The adventurers descended the mountain at dusk, their boots crunching over gravel and fallen leaves. The boy followed behind them, barefoot, quiet, his gaze drifting to every sound like someone seeing the world for the first time.
He didn't ask questions. He didn't complain. He just walked — as though silence was all he'd ever known.
When they finally reached the small town at the mountain's foot, the sky was a soft shade of gray. Smoke rose from the chimneys, and merchants packed up their stalls for the night. Children laughed in the distance. Cain only watched, uncertain whether he belonged among them.
The adventurers led him to a small house on the outskirts. An old man sat outside, whittling a piece of wood into the shape of a bird. His hair was white, his hands steady despite the years.
> "Master Roen," one of the adventurers greeted. "We found this boy wandering in the mountains. Says his name's Cain. No memories. Thought you might know what to do."
The old man lifted his gaze. His eyes were kind but sharp, weighing Cain with a quiet curiosity. After a moment, he set the carving aside.
> "You've nowhere to go, boy?"
Cain shook his head slowly. "No."
Roen sighed — not out of annoyance, but something gentler, almost pity.
> "Then stay here. I don't have much, but you'll eat and have a place to sleep. In return, you'll help me around the house. Fair?"
Cain nodded.
The adventurers seemed relieved. They muttered a few words of thanks, then left as quietly as they came. When the sound of their footsteps faded, only the crackling of the lantern remained.
Roen stood, stretching his back.
> "Come on then, boy. Let's get you clean and fed. The world's harsh enough — no need to face it on an empty stomach."
Cain followed him inside. The air smelled of herbs and old books. A kettle whistled softly in the corner. For the first time since he could remember, Cain felt warmth — not from the fire, but from the calm that filled the small house.
That night, he lay on a simple bed by the window, relieved to be among people after a long time.