Chapter 51
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With every step we take, it feels like we're getting more and more lost. According to Lilith, it's been 3 days now since we escaped. Feels like most of it has been spent walking. From the beach, we found a small dirt road leading into the mainland. With it, a sign saying "Kald." It could've been anything from an abandoned hamlet to a large city.
It was our only hope and we were out of options. Our prospects started to slowly favor us with our choice to be venturing into the forests. The road very gradually went from loose cobble to more hardened dirt as if it has been stepped on many times before. I had hope, but I didn't want to fill myself too much with it as I've been left disappointed a couple of times already.
My body was aching. It started with my feet, now it's up to my shoulders. Lilith must be going through the same thing, but she hasn't shown any weakness yet. I know she has it worse than me because I could hear her stomach growl. The tenacity that girl has is something really admire.
The sun was setting, and I began fearing that we would regret traveling into the forest. A couple of minutes in and an idea sprung into my mind. If the sun sets in a certain direction, what's to stop me from figuring out where we're going?
Steven: "Which direction does the sunset, Lilith?"
Lilith: "West… why?"
I reached out my hand out and pointed my left hand through the trees and sun as best I could. By doing it like this, if my left hand is pointing west, my right must be pointing east; meaning that in front of me, the direction we're walking, is north.
Steven: "We're heading north."
Lilith: "North..? Wait…"
She does exactly what I did and quickly finds out what I mean.
Lilith: "We are!"
Steven: "What do we do now that we know?"
Lilith: "Let me think! Let me think..! Alright, if Kald is in the north… I saw on the map that the Academy is west of most cities."
Steven: "So the Academy is in the west?"
Lilith: "I said "most"… if we reach Kald, we can find out for sure."
We continued walking a short distance as Lilith became lost in her thoughts. Her pace had slowed down and I found myself stopping a couple of times to let her catch up. When I was about to turn around and keep moving, she stopped in her tracks and looks at me as if she made a stunning discovery.
Lilith: "Ah! Kald must be close to the Academy!"
Steven: "How?"
Lilith: "We were at the Academy when we were kidnapped and we woke up presumably still at around midnight. When I used Shadow Leap, it was sluggish because I used half the blood I would normally use which is half a pint. I didn't realize it 'till now, but—"
Steven: "Enough with the Blood magic and just get to the point!"
Lilith: "We weren't walking aimlessly, we were most likely walking towards the Academy!"
Kald might be more than just abandoned! With our newfound enthusiasm, we continued onwards to Kald at a much faster rate. Blinded by a glimmer of hope, it turned out that Lilith might be right as the light started to shine through the horizon. Not the sun, but a town!
Steven: "We found it, Lilith… is that it?!"
Lilith: "It is!"
She speeds up into a slow jog towards the light. It was the greatest stroke of fortune we've ever been given and I was glad that no matter how small of a town we found, we were finally back in civilization!
It was truly a town! A small one but still!
We didn't even know where to begin and when we walked up to the entrance, we were greeted by the nicest guard I've seen in a long time. He was a Wood Elf like everyone else in town. Although he wore clothes that made him stand out, like an authoritative figure such as a guard. He kept calm, sitting on a chair beside a small cabin. In his hand were a grindstone and unique copper knife that he stopped using after he laid his eyes on us.
Watchman: "Welcome to Kald, travelers. This here's a farming town, so we're a little behind on the times but we're catching up… it seems like you 2 are in a jam.
Lilith: "Excuse me, sir…"
She begins telling him about our circumstances way better than I could ever do. When she finished, the man looked around and back at us. Twirling his knife around before embedding it on the cabin wall behind him.
Watchman: "Well, I'll be… that's the craziest story I've heard in all my years! This week might be the most eventful this town's seen."
Steven: "It's that peaceful?"
Watchman: "No, this is big… first, Arend catches a big and bad bandit couple days back and now, some folks from the Academy came down here earlier today, saying they've been searching for missing students. Surely, you're those students? I thought they were here to bust out the damn bandit."
He quickly glances around the immediate vicinity and stands up.
Watchman: "Well, shit, I shouldn't be leaving my post but this could be serious."
He glances through the window of the cabin. His movement was quick and he moves to the door, slightly opening it to be able to shout throughout the inside of the building.
Watchman: "Arend! Get out here!"
Arend: "What is it? I finished my hours, so I'm not filling in for tonight."
Watchman: "No, there are more people out here!"
He sits back down in the chair while another Elf walks out. This one's hair was tied into a small ponytail and he'd have a forgettable face if he didn't have a large scar across his cheek.
Arend: "Who are these people?"
Watchman: "You know the, the… the mu-fucking, um—those people that came looking for some missing students and Bruno told them to stay at the saloon because he thought they were going to bust the guy you brought in out?"
Arend nods, seemingly confused by his friend's frantically quick speech.
Watchman: "Settle down and tell me what's going on."
Watchman: "I think these are the students they were looking for."
Arend: "The hell you say?"
Watchman: "Oh yes, they look and smell like shit. They have to be the missing students."
Arend sighs and rubs his right eye. It felt like we were bothering him as it looked like he only barely got off work. I'd feel bad, but we could seriously use any help we can get.
Arend: "Alright then, follow me you 2. Let's go to your Academy buddies and get you back home. Assuming they are from the Academy, but you'll be able to tell them apart from a bandit better than I can."
He starts down the road and waved at us to follow. We walked down the dirt road that branched off to smaller streets and towards farmland. We were surrounded by a quaint town with kind people that greeted us as we passed by.
The town really came to life when we turned away from the main road onto a smaller one where a bar was nearby. The people here were unwinding and having a good time.
Arend: "Sorry about Humbert, he can be… abrasive."
Steven: "I'm fine…"
Arend: "For the time being… we'll get you both cleaned up too."
He walks us a little further from the bar and enters a much bigger 2-story building. The entrance was pretty spacious and could possibly hold a small gathering. The place was lit by a fireplace to the far right of the room where the lounge was. The lounge especially drew my attention because it was the most decorated of the room with animal trophies and an actual carpet!
Before I was able to get too distracted, Lilith tugs on my cardigan and brings my attention to a desk. There was a much older man, no less than his 40's, sitting and entranced with a book in his hands. Arend failed to get his attention and knocked on the desk roughly just to get his attention.
Hotelier: "Arend! It's been a while!"
Arend: "It has! I see your hotel is feeling empty."
Hotelier: "Bah! Nobody likes to travel when it's too cold. It'll pick up in the spring. You know it always does."
The man puts his book down and reaches under the desk, pulling out a tray of caramel candies. Arend helped himself to them and offered Lilith one, to which she hesitatingly accepted. I declined as I wasn't really in the mood right now.
Arend: "Where are the people Bruno sent over?"
Hotelier: "I gave them the second floor. May as well have some use for it and have more than dust to cleanout. They seem like calm people, hell one of them's a stoic! There's no way they can be bandits."
I know only one person that would be the stoic in our group!
Steven: "Was a woman named Young Mi with them?"
Hotelier: "Young Mi? She has pale skin like she's anemic? Yeah, I heard that name from them. Are you all related? I'm not one to judge but I can't imagine it being a coincidence that you all have rounded-ears."
Steven: "In a way… yeah."
I was surrounded by such unique people that I forgot it's a rare sight to have rounded ears in Den Gi. The only feasible ways that come to mind were to be either half Demon and Elven or a Goblin entirely.
Or in such a rare case, a Human.
Hotelier: "Well, they're upstairs. The bath is the first door in front of the stairs if you're taking one as I'm assuming. I don't have clothes but there's plenty of towels."
Arend: "Well, I guess my job is done. I'll be going now, if you need me, go to the entrance where we met. Humbert and I are pretty much always there at the cabin."
Hotelier: "Just upstairs, I don't know what room they went into but go ahead and use whatever room you want, I insist."
The man went back to his book after reiterating. I took the lead; the stairs were right behind the man and was almost unnoticeable because of its L-shape design. Once we were up top, there were 4 rooms to choose from.
It didn't take long until we found Rayna pacing nervously back and forth with Young Mi sitting on a bed in the last room to the left. They froze in place when we introduced ourselves. It was easy to see the wave of emotions on their faces from shock to happiness. Rayna especially looked like she wanted to cry.
Rayna: "Oh my…"
She ran into my arms and tightly embraces me.
Rayna: "I was so worried…"
Steven: "Yeah… sorry, Rayna."
Young Mi stands up and joins, making it more into a group hug. It sort of took me by surprise because she keeps to herself, as in, she doesn't get up to hug someone so easily after they've disappeared.
