11 Chapter 11:- A Dream

As William opened the door, his eyes met with the cheerful gaze of a young human maid standing before him. Her collar indicated that she was a slave, likely purchased by the inn for their service. Clad in a maid's outfit, she exuded a professional demeanor, though her eyes brightened noticeably upon seeing William's handsome face. The maid's initial gloomy mood seemed to dissipate, replaced by a newfound enthusiasm kindled by his presence.

With a bright smile, the maid addressed William, her voice infused with a practiced warmth. "Sir, what would you like to order for dinner?"

William took note of the professional smile, recognizing it as the standard fare for customer service. Nevertheless, he appreciated the inn's commitment to quality and respect towards its guests, allowing his initial impression to remain positive.

Before placing an order, he decided to inquire about the dinner options available. "Would you mind telling us what you have for dinner tonight?"

The maid's smile widened as she eagerly shared the inn's offerings. "Tonight's specialty is our Elven Herb-Grilled Salmon. The salmon is freshly caught and marinated in a secret blend of elven herbs, then grilled to perfection. Additionally, we have the Fairy Blossom Salad, Pixie Pudding Parfait, Minotaur's Meatloaf, Nymph's Delight Pasta, and Flaming Rabbit meat on the menu. We also offer a variety of beverages."

The foreign names of the dishes perplexed William, reminding him of his unfamiliarity with this new world. Contemplating his options, he couldn't decide on a particular dish to order. Sensing his uncertainty, the maid mistakenly assumed he hailed from a different region or empire, and thus, might not be familiar with their cuisine.

Curiosity piqued, William inquired about the Fairy Blossom Salad. "What exactly is the Fairy Blossom Salad? I've never heard of it before."

With a patient and amiable tone, the maid explained, "The Fairy Blossom Salad is a vibrant mix of enchanted greens, edible flowers, and delicate fairy berries, all brought together with a drizzle of honey-lavender dressing."

Intrigued by the unique combination of ingredients, William decided to give it a try. "Alright, I'd like three orders of the Elven Herb-Grilled Salmon and one Fairy Blossom Salad."

The maid jotted down his order, making sure to note his preference. To confirm the accompanying beverages, she inquired, "Would you like any beverages with your meal?"

Water was all William desired at the moment, as he refrained from consuming alcohol in the presence of his daughter. "Water will be sufficient, thank you."

Calculating the total, the maid informed him, "That will be 2 gold coins and 75 silver coins." One gold coin was equivalent to 100 silver coins in this world. William handed her three gold coins, allowing her to deduct the required amount.

"Please wait momentarily. I will return with your change and your food," the maid assured him, promptly departing to fulfill the order and finalize the transaction.

As the door closed, William couldn't help but reflect on the hospitality and professionalism displayed by the inn's staff. He eagerly anticipated the upcoming meal, eager to savor the flavors of this new world while appreciating the attentive service provided by the maid.

A few moments later, a maid arrived at their room, carrying a bucket of warm water. In this world, the luxury of daily bathing with running water was reserved for nobles and the wealthy. For the common folk, a simple bucket of water and a towel sufficed. Public baths existed in more developed cities, but they came at a steep price. Spending a gold coin for a bath was a luxury most middle-class individuals would hesitate to indulge in.

William turned to Isabella, gently requesting, "Can you wash Aimee?"

A sense of joy radiated within Isabella, though she kept it hidden beneath her composed exterior. She was grateful for her newfound freedom, no longer bound by the chains of slavery. Furthermore, being reunited with her niece, the daughter of her older sister, had filled her heart with immense happiness. From the moment they met, Isabella had showered Aimee with unconditional love, treating her as if she were her own daughter.

"Of course, I can," Isabella responded with warmth in her voice, her eyes reflecting her affection for Aimee. Taking on the role of caretaker, she carefully took Aimee from William's arms and gently set her down on a nearby chair. With a tender smile, Isabella began to prepare the warm water, making sure it was comfortable for Aimee's bath.

