"Elina, let's go," I called out, seeing her lingering gaze fixed on our house. I walked back and wrapped my arm around her. "We'll come back, you know. I promise."

She nodded, wiping away her tears. I picked up the sack with Elina's spare clothes –all we had. The only thing I owned of any value was the small dagger my father left behind.

Approaching Bertram's house, we saw him bidding farewell to his wife, Maiya. Two carriages were ready – one loaded with grain and the other for Maiya, Elina, and me. Randall, the hunter, was there too, his presence commanding. Maiya beckoned us to hurry.

Maiya, a kind yet authoritative woman, wore a woolen green dress, fancier than usual. The wrinkles near her eyes and strands of white hair added to her dignified appearance.

"We're sorry for the delay," I said, bowing slightly, with Elina following suit.

"No need to apologize, Edward. We've got time," Bertram responded, his wife echoing his sentiment.

I glanced at Randall, giving a respectful nod. The man looked even more imposing up close, his scars a testament to his battles. Then Bertram's words caught my attention.

"Randall will join you on the journey," he said, looking at me with a hint of satisfaction.

"Can't let my wife travel alone, can I?" Bertram quipped, his eyes briefly meeting Maiya's.

As I observed Bertram's interactions, I thought, "This man is driven by his lust." He was craftily arranging to have his wife and the husband of the woman he was involved with out of the way – a clear sign of his lascivious intentions.

"Should I be paying extra for this, Bertram?" I joked, watching as his expression flickered.

The truth was, I hadn't paid a single copper for the ride. My silence about his affair was my currency.

"Of course not, Edward. You and Elina are like family. I must ensure your safety," Bertram replied, smirking.

"Thank you, Bertram and Maiya," Elina said politely, bowing to Bertram and Maiya.

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As the carriage rolled through the countryside, I seized the opportunity to learn more about Willsden from Maiya. I leaned forward slightly, showing genuine interest. "Maiya, you've seen so much of the world, right? Elina and I have never been beyond Sunhill. Someone with your experience must have a wealth of knowledge about places like Willsden."

Maiya's eyes sparkled with acknowledgment. "Oh, Edward, you flatter me! Yes, I've had my fair share of travels. Willsden is quite different from our quiet village. The markets are always bustling, the streets filled with people and cultures. It's a lively place, very different from what you're used to here."

I nodded, intrigued. "It sounds like an exciting place. We're looking forward to exploring it. Is there anything we should be prepared for?"

She thought for a moment; then, her expression turned more serious. "Well, there's the matter of the army recruitment. It's mandatory for young men. I presume that's one of the reasons you're heading to Willsden?"

"Army recruitment?" I repeated, my interest piqued while feigning ignorance. "I've heard only a little about it. Could you tell me more?"

Maiya shook her head slightly. "I only know the basics, but you should really speak with Randall about it. He's more familiar with these matters and can give you a better understanding."

"Thank you, Maiya. I'll make sure to converse with Randall," I replied, mentally noting to approach Randall later.

As the carriage rolled through the lush countryside, Maiya's insights about Willsden City and the Astror empire captivated Elina and me. I was drawn into the conversation, eager to uncover more about this new world.

"Maiya, governing under the war god, must shape life in Astror quite uniquely," I said, my curiosity piqued. "What's it like, living under such influence?"

Maiya's gaze drifted out the window momentarily, reflecting on the question. "Life in Astror is defined by valor and courage. The war god's presence is felt in every aspect of our culture. It's a realm where the legacy of heroes is deeply revered."

Elina leaned forward, her shyness momentarily forgotten. "Does that mean Astror sees many battles and conflicts?" she asked, her voice tinged with concern and curiosity.

Maiya turned to Elina, her expression softening. "Yes, dear. The borders of Astror are often contested, leading to frequent skirmishes. That's why army recruitment is so crucial."

I nodded, processing this information. "And this captain in Willsden, blessed by the war god to be invincible. He sounds like a figure of great stature."

Maiya's eyes sparkled at the mention. "Oh, he is. Some view him as a hero, a living embodiment of the war god's might. Others, however, find his invincibility somewhat unsettling."

Elina, her curiosity fully ignited, pressed further. "Are there any tales of his feats? To be blessed by a god must grant incredible abilities."

Maiya gazed thoughtfully into the distance. "Many tales circulate about his exploits in battle, how he faced overwhelming odds and emerged unscathed. Whether all these stories are true is hard to say, but they certainly contribute to his legendary status."