Chapter 3:
Eden Stone of Eternity
“Argh!” Duen groaned, shielding his eyes from the harsh light with his hands. As the glare faded and his vision cleared, he found himself lying in bed, staring up at a rustic wooden ceiling.
“Where am I? Is this just another dream?” he muttered, his voice tinged with confusion. Sunlight streamed through an open window, casting a golden glow across his face.
The fiery baby bird appeared beside Duen’s face, bumping his cheek with an air of agitation. Then, it pecked Duen’s nose with its tiny beak. “Ouch!” Duen exclaimed, a mix of pain and annoyance in his voice. He instinctively swatted at the baby bird, but his hand passed through it. The ethereal bird fluttered outside the window, leaving behind a trail of radiant light.
“Hey! Where are you going?” Duen cried out, tossing off the covers and rushing to the window, only to realize he was clad in nothing but a pair of shorts.
Peering out the window, an astonishing scene unfolded before him. Quaint cottages, their thatched roofs crowned with smoking chimneys, created a picturesque setting. Trees and lush greenery framed the landscape, while in the distance, a tranquil lake mirrored the brilliance of the morning sun. People in medieval attire strolled by, adding to the surreal ambiance.
“What’s happening here?” Duen muttered in confusion, surveying the cozy, wood-furnished room. It felt as though he had been transported to a different realm entirely.
As he absorbed his surroundings, a blonde-haired girl on the bed slowly sat up, her smile carrying a hint of sensuality. “Good morning, you’re up?” she purred, playfully pulling the covers closer to her cleavage, leaving little to the imagination.
“Sorry, do I know you?” asked Duen, his voice tinged with bewilderment.
The girl’s expression shifted, a hint of irritation coloring her features. “You forgot my name? That’s how you thank your savior? I should have left you by the stream last night,” she retorted, annoyance blending with playful exasperation in her tone.
“Duen! Is that you, buddy?” A familiar voice called from the street, drawing Duen’s attention to the window. “Leon! Oh my god! Leon, what’s happening, why is…” Duen started, his words trailing off as he noticed Leon dressed in medieval attire.
“Duen Tytus! You’re alive! Thank Lord Father!” Leon interrupted, his relief evident in his voice. “Tytus? Who’s Duen Tytus?” Duen thought, furrowing his brow as he gazed at Leon. The lady by Duen’s side also approached the window, prompting Leon to tease, “Oh my… you’re such a legend! Defying death and appearing with a goddess.”
“No, it’s not what you think. This is really weird,” Duen confessed, his face flushed with embarrassment.
“Hey, I’m running late. I’ve got to go!” Leon exclaimed urgently, his voice tinged with haste.
“Wait, Leon, wait for me!” Duen called out, frantically searching his room for clothes. Turning to the blonde girl, he added, “I’m sorry, you have to go. Thank you for helping, by the way,” awkwardly conveying his gratitude as he dashed downstairs.
Before leaving, Duen’s gaze lingered on a portrait of a younger him and a familiar old man. “Old man Gus, this dream has everyone I know in it?” he whispered to himself, surrealism washing over him.
“This town, where am I?” Duen pondered aloud as he stepped out of the gate of his residence. “Duen Tytus! I am so glad you’re alive!” Leon exclaimed, enveloping Duen in a tight, relieved hug.
“Leon Coleman, what’s going on?” Duen’s voice carried uncertainty, as if he were trapped in a bewildering dream.
“What do you mean? And it’s not Coleman, it’s Kingsman, Leon Kingsman,” Leon corrected, a puzzled expression on his face as he glanced toward the gate just as the blonde girl emerged from Duen’s residence.
“Wait, did you actually abandon that mission and go having fun without me?” Leon quipped, playfully pointing a finger at Duen.
Just outside Duen’s residence, a familiar girl with flowing brown hair froze in her tracks as she caught sight of Duen. “Duen is alive!” she gasped, her relief palpable. “He didn’t die in that beast hunt. Thank God that idiot’s okay,” she murmured to herself.
“No, I don’t actually know what happened, Leon,” Duen explained, his tone tinged with confusion.
“Come on! We have just enough time to grab a quick bite before work, and you can tell me everything,” Leon urged, a sense of urgency propelling him forward. As he hurried Duen along, the blonde-haired girl playfully blew a kiss, leaving Duen waving goodbye with an awkward smile.
A man with silver hair and a matching beard strolled alongside a gentleman, deeply engrossed in conversation, their voices melding into the air. Clad in a crisply tailored black suit and clutching a polished cane, the man came to an abrupt halt as his gaze locked onto Duen. The bespectacled gentleman, his arms laden with thick books, mirrored the sudden pause, their synchronized attention now fixed on Duen.
“Duen, it’s your old man!” Leon exclaimed.
“Gramps!” Duen’s voice filled with affection as he dashed toward Gus. The old man, Gus, froze for a moment, his eyes brimming with emotion, before quickening his pace to meet Duen. He gripped Duen’s shoulder firmly.
“You made it back… thank God!” Gus exclaimed with a mix of relief and joy. However, his mood soured as he noticed the blonde-haired girl.
