After several days, the moment Arch had been waiting for arrived, his twin swords were finally ready.
Kellan Lutt, the smith next door, personally handed the sleek, unembellished weapons to Arch. “Take a look at these,” he said, he said with pride.
As Arch inspected the swords, Kellan explained, “I used silversteel… Forged from Ironpeaks Province of the Starhaven continent. This steel is known for its durability and capacity to maintain sharpness, very sturdy yet very pricy. My smithing style made it look like an ordinary steel, trade secret of course. Even the forgies of Starhaven don't know how to do that.”
The blades had a simple, functional design, perfect for covert missions. No ornate engravings or lavish adornments. They were crafted for practicality and ease of use in stealthy situations. Kellen added, “The hilts can be opened to insert mana crystals, allowing you to imbue the blades with various properties. For instance, red crystals add extra weight to your attacks, white crystals for speed, and blue crystals provide an advantage against mages by disrupting their mana circulation. But you have to make contact, of course.”
Arch's eyes narrowed with interest as he absorbed the details. He now understands why this shop was commissioned by the Explorer Unit. “Additionally,” Kellen continued, “the vibrations from striking are dampened, which means you’ll feel less impact during combat. Thanks to the Muffleshard properties, which can only by found at the Whispering Woods. Very rare ore. This is particularly advantageous against heavy weapons like broadswords, reapers, and axes, giving you a better chance to counter or evade their attacks.”
Gripping the swords firmly, Arch felt the weight and balance. Excited to put it into use.
Arch bid farewell to the Lutt family, He is in way to the Arcanum Empire Military Head Office. The complex loomed before him, a fortress of stone and steel that resonated with the echoes of duty and honor. Sunlight glinted off its polished surfaces, but the shadows that clung to its corners whispered of secrets long buried.
As he approached the grand entrance, he took a moment to collect himself, reminding himself of his cover—delivering an urgent letter to the military diplomat's office. The atmosphere shifted dramatically. The air was thick with the scent of parchment and ink, mingling with the musk of polished wood and fresh flowers. Arch presented his credentials to the guards at the complex gate, who regarded him with a mixture of respect and scrutiny. After confirming his clearance, they waved him through with a nod, but not without sharing wary glances that suggested an undercurrent of tension.
Arch navigated the bustling cobbled path, passing patrolling soldiers and seeing clerks though the building windows immersed in their duties. Just as he neared the military diplomat's office, an unassuming soldier stepped from the shadows, his demeanor casual yet alert.
“How are you feeling today?” the soldier asked, his tone deceptively light, though there was an intensity behind his eyes.
“Light as a feather,” Arch replied, instinctively producing his pendant. The soldier revealed a similar pendant, confirming their allegiance to the Explorer Unit.
With a knowing nod, the soldier motioned for Arch to follow him. They proceeded down a corridor adorned with faded banners of past military triumphs, their vibrant colors waned with age. As they approached a pair of heavily reinforced doors, Arch felt a thrill of anticipation mixed with apprehension.
The guards at the door scrutinized them, and after a brief exchange of silent communication, they stepped aside, allowing Arch and the soldier to pass. Arch’s heart raced as they entered a narrow hallway leading to the comfort rooms. He was confused. The walls felt closer here, as if they were closing in, heightening the tension.
In the comfort room, the soldier approached a discreet latch concealed within the wooden paneling. He pressed it, and with a soft click, a hidden door within the first stall swung open, revealing a dimly lit passage. Arch could feel the air shift, cool and damp, as they stepped through the threshold and descended into an underground alley. The flickering light from crystal lamps illuminated the way, casting soft shadows against the stone walls.
As they moved deeper into the passage, Arch noticed a small wooden wagon positioned at the entrance. Its surface was reinforced with thick metal. The soldier gestured for Arch to hop in, and without hesitation, he climbed aboard.
