The Gifted Ones

At the edge of the lake, a man stood with a furrowed brow, lost in contemplation. The expansive beauty of the wide lake unfolded before him, its serene surface stretching out in all directions, framed by the encircling trees. As he stood deep in thought, a sudden gust of wind swept through, piercing his body and leaving behind a lingering chill.

"I think freezing the entire lake's surface would be faster than going around," the man mused, his face contorting with confusion.

Lucas, taken aback, his expression one of surprise.

"Are you out of your mind? Have you even considered the consequences of that? Perhaps your magic has made your brain numb."

"Wha-? Have you never witnessed a corpse, drained of its blood? Would you like to become one, Luc?" Theon's irritation started to show.

"I apologize, Sir Theon. It was merely a joke hehe, but I must admit your idea seems ill-advised... I think," Lucas replied, his voice tinged with fear.

"Oh, I have a suggestion, sir. What if you freeze only the middle of the lake, creating a pathway? That way, the lake wouldn't be greatly affected by your magic," Lucas proposed timidly.

"Lucas, come closer!" Theon beckoned, motioning with his index finger.

"Yes, sir!" Lucas obliged.

"Let me ask you something, are you dumb?"

"No, sir! Well, perhaps a little, sir."

"Good, because you are," Theon retorted sharply.

Theon continued his words.

"Can you see the opposite edge of this lake?"

"No, sir!"

"How far do you estimate it to be?"

"Maybe a three-hour walk at most."

"Exactly. So, you understand. Do I have to sustain the ice for three hours? And even if I could, would it remain a stable path or simply drift away?" Theon questioned.

"I suppose you could maintain it for that long, since you are one of the strongest in Arindale sir.”

“Of course, I am the strongest, maybe I can make it like a bridge with pillars to support it but it seems quite risky, considering the uncertainty of the lake's depth" Theon spoke proudly.

In Lucas's mind, he thought,

"I mentioned one of the strongest, but he insists on being the strongest. It's amusing how he remains so arrogant. But I better keep that thought to myself; my life is still on the line, after all."

"Ahh, I see," Lucas nodded, absorbing the information. "Then, if you were to freeze the entire surface, would it sink, sir?"

"When winter arrives, this lake freezes, but only the surface, while the water beneath remains unfrozen. Moreover, pure ice is less dense than water, causing it to float on the surface. I wouldn't have to maintain it for three hours since I can make the ice thick enough to last for four hours. However, I require your assistance in carrying me since I will be tired," Theon explained even though Lucas’s eyes radiate his unbelieving.

"Ahh, I understand now. But..."

"But what?" Theon inquired.

"I don’t want to carry you for three hours, am I a horse" Lucas retorted playfully, sticking out his tongue before running off.

"Come here, you rascal! I'll deduct your pay, shall I?" Theon threatened Lucas, a mischievous smile playing across his face.

Lucas promptly returned, bending down for ten seconds before uttering,

"I apologize sir with my heart, but that's a bit excessive, don't you think, sir?" Theon remained silent, his smile resembling that of a cunning villain.

"It seems I'm in need of a sturdy foothold. Is there a suitable foothold nearby?" Theon asked with a smirk.

Immediately, Lucas prostrated himself before Theon.

"Right here, sir. My head serves as the finest footing in the world,"

thud

Theon exerted a bit of pressure as he stepped onto Lucas's head.

"Very well. I shall grant you forgiveness. Inform the others to prepare within twenty minutes and meet me here. We shall embark on a mission to rescue Viscount Benjamin's daughter,"

He lifted his foot.

"Yes, si-" his words were cut off because of Theon immediately said “And also, tell Aria and Ellena to come, we need priests,”

"Yes, sir!"

Lucas dashed off, swiftly carrying out his orders.

Theon stood on the edge of the lake, his gaze fixed on the vast expanse of shimmering water. It was a serene scene, the tranquil surface of the lake reflecting the surrounding landscape like a mirror. The air was crisp, carrying a hint of moisture from the gentle ripples that danced across the lake's surface.

Lost in his thoughts, Theon felt a deep connection to the tranquility before him. It was as if the lake held a reflection of his own inner self—a vastness that mirrored his dreams and aspirations.

Not realizing that twenty minutes had passed, the sound of footsteps reached Theon's ears, he turned his head and saw the Hazelbury special guards had arrived, but he looked like he was looking around like he was looking for something.

