Talia walks alongside Ryu, Apollo, and Nikko as they make their way toward the city gates. The streets of Curville are bustling with activity: merchants hawking their goods, children playing, and adventurers preparing for their journeys. The smell of fresh bread mingles with the scent of horses as they pass by various shops and stalls. As they near the gate, Talia notices several horse-drawn carriages lined up, their drivers calling out to potential customers.


    "We can rent one of those carriages," Talia suggests. "Arroyo is a two-week walk from here anyway."


    Ryu shakes his head. "That won''t be necessary," he replies, continuing past the carriages without another word.


    Talia is confused but doesn''t press the issue. She had assumed that with the money Ryu earned, renting a carriage wouldn''t be a problem. Unless he actually prefers walking. She decides to stay silent for now, simply glad to be accompanying them.


    As they clear the city and walk along a cobblestone path, the sounds of the bustling town fade away, replaced by the tranquil noises of nature. Apollo remains silent while Nikko hums a cheerful tune. Talia, her mind racing, struggles to think of something to say to Ryu. She glances at him, noting how he converses with Nikko, and decides to hold back. For now, she''s content just being part of the group.


    Hours pass, and they find themselves on a dirt road winding through a dense forest. Suddenly, Ryu stops, prompting the others to halt as well. Talia looks at him curiously. "What''s wrong?" she asks.


    Ryu fiddles with his left glove, and an ethereal map of their current location materializes in the air. Talia can make out the details of the forest and see the dots representing them on the map. Ryu then turns off the path and begins walking into the forest, with Apollo and Nikko following closely behind. Talia hesitates but then follows suit, her confusion mounting.


    After a short walk, Ryu stops again and turns to face Talia. Her heart begins to race, sensing something significant about to happen. "You can still turn back if you want," Ryu says, his tone sincere and laced with a hint of fear.


    Talia is puzzled. "What do you mean?" she asks.


    Ryu continues, "What you are about to witness is not of this world and can accomplish things that would be considered impossible for you. All I ask is that you don''t tell anyone about what you see."


    Talia nods, feeling a mix of fear and curiosity. "I don''t want to turn back. I swear I won''t tell anyone."


    Ryu studies her for a moment before nodding. He then speaks into his glove, asking for a DP-7 to come out and bring the bike. Talia watches, bewildered, as his glove begins to beep. Moments later, she hears a strange sound, like a soft whirring and humming.


    From the depths of the forest, a strange contraption appears. It hovers above the ground, sleek and metallic, with a long, narrow body and handlebars at the front. Attached to it is a sidecar and a wagon, both also floating effortlessly. Talia''s eyes widen in shock at the sight of this alien machinery.


    "What is that?" she whispers to herself, her mind reeling.


    Nikko is equally amazed, her cat ears twitching with excitement. "Papa, what is it?" she asks, her tail flicking back and forth.


    Before Ryu can respond, a small floating device emerges from the bike. It has a round, metallic body with various blinking lights and appendages that move with precision. It hovers close to Ryu and Apollo, emitting a series of beeps and chirps. The device then turns to Nikko, beeping happily.


    Apollo translates, "DP-7 says it is happy to meet you."


    Nikko giggles, "Hi DP-7! I''m happy to meet you too. My name is Nikko."


    The device then floats towards Talia, who is paralyzed with fear. She wants to cry out but finds herself unable to move. As it gets closer, she finally screams, "What is that thing?"


    The device stops and emits a series of beeps. Apollo translates again, "This is DP-7, a dwarf probe droid."


    Talia looks at Apollo, her mind racing. "You can understand it?" she asks, incredulously.


    "Of course. I am fluent in over six thousand languages and forms of communication," Apollo replies calmly.


    Talia is taken aback, her thoughts a whirlwind of confusion and disbelief. Ryu approaches her, trying to calm her down.


    "I''m sorry for unloading all of this on you," he says gently. "You can still turn back if you want. If at any point this is too much for you and you want to leave, I won''t hold it against you or stop you."


