We stand at opposite ends of the chamber. Marla draws her sword, a confident smirk on her face. I remain calm, my grip on my sword firm but relaxed. Talia explains the rules, her voice steady. "The winner is the one left standing. If you are incapacitated or get disarmed, you lose. Ready?"


    We both nod.


    "Three, two, one... begin!"


    Marla charges at me, her sword aimed straight at my chest. I meet her attack with ease, blocking her strikes without exerting much effort.


    Nikko, watching intently, asks, "Why is Papa just blocking?"


    Apollo, ever observant, replies, "He is testing Marla''s abilities. With each block, he is probing her defenses and reactions."


    Marla overhears this and grows visibly frustrated. "Don''t underestimate me!" she taunts, her voice edged with irritation.


    I remain silent, taunting her with my sword instead. She charges again, her attacks more aggressive but still lacking in coordination. I block each strike with precision, gradually pushing her back.


    "Your stance is too aggressive," I point out, deflecting another wild swing. "You leave yourself open and off-balance."


    Marla grits her teeth, trying to focus her attacks. "Stop talking and fight!"


    I continue, my voice calm. "Your grip is too tight. You need to hold the sword with purpose, not fear." With a powerful swing, I knock her back. "And you''re too eager. You rush in without thinking, which makes you predictable."


    Our swords clash, the sound echoing through the chamber. Marla''s face flushes with anger and determination. "I''ll show you!"


    Her strikes become more desperate, her form deteriorating under pressure. I take the opportunity to demonstrate my point. "See? You''re overcommitting. Leaving yourself open."


    With one final swing, I disarm her. Her sword flies upwards, slamming against the ceiling before clattering to the ground. Marla stands there, stunned and breathless.


    Nikko cheers loudly, her eyes sparkling with admiration. Talia can''t help but smile a little, though she clearly feels for Marla. The rest of the group watches in awe, the tension dissipating.


    I sheath my sword, the look of defeat clear on Marla''s face. "You have potential, Marla. But you need to control your emotions and not rely solely on your sword alone."


    Marla takes my hand, a mix of frustration and respect in her eyes. "I''ll get better. Just you wait."


    "That''s the spirit," I say, helping her to her feet. "I look forward to the next mock battle."


    The group relaxes, the sparring match over. Talia approaches, still processing everything she witnessed. Nikko runs over, her excitement palpable. "Papa, that was amazing! The way you moved and blocked and then disarmed her! Just amazing!"


    As the excitement of the sparring match settled, I turned to Nikko. "Were you paying attention?" I asked her.


    Nikko nodded eagerly, her cat ears twitching with enthusiasm. "Yes, Papa! You were testing her abilities and defenses and looking for weaknesses, right?"


    I smiled, proud of her observation. "Very good, Nikko."


    With the sparring session concluded, we began packing up our camp. Marla, though visibly upset for losing, couldn''t hide her awe at my abilities. Apollo assisted with packing, its tall, armored figure moving efficiently to gather our belongings. Talia approached me, a thoughtful expression on her face.


    "Ryu, I was wondering if we could team up together. I mean your team with my team of course. It is undeniable that you are incredibly strong and Nikko has an amazing sense of smell and detection. I still don''t know what your companion, Apollo, can do but I bet he is just as incredible as you are." she says, a hint of nervousness in her voice. "Point is, we could possible dive farther than any other party has in history, together."


    Nikko''s eyes lit up. "That''s a great idea!" she exclaimed.


    Apollo, ever succinct, added, "That could work. She is very skilled in archery and close combat."


    I considered the proposal. "How far do you plan on going into the dungeon?" I asked.


    Talia shrugged. "As far as I can go."


    We hadn''t really planned how far we would venture. But with a larger group, the possibility of clearing the entire dungeon seemed feasible. Borin and Apollo did an inventory check, and it quickly became apparent that we were low on food and first aid supplies. Jareth was still recovering his mana, and we were out of mana potions. Lyara looked too exhausted to venture further. Also, those monsters don''t look so appetizing to me and I''m not feeding Nikko monster flesh.


    "We should head back to the surface," Kennan suggested.


    Borin nodded but added, "We are low on supplies. We only have enough for one, maybe two days. The problem is we are on the 36th floor. It took us almost two weeks to traverse that distance. We simply don''t have the supplies or the no how to travers that distance back."


