Trials Of Life

Chapter 2: Farewells and Welcomes

The two friends moved quickly, their practiced hands making short work of breaking camp. Meilin rolled up her bedroll with care, while Yumiko, with noticeably less patience, hastily gathered her belongings. Pots clattered, and the quiet morning air buzzed with the sounds of hurried packing. Meilin glanced up, sensing something off about the rhythm of their usual routine. Yumiko, typically calm and methodical, seemed more rushed than usual, her movements sharp and restless.

Meilin found herself falling behind, struggling to keep up with her friend's brisk pace. It wasn't like Yumiko to be this eager to leave, and the subtle shift in her demeanor only deepened Meilin's concern. Watching as Yumiko slung her backpack over one shoulder, Meilin cleared her throat, trying to bridge the awkward silence that had settled between them.

“Listen,” Meilin began, her voice gentle but hesitant, “I didn’t mean to offend you when I questioned your dream or your destiny—”

“I know,” Yumiko interrupted, her voice firm but devoid of any edge. She turned and offered a smile, though Meilin could easily tell it didn’t reach her eyes. “Let’s not dwell on that. Let’s focus on the future, okay?”

The forced brightness in Yumiko's expression tugged at Meilin’s heart. She wasn’t sure what to say but nodded slowly, her own uncertainty reflected in the way her gaze flickered to the ground. “Okay...” she murmured. After a brief pause, her face lit up with a small spark of enthusiasm. “Actually, I was wondering, if we have enough time, maybe we could—”

“Time to go,” Yumiko cut in again, her tone final as she adjusted the strap on her backpack. “We’ve got to hurry and get you back home.” Without waiting for a response, she turned and began walking away from the campsite, her pace already brisk.

Meilin stood in place, watching her friend’s retreating figure, the weight of the unspoken words hanging heavy in the air. She awkwardly rubbed her shoulder, her fingers fidgeting as she stared down at the scattered dirt beneath her feet. The silence felt thicker now, like a wall between them, and Meilin wasn’t sure how—or if—she could break through it.

As they set off toward the capital of the United Republic, Headwich, the dense forests and woods enveloped them in a quiet embrace. The journey was uneventful, almost eerily so, with the usual rustling of wildlife conspicuously absent. The silence between them was heavy, each step a reminder that their time together was drawing to a close. The birds were silent, even the trees seemed to be still.

Meilin looked up at the tree canopy, “It feels really silent, no?”

Meilin glanced at her friend, a wave of awkwardness washing over her—a feeling she had never experienced before in Yumiko’s presence. Yumiko’s usual warmth was replaced by a distant, trance-like stare, her eyes unfocused as they walked along the dirt path through the dense, shadowed forest. The stillness of the woods was abruptly shattered by distant screams, piercing the air like a knife.

Without hesitation, Yumiko’s arm shot out, her voice sharp and commanding as she yelled, “Summon!” A bow, sleek and formidable, materialized in her hands, the tension in the air growing. She turned to Meilin, her expression grave. “I don’t have a good feeling about this—get your weapon ready!”

Meilin, her heart pounding in her chest, nodded quickly. “R-right!” she stammered, fumbling as she drew her sword from its sheath. She barely had time to react before Yumiko sprinted ahead, her movements fluid and sharp. Meilin tried to follow close behind, her grip on the sword tightening with each step as she tried to catch up to her friend.

As they dashed through the forest, the source of the commotion became clear. Up ahead, a small group of four armored soldiers encircled a wagon, desperately fending off two towering treants—living trees with gnarled limbs and a malevolent presence. Each of the limbering beasts towered at twenty or thirty feet tall. One of the treants, with a swift and brutal motion, seized one of the armored soldiers and hurled him through the air as if he were nothing more than a ragdoll. The unfortunate soldier crashed into a nearby tree, the bark splintering upon impact before he crumpled to the ground, dazed and broken. Through his helmet, the man coughed blood out to the ground. The treant let out a screech, its monstrous form looming ominously over its prey.

