The sun reigned supreme, casting its brilliant rays upon the world below. The sky was an artist's canvas, a masterpiece of blue and white brushstrokes, adorned with the graceful flight of birds singing their symphony of joy. A gentle breeze, a lover's caress, tenderly ruffled the leaves of the trees, whispering a secret melody that blended in perfect harmony with the gentle hum of nature.
The air was imbued with the delicate perfume of blooming flowers, their petals opening up like a lover's embrace to the sun. The soft blades of grass, freshly cut, stretched upwards towards the light, their verdant colors a vibrant homage to the earth's bounty.
The sound of a nearby stream meandered in the air, its gentle murmur adding to the ethereal chorus of nature's music. Bees buzzed softly, darting from one sweet blossom to another, collecting their precious nectar. The world was alive with a symphony of colors, butterflies, and dragonflies flitting and fluttering amidst the verdant foliage, the warm sun illuminating their wings in a glittering cascade of light.
The heat of the day was tempered by the shade of the trees, a cool embrace that welcomed those in need. In the distance, a band of children ran and laughed, their joyous energy as bright as the sun itself.
On such a beautiful day that every man on this planet was asked for a dance by the treadwheel of life a group of eight people was walking down a trodden road that has already been walked upon millions of times. Many types of people walked this road, be peasants, knights, mercenaries, thieves, and of course, brave adventurers. They all had one goal, to reach the city of Kaubert in The Kingdom Of Trifan.
The city of Kaubert was more than just a waypoint on their journey. It was a city that had stood for centuries, a bastion of civilization in a world fraught with danger and chaos.
Kaubert was renowned for its towering walls and well-trained guards, making it a safe haven for travelers and merchants alike. Its location at the crossroads of several major trade routes made it a hub of commerce and culture, attracting people from all corners of the world.
But Kaubert was not just a center of trade and diplomacy. It was also a city steeped in history and legends. Many tales had been told of the ancient ruins that lay around not so far from the city, relics of a forgotten civilization that had once ruled over the land. However, the city was not without its share of problems. The nearby forests were infested with dangerous beasts, and the surrounding hills were home to bandits and rogue mages. The citizens of Kaubert relied on their brave knights or skilled adventurers to keep them safe from these threats. Some of the local bandits were very noisy, so noisy that one of them blabbed out their next upcoming plan, looking tightly at the blade aimed at his eyes, as that fool was captured by the patrolling team near the gates.
It can be beneficial to remind someone of their limitations before they take a leap of faith, hoping to soar through the air, isn't it right?
In fact, those eight people were the ones, who were entrusted with this reverend task... this time. Is it strange that this not only happened one time?
Luckily the job was executed nicely without any significant injuries. Even though those eight people were very skilled and experienced adventurers, sixty-four people with some, or intermediate skill to fight can cause a bit of inconvenience.
As they trudged along the dusty road, the scorching sun bore down upon them with an unrelenting fervor. Beads of sweat trickled down their foreheads, glistening like precious gems in the radiant light. The heat was oppressive, and the air hung heavy with the perfume of wildflowers that bloomed along the roadside.
It was a really nostalgic day for many of the people in the group, however, it was not the one they want to ever remind their cinerea of that particular day. They marched silently before one of them break this so nostalgic silence as well as he wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, letting out a heavy sigh.
"I don't know about you guys, but I can't wait to get to Kaubert and take a nice, long bath." - A fairly muscular man, standing at around 6 feet tall uttered. His broad shoulders and chiseled arms were a testament to his rigorous training and intense combat experience, that he gained on the front two years ago. He had short, bushy, dark-brown hair that was swept back. His sharp, angular features were complemented by piercing blue eyes that gleamed with intensity as well as his old longsword on his right.
Another man chuckled. "I second that. I'm totally covered in a layer of dust and sweat, maybe my bruises also wish to get some nice soaking!" - He was a middle-aged man, with wrinkles etched deep into his skin, betraying his years of experience and wisdom. He stood tall, despite his slightly balding head, with a sturdy frame that was thick with muscle.