    I interjected, "Not necessarily. I can navigate us back."


    Borin looked skeptical. "How?"


    I opened a compartment on my glove and activated my gauntlet. A holographic map of the dungeon''s interior projected before us. The map is intricate, showing all the maze-like tunnels, the forest level, the desert level, the boss rooms, and numerous other chambers. Our current position was displayed as glowing blue dots.


    "I have been mapping all the paths me, Apollo, and Nikko have taken. Nikko''s sense of smell can alert us of the presence of monsters so we''ll be able to reach the surface in no time."


    The group stared in amazement. The hologram provided a detailed and clear view of our journey, giving them a renewed sense of hope. They all agreed and finished packing up. Lyara, however, was still too tired to move. Apollo stepped forward. "I can carry her," it stated.


    Borin protested, "Na-ah. You''ve barely eaten or slept. I may be short, but I can help her."


    Without waiting for further discussion, Apollo lifted Lyara gently but swiftly onto his back. She gasped in surprise at the unexpected movement. "I am operating just fine," Apollo said firmly. Lyara protested at first, but soon gave up.


    As we prepared to head out, Nikko tugged at my cloak. "Papa, can you carry me too?"


    I smiled and hoisted her onto my back. She wrapped her arms around my neck, her tail curling happily.


    ?????


    We began our journey back to the surface, the group moving with a renewed sense of purpose. The detailed holographic map guided us through the winding tunnels and treacherous paths, ensuring we stayed on the right track. The maze-like tunnels unfold before us; their intricacies clearly depicted in the hologram. The forest level with its dense, shadowy foliage, the harsh expanses of the desert level, and the imposing boss rooms were all laid out with precision.


    As we walked, the atmosphere lightened, and the sense of camaraderie grew stronger. The journey back, though challenging, felt more hopeful with each step guided by the map. The thought of reaching the surface and replenishing our supplies kept everyone''s spirits high.


    Finally, we approached the exit of the dungeon, the faint light of the surface world beckoning us forward. Night has fallen over Curville, and though some activity remains, the streets are quieter than usual. Most shops have closed, leaving only inns and restaurants open. Talia, Borin, Kennan, and Marla show clear signs of fatigue. I feel the weariness too but am adept at masking it. Nikko, still on my back, has fallen asleep.


    The inn Talia and her group hoped to stay in is full, as are the other inns they know of. "I know a place," I tell them, guiding them to the ''Whispering Pines'' Inn.


    Inside, Edith greets us warmly, her face lighting up with a smile. "Ryu, Nikko, Apollo, you''re back safely!" she exclaims.


    Talia and her group introduce themselves, and Edith, ever gracious, welcomes them to her inn. "I only have three rooms left," she says apologetically.


    Nikko stirs awake, delighted to see Edith. Edith, noticing this, asks, "Are you all hungry?"


    Everyone except Apollo nods. Jareth, Kennan, and Borin decide to share a room, while Talia, Marla, and Lyara take another. Apollo, Nikko, and I take our old room. Apollo and Lyara retreat to their rooms immediately, Lyara requesting her friends bring her some food later.


    After quickly dropping off our gear, we gather in the dining room. Edith soon brings out bowls of a thick, hearty stew over rice. The rich aroma fills the room, making Nikko''s eyes light up with excitement.


    "This looks amazing!" Nikko says, diving into her bowl. I can''t help but smile at her enthusiasm as I take a bite. The rest of the group enjoys the meal too, much to Edith''s delight.


    As we eat, Edith approaches me, handing over several letters. "These arrived for you a couple of days ago," she says.


    I recognize two of the letters from the guild and one from Elara. Opening the first, I find a formal apology from the guild master for the murder accusation. The second letter states that I am free to leave the city and continue operating with the guild. The letter from Elara informs me that Nikko''s knife is ready.


    "Nikko, your knife is ready," I tell her.


    Her eyes widen with excitement. "Really? I can''t wait to see it!"


    Marla, curious, asks, "Why is she getting a knife?"


    "I''ll feel a lot safer if she has a means to protect herself," I explain. "This world has its dangers, after all."


    Talia then asks, "Are you going back to the dungeon?"


    I shake my head. "I thought it over during our way back and, I''ve had enough of the dungeons for now. I want to head back to Arroyo. I''ve got some things to take care of here but then I''ll be leaving."


