As I trudged through the dense forest undergrowth, my foot caught on a tree root and I felt my body lurch forward. I quickly thrust the butt of my spear into the ground. My shoulder bashed into the thick tree trunk, but at least I kept myself upright.
The unfamiliar weight of the leather armor was heavy on my shoulders, while the clothes I wore underneath were drenched in sweat and clinging unpleasantly to my body. The smell of sweat, leather, and damp greenery all mixed together was enough to make my head spin.
The little old man who walked ahead of me was bald (but only on the top of his head) and bundled up in a cloak that had been mended so often it was now just a mismatched patchwork of rags. He seemed like he was used to navigating the rough terrain, taking steps with confidence and ease while wielding a kukri to cut down any branches blocking the way.
I didn’t trust him. But I followed him anyway, even though I was getting more tired with every step and more convinced that I was being duped with every moment. This was all just a big joke. He was making a total fool of me, and any minute now he’d turn around with that unmistakable laugh of his. But still, I kept going. I had no other choice. If this didn’t work out, I was finished. I had nowhere left to turn. I would simply waste away, forgotten... The thought sat as heavy and cold as a lump of iron in my chest.
Should I have just stayed in the village after all? What would everyone say if they could see me now?
The forest gradually grew denser, the shades of green darker and richer, and the ground more uneven and dangerous. The little old man continued like he hadn’t noticed any of it. He was definitely leading me on a wild-goose chase. I’d given up hope already. A thick and chilly fog had settled over my heart. And yet, for some reason, I kept on walking.
The old man turned to face me. The trees gave way to a clearing that opened up before us, and I fell to my knees.
The view before me was something I’d never, ever forget for the rest of my days. Glimmering like jewels under the sunlight, thousands and thousands of purple blooms swayed in the breeze like a gentle sea of petals carpeting the forest floor.