Ebony packed his well-worn book bag, the same one that had been targeted by bandits years ago. It now held a collection of essentials: clothes, a few personal items, his precious pearl coins, and two musical instruments.

One was a brand-new lute, painted a vibrant maroon and deep purple, a replacement for the one destroyed years ago. The other was a cherished possession, a redwood violin he had purchased two years prior in Iomud. Its slightly weathered appearance spoke of countless hours of practice and dedication.

Ebony had honed his musical skills alongside his martial arts training, finding solace and balance in both disciplines.

During any break in his rigorous Shaolin regime, he would lose himself in the melodies of his instruments, his fingers dancing across the strings with practiced ease.

Ebony's bag was bulging with essentials: a bedroll, flint and steel, water skin, rations, medical supplies, a knife, rope, sewing kit, map, compass, journal, book of poetry, and family memento. He added his combat scrolls, and the bag nearly burst.

He had become quite the expert packer over the years, maximizing every inch of space. But even his honed skills couldn't quite conquer the sheer volume of necessities for this journey. He definitely needed a new bag, and soon.

He considered his options. He could try to pare down his belongings, but everything seemed essential. He could try to find a larger bag, but that might be difficult to come by in the monastery. Or, he could simply make do with what he had, even if it meant risking a seam bursting mid-journey.

With a resigned sigh, Ebony decided to stick with his trusty old bag for now. He would just have to be careful not to overfill it. After all, he didn't want to be the monk who held up the quest because his bag exploded.

With his bag packed, Ebony turned his attention to the map, his finger tracing the outlines of the various kingdoms. Many were unfamiliar, their names and customs foreign to him. But one stood out: Dimito.

Ebony's finger traced the map, lingering on Dimito. "Home," he murmured, nostalgia tugging at his heart. He pictured his old life: the comforts of his room, the delicious breakfasts, and the grandeur of Dimito's architecture.

The kingdom was built in the shape of a towering pyramid, each level a testament to its wealth and power. The pinnacle seemed to reach for the stars, a symbol of Dimito's ambition and influence. It was a place of beauty and privilege, a life Ebony had once cherished.

But after five years at the monastery, his perspective had changed. He had found a new home, a new purpose, a new family.

"I don't need that life anymore," he murmured, a quiet conviction settling in his heart. But a flicker of longing remained, a bittersweet ache for the familiar comforts of his past. He stared at the map, his gaze lingering on Dimito, a silent farewell to a life left behind.

With a deep breath, Ebony rolled up the map and tucked it away with his other belongings.

Ebony hoisted the bag onto his back, adjusting the straps to distribute the weight more evenly. It was heavier than he was used to, but he was confident he could manage. After all, he had been training for years, his body honed by rigorous Shaolin discipline.

He took a final look around his small room, the one he had called home for the past five years. It was a simple space, sparsely furnished, but it held a special place in his heart. It was here that he had healed, both physically and emotionally, and it was here that he had found a new family.

With a bittersweet smile, Ebony turned and walked out the door, ready to embark on a new adventure. He didn't know what the future held, but he was determined to face it with courage and compassion, the Shaolin teachings guiding his every step.

Ebony hoisted his heavy bag onto his shoulders, the weight familiar and comforting. Though it chafed a bit, years of training had hardened his body and spirit. He could withstand the discomfort, a testament to his Shaolin discipline.

As he approached the monastery entrance, he noticed a line of horses laden with bags. "Horses?" he murmured, surprised. "I didn't know we could afford those." But these weren't warhorses, bred for battle. They were sturdy, reliable beasts of burden, meant to carry supplies and ease their journey.

The courtyard was bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, its golden light filtering through the cherry blossoms that swayed gently in the breeze.

Ebony adjusted the strap of his lute across his shoulder, his eyes scanning the quiet grounds. The usual hum of activity had faded, replaced by the distant clatter of dishes and the faint murmur of voices from the dining hall.

"Ebony! Wait!" a voice called out, breaking the stillness.

Ebony turned to see Shi Jie hurrying towards him, his robes flapping like the wings of an overenthusiastic bird. A wide grin stretched across his face, and his eyes sparkled with mischief. "Hold on there, eager beaver! You almost left on an empty stomach. Even the great Ebony Gundo needs to eat, you know."

