The sky was starting to blush with the first hint of dawn by the time Iris and Mocha navigated around the cavernous ravine and trudged back into the relative safety of the Marauder Prince’s camp. The large camp was illuminated by a crackling bonfire in the center, casting flickering shadows that danced across the gathered faces of their party that sat around it talking. The Harpy Queen, Nysera, presided over the assembly, her sharp eyes taking in the pair as they made their entrance.

Upon spotting them, a collective gasp ran through the camp. Iris swung herself from Mocha's saddle just as Kaira broke free from the gathered party.

Her cry rang out, clear and loud, “Iris!” before she rushed forward, her figure a blur in the firelight.

With a force that knocked the breath from her lungs, Kaira embraced Iris, her hands framing Iris's face before she pulled her into a desperate, fierce kiss.

Kaira's eyes shimmered with unshed tears as they parted. "I thought I lost you."

Meanwhile, Akane, in her massive dire fox form, sprang to her hind legs, wrapping her front limbs around Mocha in a furry hug. The sight of it made Iris and Kaira laugh, a sound that filled the clearing, a stark contrast to the somberness that had gripped the party just moments ago.

Iris brushed her thumb against Kaira's cheek, a small smile playing on her lips. “Lose me? Never.”

A voice rang out from the edge of the firelight, “I told you, she would be fine.” Iris turned, her eyes falling on the limping form of a raithe woman. This must be the priestess.

Iris's smile broadened. “I see they got you out.”

“Aye. Your healer is a woman after Eona's Heart,” the priestess replied.

Emerging from the crowd, Bree reached out to steady the woman, a soft smile on her face. “Thank you, but what did I say?”

The raithe woman sighed, a touch of humor in her voice. “You said to rest and not walk. Yes, mother.”

“Don't yes, mother me. Let's get you back to the wagon. Now you've seen that your magic actually makes some Relena damned sense, you can relax.”

Bree shot a glance over her shoulder at Iris and Mocha, her smile turning warm and genuine. “I'm glad you two are safe and back. I'll talk to you both after we leave, I need to tend to this fiesty one.”

A playful growl rumbled in the raithe woman's throat, her sharp, fang-like teeth glinting in the firelight that made the woman look like some sort of gothic vampire, but it only made Bree roll her eyes in mock exasperation.

Thank the gods the raithe don’t actually drink blood.

Despite the raithe woman's reluctance, she finally surrendered to Bree's guiding hand, and together they walked away from the fire, the crowd parting for them as they headed towards the wagon.

Iris watched as Bree, their group's [Bard], guided the [Priestess] towards a wagon that appeared to have been recently... acquired.

She allowed herself another smile.

The conversation shifted as Gryff, Laken, and the Harpy Queen moved closer, their faces etched with concern and curiosity.

Laken’s owlbear… Owlie… sat next to the bonfire picking at a meal happily.

“What happened to the Marauder Prince?” the harpy queen inquired, her birdlike eyes sharp and alert.

Iris sighed deeply. “We were being pursued by murder hares. Mocha and I made it across, but he fell in after they jumped onto his horse.”

“Murder hares?” Laken tilted his head, his brows furrowed in confusion.

Iris gestured to her mid-thigh. “Giant hares, about this tall, with mouths that open like a flower, and an insatiable hunger for flesh.”

“We’ve been calling them blighted ones. If there's another colony, we'll exterminate them. It helps that we can fly.”

Huh. Makes sense.

“Good. Nuke ‘em from orbit,” Iris replied, ignoring the bemused expressions. “And the situation here?”

“We've gone through the camp,” Gryff explained. “Most of what we found we’ve given to the harpies, but we've set aside a few chests, sets of armor, and weapons for us that we’ve loaded into a wagon. We can leave the wagon for the elderly couple taking care of the girl.”

“Neri.”

Gryff shrugged. “Right. The girl.”

Iris rolled her eyes before settling her focus on Akane that was yipping and chatting Mocha up like the best of friends.

“And what about the animals?” Iris asked.

Laken smiled. “We’ve freed them, and–”

“They will be cared for, then helped to rejoin the forest,” the harpy queen interjected.