    Talia notes the sincerity in his voice and senses a hint of fear. She realizes he has placed a lot of trust in her by showing her all this. Her initial fear and panic begins to subside, though she remains hesitant and overwhelmed. She takes a deep breath, calming herself. "I... I understand. Please, explain yourself."


    Ryu manipulates his glove again, and a holographic image of their world, Aranthia, appears. Talia points it out, fascinated by the sight, while Nikko is captivated, her eyes wide with wonder.


    "As you can probably put together," Ryu says. "I am not from this world. Where I come from, technology is far more advanced. Machines like DP-7 are commonplace and fulfill a multitude of roles. Devices like that bike are also common, though mine is an older model, not the most current."


    Talia listens intently, her mind racing to process the information. The holographic image of Aranthia shifts to various images of different mechanical beings. Each one is unique, with distinct designs and functions. Some resemble humanoid figures, others are more compact, designed for specific tasks.


    Ryu continues, "These machines, which we call droids, serve many purposes. Some are built for communication, like the ones designed to speak in multiple languages. Others are for navigation and repair, while some are built for combat."


    The hologram displays images of different types of droids: tall, slender ones that seem built for communication; smaller, cylindrical ones that roll around; and larger, more imposing ones equipped with weapons. Talia is mesmerized, struggling to comprehend the technology she is seeing for the first time.


    Ryu shifts the hologram again, this time to a detailed image of a galaxy. "I am not just from another world though, but from another galaxy entirely," he explains. The galaxy is vast, filled with countless systems and planets. The map is intricate, showing the immense scale and variety within.


    "It is possible to travel from planet to planet," Ryu continues. "Each has its own unique ecosystem and landscapes. From the lush, exotic flora planets like Felucia to ocean worlds like Kamino, and harsh desert planets like Tatooine."


    While he explains, various images of different planets appear each with a different colored surface. Nikko''s eyes are wide with awe, while Talia is equally captivated. The image of the galaxy is overwhelming in its beauty and complexity. Ryu then explains how space travel works, showing various spacecraft, from large carriers to sleek fighters and massive warships. The hologram depicts these ships in detail, highlighting their design and function.


    "Spacecraft like these make interplanetary travel possible," Ryu says. "They are equipped with technology that allows them to travel faster than light."


    Talia listens, her mind reeling. "Is that how you got here?" she asks.


    Ryu nods, displaying an image of his ship, a sleek and formidable craft. "This is my ship called the Crucible. Unfortunately, the landing was not so pleasant. I crash-landed here, and the ship is beyond repair."


    Talia notices the hint of guilt in his voice. "If you could, would you try fixing it and leave Aranthia?" she asks, unable to hide the sadness in her tone.


    Ryu shakes his head, and the hologram fades away. "Even if the ship were fixable, I don''t want to leave. Where I come from, people like me are wanted and hunted. I''ve been on the run for a long time, living on scraps and taking whatever jobs I could get. Here, I don''t have to hide. I don''t have to conceal what I truly am. I want to stay here."


    Nikko beams with happiness, while Talia feels a sense of relief. She then asks, "Why are you revealing all of this to me? I could turn you in."


    Ryu nods, acknowledging her point. "You could, but I sense that you wouldn''t. You care about us. Showing you the truth is my way of conveying my trust in you."


    Talia blushes, pulling her hood down to hide her face. Nikko giggles, and Talia notices a hint of a smile on Ryu''s face, despite the shadow that obscures it.


    Ryu then points to Apollo. "So you won''t freak out even more, Apollo is a droid too."


    Apollo nods and removes its helmet, revealing a metallic, featureless head. Talia is surprised but not as shocked as before. "That explains his monotone behavior," she says, piecing things together.


    Apollo responds, "I believed this form of behavior would draw little attention."


    Talia then points at the strange bike. "What exactly is that?"


    Ryu explains, "That''s a speeder bike, specifically a BARC model. BARC stands for Biker Advanced Recon Commando. These speeder bikes are designed for reconnaissance and are well-liked for their speed and mobility."


    He then asks, "Do you still want to tag along?"