"What's wrong, sir?" Edmund asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Ah, sir, Aria couldn't join us as she's busy, but Ellena and her friend will be able to help," said Lucas seemingly understanding Theon's thoughts.

"No problem. As long as we have two priests, we won't find ourselves in trouble," Theon stated firmly, though a hint of sadness tinged his expression.

"You're right, sir," both Edmund and Lucas replied simultaneously, exchanging a knowing glance.

"But, sir, my sister insisted on coming, and I couldn't prevent her to come," Lucas spoke with a contemplative look on his face.

"Chloe?"

"Yes, sir,”

"Both of you are quite bothersome, but perhaps you guys might be of some use. I'll allow her to accompany us and you have to keep her safe," Theon declared.

"I'll do my best, sir," Lucas assured him.

Shortly after, a woman approached Theon, carrying a basket filled with food. She walked gracefully, wearing a skirt and a hat atop her head, dressed in a simple outfit that allowed for ease of movement.

"Hello, Theon!"

No response.

"HELLO, THEON!!!"

"What!!?" Theon snapped at her.

"Don't be so rude to me, will you? I came because I was worried about you, and I brought food because everytime you are on a mission, you will eat only bland meals," Chloe said with a sorrowful tone.

"We are not chef, besides, you didn't have to do that, but your food is indeed delicious. I always enjoy it when I eat what you make. However, as you said, I'm on a mission, and it's too dangerous for you to come along. I'm concerned for your well-being," Theon replied.

"Oh, Theon, thank you. Your concern makes me like you even more. But I don't need your worry because I chose to do this, and besides, I am a master of escape," Chloe cheerfully declared, sticking her thumb up and a big smile.

"Whatever," Theon responded coldly.

Theon thought that Lucas and Chloe were similar, both annoying to him in their own ways. However, Lucas had the ability to fight and displayed strength, while Chloe excelled at preparing delicious food. The troops would not be burdened by carrying bland rations. Both Lucas and Chloe hailed from the Foster Family, their father being a baron. Theon believed that despite their recklessness, being from a noble family, he had a responsibility to ensure their safety, even though they could protect themselves.

Before long, Theon standing before the troops with a composed demeanor and a cold expression. As he intentionally cleared his throat, the soldiers lined up neatly, their faces displaying utmost seriousness as they awaited Theon's words.

"As members of the Hazelbury special guards, we share a vision: to rid this world of the clutches of villainous scum. Day and night, we will strive to ensure the success of this mission with impeccable execution. We must do this. We are not just here to aid and maintain peace; we are here to eliminate any threats in Arindale. You are all exceptional individuals, standing here, risking your lives to ensure the safety and well-being of others. Applaud yourselves!"

The troops erupted in applause, their faces brimming with satisfaction from Theon's speech.

"However, it is regrettable that our captain cannot join us on this mission as he must visit the castle to meet the prince. I neither know nor care about the specifics about that, but as the vice-captain, I will take over the command of the troops and ensure this mission is flawlessly executed. I ask for your unwavering support."

"All right, sir!" everyone shouted in unison.

Theon turned around, facing the lake as he prepared to employ his large-scale ice magic, freezing the entire surface to create a path across. Riding around the lake on horseback would take a day due to treacherous terrain and the presence of monsters.

Immersing himself in his surroundings, Theon became attuned to the raw power at his fingertips. With unwavering focus, he directed his energy towards his hand, invoking a spell of tremendous magnitude. With a sweeping motion, he unleashed a surge of ice magic, causing the air to shimmer with a breathtaking display. The ice that materialized assumed a captivating shade of blue, reminiscent of a clear sky, yet exuding an otherworldly radiance. As the magic took hold, the once serene surface of the lake transformed into a frozen expanse, reflecting the sunlight with dazzling brilliance. Startled by the sudden change, birds took flight, their wings flapping in response to the disruption, while the previously tranquil forest came alive with a symphony of sounds, nature stirred by the wondrous spectacle unfolding before their eyes.

The sight left everyone in awe and amazement. Soon after, Theon shouted loudly, "Move!" As his command echoed through the air, the troops hastened towards the frozen lake, embarking on their mission to rescue the daughter of Viscount Benjamin.

