The wheels of the wagon creaked as it moved steadily down the road. Daren hummed a low tune, occasionally muttering complaints about mule stubbornness or the rising price of cloth. The boy listened quietly, eyes scanning the road ahead.
Finally, Daren glanced over. ''So… you've been wandering those forests alone? Not every kid takes to the trees like that.''
The boy tilted his head slightly, considering how much to reveal. ''I've been… living there'' he said finally, voice calm ''Forest. Alone. For weeks.''
Daren raised an eyebrow, curiosity sparkling behind his squint. ''Alone? That's impressive. Most get eaten by wolves or lose their wits before a week passes.''
The boy shrugged. ''I learned to move quietly. To watch. To understand. Food, water, shelter… the forest teaches quickly if you pay attention.''
''Hmm.'' Daren grunted, smiling faintly. ''You sound like one of those hunters who thinks they know the world because they can skin a rabbit and light a fire.''
He gave a small, dry smile. ''Maybe. But the forest isn't about pride. It's about survival. Observation'
The trader chuckled and shook his head.
''Philosophical, huh? Most kids just want to eat berries and avoid bears.''
Daren leaned back slightly, tapping the side of the wagon. ''Well.. I'll admit, you're different. Quiet, careful. I like that. You're going to be fine, I think roads are easier than forests, but people… people are trickier.''
The wagon creaked along the dirt road, the sun climbing higher, casting long shadows between the trees Daren hummed a low tune before speaking again, casual voice but probing.
''You know,'' he said glancing at the boy ''my boss in Domai's been looking for someone. A new helper. Security, deliveries, odd jobs… nothing glamorous, but it pays. Decent food, a roof, people around you might be interested?''
The boy's eyes flicked toward him. ''Security?'' He asked voice even.
''Mostly watching, moving cargo, keeping an eye on troublemakers. He likes reliable people. Strong, quiet types. Thought of you when I saw you out there.'' Daren said, gesturing vaguely to the forest. ''You handle yourself.''
''I'll think about it,'' he said finally, calm but deliberate. ''Depends on what you need.''
Daren chuckled, satisfied. ''Fair enough. But my boss is looking fast someone's needed yesterday. If you're interested, you'll meet him soon. Name's Corin. Big guy. Keeps things running smooth. Trust me, he'll test you.The city appeared slowly over the horizon, smoke curling from the chimneys, the distant clatter of wheels voices growing louder with each step. The wagon moved carefully along the last stretch of forest road.
He felt the subtle shift in the air: human presence, commerce, noise, and chaos compressed into tight streets. Every sound, every moment was a piece of information. Merchants unloading carts, children darting between legs, dogs barking at the edges of markets. He absorbed it all, silent, cautious.
Daren guided the wagon into a narrow lane, the smell of baked bread and smoke filling the air. ''Here we are'' he said gesturing toward a modest yet busy building with a polished wooden sign reading Corin's Supply & Security. ''Straightforward guy. Watch, listen, answer when needed. Don't overplay it.''
The boy stepped down carefully, eyes scanning the city street. The noise surrounded him, but he focused on the building ahead.
Inside the air was warm, scented with herbs and oil lamps. Behind a sturdy desk sat a broad shouldered man, posture precise, eyes sharp, Corin. He looked. Up surprised by the sudden presence of a stranger.
Daren cleared his throat. ''This boy was living alone in the forest. Came this way on his own.''
Corin's gaze shifted to the boy. Their eyes met for the first time. The boy held himself calm, scanning the room, noting the position of crates, tools and the subtle movement of the guards in the corners. Nothing escaped him.
''You've been living alone in the forest?'' Corin asked, voice low, measured. ''That's unusual… and useful. But surviving alone is different from surviving with others in the city. Can you follow orders? Can you read people? Know when to act… and when to wait?''
The boy's reply was simple measured, yet carried weight. ''I observe first. I act when necessary.''
Corin's lips curved slightly into a small smile. ''Good. That's the kind of thinking I like. And… what's your name, boy? You'll start tomorrow. Daren will show you the ropes, and then… we'll see
The boy looked at him calmly, voice low and measured.
''Call me… Kael.''
Corin's eyes narrowed slightly, not in suspicion but in curiosity ''Kael… I like it. Short, precise. Fits you.'' He leaned back, tapping a finger against the desk. ''We'll see how well it fits when you're in action. Tomorrow, Kael. Don't be late.''
Kael nodded once, silent, already scanning the room again. Every detail was noted, every possibility catalogued.
Outside the city's noise pressed In through open windows and wooden doors. Inside a new life had quietly begun.