"Kill this woman," the beastfolk merchant demanded abruptly, striding towards the table and slamming down a painting. "They say you're the finest sorceress in the Whispering Sands, Elara Starfrost—the Frostheart Magus. Your comrades are equally adept. If anyone can achieve this, it's your band."

The black-haired moon elf in blue robe studied the painting, noting the Dark Lady's inscrutable expression. "Let's talk money."

"800 million gold," pleaded the beast folk merchant, her voice fraught with desperation. "Ever since this painting came into my possession, I've been plagued by nightmares. It's indestructible, and even disowning it hasn't solved the problem."

"She looks human, beautiful by their standards, but otherwise the painting seems ordinary," said Elara, her gaze thoughtful. "I don't detect any magic." She glanced down at a chair where a grey-striped tabby cat with a white belly lounged comfortably. "What's your take on this, Leonidas?"

"You love making me talk, don't you?" A deep voice came from the cute-looking cat. "We haven't been in Yugen for long, and the highest gold reward we've heard from the adventurer's guild established here was 100,000 gold. That was for a mirage naga that was interrupting the merchants' trading routes and had made them its hunting ground." He jumped onto the table without touching any of the food and looked at the painting. "I believe a woman in black armour somehow managed to drive it away a few days before we arrived in this country. If we're going by the rumours, she did it on her own too, I might add. Coincidence?"

After elegantly sipping a glass of milk, Fiona Redsteel inquired, "What exactly is a mirage naga?"

Opening a drawing book, Illyria Raindancer sketched a horrifying multi-headed serpent with a small figure beside it. "This little dot here would be you, Fiona, if you were standing there." Fiona, taking another sip of milk, nearly spat it out in surprise at Illyria's audacious comparison. Illyria quickly covered Fiona's mouth with her palm, as if anticipating such reactions. Milk dribbled down the bard's hand as she looked at the Red Knight, who looked innocent and clueless. "Are you doing this on purpose, Fiona? You've been like this ever since I decided to bathe and play with you that one time at the lake... Wait, don't tell me—is this revenge? I swear it's a moon elf greeting! Elara, say something!"

Elara nodded thoughtfully. "These massive creatures wield a diverse array of powerful magic and rely on cunning more than brute strength. They are notorious for ambushing their prey with illusions that even the most skilled mages would struggle against." Meanwhile, Illyria and Fiona playfully sparred, with Leonidas chiming in that it was one of his favourite pastimes. "They are also adept at exploiting the desert environment to their advantage... In essence, they pose a significant threat as mythical beings."

Leonidas hopped back into his chair and lounged lazily. "Exactly. If you lot value your ongoing existence—which I happen to cherish greatly—you'd do well to avoid this quest. The merchant, who seems sharp enough, is dangling 800 million gold for this elusive Dark Lady. We're probably not her first choice of adventurers, and I wager the others declined too." His tail thumped against the chair. "And rightly so. Just look at her frailty. Keeping her close could sicken us or worse."

The beastfolk merchant let out a series of loud sneezes, prompting stares from nearby tables as though she carried a plague or curse. Some patrons began to leave. Irritated, she glanced their way. "These people... It's just a cold. The nights here are colder than places blanketed in snow and ice. I was careless, that's all." Then, fixing her glare directly on Leonidas, she added, "You cats always think only of yourselves and presume you know everything."

"Listen, ma'am," Leonidas started firmly. "Your quest is a death sentence, trust me—I'm unbiased and fair. If it were straightforward, I'd be the first to sign up. But someone in this group needs to think critically and treat perilous situations with gravity. And that responsibility happens to rest on me, a mere housecat..."

"I-I give," Fiona gasped, caught in Illyria's tight hold between her legs. Illyria's Triangle Choke technique was impeccable. "And?" prompted the World's Best Grappler. Fiona hesitated, then replied, "...I apologise... it won't occur again." When Illyria remained silent, Fiona hastily added, "Knight's oath! knight's oath!"

"Leonidas, Illyria and I have seen epochs; the concept of challenge isn't part of our lexicon," Elara stated matter-of-factly. She then rubbed her hands together as if she had already completed the quest and was about to claim the reward. "800 million gold, all mine. Money worries, forever banished."

"So eager to dive into the serpent's belly," remarked the grey cat. "Go ahead, accept the quest if you wish. We all should have the freedom to make our own choices." He sighed deeply. "But count me out of this one-way journey to hell, even if I do have nine lives."

