He awoke feeling drained. This wasn't his first battle, although it was one of his hardest. He felt he'd gotten lucky.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZ9z5oOx6N
That gargoyle was an ambush predator, and he'd gotten the drop on it. He knew the skeleton antagonists were supposed to hunt him and distract him long before he even knew a beast stalked the edges and struck in blind spots.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvM1uofUxu8
He wondered what would happen when there were two gargoyles. Perhaps they could cover each other's weaknesses, or even if they had something more than a skeleton to command.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4JkDsfPWjN
It didn't matter. He wanted to see the kids. It had been too long, and he was sure they'd be happy for a visit. Maybe they could share an adventure. That would be nice. He could surprise them by showing his control over darkness.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXJNU88DMaP
He hadn't gotten as good as the guild master. He didn't want to call her mom… but he did admire how her power was like water and flowed so easily from her.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqgpxjyELmz
Besides some stiffness, he felt fine. Getting dressed, he marveled at how the rare healing potions were truly a miracle from the gods. Broken and shattered bones mended in moments. If they also cured fatigue with no side effects, he knew all of them—himself included—would beg for a chance to earn more and never be able to live without them. So he supposed it was good they had some drawbacks of prohibited cost for the best ones he'd been given.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDGynwHlBgH
When he made his way to the main hall in the guild, there was a small line of those wanting to make money or sell goods at the counters. So it was no surprise seeing Rosa tending to the guests. He figured Terry must be putting supplies away.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ1FFCfuQHx
"Sorry to interrupt," he said to Rosa near the counter, "but is Terry here? I was hoping to get paid."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmFT5GGkWTY
"Oh, you're awake!" she replied. "You had us worried. You never came back unconscious before. You are okay, right?" she asked with concern in her voice.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡThyaVKBoLw
Embarrassed, he waved his hand while looking away, not liking the attention. "I'm fine. Terry, though?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2I6LBKW14O
She frowned, noticing his discomfort. She wasn't sure why he was so shy—he was a good boy. He just needed a little more confidence. She relented and answered his question.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt7BCqtPxtz
"He was handling a delivery, last I heard. Supplies to help you with your dungeons, though I don't know the details."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1TwpaTgUW
With that, she went back to help those waiting. They didn't seem to mind, as they were invested with interest in what the outcome was with the boy. But when he nodded and left saying nothing, they went back to their own business instead.
Rock woke early.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVsCGysMk37
He liked the grey robe. It was simple. He did not mind conformity—it was how most beastkin felt. They enjoyed working towards the greater good. It hurt when their tribe abandoned them, felt they weren't worth the burden. But that was the past. They had a new tribe now. A better one.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2HT2bpkkQm
He'd thought the boss would be their new leader. He did try, smirking. But he did not give him hope. It felt like a false promise. They were told by the boss the church was bad, but they only loved them. They didn't have them live in the cold streets to prove a point.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEA0wQkTZew
No… boss was wrong.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVuzXzVrQ2E
"Brother?" He looked over and saw his sister Ziala rubbing her eyes, waking up.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ29LIiO2km
"It's early," she said.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZB6GhaXIbi
"Yes," he replied.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUUI7aHCdNm
She yawned. "What time is it?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQh8szDCf1B
"About an hour before breakfast. I was thinking of practicing in the courtyard, but it was too early." He frowned. "I prefer not to cause more trouble since the boss left. Things… got better," he said slowly, knowing his sister didn't agree.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVjKMlx0DSA
She was happy even in the streets with Arlin. Maybe she imagined seeing him as a father figure. He knew the boss tried, but too little too late doesn't make you a good leader or a dad.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKSlw7YG6AQ
He sighed. He knew he'd been harsh, but things did get better. They needed a better life than what they had before. If it wasn't for the debts they owed, these choices would be easier.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyq0Dw8Pntv
"Don't worry, brother. I'm sure he'll show up today. I feel it, and he will make things better. He always does," she said while smiling to reassure him.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGUs0zuXQvC
