Kael stood in silence for a moment, considering the knight's offer. The word "Eldenwood" echoed in his mind, stirring up emotions he had long buried. But he knew what his answer would be. He needed to get stronger, become the warrior he'd promised himself to be. This was another step toward that goal, no matter where it took him.
"I'll take the mission," Kael said, his voice firm.
The knight gave a satisfied nod, his scarred face breaking into a grin.
"Good. Meet us at the north gate just after sunrise tomorrow. We'll be waiting. Don't be late."
Kael nodded, watching the knight walk off with his companions. His mind was already shifting gears, thinking about the preparation he needed. He'd have to gear up. This wouldn't be a simple task, especially not for someone of his level. Even if it was just a survey mission, he knew better than to underestimate it.
Kael walked out of the clothing shop, wincing as the door swung shut behind him. His pouch was lighter, and the faint sound of the few remaining coins rattling inside it was a constant reminder of how much he had spent. He had just purchased a long black windbreaker and a round hat, both made from high-quality material that was built to last. The windbreaker was lightweight yet durable, its long fabric swirling around his legs as he moved. It was designed for both combat and travel, with reinforced seams and hidden pockets perfect for storing small items. The hat, a simple but stylish piece, concealed his tied-back dark hair.
As Kael walked through the streets, his appearance caught the occasional eye. His glistening brown eyes were the only indication of his youth, their sharp focus and depth belying his age. The rest of him, from his clothes to the way he carried himself, spoke of a seasoned knight. A thin silver longsword hung at his waist, gleaming in the afternoon sun. It was a clear status symbol in the kingdom of Rheloria, marking him as an official knight—a two-star warrior. The weight of the sword was familiar, comforting even, as it rested against his hip, reminding him of how far he'd come.
Despite his outward composure, Kael's mind was churning with thoughts of the upcoming mission. Eldenwood. He hadn't been there since he and Mia were taken from their home, and the idea of returning stirred something unsettling in his chest. He shook his head, forcing the thoughts away. He had preparations to make.
---
Kael made his way through the crowded streets, stopping at various shops to gather the necessary supplies. Every time he handed over gold, he felt a sharp pang, his fingers tightening around the coins before reluctantly parting with them. He bought new gloves, reinforced for combat, and a fresh pair of boots that would serve him well on rough terrain. At each shop, he exchanged brief pleasantries with the vendors, but his thoughts were elsewhere, focused on the mission.
After a few more purchases, Kael made his way to the famous potion shop. The familiar smell of herbs and magic greeted him as he stepped inside, the shelves packed with colorful vials and jars. Potions of all kinds were displayed behind the counter, from common healing draughts to rare brews that could enhance strength or agility.
The shopkeeper, a stout man with a friendly face, smiled at Kael as he approached. "Looking for something specific?"
"A health potion," Kael replied, his voice low. He was already bracing himself for the price.
The shopkeeper nodded and pulled out a vial filled with a bright greenish-red liquid. "This is a low-tier health potion. It'll heal minor wounds, stop bleeding, and it's good in a pinch. Costs 1 gold."
Kael grimaced, not at the quality of the potion but at the cost. One gold for this? He had already spent most of his funds, but he knew he couldn't go into the mission unprepared. He had seen knights use these potions before, and they had proven invaluable in tight situations. No matter how simple or easy a mission might seem for third- or fourth-layer knights, it wouldn't be the same for someone like him, still only in the second layer of his mana core.
"Alright," Kael said, handing over the gold with a sigh. The pouch felt almost empty now, no longer ringing with the sound of coins.
He left the shop with the potion securely tucked away, feeling both prepared and uneasy. The upcoming mission weighed heavily on him. What he had done before had been challenging, but this? This was a return to the past, to the place where his life had changed forever.
His hand drifted to the silver longsword at his waist. Whatever awaited him in Eldenwood, he would face it head-on. And he would grow stronger for it. Hopefully after this mission, the King would see fit to see him again.