Steven: "You too, Young Mi?"
Young Mi: "I was worried as well."
Steven: "You sound as surprised as I am."
Young Mi: "Well, I never thought I'd be worried about you or Lilith, come here."
She opens out her arms and welcomes Lilith in. She was a little hesitant at first but she comes after we all look at her.
Rayna: "She's really caring about you 2."
Young Mi smiles and sits back down on the bed.
Young Mi: "Yes, in my own way; I am."
Rayna: "Well, if anything, I'd say Madelyn was far more worried than the both of us combined."
Steven: "Really?"
Rayna: "She went straight to us after she found out you both disappeared."
Steven: "That's normal. I'd go straight for help if either of you disappeared suddenly."
Young Mi: "She was very concerned; more than she'd let on."
Steven: "Where is she then?"
Rayna: "She stepped out but she'll be back. I'll set out to get her."
Steven: "Yes, please do…"
When she left the room, Young Mi gets up again and starts going through a nearby closet. She pulled out neatly folded towels and clothes before turning back to us.
Young Mi: "The both of you look terrible."
Steven: "Well, we didn't expect to get kidnapped."
Young Mi: "So the Headmistress was right? She knew you were kidnapped. What happened to you is why there's a strict curfew."
Lilith: "What did the Headmistress do?"
Young Mi: "She set up a search party to look for you. We were allowed to search for you on our own after they turned up empty-handed."
Steven: "Well, here we are…"
Young Mi: "Yes, you're both safe."
She handed us each a towel and appropriate clothes, a laced shirt, and breeches. It's nothing fancy but it'll help if I want to blend in with the crowd.
Young Mi: "Here, I knew I'd be needing these. There are 2 bathrooms, go and clean yourselves."
Steven: "I only saw one door."
Young Mi: "There are 2 more doors inside. I don't know why it's like that because it's bad design but there's 2."
We checked out the bathrooms and Young Mi was right. There really were 2 more doors in a much tinier hallway! I went for the one on the right and got ready for a bath.
The bathtub was literally in the middle of the room which was weird to look at because I'm used to seeing them hugging the wall. Once I got in it, I was met with the most euphoric feeling I've had in a long time. I always saw people that fall asleep in bathtubs as weird, but I finally understand them! The time passed by quickly before I figured out I've been in for too long.
I was worried if the others were planning to take a bath and are upset, so I rushed the rest of my bath. I got into the fresher clothes and went into the hallway of the hotel where I bumped into Rayna coming out of the room.
Rayna: "Oh, there you are, Steven. Your hair is still wet, y'know?"
Steven: "I know, did you find Madelyn?"
Rayna: "I did, and I didn't tell her why I needed her. Thought you'd want to surprise her."
Steven: "That's… a good idea!"
I wonder how she'd react?
Rayna stood in front of me and opened the door, essentially becoming a body-shield to Madelyn's eyes. She had no idea until we made eye contact. Her eyes widened with shock before she exploded off the bed and jumped to hug me with enough force to knock anyone down if they were caught off guard.
Steven: "Happy much?"
She didn't reply, only cry softly in my shoulder.
Steven: "I missed you too, Madelyn."
Madelyn: "I actually thought—I thought—"
Steven: "I know, I know—just… we're fine now. You should know that we always find our way back."
She didn't let up and even tightened her arms more. I didn't push back because it feels nice to be hugged and, well, I'm sure she'll tire out soon.
It makes me remember the time on Sefre where I drunkenly asked her to be my sister. We were wasted and it's fuzzy to remember. So, will she remember as well?
Steven: "I'm fine, sis."
She ultimately releases me and sits on the bed, wiping away her tears. I didn't know what to expect by calling her "sis", but nothing really happened.
Steven: "Did Lilith finish her bath?"
Young Mi: "No, she's still in the bath."
She's probably enjoying her bath as I did.
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Steven: "Well, what do we do now?"
Rayna: "Rest, for now. This is a setback on what we need to do: which is to assist the Academy."
Steven: "So I'm assuming we'll be heading back in the morning?"
Rayna: "Yes… it's an 8-hour trip, so we need to leave in the morning."
All this running and walking makes me feel like it's just one really drawn out Color Run event, just without the fun or happiness.
Steven: "Ahh~ I wish I can retire just for today."
Lilith walks in as I started complaining. She was looking way better and happy. It doubled when she saw Madelyn and gives us the brightest smile I've ever seen her do.
Lilith: "Madelyn!"
Madelyn: "Lilith!"
They both screamed, frightening us Wights. I was preparing for anything, but no, it's just them being really excited to see each other and hugging. They're really best friends.
Madelyn: "I was so worried!"
Definitely like best friends…
Madelyn: "Is there anything I could get you?"
Lilith: "Something to eat?"
Madelyn: "There's this bar that also serves food. I wasn't able to eat there but they said they'll bring us all a bag of food."
"Bag" clicked inside of Rayna because she reached under the bed and pulls out a duffle full of the stuff I brought to Esnia.
Rayna: "I almost forgot! I brought a bag with your stuff in it. We weren't sure what you'd want but most of it is in there. I even have yours, Lilith."
Lilith: "Oh, thank you."
As I was glad that I had my stuff, there really wasn't anything that could help us right now. It's mostly just clothes! The most important item here was my journal. I love writing in it even though it's mostly me talking about things that already happened. It helps me keep track of things and after these past few days? I'll be sitting down for a while.
Lilith: "Steven, you've actually been using the journal I gave you?"
Steven: "This? Yeah… I've been writing in it since you gave it to me back in the village."
Lilith: "What have you been writing?"
Steven: "Stuff that's been going on. You know, to keep track of things."
Madelyn: "You don't write about your feelings or who you like? That's lame."
Young Mi: "It's always good to keep track of your thoughts. Steven has the right idea."
I don't write anything personal because I know someone like Dai-tai or maybe even Madelyn would swipe it and read through it. By doing it this way, I could tell if they did read it by seeing their look of disappointment.
Steven: "No, but I wrote my impressions of everyone at the time."
Madelyn: "Serious? Let me read it!"
Steven: "What? No, it's boring stuff like "Madelyn is a human like me."
She still went for my journal despite my protests and became hell-bent on retrieving it. It's like I have to deal with a kid! I eventually gave up and handed her the journal. It wasn't like there was anything incriminating and Madelyn was starting to get annoying.
Steven: "There, fuck, are you happy now?"
She turns her back to me and starts reading it near the end of the room. Lilith was near her and even looked over Madelyn's shoulder to sneak a peek.
Seriously, it's only filled with boring stuff.
Rayna: "Steven, I need your help with something."
She grabs me by the wrist and tugs. I turned and saw that she was sitting on the bed with Young Mi next to her; both of them looking at me worryingly.
Steven: "Hey, what's up?"
Young Mi: "Let me see your hand."
I gave her my hand and she presses her thumbs down on my palm with such a force that she'd puncture my skin if she had sharp nails. It slowly became more of a needle as a cold chill slowly worked its way throughout my arm and body.
Young Mi: "I channeled some of my magic to you. Which means you can now use magic."
Steven: "Why did you try stabbing me with your thumbs?"
Young Mi: "It's more efficient. I'd rather not lose my energy as you have. This way, it'll work better for both of us."
Steven: "Thank you, Young Mi! I, ahaha~, feel better!"
It was such a breath of fresh air but with magic! I no longer feel lethargic! It's hard to believe that my life now depends on if I have enough magic, something I've never had to use in my life.
Young Mi: "Don't thank me… I'm just helping a friend."
Rayna: "You're not using magic right now, though. You still need to rest."
Young Mi: "Yes, she's right for now. We all deserve to rest."
I just realized that both Young Mi and Rayna were sitting together.
I know how untrusting the group is towards Rayna. Well, not all of them, I just know Young Mi doesn't trust her because of her "tampering with dangerous magic and disregard for possible loss of life" that would have ensued if she messed up.
Steven: "When did you 2 become comfortable around each other?"
Rayna: "Me and Young Mi?"
Steven: "Yes, Young Mi, I thought you were wary."
Young Mi: "I decided to hear her out and well, she knows time travel is dangerous, and because of it, won't use it again."
Rayna: "I don't regret a thing, though."
I reached out and instinctively patted her head.
Steven: "I wouldn't want you to, either."
Rayna: "Stop~ I'm not a pet."
She swats me away and laughs. Madelyn comes over to see what the commotion we were making was about.
Madelyn: "What's going on over here?"
Young Mi: "Steven's just teasing Rayna. It's common for youth to tease the person they like."
Steven: "That's not true."
