The Ardor of Their Embrace [Part 1]

Vapula sent the seven of us on a special mission that he mentioned the other day at dinner. Before he departed on his own mission, he gave us simple instructions to bring one item back that is at the destination. I find it so strange that all of Vapula’s plans have such simplicity with them. From the first moments of the Guild to right now. Open this book, hold this booklet, take one thing. This just tells me that Vapula must have every single fine detail figured out. To the point where he just needs to give one quick command. When I get the chance, I should ask him ‘how many steps does he have?’ That should give me a good idea of how long this grand plan of his will last. Considering how old he is, the plan could take decades to complete. I’m not sure if I’m ready for a commitment like that. Unfortunately, I’m kind of bound to the Guild. Thanks to the contract I made with him. Oh, well. I should just accept the absurdity of my situation and focus on the relationships of my Guild members.

We had a nice and big carriage for all of us to travel in. Vahaemarr and Nel were in the front of the carriage; steering the two horse creatures, I imagine. I was seated inside next to Quen and Írui, with Quen in between us. Elros and Aeryvon sat across from us. I was quite surprised that carriages this big could even be made. We all fit perfectly inside with a comfortable amount of room for each of us. The most surprising feature about this carriage was how smooth the ride was because of the speed that we were moving at, it would have been a lot bumpier if a normal horse was pulling the carriage.

We’re all prepped and dressed in our Guild uniforms that were designed by Quen and Vahaemarr. It reminded me of the one thing that I actually liked about school in Japan, everyone had to wear the same standard school uniform year round. So, I was enjoying that we looked like a well formed group. One more thing, this was the longest I've seen Írui without her oversized sweater. So, I couldn’t help but think of how great Írui’s boobs look; I wonder if that was intentional. Haha, no matter. We all looked great.

It is another picturesque sight to behold in this world, a fine summer-like afternoon, traveling with friends. Minimal clouds slightly covering a lovely yet blinding pure white sun. On the way to our destination, we were welcomed by a mesmerizing scenery of a massive lake accompanied by its flawless scent; it was big enough that the other side wasn’t visible, almost like we were gazing into the ocean. I love the smell of fresh water. It was the first time I saw any kind of open water in this world. It just makes me wonder how common lakes and rivers are, or how large the oceans are, the maps I’ve studied only show the main lands. Yes, it was another nice day. The only downside about it was how far away the destination is. Even with the speed we were going; it was still going to take up almost two thirds of the day to get there. Although, Vapula did briefly mention that this will be the first and the last trip by carriage. Which makes me wonder what he is doing right now. He didn't say what he was going to be doing. No need to wonder right now; I’m sure I’ll find out soon.

Dawn was approaching. We’ve been traveling for at least twelve or fourteen hours. Fortunately, we got several breaks to stretch our legs and have some snacks. Even though it was long, the atmosphere we had was pleasant. It brought me great joy, knowing that I was getting my life in the way I wanted it. I have experience after all; I already lived in one worthless world and made something out of it, so I can do the same to this one.

“Okay! Buttholes! We are about to arrive at our destination!” Nel crawled on the side of the still moving carriage to make the crude announcement.

All of us looked at Nel as she went back to the front again.

“Did she just call us ‘buttholes’?” Elros asks with confusion.

“I think she did...” Írui sighed.

“Hahahaahah!!!” I laughed out loud.

For some reason I thought that was extremely hilarious. The others looked at me funny but as I continued to laugh, they smiled at me and began to laugh as well. Elros, Írui, Quen, and I kept cackling loudly. I saw that Aeryvon had a big grin, Nel was giggling in the front, and I even think I heard an old man chuckle. It was a great feeling to laugh that hard with friends. We laughed for a few minutes, but the carriage started to slow down and that caused us to lessen our laughter. Vahaemarr opened the door to the carriage. We slowly got out while some of us were wiping tears of joy from laughing so long. Once we all got out, Vahaemarr gathered us to give us more information of why we are here.

“Good evening, everyone.” Vahaemarr said politely.

“Good evening to you too!” Quen shouted with joy. We all smiled at that.

“Prince Orobas requested me to provide more details regarding the mission. We will be spending the remainder of the evening at this private emporium. To collect one specific item for each of you. We shall then depart first thing in the morning. Any questions?” Vahaemarr explained.

“What items are we getting?” Aeryvon quickly raised his hand to ask the question. I got a little annoyed by that because I was going to ask the same question, but whatever, not that big of a deal.

“The proprietor of the emporium is somewhat of a collector of a wide array of unique items. You all will browse around them until you find one that speaks most to you.”

“What is so unique about the items?” I asked.

“I do not know. Prince Orobas simply instructed me to choose one item; that goes for all of you as well.”

We glance at each other for a quick moment. Unsure of what to say next.

“Well! Let’s get started, shall we?!” Elros shouted eagerly.

“Yeah, let’s do it!” Quen joined Elros’ excitement.