He shrugged and said, “Well this will get me out and about some more.” With that, he walked through magnolia toward the magic shop. It was a bit out of the way in town, closer to the outskirts. He recognized it from the pronounced sign that hung out front.
With a subtle knock, the door swung open and an older man’s voice hailed him to enter. “Come in come in. What are you looking for today youngster?”
Kazimir replied, “I’m actually with the rune knights. Here to help with a delivery I believe.”
“Ahh, a mage then. Yes yes, I have some food I need you to take to a friend of mine in the forest.”
“You’re friend lives in the forest? How does he usually get the delivery?” Kazimir was a bit concerned that either this man had to pay a mage to deliver it every time or if walked is old body some great distance.
“Oh, I go myself. It isn’t that far.” Khalash started gathering up his supplies and putting them away as if he was closing shop.
“So, then some monsters have appeared and made it to dangerous?” Kazimir was trying to discern what had changed to merit the request.
“Oh, heavens’ nothing like that. I have a foot massage today,” He wiggled his toes in his sandals with glee.
Kazimir had is the answer, not the one he expected but he was getting paid to have an adventure, so it was a win for him. “Uh, Alright then. I’ll take it right away.”
Khalash handed him the bag with the food as he placed a small hand on Kazimir’s back, leading them both out of the shop. He flipped the sign to close and said, “That is that then. See you when you return.” He skipped away ready to get his foot massage, leaving Kazimir to his task.
The woods were thick, and the sun struggled to shine through the canopy. Individual beams of penetrating light guided travelers down the old worn in dirt path. The sound of birds filled the air and bushes rustled from scurrying foxes chasing prey.
“So, this is the Magnolia forest? Fascinating enough. Could be a good place to train one day.” He spoke to himself more so out of boredom. The walk was much longer than he anticipated. For hours he trekked along, testing his patience with its periodic incline. Although this was no test of endurance after surviving the forge.
A part of it reminded him of the forest around his homeland. Both lush and inviting, someone could get lost if they strayed from the path amongst the towering evergreens. He gazed absentmindedly at the world around, stopping to enjoy even the smell of a flower and pick a few berries.
A twig snapped in the distance catching his attention. With another step, his foot fell into a deeper imprint. A larger footstep had come through here. From his time in the forest, he surmised what it could be, “A bear, here?” He said quietly.
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