Urae's House, Town of Willowrest.
Shanz jolted awake, eyes wide, arms clenching tight, his body drenched in sweat. His chest rose and fell sharply.
What was that? A nightmare? Me? I don't even dream back then… He wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, mind racing. No… no, this isn't normal. That dream—it has to be a sign. Damn it. Anyways… it's already morning, huh?
Golden sunlight streamed through the small window, warming the room. Shanz rubbed his eyes, blinking against the brightness, then turned to his side—only to freeze.
Urae lay there, still asleep, her long hair scattered across the pillow. The loose tank top she wore left just enough revealed for Shanz to flush instantly.
W-woahh… g-gah damn, gah damn. She's got… cleavage for days… What is that, D-cups? Sheesh… He slapped his cheeks lightly, scolding himself. Focus, Anyways… gotta wake her up now— He hesitated. No… let her sleep. Wait, no—she's got work. If she's late, we can't buy my clothes and academy stuff later…
Grumbling under his breath, Shanz pushed himself out of bed and padded toward the sink. It was a simple stone basin, its edges chipped with age. Above it hung a wooden bucket on a hook, filled from the town's well the night before.
He tipped it carefully, letting cool water spill into his hands. Splashing it across his face, he rubbed vigorously, the chill biting at his skin until he felt awake. Drops of water slid down his neck, dampening his shirt, so he tugged the hem and wiped himself off, grumbling.
His footsteps creaked against the wooden floor, just loud enough to stir Urae. She shifted, arms stretching upward in a long yawn. "Mmmhh… good morning, Sha—"
Her voice broke as her eyes flicked to the empty space beside her. She sat up quickly, alarm in her expression. "Shanz? S-Shanz?!"
She spun around, only to see him at the sink, face dripping wet, holding up a thumb while chugging from a wooden cup. He gulped it down, then let out a satisfied "Ahhh…" before grinning at her sheepishly.
"O-oh, hey! I, uh, woke up early, sister. How's it going?"
Urae sighed, shoulders relaxing as she pressed a hand to her chest. "N-nothing. You just startled me, that's all…"
Shanz scratched the back of his head, forcing a clumsy grin. Dang… she's even scared of being alone, huh? I get it… sweet, really. But still—gotta break this awkwardness, act like a kid.
"A-ah! Don't you have a job, sister Urae? You might forget it…" he blurted, his voice soft and playful.
Urae blinked, her lips parting slightly before a faint smile tugged at them. The awkward air dissolved like mist. "R-right… you're right. I almost forgot. I should freshen up first."
She stood gracefully, her bare feet barely making a sound against the wooden floor. Walking toward the small closet, she opened it with gentle hands, pulling out a plain linen dress neatly folded inside. She laid it carefully upon the bed, smoothing it with her palm, then picked up a brown towel. Holding both against her chest, she turned with quiet poise and headed for the bathroom.
The bathroom was simple but carried a lived-in charm. Wooden planks formed the partition, giving only a thin sense of privacy. Inside, a wide clay basin sat atop a stool, filled with cool water from last night's well-drawing. A small bucket was placed beside it, meant for pouring water over the body. A wooden rack leaned against the wall, holding soap crafted from fat and herbs, its faint scent of lavender drifting through the space. The floor, made of packed earth and straw, softened each step, and above hung a thin cloth curtain swaying faintly. Crude, modest, but enough for comfort.
Meanwhile, Shanz busied himself. He raked his fingers through his long hair, trying to tame the strands, then patted down his clothes to look less rumpled. He drew his katana closer, fastening its sheath securely to his right waist. The leather tie tightened with a satisfying pull. Sitting on the bed's edge, he swung his legs lightly, waiting for Urae to return.
Urae finished washing herself, her hair still damp and clinging to her shoulders. She was already dressed much like the day before, though fresher, as she walked back to the table rubbing her towel over her hair to dry it. With practiced hands, she pulled out a handkerchief, gathering her long strands neatly and tying it into a tidy ponytail. She glanced over at Shanz.
