He was bored.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiwF5CfnrEO
Why was he guarding the cave? Because one person got hurt. He wished his sister was here. At least he'd have someone to pass the time with.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR1wMR3j0l0
He looked past the cave into the trees. It was a sunny day with a light breeze. Random people watched him curiously in the distance, but most just admired the lake or left deeper beyond his sight.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEMlLX4wKZ3
That was why it was a surprise when a young man dressed like a hunter with a bow was moving fast toward him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBwWXJTGd9z
He was not sure if he was a threat at first, but as he stared, he knew him. I met him at the inn the other day.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4emwzLKQ6f
The boy completely ignored him and even blew past him into the cave partway before he stopped, stunning him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqDdZYxHJhu
"HEY!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWlN8FhWgzZ
The boy jerked at the voice, reaching for his bow before he focused and saw who was shouting.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQYbQ35bmXG
"Where did you come from?" the boy asked.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuZP4lhqysy
"What?! I'm guarding this cave…" Arlin replied, annoyed.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNUtt2JXTin
The boy relaxed a bit, looking from the cave to him once more. "Really?" He stared a bit, then said, "I remember you from the inn. Sorry, I forgot your name, though."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGvxsqeyjkQ
"It's Arlin. You?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLkL9Amm4gp
"Coby. I wanted to see how dangerous the cave was that hurt my brother. We are going to hunt here."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSJTrp4KAC
"We?" He looked around, not seeing anyone else. He wasn't sure if the kid knew what he was talking about. "You okay? You do know you're alone, right?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGnbxYlDQTJ
"Hah, funny. No…" Coby shook his head, mildly amused, while looking once more in the cave. "Me and my brother Wolf's sisters will be doing the hunting. I'm scouting."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRAiiXdELf7
Arlin slowly nodded at that but knew it was pointless.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjo4HLN8yUy
"That's not how dungeons work. They change each level, and depending on party size, sometimes the gods seem to know when people just want to gather. So it is easy, no monsters. Other times it seems they want to test us…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkGz9s4PUpp
He remembered the worst time when they pushed him to the edge because his mother was there.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCzs3tVaiyU
"Really?" Coby deflated, hearing that. "Then I can't help my brother like this…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzkL8P4TEBx
"Well, you're not supposed to enter without a guild pass anyway. That's why I'm guarding."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNooJOhN2fm
"Guild pass? Why?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp7BhBTQSCO
"Um… because you end up like your brother if you're not ready for what's deeper? Also, the pass is just proof you know what you are facing and understand the risk that you can die. We never had an issue in the city since the dungeon was old, but this is new land, and people get too… adventurous."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBDJHCWaIXT
"Thanks for the info."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHRY3IlP5Im
Coby started to leave much slower than before, surprising him. He must have wind magic. That wasn't the first time he moved that fast.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXDFZAQGee7
"Before you go, um… maybe we can meet at the inn, and I can talk with your sisters?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfK0L4vg44w
His heart was pounding. He was hoping for a chance to meet without her brother being so hurt. Maybe now she would notice him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6b2IxThLgb
Coby looked confused. "Why?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡraxX36NWts
He was taken aback. He needed a reason to get close. Stupid, stupid, stupid, think!322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcp6j6iej08
"I have been running dungeons solo for years. I even cleared a level three. Not sure what your brother needs, but I can fight, and you will be in better hands with me than without."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBBZ3Ue3ue
Coby nodded slowly. It did make sense, but he wasn't sure. He didn't know this man, and why did it look like he was in the shadows even in the light?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVo7krJZEZv
"Hmm… let me talk with my family first when I find the time. You are on guard duty, and we also have stuff going on."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw4uCq3xtcg
He panicked at that. When was a good time?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3IzZf6zfc1
"Um… I'm staying at the guild hall, and you've got to go there for a pass anyway. Meet me there or my sister. Her name is Ziala. She's a wolfkin, and she works the front desk with Rosa. Either of them should be able to help you set a time we can all meet and go from there."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrrtKAw2dER
He wasn't sure if it was a foolproof plan, but it was definitely one of his better ones.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIYRg1RmBdI
"Okay, Arlin, we'll meet again. Till then, stay safe."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyqkDW9SIQ
He was about to reply when Coby pulled the wind and ran away faster than he could reply.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5H03Uu8b1
"You too. See you later…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA8B4aIQMpw
It felt awkward. He never needed friends and was even happy just taking care of the orphans he wanted as a family. But seeing how far others were going for this one boy, it made him realize he did want more. He just never felt like he had it, even from those who did take care of him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiW0A3WSq3S
He sighed. Whatever. I still have to finish my shift.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA2pKoc4CTJ
And back to boredom he went as the day slowly passed.
