Mushoku Tensei: I am the older brother of Rudeus Greyrat

The early morning mist clung to the rolling hills surrounding the Greyrat estate. Aedric stood at the edge of the courtyard, the strap of his travel bag digging into his shoulder. His heart thrummed with anticipation as he took in the familiar sights of his childhood home, now bathed in the pale hues of dawn.

Paul's voice broke the silence. "You're sure about this?"

Turning, Aedric met his father's gaze. Paul's usual bravado was absent, replaced by a rare vulnerability. Behind him, Zenith held Rudeus close, her face a mixture of pride and worry. Even Lilia had emerged from her usual quiet composure, her hands clasped tightly in front of her.

"I have to," Aedric said, his tone resolute. "There's a world out there, and I can't ignore the pull to see it."

Paul's expression softened, though the tension in his shoulders remained. "You're strong, no doubt about that. But strength alone doesn't protect you from everything."

"I've learned a lot here," Aedric replied, his voice steady. "But staying will only hold me back. I need to test myself, to grow. And I'll be careful."

Paul sighed, running a hand through his hair. Then he stepped forward, gripping Aedric's shoulder firmly. "You're stubborn, just like me. Go, then. But remember, you always have a home here."

Zenith stepped forward next, her eyes shimmering. "Take care of yourself, Aedric. And write to us, if you can."

Aedric smiled gently, leaning down to kiss her cheek. "I will, Mom. Promise."

Roxy watched from the sidelines, her staff resting against her shoulder. As Aedric turned to her, she nodded approvingly. "The Demon Continent is no small feat. Be prepared for its dangers."

"That's the plan," Aedric said with a grin. "Thanks for everything, Roxy. Your lessons will stay with me."

Her lips quirked in a rare smile. "See that they do. And trust in your instincts—they'll take you far."

The journey began as the first rays of sunlight broke through the mist. Aedric's strides were long and confident, the crunch of gravel underfoot marking his departure. The wind carried with it the scents of distant forests and rivers, promising adventure.

As the estate faded behind him, Aedric's mind wandered to the tales he had read of the Demon Continent. A land of harsh beauty and untamed magic, where survival demanded ingenuity and strength. For him, it was more than a destination; it was a proving ground.

By midday, Aedric reached a crossroads. A weathered sign pointed in opposite directions, one arrow marked "Millishion" and the other "Demon Continent—Ports." Without hesitation, he turned toward the latter, his resolve unshaken.

The port town was bustling with activity. Merchants barked out prices for their wares, sailors hauled crates of supplies, and children darted between the crowd. Aedric's eyes scanned the docks, landing on a towering ship with sails marked by foreign symbols. Its hull gleamed with the wear of countless voyages.

He approached the captain, a burly man with weathered skin and a sharp gaze. "I need passage to the Demon Continent."

The captain's eyes narrowed. "Dangerous place for someone so young. Got the coin?"

Aedric reached into his pouch, producing a handful of coins he had saved. The captain scrutinized him for a moment before nodding. "Boarding's in an hour. Don't be late."

The ship rocked gently as it sailed into open waters, the horizon stretching endlessly before them. Aedric stood at the bow, the salty breeze whipping through his hair. For the first time, the weight of his decision settled over him. He was leaving behind the safety of home, venturing into the unknown.

But as he looked ahead, the spark of lightning danced across his fingertips, a reminder of the power within him. This was his journey, his chance to carve a path beyond the shadow of his family. The Demon Continent awaited, and Aedric was ready.

"Let's see what the world has to offer," he murmured, the wind carrying his words into the vast expanse of the sea.