Upon coming back from his meeting with Alistar, Robert found his mother asleep. “The fire is about to get extinguished, I will reignite it so that mother can sleep soundly”.
He went outside gathered a few dried up branches, he then threw them upon the small bonfire outside their tent. He then sat, and started contemplating his encounter with Alistar. Robert was deeply impacted by this encounter, the fear of failing he had and the unknown inadequacies he had in his character showed up in that encounter.
He sat under that bonfire, and thoughts raced his mind.
Energy manipulation, huh? Why am I even fixated on becoming a scout? I mean, honestly, I'm not even sure what I want anymore. Why did I push myself so hard, running and training every single day? Maybe I'm just selfish. I never stopped to consider my mother, her hands getting stung by bees day in and day out. Compared to the harsh realities faced by so many others in this world, I've had it pretty easy. I was so ungrateful, always complaining about the cold, the lack of food, the absence of a teacher. But now, here's a teacher, and the first lesson feels like being tossed into a swimming pool when you don't know how to swim. Time to sleep.
After lying down, Robert attempted to sleep, but his mind kept circling back to his encounter with Alistar. Despite his best efforts, he found sleep elusive, unable to shake off the thoughts swirling in his mind.
"Damn it! I can't sleep," Robert muttered to himself. "I guess I'll take a walk outside. Maybe that will help."
And so, Robert ventured outside, aimlessly wandering through the forest. Eventually, he stumbled upon a curved tree, its shape perfectly accommodating for him to lean against and stretch out his legs for a moment of respite.
As he rested against the tree, the idea of reshaping a rock into a cube popped into Robert's mind. Intrigued, he descended from the tree and retrieved a suitable rock. With determination, he climbed back up, settling in the comforting embrace of the curved trunk, ready to concentrate on the task at hand.
Robert closed his eyes and focused his thoughts, picturing a perfect cube in his mind's eye. He imagined its straight edges, its six identical square faces, and the symmetry of its form. With each breath, he visualized the cube with greater clarity, willing it to become real in his imagination.
As Robert tried to visualize the cube, thoughts of his encounter with Alistar kept intruding. The conversation replayed in his mind, distracting him from his task. Despite his efforts to push them aside, the thoughts persisted, intertwining with his attempts to focus on reshaping the rock.
"Damn, it's tough just holding onto the image of a simple cube!" Robert muttered in frustration. "And then there's Alistar, that freak, effortlessly carving paths inside giant boulders!"
Frustrated, Robert's composure slipped, and he attempted to forcefully imprint the image of a cube onto the rock.
"Cube! Damn it! Cuube! Daaaamn it!" he exclaimed, his frustration boiling over.
[https://www.midjourney.com/jobs/4727a06f-e74c-48bc-bfe5-2df081ec6b91][https://cdn.midjourney.com/4727a06f-e74c-48bc-bfe5-2df081ec6b91/0_0.webp]
With a nervous, frustrated, and desperate effort, Robert concentrated all his energy into the rock. Slowly, almost imperceptibly, the rock began to shift, losing its original shape as it molded into a rough approximation of a cube. However, cracks marred its surface, evidence of the strain of Robert's exertion. Just as quickly as it had formed, the cube collapsed, unable to maintain its new structure under the weight of Robert's intense focus.
"A cube, I made a cube! Yes! Woo-hoo! I did it!" Robert exclaimed with a mix of excitement and disbelief. "Although it disappeared immediately... Hmm... Well, at least now I know it's possible. How I did it is not so clear to me yet."
He went back to his tent and went to bed.
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7:00 AM;
As Kyla stirred awake, she glanced at the small wooden bed beside her, expecting to find her son, Robert, still sound asleep. However, to her surprise, the bed was empty. Blinking away the last remnants of sleep, she noticed the bonfire still dimly alight, casting a soft glow over the campsite.
A warm smile tugged at the corners of Kyla's lips as she realized what might have happened. "Robert?" she called out softly, her voice carrying the mix of curiosity and delight.
Pushing aside the blanket, Kyla rose from her own bed and followed the flickering light of the dying embers. As she approached the fire, her heart swelled with a mix of emotions. There, next to the fire, was Robert, carefully tending to a makeshift cooking area.
Surprise and pride mingled within her as she watched her son, usually the one she had to rouse from sleep, now taking charge of the morning. It was a small gesture, but it filled Kyla's heart with warmth and gratitude. With a contented sigh, she settled closer to the fire, eagerly anticipating the breakfast her son had prepared.
"Here, Mother, breakfast for you," Robert said with a gentle smile, presenting a plate with bread and honey along with a steaming cup of tea.
Kyla's eyes widened with pleasant surprise as she took in the sight of the simple yet thoughtful meal her son had prepared. "Oh! Thank you, my son," she replied, her voice tinged with warmth and genuine appreciation.