Though he was happy to walk again so soon, he had mixed feelings knowing his sister was somehow blessed with power as good as his, if not better.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO1QTZpKf9E
He knew it was wrong to feel that way. She got this power for him, but that bitterness of a twist in fate on the gifts was still weighing on him all the same.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMpGeYqRS4n
Nina spoke up from the side. "Why do you look like you're sucking a lemon? It's not one of your cute faces."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTtc758LFNg
Leenia was also there and spoke her version of the situation. "Leave him be. He's still recovering. And thanks again for sharing that mana potion. It helped."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeBmsnmtwTa
He nodded at that.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsbzlbFHEiP
They'd made it home safely a few days ago but had been doing nothing since. Mom was still sick, and Dad was still busy with Nebo doing deliveries. Even Uncle wasn't able to visit much anymore.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡflIkRbNoQf
All that was left was him with nothing but time on his hands, not able to make anything new, and his sisters smothering him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQcR9i2RAq8
They tried to console him by letting him know Coby was scouting the dungeon so they could search for his missing rare herb. It did not comfort him knowing the place that easily broke him was where his family wanted to hunt, even if it was necessary and for him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZsYoLOjGUc
"I'm back and have good news! Are you in the room?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCIf3ExOAhL
He heard the voice of his brother and cheered up a bit.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡze11NcHvQj
"Yeah, we're in the room."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhus2rD9NBw
Coby turned the corner and nodded to everyone.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHP5NXceSg8
"You found the herb?" Nina asked with hope in her eyes.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5oyRAKpVbF
"What?! No… if it were that easy, it wouldn't be rare, you know that, right?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHlYTObFjOP
She shrugged. "It was worth a shot. So what was the good news then?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvLkZKrozhd
Coby smiled again. "I met the new guard at the cave. He says he fought in dungeons and can guide us deeper and knows what to expect."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ72mKYGR3rE
Everyone seemed surprised at that, with Nina first to speak.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtszAXU5z3s
"Yeah… but can he fight?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcYAEALJ2Vc
"I did not ask for details. He wanted to meet at the tavern to work out the details then."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡESyVV6yPxe
Wolf glanced at his book while his brother kept talking, explaining his encounter in more detail.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf2eIm0UrDy
He knew he would not be involved in the fighting, but he would be needed afterward if they succeeded.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyfN5gKtoCi
"Can I go with you when you go to the tavern?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW3LuFJoXsq
Everyone agreed easily. They would love for him to go. They wanted him involved. They knew he wanted to help, and though his power was amazing, it was not meant for fighting.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPqYGxCKmqT
He felt better knowing things were finally happening and that they had a chance. They just needed to make it to the end.
"Did you hear anything yet?" he asked, hopeful.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgXYXQglnI
"You have been asking for three days. It is the same answer. No…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAUbfflgmLU
He nodded slowly to that. He felt a bit defeated. He was hoping they would rush over the same day after guard duty, but it seems even after three days of checking in, nothing.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3F71J4yQgk
Did they try without me? No… they still need a pass, and she would at least tell me about that.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPPPZaClBfS
"Stop fretting, brother. They're probably busy preparing."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3CdeYdZncL
She glared at him again. He was acting like a lovesick puppy to a girl he hadn't even really met. It was getting on her nerves.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEH0ZjmBvxc
Rosa saw the building tension, and she tried to break it up.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTnzTHLulRT
"Let me make some tea. It calms the nerves. My son was the same way when he was trying to see his dad. He didn't want to wait longer than he had to, even though we were away for years. It was an unbearable wait for him."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡut6xoctT2c
Arlin nodded and breathed out slowly. He had been a bit needy.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLKedfytaZC
"Ok, just… let me know. I'm going to go walk in a circle somewhere else."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡihVnVbXF5g
Ziala rolled her eyes and went back to assist a new guest who showed up during his recurring freak-out.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTcRcT9Nx2Q
She did miss that about her other brother, Rock. Nothing seemed to bother him. She needed to remember to write him later, wishing him well.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMy2rvCOVC
Things were settling down now that Arlin was staying in his room, at least for now, and she was enjoying the tea Rosa brought.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFasiNcP5d
She was hoping her shift would end soon so she could go shopping when she noticed a few people in the distance staring at someone who had just entered.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF3nOAfYEYc