With a quick motion, the soldier pushed a lever, and the wagon sprang to life. Arch felt a rush of exhilaration as the wagon sped forward along a path laden with a series of long strips of metal. Remarkably, it was not as noisy as he had expected; the tunnel was lined with Muffleshard ore which muted the vibrations of their passage. The metal strips on the wagon’s wheels were also infused with this ore, further lessening noise and eliminating echoes, allowing them to travel through the tunnel in almost silence.
As they sped through the dimly lit passage, a series of crystal lanterns lining the walls illuminated in sequence, casting a soft, ethereal yellowish glow.
Finally, the wagon slowed. Emerging from the alley, Arch was greeted by the breathtaking sight of an obscured clearing on the outskirts of the city. Towering trees surrounded them, their thick trunks creating a natural barrier against prying eyes. Sunlight filtered through the dense canopy above, casting a mosaic of light and shadow on the forest floor. At the center of this hidden sanctuary stood a humble house crafted from sturdy hardwood, its design unassuming yet welcoming.
This is the true headquarters of the Nullbound Explorer Unit, a place where operatives could gather, strategize, and plan their next moves away from the watchful eyes of the commonfolk. The air buzzed with a sense of camaraderie, the whispers of operatives exchanging information blending seamlessly with the rustling leaves.
“Where are we?” Arch asked.
The soldier who had escorted him remained silent, his expression unreadable as he shifted his gaze around the clearing, seemingly assessing their surroundings.
Three figures are seated on the porch of the humble house: a burly man in his mid-forties, with broad shoulders and a slight tummy that spoke of a love for good food. His rugged face, framed by a well-groomed beard, bore deep-set eyes;
A mage, an elderly man with grayish hair cascading to his shoulders. He wore simple cotton and linen garments, leaning on an intricately carved staff. Next to where he sits, a young man with medium-length hair tied in a messy bun. Dressed similarly in cotton and linen, a gray satchel slung over his shoulder.
The burly man, with a slight nod, acknowledged the soldier, signaling him. The unspoken exchange hinted at something significant about Arch’s arrival.
Suddenly, the young soldier unclasped two metal short sticks from his backside and then forcefully waved them downward. The sticks extended from either of his arms and, without any announcement or hesitation, he attacked Arch. The swift movement caught Arch off guard, adrenaline spiking as he instinctively drew his twin swords. The metallic sheen of his swords glinted in the sunlight.
Arch quickly assessed the soldier’s stance, noting the aggression behind the attack. He shifted his weight, ready to counter the assault, his senses heightened as he focused on the soldier’s movements. Intently observing eye movements, looking for any slight shift can he can use to predict the direction of the next attack.
The tension in the clearing escalated, the three figures on the porch observing closely, their expressions revealing curiosity as they witness the unexpected confrontation. At least in Arch’s point of view, that is.
The second attack came swiftly from left to right to left, metal sticks aiming for Arch's midsection with precision. Arch sidestepped, feeling the rush of air as the sticks whizzed past him, encountered with a swift slash of his right sword aiming for the soldier's right arm. The soldier deftly blocked the attack, the sticks clanging against Arch's blade with a sharp sound that echoed through the clearing.
They circled each other, the tension palpable as they exchanged blows, each controlling his own breathing. Arch's sword slicing through the air while the soldier skillfully maneuvered the sticks to met above and twirl it on the side, keeping the combat fluid and dynamic.
Arch focused on his breathing, recalling Kellen's advice about the balance and weight of his newly forged swords. He aimed for speed and precision, he cached white crystals on the hilt of his swords. Darting in and out of range, he tested the soldier's reflexes. The soldier retaliated with a series of rapid strikes, each one calculated and aggressive, forcing Arch to keep backing up and maintaining ha crouched stance.
With every clash, Arch felt his muscles warming up. Adrenaline coursing through his veins. He executed the feint to the left then quickly pivoted right, delivering a strike aimed at the soldier's leg. The soldier anticipated the move, leaping back just in time and countering with a downward strike aimed at Arch's shoulder. Arch raised his swords to block the impact sending a jolt through his arms.
