Existence in Paradoxical Changes

Chapter Four: The Maiden in the Woods

As Jared rode through a narrow forest path, sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting playful shadows on the ground. The chirping of birds harmonized with the rustling of leaves, creating a symphony that echoed the beauty of the world around him. He felt a flicker of energy within, a burgeoning sense of purpose in this strange new life. Prompting the system to assess his combat skills, he prepared for any encounters that lay ahead, mentally reviewing the basics he had learned during his training.

The system indicated basic swordsmanship, alongside rudimentary hand-to-hand and footwork techniques—along with an impressive intermediate rating in running away and hiding. He chuckled at the latter; memories of his days in military academy resurfaced, particularly the escapades that had involved more fleeing than fighting. The voice in his head snickered, its teasing tone unmistakable.

"Really? You intend to train your way to success just to impress a girl? How very noble of you," it mocked, dripping with sarcasm.

"Impress a girl?" Jared shot back internally. "Noble acts have their value. Besides, isn't that what a hero should do?"

Despite the voice's condescension, he was determined to maximize his time. He practiced his swordsmanship as he rode, honing his hand-to-hand techniques and footwork, urging his body to remember movements it hadn't employed in years. With each swing, he grew more confident. Just as he finished a particularly impressive flourish, he spotted a beautiful maiden strolling along the path ahead, her carriage pulled by a donkey, the animal plodding along as if it were aware of its own importance.

"Isn't this someone straight out of The Princess Diaries?" Jared muttered to himself, amusement fluttering within him at the concept.

Curiosity piqued, he followed her, adopting a posture of mock knighthood as he dismounted with exaggerated flair. "What dost thou call thyself, dear maiden, and what wares dost thou peddle?"

The maiden, taken aback by his sudden appearance and handsome visage in shining armor, blushed slightly, a tint of pink coloring her cheeks. "Um, esteemed sir, I am selling my butter at the market today. My name is, um, Anne."

"Delightful to make thy acquaintance, Anne. Pray tell, how many years dost thou bear?" Jared inquired, feeling an unexpected connection, the softness of her features inviting a protective instinct from deep within him.

"Sir, I am but fifteen and ready to be wed," she replied cautiously, her cheeks flushed as if he had inadvertently broached an uncomfortable topic.

"Fifteen?" Jared thought. "Eh, doesn't she look like she's twenty or something?" He shook his head to clear the absurdity of his thoughts.

Before he could process that, the voice in his head chimed in with disdain, "You better not mess around, Mr. Pedo! You could be her father!"

Jared nearly choked on the absurdity of it all. "I am a man of honor, justice, and morality!" he protested, though the voice offered no further response, clearly unconvinced.

"Why art thou all alone within this wood? What if a rogue should lurk and bring thee harm?" Jared asked, genuine concern etched across his features. As he spoke, his mind wandered briefly to Nicole, questioning if she would understand his new life or if she expected his return. The bittersweet pang of loss flared within him but was quickly overshadowed by his desire to protect this girl who seemed so vulnerable.

At his question, tears welled in Anne's eyes. "Sire, my village has been wiped out by a plague, and I am the last soul left. Each day, I walk among the empty homes, haunted by the laughter of those I've lost. I feel like a ghost, carrying their memories alone in this sorrowful silence. I am utterly, heartbreakingly alone."