It's like second nature for me to pat someone on the head if I feel like they're not feeling well!
Young Mi: "It is, you're soft on her and that's fine with us."
Madelyn: "My, oh my, why don't the both of you just rekindle your relationship?"
Steven: "Relationship? I only know Rayna through—"
Her memory spells…
The only way I know her is through magic…
Madelyn: "Don't tell me you already did."
She said sarcastically.
Steven: "Yes, we most definitely did and made love to each other countless nights."
I fired back.
The room freezes with silence and all the girls look at me like I'm a villain.
Madelyn: "Wow… that would be the last thing I'd imagine you saying."
Young Mi: "Don't be inappropriate."
Rayna: "Can we not..? This is uncomfortable."
Madelyn: "Sorry, didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."
Rayna begins to glare at me.
Rayna: "Not you, it's Steven."
What did I do?!
Young Mi: "Either way, this is something the both of you should be discussing in private."
I just wanted out and using the time, I could get away from this rather awkward environment that I accidentally created.
Steven: "It's getting late. Where are we sleeping?"
Young Mi: "I already claimed this bed."
Rayna: "I have the other room with a nice window."
Madelyn: "And I have mine. There's only one room left; someone has to share."
If this is how things are going then it's best if I share with Rayna. She's the safest choice and I know she won't mind it either.
Steven: "In that case, I'll sleep with Rayna."
Rayna: "Huh, y-you will?"
Her tone was surprised.
Steven: "Yeah, I thought you'd be more comfortable with us sharing a bed."
Madelyn: "I don't mind sharing with Lilith."
Lilith: "I'm fine with whatever."
Young Mi: "Hopefully, nobody would pay me any mind for wanting to be left alone?"
An alternate would be Madelyn and Lilith sharing, giving everyone else a room to themselves. I don't mind sticking with my choice as long as Rayna's alright with it. So, it'll be up to her.
Steven: "There's no pressure, Rayna."
Rayna: "No, I… yes, I just wasn't expecting you to choose me."
Madelyn: "Then Lilith and I will eat our food in the other room so we won't bother Young Mi. I don't know what Wights do for sleep but you do what's best for you."
We sleep…
It's only harder to achieve…
Young Mi: "I always do."
Steven: "Alright, I guess it's settled. You'll be fine here, Young Mi?"
Young Mi: "Of course, I'll let you know if I need something."
The rest of us departed the room and grouped up in the hallway.
Rayna: "I'm going to take a bath. You won't mind?"
Steven: "Of course not."
She goes towards the baths. She's going to be taking a while so I may as well go to bed myself. Madelyn slightly punches my arm and grabs my attention from her
Madelyn: "Just don't make too much noise, alright? Lilith and I still have to sleep."
Steven: "Madelyn?"
Madelyn: "What?"
Steven: "The fuck is wrong with you..?"
She sticks her tongue out and defiantly walks to her room with Lilith.
I walk into the one I was going to share with Rayna. She wasn't kidding about having a nice window. The moonlit the room up dimly but enough to see where I'm going without a light.
The view outside the window was rather nice. It was like I was looking into an art piece that came into life. The trees of the forest were very dark, but the open fields of farm and cattle were visible.
There was noise coming from the hallways, presumably Madelyn finally got her food and went out to get it. Rayna opens the door not long after in her underwear. She casts Candlelight and throws and sticks it to the ceiling.
She was wearing elegant royal purple underwear and garters. I couldn't take my eyes off her despite how indecent or perverse I came off as.
Rayna: "What? You're acting as you've never seen me in underwear before."
Steven: "Because I haven't…"
Rayna: "Oh… sorry, is it that I am attractive to you?"
Steven: "I…"
I snapped myself back into my senses.
Steven: "Yes, won't lie."
I stood up and looked back at the bed trying to figure out which side I'm getting. Rayna would want a specific spot on the bed. I at least know that much about her.
Steven: "Alright, well, what side do you want?"
Rayna: "I always get the left side. Now come, sit by me."
We bundled up together by the bed and looked towards the moon. It suddenly felt different than the first time. What could be a cold night alone was a peaceful one with Rayna beside me.
It was nostalgic…
Steven: "Wow."
Rayna: "Do you remember, Steven? We always sat together like this and looked at the moon. How it reflected off the lake and the rest of the city."
Steven: "You showed me…"
Rayna: "I'm so glad we're together like this."
We butted our heads together and quietly looked into each other's eyes. There was something about her that I couldn't get away from. Whether it was her gorgeous blue eyes or just the memory spell tugging at my heartstrings, I really wanted to lean in and kiss her.
Rayna: "Let's go to sleep."
Steven: "Y-yeah, it's really late."
A missed opportunity. We got under the blankets and prepared for bed. However, she was facing me and didn't avert her gaze. It made me slightly nervous because what if she's expecting something? Maybe she knew I wanted to kiss her and is now trying to capitalize on it.
Steven: "W-what is it?"
Rayna: "Nothing, it's just… hard to sleep."
I saw that I had another chance and this time, I took it. Leaning in and taking her by surprise, we met our lips under the covers. We caressed each other's cheeks as our lips smacked, one after the other. It was a short bliss as she eventually had to pull herself away.
Rayna: "Took you long enough… now let's really go to bed."
Steven: "Here, I have an idea: turn and lay on your side, so your back is facing me."
She acted like she knew what was going to happen and happily obliged me. I slid in from behind and pulled her close. Bringing my arm over and resting it in front of her, she gently holds my wrist.
Rayna: "Ooh~, you're spooning me?"
Steven: "You know what it's called?"
She grabs my hands and interlocks our fingers.
Rayna: "…yes…"
She was so close to me that I felt safe. Anything could come at us and we'll both be ready for it.
We were close together under the layers of blankets that we were able to stay warm in this cold room. Her hair smelled like delightful primrose, taking me away from the harsh environments of the wild and into the nice summer nights of Feles Isle.
I could definitely fall asleep like this; I'm very comfortable right now.
Steven: "Goodnight."
Rayna: "Goodnight."
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With every step we take, it feels like we're getting more and more lost. According to Lilith, it's been 3 days now since we escaped. Feels like most of it has been spent walking. From the beach, we found a small dirt road leading into the mainland. With it, a sign saying "Kald." It could've been anything from an abandoned hamlet to a large city.
It was our only hope and we were out of options. Our prospects started to slowly favor us with our choice to be venturing into the forests. The road very gradually went from loose cobble to more hardened dirt as if it has been stepped on many times before. I had hope, but I didn't want to fill myself too much with it as I've been left disappointed a couple of times already.
My body was aching. It started with my feet, now it's up to my shoulders. Lilith must be going through the same thing, but she hasn't shown any weakness yet. I know she has it worse than me because I could hear her stomach growl. The tenacity that girl has is something really admire.
The sun was setting, and I began fearing that we would regret traveling into the forest. A couple of minutes in and an idea sprung into my mind. If the sun sets in a certain direction, what's to stop me from figuring out where we're going?
Steven: "Which direction does the sunset, Lilith?"
Lilith: "West… why?"
I reached out my hand out and pointed my left hand through the trees and sun as best I could. By doing it like this, if my left hand is pointing west, my right must be pointing east; meaning that in front of me, the direction we're walking, is north.
Steven: "We're heading north."
Lilith: "North..? Wait…"
She does exactly what I did and quickly finds out what I mean.
Lilith: "We are!"
Steven: "What do we do now that we know?"
Lilith: "Let me think! Let me think..! Alright, if Kald is in the north… I saw on the map that the Academy is west of most cities."
Steven: "So the Academy is in the west?"
Lilith: "I said "most"… if we reach Kald, we can find out for sure."
We continued walking a short distance as Lilith became lost in her thoughts. Her pace had slowed down and I found myself stopping a couple of times to let her catch up. When I was about to turn around and keep moving, she stopped in her tracks and looks at me as if she made a stunning discovery.
Lilith: "Ah! Kald must be close to the Academy!"
Steven: "How?"
Lilith: "We were at the Academy when we were kidnapped and we woke up presumably still at around midnight. When I used Shadow Leap, it was sluggish because I used half the blood I would normally use which is half a pint. I didn't realize it 'till now, but—"
Steven: "Enough with the Blood magic and just get to the point!"
Lilith: "We weren't walking aimlessly, we were most likely walking towards the Academy!"
Kald might be more than just abandoned! With our newfound enthusiasm, we continued onwards to Kald at a much faster rate. Blinded by a glimmer of hope, it turned out that Lilith might be right as the light started to shine through the horizon. Not the sun, but a town!
Steven: "We found it, Lilith… is that it?!"