    "Arroyo? What''s that?" Nikko asks.


    "It''s a big city far from here, but you''ll like it there." I tell her. Turning back to Talia, I continue, "I want to take on more quests there and see more of the world. There''s so much I haven''t seen yet."


    Talia nods, her disappointment evident. She gets up and tells everyone goodnight, her tone tinged with upset emotions. I''m a bit confused by her reaction, but before I can think more about it, Marla speaks up.


    "The trip through the dungeon has been a lot on her," Marla says, but I sense there''s more to it than that. Talia is upset with me for some reason.


    Borin interrupts my thoughts. "Ryu, what was that thing you used? That glowing map your glove emitted? I''ve never seen anything like that."


    Nikko chimes in, "It was really beautiful, Papa!"


    I think quickly, producing a plausible story. "My leather glove is enchanted," I say, "It''s capable of showing a display of any place I''ve been to. I found it in the dungeon the last time I was there."


    Nikko looks a bit suspicious, but I pat her on the head, her suspicious look turning into a wide smile.


    "That''s an incredible magical garment," Borin says, clearly impressed.


    I retrieve my pipe and light it, summoning a tiny flame on my finger. Edith and Mary clear the table as Borin watches with fascination.


    "Could you light my pipe too?" Borin asks, holding out his pipe.


    "Sure," I say, lighting it for him.


    Meanwhile, Jareth and Kennan ask for seconds, and Edith happily obliges.


    "So, are you going back to the dungeon tomorrow?" I ask Borin between puffs of smoke.


    Borin shakes his head. "This was only a temporary gig. Talia formed this party, promising us good coin and a good dungeon run, and she''s fulfilled that promise. With my share, I''m heading back to my kingdom to buy my own mine."


    Kennan, with his mouth full, states, "I''m heading for the Shodo Desert. There''s another dungeon there I want to check out."


    Marla, with a determined look, says, "I''ll be doing some training to get stronger. We''ll have our rematch soon, Ryu."


    "I look forward to that day," I respond, noticing Nikko has fallen asleep. "Goodnight, everyone," I say as I carefully pick up Nikko. She stirs slightly but remains asleep.


    I gently carry Nikko to our room. The room is quiet, and the atmosphere is calm as I tuck her into bed. Apollo stands by the window, watching over the sleeping city. I lie down beside Nikko who immediately moves closer to me. Her gently purring helps me drift off into a deep slumber.


    ?????


    In another room, Talia stands by the window, her gaze fixed on the quiet city below. The full moon bathes the room in a soft, silvery glow, casting long shadows that dance with every movement. The night is calm, broken only by the occasional rustle of Lyara turning in her sleep. Talia''s gear is neatly arranged on a chair, and she wears a simple shirt and pants, a stark contrast to her usual adventuring attire.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    The door creaks open, and Talia turns to see Marla stepping in. Marla''s eyes widen slightly in surprise. "You''re still awake? What''s wrong?" she asks, removing her armor and placing the pieces carefully on the table.


    Talia mumbles, "Nothing''s wrong," but the way she looks away gives her true feelings away.


    Marla steps closer, her voice taking on a teasing edge. "Why do I get the feeling you''re not telling me everything?"


    Talia sighs, crossing her arms. "What do you mean?"


    Marla smirks, a knowing glint in her eyes. "It''s Ryu, isn''t it?"


    Talia''s face flushes instantly, her cheeks turning crimson as she stammers, "No, it''s not!"


    Marla laughs softly, shaking her head. "Oh, please. I''ve noticed the way you''ve been looking at him." She takes a step back, her voice dropping to a playful whisper. "But honestly, I don''t get what you see in him. He''s not that interesting."


    "That''s not true!" Talia snaps, regretting it almost immediately.


    Marla points a finger at her, a smug grin spreading across her face. "Ha! You do like him."


    "Be quiet! He could hear us," Talia hisses, glancing toward the door.


    Marla chuckles, clearly enjoying the moment. "I''m surprised, really. You''ve had plenty of adventurers hit on you, and you turned them all down. What makes Ryu so different?"


    Talia sighs, turning her gaze back to the moonlit cityscape. She hesitates for a moment, then says quietly, "He''s... different. There''s something about him. The way he carries himself, how he fights, how he treats people. There''s a kindness in him, but also something... mysterious."


