Power of Zero

Welcome! Knight of Light!

DEM had informed Cipher that to his north was the 'The Metallic Forest' and to the south was the 'Laughing Forest,' both possessing a charm and beauty unlike anything he'd ever seen before. The Metallic Forest shimmered under the sunlight, its leaves resembling thin sheets of copper and silver, reflecting warm hues as the wind shifted them gently. In contrast, the Laughing Forest was full of vibrant, twisting trees with colorful bark that almost seemed to ripple, their branches swaying in ways that made them appear as though they were chuckling softly.

After walking for about two miles, Cipher crested a small hill and saw the town of Sol nestled in the valley below. From a distance, it reminded him of an old Japanese town, its architecture resembling the Edo period with tile-roofed homes and narrow, well-kept streets. Cipher's mind flickered back to a time when he had admired photos of Imaicho Town, a preserved historical town in Japan. He'd never been allowed to travel in his old life, so he had explored the world through internet searches, dreaming of places just like this.

Now, standing at the top of the hill, he felt a swelling ache in his chest—like he was stepping into a dream made real.

As he descended closer, the town's beauty grew more apparent. The buildings were pristine, the walls polished and shining under the sunlight, and not a weed could be found along the stone-paved streets. The scent of fresh bread and herbs wafted through the air, mingling with the soft sound of distant wind chimes and the gentle laughter of children playing nearby.

Is this really a dream? Cipher thought, half expecting the illusion to fade.

Just as he neared the large wooden archway marking the town's entrance, Cipher noticed the people—ordinary-looking humans, not the mythical beings he had expected in the Land of Dreams and Legends. "DEM," he whispered, glancing around, "there are people here... actual people! Why are there people?"

DEM responded in his usual calm tone. "I cannot say for certain. However, this may not be the only town with human inhabitants. Once we reach the Knights of Light Church, we should be able to gather more information."

Before Cipher could ask another question, a figure materialized in front of him, appearing so suddenly that Cipher nearly stumbled back. The man wore a long, flowing silver robe, a bead necklace draped around his neck, and had a shaved head reminiscent of a Buddhist monk. With a graceful bow and a gentle smile, the man greeted him.

"Welcome to the town of Sol. My name is Toli. May I ask the purpose of your visit?"

Toli already had a strong suspicion of who this boy was. His silver eyes and white hair were unmistakable traits of the Knights of Light, a rare sight in Sol. Yet something felt... different. The Knights he had encountered in the past had been older, weathered warriors. This boy looked no older than sixteen, far younger than any he'd seen before. Was the light dimmer in him? Or perhaps... it was only just beginning to shine.

Cipher mimicked the man's bow, recalling the gesture from Toli, and answered, "My name is Cipher. I was told I needed to visit the Knights of Light Church. I'd love to see all the beautiful sights here, but I should go there first."

Toli's smile widened, the compliment clearly touching him. It wasn't often travelers noticed Sol's beauty so quickly. "Sir, I would be honored to guide you to the church. I know a path that will get you there swiftly while still offering some of the 'beautiful' views you're admiring."

Cipher gave a soft chuckle, nodding. "Thank you. I'd like that."

As they walked together, Toli spoke gently, explaining the various parts of Sol. They crossed a bridge carved from pale jade, the railings trimmed in gold that shimmered when the sunlight hit them just right. The market square was alive with the scent of spices and fresh fruit, but the people themselves were what struck Cipher most.

Everyone they passed paused, smiling warmly and offering gentle waves or words of greeting. The kindness was so effortless, so genuine, it left Cipher both confused and deeply moved. Why are they being so nice to me?

For the first time he could remember, he felt seen—welcomed.

Toli noticed Cipher's lingering glances and the way his steps slowed, taking everything in. Poor child... he thought, though his face remained calm. He looks as though he's never known kindness.

Their path led through a bamboo forest, the stalks so tall and densely packed they seemed to touch the sky. The soft rustle of leaves mixed with the whisper of wind, the sound lulling and peaceful. Then, as the path opened, a large stone cathedral came into view, its massive stained-glass windows catching the light.

The imagery on the glass told stories of battles—warriors with silver eyes fighting monstrous, shadowy figures. Yet the style of the building clashed with the beauty of Sol. It felt colder, heavier, as if weighed down by centuries of struggle.

They approached the steps, and Toli stopped, turning to face Cipher with a bow. "It has been my pleasure to guide you here, Sir Cipher. I pray that your journey brings you the strength and wisdom needed for the path ahead."

Cipher blinked, unsure how to respond to such formal kindness. He bowed in return, his voice soft but sincere. "Thank you, Toli. You've made me feel... welcome. I'll be sure to visit again—I'd love to see more of Sol."

Toli gave a final, warm smile before his body faded, dissolving like mist into the breeze.