“Why’d we choose to meet here again? It’s so far from everything,” Kael grumbled.

Elron folded his arms. “I thought it would be quiet.”

Slyra staggered into the park, flopping onto a bench with a groan. “I’m here.”

Maris looked concerned, her hand reaching out to touch Slyra’s forehead. “What’s wrong, dear? Are you unwell?”

“The liquor... is so strong here...” Slyra mumbled, still half-dazed.

Kael tapped his staff against the bench. “Pretty sure it’s illegal to be drunk in a park.”

Slyra rolled over, hiccuping. “I went to bed drunk and woke up drunk. Not my fault.”

“Poor thing,” Maris said softly, her hands glowing with radiant light. The warmth from the light wasn’t physical, but it was palpable. It was so mesmerizing, it was hard to look away. Within moments, Slyra sat up, beaming.

“Oh my gosh! You’re coming with me next time I drink!” she squealed, hugging Maris tightly.

Maris awkwardly patted her back. “Ah, but I don’t drink.”

Slyra laughed. “That’s fine! I’ll teach you.”

Elron cleared his throat loudly, drawing the group's attention. "All right, good to see everyone’s here and ready. Let’s go over this week’s quest."

The group clustered around him, eyes on the scroll in his hand. Kael stood shoulder to shoulder with Elron, while Slyra struggled to peek over his arm. Maris, towering over all of them from the back, watched quietly. Their reactions were as varied as always.

Slyra’s face fell. "This isn’t the kind of job you usually pick, Elron. What’s going on?"

Kael chimed in, nodding. "The she-elf’s got a point. It’s... interesting, but definitely off from our usual."

Maris smiled, her eyes lighting up. "I think you chose this one with me in mind. I’m thrilled."

The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

Elron held the scroll up for them to see. "I picked this plague investigation for three reasons: one, it’s different from what we usually do; two, the pay is excellent; and three, we’ll probably never get another job like this again."

Maris’s eyes sparkled. "Splendid. Where do we begin, my Lord?"

Kael stepped forward, pulling out another map and spreading it in front of them. "We should focus on these areas," he said, pointing to several spots.

Slyra raised an eyebrow. "That’s the entire southeast side of the city. No way we’re covering all of that. Also, what are we looking for?"

Elron folded the map. "We need to figure out what’s causing the plague and stop it. As Kael pointed out, the southeast side is the only part affected, so we’ll start there. Look for anything suspicious."

Slyra kicked a loose rock, frustration creeping into her voice. "That whole side of town is suspicious. You’re better off shaking down the slum lords for answers."

Kael grinned and slapped her back. "Perfect! So glad you volunteered for that. I’ll check the mage’s college outside the slums."

Elron glanced at Maris, considering his next move. "The rest of us will split up and find other leads."

Maris stiffened. "I object."

He sighed, already weary of what was coming. "Object to what?"

"My duty is to protect you. I must stay by your side."

Slyra knocked on Maris’s shield playfully but with a touch of unease. "You wouldn’t be following your oath if you disobeyed his order, right? Just trust him."

Maris exhaled heavily, her face troubled. After a pause, she finally relented. "Okay, fair enough."

"Good! Then let’s get moving," Elron said, nodding.

Elron, Maris, and Slyra headed toward the seedier part of town. For those familiar with the kingdom’s cities, it was no surprise how quickly the atmosphere changed between districts. This city was no different. As they made their way to the opposite side, the roads shifted from brick to dirt, and eventually to a filthy mix of mud, piss, and waste that was nearly unbearable. The houses were little more than collapsing shacks, seemingly waiting for a strong wind to topple them.

The trio found themselves at a crossroads deep within the slums. Elven children played in the streets, oblivious to the filth. Others, strung out on various substances, lounged against walls, while a few more indulged in carnal acts within the shadows of alleyways.

Slyra wrinkled her nose, pulling out a bundle of cloth. "Want some? Helps with the smell."

Maris shook her head. "No thank you, I will bare it."

"Suit yourself," Slyra muttered, stuffing the cloth into her bulbous nose.

Elron scanned the area. "All right, we’ll split up from here. Be back by nightfall. If you’re not, we’ll come looking for you."

With that, they parted ways, each disappearing into the grime and decay of the slums.