The settlement buzzed with life, vibrant and colorful it almost felt alive. Robin and his group stepped onto the wide dirt path leading into the heart of the settlement. Stalls lined both sides, brimming with goods, mainly various types of oar and magic stones, hand woven fabrics, and strange trinkets Robin couldn’t even know their name.

The scent of spiced meat mixed with the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread, while voices rang out as traders bartered and children darted between the legs of shoppers.

Robin slowed, his eyes darting around. “This… is not what I expected from nomadic people.”

Oliver replied " these peoples ancestors were nomads but they adapt to live in the forest. So which created this unique culture. ”

The further they went, the more Robin noticed how different this place was from the smaller settlements they’d passed earlier. The homes here weren’t simple tents or wooden huts; they were large, permanent buildings made of stone and wood, decorated with intricate carvings and colorful banners. People moved around everywhere, yet the atmosphere remained cheerful and welcoming.

Ahead, a massive structure loomed over the rest of the town, its walls covered in carvings and symbols.

“What’s that?” Robin asked, nodding toward the structure.

“That’s our school,” Samuel said, his tone softening with pride. “It’s where we teach the younglings. We may not travel a lot like our ancestors, but we don’t neglect our kids traditional education. Here, they learn magic, survival skills, and the history of our people.”

Robin raised an eyebrow. “A school this big? For a nomadic tribe?”

Samuel laughed. “We’re not your average nomads, young master. You’ll see.”

As they walked deeper into the settlement, the crowd began to thin, and the buildings grew larger and more elaborate. The guard stood at key points, their sharp eyes scanning every passerby.

Their weapons, which hummed faintly with magical energy, gave off an aura. Despite their intimidating presence, no one stopped Robin’s group.

“Do we just walk in like this?” Robin whispered, glancing nervously at the guards.

“You’re with me,” Samuel said confidently. “No one will bother us.”

They passed smaller markets selling rare goods, crossed wide courtyards where groups of people practiced swordplay and magic, and finally reached the heart of the settlement. Here, the noise of the marketplace faded, replaced by a calm that felt almost sacred.

Robin’s steps slowed as he caught sight of their destination. “Is that… a tree?”

Calling it a tree felt like an understatement. It was massive, its trunk wider than a house. Its bark shimmered faintly, covered in runes that pulsed softly, as if the tree itself was alive and breathing. Its golden leaves sparkled in the sunlight, creating a canopy that seemed to touch the sky.

“This,” Samuel said, gesturing with a sweep of his arm, “is the chiefs resident. It’s been here for centuries, long before this settlement was built. From generation to generation it's been our main command center."

Robin stared up at the tree, his mouth slightly open. “It’s incredible.”

They approached the base of the tree, where an ornate door had been carved directly into the trunk. Two guards flanked the entrance, their expressions stoic but respectful. With a nod from Samuel, they stepped aside, allowing the group to pass.

Inside, the tree was even more beautiful. The hollowed-out interior formed a massive chamber, its walls lined with glowing moss that bathed the space in a warm golden light. Shelves carved into the wood held ancient books, magical artifacts, and strange trinkets that seemed to hum with energy.

At the center of the chamber stood a circular table carved from the same glowing wood. A detailed map of the surrounding lands was etched onto its surface, so intricate that Robin could see tiny rivers and mountains.

“This way,” Samuel said, leading them deeper into the tree.

They passed through several smaller chambers, each filled with people . Finally, they arrived at a grand room at the back of the tree. The air here was heavier, charged with an unspoken importance.

Seated on a throne made of twisted roots was the chief.his presence was commanding but not intimidating.

Samuel bowed deeply. “Chief, I’ve brought the visitors.”

Robin stepped into the grand chamber, taking in his surroundings with a mixture of awe and curiosity. The room was carved directly from the enormous tree’s interior, the walls alive with veins that pulsed like they carried the heartbeat of the tree itself. The air inside was rich and warm, filled with the scent of earth and wood, and the ambiance was both regal and natural.

Robin’s eyes widened slightly. The figure sitting on the throne wasn’t the elderly, grizzled leader he had imagined. When Samuel and the elder from before mentioned chief earlier, Robin had imagined someone old, clad in rugged clothes that spoke of years of wisdom and hardship. Instead, the chief was a young guy,shockingly so. He couldn’t have been more than a few years older than Robin himself, if that. His dark hair was neatly tied back, his sharp features were almost noticeable from anywhere.

The chief rose gracefully, his movements calm and calculated, his gaze never leaving Robin. “Welcome,” he said, his voice is smooth , carrying an undertone of authority. “I am Elias, chief of the original people of this place.” He gestured to an elderly man standing beside him, who exuded an air of quiet wisdom. “This is Elder Torin, my predecessor and current advisor.”

Elder Torin gave a slow, measured nod, his silver beard brushing against his chest. Though his expression was neutral, his sharp eyes assessed Robin with the kind of scrutiny that made him wonder if he had something on his face. Around the room, a handful of other individuals stood silently, their presence radiating quiet strength and importance, though Elias made no move to introduce them.

