Our heroes, hailing from distant corners of the globe and armed with diverse skillsets, embarked on a journey that mirrored the swift pace of Simon's current endeavors. Amidst the hustle, preparations for their upcoming mission unfolded, providing them a brief respite at Fiugnia’s most illustrious inn.

Nestled within Fiugnia's embrace, the Royal Respite emerges as a beacon seamlessly integrated into the enchanted rainforest. This opulent haven epitomizes the Dominion's commitment to the symbiosis of civilization and nature, vividly illustrating the harmonious relationship shared between Fiugnians and their enchanted surroundings.

A testament to the union of opulence and the natural world, the structure is meticulously crafted from living wood sourced from the rainforest, exuding an organic elegance. Every corner is adorned with vibrant blossoms, intricately woven into the architecture, casting bursts of color and life into the enchanting surroundings. The emblem of the rose holder proudly graces the exterior, its presence entwined with vines and leaves, symbolizing Fiugnia's profound connection with the enchanted rainforest.

During their stay at the esteemed Royal Respite, Keruzi, Aelyeth, and Cheon found solace in a complimentary three-day experience at this pinnacle of luxury. As the preparations for their impending journey unfolded, they reveled in the unique charm of this upscale establishment. Nevertheless, their serene retreat needed to come to an end. With the onset of the third day, an attendant from the Royal Respite gracefully arrived at each party member's room. The time for leisure was over; they had to bid adieu to the comforts of the Royal Respite and embark on the next leg of their journey to Simon's place.

The attendant gave them each a letter describing the path to Simon’s home and a map of the town. The letter requested their attendance at his home by noon. The directions would lead them to a part of Noble Haven where they could find Simon's estate.

It was currently morning.

The journey was long and arduous, as Keruzi expected and was used to. She had expected the need to adapt to different surroundings and environments during this journey. Keruzi was no stranger to the harsh elements of life. Now with all of that said, when she got to her destination, she had expected to meet with Simon right away, and just get straight to the debriefing. After which, she would prepare for mission and then head out again. It was the routine she came to expect.

.....

.....

.....

What she had not expected, was to spend three days in the lap of luxury, free of charge. The concept baffled her to her no end. While she knows etiquette, how to effectively communicate, and how to mind her manners, this unexpected turn caused her to accept with all of the social graces of a clumsy elephant in a china shop.

Every single bit of pampering she received was met with all of the discomfort Keruzi felt. And she couldn't really refuse the things like the Spa, or massages because they were already paid for. She wondered if that was how cats felt when they fight against a bath. She couldn't really relax. The only true rest she knows and received was a good night's sleep. Even then, those were few and far in between...

Thankfully, there were times where she could focus on work again during those three days, and take some time to train and keep her skills sharp. ...And she had to admit, it did feel nice

Eventually, the three days passed, and Keruzi received the letter. With a quick word of gratitude, she accepted the letter with the directions, and quickly headed out.

She didn't waste any time. The time to meet may be noon, but she was going to get there as soon as possible! Even if she was going to be several hours early!

She made her way to Simon's Estate in the Noble Haven with great haste.

Aelyeth was rather enjoying her breakfast in the Royal Respite. She would most definitely miss their cooking after today.

Being in Fiuginia was a novel experience for Aelyeth. She had lived most of her whole life inside the confines of the Mausoleum of the Exalted, and afterwards, she traversed the wilderness of the Dominion of Acoscosia—a feat that she shamefully admitted she would not be able to do without Ebthor, considering her cloistered upbringing—before making their way to the Union of Axue via chartering boat from the Dominion of Guinispo so they may lay low.

Dominion of Acoscosia, Dominion of Guinispo, and Union of Axue were all frontlines nations, there were conflicts of course—there was most definitely conflict in Union of Axue, some of which Ebthor had participated in as a sellsword—but the demon horde was the reality of every day life there, and for the most part took precedent. Comparatively, the Dominion of Fiuginia was one of the outer layers nations, and the stark difference, as Aelyeth immediately noticed was that they had the luxury to focus on disputes that seemed somewhat petty and arbitrary, as evidenced by their escalating tension with Caranepicia and Sihian tribes. In the frontlines nation, tension escalation such as this was rare as they were all too busy contending with the demons. As history has proven, people do unite on a common enemy, these outer layer nations, on the other hand, did not feel the reality of the demonic horde as tangibly as frontline nations and thus had the luxury to bicker with each other for paltry reasons.

