Two days after the tragic events that rocked Orrinshire, the town is still shrouded in a haze of grief. Although some residents have begun to pick up the pieces of their lives, the scars left by the attack are still felt in every step and word. To honor the fallen, a mass funeral ceremony was held outside the city. In a large field now dotted with new mounds of earth, mass graves had been dug to hold the bodies of countless citizens, Imperial soldiers, and adventurers who had given their lives for Orrinshire.
The sky that day was gray, as if mourning with those left behind. The surviving residents, including Imperial soldiers and adventurers, gathered around the mass graves. Every face radiated sadness, but also deep respect. In the center of the crowd, a priest from the Church of Sol stood solemnly, wearing a white robe that was now stained with the dust of travel. He, Dorian, was a revered religious figure in Orrinshire and beyond. Today, however, he would be doing something different.
Priest Dorian stepped forward to a simple podium made of scrap wood. He raised his hand, calling for the attention of everyone present. His voice was booming, yet soft, breaking the eerie silence.
"My brothers and sisters." He said. "We gather today not only to mourn our loss, but also to celebrate the infinite courage, sacrifice, and love of those who have gone before us. They are Orrinshire's finest sons and daughters, who have shown that hope and unity can always fight the darkness."
He paused for a moment, taking a deep breath, before continuing. "However, this day does not just belong to the Church of Sol. Today, we come together as a people who strengthen each other, no matter what our beliefs. For grief is a universal language that knows no boundaries of faith or belief."
The audience looked both surprised and touched. Priest Dorian then called out to someone from the crowd: Lucena. Hesitantly, Lucena stepped forward, her face still holding a deep sadness.
"Lucena." Dorian said in a warm voice. "You are the only one among us who still keeps faith in the Goddess Floryn, the Goddess of Life and Fertility. We ask for your help to lead the prayers for those who have gone, that they may be received in peace by Goddess Floryn."
Lucena was silent for a moment. She felt heavy stepping forward, remembering the grief she had just experienced with the loss of Gustaaf. However, the gaze of the mourners gave her courage. She nodded slowly and took her place next to Pastor Dorian.
In her soft yet firm voice, Lucena began to offer prayers to Goddess Floryn. Her prayer was simple, but every word she spoke was sincere, sinking into the hearts of the audience.
"Goddess Floryn, who gives life to this earth, we ask you to accept those who have gone. Those who have given their all to protect us. May their souls return to your realm of peace, and may we who are left behind continue to be blessed with the strength to continue their fight..."
As Lucena spoke, many of the citizens were comforted. Even Imperial soldiers who usually didn't care much about religious matters were seen bowing their heads in prayer.
After Lucena finished, Priest Dorian proceeded with the typical ritual of the Church of Sol, burning holy incense and offering prayers for the departed souls. He also led the people to sprinkle flowers on the mound of earth, a symbol of final respect for those who have fallen.
When the ceremony was over, the atmosphere around the mass grave felt a little lighter, though the sorrow remained. Pastor Dorian tapped Lucena gently on the shoulder. "You have shown us that despite our different beliefs, we can still strengthen each other. Thank you, Lucena."
Lucena just smiled, though her heart was still heavy. She felt that her participation in the ceremony, though simple, had given her some peace. She knew life had to go on, but the memories of those who had gone would never fade.
As the weeks passed, Orrinshire began to pulse with life again, though the scars left by the attack were still fresh in the hearts of its residents. The streets of the town that were once littered with debris were now clean, though traces of the battle were still visible in some corners. Lucena returned to work at the bar where she made her living, serving beer and food to customers who tried to chase away the grief with fake laughter and old stories.
For Lucena, however, the days felt like an endlessly recurring dream. Every step she took, every laugh she heard, was bland and empty. She worked as usual, serving customers, smiling, and dancing a little to the music, but her mind drifted elsewhere.
In the midst of her routine, Lucena's mind is filled with images of the past: Gustaaf's smiling, hopeful face as he talks about his dreams of becoming a great adventurer; Delilah's courage in facing danger to save her. They, who had taken risks and given everything for something bigger than themselves, had kinda changed the way Lucena viewed her life.