“Were you out having fun all this while, while we were searching for you? You imbecile!” Gus bellowed, raising his walking cane threateningly.
“Hah! He’s legendary, Professor Gus!” Leon yelled as he grabbed Duen by the shoulder and pushed him out of harm’s way. The both of them bolted down the street.
Gus brandished his walking stick angrily in the air as he yelled at Duen, his voice laced with frustration. “If that’s what happened, I’ll break your leg when you get back!”
As Gus observed Duen’s sprint towards the bustling marketplace, he took a moment to compose himself. “Excuse me,” he uttered, regaining his composure.
“Good morning, Professor Gus. How are you? It’s good that Duen is safe and well,” said the young lady as she approached the both of them, offering a polite bow before sweeping her brown hair behind her ears.
“Lia, good morning! How are you? I’m sorry you had to see that, that good-for-nothing,” Gus apologized with a hint of frustration in his voice. He exhaled deeply, a furrow forming on his brow as he paused, lost in thought for a brief moment.
“Lia, would you like to join us for some tea?” asked Fred, extending the invitation with a warm smile.
“Thank you, but I need to run some errands for my dad,” Lia declined politely, offering a gentle smile.
“Alright, you be on your way,” Gus nodded with a kind smile. Lia bowed in acknowledgment and continued her path.
“Come, Fred, let us finish the discussion,” Gus suggested with a smile. “Yes, my pleasure, Professor,” Fred replied as they resumed their journey.
Under the brilliant sun, Duen and Leon darted into the bustling market square. “I saved your life, buddy!” laughed Leon. “That’s exactly the same Gus,” Duen gasped, his throat tightening with emotion. They slowed amidst the crowd, navigating through the lively stalls overflowing with an array of goods.
The market buzzed with activity. Stalls offered the freshest produce, succulent meats, and an enticing aroma of grilled delicacies filled the air. Merchants haggled with customers, adding to the lively ambiance.
As Duen passed a stall, his gaze settled on a mound of round, pink fruit. They were the size of balls, with smooth, pinkish skins. “Try this, lad, Bottelix fruit is in season!” bellowed a man with a stubble, offering Duen a neatly sliced piece on a plate. “Bottelix fruit? What’s that?” Duen inquired as he accepted the fruit skewered on a stick.
“This is my favorite, can I sample one, please?” Leon asked, reaching out for a piece.
“Go on! Sweet Bottelix Fruit, 2 silvers for one!” the vendor eagerly announced. Duen observed as Leon eagerly devoured his slice and grinned at him. Taking a small bite, Duen was amazed by the fruit’s taste. The flesh was juicy with a sweet honey flavor, accompanied by a lingering buttery and floral fragrance. “Wow…” Duen thought as he finished the serving in the next bite.
“We’ll buy one once we get our wage today, sir!” Leon declared as he urged Duen forward. Duen couldn’t help but smile. “This is nice,” he remarked, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
“Yup! The marketplace never fails to lift your spirits. They sell everything here, even seafood imported by merchants from the bustling port city of Celia,” Leon added enthusiastically.
As they navigated through the crowd, Duen couldn’t resist asking, “Leon, who was the guy with old man Gus?”
“With Professor Gus? That’s Fred, Havone’s Imperial Scholar. They handle research and report directly to the Royal Advisor on Beasts and Spirit Stones,” Leon clarified.
“Beasts and Spirit Stones? And what about the old man? Why did you call him professor?” Duen inquired, his brow furrowing in confusion.
“Prof Gus teaches spirit enchantment at Havone Imperial College,” Leon explained, mirroring Duen’s puzzlement. “Havone’s Imperial College?” Duen mumbled, appearing confused. “Duen, did you bump your head or something? Let’s grab a bite and talk,” Leon suggested, his tone tinged with concern.
“Come on, Duen, this way!” Leon called out, leading him toward a delightful aroma permeating the air. Duen inhaled deeply, relishing the familiar scent of freshly baked bread.
Approaching the bakery, they stumbled upon a commotion. “You are way past on your taxes, Antonio. When will you be paying?” a Havone Soldier demanded sternly.
The soldier, armored and imposing, confronted a plump middle-aged man clad in a flour-dusted apron, who appeared to be the bakery’s owner. His petite and pretty daughter stood quietly behind him, a hint of worry in her eyes.
“Lord Pete, business has been slow. We know how important the tithes are for the Holy Kingdom. I seek more time; I’m sure I’ll be able to make good in the next three weeks,” Antonio, the bakery owner, pleaded.
“Isn’t that Pete? Manager Pete from Sphere? Why is he in this dream too?” Duen muttered to himself, recognizing the imposing figure.
“Next three weeks… then you will be behind on the next cycle again, isn’t it?” Pete boomed, his voice echoing with authority as he emphasized his point with animated gestures.
At that moment, the crowd collectively shifted to the side, heads bowing in unison. A man with neatly cropped blonde hair, adorned in a regal crown, resplendent royal attire, and a flowing red cape, walked through the hushed assembly. Duen couldn’t help but notice a mole on his face, a distinguishing feature.