"I'm always up for a heroic challenge..." declared Fiona Redsteel, though she winced as she rested her head on the table, her neck sore and breath coming in short gasps. She was a young woman with noble, short red hair, clad in chainmail, her light blue eyes reflecting determination. "...I'm not motivated by money, so feel free to divide the gold among yourselves."

Illyria Lunarsong adjusted her pink hat, a signature piece of her bardic attire, and hesitated. "I'm not entirely sure about this. Just looking at the painting gives me goosebumps... Fiona, you recently graduated from the Mystic Blade Institute at Sanctumaria, didn't you? Ah, to be young, energetic, and fearless... Perhaps I should compose a heroic ballad about you." With that, she erased the drawing of the menacing serpent with a glyph stone and began sketching Fiona to gather more inspiration for her song. "The piece could be titled," she glanced at Fiona's longbow, "Phoenix Plume... Yes, that's the name of the longbow you've never once used and seem to avoid discussing its origins. Your courage and stubbornness... the song will be called Flames of Resilience! Oh, dear Fiona, to me, you're like a flame of hope, igniting my maiden heart anew."

"Illyria," Elara said, her voice tinged with amusement. She glanced around the opulently lit tavern, where enchanted chandeliers bathed the polished mahogany walls in a warm, golden glow. "If you wish to withdraw from this bounty, that's your prerogative. But weren't you the one who boldly proclaimed and sang songs about us mortals surpassing even the gods, including Nae the Almighty herself?" She reclined in her chair. "You have these unexpected moments of shyness, yet at other times, you exude the aura of a goddess of art and beauty. You've even managed to make me blush on occasion, which I thought impossible."

"It's difficult not to feel confident with our innate aptitude for magic and exceptional mana reserves," Illyria replied, tilting her hat back slightly as she met Elara's gaze. "True, we elves remain in our prime indefinitely and won't succumb to old age, but we're not immortal—unless you've been delving into forbidden magic I'm unaware of?" She chuckled softly, a melodic sound that harmonised with the ambient noise of the tavern. "I may be more powerful now than ever before, but I've always considered myself a humble bard first, not a fearsome sorceress or a monk."

"As a prodigious arcane ranger from Sanctumaria and its colosseum champion, I vow to protect you both with my life," Fiona gave a heroine's smile. She extended her left arm, palm open. "Though bows are my forte, rest assured—I've mastered all manner of weapons and magic!"

Leonidas let out an irritated meow. "Hey, what about me? I'm coming along too, you know. I may act tough, but I have feelings too. Protect me as well."

"So, you're taking the job?" asked the beastfolk merchant, her expression still wan but brightening a tad. "I'm Hazel Barkbreeze. Pleasure to make your acquaintance!" She coughed lightly. With hazel hair and distinctive dog ears, she wore a finely crafted orange tunic that spoke of her status and refined taste.

"Since this is an unofficial request," Elara inquired, "do you have a contract prepared?"

"Of course! I'm a professional," Hazel replied confidently, opening a Dimensional Pocket and producing a scroll. "Here it is." She handed the magic scroll to Elara, then added, "I've never seen enchantments quite like those on your robe and your companion's bard attire."

Illyria responded, "We're devotees of the goddess Glacialus, and both our garments were enchanted by her. But if you can discern the enchantments, my fears are justified. Glacialus has always watched over and safeguarded her followers, but she hasn't responded to prayers in quite some time. I've always felt secure knowing that the Endless Frost was somewhere in the world, combating evil by freezing and purifying it..." Her expression turned sombre, then she briskly clapped her cheeks with her palms. "Elara and I will need to step into her role and earn her recognition through our deeds. Perhaps then, she'll..."

"...A goddess' enchantment?" Hazel examined Illyria's attire more closely and moved towards her. Illyria was surprised by her touch. "Why are you coming so close to me? W-watch where you're putting your hands. For someone so small, you're quite daring—that tickles! N-no, not there. Ahhhh!"

"Focus, Elara, there's gold at stake. Glorious, delightful gold," Elara reminded herself. Leonidas overheard her and wondered aloud if the sorceress' lust for gold was a sin against Glacialus. She replied that the goddess was pragmatic and understanding. Managing to ignore the banter around her, Elara immersed herself in studying the magic scroll, which began to illuminate with letters appearing on its own:

Contract for Slaying the Dark Lady

Parties:

Employer: Hazel Barkbreeze, Renowned Beastfolk Merchant and Enchantress

Adventurers:

Elara Starfrost, the Frostheart Magus

Fiona Redsteel, Genius Arcane Ranger

Illyria Lunarsong, Siren of the Starfall Strings

This contract is entered into by and between:

Employer: Hazel Barkbreeze, Renowned Beastfolk Merchant and Enchantress (hereinafter referred to as "Employer")

Adventurers: Elara Starfrost, Fiona Redsteel, and Illyria Lunarsong (hereinafter collectively referred to as "Adventurers")

Date and Calendar System: The dates mentioned in this agreement shall follow the Yugen calendar for clarity.