The troops moved swiftly. Alongside the troops, there were also porters responsible for carrying the equipment necessary for the mission. The troop itself consisted of eleven individuals, excluding the vice-captain and the captain, making a total of twenty-one people on the mission. Among them, twelve were members of the Hazelbury special guards, two were from the church, six were porters, and Chloe.

The Hazelbury special guards specialized in assassination and possessed a diverse range of abilities. As a result, they did not typically include priests in their force. However, due to the goal of this mission, the presence of priests was necessary and they were brought in accordingly.

Within the troop, there was a variety of classes represented, including mages, warriors, supporters, assassins, thieves, and rangers. However, it was important to note that in the world of Arindale, there were even more classes beyond those found within the Hazelbury special guards. These additional classes included priests, shielders, martial art masters, tacticians, and bards, among others.

After an hour, Theon fly with Edmund since Edmund can fly. This way, he could better observe their surroundings and issue commands while in the air. Theon spent thirty minutes in flight, checking the condition of the ice, scanning the sky, and observing his subordinates from above. Eventually, he landed and noticed Lucas saying something, he feels he was talking something bad and keep following him unnoticeably.

"Hey, sis," Lucas said to Chloe.

"What is it?" Chloe asked, intrigued.

"Don't you know that the vice-captain said something foolish?" Lucas remarked.

"What did he say?" Chloe inquired.

"I don't know, I can't recall, but I knew it something foolish,"

"And he also wanted me to carry him, but I declined. But now, he's flying with Edmund. He lied about observing something, he simply didn't want to walk," Lucas explained.

"Don't talk like that, Luc. He used his mana to create this ice. I believe he's exhausted," Chloe responded.

"Don't worry, sis. I'm just jokin—" Lucas's words were cut off as he realized a familiar hand was gripping his head tightly. Fear and sweat etched across his face as he looked back, coming face to face with Theon, who was smiling with an irritated expression. "Oh crap," Lucas muttered, feeling a twinge of pain as the grip on his head tightened.

"Stop, sir! It hurts! Stop!" Lucas pleaded.

"What? I can't hear you,"

"Forgive me, sir. I was just joking because I was bored,"

"Ohhh, so you were joking because you were bored? Making jokes about me is your hobby, isn't it?"

"Don't take it that way, sir, but it's true, hehe," Lucas admitted.

Theon released his grip on Lucas's head and turn around, eventually calling over one of the porters with a curious expression. The porter approached swiftly.

"Do you need any assistance, sir?" the porter asked.

"Nothing, but could you hand over the bag you're carrying to him? I believe he's been dying to carry it. I want to fulfill my subordinate's desires," Theon requested, a smile lingering on his face.

"But si—" Lucas began, only to be interrupted by Theon. "What?"

"Nothing, sir," Lucas said resignedly.

From that point on, Lucas was burdened with carrying the bag previously carried by the porter. Despite knowing it was heavy and feeling the pressure, he had no choice but to shoulder the weight. He knew that his vice captain never takes his joke lightly.

After another hour of travel, they arrived at a wooded area, a suitable location to unload their equipment and rest briefly before preparing for the mission to rescue the viscount's daughter. Everyone gathered after enjoying a satisfying meal prepared by Chloe, ready to discuss the strategy.

"First and foremost, we need to gather information on the enemy's location. While this isn't an assassination mission, you are allowed to eliminate the enemies without leaving a trace, as it suits our expertise. However, the top priority is the safety of Viscount Benjamin's daughter. We'll be facing the CC. This is my first encounter with them, although I've heard of their existence," Theon explained.

"What does CC stand for?" Remus asked.

"I believe it stands for the Cursed Cabal something like that," Theon replied.

"Uwwa, they have bad taste in naming themselves. It sounds stupid," Lucas commented.

"Indeed, but do not underestimate their power. While their organization may not be large, their members possess considerable skill, since they succesed to kidnap of the viscount's daughter. One notable difference between us and them is that they possess secret powers. I don't have many details, but I learned about it from the viscount," Theon informed the group.

"Scott and Wright, prepare for reconnaissance," Theon ordered.