Still, it was not all bad. Aelyeth did enjoy the...lighter ambience, for lack of a better word. With the demonic horde not being as much of an issue here, Aelyeth did find the mundanity of life here...rather quaintly charming, despite the rising tension with its neighbour. Yes, despite everything, Aelyeth did rather enjoy her time here. Though it would be hard not to when their employer had them stay in the finest inn in Fiuginia. Looking at the living wood that made up its structure, Aelyeth could not help but imagine what unknown parts of history had happened in an inn such as this. How many backroom meetings before treaty signing had taken place here, she wondered. How many clandestine meetings under the guise of vacationing? Perhaps even a secret tryst or seduction that takes place here before some noble house started feuding? Indeed, throughout her stay here, Aelyeth could scarcely hold back asking the proprietor of rumours and interesting tidbits they had experienced or heard in this very hall. None of what she found out can be substantiated of course, but they were still interesting. The proprietor had been happy to oblige an important guest, besides, Aelyeth could be rather charming if she wanted to.

Alas, the respite had ended and their newest employer had finally asked them to meet in his place of residence. Apparently, they would be working in a group. Aelyeth primary concern was, of course, to make sure Ebthor did not draw unwanted attention considering his...unique circumstances.

As Aelyeth finished her breakfast, she and Ebthor headed out of the inn, finally starting to make their way to the manor. She then turned to her companion.

"So, let's make sure we get our story straight once more. This Simon guy had wanted to hire you, but obviously, due to our circumstances, I have to be your 'plus 1' so to speak. So our cover story this time is...?"

Their usual cover story was just that they were a pair of close friends who were travelling together. However, if people did dig deeper, they usually had a 'second layer' ready as a 'false secret' that would explain why they were cautious and wanted to lay low so that when people found out they hopefully wouldn't dig deeper. This second secret had ranged from Ebthor being a former knight who had broken an oath and deserted to Aelyeth being the daughter of a noble who had not approved of her relationship with the 'filthy commoner' before the two ended up eloping.

Aelyeth then quirked one of her eyebrows, waiting for Ebthor's answer.

Ebthor

Snow, rain, and the ichor of demons—all seemed inconsequential to Ebthor, not just due to his circumstances but also owing to an unsettling familiarity he yearned to shed. The term "master" left a bitter taste, a loathsome reality demanding his unwavering obedience. Despite his disdain, Ebthor acknowledged that his master's endeavors at least provided the coin necessary for modest survival.

Their days initially revolved around the relentless routine of inns, front-line demon-slaying, and subsequent haggling for rewards. It was a lifestyle alien to Ebthor, yet it became his reality for an extended period. Then, amid the aftermath of battles and the flow of blood, an unexpected job offer emerged. The prospect of travel, accommodation, and various amenities intrigued Aelyeth, rendering Ebthor's suspicions irrelevant as his fate was sealed.

Now, far removed from the battlefield, Ebthor found himself amidst opulence, relishing the comforts of the wealthy with his master. Seated in an enchanted hall surrounded by verdant foliage, the experience surpassed any preconceptions. Basking in the splendor of playing the honored guest of a wealthy man felt leagues beyond the stale inns of the frontline.

---

Yet, Aelyeth, ever the inquisitive soul, found herself on a quest for the juiciest gossip within the hallowed halls of the Royal Respite. No target was too formidable for her relentless pursuit of information, and her primary focus was none other than the unyielding proprietor. Despite her persistent smiles and charming attempts, he remained an impervious bastion of professionalism during the daylight hours.

However, as the moon cast its ethereal glow and night descended upon the Royal Respite, an unexpected twist unfolded. The seemingly unflappable proprietor appeared at Aelyeth's chamber door with an air of sternness and desperation, unveiling a side not witnessed by the prying eyes of the establishment.

"Your incessant inquiries are disrupting the harmony of this fine establishment," he declared, his tone firm yet imbued with a desperate plea for understanding. "I implore you, refrain from bothering the staff during your stay. Your cooperation would be greatly appreciated."