Lilith: "It is!"
She speeds up into a slow jog towards the light. It was the greatest stroke of fortune we've ever been given and I was glad that no matter how small of a town we found, we were finally back in civilization!
It was truly a town! A small one but still!
We didn't even know where to begin and when we walked up to the entrance, we were greeted by the nicest guard I've seen in a long time. He was a Wood Elf like everyone else in town. Although he wore clothes that made him stand out, like an authoritative figure such as a guard. He kept calm, sitting on a chair beside a small cabin. In his hand were a grindstone and unique copper knife that he stopped using after he laid his eyes on us.
Watchman: "Welcome to Kald, travelers. This here's a farming town, so we're a little behind on the times but we're catching up… it seems like you 2 are in a jam.
Lilith: "Excuse me, sir…"
She begins telling him about our circumstances way better than I could ever do. When she finished, the man looked around and back at us. Twirling his knife around before embedding it on the cabin wall behind him.
Watchman: "Well, I'll be… that's the craziest story I've heard in all my years! This week might be the most eventful this town's seen."
Steven: "It's that peaceful?"
Watchman: "No, this is big… first, Arend catches a big and bad bandit couple days back and now, some folks from the Academy came down here earlier today, saying they've been searching for missing students. Surely, you're those students? I thought they were here to bust out the damn bandit."
He quickly glances around the immediate vicinity and stands up.
Watchman: "Well, shit, I shouldn't be leaving my post but this could be serious."
He glances through the window of the cabin. His movement was quick and he moves to the door, slightly opening it to be able to shout throughout the inside of the building.
Watchman: "Arend! Get out here!"
Arend: "What is it? I finished my hours, so I'm not filling in for tonight."
Watchman: "No, there are more people out here!"
He sits back down in the chair while another Elf walks out. This one's hair was tied into a small ponytail and he'd have a forgettable face if he didn't have a large scar across his cheek.
Arend: "Who are these people?"
Watchman: "You know the, the… the mu-fucking, um—those people that came looking for some missing students and Bruno told them to stay at the saloon because he thought they were going to bust the guy you brought in out?"
Arend nods, seemingly confused by his friend's frantically quick speech.
Watchman: "Settle down and tell me what's going on."
Watchman: "I think these are the students they were looking for."
Arend: "The hell you say?"
Watchman: "Oh yes, they look and smell like shit. They have to be the missing students."
Arend sighs and rubs his right eye. It felt like we were bothering him as it looked like he only barely got off work. I'd feel bad, but we could seriously use any help we can get.
Arend: "Alright then, follow me you 2. Let's go to your Academy buddies and get you back home. Assuming they are from the Academy, but you'll be able to tell them apart from a bandit better than I can."
He starts down the road and waved at us to follow. We walked down the dirt road that branched off to smaller streets and towards farmland. We were surrounded by a quaint town with kind people that greeted us as we passed by.
The town really came to life when we turned away from the main road onto a smaller one where a bar was nearby. The people here were unwinding and having a good time.
Arend: "Sorry about Humbert, he can be… abrasive."
Steven: "I'm fine…"
Arend: "For the time being… we'll get you both cleaned up too."
He walks us a little further from the bar and enters a much bigger 2-story building. The entrance was pretty spacious and could possibly hold a small gathering. The place was lit by a fireplace to the far right of the room where the lounge was. The lounge especially drew my attention because it was the most decorated of the room with animal trophies and an actual carpet!
Before I was able to get too distracted, Lilith tugs on my cardigan and brings my attention to a desk. There was a much older man, no less than his 40's, sitting and entranced with a book in his hands. Arend failed to get his attention and knocked on the desk roughly just to get his attention.
Hotelier: "Arend! It's been a while!"
Arend: "It has! I see your hotel is feeling empty."
Hotelier: "Bah! Nobody likes to travel when it's too cold. It'll pick up in the spring. You know it always does."
The man puts his book down and reaches under the desk, pulling out a tray of caramel candies. Arend helped himself to them and offered Lilith one, to which she hesitatingly accepted. I declined as I wasn't really in the mood right now.
Arend: "Where are the people Bruno sent over?"
Hotelier: "I gave them the second floor. May as well have some use for it and have more than dust to cleanout. They seem like calm people, hell one of them's a stoic! There's no way they can be bandits."
I know only one person that would be the stoic in our group!
Steven: "Was a woman named Young Mi with them?"
Hotelier: "Young Mi? She has pale skin like she's anemic? Yeah, I heard that name from them. Are you all related? I'm not one to judge but I can't imagine it being a coincidence that you all have rounded-ears."
Steven: "In a way… yeah."
I was surrounded by such unique people that I forgot it's a rare sight to have rounded ears in Den Gi. The only feasible ways that come to mind were to be either half Demon and Elven or a Goblin entirely.
Or in such a rare case, a Human.
Hotelier: "Well, they're upstairs. The bath is the first door in front of the stairs if you're taking one as I'm assuming. I don't have clothes but there's plenty of towels."
Arend: "Well, I guess my job is done. I'll be going now, if you need me, go to the entrance where we met. Humbert and I are pretty much always there at the cabin."
Hotelier: "Just upstairs, I don't know what room they went into but go ahead and use whatever room you want, I insist."
The man went back to his book after reiterating. I took the lead; the stairs were right behind the man and was almost unnoticeable because of its L-shape design. Once we were up top, there were 4 rooms to choose from.
It didn't take long until we found Rayna pacing nervously back and forth with Young Mi sitting on a bed in the last room to the left. They froze in place when we introduced ourselves. It was easy to see the wave of emotions on their faces from shock to happiness. Rayna especially looked like she wanted to cry.
Rayna: "Oh my…"
She ran into my arms and tightly embraces me.
Rayna: "I was so worried…"
Steven: "Yeah… sorry, Rayna."
Young Mi stands up and joins, making it more into a group hug. It sort of took me by surprise because she keeps to herself, as in, she doesn't get up to hug someone so easily after they've disappeared.
Steven: "You too, Young Mi?"
Young Mi: "I was worried as well."
Steven: "You sound as surprised as I am."
Young Mi: "Well, I never thought I'd be worried about you or Lilith, come here."
She opens out her arms and welcomes Lilith in. She was a little hesitant at first but she comes after we all look at her.
Rayna: "She's really caring about you 2."
Young Mi smiles and sits back down on the bed.
Young Mi: "Yes, in my own way; I am."
Rayna: "Well, if anything, I'd say Madelyn was far more worried than the both of us combined."
Steven: "Really?"
Rayna: "She went straight to us after she found out you both disappeared."
Steven: "That's normal. I'd go straight for help if either of you disappeared suddenly."
Young Mi: "She was very concerned; more than she'd let on."
Steven: "Where is she then?"
Rayna: "She stepped out but she'll be back. I'll set out to get her."
Steven: "Yes, please do…"
When she left the room, Young Mi gets up again and starts going through a nearby closet. She pulled out neatly folded towels and clothes before turning back to us.
Young Mi: "The both of you look terrible."
Steven: "Well, we didn't expect to get kidnapped."
Young Mi: "So the Headmistress was right? She knew you were kidnapped. What happened to you is why there's a strict curfew."
Lilith: "What did the Headmistress do?"
Young Mi: "She set up a search party to look for you. We were allowed to search for you on our own after they turned up empty-handed."
Steven: "Well, here we are…"
Young Mi: "Yes, you're both safe."
She handed us each a towel and appropriate clothes, a laced shirt, and breeches. It's nothing fancy but it'll help if I want to blend in with the crowd.
Young Mi: "Here, I knew I'd be needing these. There are 2 bathrooms, go and clean yourselves."
Steven: "I only saw one door."
Young Mi: "There are 2 more doors inside. I don't know why it's like that because it's bad design but there's 2."
We checked out the bathrooms and Young Mi was right. There really were 2 more doors in a much tinier hallway! I went for the one on the right and got ready for a bath.
The bathtub was literally in the middle of the room which was weird to look at because I'm used to seeing them hugging the wall. Once I got in it, I was met with the most euphoric feeling I've had in a long time. I always saw people that fall asleep in bathtubs as weird, but I finally understand them! The time passed by quickly before I figured out I've been in for too long.
I was worried if the others were planning to take a bath and are upset, so I rushed the rest of my bath. I got into the fresher clothes and went into the hallway of the hotel where I bumped into Rayna coming out of the room.
Rayna: "Oh, there you are, Steven. Your hair is still wet, y'know?"
Steven: "I know, did you find Madelyn?"
Rayna: "I did, and I didn't tell her why I needed her. Thought you'd want to surprise her."