Ebony chuckled, his hand instinctively brushing the hilt of the practice sword at his side. "Oh, that's why it's so peaceful. Everyone's already eating. I thought I’d finally found a moment of solitude."

Shi Jie came to a stop in front of him, slightly out of breath but still grinning. He shifted from foot to foot, his eyes darting around as if searching for something—or someone.

"Say, Ebony," he began, his tone casual but laced with curiosity, "where are you heading, anyway? You’ve been sneaking off a lot lately. Planning to serenade the stars again?"

Ebony’s smile was warm but guarded. "I can't answer that, my friend. It's a secret. You know how the monastery is about these things."

Shi Jie tilted his head, his grin widening. "Oh, come on. You can tell me. I’m practically your shadow at this point. Besides, secrets are no fun unless you share them with someone."

Ebony raised an eyebrow, his tone playful but firm. "And yet, the moment I tell you, it’s no longer a secret, is it? You’ll just have to trust that I’m not up to anything too scandalous."

Shi Jie feigned a look of mock offense, placing a hand over his heart. "Scandalous? Me? I would never dream of prying into your mysterious affairs. I’m just... concerned for your well-being. What if you get lost? Or worse—what if you miss dinner? The cooks made dumplings tonight, and you know how rare that is."

Ebony laughed softly, the sound carrying a note of fondness. "Your concern is touching, Shi Jie, but I think I’ll manage. Besides, I’ve survived worse than missing a meal or two."

Shi Jie’s eyes narrowed, his playful demeanor giving way to a more serious expression—though the glint of curiosity remained. "You know, Ebony, you’re not the only one with a sense of adventure. If you’re planning something big, you don’t have to do it alone. What happened to ‘sharing the journey’?"

Ebony’s gaze softened, and for a moment, he seemed to consider his friend’s words. Then, with a small shake of his head, he said, "Some journeys are meant to be taken alone. At least for now. But don’t worry—when the time is right, you’ll be the first to know."

Shi Jie sighed dramatically, throwing his hands up in mock defeat. "Fine, fine. Keep your secrets. But don’t come crying to me when you’re lost in the wilderness, wishing you’d brought along your trusty, nosy friend."

Ebony chuckled, clapping Shi Jie on the shoulder. "I’ll keep that in mind. Now, go enjoy those dumplings before they’re all gone. I’ll catch up with you later."

As Ebony turned to leave, Shi Jie called after him, his tone lighter but still tinged with curiosity. "Hey, Ebony! At least tell me this—are you going somewhere exciting?"

Ebony paused, glancing over his shoulder with a small, enigmatic smile. "Isn’t everywhere exciting if you look at it the right way?"

Shi Jie groaned, though his grin returned. "You’re impossible, you know that?"

"And yet, you still talk to me," Ebony replied, his voice carrying a note of warmth. "Take care, Shi Jie. I’ll see you soon."

As Ebony disappeared through the monastery gates, Shi Jie stood there for a moment, his expression a mix of amusement and frustration.

"One of these days," he muttered to himself, "I’ll figure out what you’re up to.

Just you wait."

Ebony entered the bustling cafeteria, his gaze sweeping across the familiar faces. He spotted his friends gathered around a table, their laughter and chatter filling the air. Among them were Shan Ran, his usual stoic self, and two other monks, deeply engrossed in conversation.

One, a lanky young man named Jinwoo, was animatedly recounting a recent training mishap, his hands gesturing wildly as he described his near-miss with a flying staff. The other, a quiet but observant woman named Lin, listened intently, occasionally offering a thoughtful comment or a gentle smile.

At another table, a trio of female monks caught Ebony's attention. There was Qinglian, her fiery red hair contrasting with her calm demeanor, meticulously crafting a miniature origami crane.

Beside her sat the ever-energetic Xiaoling, her fingers flying across a small wooden board as she practiced calligraphy with focused precision. And lastly, there was the gentle giant, Da-eun, her imposing physique belying her soft-spoken nature, carefully tending to a small bonsai tree, her touch delicate and nurturing.