"Yes, sir,"

"Edmund, maintain constant surveillance. At night, it will be easier for you to fly undetected by the enemy,"

"Roger,"

"James, provide backup for Scott and Wright in case things go awry,"

"Yes, sir,"

"And Nic, maintain communication with Edmund, Scott, and Wright, and provide them with speed buffs,"

"Very well, sir,"

"The rest of you will stay here with me. At midnight, we will launch the attack. I hope she's still alive. The mission begins!" Theon concluded.

whoosh

Scott and Wright, experienced operatives skilled in reconnaissance, embarked on their mission with utmost precision. Moving with the agility of shadows, they traversed the terrain, their steps barely audible amidst the whispering wind. Careful not to leave behind any telltale signs of their presence, they navigated the unfamiliar land with a deftness born of experience. Meanwhile, high above in the sky, Edmund soared, his keen eyes scanning the surroundings, his goal is gathering vital information about the enemy's positions and the lay of the land. His ability to fly granted him a unique advantage, affording him a bird's-eye view of the unfolding scene. As for James, he diligently followed in the footsteps of Scott and Wright, providing steadfast support and serving as a valuable backup in case the need arose.

As Theon awaited their return, he found solace in patience. Seated calmly, he exuded an air of quiet confidence, knowing that the success of their mission relied on the timely acquisition of crucial information. Nic, a specialist in intelligence gathering, stood beside him, fully aware of the significance of their roles. With an unwavering focus, Nic prepared to receive and process the forthcoming information, understanding that his expertise would be instrumental in analyzing the data and extracting actionable insights. Theon and Nic shared a silent understanding, their complementary roles forming a crucial alliance, as they awaited the invaluable information that would shape their next move.

After receiving signals in the form of codes from Edmund and Scott, Nic relayed the information to Theon.

"Sir, it appears that this is not the CC headquarters. There are approximately 15 enemies outside and 40 enemies inside. They haven't located the Viscount's daughter yet," Nic reported.

"Right, I don't believe this is their headquarters either. It's too small. And how is it possible that they haven't found the Viscount's daughter?" Theon questioned.

"They haven't found her in the prison,"

"Something's not right," Theon murmured, placing his hand on his head as he pondered. "Anthony, Red, Tiam, Remus, and Ellena, come with me. We'll initiate the mission. Nic, inform Scott to wait for us and instruct Edmund to return. The rest of you, guard this location," Theon commanded.

"Understood, sir!" everyone responded.

Theon and his selected team headed west to meet up with Scott, Wright, and James, who were waiting for Theon and guarding the area. Fortunately, they encountered no monsters along the way, although Theon noticed several monster corpses, likely the work of James. After a five-minute run, Theon and his team arrived at the enemy base, positioned as instructed by Scott.

"Where are they?" Theon asked.

"Right here, sir," a voice replied from above in the trees.

"Damn it! you should have told me sooner,”

Theon continued his words.

“Did you make the path from the back of this building?"

"Absolutely, sir," the voice responded from above.

"Red and Wright, eliminate the enemies outside and create as much chaos as possible. Tiam, distract any enemies that come out. The rest of you, follow me and enter the building from the back," Theon directed.

Red and Wright stealthily approached the guard tower and swiftly dispatched the guard, their sharp knives ensuring a silent kill. They then set the tower ablaze with oil and moved on to another tower, repeating the process. The enemies who saw their tower engulfed in flames alerted their comrades and rushed out to help, believing assassins were responsible. As the enemies emerged, Red and Wright silently killed them one by one.

grunt

The enemies screamed in pain, making the situation more chaotic. Tiam used his illusions to divert the attention of the enemies, preventing them from attacking Red and Wright. The enemies swung their weapons, slashing and striking at empty air due to the powerful illusions cast upon them. The screams grew louder, further adding to the disarray.

Inside the building, Scott led the way as he was familiar with its layout. They moved silently, dispatching enemies in their path. Theon's ice magic proved versatile, serving both as an offensive tool and a protective shield. Remus thrust his sword into the chests of enemies, swiftly dispatching them. Ellena appeared uncomfortable, which Theon noted since she was a priest. Watching people being killed was unsettling for her.

clang…swish…

"Don't worry, Ellena. They are the bad guys," Theon reassured her.

"I know, I know, but—" Ellena began, her eyes filled with desperation.

"It's alright. Feeling uncomfortable in this situation is normal, but our priority is to succeed. We must push through," Theon reassured her.

