In the mystical realm of Kalidor, ancient mysteries await discovery. To the east lies the formidable Vale Mountain, a realm teeming with diverse and often deadly creatures. This treacherous terrain has earned its reputation as one of the most perilous locations, yet it also holds secrets of untold fortune.
"A Haven for the Brave"
The Vale Mountain's unique environment fosters an array of rare and potent herbs, sought after by skilled alchemists and potion masters. The dense mana-infused soil and air have a profound effect on the local wildlife, rendering even ordinary creatures more resilient and flavorful. However, it's the elusive Mana Beasts that truly make this region a treasure trove.
These extraordinary creatures possess the unique ability to absorb and store magical energy, rendering their bodies a veritable treasure trove of potent magical properties. The allure of harvesting these beasts is undeniable, as consuming their flesh is said to grant the consumer remarkable abilities and enhancements. Furthermore, the possibility of uncovering hidden legacies and artifacts has drawn many to the Vale Mountain.
Hunters and adventurers flock to the Vale Mountain, though most exercise caution, sticking to the outskirts and avoiding the deeper, more treacherous regions. Only the most confident or desperate dare to venture further in, often with little regard for their own safety. These bold individuals are driven by the promise of untold riches and unparalleled power, but the Vale Mountain's unforgiving environment and deadly inhabitants wait for no one.
Deep within the Vale Mountain, a surreal scene unfolded. The mere existence of a house in this unforgiving environment was puzzling enough, but what truly defied explanation was the sight of a toddler-like boy perched on a branch. His very survival was a mystery that would have begged answers had there been any witnesses.
The boy sat, muttering to himself in a tone that belied his tender age. "Damn old man, when will you finally start practicing? All I do is read," he complained, his tiny face scrunched up in a comically exaggerated frown. The incongruity of his words and appearance was almost endearing, leaving one to wonder how such a young child had developed such a... colorful vocabulary.
Unbeknownst to the boy, the "damn old man" was standing behind him, listening with an amused expression. "Cheeky brat, no respect for your elders, eh?" The old man's words caught the boy off guard, but he quickly recovered, leaping down from the tree with a bright smile.
The boy's demeanor transformed in an instant, his earlier dissatisfaction erased. "Ahh, grandpa, welcome back!" he exclaimed, his tone now warm and welcoming. "Let me get you water; you must be thirsty." With that, he darted inside, leaving the old man to watch with a mixture of amusement and affection.
The old man's eyes followed the boy, a small smile still playing on his lips. "Shameless brat," he muttered, his tone devoid of irritation and full of fondness. As he tilted his head to gaze up at the sky, his expression turned serious. "Ah, he's ready, I reckon." The unspoken question hung in the air: ready for what? But the old man didn't elaborate, leaving the answer to the imagination.
The old man's words seemed to carry a weight that only he understood. His gaze lingered on the sky, as if searching for something only he could see. The silence that followed was heavy with anticipation, leaving one to wonder what the old man meant and what lay ahead for the boy.