The early morning mist clung to the hills like a silent omen as Reynar adjusted the strap of his travel pack. A faint golden hue painted the skies, but the unease in his chest drowned any admiration of the sunrise. Liora stood nearby, slipping a dagger into her boot. She looked calm, composed—but Reynar had traveled with her long enough to sense the weight behind her eyes.
The Void Dungeon's countdown was now less than two weeks.
And they weren't ready.
"You're sure about this?" Reynar asked as they left Eidenweld's stone gate behind them, the village slowly disappearing into the dense forest road.
"Windrest isn't just a place to shop. It's bigger, livelier—and far more dangerous than anything you've seen in Eidenweld." Liora continued, "But we'll need better gear and potions to stand a chance. I'd rather be overwhelmed by city noise than by a Void Beast again."
Reynar gave a small smile at that. "Fair."
As they walked, Liora began explaining more about the world he'd been reincarnated into. "You've only known Eidenweld so far—a village. But above villages are towns like Windrest, then cities like Azurvale. Each level up means more power, more politics, and more… secrets."
Reynar glanced at her. "Secrets?"
Liora hesitated. "You'll understand when we reach Windrest."
They passed through dense woods and open fields, crossing worn-down trade routes. Reynar noticed more adventurers on the road—some in groups, others riding beasts unfamiliar to him. A few gave him curious glances, sizing him up. Liora, on the other hand, received wary stares, especially from the more elite-looking travelers.
Beastkin discrimination—though still unspoken in this story—lingered in the background.
By late afternoon, the road widened, and Windrest came into view.
It was nothing like Eidenweld.
Massive stone walls lined with guards surrounded the town. The gates were tall and reinforced, with iron bolts and magic runes etched along the arch. The air buzzed with noise—vendors shouting, people arguing, children laughing, the clanging of a forge somewhere beyond the walls.
Reynar took it all in with wide eyes. "It's… huge."
"This is just a town," Liora said with a small smirk. "Wait until you see a city."
Inside, cobbled streets stretched in every direction. Stalls brimmed with weapons, food, and trinkets. Spellcasters in robes argued with blacksmiths. Thieves slipped through crowds like shadows. There was danger, yes—but also a strange kind of life.
They found an inn quickly—"The Hollow Tankard," a bustling place that smelled of roasted meat and pinewood. Liora paid for a room with practiced ease.
"I've been here before," she said, catching Reynar's glance. "Long ago."
After settling in, they moved to the market square. Reynar's eyes lit up at the array of enchanted gear. One stall sold a dagger that vibrated with electricity; another offered crimson healing potions said to restore shattered bones.
"We can't overspend," Liora warned, though her eyes lingered on a particular twin-blade set—too expensive for now.
With Liora's haggling skill and Reynar's eye for system-boosted gear, they picked up two reliable weapons and a stash of potions. Reynar even found a cloak that gave +2 Agility—a small bonus, but every edge mattered.
As they left the square, Liora's expression grew serious. "Reynar. About the Void Dungeon… We still don't know what tier it is. If it's higher than we think…"
"We'll survive it," Reynar said quietly. "Or die trying."
Liora paused, staring at him for a moment.
"You've changed," she murmured.
He blinked. "What do you mean?"
"When I first met you, you could barely swing a sword. Now you're walking into a fight against the Void with your head high."
Reynar chuckled nervously. "I'm still scared."
"Good," she said. "Fear keeps us alive."
They spent the evening resting, double-checking supplies, and planning a path to return quickly to Eidenweld after their shopping. As the sun dipped below the horizon and Windrest lit up with lanterns and firelight, Reynar stood at the balcony of the inn, gazing toward the distant hills. Somewhere beyond them, the Void stirred—waiting.
But this time, he wouldn't face it as the same weak boy who once died in despair.
He had companions. He had strength. He had a purpose.
And the next battle was drawing near.