As the days rolled by, the journey towards Llyn was marked by a comfortable routine, with the landscape gradually shifting from rugged wilderness to the more manicured outskirts of civilization. Pao interested in Amukelo's past bombarded him with a steady stream of questions during their travels. She seemed genuinely interested in understanding every facet of his character, though Amukelo was cautious, sharing only snippets of his life, carefully avoiding the deeper, more painful memories of his past.
Bao, meanwhile, watched this developing camaraderie with a mix of amusement and slight annoyance. Her sister's newfound fascination with Amukelo meant less attention for her, but she couldn't truly hold it against him, recognizing the bond forming among the group.
As the silhouette of Llyn began to materialize on the horizon, suggesting they were only a day's travel from reaching the town, Bral approached Amukelo with a proposition that seemed to have been on his mind for a while. "Amukelo, what do you think about joining our small guild?" he asked, just as Pao, unable to contain her excitement, chimed in, "That's a great idea!"
Amukelo, unfamiliar with the practical implications of such an association, inquired, "What does a guild do?" He understood the concept of a guild vaguely but sought clarity on their specific functions.
Idin, jumping into the conversation, explained, "Being part of a guild means you get certain privileges. It makes traveling easier, for one. Guards won't hassle you if you're recognized, especially if the guild is highly ranked. Plus, when any of us secure work, the benefits are shared among members. It would be fantastic to have you with us."
Considering their explanation, Amukelo pondered the proposition. "Will joining help me grow faster?" he asked, thinking about the expedience of his own goals.
Bral nodded affirmatively, "Absolutely. Your reputation will enhance, and you'll gain access to more challenging quests that aren't typically available to lone wanderers."
Seeing the practical benefits and genuinely enjoying the company of his new companions, Amukelo agreed, "Alright. I really like you all, and I believe we can accomplish a lot together." Pao's joy was palpable as she nearly jumped with happiness, while Bral and Idin responded with warm smiles. Bao, though pleased, maintained a cooler demeanor, not fully displaying her excitement.
As they finally approached Llyn, the town presented itself as neither opulent nor destitute. It was a town that prospered modestly, thriving well enough but without the grandeur of larger cities. The buildings were well-maintained, with bustling markets and lively streets that spoke of a community doing well for itself.
Upon reaching the gates, the guards conducted a routine check. Bral and his team showed their guild badges, a process that went smoothly until it was Amukelo's turn. With no badge of his own, he was momentarily scrutinized until Bral assured the guards, "He's with us." Satisfied, the guards waved them through.
Stepping into Llyn, Amukelo felt the vibrant pulse of the town. The streets were lined with vendors selling goods from both local and distant lands, the air filled with the mingling scents of spices and fresh bread. Children ran laughing through the alleys, and townsfolk engaged in lively barter at the market. It was a community alive with the simple, daily bustle of life, a stark contrast to the solitude of the mountains he had left behind. The promise of new beginnings seemed to echo through the lively streets of Llyn.
Upon entering the quaint inn nestled at the edge of Llyn's bustling market district, the group was immediately enveloped in the warm glow of lantern light, which cast a comforting amber hue over the wood-paneled interior. Bral approached the innkeeper, a robust man with a welcoming smile, and secured their lodgings with a practiced ease. "Two rooms for a week for now, one for two and one for three," he declared, sliding a handful of coins across the polished counter.
The innkeeper accepted the payment and handed over the keys with a nod, "Room number seven, and room number eleven."
Amukelo, who had been quietly observing the exchange, voiced a concern, "Sorry, but I don't have money to pay you." His expression was one of slight embarrassment, not accustomed to relying on others for such needs.
Bral chuckled heartily, clapping Amukelo on the shoulder, "No problem, brother. You saved us twice; this is the least we can do." His easy smile reassured Amukelo, who returned the gesture with a grateful nod.
They made their way to their rooms—simple yet comfortably furnished spaces with sturdy beds, a small table, and a couple of chairs. The wooden floors creaked softly under their weight, adding to the inn's homely charm. Amukelo, having no belongings to unpack, simply sat on the bed, taking in the room's modest amenities.
Idin and Bral began unpacking their gear. Amukelo took this moment to observe his companions more closely. Idin, with his dark, shoulder-length hair now free from the confinement of a helmet, and steel-gray eyes, carried an air of quiet intensity. He wasn't particularly tall, but his muscular build spoke of his prowess as a warrior. Bral, in contrast, sported short-cropped blond hair and sharp blue eyes, his taller, slimmer physique giving him a youthful yet vigilant appearance.
Once settled, Bral proposed a plan to Amukelo, "Let's buy you some new clothes; these are old, and you should wear something nicer." It was true; Amukelo's clothes were worn and frayed, unchanged for months since the goblins had destroyed his belongings.
Grateful for the gesture, Amukelo thanked Bral, who waved off the thanks with another laugh, indicating it was nothing more than he deserved. Before heading out to the bustling markets of Llyn, the group decided to indulge in a well-deserved bath. The inn provided a communal bathing room at the back, where hot water steamed in large wooden tubs. The opportunity to wash away the grime of travel was a simple luxury, but one that they all appreciated deeply.
Refreshed and rejuvenated, they regrouped in the inn's lobby. Bral, Idin, and Amukelo, now clean and more presentable, prepared to step out into the vibrant life of Llyn's streets.