When the day of Victor's return arrived, the whole village was filled with anticipation. Victor, having completed his mission in the neighboring village, was returning home, bursting with stories of his adventures and new knowledge he was eager to share with his family.

Early in the morning, Eris, along with Lawrence, Shelly, and Loren, stood at the gates of their estate. Eris, though trying to hide her excitement, couldn't keep a smile on her face as she awaited her husband. Lawrence, sensing that today was special, was also dressed in his finest outfit.

- "Mama, will Papa be here soon?"

Lawrence asked impatiently, reaching out to his mother.

- "Very soon, dear. He promised he'd be home today,"

Eris soothed him, stroking his head.

- "My father, Victor Hans. He went to aid the neighboring village. He led a squad of five men, and four adventurers joined them. If I had such a warrior in my previous life, he would have quickly risen to the rank of Commander,"

Lawrence thought, analyzing his father.

In the distance, silhouettes of approaching riders appeared. Eris's heart raced faster, and her face could no longer contain her joy. As the group drew nearer, Victor's face was lit with a smile. He waved to his family and dismounted from his horse as soon as he reached the gates.

- "I'm home!"

He exclaimed joyfully, spreading his arms wide.

Eris rushed to him, embracing him tightly. Lawrence wasted no time and hugged his father's leg. Victor laughed, lifting his son into his arms.

- "How I've missed you!"

He said, kissing Lawrence on the cheek and holding Eris close.

- "My dear son! I sincerely apologize for missing your birthday! From the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you on your recent birthday!"

Victor said, looking at Lawrence.

Loren, who had stood a bit aside, also came forward to greet Victor.

- "Welcome home, Mr. Victor. We've all been eagerly waiting for you,"

She said respectfully.

Victor nodded in thanks and led everyone inside, continuing to embrace his son. Along the way, he shared tales of his adventures, how the village helped their neighbors recover from the attack of magical wolves, and how he taught the locals the basics of self-defense.

A festive table was already set at home, and the aroma of delicious food filled the air. The family gathered to celebrate Victor's return—not just as the head of the household but as a hero who had protected not only his village but also the neighboring one.

- "Now that we're together, let's celebrate this day. To our family, to our village, and to the peace we build together!"

Victor proclaimed, raising his glass to family happiness.

Everyone at the table loudly supported Victor's toast.

After a delicious dinner, Shelly, Loren, and the servants continued their work. Victor and Eris headed to Lawrence's room.

- "Dear, Lawrence has missed you terribly,"

Eris said.

- "I know... To miss such an important celebration! How could I?"

Victor said bitterly.

Victor and Eris stood before the door to Lawrence's room. Clenching his fists, Victor gritted his teeth, trying to calm himself. Eris stood by him, trying to offer support.

- "Dear, it's not your fault. The people needed you. And you helped them! Lawrence isn't angry with you and holds no grudges. Believe me,"

Eris said softly, patting Victor on the back.

- "Sigh, blaming myself won't help either,"

Victor said, calming down.

They slowly opened the door and entered Lawrence's room. Eris stayed by the door while Victor walked slowly to Lawrence's bed. Lawrence, hearing the creak of the door, looked up sharply.

- "Papa? Is that you?"

Lawrence said unclearly.

- "Yes! It's Papa!"

Victor exclaimed loudly.

Sitting beside the bed, Victor began joyfully telling Lawrence about his journey. Meanwhile, Eris left the room, closing the door behind her, and headed to the living room. Victor continued telling stories late into the night, animatedly gesticulating to bring his tales to life.

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Listening attentively and watching his father, Lawrence felt genuine happiness and joy. Many stories were told, but one captivated Lawrence more than the others.

- "And now, son, I'll tell you about my youth!"

Victor said, transitioning from one story to another.

- "When I was 17, I applied to the Adventurers' Guild. Of course, it was far from home, but that didn't stop me! In my youth, I firmly decided to become a great hero! And to start, I needed to earn some renown. As soon as I approached the Adventurers' Guild..."

Victor continued his tale as Lawrence listened intently and with interest.

- "An adventurer? Father has given me a good idea,"

Lawrence thought, continuing to listen to Victor.

- "I saw a large building, unlike the rest. The Adventurers' Guild stood out with its sturdy and robust appearance. Built of dark grey stone with wooden paneling elements, the entrance is adorned with a wide arch and heavy oak doors, above which hangs a sign with the guild's symbol—a crossed sword and staff. Look, I still have a pendant with that symbol."

Victor showed a round medallion he always carried. Lawrence looked closely, took the medallion in his tiny hands, and turned it over.

The medallion, made of silver alloy, had tarnished and was covered with a thin layer of patina, giving it an antique look. The front side of the medallion featured the guild's symbol in relief—a crossed sword and staff surrounded by a circle. Over time, the symbol had partially worn away but was still clearly visible.

The back of the pendant showed signs of wear and numerous small scratches, evidence of the previous owner's numerous adventures. The top part was adorned with a tiny ring for a chain or leather cord, but the ring was somewhat worn and oxidized.

After looking at the medallion, Lawrence returned it to Victor and asked him to continue the story. Victor smiled slightly and continued:

- "Someday you could become an adventurer too if you wish. Ahem... Continuing!"

- "The building's roof featured weather vanes and several small turrets, giving it a fairytale appearance. The windows are tall with protective grilles, through which warm light seeps. Around the guild, there is a small but well-maintained garden with ornamental shrubs and benches for rest.

It was an incredible sight! If you could have seen it! But the most interesting part is yet to come, Lawrence!

- "When I entered the building, the Adventurers' Guild had a spacious lobby with high ceilings. The walls are adorned with trophies: monster heads, ancient weapons, and adventure maps. The main area is divided into several zones: a reception area where new adventurers can register or receive assignments, and a large rest hall with wooden tables and benches where one can grab a bite to eat and discuss the latest adventures.

- Behind the reception is an arsenal where weapons and ammunition are stored, available to novices for their first assignments. There are also several secluded offices for expedition leaders and veterans, where they can plan their journeys or train recruits. The lighting in the guild is soft, with most fixtures designed like antique lanterns, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

- Every detail of the interior emphasizes the guild's martial and exploratory spirit, making it not just a gathering point for assignments but a home for many of its members, including me once."

Just as Victor was about to continue, Eris approached quietly from behind. With a stern look and an intimidating aura, she grabbed Victor by the collar.

- "Seems you got a bit carried away, dear! Don't you think?"

Eris asked menacingly, dragging him towards the exit while wishing Lawrence sweet dreams.

- "Son! Help me! Laaaaawreeeence!!!"

Victor cried out, half-jokingly and plaintively.

- "...better not to anger Mom..."

Lawrence thought.

Falling back from a sitting position onto the soft bed, Lawrence couldn't fall asleep for a long time, thinking about Victor's fascinating story.

- "Someday I'll become an adventurer too!"

Lawrence said, looking at the star-studded sky through the window.