Without waiting for Aelyeth's response, the proprietor swiftly departed, leaving behind a lingering sense of mystery and a subtle invitation for her to unravel the secrets concealed within the shadows of the Royal Respite.

Ebthor let out a snort at the event.

---

For the first time since arriving in this wretched place, Ebthor found a semblance of enjoyment. After three days of leisure, the inevitable return to duty arrived when Aelyeth received a note from the hotel staff, instructing Ebthor to report to Simon's estate. As they set out on their journey, Aelyeth delved into strategies for concealing Ebthor's identity, and he responded with a nonchalant air.

"If they inquire, we simply withhold the details. What's the worst that can happen? Are they going to challenge us?" Ebthor casually brandished his claws, a wicked smile playing on his lips. "Let them try," he added, punctuating his words with an equally wicked laugh.

@Randomguy

Favors like dripping water should be repaid with gushing springs.

Cheon once studied under a master who was fond of dispensing adages and koans like a Guinispo missionary did scripture. But where the original meaning spoke to the necessity of generosity, gratitude and mutual benefit, time as a wanderer equipped him with a far more transactional lens by which to examine to the proverb: if someone does something nice for you, they expect something in return. Usually it was something violent, if only because the blade on his hip and the word on the street precluded more peaceable impressions.

It was in moments like these that Cheon invoked a line of his own: don't look a gift horse in the mouth. If Simon Henrich was playing an angle, then he would gladly play the fool. All expenses were paid simply meant he had to make sure all expenses were paid. By the dawn of the third day, the vulpine warbeast had sampled all the delights made available to them: from the countless local delicacies to the hosts of entertainers to the medley of leisure activities.

As a skilled masseuse unwound the tension in his muscles, Cheon looked over the unopened letter he'd been passed. He split the seal with a black claw, and scanned the contents within: a letter and a map.

Like all things, it seemed that his brief time at the aptly-named Royal Respite had finally come to an end. Lykke was truly a fickle mistress. Last week, he'd been sleeping outside like a beggar, hat pulled over his eyes to ward away the desert sunrise. This week, he'd sat in the lap of luxury, receiving succor for his sore paws. With this morning's letter, there was no doubt in his mind that the coin was flipping towards the former moreso than the latter.

But before that happened, he planned to finish his massage!


Cheon's breed was swift-footed by nature. Armed with both a verbal and visual map, there was little question that he could have cut much closer to the deadline if he so chose. However, punctuality had been ingrained in Cheon from a very young age. Duelists did not arrive late nor did they arrive precisely on time; they arrived early, for reasons as numerous as blades in an army.

In this case, Cheon simply wanted to have enough time to appreciate the scenery cultivated by Fiugnia's eponymous Rose Holder. The arboreal vistas of the enchanted rainforest were so far removed from the outlying desert or the central plains of his homeland. Wandering through countries like Fiugnia was always an experience that fostered humbleness and resentment in equal parts. Uninhibited by the constant ebb and flow of borders, art, architecture and infrastructure could flourish and intermingle beyond simply well-decorated arms, well-marched roads and well-defended fortresses.

At any rate, Cheon too made his way to Simon's Estate in the Noble Haven.

The first to depart from the Royal Respite was Keruzi, wasting no time at the upscale inn before heading straight for Simon's residence. The sun had just begun to rise, casting its soft light as Keruzi navigated through the quiet morning streets. The city, in its pre-dawn tranquility, offered a unique blend of urban life and the wild jungle, creating an intriguing morning atmosphere. Large birds gracefully soared above, finding perches on specially designed roosts, producing a bit of commotion. One of these avian performers could easily wake up an entire city block, but as their songs spread across town, it formed a melody that gradually stirred Axeshield awake. The Royal Respite was strategically designed to address this issue, ensuring the undisturbed rest of Cheon and Aelyeth.

Observing the early risers of Axeshield, Keruzi witnessed residents opening their windows to welcome the sun and savor the fresh morning air. Some locals, recognizing the distinctive blood-soaked cloak of the Reapers that Keruzi wore, greeted her with friendly waves. With most streets still devoid of activity, Keruzi's journey proceeded effortlessly.

