The Beginning of the Trial!

The first rays of morning sunlight drifted gently through the room's clean window like a golden veil, softly spilling over Allen and Laxus. The two had already risen early, spirits high and ready to embark on their journey of trials and opportunities.

Allen wore a striking red jacket, its back meticulously embroidered with the guild's iconic emblem—a nimble fairy. This garment not only proclaimed his pride as a member of Fairy Tail but also made him radiate vitality and youthful energy. In contrast, Laxus had chosen a black jacket of the same style; the deep color accentuated his cool, handsome features, his innate aloof demeanor on full display.

After methodically checking their already-packed gear one last time, the two hesitated no more, slung on their backpacks, and eagerly prepared to set off. As they pushed open the door, they found Polyushika and Makarov already waiting quietly outside.

Makarov's expression was stern, his sharp eyes fixed on the two youths about to journey far. He spoke with earnest gravity: "Children, I must remind you once more—while you're out there, carefully inspect everything you eat and drink before consuming it. Never let your guard down. If strangers approach and try to strike up conversation, remember to stay highly alert and handle things with caution. Don't trust others lightly. In this regard, I'm fairly at ease with Allen, but you, Laxus, need to be more sharp-minded. Out in the world, always listen to your big brother's advice. Don't take my words as mere wind passing your ears!"

Laxus, who had been brimming with excitement, suddenly felt as if a bucket of icy water had been dumped over his head, his enthusiasm instantly doused. He scowled at Makarov and shouted, "Old man, what do you mean by that? Do you see me as some brainless, reckless fool? Don't underestimate me! Besides, Big Brother's here—you should trust the both of us! Just sit tight and wait. When we come back from our travels, I'll make your jaw drop and you'll see me in a whole new light!"

Allen stood by, a steady smile on his face, quietly watching the exchange without interjecting. However, when he noticed Polyushika seemed to hesitate, as if wanting to say something, he stepped forward without hesitation, firmly grasped her hands, and gently reassured her, "Grandma, don't worry. Our life's journey has only just begun—it can't end so easily. Like Laxus said, when we return laden with success, we'll be the pride of both you and Grandpa!" With those words, Allen opened his arms and gave Polyushika and Makarov a light embrace, then turned and resolutely strode forward.

Seeing this, Laxus quickly hurried to catch up with Allen. As he passed Makarov, he deliberately gave him a hard slap on the back. The unexpected blow caught Makarov off guard, making him stumble and cough violently. Laxus, like a mischievous child, made a face at Makarov, then burst into laughter as he chased after Allen, who had already walked some distance ahead.

And so, under Makarov's furious glare and Polyushika's worried gaze, the two bravely took their first steps into a splendid chapter of their lives.

"Big Brother, which direction are we heading?"

When Laxus asked this question, his voice brimming with joy, his entire body trembled with sheer excitement. To him, finally breaking free from the elders' restraints and discipline felt like a bird bursting from its cage, soaring into the vast sky with unrestrained freedom.

Allen, too, was swept up by Laxus's barely contained enthusiasm, ripples stirring in his usually calm heart. He glanced down at the map in his hand, then looked up and pointed excitedly northward, shouting, "We're heading north!"

No sooner had the words left his mouth than the two strode boldly along the road leading north, chests held high. Along the way, breathtaking scenery unfolded before their eyes—vibrant wildflowers of every color vied for attention along the roadside, and unknown grasses swayed gently in the breeze, like a troupe of nimble dancers performing a joyful routine, as if welcoming the two brave youths in their own unique way. The sight made their steps unconsciously lighter and quicker.

However, after walking for some time, a subtle change occurred. Laxus, who had been bursting with energy at the start, gradually lost his initial excitement. Now, like a deflated ball, he seemed listless and drained. After all, for a child not yet ten years old, facing the nearly monotonous scenery for hours on end inevitably bred boredom and irritation.

Allen, who had been keeping an eye on his companion, quickly noticed Laxus's shift. He stopped, looked around, and his gaze settled on the edge of a nearby forest. He led Laxus over quickly, intending to take a break.

After replenishing their water, Allen saw that Laxus's mood hadn't improved. He patted his shoulder and said, "What's wrong? Getting impatient already? We've barely started. There's a saying: a person's life is a process of tempering oneself, and right now, we're only at the beginning of that tempering. So you need to adjust your mindset quickly. After all, it was your decision to come out with me, so you have to take responsibility for that choice."

Hearing Allen's words, Laxus sat down, took a few deep breaths, then closed his eyes. A moment later, when he opened them again, he had returned to his former self.

"Big Brother, you're right. I was being a bit naive."

Seeing Laxus recover so quickly, Allen continued, "During training, the goal isn't the most important thing—the process is. So you need to learn to find joy in the process."

Laxus listened and nodded silently. After taking another sip of water, he stood up, ready to move on.

"ROAR!!!"

Just then! A Magic Beast's roar echoed from deep within the forest.

The two brothers exchanged an excited glance. Wasn't this fun arriving right on cue?