Yumiko skidded to a halt, her sharp eyes locking onto the treant towering over the fallen soldier, its massive, gnarled foot poised to crush him. She stole a quick glance at Meilin. "I’ve got the one singling out that man; you take care of the other by the wagon!" she commanded, her voice steady despite the urgency.

With practiced speed, Yumiko nocked a fire arrow, the tip crackling with a fierce, magical flame. She took aim and released the arrow, spiraling through the air with deadly precision. It struck the treant square in the side of its face, the wood igniting instantly. The creature let out a howl of terror, its leafy visage consumed by flames that danced and spread across its form.

Meanwhile, Meilin charged at the second treant, determined to draw it away from the wounded soldiers by the wagon. Her sword gleamed as she advanced, slashing at the monster’s legs to keep its attention. The treant responded with a furious stomp, but Meilin agilely rolled out of harm’s way, her movements a blur of survival instinct. As she rose, the creature lashed out, its powerful root-like arm striking her square in the stomach. The force sent her flying, but Meilin twisted mid-air, managing to land with a controlled roll. Pain shot through her side as she clutched her ribs, knowing something inside was damaged. She glanced up, seeing the treant bearing down on her with relentless intent.

The first treant, enraged by the flames, turned its wrath toward Yumiko. It charged, its massive form barreling through the underbrush. Yumiko swiftly loaded another fire arrow, aiming directly between its eyes. The arrow hit its mark, and the treant bellowed in agony, but its momentum carried it forward. Yumiko leaped to the side, her movements graceful and effortless as the burning treant crashed into the earth, flames consuming it as it slowly succumbed to death.

Yumiko turned her focus back to Meilin, her heart skipping a beat when she saw her friend struggling against the second treant. Without a moment to lose, she reached for another fire arrow—only to find her quiver empty. Gritting her teeth, she grabbed three regular arrows and let them fly in rapid succession. They struck the treant, but the creature barely registered the attack, its focus solely on Meilin. Desperation surged through Yumiko as she watched the treant lash out once more, but Meilin managed to roll away just in time, narrowly escaping the deadly swing.

Yumiko called out to Meilin, her voice cutting through the chaos, “I’m going to use wind magic! Get ready to get out of the way!”

Meilin, still desperately dodging the treant’s relentless attacks, barely managed to shout back, “Do it! Fire the arrow!”

Yumiko steadied her breathing, drawing in a deep breath as she began to channel her energy into the arrow she nocked in her bow. The arrow began to glow with a bright, ethereal light, humming with the power of the wind. Her voice was firm and clear as she recited the incantation, “Goddess of wind, Sora the Swift, hear my plea and guide my arrow to its mark! Wind Road!”

As soon as the final words left her lips, she released the arrow. It shot from the bow with a burst of energy, slicing through the air at supersonic speed, a streak of light in the dim forest. The treant, oblivious to its impending doom, raised its foot to crush Meilin. But before it could bring its weight down, the arrow pierced through the treant’s back, moving with such force that it carved a hole the size of a watermelon through the monster’s midsection.

The treant’s eyes, once alight with rage, began to dim as the life drained from it. It staggered, swaying on its massive legs before crashing to the ground with a thunderous impact, the light in its eyes flickering out as it lay still. Meilin, gasping for breath, looked up to see the fallen treant, relief flooding her as the danger subsided.

Meilin’s whole body was trembling from exertion, she looked at the fallen treant, ensuring the creature was not going to come back up. Relief washed over her, a heavy weight lifting from her chest as the immediate danger passed. Her legs gave way beneath her, and she slumped to the ground, drenched in sweat and utterly spent.

From the direction of the wagon, the soldiers’ voices rose in a cheer, their gratitude echoing through the trees. Yumiko slung her bow over her shoulder, her focus shifting immediately to the first soldier who had been thrown against the tree. She sprinted over, her heart pounding with concern. The soldier, battered but alive, raised a hand in reassurance as he leaned against the tree to catch his breath. Yumiko offered a brief nod before hurrying back to Meilin, her worry plain on her face.