Robin stepped forward, offering a polite bow. “Thank you for having us, Chief. It’s an honor to meet you.” He straightened and continued, “My name is Robin William. I am the grand-nephew of the current head of the William family.” he showed his amulet as he said that.

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The effect of those actions was immediate and palpable. The room fell deathly silent, as if the very air had been sucked out. Every pair of eyes in the chamber turned to Robin, their gazes ranging from shock to disbelief some even fear. The stillness was unnerving, and for a moment, Robin felt the power of his family name.

Elias’s expression remained impassive, though his eyes narrowed slightly, as if he were recalculating everything he thought he knew. Robin could feel the tension building, the weight of unspoken words pressing down on the room. He decided it was best to break the silence before it became unbearable.

Clearing his throat, he gestured toward his companions. “Let me introduce my crew,” he began, his voice steady despite the thick atmosphere. “This is Oliver, my butler and trusted advisor.” Oliver, ever composed, gave a small bow, his polished demeanor perfectly intact. “Andrew, my guard and protector.” Andrew nodded slightly, his towering figure and confident stance making it clear he wasn’t one to be trifled with. “And Norman, although not as experience as Andrew but he is a valuable part of our team.”

Robin continued, motioning to the others. “This is Raylan, our pilot, he is a veteran from the main house and this is Chief Marla, our caretaker.”

Finally, Robin turned toward the last member of their group. “And this,” he said with a faint smile, “is Seraphina, daughter of the Prime Minister of Ignisara.”

The temperature in the room seemed to plummet. The moment Robin mentioned Seraphina’s identity, the previously shocked expressions of those present shifted into something far more dangerous. Hostility radiated from the group like a palpable wave, and the tension became so thick it was almost suffocating. Some of the figures in the room clenched their fists, while others exchanged sharp glances. A faint hum of magical energy began to fill the air, and Robin swore he saw one or two of the men emit a faint glow as their emotions flared. He even noticed Andrew and Norman was ready if thing escalate.

Instinctively, Robin’s hand drifted toward the bracelet on his wrist, ready to activate its teleportation function if necessary. Andrew took a protective step closer to Robin, his posture tense, while Oliver’s calm expression didn’t waver, though his eyes darted across the room, assessing potential threats. Seraphina, for her part, remained composed, though Robin noticed her hands are shaking faintly.

Before anyone could act on their growing hostility, Elias raised his hand sharply. “Enough!” he commanded, his voice slicing through the rising tension like a knife. The magical auras ceased immediately, and the glow around some of the individuals dimmed as they reluctantly backed down. Elias’s expression was thunderous as he glared at his people. “This behavior is unacceptable.”

The chief’s voice carried the kind of authority that demanded obedience. The others in the room hesitated, then lowered their heads, murmuring reluctant apologies. “Forgive us,” they said in unison, though their voices lacked sincerity.

Elias turned back to Robin, his expression softening slightly. “I must apologize for their behavior, young master,” he said, his tone formal but earnest. “The hostility you’ve encountered stems from the long-standing conflict between my people and Ignisara government. It is a bitter history, and emotions run high, but that is no excuse for such conduct toward our guests.”

Robin held up a hand, offering a disarming smile. “It’s alright, Chief Elias,” he replied. “I don’t take it personally. I understand the circumstances, and honestly, I’m not surprised. Tensions like these don’t just disappear overnight.”

Elias studied Robin for a moment, his expression unreadable, before giving a nod of approval. “You are surprisingly understanding, as expected from a member of the William family,” he said. “Many would not have been so gracious.”

Robin shrugged, his smile turning wry. "I'm old enough to access the situation. Besides,” he added, glancing at Seraphina, “I trust the people I travel with. That’s all that matters to me.”

Seraphina gave Robin a small, grateful smile, though her eyes remained wary of the others in the room. Elias, meanwhile, seemed impressed by Robin’s demeanor.

“You are a curious man, young master,” Elias said, his voice tinged with genuine curiosity. “Perhaps we can learn much from one another.”

Robin chuckled softly, his eyes gleaming with intrigue. “Perhaps we can,” he replied.

Robin had barely let the tension settle in the room before Chief Elias, now wearing a polite but curious smile, gestured for everyone to sit. The energy in the air had shifted it was calmer, though Robin could sense lingering traces of unease from the others in the room. Elias himself, however, seemed composed and genuinely intrigued by Robin’s presence. He leaned slightly forward, resting his elbows on the carved wooden armrests of his throne.

“If you don’t mind me asking” Elias began, his tone smooth and conversational, “what brings someone of your status here? As far as I know, the William family doesn’t interact with other people from this world this easily. Your family tends to keep to themselves. Hardly anyone from your lineage leaves the city of nexar without a specific cause.”

Robin couldn’t help but chuckle softly. The observation wasn’t inaccurate. The William family was known for not mingling with other people . But he didn't grow up with them, so he is fundamentally different.

“You’re not wrong, Chief Elias,” Robin admitted with a grin. “The William family does tend to stick to their own business. But I suppose you could say I’m not exactly a typical guy.” He leaned back slightly, letting his posture relax. “I’ve decided to visit the whole of Arora experience the world outside of Nexar. I want to see what’s out there, meet people, and understand this planet better.”

