Chapter 7 - Decisions

As dawn painted the sky in hues of gold and pink, Eshmund, his grandfather Tasan, and his two senior brothers, Senior Brother Kalen and Senior Brother Ran, prepared to leave Magistrate Jagules residence. The air was crisp with the lingering chill of night, and the streets of the town were just beginning to stir with activity. Merchants set up their stalls, apprentices rushed about their morning errands, and the rhythmic clang of blacksmith hammers rang faintly in the distance.

Magistrate Jagule personally escorted them to the main gate of his residence, walking with an air of authority tempered by genuine respect for Tasan. Like when they first arrived at the magistrates residence, they were provided a carriage for their journey home - another testament to the magistrates high regard for Tasan Isagani. Even the carriages driver, a strong and disciplined-looking man, appeared to be one of the magistrates bodyguards, a subtle sign of the magistrates respect and care.



As they reached the threshold, he turned to the elderly healer. "Tasan, if anything else arises, I will send word to you immediately."

Tasan nodded, his sharp gaze unwavering. "Do so. And if his condition worsens or any other concerns arise, dont hesitate to call for me".

The magistrate inclined his head in gratitude. "Thank you, old friend. Safe travels".

After a few more polite pleasantries, they parted ways, and Tasan led Eshmund and the apprentices to the waiting carriage. The driver gave a respectful nod before urging the horses forward, beginning their journey back to the village.

The morning ride was peaceful, the golden sunlight filtering through the trees, casting long shadows across the dirt road. The scent of damp earth mixed with the freshness of the morning air. Birds chirped in the distance, their songs harmonizing with the soft creak of the wooden wheels and the steady clopping of the horses' hooves.

Eshmund gazed out at the scenery, watching the landscape slowly shift from the outskirts of town to rolling hills and lush greenery. The rhythmic motion of the carriage was soothing, allowing him a rare moment of quiet reflection. He felt the weight of the Cube in his bag, a tangible reminder of the mysteries he had yet to uncover.

Tasans voice broke the silence. "You all did well back there," he said, his tone calm but firm. "Your skills have improved, Kalen, you've shown great steadiness in your work. Your'e ready to finish your training. Have you given thought to what youl'l do next? Will you continue at the family apothecary?"

Kalen, who had been sitting quietly, nodded slightly. "I have considered it. The apothecary is home, and I've learned much under master's guidance. But I also wish to travel a little, to learn more from others before settling."

Tasan gave an approving nod. "That's a wise decision. Seeing different practices will only make you a better healer".

He then turned his gaze to Ran. "You still have some catching up to do, but your skills are not far behind Kalens. What you lack is experience. More practical training will sharpen your abilities."

Ran sat up straighter, nodding. "Ill work harder, Master".

Tasan then looked at Eshmund. "You know more than just the basics of healing, but your knowledge is still superficial. If you put in more effort, you wont be too bad at it. Reading more would help."

Eshmund hesitated before responding. "I do like herbs and plants, but Im also interested in immortal cultivation. I just dont know if I have the spiritual root to be one. But if I do, i would like to enter the Samang Sect... I do felt a little worried about being away from home, especially from Grandma".

Tasan smiled reassuringly. "Dont let that burden your heart, Eshmund. Its not as if the Samang Sect is a prison. You can always visit home. Your grandmother and I are still very healthy, and we want you to follow the path that feels right to you".

Kalen chuckled suddenly, breaking the serious tone. "Are you even old enough to be thinking about such deep matters? Have you even had that dream yet ?"

Eshmund raised an eyebrow, immediately catching the implication. "You mean a wet dream? Hah! You should worry about yourself, Senior Brother Kalen. You don't even have a girlfriend yet."

Ran burst into laughter, while Kalen rolled his eyes, though a slight blush tinged his cheeks. "For your information, I do have someone in the village", he muttered, causing Ran to raise an eyebrow in curiosity.

"Well, well", Ran teased. So, the ever-composed Senior Brother Kalen is actually hiding a sweetheart.

Tasan let out an amused chuckle. "Both of you are young, and there's no rush. Kalen , Ran, you both are skilled and respectable men. You wont have trouble finding good partners. When the time comes, if you find someone you want to marry, Ill personally send the marriage proposal. Since took all of you in, I consider myself your father in these matters " .