"Okay, I'll try my best, Theon,"

"Thanks for your understanding,"

The team continued to clear the entire building. Although this was not the CC headquarters, they searched every room meticulously, aware that the captors might have hidden the Viscount's daughter in one of them, especially since they were demanding a ransom. After a considerable amount of time, they finally found her. She was in a small room, the door securely locked. The kidnapping had lasted for over twelve hours, so it was understandable that the Viscount's daughter might still be fearful. However, to their surprise, she seemed unperturbed, reclining on the bed while enjoying fruit from the small table beside her.

"I was sleeping and heard some screams, so I woke up," the Viscount's daughter explained.

"Hurry, let's go!" Theon urged.

Ellena entered the room and approached her, Ellena’s face filled with concern.

"Did they harm you?"

"No, they didn't, but I'm hungry," Viscount’s daughter replied.

"We'll get you food as soon as we leave this building," Ellena assured her.

"Move quickly, kid!" Theon shouted.

"Don't call me kid! Call me by my name. I'm Audrey, and I'm not a kid," Audrey retorted.

"Shut up! Only a kid would want to eat in this situation,"

Audrey pouted and turned her head away, expressing her displeasure.

The team swiftly moved through the building, leaving behind a path stained with blood and corpses. Red and Wright had already dealt with the enemies outside, while Remus, Anthony, and Scott had taken care of those inside. They regrouped at the designated meeting point with Scott. Their clothes were drenched in blood, creating a rather grim appearance, but the members of the Hazelbury special guards were accustomed to such scenes. Theon ordered everyone to return to the camp while he stayed behind.

"Sir, I'll accompany you," Remus offered.

"No need. This is a personal matter," Theon declined.

Theon continued his words

"Tell the others to return to the city as soon as possible. Audrey's safety is our top priority," Theon instructed.

"Understood, sir," Remus replied.

Everyone else left, leaving Theon to wander around the building amidst the corpses. He seemed to be searching information as much as possible, muttering to himself. However, in the end, he found nothing that provided a definitive answer. The situation was puzzling. This wasn't the CC but rather a group of bandits. How could bandits have managed to kidnap Audrey? Theon had received information suggesting a formidable adversary, yet the corpses they encountered hardly posed a challenge. While it was fortunate that they emerged unscathed and Audrey was safe, Theon couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. He felt a pang of regret for bringing Ellena along, as she seemed to have had a distressing experience. Nevertheless, he couldn't help but feel relieved that Aria hadn't joined them.

A few days later at the Ashenmark residence.

Sunlight streams into Theon's room at the Ashenmark residence, signaling the arrival of morning. It is usually the time when the maids wake him up, but today is different. Instead of a maid, Aria knocks on Theon's door’s room.

knock knock

“Theon, it's me," Aria announces.

"Mmmm... yeah," Theon mumbles.

Aria opens the door and enters Theon's room, taking a seat beside him.

"Theon... Theon... Oi, wake up," she says, playfully nudging him. "Rise and shine! Wake up, will ya?"

Rubbing his eyes, Theon gradually emerges from his sleepy haze.

"Ah... thank you. Could you please prepare some tea for me? The usual."

"Um... Theon, I... I can prepare the tea for you if you'd like, but I don't know what kind of tea you drink every morning," Aria hesitantly offers.

Theon's eyes widen as the fog of sleep clears from his mind. He realizes his mistake, and his cheeks flush with embarrassment.

"Oh, Aria! I... I'm so sorry. I thought you were one of the maids. My mind is still foggy from sleep."

"It's alright. Shall I still prepare that tea for you? I can ask one of the maids," Aria suggests.

"Yes, please. I apologize for the confusion," Theon replies.

"No need to apologize. I'll get your tea ready right away. Just give me a moment," Aria says, smiling warmly at Theon's honest mistake. She leaves the room briefly to prepare the tea, allowing Theon to fully wake up and gather his thoughts.

With a satisfied slurp, Theon takes a large sip of the tea. Its sweet and slightly bitter flavors delight his palate. Aria looks at him with a soft gaze and a lovely smile. "How is it?"

"It's so refreshing," Theon replies. "However, I believe you have something to discuss. Let's talk while we have breakfast. You haven't eaten yet, have you?"

"With pleasure," Aria responds, ready to join Theon for their meal and the conversation that awaits them.

Theon and Aria entered the elegant dining room, taking their seats across from each other. A hushed ambiance enveloped the space as they settled in, their eyes meeting momentarily in anticipation of the forthcoming meal.

