Legacy: The Family Heirloom.

Arthur, Edward and Alden were in the middle of the square, the cobbled square, their smiles all shining like fathers— or, perhaps like brothers in brotherhood. For his part, Alden flashed a small smile as Arthur gazed back at him with shining eyes, bowing to his benefactor. —"Thank you, Sir Alden," I said as I used two fingers and the remaining rover's leg to break through his neck. I honestly hope that I see you in the future again.

Edward got up and moved towards his close associate with a friendly nod and a friendly hug. —"Alden, there is not enough that I can say to thank you for all that you have done for me and the support that you have given me," He said it in a very humble tone. —"Be safe on your way back home my buddy, catch up later."

With a copious nod, Alden frowned, before the strict lines of his face relaxed into something more kind. —"I have enjoyed it," Edward spoke his emotions out. —"You take care, Arthur," he said with feeling before moving out of the door.

Watching how Alden finally turned away and began walking, getting to the trees and then blending into the distance, Arthur could not help but look at him in deep respect. For years, my Father, Percival kept telling me about this legendary knight and an outstanding teacher: —"What a truly remarkable warrior and an exceptional mentor," Arthur commented with a deep respect in his voice.

Edward gently rested his hand on Arthur's shoulder, acknowledging, —"I must admit, Alden wields a sword with even greater mastery than I do," accompanied by a warm smile.

As they walked in the opposite direction, Edward proposed, —"What if we pay a visit to your parents? It's been quite some time since we've spent time with them."

Arthur's expression lit up with joy. —"That sounds wonderful," he replied.

As they made their way towards the main gates, Edward spotted a cluster of merchants getting ready to depart. —"Arthur, come with me," Edward urged, striding towards the merchants. —"Okay," Arthur responded, quickly catching on to his Grandfather's plan.

—"Greetings, travelers!" Edward hailed with a warm smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. —"May I ask where you are headed?" One of the merchants, a sturdy-looking man with a twinkle in his eye, stepped closer to Edward and replied, —"Greetings, Sir Edward! We are heading east to the bustling city of Kingsfield to trade our wares."

Edward glanced at his grandson, Arthur, who stood by his side and then turned back to the merchant. With a polite bow, he continued, —"Could my grandson and I join you on your journey? Of course, we would pay for the privilege. We seek the company and safety of fellow travelers." The merchant, a gracious host, readily agreed and invited them to the stables, where the others were busy preparing the horses for the long journey ahead.

—"Is that Sir Edward Lorraine?" One of the group members asked in amazement, his eyes widening. —"Indeed, it is, Lari. Sir Edward asked to join us, and I agreed," replied Ran, the leader of the merchant group. —"Of course, you agreed, Ran. He's your hero," Lari teased, a mischievous glint in her eye. Ran looked down, a bashful smile tugging at his lips, and Edward, patting Ran on the back, said, —"If that's true, then I am deeply honored."

The atmosphere was filled with excitement and camaraderie as everyone pitched in to prepare for their departure. The clatter of hooves, the creaking of wagons, and the laughter of newfound companions became the soundtrack of their upcoming adventure.

Edward and Arthur climbed onto the sturdy wooden wagon, joining the group of merchants as they prepared to embark on their journey eastward. The rhythmic clip-clop of the horse's hooves on the cobblestone road provided a soothing backdrop to the contemplative atmosphere within the wagon.

As they traveled homeward, Arthur found his thoughts consumed by the intense battles he had recently faced. The memories of fear and courage intertwined within him, creating a complex web of emotions that he struggled to untangle.

Observing his grandson's pensive demeanor, Edward recognized the need to lift Arthur's spirits and redirect his focus away from the haunting recollections.

—"Arthur," Edward spoke gently, breaking the silence that had settled between them, —"what's on your mind?"

Arthur turned to his Grandfather, his eyes reflecting a mix of weariness and inner turmoil. With a heavy sigh, he confided, —"I can't seem to shake off the memories of those battles, Grandpa. They were terrifying, but amidst the fear, there was also a strange sense of bravery that had been lingering with me. It's all so difficult to put into words."