"Man, we should hurry up then!" - The newest member of the group, a young woman spoke up eagerly with some reference of hysteria. She only joined them two weeks ago. She was the shortest of the group, with a lean and agile build that suggested she was quick on her feet. Her long blonde hair was tied back in a practical ponytail, which almost all the time when she is with them, hides in a hood.
Mysterious creatures aren't they?
Her bright green eyes sparkled with enthusiasm while with annoyance.
"We've been through worse, anyway... You should not make a big deal about it." - Said cynically a young man with short blonde hair that was neatly styled, framing his face in a flattering way. His amber eyes were strict and soul-slicing which held a deep intelligence that suggested he was much more than he appeared.
"Oh, man, here it goes again..." - Rolled his eyes another woman in this little group. She stood shortly, just inches away from the newest member with an air of confidence that exuded from her every move. Her short black hair framed her delicate features in front, while a long twisted ponytail with a red band sewn between it fell down her back. A Rapier glimmers in the sunlight, its shining blade reflecting the warm hues of the sun that was made out of silver.
Well, if I can say that she is otherwordly beauty.
"At least he did not bring up the war, so be glad at least..." - Whispered another man with otherwordly features as well. His long, black hair cascaded down his back in a smooth, glossy sheet, adding to his already imposing figure. His sharp features were accentuated by his bushy eyebrows, which always seemed to be furrowed in concentration. A thick, full mustache and beard completed his rugged look, making him appear like a warrior from a bygone era. He carried his only weapon on his back which was a giant shield that bore a black eagle with a red beak, a red tongue, and red feet on a golden field.
"Yeah..." - Whispered the young woman, remembering how long he usually speaks about stuff like that. "Kai is really... passionate about his ideas, I guess. I wish he could just keep it to himself." - She continued her way to sneak away from a possible quarrel with their little whispering which was quickly revealed by Kai's eyes... but mainly his ears.
"Ok, what are you murmuring in my back, Kasumi and Hans colleagues? Or Perhaps should I repeat your words?" Kai turned to face Kasumi and Hans, a mischievous glint in his amber eyes, gripping harshly on his trustworthy partner an old channeling staff. "Or maybe I should just cast a spell to make you reveal what you're whispering about?" - He added with a sly grin accompanied by his previous sharp look.
Kasumi raised an eyebrow, not intimidated in the slightest. "I don't think that's necessary, Kai. We were just discussing how passionate you are about certain topics."
Hans chimed in, trying to diffuse the tension. "Yeah, we were just admiring your enthusiasm, Kai. It's a great quality to have." - Kai realizing they only and ONLY said the truth, turned his back on them with a somewhat grumpy look on his face.
"Tch... I hate how well you handling your words, 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬." - Kasumi rolled her eyes at Kai's grumbling. It was clearly not a compliment for sure as he handled his words. Well... To be real, they are indeed otherworldly beings.
One from 𝐦𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐉𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐧, and the other from 𝐖𝐞𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐆𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲.
As Kasumi watched Kai turn away, her mind wandered to the events that brought them to this world. She remembered the day when they were summoned by the mages of Trifan, a land far different from their own. The Fifty strongest mages were called upon to complete this task, even though the front was unstable without their presence as almost thirty days were needed to stabilize the interdimensional space that connected the two gate points. They used really questionable individuals to complete these rituals first, and many of the tries turned out to be failing. Then the advisors of Trinfanianus decided it would be better to use more qualified people to complete this task. The Kingdom of Trifan desperately needed their help.
The summoning circle was created costly, in the church of the Capital and the mages poured all their mana into it, creating a gate between two dimensions and worlds. The otherworlders were exposed to a large concentration of mana, Manna, which made them more efficient and stronger while also gaining special skills and a high understanding of magic as if they were born to use it. But the risks were high; they could have died because of the gate magic malfunction, and they could have also died because of overflowing or incompatibility to mana while they transported. Even meeting the ideal conditions for a proper summoning, the chances of successfully calling an otherworlder are quite slim.
