Chapter 4 - Friends Here, Friends Gone
After her spa treatment, Yumiko headed straight to her room, the promise of rest too tempting to resist. She sank into the plush, luxurious bed, her body melting into the soft embrace of the sheets. Sleep overtook her quickly, carrying her into the hazy realm of dreams.
Before long, an image began to take shape in her mind: a young girl running frantically through the woods, clutching a worn teddy bear tightly against her chest. The girl’s striking white hair glimmered even in the dim, dreamlike light, and her pointy animal ears twitched as though attuned to distant dangers. A beast person? Yumiko wondered.
She tried to focus on the girl’s face, but the dream seemed intent on keeping it hidden, cloaking the girl’s features in an obscuring shadow. The sounds of men shouting broke through the quiet woods, their voices sharp and angry. The child darted behind a thick tree trunk, trembling as she hugged the bear closer, her fear almost tangible.
And then Yumiko woke.
Her eyes fluttered open, and she inhaled deeply, her chest rising and falling as she tried to steady herself. The memory of the dream lingered in her mind like a faint echo, but the calming comfort of the bed softened her usual worry. Gazing out the window, she wondered if the vision carried any significance—or if it was nothing more than her subconscious playing tricks. She sighed, deciding to let it rest for now. Morning would bring clarity, and with more sleep behind her, she could face whatever questions the dream raised.
The next day dawned at the spa resort. Sunlight streamed through the window as Yumiko stirred awake, a satisfied smile spreading across her lips. For the first time in what felt like ages, she felt truly refreshed, her body and mind rejuvenated by the previous night’s rest.
She stretched languidly, her gaze falling to her arm. The scars and wear from her travels seemed less pronounced, the soothing properties of the bath leaving her skin renewed. As the memory of the strange dream crept back into her thoughts, a knock sounded at the door, pulling her from her musings.
Throwing on a robe, Yumiko hopped out of bed and padded to the door. Rising on her tiptoes, she peered through the peephole and saw a familiar mop of bright red hair.
“Open up, sleepyhead!” Mary’s voice came through, light and teasing. She knocked again, a playful edge to her tone. “You’re in trouble if you make me knock twice!”
Yumiko opened the door with a bright smile. “Good morning, dear friend!”
“Well, well, look who’s alive!” Mary chuckled, crossing her arms as she took in Yumiko’s bedhead. “You look like you slept like the dead.”
“It was wonderful,” Yumiko admitted, smoothing her messy black hair with her hands, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. “What’s up?”
Mary gestured toward the clock on the wall. “What’s up is that it’s three in the afternoon. You’ve officially turned into a sloth. And we’ve got a group dinner at the casino to get to.”
Yumiko’s head whipped around to look at the clock. Her eyes widened in disbelief as the time registered. “Three o’clock?!” she cried, sprinting back into the room. “I’ve never slept this late in my life! Why didn’t you wake me sooner?”
“I tried—three times,” Mary replied, leaning against the bathroom doorway with a knowing smirk. “Once was even with Lukas. You were out cold, so we decided to let you have some beauty sleep.”
Yumiko groaned as she caught sight of her travel-worn clothes draped over the tub. “What am I going to wear…” she muttered, running a brush hastily through her hair.
“This place has tailors who can fit you with something for dinner tonight,” Mary said, her voice practical yet upbeat. “As long as we leave here by five, we’ll be fine. They’re supposed to be quick—only need about thirty minutes.”
She turned toward the door, brushing her hands together as though already ticking an item off her mental checklist. “I’m going to get my outfit sorted while you get ready. That way, we can take turns, and they won’t keep anyone waiting.” Just as she reached the doorway, she paused, throwing a glance back at Yumiko. “Oh, and Lukas said he’d meet us at the casino later. You’re in for a surprise.”
Yumiko poked her head out from the bathroom, eyebrows raised in curiosity. “Surprise? What kind of surprise?”
Mary’s smile turned sly as she waved a hand, stepping out into the hallway. “You’ll see. Just be downstairs in thirty minutes, sleepyhead!”
Yumiko groaned, retreating back to the mirror. She stared at her reflection, her expression torn between amusement and mild self-annoyance. “How could I oversleep like that?” she muttered, running a hand through her slightly tousled hair. “But that bed… it was impossible to resist.”
