Ethan was filled with excitement at the task given to him by Koa. He had spent a few weeks in the infirmary, learning many basic aspects of healing. Now, he was about to head into the forest with Rowena to gather herbs that Koa needed. This would be Ethan's first mission outside, and he was a bit nervous about it. However, Rowena's cheerful and relaxed demeanor helped ease his anxiety a bit.
Ethan and Rowena left the infirmary early in the morning. Rowena carried a small basket on her back and a bag by her side. Ethan was equipped with his ever-present silver dagger and a few healing supplies.
The forest was coming alive with the first rays of the morning sun. Birds chirped, and a gentle breeze rustled through the trees. Ethan tried to enjoy the peaceful surroundings as he walked alongside Rowena, though the unease within him persisted. Rowena, on the other hand, was quite cheerful. "Collecting herbs in the forest is always fun," she said. "I used to come here often with my father, and each time we discovered something new."
Ethan admired Rowena's relaxed attitude. "So, what kind of herbs are we looking for today?" he asked.
Rowena pulled out a list from her bag and showed it to Ethan. "My father asked for the herbs on this list. Especially the blue-leaved medicinal herbs, which are highly effective in potions for severe injuries."
Ethan glanced at the list and tried to memorize the names of the herbs. "Got it. Let's get started."
As they ventured deeper into the forest, Ethan and Rowena gathered various plants. Rowena explained the uses and applications of each herb to Ethan, who was impressed by her knowledge and passion. He felt that this mission was not just about collecting herbs but also a chance to grow closer to Rowena.
Suddenly, Rowena stopped and began to carefully observe her surroundings. "The blue-leaved medicinal herbs are usually found in this area," she said. "We need to search carefully."
Ethan started looking for the herbs in the direction Rowena indicated. After a few minutes, Rowena shouted excitedly, "I found them! Look, there are a few here."
Ethan came over to Rowena and carefully picked the blue-leaved herbs. "Great! These must be the ones Koa mentioned."
Just then, they heard a sound that broke the forest's silence—a twig snapping—followed by the appearance of a dark-faced, foul-smelling bandit. The bandit held a large sword and grinned menacingly.
"Well, well, what do we have here?" the bandit sneered. "A pretty little girl and a scrawny boy. What are you doing here?"
Ethan quickly stepped in front of Rowena and drew his silver dagger. "We're just gathering herbs. Please, don't hurt us."
The bandit laughed heartily at the sight of Ethan's dagger. "Look at this! Do you think you can stop me with that little dagger? Now, hand over all your money and valuables, or bad things will happen."
Ignoring the bandit's threats, Ethan continued to shield Rowena. "We don't have much money. We're only here for healing herbs."
The bandit moved closer, raising his sword. "Is that so? Then I'll just leave you here and take all your belongings."
Before the bandit could get any closer, Ethan slashed his dagger, catching the bandit off guard and injuring him. The bandit retreated with a snarl, "You little brat! You'll pay for this!"
Ethan turned to Rowena and urged, "Run! Go and get help quickly!" Though surprised by Ethan's courage, Rowena obeyed and sprinted into the depths of the forest.
Ethan braced himself for the bandit's next move. The bandit lunged with his sword, but Ethan dodged swiftly and struck the bandit's leg with his dagger. The bandit howled in pain and fell to the ground.
To prevent the bandit from chasing them, Ethan kicked the bandit's sword away without hesitation. As the bandit writhed in pain, Ethan quickly ran after Rowena.
Soon, he caught up with Rowena, who had returned with a few guards. Seeing Ethan, she rushed to him. "Are you okay? Where's the bandit?"
Panting, Ethan replied, "I injured him. He won't dare follow us."
The guards promptly moved to the bandit's location. Ethan and Rowena followed, supporting each other. Deep in the forest, they found the bandit writhing on the ground. The guards arrested the bandit and safely escorted him back to the palace.
At the palace, King Marlon and Queen Nyla were deeply concerned upon hearing what had happened to Ethan and Rowena. Learning that they had narrowly escaped a great danger thanks to Ethan's bravery and Rowena's quick actions, they expressed their gratitude.
King Marlon turned to Ethan, saying, "You are indeed a brave young man. We are honored to have you in our palace. Your courage today shows how much you deserve to be here."
Queen Nyla added, "Ethan, meeting a courageous and determined young man like you has brought us great joy. You will continue your healing training, and we will always support you."
Ethan, eyes gleaming, said, "Thank you, Your Majesties! With your permission, I must return to the infirmary."
After receiving permission, Ethan practically ran back to the infirmary. His heart was racing with excitement, but he was also worried. What if it came to light that he was actually thrown off a pirate ship?
"You're overthinking," Ethan muttered to himself. He had merely wounded a bandit in the leg. How bad could it be?
As soon as he entered the infirmary, Rowena was at his side, looking at him curiously. "How did you manage to handle the bandit so well? Have you used a sword before?" she asked.
Ethan knew Rowena meant no harm, but he was smart enough not to reveal the truth. "Logically, I figured that injuring his leg would disable him," he lied.
Rowena hugged Ethan, saying, "You're so smart! We were saved because of you." When she pulled back, she noticed Ethan's cheeks were flushed. "Ethan, are you okay? Your cheeks are red."
At Rowena's concerned question, Ethan tried to suppress the butterflies in his stomach and said, "I'm fine. Just tired. I should get some rest," before quickly retreating to his room and shutting the door behind him. His breathing was uneven.
"Koa mentioned something about these symptoms, right? Someone showing these signs must be overly excited," Ethan muttered, pacing in his room. "But why would I be excited?"
He paced until he was exhausted, pondering the question. Finally, he concluded that it must have been the excitement of fighting the bandit, who was an adult and stronger than him. Yes, that must have been why he was excited. What else could it be?