She couldn't help but feel a surge of curiosity mixed with pride as she watched him, her little boy, taking care of her in this unexpected way. It was a moment that spoke volumes about their bond, one that filled her heart with a deep sense of love and connection.
As Robert began reorganizing the tent and sealing it shut, Kyla couldn't help but marvel at how much her son had grown. Thoughts of the meeting with Alistar at Sage Willow's tent yesterday flashed through her mind, reminding her of the changes she was witnessing in Robert.
"It's okay, son," she offered, stepping forward to assist him. "I'll take care of it. Go on, focus on your training."
But Robert shook his head, determination gleaming in his eyes. "Nah, I'm not running. I will help you with your work. I'll train later tonight!"
With a nod, and a grateful smile, she accepted his help. Together, Robert and Kyla prepared for their honey extraction task, they gathered their modest gear: gloves patched with duct tape, a weathered beekeeping suit with faded patches, and a rusty tin can repurposed into a smoker. Their beekeeping tools were well-worn, including a dulled hive tool and a battered bee brush. For containers, they used old mason jars and chipped buckets, while a worn kitchen knife served as their extractor. Despite their limited resources, they embarked into the forest, their determination shining through as they set out to collect the sweet reward awaiting them amidst the buzzing hives.
"Alright, let's not keep Shilia waiting," Kyla said with a determined nod.
With Robert falling into step beside her, they made their way towards Shilia's tent.
As they approached Shilia's tent, Kyla called out, "Shilia, we're here!"
Shilia emerged from her tent, already prepared for the day's work. Her attire, practical and well-worn, spoke of her familiarity with the tasks ahead. With a friendly smile, she greeted her friends, a glimmer of surprise in her eyes as she noticed Robert among them.
Shilia raised an eyebrow at Robert's presence, surprised but pleased. "Robert, joining us for the honey extraction? That's unexpected," she remarked, her curiosity piqued. "I'm glad to have you with us, though. The more help, the better."
Robert nodded appreciatively. "I'm eager to lend a hand," he replied.
Shilia said, her voice filled with camaraderie. "Ready for another day in the hives?"
With a nod, Kyla replied, "Absolutely. Let's get started."
"Well, let's not waste any time. The bees won't wait for us." Shilia replied.
With that, the trio set off towards the bee colonies, their footsteps echoing through the forest as they embarked on their familiar routine.
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9:00 am; Eldoria City-Hall.
Within the imposing stone walls of Eldoria's city hall, an air of solemnity hung heavy in the air. The grand chambers, adorned with intricate tapestries depicting scenes of the city’s history, echoed with the hushed murmurs of those gathered.
The architecture spoke of a bygone era, with towering arches and vaulted ceilings that seemed to stretch towards the heavens. Ornate chandeliers cast a warm glow upon the polished marble floors, while elegant pillars lined the expansive hall, their craftsmanship a testament to the city's storied past.
[https://cdn.discordapp.com/ephemeral-attachments/1008571042782003290/1208874833799155722/4f297996-65b9-4669-933d-60c283f7104b_grid_0.webp?ex=65e4df6c&is=65d26a6c&hm=145b502ddd5dee4ebab604d6bb0f850226994c2392c10bcf752e47579af8ab64&]
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A diverse array of individuals had gathered, their attire ranging from finely tailored garments to simple, worn clothing. Among them were the low-class officials, their faces etched with lines of worry and concern as they waited anxiously for the arrival of the esteemed ministers.
As they murmured amongst themselves, the urgency of the situation was palpable, some paced nervously, while others exchanged furtive glances, their expressions a mixture of determination and fear.
Outside the towering doors, the city bustled with activity, oblivious to the impending crisis unfolding within. Yet within the confines of the city hall, the low-class officials braced themselves for the arrival of the ministers.
Marl, the Minister of Defense the first to arrive, strode in with an air of authority, his presence commanding attention. His assistant scurried alongside, a flurry of papers in hand. The low-class officials greeted him with a mixture of reverence and apprehension, their expressions mirroring the gravity of the situation. Marl's face remained stoic, his gaze unwavering as he surveyed the room.
"Marl has arrived," whispered one official, their voice tinged with both respect and unease.
His assistant scurried alongside, a flurry of papers in hand. "Sir, the latest reports on rebel movements," the assistant murmured, extending a folder towards Marl.
Marl accepted the folder with a nod, his gaze steely and focused. "Thank you, Jenkins. Keep me updated on any developments," he replied, his voice firm and unwavering.
"Minister Marl, we're grateful for your presence," one official spoke up, their tone deferential yet tinged with urgency.
Marl's face remained stoic, his jaw set in determination as he surveyed the room. "Let's not waste any time. We have much to discuss," he declared, his voice carrying the weight of authority.