He realized that this was not just a test of strength but also of strategy and adaptability. Sensing an opening, Arch decided to shift tactics. He began using the environment to his advantage, appearing behind trees and using them for cover, while launching quick, precise strikes as the soldier followed.
As the combat continued, both men began to sweat, breathing heavier, the intensity of the duel can be felt by everyone who’s watching.
The young soldier produced a cylinder-shaped flask with a swift motion, tossed it high into the air between them. He struck it with his metal stick in his right hand just at it reached its peak. The flask shattered in an explosion, releasing a cloud of gas that hung in the air like a shimmering veil.
Arch instincts kicked in and he immediately recognized the scent of the flammable liquid, but he thought to himself, “it smells like Emberflow, yet it suspends in the air, and I'm not wet…” Just as the young soldier let back, he struck his metal sticks together, generating a spark. In an instant, the gas ignited, engulfing Arch in a quick blaze that flared brightly, the flames crackling and dancing around him.
As the young soldier retreated, Arch leapt through the quick-fire, licking at his clothes but it didn’t slow him down. In one fluid motion, he drew both swords and hurled the blade from his right hand towards the soldier’s left foot, aiming to pin him in place. The young soldier sidestepped to his right, narrowly avoiding the thrust, but that was precisely what Arch had anticipated.
With a quick pivot, Arch unleashed the sword from his left hand, sending it flying towards the soldier’s left adjacent to his midsection. Effectively limiting his escape routes, the young soldier had nowhere to go, trapped between the two blades. Seizing the moment, Arch closed the distance, colliding with the soldier. He struck his elbow, successfully making contact with the soldier’s jaw. The force of the blow resonated through Arch’s arm, and he felt the satisfying impact as the soldier staggered back, momentarily disordered.
They both tumbled to the ground in the clearing, landing with a thud that kicked up a cloud of dirt around them.
Arch, refusing to loosen his grip, held tight to the collar of the young soldier, pinning him down. They found themselves in a precarious position. Arch had locked his right arm against the soldier’s left, effectively immobilizing it, while his left leg braced against the soldier’s right arm, defending against any incoming strikes.
The fighters’ aura can be seen as they struggled for dominance. The young soldier’s eyes narrowed with determination, but Arch maintained his grip, using his weight to keep the soldier pinned down. In this locked position, every move was critical. Arch needed to leverage his advantage while anticipating the soldier’s next move.
Arc pummeled his left elbow down and continued with a knee strike at the soldier’s exposed left section if the soldier was able to block his elbows.
“This can’t continue…”, The soldier was talking with his mind, “It’s now or I’ll lose strength with each blow!” With a sudden surge of strength, the young soldier heaved backward, leveraging his momentum to roll away from Arch. The unexpected motion forced Arch to loosen his grip, and in that split second, the soldier slipped free from his clutches.
As they both scrambled to their feet, the soldier regained his footing first, a determined look in his eyes. Arch quickly assessed his opponent, preparing for the next exchange, his instincts honed and ready for whatever the young soldier would throw at him next. The atmosphere was charged with tension, both aware that the fight just restarted.
Both gasps air with dry throats, they charged at each other, their movements quickening in anticipation of the clash, the burly man observed with a keen eye. With a subtle gesture, he signaled to the old mage who stood nearby.
In response, the mage raised his hands, shouted an incantation. His purplish mana leaped into the air towards the two, “Levi Aetheris!” A soft glow enveloped the two fighters, and suddenly, an invisible force surrounded them, halting their advance. The magical energy coalesced into a floating barrier, effectively suspending them in mid-motion.
The two felt the weight of the spell hold him them in place, their bodies frozen just inches away from the other. The atmosphere shifted, tension giving way to a profound stillness as both young men realized the fight had been effectively stopped.