As she worked to pull herself together, her thoughts wandered back to the strange dream from the night before. Her brow furrowed, and she muttered to herself, “No… If it were something from Sofia, she’d have contacted us directly. Especially now, with the staff in our possession.” She frowned, recalling Sofia’s last message. “She said it’d be a little while before she reached out about the next steps for the artifacts…”
With a decisive shake of her head, she snapped herself out of the spiral. “Alright, Yumiko, enough overthinking. Time to enjoy the evening.” She gave her cheeks a light slap for good measure, steeling herself before finishing her preparations.
Once ready, Yumiko headed downstairs, where the spa’s tailors helped her select an outfit. She eventually chose a simple yet elegant short black dress with a glittery shimmer, paired with comfortable but stylish shoes that gave her a polished look without sacrificing ease.
Mary arrived soon after, wearing a green dress that complemented her fiery red hair. A white headband completed the ensemble, her hair artfully styled and parted upward. Yumiko couldn’t help but smile at the sight.
“You look amazing!” Mary said, flashing a wide grin.
“You too,” Yumiko replied, her cheeks tinting pink. She wasn’t used to wearing something so refined, and a small thrill of excitement bubbled within her. She had to admit—she was looking forward to the evening more than she expected. “Lukas is already at the casino?” she asked, tilting her head up at Mary.
Mary nodded, her enthusiasm contagious. “Yep! He said he wanted to touch base with a friend to see if they’d be available tonight. If they couldn’t make it, he’d have come back, but…” She gestured toward the front entrance, where a sleek carriage waited just beyond the door. “Looks like it’s happening! And get this—the casino sent us a carriage. His friend wasn’t kidding around. I guess he really is the casino owner!”
Yumiko’s eyes widened at the carriage. “Wow, it’s so pretty!”
Mary clapped her hands together, practically bouncing on her toes. “I know, right? We’re going to be so spoiled tonight! I heard their pulled pork is to die for. And the decor? Statues, chandeliers, the works. I’m ready for all of it!”
Yumiko giggled at Mary’s enthusiasm, her own excitement bubbling beneath the surface.
The girls climbed into the ornate white carriage, their hands brushing against the plush red velvet that lined the seats. The cushions were soft and inviting, with gold embroidery adding an extra touch of luxury. As the carriage began to move, Yumiko leaned slightly out the window, marveling at the view.
The wealthy side of town was nothing like what she’d known Braint as. The streets were clean and pristine, devoid of drunks, litter, or unpleasant smells. Cobblestones glistened as if freshly polished, and every building seemed to have its own personality—ornate facades, wrought iron balconies, and intricate carvings decorating their walls. The lamps lining the streets glowed warmly, casting a gentle light on the impeccably preserved surroundings.
Though the district exuded quiet wealth, their carriage still drew stares. Passersby turned their heads, some with curiosity, others with thinly veiled envy. Yumiko sank back into her seat, feeling slightly self-conscious under the watchful eyes of the onlookers.
Before long, the carriage slowed to a halt in front of the casino. Yumiko’s breath caught in her throat as she stared at the grand building before them. The massive double doors were polished to a mirror shine, their golden frames catching and reflecting the light like a beacon. A sharply dressed man stood at the entrance, greeting guests with a polite bow and a warm smile as they stepped inside.
The stagecoach turned and tipped his hat to them. “Young ladies, head through those golden doors. Your friend said he’ll be waiting for you in the main lobby.”
“Thanks!” Mary chimed, digging into her coin pouch and pulling out two silver coins. She dropped them into the man’s waiting hand with a smile.
The driver nodded in thanks. “Enjoy your evening, ladies.”
Yumiko and Mary stepped out of the carriage, the excitement in Yumiko’s chest building with each passing moment. As they entered the casino, the grandeur of the interior hit her all at once.
The floors were covered in bold, luxurious patterns, their vibrant colors weaving a tapestry of opulence. Statues of various sizes and figures lined the walls, their craftsmanship so fine that they seemed almost alive. Above them, the ceilings curved gracefully, adorned with intricate gold and silver filigree that framed murals of fantastical scenes.
The casino buzzed with life. Richly dressed patrons—humans, dwarves, and elves among them—moved about with an air of sophistication. Women in glittering gowns and men in sharply tailored suits chatted, laughed, and sipped from crystal glasses. The sound of coins clinking and cards shuffling filled the air, mingling with the soft melody of a live piano playing in the background.