His presence prompted everyone to prostrate themselves in reverence. Beside him stood a tall, striking knight, his long silvery hair cascading like moonlight. A white cape billowed behind him as he moved with grace, flanked by imperial guards in gleaming full armor.
“It’s Crown Prince Anton of Havone, Duen, kneel!” Leon urged in a hushed tone. Duen followed suit, lowering himself to the ground with his head respectfully bowed.
“Please rise, what is this commotion about?” Prince Anton inquired with regal poise.
“Your Highness, it’s the tithe collections, and Antonio is behind again,” Pete explained, his voice resonating with authority.
“Your Highness! I just need a little more time. I’m sure in three weeks, we will be able to pay up,” Antonio implored, still kneeling as he raised his eyes to meet the gaze of the Crown Prince.
“The tithe is used to uphold the Holy Kingdom and spread the blessings of Lord Father,” Prince Anton reminded them with a sense of duty.
“Yes, Your Highness, we do not want to disappoint our beloved King. We will make good; I just need more time,” Antonio pleaded earnestly.
“Please, Your Highness,” Antonio’s daughter added her plea, her eyes brimming with sincerity.
“Your Highness, may I speak, please?” requested the silver-haired knight. “Certainly, Sir William Beowulf. Please, speak your mind,” replied Prince Anton, granting him permission with a nod.
With a graceful sweep of his white cape, Sir William Beowulf stood and addressed the Crown Prince. “Your Highness, Antonio has been sending money to a relative in another town to help him. His business is thriving, and I am certain he will be able to fulfill the next tithing. Please grant him this extension,” William Beowulf implored, bowing with a sense of reverence and conviction in his voice.
“The Holy Kingdom of Havone is magnanimous. We shall grant the extension, Pete, please see to it,” Prince Anton graciously declared, earning cheers from Antonio and the assembled crowd.
“Thank you, Your Highness! Thank you, Lord Father! Oh, Sir William! How can I repay you for your kind words?” Antonio exclaimed, warmly embracing William Beowulf.
“Please, I am simply serving Lord Father’s people; this is my duty,” William Beowulf replied with a gracious smile, his humility drawing a group of admiring young girls closer.
Duen, ever observant, noticed the Crown Prince engaging in a hushed conversation with Pete, who nodded in acknowledgment of the royal directive.
Suddenly, his stomach growled, and he was drawn by the aroma of freshly baked bread.
“Leon, the bread smells incredible,” Duen remarked, inhaling deeply. “I’m famished too. Let’s grab a bite in there,” Leon agreed, his enthusiasm evident. Inside the bakery, a tantalizing array of pastries, sandwiches, and loaves awaited them. Duen scanned the offerings, drawn to the mouthwatering display, while Leon swiftly secured two hearty sandwich loaves before heading to the counter.
As they waited to pay, Duen inadvertently caught snippets of the conversation between Antonio and his daughter.
“Clara, Lord Pete mentioned that the Crown Prince wishes to extend an invitation to you for the next palace ball. It’s a great honor. You should attend; it might even lead to more favorable terms on the tithe,” Antonio explained, his tone hopeful.
“Of course, Papa, I understand,” Clara replied, her hands deftly packing bread for the customers in line. With a warm smile, she added, “Thank you for your patronage. Please visit us again soon.”
Leon returned her smile warmly, and together they exited the bakery, each clutching their freshly acquired loaves of bread.
Exiting Antonio’s bakery, Duen couldn’t help but notice the cluster of young ladies still gathered around William Beowulf.
“That man is my hero, Duen. The pride of Havone, known as the Silverwolf of the Temporal Order,” Leon exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with admiration for the knight.
“Silverwolf… what exactly is the Temporal Order, Leon?” Duen inquired, his interest piqued.
“Whoa, you’re giving me chills,” Leon teased, lightly tapping Duen’s forehead as if checking for a fever. Duen swatted his hand away, feeling perfectly healthy.
“Come on, I’ll fill you in as we walk,” Leon declared between bites of his sandwich loaf. “The Temporal Knights are the highest order of knights in Havone,” he explained as they strolled along. “They answer directly to the Holy King Klaus Graham,” Leon added with reverence. “Joining them means wealth, prestige, respect, and power!” he enthused.
“The Kingdom of Havone holds grueling selection trials to seek out Temporal Knights every few months,” Leon continued, his voice brimming with pride. “Ambitious men and soldiers from across the lands vie for the honor, but the standards are sky-high,” he explained between bites of his sandwich loaf. “Currently, there are only nine of them, led by the Royal Advisor Beatrice Odessa,” Leon concluded.
With his mouth full of the savory sandwich loaf, Duen mumbled, “That name rings a bell.” “What was that?” Leon asked, but before Duen could speak, Leon continued.
“My dream is to become a Temporal Knight like the Silverwolf, revered and cherished by all!” Leon beamed as they walked, his determination evident.
“I’m putting in the work, and one day, I’ll be among the ranks of the Temporal Knights,” Leon declared, flexing his muscles playfully even with his mouth full. Duen couldn’t help but chuckle.