Scope of Services:

The Adventurers agree to undertake the task of locating, investigating, and neutralising a malevolent entity known as the Dark Lady, as depicted in the painting provided by the Employer.

The task includes:

Conducting a thorough investigation into the entity's origins, vulnerabilities, and current location.

Employing tracking skills and magical detection methods to monitor the entity's movements.

Ensuring the permanent removal of the entity through destruction or other suitable means.

Duration: The contract shall commence upon signing and shall remain in effect until the task is completed to the satisfaction of the Employer, not to exceed six thousand (6000) years from the commencement date.

Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

Payment: In consideration for the successful completion of the task, the Employer agrees to pay the Adventurers the sum of 800 million gold coins, to be distributed equally among them upon completion.

Responsibilities:

The Employer shall provide necessary information, resources, and support to aid in the completion of the task.

The Adventurers shall use their best efforts and abilities to accomplish the task within the agreed timeframe.

Both parties agree to maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information disclosed during the course of this contract.

Enchantment: The Adventurers acknowledge and accept that their attire and equipment will be enchanted by the Employer Hazel Barkbreeze for enhanced protection and efficacy during their mission.

Termination: Either party may terminate this contract with one thousand four hundred (1400) years' written notice. In the event of termination, the Adventurers shall be compensated proportionally for services rendered up to the date of termination.

Dispute Resolution: Any disputes arising under or related to this contract shall be resolved through arbitration in accordance with the laws of Yugen.

Signatures: In witness whereof, the parties hereto have executed this contract on the 17th day of Akashirae, Year 5732 EOL, as of the date first written above.

Employer: Hazel Barkbreeze

Adventurers:

Elara Starfrost

Fiona Redsteel

Illyria Lunarsong

"Rare to encounter a fair contract. You must truly desire the Dark Lady's demise, hmm?" Elara raised her head, tapping her finger lightly on the table. "I could discern your magical prowess at a glance, but an enchantress? That's uncommon even among elves, let alone the beastfolk."

Hazel nodded emphatically. "Absolutely! I know firsthand how unfairly the adventurer's guild often assesses reward versus risk. I may not be a saint, but my life is invaluable especially considering enchanting runs deep in my family—we're renowned for it." She dabbed at her nose with a handkerchief. "That's why it puzzled me when I couldn't discern the type of enchantment on your equipment. However, Illyria, you're wrong about one thing."

The merchant looked dead serious, first into Illyria's eyes, then Elara's. She had both of their full attention. "It's a gut feeling, but I'm sure the enchantment is growing more powerful rather than weakening as mortals' enchantments tend to do. This is my speculation, but Glacialus could have transcended divinity like the Almighty Nae. Meaning her powers have grown so endlessly vast that even you two fabled adventurers aren't capable of tapping and harnessing the enchanted equipment's full potential, despite the goddess' approval of you."

"It's a popular theory among enchanters, but this is the first time I've seen it personally. I thought I had learned everything about the field, but as my mentor Ophelia once said, there's always more to learn."

Fiona took a peek at the contract and broke the solemn atmosphere. "You've given us 6000 years to complete this quest?! Do mortals typically live this long? And what's EOL?"

"Aww, Fiona, you can't be that clueless," Illyria said, pinching both of Fiona's cheeks to create a doll-like smile. "All mortals have experienced increased life expectancy since the Enlightened One's Liberation. It's almost like the near-immortality that was once exclusive to the elves."

The bard opened a Dimensional Pocket, placed her sketchbook into it, and took out a notebook. "Let's see... according to my past self and a reliable history book I've read, the event happened here in Yugen but affected the entire world. Even back then, Yugen was the capital and largest city of the Whispering Sands."

Illyria took a step back and looked at Fiona's full body. "By the way, Fiona, are you a Founder or an Eternal? Founders existed before the Liberation, and Eternals were born after."

The Blood Knight told her she had no idea, and Illyria feigned concern. "Have you been acting coy and childish like some Founders do? Hehe, if you did, it's such a human thing to do. But, I just can't see you being 5,000 years old, Fiona."

