73 Prowlers' Cove



I cleared my throat and asked." We are already there?" I wasn't expecting it to be over this soon.

"Yep,this is the Prowlers' Cove harbour. As I said I brought you to the destination in a jiffy right!" Devon puffed out his chest, he did an absolutely great job.

As I entered the Reva Kingdom, I couldn't help but anticipate hostility or discrimination from the demi-human inhabitants due to my human heritage. However, to my surprise, the reception I received was not one of outright hatred or animosity. Rather, it seemed that humans were met with indifference and a general lack of favoritism.

Intrigued by this unexpected response, I delved deeper into the kingdom's history and discovered that a peace treaty had been signed between the Reva Kingdom, Grav Kingdom, Hestia Empire, and Elishia Forest. This pact aimed to foster harmony and avoid the outbreak of unnecessary conflicts. While humans were not particularly liked or favored, the treaty ensured their safety within the kingdom's borders.

The implications of this peace treaty were profound. It meant that even if an individual human like myself were to meet an unfortunate end, it would not result in an immediate escalation into all-out war. Instead, it would be considered a breach of the pact, potentially straining the fragile relationships between the kingdoms and forest.

Though the significance of my own existence might be minuscule in the grand scheme of things and won't cause war.

it served as a reminder of the delicate balance that had been established. It was a testament to the commitment of the kingdoms and forest to maintain peace, even in the face of inherent differences and deep-rooted animosities.

While the demi-humans of the Reva Kingdom did not extend warmth or hospitality to humans, they also refrained from causing harm. It was a state of cautious coexistence, where tolerance prevailed over outright hostility. And as I moved through the kingdom, observing the interactions and dynamics between different species, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate web of diplomacy and the fragile peace that held it all together.

In this land of demi-humans and their unique culture, it also offered a glimmer of hope that perhaps, over time, the boundaries between humans and demi-humans could be bridged, and true acceptance and understanding could be achieved.

Thirteen days had passed since the encounter with Devon, and I found myself reflecting on the events that had unfolded. Despite spending countless hours on the road together, I had remained guarded, keeping my true intentions and the weight of my quest hidden from him. Devon had proven to be a reliable guide, navigating through treacherous terrain and leading us through dense forests and winding paths. Yet, I couldn't bring myself to open up to him or anyone else I had met along the way.

As the days melded into one another, I discovered that Devon possessed a unique mix of wisdom and humor. He regaled me with tales of his past adventures, each story more outrageous than the last, and we shared moments of laughter and camaraderie. But beneath the surface, a wall remained, separating me from fully embracing the companionship he offered, I thought there's something to this guy that he is not telling me 

Throughout our journey, Devon made genuine efforts to engage me in conversation, asking about my origins, my purpose in these lands, and even my dreams for the future. Yet, I deflected his inquiries with vague responses, evading the truth that simmered beneath my guarded exterior. It was not that I distrusted him; rather, I feared the potential consequences of revealing my true intentions and the weight of responsibility that rested upon my shoulders.

In the solitude of our campfires, as the crackling flames danced and the stars sparkled above us, I often found myself lost in thought. My mind became a whirlwind of doubts and uncertainties, grappling with the magnitude of the task that lay ahead. I yearned for guidance, for someone to share the weight of my burdens, but my stubbornness held me back.

Devon, ever perceptive, sensed my inner struggles, but he respected the boundaries I had set. He didn't press me further or push me to open up. Instead, he offered silent support, allowing me the space to wrestle with my demons in my own time.

As we ventured deeper into unknown territories, facing dangers both mundane and supernatural, I couldn't help but feel a growing admiration for Devon. His unwavering spirit, and his unwavering dedication to his craft were qualities that I found increasingly admirable. He is more than just a guide; he is also a good warrior.

I've seen him engage in battles with mana beasts that we met up until now and so, as the days turned into weeks we were here now.

"Well, it's a good thing that we are here."I looked at the harbour ahead of me. Prowlers' Cove , a small harbor nestled along the western coastline of the Reva Kingdom, exuding an air of rustic charm and seafaring adventure. As I approached its edges, I was greeted by the rhythmic lapping of waves against weathered wooden docks and the scent of brine in the air, invigorating my senses. The port's modest size and intimate atmosphere lent it a sense of camaraderie among sailors and travelers alike.