    Talia nods, her respect and admiration for Ryu growing. It took immense courage for him to be so open with her. Ryu looks relieved and gestures for her to step into the sidecar. Apollo puts its helmet back on and sits in the wagon, while Ryu gently places Nikko on Apollo''s lap, instructing her to hold on tight.


    Talia hesitantly steps into the sidecar, her heart pounding. Ryu climbs onto the driver''s seat, and DP-7 lands on his shoulder. With a twist of the handle, the speeder bike roars to life, and they slowly turn towards their destination. Talia grips the handle tightly, bracing herself.


    ?????


    With a final roar, the bike speeds off. Talia lets out a scream, never having experienced such speed before. The forest blurs around her, and the wind whips past her face. Nikko, on the other hand, is loving it, her laughter and whoops of joy filling the air. Over time, Talia starts to find the sensation enjoyable. The initial fear gives way to excitement, and she begins to smile, reveling in the thrill of the ride.


    Ryu stops the speeder bike at a small clearing, the sun beginning to dip into the horizon. As the sun sets, casting a warm, golden glow over the clearing, Ryu and Apollo begin setting up camp. The constant speed of the speeder bike was a completely new experience for Talia, and she finds herself needing a moment to wind down. Nikko, on the other hand, seems completely unaffected, her energy boundless as she gathers firewood.


    Ryu checks on Talia, concern evident in his voice. "Are you okay?"


    Talia takes a deep breath, still feeling the remnants of the adrenaline rush. "I just need a moment to wind down," she admits, offering a faint smile.


    Tents are being assembled efficiently. The speeder bike rests near a tree, now covered with a tarp. Nikko busies herself setting up a campfire, and with a flick of his fingers, Ryu lights it. Apollo steps into the tree line to stand guard, DP-7 hovering beside it, both vigilant.


    Talia takes a few more deep breaths, finally calming down, and joins in to help prepare dinner. Using a tree stump as a makeshift table, Ryu begins pulling out various ingredients and meats, along with a cook book. Talia raises an eyebrow, commenting, "I didn''t expect you to be the type to carry a cook book."


    Ryu chuckles, flipping through the pages. "I want to learn the various culinary dishes of this world. I''ve found what I''ve eaten so far quite delicious and would like to recreate them."


    Curious, Talia asks, "What were the foods like from where you came from?"


    Ryu pauses, considering his words. "That''s not an easy question to answer. Each world had its own delicacies that you might find repulsive or delicious. But I never really had the chance to try many of these dishes. Most of what I ate were ready-to-eat meals, and trust me, I wouldn''t feed those to my worst enemies."


    Talia laughs, the image of inedible meals amusing her. "Were they really that bad?"


    Ryu smirks. "I still have a couple if you want to be brave enough."


    She shakes her head, still chuckling. "No, thank you. I think your cooking will suffice."


    Nikko skips over, her eyes bright with curiosity and excitement. "What are you cooking, Papa? Can I help?"


    Ryu nods, smiling at her enthusiasm. "I''m recreating Edith''s dish from last night. It''s called curry."Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    Nikko''s face lights up. "Curry! I loved that! What do we need to do?"


    Ryu begins guiding her through the process. "First, we''ll need to chop the vegetables. Can you help with that?"


    Nikko eagerly nods, and Talia joins in. They work together, cutting potatoes and carrots, while Ryu prepares the beef. The scent of spices begins to fill the air as they add the necessary herbs and seasonings.


    As they cook, the conversation flows naturally. "So, what''s in this curry exactly?" Talia asks, curious about the dish.


    "It''s a blend of spices with beef, potatoes, and carrots," Ryu explains, stirring the pot. "It''s mildly spicy and very hearty."


    Nikko watches closely, her cat ears twitching with concentration. "I want to help stir!"


    Ryu hands her a wooden spoon. "Be careful, it''s hot."


    Nikko carefully stirs the pot, her excitement palpable. Talia watches with a smile, feeling a sense of camaraderie growing between them.


    "So, Ryu," Talia starts, her tone light, "have you always been a good cook?"


    Ryu laughs softly. "Not really but I had to learn quickly. When you''re on the run, you don''t have the luxury of eating out or choosing what you can eat."