At the center of the grand lobby stood the largest chandelier Yumiko had ever seen. Its dazzling crystal design shimmered with light, scattering tiny rainbows across the room. She stood in awe, her gaze fixed upward as the chandelier’s glow reflected in her wide eyes.
Mary nudged her with a playful grin. “Your face is almost as bright as that chandelier.”
Yumiko blushed, torn between embarrassment and wonder. “It’s… beautiful,” she murmured, her voice barely audible over the lively chatter around them.
Before she could say more, two sharply dressed men approached them, their confident strides drawing attention. One of them flashed a charming smile. “Good evening, ladies. Do you need an escort for the night?”
Yumiko tilted her head, confused by the question. Before she could respond, Mary stepped forward, casually placing an arm in front of Yumiko like a protective barrier. “Thanks, but we already have dinner plans,” she said, her tone polite but firm.
The men exchanged smirks, as if doubting her words, before turning and walking away without another word.
Yumiko blinked after them, her confusion still evident. “What… was that?”
Mary laughed, her voice lighthearted. “Just two guys trying to hit on us.”
“Really?” Yumiko asked, her brow furrowing in disbelief. “In public? Just like that?”
Mary giggled, a playful glint in her eyes. “Do your people not do something similar?”
Yumiko shook her head, her black hair swaying slightly. “Not like that… at least not so direct. Marriages are usually formal or arranged within families. Public displays like this are rare.”
Mary was about to respond when a man strolled confidently up to her, his chest puffed out as if rehearsing a speech in his head. “Madam, your hair is as red as the finest of wines, and your beauty—”
“Not interested,” Mary interrupted flatly, her tone as sharp as a blade.
The man hesitated for a moment, grumbling under his breath before turning and walking away, his pride visibly dented.
Yumiko stared after him in amazement. “So harsh…”
Mary shrugged, unfazed. “He’s from Braint, what can I say? Guys like that come to places like this to gamble away their life savings and then try to charm a woman on their way out to soften the blow.”
Before Yumiko could respond, another group of men approached. One stepped forward, a wide grin on his face and a faint smell of alcohol clinging to his breath. “Excuse me, ladies, are you heading to the tables too? Maybe we could have some fun together?”
Yumiko instinctively leaned back, uncomfortable under his gaze. “No… sorry,” she said quickly, turning her face away.
Mary, ever the shield, stepped between them and the men, crossing her arms. “Back off, boys. We have plans.”
The man smirked, unfazed by Mary’s firm stance. “A pretty one with a fierce bite,” he said with a laugh, his friends joining in.
“Come on,” another chimed in, his grin wide and leering. “We won’t bite… unless you want us to.” He leaned closer to Yumiko, his breath warm and reeking of liquor. Yumiko recoiled in disgust, twisting her face away.
Mary’s eyes narrowed dangerously, her body tense, ready to strike. But before she could move, the man yelped in pain, stumbling backward as if hit by a force of nature. He landed hard on the polished floor, clutching his shoulder and glaring up at the towering figure that now stood between him and the girls.
“What are you trying to do? Break my damn arm? Who the hell do you think you are?” the man barked, his bravado flickering under the intensity of the tall man’s glare.
Lukas stood there, his expression calm but his presence imposing. The light from the chandelier above highlighted his sharp features. His blonde hair, freshly washed and gleaming, framed his face, while his piercing blue eyes were steady and clear. He looked almost unrecognizable, his usual disheveled appearance replaced by a clean-shaven face that emphasized his strong jawline.
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Mary smirked, crossing her arms and leaning back slightly. “About time you showed up, Lukas. What did I say about leaving two beautiful women alone in a place like Braint?”
“Yeah, yeah,” Lukas muttered, his tone dismissive as his gaze remained locked on the man still sprawled on the ground.
Yumiko couldn’t tear her eyes away from him. This polished and composed Lukas was so different from the rough, tired warrior she knew. He looked almost regal under the soft light of the chandelier, his presence commanding the room without effort. She found herself staring, a faint blush creeping to her cheeks as she wondered if this was truly the same man who had fought beside her through so much hardship.
Lukas looked down at the half-drunken man sprawled on the polished floor. His voice was cold, measured. “They’re with me. If you even think about laying your grubby hands on them again, you’ll have to go through me first.”