    Marla raises her eyebrows in surprise. "Wow. Didn''t expect you to open up like that." She sits on the edge of the bed, leaning back casually. "So what are you going to do? He''s leaving tomorrow."


    Talia''s heart sinks at the reminder. "I don''t know. The party''s dissolving tomorrow anyway."


    Marla shrugs. "Then go with him. What''s the worst that could happen?"


    Talia hesitates, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her shirt. "What if he says no?"


    Marla shakes her head. "Nikko likes the idea, and even Apollo—who barely says anything—seems to think it''s a good idea. I doubt he''ll say no."


    Talia bites her lip, uncertainty gnawing at her. She glances at Marla, who is now lying back comfortably, her teasing grin softening. "Just ask him," Marla encourages.


    Talia moves to her side of the bed, her mind racing. As she lies down, Marla''s voice breaks the silence again. "I wonder why he hides his face."


    "Marla, shut it," Talia mutters, rolling her eyes.


    "Maybe he has a hideous face," Marla teases, her voice filled with mischief.


    "If you don''t shut it, you''ll be sleeping outside," Talia threatens playfully.


    Marla giggles softly before settling in, leaving Talia alone with her swirling thoughts.


    By morning, the soft light of dawn filters into the room, casting a warm glow across the walls. Talia glances around, realizing she''s alone. Her gear is still neatly placed on the chair. Quickly dressing in her armor and securing her weapons, she steps out of the room, rehearsing what she wants to say to Ryu.


    As she steps into the hallway, she notices Ryu''s door is slightly ajar. Peeking inside, she sees the towering knight, dressed in heavy plated armor, methodically reaching into a pouch of holding and pulling out handfuls of purple crystals, depositing them into large burlap sacks. Two full sacks lean against the wall, next to his shield, spear, and sheathed sword. The knight turns his head, noticing her presence.


    Startled, Talia steps inside. "Good morning," she begins, her voice a little shaky.


    The knight pauses briefly, then returns to his task. "Good morning," he responds in his usual monotone.


    "Where are Ryu and Nikko?" Talia asks, trying to steady her voice.


    "They are not here," the knight replies, his focus still on the crystals.


    Talia frowns. "I can see that. Where did they go?"


    "They went out to run errands," the knight answers, still focused on his work.


    Frustration creeps into Talia''s voice. "Specifically, where?"


    The knight finally stops and turns toward her. His imposing figure towers over her, the slits in his helmet dark and unreadable. "Your heart is beating irregularly fast, and your breathing is uneven. Are you ill?" he asks, his tone tinged with curiosity despite his emotionless voice.


    Talia blushes, stammering, "No, I''m fine."


    The knight tilts his head slightly, observing her. "What do you need from Ryu and Nikko?"


    Talia hesitates, then says softly, "I just wanted to ask them something."


    The knight studies her for a moment before speaking. "Ryu will be meeting me at the adventurers'' guild later. You may accompany me if you wish."


    Talia nods quickly. "That would be great. Thank you."


    Talia heads downstairs to find Marla, Lyara, and Jareth already seated at the dining table, enjoying breakfast and tea served by Edith. They greet her cheerfully, though Marla can''t resist a teasing grin. "Why do you look so flustered?" she asks with a mischievous twinkle in her eye.


    "It''s nothing," Talia mutters, sliding into a seat and trying to hide her embarrassment.


    Edith approaches with a warm smile. "What can I get for you, dear?"


    "Whatever they''re having, please," Talia replies, her voice quieter than usual.


    Edith nods and disappears into the kitchen. Talia takes a deep breath, trying to calm her racing thoughts. "Where is everyone?" she asks, attempting to steer the conversation away from herself.


    Lyara speaks up between sips of her tea. "Borin and Kennan left early, and Ryu and Nikko are out running some errands."


    Jareth, ever observant, adds, "Apollo''s upstairs, packing up. Quite the odd fellow, isn''t he?"


    Marla nods, rolling her eyes. "I tried having a conversation with him, but he barely acknowledged me. No personality at all."


    "He doesn''t seem much for conversations," Talia agrees, though her mind is elsewhere. She can''t shake her thoughts about Ryu. What if he leaves without me? What if he says no?


