The first few days gave Oscar plenty of opportunity to drive home his lesson about resting often. None of the boys were built for walking long distances, and while they were in decent shape for running, that was not an option with all the provisions and gear they were carrying.

“Let’s try and eat as much as possible now at the start, so our forms don’t lack for resources when making the adjustment, not to mention to lighten our loads.” Suggested Harold, receiving nods from both his partners-in-crime.

It might not have seemed prudent, but they really were carrying a lot and despite their frequent rest stops it wasn’t helping the soreness of their feet since they soon had to keep going again rather than get a proper rest.

It was an adjustment to say the least, but once six more days had passed, walking on the same dirt road and passing by the same familiar trees and boulders, they had started handling it just fine. Lightening loads and the careful balance they'd managed with their pace made the journey damn near pleasant. This was when they came upon a dozen overgrown fields surrounding a place that looked just short of qualifying as ruins. This was the first sign of civilization they’d come across in days, discounting the dirt road, and so this was where they decided to rest.

“I’ll build the camp, if you guys can collect some firewood.” It wasn’t Kalle’s strength, but he was practicing, so the brothers gladly accepted his suggestion.

The day was sunny but a lot of clouds gathered on the horizon. Thankfully they were heading a different direction.

The two made a curcuit of the nearby woods and kept up the brotherly ambiance by stealthily chucking pinecones each others way.

Oscar had been pulled into this with very little say, but he’d also seemed weirdly prepared and adjusted well thus far. He wasn’t carrying as much as the two other lads, both because of the improved constitution they got from their Classes, but also sheer size. His required portions made up for it, and Oscar was pulling his weight to everyone’s satisfaction.

"We're doing good, right Oscar? I know I pulled you into this kind of out of nowhere, but frankly it was the same for me but with Kalle doing the pulling,” When Oscar didn’t immediately respond Harold went on some more. “You can probably see why I felt like I could partner up with him?"

They had all worked hard the past week to help one another each step of the way, so there wasn't any doubt about Kalle wanting to coast on somebody else's efforts.

"But of course, if you end up unhappy over something we can always go our separate ways and go on just the two of us. Once you get your Class we should be just fine, and until then we can find some busy work around Dormata.”

Oscar smiled at his brother’s display of loyalty and finally spoke up. “Don’t worry, it’s not like I was thriving in Salcret either. You know, I slept for sixteen hours straight one day, woke up and did some stuff for maybe four hours, and then slept another ten. I’m pretty sure nobody noticed.” The words made Harold a bit uncomfortable so it was Oscar’s turn to go on. “Don’t worry, I know how busy you were taking care of the inn, and I appreciate you letting me help out on my own terms after dad-” He didn’t need to continue.

They walked along for a few more minutes, collecting wood and checking out the surroundings. There was a different smell in the air, but the brothers couldn’t quite pinpoint the source or nature of it. They returned to a finished camp.

“Hey guys, I was thinking, we’re doing good on food, right?” Kalle said.

“Sure, but it’s not like we packed extra, it will still only last us to Dormata, with maybe a day or two's worth of meals past that.”

“True, but I was thinking I recall this spot from when I was moving to Salcret, the olds folks took me to see the sea, it’s just a day’s walk north of here.” That got the brother’s attention.

“The sea? Are you sure, is that what we’re smelling?”

“You know, it might be. I have a vague memory of it.” Kalle said after some consideration.

Harold looked at his younger brother. Maybe it wasn’t the safest option, but heck this was why they were doing this. To experience things like seeing the sea. If it is just a day.

Oscar nodded and looked excited.

“Alright, let’s do it, we can afford a day!” Said Harold, and Oscar added. “Worst case we'll tighten our belts a bit, it won't even be a bother. One day more on the road,”

“Don’t worry, I’m remembering this place clearer and clearer, and we’re not gonna make the trip slower than some old folks and a fourteen year old.” He caught himself. “No offense, Oscar.”

And so the trio went on their first detour.