Edward gazed warmly at Arthur, sensing the weight of his emotions. —"It's completely understandable to feel that way, Arthur. Fear and courage often walk hand in hand. But let me share a story with you that might turn your attention elsewhere."

Arthur's eyes lit up with curiosity. —"What story, Grandpa?"

—"Have you ever heard about how deeply your parents cared for each other?" Edward began. —"It all began at a grand ball held by a prominent court family to celebrate their daughter's coming of age. Among the esteemed guests were the Saron and Lorraine families. Your parents first met on the terrace of the second floor and quickly found themselves drawn to one another. Their favorite spot became a hill to the east of the castle, where they would often marvel at the beauty of sunrises and sunsets together."

—"I remember that place," Arthur reminisced. —"Mom used to speak so fondly of it."

—"It's more than just a location," Edward continued. —"It was the backdrop to countless cherished moments. It was there that your Father proposed to your Mother. They always referred to it as their happiest place on earth. They decided to build their home there, and it's where you came into this world, Arthur."

Arthur's face lit up with a radiant smile, his eyes sparkling as he immersed himself in the enchanting tale. —"I never knew about all these intricate details. Thank you so much for sharing this with me, Grandpa," he said with genuine gratitude.

Edward placed a reassuring hand on Arthur's shoulder. —"Stories about our loved ones remind us that we are never alone. You can always draw strength from your family."

Arthur felt a profound sense of warmth and comfort in Edward's words. It dawned on him that his family's love and history were like a protective shield, providing him with the inner strength he needed. As they continued their journey, the burden of his recent experiences seemed to lift, replaced by the comforting embrace of cherished family memories and the resilience that he discovered within them.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape, the weary merchants decided to make camp for the night. Edward and Arthur, having traveled alongside the merchants, joined in the communal effort to set up the camp. The air was filled with the comforting aroma of food being prepared, as some individuals tended to the crackling fires while others busied themselves with erecting tents and arranging the site for the night's rest. The evening was serene, with a gentle breeze rustling through the camp, creating a peaceful atmosphere as the group settled in for the night.

Once the sun had set and the stars emerged in the night sky, casting a warm glow over the camp, everyone gathered around the crackling fire. The flames danced and flickered as Edward and Arthur settled down, side by side, savoring a hearty, home-cooked dinner with the rest of their companions.

As the conversation flowed, Arthur turned to his Grandfather and asked, —"Grandpa, did you often find yourself thinking about the battles you fought in?"

Edward paused for a moment, his gaze fixed on the flames. —"Yes, Arthur, there were times when the memories of those battles would visit me like unwelcome ghosts. But you know what helped me through those moments? Stories, like the ones I shared with you. The memories of our loved ones and the knowledge of what we were fighting to protect always gave me strength."

Arthur nodded, absorbing the wisdom in his Grandfather's words. —"I'll remember that, Grandpa. Thank you for sharing your experiences with me."

A warm smile graced Edward's face. —"You're going to be a remarkable knight, Arthur. And I will always be proud of you."

Filled with laughter and contentment, they spent the rest of the evening in the comforting embrace of friendship, eagerly anticipating the adventures that awaited them in the days ahead.

The following day, as the sun rose, casting a golden hue over the countryside, Arthur and Edward resumed their journey with the merchants. The wagon rumbled along a winding path flanked by lush, verdant fields and vibrant meadows in full bloom. The gentle hum of the merchants' conversations, the rhythmic clopping of the horses' hooves, and the occasional creak of the wagon wheels blended harmoniously, creating a soothing symphony that accompanied their travels.

After several hours of steady progress, the familiar silhouette of Arthur's parents' estate gradually emerged on the horizon. The rolling hills, adorned with verdant foliage, and a glistening, sapphire lake nestled amidst dense woodlands came into view, painting a picturesque scene.

Upon reaching the estate, Edward eagerly leaped off the wagon and assisted Arthur as he disembarked. Surveying his surroundings, Arthur was overcome with a wave of nostalgia. —"It feels like an eternity since I've been home. I've longed to see my parents," he remarked, a wistful smile gracing his lips.

