A New Cane and a Stroll in the Sun

For the past four days, Xander had been completely engrossed in his books, devouring page after page of knowledge. But today, something felt different. The sun cast a warm glow through the window, and a gentle breeze wafted in, carrying with it the sweet fragrance of blossoming flowers. Xander felt a renewed sense of energy, and he was eager to seize the opportunity.

"Elena!" Xander called out to his maid, a note of excitement in his voice. "Please bring me a cane. I've decided we're going out today."

Elena furrowed her brow with concern. "But young master, shouldn't you be resting?"

"I feel much better today," Xander assured her, "and I'd like to enjoy a leisurely stroll. Besides, isn't today the day the city receives its supplies from the sea?"

Elena's eyes widened in surprise. "How did you know that?"

Xander's lips curled into a smile as he held up the book she had given him. "It's all in here. Your thoughtful gift has proven to be quite informative."

Elena felt a sense of relief wash over her. She had been worried that Xander was still unwell, but he seemed more like his usual self today. "Alright, I'll get your cane."

As Elena helped Xander get dressed, he caught a glimpse of his new body in the mirror. He was shockingly skinny, with no visible muscles despite his past as a fighter. It was clear that his unhealthy lifestyle and frequent visits to the Flower House had taken a toll on his body.

Despite feeling self-conscious about his appearance, Xander decided not to say anything to Elena, who was clearly embarrassed about helping him get dressed for the first time.

Xander examined the simple cane in his hand, his expression contemplative. "This cane is rather plain, don't you think?" he mused. "I believe it's time to find a new one."

Elena looked at him with a hint of amusement. "Would you like me to accompany you, young master?"

Xander flashed her a playful grin. "Naturally! Your company and astute taste would make the endeavor all the more enjoyable."

As Xander stepped out of his room and into the hallway, he paused for a moment to take in the familiar surroundings. The walls were adorned with exquisite tapestries and portraits of his ancestors, each telling a story of his family's rich history. Soft light from the ornate chandelier above bathed the corridor in a warm, welcoming glow, while the thick carpet beneath his feet muffled the sound of his footsteps.

Xander couldn't help but comment as he looked at the paintings. "These portraits never cease to amaze me. It's fascinating to think of the legacy they've left behind."

Carefully descending the stairs, leaning on his plain cane for support, he heard a familiar voice call out to him.

"Where do you think you're going, young man?!" his mother admonished.

Xander turned to face her, slightly hunched over with his cane and draped in an oversized black robe. "Mother? What brings you here?"

"You should be resting in your room!" she insisted, concern evident in her tone.

"I understand, but I've been feeling a bit restless. I just wanted to take a short walk," Xander reasoned.

His mother regarded him with a hint of suspicion. "You're not planning a secret visit to the Flower House, are you?"

Xander rolled his eyes, amused by her suggestion. "Of course not, mother. We're actually heading to the docks to see what's new, and I intend to purchase a more suitable cane. Elena will accompany me to help carry any purchases."

"Very well," his mother relented. "But make sure you're back in time for dinner."

Xander exited the family estate alongside Emily, his devoted personal assistant. As they approached the awaiting carriage, Emily couldn't help but marvel at its craftsmanship. "This carriage is absolutely stunning, young master! I've never had the chance to ride in something so exquisite before," she remarked, admiring the intricate golden carvings of dragons and lions, symbols of strength and nobility.

Xander smiled, pleased by her reaction. "Well, I hope you enjoy the ride."

The journey was smooth, and Xander admired the picturesque landscape that surrounded them. His lavish mansion was situated just a short distance from Seaville, a bustling coastal city with a thriving port. As they neared the general store where they planned to purchase a new cane, Xander turned to Emily and asked, "Once we've acquired the cane, where should we venture next?"

Emily hesitated before replying, "I thought our only objectives were to buy the cane and peruse the market, young master?"

"Well, that hardly seems worth the trip. We ought to make the most of our outing," Xander said, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.

Emily felt a twinge of unease at the change in her young master's demeanor. He seemed like a different person, and she wasn't sure how she felt about it.

"Perhaps we could dine at Heaven's Taste Restaurant? I've heard they offer exquisite cuisine and fine wine!" Emily suggested, eager to divert the conversation.

"A splendid idea! Have you ever dined there before?" Xander inquired, genuinely curious.

"No, young master. My salary does not permit such indulgences. The prices there are beyond my means," Emily admitted, a touch of sadness in her voice.

"Fret not, for I shall treat you to a meal there. Consider it a token of my appreciation for your unwavering loyalty," Xander declared, resolved to express his gratitude.

Emily felt both grateful and touched by his generous offer, yet she couldn't entirely dismiss the nagging sensation that something was amiss.

As they walked towards the general store, their path was suddenly obstructed by a mocking voice. "Who do we have here? A disabled and limping old man!" jeered a boy, flanked by two others.

Xander immediately recognized the boy as the same one who had assaulted him previously. A strong urge to retaliate welled up within him.

Despite his anger, Xander hesitated. He wasn't a violent person, and his frail body was no match for the boys. Sensing the mounting tension, he knew he needed to act quickly.

"Please, we have pressing matters to attend to. Kindly step aside," Xander said calmly, attempting to defuse the situation.

The boy sneered in response, "Who do you think you are? You're nothing but a weakling!"

Xander took a deep breath, closing his eyes to contain his growing anger. He knew he couldn't allow it to consume him. He had always been a kind and serene individual, but what would he do now?