But despite the risks and possibilities, Kasumi and Hans were transported to this world. And they were not alone; other individuals from different worlds were also been summoned in the past years of the war, however, almost all of them died on the bloody and inhuman battlefield due to their summoning were mostly children or weak, sick people, or in the abandoned church corridor without even a sly goodbye. The Great War between Trifan and The Dragons was intense and brutal, but with the help of the otherworlders, Trifan was able to win the war which was rather a loss looking at the casualties and the state that this country was.
In this war, they met with them and they quickly befriended each other with the help of a life-threatening situation.
Kasumi shook her head to clear her thoughts and refocused on the present. They had been living in this world for almost three years now, and while they had made great progress in adapting, it still felt foreign to them, not even talking about how awkward and scared they were as the people around them kneeling and saying grateful words in a foreign language with faces of happiness and soreness.
The others looked at Kai with unsure looks.
Another man, the youngest out of them at twenty years, with a lean and athletic build, leaned toward Kai. He stands at an average height, but his imposing presence makes him seem taller. His short, messy hair is a deep shade of brown and his bright greenish-blue eyes sparkle in the rays of the sun as well as his saber's scabbard and his short bow. He has a small, nearly trimmed beard that frames his strong jawline and adds to his rugged look.
"You know, this was really unpolite from even you, Kai... at least do not call them like that around them." - Said the young man with a soft voice coming out of his mouth.
"Shut up, Paul! I know I'm a jerk, however, I do not wish to be spineless as well. I would rather say things out loud to everyone than murmur some things as..." - He cleared his throat with a well-timed cough "...Certain someones." - He looked back again, as he saw the not-very pleased look on the two otherworlders in his back. "Ok, sorry for that. It was just the perfect example for the moment."
As they heard Kai's response, a collective sigh escaped their lips, like a gentle breeze stirring the leaves on a quiet forest path. The passage of five years had lent a certain beauty to the young man, especially Paul, enhancing his features and form with the grace of a master painter's brushstroke. And yet, time had been less kind to the others, etching lines of experience on their faces like the gentle waves of the sea carving out a rocky shore.
Kasumi couldn't help but admire Paul's gentle nature, and how he always seemed to know the right thing to say to diffuse a tense situation. She looked over at him and gave him a small smile of gratitude, which he returned with a nod as well as a quick thumbs-up.
Meanwhile, Kai was still thinking out loud, slightly annoyed by the reaction of the otherworlders from moments ago. "I don't understand why are you so sensitive. I usually do this out of joke..."
"It doesn't hurt to be a little more considerate. These people have been nothing but kind to us from the time we met until now, and we should treat them with the same respect." - Paul responded with a serious tone.
Kai rolled his eyes. "Fine, fine. I'll try to be more tactful in the future. We Happy?" - Kai raised his hand for a handshake, trying to bury the relentless hatch that would sooner or later emerge with an even sharper edge.
"We god damn happy!" - Paul accepted his apology in the name of the otherworlders who also felt the same and a 'bro' handshake was formed. With a smile on both parties. Only the girl with the hood was looking dumbfounded by this.
"Was this really happening just because I said we could hurry?"
"Oh, you will get used to this!" - Said the balding man with a wide smile. "They even fought because Paul had not placed his boots symmetrically next to his bed. This was just the peak of the mountains Thalia, my dear!" - He chuckled then.
"Oh..." - She said as she was not so sure about whether it should be taken as a joke or a serious problem.
Kasumi looked over at Thalia and gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, you'll get used to them too. They may have their quirks, but they're good people at heart."
"Quirks?!" - Said aloud Kai. "At least say nature! For fuck's sake! I'm not some kind of crackpot or lunatic!" - The highest out of the group, Levy laughed up so joyously that it was unthinkable for a moment.
"You just proved the opposite! Haha!" - He continued to laugh alongside the familiar Balding man named Gerald. Paul was on the verge of laughing only a tiny bit and everything is gone.
Kai looked at Paul with dead serious eyes. "Do not dare to..." - That was enough to break him. He cannot sustain the pressure of the 'look.'