"Heh. We got chores. Let's focus on that." He changed the topic. "I'll practice later when the sun's more up."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8hxgAueNmM
"Ok." She slid out of bed. It was early, but there were always things they could do to help that weren't noisy, so they focused on that.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTTTj29GsoZ
A few hours passed uneventfully like many days before. Breakfast was good, and the change to warmer weather made the day a pleasant one—perfect for him to practice. He was playing for practice while his sister and a few grey robes enjoyed the tune. They gossiped and listened when, in the distance, the bishop showed up with a happier-than-normal demeanor, holding what looked like a small rolled-up parchment.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDw0LjgG5Eq
Rock stopped playing, which alerted others. Most grey robes bid the bishop a good day and left, leaving Rock and Ziala wondering what was to transpire.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8w27jkpcLU
"I'm sorry, I did not mean to ruin your day while relaxing with others. I merely wished to share the good news," he said, watching the others leave.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjaBbNc4Ee5
"It's fine," Rock said. "We were just passing the time. We finished things early today."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3xj2xg6xMv
"Aha! Always so committed." The bishop beamed at them.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3NwLlYO0Z
Rock was wondering what made him so joyous. He was always happy, but today more so. He unfurled the note.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDzUoWj8HTr
"The text is quite bare, but it's still a good thing. It's from the alchemist." He handed them the open letter, still smiling, waiting for them to read it.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Gp3uNB3mk
Rock took it slowly, not sure he wanted to know. His sister peeked from his side to read it also.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡakjf1a0wxo
The debts of your potions are paid in full. Any contracts, verbal or otherwise, are no longer binding. Signed, Tommy Bloom.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp91UyH1W3G
Rock was not sure how to take this. He knew what it said, kind of, but some of the words sounded weird. Yet he knew this was a golden ticket and was stunned.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaphKuy4CL3
"How?" he asked. Was it boss?340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRrMEM9v1Dp
"I have been working with the guild master," the bishop stated, then continued. "She has been tirelessly looking for ways to break the contract that should never have been. You are children, orphans no less, tricked into a situation you had no control over. So we worked to free you!" he exclaimed with joy.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgkgvKwu0LW
"We weren't tricked," Ziala said in a low voice.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPfLCKr6zRW
"Sorry, I meant no offense," the bishop clarified. "I mean Tommy used your need for help against you. You did nothing wrong."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrjXqb9J61F
"Did Arlin?" she asked, still in a soft voice.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiZuB77QrSC
The bishop deflated a bit at that, then sighed. "No… he did not. I do wish I could say we would have done the same, but the choice he made was… misguided at best."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrBsy05VfFk
Rock saw the bishop wasn't sure how to address the issue, but he knew the church loved them. They'd set them free, gave them a home, and forgave all their sins. It was more than enough.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVesA7uIc5z
"It's okay," he said. "We understand. Thank you for bringing this to us. We will keep working hard."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡigRzCqXJrR
The bishop had a sad smile at that. "You owe us nothing, child. The gods let us save you, so that's what we are here to do." He looked away for a moment, then went on. "Even Arlin is one of our lost children. He just likes to rebel."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk0SPFnecDq
Rock nodded at that. He knew the boss wasn't a bad person, but for him, this was proof of who to choose. He looked at his sister to see if she agreed, but she was staring in the distance, waiting.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTH90roRdEO
It was telling Rock who she was choosing.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Ef4YKYb7d
He had to convince her the greater good was not following Arlin down his path of darkness. They'd found a light in the church. Arlin wasn't ready to lead. They needed a real home.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYbRYnaq9oH
The bishop left them to their day, giving them time to digest the new info. He used that time to ensure his sister it was best they distance themselves from Arlin, even if it was just not following him till they were older. She was against it but knew he knew best.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6YSmBGP1cC
And if by a twist of fate or perhaps a test of their resolve, a shadow drifted into the room, slowly filling the space. A voice they knew well spoke.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3arnJEtKLg
"Took me forever to master that trick. Much harder than creating a cloud to hide in."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡataXY9YHA4
It was Arlin.