Upon reaching Noble Haven, it was still early, and yet, a gate with two guards concluding their morning shift stood in her path. Then entered Keruzi. The mere presence of her forced an acknowledgment from the guards, who seemed less than thrilled about continuing their morning watch.

"State your business," one of the guards demanded with a hint of irritation.

---

Several leagues behind Keruzi were Cheon, Aelyeth, and Ebthor. Unacquainted with each other, the trio remained oblivious to their fellow travelers. Nevertheless, as they simultaneously embarked on the journey to Noble Haven, the discerning minds of Cheon and Aelyeth found it challenging not to take notice of each other. Cheon, with his swifter pace, quickly overtook the duo of Aelyeth and Ebthor. Even at his unhurried speed, he effortlessly maintained a steadily widening lead.

---

Keruzi took note of her surroundings, while holding the letter in her hands. While the surroundings are beautiful, she didn't stop or slow down to admire it. She was focused on the mission. She held the letter not only to have the directions in sight for constant reference, but also to make sure that she didn't lose it, and nobody stole it without her notice.

When some of the local recognized her by the bloody clothes, and they waved to her, she gave a friendly wave back to them with her free hand. But...she couldn't really muster a smile for them. All she could do was give them a nod along with the wave before focusing back on the task at hand.

And just like that, Keruzi had reached the gate to Noble Haven. She could see that her own presence had gotten a reaction from the guards. After one of the guards made his demand, she naturally spoke to him with her tone slightly matching his irritation underneath the professionalism,

"At ease, Soldier,"

Speaking like a soldier to another soldier came naturally to Keruzi. Her tone made it clear that she was not here for a fight and she respects their position as guards doing their duty, but she was not going to take any attitude or disrespect from them.

She then showed the letter with the official seal on it to the guards so they can see, but not straight up handing it over to them or willing to let them take it out of her hands,

"I'm reporting for duty to Simon early. He has hired me for my capabilities as a Paladin of the Dark Sun Clan," She informs them, her tone now professional and lacking the irritation. But it is clear that she is still not going to take any nonsense from the guards.

"If they inquire, we simply withhold the details. What's the worst that can happen? Are they going to challenge us?" Ebthor casually brandished his claws, a wicked smile playing on his lips. "Let them try," he added, punctuating his words with an equally wicked laugh.

Ah...of course this musclehead would say this, Aelyeth thought. It was just as well, if someone actually tried to dig deeper, Aelyeth would just fall to one of their cover stories, but for the time being, simply saying they were friends should do.

Hopefully, should that happen, she'll pull off the act more convincingly than her attempts to butter up the Royal Respite's proprietor. She's usually more subtle than that, Aelyeth supposed she was a tad too excited at the prospect. Oh well, she supposed you can't win them all.

As they were making their way to Noble Haven, Aelyeth noticed that the warbeast—who had departed the Royal Respite at around the same time—was walking in the same general direction, albeit several paces ahead of Aelyeth and Ebthor as befitting as his heritage of a warbeast. When Ebthor and herself were hired, they were informed that they would be working in a group. And presumable, it was not unlikely that other members of the group would also be set up in Royal Respite. So perhaps this warbeast is...

"Do you think perhaps that warbeast is also one of the hires?" she asked Ebthor as the two continue making their way to the mansion.

"It’s entirely possible," Ebthor responded, gesturing toward where Aelyeth had stowed the letter. "I didn't dispatch all those demons solo. Hard to imagine some wealthy individual hiring us for just one demon-slaying machine." Ebthor then averted his gaze, muttering to himself, "Although, I could absolutely handle it solo."

With that, the proud Ebthor pressed on toward Noble Haven. His posture exuded confidence, a refined assurance that starkly contrasted with his imposing draconic visage. Yet, coupled with the fact that he essentially served as Aelyeth’s pack mule, his initially cocky demeanor quickly transformed into nothing more than a playful jest.

@Randomguy@MacabreMoth

---

The guard, a sturdy figure in armor, eyed Keruzi with a mix of skepticism and vigilance. As she asserted herself with the phrase "At ease, Soldier," he begrudgingly relaxed his posture but maintained a watchful gaze.

When she displayed the letter, the guard inspected it with a trained eye, though Keruzi held it just out of reach. As she explained her purpose and association with Simon, the guard's stern expression softened slightly, perhaps acknowledging her credentials.