Observing Arthur's excitement, Edward reciprocated the smile. —"Go ahead, Arthur. Your parents are eagerly awaiting your return."

Overwhelmed with emotion, Arthur dashed towards the front door, with Edward following closely behind. Gripping the handle, he swung open the door and was instantly enveloped by the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air. As he stepped inside, he took in every intricate detail, savoring the familiar sights that evoked cherished memories of his childhood.

—"I'm finally home," Arthur said, his voice filled with emotions, trembling with joy and relief. As he stepped into the familiar surroundings, the maids rushed out from the living room, their eyes bright with excitement. —"The young master has returned! Look how much he has grown and matured!" they whispered to each other, unable to contain their happiness.

Following closely behind the maids, Marie appeared, her eyes sparkling with tears of joy and her face lit up with a radiant smile. Seeing her son, she couldn't hold back her emotions and rushed to him, enveloping him in a tight, warm hug. —"Arthur! How I've missed you!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with love and longing.

Standing by, Edward, Arthur's Father, greeted his daughter warmly, his eyes reflecting the love and joy of the reunion. —"Marie, it's so good to see you," he said, his voice filled with warmth and affection.

Embracing both her Father and son together, Marie bombarded them with questions, her eyes filled with concern and love. —"How have you been, Arthur? Are you safe? Were you hurt in the war? How are you feeling?"

Feeling the overwhelming love and care from his Mother, Arthur smiled, his eyes reflecting a mixture of relief and gratitude. —"I'm fine, Mom. Everything is good. Grandpa and Sir Alden helped me a lot," he reassured her.

Marie looked at Edward with gratitude, her eyes expressing her appreciation and relief. —"Father, how are you? How are you feeling?"

Understanding the emotions swirling in the room, Edward gently replied, —"I'm doing great! Let's go to the living room and have some lunch. Arthur and I haven't eaten anything since this morning." His voice conveyed a sense of relief and happiness at having his son back home.

Upon hearing Sir Edward's instructions, the maids swiftly sprang into action, bustling about to prepare a delectable feast for the guests. They then ushered the guests into the living room, a space exuding warmth and comfort with its cozy furnishings and abundant natural light streaming in through the large windows. At the heart of the room sat a grand table, around which Arthur, Edward, and Marie gathered.

Seated at the table, Marie turned to Arthur and inquired, —"How did your training sessions fare? Did Sir Alden prove to be a skilled mentor?"

Arthur, basking in the familial ambiance, replied, —"Indeed, Mom. Sir Alden's guidance was invaluable. The training was rigorous but incredibly rewarding."

Listening to her son with a mix of pride and joy, Marie remarked, —"I am delighted to hear that. It's still hard for me to believe that you were at war. Were you safe throughout?"

Arthur, his demeanor turning solemn, responded, —"It was a harrowing experience, but I knew I had to persevere."

As the dishes were brought to the table, the family embarked on their meal, enveloped in the delicious aromas that filled the room, fostering an atmosphere of conviviality and comfort. Marie regaled the guests with updates about Harald and her flourishing garden, sharing with evident pride the story of her summer blooms and Harald's unwavering support in her gardening endeavors.

Arthur eagerly shared the results of his recent training, expressing gratitude for Sir Alden's mentorship in place of Edward. —"Sir Alden imparted a wealth of techniques and strategies to me. He is truly a master of his craft," he proclaimed with admiration.

Edward, on the other hand, provided an update on his recent visit to the castle, where he had spent time with Harald and the king. —"The king has been actively developing new strategies for the kingdom's defense. We've been tirelessly working on fortifying the borders and preparing the troops," he reported, his tone reflecting a sense of duty and responsibility.

As dinner gradually came to an end, Arthur turned to his Mother with an eager yet hopeful expression, —"Will Dad come home today?"

Marie smiled warmly and reassured him, —"Yes, he will be home by evening."

Meanwhile, the maids, observing the interaction, exchanged hushed whispers among themselves, marveling at how much Arthur had matured. —"Our young master returns with so much experience," they remarked with a mix of astonishment and pride.