That night, after the last customer had left the bar and she had finished cleaning up the messy tables, Lucena sat alone in the corner. The dim oil lamps cast shadows on the wooden walls, creating a somber yet intimate atmosphere. She rested her chin on her hand, staring blankly at the glass of beer she had yet to touch.
"Is this my life?" She muttered quietly to herself. "Working, getting married, having children... and then growing old without ever knowing what it's like to really live?"
Lucena remembered Gustaaf's sacrifice, risking his life to protect those he loved. She thought of Delilah who bravely braved uncertainty and danger to save the lives of others, even if she didn't know them. Both of these people, in their own way, had lived meaningful lives. They had fought for something greater than comfort or routine.
Yet, she was just a barmaid hiding behind her routine, trying to avoid the dangerous outside world.
Lucena straightened her back and closed her eyes. 'What am I looking for in this life?' She thought.
Like a cold night breeze, a new feeling slipped into her heart: the desire to break out of her monotonous life, to find a greater purpose. Maybe she would never be like Gustaaf or Delilah, but she knew she couldn't keep living life the same way.
The decision, though still vague, began to take shape in his mind. That night, for the first time in a long time, Lucena felt a spark of passion that she had almost forgotten. A small call in her soul, asking her to seek something more than routine.
When dawn broke the next day, Lucena saw Orrinshire in a different light. This peaceful little town was not a prison, but a starting place where she could begin anew. She didn't know how, but she was determined to find out. Gustaaf may be gone, but his spirit lives on in Lucena's heart, encouraging her to live life with courage and purpose.
And, who knows? Maybe she'll find her own adventure. An Adventure that worth a thousand lifetime.
That morning, sunlight filtered through the cracks in the wooden windows of Lucena's small family home. The smell of toast and herbal tea filled the air, creating a warm and familiar atmosphere. However, Lucena's heart was pounding. She had decided to talk to her parents about her resolve, something she had been thinking about for days.
At the dining table, her mother, Margaret, was gently spreading butter on bread for breakfast, while her father, Alaric, was enjoying hot tea while reading an old newspaper. Lucena sat in the chair opposite, looking at them quizzically for a moment before finally mustering the courage.
"Mom, Dad." Lucena's voice was low but firm, "I want to talk about something important."
Margaret turned her head, smiling warmly. "Of course, dear. What is it?"
Lucena took a deep breath, her hands gripping the teacup in front of her tightly. "I want to be an adventurer. I want to be a hero to everyone."
Silence fell over the room for a moment. Margaret placed the bread on her plate, her expression turning worried. "Lucena... it's not a joke. It's a dangerous world out there. You know what happened during the attack a few weeks ago. You almost..." Her voice trailed off, her eyes starting to get wet.
"Mom." Lucena interrupted gently, but her tone was determined. "I know it's dangerous. I know my life won't be easy if I choose this path. But this is the only thing that makes me feel truly alive."
Alaric raised an eyebrow, looking at his daughter with a thoughtful gaze. "Why, Lucy? What makes you want to take a risk like this?"
Lucena bowed her head for a moment, trying to contain her emotions. "Gustaaf." She answered softly. "He gave everything to protect the people he loved. And Delilah... she saved me without hesitation. They showed me that there's more to life than working, getting married, and living comfortably. I want to do something meaningful, Father. I want to etch my name in people's hearts, just like they did."
Margaret shook her head, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Lucena, you are our only daughter. I can't imagine losing you. What if something happened to you? What if you..."
"Mom." Lucena cut in, looking into her mother's eyes with a loving yet determined gaze. "This is the first time I've asked you for something. I know you're worried. I know I may not come back rich, or have a mansion, or live a comfortable life. But I will be happy, Mother. I will feel alive."
Alaric smiled slightly, placing his newspaper on the table. "Margaret, she is our daughter. But she's also a grown woman now. If this is what makes her happy, who are we to stop her?"
Margaret turned to her husband, her eyes full of tears. "Do you agree with her, Alaric? You know how dangerous this is!"
"Yes, I agree." Alaric replied calmly. "I'm scared too, Margaret. But I see the determination in Lucena's eyes. That is something we cannot ignore. We must believe in her, just as we believed in ourselves when we started our lives together."
