The sun was already dipping when Samuel and Canon stepped out of Kazan's dojo. The cool evening air was a welcome relief after the day's tensions. Canon walked with a lighter step and a sharper gaze, while Samuel, still focused, scanned the surroundings for their companions.
Soon, a subtle shiver ran through the air as Samuel sensed a familiar presence: Helydia's telepathy. In an instant, their two inner voices merged, arranging a meeting in front of the inn, "The Split Shield," where Helydia and Kai had reserved two rooms.
Fatigue from the day showed on their faces, but there was a new energy in the air, mixed with excitement and uncertainty.
They settled around the wooden dining table of the inn to share their discoveries. Simple, comforting dishes were quickly served as the conversation grew lively.
Kai spoke first, beginning the tale of their exploration.
"We took a quick tour of the streets. The city center is really alive, with a big main square bustling with people. Merchants, street vendors — the scents of spices and fresh bread fill the air."
Helydia chimed in, her eyes sparkling with interest.
"We also visited the shops: vegetables, meats, but also magical items. Necklaces, pendants, talismans… Prices vary, but the quality looks good."
Kai gestured toward a massive building.
"Right next door, the garrison. They have soldiers in blue and white armor, always on duty. I saw groups coming and going; it's well guarded, but there's a smooth routine."
"There's also a religious place," added Helydia. "The symbol is a golden crown beneath a halo — an imposing sanctuary. You can feel the respect there, and you often see worshippers coming to pray."
Samuel furrowed his brow slightly. "That must be tied to royalty or the ancient gods."
"Exactly," Kai confirmed. "We even saw a priest talking with guards — probably an important figure."
He straightened up, clearly satisfied with his report.
"And we found the Adventurers' Guild. It's a real mix: mages, priests, warriors, all gathered there. They have a big wall where missions are posted, each with a reward."
Helydia smiled and confided,
"I put up a quest called 'Find the Heart of Aethril.' I wrote that we really need it, and that whoever finds it should bring it to a man named Samuel, here at the inn."
Samuel frowned slightly.
"It would have been better to stay discreet and not expose our intentions to everyone… but well, since almost no one in town knows the Heart of Aethril exists, it should go unnoticed."
Canon, quietly sipping his beer, interrupted,
"Tomorrow, I have to face a blonde twig. A guy who's clearly the old Kazan's favorite."
Samuel explained calmly,
"We went to see Kazan, the old hero of the land. He told us the story of the giant Aethril — the cursed colossus who threatened to destroy everything forty years ago. He fought alongside his companions, but as soon as I tried to learn more about his so-called heart, Kazan cut me off, clearly annoyed."
Canon smiled and added,
"That's when a young guy showed up — Dante. He's arrogant and unbearable. Tried to butt into our conversation, but Kazan let him, saying Dante is his strongest student and future successor."
Samuel continued,
"We made a bet with Kazan: if Canon wins the duel against Dante, Kazan will tell us everything he knows about the Heart of Aethril. But if he loses, we have to leave the dojo and give up our quest."
Canon stood tall, his gaze determined.
"That duel is coming up. It's going to be a real test."
The group fell silent, tension rising. The mystery of the Heart of Aethril and the future of their quest now hinged on this impending fight.