Akimota was a small village nestled in a remote part of the empire which always seemed to exude a sense of tranquillity and charm. Its residential area, adorned with various bungalows and cottages, painted a picturesque scene. Some of the houses were petite, accompanied by quaint gardens filled with blooming flowers, while others boasted spacious compounds enveloped in lush greenery. These homes were inhabited by the villagesfolk who sought solace away from the bustling bars of the northern part of village or the perilous edges of the nearby forest.

Within this peaceful neighbourhood, children joyfully played, their laughter echoing through the air. Some swung on tire swings suspended from sturdy tree branches, while others revelled in the gardens, their imaginations running wild. Parents strolled leisurely, their relaxed demeanour reflecting the unhurried nature of life in this idyllic corner of the empire.

Akimota may not have boasted the grandeur and excitement of major cities, but its simplicity and tranquillity provided a refreshing respite from the clamour of urban life. Here, the villagesfolk found contentment in the fulfilment of their daily needs, relying on hard work and diligence to sustain a comfortable existence. It was a haven, tucked away from the bustling metropolises and offering a sanctuary for those seeking a slower pace of life.

On a serene day, just a few minutes past noon, an elderly gentleman walked hand in hand with his exuberant grandson along the brick-paved walkway. They paused when they noticed a dishevelled young boy, his black hair tousled, dressed in worn-out clothes, and carrying an oversized bag that seemed out of place.

An elderly looking man along with his grandson, not more than 7 years old, held hands and walked along the brick paved walkway stopping to greet a dirtied looking boy with mussed black hair in tattered clothes and with an overstuffed bag that stood out like a sore thumb strapped behind his back.

"EDO!!"

"Greetings, Edowado."

Chuckling, the elderly man, Mr. Amos, extended his warm regards, his face reflecting the wisdom and experience that accompanied his years. Edowado, acknowledging their presence, returned the greeting with a smile.

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"Ha-ha, hello Mr Amos, and hello to you too, Ezra."

The young boy, Ezra, could hardly contain his excitement, bombarding Edowado with questions.

"Did you come back from another super awesome, super daring, crazy adventure? Did you? Did you?"

"Come on now Ezra give the poor boy a chance to breathe and answer. He looks tired as is"

"Sorry Grandpa, but still, did you Edowado?"

"Haha well I guess I did have quite an adventure today. Maybe I'll tell you all about it later today after I get properly cleaned up first"

"Aww, that'll take forever. Grandpa was supposed to take me to see Adolfo and the other hunters off but he overslept again."

Ezra pouted and playfully punched his grandfather's arm. Amos, with a fond smile, tousled Ezra's hair affectionately.

"Ho-Ho, well what can I say? I'm not growing any younger. It's hard for an old man like me to keep up with someone full of energy like you."

"Fine, then I'll give you lots of my energy so then you can be young like me too"

Ezra's determination shone through as he bawled his fists, his eyes gleaming. However, his bold proclamation elicited laughter from Edowado and Amos, unintentionally irking the young boy.

"Ho-Ho, don't look like that. I'll take your word for it and since it's my fault we missed Adolfo, I'll treat us to some ice cream, and if we're lucky enough to not be late, some of Amina's delectable mako loaf."

Ezra's eyes widened with delight at the mention of Miss Amina's mako loaf.

"Miss Amina's mako loaf?! They're awesome! Let's go grandpa!"

Interrupting the excitement, Edowado halted their departure momentarily.

"Oh wait, please hold on."

Rummaging through his bag, Edowado retrieved a small, neatly wrapped box emitting a tantalizing aroma. It was his reward for delivering the requested mako fruit.

"I really doubt you'll be able to get your hands on Miss Amina's pastry if you went now, but you can have this instead. It's a little something she gave me, but since I won't be touching it anytime soon, you can have it."

Edowado extended his hand, presenting the box to Ezra, who hesitated momentarily before seeking his grandfather's approval. With a nod and a warm smile, Amos silently conveyed his consent. It would be a waste to let such a delectable treat go uneaten.

Grasping the box, Ezra's eyes sparkled with delight, thrilled to have the chance to savour the village's foremost culinary delight in its entirety.

"Thank you so much, Edowado!"

Amos chuckled, witnessing the sheer joy radiating from his grandson.

"Ho-Ho, never seen him that happy before. We might as well forget about the ice cream"

"Hey grandpa, no trying to chicken out of your promise! Let's go!"

"Can't blame an old man for trying, can you? Haha. Edowado, we look forward to seeing you later in the day, and thank you kindly once again for the treat"

Edowado smiled warmly, appreciating their gratitude.

"It was no problem, Mr Amos. I'm glad I could help. I'll also see you later"

With exchanged handshakes and well-wishes, Edowado watched the duo walk away, their expressions filled with joy and love. It never failed to bring a smile to his face.

He slung his bag over his shoulders once more, resuming his journey back home. The peaceful and affectionate atmosphere enveloping the village seemed impervious to any disturbance. Little did Edowado know, this serene environment he cherished so dearly might soon be shattered, forever altering the tranquillity he held dear.