While traveling the streets, he'd practiced the shadow cloak. It was a weird feeling, making himself a shadow. He was there and wasn't. He had a form, but at the same time, he felt like air. It was hard to move when he tried it.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ79ZLMy5HyY
It was a slow-moving cloud. It tended to look like a mist or rolling smoke, but he could never hold it for long. His mind couldn't grasp not being a real body and always pulled him back. But he was happy, and he felt he could do it long enough to surprise the kids.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIWQZLxhDf
The church was busy—random grey and black robes wandering around. He did not try to do his shadow trick while entering. He was worried it would cause a scene, and not in a good way. He sighed. He hated this place, but it was home. And it was where the kids were, so it was just what he had to deal with.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZq8NQYR79
He did not see them in the rooms, but soon found them in the garden area. They both were wearing grey robes but easy enough to spot. They seemed to be having a serious talk from what he could see.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTYCq5bVTLj
Probably trying to find a way to escape.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo2hcTQczW3
He pulled the shadow to him easy enough and flowed to them.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeFhS0UMOk1
"Took me forever to master that trick. Much harder than creating a cloud to hide in," he smiled as he made his entrance.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJsUbFDGvy
Ziala ran up to him, hugging him.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGwqJxZ3SjE
"Miss you too," he said, hugging her. When he looked up, he was surprised to see Rock so distant.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvVDff1dPrT
"You okay?" he asked.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUw4kopG5Rx
Rock nodded but said nothing at first. Then he pulled a small parchment from a side pocket and showed it to him to read.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi3GFGQIRPB
He moved away from Ziala, rubbing her head while taking the paper. He read it over and was confused.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0oWYGa7hGl
"How?" he asked in a low voice.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjuyMZwnhtr
He knew this was a good thing. They were free. They had no debts. Was it because of him? No… I never even went to the new dungeon, so how?340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBQyrLaNNAN
"Who gave you this?" he asked.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi7Q9dkEjcw
"Bishop," Rock replied. "Said he and the guild master worked to free us from debt."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZMMut93SYy
Arlin felt defeated, as if a victory was taken from him before he even had a chance to earn the prize.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfUxmqrVTlB
"I see." He said. As much as he hated it, this was a good thing. They could be a family again. He hated living at the church, but he could earn money from the dungeon and they could move out. So this was a good thing, he mused.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8WauhbjxwM
"So that means we can make new plans then!" he said excitedly. It wasn't how he wanted things to go, but this was a good thing to be happy about. As he was smiling, expecting them to cheer and agree, Ziala stared at her brother, waiting for him to speak. And Rock still wasn't happy.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFejbtlv6Hj
"Is… something wrong?" he wondered. "I know it's been a little while, but I promise it wasn't fun. I have been fighting monsters, trying to keep my promise. I swear!"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9velzMwlb
"Boss, we trust the church. They helped us," Rock said flatly. No anger, no hate, but it still cut him deeply—as if he had been thrown away.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8SJPqPo6J7
The words hung in the air between them. Arlin felt something cold settle in his chest, heavy and hollow at the same time. His throat tightened.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpgjdxOeChL
"Why?" he asked meekly.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdvSbj34vc
"You saw the note, boss. You may have helped us with potions, but they freed us of that and more. They gave us a home, a tribe to follow. We don't have that anymore if we stay with you," Rock said flatly.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjzAKhBDmfM
That hurt more than he thought it would. He looked at Ziala. He saw she did not agree, but he wasn't going to divide them more. There was truth in his words. Even now, he was randomly showing up months later and just assumed everything would stay the same.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKiETc2qxcV
No.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz0oOzKVw6k