Steven: "That's… a good idea!"
I wonder how she'd react?
Rayna stood in front of me and opened the door, essentially becoming a body-shield to Madelyn's eyes. She had no idea until we made eye contact. Her eyes widened with shock before she exploded off the bed and jumped to hug me with enough force to knock anyone down if they were caught off guard.
Steven: "Happy much?"
She didn't reply, only cry softly in my shoulder.
Steven: "I missed you too, Madelyn."
Madelyn: "I actually thought—I thought—"
Steven: "I know, I know—just… we're fine now. You should know that we always find our way back."
She didn't let up and even tightened her arms more. I didn't push back because it feels nice to be hugged and, well, I'm sure she'll tire out soon.
It makes me remember the time on Sefre where I drunkenly asked her to be my sister. We were wasted and it's fuzzy to remember. So, will she remember as well?
Steven: "I'm fine, sis."
She ultimately releases me and sits on the bed, wiping away her tears. I didn't know what to expect by calling her "sis", but nothing really happened.
Steven: "Did Lilith finish her bath?"
Young Mi: "No, she's still in the bath."
She's probably enjoying her bath as I did.
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Steven: "Well, what do we do now?"
Rayna: "Rest, for now. This is a setback on what we need to do: which is to assist the Academy."
Steven: "So I'm assuming we'll be heading back in the morning?"
Rayna: "Yes… it's an 8-hour trip, so we need to leave in the morning."
All this running and walking makes me feel like it's just one really drawn out Color Run event, just without the fun or happiness.
Steven: "Ahh~ I wish I can retire just for today."
Lilith walks in as I started complaining. She was looking way better and happy. It doubled when she saw Madelyn and gives us the brightest smile I've ever seen her do.
Lilith: "Madelyn!"
Madelyn: "Lilith!"
They both screamed, frightening us Wights. I was preparing for anything, but no, it's just them being really excited to see each other and hugging. They're really best friends.
Madelyn: "I was so worried!"
Definitely like best friends…
Madelyn: "Is there anything I could get you?"
Lilith: "Something to eat?"
Madelyn: "There's this bar that also serves food. I wasn't able to eat there but they said they'll bring us all a bag of food."
"Bag" clicked inside of Rayna because she reached under the bed and pulls out a duffle full of the stuff I brought to Esnia.
Rayna: "I almost forgot! I brought a bag with your stuff in it. We weren't sure what you'd want but most of it is in there. I even have yours, Lilith."
Lilith: "Oh, thank you."
As I was glad that I had my stuff, there really wasn't anything that could help us right now. It's mostly just clothes! The most important item here was my journal. I love writing in it even though it's mostly me talking about things that already happened. It helps me keep track of things and after these past few days? I'll be sitting down for a while.
Lilith: "Steven, you've actually been using the journal I gave you?"
Steven: "This? Yeah… I've been writing in it since you gave it to me back in the village."
Lilith: "What have you been writing?"
Steven: "Stuff that's been going on. You know, to keep track of things."
Madelyn: "You don't write about your feelings or who you like? That's lame."
Young Mi: "It's always good to keep track of your thoughts. Steven has the right idea."
I don't write anything personal because I know someone like Dai-tai or maybe even Madelyn would swipe it and read through it. By doing it this way, I could tell if they did read it by seeing their look of disappointment.
Steven: "No, but I wrote my impressions of everyone at the time."
Madelyn: "Serious? Let me read it!"
Steven: "What? No, it's boring stuff like "Madelyn is a human like me."
She still went for my journal despite my protests and became hell-bent on retrieving it. It's like I have to deal with a kid! I eventually gave up and handed her the journal. It wasn't like there was anything incriminating and Madelyn was starting to get annoying.
Steven: "There, fuck, are you happy now?"
She turns her back to me and starts reading it near the end of the room. Lilith was near her and even looked over Madelyn's shoulder to sneak a peek.
Seriously, it's only filled with boring stuff.
Rayna: "Steven, I need your help with something."
She grabs me by the wrist and tugs. I turned and saw that she was sitting on the bed with Young Mi next to her; both of them looking at me worryingly.
Steven: "Hey, what's up?"
Young Mi: "Let me see your hand."
I gave her my hand and she presses her thumbs down on my palm with such a force that she'd puncture my skin if she had sharp nails. It slowly became more of a needle as a cold chill slowly worked its way throughout my arm and body.
Young Mi: "I channeled some of my magic to you. Which means you can now use magic."
Steven: "Why did you try stabbing me with your thumbs?"
Young Mi: "It's more efficient. I'd rather not lose my energy as you have. This way, it'll work better for both of us."
Steven: "Thank you, Young Mi! I, ahaha~, feel better!"
It was such a breath of fresh air but with magic! I no longer feel lethargic! It's hard to believe that my life now depends on if I have enough magic, something I've never had to use in my life.
Young Mi: "Don't thank me… I'm just helping a friend."
Rayna: "You're not using magic right now, though. You still need to rest."
Young Mi: "Yes, she's right for now. We all deserve to rest."
I just realized that both Young Mi and Rayna were sitting together.
I know how untrusting the group is towards Rayna. Well, not all of them, I just know Young Mi doesn't trust her because of her "tampering with dangerous magic and disregard for possible loss of life" that would have ensued if she messed up.
Steven: "When did you 2 become comfortable around each other?"
Rayna: "Me and Young Mi?"
Steven: "Yes, Young Mi, I thought you were wary."
Young Mi: "I decided to hear her out and well, she knows time travel is dangerous, and because of it, won't use it again."
Rayna: "I don't regret a thing, though."
I reached out and instinctively patted her head.
Steven: "I wouldn't want you to, either."
Rayna: "Stop~ I'm not a pet."
She swats me away and laughs. Madelyn comes over to see what the commotion we were making was about.
Madelyn: "What's going on over here?"
Young Mi: "Steven's just teasing Rayna. It's common for youth to tease the person they like."
Steven: "That's not true."
It's like second nature for me to pat someone on the head if I feel like they're not feeling well!
Young Mi: "It is, you're soft on her and that's fine with us."
Madelyn: "My, oh my, why don't the both of you just rekindle your relationship?"
Steven: "Relationship? I only know Rayna through—"
Her memory spells…
The only way I know her is through magic…
Madelyn: "Don't tell me you already did."
She said sarcastically.
Steven: "Yes, we most definitely did and made love to each other countless nights."
I fired back.
The room freezes with silence and all the girls look at me like I'm a villain.
Madelyn: "Wow… that would be the last thing I'd imagine you saying."
Young Mi: "Don't be inappropriate."
Rayna: "Can we not..? This is uncomfortable."
Madelyn: "Sorry, didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."
Rayna begins to glare at me.
Rayna: "Not you, it's Steven."
What did I do?!
Young Mi: "Either way, this is something the both of you should be discussing in private."
I just wanted out and using the time, I could get away from this rather awkward environment that I accidentally created.
Steven: "It's getting late. Where are we sleeping?"
Young Mi: "I already claimed this bed."
Rayna: "I have the other room with a nice window."
Madelyn: "And I have mine. There's only one room left; someone has to share."
If this is how things are going then it's best if I share with Rayna. She's the safest choice and I know she won't mind it either.
Steven: "In that case, I'll sleep with Rayna."
Rayna: "Huh, y-you will?"
Her tone was surprised.
Steven: "Yeah, I thought you'd be more comfortable with us sharing a bed."
Madelyn: "I don't mind sharing with Lilith."
Lilith: "I'm fine with whatever."
Young Mi: "Hopefully, nobody would pay me any mind for wanting to be left alone?"
An alternate would be Madelyn and Lilith sharing, giving everyone else a room to themselves. I don't mind sticking with my choice as long as Rayna's alright with it. So, it'll be up to her.
Steven: "There's no pressure, Rayna."
Rayna: "No, I… yes, I just wasn't expecting you to choose me."
Madelyn: "Then Lilith and I will eat our food in the other room so we won't bother Young Mi. I don't know what Wights do for sleep but you do what's best for you."
We sleep…
It's only harder to achieve…
Young Mi: "I always do."
Steven: "Alright, I guess it's settled. You'll be fine here, Young Mi?"
Young Mi: "Of course, I'll let you know if I need something."
The rest of us departed the room and grouped up in the hallway.
Rayna: "I'm going to take a bath. You won't mind?"
Steven: "Of course not."
She goes towards the baths. She's going to be taking a while so I may as well go to bed myself. Madelyn slightly punches my arm and grabs my attention from her
Madelyn: "Just don't make too much noise, alright? Lilith and I still have to sleep."