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The old mage motioned his hand toward the two combatants, and they floated gracefully toward the porch, descending gently to the ground. As Arch regained his footing, the burly man spoke, “Right, exams finished.” His tone was a mix of authority and amusement.
Arch, still catching his breath, felt a mix of relief, and anticipation. But confused. The explorer unit has made him unsure of things the day he was accepted.
The burly man continued to speak, his voice carrying a weight of informality. “Sorry about that. That’s your formal swearing-in ceremony. Welcome to the Nullbound Explorer Unit, Arch Thedo!” A broad smile spread across his face, revealing a hint of camaraderie beneath his gruff exterior.
Arch blinked in surprise. Arch asked, “Are you serious? That’s my swearing-in?”
The burly man chuckled, his laughter deep and hearty. “Yep, that’s it. We are part of the military, but we don’t follow…” He paused, glancing at the young soldier who had just tested Arch, then continued, “…the other units’ strict traditions. We’re explorers because of that.”
The weight of his words settled over Arch, mingling with the adrenaline from the unexpected confrontation.
The burly man straightened up, a sense of pride in his voice as he introduced himself. “I’m Eldrin Blackwood, the Head Explorer of the Unit, the man in charge of this whole secrecy. This here is Gaius Emberfall,” he said, gesturing toward the old mage, who nodded slightly, a twinkle of wisdom in his eyes. “He’s our Hexplorer, a master of spells, in charge of the unit’s magic research and development. He’d be one of the Grand Maguses at the College of Mages, if they aren’t a stickler for rules at the tower.”
Next, he pointed to the young man with the messy bun. “And this is Scout Jarek Stonefist, Gaius’s apprentice. He’s learning the ropes of magic.”
Finally, Blackwood turned to the young soldier. “And you’ve already met Thornwen Ashford, our quick-footed apprentice. He’s got a knack for finding trouble and avoiding it at the same time. He just sweared – in last moon.”
Thornwen smirked at Arch, his tone light despite the earlier confrontation. “Sorry about the fire. Just testing if they made your garments correctly and if they’re in good condition. But I think your hair would disagree.” He gestured playfully at Arch, whose singed hair stood out— the topmost layers curled from the flames.
Arch couldn’t help but chuckle. “Well, I’m sorry about your jaw.”
Thornwen waved it off with a grin. “Oh, this is nothing. Jarek can heal this in no time.” He glanced over at Jarek, who nodded with an encouraging smile. The light-hearted banter eased the tension.
“Now”, Edrik interrupted, “so we don’t misconstrue everything that happened and there’s no I’ll feeling towards each other, a peck on each other’s cheek would do!”
“A what?”, Arch was surprised and confused again, he expected the unit to be more serious and uncomical.
Thornwen immediately stepped in, “Stop with your jokes HE, I almost gave every ounce of my pride last moon.”
“What a killjoy, you really are,” Eldrin briskly responded, “we need humor to blend in.”
“I blend in the military allright,” Thornwen shot back.
“Hmm… Stickler.. Now I don’t know why I recruited you.” Eldrik fakes thinking, scratching his chin.
“That’s Velorian Academy top graduate and Eldridge’s youngest would-be recipient of the realm guardian title for you, sir. If I accepted.” Thornwen answered, almost bragging.
“Alright, alright…,” Eldrin waves his hand.
“Wow, nice sparring with you, Sol,” Arch bowed slightly to which Thornwen smiled with a smirk.
Arch furrowed his brow, curiosity piqued. “By the way, what’s all that about? It smells like Emberflow, yet it’s not.”
Eldrin chuckled, his eyes twinkling with humor. “Ah, that would be Embermist. A volatile concoction we actually used in the field. It behaves like Emberflow in its essence but is laced with magical properties that allow it to suspend in the air.
Gaius, the old mage, added with a hint of pride, “It’s a blend of elemental magic and distilled alchemical essence, perfect for our needs as explorers. Just remember to stay clear of it in the future!”
