Request

Later that day, as Eldron went about his chores, he couldn't shake the desire to approach Garrick, to ask him about the world beyond the village and the path of a Huntsman. Summoning his courage, he sought out the Huntsman, finding him seated near the village square, sharpening a sleek, silver dagger.

"Mister Garrick?" Eldron began hesitantly.

Garrick looked up, a welcoming smile spreading across his face. "Ah, young Eldron."

Eldron approached Garrick, a modest meal in hand—a loaf of bread, a wedge of cheese, and a flask of water. Not much but he was, eager to offer something in return for the Huntsman's guidance.

"Mr. Garrick," Eldron began, his voice tinged with nervousness, "I wanted to thank you for your words this morning. I brought you some food." He extended the bundle toward the Huntsman.

Garrick smiled warmly, accepting the offering. "Thank you, Eldron. This is kind of you." He took a bite of the bread, savoring the simple meal. "Now, what can I do for you?"

Eldron shifted nervously. "I… I saw you this morning, near the thicket. You were using magic."

Garrick's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Observant, aren't you? Yes, I was employing a simple tracking spell to identify the creature's markings."

"Can anyone learn to do that?" Eldron asked, his voice tinged with hope.

Garrick studied him for a long moment before responding. "Magic, or the manipulation of spiritiquitalias, stems from Xeno Equitaliass Protein. It's a skill that requires an innate gene and rigorous training. It's not just about power; it's something decided at birth—talent and understanding."

He paused, then continued, "You possess this gene, Eldron. In fact, you have the most incredible potential I've ever seen."

Eldron's eyes widened. "Really? That might explain some things. I've always been… different. I can lift things no one else can, and sometimes I feel this energy inside me, like it's waiting to be used."

Eldron hesitated, then spoke with determination. "I want to become a Huntsman like you. I want to leave this village and see the world. I want to have adventures like the ones I've heard about."

Garrick's expression softened, a flicker of concern in his golden eyes. He set the food aside and leaned forward. "Eldron, becoming a Huntsman is not a path to be taken lightly. The training is grueling, and the work is perilous. Many who start the journey don't make it through the trials."

Eldron met his gaze, unwavering. "I'm ready. I can't stay here any longer. I want to be free."

Garrick nodded thoughtfully. "Your innate abilities are remarkable, but raw potential isn't enough. The life of a Huntsman is fraught with danger and requires more than just strength. It demands discipline, resilience, and a willingness to face the unknown."

Eldron took a deep breath. "I understand. I may not have all the answers, but I'm willing to learn. I want to leave this place and find my own path."

Garrick sighed, his gaze softening. "I admire your determination, but I cannot, in good conscience, take you on as an apprentice. The path of a Huntsman is perilous, and the training is rigorous. The potion we take to enhance our abilities can be lethal. Only those who survive the process gain the strength and skills we possess."

Eldron's shoulders sagged, but he nodded. "I understand. Thank you for considering it."

Garrick placed a reassuring hand on Eldron's shoulder. "This doesn't mean your journey ends here," he said. "With your innate abilities and potential, there are numerous paths you can pursue. For instance, you could train to become a knight, where your strength and combat skills would be invaluable. Alternatively, you might consider studying to become a wizard, delving into the arcane arts to harness and control your Equitaliass Xeno Protein energy.

"There are also roles like guardians, who protect sacred sites and people, or druids, who are attuned to the magical forces of nature, able to shapeshift, call on the elements, and communicate with flora and fauna.

"Each of these paths requires dedication and training, but with your exceptional potential, you have the foundation to excel in any of them."

Eldron listened intently, his mind racing with possibilities. "I hadn't considered those options," he admitted. "I just want to find a place where I belong, where I can use my abilities without being seen as a freak."

Garrick nodded understandingly. "It's natural to seek acceptance and purpose. Take time to explore these paths, seek out mentors, and learn about each role. Your journey is just beginning, and with your talents, you have the opportunity to shape your own destiny."

As Eldron watched Garrick walk away, he felt a renewed sense of hope. The future was uncertain, but for the first time, he saw a glimmer of possibilities beyond the confines of his village.