He knew he'd lost them along the cold when all he could offer them was a life of rats. Rock was a smart kid. He was keeping his sister safe, and this was best.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZg6bXrkDho
"So… this is goodbye?" he hated saying it, but had to know how far this was going to go.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa0qxMGgqVB
"NO!" Ziala yelled and grabbed him. She was crying now. "DON'T GO!" she yelled between tears.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVzEWtvP22A
"Easy, easy. I'm still here. It's okay. We're just talking," he said.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8UYHoZhjMt
He looked around. A few people did look at the noise, but saw it was a personal matter and showed them respect by keeping their distance.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV9xPgOXrcu
He held Ziala. She was warm. She was trembling. Her small hands clutched at his shirt like she was afraid he'd vanish if she let go. He could feel the dampness of her tears soaking through the fabric. He knew at that point he would not abandon them. He needed them, even if Rock didn't need him. His sister still had some love for him. Maybe they both did, and Rock was trying to be like him and lead them to a better life.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ3QB3YYYBU
"I was wrong forcing you to choose," he said. "The church… did save me, and now they saved you. So I promise, I'll let you choose your own path, and I'll be here when you need me. Okay?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡinF2GPfYnD
As he said that, he saw Rock still standing defiant, but not out of hate—out of need. He was trying to be the mature adult and give them a better life. He looked away while he watched.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg11P2aacZw
"Sorry, boss. You don't have to leave, but we do need to follow the church, at least for now."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4noJS8RjjU
Arlin finally composed himself, even though still hurting. "I agree. But this is a happy time. I still missed you two. You been practicing? Let me hear you play."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUGgTqxQqVU
With that, Rock slowly nodded, got his flute, and played it. It was a slow, sad melody, but pleasant all the same. He had gotten good in the short time.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1yoEOsMaow
He sat and listened, with Ziala in his lap playing with a doll that she'd gotten. When things settled a bit, they chatted and caught up on their adventures—the kids with their chores and learning, him fighting monsters. The bishop showed up mid-way through their reunion, but he kept it brief, wishing Arlin well. A grey robe brought them food, which they were thankful for.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPXkrGSgpXu
It was an emotionally draining day, and one Arlin wasn't sure when he'd get another.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlslNPt0N12
As he started to leave, kissing Ziala goodbye and waving at Rock, wishing him well—it was enough. This wasn't goodbye. They still had something, even if it wasn't a family.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiLXK51CqVC
He still had something.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw3YXlrQ3ul
He smiled and turned to shadows, wanting to fade away like shadows into the dark. Even though it was still a sunny day, he only felt the darkness, so he embraced it as much as he could.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHW7e7PrwM2
The garden around him was bright with afternoon light, flowers in bloom, birdsong drifting from the trees. But none of it touched him. The darkness within was deeper than any shadow the sun could cast, and he let it take him.
Ziala wiped her eyes, watching him go.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdvfRZC4G0j
"Did we have to do it that way?" she asked.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3LACyCb5ea
"Yes," Rock replied. "We need a tribe, Zia. He wanted to lead, and we followed. But the church is a home and a tribe. He's not ready to be a leader."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuHS7qOF65v
"Can't he be family?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX8GI7Qzoqu
"We don't need more family. We need a home. He can be a boss again when he finds his way. Till then, this is best."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxZUrbZyLPr
"Ok," she replied in a low voice.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9a4jJ4DwsC
She still loved them both as a family. She held her doll closer. She would find a way. He was always hunting monsters. She wasn't brave enough to fight them, but maybe she could get a job working near him and help him. That way, this wasn't goodbye. There'd be a new tomorrow, and they'd be together then.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFZN701C0Bj
Rock played his flute, and she listened while planning for new days.