“I’m not there yet, though. Did you see the muscles on the Silverwolf?” Leon continued, his tone brimming with aspiration. “They say he’s never lost a battle, thanks to Lord Father’s blessing. Aren’t we fortunate to be under such divine protection, Duen?” Leon mused.
Duen’s attention veered away from the conversation, his focus captured by a familiar, flickering light near the stream.
“That light… It’s the bird!” he exclaimed, a surge of excitement prompting him to dash toward the stream. “Hey, where are you going? Wait up!” Leon called out, hurrying to catch up with Duen.
Arriving at the stream, Duen’s eyes fixated on the shimmering stone. The familiar diamond-white gem was nestled in a dagger, resting delicately on the rocks by the stream’s edge. He picked it up, examining it closely.
“This stone, it’s identical to the one in my pendant,” Duen murmured as he reached for his necklace, only to find it missing. In its place, the exact same diamond-white stone was securely nestled in the dagger. “Why is it in this dagger?” Duen pondered, scrutinizing the blade under the sunlight.
The diamond-white stone glimmered in the sunlight. “The Stone of Eternity,” he whispered, memories flooding back of the mysterious voice. The fiery baby bird materialized and perched on his shoulder.
“Esh! That’s your name, isn’t it?” Duen addressed the fiery baby bird, which affectionately rubbed his cheek with its head. Duen smiled warmly in response.
“Duen, who were you talking to? And why is your dagger in the stream?” Leon inquired, approaching with a mix of confusion and curiosity. “Isn’t that your family’s heirloom? Wow, I’ve never seen that spirit stone up close. It’s huge, and it could be worth a lot!” he exclaimed, examining the dagger closely.
“Have you ever had the stone appraised?” Leon continued, his curiosity piqued.
But Leon’s questions couldn’t divert Duen from his search for Esh, the fiery baby bird that had vanished upon Leon’s arrival. “Leon, did you see that fiery bird?” Duen asked, scanning the area for any sign of Esh.
“What bird? Damn! We’re late! We need to run, or they’ll dock our pay!” Leon suddenly exclaimed, urging Duen to hurry. Duen swiftly sheathed the dagger in a leather holder on his belt before they took off running. As they dashed, Duen couldn’t shake the thought of the enigmatic fiery bird and the diamond-white stone. He couldn’t help but wonder if he was the only one who could see Esh.
“Wait, where are we headed, Leon?” Duen questioned as they dashed along.
“To work. We’re off to the mines,” Leon replied, quickening his pace. In the distance, industrial buildings belched smoke and steam, while the rumbling machinery filled the air with its rhythm.
“What kind of work do we do at the mines?” Duen pressed, his curiosity growing.
“We mine for spirit stones, Duen. Stones that contain spirit energy,” Leon explained, giving Duen a quizzical look. “That’s a spirit stone you’ve got there!” he pointed at Duen’s dagger. “Maybe one day we’ll strike it rich finding a live stone. Though I heard you won’t ever find them in the mines. But I’m an optimist,” Leon grinned.
“What’s the deal with these stones?” Duen probed, his thoughts now fixated on unraveling the mysteries surrounding the diamond-white stone and the fiery bird.
“Duen, seriously, all this talk today… I wonder what really went down during that hunt. Any memories coming back?” Leon asked, genuine concern etched on his face.
“Honestly, not much. But I’m trying to piece things together,” Duen confessed, his mind still swirling with unanswered questions.
“At least you’re alive, that’s what matters most,” Leon offered, a reassuring note in his voice.
“Your old man, Prof. Gus, would be the most qualified to explain spirit stones,” Leon began, his tone growing more informative.
“Spirit energy runs in every living creature,” said Leon, delving into the topic. “Over time, as living creatures pass away, their spirit energy accumulates in the veins of the earth and solidifies to form spirit stones,” he continued, his explanation concise yet comprehensive. “And there are only two types of spirit stones,” he elaborated. “The first type are dead stones, remnants of a beast. They contain limited spirit energy and are primarily used as tools for heating or to power machinery.”
“The second type are live stones, which house the living spirit of the beast. These stones are rare, harboring denser amounts of spirit energy, and they’re highly sought after,” Leon added, emphasizing their significance. “A user of the spirit stone can tap into the energies of the beast, merging their spirit with the beast’s, enabling them to manipulate elements, matter, and the environment to their will,” he elucidated, simplifying a complex concept.
“Then, of course, there’s affinity,” Leon continued. “The stronger the affinity between the wielder and the spirit, the more potent their manipulation of the elements becomes. I’m no expert on affinity, so you should definitely ask your old man about it,” he advised, concluding his explanation with a practical suggestion.
“As miners, we mainly serve the merchants contracted by Havone,” Leon explained. “Kingdoms far and wide, the Havone Imperial Army, and nobles alike seek these stones for weapons, trade, commerce, and to power machinery,” he elaborated, underlining the stones’ broad significance. “It’s believed that the possessor of the ultimate spirit stone wields ultimate power. The Holy Kingdom of Havone employs potent spirit stones for our protection. Each Temporal Knight is rumored to possess the ability to manipulate the forces of nature,” Leon proudly declared, his voice filled with admiration.