"Paladin of the Dark Sun Clan, huh?" he mused, a hint of curiosity breaking through his stoic demeanor. "Alright, let me verify this with Simon." He signaled to a fellow guard, who promptly disappeared into the confines of Noble Haven.

While waiting for confirmation, the remaining guard maintained a vigilant stance, though the initial tension seemed to ease. The subtle play of power and respect lingered in the air as Keruzi stood firm, conveying a silent assurance that she would not be swayed by any unnecessary challenges at the gate.

Moments later, the guard returned accompanied by an enigmatic half-dragon/human attendant, their features more human than draconic. The attendant's sun-kissed skin seamlessly blended with delicate dragon scales, and elegant curved horns crowned her head. A slender tail swayed with each graceful step, and she was adorned in an earth-toned robe featuring jungle-inspired patterns, a balance of formality and practicality. A golden sash accentuated her waist, and enchanted trinkets emitted a soft, mystical glow. Supple leather footwear and a stylish dagger hinted at her dual role as a groundskeeper.

The enigmatic half-dragon/human attendant turned to the guard, her amber eyes holding a glint of acknowledgment.

"Thank you for your assistance," she spoke with a voice that carried both warmth and authority. "I'll take it from here."

The guard nodded in understanding, giving Keruzi a curt but respectful glance. "Simon's expecting her. Make sure everything checks out," he said before turning back towards his post.

The attendant gracefully stepped forward, her presence commanding attention as she turned to Keruzi, offering a reassuring smile. "Welcome to Noble Haven. I am Rhythia, Simon's attendant. If you'll follow me, I'll guide you to his presence." With that, she assumed the role of escort.

Noble Haven, the upscale neighborhood for aristocrats, boasts custom-crafted buildings, including Simon's lavish mansion, uniquely constructed from a colossal Giantwood tree. It stands out amidst the grandiose mansions on the hill, thanks to its controlled tree growth, allowing for an elaborate garden that enhances its splendor.

“You're remarkably early, Keruzi. I'm not certain if the master is prepared to meet you just yet, but I'll take you to him regardless. Unfortunately, I'm not at liberty to delve into the specifics of the job with you,” Rhythia said, offering a smile reminiscent of a loving mother, yet her words carried a subtle venom, much like that of a snake. “Although, I am aware of what it is. Good luck with that one.”

The air surrounding Simon’s mansion carried the gentle scent of blooming flowers from the meticulously tended garden enveloping the Giantwood structure. Each step through the entrance marked a journey into a realm where beauty and extravagance seamlessly converged, guiding Keruzi through the halls of aristocratic splendor.

As they traversed Simon's garden, Rhythia pointed out the various floral wonders and whispered tales of their enchantment. Keruzi couldn't help but marvel at the vibrant colors and delicate fragrances that filled the air, each blossom seeming to hold a story of its own.

Entering the study, Keruzi was enveloped in an atmosphere of refinement and tribal mystique. Shelves adorned with an extensive collection of books, ranging from ancient tomes of arcane wisdom to volumes chronicling history, imbued the room with an earthy aroma of knowledge. Above the intricately carved fireplace, a captivating artwork depicted an elven woman with flowing blue hair, her gaze seeming to hold secrets untold. Tribal accents, hand-carved wooden masks, and woven tapestries adorned the walls, each telling a unique story of culture and tradition. An antique globe atop a wooden stand emphasized the mansion's connection to the world's history.

The furniture, a fusion of rustic tribal elements and noble design, invited exploration, each piece hinting at tales of grandeur and adventure. As Rhythia departed to fetch Simon, leaving Keruzi to contemplate the room's intriguing ambiance, Keruzi felt a sense of reverence for the space and the mysteries it held.

After a brief moment of quiet contemplation in the study, Alessia, a second attendant, entered with fluid grace, her movements harmonizing with the elegance of the surroundings. "Greetings, esteemed guest," she began, her voice resonating in a soothing cadence. "I am Alessia, delighted to assist you during your stay in Simon's mansion. If you have any inquiries or require assistance, do not hesitate to ask."