Ebony turned to another table, his gaze settling on four bright-eyed boys huddled over a tangram puzzle. Their laughter and playful bickering filled the air, a lively contrast to the quiet hum of the dining hall. Just listening to them brought a smile to his face.

"Haha, you're so slow, Wei Lin!" Liu Li shrieked, his voice high-pitched with glee. "My grandma could solve this faster than you—and she’s blindfolded!"

"No way!" Wei Lin shot back, his cheeks flushing red as he fumbled with the puzzle pieces. "I’m almost there, I just need... uh... one more piece! I’ve got this!"

"Sure you do," Zhao Qiang chimed in, leaning back with a smug grin. "Maybe you should ask your mommy for help. She’s probably better at puzzles than you are."

"Hey!" Wei Lin cried, his voice cracking slightly in indignation. "I’m not a baby! I can do this myself!"

Luo Feng, who had been quietly studying the puzzle, suddenly jumped up, his eyes wide with excitement. "I got it! I solved it! Look, look!" He held up the completed tangram, a triumphant grin plastered across his face.

The other boys froze, their competitive banter cut short as they stared at the puzzle in disbelief. For a moment, the table was silent—then, with a collective groan, they slumped back in their chairs, their spirits momentarily deflated.

"No fair!" Liu Li whined, crossing his arms. "You cheated! You must’ve peeked at the answer!"

"Yeah, there’s no way you solved it that fast," Zhao Qiang added, though his tone was more impressive than accusatory. "You’re not *that* smart."

Luo Feng stuck out his tongue. "Jealous much? Maybe if you spent less time talking and more time thinking, you’d actually finish something for once."

Wei Lin, still holding a puzzle piece, sighed dramatically. "I was *this close* to figure it out. You just got lucky, Luo Feng."

"Luck has nothing to do with it," Luo Feng shot back, puffing out his chest. "It’s called *skill*. Maybe you should try it sometime."

The boys erupted into laughter, their earlier frustration melting away as they began shoving each other playfully. Ebony couldn’t help but chuckle, watching their antics. It was moments like these that reminded him why he fought so hard to protect this place—these kids, full of life and potential, were worth every sacrifice.

As the boys started resetting the puzzle for another round, Wei Lin glanced up and noticed Ebony watching them. "Hey, Ebony! Come over here and settle this for us. Who’s the smartest, huh? Me or Luo Feng?"

"Yeah, Ebony!" Zhao Qiang chimed in, grinning. "Tell Wei Lin he’s the slowest. It’s obvious, right?"

Ebony raised his hands in mock surrender. "Whoa, whoa, I’m not getting in the middle of this. You boys are all brilliant in your own ways. But if I had to pick..." He paused, pretending to think deeply. "I’d say the smartest one is the one who stops arguing and actually finished the puzzle."

The boys groaned unsatisfied by the answer. Liu Li, his face a picture of playful disapproval, giving Ebony a mock-disgusted look.

"You're lame, Ebony," he declared, though a hint of amusement danced in his eyes. Ebony chuckled, unfazed by the childish insult. "Anytime, little man," he replied, ruffling Liu Li's hair.

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

As Ebony walked away, he could hear them diving back into their game, their voices rising and falling in a symphony of joy and competition.

Ebony smiled, watching his friends. They were oblivious to the looming war, their carefree banter a stark contrast to the weight on his shoulders.

He looked around the courtyard, his gaze lingering on the familiar faces. These were his people, his family, and he was determined to protect them. He would shield them from the war and the kingdom's growing hostility, even if it meant facing those dangers himself.

He couldn't shelter them forever, but he would give them this moment of calm, He would preserve their peace as long as he can.

Ebony turned and headed toward the table where Shi Jie was already seated, a plate of steaming dumplings in front of him. Amilco and Mei sat beside him, their faces alight with lively conversation. The aroma of the food was irresistible, and Ebony’s stomach growled in agreement.

"Changed your mind, huh?" Shi Jie teased, pushing a plate of dumplings toward Ebony. "I knew you couldn’t resist these. Even the great Ebony Gundo has his weaknesses."