“One day, Duen, we’ll unearth an Ancient-grade Stone and strike it rich!” Leon cheered with enthusiasm. Duen smiled warmly, nodding in agreement. Leon’s unwavering optimism and ambition provided a comforting sense of familiarity.
As they reached the entrance of the mine, a Havone Guard stopped them abruptly. “Where’s your pass?” the guard demanded. Leon handed over his pass, and the guard scrutinized it closely. In a hushed tone, Leon asked Duen, “Where’s yours?”
“What pass? I don’t have any pass,” Duen admitted.
“You boys are late! God dammit, I’m deducting your wage!” shouted a pudgy man with a thick mustache as he approached. “Mr. Ricardo! Duen’s back! He lost his pass!” Leon quickly explained.
“Duen? My Starboy? Good God, they said you were a goner, and now you’re back,” the pudgy man exclaimed, examining Duen closely. “Let them through; my boy is the best guy out here! He found a big one a fortnight ago!” Ricardo vouched to the Havone guard, securing their entry into the mine. Leon winked at Duen, who smiled back at him.
Entering the mining area, Duen witnessed a scene of unwavering toil and determination. Miners, coated in grime and sweat, worked tirelessly, clutching pickaxes and shovels as they sifted through earth and spirit stones.
Each miner had a sizable sieve before them, where they separated valuable spirit stones from the soil. Leon wasted no time, grabbing a helmet and shovel, urging Duen to follow suit. Together, they descended into the depths of the mine, guided only by flickering candle lamps.
The tunnels formed a labyrinth of rough stone and earth, illuminated by the faint glow of the lamps. The air hung heavy with dampness and dust, every breath a weight. Wooden beams crisscrossed the passages, providing essential support against collapse.
Amidst the dim light, miners toiled relentlessly, the echo of their tools reverberating through the tunnels—a symphony of labor in the depths of the earth.
Occasionally, the tunnels opened into expansive chambers where groups of miners congregated to extract spirit stones from the walls. These precious gems emitted a soft, ethereal glow, casting a mystic ambiance in the otherwise drab surroundings.
After what felt like a mere passing of time, Duen’s shovel struck something unyielding in the earth. With careful precision, he uncovered a gleaming sight – two large spirit stones.
“Huge, haven’t seen something that big in weeks,” remarked Leon, giving Duen a pat on the back. “How do you keep doing that?” he whispered in awe.
“I just happened to chance upon it,” Duen replied, wiping sweat off his brow.
“One for you, Ricardo, and one for us, fair!” Leon added cheekily, slipping one stone into the bag and discreetly tucking the other into Duen’s pocket. Duen stared at him momentarily before chuckling in amusement. Leon had always been the street-smart guy, and he remained exactly the same in this unfamiliar world. Amidst the surreal surroundings, his familiar presence offered a comforting anchor.
Soon, the whistle sounded, signaling the end of mining hours. As they made their way out of the mine, a voice called out. “Stop! Routine check!” yelled guards in the distance, their approach casting a shadow of unease. Both froze in their tracks, panic swelling in Leon. “Shit,” he muttered under his breath.
Duen recognized one of the Havone soldiers—it was Pete. He walked over and fixed his gaze on Duen. “Haven’t I seen you before?” Pete asked in his booming voice. “I’m quite sure we’ve met,” replied Duen cautiously, recalling their encounters at Sphere Inc.
“Ah, I remember now! You’re the cocky guy who joined as a mercenary for that botched hunt,” Pete declared with a booming voice, his tone animated and inquisitive.
“The report said the whole strike force was wiped out, how did you…” wondered Pete, his tone still perplexed. Leon quickly chimed in, looking at Duen. “He abandoned the hunt! Right?”
Duen nodded in agreement, though he could feel Pete’s penetrating scrutiny, making him increasingly uncomfortable. It seemed Pete knew Duen was hiding something, and beads of sweat formed on his forehead.
The silence shattered as a Havone guard exclaimed, lifting Duen’s dagger into the air. The diamond-white spirit stone gleamed, capturing Pete’s intense scrutiny. “Search them!” Pete commanded, his voice authoritative, prompting the guards to spring into action, conducting thorough body searches on both Duen and Leon.
“Hey, hey!” Leon protested loudly, his voice echoing with indignation.
Panic coursed through Duen as the guards meticulously patted him down, their probing hands leaving him feeling exposed and vulnerable. Anxious glances were exchanged between Duen and Leon, their apprehension palpable.
After a tense moment, the guard declared, “Nothing here,” eliciting a collective sigh of relief from Duen and Leon.
Leon intervened, coming to Duen’s defense. “Sir, that’s his family heirloom, and he has the certificate to prove it!” he interjected, gesturing towards the dagger. Duen, still rattled by the ordeal, stammered, “Yes, I do! I do,” his voice trembling with nerves.