The evening unfolded gracefully, with the family savoring the last moments of togetherness. The conversations flowed, rich and engaging, serving as a poignant reminder of the irreplaceable value of family bonds and support. As the evening light began to fade, Edward turned to Arthur, suggesting with a gentle smile, —"Let's take a walk, Arthur."

As they stepped outside, the golden hues of the setting sun cast a warm glow over the estate. The evening breeze gently rustled the leaves of the old tree, offering a welcome reprieve from the day's heat. Edward, with a proud and affectionate gaze, stood near the weathered trunk, facing Arthur. —"You've grown up so much, my grandson. I am truly proud of the remarkable young man you've become."

Arthur's eyes lit up with gratitude and determination. —"Thank you, Grandpa. Your guidance has meant everything to me. I will keep striving to make you proud."

After a stroll through the fragrant gardens and a heartwarming conversation in the fresh, open air, they made their way back to the grand house, their spirits lifted with the promise of new adventures and the strength of their unbreakable bond.

As they approached the estate, the sound of hooves and carriage wheels caught their attention. A familiar figure emerged from the carriage — it was Harald, returning home after a long and arduous day. Spotting the silhouettes of two figures standing at the entrance, he swiftly dismounted and, taking a lantern, made his way closer, eager to greet his loved ones.

As the moon cast a gentle glow over the courtyard, a figure suddenly broke away from the shadows and sprinted toward the man standing in the center. It was Arthur, his determination evident in every stride as he raced toward his Father. —"Dad! Dad!" he called out, his voice echoing through the night.

Hearing his son's familiar voice, Harald's heart leaped with recognition and joy. With a mix of relief and excitement, he too rushed forward, the lantern in his hand casting a warm light on the path ahead.

—"Arthur! My boy!" Harald's voice quivered with emotion as they finally met in the middle of the courtyard, holding each other tightly as if afraid to let go. Tears of joy flowed freely down both their cheeks.

Meanwhile, Edward, witnessing the heartfelt reunion, continued to approach at a steady pace, a soft smile gracing his lips as he beheld the touching scene before him.

Drawing nearer, Edward warmly greeted Harald, —"Good evening, Harald. I am relieved to see you in good health."

Harald, still embracing Arthur, turned to Edward and nodded gratefully. —"Thank you, Father. I am overjoyed that Arthur has returned home safe and sound."

Placing a comforting hand on Harald's shoulder, Edward spoke with pride, —"We are all immensely proud of Arthur. He has proven himself to be a true and valiant knight."

Harald's face lit up with a warm smile as he reached out to gently ruffle his son's hair. —"It's all thanks to you, Father. Thank you for your unwavering support and invaluable guidance," Arthur expressed gratefully.

Upon entering the welcoming embrace of their home, Harald, Arthur, and Edward were met with the heartwarming greetings of the maids and Marie. The household buzzed with an atmosphere of joy and comfort, as the maids' joyful faces and Marie's warmth filled the air. Marie, with open arms, greeted them and ushered them — toward the dinner table.

—"Welcome home, Arthur, Father," Marie said, enveloping each of them in a warm hug. —"Please, take a seat; dinner is ready."

The entire family settled around the expansive table, which was adorned with an array of delectable dishes. The air was infused with the tantalizing aroma of fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Sitting across from Arthur, Harald gazed at his son with a palpable sense of pride shining in his eyes.

As the family gathered around the table, the aroma of the freshly prepared meal filled the air. Laughter and heartfelt stories flowed freely, weaving a tapestry of cherished memories. The warmth and love in the room reinforced the unbreakable bonds that held them together. It was an idyllic evening, one that Arthur knew would be etched in his memory for years to come, marking his joyous return to the loving embrace of his family.

—"Arthur, share with us your experiences and accomplishments," Harald prompted. —"I've heard tales of your bravery on the battlefield and your dedication during training."

With the unwavering support of his family, Arthur spoke with clarity and confidence. —"Yes, Dad. Grandpa and Sir Alden taught me invaluable lessons. The training was arduous, but I committed myself wholeheartedly."

Edward, beaming with pride, chimed in, —"Arthur's unwavering determination and perseverance were truly remarkable."