A yip from Akane drew their attention. Mocha translated, ‘Akane is happy that everyone was let out. And they’re finally free! No more bad men trying to hurt them for their cores. She’s also ready to go.’

"Wait, are you coming with us?" Iris queried, her gaze drawn to Akane.

The dire fox was enveloped in a swirl of black and yellow mist. The ethereal cloak of magic shimmered around her, giving off a soft, incandescent glow that illuminated the area slightly. A moment later, Akane emerged in her humanoid form–Iris’s striking vulpine doppelganger with three tails.

The kitsune stepped closer, her mismatched eyes a blend of fierce determination and keen anticipation. “We. Party. Yes?”

A warmth spread through Iris, prompting a smile to tug at the corners of her mouth. She reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Akane's arm. “Yes, we're a party.”

At that, a gleam of excitement lit up in Akane's eyes. “Good! I ride Mocha!”

Iris barely had the chance to formulate a response before Akane was in motion. With a quick, agile leap, she mounted Mocha's saddle, her body fitting snugly against the horse's muscular form.

Iris let out a protest, her words tinged with a playful frustration. “You can't ride Mocha! Only I can!”

Leaning in close, Akane whispered something into Mocha's ear, eliciting a snort of amusement from the horse.

Akane gave her a goofy grin. “I call dibs.”

Mocha neighed softly, the sound tinged with an evident humor. 'Sorry, Iris. She called dibs.'

The air was sucked out of Iris's lungs, her eyes widening in mock horror. “Traitor!”

Suddenly, a rush of wings filled the air, diverting everyone's attention. Descending gracefully, Lavi alighted on the ground.

She squawked a brief greeting before wrapping Iris in a feathery hug, chirping rapidly in her bird-like language. After their brief reunion, she turned back to her sister, exchanging a swift flurry of caws and clicks.

The harpy queen rolled her eyes in response to her sister's animated chatter. “My sister says thank you for everything. But she is right, it is time we depart. There is much we need to rebuild. Many who need our help.”

Iris met her gaze, determination hardening her features. “You know, I never got your name. I’ve just called you Harpy Queen in my head.”

Both Lavi and the Harpy Queen chittered their laughter. “I am Lady Nysera, formerly of House Ferane.”

Iris smiled and gave the woman a semblance of a shit curtsey. “Milady.”

Nysera laughed again. “If there isn’t anything else…”

You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

“Actually, can we reach an agreement?” Iris asked. “While I don't really have much–or any power really, I could advocate on your behalf with Lady Arden, provided you ensure the safety of travelers on the main road. Perhaps the queendom could designate this forest as a sanctuary for your kind. Or at least grant you personal stewardship over it.”

Lady Nysera nodded respectfully. “This… this sounds good. I hope… I just want my people safe. We will not harm those who do not seek to harm us. I… I would like that. If you can make it so.”

“I will try. I promise…” She hesitated a moment then continued, “I'm grateful our paths crossed, Nysera,” Iris responded, her voice solemn. “My condolences for your people's loss to the Marauder Prince… and before on the road.”

The Harpy Queen sighed, her feathers ruffling with the motion. “The fault was ours. But now, I must leave. I assure you, my people will remain within the forest. The mana here is strong, nourishing us. Departing is… agonizing on both our body and mind. But we will guard this forest with all our might.”

Iris nodded, her expression resolute. “As it should be. Farewell, Nysera.”

Nysera responded with a powerful screech that echoed throughout the forest. All the harpies within earshot answered her call, taking flight. As she hovered momentarily, Nysera locked eyes with Iris, a mischievous glint twinkling in her gaze. “Thank you, Lightning Bitch.”

With a mighty flap of her wings, sending gusts of wind swirling below, she too soared into the brightening sky.

Iris frowned, her voice carrying an undertone of playful annoyance. “Oi! You, you! Bird-brained jerk!”

Mocha responded with a snort, the hint of a horse's grin playing at the corner of her mouth. 'Really? Bird-brained jerk? You're usually more imaginative. I’m disappointed.'

Iris let out a groan, rolling her eyes. “Whatever, let's just leave this place.”

In the aftermath of Nysera's dramatic departure, a flurry of activity engulfed the campsite. Each member of the group sprung into action, executing their assigned tasks with impressive efficiency.