The man grimaced but said nothing, clutching his shoulder in pain. His companions exchanged nervous glances, silently debating whether they stood a chance against Lukas. The tension in the air was palpable, the faint sounds of the bustling casino fading as the scene unfolded.
Before anyone could make a move, a smooth, commanding voice cut through the tension. “My, my… If I’d known you were planning to put on such a performance, Lukas, I would have reserved the theater for you. The main lobby hardly does justice to your flair.”
The voice carried a quiet authority, turning heads instantly. All eyes shifted to a young man approaching with an effortless air of confidence. He had neatly styled dark brown hair, sharp green eyes that gleamed with intelligence, and a fitted suit that exuded wealth and power. Behind him trailed ten men in equally pristine attire, each radiating a quiet menace.
The man came to a stop just before Lukas, tilting his head slightly as he locked eyes with him. A faint smirk played at the corner of his lips. Lukas returned his gaze with equal intensity, the two sizing each other up like old rivals meeting again after a long time.
Mary stiffened slightly, her instincts warning her. She didn’t like the energy this new arrival and his entourage brought to the room.
“I’m not an actor,” Lukas replied flatly, his tone as dry as ever. “I’d trip over the second line, and you know it.”
The man’s smirk widened, a deep laugh escaping him. “No, but you’ve always had the charisma of a golden coin. Flawless and hard to ignore.” He stepped forward, clasping Lukas’s hand firmly and shaking it. “How are you, my old friend?”
Lukas allowed a small smile to break through his usual stoicism. “I’ve been alright. It’s good to see you again, Luchs.” His gaze swept the opulent surroundings. “Looks like you’ve been doing more than alright with this place.”
The man on the floor, still nursing his wounded pride, went pale. His eyes darted between Lukas and the newcomer as realization dawned. “Luchs Willfried… The owner of this casino,” he stammered, panic lacing his words.
Luchs turned, his expression softening slightly as he glanced at the others. “Tell me, Lukas, are these friends of yours?” His eyes lingered on Mary and Yumiko before flicking to the group of unruly men.
“Only the women,” Lukas replied firmly. He motioned to them. “These are the friends I mentioned bringing.”
Luchs’s gaze settled on Mary and Yumiko, his sharp eyes warm but discerning. He nodded, a small smile gracing his face. “Ah, yes, my receptionist did mention you were bringing a Mary and… Yumi, was it?” He paused, tilting his head. “Forgive me, miss, how does your name go again?”
Yumiko stood straighter, her face flushing under his attention. She bowed politely. “Yumiko Hoshino, sir—honored one!”
Luchs’s smile deepened. “Such a polite young lady. But there’s no need for formalities. Please, just call me Luchs. A friend of Lukas is a friend of mine.”
“O-okay… Luchs,” Yumiko said awkwardly, glancing away shyly.
Luchs turned back to Lukas, his smile fading slightly as his tone grew sharper. “Now, what’s all this commotion about?” His gaze swept over the scene, landing on the drunken man still sitting awkwardly on the floor.
Lukas gestured toward the man. “This fool decided to harass my friends. He got a little too close to Yumiko and was making her rather uncomfortable.”
“Is that so?” Luchs asked, his sharp green eyes narrowing as he turned his attention to the men. His casual demeanor vanished in an instant, replaced by an air of menace. “It seems,” he said slowly, his tone darkening, “we have some trash that has somehow made its way into my establishment.”
The room fell into a tense silence, even the piano stopped playing, the weight of his words suffocating. The once lively chatter of the casino stilled as everyone turned their attention to the confrontation. The men froze, their bravado evaporating under Luchs’s piercing gaze.
He glanced at the guards stationed around the room, his voice cutting through the air like a blade. “Gentlemen,” he said, emphasizing each syllable, “you know what we do with trash. We take it outside.”
At his command, the guards moved forward with practiced precision. They grabbed the men by their arms, ignoring their protests and struggles. The commotion echoed as the men were dragged through the casino floor, their shouts of indignation blending with the clatter of gambling chips and the faint hum of conversation that began to return.
Luchs turned to the crowd, his stern expression softening into a charismatic smile. “Ladies and gentlemen, I must apologize for the disruption. Let this serve as a reminder: distasteful behavior has no place at the Chariot. For your understanding and patronage, however, I’d like to extend a small gesture of appreciation. A free drink token for everyone, on the house.”