Upon closer observation, Alessia's role extended beyond mere hospitality. Adorned with a six-shooter holstered on each side of her hip, her green attire seamlessly blended with Rhythia's color scheme. However, beneath the outward appearance of a maid, Alessia exuded the unmistakable air of a sharpshooter, skillfully merging elements of both roles into her demeanor.

Alessia's attire effortlessly melded practicality with elegance. A forest-green bodice, embellished with subtle lace accents, complemented an intricately woven belt cinched at her waist. The knee-length skirt, featuring concealed pockets, flowed gracefully, while knee-high leather boots added a touch of sophistication.

Her dual roles as a sharpshooter and maid were evident in the polished six-shooters holstered on each hip. The earthy tones of her ensemble, coupled with a silver pendant depicting a miniature Giantwood tree, subtly paid homage to the mansion's connection with nature.

@Guardian Angel Haruki

Aelyeth watched as the warbeast sprinted away from her and Ebthor. There wasn't really much to discover simply by watching, but the warbeast with red fur in a purple robe and decorated headwear made for a striking figure, at least. Aside from that, Aelyeth could notice a backpack that appeared to carry several pieces of equipment—which looked heavy, but then again not everyone lucked out with having their own personal pack mule as herself—the warbeast also carried his weapon in his hand, clearly a precaution were he to encounter the unsavoury sort along the road.

All in all, if Aelyeth had to make a guess, the warbeast was indeed an adventurer/sellsword. And considering they've been walking for a while and the warbeast is keeping some paces ahead of them in the same direction. Probably her initial deduction of him being a fellow hire is, most likely, correct.

The warbeasts...for better or worse, they had shaped much of this world's history, due to the existence of the Rose Holder. Nations were created—and conquered—by their battle. Nation lines constantly needed to be redrawn to the point mapmakers gave up. And yet, this violent period of blood and venom was brought to an end by another warbeast, Carleria the Rose Holder of Shadow.

Obviously, the warbeast ahead of them was not a Rose Holder—at least she hoped he wasn't, considering the sheer potential turmoil their mere existence could cause—but nevertheless, Aelyeth would be interested in getting his opinions on several interesting historical events pertaining warbeasts if time allows. The same with her other future coworkers, really. This Simon Henrich appeared to be collecting an eclectic group of people from all walks of life, all surely coming with their own perspective of things, which would be valuable—and intriguing—to explore.

With that thought in mind, Aelyeth continued the trek to Noble Haven

Keruzi nodded to the guard in understanding as he stated that he was going to verify with Simon. She waited patiently and sure enough, the groundskeeper arrived and escorted Keruzi through. She gave a silent nod of gratitude to Rhythia's welcoming words.

When Rhythia made her comment about Keruzi's timeliness, she noted the subtle venom in her words and the motherly smile. Keruzi could only raise an eyebrow at the wish before she herself answers politely,

"I apologize if my timeliness has caused any inconvenience. Arriving early does have its benefits in my line of work. Besides, it feels like merely showing up on time would be an insult to Simon's generosity at this point,"

She takes in the aristocratic splendor, the natural beauties of the garden around her, and she listens intently as Rhythia gives her explanations for the plants. A wide variety of emotions and thoughts cross her heart and mind.

The people she cared about would love this. If only she could show them...

How could people like Simon languish like this while people on the front lines suffer?

She is a dark, bloodied shadow walking through a bastion of life. She's surprised that the flowers haven't wilted just from being near her.

She keeps her composure, making sure that the creeping sadness and regret does not affect her senses and awareness. She needed to remain sharp.

Thankfully, they reached the study. Before Rhythia departed to fetch Simon, Keruzi speaks to her, "Thank you, Rhythia. I appreciate your guidance and well wishes from earlier,"

After Rhythia leaves, Keruzi takes in the study all around her. She remains quiet and still while looking around, before her attention is drawn to the next attendant to appear: Alessia.

Keruzi nods and responds to Alessia's greeting politely, "It's nice to meet you, Alessia. My name is Keruzi, Paladin of the Dark Sun Clan. Thank you for assistance,"

Thinking over it, Keruzi decided to ask, "I do have a slight inquiry. I don't suppose you know if I am the only person Simon has hired for his mission?"