    Talia nods, understanding. "It must have been tough."


    "It was," Ryu admits, "but you adapt. You find ways to make the best of your situation. At least, that is what I learned."


    Nikko looks up at him, admiration in her eyes. "Papa is the best cook!"


    Ryu smiles warmly at her. "Thank you, Nikko."


    As the curry simmers, they continue to talk, sharing stories and laughter. Talia feels herself relaxing, the initial tension melting away. The night air is filled with the delicious aroma of their meal, and soon, dinner is ready.


    Ryu serves the curry, the rich, fragrant dish steaming in the cool evening air. They sit around the campfire, enjoying their meal together. The warmth of the fire and the company of her new friends make Talia feel at ease.


    "This is really good," Talia comments between bites. "You did a great job, Ryu."


    Nikko nods enthusiastically, her tail swishing happily. "Yes, it''s delicious!"


    Ryu nods, grateful for the compliment. "I''m glad you like it."


    As they eat, Talia feels a sense of belonging. Despite the strangeness of the day, she knows she made the right decision to join them. The fire crackles softly, and for a moment, everything feels perfect.


    The night is peaceful, with the gentle sounds of nature and the crackling campfire providing a soothing backdrop. Nikko is beginning to nod off, her head bobbing as she tries to stay awake. Talia rummages through her pouch, pulling out a small, ornate bottle.


    Ryu, curious, looks up from the fire. "What''s that?" he asks.


    Talia smiles, holding the bottle up. "It''s a special tonic from my village. I save it for special occasions."


    Ryu raises an eyebrow. "And what''s the special occasion?"


    "A bright start," Talia replies with a grin. She takes a sip from the bottle, savoring the taste, then hands it to Ryu.


    He takes a sip, the liquid warming him instantly. "It''s a bit strong, but overall, it''s good," he says, nodding appreciatively. He passes the bottle back to Talia.


    She was about to take another sip but hesitates, suddenly aware that it would be an indirect kiss. Her cheeks flush, and she looks away, flustered.


    "What''s wrong?" Ryu asks, noticing her hesitation.


    Talia quickly shakes her head. "Nothing," she says, closing her eyes and quickly taking a small sip to hide her embarrassment.


    Nikko, noticing the bottle, perks up. "Can I have a sip too?" she asks, her big eyes pleading.


    Talia, still flustered, hands the bottle back to Ryu. "This drink is not for children," she says firmly.


    Nikko pouts, her ears drooping slightly. "Please, just a little sip?"


    Ryu sighs and hands her the bottle. "Only a small sip," he warns.


    Talia interjects, "Ryu, really, she shouldn''t—"


    But Nikko has already taken a tiny sip, and immediately her face scrunches up in disgust. She spits it out, coughing. "Yuck! How can you drink something so nasty?" she exclaims.


    Ryu chuckles, taking the bottle from her. "Good girl," he says, handing the bottle back to Talia.


    Talia laughs, the tension and blush fading from her face. Ryu''s laughter joins hers, and for a moment, the camp is filled with their light-hearted mirth.


    After a while, Talia''s curiosity gets the better of her. "So, about that power you have," she says, turning to Ryu.


    Ryu glances at her, then raises his hand. A small rock near the campfire begins to levitate, hovering in the air. "You mean this power?" he asks.


    Talia nods, fascinated. "Yes, that. What is it?"


    "What do you know about mana?" he asks.


    Talia thinks for a moment. "Mana is a mystical energy that flows through all living things. It''s what mages and spellcasters tap into to perform magic. It''s everywhere, but only a few can truly harness it."


    Ryu nods. "The Force is similar. It''s an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us, penetrates us, and binds the galaxy together. Some people, like me, can sense and manipulate it. But nowadays they are scares, hunted."


    Talia''s eyes widen. "And these people, they are hunted? Why?"


    Ryu''s expression darkens. The rock falls to the ground with a thud, startling Nikko. "It''s... a long story, and one I don''t want to tell in front of Nikko. It brings back bad memories."


    Talia looks apologetic. "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to—"


    Ryu stands up, giving her a reassuring smile. "It''s alright. Let''s call it a night. We have a long journey ahead of us."


