Mythshaper

Chapter 44: Scars

We watched from the foothills as Father’s figure disappeared into the mountains along with the others in the company. The guild had worked hard to organise everything in just one day for the expedition.

"It’s weird," Rosalyn said, glancing towards the tallest peaks. "Our home is just on the other side of the mountain range, yet this place feels so far away. There should still be exotic creatures—some that could form soul bonds with an Awakened deep inside the wilderness, yet no one ventures deep."

"Perhaps," Mum told her, "but considering how unwelcoming the wilderness can be, it isn't feasible for most people. Occasionally, some lost adventurers try their luck, but most don’t come back. And those who do return, were empty-handed, and their experiences so harrowing that they discourage others from trying."

"It didn't stop you," Rosalyn mumbled wistfully.

“Still thinking of joining them?” Mum asked, tapping her youngest sister on the shoulder.

Rose shook her head. "I wanted to go on an adventure with you," she said, hugging Mum’s arm. "I never hear the end of how many places you visited with Emi, but I never get to join even one."

The reason for that was probably the age gap between them. I didn’t know their exact ages—at least not Mum’s—but Rose looked like she was not even half of Mum’s age.

Mum hugged her back. "Well, never say never. One of these days, we might be able to go on some adventure together."

We strolled back home as the mist churned upwards in the sunlight.

"Mum, when have you ventured deep in the mountains?" I asked, because I had no recollection of such memory. It was evident that she was familiar with the region, as last night she had been educating Father about the area, with a bunch of maps covered in her own handiwork.

Mum gave me a curious glance. "I was a long time ago. Long before you were born," she said. "And we ventured from Vashar, not from this side. Still, I can tell you exactly why adventurers hesitate to go deep."