Two male soldiers standing near the wagon leaned in close to one another, their voices low. "Who are they?" one of them whispered, his eyes narrowing as he observed the two unfamiliar women.

The other soldier shrugged, still scanning the pair. "I don’t know… But they’re not from around here, that’s for sure."

Their gazes followed the first woman—Yumiko—her movements fluid and purposeful, carrying a quiet strength that commanded attention. She was clad in sleek, dark clothing, each piece carefully designed for stealth and agility. Light armor plates, intricately etched with subtle patterns, were strapped across her torso, arms, and legs—offering enough protection to withstand a blow without compromising her swiftness. Her bow, a finely crafted weapon made from polished wood and a taut string, was slung across her back. Its silhouette blended seamlessly with her dark attire, making it barely noticeable until you knew where to look.

As Yumiko darted toward her companion, Meilin, her voice rang out, clear and commanding. “Return!” she called, and in an instant, the bow vanished from her back, disappearing without a trace.

The two soldiers’ eyes widened in disbelief. They exchanged a glance, stunned—neither of them had seen anything like that before.

Before they could process what they'd witnessed, a sharp smack landed on the back of both their heads. The woman soldier behind them glared at the two men, her expression firm. “Stop staring! Get the wagon fixed!” she snapped.

The men scrambled back to their duties, their faces flushed with embarrassment as they fumbled with the wagon’s repairs. Meanwhile, the female soldier remained where she stood, her gaze fixed on Yumiko, intrigued by the mysterious woman. Her eyes then shifted to Meilin, wondering just who these two were and what kind of power they carried.

Meilin's appearance was equally distinctive. She carried a large, curved blade—a weapon that gleamed ominously in the sunlight, its edge sharp and well-maintained. The blade was sheathed at her side, its hilt adorned with intricate patterns that spoke of both function and artistry. Meilin’s attire was practical yet elegant, designed for combat and travel. Her outfit, a blend of sturdy leather and flexible fabric, allowed for ease of movement while providing ample protection

Yumiko rushed to her friend’s side, her breath steady despite the quick sprint. Meilin was lying on the dirt, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. Concern flashed across Yumiko’s face as she knelt beside her, her eyes scanning Meilin’s form for any visible injuries. “Are you okay?” Yumiko asked, her voice tinged with worry.

“I’m alive…” Meilin wheezed, coughing as she struggled to breathe. “But I think I broke a rib… I’m sorry, I was so sloppy back there.”

Yumiko’s expression softened as she knelt closer, her tone gentle but firm. “Don’t apologize. We need to get to a town quickly and get some supplies. We’re out of potions after that last quest.”

Just then, the young woman soldier from the wagon approached the saviors, “We don’t have much, but we do have some health potions. You both saved our lives—please, take these.”

Yumiko began to reach for the small pouch at her side. “I have money; we can pay—”

The soldier quickly interrupted, shaking her head. “You saved our lives. Consider this payment. Please, take it,” she insisted, holding out the potion with a look of earnest gratitude. “The wagon you two saved has hundreds of more that we can use, if need be.”

Yumiko paused, then smiled warmly, accepting the vials. “Thank you,” she said sincerely. Turning to Meilin, her expression became more serious. “Considering how bad your injuries might be, it’s probably best if you drink both of these. I was lucky and didn’t get hit.”

Meilin nodded, the pain in her ribs intensifying as the adrenaline that had kept her going began to fade. She took the vials from Yumiko, quickly popping the corks off each one. She tilted her head back and downed the potions, feeling the cool liquid slide down her throat. Almost immediately, a soft, warm glow enveloped her body, signaling that the potions were taking effect, slowly mending her wounds from within.

The soldier watched Meilin with concern. “If your injuries were serious, the potions might only do so much. You might still need to see a doctor or a healer,” she warned, her voice gentle but firm.

