PURPOSE CONFIRMED
Iris strode into the bustling tavern, the place lively with lunch patrons. She scanned the room, searching for the familiar faces of her companions. Her eyes quickly landed on Sera and Tanith, engrossed in a lively conversation at a nearby table.
As Iris walked toward the back of the tavern, she saw Kaira sitting at a corner table, noticing the deep emerald green tunic standing out against the muted colors of the tavern. The soft and lightweight fabric shimmered in the light as she moved, adding to the City Guard's aura of quiet strength. Intricate gold embroidery adorned the collar and cuffs of the tunic, adding a touch of elegance to the otherwise simple garment. The high elf waved her over and Iris made her way to the table, smiling as she sat down across from her new acquaintance.
Iris couldn’t help but feel a slight flutter in her chest as she sat across from Kaira. The captain’s piercing ice-blue eyes held hers for a moment longer than necessary, making her smile.
“I ordered our food and drinks if that’s alright,” Kaira said after a moment.
Of course, you can buy me a drink anytime.
“It is! Are you done with work for the day?” Iris asked the Guard Captain.
The woman nodded. “I am. I’m all yours today,” she said with a sly smirk. “I figured we could explore the city a bit, and I can show you around. Did you have anywhere, in particular, you wanted to visit?”
“I did, actually. The temple, if that’s alright,” Iris said.
The elf’s brow rose. “Interesting, I didn’t take you to be religious. Or at least not for our gods.”
Iris waved that off. “I’m not, but it was suggested I visit to meet with the seers. Something about a ceremony.”
Kaira leaned back in her chair, intrigued. “A ceremony with the seers, huh? Sounds mysterious. Are you sure you don’t have any secret ritual-follower tendencies?” she teased with a smirk.
Iris rolled her eyes playfully. “No, I promise I’m not hiding any secret blasphemous beliefs or cults. No need to arrest me, officer,” she said with a chuckle. “The ceremony is supposed to be mana related.”
The elf laughed, stealing a glance toward the bar, she quickly returned her focus to Iris, who couldn’t help but smile as she looked at the woman. Kaira seemed to pause and almost bask in Iris’s unabashed gaze.
The Guard Captain had long, pointed ears that were a hallmark of her elven heritage. On each ear, she had several piercings. The lobe of each ear had a simple silver hoop, and above that, there were a series of delicate silver studs that ran along the curve of her ear. At the very top of each ear, she had a small silver cuff that wrapped around the cartilage.
Kaira's black pixie cut was short and chic, framing her delicate features and accentuating her sharp cheekbones. The hair at the nape of her neck was cut close to her skin, while the longer strands at the top of her head were styled in a messy, spiky fashion, giving her an edgy and playful look. Despite the casual style, her hair looked impeccably maintained, with no strand out of place.
She’s so gorgeous.
The elf ripped Iris from her thoughts.
“So, Iris,” Kaira said with a playful smile. “Did you deliver the message you told me about? The one from Stilstead?”
Iris nodded a little too quickly. “I did! Lady Arden is going to send people to investigate the bandits. We also briefly went over my plans here in the city, which she invited me to a ball to discuss further.”
Kaira's eyes widened in surprise. “Lady Arden's ball? That's quite the invitation. What did you discuss with her that has piqued her interest in you?”
While Iris smiled, she felt a rush of dread at the thought of attending such an event. “She seemed interested in my work as an adventurer and our plan to start an Adventurer’s Guild.”
Kaira raised an eyebrow. “An Adventurer's Guild? That sounds like a fascinating idea,” the elf said as she leaned forward, looking deep into Iris’s eyes. “Tell me more about it.”
I’ll tell you whatever you want to keep you here in front of me.
Iris leaned in, eager to share her vision. “Well, I was thinking we could create a space for adventurers like myself to come together, share information, and get support from each other. The guild could also take on quests from people or organizations, acting as intermediaries and providing a safer way for people to hire adventurers for jobs that aren’t suited for the Guard or would take too much time for the army to respond.”