He finally made it back to the guild hall. He was tired. Today was supposed to be a good day—a fresh start, reuniting with the kids. But it seemed they felt different. Well, at least Rock did. His sister still believed in him.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTKvp9JnDLs
He wondered where he went wrong. Was he too forceful? Maybe he did push his truths as the perfect ideal. He hated the church, and the life they gave. That didn't make the life they offered the kids bad.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwyio3xCJCJ
"Do you know if the guild master is in?" A random voice broke his inner musing.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwidxczZPAe
He looked over to see a tall male foxkin holding a backpack. He wasn't sure why he was asking him instead of just going inside.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsY2vTUARFN
"Couldn't tell ya. The door's right there to check, though."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpddp0nQazW
The man seemed surprised by that. "Right, my apologies. I thought I'd seen you before with her, so I assumed you know her whereabouts." He started to shift his pack and proceeded inside.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeYA4LHUOEi
"Wait." The man stopped to look at that. "I'm just tired. It's been a long day. Um… mister, I don't recognize you, but I do travel with her. She… trains me," he finished saying hesitantly.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOxj3ZjkAT
The man stared for a minute, then smiled. "I understand. I have a sister who takes most of my time myself. But I am here on business. A new young alchemist in my town is working on potions and poisons that work on weapons. I already have clients with the hunters. I tried the alchemist here, but he was dismissive. So my last stop is here before I'll be finishing my trip and heading home."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjHhDO9VltD
Arlin watched the man, not sure how to handle that load of info. But the man was trying, so the least he could do would be the same.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5c0Ya3K5G6
"Let's go inside. I'm sure you can sell something."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qB4ICv6MT
They entered the guild hall easily enough. Rosa was still at the counter. It was slower now, not many people around. Terry was also nearby, writing in a ledger, so he focused on him.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8IQG0bzLBu
"TERRY! We got someone wanting to sell supplies. Can you help him? Been a long day and I need a nap."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZx3ZAgHlXe
Terry, hearing his name called, looked and saw him. He smiled and nodded. "Of course. Your mom probably would've had me do it anyway."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtoZn6F9XZ7
Arlin cringed at that. He knew she was technically his mother, but hated being reminded of that. He didn't wait to see how it played out and left for his room to turn into a shadow to avoid talking.
Nebo watched the boy turn to shadow mist and float away. While interesting, it wasn't anything he hadn't seen before. And he was used to being dismissed as a merchant. Everyone wanted your attention till they didn't—usually after they made their money off you, or were not interested in what you were selling, he mused.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPefu8Epg0Z
A sigh came from the distance. He looked and saw a bearkin watching the stairs, then looked upon him with a sad face.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0NMkjqEZRc
"He's usually not like that. Probably just a long day," she said while giving him a pitying look.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEAZSN9BL1K
"It's fine," he replied. "I'm here to do business with the guild master anyway. He was merely a guide. Well, I was already here. I just used him for help. She is here?" He never got an answer to that and was wondering.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyCkCtxxu73
"No, I'm afraid she had business at the church, I think. She left early today, so not sure if she's still there," the male human replied. He assumed this was Terry.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZVU0ZVMos2
"Can I help you? Or is it a bad time?" he wasn't sure. "I can try a later date." This was more a side business to help Wolf than really needing to sell.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSngWU2Nkfi
"Let me see what you have. If anything's good, I'm sure the guild master will be interested," Terry spoke.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7hxiQjIf0
They left into a side room toward the back. It was a storage turned office, as it was crammed with scrolls, ledgers, and random books. Beyond a small desk and two chairs, there was not much space. A small mage lamp was the only thing to keep it with light, so it felt a bit oppressive.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡywzyK8hUr4
"Sorry, I tend to only write here, not really do business. The guild main office is much nicer for that," Terry said apologetically.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0FCsVxaqT
He nodded to that and pulled off his pack, setting it as best he could to the side.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ15YFmMXqWZ
"Terry, right? The kid mentioned the name, but I'm just assuming that is you."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuPQI2g7Fs6
"Oh, how rude!" he replied. "She'd skin me alive knowing I neglected proper protocol. Yes, I'm Terry. I've been working for nearly fifteen years. And you are?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5YjDhb6PDk
"Nebo." He extended his hand in a formal greeting. Not many chose to do it, but safer than sorry.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgxjW14L8Oc