Pete signaled for the dagger to be returned, his suspicious gaze lingering on Duen. “If I find anything illegal, I will lock you up,” he warned, his voice booming with authority. Gesturing to the surroundings, he emphasized, “The mine belongs to the Holy Kingdom. Theft is a betrayal of Lord Father and carries severe consequences.”
“We understand, sir. We are faithful servants of Lord Father,” Leon affirmed, seeking solidarity from Duen, who nodded in agreement, eager to allay any doubts.
“Line up for your wages!” Ricardo’s voice echoed in the distance, accompanied by the whistle signaling the end of the workday. Leon’s face brightened. “Off work!” he exclaimed, his excitement contagious. “Time flies with good company,” he added mischievously, sharing a smile with Duen.
As Pete and the guards departed, Leon called out, “Thank you, sir! Join us at the tavern tonight, with the ladies!” Despite Leon’s invitation, there was no response from Pete and the guards as they walked away. Leon and Duen smiled, breathing a collective sigh of relief.
“That was intense. I don’t really like him. I wonder if it’s gonna be the same working under him in Sphere,” Duen expressed his unease.
“Working under him? We don’t work under him, Duen,” corrected Leon. “He’s just here to catch the mice,” he added dismissively. “And I’m sure he’s the exception. The Temporal Knights certainly do not behave in this way,” Leon asserted proudly.
“My heart stopped just now, where is it?” asked Leon, his concern evident. “Here!” grinned Duen as he lifted his boot, revealing the large spirit stone nestled in the soft mud. He had deftly dropped it and stepped over it the moment they were confronted.
“Nice! You truly are a legend; that was amazing!” praised Leon. “Now, to sell this!” he declared, walking over to the fence and tossing the stone over with a satisfying plop as it landed on the grass. They then joined the queue to have their documents stamped and collect their day’s wage.
Ricardo couldn’t contain his admiration as he stamped Duen’s documents. “Wow! Another big one from you! You really are my Starboy!” He pulled out an additional silver coin from his purse and handed it to Duen. “Your reward! Just do this and stop going for those dangerous beast hunts!” Ricardo advised.
“Thanks,” Duen responded with gratitude and a smile. “Thank you, Ricardo. See you around!” Leon added as he spun a coin pouch with his fingers.
Exiting the mines, they hurried over to the grassy spot where they had left the spirit stone. “What are you gonna do with that, Leon?” Duen inquired as Leon swiftly tucked the spirit stone into his pocket.
“Sell it! We’ll split it 50/50, like always! And I know just the person to go to,” replied Leon with a big grin.
As the sun started to set, they returned to Havone. Its rays cast a beautiful orange glow, painting the town square in warm colors.
“Come on, we are going to Nightingale Weaponsmith! It’s that shop, over there,” said Leon.
Ring! The doorbell chimed as Duen entered. “This is the place, Leon?” Duen asked. As he took a step forward, he nearly tripped over someone who was bent over.
“Whoa!” Duen exclaimed, regaining his balance. “Excuse me! I’m sorry about that,” said Lia apologetically as she stood up. Duen stood there, frozen, finding himself face to face with Lia. The familiar long brown hair, captivating face, and the floral scent of her hair greeted him. She looked exactly the same, only now she was clad in medieval attire.
“Lia Curtiss, you’re here too! And your hair smells great,” Duen blurted out, his excitement getting the best of him before realizing how odd that must have sounded. Lia was taken aback and appeared surprised by his comment.
“Who’s Curtiss?” Lia inquired, her brow furrowing. Leon turned around and hid his face in his palms while Duen squirmed, recalling that everyone here seemed to have different last names from the people he knew.
“And that pickup line is lame, do girls really fall for that?” asked Lia sarcastically, her teasing smile evident. “And you smell funky,” she added, playfully teasing Duen.
“Sorry! It was a hot day!” responded Duen, starting to feel self-conscious. “Yeah! We were working hard at the mines!” exclaimed Leon with a smile.
Lia smiled at them and added, “Anyway, I’m glad you came back safely. You two… how can I help you?”
The Nightingale Weaponsmith was a sight to behold, with rows of meticulously handcrafted weapons ranging from greatswords to daggers and spears. Some of the blades bore beautiful, shiny hues that caught Duen’s eye. He examined a blade with a gentle light blue glow that seemed to pulse intermittently.
“Wow, this is beautiful,” Duen remarked, closely inspecting the intricate blade.
“Thank you for that; I take great pride in our blades,” Lia responded, her eyes shining with pride. As Duen expressed his admiration, Leon felt a sense of relief, thinking, “Duen finally said something smart, goodness.”
“We crafted this blade to the specifications of the buyer’s request,” Lia continued proudly. “Feel free to hold it.” She then carefully removed the blade from its stand and handed it to Duen.
Duen carefully examined the beautifully crafted blade, slightly longer than a dagger, noticing the blue spirit stone embedded in the hilt and the mesmerizing blue glow emanating from the blade.
“How is it that these blades exhibit such stunning colors?” inquired Duen.
“The spirit stone alters the material aspects of the weapon,” explained Lia.