Rosa stepped away so she would be the one to greet them. So she had her best smile to meet them and was surprised it was her.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡszzpGpWzMy
She was much prettier than she remembered. There was a soft luminescence about her, subtle but unmistakable. Like candle glow made flesh. Was she glowing with a light?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfKQehuK5hf
She chided herself. Who she was did not matter. She was here for business. She was sure, but it seemed she was hesitant to come to the counter.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSY5wOrjdAK
She watched as she took in the sight of the room. Ziala was mildly amused, as she'd done the same when she first saw the place.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMmuOXkWvRg
It was different. They'd redesigned this one to fit the guild master's desire for easier living and still doing business. But she doubted the girl knew the difference. She didn't seem shy before. Why is she hesitating to come to the counter?322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJWAzfxiEeN
"Do you know if I can get a guild pass here?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ060Kshn4Jr
Ziala was shocked. Why was she asking a random adventurer for help instead of me at the counter?!322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkvmS1qC0L8
The adventurer, a young male, smiled, happy for her attention. He nodded eagerly and pointed towards Ziala.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZJ3z8veMHo
She finally noticed her, so she nodded and smiled. There was no reason to be rude for her being uncertain.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNeqHnNZIaS
"Yes, I can help you."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVIJ5TKwTus
The girl smiled a radiant smile, and Ziala groaned internally. Her brother was going to be dragged around by this girl's whims, and she wouldn't even be trying.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡImINjZs1y8
It only took her a moment to reach the counter, much more assured of herself now that she knew she was in the right place.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7v6u3L3LvT
"Hello, may I have a guild pass? Please, we will be a party of at least three going into the dungeon."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbaUAiweyYF
Ziala nodded but then spoke. "The pass is more of an agreement than a binding rule. It's just a document outlining what crystal drops are worth, herb value, and understanding that the deeper you go, the more likely you are to face death."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7MAuzrQsyb
She turned at that and went to one of the shelves where the documents were piled in a stack of copies made daily to hand out, so it wasn't a hard process.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfsPjCTLCyj
"Um…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcdGHXIwHff
Ziala looked at the girl at the counter, who was fidgeting.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5UzzVFGjYM
"If you need something, just ask. I'm here to help."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiPoXRacCY2
"I was told there was someone who worked here who wanted to help. But I do not see him and am not sure who to ask."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7z1GQl1zLz
Ziala did not care, but she didn't want to watch her brother wag his tail for this girl, so she saved it for their next meeting.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkvXZEwNBBr
"Aye, he told me. He said something about meeting over at the tavern if you guys set a date and time. I would like to go myself just to hear the details." She trusted them, but she still wanted to know what her brother was getting into. Regardless of how many dungeons he'd run, that did not make this safe.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGqWXSgHUtC
"That's fine. Funny enough, my brother said the same thing, said he needed to see this person and make sure everything was good. Since he got hurt, he's been a little wary."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyYrc9u1dF7
Ziala smiled at that. It was nice to know she wasn't alone. She was thinking smart. Maybe this wouldn't be so bad.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCXO43WsFIG
She came back to the counter with the paper.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdBJISURu8Z
"My name is Ziala. We met before at the church, but you were with your brother at the time. How is he, by the way? Is he healing okay?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg9lIGct91j
She showed shock at that. "I'm sorry, how rude of me! I don't remember you."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBKTMumtqzc
Ziala waved it off while smiling. She didn't mind.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡceO69Kucvh
"My name is Leenia. Len for short. Are you free tonight or tomorrow? We can meet then and go over the details."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV8Jb9FCbiD
Ziala asked, hoping to help her brother meet them sooner rather than later since he'd been brooding for days already.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡObxZRkSQOv
"Tonight is perfect. I was nervous coming here. I wasn't sure when we would be able to meet up, so this is great." Leenia looked behind herself at the door. "I've got to let the others know. Just before dark, okay? That should give us all a few hours to prepare."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfH8xTZgZVL
Ziala was fine with that. She could do some light shopping before the meeting, and it gave her brother time to prepare or, at the very least, settle his nerves and look less like an idiot.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEtH7Gy2sj0
"It's a perfect time, though the tavern could be a little crowded. Business has been picking up there," Ziala said with concern.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7E0jDfsqUy
It was then that Rosa came from the back, overhearing them talk.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcnjoFVvgng
"Pish posh, my husband runs the inn. I'll talk to him and make sure he saves you kids a table if you're planning something big. I want you all to be smart and safe."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpWNBiFyBok
