Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

45  [Bonus chapter] A Way to Make Money

The capital of the kingdom of Romera was a sight to behold. The city appeared quite fresh and new, with buildings that seemed to have been recently constructed. The streets were clean and well-maintained, devoid of any dirt or dust. As the group made their way through the city gates, they were greeted by a mix of people, some walking with confidence and others with a sense of weariness.

The buildings in the capital were impressive, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whether it was the majestic palaces or the humble houses, each structure stood proudly, radiating a sense of grandeur. The streets were paved with smooth stones, offering a pleasant walking experience as the group strolled through the city.

As they explored further, they noticed a stark contrast among the people of the capital. Some individuals walked with their heads held high, exuding an air of self-assurance. These were the nobles, adorned in elegant attire and carrying themselves with a sense of entitlement. They seemed to command respect and attention wherever they went.

However, amidst the noble elite, there were also those who appeared downtrodden and weary. These were the commoners, working tirelessly to make a living. Their faces bore the marks of hardship, and their gazes were often cast downward. They moved with a sense of humility, navigating the streets with a blend of determination and resignation.

"It seems that I lived a fairly ignorant life until now… the kingdom isn't as good as I imagined it would be," Rain thought while furrowing his eyebrows.

The townspeople stared at the group with raised eyebrows, whispering to each other and pointing in their direction. Some of them seemed to be judging the group based on their humble clothing and rugged appearance. It felt as though the townspeople considered themselves superior, looking down on those who didn't fit their expectations of refinement and wealth.

Amidst the disapproving stares, a few kind-hearted individuals offered friendly smiles and nods, recognizing the diversity and value that outsiders could bring to their community. However, these acts of acceptance were overshadowed by the overall atmosphere of scrutiny and judgment.

The group felt the weight of the townspeople's gazes, aware that they were being judged solely based on their outward appearance. It was a reminder that appearances and social status held great significance in this town, and those who didn't meet the expected standards were met with skepticism and even disdain.

"I truly won't enjoy the place… and I was supposed to stay here for some years after graduating at Tristan," Rain thought.

Rein thought that they would be left at a cheap place, but it seemed that a large inn was reserved for them. At the same time, some healers showed up to look after his grandparents.

"It has been almost two days already, and they are still unconscious," Rain thought. "We are feeding them a little and giving them water, but this isn't good enough."

Prolonged unconsciousness can lead to permanent brain damage. The brain requires a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly, after all. When someone is unconscious, their Prolonged unconsciousness can have profound emotional and psychological effects on the 10:19

individual and their people close to them. It can lead to feelings of helplessness, anxiety, and brain may not be receiving sufficient oxygen and blood flow, which can result in irreversible damage to brain cells.

If someone is unconscious for an extended period, they may also experience respiratory problems. Their breathing may become shallow, irregular, or even stop completely, requiring immediate medical intervention such as artificial ventilation to ensure adequate oxygenation.

Prolonged unconsciousness can have profound emotional and psychological effects on the individual and their people close to them. It can lead to feelings of helplessness, anxiety, and depression among family members who are anxiously waiting for their loved ones to regain consciousness.

Since none of their sons were around, Hugo's wife was the one who was informed about their condition. It seemed that she was living in the capital with their eldest son and looking after him. She showed up all of a sudden and immediately headed to Roswall and Melody's room alongside her son and daughters.

In the end, she spoke with Lorence's wife about their condition, and the word began to spread. The poison had been dealt with. However, it would take some time to leave their bodies, and it was also a poison created to debilitate one's health instead of kill it… so, they will be out of the picture for a while.

"This isn't good," Rain thought.

Noble families are often esteemed for their lineage, wealth, and influence. Suppose the head of a noble family is unable to maintain order and uphold the family's reputation. In that case, it can lead to a decline in their standing within society. Other noble families and the general public may perceive them as weak or incapable of fulfilling their duties.

Noble families often play a significant role in the political landscape. Suppose the head of a noble family fails to make wise decisions or effectively navigate political dynamics. In that case, it can result in a loss of political power and influence. Other noble families may seize the opportunity to gain an advantage. In contrast, the struggling family may find themselves marginalized or excluded from important decision-making processes.

Also, a noble family that lacks strong leadership and the ability to maintain order may become vulnerable to external threats. Rival noble families, opportunistic individuals, or factions within society may exploit their weaknesses, potentially leading to challenges to their land, assets, or political influence.

Some people showed up at night and brought food to the inn and to everyone there. However, at the same time, some people, like Lorence's wife and their kids, left alongside Hugo's wife. It seemed that they were close enough but not gentle enough to help the others there.

"I suppose that even if those three are closer now since they are fighting for the same cause, it doesn't extend to their wives," Rain thought.

In any case, Rain didn't like how the people who were helping them were showing weird smiles. At first glance, they seemed pretty warm smiles, but he could tell that they were just an opportunistic bunch since his family was receiving more than others. Even if they weren't exactly nobles.

"I don't like this… I need a way to make money here, just in case," Rain thought.