Meilin took a deep breath, wincing slightly as she stretched her torso to test the state of her ribs. “Actually,” she said, exhaling slowly, “I don’t think it’s as bad as I thought. My breathing’s easier now, and while it still hurts, I think I’ll be okay until we reach Headwich.”

Yumiko let out a relieved sigh, her shoulders visibly relaxing. “You had me worried there,” she admitted, her usual composed demeanor slipping slightly.

Meilin turned to her friend, noticing something in her expression that hadn’t been there before—a quiet intensity that caught her off guard. “Why?” Meilin asked, her voice soft but curious.

“What do you mean, why?” Yumiko responded, her brows knitting together in mild disbelief. “Because you took a serious hit, that’s why. If you think I’m going to let you die before you see your family again, you’re sorely mistaken.” She punctuated her words with a firm hand on Meilin’s shoulder, her touch both reassuring and protective.

A small, grateful smile tugged at the corners of Meilin’s lips. “I thought you’d still be mad at me…” She trailed off, catching the flicker of surprise in Yumiko’s eyes. Before her friend could respond, Meilin stretched her arms, relieved to see the worry had eased from Yumiko’s face. The atmosphere between them felt lighter now, as if the tension from earlier had melted away. “Anyway, it’ll be fun on the way to Headwich if we run into more monsters like that, right?” she added with a giggle, her tone playful.

Yumiko smirked, shaking her head at Meilin’s optimism, though there was a trace of fondness in her eyes. But before she could respond, the voice of a nearby soldier interrupted their moment.

The female soldier, her armor dusted with the remnants of the battle, eyed the two young women with a mix of concern and skepticism. “Look,” she began, her tone firm but not unkind, “I know you two just took down some treants, but the road to the capital isn’t safe. There could be more dangerous things along the way—other than treants.” She gave them a measured glance, as though weighing their abilities. “You two should have a larger party if you’re going to cut across these forests.”

Meilin giggled, her confidence unwavering as she shot a glance at the soldier. “We’ll be more than okay once we cross Saber River—we know that area like the back of our hands. Besides, my friend here is a level six in the guild—almost level seven.” She beamed at Yumiko, pride gleaming in her eyes.

The soldier's expression shifted immediately, her eyes widening with awe and newfound respect. “Nearly a level seven? Are you serious?”

Caught off guard by the sudden attention, Yumiko awkwardly rubbed her arm, her gaze dropping to the ground. “Y-yes…” she stammered, feeling the weight of their admiration. “I recently took my assessment test, and the instructor at the guild said I’m close to ranking up again...”

A nearby soldier, a young man stationed by the wagons, leaned in with interest. His eyes, once indifferent, now sparkled with respect. “Most people stop at level two or three…”

The female soldier nodded in agreement, clearly impressed. “Forgive me for doubting your skills. Even though you're so young, you’ve got the talent to make it. You could reach the top at level 15 if you put in enough effort!”

Yumiko chuckled softly, a modest smile forming on her lips, though her embarrassment still lingered. “Thanks,” she said, her voice quiet, “but I’m not in this for fame or glory. I’m here for something more important—I’m looking for someone.”

Her tone shifted, softening as she spoke, and Meilin noticed the subtle change in her friend's demeanor. A fleeting shadow of sadness crossed Yumiko's face, barely there but enough for Meilin to catch. The smile faded slightly, and for a moment, the weight of Yumiko's personal quest hung between them, heavier than any praise or recognition she could receive.

The soldier nodded, her expression turning sympathetic. “I have a feeling you’ll find them. You’ve got the strength and the will to see it through, I can tell.”

Yumiko glanced down at the dirt path, her eyes clouded with a melancholy that matched her tone. “I hope so. I believe Headwich holds the answers I’ve been searching for.”

With that, the soldiers offered their final farewells, their gratitude evident in their voices as they wished the girls safe travels. Yumiko and Meilin set off once again, their steps in sync as they continued down the winding forest path. Hours passed in silence, the weight of their journey pressing down on them, the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the distant calls of forest creatures.