Kalen and Ran both looked touched by Tasans words, their usual playful demeanor momentarily replaced with quiet gratitude.

"Of course .... ", Tasan continued, his voice carrying warmth and hope. "It would be wise to establish yourselves first. You'll need to be able to support a family before you start one. I dream of the day when you both take over the apothecary and keep our family's legacy alive. Then I can finally sit back, relax, and enjoy my retirement with peace of mind " .

The conversation soon shifted back to lighter topics as the carriage continued down the road. Eshmund, though still deep in thought about his future, felt reassured by his grandfathers words. No matter where his path led him, he knew he had a family that supported him.

The carriage rolled into the familiar surroundings of their home, the gentle creaking of the wheels mingling with the morning sounds of the village. As they neared the apothecary, the comforting scent of herbs and freshly brewed tea wafted through the air.

Leila, their grandmother, stood at the entrance, a warm smile gracing her face. Despite her years, she carried herself with a quiet strength, her silver hair neatly tied back. The moment the carriage halted, she stepped forward, her sharp eyes scanning each of them for any signs of exhaustion or injury.

"You're back", she said, her voice full of warmth. "Breakfast is ready. Come inside before it gets cold".

Tasan chuckled as he stepped down. "See? its great to find your soulmate" he said glancing at the boys. "You always know exactly when well arrive".

"You... old man, that's embarrassing .." Leila chuckled, her face bright with amusement, before turning to the apprentices. "Kalen, Ran, don't just stand there. Come inside."

"Yes, Grandma", they both answered in unison, smiling as they followed her inside.

The dining table was laden with steaming bowls of rice porridge, pickled vegetables, and freshly baked flatbread. The meal was simple but hearty, and the warmth of home filled the air as they all settled in to eat. Conversation flowed naturally, with Tasan recounting their visit to the magistrate, and the apprentices discussing the things they had learned.

Eshmund, enjoying his meal, listened quietly while contemplating something that had been on his mind since the trip. He knew he had to be careful about how he brought it up.

"After breakfast, everyone dispersed to their respective tasks. Tasan retreated to his study to review his medical notes, while Kalen and Ran went to the apothecary to take inventory of the medicine stocks. Leila, ever diligent, gathered a basket and prepared to head to the backyard garden to collect vegetables."

"I'll come with you, Grandma", Eshmund offered. "Im not tired yet".

Leila smiled approvingly. "Good. I could use the help".

They stepped outside, the crisp morning air filled with the scent of soil and greenery. The backyard was lush, a small but thriving garden filled with various medicinal herbs and vegetables. Eshmund followed Leila as she carefully inspected the plants, picking the ripest vegetables and placing them into the basket.

As they worked, Eshmund hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Grandma, what if hypothetically, someone wanted to plant a valuable herb here in the backyard? Would it cause any trouble for our family?"

Leila paused, looking at him curiously before straightening up. "That depends, dear. What kind of herb are we talking about?"



Eshmund took a deep breath, deciding to reveal the truth. "Actually, its not just any herb. Its the cabbages I gave to Grandpa before - you saw them, didnt you? You know they're not ordinary. I had to go through a lot to develop a method to cultivate them. Now, its a success and I even struck a deal with Mr. Mushan from the Samang Sect to supply them. But I haven't told Grandfather yet because I wasn't sure if it would be safe to grow them here."

Leilas brow furrowed as she considered his words, but then something else dawned on her. "Wait you met someone from the Samang Sect?" she asked, her voice tinged with both surprise and curiosity.

Eshmund nodded, his eyes lighting up. "Yes, Grandma. Mr Muhsan is a cultivator he can do amazing things! You should have seen him - he can even fly!"

Leila's eyes widened in astonishment."Fly? Truly? Ive heard stories, but seeing a real cultivator in person.. " She trailed off, shaking her head in amazement. "Eshmund, this is even more reason to be careful. Dealing with cultivators can bring both great fortune and great trouble. We must be certain about our next steps."

Eshmund quickly reassured her. "Muhsan is a good guy, Grandma. Hes been nothing but kind and helpful to me."

Leila sighed, still thoughtful. "Even so, you need to speak with your grandfather. He'll know whats best."