"Thank you!" Leenia exclaimed, happy for the luck.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEthUf5eoV1
Ziala knew Rosa's husband worked there, but she felt bad calling in a favor like that, especially not even having to ask. Rosa saw her face and smiled.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEN6AY9C7Ar
"Don't worry, my husband loves to help. And if he knew you all were going on an adventure, he would want to make sure it started right with food and cheer."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQdyjq1EW7
Ziala nodded at that, grateful, and Leenia started for the door.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBSl7CG13C3
"Thanks again."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1PpxDwijnH
As she left, the room seemed a little darker, as if a bit of light was lost.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5culQXUWxd
Rosa spoke from her side. "Your brother is not going to be happy to know he missed her. Pretty little thing," she mused.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fDSduHlSA
"He will get over it. He is still going to see her later. It gives him a chance to clean up. He needs a bath."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmdwmfxrrrk
Rosa laughed at that. "Well, he has been working up a sweat running in circles, waiting for one of them to show up. It's nice he made a new friend."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCJul28bYdp
Ziala wasn't sure if they were friends but bit her tongue versus saying that. She wouldn't ruin whatever bond he was trying to form. As long as he didn't forget his family, she was fine with him having a life.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4XhCYm8rQR
"I need to go let him know so he can focus on getting ready versus moping some more."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJIbEKJNwjP
Rosa laughed at that. "Good luck, dear. I'll send a runner to let my husband know before you get there," she said as she tended the counter, letting Ziala handle other business.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGLSu5jaZWy
She was grateful to Rosa and bowed. "Thank you, we owe you one," and she went up the stairs to meet her brother.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2DuAZbTxY4
His room was the third door on the left, just past hers, and his mom was the guild master. Though she saw herself as his sister, it was not official like with the guild mistress and him, but she was fine with that. Things changed slowly. She was happy they trusted her to come. That was enough.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡByFFHSTcbZ
She was about to knock on his door when she saw it was already open. It was hard to tell he was using his magic, which darkened areas, but she knew that if she was closer, she could see.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLLilWcXmLe
When she was able to peer inside, he was lying on his bed, tossing a wood block he'd been trying to carve for a few days but lacked patience and was now throwing and catching with his magic.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6dY4X7TyqV
"Is this all you're going to do all day?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVulRGgK9nt
He freaked out, hitting himself while pulling the block back at the unexpected noise, grabbing his head.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoHa30tWTuB
"What do you want? Not in the mood right now…" He rubbed his head where the block hit.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7obKlrV1Rr
"Okay, sorry for bothering you. I guess I'll tell her to meet you another night."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡExlhpJuE7L
She turned to leave.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIaJloFzmE4
"WAIT, WHAT?! She's here? How do I look?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKUk8ylx7m
He started scrambling to look in a mirror and make himself look good.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGVyT8QLJgW
"She had already left, Romeo."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9KmUzygS0g
He deflated at that. "Aha, guess they didn't need me then. Thanks for letting me know…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZycT3gL9m0
She was having fun teasing him, but now she felt bad. He needed to get over this crush, or it really would hurt him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY98j9fEtrj
"They are planning the event tonight. Rosa even reserved us a spot."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkLYA9Wto9H
He jerked and did a 180, once again filled with life.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx59gu7WwSb
"Tonight! Wait, we?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4TrDijwvkI
"Yes… I'm going too. I don't trust you not to act like a fool, and you know Mom will want me to make sure you're not just saying yes to just anything."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKO5P7XVPU
He flinched at that, knowing he was putting the cart before the horse. She trusted him, but he would still have to let her know he knew what he was doing and would be safe with these people.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVTPD53SzqB
She sighed, watching him flounder, lost in thought.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ujtcp05bT
"Make sure you wash. You smell, or your princess will be whisked away by someone else."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWmfvjId0Lf
"I don't know what you're talking about."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8k4EHrxjs2
He tried to sound cool and indifferent, so she decided to pull a little on his string.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRihgfiFu7w
"I wonder if at dinner I should ask if she has a boyfriend. She is awfully cute. I bet she has one… maybe two?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPH17PVQr30
"What? I mean, who cares…? This is business, and I'll be happy even just being friends."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs0JK2OAOYk
She smiled. "Sure… make sure you wash either way…" as she left to see if she could leave for the day to get some shopping in before the meeting.