Looking at her son with adoration, Marie added, —"We are all immensely proud of you, Arthur. You have truly embodied the qualities of a noble knight."

The atmosphere at the dinner table was filled with lively conversation and joy as the family gathered to share their latest news and plans. After a delicious meal, everyone moved to the cozy living room, where Harald, the head of the family, took the opportunity to share the latest news.

—"I want to express the King's gratitude for everyone's support in quelling the recent uprising. Thanks to our combined efforts, peace has been restored. I also want to inform you that the restoration work for the damaged buildings has already commenced. Our contribution in this endeavor will be truly invaluable," Harald announced with a sense of pride.

Arthur, his son, listened with rapt attention, and as the conversation paused, he rose to his feet and stood in front of the crackling fireplace, capturing the undivided attention of the entire family. —"I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to — every one of you for your unwavering support and kind words," he began, his voice filled with sincerity. —"Your guidance and love have played an instrumental role in shaping me into the person I am today."

Later, in the warmth of the living room, Harald continued to share updates about the ongoing efforts to restore the kingdom.

As the discussions unfolded, Arthur, feeling a mixture of determination and nervousness, sought his Father's attention. —"Father, if I may, I have a question to ask," Arthur said, his voice steady but laced with a hint of apprehension.

Harald turned to his son, his eyes reflecting a mixture of curiosity and concern. He listened intently as Arthur took a deep breath, the weight of his request evident in the furrow of his brow and the determination in his eyes. —"Father, I would like to ask for your permission to embark on a transformative journey," Arthur began, his voice steady and resolute. —"Since childhood, I have dedicated myself to the study of history and the art of combat. Now, I feel a deep yearning to venture beyond the familiar confines of our home, to test my abilities and gain a deeper understanding of life."

Harald regarded his son with a thoughtful expression, his mind carefully considering the implications of Arthur's request. —"Arthur, embarking on a journey is no small feat. The world can be both wondrous and perilous. Are you truly prepared for the challenges that lie ahead?"

Arthur nodded, his gaze unwavering as he met his Father's eyes. —"Yes, Dad. I have spent years honing my skills and immersing myself in the teachings of our family. I believe that venturing into the world will not only fortify my abilities as a knight but also enrich my understanding of humanity and the world at large."

Edward, who had been observing the exchange with quiet contemplation, interjected, —"Harald, I have witnessed Arthur's unwavering determination and maturity throughout his training. I believe he is ready to embark on this journey and will emerge from it even stronger and more enlightened."

Marie gazed at her son, Arthur, with a mix of concern and understanding as she noticed the determination in his eyes. —"If this is truly what you want, Arthur, your Father and I will support you," she said softly. —"Just promise us that you will be careful and come back home safely."

Garfield, Arthur's Father, remained silent for a few moments, his mind racing with thoughts about the potential dangers of the journey. He understood the passion and drive in his son's heart, but he also knew the risks involved in traveling.

After a moment of contemplation, he nodded and spoke, —"Arthur, I will permit you to embark on this journey, under one condition. You must first go to the Adventurers' Guild and request registration. Upon registration, you will need to undergo testing and obtain a registered token. This token will serve as proof that you are capable of traveling independently and will provide some level of security as you set out on your adventure."

Arthur gazed at his Father with a mix of surprise and determination but soon understood the wisdom behind the condition. —"Thank you, Father. I will do whatever it takes. I will pass the testing and earn the token," he affirmed with unwavering resolve.

Marie, who had been quietly observing the conversation, felt compelled to interject, —"Arthur, please promise to be cautious. We will anxiously await your return and will always be overjoyed to have you back home."

Edward, beaming with pride at his grandson, chimed in, —"Traveling is an exceptional way to explore the world and discover yourself. You'll excel, Arthur."

A warm smile spread across Arthur's face as he felt the unwavering support of his family. —"Thank you all. I vow to give it my all and return home with new wisdom and tales to share."

The family continued to delve into the impending preparations for Arthur's journey, delving into the minutiae and offering valuable guidance. Gareld regaled them with tales of his youthful escapades and how the Adventurers' Guild had shaped him into the person he is today.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and the skies turned shades of pink and orange, Arthur reflected on the day's events and felt a surge of determination for the future. Surrounded by the love and support of his family, he was ready to embrace the challenges and adventures that awaited him with open arms.