“So the blade takes on the color of the spirit stone?” asked Duen. Lia smiled and nodded.
“Is this a live stone, Lia?” Duen continued, pointing to the blue spirit stone in the blade.
“Yes, it is. The Stone of Astacama, a species of feline beast from the frozen regions of Kashmur in the south. They are masters of the hunt in that harsh environment. This is a rare-grade stone,” said Lia with a nod.
Duen continued his inquiries, “Rare grade… Are there different grades of these spirit stones?”
Lia, starting to feel somewhat puzzled by Duen’s basic questions about spirit stones, replied, “Of course, there are.”
“Which reminds me, can you appraise this and tell me how much it’s worth?” Leon interrupted, retrieving the dirty spirit stone from his pocket. Lia paused for a moment, her gaze shifting to the spirit stone in Leon’s hand. She took the stone from Leon and walked to her counter. Placing the stone in an elaborate apparatus resembling a microscope, she examined the stone closely through the scope.
“It’s a substantial stone, with a decent amount of spirit energy stored in it,” Lia remarked as she studied the stone. “Sure, how much will it fetch?” asked Leon, eager for a valuation.
“It’s a dead stone, but given its size, it should fetch a pretty penny,” Lia concluded. She noticed the exchange of looks between Leon and Duen and raised an eyebrow.
“Where’s the certificate, Duen?” Lia asked sternly, her tone laced with suspicion. “What certificate?” Duen stammered in response, caught off guard by the question.
“You stole this?” Lia inquired, her gaze piercing into Duen’s eyes before shifting to Leon. Just as Duen struggled to respond, Leon interjected, coming to his rescue.
“Found!” Leon exclaimed, attempting to diffuse the tension. Lia, however, remained unimpressed.
“That’s illegal. You can go to jail for it. You know very well I won’t risk my family name for this,” Lia stated firmly, passing the stone back to Leon and crossing her arms, clearly disapproving of their actions.
Leon smiled and confidently took the stone. “Of course, we have a certificate. We’ll be back with it,” he assured Lia, punctuating his words with a sly wink. Duen couldn’t help but smile; it was exactly what Leon would have said. Leon signaled to Duen to leave.
“See you around, Lia,” Duen said as he turned to leave but couldn’t resist stealing one more glance at her.
Lia waved goodbye but maintained a stern gaze. She had known the boys since childhood and could tell they didn’t actually have a certificate for the spirit stone.
As they prepared to depart, the bell above the door chimed, and a middle-aged man entered. Leon bowed while Duen greeted him. “Good day, Mr. Anderson,” said Duen, who was becoming accustomed to encountering everyone he knew in this surreal dream.
Mr. Anderson nodded without uttering a word, his gaze lingering on Duen as he exited the shop. Mr. Anderson’s attention swiftly returned to his daughter as soon as they both left. “Hi, Papa,” Lia greeted her father.
“Is everything okay, Lia? What’s that boy doing here? We don’t deal with dodgy people,” Mr. Anderson inquired.
“I know that, Papa, but he does have something interesting once in a while. Business has been slow this week,” Lia replied solemnly, her head slightly lowered.
“Yes, it’s been a while since we auctioned a decent live stone or crafted a high-grade weapon. We need new deals,” Mr. Anderson expressed his concern. He then added, “By the way, can you pick up something from the Havone armory for me? Just show this letter to the guard.”
Lia nodded, taking the letter from her father.
As dusk settled, Duen and Leon parted ways in the town square. “Hey, go get changed, and I’ll see you at the tavern, okay?” said Leon.
“At the tavern? Got it,” replied Duen as he headed back to his residence.
After washing up and donning fresh clothes, Duen navigated through the dimming streets toward the town square. Night had descended, casting shadows over the cobblestone pathways. Most of the shops had shuttered for the day, but a growing throng of people caught Duen’s attention, drawing him toward the gathering.
Approaching the commotion, Duen beheld a fireplace illuminating Havone’s plaza. An elderly man, clad in a flowing white robe and sandals, stood by the flames, an aura of wisdom enveloping him.
Around the fire, a congregation had assembled, their faces aglow with the fire’s soft orange light. Enthusiastic children clustered in the front rows, eager for the man’s tales. The flickering flames cast an enchanting aura over the scene, shrouding it in mystery.
Feeling a tap on his shoulder, Duen turned to find Lia. “Lia!” he exclaimed, a genuine smile gracing his features. “What’s all this about?” he inquired.
“Duen, you don’t remember this?” Lia’s concerned gaze probed Duen’s face. Pausing on her way to the armory, she decided to help Duen make sense of things. She realised that Duen had been asking weird questions and couldn’t help but wonder what had transpired during that fateful hunt.
“That’s Abel, the celebrated storyteller of Havone, and possibly the entire realm,” Lia elucidated. “We’ve spent countless evenings enthralled by his tales. How could you forget?” she gently admonished, her voice laced with concern.
Abel began with a dramatic gesture and a deep, storytelling voice that captivated the audience.
