Carrying firewood, David listened as Fording explained the nuances of Holy Light cultivation. "No matter if you’re a paladin or a priest, we’re all followers of the Holy Light," Fording said, glancing at David.

David nodded, feeling the weight of the wood in his arms. The distinction seemed less defined than in the game. "It’s not as clear-cut here."

In the real Azeroth, the skills and talents were fewer, simpler. Yet the power of the Holy Light thrummed with potential. With enough practice, even a paladin could learn to wield a priest's skills.

Fording continued, “The choice of your path depends on what you’re interested in. You’re not locked into one direction.”

David paused, contemplating. “So… what should I focus on?”

“Which direction intrigues you?”

He smiled, a sense of determination rising within him. “I want to explore it all. I have time to dive into every aspect of the Holy Light.”

Fording grinned back. “That’s no problem. I was a priest before becoming a paladin. In fact, of the five original paladins, four were priests. Gavin is the only one from the knights of the Storm Knights.”

Fording's expression turned serious. “But first, you need to improve your physical fitness. Don’t rush into using heavy weapons like hammers or two-handed swords just yet. Prioritize learning to harness the Holy Light for healing and protection. It’ll keep you safe.”

David understood. “Offensive spells can wait. My archery should handle most situations for now.”

As days passed, they journeyed back and forth from the village to the forest, teaching David the foundations of the Holy Light.

He absorbed the lessons quickly, learning to channel healing and defense through the Light almost immediately. But as his energy waned, Fording instructed him on how to use the Holy Light to rejuvenate himself.

Kneeling, he focused inward, hands resting on his knees. The familiar sensation washed over him. This time, however, the Holy Light didn’t emanate from within. Instead, a beam descended from above, enveloping him like a warm embrace.

Fording stood still for a moment, observing the gentle flow of energy around David. He shook his head, breaking the trance, and decided it was time to transport the wood back.

As Fording moved the logs, David felt a warm current coursing through him, washing away the discomfort in his body. With every pulse, the warmth grew stronger, easing his aches and renewing his energy. Is this how Holy Light users meditate?

With curiosity stirring, he opened his eyes. The beam of light enveloping him began to fade, dissipating like golden raindrops, leaving him feeling revitalized.

Just then, Fording returned with the last log. “Oh, you’re awake? How do you feel?”

David flexed his fist, surprised by his newfound strength. “Better than ever!” Could it be an illusion? Maybe not, he thought, recalling Fording’s words about Holy Light users refining their bodies without harm.

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Before he could ask more, he noticed a vague figure approaching from outside the village.

“Someone's coming.”

Fording stacked the logs and followed David’s gaze. “Is that Laura?”

“I’m not sure.” Until the figure fully emerged, David couldn’t discern who it was. What if it’s someone dangerous? Anxiety prickled at him. But so far, they had encountered decent people. Perhaps my intuition is guiding me?

As the figure drew closer, it became clear. It was Laura, but something was off. She looked distressed, her clothes muddy, and her hands were tied behind her back. Panic etched across her face.

“David, help me!”

Laura rushed toward him, her bound hands behind her. Without hesitation, David drew the short knife from his waist. She turned, presenting her wrists to him.

With a careful cut, the rope fell away. “What happened?” he asked, concern sharpening his voice.

Laura took deep breaths, trying to steady herself. “After my friends and I reunited, we encountered some strange guys...” She recounted the situation in simple terms, her voice trembling slightly.

As she spoke, fragmented memories surfaced in David’s mind, pieces that had lain dormant until now.

“Don’t panic. Let’s figure out our next move.”

Understanding washed over him. This was Laura’s first real encounter with danger, and no wonder she seemed so flustered.

In the original story, Laura’s growth sprang from desperation. If she hadn’t been pushed to her limits, she wouldn't have matured in just a few days.

But this time, things were different. With David and his village as her refuge, Laura didn’t rush into battle against the Brotherhood of the Sun. She had help; she could turn to someone.

Upon hearing about Laura's plight, Fording immediately stepped forward. “Let’s help her. They’re just robbers; it won’t be a problem.”

But it was more complicated than that. After a few attempts, Fording and David quickly realized the harsh truth: they couldn’t enter Laura’s world. Even when she tried to carry David on her back, her form flickered and vanished, sending David crashing to the ground.

What now?

Frustration mounted as Laura recognized that David and Fording couldn’t save her. She had to depend on herself. Glancing at David’s bow, an idea sparked. “Can I borrow your bow and arrow? They took mine.”

“Of course.” David noticed the determination on her face. The familiar archaeologist within her was coming to life. “I can help a bit, too.”

“Oh?”

“Look, you can come and go from my place freely. That means you can escape danger anytime.” A strange sensation washed over him; his home felt like a 'safe zone'—a place where essentials were at hand. Why does this feel like a game?

Suppressing that bizarre feeling of being some kind of NPC, David added, “Plus, I learned some useful abilities from Tirion.”

Laura perked up at his mention of safety.

But David’s next words took her by surprise. “Even if you’re hurt, as long as it’s not life-threatening, Tirion and I can help you heal.”

Before she could probe further, David placed a hand on her shoulder. A golden light emanated from his palm, and warmth surged into Laura. All her discomfort vanished like mist.

“What just happened?” she gasped, checking her body. The scratches on her arms had vanished, and as she peeled away the bandages on her waist, disbelief settled in. The deep wound was gone, leaving no trace behind. “What did you do?”

David grinned, like a child showcasing a new toy. “It’s called Holy Light. Pretty incredible, right?”

“So amazing.”

Laura gazed at the flickering light in David's palm, realizing there were wonders beyond her understanding. And she noted the implication in his words: this power was taught to him by Tirion, meaning it belonged to Fording’s world.

Before she could ask Fording if she could learn this power, David struck again. “Not only can it heal, but it can also shield you from harm!”

Like a peacock displaying its feathers, David poured more Holy Light into Laura. A shimmering shield formed around her, safeguarding her from danger. The energy surged through her, bolstering her strength for the challenges ahead.

“With the Holy Light’s protection, you can easily rescue your friends.”