Steven: "Madelyn?"
Madelyn: "What?"
Steven: "The fuck is wrong with you..?"
She sticks her tongue out and defiantly walks to her room with Lilith.
I walk into the one I was going to share with Rayna. She wasn't kidding about having a nice window. The moonlit the room up dimly but enough to see where I'm going without a light.
The view outside the window was rather nice. It was like I was looking into an art piece that came into life. The trees of the forest were very dark, but the open fields of farm and cattle were visible.
There was noise coming from the hallways, presumably Madelyn finally got her food and went out to get it. Rayna opens the door not long after in her underwear. She casts Candlelight and throws and sticks it to the ceiling.
She was wearing elegant royal purple underwear and garters. I couldn't take my eyes off her despite how indecent or perverse I came off as.
Rayna: "What? You're acting as you've never seen me in underwear before."
Steven: "Because I haven't…"
Rayna: "Oh… sorry, is it that I am attractive to you?"
Steven: "I…"
I snapped myself back into my senses.
Steven: "Yes, won't lie."
I stood up and looked back at the bed trying to figure out which side I'm getting. Rayna would want a specific spot on the bed. I at least know that much about her.
Steven: "Alright, well, what side do you want?"
Rayna: "I always get the left side. Now come, sit by me."
We bundled up together by the bed and looked towards the moon. It suddenly felt different than the first time. What could be a cold night alone was a peaceful one with Rayna beside me.
It was nostalgic…
Steven: "Wow."
Rayna: "Do you remember, Steven? We always sat together like this and looked at the moon. How it reflected off the lake and the rest of the city."
Steven: "You showed me…"
Rayna: "I'm so glad we're together like this."
We butted our heads together and quietly looked into each other's eyes. There was something about her that I couldn't get away from. Whether it was her gorgeous blue eyes or just the memory spell tugging at my heartstrings, I really wanted to lean in and kiss her.
Rayna: "Let's go to sleep."
Steven: "Y-yeah, it's really late."
A missed opportunity. We got under the blankets and prepared for bed. However, she was facing me and didn't avert her gaze. It made me slightly nervous because what if she's expecting something? Maybe she knew I wanted to kiss her and is now trying to capitalize on it.
Steven: "W-what is it?"
Rayna: "Nothing, it's just… hard to sleep."
I saw that I had another chance and this time, I took it. Leaning in and taking her by surprise, we met our lips under the covers. We caressed each other's cheeks as our lips smacked, one after the other. It was a short bliss as she eventually had to pull herself away.
Rayna: "Took you long enough… now let's really go to bed."
Steven: "Here, I have an idea: turn and lay on your side, so your back is facing me."
She acted like she knew what was going to happen and happily obliged me. I slid in from behind and pulled her close. Bringing my arm over and resting it in front of her, she gently holds my wrist.
Rayna: "Ooh~, you're spooning me?"
Steven: "You know what it's called?"
She grabs my hands and interlocks our fingers.
Rayna: "…yes…"
She was so close to me that I felt safe. Anything could come at us and we'll both be ready for it.
We were close together under the layers of blankets that we were able to stay warm in this cold room. Her hair smelled like delightful primrose, taking me away from the harsh environments of the wild and into the nice summer nights of Feles Isle.
I could definitely fall asleep like this; I'm very comfortable right now.
Steven: "Goodnight."
Rayna: "Goodnight."
With every step we take, it feels like we're getting more and more lost. According to Lilith, it's been 3 days now since we escaped. Feels like most of it has been spent walking. From the beach, we found a small dirt road leading into the mainland. With it, a sign saying "Kald." It could've been anything from an abandoned hamlet to a large city.It was our only hope and we were out of options. Our prospects started to slowly favor us with our choice to be venturing into the forests. The road very gradually went from loose cobble to more hardened dirt as if it has been stepped on many times before. I had hope, but I didn't want to fill myself too much with it as I've been left disappointed a couple of times already.My body was aching. It started with my feet, now it's up to my shoulders. Lilith must be going through the same thing, but she hasn't shown any weakness yet. I know she has it worse than me because I could hear her stomach growl. The tenacity that girl has is something really admire.The sun was setting, and I began fearing that we would regret traveling into the forest. A couple of minutes in and an idea sprung into my mind. If the sun sets in a certain direction, what's to stop me from figuring out where we're going?Steven: "Which direction does the sunset, Lilith?"Lilith: "West why?"I reached out my hand out and pointed my left hand through the trees and sun as best I could. By doing it like this, if my left hand is pointing west, my right must be pointing east; meaning that in front of me, the direction we're walking, is north.Steven: "We're heading north."Lilith: "North..? Wait"She does exactly what I did and quickly finds out what I mean.Lilith: "We are!"Steven: "What do we do now that we know?"Lilith: "Let me think! Let me think..! Alright, if Kald is in the north I saw on the map that the Academy is west of most cities."Steven: "So the Academy is in the west?"Lilith: "I said "most" if we reach Kald, we can find out for sure."We continued walking a short distance as Lilith became lost in her thoughts. Her pace had slowed down and I found myself stopping a couple of times to let her catch up. When I was about to turn around and keep moving, she stopped in her tracks and looks at me as if she made a stunning discovery.Lilith: "Ah! Kald must be close to the Academy!"Steven: "How?"Lilith: "We were at the Academy when we were kidnapped and we woke up presumably still at around midnight. When I used Shadow Leap, it was sluggish because I used half the blood I would normally use which is half a pint. I didn't realize it 'till now, but"Steven: "Enough with the Blood magic and just get to the point!"Lilith: "We weren't walking aimlessly, we were most likely walking towards the Academy!"Kald might be more than just abandoned! With our newfound enthusiasm, we continued onwards to Kald at a much faster rate. Blinded by a glimmer of hope, it turned out that Lilith might be right as the light started to shine through the horizon. Not the sun, but a town!Steven: "We found it, Lilith is that it?!"Lilith: "It is!"She speeds up into a slow jog towards the light. It was the greatest stroke of fortune we've ever been given and I was glad that no matter how small of a town we found, we were finally back in civilization!It was truly a town! A small one but still!We didn't even know where to begin and when we walked up to the entrance, we were greeted by the nicest guard I've seen in a long time. He was a Wood Elf like everyone else in town. Although he wore clothes that made him stand out, like an authoritative figure such as a guard. He kept calm, sitting on a chair beside a small cabin. In his hand were a grindstone and unique copper knife that he stopped using after he laid his eyes on us.Watchman: "Welcome to Kald, travelers. This here's a farming town, so we're a little behind on the times but we're catching up it seems like you 2 are in a jam.Lilith: "Excuse me, sir"She begins telling him about our circumstances way better than I could ever do. When she finished, the man looked around and back at us. Twirling his knife around before embedding it on the cabin wall behind him.Watchman: "Well, I'll be that's the craziest story I've heard in all my years! This week might be the most eventful this town's seen."Steven: "It's that peaceful?"Watchman: "No, this is big first, Arend catches a big and bad bandit couple days back and now, some folks from the Academy came down here earlier today, saying they've been searching for missing students. Surely, you're those students? I thought they were here to bust out the damn bandit."He quickly glances around the immediate vicinity and stands up.Watchman: "Well, shit, I shouldn't be leaving my post but this could be serious."He glances through the window of the cabin. His movement was quick and he moves to the door, slightly opening it to be able to shout throughout the inside of the building.Watchman: "Arend! Get out here!"Arend: "What is it? I finished my hours, so I'm not filling in for tonight."Watchman: "No, there are more people out here!"He sits back down in the chair while another Elf walks out. This one's hair was tied into a small ponytail and he'd have a forgettable face if he didn't have a large scar across his cheek.Arend: "Who are these people?"Watchman: "You know the, the the mu-fucking, umthose people that came looking for some missing students and Bruno told them to stay at the saloon because he thought they were going to bust the guy you brought in out?"Arend nods, seemingly confused by his friend's frantically quick speech.Watchman: "Settle down and tell me what's going on."Watchman: "I think these are the students they were looking for."Arend: "The hell you say?"Watchman: "Oh yes, they look and smell like shit. They have to be the missing students."Arend sighs and rubs his right eye. It felt like we were bothering him as it looked like he only barely got off work. I'd feel bad, but we could seriously use any help we can get.Arend: "Alright then, follow me you 2. Let's go to your Academy buddies and get you back home. Assuming they are