    Lyara, always quick to pick up on others'' emotions, narrows her eyes at Talia. "Talia, what''s going on? You''ve been acting strange."


    Before Talia can answer, Marla leans over and whispers something to Lyara. Whatever she says makes Lyara''s eyes widen, and a sly grin spreads across her face. Talia immediately tenses. That look can''t be good.


    "What did you tell her?" Talia demands, suspicion creeping into her voice.


    Jareth, catching the secretive exchange, leans in, curious. Marla gestures for him to come closer, and when she whispers the same thing to him, his eyes grow wide in shock.


    "Seriously? Him?" Jareth exclaims, loud enough to turn a few heads from other tables.


    Talia''s face flushes deep red, her anger and embarrassment flaring. "Did you really have to tell them?" she snaps, her voice sharp.


    Marla giggles, thoroughly enjoying the situation. "I''m not exactly one for keeping secrets."


    Lyara chuckles, clearly amused. "It''s pretty obvious, Talia. I saw the way you were looking at him yesterday. You''re not exactly subtle."


    Mortified, Talia buries her face in her hands. "Who else knows?" she groans.


    At that moment, Edith returns with a hearty breakfast—a plate of scrambled eggs, grilled vegetables, crispy bacon, and a steaming cup of tea. She sets it down in front of Talia, who mumbles a quiet thanks, trying to recover from the embarrassment.


    Sensing the tension, Marla changes the subject. "This inn is lovely. Probably the most peaceful night''s sleep I''ve had, even sharing a bed with two others."


    Lyara nods in agreement, her fork in hand. "Definitely better than most inns we''ve stayed in. I''m coming back here for sure."


    Talia relaxes slightly, grateful for the shift in conversation. "What''s everyone planning to do next?"


    Lyara takes a sip of tea and replies, "I''m heading back to Eldoria. With the money from this dungeon run, I''ll be able to enroll in the Eldoria Magic Academy. I''m going to become an Arch-Mage."


    Marla grins, her competitive spirit showing. "I''ll continue my training. And maybe challenge Ryu to another duel."


    Lyara snorts. "You sure you want to get your butt kicked again?"


    Marla huffs, waving her off. "Oh, shut it. I''ll be ready next time."


    Talia smiles at the banter, but her mind is still racing. Lyara turns to her, raising an eyebrow. "And what about you, Talia? What''s your plan?"


    Talia hesitates, the words sticking in her throat. "I''m... I''m thinking about asking Ryu if I can go with him."


    The table falls quiet for a second before Marla and Lyara exchange knowing glances and giggle softly.


    "Good luck," Lyara teases, smirking.


    Before Talia can respond, she notices Apollo descending the stairs. The knight strides into the room, carrying four large burlap sacks over its shoulders, its shield and spear strapped to its back, and its sword sheathed at its hip. Without a word, Apollo approaches Edith, handing her payment for the stay and the meals, then turns to leave.


    Seeing that her chance is slipping away, Talia quickly shovels food into her mouth, hardly tasting it. She gulps down her tea, wincing at its heat, and shoots up from her chair.


    "Don''t forget to pay," the knight says flatly, already heading for the door.


    Talia hurries to Edith, fumbling for her coin pouch as Marla and Lyara watch, stifling their laughter.


    "Till next time! Safe travels!" Marla calls after her, waving dramatically.


    Talia shoots them an annoyed glare before rushing after Apollo, who has already stepped outside. She pays Edith quickly and bolts for the door, catching up just in time.


    ?????


    Outside, the morning sun bathes Curville in a golden glow. The streets are bustling with activity—merchants setting up their stalls, adventurers preparing for their quests, and children running through the cobblestone streets. The air is filled with the sounds of conversation, the clatter of carts, and the hum of daily life.


    Walking beside Apollo, Talia tries to engage him in conversation, asking him about various mundane topics. The droid''s responses are short, monotone, and uninterested, frustrating her with his lack of personality. How do Ryu and Nikko deal with him? she wonders.


    Her thoughts inevitably drift back to Ryu, her heart pounding faster with every step. Gathering her courage, she blurts out, "What do you think of Ryu?"


    Apollo turns his head slightly, his blank visor unreadable. "Why do you ask?" he replies in his usual monotone.


    Blushing furiously, Talia fumbles for words. "I''m just... curious."