"Are you ready, Shanz?" she asked softly.
Shanz nodded quickly, standing up as if to prove it. "Y-yes, I am, sister…" He stepped closer, reaching out to hold her hand like a child, his little smile warming her heart. Together they stepped outside into the streets of Willowrest.
As they walked, Urae spoke, "We'll need to register you to the Academy first. Is that alright?"
"Yes, sister," Shanz replied brightly, grinning up at her.
Her lips curved into a small giggle, the awkwardness from earlier forgotten. Yet, the streets weren't so quiet. Passersby turned their heads toward them, their eyes not on Urae but on the boy—specifically, the blade at his waist. Whispers rose like scattered leaves. Why does a child have a curvald?
Shanz, oblivious, only squeezed Urae's hand and smiled, playing the part of an innocent kid. But for Urae, every whisper prickled her nerves. She tightened her hold on him, her protective instincts gnawing at her anxiety.
By chance, they passed a blacksmith at work. A massive man with arms like iron logs paused mid-swing when his eyes fell on Shanz's weapon. His brow furrowed. That sword… a Curvald? In the hands of a child? The thought lingered, but with a grunt he returned to his hammer, sparks flying as he struck hot steel. Clang! Clang!
At last, they reached the Academy. It was a long, wide building of stone and timber, a single floor but sprawling, with two grand wooden doors at the front and windows that let the morning light spill inside. A sign above bore one word: Academy. Children rushed in and out, their chatter filling the air with excitement and energy.
Inside, just to the right of the entrance, stood a lectern. A woman stood there, tending to a stack of papers. She was striking—thick red hair tied back, sharp nose, brown eyes that gleamed with authority, her brows dark and defined. Her cheeks still held youthful fullness despite the sharper outline of her chin, her curvy frame leaning toward plump but graceful, carrying that confident allure of a woman in her thirties.
"Hello there," she greeted warmly, her voice smooth but strong. Her eyes flicked toward Shanz, then back to Urae. "You're here to register your little brother, yes?"
"Y-yes," Urae replied, giving a small nod. "My name is Urae. How can I register or apply for him?"
The woman slid a parchment forward. "Fill this out. Full name, guardian's name, and your signature. You'll need to come back in about an hour for confirmation—and to see which class he'll be placed in."
Before Urae could take it, Shanz suddenly leaned forward, his voice loud and clear: "Y-you're cute, sister red woman!"
The woman froze, blinking once. Then her cheeks flushed crimson, her lips curving into a flustered smile. "O-oh my… am I? Well, of course I am!" She flipped her hair back with a playful huff, voice dripping with pride. "Still young, still fresh, and absolutely beautiful."
Shanz grinned wide, and Urae nearly choked on her own embarrassment. "S-sorry for interrupting, haha…" she stammered.
The woman waved her hand dismissively, laughter bubbling from her chest. "Don't worry, Urae. Your brother just made my day!" She winked, then added with a teasing lilt, "My name is Landrea. Remember it."
Both Shanz and Urae replied in unison, "Nice to meet you, Landrea!"
As the siblings left the lectern, Landrea watched them go, her smile lingering. That boy is adorable… but that sword. A Curvald? That's no ordinary weapon. Who is he really?
Outside, Urae turned to Shanz, puffing her cheeks in a pout. "Don't do that again! It's embarrassing to interrupt people like that…"
"Hehe, but she was cute though," Shanz replied with his innocent grin. Inwardly, he smirked. Well, that's one flag cleared. Academy entry, one hundred percent guaranteed. Also… sheesh, that old woman's my type.
Urae sighed heavily, pinching her nose. "Anyway, we've got time to buy you proper clothes and supplies before we come back."
"Okay!" Shanz chirped, acting every bit the cheerful child once more.
Arriving at the clothing store, the place stood tall with two stories, a wide sign creaking above that read Clothin' Store in bold, hand-painted letters. Outside, a middle-aged man with a thick beard and rolled-up sleeves leaned lazily on a wide wooden counter at the front. He perked up when he saw them approaching.