She took Fiona's hand, feeling its softness in her grasp. "Your hand is so soft. You must rely on your magic every day. You're such a mystery—it's rare to see a human with magic on par with the best elven mages. Merlinia Emerick, the Legendary Archmage proclaimed by humanity, was an upstart but was quickly humbled by a youngling elf. Yet here you are, an astounding human without any fame. The world can be so strange!"

Elara interjected, "Illyria, during your music tours, I taught at the Mystic Blade Institute for a while. Their history books, among other curricula, are deeply biassed. It's no wonder Fiona has been influenced." The bard, with her lavender eyes and hair flowing like a cascade, absorbed the information with ease, demonstrating her innate adaptability.

Fiona tried to move back, exclaiming, "Illyria, you're too close! Too close!" Illyria smoothly positioned her leg behind Fiona, catching her as she began to fall backward into a dip. Drawing nearer, she whispered, "Don't think for a minute that I didn't notice you pretending not to see what Hazel did to me just moments ago. Consider yourself my dance partner until I've exhausted you completely, for failing to protect me as you promised."

"I-I meant protection from monsters, Hazel is a friend, isn't she?" stammered Fiona, but Illyria continued to stare through her, silently insisting that she wouldn't get away. Illyria's expression softened only when Fiona finally relented, prompting the bard to grin like a mischievous child.

Without a word, Illyria took Fiona's hand and led her to the centre of the bustling tavern. With the owner's assistance and the eager help of a few patrons, they quickly cleared a space for the two women.

Illyria initiated with a subtle weight shift, guiding Fiona into a smooth ochos sequence. Fiona responded with impeccable technique, her axis firm as she executed precise pivots. Their torsos maintained a subtle but constant connection, allowing for effortless communication of lead and follow.

Elara played the violin with her eyes closed, her movements graceful and exact. Hazel, looking slightly healthier, skillfully handled the bandoneón, filling the air with its emotive sound. Meanwhile, in the corner of the tavern, Leonidas, the housecat, surprised the audience by standing on a levitating bench. Using not only his front paws but also his latent psychic powers, he deftly manipulated the piano keys. Melodies flowed effortlessly from his touch, blending seamlessly with Elara and Hazel's music, creating a mesmerising harmony that captivated everyone in the tavern.

The music enveloped Illyria and Fiona in its rhythm, the complex syncopation punctuating their steps. Illyria's embrace was both supportive and commanding, guiding Fiona through nuanced barridas and embellishments that punctuated their dance with flair and finesse.

"You're catching on beautifully," Illyria murmured, her eyes were otherworldly, focused, and her voice carrying a hint of admiration amidst the intensity of their dance. "Keep the connection through your fingers and feel the lead in your body."

Fiona nodded, her focus sharp as she mirrored Illyria's intricate footwork and embellishment with each movement flowed seamlessly into the next.

By the time their performance concluded, a sizable crowd had packed the tavern, forming a line for autographs. Hazel had generously offered to cover all expenses, spreading cheer throughout the establishment. They celebrated, and some patrons even apologised for their earlier rudeness. Merlinia, towering over even the largest ursine beastfolk, said, "Kæss'Ius, behold Illyria. The Siren of the Starfall Strings, as I predicted. Her influence is undeniable."

Kæss'Ius glanced towards Merlinia with a faint, acknowledging smile. "Seems she's made quite the impression," he remarked quietly, his eyes briefly scanning Illyria, her companions, and the lively crowd before settling back on Merlinia. "It's good to see you're feeling more like yourself."

Merlinia's gaze met Kæss'Ius's with a mysterious glint in her eyes. "Indeed, her presence is captivating," she replied enigmatically. "As for feeling like myself, one can never truly be certain of who they are, can they?"

Kæss'Ius had tousled black hair and exotic forest-green eyes. He was tall and flawlessly well-built, dressed in a grey robe that hinted at his underlying strength. Merlinia, with her long green hair and brown eyes, surpassed Kæss'Ius in stature, wearing a complementing mocha robe.

"...King Thaddeus begged me to join and lead the Swords of Damnation after I defeated Prince Alaric, Eternal Wall Maximilian, and the Legendary Archmage Merlinia in the arena. He even tried to stop me from leaving the kingdom. Sigh. Why must I be such a genius?!" Fiona slurred, drunk and cradling Leonidas in her arm.

The grey tabby pleaded, "Elara, Illyria, someone, please get me out of her grasp...!"

