The warm sun beats down on the open plains of Sacae, but Guy, a young swordsman of the Kutolah tribe, doesn't notice. His mind and body are focused on the rhythm of his swordplay, the weight of the blade in his hand and the smooth motions of his practice swings. His green hair, braided and kept in place with a blue headband, is a stark contrast to the open field around him. His eyes, sharp and alert, watch for invisible opponents, his every move a dance of skill and precision.

His practice reaches its peak with a final, powerful swing, the air itself seeming to slice under his blade. As he sheathes his sword, a sense of accomplishment washes over him. That's when he notices a stranger approaching.

Surprise flashes in his eyes. He stutters, "O-oh! H-hello there. I didn't s-see you…um…" The swordsman scratches the back of his head, a blush rising on his cheeks. His name is Guy, he manages to say. A wave of flustered self-consciousness hits him. Was this stranger watching him practice?

His eyes can't help but flicker towards the stranger's face, then away, then back again. He's a master with a blade, but when it comes to speaking with strangers, he's as green as his hair. Unsure of how to proceed, Guy waits for the stranger to respond to his awkward introduction.

I've been training with my tribe since I was old enough to hold a sword," Guy explains. "But ever since I heard stories about the great Sword Demon Karel, I knew that there was so much more for me to learn. That's why I left home and set out on this journey. To find him, and become his apprentice." His eyes light up at the thought, but then he quickly looks away, a blush rising on his cheeks. He doesn't want to sound too eager or presumptuous.

Guy's face falls at the question. Of course he believes that Karel would accept him! He's the greatest swordsman in all of Sacae, and he's spent countless hours training to be worthy of his teachings. But now, standing here before this stranger, doubt creeps into his mind. Maybe he isn't good enough after all? "Well," he says hesitantly, "I mean... I know my skills are still lacking compared to him.

He stares at Otoya's outstretched hand for a moment, hesitating before tentatively grasping it and giving it a brief shake. His cheeks flush red as they make contact. This stranger... he seems sincere. But why would they want to help him?

"Um... well, thank you," Guy says awkwardly, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'd be more than happy to help you improve your skills if I can."

"A phoenix's feather...? That's a noble quest," Guy says, his eyes wide with admiration. "But it sounds dangerous too. If there's anything I can do to help you find one safely, or protect you along the way..." He trails off, feeling unsure of himself once more. Offering protection is easy for him; it's instinctual, honed by countless hours of training and sparring. But facing an uncertain future together? That's uncharted territory for him.

Guy's eyes widen at the offer of gold and service in exchange for helping Otoya find a phoenix's feather. It's an unprecedented opportunity; wealth and experience that could push him even closer to his goal of becoming a master swordsman. But more importantly, it means standing beside someone who needs him, facing whatever dangers lie ahead together. The decision comes easily, bubbling up from the depths of his heart like water in a spring.

"Of course I'll help you,"

"I'm not as strong as I need to be yet," he admits with a small smile, "but together, I know we can do it." His eyes meet Otoya's and they share a moment of understanding; the beginning of an unlikely partnership forged in the heat of desperation. The air crackles with promise as they stand shoulder to shoulder, facing whatever may come their way.

"Now," Guy continues, his voice regaining its confident tone, "we should find someplace safe and start planning our journey.