A ripple of applause and excited chatter spread through the crowd, the tension dissipating as patrons quickly returned to their games and drinks. Yumiko couldn’t help but marvel at how seamlessly Luchs controlled the room, diffusing the situation while turning it into an opportunity to curry favor with the guests.
Luchs turned back to Lukas and his companions, his earlier smile widening. “Now then, let’s not let this little interruption delay us. Follow me—we have a table waiting.”
He gestured for them to follow, leading them deeper into the lavish casino. The group passed rows of glittering slot machines and bustling tables where finely dressed dealers shuffled cards and spun roulette wheels. The staff moved with efficiency, their crisp vests and tailored uniforms adding to the air of sophistication.
Yumiko’s eyes were wide with curiosity, her attention caught by the colorful chips stacked neatly on the tables. “What are those?” she asked, leaning slightly closer to a nearby game. “I don’t see any gold or platinum coins…”
Luchs glanced over his shoulder, his tone warm and indulgent. “Ah, my dear, those are casino chips. Each one represents a certain amount of gold or silver. We use them to minimize the risk of theft and fraud. After all, if a thief manages to make off with these, all they get are worthless clay trinkets. Once a guest is ready to cash out, they simply exchange the chips for real currency at the cashier’s table.”
Yumiko nodded, her expression thoughtful as she watched the chips change hands in quick succession. “That’s… quite clever,” she said, clearly impressed.
“It’s all part of ensuring the smooth operation of this place,” Luchs said with a chuckle, his tone rich with pride.
They continued through the casino, Yumiko momentarily distracted by the spinning reels of the slot machines, their flashing lights and ringing bells drawing her attention. Lukas, meanwhile, remained focused, his expression unreadable as they walked.
At last, they reached the entrance to a high-end restaurant tucked within the casino. A uniformed waiter approached immediately at Luchs’s signal, bowing slightly before gesturing for them to follow. “Your table is ready, sir.”
The group followed the waiter into the elegant dining area, where the ambiance shifted to one of quiet luxury. The clink of fine silverware and the murmur of polite conversation filled the air.
As they walked, Luchs glanced over his shoulder at Lukas. “Now, Lukas,” he began, his tone casual but with an edge of formality, “I trust my receptionist informed you that I’m a very busy man. This dinner isn’t just for pleasantries—it’s to be shared with a business associate of mine.”
Lukas nodded, his voice steady. “I understand. I’m only here for the item I ordered from you. I need it before I head to Daegheor.”
Luchs arched an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. “Straight to the point, as always. That’s what I’ve always liked about you, Lukas. Very well—let’s discuss it over dinner.”
As they walked, they arrived at their table, situated beside a stunning fountain. The water shimmered under the soft glow of overhead chandeliers, cascading over a sculpture of a serene goddess with flowing robes and outstretched arms. The table was elegantly set, with polished silverware, crisp linen napkins folded into intricate shapes, and fine porcelain dishes.
Waiting at the far side of the table was a heavyset man with greasy, slicked-back hair and a curled mustache. His suit strained against his frame, and when he stood, his yellowed teeth flashed in a forced smile as he bowed slightly. “Mr. Wilfried, always an honor,” he said, his voice oily and ingratiating.
Luchs gave a casual wave, gesturing for the man to sit. “Mr. Calloway, the pleasure is mine, as always.” He pulled out his chair and sat with practiced elegance. “Forgive me for bringing guests tonight. If there’s anything requiring discretion, we can handle it after dinner.”
Calloway’s smirk grew wider, the folds of his face shifting unpleasantly. “No need, no need. I just have a few quick matters to discuss. Nothing more. This meeting is mostly for a celebration, so I apologize coming at such short notice.”
The rest of the group awkwardly took their seats. The faint tension between Lukas’s companions and Calloway didn’t escape Luchs, who smiled smoothly as he addressed them. “Now, my honored guests, why don’t you introduce yourselves?”
Mary leaned back slightly, forcing a smile as she regarded Calloway with thinly veiled disdain. He was everything she hated about Braint—the type of man who thrived on greed and corruption. “Mary Pierce,” she said, her tone clipped but polite. “Bounty hunter. Nice to meet you, Mr. Calloway.”
