Continuing their journey after a night of rest in the village, they set out on the remaining journey to the capital. As they traveled, Ethan discovered that his destination was only a few hours away. His father worn by recent battles and fatigue, was lost in sleep, seeking to recuperate. Meanwhile, Ethan planned to stay awake, eager to immerse himself in the beauty of this world. It was his first time venturing beyond his village in this world, and his curiosity burned with the desire to experience everything this world had to offer.

Observing his father peacefully snoring in the carriage his head covered in bandages. His wounds inflicted during recent battles were in the midst of natural healing. This world's inherent Mana granted them a unique self-healing ability, far swifter than the natural healing he was accustomed to on Earth.

---✧---✧---

As they traveled through the mountains, memories of his childhood, his family, and his friends flooded back into Ethan's mind. He recollected the happiness he had experienced, akin to his purpose of transmigration being fulfilled. The regrets from his past life before his previous demise seemed to have found a resolution. Yet, the question of why he was in this new world remained a puzzle he had yet to fully unravel.

Two days prior, their village had managed to fend off the threat. A smile graced Ethan's face as he pondered the newfound safety of their village, now guarded against invaders, all thanks to the resolute backing of the Orc King. Within his recollection of the event, he was transported back to the moment of battle, his memory vividly replaying the instance he had fallen to the ground. The shadow of his past demise still clung to him and the memory imbued with the rawness of fear.

Contemplating his history, he murmured softly to himself, "That memory still haunts me to this day."

"Did you say something?" Aldric's slumber was abruptly interrupted as he stirred awake.

"No, Dad, you can go back to sleep. We still have a way to go before reaching the capital" Ethan replied, uncertain about how to address the question.

As he saw his father go back to sleep, Ethan wondered to himself "What should I do now?" a furrow forming on his brow. "Do I have to hide my past?" He glanced out of the window, his gaze distant as he contemplated. "What would happen if I tell my past to Dad?" His fingers tapped rhythmically against his thigh as uncertainty gnawed at him. "How will everyone react?" His eyes narrowed slightly as he imagined the possible scenarios. All sorts of questions lingered through his mind.

But a sudden gust of wind swept through the entrance flaps, breaking the chain of his thoughts. Acting on instinct he slid open the glass window revealing a magnificent view outside. The cool, crisp breeze rushed in, filling the cart with a refreshing chill. The sensation of the gentle wind on his skin was refreshing, a sharp contrast to the stuffiness inside the cart. As Ethan took in the breathtaking view before him, the concerns that had occupied his mind seemed to momentarily fade away.

From his vantage point, he could clearly make out the capital city. While most of the city remained hidden beneath a thick fog but certain sections were still visible. As he observed the cart descending the mountains now, he understood that they were nearing the capital.

While in the cart before Aldric went to sleep, Ethan had posed a question about the Magic Academy. Curiosity had led him to inquire about the institution and what studying there would entail. However, Aldric's responses had been vague, leaving Ethan puzzled. What he had managed to gather, though, was that the selection process for the magic trials was very brutal. Each year, a set of different trials awaited the aspiring students shrouded in secrecy until the very day of the exams.

Aldric had confessed to failing the entrance exam himself, yet he had refrained from divulging the specifics of his failure. This unfulfilled dream of Aldric's had led him down a different path – he had joined the army, becoming a frontline warrior and a battlemage.

The only advice he had offered to Ethan was, "Don't push yourself too hard; even if you fail, we will always be there to support you."

---✧---✧---

As the horse-drawn cart descended mountain peaks and moved deeper into the landscape, the vibrant capital gradually came into view. Ethan's vantage point allowed him to catch sight of the capital's impressive walls, standing tall and protective which circled the entire area. In the distance, discreet rooftops of towering buildings peeked out, dotting the city's expanse. The capital held a central position within the country, its strategic location earning it the title.

The palace where the reigning King resided was nestled within the heart of the capital, accompanied by renowned landmarks that defined the city's essence. As they approached, the gate came into view guarded by stationed guards. "Dad, wake up," Ethan urged softly, excitement in his voice. "We've reached the capital."

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Aldric stirred from his slumber, his eyes opening as he turned to peer out of the window toward the entrance.

Stop

One of the guards signaled motioning for the horse cart to halt. The guard wore a dark uniform adorned with golden embroidery featuring majestic Griffin wings. A badge on his chest displayed his rank and the emblem of the kingdom—an impressive Griffin with wings spread wide holding a sword.

Both along with the cart rider got down from the cart and walked toward the guard. The rider presented his cart license before retaking his seat. The guard's gaze shifted to Aldric, his expression serious as he addressed him. "Present your identification and state the purpose of your visit to the capital."