    The knight pauses for a moment, as if considering the question. "Ryu is someone who does not care for titles or status. He fights for those he cares about."


    Talia''s heart flutters at the response, a warmth spreading through her chest. He fights for those he cares about. She feels herself smiling slightly, despite the tension. The knight, however, seems to notice more.


    "Your heart is beating faster again," Apollo observes. "Why?"


    Talia stammers, her face flushing even more. "I... I think he''s amazing. The way he fights, the way he cares for Nikko... and that air of mystery he has. It''s just... intriguing."


    Apollo tilts his head slightly, then falls back into silence, his armored steps echoing on the cobblestones. Talia''s pulse races as they continue on toward the adventurers'' guild.


    They arrive at the grand guild hall, bustling with activity as adventurers gather to plan quests and turn in rewards. The air is filled with excitement and chatter, the large mission board covered in papers, adventurers clustered around, debating their next venture.


    Apollo approaches the reception desk. The young woman behind it greets him with a polite smile. "Good morning. How can I help you?"


    Apollo places the four burlap sacks on the counter, his movements precise and calculated. "I want to exchange these for money," he says in his usual monotone voice. He opens each sack, revealing nearly overflowing piles of purple crystals in three, and various monster parts in the fourth.


    The receptionist''s eyes widen in surprise, as do Talia''s. "This will take a moment to count and process," she stammers, her voice shaking slightly. "You can wait over there," she gestures toward a row of chairs by the far wall.


    Apollo gives a curt nod and moves to sit down, his heavy footsteps echoing on the wooden floor. The receptionist quickly gestures to two employees to help move the sacks, and they struggle under the weight, needing both of them to carry each one.


    Talia, still standing by the counter, stares in disbelief at the knight. "How strong is he to carry all of these so effortlessly?" she wonders aloud, her voice filled with awe.


    The receptionist''s voice snaps her out of her thoughts. "Miss, do you have any crystals to turn in?"


    Talia blinks, shaking off her surprise. "Yes, I do." She empties her pouch of holdings onto the counter, a respectable mound of purple crystals pouring out. However, compared to Apollo''s haul, hers seems far less impressive.


    "Please wait as well," the receptionist says, gesturing again to the chairs. Talia nods and sits beside Apollo, feeling the awkward tension between them.


    For a few moments, they sit in silence, the din of the guild hall around them. Talia fidgets, tapping her foot, the silence making her increasingly uncomfortable. Finally, she clears her throat, trying to break the tension. "So... you really don''t talk much, do you?"


    Apollo turns his head slightly toward her, his expressionless visor hiding any emotion. "I speak when necessary."


    Talia sighs, her frustration evident. "Do you ever get tired of being so... quiet all the time?"


    "No," Apollo replies bluntly, his tone as flat as ever.


    Talia huffs, crossing her arms in frustration. "How do Ryu and Nikko deal with you?"


    Apollo turns fully toward her, his imposing presence hard to ignore. "They understand my purpose," he says simply, offering no further explanation.


    Talia frowns, unsatisfied. "Do you ever... I don''t know... joke around?"


    "No," comes the same emotionless response.


    "Of course not," she mutters under her breath, feeling like she''s talking to a brick wall. She changes the subject, hoping to get more out of him. "Is there anything you do want to talk about?"


    "No."


    Talia sighs again, louder this time. "You''re really something, you know that?"


    Apollo''s response is silence, his attention seemingly elsewhere. The frustration builds within her, but she lets it go, realizing that trying to get a conversation out of Apollo is futile.


    ?????


    Time drags on as they wait, the hustle and bustle of the adventurers'' guild playing out around them. Groups of adventurers pass by, some celebrating a successful quest, others planning their next one. The constant chatter, the clinking of armor and weapons, and the low hum of magical energies fill the air. Talia watches it all, her mind drifting to Ryu once again. Will he say yes? The thought sends a nervous flutter through her chest.


    Finally, the receptionist approaches with a pouch of coins, handing it to Talia. "Here''s your payment. Please hand me your guild badge for processing."


    Talia pulls the badge from under her clothes, handing it over. The receptionist disappears behind the counter to finish processing, leaving Talia in awkward silence once again.