Meilin finally broke the heavy silence, her voice gentle but firm. “It was a good thing we helped those people when we did.”

Yumiko, lost in her thoughts about her missing brother, snapped back to the present and turned to Meilin, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

Meilin’s brow furrowed with concern as she studied Yumiko’s face. “Did your dream mention anything specific in Headwich? Like who to talk to or who you’ll find there?”

Yumiko shook her head, her response quick, almost instinctual. “No… Just that I needed to go there... in order to find him. It might be someone who knows more about my brother.” Her voice was steady, but the speed of her words betrayed the urgency she felt. “The nightmare said I need to find him before fear does. It told me to go to the guild. That’s all I know.”

Meilin looked at her friend, noting the determined fire in Yumiko’s eyes. It was the same look she always had when her mind was set on something, but there was something else beneath it—something darker. A sadness, buried deep but still flickering, like the lingering embers of a fading flame. Meilin drew in a slow breath, her heart heavy with empathy. “I see…” she murmured softly. “I hope you find something there, something that’ll lead you to your brother, Yumiko.”

Yumiko glanced over, her expression softening. For the first time in a while, her smile felt more genuine. But before she could say anything, Meilin suddenly pumped her fist into the air, her voice bursting with energy. “But let’s not get all gloomy on our way there! Let’s enjoy this last adventure together, just like old times!”

Yumiko blinked in surprise, then let out a small laugh, the sound lightening the air between them. The somber tension of their conversation faded, replaced by the warm, familiar camaraderie they shared. Even if the road ahead was uncertain, at least for this moment, they could hold on to the spirit of their friendship.

But deep down, a pang of sadness gnawed at her, an inescapable pit in her stomach. The thought that their time together was coming to an end weighed heavily on her, filling her with a loneliness that she hadn’t felt since leaving her home in the far east. The anxiety of the unknown future and the fear of losing Meilin’s companionship pressed down on her heart.

She shook her head, trying to dispel the negative thoughts. Slapping her cheeks with both hands, she steeled herself, her voice rising with renewed determination. “I will find my brother! And you’ll get to see your family again, Meilin! Once I find him, I’ll come and visit you in Hwong—that’s a promise!”

Her heart surged with a new resolve, and she felt a spark of hope rekindle within her. Meilin, seeing her friend’s renewed spirit, couldn’t help but smile, nodding as she let out a soft giggle. The road ahead might be uncertain, but they would face it together, with courage and determination, just as they always had.

Yumiko led the way with determined strides, her mind drifting back to the dream and the cryptic message about Headwich. The figure’s words played over and over in her mind, fueling her resolve to uncover the truth about her brother’s disappearance.

As they drew nearer to the city, the landscape began to transform from dense forest to a patchwork of rolling farmland and quaint homes. Fields of freshly planted corn swayed in the breeze, and occasional farmhouses with neat gardens came into view. The once quiet roads now bustled with travelers and merchants, their carts laden with goods. The roads were alive with the rhythmic clop of horse hooves and the murmur of conversations.

By the third day of their journey, the sprawling outline of the capital came into view, its grandeur unmistakable even from a distance. Towering spires and fortified walls loomed against the horizon, a testament to the city's size and significance. As they approached the city’s outskirts, the influx of people grew even more pronounced. The roads were crowded with a mix of townsfolk, traders, and visitors all converging on the capital. Friendly greetings and cheerful hellos were exchanged, and the air was filled with a sense of bustling activity.

However, as Yumiko and Meilin drew closer to the city gates, the atmosphere began to shift. The once warm and open welcomes from fellow travelers turned into a series of curious glances and fleeting stares. The lively chatter that had accompanied them was replaced by a more subdued murmur, punctuated by the occasional hushed comment. People went about their business without notice, and the once friendly exchanges gave way to a palpable sense of urgency and purpose.