Time seemed to pass in suspended tranquility until the soft footsteps of a maid echoed in the room. With graceful efficiency, she approached the table, placing plates and utensils with delicate precision, her movements synchronized with the rhythm of the occasion. The tantalizing aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air, heightening their anticipation for the culinary delights that awaited them.

While they are eating, Theon opens the discussion with Aria.

“Um…so Aria, what do you want to talk about with me?”

With a little voice and her hands signaling a person that feeling a bit shy she said “Actually, I want to apologize regarding the mission, I couldn’t come since I was hectic,”

“No need to sorry about that, I actually rather relieve that you didn’t come since it was showing massacre, I don’t want you to watch that,”

“Ah… I see, I am about to ask what did happen since Ellena looks sad lately,” said Aria.

“Because of that, I am the one who feel sorry actually,”

Theon continued his words

“Replace me, can you comfort Ellena so that she will be happy again, Aria?”

“I will, no… I have to,” said Aria.

“Good, I feel happy to chat with you, lately was busy and you were busy as well, and I have a request for you,”

“I feel happy to see you too Aria, what is your request, I will do my best,”

“I want to you to inform me if there any of mission like prior mission and you shouldn’t call another priest,”

“I can accept that right away but I want you to tell me what is the reason,”

“Actually, the priest is limited so we are busy lately, and I rather go than my friend will be feel sad,”

“What makes you assure that you won’t feel the same like your friend?” ask Theon.

“Because of you though, I feel safe beside you, you are strong, and I don’t want when you get hurt, I wasn’t there, so I want to be beside you so that I can cure you as soon as possible,”

“I don’t want you to get hurt either Aria, but if you insist, I’ll think about it, I will inform you when the next mission comes up,”

“Thank you, Theon,”

“No need, we are friends, we suppose to help each other,”

They look at each other with a sharp glance, their eyes filled with warmth and understanding. Moments later, laughter fills the air, a testament to their deep friendship.

“How are you Theon?” ask Aria, her eyes filled with genuine curiosity.

Theon leans back in his chair, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I'm doing well, Aria. Life has been hectic with all the recent missions, but I can't complain. It's fulfilling to be part of the Hazelbury special guards,"

"I can imagine. Your dedication and strength inspire me. It must be exhilarating to face challenges head-on and come out victorious,"

"Exhilarating is one word for it. But it's not all glory and excitement. There are moments of uncertainty and fear as well. Knowing that we might encounter dangerous enemies and face life-threatening situations... it's a heavy burden to bear," Theon chuckles softly.

Aria's expression softens, her voice filled with empathy.

"I understand, Theon. The weight of responsibility can be overwhelming. But remember, you're not alone in this,”

"Thank you, Aria,"

Aria smiles warmly, her voice laced with sincerity.

"We're a team, Theon. We're more than just colleagues. We're friends who look out for each other. That bond makes all the difference,"

"You're right, Aria," Theon nods.

Aria's eyes light up, a mischievous glint in her gaze.

"Speaking of the future, have you thought about taking a break anytime soon? We could use some downtime, away from missions and responsibilities. How about a trip to the neighboring town, Whitewood, Oakenmoor, or maybe a bit far at Stonegate? I heard they have a fascinating view and delicious street food,"

"That sounds like a wonderful idea, Aria. A break from your duties, exploring a new place, and indulging in some delicious treats...but I am sorry I can’t,"

"I have something to attend to, so I won't be able to go to the neighboring town. However, we can explore in Hazelbury nearby Ashenmark Residence instead,"

"You don't have to do that if you're busy, Theon. Your duties come first,"

"No, Aria, I genuinely want to spend this time with you. It's been far too long since we the last time we ate together,"

Aria's face lights up with excitement.

"Really?" she asks.

Theon nods, his gesture filled with sincerity.

"Absolutely. I've been looking forward to it. So, let's not waste any more time. I have a special place in mind that I want to share with you,"

"Yayyy! I'm so excited! Hurry up, Theon. Lead the way to this special place!"

Theon matches her enthusiasm, ready to embark on their little adventure.

"Right away," he says, his voice brimming with excitement.

With anticipation filling the air, Theon and Aria set off, hand in hand, ready to explore the hidden wonders of the nearby Ashenmark Residence. The prospect of spending quality time together brings a sense of joy and renewal to their hearts, strengthening their friendship even further.

