Chapter 19 “ certainty and doubt "

I woke to sunlight pouring through the window, its warmth pulling me from sleep. When I first arrived in this world, I dreamt of my family often, but now those dreams are rare. Memories of the real world are fading. They feel like distant echoes of another life—a loss I can’t ignore.

With only 17 silver coins left, I need to take on a mission soon. My appointment at the Willow Guild isn’t until this afternoon, leaving me hours to fill. After a simple breakfast, I decided to visit Arthur at his family’s shop in the bustling southeast district. With my departure looming, this might be my last chance to say goodbye.

The southeast district hummed with life. Luxurious carriages rolled by as guards kept the streets in order. Despite the bustle, the sights here remained the same—evidence of wealth and stability untouched by time.

When I reached Crafwoods Furniture, the shop's elegant black facade caught my eye. Large windows displayed finely crafted pieces—each one a testament to artistry. Inside, the air carried the faint scent of polished wood, and the decor radiated comfort and elegance. Plush sofas, soft lighting, and smooth countertops gave the space an inviting warmth.

It was more luxurious than I’d expected, given Arthur’s unassuming nature. Still, I couldn’t help but admire the care poured into every detail. Arthur wasn’t expecting me today, but with the mission so close, I wanted to let him know that I’d be away for a month.

As I entered the shop, a woman in her mid thirties greeted me with a warm smile. “Good morning. May I help you find something?” Her brown eyes and purple hair immediately reminded me of Arthur—it was clear he had inherited her looks.

“Good morning. I’m not here to shop, ma’am. I’m actually looking for Arthur,” I replied politely.

“May I ask why you’re looking for him?” she asked, her tone was polite but curious. “I’m his mother, by the way.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you. My name is Caelan; I’m one of Arthur’s friends. We met at the public library.”

Her expression brightened in recognition. “Ah, I remember now! He mentioned you. Please wait here; I’ll go fetch him.”

A few moments later, Arthur appeared, a wide smile lighting up his face. “Caelan! I’m so glad you came.”

“Arthur,” I nodded with a small smile. “Shall we speak somewhere private?”

Arthur gestured toward a door. “Follow me. Let’s head to the office.”

The small office was cozy and immaculate, with a polished wooden table and cushioned chairs showcasing the furniture company's craftsmanship.

“Please, have a seat,” Arthur said, gesturing to one of the chairs.

“Thank you,” I said as I sat down. “Actually, I came to inform you that I’ll be leaving Liras City for more than a month.”

The smile on Arthur’s face vanished. “Leaving? Where are you going?”

“I’ll be heading to the Solaria Kingdom. It’s located in the southeastern region of the continent.”

Arthur furrowed his brows. “But why would you be gone for so long? Traveling to the solaria Kingdom doesn’t take more than three weeks round trip.”

I shook my head slightly. “I’ve never been outside Liras City, so I don’t know the exact travel time. However, the guild informed me that this mission would take some time.”

“Mission?” Arthur repeated, his voice tinged with concern.

“That’s right,” I said with a nod. “This is my first high-ranking mission—it’s an escort assignment.”

Before Arthur could respond, a soft knock came at the door.

“Arthur,” his mother called from the other side.

“Yes, Mom. Come in,” Arthur replied.

The door opened, and his mother entered, carrying a tray. “I brought some dessert,” she said with a smile.

“Thank you, ma’am,” I said politely.

She placed the tray on the table. “It’s no trouble at all. Aside from Sarah, you’re the only friend Arthur has ever brought here. I’m delighted to meet you.”

Arthur smiled awkwardly. “Oh, I almost forgot! Caelan, this is my mother, Avery.”

I inclined my head respectfully. “It’s an honor to meet you, Mrs. Avery.”

“The pleasure is mine, Caelan. You’re very handsome, just as Arthur described! He mentioned you’re from Sanderson territory and that you came here to work as an adventurer.”

“That’s correct,” I replied with a small, polite smile, though I felt slightly uncomfortable under her gaze.

“Mother, you’re making Caelan uneasy,” Arthur said, shaking his head. “Please, let us talk.”

“All right, all right. I’ll leave you two to it,” she said, smiling warmly. “It was lovely to meet you, Caelan.”

“Likewise, ma’am,” I said as she exited the room.

Arthur turned back to me, his expression serious. “So, you said you’re going to be away for almost a month because of this escort mission. But why would it take so long unless… are you escorting a noble?”

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“Yes, that’s correct,” I said. “I still don’t know all the details about the client, but I’m meeting with the guild later to organize roles with the other adventurers assigned to the mission.”

Arthur’s brows furrowed with worry. “If you’re in need of money, you don’t have to take on such risky jobs. I can lend you some, or even ask my parents if you can work here.”

I offered him a reassuring smile. “Thank you, Arthur, but that won’t be necessary. I appreciate your concern, but I can take care of myself.”

Arthur sighed. “Just promise me that if you ever need help, you’ll come to me first.”

“I promise,” I said with a nod. “By the way, you mentioned your father manages the family business. Is he here?”

“No, he’s visiting a customer—a noble, actually. He’s with my older brother, who’s being trained to handle high-profile clients,” Arthur explained.

“I see,” I said thoughtfully.

We spent some time discussing the academy and my mission. I also mentioned my friends from the tavern, who were interested in meeting him. Arthur seemed excited and suggested we all hang out at the tavern with Sarah once I returned. He also expressed interest in meeting Jason, Van, and Niro.

The streets were alive as I left Crafwoods Furniture. Sunlight bounced off polished stone, and the constant hum of activity filled the air. I walked with purpose, my mind focused on the mission ahead. Arthur’s concern was touching but unnecessary.