The tavern was busy with crowds enjoying their evening, but surprisingly, there was still space. Perhaps they got lucky, and it wasn't as busy as they thought.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh5xd9lDlBj
The air was thick with the scent of roasted meat and spilled ale. Laughter erupted from a corner table. Someone was tuning a lute. The warmth from the hearth mixed with body heat made the room almost stifling.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEyVV5os6XY
They were lost in thought, not sure what to do, when Coby noticed the boy from before with a wolf girl talking at a table in the corner.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYUV8p7KHmb
"Hey guys, I see them. Follow me."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxN7c95uzLe
Arlin was nervous. They had been here for about twenty minutes. He knew they'd come a little early, but he wanted to be safe.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZsiWRUu6L
His sister had worked out reserving them a space with Rosa. It was nice they knew the owner, and the food was going to be comped, so it would give him something to brag about.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyHFaOcbP8x
"Relax, brother, I'm sure they'll be here soon. We should get some drinks to pass the time," she said in passing, feeling a bit of thirst building from the wait.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTIV5eRxfzd
"No… I don't want to have to get up and pee in the middle of a meeting. I'm nervous enough as it is…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJb12IDiQao
He fidgeted a little under the table. She knew he was using his darkness to have something to do.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4WDaDei8BJ
"Well, I'm thirsty and getting a little bored waiting, so me getting a drink won't kill anybody."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOgHHkasgGp
She started to look for the waitress when she noticed a group moving their way.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyLAgPnSQfM
"Never mind, they're here."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwwkuMs937Y
There was a boy with rugged leather, sharp eyes, and a foxkin staying close to the boy they'd helped save. He doesn't look happy even though he's with two girls. And of course, there was Leenia. She smiled to herself. She was still glowing even here. Heads were turning where she walked, and she didn't even notice. It made her mildly jealous. She wasn't even trying.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFPyJTSzsax
"Uh, Arlin, right? It's me, Coby. This is my family," he waved behind him with them all giving a greeting.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ449OpbARXI
It took a minute to get them all situated. Arlin was a little sad he wasn't sitting next to Leenia, but he was nervous enough he didn't mind too much. She was here.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWJtlr6zU96
The waitress saw the now crowded table and came to help them.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRe6Z3VYkB
Teva was surprised that Wolf was here and walking?! She thought he was hurt. He must have been healed. Her heart skipped a beat thinking he was here for her, but then she noticed he followed everyone to a table.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoZJSURLxqf
It was only then she noticed the others. Nina, his sister, and Coby, meeting the other two. She felt lost but needed to know, so she pushed forward.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzvXKyuuHe0
"Hey! Full house. I was wondering why these two were not ordering. What can I get you?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG0BW6MIR3F
They all took turns explaining a food and drink they were interested in as she nodded along.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbwfBCKgvWI
"No problem. I'll be back with the drinks, and it is a short wait for food from there."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx6bW1SRa3g
She smiled. They all seemed distracted, barely noticing her. She gave them a chance to settle before she tried talking.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR8ihVnMPXN
Wolf stared at Arlin and Ziala, not sure how to proceed. Arlin saw his discomfort matching his own and decided to break the ice.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ntjcA3uAv
"You okay, uh, Wolf, right? I noticed you were not limping. So you managed to get a potion? That's impressive. They're not cheap."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡabHFooQbI6
Wolf shook his head, looking unhappy. "No, my sister healed me. She got a powerful blessing."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURwNhPtjeq
Arlin timidly looked at Leenia. He'd noticed her glow, but he thought it was just him liking her. Now he paid more attention.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ572ErD6Hp8
It was a soft light that flowed. "Amazing." The words slipped out.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPNbQ2SK1yF
His sister noticed and frowned, but nobody else did. They were trying to cheer up Wolf, self-loathing for his weakness.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRQIyHwntKY
"Relax, brother, that is the past. After we get the herb, you'll be the hero, and everyone will sing your praise. I promise," Leenia tried consoling him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHJPSWRGQj
"I don't want praise. Just to heal Mom, and if I can, others…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuibfGrYtwL
Ziala had a pang of guilt knowing she'd gotten one of those potions, but also a bit of admiration that he was trying to make it so that nobody would suffer.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLBgO8VHmbG