Since the city also served as the residence of the king, necessitating stringent security measures. This procedure was obligatory for all entering or exiting the capital.

Aldric displayed his military badge, a stamped insignia featuring a griffin crest, and the rank of Corporal. After confirming the emblem's authenticity, Aldric explained, "I've come for my child's awakening, as he'll turn twelve tomorrow," his gaze shifting towards Ethan.

The guard grasped Ethan's wrist, his fingers searching for the presence of mana within. After a brief pause, the other guard finished inspecting the cart and nodded, affirming, "Alright, you may proceed." With their entry granted, the trio promptly settled into the cart, which soon resumed its journey forward.

At every fifty meters along the gate's walls Golden flag was hoisted with a griffin emblem clutching a sword was gracefully hung, adding a touch of heraldic grandeur to the scene. Every corner and alcove bustled with the presence of vigilant guards their uniforms bearing the insignia of their status.

Upon entering from the gate their senses were greeted by the sound of tinkling water. In the heart of the entrance stood a fountain, its playful jets casting droplets into the air. Atop the fountain, a tower emerged crowned with a meticulously carved griffin statue, mirroring the emblem found on crests that symbolized the Kingdom of Zephyria. The sight was both a tribute to the majestic creature and a beacon of the kingdom's power.

From the fountain's center, three paths sprawled outwards. The main road stretched ahead cutting through the heart of the city. The secondary roads branched left and right leading to unique destinations within the lively city. The meandering streets swiftly vanished from view as buildings surged upwards, their intricacies and colors painting a vibrant view against the sky.

As they entered through the guarded entrance, the city revealed itself as a collection of amazing buildings. Tall towers and spires stretched up into the sky with fancy designs on them. The streets of the city spread out like a maze, and the buildings alongside them seemed to be made from white stone. The city was bustling with people and felt lively with energy, intensified by the realization that this was merely its gateway. The initial streets carried an air of grandeur, signifying that this was where business, both popular and prestigious was conducted. Yet, this was just the tip of the iceberg; the capital sprawled so expansively that even a cart journey spanning two days couldn't encompass its entirety.

Navigating through the secondary route to the bustling streets the cart rider brought their vehicle to a stop, aligning it with a row of other carts that had also halted in accordance with the city's organized flow of movement. The rhythmic clatter of hooves and the hum of conversations filled the air as the cart pulled up beside its counterparts. The rider expertly attended to the horses, feeding them and ensuring their comfort.

Meanwhile, Aldric began unloading the bags and belongings that had accompanied them on their journey placing them on the ground beside it. After a while, Aldric addressed the necessary fees. He handed over five silver coins and ten bronze coins to the cart rider, compensating for the two days of travel.

In a world where paper is a costly resource impractical for large-scale production. Where a universal form of currency is embraced what could be more fitting than the use of bronze, silver, and gold? These metals serve as a currency that can be accepted across nations, bridging economic exchanges seamlessly. The distinguishing factor lies in the currency's design, which should feature a standardized format and bear the emblem of the respective nation. The coins Aldric handed over were marked with a prominent griffin crest serving as a recognizable emblem of their nation of origin.

As the afternoon sun bathed the city in warm hues and with a day remaining before Ethan's anticipated awakening, they made the decision to secure accommodations for the next two days. After weighing their options and considering their budget, they embarked on a search for suitable lodging. Eventually, they stumbled upon an aging inn, its history evident in its weathered appearance. This inn though humble, fit within Aldric's financial constraints.

Once they settled in and freshened up after arranging their belongings, "Now that we've settled in, how about we head out for lunch?" Aldric proposed with a hint of anticipation.

His voice carried a mixture of longing and delight as he mentioned, "Hearthside Chicken Roast. It's been quite a while since I last had it." His lips curved into a satisfied smile, a testament to his fondness for the dish. "And who could forget the Sunflower Honey Biscuits for dessert?" he added, his tone carrying a touch of nostalgia as he recounted the memories associated with that delectable treat .

As Aldric reminisced about his past visits to the capital, memories of a particular food specialty flooded his mind. "You'll find this delicacy all over the city, but there's one spot where I truly enjoyed its taste," he shared. "I'm not sure if that place still exists, though. The last time I was there was about ten years ago, and the owner was already quite elderly."

"But we should definitely go and check it out " Aldric added with enthusiasm.

"Sure, Dad, I'm eager to try it as well" Ethan replied eagerly.

With the memory of the street vivid in his mind, Aldric led the way to the small restaurant he had in mind. Though the street had evolved with new buildings the restaurant still stood, its exterior unchanged with a faded green hue that seemed to defy time. As they approached, they noticed only a handful of patrons inside, quietly enjoying their meals.