The path that brings them to Rakllan is through Viscount Begnes territory, then through Count Maives territory and then onward to Viria Dukedom. It would take them three days to go to Begnes territory since it is a large strech of land. Begnes is a region which is known for it’s ocean view settings and it remains one of the few territories to even have access to the sea. The seafood is remarkable there since it is being next to the ocean. It is also one of the wealthier territories, not only for its seafood but also because of the demonic beasts in the sea that can be hunted to get materials, elixirs, and research conducted by various academies.

Demonic beasts are creatures that develop their abilities through mana. Although dangerous, they are valued because of the unique goods that they offer. The group took the more safer path by avoiding Viscount Velot's territory. Velot and Count Gaillen have a dispute on the newly discovered mana stone mine. Centuries ago, it was part of Gaillen land but 200 years ago, he sold it to Velot. Back then, It was merely baren mountains but now that it has been discovered to be a mana mine, their relation got worsened. This can raise one’s status quite high whether from presenting it to the kingdom or privately exploiting its resources, it promises immense wealth and influence.

This discovery has ignited a civil war between the two territories. The kingdom not directly interfering allowed for the two sides to battle it out. The winner will take the mine but would likely be weakeaned and required to negotiate with the kingdom to stabilize things. The loser protected by royal decree, will have to pay the kingdom in order to hold on to most of their possessions. This delicate balance ensures that no faction grows too powerful while securing the kingdom's interests.

Oba Vasti, Melch's father has promised support to Viscount Velot in return for a baron's title and more lands if Velot wins. The stakes are therefore higher for Melch's family. If Velot emerges victorious, Melch might be tasked with defending the Devil's Front while his elder brother Devon could rise to the rank of baron. However, defeat could spell disaster leaving their fate uncertain until the royal family intervenes.

They traversed several lands often camping in tents near the main paths. Once they got into Begnes territory, they made stops over on their journey to replenish themselves further, also sending word back to the household about their journey. Begnes is reputed to have flourishing trades. The merchant roads are so busy, that this part of the journey was relatively very safe.

In the evenings, Melch got time to read the books Galen had offered him. It was a long tiring journey but yet he didn't lose hope. The books detailed about medical recipes, magical theories, historical battles and survival techniques. More often than not, Galen questioned him on what he had read in the breaks. However, Melch completed readings that within two days, which pleased Galen because of his eagerness. "It's inspiring to see someone so committed." Patricia said in a voice dripping with admiration.

"I have to be ready" Melch replied with a small smile on his face. "This journey is not only to Viria. It's also a test to prove myself."

As always, Leif kept his carefree attitude and would often make light-hearted remarks during their travels. However, his insights sometimes surprised everyone. One evening, as they rested by the campfire Melch asked why the kingdom chose not to interfere in the civil war between Gaillen and Velot. Leif relaxed onto the pillows and being such a confused youth explained his theory with startling lucidity. "It's really quite straightforward. The kingdom profits by letting them destroy one another. If they interfered, both parties would turn upon them as one man but in this fashion, the victor is desperate, the loser dependent and the kingdom controls it all without losing one soldier.”

Melch though skeptical of Leif's usual antics found himself impressed by this explanation. It was a reminder that even in his casual attitude, Leif possessed a sharp mind capable of unraveling complex political strategies.

The route from Begnes to the Maives was merchant roads that were much traveled. Relic trade and major auctions meant that Maives was another place of wealth. The count's family was not that wealthy as Begnes's, but still very powerful. These roads were also considered one of the safest in all the lands as it was well patrolled and made sure to ensure the safety of the merchants. This watchfulness helped them to move unproblematically till they reached Maives' territory a day in advance of the scheduled time.

With more time available, they resolved to camp in the land of Maives and to replenish their stocks of food. The busy markets were full of everything: expensive spices, highly crafted trinkets but they resisted the temptation, after all remembering that this trip did not call for indulgence. Though, Leif could not resist driving a bargain with another trader over a seeming puny trinket - a wooden carved pendant. When asked, he smiled and said "It's not about the pendant. It's about the thrill of the bargain."

At their stop at Maives, the group also enquired the path ahead and was told that they would be stuck in traffic since more and more travelers were already heading to Viria to sit for the academy exams. "You'd better reserve your accommodation well in advance" the merchant told them. "It's going to be a zoo when you get there".

They continued with increased speed to arrive in Viria before schedule. The approaching entrance exams into the academy means Viria would prove to have scarce place. A priority became securing enough time for a lodging place. They moved efficiently stopping only when necessary for the horses to rest or to rest themselves. Nights in the tent became routine, and a levity touch to their otherwise structured days would be Leif's casual remarks and occasional profound observations.

It was on one of those nights when the group huddled around the campfire, that John could not help but think about this world's construct. He glanced at Leif, who carelessly flung small pebbles into the firelight while his inner musings seemed quite deep. "Leif" Melch suggested "you seem to know a lot about the politics. How do you stay so calm?"

Leif smiled and leaned back, looking up at the stars. "Because worrying won't change anything" he said. "The world's a mess of power struggles and ambitions. I'm just a small part of it, so I'd rather enjoy the ride than lose sleep over things I can't control."

John listened, entranced by the paradox that was Leif - a kid who seemed to drift through life, yet possessed an odd capacity to cut through complicated matters. It was a perspective that both unsettled and oddly comforted him.

As they got nearer Viria the views began gradually to change instead, there more regulated farmlands than rolled hills with watch towers stationed every mile and two with stops. Each asked the identifications before requesting what led them to arrive. The scrutiny was thorough but not overbearing, a testament to the region's focus on maintaining order.

At one of these check points, a guard looked at their papers as well as glanced toward their modest caravan. "You are going to Viria for the academy exams?" he asked of them with inquiring.

Galen nodded his head. "Yes we have the little young Master Melch here who intends to take the entrance exam."

The eyes of the guard flickered toward Melch and he met it coolly. "You would find it, busy. Best of luck." said the guard.

The bustle of Viria was palpable even from a distance as the group continued their journey. Viria was known for its magical heritage and tall spires up on the horizon marked the city. This was the final leg of the journey and the eagerness among them was palpable.

As John and his party approached the city gates, he could not help but feel a thrill of excitement mixed with a hint of apprehension. It was a place where everything could happen, but it was also a world in which he had to prove himself. He looked over at Leif who hummed cheerfully, at Galen whose stoic mask concealed a constant vigilance. Patricia walked beside Melch, quiet encouragement offered to him as they approached their destination.

Finally, they passed through the gates of Viria their minds brimming with thoughts of what lay ahead. The city vibrant and alive with activity, welcomed them with open arms. It was a place where destinies would be forged and none of them could predict just how much their lives were about to change.