Chapter 3: An article that is not enough
In the early dawn, before the sun had yet risen.
The taverns that stayed open late were still bustling, and the only ones stirring at this hour were the farmers, slowly waking and heading toward their fields.
Huff, huff!
Thud, thud.
Suddenly, heavy breathing and the sound of pounding feet echoed through the streets, as if a horse were galloping by. Those nearby might have even experienced an illusion of something larger than life racing down the road—such was the intensity of the runner's presence.
Yet.
"Sir Knight, running again today, are you?"
"So diligent, as always."
"Keep it up!"
The farmers, who were accustomed to waking up early, shouted words of encouragement toward the man running with such force.
Though their own days were repetitive, always starting with the same routines, the energy radiating from the runner was a refreshing change for them. It lifted their spirits and provided a break from the monotony that often became a mental burden.
Especially.