"A noble goal," Ziala said to show support.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTsO2XC0KLf
The foxkin got excited. "Right! He is too hard on himself, which is why he needs me so he can stay home working on a cure and stuff. I'll do the fighting."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlM7VaeKeWI
She grabbed his head in a playful hug as he tried pulling away. Arlin felt a bit of jealousy. How they all seem so happy together.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡECj8HNwrD9
The banter went on for a little while longer when the waitress finally brought their drinks.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9HWnmEamYX
"Sorry for the wait," as she was setting them down.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrqRxKQgne0
Wolf finally noticed her and blushed, so she remembered, she thought.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfccTlzkC1i
"Hey, I remember you. It's been a while, cutie. How have you been?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtODLZZWkAI
Wolf, losing his depressed mood, replied, "Um, I've been good… busy. Got hurt recently, but I'm okay now." He fidgeted a little.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6VR7QLXTG2
Nina was not happy that even after all this time, he was still interested in this… cat. What did he see in her? Her tail and hair were white. She had rosy cheeks and a bigger bust than hers, which was annoying, but she was nothing special.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49tAkk8NZj
Arlin spoke up to try to hype Wolf up and make himself look good.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtFAzVQ5uPn
"He took on a monster and managed to get his leg broken, but the kid's tough. I was there and helped him in the church when it happened."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ177FHVh1va
Teva was shocked. Why was he doing that? She would have helped if asked.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9vuAWK32yC
"I helped him kill the skeleton and got him to safety. I made it to the church where they helped," Nina chimed in with indifference.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiNPNoAtfwp
Wolf was embarrassed. Neither version of this story made him look good or feel better, and it was all true.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZUj9D4DxuS
Teva saw his look and wanted to show support versus dwell on the past.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCpm8Nsfn3D
"Wow, you're the talk of the town, and you're walking. How did you pull that off? Last I heard, you'd be down for months. I would love to visit you, but you never kept in touch," she playfully pouted, waiting for an answer.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBe3nbWacbU
"I healed him. I got a strong light blessing," Leenia spoke up, happy to see her brother shy versus depressed. Even if Nina did not like it, it was good for her brother.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOVVSIo980O
"No way. Your family is truly blessed! You should visit more, though. I miss hanging out. Still, I know you've been busy."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMgW2Ybs9Y
"We're fine," Nina retorted, not amused at how friendly she was.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAmDVDwjpou
Teva noticed and smiled. She could sense that she liked her brother a little too much. Maybe that's why she stopped visiting and to keep Wolf away.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Aep84bRKW
"Well, let me go check on the food. Grumpy told me it's on the house for you all, or I would definitely try to get you a discount, cutie."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Xa26nuhXG
As she turned to leave, she used her tail to wave bye and shook her butt ever so slightly just to tease him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrlFhZHC46L
Nina wasn't amused, but Arlin was loving it. He thought she was friendly, but she was usually more reserved. Coby was indifferent, as were Leenia and Ziala, but Nina was doing a very poor job hiding her opinion.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDp10iN0ayB
"Are you feeling better, brother?" his sister Leenia asked.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqAJ1oUpcp
And as much as he hated to admit it, he was.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUvTUi4PxT1
A feast was served, and despite antagonizing Nina earlier, Teva showed respect to them and let them enjoy their meal in peace.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh6KBZEIu1n
After everyone was full and more comfortable with each other, they decided they needed to know more about what they could do.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKoAnTALva1
"Um… as fun as this dinner is, if we're going to work together, we should at least know the extent of each other's power or what we'll be doing for this mission."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9x5mMEpSsW
Arlin spoke up, addressing the whole reason they were there.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXp130pCdY1
Wolf sighed and went first.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡripOfLmGcU
"I won't be helping in dungeons, but I do have a rare blessing. At least level four, what I was told, but it is balance. So I can't do any physical magic. I recently learned I can copy any potion I know how it is made just with mana."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn92tm81jfW
Arlin was drinking while listening at first, thinking, Poor kid for a weak blessing, then choking when he heard what he could do.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ55blDkMLiX
