After crossing the gates and stepping outside the kingdom's protective walls, Ray unfolded the map he had received earlier. His eyes scanned the parchment, stopping at a familiar name—Alister Forest. It was known as a beginner's zone, a place where low-level beasts roamed. Young adventurers often visited it to gain experience, slay manageable monsters, and build confidence. Teenagers used it as a stepping stone before venturing into more dangerous territories.
Ray nodded to himself. It was the perfect place to start.
He began traveling toward the forest, but it didn't take long for him to realize the distance was more formidable than it had appeared on the map. The path wound across hills and narrow roads, and Alister Forest lay on the far side of a region called White Town, a midpoint settlement nestled between kingdoms. Going alone would take days on foot.
Thinking practically, Ray decided to seek out someone traveling in that direction. He turned toward the outer market just beyond the kingdom's borders, hoping to find a caravan or trade group heading that way.
The marketplace bustled with activity. Merchants called out their wares, and wagons creaked under the weight of packed goods. Amid the noise, Ray's attention was caught by a small cabin—a checkpoint of sorts. Painted on a nearby signboard was the name of another kingdom, one located just past the Alister Forest. If someone was traveling to that realm, they'd almost certainly pass near the forest.
He approached the cabin and noticed a group preparing a cart. Standing beside it was a middle-aged man who appeared to be the group's leader. His posture was firm but relaxed, his face weathered by years of travel.
Ray stepped forward. "Excuse me, are you going to Alister Forest?" he asked politely.
The man looked at him, his eyes slightly dazed. For a moment, he didn't answer. Ray's youthful features seemed to stir something inside him—something distant and sorrowful.
Ray tilted his head. "Hello?" he repeated, confused by the man's reaction.
Snapping out of his daze, the man cleared his throat. "Ah... yes. We're headed to White Town. Alister Forest is along the way. If you're looking to go there, you can come with us."
Ray nodded in appreciation but hesitated. "How much would it cost?" he asked.
The man waved his hand quickly. "No, no. You don't need to pay."
Ray blinked. "Are you sure?"
The man gave a bitter smile and looked down. "Yes. You remind me of my son."
Ray's eyes widened. "Really? That's... quite a coincidence."
The man gave a slow, sorrowful nod. "He passed away some time ago." His voice trembled slightly, and tears welled faintly in his eyes.
Ray lowered his head respectfully. "I'm really sorry."
The man straightened up, brushing away the emotion with practiced ease. "It's alright. We're leaving in five minutes. You can get in and settle down."
Grateful—and eager to escape the awkwardness—Ray nodded. "Then I'll do just that. Thank you."
He climbed aboard the wagon, his thoughts drifting. Though the conversation had been brief, it struck something within him. Loss had touched this stranger deeply, yet in that pain, he had extended kindness. Maybe the world wasn't entirely indifferent.
As the wagon creaked forward, Ray leaned back, letting the breeze wash over him. Alister Forest awaited.