"Don't worry Kai, we still accept you as you are..." - Said Hans, the otherworlder with quite the ironic accent and a sweet ironic smile.
Kai let out a small sigh shaking his head. "Thanks, Hans. I appreciate it."
Thalia couldn't help but feel a little overwhelmed by the group's dynamic, but she also couldn't deny the sense of camaraderie and friendship that seemed to bind them together. Despite their differences and quirks, they all seemed to genuinely care for one another even though sometimes things are getting out of hand.
"Oh-ho! We are at the gates already!" - Said Hugo, the oldest one. "I will claim the reward in the guild while you bathe. Might as well order dinner for us."
"Oh, Oh! I will go!" - Said Thalia as she raised her hand with enthusiasm.
"I will go with you too, Hugo. I rather eat first than take a bath." - Loudly declared Levy. "Dibs I gonna take stake!"
"Man, you ate that yesterday, it is also god damn expensive!" - Said aloud Kai again.
Levy shrugged. "Hey, I know what I like. And if I'm gonna spend my hard-earned money on a meal, I might as well enjoy it."
Kai rolled his eyes. "Fine, but don't come crying to me when you're broke before the end of the next task."
Levy grinned. "Oh, don't worry about me, bro. We've got plenty of jobs lined up... starting tomorrow with the ancient runes."
Hugo chuckled. "Well, let's not waste any more time standing around. We've got a reward to collect and dinner to order." - Said rustly Hugo as Levy accompanied him toward the town's guild.
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As the group entered the gates of Kaubert, after some cumbersome moments with the guards, they were greeted by the sight of a sprawling city that stretched out before them like a vast tapestry of stone and brick. The air was alive with the sounds of bustling merchants and chattering pedestrians.
The city was a marvel of engineering, with towering buildings of steel and glass that reflected the sunlight in dazzling displays of color. But despite its modernity, Kaubert also retained a certain romanticism, with winding streets and hidden alleyways that led to quiet courtyards and hidden gardens.
The architecture was a blend of old and new, with ornate Gothic buildings standing shoulder to shoulder with sleek, contemporary designs. The city was a true reflection of the culture and history of its people, a testament to their resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.
The scent of fresh bread and exotic spices wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of freshly cut flowers from the many gardens that dotted the cityscape. The streets were alive with the vibrant colors of clothing and banners, and the occasional street performer added a touch of whimsy to the scene.
As the group that had prepared for their bath bid farewell to their companions with a wave of their hands, of course after settling on their dinner plans, then the others set off toward the guild with an air of eager anticipation.
This quest bore the Emergency attribute which means, in short, more money in their pocket. The little group made their way through the bustling city, heading towards the guild where they could collect their reward.
"So, Thalia, I guess you'll bath alone again, am I right?" - said Levy with a slim smile, however, this question was more than creepier and hustler in a really bad way. Luckily for him, she did not take that incontrovertible question like that.
"Well, yeah... Sorry if I still causing problems with it, but I usually like better to take my bath alone."
"Nah, it is not a problem, just you know, you are so carefree sometimes, yet so mysterious..."
Thalia raised an eyebrow, unsure of what Levy was getting at. "Mysterious? What do you mean?"
Levy shrugged. "I mean, you're always so quiet and reserved. It's hard to get a read on you sometimes."
Thalia smiled wryly as her emerald green eyes flashed under her hood. "I suppose I do have a tendency to keep to myself... maybe it's just my nature." - She said with an innocent voice that it could not be told that she lied as smoothly as the rivers flow.
Levy's eyes lingered on Thalia's face, taking in the way her lips curved into that small smile. He couldn't help but feel his face become a bit reddish, as he quickly redirected his eyes. Hugo only looked at them with half an eye as a wide grin ran across his face.
He knew well there was something to cook with.
"Well, well, well, looks like our Thalia has a secret admirer." Hugo wiggled his eyebrows teasingly.
Thalia rolled her eyes, "Oh, please..."
Levy grinned, "Well, can you blame me?" - He turned to Hugo" She's a mysterious beauty. It's hard not to be intrigued." He winked playfully as he took the message from Hugo.