    Nikko yawns and stands beside him. "Goodnight, Talia," she says sleepily.


    "Goodnight," Talia replies, watching as they disappear into their tent. She sits by the fire for a while longer, feeling a bit bad and hoping Ryu isn''t upset with her.


    Talia lies in her tent, her eyes wide open. The thought of Ryu being mad at her echoes in her mind. She sighs, shifting restlessly on her bedroll, the events of the evening replaying in her head. Every time she closes her eyes, the worry gnaws at her, refusing to let her rest. Finally, she gives up on sleep and slips out of her tent.


    The fire is still burning brightly, casting warm flickers of light that dance across the clearing. She sees Ryu''s tent, the flap slightly open, and can make out his form lying inside. Nikko is snuggled up close to him, her little body pressed against his side. The sight stirs a mix of emotions in Talia – admiration, longing, and anxiety all mingling together. She tiptoes to the fire and sits down, her anxious thoughts swirling around her.


    Suddenly, a shadow moves, and Apollo seems to materialize from thin air, causing Talia to jump. It apologizes, its voice calm and steady, and sits down beside her, removing its helmet.


    "What''s wrong?" it asks, turning its mechanical gaze towards her.


    Talia tries to muster a smile. "Nothing''s wrong," she says, but the tremor in her voice betrays her.


    Apollo studies her for a moment. "Your breathing, heart rate, and expression indicate otherwise. Something is troubling you."


    Talia sighs, glancing towards Ryu''s tent before admitting, "Alright, yes, I''m feeling a bit anxious."


    "Why are you feeling this way?" Apollo asks, its voice gentle yet insistent.


    She hesitates, biting her lip. "I fear Ryu will leave me behind. I think I pushed him too far with my questions and made him mad."


    Apollo shakes its head. "Ryu is not mad at you."


    Talia looks at it, surprise and skepticism in her eyes. "How can you be so sure?"


    "Ryu carries a heavy burden of guilt," Apollo states, its tone matter-of-fact.


    Talia''s brow furrows in confusion. "He doesn''t seem like that. To me, he seems cheerful and positive."


    Apollo''s expression remains unreadable, but there''s a depth to its words. "You just need to be patient with him."


    She nods, her mind still racing. She stares into the fire, the flames reflecting the turmoil within her. Apollo''s next words catch her off guard.


    "It has been a long time since Ryu has been this content," it says softly.


    Talia turns to it, curious. "Because of Nikko, right?"


    Apollo shakes its head slowly. "Nikko brings him hope, but you bring him joy."


    Talia''s heart skips a beat. "How can you be so sure?" she asks, her voice almost a whisper.


    Apollo gazes into the fire, the light dancing on its features. "You are the only other person he has shown his true self to."


    Talia''s eyes widen, a mix of emotions swirling within her. Before she can respond, Apollo is gone, leaving her alone with her thoughts. The clearing feels quieter without Apollo''s presence. Talia sits by the fire, replaying its words in her mind. She looks over at Ryu''s tent, a newfound resolve forming within her. She understands now that Ryu''s trust in her is a precious gift, one that she must cherish and protect.


    With a sigh, she gets up and returns to her tent. She lies down, her mind still buzzing but her heart a little lighter. As she closes her eyes, the crackling of the fire and the sounds of the forest lull her into a peaceful sleep, her worries momentarily forgotten.


    ?????


    Talia awakens, feeling well-rested and refreshed. Stepping out of her tent, she sees Ryu teaching Nikko hand-to-hand combat. The morning light filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows across the clearing. Ryu moves with fluid grace, his movements precise and controlled. Nikko mimics him, her small frame moving with surprising agility and focus.


    Talia watches them, captivated by the scene. Ryu demonstrates a series of blocks and strikes, explaining each move with patience. "Remember, it''s not just about strength," he says, gently correcting Nikko''s stance. "It''s about balance and control."


    Nikko nods eagerly, her cat ears twitching with concentration. She follows his lead, her movements becoming more confident. Talia can''t help but smile, impressed by how quickly Nikko is learning. When they finish, Nikko notices Talia and runs up to her, her face beaming with excitement.


