That afternoon, the city of Eterna Kingdom was filled with the usual hustle and bustle.
Arzael and Seraphina walked slowly through the crowded streets, passing merchants loudly hawking their goods, the aroma of spices and warm food wafting from stalls, and street performers skillfully playing traditional instruments.
The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden light that danced on the cobblestone roads, mingling with the chatter and laughter that echoed through the marketplace.
Seraphina walked with somewhat stiff steps. Her red eyes glanced around, occasionally meeting the curious, or even fearful, gazes of the people nearby. She was not yet used to the crowd.
The lively environment seemed overwhelming to her, a stark contrast from the silence and solitude she had known for so long.
Arzael noticed this and decided to dispel her stiffness with words. "It's normal, Seraphina. See? No one here intends to harm you." His voice was calm yet reassuring, like a steady anchor in the midst of the chaotic market.
Seraphina looked straight ahead, her voice flat as she replied, "I'm not used to places like this. It's always quiet, or... full of frightening things." There was a trace of vulnerability in her tone, barely noticeable but enough to touch Arzael's heart.
Arzael smiled faintly and nodded. "I understand. Our world is indeed full of danger and darkness. But look, this place... here life goes on." He gestured around at the busy streets, the mingling scents, and the vibrant faces.
Suddenly, from the side of the road, a man wearing simple but experienced-looking clothes called out to them loudly. His voice was rough but carried a sense of urgency.
"Hey, young one! Aren't you going to take the Hero Association Academy test? The test will open in about four months!" he shouted, trying to catch their attention amid the clamor.
Arzael turned and observed the man with a sharp gaze. "Test... hero academy? I've never heard of that." There was a mixture of curiosity and caution in his voice.
The man raised his eyebrows, looking somewhat surprised. "Really? Alright, let me explain a bit." He stepped closer, lowering his voice slightly as if sharing a secret.
He leaned against a nearby wooden post, speaking in a low but passionate voice. "The Hero Association was founded hundreds of years ago. There's a prophecy that seven heroes will rise to confront the Great Gate, a catastrophe that will open a massive gate to the Underworld, allowing demon armies to invade our world." His eyes gleamed with a mix of hope and fear.
Arzael listened carefully, narrowing his eyes as if quickly processing the information. "So the association is an organization that prepares heroes to face that great threat?" His tone was serious, tinged with a hint of resolve.
"Exactly. They hold training and exams to select the best hero candidates from the three great nations, Alzareth, Eterna, and Valiant. The hero association is in a neutral territory in the north from here," the man explained, glancing around as if wary of being overheard.
Arzael nodded slowly, gazing into the distance while pondering. "Those three nations... I know there's tension between them."
Arzael looked back at the man and said softly but thoughtfully, "Thanks for the information. I'll consider it."
The man nodded and walked away, disappearing into the crowd, leaving Arzael and Seraphina standing there in the fading light.
In his mind, Arzael began to formulate a plan. Three nations, a grand exam, neutral place. This is a great opportunity to find Aelric and get revenge. He must be there. I won't let this chance slip away.
He turned to Seraphina and asked, "Are you interested in joining?" His voice was gentle but carried an unyielding determination.
Seraphina looked at him with blank eyes. "I'm afraid I'll hurt others again. Am I worthy of something like this?" Her words hung heavy in the air, a quiet admission of her fears.
Arzael tried to erase her worry. "It's okay. I'll always be by your side. If you lose control, I'll be the one to stop you." He reached out briefly, a silent promise.
Seraphina was silent for a moment before nodding. "Alright." There was a faint spark of hope in her expression.
Arzael felt a bit relieved. "Good. From now on, we must prepare ourselves. Can you use weapons or magic?" His tone shifted to that of a mentor, ready to guide.
Seraphina shrugged. "I have some mana, but I haven't mastered magic well yet." Her voice was small but determined.
Arzael nodded, then said confidently, "No worries. We'll get you spellbooks and training equipment. I'm sure you'll learn quickly."
The market in Eterna Kingdom was colorful and bustling. Among stalls filled with goods from all over the continent, Arzael and Seraphina walked down the aisles crowded with merchants and buyers.
The sounds of bartering filled the air as people negotiated prices and exchanged goods.
"I need books not just about basic spells," said Arzael while examining shelves filled with spellbooks and lesson notes. "But also books covering mana control techniques and defense." His eyes scanned the titles carefully, searching for the best materials.
Seraphina only nodded, her red eyes following Arzael's hand as he pointed to a thick book with a dark blue cover.
"This is good. 'Fundamentals of Mana Control and Meditation Techniques,'" he said opening to the first page. "If you're serious, this book will help a lot." His voice held a note of encouragement.
Seraphina carefully took the book, then glanced at Arzael. "Thank you." Her voice was soft but sincere.
They also bought mana pouches, training gloves, and some small potion ingredients, preparing for the hard work ahead.
"Ready," said Arzael, looking at their purchases. "Now, let's go back and start training."
Night fell at their small inn. Seraphina sat on the bed, her face serious as she stared at the open spellbook.
Candlelight illuminated pages full of strange writings and symbols, casting flickering shadows on the walls.
Arzael lay on the floor, gazing at the simple wooden ceiling. He took a deep breath, recalling the day's conversation, the possibilities and challenges ahead.
Seraphina turned to him expressionlessly. "I'm not sure I can do this."
Arzael replied. "Everyone has doubts. But I know you have potential you haven't realized yet." His words were steady and filled with quiet confidence.
Seraphina was silent, then her eyes began to look calmer. "I will try."
Slowly, her eyes grew heavy. The spellbook remained in her grip as she fell asleep, allowing Arzael to watch her with mixed feelings,hope, concern, and a protective resolve.
Arzael shook his head softly. "Somehow, I have to protect you."
"Yeah, looks like I have to sleep on the floor again," he muttered with a tired but amused sigh.