Ebony laughed, sliding into his seat. "You win this time, Shi Jie. But don’t get used to it. The journey starts tomorrow."

"To the journey, then," Shi Jie declared, raising a dumpling in mock toast. "And to friends who know when to stick around for dinner."

Amilco grinned, raising his own dumpling. "And to dumplings that are too good to miss."

Mei chuckled, her braid swaying as she leaned forward. "And to Shi Jie, who somehow always knows when food is involved."

The group laughed, the warmth of their friendship filling the space between them. But Shi Jie, ever the curious one, wasn’t about to let the topic drop.

"Speaking of journeys," he chimed in, his eyes twinkling with mischief, "where are you guys heading anyway? It’s not like you to pass up a delicious meal without a good reason."

Ebony and Amilco exchanged a quick glance, a silent agreement passing between them. They couldn’t reveal the true nature of their mission—not yet.

"Oh, you know, just some routine training exercises," Amilco replied vaguely, his tone casual. "We’re heading out to hone our skills. Nothing too exciting."

Mei nodded, her expression earnest. "Yeah, just the usual. You know how it is—always room for improvement."

Shi Jie raised an eyebrow, his skepticism evident. "Routine training? At this hour? And with all your bags packed?" He leaned back, folding his arms. "Sounds a bit suspicious to me."

Ebony chuckled, trying to keep the mood light. "Don’t worry, Shi Jie. We’re not planning anything too exciting. Just a little adventure. You know how we like to keep things interesting."

Shi Jie narrowed his eyes, clearly unconvinced. "A little adventure, huh? You’re not fooling me. But fine, keep your secrets. Just promise me one thing."

"What’s that?" Mei asked, tilting her head.

"If you stumble upon any hidden treasures or mythical beasts," Shi Jie said, his grin returning, "be sure to bring back souvenirs. I’d kill for a dragon scale or two."

The group burst into laughter, the tension easing as they dug into their meal. For now, they could enjoy the simple pleasure of good food and good company, the weight of their responsibilities momentarily forgotten.

As the conversation drifted to lighter topics—training mishaps, Shi Jie’s latest antics, and the monastery gossip—Ebony couldn’t help but feel a pang of gratitude. These moments, rare and fleeting, were what made the challenges ahead worth facing. Tomorrow, the journey will begin. But tonight, they were just friends sharing a meal.

◇

Three hours later, the five monks gathered around a map of Magyaria, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. It was 10:00 PM, and the time had come to finalize their plans.

Goto, ever the strategist, addressed the group.

"Alright, here's the plan. We'll split up, each of us taking on a different kingdom. Focus on the bigger missions, the ones that pay well. We all know our capabilities, so I won't go into detail about who should take what."

He paused, his gaze lingering on Ebony and Mei. "But remember," he continued, his voice taking on a sterner tone, "just because you know how to fight doesn't mean you can handle everything the outside world throws at you. There will be those who try to cheat, to manipulate, to take advantage. Be vigilant, and don't hesitate to retreat if necessary."

Goto's words were a reminder of the dangers that lay beyond the monastery walls. They were all young adults now, but the world could be a harsh and unforgiving place.

Mei, though still a year shy of adulthood, nodded in understanding. She had witnessed enough of the world's darkness to know that Goto's warning was not to be taken lightly.

"The Grandmaster chose you for this mission because he trusts your abilities," Goto concluded. "But he also trusts your judgment. Don't let him down."

Inco spoke up, her voice firm. "I'll go to Eurovea." She pointed to a kingdom on the map, close to Iomud but known for its pacified foreigners, farmers, and traders.

"It's a trading hub, so there should be plenty of opportunities for quests and maybe even a chance to acquire supplies for the monastery."

The others nodded, but a hint of concern flickered in their eyes.

Eurovea wasn't known for its hospitality towards monks. Ebony and Amilco, in particular, remembered facing harassment and threats during their previous visits. Despite the recent tensions with Iomud, it was still a more welcoming environment than Eurovea.

"Are you sure about Eurovea, Inco?" Goto asked, his voice tinged with concern. "Those people aren’t exactly welcoming to outsiders. It might not be worth the risk."