Thornwen smirked, “And try not to get too close, unless you want a new hairstyle like yours.”
Eldrin continued the conversation, instructing the two to retrieve their weapons from the clearing and join them for a snack. He called out to Apprentice Tamsin Brookfold to bring out extra mugs filled with Emberbrew, along with some Crunchroot Chips, a popular savory treat made from the region’s hearty root vegetables. The enticing aroma of the brew mingled with the scent of the chips, creating an inviting atmosphere as they prepared to relax after the test.
Eldrin started, “The primary goal of the Nullbound Explorer Unit is to identify and mitigate threats, both within the borders of the Arcanum continent… And beyond. We serve as the Empire’s eyes and ears, delving into uncharted territories and assessing any potential dangers that could jeopardize our way of life. Established during the reign of King Arion IV, the 23th monarch of the Arcanum Empire. Recognizing the growing threats from both external forces and internal strife, King Arion sought to create a specialized force that could operate with greater flexibility than traditional military.”
He explained, “Unlike standard military structures that adhere strictly to a chain of command, the Explorer Unit answers directly to the King himself. This unique relationship grants us the autonomy to act swiftly and decisively, without being hindered by bureaucratic crimson ribbons. Our members are chosen for their skills and adaptability, enabling us to tackle situations that require immediate and innovative responses.”
Eldrin's eyes gleamed with pride. “In this way, we serve not only as protectors of the Empire but also as its frontline researchers and scouts.”
Gaius continued, “As threats to the Empire evolved, so too did the Explorer Unit. Our specialties now encompass a wide range of skills, including combat, surveillance, reconnaissance, and intelligence gathering. We also engage in magical research and development, advancing our understanding of magic, and creating new magical tools and weapons that can aid our missions.”
He paused for a moment, then added, “We don’t just limit our ranks to those with military backgrounds. We welcome civilian explorers…, common folk who possess unique skills or knowledge. Individuals are essential to our extensive intelligence network that spans the entire continent, and beyond... You’ve already met some of these civilian explorers during your first few nights in the city, particularly at LUTT’s Garment and Weaponry, where you experienced firsthand how vital these connections are.”
Eldrin's tone shifted slightly, filled with enthusiasm. “This adaptability is what sets us apart. We are not just soldiers; we are explorers and scholars, working together to protect and advance the interests of the Arcanum Empire.”
He elaborated, “Our mission encompasses various aspects…, we investigate strange occurrences, gather intelligence on hostile entities, and seek out resources that could bolster our defenses. In addition to combating external threats, we also monitor internal unrest, ensuring that we are prepared for any challenges that may arise from within our own lands.”
Eldrin’s tone grew more earnest. “In a world filled with uncertainty, knowledge is our most potent weapon. By understanding the forces at play around us, we can better protect our Empire and its citizens. Every expedition we undertake, every piece of information we gather, is vital for the survival of the Arcanum Empire. As a member of this unit, your role will be crucial in fulfilling this vision.”
Eldrin smiled and added, “Our motto says it all… Identify the unknown, map the uncharted. We’re here to chart unknown territories, uncover hidden threats, and discover knowledge that strengthens the Empire. The Explorer Unit isn’t about following the well-trodden path; we forge new ones.”
Jarek nodded, adjusting his stance as he clarified the ranks. "Alright, let's break it down. At the top, we have Head Explorer Eldrin Blackwood. Then, there’s the Deputy Explorer, currently out in the provinces, gathering intel for the Empire. Just below that is the rank of Explorer. There’s one resting inside right now, a bit roughed up from his last mission—you’ll meet him soon enough."
He continued, "Next is the Ranger. We have Lit Windwalker stationed here at headquarters. Though he's not in active service due to injuries, his expertise still plays a crucial role around here."