“What types of quests would these adventurers take? What things have you done?” Kaira asked.
“Oh! So much! It’s basically how I’ve lived for the past year. Let’s see, monster extermination, item retrieval, escorting, and exploration, are just a few things they could accomplish. I think there is so much potential for good to be done, especially with how everything is changing with mana. Plus, that’s how I got Mocha! I helped a farmer kill a big fox monster. Then there were the drakyyds in front of Cosdale. Those were crazy. The murder hares…” Iris started.
Iris looked around quickly as she took a breath. She then launched into her story, telling the elf about what she’d done as an adventurer, focusing on the fun stuff. Like the time she and Mocha tried to eat some mushrooms with dinner which ended up getting them both high. She finished by telling Kaira more about the guild plan and what it meant. How it would fit in with the Guard.
Kaira listened intently, nodding as Iris spoke. “That's a really innovative idea,” she said, her voice low and smooth. “And you have done so much! It would be so helpful for adventurers to have a space like that. And it would be a great way to connect with people who share your passion for exploring and taking on challenges.”
Iris couldn't help but feel a warm flush spread across her cheeks at Kaira's words. “Yes, exactly! I think it could really benefit the community as a whole, too.”
Kaira smiled, her gaze lingering on Iris for a moment. “You're so driven and passionate about this,” she said softly. “It's really admirable.”
Iris couldn't help but feel a surge of happiness at the compliment, and she found herself leaning in closer to Kaira. “Thank you,” she murmured. “It means a lot coming from someone as accomplished as you.”
Kaira's eyes glinted mischievously. “Oh, you think I'm accomplished?” she teased, her smile growing wider. “I'm just a captain in the Guard. Nothing compared to a brave adventurer like yourself.”
Iris laughed, feeling a sense of ease and comfort around Kaira. She could tell that the elf was subtly flirting with her, and while part of her felt a little shy, another part of her was soaking it up. She leaned back in her chair, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. Maybe starting an Adventurer's Guild wasn't such a daunting task after all.
As they waited for their food, the barman brought over their ales. The foamy mugs clinked against each other as he set them down on the table, causing the liquid to slosh over the sides a bit. Iris took a sip and savored the refreshing taste of the ale, while Kaira leaned back in her chair and stretched her arms.
“I love this place,” Kaira said, taking a long gulp from her mug. “The food is always delicious and the ale is brewed just right.”
Iris nodded in agreement, taking another sip of her ale. She glanced around the tavern, taking in the lively atmosphere and the smells of cooking food. Despite her nerves about attending Lady Arden's ball, she was grateful for this moment of peace and relaxation.
As they chatted about their favorite spots in the city and exchanged stories of their adventures, the barman returned with their food. He set down two plates filled with hearty portions of roasted meat and vegetables, along with a basket of warm bread.
“Looks delicious,” Kaira said, taking a fork and knife and eagerly digging in. Iris followed suit, savoring the flavors of the well-seasoned meat and the fresh vegetables.
Between bites, Kaira asked Iris more about her plans for the Adventurer's Guild, curious about the logistics and potential challenges. Iris answered as best she could, grateful for the opportunity to bounce ideas off someone.
As they ate, the conversation flowed easily, and Iris found herself relaxing in Kaira's company.
This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
As they were finishing up, Iris noticed Kaira pausing with a fork in hand and sighing. The Guard Captain looked at her seriously and said, “I have a confession to make.”
Iris tilted her head, curious. “A confession?”
Oh, she’s coming clean about the clarus incident. Bonus points, girl.
Kaira took a deep breath and said, “I… I was one of the people changed by the Flash. I have gained a lot of abilities, and one of them is a higher resistance to poison..." She sighed, then added in a low voice, "My body treats alcohol as poison.”
Iris raised a brow, surprised and impressed. This elf was more than she seemed and she couldn’t help but consider how useful such an ability would be–the poison resistance, not alcohol.
Kaira continued, “So, when I took all of those shots with you… I didn’t feel any of them. I regret taking advantage of you like that, and the meal and drinks are on me as an apology.”
