Mushoku Tensei: I am the older brother of Rudeus Greyrat

The next morning, the sun's rays filtered through the forest, casting a golden hue over the path as Aedric and Tatsuya continued their journey. The faint rustle of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds created a peaceful backdrop, but Aedric's mind was focused on a more pressing matter.

He glanced at Tatsuya, who walked beside him, casually twirling his wooden staff. "Tatsuya," Aedric began, breaking the comfortable silence. "Can I ask you something?"

Tatsuya raised an eyebrow. "Shoot."

Aedric hesitated, searching for the right words. "I have a goal. A dream, really. To bring peace to this world—a lasting peace. Not through force, but by creating something stronger. A movement. A Revolutionary Army."

Tatsuya stopped walking, his expression curious. "A Revolutionary Army? That's a bold idea. What's your plan?"

"To gather people who share the same vision," Aedric said earnestly. "People who believe in change and are willing to fight for it—not just with swords and magic, but with their hearts and minds. I want you to be the first member."

Tatsuya blinked, taken aback. Then, a slow grin spread across his face. "You're serious about this, aren't you?"

"I am," Aedric replied firmly. "I can't do it alone, and I see something in you—courage, determination. You're someone who stands up for what's right, even when it's not easy."

Tatsuya chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, when you put it that way, how can I say no? Alright, Aedric. I'm in."

Relief washed over Aedric, and he extended his hand. "Welcome to the Revolutionary Army."

Tatsuya clasped his hand firmly, his grin widening. "Guess this means we're partners now."

As they resumed their journey, the path ahead seemed brighter, the weight of their shared purpose driving them forward. With Tatsuya by his side, Aedric felt a renewed sense of hope. Together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead—and the Demon Continent was just the beginning.

The forest around them thickened as they continued, the trees towering above like ancient sentinels. The air grew cooler, the scent of moss and damp wood filling their senses. Tatsuya's cheerful chatter made the trek less arduous, his stories of mischief and adventure painting vivid pictures of his life.

"So, what made you leave home?" Tatsuya asked, breaking into a grin. "Don't tell me you got bored of a cushy life."

Aedric smirked, shaking his head. "Not exactly. I wanted something more. Something meaningful. My family… they're great, but I felt like my purpose lay elsewhere."

"Sounds heavy," Tatsuya replied. "But I get it. Sometimes you've got to step out and make your own path."

The two exchanged a look of understanding, a bond forming in the unspoken acknowledgment of their shared ambition.

As the sun climbed higher, they came across a bubbling brook. The water glistened in the light, its gentle babble inviting. They paused to drink and rest, the coolness of the stream a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the day.

"So," Tatsuya began, leaning against a rock. "This Revolutionary Army of yours—what's the first step?"

Aedric pondered for a moment before replying. "We start small. Build trust, gather resources, and find others who share our vision. It's not just about fighting—it's about changing how people see the world and each other."

Tatsuya nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I like it. Not just swinging swords around, but making a real difference."

Their conversation was interrupted by a rustling in the bushes. Both boys tensed, their hands instinctively reaching for their weapons. A wild boar burst through the underbrush, its tusks gleaming.

"Guess lunch found us," Tatsuya quipped, springing to his feet.

Aedric grinned, summoning a crackle of lightning to his fingertips. "Let's make it quick."

The fight was brief but exhilarating. Tatsuya's staff strikes were precise, distracting the boar while Aedric unleashed a well-aimed bolt of lightning. The beast collapsed, the air still humming with residual energy.

They worked together to prepare the meat, the smell of roasting pork filling the air. As they ate, the camaraderie between them grew, solidifying their partnership.

By evening, they had reached the edge of the forest. The sight of rolling plains stretching into the horizon greeted them, the distant silhouette of a town promising rest and supplies.

"We'll stop there for the night," Aedric said, pointing. "Tomorrow, we plan our route to the Demon Continent."

Tatsuya clapped him on the back. "Lead the way, boss."

As they walked, the stars began to emerge, their light a reminder of the vastness of the world—and the journey ahead. Together, they stepped forward, their shared dream guiding them toward a future yet unwritten.