    Just then, she notices movement by the entrance. Her heart skips a beat as she sees the cloaked figure of Ryu stepping into the guild hall, with Nikko by his side. The little girl radiates joy, her eyes wide with excitement as she spots Apollo and Talia. She rushes over, her cat ears perked up and her tail swishing energetically.


    "Look, Apollo! I got my knife!" Nikko exclaims, proudly displaying the sheathed weapon at her waist.


    Apollo nods at her, his silent acknowledgment making Nikko beam with pride. She turns to Talia, her eyes gleaming. "What are you doing here?"


    Before Talia can answer, she sees Ryu approaching the reception desk. The sight of him makes her heart race again. Before she can gather her thoughts, Apollo suddenly speaks up, "Talia wants to tag along."


    Talia''s eyes widen in shock. "Apollo! Why would you—"


    But Nikko''s face lights up, and she runs to Ryu, tugging at his cloak, eagerly pointing in Talia''s direction. Though Talia can''t hear what Nikko is saying, she can tell from the little girl''s animated gestures that it''s about her. Ryu looks over at Talia, and despite the shadow of his hood concealing his expression, she can feel the weight of his gaze on her.


    As Ryu and Nikko approach, Talia''s nerves spiral. Her heart feels like it''s pounding out of her chest. What if he says no?


    Ryu speaks first, his voice calm and measured. "So, you want to come with us?"


    Talia swallows hard, her mind racing. She feels a surge of frustration toward Apollo for exposing her intentions so bluntly, but she tries to compose herself. "Yes," she says, her voice more confident than she feels. "If that''s alright with you."


    Ryu studies her for a moment, his face still hidden beneath his hood. Then, after what feels like an eternity, he nods. "It won''t be a problem if you want to tag along."


    Relief floods through Talia, and she can''t help but let out a breath she didn''t realize she was holding. "Thank you," she says sincerely, her gratitude palpable.


    Just then, the receptionist reappears, bowing slightly as she addresses Ryu. "I apologize for my rude behavior the last time you were here."


    Ryu waves her off with a casual gesture. "It''s fine, Meridith."


    But the receptionist shakes her head, her expression remorseful. "No, it was terrible of me to judge you like that."


    Nikko pipes up, her voice sharp. "You were really mean to Papa!"


    Ryu chuckles softly at Nikko''s defense, ruffling her hair affectionately. "It''s okay, Nikko."


    Meridith looks genuinely remorseful. "Yes, I was. I hope you can forgive me."


    Ryu assures her, "It was simply a misunderstanding. I forgive you."


    The receptionist smiles warmly before returning to her desk. Baffled, Talia asks, "What was that about?"


    Ryu simply replies, "Just a misunderstanding."


    A bit of jealousy wells up in Talia as she looks over at the receptionist. What did she do that required such an apology? And why does she look at Ryu that way?


    Nikko then approaches Talia, showing off her new knife. Talia smiles at her. "That''s a very nice knife, Nikko."


    Nikko pulls out her knife to show it off more, but Ryu tells her, "Put it away. When can you draw your knife, Nikko?"


    Nikko''s ears droop and her tail stills as she answers, "Only when I''m in danger." She puts the knife away obediently.


    Meridith returns, holding a tray with their guild badges and a very large pouch of coins. Talia is taken aback by the amount. The receptionist smiles at Ryu and Apollo now standing silently behind Nikko. "Congratulations on reaching gold rank! It''s a well-deserved achievement."


    "Thank you," Ryu replies, his tone even.


    Upon seeing she is still a silver rank, Talia frowns.


    The receptionist then looks at Talia. "And you, Talia, don''t be discouraged. Keep up the hard work."


    Talia forces a smile. "Thanks," she says, but inside, she feels a pang of disappointment. She''s been working so hard, yet it feels like she''s not making as much progress as she should. And then there''s Ryu, with his mysterious abilities and incredible strength, already surpassing her.


    "Congratulations," she adds to Ryu and Apollo, trying to hide her feelings.


    "Thank you," Ryu replies, his tone even. Apollo simply nods.


    Nikko beams at Talia. "I''m glad you''re coming with us!"


    As they prepare to leave, Talia can''t help but glance back at Meridith, who watches them with a warm smile. A part of her still feels a bit jealous, wondering what her connection to Ryu is. But for now, she pushes those thoughts aside and focuses on the adventure ahead.