Mushoku Tensei: I am the older brother of Rudeus Greyrat

The air was heavy with the scent of pine and damp earth as Aedric trudged through a narrow forest trail. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy above, casting dappled patterns on the ground. His footsteps were steady, his senses sharp, but the relative peace was not to last.

The sharp snap of a twig brought Aedric to an abrupt halt. Before he could react, a rough voice called out, "Hold it right there, kid!"

A group of bandits emerged from the shadows, their faces twisted into greedy smirks. They were armed with crude weapons: rusted swords, jagged daggers, and one with a makeshift club. Their ragged clothing and gaunt faces spoke of desperation.

"Looks like we got ourselves a rich boy out for a stroll," the leader sneered, stepping forward. He brandished his sword, its edge dull but still menacing. "Hand over your bag, and maybe we won't hurt you."

Aedric's grip tightened on the strap of his bag. He could feel the familiar hum of magic stirring in his veins, but before he could act, a shout rang out from behind the bandits.

"Oi! Pick on someone your own size!"

The voice belonged to a boy about Aedric's age. He leapt from a nearby tree, landing nimbly between Aedric and the bandits. His dark hair was tied back, and his eyes gleamed with defiance. In his hands, he held a wooden staff, worn but sturdy.

The bandit leader growled, "Another brat? Fine. We'll take both of you."

Before the bandits could advance, the boy lunged forward, his staff whirling in precise arcs. The leader's sword was knocked aside, and a sharp jab to the ribs sent him stumbling back. Aedric seized the moment, lightning crackling at his fingertips. With a flick of his wrist, a bolt of electricity surged forward, striking one of the bandits and sending him sprawling.

The remaining bandits hesitated, their confidence shaken. The boy grinned, spinning his staff with practiced ease. "What's wrong? Afraid of a little spark?"

Aedric stepped up beside him, the faint hum of power still coursing through his hands. "Let's see how brave they really are."

The bandits exchanged uncertain glances before retreating into the woods, their curses fading into the distance. The boy exhaled, lowering his staff, and turned to Aedric with a wide grin.

"Not bad," he said, extending a hand. "Name's Tatsuya Kumagai. What about you?"

Aedric took the offered hand, his grip firm. "Aedric Greyrat. Thanks for the assist."

Tatsuya shrugged, slinging his staff over his shoulder. "No problem. Can't stand bullies, especially ones who think they're tough because they've got numbers."

The two began walking together, the tension of the encounter dissipating. Tatsuya proved to be as talkative as he was resourceful, regaling Aedric with tales of his travels and misadventures. Despite his rough demeanor, there was a genuine warmth to him.

"So, what brings you out here?" Tatsuya asked as they reached a clearing. "You don't look like the type to wander these parts alone."

Aedric hesitated for a moment before answering. "I'm on my way to the Demon Continent."

Tatsuya's eyebrows shot up. "The Demon Continent? That's a bold choice. Dangerous place, you know."

"I'm aware," Aedric replied, his tone steady. "But it's where I need to go."

Tatsuya studied him for a moment before nodding. "Well, if you're heading to the port, I can show you the way. Consider it my thanks for helping with those bandits."

Aedric smiled. "I'd appreciate that."

As they made their way through the forest, Aedric felt a strange sense of ease. Tatsuya's presence was a reminder that, even in a world filled with danger, there were allies to be found—and friendships to be forged