The harbor was home to a motley collection of vessels, ranging from sturdy fishing boats to sleek merchant ships, their sails billowing in the coastal breeze. The creaking of ropes and the flapping of canvas echoed through the narrow pathways, creating a symphony of nautical sounds. Weathered seafarers, with sun-kissed skin and salt-streaked hair, busied themselves with their daily tasks, unloading cargo or mending nets.

Timeworn taverns and quaint shops lined the waterfront, their facades adorned with colorful signs depicting sea creatures and maritime symbols. The aroma of freshly caught seafood mingled with the scent of tar and wood, enticing passersby to sample the culinary delights of the sea.

As the day progressed, the port buzzed with activity. Fishermen hauled in their bountiful catches, merchants haggled over prices, and sailors shared tales of their voyages over tankards of ale. The jumble of voices, punctuated by laughter and the occasional sea shanty, created an energetic ambiance that permeated the air.

Beyond the bustling harbor, the coastline stretched into the distance, dotted with rugged cliffs and secluded coves. The crashing waves painted a mesmerizing canvas of white foam against the deep blue expanse, inviting the adventurous to explore hidden treasures and uncharted territories.

Prowlers Cove may have been small in size, but it possessed a magnetic allure, drawing in wanderers, dreamers, and seekers of the unknown. It was a place where stories were born and voyages embarked upon, a gateway to the vast mysteries of the sea. And as I stood on its shores, contemplating the next leg of my journey, I couldn't help but be captivated by the spirit of this humble port, knowing that it held the promise of new horizons and the unfolding of destinies.

"Then where are you going from here now?" Devon asked.

"It doesn't concern you. I'll be staying at that hotel, and where I go from there doesn't matter to you. Your job here is done," I said.

"Ouch... I don't know why you get stingy when I ask about your destination. Well, it doesn't concern me. Farewell then, and I hope you find what you came here for," Devon sighed as he pulled his horse along with him. He was leaving.

As Devon turned to leave, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt for my curt response. Despite his rough exterior, he had shown a genuine willingness to assist me, and I had dismissed his curiosity with unnecessary harshness. The realization weighed on me, and I called out to him before he could disappear into the bustling streets of Prowlers Cove.

"Hey, Devon!" I called out, my voice carrying over the commotion of the port.

He turned, a mix of surprise and curiosity evident in his expression. "Yeah, what is it?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of resignation.

I hesitated for a moment, collecting my thoughts. "Look, I apologize for my earlier words. It's just... I have my reasons for keeping my destination to myself," I explained, trying to convey the sincerity behind my words.

Devon's demeanor softened, and he nodded, seemingly understanding. "No need to apologize, Ren. We all have our secrets and our reasons for guarding them. I should have respected your boundaries," he said, his tone carrying a touch of remorse.

Feeling a sense of relief, I reached into my pocket and pulled out a handful of gold coins. "Here, take these. Consider it a token of appreciation for your help and make sure you get something as a souvenir for your sister," I offered, extending the coins towards him.

His eyes widened in surprise, and a genuine smile spread across his face. "Thanks for this, Ren. My sister will be happy," he said, his voice filled with gratitude and warmth. It was a smile that revealed a softer side of Devon, one that was reserved for matters concerning his family.

With a nod of farewell, Devon bid me adieu and set off from the port, his horse in tow. As I watched him disappear into the bustling streets, a sense of satisfaction washed over me. Despite our initial clash and my guarded nature, I had managed to leave a positive impact on someone's life, even if it was through a small gesture.

Turning my attention back to the port, I felt a renewed determination and a sense of anticipation. The journey ahead remained uncertain, but I was ready to face the challenges and discover the truths that awaited me. As I stepped forward, the bustling atmosphere of Prowlers Cove enveloped me, and I delved deeper into the mysteries that lay ahead.

After a few minutes.

"What do you mean you don't have boats?" I asked.

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