Chapter 21: Mercuria's Goofy Questboard
Mercuria's streets thrived with life, the midday sun casting elongated shadows of the townsfolk, with races from all corners of Valerion shopping, haggling, and sharing tales of adventure. Hiroto, Luna, and Riku walked side-by-side, drinking in the town's effervescent energy.
"So this is Mercuria?" Luna's eyes sparkled, echoing the allure of the magical trinkets being peddled on street corners. "It's even more magnificent than the stories!"
Hiroto, looking around with wide-eyed enthusiasm, gave a mock-serious nod. "You know, with all these diverse creatures, I might just find a cousin here!" He pointed to his goblin-like features, causing Luna to chuckle.
While they continued to explore, a tiny, mischievous fairy, enchanted by the shimmer of Luna's amulet, darted around her. Luna, amused, began a playful chase. This fairy-led detour led them to the town's focal point: an ancient, radiant quest board.
Standing before it, Riku's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Each quest here is tied directly to the world's system. And just look at those rewards!"
Hiroto scanned the quests and exclaimed, "Goblin Glory? Now that's calling my name!"
Luna, mischief gleaming in her eyes, teased, "Hoping to increase your goblin street cred, are you?"
As the evening approached, the trio retreated to a cozy inn to prepare. They sat in a secluded corner, quests spread out in front of them, each discussing potential strategies. Luna, her eyes twinkling with excitement, said, "Dance with the Wind Spirits... I've read about this ritual!"
Hiroto, never missing a beat, began mimicking an exaggerated dance, twirling around like a leaf caught in a whirlwind. "Like this?" he asked, feigning seriousness.
Luna giggled, watching his antics. "Exactly like that. Maybe a tad less... goblin-y?"
Amidst the planning, Luna and Hiroto found themselves inadvertently practicing the wind dance ritual together. As they moved in tandem, Hiroto's hands touched Luna's. Pausing, he looked deep into her eyes, an unspoken understanding forming between them. "We... uh, make a good team," he whispered.
Luna, her cheeks a gentle shade of pink, replied softly, "We really do."
As the night deepened, Riku, ever the wise sage, added, "Just remember, it's not always about power. Sometimes, the heart's intent is mightier."
With plans in place and excitement in their hearts, they rested, ready for the quests and challenges Mercuria would bring.