    "Did you see me, Talia? What did you think?" Nikko asks, her tail swishing back and forth with enthusiasm.


    Talia kneels down to her level, smiling warmly. "You were amazing, Nikko. You''re learning so fast."


    Ryu approaches, greeting Talia with a nod. "Good morning," he says, his tone as calm and steady as ever.


    Before Talia can respond, Apollo and DP-7 emerge from the tree line. DP-7 beeps cheerfully, circling around them in a display of excitement. Talia chuckles at the droid''s enthusiasm, feeling a sense of camaraderie in the group.


    After a quick breakfast, they set off on the speeder bike. Talia, still not entirely used to the speed, holds on tightly as they zoom through the forest. The ride is short, and soon they arrive a few kilometers from Arroyo. Ryu and Apollo quickly conceal the bike with foliage and branches, while DP-7 hovers nearby, ready to guard it.


    As they walk into the bustling streets of Arroyo, Nikko''s eyes widen in amazement. The city is alive with activity – vendors calling out their wares, people hurrying back and forth, and the air filled with the sounds of commerce and conversation.


    The sun rises over Arroyo, casting a warm, golden light on the cobblestone streets as the city slowly wakes. Talia walks beside Ryu, with Nikko holding his hand, her small fingers wrapped tightly around his. Apollo is right behind them, silent as always. The city of Arroyo stretches out before them, towering buildings lining the bustling streets, market squares alive with vendors setting up their stalls. Arroyo, with its vibrant and imposing presence, feels like a world of its own, humming with life and energy.


    "This city is huge!" Nikko exclaims, her ears twitching with excitement. Her tail swishes back and forth as her wide, curious eyes dart from one sight to the next, trying to take in everything at once.


    Talia smiles, watching the child''s boundless enthusiasm. It''s infectious, lightening the air around them, and for a brief moment, the weight of their journey and the uncertainty of what lies ahead fade into the background. Seeing Nikko so full of life makes Talia feel warmth and hope despite the challenges they''ve faced.


    Ryu glances down at Nikko, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "It is," he says softly. "There''s always something happening in Arroyo. It''s a busy place."


    Nikko''s grip tightens slightly on Ryu''s hand as she leans closer, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Are there cities like this where you came from, Papa?" she asks, her voice filled with wonder as she looks up at him.


    Talia can''t help but feel her heart soften at the scene. Nikko, despite everything, is still so full of curiosity and joy, her spirit untouched by the hardships she''s endured. For a child who has been through so much, her resilience amazes Talia.


    Ryu''s voice is gentle, yet there''s a weight to his words. "There are cities much larger than this one," he explains, his gaze distant as he remembers. "Some stretch farther than you can see, with towers that pierce the sky and ships that travel between the stars. But there are smaller places too, more like where you''re from."


    Nikko''s ears flick as she tilts her head thoughtfully. "Smaller?" she asks, trying to imagine something even bigger than Arroyo.


    Talia steps in, her tone warm as she speaks. "Tell us about your village, Nikko. Was it anything like this?"


    Nikko''s ears droop slightly, and her expression changes as memories of home surface. "No," she replies quietly, her voice soft. "My village was small. We didn''t have big buildings like these, just little houses. Not many people either. It was quiet... peaceful."


    Talia feels a pang of sympathy, glancing at Ryu, who listens intently, his gaze focused on Nikko as she speaks. "It sounds beautiful," Talia says gently, trying to comfort her. "You must miss it."


    Nikko nods, her tail slowing as she remembers her home. "I do," she whispers, her voice tinged with sadness.


    Ryu squeezes her hand gently, his voice steady and filled with quiet strength. "You''ll see it again, Nikko. I promise."


    Nikko looks up at him, her eyes filled with hope, though there''s still a hint of sadness in her expression. "I hope so, Papa," she murmurs, resting her head lightly against his arm as they walk.


    Talia smiles at the tender moment between them, sensing the deep bond they share. "And when you do," she adds warmly, "you''ll have so many stories to tell. Imagine telling everyone in your village about all the adventures you''ve had—about how brave you''ve been."