Yumiko, ever the polite one, gave a slight bow as she scooted her chair into place. “Yumiko Hoshino, adventurer. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Lukas, in stark contrast, merely folded his arms and leaned back in his chair. “Lukas,” he said flatly, offering no further explanation.
Calloway’s grin didn’t falter, though his beady eyes flicked briefly to Luchs, perhaps seeking reassurance. “A pleasure to meet you all,” he said, his voice dripping with false charm. “I’m Jim Calloway. I do business with Mr. Wilfried and other prominent associates here in Braint. Should you ever find yourselves in need of financial dealings, I’m your man.”
Luchs chuckled lightly, his tone almost teasing. “Yes, you are, Mr. Calloway.” With a snap of his fingers, he beckoned a nearby waiter carrying a bottle of wine. The waiter approached swiftly, bowing before pouring the deep crimson liquid into each glass.
Mary picked up her glass, swirling the wine before taking a cautious sip. Her expression softened immediately, her eyes widening in delight. “Oh gods,” she breathed, her earlier tension melting away. “This is… incredible. The best wine I’ve ever had.”
Luchs’s lips curled into a pleased smile. “An import from Mania. Say what you will about them—they get many things wrong—but their wine is the one exception.”
Yumiko picked up her wine glass hesitantly, giving it a cautious sniff. Her nose wrinkled, and she quickly set the glass back down, pulling away as though the scent itself was overwhelming.
Mary, noticing her reaction, quirked an eyebrow. “What’s wrong?”
Yumiko lowered her gaze, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “I… don’t really drink,” she admitted quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.
Mary grinned, reaching across the table to snag Yumiko’s untouched glass. “No worries! It’s a good thing you’ve got me around. I’ll gladly take one for the team and help a friend in need.” She winked, lifting the glass in a mock toast before taking a sip.
Luchs chuckled, leaning back in his chair as he observed the exchange. “Quite the lively group of friends you’ve brought with you, Lukas.”
Lukas shrugged, his tone as nonchalant as ever. “You could say that.”
Luchs continued smiling while leaning back slightly in his chair. “You mentioned earlier about having some business at the old medical university in the mountains—Daegheor, was it? Now that’s a destination with a tale behind it. What business could you possibly have there?”
Lukas sighed, brushing a hand through his hair. “Plenty of things. I’m always moving, always searching. You know, the usual exciting tales of getting myself into a mess.”
Yumiko’s gaze shifted between Lukas and Luchs, her curiosity piqued. From the way Lukas spoke, it was clear he hadn’t revealed his true purpose to Luchs—his quest to find a cure for the Silent Cough. She glanced at Mary, whose expression was carefully neutral. A subtle nod passed between them, an unspoken agreement to keep Lukas’s mission a secret from this man.
Luchs smirked but shifted his attention to Calloway. “Speaking of excitement, Mr. Calloway, you mentioned earlier that you had acquired something rather… spectacular?”
Calloway’s face lit up, his yellowed teeth flashing beneath his curled mustache. “Indeed, I did!” He set his wine glass down with a deliberate clink. “Just last night, deep in the northern forests, I managed to capture a truly extraordinary creature. That’s why I’m here tonight—to celebrate such a rare find!”
Yumiko tilted her head curiously as she reached for her water glass. “It must be some creature, Mr. Calloway,” she said, her tone polite but tinged with intrigue.
Calloway nodded eagerly, his greasy smile widening. “Oh, it is! A magnificent beast. I was commissioned by none other than Gordon Kenwick—the man who runs the colosseum here in Braint. Master Kenwick wanted something unique, an alternative prize for the upcoming competition. The winner will have the choice: three hundred gold or this marvelous creature!”
“Or?” Lukas asked, raising an eyebrow.
Calloway chuckled, his voice dripping with self-satisfaction. “That’s right, my dear boy. The winner gets to choose. If they’re too cowardly to claim the beast, Kenwick has other plans for it.”
Mary, swirling the wine in her glass, let out a low sigh. “Let me guess—this creature of yours is a killing machine. No sane person would pick it as a prize, which means you’re really just baiting fighters and filling seats in the arena for the next upcoming fight. Then once those fighters see how truly violent the beast is, they’ll end up taking the money and your boss will throw the monster into the arena to draw even more fights.”