from the Academy, but you'll be able to tell them apart from a bandit better than I can."He starts down the road and waved at us to follow. We walked down the dirt road that branched off to smaller streets and towards farmland. We were surrounded by a quaint town with kind people that greeted us as we passed by.The town really came to life when we turned away from the main road onto a smaller one where a bar was nearby. The people here were unwinding and having a good time.Arend: "Sorry about Humbert, he can be abrasive."Steven: "I'm fine"Arend: "For the time being we'll get you both cleaned up too."He walks us a little further from the bar and enters a much bigger 2-story building. The entrance was pretty spacious and could possibly hold a small gathering. The place was lit by a fireplace to the far right of the room where the lounge was. The lounge especially drew my attention because it was the most decorated of the room with animal trophies and an actual carpet!Before I was able to get too distracted, Lilith tugs on my cardigan and brings my attention to a desk. There was a much older man, no less than his 40's, sitting and entranced with a book in his hands. Arend failed to get his attention and knocked on the desk roughly just to get his attention.Hotelier: "Arend! It's been a while!"Arend: "It has! I see your hotel is feeling empty."Hotelier: "Bah! Nobody likes to travel when it's too cold. It'll pick up in the spring. You know it always does."The man puts his book down and reaches under the desk, pulling out a tray of caramel candies. Arend helped himself to them and offered Lilith one, to which she hesitatingly accepted. I declined as I wasn't really in the mood right now.Arend: "Where are the people Bruno sent over?"Hotelier: "I gave them the second floor. May as well have some use for it and have more than dust to cleanout. They seem like calm people, hell one of them's a stoic! There's no way they can be bandits."I know only one person that would be the stoic in our group!Steven: "Was a woman named Young Mi with them?"Hotelier: "Young Mi? She has pale skin like she's anemic? Yeah, I heard that name from them. Are you all related? I'm not one to judge but I can't imagine it being a coincidence that you all have rounded-ears."Steven: "In a way yeah."I was surrounded by such unique people that I forgot it's a rare sight to have rounded ears in Den Gi. The only feasible ways that come to mind were to be either half Demon and Elven or a Goblin entirely.Or in such a rare case, a Human.Hotelier: "Well, they're upstairs. The bath is the first door in front of the stairs if you're taking one as I'm assuming. I don't have clothes but there's plenty of towels."Arend: "Well, I guess my job is done. I'll be going now, if you need me, go to the entrance where we met. Humbert and I are pretty much always there at the cabin."Hotelier: "Just upstairs, I don't know what room they went into but go ahead and use whatever room you want, I insist."The man went back to his book after reiterating. I took the lead; the stairs were right behind the man and was almost unnoticeable because of its L-shape design. Once we were up top, there were 4 rooms to choose from.It didn't take long until we found Rayna pacing nervously back and forth with Young Mi sitting on a bed in the last room to the left. They froze in place when we introduced ourselves. It was easy to see the wave of emotions on their faces from shock to happiness. Rayna especially looked like she wanted to cry.Rayna: "Oh my"She ran into my arms and tightly embraces me.Rayna: "I was so worried"Steven: "Yeah sorry, Rayna."Young Mi stands up and joins, making it more into a group hug. It sort of took me by surprise because she keeps to herself, as in, she doesn't get up to hug someone so easily after they've disappeared.Steven: "You too, Young Mi?"Young Mi: "I was worried as well."Steven: "You sound as surprised as I am."Young Mi: "Well, I never thought I'd be worried about you or Lilith, come here."She opens out her arms and welcomes Lilith in. She was a little hesitant at first but she comes after we all look at her.Rayna: "She's really caring about you 2."Young Mi smiles and sits back down on the bed.Young Mi: "Yes, in my own way; I am."Rayna: "Well, if anything, I'd say Madelyn was far more worried than the both of us combined."Steven: "Really?"Rayna: "She went straight to us after she found out you both disappeared."Steven: "That's normal. I'd go straight for help if either of you disappeared suddenly."Young Mi: "She was very concerned; more than she'd let on."Steven: "Where is she then?"Rayna: "She stepped out but she'll be back. I'll set out to get her."Steven: "Yes, please do"When she left the room, Young Mi gets up again and starts going through a nearby closet. She pulled out neatly folded towels and clothes before turning back to us.Young Mi: "The both of you look terrible."Steven: "Well, we didn't expect to get kidnapped."Young Mi: "So the Headmistress was right? She knew you were kidnapped. What happened to you is why there's a strict curfew."Lilith: "What did the Headmistress do?"Young Mi: "She set up a search party to look for you. We were allowed to search for you on our own after they turned up empty-handed."Steven: "Well, here we are"Young Mi: "Yes, you're both safe."She handed us each a towel and appropriate clothes, a laced shirt, and breeches. It's nothing fancy but it'll help if I want to blend in with the crowd.Young Mi: "Here, I knew I'd be needing these. There are 2 bathrooms, go and clean yourselves."Steven: "I only saw one door."Young Mi: "There are 2 more doors inside. I don't know why it's like that because it's bad design but there's 2."We checked out the bathrooms and Young Mi was right. There really were 2 more doors in a much tinier hallway! I went for the one on the right and got ready for a bath.The bathtub was literally in the middle of the room which was weird to look at because I'm used to seeing them hugging the wall. Once I got in it, I was met with the most euphoric feeling I've had in a long time. I always saw people that fall asleep in bathtubs as weird, but I finally understand them! The time passed by quickly before I figured out I've been in for too long.I was worried if the others were planning to take a bath and are upset, so I rushed the rest of my bath. I got into the fresher clothes and went into the hallway of the hotel where I bumped into Rayna coming out of the room.Rayna: "Oh, there you are, Steven. Your hair is still wet, y'know?"Steven: "I know, did you find Madelyn?"Rayna: "I did, and I didn't tell her why I needed her. Thought you'd want to surprise her."Steven: "That's a good idea!"I wonder how she'd react?Rayna stood in front of me and opened the door, essentially becoming a body-shield to Madelyn's eyes. She had no idea until we made eye contact. Her eyes widened with shock before she exploded off the bed and jumped to hug me with enough force to knock anyone down if they were caught off guard.Steven: "Happy much?"She didn't reply, only cry softly in my shoulder.Steven: "I missed you too, Madelyn."Madelyn: "I actually thoughtI thought"Steven: "I know, I knowjust we're fine now. You should know that we always find our way back."She didn't let up and even tightened her arms more. I didn't push back because it feels nice to be hugged and, well, I'm sure she'll tire out soon.It makes me remember the time on Sefre where I drunkenly asked her to be my sister. We were wasted and it's fuzzy to remember. So, will she remember as well?Steven: "I'm fine, sis."She ultimately releases me and sits on the bed, wiping away her tears. I didn't know what to expect by calling her "sis", but nothing really happened.Steven: "Did Lilith finish her bath?"Young Mi: "No, she's still in the bath."She's probably enjoying her bath as I did. Find authorized novels in Webnovelfaster updates, better experiencePlease click www.webnovel.com for visiting. Steven: "Well, what do we do now?"Rayna: "Rest, for now. This is a setback on what we need to do: which is to assist the Academy."Steven: "So I'm assuming we'll be heading back in the morning?"Rayna: "Yes it's an 8-hour trip, so we need to leave in the morning."All this running and walking makes me feel like it's just one really drawn out Color Run event, just without the fun or happiness.Steven: "Ahh~ I wish I can retire just for today."Lilith walks in as I started complaining. She was looking way better and happy. It doubled when she saw Madelyn and gives us the brightest smile I've ever seen her do.Lilith: "Madelyn!"Madelyn: "Lilith!"They both screamed, frightening us Wights. I was preparing for anything, but no, it's just them being really excited to see each other and hugging. They're really best friends.Madelyn: "I was so worried!"Definitely like best friendsMadelyn: "Is there anything I could get you?"Lilith: "Something to eat?"Madelyn: "There's this bar that also serves food. I wasn't able to eat there but they said they'll bring us all a bag of food.""Bag" clicked inside of Rayna because she reached under the bed and pulls out a duffle full of the stuff I brought to Esnia.Rayna: "I almost forgot! I brought a bag with your stuff in it. We weren't sure what you'd want but most of it is in there. I even have yours, Lilith."Lilith: "Oh, thank you."As I was glad that I had my stuff, there really wasn't anything that could help us right now. It's mostly just clothes! The most important item here was my journal. I love writing in it even though it's mostly me talking about things that already happened. It helps me keep track of things and after these past few days? I'll be sitting down for a while.Lilith: "Steven, you've actually been using the journal I gave you?"Steven: "This? Yeah I've been writing in