In a vast open field, around thirty young knights gathered under the morning sunlight. Today, a ceremony was being held to inaugurate a new generation of knights who would protect Wanasura Village. Each candidate wore armor, while at the very front stood several village representatives. Among them, the oldest representative was tasked with reading out the names of the new knights to be appointed.
"This morning, we carry out the inauguration of knight members for you young people who wish to serve Wanasura Village," said the Village Head. All the villagers could see him reading from a scroll while speaking loudly. "All the names I have just called are now officially knights of Wanasura Village."
From behind, a man stepped forward from the representatives' line carrying a wooden block and a hammer. The hammer was handed to the Village Head, who struck the block. The loud sound echoed, followed by applause from all around.
"You may now disperse," said the Village Head.
The formation broke apart, and each knight walked toward their respective families. Sancaka looked around in different directions, and from afar, he spotted two figures waving at him—his family, standing among others who were celebrating their children's achievements.
Sancaka quickly approached his mother and younger sister, pulling them out of the crowd. Finally, they stood outside the field where he had been standing under the sun earlier.
"Thank goodness you and Nana made it on time to see my inauguration," said Sancaka.
"Of course I came! I wanted to see my amazing big brother," Nana said. "Congratulations, you've officially become a knight!"
"Thank you, little sister," Sancaka replied with a smile.
"Congratulations, my son. I'm very proud of you. Your dream has come true," his mother said.
"Thank you, Mom," Sancaka replied, then added, "But actually, I don't want to be just a village knight. I want to become a royal knight who saves the world… and become a dharma. That's my greatest dream…"
"Be patient, Sancaka. Becoming a Hero takes stages," his mother interrupted. "For now, focus on your current duty. Who knows, in the future, you may achieve the position you dream of."
"Alright, Mom," Sancaka said. Then he looked around, searching for someone he hoped would be there.
"Where's Father?" he asked.
"I don't know, dear. Maybe he's still on duty," his mother replied.
Hearing that answer, Sancaka's expression changed. He looked annoyed and scratched his head.
"Why does Father care more about his work than seeing his own son's achievement?" Sancaka said.
"Be patient, Sancaka. If your father isn't here, he must be busy with his duties," his mother said, gently lowering his hand and patting his head. "Your father is a knight, just like you. His duty is to protect the village. For now, enjoy your moment. When you get home later, you can talk to him calmly."
"Hey, how about we go on a picnic with your friends?" Tara suddenly said, breaking the tension.
"Abas and Tara are already waiting. Tara said she's roasting your favorite sweet potatoes, and they're from Abas's harvest," Nana added.
"Wow, that's amazing. They really are true friends," Sancaka said. "Alright, let's go meet them."
1.
The next morning was Sancaka's first day working as a knight. The sun had not yet risen—it was still dawn—and Sancaka had already gotten out of bed early to make sure he wouldn't be late.
"Has Father not come home yet, Mom?" Sancaka asked. Everyone in the house was gathered at the dining table—only the three of them were having breakfast.
"Your father didn't come home last night," his mother said.
"Even until this morning?" Sancaka asked again, raising an eyebrow.
Before answering, his mother tried to think positively. "Maybe he worked overtime last night and went straight back on duty this morning."
Sancaka didn't respond. He continued eating his eggs and drinking herbal rice tonic. His mother and Nana could see that he looked slightly upset.
Nana swallowed a bite of sweet potato before speaking. "Don't worry, big brother. I'm sure Father will be home tonight."
"He should have been home last night to congratulate me and see his son become a knight," Sancaka said.
After finishing his meal, Sancaka immediately stood up, leaving his plate on the table. He walked toward the sword he had placed near the door, fastened it to his belt, and stepped outside without saying goodbye.
Seeing Sancaka leave like that made his mother shake her head.
Nana noticed her reaction. "It's okay, Mom. Big brother is just a little upset. He'll probably calm down when he gets back later."