Enkrid's heart stirred at Ruth's words.
To be invited by Iron Rank adventurers was no small honor, and for a moment, he imagined himself traveling with them, learning their arts, fighting alongside them. But the vision faded quickly. His dream was not to be an adventurer.
He wanted to become a knight, sworn to duty, and become strengthened by Will.
"I'm grateful," he said quietly, "but my path is different. I must earn my knighthood."
Ruth studied him for a moment, then nodded.
"I understand. Hold to your dream, Enkrid. But you have to know that the world is larger than you think… Being tied to a noble might not be a good thing in some cases."
Enkrid acknowledged this, and he bowed once more before leaving…
When he was gone, the five adventurers gathered near the fountain. Ruth's eyes lingered on the figure who was already far away…
"I already placed my Marker Rune on him," she said.
Jericho nodded at this and muttered, "He's got potential."
