Chapter 301: Life of a soldier(2)

As Artio stepped out of his house, he was greeted by the crisp autumn air that carried the scent of dried leaves. The sounds of the village surrounded him—the distant chatter of neighbors, the clucking of hens in the nearby coop, and the occasional laughter of children playing. The sky was painted with hues of orange and red as the sun began its descent.

Artio took a moment to breathe in the familiar atmosphere of his village. The well-worn path led him through narrow lanes, flanked by modest cottages with smoke rising from their chimneys. He walked with purpose, the weight of his recent military service now replaced by the simpler concerns of daily life.

As he traversed the winding streets, he exchanged greetings with familiar faces. Villagers acknowledged him with nods and smiles, happy to see one of their own returning from service. Artio reciprocated the warmth, feeling a sense of belonging that only deepened with every step.