    Nikko''s ears perk up, and her excitement returns like a spark reignited. "Yeah! I''ll tell them all about you, Papa, and Apollo!" she exclaims, her tail swishing with newfound enthusiasm. "They won''t believe how amazing you all are!"


    Talia chuckles, casting a playful glance at Ryu. "Sounds like you''re going to be a hero in her village, Ryu."


    Ryu lets out a rare, quiet laugh, and Talia''s heart lifts at the sound. It''s a simple, warm thing, but it means a lot to her to see him so at ease. "Well," he replies softly, "we''ll have plenty more stories to tell by then."


    As they continue to walk through the lively streets of Arroyo, the city''s noise becomes a soft hum in the background. Talia watches Nikko, who walks with renewed energy, her small hand still wrapped around Ryu''s, as though this city adventure is a grand new chapter in her life.


    They make their way to the Adventurers Guild, stepping inside to find it as busy as ever. Adventurers of all kinds mill about, discussing missions and sharing stories. Nikko''s presence earns a few curious glances, but she seems unfazed, her attention captured by everything around her.


    Ryu heads straight for the mission board, with Talia and Nikko following close behind. Apollo remains by the entrance, earning several unsettling gazes from passing adventurers as they pass him. Talia watches as Ryu scans the board, his gaze settling on a particular mission. She notices that it only pays one copper coin. The mission reads that the local orphanage seeks a mighty adventurer to gather rare herbs.


    Curious, Talia looks at Ryu. "Why this one?" she asks, intrigued by his choice.


    Ryu takes the pamphlet and looks at her. "Because it seems like it could really help someone in need," he says simply, his voice calm and resolute.


    They approach the reception desk, where a woman with curly auburn hair and bright green eyes greets them. She wears a guild uniform, a badge pinned to her chest, and has a warm, welcoming smile.


    "Good to see you again," the receptionist says, her voice warm and friendly. Upon spotting Talia and Nikko, a sly grin spreads across her face. "Well, well, Ryu. You''ve only been gone a couple of weeks and already found yourself a beautiful wife and a cute daughter?"


    Talia''s face turns beet red. "Oh, no, we''re not – I mean, we''re just friends," she stammers, trying to defuse the teasing.


    The receptionist chuckles. "Just teasing. I''m Felicity, by the way." She extends a hand to Talia, who shakes it with a nervous smile.


    Nikko steps forward, introducing herself proudly. "I''m Nikko!"


    Felicity''s smile widens. "Nice to meet you, Nikko. And how are you affiliated with Ryu?"


    Nikko beams. "He''s my Papa, of course!"


    Felicity raises an eyebrow in surprise. "Papa, huh? Well, aren''t you just full of surprises, Ryu?" She turns her attention back to him, her expression softening. "I heard what happened to you in the dungeon at Curville. I''m sorry you had to go through that."


    Ryu nods appreciatively. "Thank you, Felicity." Then he asks, "How did you hear about that? It only happened a couple of days ago."


    Felicity smiles mysteriously. "Information like that spreads quickly across each of the guild halls. How though is a guild secret I am not allowed to share."


    Talia feels a pang of curiosity. She remembers Ryu mentioning how he saved Nikko from a group of bandits, but the details were still a mystery.


    Felicity continues, "I never knew Eldrin and his friends were such vile people. I hope they got what they deserved for doing something so cruel to someone as sweet and innocent as Nikko."


    Ryu''s voice hardens slightly. "They did," he says simply.


    Felicity then glances at the mission pamphlet Ryu places on the counter. "This one? It''s been here for almost a week. Not very appealing, you know. There are better paying missions."


    Ryu shakes his head. "I want this one."


    Felicity nods, "It''s posted by the headmistress, Mrs. Whitaker. You''ll find the orphanage on the east side of town."


    Ryu nods, taking the pamphlet and heading towards the exit. Nikko and Talia follow, with Apollo bringing up the rear. As they step out into the bustling streets once more, Talia can''t help but feel a sense of anticipation. This mission might not pay much, but she has a feeling it will be important.