After bidding Isabella and Aimee farewell as they began to clean their bodies, William decided to take a stroll outside the inn. The cool evening breeze brushed against his face, offering a refreshing respite from the day's activities. As he wandered through the nearby streets, he took in the sights and sounds of the bustling city.

Upon his return, the aroma of a delectable meal wafted through the air, enticing his senses. Isabella and Aimee had finished bathing and were eagerly awaiting his return. The table was set, adorned with steaming plates of food. Isabella had taken the time to arrange everything neatly, a testament to her caring nature.

Sitting down at the table, William marveled at the dishes before him. Each plate held a feast for the eyes, filled with colors and textures that promised a delightful culinary experience. The aroma alone was enough to make his mouth water. It was clear that the inn took pride in its cuisine, but the cost was not lost on him.

As he savored each bite, he couldn't help but acknowledge the extravagant expense of the meal. For a common-class individual, spending 2 gold and 75 silver coins on a single dinner would be unthinkable. It was a reminder of the stark disparities in wealth and privilege that existed within society. The extravagance of this moment served as a stark contrast to their humble origins.

Nevertheless, William was determined to provide the best for his daughter and Isabella. He understood the importance of creating lasting memories and ensuring their well-being. This indulgence, though costly, was a small price to pay for their happiness and comfort.

After the enjoyable meal, Isabella took Aimee out to the balcony to enjoy the evening breeze and admire the twinkling stars above. Meanwhile, William seized the opportunity to cleanse his body using a wet towel and the remaining water. He meticulously wiped away the day's fatigue, relishing the refreshing sensation that enveloped him. As he changed into his Earthly clothes, he carefully folded his old garments, treasuring them as a tangible reminder of his origins in another world.

As the hour grew late, it was time to retire for the night. William settled onto the comfortable bed, gazing fondly at his daughter. "Aimee, come here. Let's sleep," he beckoned, opening his arms with a warm smile.

To his surprise, Aimee shook her head and then pointed towards Isabella, affectionately calling her "Mommy." Astonished, William couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions coursing through him. It was a bittersweet revelation to witness the strong bond that had formed between his daughter and Isabella.

"You want to sleep with Isabella?" he asked, his voice filled with awe and curiosity.

Aimee nodded enthusiastically, her eyes brimming with happiness and trust. Isabella, standing nearby, was visibly moved by the little girl's gesture, her heart swelling with joy.

Sigh!

'My daughter has been taken away from me.'

As Aimee nestled comfortably next to Isabella, a sense of contentment enveloped her. The little girl felt safe and loved in Isabella's embrace, her trust in the woman unwavering. Meanwhile, William lay on his side of the bed, a mixture of emotions swirling within him. For the first time since the tragic accident that had turned their lives upside down, he found himself sleeping alone.

As he lay there in the dimly lit room, a tinge of loneliness crept into William's heart. He had grown accustomed to the warmth and presence of his daughter beside him, their connection a source of solace during the darkest moments. Yet, he understood that this night was different. Aimee was evolving, slowly but surely, shedding the emotional barriers that had once confined her.

Throughout the day, William had witnessed his daughter's joy and happiness, a radiant light that emanated from within her. Isabella's nurturing and affectionate nature had breathed new life into Aimee, coaxing her once-hidden emotions to the surface. It was a remarkable transformation, one that filled William's heart with both pride and a sense of gratitude towards Isabella.

Although the empty space beside him felt unfamiliar, William's focus remained on his daughter's well-being. He knew that Aimee's happiness was paramount, and if Isabella could continue to bring that joy into her life, he was willing to make any sacrifice. His role as a father extended beyond his own comfort, and he was prepared to pay the price for Isabella's presence and care.

Closing his eyes, William allowed his mind to wander, his thoughts mingling with a sense of hope and anticipation for the future. As sleep finally claimed him, he resolved to embrace the changes that this fantastical world had brought into their lives.

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Scene change_____

"Will, doesn't your heart ache when you see people suffering? When you see their pain? When you see them dying? When you see them getting killed?" William found himself standing in a deserted city.

