As Odelia and Avaria strolled through the bustling town center, the vibrant energy of the markets enveloped them. Odelia's attire, a striking off-the-shoulder dress in a rich shade of blue, cascaded gracefully around her figure. The gown boasted draped bishop sleeves that flowed elegantly with her every movement. Her coal-black hair framed her face in loose waves, accentuating the brightness of her piercing blue eyes.

Next to her, Avaria moved with a subtle grace, her outfit offering a charming counterpoint to Odelia's attire. Draped in a pink ensemble that radiated youthful elegance, Avaria's dress showcased a white floral-decorated corset, embellishing the outer layer of her bodice. Despite the traditional elements, her attire also incorporated the latest trends, a testament to her mother's keen eye for fashion. Short puffed sleeves lent a whimsical touch to her appearance, adding a modern flair to her ensemble.

As they weaved through the throngs of people, their presence drew admiring glances from passersby.

As they perused the market stalls, Odelia's gaze lingered on the delicate lace draped across her fingers, her expression laden with a mix of frustration and sadness. Sensing her friend's turmoil, Avaria leaned against the wooden post supporting the stall, offering her a sympathetic ear.

"What's on your mind, Del?" Avaria inquired gently.

Odelia sighed, her fingers tracing the intricate patterns of the lace as she spoke. "I don't know how I'll manage three days with my family," she admitted, her voice tinged with apprehension.

"You won't be alone. You'll have me and Poppy by your side." Avaria reassured her, her tone filled with conviction.

Odelia continued to thread the lace through her fingers, her movements becoming more deliberate as she opened up to Avaria. "It's just... ever since I stunted my abilities," she paused, searching for the right words, "they've never looked at me the same way."

Avaria's brow furrowed in confusion. "But you're developing your mana again, aren't you? Shouldn't they be proud?"

Odelia shook her head, a hint of bitterness creeping into her tone. "I don't even go home anymore. I haven't told them about my progress. I stay at your place or at the priestess's boarding house. I can't face them," she confessed, her voice tinged with hurt. "It's as if I mean nothing to them if they can't brag about me or show me off."

Avaria squeezed Odelia's arm reassuringly, her expression filled with empathy as she listened to her friend's frustrations. "Have you talked to Kairos at all?" she inquired gently.

Odelia shook her head, withdrawing her hand from Avaria's grasp and running her fingers through her hair in agitation. "Don't even get me started on him," she sighed, her voice tinged with a mixture of anger and sorrow. "I hate him, but I love him, and I'm scared. He's on the front lines, and I don't want to speak to him now that he's being honoured. He stole my right to the Solas Stone in the family, the title, everything. He just got it," she ranted, her frustration palpable.

Taking a deep breath to calm herself, Odelia continued, her voice strained. "I'm sick of it. I don't want to talk about it," she concluded, her words punctuated by a gasp for air after her emotional outburst.

Avaria offered a sympathetic smile, knowing all too well the depths of Odelia's stubbornness. "Okay, okay, I get it," she said soothingly, gently guiding Odelia as she led her towards their usual lunch spot. Despite the weight of Odelia's words, Avaria knew that her friend's resilience was as unyielding as that of a dandelion, refusing to bend even in the strongest winds. It had been eight years since the incident, and Odelia still held onto her grudge with unwavering determination.

The duo made their way to the heart of the town, heading towards ‘Wings and Brooms’, a cosy coffee shop nestled in the heart of town, its exterior adorned with whimsical sigil murals that not only protect the shop but also infuse the atmosphere with positive energy. As they stepped inside, they were greeted by the intoxicating aroma of freshly brewed potions and the soft glow of flickering candles.

The interior was beautiful and inviting, with plush furnishings and inviting nooks where patrons could curl up with a cup of lovingly charged coffee or tea. Every human, fairy, witch, and creature alike were welcome here, lounging comfortably as they studied their craft or indulged in readings. Familiars frolicked on the patio, enjoying complimentary treats.

Poppy, Avaria's mother, had a keen business sense and belief in the power of magic. She became an investor in the venture, providing the initial spark that set "Wings and Brooms" on its journey. Alongside Tinks the fairy and Mabel the witch, the sister duo brought their unique talents and perspectives, creating a harmonious partnership and a childhood lunch spot.

Avaria and Odelia entered, always in awe of the ever-evolving interior of the shop. As they waited at the door to be seated, they heard a bright voice exclaim, "Ah, my favourite two girls!" It was Mabel, her white braided hairstyle eccentric as always, draped in a unique attire of a loose red blouse and ankle-length black skirt, with knee-high boots adorned with bracelets, necklaces and rings. She greeted both girls with kisses on the cheek and quick hugs, remarking on how much they had grown.