Iris couldn’t help but smile at the gesture.
She placed a hand on the elf’s hand. “Thank you for the apology. I enjoyed our lunch, and I'm looking forward to spending the rest of the day with you.”
Kaira smiled, her eyes sparkling. “Well, I'm glad to hear that,” she said, her voice dropping slightly. “I have to admit, I was a little worried you wouldn't want to see me again after that whole incident.”
Iris chuckled. “I wouldn't hold it against you. We all have our moments.”
Kaira leaned in closer. “Oh, I have plenty of moments,” she said, her lips quirking into a mischievous grin. “But I promise, I'll try to keep myself in check around you.”
Iris felt a warm flush spread across her cheeks at the flirty remark. She cleared her throat, trying to hide her sudden nervousness. “Don’t make promises you can’t keep,” she said, trying to sound nonchalant. “So, uh... where to next?”
Kaira smiled, a finger moving up to brush a strand of hair out of Iris’s face. “We can do whatever you want, maybe a bit of exploring…”
Iris felt her face heat, and she stumbled over her words. “W-Want to meet my horse?”
Shit. Shit! Damn it, Iris! Get it together woman!
Kaira's face lit up with enthusiasm as she pulled back. “Absolutely! I've heard so much about the great Mocha and would be delighted to make her acquaintance.”
Wait… what?
✦ ✦ ✦
As the two walked toward the door after paying for the meal, Sera and Tanith stopped Iris to inform her that they may be gone by the time she got back. The two were going to investigate more about what would be needed for the guild formation. Sera hoped she enjoyed getting to know the city, and Tanith gave her such a knowing look that Iris’s face was surely as red as a tomato.
Iris led Kaira into the stables and instantly groaned. The elf glanced at her in confusion before a look of realization dawned on her.
Mocha was standing outside of her stall and making fun of the other horses.
Iris shook her head, unable to do anything except chuckle. “Looks like Mocha is in a playful mood today,” she said as they approached the stall. Mocha's ears perked up as she noticed Iris and Kaira approaching, and she whinnied in greeting. “Hey, Mocha! This is Kaira, she just bought me lunch and is going to show me the city.”
Mocha let out a soft nicker, the sound coming from deep within her chest as she cast her gaze over Kaira. Her nostrils flared as she breathed in the scent of the new arrival. The horse looked between the two women, and then, without warning, she emitted a snort, the sound filled with a mix of amusement and judgment.
Jerk! I do not sleep with everyone I meet!
Iris gave her horse a threatening look that promised a private discussion later, but her horse just huffed and whinnied, clearly unafraid.
Kaira's eyes widened as she froze, staring at Mocha in awe. “Iris... is she…” she trailed off, turning to face her companion. “Where and how did you say you got her?” she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.
Iris simply shrugged, a small smile playing on her lips. “I helped a farmer on the way to Cosdale not long after I arrived,” she explained. "He said he'd give me a discount on any horse he owned after I saved the rest of his herd from a monster. Mocha and I just clicked, you know?”
Kaira shook her head in disbelief. “How much did you buy her for?” she asked, her tone incredulous.
“Uhm, I think it added up to about one small gold,” Iris replied, her brow furrowing as she tried to recall the exact amount. “But it may have been a bit less. I only had a bag full of large and small silver coins at the–”
Kaira's eyes widened in disbelief. “Iris, you have no idea what a rare and valuable breed the Jarincían is,” she said, her voice full of amazement. “They're one of the rarest and most expensive breeds in all of Ikios. They're known for their speed, intelligence, and incredible endurance and are usually only found in the stables of the wealthiest Houses. And here you are, with one you bought for a few silver coins from a farmer.”
Iris scratched her head, suddenly feeling a little embarrassed. “I had no idea it was so unusual,” she said, sheepishly. “All I knew was that Mocha was a great horse and we had a connection.”
Kaira shook her head, still in disbelief. “Unusual? That's an understatement. It's practically unheard of,” she said, her eyes widening in amazement.