The city's grandeur was matched by its imposing presence, with tall stone walls and guarded gates standing as sentinels. The contrast between the city’s vibrant outskirts and the increasingly somber atmosphere of its entryway was striking. As they crossed into the capital, Yumiko and Meilin could feel the weight of the city’s expectations and the subtle shift in the mood around them. The path to their goal now seemed both clearer and more daunting, as they stepped into the heart of the bustling metropolis.

As Yumiko and Meilin passed through the towering city gates, they were immediately enveloped by the vibrant and bustling life of the capital, even more than the outside. The streets inside were a lively tapestry of activity, thrumming with the energy of countless individuals going about their daily routines. Merchants and traders lined the roads with colorful stalls, displaying an array of goods from exotic spices to finely crafted jewelry. The scent of fresh bread and sizzling street food mingled in the air, creating a sensory overload that was both exhilarating and overwhelming.

The streets were a teeming maze of humanity and other beings—dwarves with their sturdy, work-worn garments, elves with their graceful, flowing attire, and various other races and creatures making their way through the crowd. The diversity was striking, and the cacophony of languages and dialects added to the dynamic atmosphere. Children darted between legs, their laughter rising above the general hum of conversation.

The architecture of the city was equally impressive. The buildings, crafted from solid, weathered brick, rose several stories high, their facades adorned with intricate carvings and ornate balconies. Some structures were so closely packed that their windows almost seemed to touch, creating narrow, winding alleyways that snaked between them. Each building had its own character, reflecting the grandeur and history of the city with its elaborate details and majestic presence.

The constant movement and the sheer density of the crowd created a palpable buzz, as if the city itself was alive and breathing. The girls navigated through the throng, their senses bombarded by the visual and auditory stimuli of the capital. Everywhere they looked, there was something to catch their eye—a street performer juggling flaming torches, a vendor calling out the day’s specials, or a group of adventurers discussing their latest exploits with animated gestures.

Amid the bustling streets of the capital, Yumiko and Meilin drew curious glances from the crowd. Together, the two women stood as a striking contrast to the native populace. Both had dark, black hair that cascaded down their backs, a stark contrast to the more common lighter shades seen throughout the continent. Their fair skin and delicate, refined facial features further distinguished them, hinting at origins from distant lands. As they navigated the crowded streets, their presence was a blend of cultural intrigue and admiration.

The girls approached the imposing guild building, which also served as the government headquarters. The edifice loomed above them, its sheer size dominating the skyline. It reached several hundred feet into the air, with the guild’s highest-ranking officials residing at the very top. The structure seemed to pierce the clouds, its grandeur evident in its sleek, modern design and the intricate details that adorned its façade.

Yumiko tilted her head back, her eyes tracing the building's ascent. “It’s astonishing how they manage to construct buildings of this magnitude,” she remarked, her voice filled with a mix of admiration and disbelief. “In Jinsoku, the tallest structures we have are our palaces. Nothing reaches this height.”

Meilin, her gaze following Yumiko’s, nodded thoughtfully. “It’s similar in Hwong,” she agreed. “We don’t have skyscrapers like this. Our largest buildings are our palaces and temples, but those don’t compare to the scale of this place…”

For a moment, they stood together in silence, the vibrant activity of the city around them fading into the background. The distant sounds of bustling streets and lively conversation seemed to recede, leaving the two friends immersed in their own contemplations.

Yumiko turned to Meilin, a hint of melancholy in her eyes. “Well, I guess this is where we part ways,” she said softly, offering a respectful bow. The gesture was both a formal farewell and a mark of their shared journey coming to an end.

Meilin clasped her hands together and offered a small, respectful bow, her movements deliberate and graceful. “These past nine months have brought me immense joy... I’m sorry that I have to leave so soon now…” Her voice wavered with sadness and regret, each word heavy with emotion. “Since my father is doing better, I don’t have a reason to stay here anymore.” She glanced away for a moment, struggling to keep her composure. “I’d love to stay and keep adventuring with you, but I need—”

Yumiko shook her head gently, her eyes soft with understanding. “It’s alright,” she interrupted, her voice calm and reassuring. “You have urgent matters that need your attention. Family comes first. That’s why I’m here, too, after all, right?”