Calloway gave a mock bow, his grin never wavering. “Exactly, madam! A calculated move, wouldn’t you agree?”
“What kind of beast is it?” Yumiko asked, her mind conjuring images of terrifying monsters from the wilds.
Calloway lifted a hand theatrically, his voice rising with pride. “A large white wolf. Its fangs are as long as half my forearm, and it’s easily the size of a small carriage. Truly a sight to behold!”
Mary froze mid-sip, her glass hovering inches from her lips. Her eyes darted to Lukas, whose entire posture had gone rigid. The usual calm in his expression was gone, replaced by a sharp tension that Yumiko immediately noticed.
“This white wolf…” Lukas said slowly, his voice low and controlled. His eyes locked on Calloway. “It has deep blue eyes and stands about eight feet tall, doesn’t it?”
Mr. Calloway froze, his smug demeanor evaporating in an instant. “Y-Yes, that is correct—”
Before he could finish, Lukas shot up from his chair, grabbing the man by the lapels and yanking him halfway out of his seat. “What in the gods’ names—” Calloway sputtered, struggling against Lukas’s iron grip.
“Shut it.” Lukas’s voice was a low, dangerous growl. His eyes blazed with fury as he hoisted the man closer. “For someone who prides himself on being smart and cunning, you’re nothing but a damned fool!” His voice rose, carrying across the restaurant. “That beast you’re bragging about? It’s not some prize—it’s my friend!”
Luchs leaned back in his chair, raising his hands in mock surrender. “My, my, even more commotion. Truly, the drama never ends.” He glanced lazily at Lukas. “But tell me, how can you be so certain it’s the same wolf?”
Mary sighed heavily, knowing their evening was going to be ruined, “If it wasn’t one of a kind wolf, this pompous blowhard wouldn’t be boasting about it.” She gestured dismissively toward Calloway. “And just like that, there goes our fancy dinner…” she muttered under her breath.
Calloway’s pale face grew even whiter as recognition dawned. “Wait a minute—you’re the ones! The ones I saw near the wolf the other night!”
Lukas’s grip tightened, his knuckles turning white. “So, you followed us?” he snarled. “You led Kenwick’s men to her, didn’t you? Where is she now?”
Calloway squirmed, sweat dripping down his forehead. “I-I didn’t mean— Listen! Kenwick’s men took the wolf last night! They have her somewhere secure—I don’t know where! All I know is she’s already being prepped as the prize for next week’s fight!”
With a furious shove, Lukas sent the man sprawling onto the floor. Calloway landed with a loud thud, his expensive suit rumpled and his face contorted in pain.
Mary rose from her chair, glancing down at the quivering man with disdain. “And how, exactly, do we get in touch with this Kenwick?”
Calloway stammered, shaking his head. “Y-You can’t! He’s out of town. I don’t know when he’ll be back!”
Lukas loomed over him, his presence like a storm about to break. “But you managed to contact his men,” he growled.
Calloway nodded frantically, his voice trembling. “Yes! Yes, but the men— They’re transporting the wolf as we speak! They could be anywhere by now, and I wouldn’t know!”
“Gods dammit!” Lukas cursed, storming off toward the restaurant’s exit. His sharp movements drew the attention of every patron in the room, their murmurs rising as they watched him leave.
Luchs sighed, shaking his head as if lamenting a lost cause. “He certainly knows how to draw a crowd—for all the wrong reasons,” he remarked dryly.
Mary stood and adjusted her dress, throwing one last disappointed look at the overturned table. “Come on, Yumiko. Let’s go chase after the blonde idiot and salvage what’s left of our evening.”
Yumiko hesitated, then quickly stood, offering Luchs a small bow. “Please forgive Lukas’s behavior. It was… uncalled for.” She hurried after her companions, her steps quick as she tried to catch up.
Luchs remained seated, folding his hands together and resting his chin on them. A smirk crept across his face as he watched the trio disappear into the bustling casino. “Well, Jim,” he said, his tone amused, “it seems you’ve gone and angered the wrong man tonight.”
Calloway groaned as he struggled to push himself off the floor. “That… that ruffian stretched my collar!” he whined, brushing dust from his ruined suit.
Luchs chuckled softly, his gaze lingering on the direction Lukas had stormed off in. “Something tells me this week in Braint is going to be… entertaining.”