Thalia chuckled, "I suppose I can't argue with that." She glanced at Levy and his bushy hair. "I only hope, however, you do not appear mysteriously in the thermal bath when I decide to take my bath; if you are so interested in it. Mr. Perv..."
It seems that his stupidity was his doom... As for many great and not-so-great people.
However, Levy did not give up without a fight. With all his acting skills he feigned shock, putting his hand over his heart. "Me? A pervert? I'm deeply offended, Thalia. I'll have you know I am a gentleman through and through."
Hugo let out a boisterous laugh. "Gentleman? That's a good one, Levy."
Levy shot him a playful glare before turning back to Thalia. "Don't worry, Thalia. I promise I won't sneak up on you in the baths. I'll leave that to Hugo."
Hugo grinned. "Oh, you know it, Levy... I'm a bit old for that, but if the duty calls..." - The grown 'boys' chuckled slightly.
Thalia rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small smile that played on her lips. "Well, I'll hold you both to that." - With that, she quickened her steps and went a bit further away from them.
Levy watched Thalia's retreating form, a faint smile on his lips as he felt his heart skip a beat. He couldn't deny that he was drawn to her, captivated by her quiet strength and beauty.
As they continued towards the guild, Hugo nudged Levy's shoulder, breaking him out of his thoughts. "What's got you so quiet, my friend? Lost in Thalia's eyes?"
Levy rolled his eyes, but the blush that crept up his cheeks betrayed him. "Shut up, Hugo. It's not like that."
Hugo raised an eyebrow. "Oh, really? You sure seemed pretty interested in her just now."
Levy shook his head. "No!... there's just something about her. She's so different from anyone else I've ever met." - Hugo quickly laid some teardrops after he heard that.
"Yeah, Yeah, she is the special one, and blah, blah... I know the rest! You don't have to continue." - He swung his hand as a sign he understood all the trash he was about to say... Hugo heard it enough in his fifty-four years.
"Auh-Wait! No! That's not what I meant, moron!" - This took him as a slap, a pretty light but annoying slap that says to be given back to the sender.
"Call your aunt a stupid moron..." - He said roughly, maybe a bit offended by a younger one referring to him as a moron. Levy just frowned at him as Hugo sighed. "Then what?" - He asked seriously. Levy shook his head after forgetting what he said about his aunt, whichever he thought about.
"Sometimes I can't help but wonder if Thalia is hiding something, but I struggle to believe that could be true." - He said, watching her as she walked with a carefree grace, her steps light and effortless as though she were dancing with the wind. "I mean, just look at her now. She seems so carefree and content. What if my suspicions are baseless and she simply prefers her own company? I would hate to be mistaken and make her feel uncomfortable."
Hugo nodded thoughtfully, which is rather a rare sight. "I see where you're coming from. Are you concerned that whatever Thalia may be hiding could be a potential danger to us if we remain unaware?" - Softly exclaimed Hugo in his rough voice.
"Perhaps..."
"She just joined us two weeks ago because Paul couldn't say no to her puppy eyes as she stated she was kicked out from her past party. It would be normal to not share everything with us... like why exactly she was kicked out. But if you're so concerned about it, you can tell this to Paul as well."
Levy nodded thoughtfully. "Yeah, You're right. I should talk to Paul about my concerns. He's the leader, after all. Maybe he can shed some light on the situation."
Hugo clapped him on the back. "That's the spirit. And who knows, maybe Thalia will open up to us eventually. But until then, we should respect her privacy and not push her too hard."
Levy nodded, feeling reassured by Hugo's words. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks, Hugo for hearing me out."
Hugo grinned. "Anytime, my friend. That's what friends are for."
Levy smiled back, feeling grateful for Hugo's unwavering support. They continued walking in silence for a few moments before Hugo spoke up again as he saw the Guild of Adventurers. "Here we are..."
Thalia stood right at the door waiting for the others to catch up.
As they approached the Guild of Adventurers, the setting sun cast a warm glow over the building, highlighting its rough-hewn stone walls and ancient wooden beams. The entrance was marked by a pair of ornate iron doors that bore the crest of the guild, a winged sword surrounded by a wreath of laurels.
