Seeking Answers

Luke and Private Roland made their way to the head station of General Elara Stormheart, a formidable fortress that stood as a symbol of the kingdom's law enforcement strength. Guards in ornate armor stood at attention, their gazes fixed upon the visitors as they passed through the grand entrance.

Inside, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of purpose. Soldiers bustled about, tending to their duties and preparing for their next missions. General Stormheart, ever vigilant, awaited their arrival in a spacious chamber adorned with maps and battle plans.

"Welcome, Luke," General Stormheart greeted him, her voice resonating with authority. "I hope you enjoyed the beautiful scenery of our city on your way here. We have many questions, and we are committed to uncovering the truth behind the tragedy that befell Greenmeadow."

Luke, his emotions still raw from the journey and the memories that haunted him, nodded in acknowledgment. He recognized the determination in the general's eyes and knew that she was serious about this, but soldiers being involved might hinder his revenge plans but the only way he could get information about who had done this to his village was to comply with general stormheart and get information from her.

Private Roland, standing by Luke's side, provided a sense of comfort and support. He had shared his own story of loss and the journey that led him to become a soldier. Now, it was time for Luke to find his own path amidst the turmoil.

General Stormheart began the inquiry, delving into the details of the attack, seeking any information that could shed light on the assailants and their motives. Luke recounted his memories, the events etched deeply within his mind. His voice wavered at times, his pain and grief palpable as he narrated his whole ordeal to them in details.

General Stormheart sat across from Luke, her eyes steady and focused as she prepared to question him about the events that had transpired in Greenmeadow. Luke took a deep breath, summoning his resolve to recount the harrowing details of that fateful day.

"I remember the attack vividly," Luke began, his voice trembling slightly. "It was evening when they descended upon our village. I was with my father when They came into the town with such force and brutality, catching us off guard, they were killing people left and right, all I could see was blood splashing everywhere…."

General Stormheart nodded, her expression filled with empathy. "Take your time, Luke. We need to know everything you can remember."

Luke closed his eyes, letting the memories wash over him. He described the chaos and terror that ensued, the screams of villagers and the sound of buildings crumbling. He recounted the moment he had found his mother and sister, lifeless before him, and the anguish that had consumed him.

"wait, I think I remember something..." Luke's voice quivered, "I noticed something... a detail about the attackers. Many of them had a tattoo—a cracked rock symbol—on various parts of their bodies"

General Stormheart's brows furrowed, her expression shifting from empathy to intrigue. "A cracked rock symbol, are you sure about that Luke?" she repeated as she glanced at Private Roland.

"y-yes-, I'm sure about" Luke replied as he could see general stormheart contemplating the significance of the detail. "It could be a vital clue. Thank you for sharing this information, Luke. It may help us uncover the truth and bring those responsible to justice."

Luke nodded, a mixture of determination and curiosity shining in his eyes. He understood the weight of the newfound detail he had revealed and the potential it held in unraveling the mystery behind the attack.

"This cracked rock symbol," General Stormheart spoke thoughtfully, "it may be a mark of allegiance or affiliation. We will investigate further and see if it ties into any known groups or organizations within or beyond our borders."

With renewed determination, General Stormheart dismissed Luke for the moment, assuring him that they would continue their pursuit of justice. Luke felt a sense of relief, knowing that he had omitted telling them the part about his acquiring the shadow system and beating up two assailants that pursued him.

As he left the room, Roland's eyes were filled with a mix of concern and determination, his loyalty unwavering. "Luke," he said, clasping his hand in a reassuring grip, "we're going to find the answers we seek. We won't rest until justice is served."

Luke nodded, grateful for the unwavering support of his newfound ally. "but first, let's get you acquainted with your new home!" Roland says with his eyes shining with pride.

"m-my new home?" Luke inquired as Roland ushered a carriage driven by two horses. "yep, you were meant to be sent to a monastery of the church of Athol or an orphanage but I requested to become your legal guardian, that's if you don't mind….do you?"

Luke's eyes widened with surprise and gratitude. The thought of finding a new home amidst the chaos and uncertainty brought warmth to his heart. He looked at Roland, his voice filled with emotion.

"I don't mind at all, Roland. In fact, I'm honored," Luke replied, a sense of belonging blossoming within him. "Thank you for your kindness and for standing by me through all of this."

Roland smiled, his gaze filled with genuine affection. "It's the least I could do, Luke. I see in you the same spirit of resilience that once burned within me. Maybe you could even end up being a soldier of the kingdom like me. hahahaha."

As they settled into the carriage, Roland explained that he had taken the liberty of arranging accommodations for Luke in the city. It would be a place where he could find solace, support, and the resources he needed to aid him on his quest for a new life.

Luke leaned back in the carriage, the rhythm of the horses' hooves lulling him into a sense of security. He glanced out the window, observing the bustling streets of Valeria. It was a city filled with both grandeur and secrets, a place where his journey would continue to unfold.

"status screen" Luke muttered under his breath so that Roland wouldn't hear him and immediately a holographic interface appeared right before him, with a dark bluish lightening.

[NAME: LUKE GRAHAM]

[JOB: FARMER]

[CLASS: SHADOW-MANCER] [<<RARE>>]

[LVL:2] [<<30%>>}

[VIT:100]

[STR:15]

[DEX:23]

[INT:10]

[MP:100]

[SP: +5]

[AP: +10]

[SKILLS: 1]

[<<LV.2>>SHADOW REFLECTION]

[TITLES: 1]

[INHERITOR OF THE SHADOW SYSTEM]

[DING!]

[NEW TITLE OBTAINED!]

[THE ONLY SURVIVOR]