“Everything is energy,” Abel proclaimed, his hands weaving through the air to underscore his words.
“He’s beginning!” Duen exclaimed, taking Lia’s hand and guiding her to a seat right in front of the storyteller. A blush tinted Lia’s cheeks, though the flickering firelight concealed it. Sitting there, captivated by Abel’s narrative, Lia couldn’t shake the thought, “Some things remain unchanged. His love for stories and adventures.” Her smile widened.
Abel continued his story with an air of mystery. “The great Mother Gaia, giver of life, births all living beings, and when their time ends, they return to her embrace. Our spirit stones bear witness to this mystical energy. Every spirit stone contains power, but the most precious are the live stones. They house living spirits, magnificent beasts within. And so, our tale begins with this exquisite stone—a stone of such immense power that it could conquer any army, shift the tides of war, and bestow power and prosperity upon the kingdom that possesses it. It holds the might to bend the forces of nature, control tides, weather, and elements.”
The crowd remained captivated as Abel continued his tale. “Our story unfolds with a Treasure Hunter named Ivgor. He engaged in battles with formidable beasts, including the Gigantic Hydras of the western lands, creatures whose heads multiplied as they were cut. He pursued the elusive Golden Hinds of the north, beasts so swift they could outrace an arrow. And he narrowly escaped the clutches of the Ancient Fire-breathing Dragon of the Ashnar Mountains. Ivgor’s exploits led him to slay many of these creatures and extract their precious jewels—the very cores that held tremendous power coveted by kings and queens from far and wide. Ivgor bartered these treasures, amassing both wealth and fame.”
The crowd and the children listened with bated breath as Abel’s tale continued. “The great Treasure Hunter traded with the wealthiest kingdom in the Orient, amassing unimaginable wealth. But his most momentous challenge awaited him when he confronted the Ancient Serpent of the Eastern Sea. Ivgor engaged in an epic battle with the colossal beast that lasted for three grueling days. Finally, he emerged victorious, extracting the creature’s core—a stone brimming with boundless power, capable of altering the destiny of a kingdom.”
As Abel spun his tale, the audience was drawn even deeper into the narrative. “He presented this remarkable stone to the Eastern King, who offered him silver beyond his wildest dreams, vast expanses of land across the steppes, and a retinue of wives and servants. However, the great hero declined these opulent gifts, for he had set his heart on something else—the Orient Princess. She had captured the Treasure Hunter’s heart completely, and he had fallen deeply in love.”
Gasps of wonder and amazement resonated through the crowd, while the children’s eyes widened with fascination. Duen stole a glance at Lia, her beauty accentuated by the dancing flames of the campfire. He whispered, almost inaudibly, “She’s beautiful..”
With a playful smile, Abel continued his tale. “His desire for the lovely princess surpassed all else, leading him to seek the Great Khan’s blessing for her hand.”
A young voice interrupted, unable to contain its curiosity. “Did he win the princess?” the boy blurted out.
Abel chuckled, his eyes twinkling mischievously. “Ah, that, my young friend, is a story for tomorrow,” he teased.
The boy pleaded, “Oh, come on, just a hint!”
Turning to Duen with a smile, Lia expressed her love for such tales. “These stories always captivate me,” she said, reminiscing fondly. “Remember how you used to badger Abel for spoilers when we were younger?” Her smile carried a hint of nostalgia.
Duen raised an eyebrow. “Like what that boy is doing now? Did I have my way?” he asked, intrigued by Lia’s recollection.
Lia chuckled softly. “Sometimes you did. You were always brave and persistent,” she said, admiration gleaming in her eyes.
As the story concluded, the crowd began to disperse. “I have to head off, Duen. Good night,” Lia said with a smile, dropping some coins into Abel’s bag. “Thank you, my dear!” Abel exclaimed, appreciating Lia’s contribution.
“Good night, Lia,” Duen waved as he watched her stroll down the cobblestone pathway. Lia reciprocated the wave, her smile leaving a lingering warmth in Duen’s heart. Slowly, he made his way to the tavern.
As Duen sat in the tavern that evening, his mind swirled with questions. The presence of the diamond-white stone in his dagger and the mysterious fiery baby bird, Esh, only deepened the mystery. Here, he went by the name Duen Tytus, but was this world an alternate reality or merely a glimpse into another timeline? Lost in contemplation, he took a sip of his ale.
“We need to find a certificate for the stone, Duen! It’s the only way we can sell it, unless…” Leon’s eyes sparkled mischievously, interrupting Duen’s thoughts. “Hey! What are you thinking?” Leon asked as he noticed Duen deep in thought. “Do you have a brilliant idea?”
“Sorry, no brilliant ideas,” Duen replied with a smile. “I’m just grateful to have you by my side.”
“Are you sure it’s not the ale talking?” Leon chuckled. “Tomorrow, we’re seeing Steve. If anyone can help us offload that stone, it’s him.”
Duen’s spirit lifted at the mention of Steve. He thought to himself, “He’s here too,” and couldn’t suppress a smile. Raising his mug, he shared a toast with Leon, basking in the warmth of their friendship.
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