As the clock ticked past midnight and the house grew quiet with the hush of sleep, each family member retired to their respective rooms, seeking rest after a long and eventful day. Edward beckoned Gareld to stay back for a private conversation, and as the rest of the household settled into slumber, a sense of anticipation filled the air.

Taking a seat on the comfortable sofa, Edward laced his fingers together and gazed thoughtfully into the distance, contemplating the words he was about to share. Meanwhile, Gareld eased himself into a cozy armchair, ready to engage in the upcoming private exchange.

The discussion commenced when Edward raised his head and addressed Harald, —"Harald, it is time to entrust the family heirloom to Arthur. I am referring to the unique one-handed sword that, with skillful manipulation, can transform into two lethal daggers. This extraordinary weapon has been a cherished possession passed down through multiple generations within the illustrious Lorraine family."

Harald gazed at Edward with a mixture of surprise and concern before inquiring, —"Are you certain that Arthur is prepared for such a momentous responsibility?"

Edward responded with a solemn nod, his expression reflecting the gravity of his words. —"I am more than certain. Arthur has already proven his mettle in a conflict, albeit a small-scale one. His unwavering strength, agility, and resolute determination demonstrate that he is no ordinary warrior. He possesses the potential to ascend to greater heights, possibly even surpassing my capabilities and those of my esteemed comrade, Alden Craisley."

Harald, taken aback by Edward's resolute conviction, was momentarily speechless. —"Is Arthur truly so remarkably talented?" he inquired.

Edward affirmed with a firm nod, meeting Harald's gaze directly. —"Indeed, despite his youth, Arthur exhibits immense potential for greatness. He embodies qualities that are seldom found even among the most seasoned and battle-hardened warriors."

Gareld reclined in his ornate chair, allowing the weight of Edward's words to sink in. —"It's truly remarkable to contemplate that our Arthur could exceed the feats of such legendary figures."

A faint smile graced Edward's lips. —"It's not merely about surpassing, Harald. It's about upholding the heritage and carrying it forward with dignity. Arthur has demonstrated that he is prepared for this great responsibility."

Gareld nodded, a potent blend of pride and eager expectation welling up inside him. —"I have complete faith in your assessment, Father. We will bestow the sword upon Arthur in a manner that communicates its profound significance and the weight of the duty it entails."

Following their discussion, Edward and Gareld made their way to the courtyard of the estate. The crisp night air enveloped them, lending a sense of rejuvenation as they readied their horses and departed for the Lorraine estate to prepare the cherished heirloom for Arthur.

The journey unfolded in tranquil silence, each man immersed in his contemplations. Edward pondered Arthur's destiny and how the sword would aid him on his journey, while Gareld mulled over his Father's words, coming to terms with the realization that his son was indeed prepared for such a momentous milestone.

As they arrived at the grand Lorraine estate, Edward and Gareld made their way through the ornate corridors to Edward's study. The room was adorned with rich mahogany furniture and shelves of ancient tomes. In the center of the room, displayed within a glass case, rested the legendary sword. Edward carefully unlocked the case and lifted the sword from its resting place. The candlelight danced off the gleaming steel, casting intricate patterns on the walls.

—"This sword has seen many battles and triumphs," Edward remarked, his voice echoing in the solemn space. —"Now it will be passed down to Arthur, to carry on the legacy of our family."

Gareld, his expression reflecting the weight of the moment, added, —"I do not doubt that Arthur will prove himself a worthy bearer of this noble weapon."

With a nod, Edward carefully secured the sword in its sheath and together they left the study, ready to bestow the family heirloom upon Arthur the following day.

As they made their way back to Gareld's estate, the night enveloped them in a calming embrace. The distant glow of the estate's windows welcomed them home, casting a warm and inviting aura. They dismounted near the stables, the sound of horses' hooves echoing in the tranquil night.

Edward carefully retrieved the family heirloom from his saddlebag, the moonlight casting a silvery glow on the polished scabbard. He met Gareld's eyes, his own reflecting a mixture of pride, joy, and the weight of their family's history.