As Theon and Aria strolled hand in hand along the bustling street, their presence caught the attention of passersby. Their synchronized steps and the warmth in their eyes gave the impression of a couple deeply connected. The air around them seemed to hum with a sense of shared intimacy and unspoken understanding.

After exploring the vibrant surroundings, their journey halted in front of an intriguing store. Aria's curiosity got the better of her, and she couldn't help but express her eagerness to uncover the mysteries hidden within. With a playful smile, she turned to Theon, her eyes sparkling, wondering what awaited them behind the store's doors.

“What store is this?” asked Aria, looking around curiously.

Theon was about to answer when his words were cut off by the sight of Adrian in front of him, seems Adrian wants to talk to Theon. Theon turned to Aria and said,

"I'm sorry, Aria, but it seems there's a sudden meeting I need to attend. I can't accompany you any further,"

Aria's expression shifted to understanding.

"That's alright, Theon. Your duties always come first."

Theon smiled at her and said, "Next time, I promise I'll bring you here. So, please wait for me."

"I will. Take care, Theon."

As Theon waved and left with Adrian, Aria let out a sigh, feeling a hint of disappointment. She decided to continue exploring the town of Hazelbury on her own. It was her day off from church duties, and she wanted to make the most of it.

As she strolled through the streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling town, Aria found herself drawn to a charming cafe. She entered and took a seat at a corner table, ordering some food to satisfy her hunger.

Just as she was waiting for her order to arrive, she noticed a familiar face approaching her. It was Remus and his friend.

"Good afternoon!" Remus greeted with a smile. "Mind if we join you?"

Aria returned the smile and replied, "Of course, I'd love your company, Remus,"

Curiosity sparked in Aria's eyes as she asked.

"And who is this gentleman with you, Remus?"

Remus introduced his friend, saying, "This is Nelson, my new friend, I met him at Stonegate. Nelson, she is Aria, friend of mine"

Nelson extended his hand and greeted her warmly, "Nice to meet you, Aria,"

Aria shook his hand and replied, "Likewise, Nelson,"

Remus chimed in, "We were just about to grab a bite to eat here. The pancakes in this cafe are absolutely delicious. You should try them,"

Aria chuckled and said, "That's a shame. I've already ordered something else,"

"No worries. You can always come back another day to try the pancakes. They won't disappoint," Remus reassured her.

"You're right. I'll definitely keep that in mind,"

As they engaged in casual conversation, Aria's food arrived. She started eating gracefully, savoring each bite. Remus couldn't help but watch her with amusement, his chin resting on his hand.

Caught off guard, Aria blushed slightly and playfully scolded him.

"Remus, stop staring at me. You two can talk amongst yourselves,"

Remus chuckled, "I apologize. Your expressions are just too adorable. I didn't realize I was staring,"

Aria shook her head, still blushing, and said, "Enough of that, please,"

"By the way, where's the vice-captain? I thought you'd be spending your day off with him," Remus asked curiously.

Aria's smile faded slightly as she replied, "I was with him earlier, but Captain Adrian came and they left for a sudden meeting,"

"Hmm, that's strange. The meeting was supposed to be later tonight," said Remus.

"It must have been something urgent," said Aria with face full of sadness.

The atmosphere between them grew slightly awkward. Just as the pancakes that Remus and Nelson had ordered arrived, the tantalizing aroma filled the air. Remus and Nelson started eating, savoring each bite of their meals, after that Nelson said something that attract attention.

With a mischievous smile, Nelson leaned in and said, "You know, I heard something interesting recently,"

He continues

"I heard a rumor about a monster in the Forest of Darkness. There's a huge hole that appeared, and guards attempted to investigate. They discovered a beautiful place deep within, but it's infested with monsters. At night, they hear faint screams coming from another even deeper hole within that place," Nelson shared.

Aria's eyes widened with a mix of intrigue and concern.

"Wow, where did you hear about this?"

Nelson grinned mischievously. "Let's just say I have my sources,"

Remus chimed in, "The hole must have appeared around the time we rescued Audrey,"

“Who is that?” ask Aria.

“She is Viscount Benjamin's daughter.” said Remus.

“I see,” Aria nodded. Her expression filled with empathy. "I hope those monsters won't be able to escape from the hole,"

Nelson shook his head. "It's unlikely. The hole is quite deep, and the other hole inside it is even deeper. They seem to be trapped,"

Relief washed over Aria's face, and she said, "Oh, thank goodness,"

After finishing their meal, the trio bid farewell, each going their separate ways. Aria headed back to her cozy home, nestled among the vibrant trees.