Inside, the guild hall was a bustling hive of activity. Adventurers of all shapes and sizes milled about, swapping stories and sharing drinks as they prepared for their next quests. The air was thick with the scent of wood smoke and ale, and the sound of laughter and conversation echoed off the high ceilings.
The walls were lined with suits of armor and weapons of all kinds, from shining swords and wicked-looking axes to intricate crossbows and deadly poisons. Tapestries depicting great battles and legendary heroes adorned the walls, their vibrant colors and intricate designs adding to the sense of adventure and excitement that permeated the hall.
In the center of the room stood a great hearth, its soft flames leaping low and casting flickering shadows across the room. Seated around it were a group of seasoned adventurers, their faces weathered and lined with the marks of countless battles and adventures. Right behind the hearth a huge sculpture of Imre Basil.
Imre Basil, The legendary adventurer who had traveled to the far reaches of the world in search of treasure and adventure. He was known for his bravery, his cunning, and his unshakable spirit, which had earned him a place in the annals of history as the first adventurer as well for creating the base of the now working guilds.
It was carved from the finest marble, and it captured the essence of the man himself, from the twinkle in his eye to the wry smile on his lips.
His flowing hair was rendered in intricate detail, each strand seeming to dance in the wind as though imbued with a life of its own. His rugged features were etched with the lines of a life well-lived, and his broad shoulders bespoke of the strength and courage that had seen him through countless battles.
In one hand, he held a gleaming sword aloft, the blade catching the light and throwing dazzling sparks of light emitting from the hearth. On the other hand, he held a ball made of flames, due to the carvings it seemed the flames were dancing in his hand gracefully as though inviting all who gazed upon it to join him on his next great adventure.
As Levy and Hugo made their way towards the bar, they passed by several groups of adventurers, each one eagerly discussing their latest exploits and boasting of their prowess in battle. Some of them looked at them with jealousy, not because of their equipment, it was nothing special about it, just the normal stuff that even 𝐂-𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 adventurers can get. But their legendary status as one of the '𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐬.'
"Hey look at them!" - Said one of them with excitement.
"Shut it, they were also here yesterday, why are you so eager to see them?"
"They are heroes, man! Why shouldn't be eager then?" - Quickly answered the eager one.
"So they are one of the twelve adventurers who withstood tree [𝐀𝐫𝐜𝐡-𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐬] attack till the reinforcement arrived? Pff... It seems like I could be at their rank judging by their equipment."
Levy and Hugo tried to ignore the other adventurers' conversation as they made their way to the counter, but they couldn't help overhearing some of the other adventurers' comments.
"Come on, they're not that special." Said another adventurer, hitting the pitcher's bottom to the table, making the bear dance around. "I've heard that they got lucky a few times and now they think they're invincible."
"I don't know." Said a third adventurer. "They do seem to have a knack for getting out of tough situations. Maybe there's something to this 'Immortals' business after all."
"Ah, it's just a silly title." - Scoffed the first adventurer. "They're not really immortal, are they? I mean, we've all seen our fair share of death and danger out there when we adventurin' and shit."
Levy and Hugo exchanged a glance, knowing that they were the subject of the other adventurers' conversation. Thalia only looked at them with curiosity. She knew these people at this party are quite well-known, but she did not know the reason why, until now.
"Hey, don't talk like that about the Immortals, even right at their face." A gruff voice spoke up from behind them. They turned to see a burly man with a thick beard and a scar running down his cheek. "They've earned their reputation, and they've saved more lives than you could ever imagine, risking their lives in a war that they never wanted to happen. Fighting with fearful opponents that were out of their league. They've faced down horrors you can't even imagine, and they did it all without ever once losing their humanity and proving themselves time and time again in that bloody war. You should at least respect that."
The first adventurer rolled their eyes. "I'm just saying, we shouldn't put them up on a pedestal. They're just like us, nothing special."
"But they've accomplished things that most of us could only dream of!" The third adventurer chimed in. "And they've done it with grace and humility."