"Welcome to my Clothin' store!" the owner called, his voice hearty but a little raspy from years of shouting over street markets. "Pick clothes at your desire..."
Inside, the store had a rustic but organized feel. Two long wooden shelves stretched across the room, each stacked with neatly folded garments. Between them stood several 3x3 racks with hanging clothes—shirts, tunics, skirts, pants—all separated by gender and arranged with surprising care. The center was left open, a clear walkway leading to the wide counter at the back.
A tall mirror, polished though slightly cracked on the corner, stood at the right side for customers to test their look. Behind the counter, a narrow staircase wound upward to the second floor, which seemed to double as storage and the owner's home.
Urae stepped forward politely, her voice careful.
"Is there any clothing in the size for him? We'll need some for his daily wear… and also for his academy uniform."
The store owner squinted at Shanz, stroking his beard.
"Hmm… an immigrant, eh? Well, let's see what I can do for the young lad." He motioned Shanz closer with a calloused hand. "Come here, child. Let's see what size you are."
Shanz shuffled forward with innocent steps, holding Urae's hand until he let go. The owner crouched slightly, running his rough fingers along Shanz's shoulders and chest to gauge width, then stretching his hands across his arms and waist. He even pinched the hem of Shanz's sleeve before nodding.
"Not too tall yet, slim frame. Hah! You'll grow into these soon enough." The owner chuckled, using his forearm to measure height against Shanz's head before standing back up.
"Hm… I can offer you something that'll fit just fine. Stay here."
He disappeared briefly behind the shelves, the sound of wooden hangers clacking echoing through the room. After a few moments, he returned carrying seven neatly folded pieces of clothing—a mix of tunics, shirts, and trousers in earthy colors.
"Here," he said, dropping them on the counter with a heavy thud. "Seven pieces. Durable, stitched strong, and light enough for a child to run in."
Shanz's eyes darted between the clothes laid on the table, his mind spinning slightly. Seven pieces, huh? Gotta make sure sister Urae doesn't run out of money… this is more than enough for me.
The store owner, a burly man with rough hands and kind eyes, began picking each item one by one.
"This first one," he said, holding up a long-sleeved, plain gray shirt, "fits his size perfectly. No need to try it on. Two buttons on the center top, simple and sturdy." He placed it neatly back beside its original spot and reached for another.
"The second," he continued, a light brown long-sleeve, "similar to the gray, but completely plain—no buttons at all."
Shanz nodded quietly, trying to take it all in.
"The third," the owner said, showing a short-sleeved gray shirt with three buttons at the top. "A little bigger, so he can grow into it. Practical, right?"
He moved on to the fourth. "Same as the third, but plain and blue. No buttons, just clean and simple."
"The fifth," he said, holding up a red V-neck tunic that curved along the chest, "a bit stylish, gives some color to his wardrobe."
"The sixth is blue again," he said, "but this time short-sleeved, like the fifth, so he can use it in warmer weather."
Finally, he held up the last one, carefully folding it. "And the seventh, a plain white shirt with a hood. This one is special… I'll give it to the boy for free."
Urae's eyes widened. "Oh! Free? Thank you so much!" She gave a polite bow of her head, her voice soft but sincere.
Shanz didn't answer—he was too busy staring at the mirror across the room. So… this is what I look like? His sharp nose, black eyes, long black hair, balanced ears, normal chin… and that jawline. Sheesh… genetics still working, huh? He ran a hand lightly along his jaw, studying his reflection with quiet satisfaction.
Meanwhile, Urae cleared her throat, bringing him back to the present.
"Ohh, well… how much for all of these?"
The owner scratched his chin. "Hmm… let's say forty copper shards, fifty if you want the hooded shirt included—oh wait, that one's free. So just forty."
"I'll take it!" Urae said firmly, handing over the coins.
She hesitated for a moment, then asked, "Also… do you have any footwear for him? Something he can wear outside?"