Margaret sobbed, covering her face with her hands. Lucena stood up, walked to her mother's side, and hugged her tightly. "Mom, I promise I'll be careful. I won't make this decision without thinking. But please, let me try. I want to make you proud."
Margaret nodded slowly, still sobbing. "If this is really what you want, Lucy... I won't stop you. But please... take care of yourself. Don't make Mommy regret it."
Lucena smiled with relief, hugging her mother tighter. "Thank you, mom. I promise."
Alaric stood up, patting Lucena proudly on the shoulder. "You have a long road ahead of you, Lucy. But we will always support you. Go, make our family name known, but more importantly... make yourself happy."
With her parents' blessing, Lucena felt a burning passion in her heart. She knew the path she had chosen was full of obstacles, but for the first time in her life, she felt truly free and alive.
A few days after receiving her parents' blessing, Lucena was finally ready to embark on her new journey. She had carefully packed her supplies: enough clothes, a simple meal, and a small book of prayers to Goddess Floryn. The owner of the bar where she worked congratulated her with teary eyes, even presenting her with a modest bottle of wine.
That morning, with a simple bag over her shoulder, Lucena stood on the side of Orrinshire's main road, waiting for the merchant carriage that would take her to Glaswald, the capital of the Western Province. The journey to Glaswald was a short one-two full weeks of traveling through hills, valleys, and small villages. For Lucena, it was the first step towards her big dream.
However, before the carriage arrived, the roar of an engine caught the attention of the people around. A stately-looking-albeit modest-car stopped in front of Lucena. It was shiny black, with a classic yet elegant design, reminiscent of the vehicles Lucena had only seen in newspaper or heard about from others.
From inside the car came a middle-aged man with a friendly, dignified face. He was the Governor of Orrinshire, Lord Theodore Arcland, a man known for his fair and generosity to the people.
"Lucena, isn't it?" He asked with a warm smile.
Lucena was slightly surprised and hurriedly bow down. "That's right, Your Highness. Is there anything I can help you with?"
The governor chuckled. "It's not me who needs help, but perhaps I can help you. I hear you're going to Glaswald to begin your journey as an adventurer?"
Lucena nodded, still confused as to why the Governor knew about her plans. "That's right, Your Highness. But I'll only be riding in a merchant carriage. I don't want to inconvenience anyone."
The governor waved his hand. "Nonsense. I happen to be going to Glaswald to buy something for my wife. I offer you a ride in my car. The trip will be much faster and more comfortable than a horse-drawn carriage."
Lucena was silent for a moment, feeling both embarrassed and honored. "Your Highness, I... do not wish to inconvenience..."
"It's not a hassle, young lass. Think of it as my small support for the future adventurer from Orrinshire. After all, Glaswald is a large city that can be a challenge in itself. It's better that you arrive fully energized, not with a body tired from a long journey." Said the Governor, his voice firm yet friendly.
Seeing such a sincere offer, Lucena finally nodded. "Then, thank you very much, Your Highness. I really appreciate it."
The governor smiled, opening the car door for Lucena politely. "Come on, let's get going before the sun gets too high."
Lucena got into the car, feeling the soft leather seats and the luxurious but not overwhelming atmosphere of the interior. The car rattled quietly as the engine started again, and slowly drove away from Orrinshire.
On the way, Lucena couldn't stop admiring the vehicle. "This car is amazing, My Lord. I didn't even know a vehicle like this could exist in a small place like Orrinshire."
The governor laughed. "Ah, this car is special indeed. A gift from an old friend in the Imperial capital. Not as luxurious as what they use there, but enough to make me feel connected to the center of the Empire."
During the trip, they talked about many things: life in Orrinshire, the Governor's plans in Glaswald, and Lucena's dreams. The Governor even gave Lucena some advice on how to deal with the rigors of the adventurous world.
"Lucena, remember." He said as he gazed at the road ahead. "Courage is important, but wisdom is more important. Never hesitate to retreat if things get too dangerous. Your life is worth far more than a title or a reputation."
Lucena nodded, taking those words to heart. This trip, though short, had already given her more than she could have imagined-comfort, wisdom, and a new sense of confidence.