"Cough, cough, what? How is that weak?! That's, like, super powerful…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwz63x01sKp
Wolf shrugged. "Yeah, I can help, but only if I learn the effect from crafting it. If I don't, it's a wasted gift versus those that can just do the magic."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWvfQgyuoOk
Arlin was amazed the kid was downplaying such a strong gift. Everyone needs help, but not everyone has a gift that can help everyone.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7VW2jjcpOf
"No magic here," Ziala spoke next. "I do have a lot of guild knowledge and can use some connections, but it is limited for now."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwa3TSpUBKA
Arlin nodded, proud of his sister, and went next, trying to upsell his greatness.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNJ08q1QjxR
"Level three darkness. Got really good with it. It can grab things, fade into shadows, or even use it as a weapon. Fought dungeons for years solo, so I know my stuff."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVNNXrvlAcy
He looked around to see if it worked and was pleasantly surprised to see everyone looking at him with admiration, even Wolf, whose power he felt was better. Though he noticed beyond a bit of recognition that Leenia's attention was still on her brother, which soured his pride a bit.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU2gz5050M3
"Got wind magic, level three," Coby said. "Can sense things from about a mile away. Very hard with more people around. Um… increase my speed or my arrows, but it requires focus. I prefer time to set up but can react in a moment if needed. I helped my dad hunt wild monsters for years, so I too have experience with them."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XVFA3f9Pm
Arlin was impressed, and so was Ziala. He did look skilled, but now more so.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaSRg5Mop1p
"I don't really like talking about mine, but level four earth. I can control earth like water, use it as armor, weapons, make it light as a feather, and go for a long time before I get tired. Unless I burn my mana rushing."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNdkaUwK1Mp
She looked at Wolf when she said that. He pretended to drink so as not to notice. She trailed off at that, but Arlin was speechless. He thought his shadow power was good, but she was a step above that. He knew beastkin got more magic, but this just seemed unfair. Even Ziala was jealous, knowing she was a beastkin and didn't even get a level one blessing.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAKvbkIgaVO
"Um… I'm not sure," Leenia spoke next. "I recently got my power. It… can't heal the weakness curse," she said in a sad, low voice. "But it did heal my brother where Bishop Light and normal potions failed, so that is enough for me."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBcdQYp2Z16
Arlin wanted to comfort her, but it wasn't his place. Plus, she had her brother and Nina already doing that. Wolf was self-loathing over his fate, but he still loved his family and everything they did for him.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡESXTGnqd0k
"I'll be honest, I heard stories of people with less doing more. I think we can do this!" Arlin said with pride.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbQ7SF0K9CU
Wolf was still unsure and asked something he'd been wondering for a while.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjCLdljvYn8
"How come the strong adventurers don't farm the herb? Is it that rare? How will we even know if we will get it?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWEbNxa7aYI
Ziala spoke next since she saw her brother was unsure.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNu7BBgM1pd
"Technically, it is easy to farm, and anyone can do it, but it spawns once a month on each floor no matter how many adventurers try, and it is the first to get it has rights to do whatever with it. And most want money or a powerful potion, not healing a… normal person."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPRmzkcOjKv
Realizing how insensitive her words were, knowing she had no right to judge when she'd gained from those choices: "Sorry, I know you're waiting to help others, but that is why…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE7LJfesJCD
Wolf nodded slowly, not liking knowing money could solve this, and the poor suffered.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHl7ZlKLBS
"It's not that simple," Arlin interjected after his sister's statement. "I know the guy. He did help me but set me up to fail. I was a fool then and made some bad calls, but he only helped for personal gain. It's why he won't make any more potions. Not enough profit and a waste of his time."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6GEjUUwiWz
Coby spoke up with a frown upon hearing that. "Isn't that normal? I am not saying I agree, but nobody can run a business for free, and charity is the church. It is why we give to them to help them give back."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFjF6Il0JGO
"AND HE WON'T," Arlin retorted.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJOJF1MaVrY
He saw everyone look at him with a mix of surprise and concern from his outburst.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaNlOzLwfRu
"Sorry, like I said, we got a past, and… just don't trust him is all."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD5BqjMS2tx
His sister patted his leg under the table in comfort.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWQ0T4r0jE9
The group knew it was getting late and needed time to process the turn of events. They agreed to meet at the lake when Arlin was guarding. They'd work out the details more with fewer people around and a not-so-crowded table.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZk9lqFa13u