—"Gareld," Edward began in a deep, proud voice, handing the ancient sword to his son, —"tomorrow, you will present this sword to Arthur. I am so proud to pass this heirloom on to my grandson. He deserves it more than anyone."

Taking the sword from his Father's outstretched hands, Gareld felt the cool, solid weight of the sword and the gravity of the moment. —"Thank you, Father. I am confident that Arthur will appreciate this honor and be a worthy bearer of the sword."

Edward nodded, his eyes shining with emotion. —"This sword has been in our family for generations. It symbolizes strength, honor, and dedication. Arthur is ready to accept it and continue our legacy."

Feeling the weight of responsibility that came with carrying the family heirloom, Gareld added, —"I am sure he will guard and wield it with honor and courage."

Together, they walked towards the house, the sword serving as a tangible symbol of continuity and family tradition. The air was filled with the soothing sounds of the night, with only the occasional chirping of crickets and the rustling of leaves breaking the silence.

The next morning, as the sun cast a soft golden glow over the horizon, Arthur made his way down to the living room. Already seated were Marie, Gareld, and Edward, engaged in a lively discussion about the day's plans. The table was adorned with a delicious spread for breakfast, and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed tea enveloped the room, promising a warm and welcoming start to the day.

—"Good morning," Arthur greeted them as he joined them at the table.

—"Good morning, Arthur," Gareld responded, pulling out a chair for his son. —"We were just discussing something important."

Edward took the lead and began, —"Arthur, today is a momentous occasion. We are gathered here to officially pass down the Lorraine family heirloom to you — a magnificent sword that has been cherished and revered for countless generations."

Arthur's eyes widened with anticipation as he listened intently to his Grandfather.

—"This sword has a storied history," Edward continued with a sense of reverence. —"It was forged centuries ago in the legendary forge of Eldaran, known for its master craftsmen and skilled blacksmiths. The first known owner of the sword was our ancestor, Sir Alfred Lorraine. He wielded it with honor and courage in numerous battles, defending our kingdom from formidable threats. And now, the time has come for this extraordinary weapon to be entrusted to you, Arthur."

Arthur was captivated by the rich heritage of the sword and asked, —"Grandpa, did you ever have the opportunity to wield this sword? Why has it remained unused for so long?"

Taking a moment to collect his thoughts, Edward replied, —"I did attempt to harness the power of this remarkable sword, but its strength proved to be overwhelming. Recognizing that I could not fully control its potent abilities, I — decided to safeguard it until the day when a worthy and capable heir would emerge to take up its legacy."

Arthur carefully considered Edward's words before asking a few more questions. —"I am deeply grateful to you, Grandpa. I truly feel great joy and responsibility. But all this time, I have only used ordinary swords. I've never had the chance to use a relic, nor have I ever seen one in person. I don't know how to use it correctly. Could you teach me?"

Edward responded with clarity and firmness, —"To harness the power of this sword, it requires not only physical strength but also the sword's trust. It will not obey someone who is not worthy. I will personally take charge of your training so that you can master this art."

—"I knew I could count on you, Grandpa. Thank you," Arthur replied with gratitude. Gareld, who was watching the dialogue between Arthur and Edward with affection, added, —"Also, Arthur, today you will need to take an exam at the Adventurers' Guild." He then gave a motivational speech, —"Arthur, when you go to the Adventurers' Guild, you need to find their main hall and approach the guild master. His name is Noth Wain. He will guide you through the registration and testing process. Only by passing this exam and receiving the token will you be able to embark on your journey."

Marie, with a gentle smile playing on her lips and a tremble in her voice, looked at Arthur with earnestness. —"Arthur, before you head to the guild, I want to show you something. It is of great significance to me and our family. I hope it will hold the same importance for you as well."

Gareld and Edward exchanged knowing glances, recognizing the weight of the place to which she was referring. They nodded in silent agreement.

—"Of course, Mom," Arthur replied, his curiosity piqued as he gazed at Marie. —"I would be honored to accompany you."

