Hopes and dreams

"Eh… um… " I didn't know what to say. I have already grown up! I was even an adventurer.

"I want to be become an adventurer"

"Really? I want to become an adventurer too! I have been training to become one since I was 10. See how strong I am now?"

Elsie got up from the bed while holding me in her arms. She moved to the middle of the room and stood up straight. With a tense look she slowly squatted down and then slowly rose up. She smiled happily and continued to the next one. I couldn't believe it and was quite scared that she would drop me. I held on to her tightly while she continued squatting. She must have done at least 10 but I was too scared to keep a count.

Finally Elsie stopped and sat back down on the bed.

"See I am strong right?" Elsie asked me while looking really proud of herself.

She really was quite strong. Even after squatting while carrying me, she didn't seem tired or out of breath. Are all girls supposed to be this strong. I thought men were supposed to be stronger than women in general. But It seems like I am surrounded by strong women. First it was Janet and Val. Then it was Cleo, Leana and Sheila. Now Elsie is quite strong as well.

Suddenly something occurred to me. Could it be that…. is it me that's weak?

"What are you thinking Ren?" Elsie looked at me with concern. It seems I am also not good at hiding my thoughts.

"I… I was just thinking that I am really weak…" I said that in a small voice while looking down. I was quite embarrassed to be so weak. Not only was I weak, I was also short and slim. Could I really be an adventurer? I was registered as an adventurer but I didn't really contribute as much. It was Cleo and Leana that were the biggest contributors. Turek has aptitude for magic and once he learns magic, he will be very valuable for the team. Do I really belong in this party?

Elsie suddenly gave me a quick hug and said "You are not weak Ren! I am strong because I have been training for 4 years. You can be strong too!"

I gave her a smile since she was trying to make me feel better but it didn't change the fact that I was weak. Elsie saw through me just like before and said "Ok. Let's do this."

Elsie picked me up and put me down on her feet. She held my hands and looked at me seriously.

"Do you want to become stronger?"