"Grace and humility my ass!" The first adventurer snorted. "They strut around here like they own the place, acting like they're better than everyone else."
Levy bristled at the accusation. He knew that he and Hugo had never acted superior to anyone else, despite their reputation. "We don't think we're better than anyone..." he spoke up. "We're simply fulfilling our duties, like all of you. The label 'Immortals' was attached to us due to the High Command's consistent acclaim of our abilities against the odds."
The first adventurer shrugged. "Whatever. I still think you are overrated."
Hugo chuckled. "That's okay, you're entitled to your opinion. But we'll keep on doing what we do best... Let's not spoil the mood at least, let's just take our reward and order our dinner!"
Levy nodded, grateful for Hugo's quick thinking. "Right, let's focus on the reward and enjoy the feast. That's the highlight of the day!"
Thalia trailed behind Levy and Hugo, intrigued by the reward they will earn. Upon reaching the bar, the receptionist flashed them a wide grin. "Well, well, the Immortals have arrived!" She exclaimed cheerfully. Hugo produced a blood-stained, battered card from his pocket, which the receptionist examined gingerly. It was the ID card of the bandit leader they had taken down during their quest. "Congratulations on completing the mission. Here's your reward!"
She handed them a large sack of coins, which Levy quickly counted to make sure they were all there. Satisfied with the amount, he nodded and handed the sack to Hugo, who stashed it away in his backpack.
"Mind if I ask, but where are the others?" - She asked timidly. Hugo was about to respond but Levy was a bit faster, even though his attention is focused on other urgent matters.
"Oh? They just take their bath sooner... They'll shortly arrive." - Said Levy as he looked at the other's meal with an almost salvia-full mouth.
"Hugo, I guess it would be better to order our food right away. We start to lose Levy..." - Said Thalia with a chuckle, noticing the hunger in Levy's eyes.
Hugo laughed and turned to the receptionist, placing everyone's order and a round of drinks for them. As they waited for their food to arrive, they chatted with the receptionist about their recent adventure and caught up on the latest news in the adventurer's guild.
"How long do you wish to stay in Kaubert? I've heard you guys do not really stay in one place."
"Ah, yes," said Hugo with a nod. "After Kasumi Watanabe and Hans Hanft, two well-known Otherworlders, were released from the locking curse that bound their souls to not turn their back on us, they decided to join our party. Like in the good ol' days. They were determined to help other Otherworlders who found themselves trapped in this world even by summons or accidentally. So, they established the 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬, a group dedicated to helping these individuals find their way home or, if that wasn't possible, to integrate into this world and live fulfilling lives. But to get back to your question miss, I would say five more days."
Levy chimed in, "It was a noble endeavor, and it gained them a lot of respect and admiration from the Otherworlders they helped. They even managed to negotiate with the King to establish a sanctuary for Otherworlders within the capital city, where they could receive aid and support."
The receptionist looked impressed. "That's amazing. I had no idea there was such a group."
Hugo smiled. "It's still a relatively small group, but they're making a difference. And we're proud to have Kasumi and Hans with us, as old comrades as well as friends. They bring a unique perspective and skills to our team..." - Levy quickly rubbed his hand against each other as he saw waitresses and waiters walking out of a door that probably lead to the kitchen section of the Guild. He quickly found which waitress brought his messiah with great care. "Speaking of perspective, my steak looks delicious on that salad bed!"
But as Levy was about to jump right at his food, with it to the waitress, the others, who decided to take a bath arrived Paul leading them.
Levy's eyes widened as he saw the group enter the guild. "Hey guys, you're just in time..." - He said monotonously. All the energy he gained upon seeing his food was evaporated in milliseconds. "Our food's arrived." He said, gesturing to the plates that are about to be set down on their table.
The young mage grinned at the sight of the food and the look of Levy. "Looks like we made it just in time... It seems your hustle was futile Levy, as we can enjoy our meal right after a nice bath." He said as he took a seat with Thalia next to him, Levy clutching his fist angrily. It was a risky gamble but nobody wanted to sit there, which meant he already threw up a tantrum in the bath. So she has taken the act of scapegoat.