Terry looked at the hand at first, then smiled and shook it. "Didn't think beastkin followed many human customs, especially handshakes?" he asked, amused.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMC7sLUL8pI
"Most don't. But I am a merchant by trade, and the tribe wanted me to know how best to handle humans for my sister's sake."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVKI9yBjpdo
Terry smiled at that and waited for the wares.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJgToQ2mutQ
Nebo placed them out for him to inspect. There were the berry juices, herb spices, potions, and poisons. He knew some of it was pointless to show, but he wanted to be thorough.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi2rsCsM8BW
Terry knew by sight the antidote. He tried the berry juice—too sweet for his liking. But when Nebo explained adding a mix to help wake or sleep, he got much more focused.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ19ECXvvIXT
"Does it have to go in the berry drink?" he asked.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJIGN86CKaG
"No, it can be applied to any mix. The berry was just something new he made."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDD4OrHcdA4
Terry nodded at that and focused on the poisons with more of a keen eye.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDSzUDnNjZD
"I have a low-level water magic," Terry said. "Let me heal most poisons. Are they safe to touch, or were they too toxic to live from?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQQpzgYM7db
Nebo was surprised by the question but replied, "They were safe in the sense they won't kill, just disable."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc9X6fNo0K3
With that, shockingly, Terry unhesitatingly drank the spider venom poison. Nebo panicked and grabbed an antidote, but Terry held up a hand, stalling him instead, and waited for the effect to take effect.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJtR9VNuO6X
Nebo watched as his calm demeanor shifted to discomfort and mild shock. But before he could move to assist—despite the man's earlier protest—he shivered and spoke.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1LkeKapmV
"Got a kick. Likes to take its time too. Dangerous one, that one, but easy enough to cure with a bit of water magic. I can see it working well on monsters."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3W22GCNqMG
Nebo wasn't sure how to respond to that. He was impressed. He'd always assumed water magic was more attack-orientated, but guessed it was more versatile than he knew.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtL4WLDdBse
"The other is a paralyze. Not as strong, with random effect, but the main effect does hit much harder."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoXQJsBsaC3
Terry nodded and touched the paste. And like before, inserted it in his mouth with indifference. He stared at Nebo after that, not moving. Then his eyes budged, and he just sort of flopped forward.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡneowX1BUw9
In a panic, Nebo raised him up and poured a potion in his mouth. He wasn't sure what happened. He knew Terry was not dying, but it was odd how he'd cured other effects and lost to this one.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3jz5BswSpI
After a moment, he coughed and shook his head. "Thank you, Nebo. THAT is something that has potential," Terry said with gusto.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4JpODV8H44
Nebo was confused, and his face showed it.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVNtWX06Kw5
"It was the way it paralyzes. Slows the blood. I could heal it in time, but it would be much harder."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROOfe59Bv1
"We tested them also," Nebo said. "I oversaw some of the tests myself after I learned of the effect. We needed to see worst case, how long could the effect last." He cringed a bit, remembering. "The poison was odd. It hit hard but faded quickly. The highest dose took me down for a minute or so—more painful than anything. The paralyze was more interesting. As you saw, it lasted over five minutes in the drink form test before we cured it. The paste version on the skin numbs for over an hour, even in a low dosage. It can be used to numb pain, or keep prey and predators down to finish them off."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbTTFXSZM8K
Terry nodded. "Both are worth buying, same with the wake powder and sleep powder. Do you know if the alchemist stocks any of these things in case we run low?" he asked.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡagh28nGRJa
"He was a bit dismissive when I tried. Said they weren't worth the cost to pursue versus higher gold-making things."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPAmPv5qmXC
Terry frowned at that. "So they're easy to make, I assume? Or he would jump all over it otherwise."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvqgzEs6pr1
"Extremely easy," Nebo replied. He knew Wolf cared more about helping than profit, so he didn't mind sharing info. "The sleep and wake powders are just grinding and mix. Same with the paralyze into a paste. The spider poison is also simple, mixing it with water."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfAUGVSb2x8
Terry nodded. They did have staff who dabbled in alchemy, so they could run their own supplies.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvEIgNgU7wT
"Not to be rude, but why give me that info for free?" He trusted Nebo, but it seemed a little too nice and wanted to know the angle.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdGNWomHxpR
"My brother is an alchemist who wishes to help where he can. Money is a side gain, not his end goal."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJy3vf9ABOl