Inco’s jaw tightened, her gaze sharp as she turned to Goto. "Those bigots won’t stop me from achieving my goal. I don’t need their approval to do what needs to be done."

Amilco, leaning against a nearby wall with his arms crossed, chimed in casually. "Yeah, I’m sure. If you think you can handle it, go for it."

Inco’s eyes flicked to Amilco, her expression hardening. "What’s that supposed to mean?" she asked, her tone clipped. She couldn’t help but hear the echo of his old teasing in his words, even if it wasn’t there.

Amilco raised an eyebrow, his tone even. "Exactly what I said. If you’re confident, then you’ve got this. No hidden meaning."

Inco’s lips pressed into a thin line. "Right. Because you’ve never doubted me before."

Amilco straightened, his calm demeanor faltering for a moment. "Inco, that’s not what I’m doing. I’m just saying—if you’re sure, then I trust you."

"Trust me?" she repeated, her voice low but edged with something sharper. "Funny, coming from you."

Amilco sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Look, I know we’ve had our... disagreements in the past. But I’m not that kid anymore. I’m not here to undermine you."

Inco crossed her arms, her stance defensive. "Aren’t you? Because it sure sounds like you’re questioning my judgment. Again."

"I’m not," Amilco said firmly, his voice steady but firm. "I’m just pointing out that Eurovea isn’t exactly friendly territory. If you’re prepared for that, then I’m not going to stop you. But don’t act like I’m the one holding you back."

Inco’s eyes narrowed, her tone icy. "I don’t need you to ‘not stop me.’ I don’t need your permission, Amilco. I’ve handled worse than a bunch of narrow-minded fools who can’t see past their own prejudices."

Amilco held up his hands in a placating gesture. "I know you have. That’s not what I’m saying. I’m just... trying to make sure you’ve thought this through. That’s all."

Inco’s laugh was short and humorless. "Oh, I’ve thought it through. Unlike some people, I don’t need to be coddled or second-guessed. I know what I’m doing."

Amilco’s jaw tightened, but he kept his voice calm. "I’m not coddling you, Inco. And I’m not second-guessing you. I’m just trying to help."

"Help?" she shot back, her voice rising slightly before she reined it in. "You have a funny way of showing it. Maybe you should focus on your own part of the mission and let me handle mine."

Amilco took a deep breath, clearly choosing his words carefully. "Fine. If that’s how you want it. But just know—I’m not your enemy here. I’m on your side."

Inco’s expression softened for a fraction of a second, but the walls went back up just as quickly. "Good to know," she said curtly. "But I don’t need you to be on my si-

Goto interrupted their bickering. "Both of you, shut up. Some of us are trying to sleep." He shot them a stern look. "Take it outside if you want to squabble."

Amilco and Inco fell silent, respecting his authority.

Goto, his expression thoughtful. addressed Amilco.

"Where are you heading? Which kingdom are you planning to focus on?"

Amilco replied, "I'll stay in Iomud. I'm familiar with the Adventurers' Guild there, and I've completed quests before."

Ebony's curiosity was piqued. "How do you do that, exactly? Do you just go in and ask for a quest?" He had always been fascinated by the Adventurers' Guild but was still too young to join.

Amilco explained his past experiences with the guild, the process of selecting and completing quests. "It's simple," he reassured them.

"Just rip a quest off the board, get it stamped, and complete it within the time limit."

He turned to Mei, his expression softening. "Unfortunately, they might not accept you since you're not eighteen yet. But you can stick with me, and I'll supervise."

Mei rolled her eyes playfully. "You know I don't need supervision, Amilco."

Goto interrupted, a thoughtful frown creasing his brow. "Amilco, I don't think Iomud is the best choice right now."

Amilco looked at him, surprised. "Why not? I know the guild, I've done quests there before..."

"Yes, but how long has it been since you've actually been there?" Goto countered.

Amilco paused, recalling his last visit. "It's been about six months."

"Exactly," Goto emphasized. "And in those six months, things have changed. The nobles are aware of our involvement. They know we've been taking the most lucrative and challenging quests."

"So?" Amilco questioned, still not understanding.

"So, they've started giving us the low-paying, tedious jobs," Goto explained, "the ones nobody else wants."