Taking a seat at the round table, Marl's frustration simmered as he turned to his assistant, Jenkins, a crease forming between his brows. "Jenkins, it seems punctuality is a virtue lost on some of our esteemed colleagues," he remarked, his tone tinged with annoyance.
Jenkins nodded sympathetically, understanding Marl's frustration. "Indeed, Minister. It's rather disappointing that even the ministers themselves fail to adhere to the agreed-upon schedule," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of exasperation.
Marl sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "We cannot afford delays, especially in times as precarious as these," he muttered, his gaze drifting to the empty chairs reserved for the absent ministers.
As the minutes ticked by, the tension in the room grew palpable, until finally, the doors of the city hall swung open once more. Alistar and Chief Scout Jung entered, their strides purposeful yet unhurried, drawing the attention of the assembled officials.
The low officials greeted them respectfully, their expressions a mix of curiosity and deference. Marl and Jenkins observed their movements closely, as if trying to discern the secrets hidden within their demeanor.
Alistar, clad in the attire of a forest sage, stood out amidst the formal surroundings, his presence commanding attention. Jung, in contrast, exuded an air of quiet strength, his gaze sharp and observant.
As they made their way to the round table, Alistar and Jung exchanged a few words in hushed tones, their banter light yet infused with a sense of camaraderie.
Jenkins couldn't help but murmur to Marl, his disapproval evident. "Sir, I must say, I find it rather unprofessional for Alistar to be dressed so casually," he remarked, his tone laced with disdain.
Marl shot Jenkins a warning glance. "Appearances can be deceiving, Jenkins," he cautioned. "Remember, the people of the Sylvan forest hold knowledge that we may not fully comprehend. Let us not judge solely by outward appearances."
Marl: "Alistar, always fashionably late, I see."
Alistar: "Well, Marl, I prefer to make an entrance. Keeps things interesting."
Marl: "Interesting indeed. Just don't let your sense of style distract us from the matter at hand."
A teacup clatters to the ground as the maid stumbles nearby, drawing Jenkins' attention.
Jenkins (harshly): "Watch where you're going! This is not the time for clumsiness!"
Alistar interjects, his tone playful but with an underlying warmth.
Alistar: "Now, now, Jenkins, no need for such harshness. Accidents happen," he says to the maid, offering her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry about it."
Turning to Jenkins, Alistar's smile widens, his tone teasing.
Alistar: "But, Jenkins, if we're critiquing clumsiness, let's not forget that time you knocked over the inkwell during the royal meeting. Quite the spectacle, wasn't it?"
The room fills with suppressed laughter as Alistar's gentle defense of the maid and playful jab at Jenkins defuse the tension.
Marl: "Let's stay focused, shall we? Some of us have real responsibilities beyond forest meditation."
Alistar: "True, but while you're behind that desk, someone has to ensure those borders are safe. Luckily, I'm up to the task."
His response carries a hint of jest, but also a subtle reminder of the importance of his role in safeguarding the city.
Jung: "Where are the rest of the ministers? We can't afford to wait around all day."
His frustration is evident as he glances around the room, seeking answers.
Marl: "Absolutely, Jung. It's disgraceful how some of our esteemed colleagues can't seem to adhere to a simple schedule."
His tone drips with disdain, relishing the opportunity to assert his superiority over the absent ministers.
Then everyone's attention shifted, it seems Valoris, and john arrived.
As the Minister of Mining, Valoris bears a scar near his right eye, a reminder of a past mine explosion. However, his confidence shines through as he strides in, donning a crisp white suit and a glinting ruby-adorned ring. Accompanying him is John, recognized by his trademark white shirt and black pants, complemented by round glasses and a black leather business bag in hand.
Marl, ever the provocateur, couldn't resist a jab as Valoris and John entered. "Ah, finally, our esteemed colleagues grace us with their presence. Look, even the fashionable Alistar arrived before you two. We've been waiting for you," he quipped, a mischievous glint in his eye as he sought to stir up a reaction from the duo, relishing the opportunity to playfully mock their tardiness.
Valoris, unfazed by Marl's jest, flashes a wry smile. "Well, Marl, you know what they say: 'Better late than never.' But I must admit, it's always a pleasure to keep you waiting," he retorts, his tone tinged with amusement as he meets Marl's playful taunt with equal parts wit and composure.
John, with practiced efficiency, unzips his leather business bag and begins methodically unpacking its contents.
John subtly gestures with his fingers, beckoning one of the low-class officials dressed in gray suits to approach. Their hands clasped behind their backs, they stand near the wall, awaiting instruction.
John retrieves a couple of papers from his bag and holds them out to the low-class official standing nearby. "Could you please distribute these papers to the ministers?" he requests calmly, his tone conveying both authority and respect. With a nod of understanding, the official accepts the papers and sets off to fulfill John's directive, ensuring that each minister receives the necessary documents for their discussion.