As the car drove through rocky roads and dense forests, Lucena felt that her first step towards her big dream was beginning in a way she never expected.
After several hours of long but comfortable travel, the Governor's car finally entered Glaswald, the capital of the Western Province. The atmosphere of the city was completely different from what Lucena had seen in Orrinshire. The wide, cobblestone streets, the grand neo-classical buildings with beautiful carvings, and the bustle of the markets and people were far more lively than in her home town.
Lucena pressed her face against the car window, marveling at this new sight. Glaswald was a completely different world from Orrinshire, with all its glitter that almost made her feel small and insignificant.
The car stopped in front of a large, sturdy building with a wooden sign that read "Glaswald Adventurer's Guild" in gilded letters. The building was alive, with many people going in and out-some carrying swords and shields, others with bows and arrows, some even wearing wizard robes adorned with magical symbols.
Governor Theodore descended first, then opened the door for Lucena. "Here we are." He said with a gentle smile.
Lucena got out of the car, feeling a little nervous about the crowd around the building. They all looked tough and experienced, a far cry from her who was just a country girl with no combat experience.
Before Lucena stepped away, the Governor touched her shoulder gently, making her turn around. "Lucena." He said in a fatherly voice. "You are now in a completely different world. Glaswald is not Orrinshire. It's more advanced, more bustling, but also far more dangerous. Never let your guard down. The world of adventure may be full of pride and glory, but you must know that danger lurks around every corner."
Lucena nodded, trying to absorb every word. "I'll be careful, Your Highness. Thank you very much for the ride and the advice."
The governor smiled a little, but the look in his eyes showed genuine concern. "Remember, you are a country girl who has never been out of Orrinshire. Do not rush to trust others, especially in a city like Glaswald. Look for people you can truly rely on, and never be shy to ask for help if you need it."
Lucena gripped her bag tightly, nodding once more. "I understand, My Lord. Thank you for everything."
The governor stepped back to his car, but before getting in, he added. "And one more thing, Lucena. Don't ever lose faith in yourself. You started this journey with great determination. Don't let anyone, or anything, undermine that spirit."
Lucena smiled a little, feeling she had gotten the morale boost she needed. "I will not let you down, My Lord. Thank you."
The Governor's car slowly drove off, leaving Lucena standing in front of the Adventurer's Guild. She took a deep breath, looking at the large building in front of her with determination. Today was the beginning of a new chapter in her life, a chapter filled with challenges, dangers, and perhaps, triumphs. With determined steps, she entered the doors of the Adventurer's Guild, ready to face whatever lay ahead.
Lucena stepped into the Adventurer's Guild building with a mixture of nervousness and curiosity. As soon as the heavy oak door closed behind her, her eyes widened in awe. The interior of this building was far beyond anything she had ever seen before, even compared to the Governor's Mansion where she had worked as a maid a few years ago.
The shiny marble floors reflected the sparkling light from the huge crystal chandeliers hanging from the high ceilings. Magnificent paintings adorned the walls, telling stories of great adventurers who had made their mark in history. Large mahogany tables were neatly arranged, surrounded by comfortable-looking leather-covered chairs. On the other side of the room, there was a large mission board, filled with papers that were attached using brass nails.
Lucena could hardly believe she was in a place like this. It was like stepping into a whole new world, a world of heroes and legends.
She walked carefully to the reception desk in the center of the room. Behind the desk, stood a young woman with cat ears sticking out of her short golden hair. The woman's bright green eyes looked at Lucena curiously.
"Welcome to the Glaswald Adventurer's Guild." The woman said in a friendly voice, a small smile gracing her face. "How can I help you?"
Lucena swallowed, trying to calm her racing heartbeat. "I... would like to register as an adventurer." Lucena said.
The cat-eared woman nodded, taking a large book from under the table. "Of course. My name is Felina, the receptionist here. Do you already have combat experience or have you worked as a soldier before?"
Lucena shook her head honestly. "No, I don't have any experience. I'm... I'm completely new. I don't even know how to use a weapon properly."
Felina looked at her for a moment, as if considering something, then smiled slightly. "No problem. All great adventurers start somewhere too, right?" She picked up a form and handed it to Lucena along with a goose quill. "Fill this out, and we'll process your application right away."