Eshmund nodded in agreement. "Alright, well talk to him after we finish here." He felt a lot lighter in his heart now. He know, he could count on his grandma for advises

Once they had gathered enough vegetables, Leila and Eshmund carried the basket back inside. Without delay, they made their way to Tasan's study, ready to discuss everything with him.

---

- Tasan's Study Room -

Tasan listened intently as Eshmund and Leila explained everything. After a moment of silence, he finally spoke. "This opportunity is too advantageous to ignore. With the magistrate's help, we should be able to avoid most dangers. And with our connection to the Samang Sect, we'll have another layer of protection."

Eshmund was surprised. "So does that mean we can plant them here?"

Tasan nodded. "Yes. If we can secure the area properly, it will not only elevate our family but benefit many others as well."

He then stroked his beard thoughtfully. "I also know Mr. Muhsan. He is a cultivator at the Foundation Establishment stage. We are not as close as I am with Magistrate Jagule, but we are acquainted. Given the possible dangers ahead, I believe the court itself would be interested in protecting something so valuable - they would benefit from these cabbages as well. Moreover, we must honor the deal you previously made with Mr. Muhsan."

Leila exhaled in relief. "So what will you do now ?"

Tasan stood up. "I will go back to discuss this with the magistrate, this time alone."

Eshmund, feeling a weight lifted from his shoulders, nodded. "In that case, I'll head to Anise's Blacksmith. I need to acquire some materials" he said without telling them the actual material he required.

Tasan placed a hand on his grandson's shoulder. "I'll be back soon. we might be able to clear some patch this afternoon"

---

Eshmund left his home, the blacksmith's shop only three hundred meters away, right in the heart of the village. The path was familiar, one he had walked countless times before. The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows over the dirt road.

As he walked, a group of children played near a large tree, their laughter filling the air. They ran barefoot through the grass, chasing each other in a game of tag. In the countryside, the elderly or older girls kept an eye on the younger ones. A girl, no older than ten, sat on a wooden stool in the shade, weaving a small basket while watching the others. When she noticed Eshmund, she smiled. Her hands worked skillfully without a glance, as though she had done this a thousand times.

Eshmund was well-known in the village. He was not just the doctor's grandson, but an older brother to many of the children. As he passed, a few kids ran up to him and shouted, "Big brother Eshmund!" He smiled and ruffled their hair or patted their backs, always carrying small treats to hand out. He had dried fruit or nuts with him. Some of the older ones even learned from him, picking up bits of reading and math in an informal education. While most only learned a little, a few showed real promise. Those lucky enough might eventually be chosen by sects for a formal education beyond the village.



As he walked farther, the village gave way to the farmlands, where people worked the fields. Rows of golden grain stretched out, broken only by the farmers, mostly older boys and adults. The younger children, too small to work, played freely as their older siblings labored under the sun. Eshmund waved at a few familiar faces and exchanged greetings before continuing on his way. The harvest looked good this year, and the satisfaction was evident on the farmers' faces.

The air carried the scent of tilled earth, and the creak of an ox-drawn cart filled the quiet. It passed by, loaded with sacks of grain. Beyond the fields, smoke rose from chimneys, carrying the smell of baking bread and simmering stews.

Soon, the rhythmic sound of hammering metal and crackling flames reached his ears. Eshmund turned the last corner, and Bahram's Blacksmith appeared. The scent of burning coal and hot iron filled the air, something he had grown used to. The rhythmic clang of hammer on metal echoed through the open workshop, blending with the chatter of villagers outside.

The shop wasn't the largest in town, but it was well-respected. Lenord Bahram, a skilled blacksmith who had once worked as a military forger, had returned to the village to continue his family's trade. His craftsmanship was sought after, not just by villagers, but by people from other towns as well.

As Eshmund stepped inside, he saw Anise, Lenord's daughter, working at the forge. She had inherited her father's skill, though she still had much to learn. Her sleeves were rolled up, soot smudged across her arms, and sweat glistened on her brow as she hammered away at a heated piece of metal. Her older brother, Balis, almost 17, was beside her, working with equal focus. He moved with the same practiced ease, a few more years of experience behind him. Together, they worked in quiet harmony, the heat of the forge surrounding them.