[Augustus Mansion at Morning]
The morning sun was still low on the horizon, casting golden light over the sprawling grounds of the mansion.
The heavy gates stood open, almost as if they were waiting for the moment when Noah and his companions would cross into the unknown.
Noah took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment. It wasn't just the thrill of adventure that made his heart race—it was the reality of leaving behind the place that had been his refuge.
"Scarlett, did you put your daggers?" he asked, his voice steady but with a hint of concern.
"Yes," she replied, her gaze sharp as always. She looked ready, her usual confidence radiating from her.
Noah turned to Layla, who was adjusting the strap of her large scythe. "Layla, put your scythe back in the storage ring. It's very big."
Layla pouted, crossing her arms over her chest. "But you're also keeping your sword with you."
Noah chuckled, taking off the simple iron sword he had been carrying on his back. "Here, you can keep this. It's the first sword I used." He handed it to her, and her expression softened, a wide smile lighting up her face.
"Thank you," Layla said, practically hugging the sword to her chest. She looked genuinely happy, as if receiving the blade was a treasure.
Noah shook his head, watching her for a moment before noticing her struggling to pack her spear. "Here, keep this storage ring," he said, handing her another item. "It'll be useful."
Layla hesitated, raising an eyebrow. "But it's yours," she said, eyeing the ring curiously.
"Just keep it," Noah insisted, his tone light. "I don't need it now. I can use subspace to store my things."
"Really?" Layla asked, her eyes wide in surprise. "Thank you." After a long pause, she carefully slid the ring onto her index finger. Her expression softened as she looked at him in appreciation.
Even Scarlett was caught off guard. "You can use subspace?" she asked, her tone both surprised and impressed.
Noah hesitated, a small grin playing on his lips. 'Well, I can't exactly tell them I have a system inventory, can I?' he thought, keeping that secret to himself for now. It wasn't the time for such confessions.
"Yeah," he said simply. "It's just a small convenience."
The air around them seemed to shift as Noah looked at the open road ahead. Today wasn't just another day—it was the beginning of a new chapter, an entirely new world.
You must be wondering what we're doing, right?
Let me tell you, today we leave our safe haven and dive into the world of adventures. One year has passed since the academy closed, and we've had no plans to join it now. As I promised Lyra, we're forming an adventurer party.
We're headed to the next city. It's small compared to this one, but that's what makes it even more interesting. In this world, apart from demons, there are many other races. Elves, dwarves, and dragons, to name a few.
Dragons, though... they're on another level. They don't meddle with human affairs, but they're proud creatures. If you ever cross one, well, let's just say you'd rather not be on the receiving end of their lava breath.
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Scarlett's voice cut through his thoughts, her red hair swaying gently in the breeze. Her eyes met his—full of both concern and excitement. "This is a big step, Noah."
Noah nodded, his crimson eyes steady and focused. "There's no turning back now. It's time to face the world, Scarlett. We're not just going on a journey; we're forging our future."
Before he could say more, a familiar voice called from behind him. "Noah."
His heart skipped a beat as he turned to see his parents, Lord and Lady Von Augustus, standing near the mansion's entrance. His mother, with her gentle smile and soft features, was holding a small bundle wrapped in silk. His father, tall and imposing, watched with quiet pride.
"Noah..." His mother's voice cracked slightly, her worry evident. "You don't have to go. You can stay here with us. It's too dangerous out there." Her gaze softened, and Noah could see the unspoken love and concern behind her words.
"No." Noah's voice was firm yet gentle as he stepped toward them. He placed his hands on his mother's shoulders, offering a comforting squeeze. "It's my time to leave. The world is changing, and I can't stay here forever. I've learned so much already, but this—this is the next step."
His father, who had remained silent until now, placed a hand on his son's shoulder. "I've always known you were destined for greatness, Noah. But remember—whatever happens, you'll always have a home here. And you're never alone." There was a faint pride in his voice, though his eyes betrayed a trace of sorrow at the thought of Noah leaving.
Lady Von Augustus turned to the girls who had come to stand beside Noah. Her gaze softened, but there was a determined edge to it. "Scarlett, Layla, Lyra... take care of him." Her voice dropped to a quiet, serious tone. "He may be strong, but he's still our son. Watch out for him. And be cautious—there will be women who will try to get close to him, for reasons that have nothing to do with his well-being. Be mindful of those who might take advantage of him. He doesn't always see those things."
Scarlett nodded, her face solemn. "We'll look after him, Lady Von Augustus. You have our word."
Layla, standing slightly behind Noah, smirked as she adjusted her grip on her space ring. The large scythe she carried—concealed safely within it—was a reminder of her strength. "Don't worry, we've got him covered. No one's going to get past us."
Lyra gave a soft nod of agreement, her hands calmly folded in front of her. "We'll keep him safe. You have our promise."
Noah felt a warm rush in his chest, a sense of overwhelming gratitude for the unwavering support of the girls who had become his family. He turned to his father, who stood silently watching the exchange. His father's face softened as well, and he placed one final hand on Noah's shoulder.
"You're about to face dangers that will test you, my son," his father said, his voice low but firm. "Remember, you have the strength of your bloodline, but don't let your pride cloud your judgment. If you need help, don't hesitate to ask. Don't shoulder everything alone."
Noah looked at his father, a deep understanding passing between them. "I won't forget."
Lady Von Augustus stepped forward and pulled Noah into an embrace, the warmth of her arms a final reminder of the love she had for him. "Come back safe, Noah. I know you'll do great things out there, but always remember where you came from."
After a lingering moment, Noah stepped back, his heart heavy but determined. He turned to the girls, who were waiting for him. Scarlett offered him a soft smile, and the weight of the moment settled between them. "Let's go," he said, his voice steady. "The road ahead is waiting."
As they made their way toward the open road, Noah glanced over his shoulder one last time at the mansion. It was more than just the place where he had grown up—it was the last connection to a past life that was now behind him. Ahead of him lay an uncertain future, filled with challenges, but also opportunities to grow, to learn, and to make his mark on the world.
The girls followed him, their steps in perfect unison with his. Scarlett's hand brushed against his, a silent reassurance that they were in this together.
Layla, her large scythe carefully stored in her space ring, walked with an air of unshakable confidence, ready for whatever dangers the road might bring.
Lyra walked with a quiet composure, her eyes constantly scanning the surroundings, ever watchful.
Noah's heart swelled with gratitude for the people beside him. This wasn't just a journey to conquer the world—it was a journey to forge bonds that would last a lifetime. Whatever lay ahead, they would face it together.
-to be continued...
Author's Note:
Hey everyone! Hope you enjoyed this chapter! It's a big moment for Noah as he steps into the unknown with his companions. This marks the start of their adventure, and I'm excited to see how they'll grow along the way. Thanks for your support, and feel free to share your thoughts below!