Terry nodded. That made sense. Beastkin tended to value helping all gain versus themselves.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP5pSGnyTEt
"There must be something we can do for your generosity. Even if I buy your supplies here now, we won't ever have a need again, no?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRwaxf5kf5Y
Terry wanted to give back for this kindness.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNmLGBrkP10
"It's fine. I'm sure later in life there'll be something we need, and you'll be there."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU6vi8Xprae
Terry did not like that answer, as it still felt like him cheating and gaining with no effort. Nebo noticed, so he decided to add more to his thoughts.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTTrd11c7Qb
"We have a dungeon forming soon, within a year or two. I'd rather we have a positive working relationship when that does come."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6st0AelcL9
Terry finally agreed that long-term benefits could happen and nobody was fleecing anyone sharing knowledge.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSvGdwR3svI
"Thank you, Nebo. I guess I'm too used to the greed of our current alchemist. It surprised me of your generosity."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrD6PkobqEq
The meeting wrapped up with Rosa bringing tea for them both. They enjoyed casual talk for a bit before Nebo felt it was best he leave and find an inn to eat and call it a night.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4Y9Ehf2AF
As he left, Terry met with Rosa, telling her the good news and windfall.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡarOGKSdPFD
"A dungeon in the town of Lakewood? My husband started an inn there!" Rosa said, amused.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzgSguZaAgt
Terry nodded and smiled. Rosa did mention she had a husband and a small child, but he did not know they were separated.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8MVen5sJB5
"You mentioned your family before, but I thought you all were in the city?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡowOyc69Bwx
"Too much competition, not enough land to support another inn in the crowded city," she replied. "So it was easier to follow the new location and settle there. We did not have enough money saved to support the building and start the business, so I stayed with the cub. I'm helping make some money while things settle. I got used to working here, and although we're not hurt for cash, it's not enough for me to leave just yet. But if a new branch just so happens to open in the same location?" She smiled, saying that while watching him.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtcjltU7q3S
He nodded at first, not catching on. Then it hit him. "Oh! Oh yes! You could go!" noticing what she meant. "Very wise," he mused. "I'll make sure to mention it to the guild mistress."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu0eLSsZHxa
"You don't mind me wanting to go? You probably got rights to it. You have been working here longer than me," she asked with concern, as if he would take it back.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTx02ipEGTS
He waved his hand. "No, I'm happy here. Born and raised. Never understood everyone's desire to move around, or leave the woods. Gods, no! They don't even have walls, last I heard."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuNZW5CHZv5
"Indeed, they don't," she replied. "The hunters patrol, but the land is mostly safe. The kingdom keeps the worst away, I'm sure. A time may come needing walls, but for now, everyone has been happy."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuOnyr2QugH
He nodded and assured her that when the matter came to pass, she would be with her husband.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLwcBeoHDqV
And if by magic, a new crowd showed up with a successful hunt. It was once again time to work.
It was later than she'd planned. The sun was already setting, but she'd had a lot of running around to do. She really wanted to stop and smoke her pipe. She hated being crowded or dealing with people. The smoke always calmed her and made it easier, but now wasn't the time.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiN945oRrNw
She wanted to share the good news of clearing her son's debt. He would be so happy, she knew. He was suffering from a lot of stress, trying to raise those two orphaned kids and clear a debt he'd gotten tricked into. It was too much. It was why she had to make sure she was there for him. He needed to know he wasn't alone like he feared.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJRp3YzwkBO
She made it to the guild hall but did not want to deal with people, so turned to mist and entered to scout before they knew she was there. It was clear—a surprise to her, as people tended to come randomly. It seemed Rosa left for the night, but Terry was still there, so she reformed to greet him.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbda3m6eF41
"How was today? Any trouble?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvtM843DeGp
Terry looked up, surprised, but only mildly. He was used to her doing things like this.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmFwBZrCRya
"Easy day, my lady. We did have guests that sold us interesting things, but beyond that, it was a normal day."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRqjXGJfQw3
She was curious about what he meant by that, but did not press. She was more interested in her son.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZIs21coX1Z
"My son? Is he here?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVi3AK9CDRe
