Early in the morning, the first rays of sunlight slipped gently through the room's spotless window like golden gauze, softly bathing Allen and Laxus in their glow. The two had risen early and were brimming with energy as they prepared to begin their challenging and opportunity-filled journey of trials.
Allen wore a dazzling red jacket, with the guild's iconic emblem—a lively fairy—carefully embroidered across its back. The outfit not only displayed his pride as a member of the Fairy Tail Guild, but also made him look vibrant and full of life. By comparison, Laxus had chosen a matching black jacket. Its deep color set off his cold, handsome features, fully revealing his naturally cool demeanor.
After methodically checking through the luggage they had packed the previous day, the two wasted no time in slinging their backpacks over their shoulders and eagerly preparing to set off. When they opened the door, they found Polyushika and Makarov already waiting quietly outside.
Makarov looked solemn as he stared intently at the two youths about to embark on a long journey. He earnestly reminded them, "Kids, I still have to solemnly remind you again. While you're out there, make sure you carefully inspect anything you eat or drink before consuming it. Never let your guard down. If strangers approach you and try to strike up a conversation or make friends, remember to stay highly vigilant and handle the situation with caution. Never trust people too easily. I'm relatively reassured when it comes to Allen, but Laxus, you need to be more careful. When you're away from home, listen to your big brother more, and don't treat my words as if they're going in one ear and out the other!"
Laxus had been brimming with excitement, but the moment he heard those words, it was as if a basin of icy water had been poured over his head. His enthusiasm instantly went out. He shouted at Makarov unhappily, "Old man, what do you mean by that? Do you see me as some brainless, reckless idiot? Don't underestimate me! Besides, I've got Big Brother with me, don't I? You have to trust in our abilities! Just wait and see. When we return from our travels, we'll make your jaw drop and force you to see me in a whole new light!"
Allen stood to the side with a smile on his face, quietly watching everything unfold without interrupting. However, when he noticed that Polyushika seemed to have something to say but couldn't bring herself to say it, he immediately stepped forward and tightly grasped her hands. He comforted her softly, "Grandma, you don't need to worry. Our journey through life has only just begun. How could it end so easily? Just as Laxus said, when we return with a full harvest, we'll definitely become a source of pride for you and Grandpa!" As soon as he finished speaking, Allen opened his arms and gave Polyushika and Makarov a gentle hug. Then he turned around and resolutely took his first step forward.
Seeing this, Laxus hurried to catch up with Allen. As he passed Makarov, he deliberately slapped him hard on the back. The sudden blow sent the completely unprepared Makarov staggering, and he couldn't help coughing violently. Laxus, meanwhile, stuck his tongue out at Makarov like a mischievous child before laughing and chasing after Allen, who had already gone some distance ahead.
Thus, under Makarov's furious gaze and Polyushika's worried farewell, the two bravely took the first step of their remarkable lives.
"Big Brother, which direction should we go?"
When Laxus asked this question cheerfully, his whole body trembled slightly from sheer excitement. After all, being able to escape the restraints and discipline of the elders at home so smoothly felt to him like a bird breaking free from its cage and flying into the vast sky—free and exhilarated.
Allen was also swept up in Laxus's barely contained excitement, and ripples spread across his previously calm heart. He lowered his head to glance at the map in his hand, then raised it and pointed vigorously northward. He shouted, "We're heading north!"
Before his voice had even faded, the two strode forward without hesitation, heads held high, following the road that led north. Along the way, they saw nothing but breathtaking scenery, as beautiful as a painting. Multicolored wildflowers competed in bloom along the roadside, while nameless grasses swayed gently in the breeze like a group of nimble dancers putting on a joyful performance. It was as if they were using their own unique way to warmly welcome the two brave youths. The sight unconsciously made the pair quicken their lighthearted steps.
However, after they had continued walking for some time, the situation subtly changed. Laxus, who had been full of energy at first, gradually lost his initial excitement. Now he looked as listless as a deflated ball. After all, for a child who had not yet turned ten, staring at scenery that barely changed for such a long time would inevitably become boring and frustrating.
Allen had been paying attention to his companion's condition and quickly noticed the change in Laxus. He stopped and looked around, his gaze eventually settling on the edge of a forest not far away. He then led Laxus over at a brisk pace so they could rest for a while.
After replenishing their water, Allen saw that Laxus's mood had not improved. He patted him on the shoulder and said, "What's wrong? Starting to get impatient? We haven't even gotten anywhere yet. There's a saying that goes, 'A person's life is a life of tempering.' And right now, we've only just begun. So hurry up and adjust your mindset. After all, coming out with me was your decision, so you have to take responsibility for it."
After hearing Allen's words, Laxus took several deep breaths while sitting. Then he closed his eyes. A moment later, when he opened them again, Laxus had returned to his former self.
"Big Brother, you're right. I was being a little too idealistic."
Seeing that Laxus had quickly pulled himself together, Allen continued, "During a trial, the goal isn't the most important thing—the process is. So you have to learn to find joy in it."
Laxus silently nodded after listening. Then, after taking a drink of water, he stood up and prepared to continue their journey.
"ROAR!!!"
Just then, a Magic Beast's roar rang out from deep within the forest.
The two brothers exchanged an excited glance. Wasn't this exactly where the fun began?
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