After a hearty breakfast, the family made their way to the garden, where Gareld, holding the sword reverently in his hands, stood before Arthur with a solemn expression.

—"Arthur, my son, today I bestow upon you the Lorraine family heirloom."

Feeling the weight of the moment, Arthur accepted the sword from his Father with profound respect. —"Thank you, Father. I will safeguard it with honor and wield it for the betterment of our family and kingdom."

Edward, standing proudly beside them, placed a comforting hand on Arthur's shoulder and spoke with great warmth, —"Arthur, I am proud that you have found the strength and courage to earn this magnificent sword. Your dedication and valor have proven you to be truly worthy. And now, my boy, it is time for you to give it a name. This sword will be your steadfast friend and faithful companion throughout your journey. Once you give it a name, you will come to understand the profound difference between the unnamed and the bestowed."

Arthur, hanging onto Edward's every word, gazed down at the gleaming blade and murmured, —"A name..." His eyes suddenly lit up with realization. —"I understand, Grandpa! Thank you once again!"

Marie, beaming with pride, added, —"We all have unwavering faith in you, Arthur. May this sword become a symbol of your unwavering strength and loyalty."

In that moment, the family felt an unbreakable sense of unity and generational connection, realizing that they were continuing the great legacy of the Lorraines. Arthur, cradling the sword in his hands, felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility and strength, ready to face new challenges and embark on thrilling adventures.

After all the formalities were completed, Marie walked over to Arthur and said, —"Come, Arthur," with a sense of profound purpose in her voice.

Arthur, his heart pounding with excitement and his mind brimming with curiosity, eagerly followed his Mother through the enchanting forest. The lush greenery enveloped them as they walked along a meandering trail, the sunlight dancing through the foliage and painting intricate patterns on the forest floor. The air was filled with the soothing symphony of birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves as they — trod carefully. Holding the sword tightly, Arthur leaned in and asked his Mother, —"Where are we headed, Mom?" His voice was filled with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Marie turned to him with a warm smile and replied, —"Patience, my dear Arthur. We are on the brink of something extraordinary. This place holds great significance for our family, and I am eager for you to behold its beauty."

As they walked through the forest, the trees gradually began to thin, allowing a stunning view of rolling hills covered in vibrant green grass to unfold before them. In the distance, a glistening lake was surrounded by blossoming trees. Marie guided her son further, leading him up one of the hills. The panoramic view from the top was nothing short of breathtaking.

—"Welcome to this special place," Marie said, pausing at the summit of the hill. —"This spot holds a deep significance for our family, especially on the day of your birth."

Arthur gazed around, his eyes filled with awe. —"It's truly a beautiful place, Mom. But why is it so important to us?"

Taking his hand, Marie spoke tenderly, —"This is where your Father asked me to marry him. We decided to build our home here, and it's where you were born, Arthur. This place is filled with our memories and our love. And look over here." Marie pointed to the center of the hill, where a small sapling was growing.

—"Look, Arthur. This sapling was planted by your Father and me on the day you were born. It's an ash tree. Your grandmother, Emma, once told us that the ash tree symbolizes the source of life."

Moved by the significance of the place, Arthur turned to his Mother. —"Thank you for bringing me here. I feel a deep connection to this place and our family."

Marie's eyes were filled with tears as she nodded, her gaze fixed on her son Arthur. —"I wanted to make sure you always remember where you come from and how much we all care for you. Let this place always be a symbol of your roots and identity."

They found a peaceful spot on the grass, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the area. In the distance, the gentle waves of the lake created a soothing rhythm, while the wind whispered through the leaves of the trees. Arthur felt a profound connection to this place and his family. He realized that his journey began here, in this hallowed ground.

—"Mom, I promise I will carry this place and your love with me always," Arthur said, holding his Mother's hand tightly.

Marie embraced her son, feeling his warmth and resilience. —"We will always be by your side, Arthur. No matter where life takes you, this will forever be your home. No matter how tough things may become, we will always be here for you."

After spending some time in silent contemplation, Marie and Arthur made their way back home. This place had transformed into a wellspring of fortitude and creativity for Arthur, a constant reminder of the significance of family and affection.