They were finally leaving this godsforsaken place, and there was much to prepare.

Gryff, the broad-shouldered, burly figure he was, assumed the reins of their newly 'liberated' wagon with an air of nonchalant authority. He held the leather straps confidently, guiding the horses with practiced ease, their hooves creating a rhythmic melody against the leaf-strewn ground while Laken rode Owlie alongside the wagon opposite of Mocha.

Akane, in her humanoid form, was a striking vision on Mocha's back, her red hair glowing in the light of the rising sun. She guided the horse with a delicate touch, occasionally throwing glances at the wagon, her three-tailed silhouette a constant presence alongside their path.

Iris found herself situated at the back of the wagon, the solid wooden boards beneath her providing a surprisingly comfortable seat. Across from her was the priestess who was deep in a discussion with Bree about healing goop of all things.

I love that everyone uses that name now.

Nestled against Iris was Kaira, the elf's slender body pressed against her side, offering an intimate closeness that stirred a tender warmth in her chest.

Iris glanced down at Kaira, her nose scrunching slightly at the grime and sweat that clung to their bodies. “You know,” she said, her voice carrying a hint of playfulness, “I probably smell like a week-old roadkill. You're free to wait until later.”

Kaira looked up at her, those piercing blue eyes shimmering with an unspoken affection. With a delicate gesture, she brushed a rebellious strand of Iris's scarlet hair away from her face, tucking it gently behind her ear. “I don't care,” she responded, her voice firm yet tender. “I'm staying right here. We can bathe when we get to Stilstead.”

Iris let a smile spread across her face, Kaira's steadfast loyalty making her heart flutter. “I can't wait.”

As the wagon trundled on, the makeshift trail gradually transformed into a recognizable road, winding its way through the serene woodland. Hours turned into moments under the sun's relentless march across the sky. Eventually, they made it back to the homestead where Neri was waiting.

The old orkun man and telv woman looked visibly relieved upon seeing their approach.

After a happy reunion with the young barmaid, Iris helped the group transfer their possessions to their original wagon. The old couple was given the two horses and the wagon from the Marauder Prince's camp.

Their grateful smiles spoke volumes.

The assurance of a safe road and home, free from bandit or harpy threat, was an additional relief.

With a last wave and a promise of future visits, the group set off once again, this time with an extra passenger. Neri, with a newfound brightness in her eyes, found her place amidst the traveling party.

By the time the sun was a warm glow sinking behind the horizon, the familiar outlines of Stilstead rose in their sights.

After the wagon rattled into town, the party quickly made their way to the inn.

Iris watched as the rest of their eclectic party set about their tasks for the evening. Laken, the beast taming [Ranger], headed towards the stables with Owlie following closely behind. The silhouette of man and owlbear would have made for a bad ass painting hanging up in some tabletop gaming room.

“Laken, don’t forget to check the mundanes out. They were pretty anxious on the way to the village,” Iris called out to him.

Laken nodded, the gesture visible even in the dim light. “Will do, Iris,” he assured her, before disappearing into the stables.

Meanwhile, Mocha and Akane were practically bouncing on their heels in anticipation. Their giddiness was contagious as they chattered and giggled among themselves, their humanoid forms failing to mask their true, exuberant selves.

“You. Have key?” Akane asked.

“Just got them,” Iris confirmed, holding up the keys. “You two have your own room, please do not make me regret this. Mocha, you’re in charge.”

Akane snatched the keys and examined them closely, her grin widening and fuzzy ears twitching cutely at the prospect of their own room.

Mocha was in her sun elf form courtesy of the kitsune and was ecstatic. ‘Finally! A bed! No stinking stables!’ she nickered lightly.

Iris smiled. “Work with Akane. I think there’s more to these forms than meets the eye. Maybe you can practice using words.”

Mocha’s warm brown eyes widened before Akane grabbed her hand and pulled her away, the two scampering off toward their allotted quarters.

On the other side of the inn, Bree, Gryff, and the priestess had already settled at a table laden with food and drinks. The robust laughter and banter echoed around the inn, adding a lively note to the otherwise quiet evening.

With everyone settling in, Iris found herself leaning against the inn's wooden balustrade, watching the sun finally sink beyond the horizon, the town bathed in the serene glow of twilight. Kaira stood beside her, their fingers interlaced in a silent promise of shared strength.