The owner nodded, motioning to a small rack. "Yes, three options. A simple leather slipper for casual wear, and two pairs of brown leather boots shoes—sturdy, perfect for traveling or academy lessons. All for thirty coppers."
"I'll take them all," Urae replied, determination in her voice. She picked up a new leather bag from the counter, adjusting it on her shoulder.
Shanz grinned brightly, clasping the new clothes in his hands as Urae ushered him toward the door. "Well… we gotta head back to the academy!"
The store owner watched them leave, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Hmm… Miss Urae has a brother, did she? That kid is carrying a Curvald sword… I wonder if his father was part of some Holy military…"
Back at the academy, Urae and Shanz walked through the bustling halls again, their footsteps echoing against the wooden floorboards. At the entrance, Landrea awaited, smiling warmly.
"Oh, there you are! Here you go," she said, pointing down a corridor. "His room is right there, in Class 3. Starting in four days, he'll be able to attend lessons officially. Again, welcome to our academy! Congratulations!"
Urae bowed politely. "O-oh, thank you, Miss Landrea."
Shanz's mind raced as he looked around. Uhh… that was quick. Well, in ancient times, kids have to learn fast for their futures… Alright, four days, huh? I need to learn their language, reading… no problem. I'm a good listener and a quick learner.
Landrea chuckled softly. "No problem, my dears. We'll see you in four days, little Aelric." She winked and waved at him, her smile bright.
Both Urae and Shanz waved back, then turned toward the streets again. "Let's go find your things," Urae said gently.
They soon arrived at a nearby supply shop. The building looked small, like a cozy home: a single wooden door with two shuttered windows on either side, flower vases perched delicately on the sill. Above the door hung a carved wooden sign that read Supplies.
Inside, the shop was modest but neatly organized. A long wooden shelf stretched along the left wall, stacked with all kinds of essentials rolled parchments, quills, ink pots, leather-bound notebooks, and chalk.
Pots of dried herbs and small jars of ink lined the upper shelves, while lower racks held utility items like rope, small knives, and wooden rulers.
In the center, a counter displayed ready-to-buy bundles wax seals, paperweights, and inkstones for writing practice. The scent of dried parchment and polished wood filled the air, comforting yet faintly sharp.
At the corner of the shop, a man crouched down, arranging jars on a low shelf. When he heard the door creak open, he lifted his head and gave them a friendly smile.
"Oh, hello there. Name's June. What can I do for you both? Academic items? Or maybe kitchen equipment—utensils, pots, pans?"
Urae stepped forward politely, her hands clasped in front. "H-hi, Mister June. My name's Urae. I need some academic supplies for my brother here."
June's gaze shifted to Shanz, who was busy scanning the shelves with curious eyes. He chuckled softly. "Well, there's a feather pen and a sturdy book—good quality, good for studying. Only fifty chips for the set."
Urae tapped her chin, crossing her arms thoughtfully. "Hmm… can I do forty-five coppers?"
June smirked and waved his hand. "Make it forty chips. That's better, right?"
Urae's eyes widened at the unexpected generosity. "O-oh! That's much better! Thank you very much, Mister June!" She bowed slightly in gratitude.
Shanz glanced between them, amused. So people here haggle casually like that, huh? Guess I'll have to learn the trick too.
As the two stepped outside with their small bundle of supplies, June waved them off warmly. "Take care now! And study well, young lad!"
"Thank you!" Urae called back, smiling.
They walked down the quiet street, the evening sun painting the cobblestones in gold. Urae carefully tucked the newly bought items into her leather-handled bag, making sure everything fit snugly. Shanz walked beside her, hands folded behind his back, still lost in thought.
School, language, supplies… step by step, I'll blend into this world. Four days to prepare. I can do this.
With that silent resolve, the siblings made their way back home.
As the sun dipped lower beyond the rooftops of Willowrest, the two walked side by side, their quiet steps carrying them back to Urae's home. The day had been long, yet for Shanz, it was only the beginning—the world was still vast, and his place within it had only just begun to unfold.