As they all were getting up to leave, Teva noticed them leaving and dashed to Wolf to give him a surprise farewell.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡubEuGYuNrc
"Hey, don't forget me like before. I want to know how your adventure turned out, okay? And we are friends, remember?"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0mUNLoINMA
She proceeded to wrap him in a hug, to the surprise of all. Her arms around him, soft and warm, the scent of honey and lavender overwhelming his senses. Despite Nina's disapproving glare, Wolf was flustered and surprised by the attention. His face burned.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDijaKXjNXu
"Um. Yeah. Sure. I'll try and stop by more when things calm down. I promise. Sorry, I… have been so distant. Lot has happened."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlf9LIvOkYS
"Okay, cutie, it's a promise then. Good luck with whatever got you all riled up. I wish I could help, but I think you already have your hands full, or I would be with you."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡboLzClgjFv
"What could you do? We don't need a mascot cheering from the side, and Wolf has us already. We will be fine."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSWEVWy43K9
Nina, tired of being sidelined, spoke up, surprising the group. It was only now they noticed the tension forming wasn't just friendly banter. Wolf, caught in the middle, wasn't sure how to reply.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc62zRJ9JCX
"Relax, foxie, this cat's got claws, and I can do magic too, remember. And just because you don't want to be my friend does not mean the wolf does not…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJi4fEijjl
She flicked a finger, and a few water droplets sprayed on Nina's face. Cold. Precise. A challenge wrapped in playfulness.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlxEYD0FtiK
Nina's fur bristled, angering her. Before she could retort, Leenia intervened, calming her down while Teva laughed and slipped away, tail swishing victoriously.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvb23rCZBkU
"Bye, cutie!"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjQVdGSeocN
With that, the crowd was wondering what was happening, but the group, not wanting to cause a scene, left it at that and went about their business.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9VYTJOsUpc
The innkeeper saw the recklessness and frowned. When Teva rounded into the kitchen humming to herself:322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgqd8Jlm0hi
"Why did you do it, kid? You are usually more reserved than that."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkgs6bZjTgl
The girl deflated, losing the confidence she'd shown before.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYp6zqLt5Dz
"Don't play dumb, Grumpy. You know Wolf was my friend… Nina too. She just wrapped up in some adventure with him and excluded me at any cost, so I'm just reminding them I exist before he forgets forever…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxF9iYJtTkU
Icarus scratched his chin. "Well, you've always done good work, so it's fine, I guess. But you shouldn't set your sights on someone you barely see anymore. There could be no compatibility."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCt1OPypqVP
She smiled sadly at that. "No… I saw the way he looked at me. He at least gives me a chance, and that is all I need. I can make it work from there."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkSsdISNhI7
"Very bold girl. Don't get your heart broken chasing dreams, though. That kid's going to be famous if the rumor is true, and you won't be the only one chasing his tail…"322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq12Hobz1Bl
She smiled at that. "It doesn't matter how many try. I just need to be the one he chooses. Everything else doesn't matter after that."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0lbqW9E5Dz
He sighed, knowing she'd already made up her mind for years, it seemed, and pitied the boy who was lost in his own adventures.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvYbNtYucH2
"Table three has been waiting for his plate, and try to keep the water magic in check, okay? I don't need my place wrecked from a magic fight."322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSKGTc4B2v7
"Ok~," she said cheerfully, already planning how to make more time for her future man. He just didn't know it yet.
Outside, with the group parting, Nina still fumed but did not say anything. She was trying to be the better person.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUnzcz0nUQ1
Arlin wished them well as he left with his sister, upset he couldn't get closer to Leenia but excited at all the things that happened. His sister just felt relieved it was over. That was a lot to process.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyaN6rhuSgg
Leenia and Coby were the most neutral, taking the information and planning what was to come.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawgLOO8t3A
Wolf was mixed on how he felt. He'd been self-loathing for a while, but seeing Teva again and how supportive everyone had been made it hard to have any doubt.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlNqXvGBJlE
He was loved, and his gift was just that—a gift. He doubted he had time for Teva. He cared too much about helping his mother versus chasing girls.322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzuZ6AKNe4a
But afterward?
322Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa2hVuSmozG
and then Add to home screen.