Inside the bustling streets of Castle Town, the sounds of merchants calling out their wares mixed with the clatter of armored feet. Juichi and Renji strolled through the busy marketplace, their eyes scanning the lively surroundings.
Juichi's black hair whipped around in the wind, and he flashed a carefree grin as he stretched his arms out lazily behind his head.
"Man, I forgot how lively this place is. It's been a while since I've seen so many people in one spot," Juichi said, his voice light and nonchalant.
Renji, his red hair styled in its usual pineapple-like shape, glanced around cautiously. His sharp eyes never seemed to rest, always scanning for potential danger. "Keep your focus, Juichi. We're still on a mission. You know the drill."
Juichi chuckled. "Come on, relax! We've got this, right? What could possibly go wrong?"
Renji shot him a skeptical look. "I don't know, maybe everything? This dungeon is unstable, remember?"
Juichi waved off the concern. "We've got you and me—what could go wrong?"
Renji didn't reply, but the slight frown on his face showed he wasn't entirely convinced.
The duo made their way to the outer gate of the castle town. The large stone walls loomed high above them, the fortifications surrounding the town creating a sense of security that had been built to withstand any threat. The gate was bustling with people coming and going—guards patrolling, traders unloading their carts, and adventurers heading out on various quests.
As they approached the gate, Alicia was already waiting for them. She was wearing a practical yet stylish adventurer's outfit—light armor designed for mobility and comfort, her long blonde hair tied back in a ponytail. Her short staff was strapped to her back, and a confident smile adorned her face.
"Finally, you two show up," Alicia said, raising an eyebrow as she crossed her arms over her chest.
Juichi grinned. "Or maybe you're just early."
Renji shot a quick glance at her. "Ready?"
Alicia nodded, but then her eyes shifted. She seemed to tense for just a moment, scanning the crowd. Then, with a small sigh, she turned back to the two boys.
"Relax," Alicia said, her voice calm but firm. "You're not imagining things. We're being followed."
Juichi glanced around, his carefree demeanor fading for a second as he took in their surroundings. He didn't spot anything too unusual—just the normal hustle and bustle of Castle Town. But Renji's instincts were never wrong.
"Who's following us?" Renji asked, his voice low and cautious.
Alicia smiled and shook her head slightly, as if to reassure them. "It's just some of the guild's security detail. They're here to make sure I'm safe—don't worry about them. They're harmless."
Juichi raised an eyebrow. "Security? For you?"
Alicia chuckled, the sound light and airy. "Yes, I'm the guild master's daughter, remember? They tend to keep an eye on me when I leave the town. Standard procedure."
Renji gave a curt nod, still eyeing the crowd warily. "Fair enough. But we stay sharp. You never know who's watching in these parts."
Alicia smirked. "You're just paranoid, Renji. But I'll keep an eye on them, so focus on the mission. We're heading out to the Elarian Wild, after all."
Renji didn't reply, but he straightened up, his serious expression back in place. "Let's get moving, then."
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To be Continued...