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Avria and Odelia giggled, charmed by Mabel's affectionate words. She had always been like an aunt to them, able to make them feel beautiful and special no matter what. They inquired about Tinks,her sister and business partner, Mabel frowned, letting them know she was under the weather but quickly shifted the conversation to Avaria's well-being.

As they settled into their usual spot, Mabel asked what they would like to drink. Avaria requested energy, eager for a boost, while Odelia opted to be surprised. With a smile, they made their way to their booth, ready to greet Talbot.

As Talbot sat in the booth, he occupied most of the space with his half-giant, half-human frame, his father being the runt of the clan and his mother quite a broad woman. However, after frequent visits, Mabel and Tinks had made a special booth just for them. It was spacious enough for Talbot to sit comfortably, with the girls on the other side, accommodating his unique size.

Despite being just under half the size of a giant, at about six feet, seven inches tall, Talbot's wide-framed, muscular physique and thick legs gave him a formidable presence. His strong features hinted at his giant heritage, making him stand out in a crowd. Though conventionally handsome, his lower status, large family, and heritage seemed to be a deal-breaker for many of the village's women, leading them to keep their distance, unsure of how to approach him. He was seen as someone fun for a casual fling by many women, but not someone they could envision a future with, no matter how hard he tried.

Despite any initial reservations, it was clear to those who knew him that Talbot was a sweetheart. His gentle demeanour and genuine kindness endeared him to many, making him a beloved figure in the community. As they settled into the booth, a warm smile graced his features as he greeted Avaria and Odelia with genuine warmth.

As the trio settled, Talbot leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. "So, how's the preparation for the ball going?" he inquired, his eyes flicking between Avaria and Odelia.

Avaria sighed, her gaze drifting to Odelia before answering. "Well, it's a bit of a pain. We have to travel for three days in a motor carriage to get to the capital, I don’t even want to think about how I’ll get that many Lunaire Stones in such a short time." she explained, a hint of exhaustion in her voice.

Odelia groaned dramatically, rolling her eyes. "And I have to travel with my family," she complained, shooting a pointed look at Avaria, silently waiting for her friend to extend an invitation.

Avaria chuckled, patting Odelia's head in a playful manner. "Sorry, Dels. Our carriage is standard size, while your dad opted for the family-sized one," she said, feigning sympathy.

Odelia let out an exasperated sigh, dramatically slumping back into her chair. Talbot offered his condolences, attempting to lighten the mood. "Cheer up, Delia. I'll be there the day after the ball for business," he reassured her, flashing a hopeful smile.

Both Avaria and Odelia perked up at the unexpected news. "Really?" they asked in unison, excitement evident in their voices.

Talbot scratched the back of his neck sheepishly, his tone hushed as he murmured almost in a whisper, 'And to see Kairos.'"

Odelia's face drained of colour, her response tinged with sadness. "Oh, that's fair. He's your friend too," she murmured, looking dejected.

Before Talbot could apologise, a waitress arrived with their drinks. Odelia hastily grabbed hers, declaring that she would take it to go. Ignoring any protests from her friends, she hurriedly made her exit, leaving the others to exchange concerned glances.

Talbot looked to Avaria for reassurance, but she shook her head, her expression stern. "I'm not going to sugarcoat it. It's your fault she left," she stated with a shrug. They both knew how Odelia felt about him, but lately, she couldn't escape the mention of his name.

Odelia continues, "You'll never get to ask her out if you keep messing up with her." She raises her eyebrows suggestively, taking a sip of her energy brew, a hot chocolate. Talbot blushes again and replies, "How can everyone tell I like her but her? Does she just act indifferent?" Talbot may seem uneducated, but he is a smart cookie, Avaria thinks to herself.

Avaria replies, "I genuinely think that girl has too much on her mind. Even if you write it on your forehead..." She pokes his forehead as she says this, but Talbot swats her away before looking around cautiously. He beckons her to bring her head closer to his, and from the outside, it might look a little intimate, but to Avaria, she knew he had new intel.

"Have you heard the rumours?" he asks. Avaria looks at him in confusion. "There's talk about the ball and an attendee the one they call a demon slayer," Talbot explains.

Avaria's eyes widen; she loves some gossip. "Tell me more," she urges.

"Well, apparently there is a soldier on the front lines who was in a battle with a high-level demon, and he was able to defeat it with white light magic," Talbot continues. Avaria looks at him, confused again. "White magic? As in celestial magic? A soldier used celestial magic?" she clarifies.

Talbot nods. "Don't you think it's strange? A mere soldier possessing white magic, the new demon invasion, with the new cult religion on the rise.” “Shadows of the Abyss," Avaria asks for confirmation.

Talbot nods again. "I think your wanted poster is connected to all of this," he says.

Avaria asks how, and he replies, "I haven't quite pieced it together. I'm getting bits and pieces of information, but not much. My delivery routes only take me so far, and my connections are only so high in rank."

Avaria nods in reply, understanding the gravity of the situation.