Several months had passed since their return from Theodor. The heat of summer was giving way to the crisp breezes of early autumn. In that time, Arriel and Lira had grown even stronger, now standing at Level 31. Their names had become familiar across Veilden, not just as heroes, but as dependable adventurers who got things done.
That afternoon, the trio sat at their favorite café nestled beside the town square. The air smelled faintly of roasted beans and baked bread, and the murmur of townsfolk filled the air.
"We should give our party a name," Kell said, stirring his drink. "Every strong party has one."
Arriel leaned back in his chair, arms folded. "You've been saying that for months."
"Because it's true," Kell grinned. "Also… I think it's time we added a fourth member. The more people, the more quests we can take. Stronger quests. More Git."
Lira, sipping her tea, gave him a long look. "It's not just about numbers, Kell. The person has to be reliable."
"I know. That's why I already posted a recruitment notice." Kell smiled, clearly proud of himself.
Arriel sighed. "Without asking us?"
"It's just a poster," Kell said innocently. "Says, Trio Party Seeking New Member – Must be Female. I didn't write anything about needing to be a hero or specific level. Just that she should be capable with weapons or magic."
Lira pinched the bridge of her nose. "You're unbelievable."
"I'm practical."
Later that day, the three of them waited outside the Adventurer's Guild, uncertain what kind of responses they'd get. Most women who passed by looked curious but uninterested. Just when they were about to give up and tear down the poster, a voice called out.
"Is this the recruitment party?"
They turned to see a girl approaching. She looked around sixteen—slightly taller than Lira but still shorter than Kell. Her light orange hair was pulled back in a neat braid, and her eyes sparkled a soft blue. Her skin was fair, and she wore light armor, perfectly fitted for speed and mobility. Two short blades rested on her hips.
"Yes," Kell answered, perking up. "You're interested?"
The girl nodded, a bright, confident smile on her face. "Name's Mirable. I specialize in double short blades.
Arriel and Lira both immediately noticed she was wearing a status bracelet, though she made no mention of being a Hero. She also didn't hide it—her level, 26, gleamed in pale white against the crystal surface.
Lira narrowed her eyes but said nothing.
Kell nodded. "You didn't list your level in the form."
"I didn't think I needed to," Mirable shrugged. "If you're looking for a reliable teammate, I thought a demonstration would speak louder than numbers."
Arriel exchanged glances with Lira. "We're planning to take a B-rank quest today. Want to come along? Treat it as a test."
"Sounds perfect," Mirable smiled.
---
Later That Day – Outskirts of Baraena Forest
The quest was to eliminate a pack of Thunderfang Boars that had been threatening nearby farmland. Each of them moved into formation—Arriel leading with his sword, Lira backing up with spells, Kell supporting from the flank.
Mirable moved like wind.
She weaved between trees, flipped over roots, and struck with precision. Her dual blades flashed with practiced ease, never overextending, never leaving an opening. She didn't use any magic, but her speed and reflexes were clearly enhanced by some form of body strengthening.
Lira quietly watched as she cast Minor Heal on Kell's arm during a moment of distraction. "She's good," she admitted.
Arriel grunted in agreement as he parried the final beast and brought it down. "Not bad at all."
By the time the quest was completed, the three had already formed a basic understanding of her capabilities. And more importantly, Mirable had synced easily with their rhythm.
Back in Veilden, as they returned to the Guild to claim their reward, Arriel made the decision.
"You're in," he said simply.
Lira nodded. "Just don't be reckless."
Kell gave her a friendly pat on the back. "Welcome to the team, Mirable!"
Mirable smiled brightly. "Thanks! I won't let you down."