Remus and Nelson decided to take a stroll by the lake.

“Ohhh, the Ice is already melted completely,” said Nelson.

“So, you know about that as well,” replied Remus.

“Well, the scale is so wide, he froze the entire surface, why wouldn’t I notice that?”

“You right, you are smart, I have known you for a month though,”

As they walked, Nelson turned to Remus with a mischievous grin.

"Hey, do you like her?"

Remus looked at him with a puzzled expression.

"What are you talking about?"

Nelson chuckled and clarified, "I mean the girl at the cafe. Do you have feelings for her?"

Caught off guard, Remus stumbled over his words.

"She's close to our captain, you know,"

Nelson smirked and pressed on, "I didn't ask about that. I asked if you like her,"

Remus sighed, realizing Nelson wasn't going to drop the subject. " I... I'm interested in her, I think,"

Nelson's grin widened. "I can help you with that. But I have a request in return,"

Curiosity piqued, Remus asked, "What is it?"

Nelson leaned in, his voice filled with excitement.

"Tell her to meet me at noon tomorrow in the same cafe we were just at,"

Baffled, Remus questioned, "What are you planning?"

Nelson winked playfully. "It's a secret, but trust me, it'll bring you two closer,"

Concern flashed across Remus's face. "Promise me you won't do anything strange,"

Nelson raised his hand in mock surrender. "I promise, nothing weird. Just trust me on this,"

"Alright, I'll tell her," Remus agreed reluctantly.

"Thanks, my friend. I owe you one,"

As the wind blew forcefully around the lake, its gusts tugged at their clothing, causing their hair to stand on end. The sky, now tinged with shades of orange as the afternoon waned, created a captivating backdrop. Remus bid his farewell to Nelson, their voices carried away by the strong currents of the wind. Remus turned to make his way home, leaving Nelson alone by the water's edge.

Nelson remained there and his gaze fixed upon the sky above. The ever-changing canvas of swirling clouds and vibrant hues held his attention, inviting contemplation and introspection. The sound of the wind harmonized with his thoughts, carrying them away as he found himself lost in the captivating beauty of the sky, completely absorbed by the ethereal scene unfolding before him.

Within the secure confines of the Hazelbury special guards base, Adrian and Theon sat in the meeting room, their expressions etched with seriousness. With a shared understanding of the importance of their discussion, they kept the room exclusive, allowing no other members to intrude.

“I am sorry to make you come while you were with your lover,” said Adrian.

“Whaa-” Theon surprised, “We are not like that sir…. yet,” said Theon with a little embarrasment.

“Anyway, what is your purpose bringing me here sir?”

"The other day I met the prince, and he informed me about a troubling situation," said Adrian, his voice filled with concern.

Theon's eyes widened with curiosity. "What is it? What did the prince say?"

Adrian sighed, his expression grave.

"He mentioned that a nest of monsters has appeared in the heart of the dark forest. Guards have been stationed there to investigate, but the deeper they go, the more dangerous it becomes. The true threat lies in the boss monster, lurking in the depths,"

Theon's mind raced with thoughts of the potential dangers that awaited them. "This is troublesome. The dark forest is already infested with monsters, but to discover that there's an even greater menace beneath its surface... We must handle this situation carefully. Has the prince ordered us to eliminate the boss monster?"

Adrian shook his head, clarifying the mission.

"No, our task is to gather information and scout the area. We need to assess the threat and report back. This is a reconnaissance mission, not an assassination. We will execute the mission two days from now,"

Relieved by the clarification, Theon nodded, his determination resurfacing. "Understood, sir. In that case, we must prepare ourselves and execute the mission with utmost caution. Two days from now, right?"

Adrian confirmed the timeline. "Yes, that's correct. We don't have much time to spare, but we must make the necessary preparations. Inform the team and gather them. We need to be fully prepared for the challenges ahead,"

"I will gather everyone immediately. We need to be well-equipped and well-prepared for this mission. We cannot afford any mistakes,"

Adrian nodded approvingly. "Good. Time is of the essence, and our success relies on the cohesion and readiness of our team. I trust in your leadership, Theon. Make sure everyone understands the gravity of the situation,"

"Thank you for your trust, sir," said Theon.

Theon saluted.