"Pieces of Time"

When the caravan reached the city gate, it stopped and someone approached.

When the caravan reached the city gate of Veloria, they slowly came to a stop. Kai raised his head and looked out the window, seeing the high and sturdy walls, built from large blocks of stone. The city gate was guarded by guards in shining armor, holding spears and swords.

A tall and majestic looking soldier, with shiny iron armor, approached the caravan. He seemed to be the commander, his stern eyes scanning the cars and the people inside.

The commanding soldier stopped in front of Kai's car, looking inside. "Hello, we are soldiers guarding Veloria. What business do you have here?" He asked, his voice warm but determined.

The soldier sitting next to Kai quickly replied. "We are carrying survivors from the attacked village. They need medical care and safe accommodation."

The commander nodded, his eyes softening a little. "We will help them. Follow me, we will lead you to safety inside the city."

Kai breathed a sigh of relief, feeling his heart filled with hope. He knew that although this journey was full of hardships and challenges, with the support of those around them, they would be able to overcome and protect what remained.

As Kai entered the city of Veloria, he couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the scene around him. In contrast to his small and peaceful village, everything here was bustling and crowded. The wide cobblestone streets were filled with people, loud laughter and sales calls could be heard everywhere.

The shops on both sides of the street displayed all kinds of goods, from clothes, jewelry to food and tools. Merchants from all over poured in, all busy trading and negotiating. The colorful stalls and the aroma of street food made the atmosphere lively and attractive.

Kai felt like he had entered another world, where everything was vibrant and full of life. He felt a strange excitement, but he couldn't hide his anxiety and confusion. He told himself that he had to quickly adapt to this new environment and find a way to protect the village and his loved ones.

The soldier beside him looked at Kai and smiled lightly. "Welcome to Veloria. This is a big city full of opportunities."

Kai asked the soldier, "Where shall we go now?"

The soldier replied in a deep and convincing voice, "We shall now go to the Duke's house. Duke Veloria is a man of great power and influence in this city. He will know how to help you and the survivors of your village."

Kai thought to himself, "I wonder what kind of person the Duke is?"

He had heard about Dukes in stories and books, but had never met one in reality. In Kai's imagination, Dukes were powerful, intelligent, and learned people. They often lived in large castles, commanding and protecting their lands. But was reality like in the stories?

Kai felt curious and nervous, wondering if the Duke of Veloria was a benevolent and fair person, willing to help people in need like him and the villagers? He hoped that this meeting would open up a new opportunity for him to protect and rebuild his village.

As the convoy entered the city of Veloria, Kai couldn't help but think about what would happen next.

After a while, the soldier beside him turned and said to Kai, "We've arrived at the Duke's house."

Kai raised his head and looked up, seeing a magnificent castle standing tall in the center of Veloria. The castle was built from large blocks of stone, with towering towers and large windows decorated with sparkling stained glass. The main gate was guarded by guards wearing shining armor, creating a majestic and powerful sight.

Kai felt nervous and a little apprehensive as he stood before the castle gate. He told himself that he had to keep his spirits up and be ready for the meeting with the Duke. The soldier beside him looked at Kai and smiled lightly, encouraging him with a determined gaze.

"Let's go, Kai. Duke Veloria is a kind and wise man. He will help us," the soldier said, patting Kai on the shoulder.

Kai replied, "Alright," though he wasn't very confident. He walked with the soldier to the front gate of the castle. As they approached, an old butler appeared, elegantly dressed and with sharp eyes. The butler looked Kai up and down, as if assessing him.

"What business do you have with the Duke?" the butler asked, his voice low but carrying dignity.

The soldier standing beside Kai replied, "We have brought survivors from the attacked village. They need help and protection. Kai here is one of them."

The butler nodded, his eyes still stern. "Very well, I will lead you in. Follow me."

While walking with Kai and the old butler, a scroll suddenly fell from somewhere and landed in the soldier's hand. He quickly opened the scroll and read it, his eyes filled with tension and worry. After reading it, he was startled, his eyes filled with urgency and haste.

