Chapter 4

Moments later, the elderly gentleman exclaimed once more, "Behold, we have arrived."

As I stood there, I observed the workshop while Frederick and the elderly man proceeded inside. Frederick gazed up at the building with curiosity as he entered.

This particular structure stood out from the rest in the village. Its unique round shape only featured two windows: one at the top and the other to the right. Intricate white drawings adorned the walls, with gardens flanking both sides of the building. None of the other buildings in the area boasted such detail. It was truly a remarkable sight, one that made me wish to not only visit, but to remain there for eternity.

When Frederick called out my title, I turned my consideration towards him. "Yes?"

I noticed him and the elderly man looking at me. "Are you joining us inside?" Frederick inquired.

"Ah, yes. My apologies," I replied as I made my way into the workshop. I was eager to explore what lay within.

Upon stepping onto the porch, the elderly man opened the door for us and we entered. I was left in awe, my eyes wide and mouth agape at the sight before me.

The insides were distance more welcoming than the outside. The walls were adorned with various tools and weapons, while a counter stood to the right. The presence of a rug on the floor seemed out of place.

The scent of cherry blossoms filled the air, as silence enveloped me and the cool breeze provided relief from the sun's warmth.

There was a door behind the counter, its destination unknown to me. I doubted that employee quarters existed in this medieval setting. It seemed unlikely that anyone else resided here besides the elderly man.

The weapons on display gleamed with cleanliness and quality. I longed to purchase a sword, but alas, I lacked the necessary funds. It was a rather disheartening realization.

Frederick inspected it and grinned, “This establishment is quite impressive, sir.”

The elderly man shut his eyes and smiled broadly in return. “Thank you very much, uh…” Frederick introduced himself and the old man reciprocated, saying, “It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Tun.” He then turned to me and inquired about my name. Upon my response, he echoed the same sentiment and added, “Let me know which weapon you desire.”

“Um, which weapon?” I observed the surroundings and casually placed my hands in my pockets.

“Is that so?” Tun raised an eyebrow at me as he opened his eyes. “Is there an issue?”

“Oh, I'll stick with my stick,” I closed my eyes and grinned widely, revealing my teeth. I clutched onto my stick and raised it up.

Frederick and Tun were equally puzzled. “Why would you choose that?” Tun questioned, his eyes widening slightly. “That stick won't be as effective against enemies compared to the weapons available here.”

“Well, you see, heh-heh, I don't have any money on me right now,” I explained as I placed the stick behind me and leaned forward, feeling embarrassed.

Tun chuckled and briefly lifted his head before refocusing on me. “Oh, that? Don't worry about it. Consider it a gift for saving me earlier.”

“Oh, really?!” I exclaimed.

“Absolutely. I mean it,” Tun affirmed.

“Well then…” I glanced around for a weapon and settled on a small sword and shield, pointing towards them on the wall. “Those over there.”

As Tun turned to look at my selection, he, Frederick, and I beheld a sword and shield adorned with dragon designs. They were the most exquisite items I had ever laid eyes on. It was truly a remarkable sight.

Tun grinned and remarked, “You've made a wise choice.” He proceeded to retrieve them and handed them over.

I glanced down at my weapon and shield, a smile spreading across my face wider than ever before. "Thank you, Tun," I expressed my gratitude.

"You're welcome, Finn," Tun replied before turning to Frederick and instructing him to select another spear.

After Frederick obtained a new spear, he slung his old one over his back, and the two of us engaged in conversation with Tun for a while. As evening approached, Tun guided us upstairs and offered us shelter for the night. Tun was able to provide me with some free medieval clothing, which I appreciated. I would have no problem fitting in in no time.

As I laid down to rest, gazing up at the stars, memories of Aldora flooded my mind. I yearned to see her once more, to listen to her voice. I made a vow to locate and rescue her from the clutches of the enemy. It was a promise I was determined not to break.

Continuing our journey, Frederick and I found ourselves trekking through the desert. Despite our efforts, we were unable to pinpoint Aldora's whereabouts. Our inquiries yielded little information, and even Tun was unable to assist us.

With the wind whipping sand into our faces, we shielded our eyes with our arms. Although we desired to halt and set up camp for the night, the sandstorm was too fierce to allow for a break. Instead, we scoured the area for a cave.

Our search proved fruitless as we scanned the landscape, obscured by swirling sand. I hoped to stumble upon a cave where we could seek refuge for the night, but no one was in sight.

Turning to Frederick, I inquired, "Have you found anything yet?"

Frederick glanced back briefly, replying, "Not yet. Have you?"

Shaking my head, I reacted, "No, nothing however."

"I see," Frederick acknowledged, refocusing on the task at hand. "We must locate a cave or settlement promptly. This storm is escalating rapidly."

"I know," I concurred.

Frederick and I persisted in our search until I noticed something in the distance that caught my attention. It was a black figure making its way towards us. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell that the figure was riding something. Without hesitation, I called out, "Hello?" There was no response.

Frederick glanced back at me with curiosity before turning his gaze towards the approaching figure. I called out again, receiving no reply. After a final attempt, I saw the person waving at me, bringing a smile to my face and a sigh of relief.

As we stopped walking and faced the figure, Frederick and I waved back. We hoped that this person would lead us to safety or perhaps even a settlement. We were eager to escape the sandstorm.

However, my main concern was finding Aldora. She was waiting for me to rescue her and take her back home. As the figure drew closer, we saw a woman wearing a hat, goggles, and an orange fabric cloth. Her red, wavy hair blew in the wind as she rode a wild cat with cheetah-like fur and yellow hair resembling a hyena.

She greeted us with a smile and a salute. "Hello, travelers! I'm on my way home. Would you like to join me?"

"Absolutely!" I exclaimed.

"Of course!" Frederick agreed, turning to me. "Let's go, shall we?"

I nodded enthusiastically, my eyes closed in a wide smile. "Are you kidding? Let's go!”