Then, pointing to himself, Jarek said, "Then comes the Scout, which is my role and Tamsin’s, followed by Apprentice, the entry rank…, which Thornwen here holds. And below that, the Recruit. That’s where you would’ve started, but since you’ve been sworn in, I believe you’re officially an Apprentice now, Arch. Welcome to the ranks.”
“And oh,” Jarek added, “don’t forget the Hexplorer. He’s a bit outside the usual rank and file. The Hexplorer answers directly to the Head Explorer, and all of the Civilian Explorers report to him as well. We just kinda work alongside them.”
He glanced over at Gaius Emberfall, who gave a small nod, acknowledging his unique role within the unit. “They’re critical to our operations,” Jarek continued. “They handle things we can’t always see…, and deal with threats that go beyond the physical.”
Jarek leaned in, lowering his voice slightly as he continued, “Historically, the Explorer Unit’s numbers have always been kept intentionally low and secretive. Only the Head Explorer and the Deputy Explorer know the exact count of all our operatives. It’s a countermeasure to prevent intelligence leaks…, even if someone tries to target the unit, they won’t know how many of us there really are or where we all are.”
Jarek nodded, recalling the old story with a hint of gravity. "The incident in Veloria was about thirty years ago. Back then, our head office was firmly stationed there. But when a traitorous noble lord sold us out, critical intel about our operatives leaked, jeopardizing countless missions and lives. That situation forced the unit to uproot, relocate, and erase nearly all traces of its presence there.”
It’s like we’re ghosts…, always somewhere, but never easy to find. Now, with threats on the rise, we’re ramping up again, filling the ranks carefully but swiftly.”
With a smirk, he added, “A bit different from your typical military, isn’t it?”
Eldrin took a long sip from his mug before looking at Arch with a grin. “And that’s where we come in with you, Commander Arch Thedo. You’ve already carved a name for yourself, one of the Empire’s legendary heroes. Not many enter the Explorer Unit with the rank of Commander already under their belt.”
He leaned back, amusement flickering in his eyes. “After you finish your first mission…, and if you pull it off…, you’ll be bumped up to Scout. See, our ranks don’t exactly match the Legion’s. For us, a Recruit in the Explorer Unit is like a Lieutenant in the Legion, an Apprentice aligns with Captain, and a Scout, well, that’d be like a Commander.”
Eldrin gave him a hearty pat on the shoulder. “It’s a bit of a setback in title, but not in respect. Here, it’s the skill and success that count, not the insignia.”
Arch nodded, a determined glint in his eye. “I understand,” he said firmly. “I came here to test my capabilities and prove my worth.”
Jarek shot a smug look at Thornwen, mouthing, “I told you so.” Thornwen, unfazed, replied with a playfully mocking face, sticking his tongue out in exaggerated defiance. Their silent exchange brought a touch of levity to the moment, contrasting with Arch’s serious resolve.
“As for you”, Hexplorer Gaius continued, his tone shifting to one of authority, “as I and Eldrin discussed earlier, you will be assigned the role of a Tracker based on your military records and how you handled yourself during your scuffle with Thornwen earlier. Your instincts and quick thinking stood out.”
Eldrin leaned forward, his gaze steady. “But of course, in time, let’s see if we can expect additional roles for you. As of now, that’s it.”
He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle in the air. “Embrace this opportunity, Arch. Your skills will grow and evolve within the unit, and you may find yourself taking on even greater responsibilities in the future.”
Eldrin nodded, his expression serious. “However, I must inform you that you won’t be given a mission right away. You’ll need a crash course in how Explorers operate. This training will be essential for your success.”
He continued, “During this period, you’ll learn how to interact with our vast network of civilian Explorers, the code words we use to communicate discreetly, and the specialized tools and equipment exclusive to our unit. Understanding these elements is crucial for your role.
Eldrin leaned back slightly. “Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll be ready to engage in missions that could determine the fate of the Empire. Until then, focus on mastering what it means to be an Explorer.”