"Aha, yes. I think earlier mid-day? Forget the time, sorry. He went to bed early, wanting to rest."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgpgHcNnyOZ
That was odd. He was looking forward to today with those kids.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJERx6W9Zep
"Thank you, Terry. You know the drill. I don't wish to be bothered unless necessary. I'm going to visit my son for a bit and turn in myself."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS0JnndIhwe
He bid her goodnight and promised to discuss the deal of the sales later when she was ready.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF3tB6If0Ql
As she made her way to Arlin's room, flowing like mist, she could see the light on, so he was awake. That was good. She knocked gently, waiting for a response.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh3zmsLotug
"What do you want?" was the reply beyond the door.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI4ivsA7tha
She smiled. She always liked his bluntness.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkSklENwHTD
"It's your mother. May I enter?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXzXd6cuW8Q
She waited for the reply, ready to open the door, and was surprised when there were no words. Why wasn't he saying come in? She was about to ask if everything was okay when the door pulled open. She saw him lying on the bed, facing away. A small shadow fading from the door.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXJjPGJ7nxD
She was amused that he was getting better with control, but she wasn't sure why he was upset. Maybe he didn't know the good news and was depressed about the debt.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡydCBN6IEyF
"I have good ne—" she started.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdKORo8cCy8
"I already know. There's no more debt."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBmoeSEhLiK
Why wasn't he happy about that? How did he know? With little thought, she guessed the letter must have went to the church first. She was busy today, so she was delayed. And well, she wanted it to be a nice surprise.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUUuXnBGmBL
"That's not a good thing? I don't understand. I thought you'd be happy."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4O7OmFwGxL
"Everything I worked for is a lie," he replied. "And the kids I wanted to help… wanted as a family… chose the church, not me."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOx9KrTMoZ2
That was a bit much for her to take in. She didn't understand. The church was very loving and gave to all. Why was it a bad thing? Why was he still trying to run away, even now?340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ53FdlIKdk
"They are young and need the church. You still can be there when they're older. How is that a bad thing?" She wanted to smoke, but wasn't going to be rude and do it in his room. He tended to not like it.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1gws7eQMX
"Easy for you to say. You waited years before you wanted me. So why should I care if they do the same?"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl7eoMBtcRZ
That stung her a bit and hurt more than she thought it would. She never abandoned him like he thought. She just wasn't… there. She knew what he was feeling. She was feeling it now. Wanting his attention. The rejection. It hurt.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9LpptoFun
She sat on the edge of the bed beside him.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5NPDypLfSX
"I know how you feel, and you're not wrong. We can't change what led up to this. But I can be there for you now, as your mom. I promise I'll help however I can."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlSdo8emNwd
He turned to her with those words, a sad look in his eyes, and grabbed her waist, not saying anything. So she wept for him instead, for she knew he was trying too hard to be strong.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW4CPAgNalA
The shadows around them seemed to soften, drawn to them like a protective veil. She held him as he'd never let her before, one hand stroking his hair, the other steady against his back.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO9n4eKSh2O
"It's okay. I'm here. I promise, we will work these things out. You made it this far alone, my son. But you don't need to anymore. I'll keep training you to face them all alone, so you never have to fear the darkness. You will be the darkness they fear."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWfqfBtnX5z
He laughed in her lap. "You only know how to beat me near to death and let the monsters almost kill me. Not sure I can be darkness next to that."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCgYz7N2Xpi
She gently patted his cheek in retort and started to stroke his head and stroke his hair, before wishing she could smoke once more.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdxwSmybt6w
"You know I'm not perfect, and neither are you. That's why I know they will come back and respect the effort you tried for them. Just gotta get there, son. I promise."340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7E6bopVsKu
More nervous and trying to calm herself, she hummed a light tune to pass the time. Nobody talked for a while, but a low voice spoke. She swore she heard it but was not repeated, and she dared not ask.340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6VQUaCTfta
"Thanks, mom…"340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUpdLHMK2Ot
She hummed through the night till she was sure he was asleep, and carried him with shadows properly into bed. She was stiff and cranky, not smoking most of the day, but she was also a very proud mom.
340Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtxIWDPphCl
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