Visiting Budak Village!

"Ugh…"

A sharp pain shot through Raymond's skull as he stirred, his tightly shut eyes fluttering open. His vision blurred for a moment before focusing on a familiar face hovering over him.

"Raymond, you're finally awake!"

The voice, warm yet tinged with concern, belonged to Arya. Her long, fiery red hair cascaded over her shoulders, glowing in the light filtering through the carriage.

"Arya?" Raymond mumbled, his gaze unfocused. Confusion swirled in his mind before the memories came rushing back.

Right; after parting ways with Tresed and the others, the four of them had stocked up on potions and supplies before securing a carriage to Budak Village, as instructed in their letter of authorization. He had barely lasted a few minutes after boarding, his exhaustion catching up with him the moment he settled in.

No wonder. He hadn't slept at all the previous night, pouring every ounce of his strength into forging his armor.