She thought it might be a good idea to ask just in case someone does come, pretending to be a hire of Simon's. One would never know: Maybe some thief, assassin, or Yun Forbid a demon, would be foolish enough to try this brass tactic...

"I've yet to encounter the rest of your party," Alessia began with a warm smile, "though I'm aware there are other members. Christopher, your recruiter, is quite the chatterbox. Ideal for his role as a messenger and, more recently, as a recruiter. If you've ever wondered about his wild exploits, he once dispatched a giant sand serpent, sliced its belly open, and delivered a letter to a soldier within. But, speaking of chatterboxes, would you look at me?" Alessia giggled, her laughter hidden behind a playful wave to Keruzi.

Following that light exchange, Alessia gracefully stood by, attentively tending to Keruzi and keeping a watchful eye until Rhythia returned with news from their master, Simon. Time passed and Rhythia eventually reappeared, accompanied by Simon, a tall blue lizard man dressed in warrior's garb. Approaching Keruzi with a warm smile, Simon's presence was introduced by Rhythia.

"Meet Simon, the master of the estate and your prospective employer, Ms. Keruzi," Rhythia announced, gracefully stepping aside.

Simon, after a momentary inspection, extended his hand to Keruzi. "A pleasure to meet a member of the Dark Sun Clan. I'm Simon. I've heard you're quite curious about your job," he remarked, his smile radiating warmth. "Well, it's nothing out of the ordinary, it is simply an escort mission. It is the cargo and their mission that makes your skills so valuable."

---

Meanwhile, Christopher, Simon's dedicated courier, sprinted as if a pack of wolves nipped at his heels. Unfazed by citizens, guards, or fences, he charged toward the gates of Noble Haven. In his rush, he unexpectedly encountered familiar faces; Aelyeth and Ebthor. Images of Ebthor's blood-stained claws flashed in Christopher's mind, prompting him to grab the Warbeast without a second thought.

"I need you to come with me right now!" Christopher implored, his focus squarely on Ebthor due to his combat prowess. "It's an urgent matter concerning the job I've chosen you for."

Ebthor's earlier exuberance soured as Christopher's hands enclosed around him. Audible growls emanated from Ebthor, suppressed yet unmistakable, as he stared down the determined courier. While recognizing Christopher from their initial encounter, Ebthor felt bound by the promised payment to his master, compelling him to comply with this unexpected turn of events.

"Unhand me," Ebthor uttered in a cold, monotone voice.

Reacting swiftly to Ebthor's demand, Christopher released his grip. Fear wasn't the emotion etched on Christopher's face; rather, it was desperation. He urgently needed Ebthor's assistance.

"Please, hurry. I don't know how much time we have," Christopher urged calmly before darting toward Noble Haven. Aelyeth and Ebthor were not far from the gates, and Christopher spotted another familiar figure: Cheon, in the distance.

In a telepathic exchange, Ebthor communicated with Aelyeth, They better pay well. So, what do we do?

Christopher, showcasing his swiftness, reached the gates where Cheon had just arrived. Despite his impressive speed, Christopher was winded, indicating non-stop running. He could barely speak but managed to maintain some composure.

The guards, recognizing Christopher, expressed concern as they noted the stress on his face.

"Chris? What's going on?" one guard asked with worry.

"Open this gate and fetch me four stompers!" Christopher demanded, doubling over on his knees. "I apologize. I am in a rush."

Responding promptly, the guards opened the gate, and one rushed off to procure mounts. Turning to Cheon, Christopher, now squatting to catch his breath, queried, "You're the warrior monk, right? Cheon, if I remember correctly, it looks like I'll be needing your combat skills sooner than I thought. The guards will meet us at the estate with our mounts, and hopefully," he added, glancing back at Ebthor and Aelyeth, "we'll have some support as well. Let's go."

Driven by pure adrenaline, Christopher didn't wait for Cheon's response. His confidence in the wandering warrior's inclination for a fight assured him that Cheon would follow suit.

As the two were nearing the gates of Noble Heaven, Aelyeth spotted a familiar man...Christopher, if she remembered the name correctly. He was the one who recruited Ebthor and herself for this job. Christopher was sprinting frantically, making a beeline for Ebthor and Aelyeth. Clearly, something was amiss.

