The forest gradually thinned, giving way to rolling hills bathed in the golden light of the morning sun. Rax led the way, Miko skipping ahead while Luna walked beside him like a vigilant shadow, and Mina occasionally checking the surrounding flora for medicinal herbs.
"This is amazing," Miko chirped, spinning in a small clearing. "The world is so big, Master Rax! Can we explore every part?"
Rax smiled, kneeling to her level. "We will, little one. But first, we need to reach the settlement safely. There could be dangers along the way."
His God's Eye scanned the horizon, noting the terrain, possible ambush points, and magical anomalies. A small band of goblin-like creatures appeared on the hill ahead, scouting the path. They had crude weapons but moved with a predatory intent.
"Looks like our first real test," Rax murmured.
Luna drew her twin blades effortlessly, her stance perfectly balanced. Miko summoned her elemental shield, forming a shimmering barrier around them, while Mina readied her healing instruments. Rax activated Imagine Breaker, nullifying a small magical trap the goblins had prepared along the trail.
The goblins charged. Luna met them head-on, cutting through their ranks with precise strikes. Miko's shield deflected incoming projectiles, protecting Rax and Mina. Mina moved behind the front lines, tending to minor injuries from their small skirmish.
Rax's Aegis Nova morphed from sword to bow mid-combat, firing energy bolts at goblins attempting to flank them. He then activated the Chrono-Gauntlet, slowing a charging goblin just long enough for Luna to intercept. Within moments, the group had subdued the ambush without serious injuries.
Breathing steadily, Rax surveyed his companions. "Good work. That's exactly how I want us to operate—precision, coordination, and efficiency."
Miko beamed. "We did it! Did I do okay, Master?"
"You did perfectly," Rax said, ruffling her hair. "Your shield saved us."
The rest of the journey passed without incident, though Rax remained vigilant. By midday, the settlement appeared on the horizon—a modest town surrounded by walls, bustling with merchants, adventurers, and townsfolk. Flags fluttered in the breeze, and the smell of cooking fires drifted toward them.
As they entered, Rax felt a strange mix of excitement and curiosity. The town was alive, full of opportunity—and danger. He knew this was where his journey as an adventurer would truly begin.
Luna's eyes scanned the streets, Mina observed the local healers' shops, and Miko chattered excitedly at every passing person. Rax opened his Runic Interface, marking the guild hall on their internal map. This was the first step toward earning money, reputation, and resources for his growing family.
"This is it," Rax said quietly, determination flashing in his eyes. "Our first real adventure starts here."