Lucena filled out the form carefully, writing down her name, age, and background as honestly as possible. When she was done, Felina examined the form, then noted something in the ledger in front of her.
"Alright, Lucena. Since you're completely new with no experience, you'll start as a Wood-level Adventurer, the lowest rank in the Guild. Here is your wooden plaque." Felina handed over a small plaque made of simple wood, with Lucena's name engraved on it. "This plaque shows your standing among adventurers. You must carry this with you at all times. If you lose it, you will be fined to replace it."
Lucena accepted the plaque with both hands. "Thank you. I will take good care of this."
Felina smiled, then pointed at the large mission board on the wall. "As a novice adventurer, you are only allowed to take on low-level missions. Be sure to read the mission descriptions carefully and don't try anything too dangerous. Oh, and one more thing-as a beginner, you are advised to join a group until you are more experienced."
Lucena nodded. "I understand. Thank you for the advice."
Before leaving, Felina added. "Good luck, Lucena. And remember, being an adventurer is a long journey. Never give up."
Lucena stepped away from the table, clutching the wooden plaque tightly. In her heart, she felt that this was the first step of a great journey that would change her life. However, she also knew that this path would not be easy. But with her strong determination, she was ready to face whatever challenges awaited.
Lucena approached the large mission board that dominated one side of the Adventurer's Guild room. A variety of papers were posted there, each bearing a description of a mission of varying difficulty. From hunting down ferocious monsters to escorting trade caravans, everything seemed interesting yet daunting to the still green Lucena.
She read each one carefully, looking for something that suited her meager skills. Finally, her eyes fell on a simple piece of paper that looked different from the rest.
MISSION: HERBAL COLLECTION.
Description: We need some special herbs for healing potions. These plants grow in the hills north of Glaswald. Please watch out for wild animals.
Reward: 10 silver coins.
"This seems to suit me." Lucena murmured, relieved to find a mission that didn't involve fighting.
She returned to the reception desk to confirm her choice. Felina greeted her with a smile. "Ah, herbal collection mission. Good choice for a beginner." She said as she noted Lucena's choice in the ledger. "These plants are quite easy to find, but be careful. Sometimes there are wild animals around the hills."
Lucena nodded. "Okay, I'll be careful."
Felina pointed to a door on the other side of the room. "Before you leave, I suggest you visit our supply shop. There you can buy things like cutting knives, storage bags, or even rations. If you haven't already, you can also rent a map of the Glaswald region."
"Oh, that's a good idea." Lucena replied.
Felina added, "And if you want, we have locker facilities here. You can rent one to store your belongings that you don't want to take with you during the trip."
Lucena thought for a moment before nodding. "Alright, I'll rent a locker."
Felina led Lucena to a row of lockers near the entrance. "It costs one silver coin per week. You can store your belongings here and pick them up anytime during operating hours."
Lucena paid the rent, then put away most of her belongings, leaving only her wooden plaque, some money, and a few other essentials. After that, she headed to the supply store as suggested.
It wasn't very big, but it was full of useful items for adventurers. Inside, the wooden shelves were filled with knives, ropes, water bags, and torches. A middle-aged man in a leather apron greeted him from behind the counter.
"What do you need, young lady?" He asked kindly.
Lucena explained her herb gathering mission. The man nodded and began gathering the items he needed: a small knife for cutting plants, a beginner's adventurer's book, a cloth pouch for storing herbs, and a map of the Glaswald region.
"These will help you. And for a novice adventurer like you, I give you a discount." He said as he handed over the items.
Lucena smiled gratefully. "Thank you very much."
After paying, Lucena felt more prepared to embark on her first mission. With a small bag over her shoulder and a map in hand, she returned to Felina's table to say goodbye.
"Good luck, Lucena." Felina said with a wave. "And remember, if you run into trouble, just come back here. It's better to give up than to risk your life for no reason."
Lucena nodded vigorously. "I'll be careful. Thank you for everything."
With her heart hammering between enthusiasm and nervousness, Lucena stepped out of the Guild, ready to begin her little journey towards the northern hills of Glaswald.
TBC.