"Sorry, I have something to do," he said hurriedly, his voice filled with urgency. Before Kai could react or ask anything, the soldier quickly turned and left, leaving Kai and the butler standing there.

Kai felt a little confused and worried. He wondered what had caused the soldier to leave so urgently. But he knew that he had to continue his journey and the important meeting with Duke Veloria.

The old butler looked at Kai with sympathy. "Don't worry, you will meet the Duke soon. Follow me," he said, leading Kai further into the castle.

Entering the house, Kai was overwhelmed by the vastness and grandeur of the interior. The soaring ceilings, with sparkling crystal chandeliers hanging from them, created a shimmering and warm light. The walls were decorated with large paintings, intricately carved wooden frames and soft carpets spread everywhere.

Kai could not believe his eyes, he felt like he was lost in another world. The large corridors led to different large and small rooms, each with a distinct decorative style but all exuding nobility and majesty. The interior was meticulously furnished, from classic wooden tables, luxurious armchairs to fresh flower vases placed everywhere.

The old butler led Kai through the corridors, his eyes constantly admiring the splendor of the house. Every step made him more surprised and respectful of the wealth and sophistication of the owner of this place.

As he walked through the spacious and splendid corridors, Kai felt the gazes of many people dressed in noble attire staring at him. Luxurious dresses, elegant suits, all created an atmosphere of power and majesty.

Kai felt a little awkward and nervous under the scrutiny and curiosity of the nobles around him. He knew that he looked different from them, with his simple attire and the appearance of a farmer. But Kai also felt a surge of determination and confidence in his heart. He told himself that he came here not only to seek help, but also to protect and rebuild his village.

The old butler continued to lead the way, not minding the gazes of the people around him. He maintained a dignified and elegant demeanor, making Kai feel more at ease.

After a long walk, Kai and the old butler finally arrived in front of a large room with a huge door covered in gold and sparkling diamonds. The door looked majestic and splendid, reflecting the light from the chandeliers, creating a magnificent sight.

The old butler stopped, turning to look at Kai with a solemn gaze. "This is the Duke's room," he said, his voice deep and respectful. "He is waiting for you inside. Prepare yourself and be polite."

Kai felt a little nervous and tense, but he also knew that this meeting was very important. He took a deep breath, telling himself that he had to keep his spirit and determination. He bowed to thank the old butler and walked towards the large door.

The butler gently pushed the door open, revealing a large room inside. Kai felt the majesty and luxury of the room, with large paintings, soft carpets, and exquisite furniture. He stepped inside, preparing for an important meeting with Duke Veloria.

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As Kai entered the room, he found himself in front of an ancient and luxurious room. The walls were decorated with exquisite paintings and classical works of art, and the light from the sparkling chandeliers created a space that was both majestic and cozy.

In the middle of the room was a large table, meticulously carved and covered with soft velvet. Sitting there was a man around 50 years old, with gray hair and a face full of majesty and knowledge. He wore an elegant aristocratic outfit, his sharp eyes looking at Kai.

Kai felt nervous and a little apprehensive, but he also recognized the friendliness and concern in the man's eyes. He walked closer to the table, bowing respectfully to the man.

The man smiled gently and nodded. "Welcome, Kai. I am Duke Alucard. Please sit down and tell me your story," he said, his voice deep and friendly.

Kai took a deep breath and began to recount everything he had experienced. From the attack by the black-cloaked mage, to Mr. Shell's heroic sacrifice, to the pain and loss the village had endured. He held nothing back, not even the feelings of fear and despair he had experienced.

Duke Veloria sat and listened, his eyes filled with sympathy and understanding. He did not interrupt, allowing Kai to share all his feelings. When Kai finished his story, he looked straight at the Duke with determination in his eyes.

"Duke, I would like to ask your permission to rebuild my village. It is not only our home, but also a place that holds so many memories and feelings. I cannot let it disappear like this," Kai said, his voice filled with emotion.

But..