"You sent that tiger woman?" Antonio asked.
"Yes I did, and her name is Shiva. Every now and then she will stop by our village, but Shiva prefers to roam the jungle to aide others." Ling replied.
"If it wasn't for her help we would've died in that cave," Miguel stated.
"Could you arrange a meeting? I wanna thank her for saving my life." Antonio replied.
"I'm surprised you didn't join them," Taylor told Brian.
"It was a tempting offer, but I stopped smoking after college," Brian replied.
Athlan and the others were returning to the table with a round of drinks.
"Where did Chris go?" Brian asked.
"Having a good time with his new friends more than likely," Kenny replied while sitting at the table.
"She usually isn't this forward, but she's been single for some time now," Ling stated.
"You have a good time?" Eve asked Athlan seeing the smile on his face.
Athlan wrapped his arm around Eve pulling her close to whisper into her ear. Eve blushed getting up from the table as the two disappeared. The festivities were winding down people began leaving to get ready for the rescue mission in the morning.
"Can we do it again tomorrow?" Mary asked nervously.
"I'm usually up early anyway, and I need to find a nice spot for a house," Denam replied.
"You're moving away?" Mary asked with concern.
"It won't be right away, and I'm staying within the forest when I do. I just want enough open area to farm, and you could visit anytime you want." Denam smiled placing his hand over hers.
Mary could see the sincerity in Denam's smile, and it put her at ease. Having a friend to talk to this morning was a wonderful thing, and it left an impression on Mary. Since their talk, Mary has been following Denam around the city. Walking a little wouldn't be so bad to continue their new morning tradition.
Taylor's group lingered to get acquainted with their new allies. With the atmosphere in Eden, they were starting to adjust to their situation. Even with a conflict earlier the way it was handled proved they could sleep peacefully. There were even a few members of their group that went home to do some cultural exchange.
Back at Zack's group they were bidding farewell to the guest. Zack called out to Shen for a moment of his time as the two stood off to the side.
"I know you have a meeting soon, and I'm concerned about the personnel change. Vanessa is starting to open up, and it seems she truly enjoys being here. Would it be possible to keep her around?" Zack requested.
"Vanessa's reports state the fields are self-sufficient at this point. This made the others request her return, and I honestly considered it till arriving here today. I've tutored Vanessa since she was a little girl, and I've never seen her this happy. I'm confident I can sway the others to see the benefit of keeping her here, but I need something from you in return." Shen replied.
"What do you need?" Zack asked.
"Vanessa can't get involved in your battles. We serve others by giving them supplies, but we aren't permitted to interfere in conflicts. I know you have good intentions, but this is a firm rule in our guild." Shen said while glancing at Vanessa being friendly with others.
"I never understood why you operate in this way, but I don't force anyone to join us. She looks up to you so I don't see her disobeying your wishes." Zack replied.
"I'll do what I can to ensure she stays here," Shen said before leaving.
Destiny approached with Olivia holding Helena.
"She's had a big day so we're gonna head to bed." Destiny smiled.
Zack walked up kissing Destiny, and Olivia before stroking Helena's hair. It was still hard to believe this was his daughter before him. It was a happy moment but with it a slight sorrow. Zack knew his parents desired the same thing, but they never got the chance to meet.
"I'll come see you in the morning," Zack said while embracing Destiny.
"We will be waiting," Destiny replied.
"Thank you for all your help." Zack smiled at Olivia.
"Anything for you." Olivia smiled as she carried Helena to bed.
After telling the rest of his companions' goodnight Zack went towards the forest. Zack was heading towards Karin's house, and when he knocked on the door she opened it immediately. Karin was standing in the doorway wearing a white sundress that hung low exposing her collar bone.
Feeling his gaze she crossed her arms around her stomach causing her breast to press up and display her cleavage. Sitting in the room behind her with a big smile was Felicity. The entire time Karin paced around in the living room Felicity was teasing her.
"She's been waiting by the door for an hour," Felicity told Zack.
"Shut up." Karin retorted.
"You're looking lovely tonight." Zack smiled.
"Th-thanks," Karin replied.
"You guys gonna do it?" Felicity teased.
Karin rapidly closed the door stepping out.
"Do you wanna take a stroll with me?" Zack asked.
Karin nodded while grabbing Zack's hand, and leaning against his arm. The two strolled through the city talking about changes to the forest. As they passed by the residents they were a few envious gazes.
With today's revelation, they wanted Zack's attention more than ever. They wanted to approach, but everyone had a brief orientation with Lilith. During it, they heard stories of what happens when people interrupt dates. Because of the arena becoming a frequent event, and knowing it was was a way to stand out. It was unwise to anger powerful adversaries, and better to wait for their opportunity.
"Where are we going?" Karin asked.
"Somewhere familiar. Do you trust me?" Zack said while opening his arms.
"Yeah," Karin replied.
Karin embraced Zack as they reappeared in a forest. She walked around observing her new surroundings, and it took a while before she recognized the location. It was the spot Karin attacked Zack in an attempt to save Tanya.
"You jumped to assumptions so quick that day," Zack said while wrapping his arms around Karin's waist.
"I'm glad I did or we would've never met," Karin replied while looking up at him.
"I'm really glad you did too. You're great with the kids and an amazing teacher." Zack said while kissing the back of her neck.
"Is that the only thing you like about me?" Karin teased.
"Of course not. You have beautiful eyes, you're a strong warrior, and you know the other," Zack replied.
"I know but I wanna hear you say it." Karin requested.
"You have an amazing figure," Zack replied.
"And?" Karin smirked.
"Your tails," Zack replied.
"I figured by your choice of women, and I've caught you staring a few times." Karin teased.
"It's good for cuddling, and I haven't been the only one sneaking glances. You were staring pretty hard yesterday." Zack smirked.
"That was to make sure Elizabeth wasn't breaking the rules," Karin replied as she walked away to hide her flushed face.
"Have you ever seen someone with nine before?" Zack asked trailing behind her.
"No, but I've heard legends. Why do you ask?" Karin investigated.
"Tanya's mother did," Zack said as they strolled through the forest.
"That explains a lot, but if she ever advances that far there could be problems. They are destructive enough to wipe out cities." Karin warned.