Marl's voice cuts through the air, punctuating the room with a teasing remark. "Already to the task, just as I would've expected from John, a darn workaholic. You should relax a bit, John," he quips, his tone dripping with playful sarcasm as he gently jabs at John's diligent demeanor.
John, unfazed by Marl's comment, maintains his focus on the task at hand. "Well then, gentlemen, esteemed ministers," he begins, his tone authoritative yet inclusive, "these are the papers detailing our current budget. Please review them carefully before proposing any ideas on how we should reinforce security."
"Are we not going to wait for Aldeen?" Marl interjects, his tone indicating reluctance to engage with the proposed solutions and instead expressing a desire to delay the decision-making process.
"When has he ever attended a meeting like this?" John remarks, his tone carrying a note of skepticism. His comment underscores the irregularity of Aldeen's attendance at such gathering.
“Waiting for him may not be a practical course of action.” Added Jung.
Alistar interjects with a note of concern, "This is troubling. The Ministry of Defense seems to be allocating an excessive amount of resources."
Marl responds with a hint of arrogance, "Hmph! Of course, we are the reason why Eldoria is in peace.
Valoris counters sharply, "If we were to cease mining, your ministry would crumble in an instant. Consider that before boasting about your importance." His words challenge Marl's assertion.
Jung interjects with urgency, "Let's stay focused and set aside these squabbles. The rebels pose a real threat, particularly to the villages near the forest."
Marl: "Jenkins, deliver these papers to them, please," he instructs his assistant, who promptly begins distributing the documents to the ministers. With deliberate intent, Jenkins leaves Alistar for last, his actions tinged with subtle aggression as he tosses the papers in Alistar's direction.
Alistar, however, remains unfazed by the display of hostility. Instead, he meets Marl's gaze with a serene smile, further fueling Marl's frustration as he realizes his attempt at provocation has been met with calm indifference.
"These troops won't be enough to secure the forest, this must be a joke!" Jung exclaims, his frustration evident.
"Of course, we have to protect the city and the mines; they contribute significantly to our finances," Marl retorts dismissively. "Why would I waste dozens of troops on a vast forest, filled with sages and poor people?" His statement reflects his prioritization of economic interests over concerns for the forest's inhabitants, highlighting a fundamental difference in perspective among the ministers.
John, observing the exchange with a mixture of frustration and resignation, raises a hand to his forehead and lets out a weary sigh. His reaction signals a sense of exasperation at the lack of unity and cooperation among the ministers.
Alistar, maintaining his calm demeanor, responds with a hint of sarcasm, "Let's just hope you secure the mines. I can't wait to hear about your failures." His words carry a subtle challenge, implying that he doubts Marl's ability to effectively protect Eldoria’s vital mining operations.
"I don't think it's your choice, Marl," Jung asserts firmly. "I hereby call for a vote. All those in favor of increasing troops in the forest, please raise your hand." His decisive action redirects the discussion towards a democratic decision-making process.
With determination, both Alistar and Jung raise their hands in support of increasing troops in the forest, underscoring their commitment to bolstering security measures. However, Valoris, Marl, and John refrain from raising their hands, signaling their dissent or reservations about the proposal.
"You see," Marl remarks, a smug tone evident in his voice as he interprets the outcome as a validation of his stance.
"John, this is basically just sacrificing the people of the forest," Jung exclaims.
"Listen, Jung," John begins, his voice measured yet determined. "We're already in debt, with many factors draining our reserves. Securing the mines is crucial, but what I propose is deploying elite troops to guard the forest. Though their numbers may be few, they're up against mere rebels!" He pauses, scratching his beard in contemplation before continuing, "With this approach, we can protect both the mines and the forest." His suggestion reflects a strategic compromise aimed at addressing the dual priorities of economic security and forest protection.
Jung relaxes, reassured by John's proposal, and nods in agreement. "Who is in favor of John's proposal?" he asks once more, seeking affirmation from the ministers present.
Alistar, John, Jung, and Valoris all raise their hands in support of John's proposal, demonstrating a unified front in favor of deploying elite troops to guard the forest.
As the meeting neared its end, tension lingered in the air, evident in the exchanged glances and subtle jabs.
Jung glanced at Alistar, a hint of frustration in his eyes. "It's disheartening, isn't it? Their disregard for the forest's safety."
Alistar nodded solemnly. "Indeed, but we'll find a way to protect it, regardless of their indifference."
Meanwhile, Valoris and Marl shared a smirk, their camaraderie evident. "Another successful meeting," Marl remarked, a smirk playing on his lips.
Valoris chuckled. "Indeed, let them fuss over the forest while we focus on what truly matters."
John, caught in the middle, sighed inwardly, the weight of his balancing act evident. "Until next time," he murmured, knowing that the discord would persist long after the meeting's end.
And then the meeting came to an end.