Iris felt a sense of pride swell in her chest. She had always known Mocha was special, but she never realized just how special. “I guess I just got lucky,” she said, a grin spreading across her face. “But I'm glad I did. She's the best horse and friend I could have ever asked for.”
Kaira smiled, a twinkle in her eye. “Well, I have to admit, you have excellent taste in horses,” she said, shaking her head, still in awe. “She's stunning. I can see why you’re so fond of her.”
The guard captain turned to Mocha and patted her neck. “You know how gorgeous you are, don’t you?”
Mocha snorted, of course, she did.
The two fell into a conversation, her horse easily replying and conveying her emotions to the questions Kaira posed. Iris moved over to a bench and sat down, watching the cute elf chat with her best friend.
She smiled when she caught Kaira stealing a glance her way and tried listening in, [Focusing].
“How is it working with Iris? She seems like she gets into a lot of dangerous situations,” Kaira asked the horse.
Mocha nodded her head and rolled her eyes before letting out a string of neighs that sounded like she was bitching.
Iris just rolled her eyes as well, a smirk on her face as she listened.
This damn adventurer, she’s always getting us into trouble.
Don’t even get me started on those murder hares.
But ugh. Someone’s got to look out for her dumb ass.
Mocha let out a breath of air, before letting out a low nicker. I love her anyways.
Kaira laughed. “That’s quite a lot. I am sure she’s lucky to have you.”
Mocha snorted, that’s all you got from that?
Iris could only shake her head and smile as she got up, returning to the pair. “You two talking about me?” Iris asked playfully.
Kaira smiled. “Of course, not.”
Mocha tried to nibble her hair, making Kaira laugh as Iris tried to push her away. “It’s hard having only me to understand you isn’t it?”
The horse nodded.
“Don’t worry, we’ll teach her,” she promised, before turning to Kaira, the elf looking at her with a soft expression on her face. “Would you like that?”
The elf nodded. “Nothing would make me happier.”
Iris returned her attention to Mocha, who was nuzzling her hand.
“I'm glad you like her,” Iris said, scratching behind Mocha's ears. “She's a handful, but she's worth it.”
Mocha’s head moved forward and nibbled on Iris’s ear, the adventurer chuckled and pushed her friend’s face away. “That’s gross, Mocha!” she cried out as she wiped away her horse’s slobber.
Kaira watched the playful interaction with amusement, a smile on her lips. “I can see why you two get along so well,” she said, looking at Iris. “You both have such playful personalities.”
Iris grinned. “Yeah, Mocha and I have a lot of fun together. She's quite the character. Plus, she’s saved my life more than once.”
Mocha let out a low whinny as she looked at Kaira and then nudged at Iris’s chest. “I know girl, I know. I’ve saved you too. We’re even.”
The horse nodded, nickering to the two of them.
With a gentle smile, Iris addressed her beloved Mocha. “Alright, girl. I have to accompany Kaira for a bit, but I'll be back later. Can you behave yourself and play nice with the other horses?”
Mocha snorted, unimpressed with Iris's request.
Rolling her eyes, Iris continued, “I know they're just mundane horses, not as special and magical as you, but can you do it for Mama?”
Mocha turned her head away from Iris, feigning indifference, but after a moment's pause, she emitted a soft nicker in agreement.
Iris gave Mocha a loving pat on the neck and leaned in close. “Thanks, girl. I'll see you later. Love ya.”
Mocha responded by affectionately nudging Iris's cheek.
Iris grinned at Mocha's love and gave her one final pat before turning to Kaira. “Alright, let's go. I'm excited to see the city.”
“Let’s check out the temple first, it’s the closest,” Kaira suggested.
Iris nodded, falling into step next to the shorter high elf.
As they left the stables, Kaira couldn't help but comment on Mocha's behavior. “I've never seen a horse act like that before. Laken was right, she really can understand us.”
Huh, I never did get the guy’s name. Laken. Got it.
The corners of Iris’s mouth curved up in a mischievous smile. “She is pretty amazing,” she declared, “much like myself.”
Kaira's returning smirk had Iris feeling weak at the knees.