The whole city was destroyed. Dead bodies were lying here and there. While looking around, he saw a few dead bodies of children. Seeing this, he couldn't help but clench his fists tightly in anger.

'Why did this happen?'

'These children did not deserve to die. Why this world is so cruel?' William was completely lost. His mind was filled with rage, anger, confusion, and sadness.

It was the time of harsh cold winter. The whole world was in chaos. Billions of people have died. Similar things have taken place in other cities around the whole world.

'These innocent children did not deserve to die like this?' Looking at the dead bodies, William was very sad.

Someone walked behind Will. He didn't need to turn to know who it was. The person walked behind William and then wrapped her hands around his neck. "My darling, this world is an extremely cruel and cold place. Everyone in this world is selfish."

"But why?" His voice trembled as he struggled to not shed any tears while staring at the dead bodies of the children.

"These children did not deserve to die like this." Looking at the dead bodies, Will remembered what happened to his family and his friends.

The woman behind Will hugged him even more tightly and whispered into his ear. "Will, what you're seeing is the reality of this world. Amidst all the sadness, confusion, anger, selfishness, greed, violence, and chaos, you can become the beacon of Hope."

"You can become the light that gives hope to others."

"You can become the Protector and The Savior."

"You can become the Hero that this world needs."

"Protector and Savior......? Am I really worthy? I am a Broken Man. I am not a Saint. I am not a good Man. I am a man with no powers. In the end, I am Not a Hero." Will's voice quivered as he said these words to the woman who was hugging him from behind.

"You feel pain when you see children getting killed or dying or starvation."

"You feel pain when you people die."

"You have a heart of a Hero, Will. Just embrace that side of yours." The woman said while hugging William.

"I don't have the powers to become the Hero." Will needed a blessing of a Goddess.

"I can give you that power. I can give that strength. I can make you the Hero. But the question is, are you prepared for that role?" The woman asked.

"If I can save lives, then yes, I am prepared." Will did not want anything in return. He wished to save lives so that others don't have to go through the same thing as he did back on Earth.

The woman nodded, her expression filled with both admiration and caution. "Very well, Will. Know that the path ahead will be fraught with challenges and tests of your character. But I believe in your capacity to make a difference, to protect and save lives. I will bestow upon you the power and blessings of a Hero."

As the remnants of the dream faded away, William's heart still raced within his chest. He sat up in bed, his mind swirling with a mix of bewilderment and awe. The dawn's gentle light streamed through the window, casting a soft glow on the room.

He gazed at Isabella and Aimee, their peaceful slumber a stark contrast to the tumultuous dream that had stirred his soul. Their serene faces, the rise, and fall of their breath, offered a sense of calm amidst the lingering echoes of the dream's intensity.

"What kind of dream was that?" William pondered aloud, his voice barely a whisper in the quiet room. The vividness of the dream lingered in his mind, every detail etched in his memory. It had felt more than a mere dream, more like a glimpse into another reality, a call to action.

The woman's words reverberated in his thoughts, the weight of her offer still hanging in the air. Could it have been more than a dream? Was there truly a purpose behind it, a destiny that awaited him? The line between reality and fantasy blurred, leaving him with a profound sense of uncertainty.

But amidst the uncertainty, a spark of determination flickered within William's heart. Whether it was a dream or something more, the message resonated with his deepest desires—to save lives, to make a difference. The dream had stirred his dormant heroic spirit, reigniting his sense of purpose.

With a resolute sigh, William swung his legs over the edge of the bed and rose to his feet. The cool morning air brushed against his skin, grounding him in the present moment. He cast one more glance at Isabella and Aimee, a surge of love and protectiveness flooding his being.

"I may not fully understand the nature of that dream," he murmured, his voice filled with determination. "But I won't let it go to waste. I will find a way to protect and save lives, to bring hope and light to this world."

As the day dawned, William made a silent promise to himself. Whether the dream was a mere figment of his imagination or a call to action, he would forge his own path, guided by his compassion and unwavering resolve.

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