Goto pulled out several crumpled pieces of paper, a bounty list he had received just three weeks prior. "Look at this," he said, pointing to a list of menial tasks. "These are the kinds of quests they're offering us now."

He listed a few examples

* Delivering fertilizer to a farmer in a far-off village.

* Collecting twenty left-handed goblin toenails.

* Navigating a bureaucratic nightmare for a ridiculous permit.

* Exterminating dung beetles in the royal stables.

* Training inept guards in synchronized marching.

"These quests are tedious, humiliating, and barely pay anything," Goto explained. "The nobles are clearly trying to discourage us from taking on any meaningful work."

Goto tapped a finger on the map, tracing the outline of a small kingdom nestled between Lomud and the Kingdom of Tomatoes. "This one," he said. "Galantia. It's a quiet, rural place, known for its farming and livestock. Not much in the way of excitement, but that's exactly what we need right now. Less risk, more reward.”

He grinned. "Besides, you've always wanted to try your hand at herding sheep. Who knows, maybe you'll discover a hidden talent."

Amilco chuckled. "Very funny, Goto." But a flicker of interest sparked in his eyes. "I'll take your word for it."

Goto nodded. "Trust me, I've been there myself. I've earned a good amount of coins, at least 600 pearls from their quests." He waved the bounty list in the air. "The payment for these Iomud quests won't even be enough to buy you new robes."

"Goodness, how much do they pay?" Ebony asked, surprised.

"Thirty pearls or lower," Goto replied, shaking his head.

"Then I'll go to Iomud with you," Ebony declared. "I've never been comfortable with those guilds, but with you guys, I think I can do it."

Goto and Amilco exchanged a look. That wasn't quite what they had in mind.

"Actually, Ebony," Goto began, "we were hoping you'd go to Dimito."

Ebony's eyes widened. "What? Why? I can't go back. I was banished."

"We know," Goto reassured him. "But Dimito is your home. You have a better chance of finding good quests there. They know you, and they won't discriminate against you like those in Eurovea."

Ebony looked down, avoiding their gaze. "I don't think it's a good idea," he mumbled. "My father is very strict and traditional. Being banished is a serious matter in Dimito. I don't think my return would change anything."

Amilco frowned. "But Ebony, you told me your father wasn't that harsh towards you. He didn't seem like the type to hold a grudge forever."

Ebony continued to make excuses, his reluctance evident. “no I just, I just, I just don't think I just need to go.”

Ebony continued to make excuses. "I just don't think I need to go," he insisted.

"Ebony," Goto pressed, "we understand your hesitation, but Dimito is your best option. You have a history there, connections that could prove valuable. Iomud is not the same as it was five years ago. The nobles are wary of us, and the quests are drying up."

Amilco added, "You've always spoken highly of your father. He seemed like a reasonable man. Surely he wouldn't turn you away, especially now that you've proven yourself."

Mei chimed in, "And think of the resources Dimito has! They have one of the most powerful armies in the country, not to mention their wealth and influence. As a prince, you could leverage those connections to benefit the monastery."

Inco, her voice sharp, cut through Ebony's excuses. "Why are you so afraid to go back? What's the real reason?"

Ebony hesitated, his gaze flickering away. "It's not fear," he mumbled. "It's just... I don't want to impose. I don't want to cause trouble."

"Trouble?" Amilco echoed. "Ebony, you're not in trouble. You're family. And family helps each other."

Mei nodded in agreement. "Besides, you're not going there to cause trouble. You're going there to help. To secure resources for the monastery and protect us all."

But Ebony, with a stubborn glint in his eyes, continued to make excuses.

But Ebony struggled to find the right words, his mind racing for a plausible excuse. He didn't want to admit the real reason behind his reluctance, the fear that lingered deep within him.

Inco, her patience wearing thin, muttered under her breath, loud enough for Ebony to hear. "You're so pathetic. You can’t even come up with a good excuse. What are you hiding, Ebony?"

Ebony’s eyes flashed with anger, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. "I’m not hiding anything!" he retorted, his voice low but sharp. "I just don’t think it’s a good idea, that’s all."