Eldrin continued, “Oh, and there’s one more thing you need to know. For every mission, you’ll be given a different identity to use in the field. We have a mana operated machine that randomizes these identifications to ensure anonymity.”
He paused for emphasis before adding, “We don’t allow our Explorers to create their own aliases because humans often latch emotions or biases to their identities. By using randomized identities, we minimize personal attachment and maintain operational security.
As the evening settled in, Arch found a quiet corner to chat with Ranger Lyt Windwalker. The fire crackled softly nearby, casting a warm glow around them as they spoke. Lyt Windwalker stands about five wand lengths and 6 hilts with a lean, athletic build, his tanned skin marked by faint scars from past encounters. He has tousled, chestnut-brown hair that falls just above his shoulders, often tied back with a leather cord. His sharp green eyes are keen and observant, reflecting his wisdom and connection to nature.
Dressed in a rugged, earth-toned tunic and durable trousers, he wears a dark green cloak that flows to his calves, adorned with subtle leaf patterns. His sturdy leather boots are slightly scuffed, and a utility belt around his waist holds essential tools
“So, what happened?” Arch asked, observing Lyt’s slight limp as he shifted in his seat. “I see you’ve got a bit of a gait in your step.”
Lyt sighed, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. “Yeah, it was a few years back. I was on a reconnaissance mission near the borders of Grimgor when I ran into an ambush. A band of rogue mages had set a trap, and I took a nasty hit during the escape. The injury still bothers me now and then, especially when the weather changes.”
Arch nodded, understanding the weight of those words. “I can imagine. The field is where we belong, isn’t it? But I’ve heard you do great work here at the head office.”
Lyt smiled, “I still contribute, helping train the recruits and managing our animal companions. You’d be surprised how much a well-trained beast can help during missions.”
Just then, Thadeus Gray sauntered over, a mug of Emberbrew in hand. He stands around six wand lengths tall with a solid, muscular build, reflecting years of training and fieldwork. His short, dark hair is flecked with gray, and his jet black eyes exude intelligence and curiosity. He has a well-defined jawline adorned with a light stubble, giving him a rugged, experienced look.
Dressed in practical attire suitable for exploration, he wears a fitted dark leather vest over a light shirt, complemented by sturdy trousers and well-worn boots. A variety of tools and gadgets hang from his belt, showcasing his role as an explorer. Thadeus carries an air of confidence and approachability, often found smiling or engaging in friendly banter with his comrades.
With a casual scratch at his backside, he settled into a chair next to Arch and Lyt. “What’s this? A serious discussion about the horrors of desk duty?” he teased, taking a hearty sip of his drink.
“More like sharing battle scars,” Arch replied with a smirk, gesturing toward Lyt’s leg. “I was just hearing about how he got caught in an ambush.”
“Ah, the classic tale of rogue mages,” Thadeus said, feigning a dramatic tone. “You should have seen the look on their faces when this Ranger turned the tide all by himself!”
Lyt chuckled, shaking his head. “Not quite. It was more about getting out in one piece. But the real work is here now, keeping things running smoothly for missions.”
“Speaking of missions,” Arch said, taking a sip of his own Emberrew, “I’m excited for the crash courses.
Thadeus leaned forward, his expression turning serious. “With your background, you’ll do just fine. Just remember, it’s not always about glory. Sometimes, it’s about knowing when to act and when to blend into the shadows.”
“Wise words from a seasoned Explorer,” Lyt acknowledged.
“Plus,” Leith added with a grin, “you’ll have plenty of time to show off your skills. Just make sure to save some energy for the practical exercises. They’ll put your abilities to the test.”
With laughter and banter filling the air, the camaraderie between the three men deepened, solidifying Arch’s growing sense of belonging within the Explorer Unit. As they continued to sip their mugs of Emberbrew, the challenges ahead seemed less daunting, and the promise of new adventures lay tantalizingly close.