Zero

Warlord

In the heart of a vibrant town, where the charm of stone buildings coexisted with the artistry of intricate wooden roofs, life thrummed with a harmonious blend of fishing, hunting, and farming.

Nestled around a vast, shimmering lake, the pier bustled with boats bobbing gently against the water, while townsfolk moved with purpose, their laughter mingling with the sounds of nature. Amidst this lively backdrop stood two boys, Astral and Jaylen, their friendship as steadfast as the stones beneath their feet. As they pulled away from their embrace, Astral rubbed the back of his head, feeling the sting of freshly cut hair that had met an unfortunate fate at the hands of Layen's sword.

With a heavy sigh, he looked down, dismayed by the sight of his once-fluffy black hair now reduced to a choppy, unkempt style. "My hair... it's really short—" he lamented, his voice barely above a whisper.

Jaylen, ever the supportive friend, rested his gaze on Astral's new look, a playful smile breaking through his concern. "Yeah—but it really suits you," he replied, trying to lighten the mood.

Astral huffed, his tail flicking with a hint of annoyance as he stepped down from the towering teleporter that loomed in the center of town. "Yeah... I guess, but it needs some help," he muttered, making his way to the nearest window. Peering into his reflection, he pondered how to tame the wild strands that framed his face, his finger tracing the edges of his new hairstyle as he retrieved an arrow from his quiver, using it as a makeshift tool to shape his locks.

Jaylen hopped down from the platform, realization dawning on him with an audible whine. "You lost your bow and spear—" he exclaimed, the weight of their sudden vulnerability settling over them.

Focused on his hair, Astral handed Jaylen a small bag of gold, urgency sparking in his voice. "Go to the teleporter and head to the market land. Once you get there, scan the shops and grab us gear..." With a gentle nod, Jaylen accepted the bag, watching Astral with a mix of admiration and worry.

"Okay... I'll be back soon. Stay safe, please," he urged, concern lacing his words. As Astral waved him off, Jaylen ascended the steps once more, placing his foot on the teleporter. In an instant, a cascade of magical particles engulfed him, and with a flash, he vanished into the unknown, leaving Astral standing in the bustling town.

Jaylen stood at the entrance of a bustling market, a dazzling arena reminiscent of ancient Roman architecture, its open roof allowing the sun to cascade golden rays upon the vibrant scene below. The air hummed with the lively chatter of merchants and customers, while carts trundled over cobblestones, laden with wares that sparkled like stars. Shops carved into the stone walls displayed an array of goods, each stall teeming with unique treasures and enchanting artifacts. In the heart of this grand coliseum lay an open park, where the rhythmic clanging of a blacksmith's hammer echoed, mingling with the laughter of children playing in the sunlit meadow.

As Jaylen stepped down from the teleporter, his heart raced with excitement. His eyes sparkled as he took in the sights, momentarily distracted by a hurried merchant pushing through the throng. He maneuvered out of the way, feeling overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the market, where every turn revealed new wonders.

A sense of adventure bubbled within him as he scanned the stalls, gazing upon gleaming armor and intricate gear that promised to elevate any aspiring hero. But then, something caught his eye—a golden bow, its elegant curves seemingly imbued with magic, danced under the sunlight. Beside it, a spear lay in waiting, its blade adorned with radiant gold and orange, a sun motif carved into its center. Jaylen gasped, his breath hitching in awe as he approached. "Perfect!" he exclaimed, captivated by the beauty before him.