"Unhand me," Ebthor said the moment Christopher grabbed his arm. Aelyeth sighed as she shook her head lightly at—the now familiar—curt behaviour of Ebthor. Before she could say anything, however, Christopher continued, "Please, hurry. I don't know how much time we have," Christopher urged them before darting toward Noble Haven.

They better pay well. So, what do we do? Ebthor asked her through their telepathic link.

'We help them, of course.'

Aelyeth replied immediately as if that was the most obvious thing in the world. Then, realizing who she was saying it to, sighed, before adding, 'If nothing else, it would be a showcase of our ability to our employee, no? Proving our worth seems prudent to me.'

The two then rushed after Christopher to the gate, where they found him speaking to the warbeast they encountered on the road earlier, confirming Aelyeth's suspicion that he was part of the group hired by Simon.

Without even waiting for the warbeast's reply, Christopher rushed to the estate.

Knowing that Ebthor wasn't exactly the best person to make a first impression, Aelyeth approached the warbeast.

"Considering his rush, this isn't really the place for conversation, but I'm Aelyeth and my companion is Ebthor. I assume you're also asked to help out? Shall we then?"

Cheon had just arrived at the gates into Noble Haven, wondering just how long he'd have to wait for the stiff-faced guardsmen to confirm his position, when the sound of rapid steps made his ears swivel under his cap. The warbeast's eyes narrowed, scabbard pressed to his brow like a shade as he watched a dot rapidly grow in size, heralded by the clattering steps of a familiar courier. Cheon raised his arms and stepped aside, an over-exaggerated dodge that allowed the man to skid to a gasping stop in the center of the path. "Moumantai, good man! Where's the fire?"

Probably on the other end of town and then some, if Christopher's breathless orders were anything to go by. A frightening report from the marches, perhaps? At any rate, once the orders were conveyed, the gate was lifted and the courier turned to him, still as red-faced and out-of-breath as a trainee on the first day.

"I suppose that description is correct enough," the warbeast answered obliquely, but proudly. Master Yuan and some of the other elders would surely have him stacking stones on his legs if he went around dishonoring the sect's good name with the last three days of immoderacy. Chris' unspoken assumption was right on the money, though; Cheon could do with a bit of exercise now that he was all limbered up from that massage. Gathering at the gate struck him as a mite more expedient, but the common saying about matters of taste applied to mercenary work just as much as it did to mercantilism.

"Far be it from me to keep a client from letting me earn my daily bread..." the warbeast shrugged to the dust cloud where Christopher used to be. He glanced over his shoulder at the duo rushing up the path. 'Some' and 'Support', he surmised. 'Some' was a rustail(?) around the same height, but Cheon was usually hunched forward trying to make himself look smaller, more humble, and less martial than he actually was. 'Support' was a pointy-eared human who was smaller, even considering his effective height. She was the one who opted to broach conversation first.

"I, Cheon of Shinma Temple, greet you, Aelyeth and Ebthor." He hooked off his hat with the pommel of his sword and saluted in the traditional fashion: a straight-backed bow with a flat hand over the one holding the scabbard of his sheathed blade. For a moment, he almost looked like a proper martial artist. Then he dropped the cap back over his black-tipped ears, and like a weight, it seemed to pull him down into that stooped, unassuming posture. His level of professionalism changed accordingly.

"Indeed!" He answered every question at once with a single word, a carefree tone, and a pivot. The length of his blue robe followed behind him. "Let's get our bread."

Keruzi simply listened as Alessia as she answered her question, and talked more about the recruiter. She gave an impressed nod at the mention that the recruiter dispatched a giant sand serpent and cut open its belly just to deliver a letter to the soldier inside. She shrugged at Alessia's question about her being a chatterbox as though to say that she didn't mind. She did try to make light conversation, during the wait.

Soon enough, Simon had finally entered. When he reached out his hand in greeting, she reached her hand out to clasp Simon's in turn, as a handshake. She answers him, "It's good to meet you, Simon. I'm Keruzi,"

She gave a nod to confirm his words about her curiosity about the job. She raised an eyebrow at his words regarding the cargo and their mission. She asked him, "What or who exactly is this cargo that I will be escorting? And what is their mission? Or, did you want to wait for anyone else you hired before you disclose that information?"