Meilin nodded, but as much as she tried to hold back, tears began to well up in her eyes. She quickly turned her head, trying to shield her face from Yumiko. “I’m sorry... I don’t know what’s come over me.” Her voice broke as she shook her head in frustration. Yumiko watched her friend closely, surprised by the display of emotion. Meilin had always been strong, composed, and collected. She’d never seen her cry before.

“I also want to apologize…” Meilin continued, her voice barely above a whisper. “Since I was only a level four, I bet I slowed you down a lot. I probably made you miss something important about your brother during our travels.”

“Don’t say that,” Yumiko replied softly, a warm smile gracing her lips. She reached out and placed a hand gently on Meilin’s shoulder. “You’ve been a tremendous support in more ways than you realize. Your commitment to your family, your willingness to help me... it’s been not only helpful but inspiring.”

Meilin shook her head, brushing the tears from her cheeks. “You’re just saying that…”

“I am many things, Meilin,” Yumiko said, her tone firm and sincere, “but a liar is not one of them, and you know that.” She gently turned Meilin to face her, looking into her eyes with a steady gaze. “This is only a farewell, not a goodbye. We’ll see each other again, okay?”

Meilin met Yumiko’s eyes, wiping the last of her tears away with the back of her hand. “So… you really will come visit me sometime?” Her voice was fragile, but there was a glimmer of hope in her words.

Yumiko nodded, “Of course.” She said, her voice shaky as the realization that their time together was ending. Before she could say anything else, Meilin rushed forward and hugged her tightly, nearly knocking her off balance. Yumiko’s eyes widened in surprise, not expecting such a sudden embrace. The young woman tried fighting back tears.

Meilin stood there, holding her friend. “Whatever you find about your brother, please, write to me and tell me anything.”

Yumiko smiled while returning the hug back, “Mmm, I will. You do the same and tell me how your family’s farm goes”

After a few moments, Meilin gently pulled away from her friend, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “Sorry… We don’t normally hug in Hwong, but… Well, it’s one thing I liked when I came here to the West,” she admitted, glancing down as if unsure of herself.

Yumiko gave her a soft smile, her eyes warm with understanding. “It’s alright... I don’t mind them either. I don’t think I’ve ever been hugged by anyone other than my mother,” she confessed, her voice tinged with a faint nostalgia. “In Jinsoku, touch isn’t really welcomed much either. It’s… nice.”

After a final, somewhat awkward farewell, Meilin gave a small wave before turning away, her figure retreating into the busy streets. Yumiko stood at the entrance of the guild, watching as her friend disappeared into the crowd, her heart feeling unexpectedly heavy. Their several-month-long journey had come to an end—an adventure filled with battles, laughter, and quiet moments of companionship. It was the longest partnership Yumiko had ever formed in her three years with the guild, and now it was over. She couldn’t shake the quiet hope that their paths might cross again one day.

Her gaze lingered on the spot where Meilin had vanished, before drifting upward, following the towering structure of the guild building as it stretched toward the darkening sky. The clouds were streaked with soft hues of orange and pink, signaling the approach of dusk. A deep breath filled her lungs, and she slowly turned toward the familiar doors of the guild.

Inside, the comforting hum of chatter and laughter greeted her. Strangers—fellow adventurers—passed by, their faces lit with warmth and animated conversation. Some were boasting of their latest quests, others making plans for the next. The guild was alive, bustling with camaraderie and energy. But despite the liveliness, a profound sense of isolation washed over Yumiko, like a shadow she couldn’t shake. She was surrounded by people, yet felt utterly alone. It was a feeling she knew far too well—one that had followed her since the day her brother disappeared.

Her thoughts lingered briefly on her past before she steeled herself, turning her gaze to the grand entrance of the guild. Her eyes narrowed with determination.

“Now, it’s time to find him,” Yumiko murmured under her breath. With steady steps, she walked up the stairs and disappeared into the guild, ready to continue the search for her brother.