it since you gave it to me back in the village."Lilith: "What have you been writing?"Steven: "Stuff that's been going on. You know, to keep track of things."Madelyn: "You don't write about your feelings or who you like? That's lame."Young Mi: "It's always good to keep track of your thoughts. Steven has the right idea."I don't write anything personal because I know someone like Dai-tai or maybe even Madelyn would swipe it and read through it. By doing it this way, I could tell if they did read it by seeing their look of disappointment.Steven: "No, but I wrote my impressions of everyone at the time."Madelyn: "Serious? Let me read it!"Steven: "What? No, it's boring stuff like "Madelyn is a human like me."She still went for my journal despite my protests and became hell-bent on retrieving it. It's like I have to deal with a kid! I eventually gave up and handed her the journal. It wasn't like there was anything incriminating and Madelyn was starting to get annoying.Steven: "There, fuck, are you happy now?"She turns her back to me and starts reading it near the end of the room. Lilith was near her and even looked over Madelyn's shoulder to sneak a peek.Seriously, it's only filled with boring stuff.Rayna: "Steven, I need your help with something."She grabs me by the wrist and tugs. I turned and saw that she was sitting on the bed with Young Mi next to her; both of them looking at me worryingly.Steven: "Hey, what's up?"Young Mi: "Let me see your hand."I gave her my hand and she presses her thumbs down on my palm with such a force that she'd puncture my skin if she had sharp nails. It slowly became more of a needle as a cold chill slowly worked its way throughout my arm and body.Young Mi: "I channeled some of my magic to you. Which means you can now use magic."Steven: "Why did you try stabbing me with your thumbs?"Young Mi: "It's more efficient. I'd rather not lose my energy as you have. This way, it'll work better for both of us."Steven: "Thank you, Young Mi! I, ahaha~, feel better!"It was such a breath of fresh air but with magic! I no longer feel lethargic! It's hard to believe that my life now depends on if I have enough magic, something I've never had to use in my life.Young Mi: "Don't thank me I'm just helping a friend."Rayna: "You're not using magic right now, though. You still need to rest."Young Mi: "Yes, she's right for now. We all deserve to rest."I just realized that both Young Mi and Rayna were sitting together.I know how untrusting the group is towards Rayna. Well, not all of them, I just know Young Mi doesn't trust her because of her "tampering with dangerous magic and disregard for possible loss of life" that would have ensued if she messed up.Steven: "When did you 2 become comfortable around each other?"Rayna: "Me and Young Mi?"Steven: "Yes, Young Mi, I thought you were wary."Young Mi: "I decided to hear her out and well, she knows time travel is dangerous, and because of it, won't use it again."Rayna: "I don't regret a thing, though."I reached out and instinctively patted her head.Steven: "I wouldn't want you to, either."Rayna: "Stop~ I'm not a pet."She swats me away and laughs. Madelyn comes over to see what the commotion we were making was about.Madelyn: "What's going on over here?"Young Mi: "Steven's just teasing Rayna. It's common for youth to tease the person they like."Steven: "That's not true."It's like second nature for me to pat someone on the head if I feel like they're not feeling well!Young Mi: "It is, you're soft on her and that's fine with us."Madelyn: "My, oh my, why don't the both of you just rekindle your relationship?"Steven: "Relationship? I only know Rayna through"Her memory spellsThe only way I know her is through magicMadelyn: "Don't tell me you already did."She said sarcastically.Steven: "Yes, we most definitely did and made love to each other countless nights."I fired back.The room freezes with silence and all the girls look at me like I'm a villain.Madelyn: "Wow that would be the last thing I'd imagine you saying."Young Mi: "Don't be inappropriate."Rayna: "Can we not..? This is uncomfortable."Madelyn: "Sorry, didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."Rayna begins to glare at me.Rayna: "Not you, it's Steven."What did I do?!Young Mi: "Either way, this is something the both of you should be discussing in private."I just wanted out and using the time, I could get away from this rather awkward environment that I accidentally created.Steven: "It's getting late. Where are we sleeping?"Young Mi: "I already claimed this bed."Rayna: "I have the other room with a nice window."Madelyn: "And I have mine. There's only one room left; someone has to share."If this is how things are going then it's best if I share with Rayna. She's the safest choice and I know she won't mind it either.Steven: "In that case, I'll sleep with Rayna."Rayna: "Huh, y-you will?"Her tone was surprised.Steven: "Yeah, I thought you'd be more comfortable with us sharing a bed."Madelyn: "I don't mind sharing with Lilith."Lilith: "I'm fine with whatever."Young Mi: "Hopefully, nobody would pay me any mind for wanting to be left alone?"An alternate would be Madelyn and Lilith sharing, giving everyone else a room to themselves. I don't mind sticking with my choice as long as Rayna's alright with it. So, it'll be up to her.Steven: "There's no pressure, Rayna."Rayna: "No, I yes, I just wasn't expecting you to choose me."Madelyn: "Then Lilith and I will eat our food in the other room so we won't bother Young Mi. I don't know what Wights do for sleep but you do what's best for you."We sleepIt's only harder to achieveYoung Mi: "I always do."Steven: "Alright, I guess it's settled. You'll be fine here, Young Mi?"Young Mi: "Of course, I'll let you know if I need something."The rest of us departed the room and grouped up in the hallway.Rayna: "I'm going to take a bath. You won't mind?"Steven: "Of course not."She goes towards the baths. She's going to be taking a while so I may as well go to bed myself. Madelyn slightly punches my arm and grabs my attention from herMadelyn: "Just don't make too much noise, alright? Lilith and I still have to sleep."Steven: "Madelyn?"Madelyn: "What?"Steven: "The fuck is wrong with you..?"She sticks her tongue out and defiantly walks to her room with Lilith.I walk into the one I was going to share with Rayna. She wasn't kidding about having a nice window. The moonlit the room up dimly but enough to see where I'm going without a light.The view outside the window was rather nice. It was like I was looking into an art piece that came into life. The trees of the forest were very dark, but the open fields of farm and cattle were visible.There was noise coming from the hallways, presumably Madelyn finally got her food and went out to get it. Rayna opens the door not long after in her underwear. She casts Candlelight and throws and sticks it to the ceiling.She was wearing elegant royal purple underwear and garters. I couldn't take my eyes off her despite how indecent or perverse I came off as.Rayna: "What? You're acting as you've never seen me in underwear before."Steven: "Because I haven't"Rayna: "Oh sorry, is it that I am attractive to you?"Steven: "I"I snapped myself back into my senses.Steven: "Yes, won't lie."I stood up and looked back at the bed trying to figure out which side I'm getting. Rayna would want a specific spot on the bed. I at least know that much about her.Steven: "Alright, well, what side do you want?"Rayna: "I always get the left side. Now come, sit by me."We bundled up together by the bed and looked towards the moon. It suddenly felt different than the first time. What could be a cold night alone was a peaceful one with Rayna beside me.It was nostalgicSteven: "Wow."Rayna: "Do you remember, Steven? We always sat together like this and looked at the moon. How it reflected off the lake and the rest of the city."Steven: "You showed me"Rayna: "I'm so glad we're together like this."We butted our heads together and quietly looked into each other's eyes. There was something about her that I couldn't get away from. Whether it was her gorgeous blue eyes or just the memory spell tugging at my heartstrings, I really wanted to lean in and kiss her.Rayna: "Let's go to sleep."Steven: "Y-yeah, it's really late."A missed opportunity. We got under the blankets and prepared for bed. However, she was facing me and didn't avert her gaze. It made me slightly nervous because what if she's expecting something? Maybe she knew I wanted to kiss her and is now trying to capitalize on it.Steven: "W-what is it?"Rayna: "Nothing, it's just hard to sleep."I saw that I had another chance and this time, I took it. Leaning in and taking her by surprise, we met our lips under the covers. We caressed each other's cheeks as our lips smacked, one after the other. It was a short bliss as she eventually had to pull herself away.Rayna: "Took you long enough now let's really go to bed."Steven: "Here, I have an idea: turn and lay on your side, so your back is facing me."She acted like she knew what was going to happen and happily obliged me. I slid in from behind and pulled her close. Bringing my arm over and resting it in front of her, she gently holds my wrist.Rayna: "Ooh~, you're spooning me?"Steven: "You know what it's called?"She grabs my hands and interlocks our fingers.Rayna: "yes"She was so close to me that I felt safe. Anything could come at us and we'll both be ready for it.We were close together under the layers of blankets that we were able to stay warm in this cold room. Her hair smelled like delightful primrose, taking me away from the harsh environments of the wild and into the nice summer nights of Feles Isle.I could definitely fall asleep like this; I'm very comfortable right now.Steven: "Goodnight."Rayna: "Goodnight."