"Oh, really?" Inco challenged, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she took a step closer. "And what exactly is so bad about going back to your own kingdom? Are you afraid they’ll roll out the red carpet and beg you to return? Or maybe you’re worried they’ll remind you why you left in the first place."

Ebony bristled, his jaw tightening as he met her gaze. "It’s not about that," he insisted, his tone strained. "It’s just... complicated."

"Complicated?" Inco scoffed, throwing her hands up in exasperation. "Everything is ‘complicated’ with you, Ebony.

The circumstances we’re in are complicated. We’re in the middle of a war. We’re trying to help our home, and you’re over here making excuses about why you can’t!

Goto stepped in, his expression stern as he placed himself between them. "Enough!" he commanded, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade. "Both of you, quiet down. This isn’t the time or place for this."

Ebony and Inco fell silent, their anger simmering beneath the surface.

The real reason for Ebony's reluctance finally burst forth. "I hate it!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with frustration. "I hate the endless rules, the bowing and scraping, the constant pressure to be someone I'm not. Being a noble is suffocating. There's no freedom, no individuality. You're just a pawn in their game."

He continued, his voice rising with passion, "I'm not living for myself. I'm living for other people, people I don't even care about. They're worthless, and they don't even realize how much the kingdom coddles them.

But you guys, you're worth caring for. You're not helpless. You can defend yourselves. That's why I love being in this monastery. Those people in Dimito, they don't understand that. I hate it there!"

A heavy silence fell over the group. Ebony's outburst had revealed a vulnerability they hadn't seen before. Amilco, his brow furrowed with concern, exchanged a worried glance with Mei and Goto. Inco, however, remained stoic, her expression unreadable.

"Ebony," Amilco began hesitantly, "I understand your frustration, but..." He paused, unsure how to proceed. "Do you remember that story you told me once? About how your father rescued you?"

Ebony's eyes widened in surprise. It was a deeply personal story, one he hadn't shared with many. He looked at Amilco, a mix of confusion and reluctance swirling within him. "Why do you bring that up?"

"We're just trying to understand," Mei explained gently.

Amilco held up a hand. "Hold on, Mei. Let me finish." He turned to Ebony, his expression sincere. "Can I tell the story, Ebony?"

Ebony hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Yes, you can tell them." He knew Amilco wouldn't betray his trust.

Amilco took a deep breath and began.

"Ebony once told me about a time when he was three years old. He was playing in the market square when a stranger lured him away with promises of sweets and toys.

Ebony, innocent and trusting, followed the stranger, unaware of the danger he was in."

Amilco's voice grew heavy with emotion as he continued. "When Ebony didn't return home, his family was frantic. They searched everywhere, but there was no sign of him. Days turned into nights, and hope began to dwindle. But Ebony's father refused to give up. He scoured the city, tirelessly searching every alleyway, every marketplace, every shadow."

"Finally," Amilco said, his voice filled with admiration, "after days of relentless searching, Ebony's father found him. He had been locked away in a dark and dingy cellar, scared and alone. But his father rescued him, brought him back to safety, and showered him with love and relief."

Amilco looked at Ebony, his eyes filled with understanding.

"Your father never gave up on you, Ebony. He fought for you, even when all hope seemed lost. He loves you, and he would welcome you back with open arms."

Amilco continued, his voice softer now. "I believe your father didn't banish you out of cruelty, Ebony. He did it because he saw you were trapped, just like you felt trapped in your old life. Maybe he saw that you were struggling, that you weren't truly happy. So, he let you go, hoping you would find your own path, your own happiness."

Ebony's eyes widened as he absorbed Amilco's words. A new perspective bloomed within him, a realization that his father's actions might have been motivated by love, not rejection. The thought resonated deep within him, a flicker of hope igniting in his heart.

Goto approached Ebony, his expression a mix of gratitude and urgency. Without a word, he pulled Ebony into a warm embrace, his grip firm and reassuring. "We are grateful for the joy you’ve brought us these past years, Ebony," he said, his voice thick with sincerity. "You’ve shown us that outsiders can be worth fighting for. You’ve become one of us—not just in skill, but in spirit."

