Episode 3

I had never believed in destined encounters before, but now I am a convert.

We had left our former city behind, and our train was now gliding through rolling meadows, petals dancing in the air, dispersed by the rush of our journey.

My name is Aksa, a 15-year-old from Bandung, a region in Indonesia known for its Sundanese culture; at least that was my identity before. I am not special nor do I have numerous friends; I am just an ordinary guy of the sort you run into anywhere.

The name Aksa has two meanings: one is an adventurer, the other a protector, which suits the characteristics my parents perceived in me.

During middle school, to defend my oppressed friends, I took up Kendo and even won first place, earning me the title of 'swordmaster.' Nevertheless, I ended up friendless, so in this second life, I hope to find what I lacked before.

Unlike the usual reincarnation story common in Light Novels, I've been transferred here. I encountered a Goddess who willingly sent me to this world.

She offered me one wish, and what I requested from her was...

As I pondered, Vivia's voice, from where she sat beside me, broke my reverie.

"Are you okay, Aksa?"

"Oh, it's nothing, Vivia."

"Is that so? I'm just so excited; this is my first time traveling with a handsome man."

I could only offer her a wry smile.

"Sorry, I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve—if I wanted to make love with you, I'd just come out and say it."

At least she was genuine.

"We'll see the city of Antares ahead once we cross that mountain... But Aksa, if I may ask, why do you want to be an adventurer? You could be a knight like me."

"I'm just a weak man; I could never be a knight... Besides, I prefer the freedom of adventuring."

"Is that so. Well, I used to be an adventurer too, until I became a knight for certain reasons."

"Really?"

"Yeah... an adventurer's life is very free; I hope you don't end up getting someone pregnant."

"I'm not that kind of person either."

Vivia laughed heartily.

"If you ever have a problem, don't hesitate to ask for my help; I'd be happy to give it."

"Why go to such lengths for me, Vivia?"

"I'm not sure, but I feel like we've met before... Could it be you were a scavenger picking up trash in front of my house?"

"Hey."

"Just kidding, I was just saying."

We finally passed the mountain Vivia mentioned before, and a city enclosed by high walls caught my gaze.

"So that's Antares."

"Exactly, it's a haven for novice adventurers, and even some top-ranked ones choose to live there."

"Wouldn't it be better for them to go to bigger cities?" I remarked.

"Even though they're strong, they are still cowards at heart, Aksa. There are many threats out there, including the demon king and his army; living leisurely in a place like this is not a bad choice."

I understood the sentiment, and upon reaching the city gate, it was time to part ways.

"Thanks for everything."

As I disembarked from the cart, Vivia handed me a piece of paper.

"What's this?"

"It's my address here in the city; I live alone, and it would be nicer if we could stay together."

I was about to refuse, but she was already departing. I let out a quiet sigh while I watched her from a distance. Is this the destiny I must accept? I'll tell the Goddess about this later, though she probably already knows.

That is, I hadn't mentioned it yet.

At 06:00, I can travel to the Goddess's realm to meet the one who sent me here, regardless of whether it is morning or night.

That was my wish to her.

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