Stoic (narrating): My life in Nillen Valley was a comfortable existence. Most people I knew were eager to get out on their own, but I was a little bit different. I didn’t feel like rushing into the world outside the village. I knew I would have to one day…but I wanted it to be for something I believed in. The problem was…I couldn’t find anything to believe in….though others had no problem.
(One morning, Zeno walks outside his home to find Enkur, Ivito and Wisel.)
Ivito: Morning, pal!
Zeno: Good morning, gents. What brings you all here?
Enkur: Get your stuff together, we’re hopping a carriage to Solendus!
(pause)
Zeno: Why?
Wisel: Why, he asks. To take the Great Test! Now get ready!
Zeno: I….I really haven’t prepared…
Enkur: Take it easy now. We’ll wait.
(Zeno turns to go inside, waits a moment, and then turns back around. There’s an agonizing pause)
Zeno: I…I’m not going.
Ivito: Huh?
Wisel: Not a good time? We can wait a few days if that’s what you need.
Zeno: No, that’s not it…I’m not going…at all.
Enkur: Why the hell not?!
Zeno: Because…that’s not what I want to do with my life.
Wisel: You kidding me?! You’re a natural! You’re the best fighter out of all of us!
(Enkur glares at him)
Wisel: Well, I guess it is close between you and Enkur, but you get the idea!
Zeno: Maybe….but I can’t. I’m sorry, it just doesn’t feel right.
Enkur: Doesn’t feel right…what does that even mean? You know what your problem is? You walk around the woods by yourself and you just think everything to death. You went home after we met the recruiter and somehow convinced yourself this was a bad idea when it’s the perfect path for you. Now snap out of it and let’s go!
Zeno: Enkur, that’s enough.
Wisel: But…it’s not the same without you. We’re a team! We always have been!
Zeno: I know…but…but we knew that wasn’t going to last forever.
Enkur: Well, I didn’t expect it to end this soon! I’m really disappointed in you, Zeno. This is pathetic.
Ivito: Guys, calm down! This is what he wants to do, and he would stand behind us if we had made this decision.
Wisel: But….what will you do?
Zeno: I wish I knew.
Enkur: *sigh* I can’t believe you would stab us in the back like this. Well, fine. Whenever your head is on straight, you should be able to pass the Great Test. Hopefully we’ll see you then. Come on, guys.
(He walks off)
Wisel: I…I hope you change your mind. I meant what I said. It won’t be the same.
Ivito: Good luck, Zeno.
(They leave. Zeno goes inside)