Elias’s expression shifted subtly, a flicker of surprise crossing his face before being replaced by a broad smile. “I see,” he said, nodding thoughtfully. “A noble goal, one I respect. Many forget that the world is far larger than their immediate surroundings. You are... refreshing, young master.”

Robin couldn’t tell if that was meant as a compliment or a veiled jab at his family’s reputation, they do resent William family because they Kickstarted all the thing but he chose to take it as the former. “Thank you,” he said simply, returning the smile.

Elias straightened in his seat, a newfound warmth in his demeanor. “If that is the case, we would be more than happy to host you and your companions during your stay here. It’s not often we get visitors, let alone someone of your stature. It would be an honor to show you around our country.”

Robin inclined his head in gratitude. “I appreciate your hospitality, Chief Elias. My crew and I are grateful for your kindness.”

The chief’s smile widened, and his green eyes gleamed with what seemed to be genuine excitement. “There’s more,” he added. “In a few weeks, we will be celebrating one of our yearly traditions—a festival to mark the coming of age for the children in our village. It’s a momentous occasion for us, filled with ceremonies, storytelling, and celebrations. I would be delighted if you would attend as our honored guest.”

Robin’s curiosity piqued. “A coming-of-age festival?” he asked, leaning forward slightly. “That sounds fascinating. I’d be honored to attend.”

“Wonderful,” Elias said, clapping his hands together. “It is settled then. You and your crew will be our special guests during the festival. I think you’ll find it to be a unique experience—one that will show you a side of our people that few outsiders ever witness.”

Elder Torin, who had been silent throughout the exchange, finally spoke, his voice slow and deliberate. “It is rare for us to welcome outsiders into our traditions,” he said, his sharp eyes fixed on Robin. “The fact that Chief Elias has extended this invitation is not to be taken lightly. I trust you will treat our customs with the respect they deserve.”

Robin met Torin’s gaze with steady confidence. “I assure you, Elder Torin, I understand the significance of this gesture, and I will honor your traditions with the utmost respect.”

Torin nodded slowly, seemingly satisfied with Robin’s response, though the hint of suspicion in his eyes didn’t entirely fade. Elias, however, seemed unfazed by the elder’s caution. He clapped his hands again, summoning a pair of attendants who entered the room with quiet efficiency.

“Now,” Elias said, turning his attention back to Robin and his group, “you’ve all had a long journey, and I imagine you’re in need of rest. My attendants will show you to your quarters. You’ll find them comfortable and well-suited to your needs. Relax for the day, and tomorrow, I’ll personally guide you around our settlement. There’s much to see, and I’d like you to understand who we are and how we live.”

Robin stood, bowing his head slightly in gratitude. “Thank you, Chief Elias. We’ll gladly take you up on your offer. I look forward to learning more about your people.”

The attendants stepped forward, gesturing politely for Robin and his companions to follow. As they exited the chamber, Robin couldn’t help but glance back at Elias, who remained seated on his throne, watching them with a thoughtful expression. The young chief was an enigma.

The quarters they were led to were surprisingly lavish, considering the appearance of the settlement. Each room was carved directly from the wood of the tree, the walls smooth and polished to a sheen. The furnishings were a blend of natural materials and intricate craftsmanship, with soft, woven rugs and carved wooden furniture that seemed to merge seamlessly with the surroundings. A faint glow emanated from the sap veins in the walls, providing a warm, golden light that filled the space.

Oliver was the first to speak as they settled in. “Well, this is certainly a pleasant surprise,” he said, his tone approving as he inspected the room. “I must admit, I didn’t expect such a thing.”

Andrew, meanwhile, was already testing the sturdiness of the bedframe, his soldier’s instincts compelling him to evaluate the room’s security. “Not bad,” he muttered. “Could be worse.”

Norman, ever the observer, was examining the glowing sap veins with fascination. “This place feels alive,” he remarked. “It’s like the tree itself is breathing.”

Robin sat down on the edge of his bed, letting out a sigh of contentment. “What do you all think of the Chief?” he asked, glancing around at his companions.

Oliver folded his arms, his expression thoughtful. “He’s certainly impressive for someone so young. He carries himself with confidence and authority qualities not easily found in leaders of his age.”

Andrew grunted in agreement. “He’s sharp. I can tell he’s not someone to underestimate. But he is not stronger than me.”

Norman chuckled. “And he’s got good taste in decor. That’s always a plus.”

Robin smiled, leaning back against the wall. “He’s definitely different from what I expected.”

As they're talking about various things Seraphina once again thanked him for standing up for her. Robin gave a smile of assurance.

The group fell into a comfortable silence, each of them reflecting on the day’s events. Outside, the faint hum of activity from the settlement drifted through the air, a reminder of the vibrant life that surrounded them.

As Robin lay back on the bed, staring up at the glowing veins in the ceiling, he couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of anticipation. New country, new rules,new experiences. He is all for it.