The patrons tried to free Leonidas, but Fiona was simply too strong and forced them back with her aura while laughing like a maniac. Elara and Hazel were finalising the contract and then shook hands. And Illyria, who had the longest line for autographs, spotted Merlinia and Kæss'Ius amidst the crowd. Before they teleported away, Merlinia wore a bored expression, sipping hot spiced chocolate through a straw, while Kæss'Ius offered a slight, polite smile.

Illyria's attention refocused on the blond man before her, who interrupted her thoughts, "Excuse me, I'm a huge fan! Could I please have your autograph?"

"Oh, a fan! How delightful! You must have exceptional taste to recognise my brilliance amidst the rabble." Illyria theatrically produced a quill, twirling it between her fingers. "Now, where shall I bestow my magnificent signature? On a parchment? Your hand? Perhaps directly on your heart, so you'll never forget this moment?"

The blond man blushed and fumbled, "Uh, just on this book, please."

The bard pretended to sigh dramatically, though a smile tugged at her lips.

"How terribly conventional! But very well, who am I to deny such a loyal admirer?" She signed the book with an exaggerated flourish, adding a little doodle of herself for good measure. "There you go, my dear. A keepsake from the one and only!" She winked. "Treasure it always, for you hold a piece of my radiant essence. And do spread the word of my unparalleled talents far and wide!"

"Thank you so much! This means the world to me!"

Illyria gave a theatrical laugh, placing a hand over her heart.

"Of course it does, darling. Now, off you go! There are many more eager souls awaiting a glimpse of my grandeur." She waved the fan off with a playful shooing motion. Turning to the lineup with a grand gesture, she addressed the waiting fans. "Ah, behold the adoring masses! How you all sparkle with anticipation! Fear not, for I shall bestow my divine signature upon each of you. One by one, step forward and receive the honour of my mark!"

As the next fan stepped forward, she gave them a conspiratorial wink. Illyria continued signing autographs with an exaggerated flourish, occasionally peppering her fans with playful remarks to keep them entertained, she sent a telepathic message. 'Elara, I've just spotted Merlinia with a striking gentleman. Any thoughts on her unexpected presence here? She was using a high-level concentration spell, Resonant Veil, to mask their presence.'

Elara replied, her attention divided between reexamining the magical bag of 180,000 gold that Hazel had given her as advanced payment and maintaining her focus on the task at hand. 'I was occupied verifying the gold with my Appraisal Magic. Now that's sorted, I'm still pressing my precious bag to my face. Do you reckon she was here to seek my services as well? If not, then there's nothing further to discuss.'

'I hate you... sometimes,' Illyria muttered, flashing a dazzling smile at a werewolf fan who was also a cultist.

In a spacious white room filled with paintings, Merlinia sat lazily on a sofa. "Why do they concern themselves so much with duel outcomes? The reward for first place in the arena was a mere 50,000 gold—scarcely worth the commotion." A hoard of unopened letters sat on the desk in front of her. Some were for Merlinia, while the others were for Kæss'Ius.

Sitting on a stool, Kæss'Ius began painting on a canvas. "Both mortals and gods must ascertain their status and place..." He abruptly fell silent, fully engrossed in his artwork.

Merlinia inquired, "Are you painting me again? What was it you said before? That no two paintings are ever identical. Or perhaps you've decided to work on those commissions at last?" Realising he wouldn't answer, she approached Kæss'Ius to observe his current canvas.

Noticing, as usual, that Kæss'Ius had barely begun, she began chanting her Spiritual Proxy spell: "In a white room's calm, Merlinia weaves her spell, art's mirror summoned." Soon, a fully coloured phantom duplicate of Kæss'Ius, putting the final touches on a painting, emerged beside them, revealing the finished artwork in its entirety.

The completed painting depicted the dance and musical performance that had taken place at the Silk Pavilion, albeit with deliberate alterations.

She queried the spectre, "Neither of us took part in the performance. Why have you depicted me playing the double bass and yourself on the cello?"

"I conceived it, so why not?" replied Kæss'Ius' duplicate.

Merlinia's lips curled into a knowing smile as she gazed at Kæss'Ius. "Ah, the whims of the imagination. It's a realm where even the most unlikely can become reality. Perhaps, in this performance, you sought to capture the essence of something more profound—a harmony we both share, yet seldom express."

Her eyes glinted with a mix of amusement and intrigue. "Or, maybe," she continued, her tone turning ever so slightly playful, "you just fancied the idea of seeing me with a double bass."