I was ready.

This wasn’t arrogance, but certainty. After my duel with Lucan yesterday, I knew my abilities were enough.

The guild building loomed ahead, its entrance buzzing with adventurers coming and going. Their chatter blended seamlessly with the city’s ever-present hum. I arrived thirty minutes early, anticipation settling in my chest.

“Caelan, you can head up to the second floor now,” Elle said, her tone brisk yet encouraging. “The same room where your seminar was held before.”

I nodded and made my way upstairs. The seminar room was already filled when I entered. I scanned the space, relief washing over me when I saw Lucan hadn’t arrived yet. Quietly, I slipped into a seat at the far end of the table, determined to observe this time instead of drawing attention to myself.

Fourteen of us were present, myself included. Two figures stood out immediately: an elf and an Amazon.

The elf, like many of his kind, had a striking presence. His long, white, flowing hair framed sharp, elegant features, and his piercing blue eyes seemed to take in everything. He exuded effortless poise, commanding attention without so much as a word.

The Amazon woman embodied raw power. Her toned physique, sun-kissed skin, and long, dark, wavy hair framed a fierce face that hinted at a life of battle. She wore culturally adorned armor and kept a massive, polished sword by her side.

Our eyes met briefly. She smiled, a slow curve of her lips that felt far too knowing. Heat rose to my cheeks, and I quickly looked away, pretending to adjust my seat.

The door swung open before I could dwell on my awkwardness. Lucan strode in, flanked by a towering figure. The man beside him exuded intimidation, his muscular build and scarred visage hinting at countless battles. His short, silver-streaked black hair and the massive sword on his back completed his rugged, battle-hardened look.

Lucan scanned the room briefly before striding to the front. His voice carried authority as he addressed us.

“It’s good to see everyone here. Before we begin, let me introduce my companion for those who don't know him . This is Gibo, the second-in-command for this mission.” Lucan gestured to the man beside him, who offered a curt nod.

Lucan continued, “Our mission is to escort a noble back to his territory in The Solaria Kingdom is situated in the southeastern region of the continent, directly below the Krehon Empire. On the map, it is marked near the lower edge, south of Liras City." Specifically, we’ll be heading to the Clive Barony. Our VIP is the baron’s second son, and our primary objective is to ensure his safe return. He will be accompanied by four knights from his household, but they’ll focus on his direct protection.

"Now, let’s discuss the tactical formation for the convoy. Gibo, Caelan, and I will be at the frontline—”

“Wait a second,” a voice interrupted.

The speaker was a youthful man with a lean build and reddish-brown hair. His expression was skeptical. “You and Gibo at the frontline makes sense, but… who’s Caelan?”

Lucan gestured toward me without hesitation. “Caelan is over there.”

All eyes turned toward me, scrutinizing me with open curiosity, doubt, and even a hint of derision.

“He looks so young—barely out of his teens,” the same man muttered. “What rank are you ?”

I straightened in my seat and answered truthfully, knowing any attempt at deception would be pointless. “I’m an F-rank adventurer. I registered just last month, and… this is my first high-ranking mission.”

The room fell silent for a moment, tension thick in the air.

“A newbie?” the man exclaimed, disbelief etched across his face. “You’re telling me a rookie with zero experience is joining this mission?”

Murmurs rippled through the room as others exchanged uncertain glances.

Lucan let out a weary sigh, his sharp gaze silencing the chatter. “I understand your concerns. I’m meticulous about who I bring on missions like this, and I don’t make exceptions lightly. Yes, Caelan’s experience is limited, but his abilities are exceptional. I stand by my decision.”

The room grew quiet once more, the weight of Lucan’s words quelling further objections.

Satisfied, Lucan continued, his tone as sharp as ever. “Now, back to the tactical formation. As I mentioned, Gibo, Caelan, and I will form the frontline. Our role is to handle any immediate threats head-on and clear a path if necessary.”

Lucan gestured toward the elf, who sat silently, his expression unreadable.

“You—Thalion, Sebi, and Vic—will take the rear section, protecting the supplies. Your ranged abilities will allow you to cover us effectively.”

The Amazon woman, still seated with her sword resting against her leg, raised an eyebrow as Lucan’s gaze landed on her.

“Shana, you’ll be positioned at the back with Paul, Lhoito and Leroy. Although you’re the last layer of defense, don’t let your guard down. Stay vigilant. It’s critical to protect against any attacks from behind.”

Shana smirked, clearly pleased with her assignment, though she gave me a quick, teasing glance that made my face flush.

Lucan turned to the reddish-brown-haired man who had interrupted earlier.

“Alex, Tom, Freddie, Sander, Royn, Mido—your groups will protect the sides of the formation from flanking attacks. It’s up to you to decide who covers the right and left.”

Finally, Lucan stepped back, addressing the entire group.

“Throughout the journey to the Salaria Kingdom, stick to your positions, stay alert, and above all, protect the client at all costs.”

He glanced around the room, meeting each adventurer’s gaze. “Are there any further questions about your roles?”

A moment of silence passed, broken only by the shuffling of boots and the faint clinking of armor as the adventurers processed their assignments.

“Good,” Lucan said firmly. “Then I expect everyone to be ready by dawn. Gibo will oversee the distribution of horses and supplies at the Liras City gate. Don’t be late. This mission requires coordination and precision, so I need everyone at their best. Dismissed.”

As the group began to disperse, I noticed a mix of expressions—some confident, others contemplative. A few, like Alex , still cast me skeptical glances, but I held my head high. I would prove my worth soon enough.