Chapter 4: Hidden Resolve and Family Bonds

  As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, Eryan sat on his small wooden bed, lost in thought. His memories of Earth were now fully awakened, and with them came the instincts of a grown mind. He was no longer just a five-year-old boy but a soul carrying knowledge of another world, one where science ruled and cultivation was only the stuff of fiction.

  Yet, this world was different. Even in the small village, there existed warriors who had surpassed ordinary human limits. His own father, Garret, was one of the best hunters, and the village chief was a level 8 warrior, a level that ordinary people could never reach.

  Then there was the Dao Fruit of Destiny Avenue, the very reason for his rebirth. Though it was currently dormant, its mere existence proved that the world was far from simple. It granted him agelessness, ensuring he would never die of old age, but it did not make him invincible. He could still be killed, whether by illness or by a blade in the dark.

  This realization gave birth to a firm decision in his heart.

  He would not expose himself.

  Power was the ultimate currency in this world. Those who showed talent too early either became targets or were drawn into forces beyond their control. He had no intention of becoming a pawn for others, nor did he want to bring unnecessary danger to his family.

  Thus, he resolved to hide his abilities, pretending to be an ordinary, clumsy child—one who showed no great talent, no threat, and no reason to be watched too closely. He would train in secret, growing stronger at his own pace.

  And most importantly—he would protect his family.

  A sudden knock on the wooden door snapped him out of his thoughts.

  “Eryan! Stop daydreaming, it's time for dinner!” a soft, cheerful voice called.

  It was his younger sister, Elia, her tone carrying the carefree innocence of childhood.

  Eryan took a deep breath, adjusting his expression into one of playful dullness before hopping off his bed. “Coming!”

  ---

  Dinner with Family

  The scent of freshly cooked food filled the modest wooden house as Eryan stepped into the main room. A sturdy wooden table sat at the center, surrounded by stools, with flickering oil lamps casting a warm glow over the meal.

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  Seated at the head of the table was his grandfather, Hagar, his wrinkled face carrying the weight of years, yet his eyes were still sharp. To his right sat Garret, his broad frame and calloused hands evidence of his years as a hunter. Beside him, Lina, his mother, was placing the last dish on the table, her expression gentle yet firm.

  Across from them, Darin, the eldest brother, had returned from his training in the military for a brief visit, while Reyn, the second brother, looked eager to hear his stories. Elia, the youngest, sat beside their mother, swinging her small legs as she hummed a tune.

  The food on the table was simple but hearty—roasted venison, freshly baked bread, boiled vegetables, and a stew made from wild herbs and meat broth. There was also a small dish of salted fish, a rare treat.

  As everyone settled down, Garret cleared his throat. “Alright, let’s eat.”

  Eryan took small bites, enjoying the rich flavors of the stew. Food in this world was different from Earth’s processed meals—everything was fresh, natural, and full of energy.

  “Father, I saw a large deer near the southern forest today,” Reyn spoke up, his voice eager. “Maybe we can track it tomorrow.”

  Garret nodded. “Good eye. But remember, hunting isn’t just about spotting prey. You need patience. The best hunters know when to strike and when to wait.”

  Darin, who had been quiet so far, finally spoke. “That’s true in battle as well. Rushing in carelessly only gets you killed.” His voice carried the maturity of someone who had seen bloodshed, even if he was still young.

  Lina shot him a disapproving look. “You shouldn’t talk about such things at the dinner table.”

  Elia, oblivious to the serious tone, pouted. “Big brother Darin, did you fight any bandits?”

  Darin smirked, ruffling her hair. “Not yet. I’m still in training.”

  Hagar chuckled, his deep voice carrying wisdom. “Fighting should always be the last option. Strength is not just about wielding a blade but knowing when to use it.”

  Eryan remained quiet, absorbing every word.

  He agreed. Strength without wisdom was meaningless.

  His mother suddenly turned her attention to him. “Eryan, you’ve been quiet today. Did you get hurt from your fall earlier?”

  Eryan quickly put on an embarrassed smile. “No, I’m fine, Mother. Just thinking about how not to trip again.”

  Reyn laughed. “You need to be more careful. You’re always stumbling over your own feet.”

  Eryan scratched his head, playing along. “Maybe I was cursed with clumsiness.”

  The table erupted into laughter, and just like that, the serious mood dissolved into lighthearted chatter.

  Eryan smiled. This warmth, this bond—this was what he wanted to protect.

  As the meal came to an end, his father stretched. “Tomorrow, I’ll be going out for a long hunt. Reyn, you’ll come with me.”

  Reyn’s face lit up. “Yes, Father!”

  Elia yawned, her small body leaning against Lina. “I’m sleepy…”

  Lina smiled, picking her up. “Then it’s time for bed.”

  As the family slowly dispersed for the night, Eryan sat for a moment longer, staring at the dim glow of the oil lamp.

  He would grow stronger—silently, carefully.

  No one could know the secret of his past life. No one could know about the Dao Fruit of Destiny.

  For now, he was just an ordinary, clumsy boy.

  And that was exactly how he would remain—until the time was right.