Goto's voice took on a desperate edge. "Ebony, we need you to go to Dimito. To save us. If you don't, we won't survive the next year."

Ebony’s heart pounded, the weight of Goto’s words settling heavily on his chest. Dimito—the place he had fled, the place that had cast him out. The memories of his past, of the family and life he had left behind, surged to the surface. His stomach churned at the thought of returning, of facing the people who had once rejected him.

But as he looked around at the monastery—the place that had become his home, the people who had become his family—he knew he couldn’t refuse. They were in danger, and he couldn’t stand by and watch them suffer.

With a deep breath, Ebony nodded, his voice firm with resolve. "I’ll go to Dimito," he declared.

Goto’s relief was palpable, his shoulders relaxing as he released a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding.

"Thank you, Ebony," he said, his voice soft but filled with gratitude. Then, his tone shifted, a sly grin spreading across his face. "And I’m going to Iomud."

The others turned to him, their expressions a mix of surprise and confusion. "Why Iomud?" Amilco asked, his brow furrowed. "We can’t get any decent quests there. The kingdom’s practically turned its back on us."

"I know," Goto replied, his grin widening. "But there’s someone there who owes me a favor. Someone who can help us."

The group fell silent, the weight of Goto’s words sinking in. Despite the uncertainty, there was a glimmer of hope—a sense that, even in the face of overwhelming odds, they might just find a way to pull through.

"Alright, everyone," Goto announced, clapping his hands together. "Let's get some rest. We take off at 6:00 AM sharp."

The monks filed out of the room, each lost in their own thoughts. They exchanged pats on the shoulder and weary smiles, the unspoken weight of their mission hanging heavy in the air. There was nothing left to say. Their paths were set, their resolve solidified. They would rest, and in the morning, they would leave the familiar comfort of the monastery, venturing into an uncertain world.

The morning sun cast long, golden shadows across the courtyard, its light filtering through the cherry blossoms that swayed gently in the breeze. The monks stood in a loose circle, their horses laden with supplies, their breath visible in the crisp autumn air. The atmosphere was a mix of anticipation and quiet resolve, the weight of their mission settling over them like a heavy cloak.

Amilco and Mei shared a single mount, their laughter soft but bright, a fleeting moment of levity amidst the gravity of the task ahead. Mei adjusted the straps of their saddle, her fingers brushing against Amilco’s as she handed him the reins. "Try not to fall off this time," she teased, her eyes sparkling.

Amilco grinned, patting the horse’s neck. "I’ll do my best. But no promises if you keep distracting me."

Nearby, Ebony tightened the straps on his own horse, his movements deliberate and focused. His lute was slung across his back, its familiar weight a small comfort. He glanced up as Goto approached, his expression unreadable but his eyes steady.

"You ready for this?" Goto asked, his voice low but firm.

Ebony nodded, his jaw set. "As ready as I’ll ever be."

Inco stood a few paces away, her arms crossed as she surveyed the group. Her sharp gaze lingered on Ebony for a moment before she turned to Goto. "Let’s not waste any more time. The sooner we leave, the sooner we can get this over with."

Goto chuckled, though there was little humor in it. "Always the optimist, Inco."

The group exchanged glances, a silent understanding passing between them. Each of them knew their mission, their destination marked on the maps they carried. The paths ahead were uncertain, but their resolve was unwavering.

With a final nod of farewell, they mounted their horses and set off, the sound of hooves against stone echoing in the quiet courtyard. The monastery gates creaked shut behind them, the sound a solemn reminder of what they were leaving behind—and what they were fighting for.

Ebony, Goto, Inco, Amilco, and Mei rode in silence for a moment, the weight of their journey settling over them. Then, as they reached the fork in the road, they exchanged one last glance, a silent acknowledgment of the paths they would each take.

"Good luck," Ebony said, his voice steady but soft.

"Don’t need luck," Inco replied, her tone sharp but not unkind. "Just focus on not getting yourself killed."

Amilco laughed, the sound carrying across the open road. "We’ll meet back here when it’s done. Try not to miss us too much."

With that, they parted ways, each following their designated path. The morning sun bathed the road ahead in golden light, a small beacon of hope as they rode into the unknown.