should i give to the protaganist. The cheat should not be too overpowered maintaining the flow of the story. People with suggestions please comment below