Everything is going great. We’ll get back to Brightburn and we can start the next chapter of our lives.

I wonder who will stay in the party.

The sound of the inn's door creaking open pulled Iris out of her reverie. She turned to see Evelyn, a robust figure cloaked in the authoritative aura of her office, stepping into the inn. The headwoman's eyes sparkled with a mix of relief and admiration as they landed on Iris.

“Well, ain't this a sight for sore eyes,” Evelyn's deep, hearty voice cut through the lingering silence, a wide grin tugging at her lips.

With a tired but genuine smile, Iris pushed herself off the balustrade, meeting Evelyn halfway.

She offered the headwoman a brief, respectful nod. “Hey, Evelyn,” she greeted, her voice threading with the weariness of the day but also echoing the deep satisfaction of their victorious return.

“You did it, huh?” She asked with a touch of awe, her gaze moving between Iris and Kaira.

Iris shared a look with Kaira, and a slow smile spread across her face. “Yeah. We did,” she responded, a sense of accomplishment coursing through her voice.

The headwoman's eyes sparkled as she replied, “Good, good. I look forward to establishing the first branch of the Adventurer's Guild here in Stilstead.”

“I can’t wait.”

The three found themselves at a table and their conversation meandered, filled with laughter and tales of what happened since leaving. She learned that Ser Meredith had returned to Brightburn, and things were going well in the village. Iris really found herself enjoying time with Kaira and Evelyn. It made her happy, and she felt a friendship with Evelyn blossoming like a flower in spring. After a while, however, Iris's thoughts started to stray towards a hot bath and a soft bed.

“I...I think I might turn in, Evelyn. A nice long bath before sleep sounds like heaven right now,” Iris confessed, her body aching for rest and rejuvenation.

Evelyn chuckled, her eyes crinkling in understanding. She gestured towards the inn's stairwell. “Go relax, you two. Don't forget to say goodbye before you leave in the morning,” she reminded them, her tone gentle and filled with affection.

Iris nodded, her appreciation shining through her tired eyes. “I won't. And thanks. For everything. See you in the morning, Evelyn,” she promised, already anticipating the comfort of warm water and soft sheets.

As she and Kaira retreated towards their room, the promise of a new day and a new chapter of Iris’s journey and quest awaited.

The highlight of the evening, though, was the long-awaited bath.

“Kaira, are you sure?” she finally managed to ask as realization of what they were about to do hit her like another truck-kun.

Kaira merely chuckled at that. “Absolutely. Strip,” she commanded. “Let’s get you clean.”

The moments that followed were filled with quiet laughter, whispered words of comfort, and the sound of clothing hitting the stone floor before the two women eased themselves into the hot bath, settling down across from each other.

As the water gently lapped at the sides of the narrow bath, Iris found herself apprehensive, her gaze focused on Kaira's warm smile across from her. Their victories, their triumphs, and the long day of travel had finally led them here, to this intimate moment.

Their first.

Iris was nervous as fuck.

“So, we did it,” Iris broke the silence.

“We did,” Kaira echoed, leaning forward to intertwine her fingers with Iris's. Her lips curled into a soft smile, eyes glowing warmly in the dim light.

They sat in quiet reflection for a while, the reality of their victory sinking in slowly, accompanied by the soft sounds of water lapping against the sides of the bath. Each was lost in her thoughts, basking in the comfort of the other's presence.

Eventually, Iris and Kaira stripped away layers of grime, sweat, and memories of battle in the soothing warm waters, their bodies relaxing under the tender care of the other.

Later, as they finally sank into the plush softness of an actual bed, it felt like a dream come true.

Kaira turned on her side. “Iris,” she began, and Iris turned her head to look at her, only to see her beautiful smile turning mischievous. “We are finally alone, in bed, away from all our troubles…”

Iris caught on to her insinuation, a light blush creeping onto her cheeks. A soft chuckle escaped her lips as the teasing glint in Kaira's eyes made her heart flutter.

“Well, I suppose we should... make the most of it,” she finally responded, her voice trailing off into a soft whisper.

[Storm Warden – Step 52 attained!]