Levy took a deep breath and tried to calm himself down. He knew it wasn't worth getting angry over, but he couldn't help feeling a bit frustrated. "Yeah, well, it's fine. Let's just eat." He said, trying to put on a smile.
Paul chuckled, knowing that he had gotten under Levy's skin. "Don't worry, we'll make sure to savor every bite of our food, just like you were planning to do."
The group settled down to enjoy their meal, chatting and laughing as they ate. The food was delicious, as expected from the adventurer's guild, and everyone seemed to be in good spirits so good that they, or rather the man-boys, made out of Paul, Levy, Hugo, and Gerald decided to drink a bit stronger than their tongue was used to.
As the night wore on, the group became more and more boisterous, their laughter filling the air. They told stories of past adventures and joked around, enjoying the camaraderie of being part of a team.
Levy, who had initially been irritated by the sudden arrival of the others, found himself swept up in the fun. He even found himself telling a few jokes, much to everyone's surprise.
Gerald, the group's resident spearman, was usually reserved, but he too seemed to be enjoying himself. He regaled them, especially Thalia with stories of battles won and enemies defeated, his voice booming with enthusiasm.
Thalia, the group's healer, and long-ranged marksman watched on with a smile, happy to see everyone having a good time. She was always the quiet one in the group, content to observe and listen after she took her bath, which unfortunately Levy and Hugo forgot in the mids of drinking.
Kai had his fill of fun and foolishness for the night, so he excused himself and headed to the nearest inn to get some rest. Before leaving, he reminded his companions.
"Dear gentlemen, please don't overindulge in alcohol tonight. Tomorrow, we have a quest to explore the ancient runes near the city, where a possible dungeon is located. I need everyone to be clear-headed and focused, not intoxicated as fuck. Thank you." He didn't give a second thought about the presence of the girls in their group, assuming that Hans would keep the guys in line if things got out of hand.
The night wore on, and the group enjoyed each other's company, their bellies full, and their spirits high. They eventually decided to call it a night, with Hugo paying the bill, and they all headed back to the inn and their respective room.
As the morning arrived, only one man slept soundly as the sun prepared to reach its zenith. That man was none other than the responsible and esteemed leader, Paul. He awoke to the harsh glare of the sun in his eyes, a lingering reminder of the alcohol from the night before. As he shifted to his side, intending to continue his slumber, he suddenly sensed that something was amiss.
Paul opened his eyes and looked around his room, trying to identify what was bothering him. It took him a moment to realize that a note was placed on the table located in his room.
He quickly sat up and scanned that particular note. It was the handwriting of Kai. The note said: You stupid fuck, didn't I tell you shouldn't drink that much? Now, you'll stay here in the inn until you will be somewhat more useful than a sack of meat, dumb-o-dumb-dumb. Do. not. do. ANYTHING. FOOLISH! - From your DEAREST friend, Kai.
End of note.
Paul groaned as he rubbed his temples, feeling the unpleasant effects of the alcohol. He couldn't believe he had overindulged like that, especially before an important quest. He made a mental note to be more responsible in the future.
As he got out of bed and dressed himself. He decided to make the most of the situation and... and do something stupid. He double-checked his equipment, making sure everything was in good working order, his short bow, saber, and healing items, and then headed to the guild to have his breakfast, as the inn did not provide food for its residents.
Paul arrived at the guild feeling slightly groggy but determined to make up for his mistake.
Despite the fact that he was still feeling the effects of his hangover, Paul was determined to prove his worth as an adventurer. In a fit of anger towards Kai's note, he decided to embark on an easy quest to collect rare herbs from the dangerous jungle of Taharan which place isn't quite compatible with the word 'easy.' It was clear that his emotions were driving him, rather than his senses, as he set out to venture into one of the most perilous places on the planet.
Little did Paul know that this decision could lead to disastrous consequences. With danger lurking around every corner, the slightest mistake could lead to a fatal blow and a cute yet deadly dark sphere.