Amelia awoke with a contented stretch, her eyes blinking open to the soft morning light filtering through the trees. She smiled warmly at Gruff and Tommy, her gaze expectant. "Did you both sleep well?"
Gruff and Tommy exchanged bemused glances, incredulous at her obliviousness to the events of the previous night. Gruff chuckled, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes. "Like logs, lass. Slept like logs."
Tommy nodded in agreement, though his mind lingered on the lingering tension from their nocturnal encounter. Nevertheless, he pushed the memories aside, focusing on the day ahead. "We've got a ways to go before we reach the next town. Best to get an early start."
With preparations made, the group resumed their journey, the rhythmic sounds of their footsteps echoing through the forest. Tommy's mind buzzed with newfound curiosity as he contemplated the information he gleaned from the system. He stole furtive glances at the interface, careful to conceal his actions from Gruff and Amelia.
As Tommy walked alongside his companions, his thoughts drifted to the mysterious interface that only he and Shadow could access. With a quick glance to ensure Gruff and Amelia were occupied, he surreptitiously activated the system, the familiar interface materializing before him.
His heart quickened as he navigated through the menus, his fingers deftly tapping on the translucent screen. His eyes widened in disbelief as he beheld the experience bar, a visual representation of his journey towards the elusive rank 3. The bar stood at halfway, a tangible testament to his growth and determination.
But Tommy's excitement was tempered by a sense of urgency. He knew that time was of the essence, that every battle brought him closer to his goal. With a determined nod, he resolved to push himself further, to exceed his limits and emerge victorious.
His gaze then shifted to Shadow's profile, the canine companion who had stood by his side through thick and thin. As he inspected Shadow's experience bar, a sense of pride swelled within him. Shadow was only twenty percent away from rank 3, a testament to his unwavering loyalty and strength.
Tommy hesitated for a moment, his mind buzzing with newfound determination and purpose. Finally, he mustered the courage to broach the topic with Gruff.
"Hey, Gruff," Tommy began tentatively, his voice tinged with a hint of excitement, "I've been thinking. With all the battles we've been through lately, I reckon Shadow and I are getting pretty close to rank 3."
Gruff arched an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "Rank 3, eh? That's quite the milestone, lad. But what's on your mind?"
Tommy took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "Well, I was thinking... Since we're getting stronger and all, maybe it's time for Shadow and me to take on more responsibility in battles. You know, help protect the group if we encounter any more bandits or threats along the way."
Gruff regarded Tommy with a mixture of surprise and pride. "You want to take on more responsibility, lad? That's a bold move, but I reckon you and Shadow are up to the task. You've both proven yourselves time and time again."
Tommy nodded eagerly, a sense of determination burning in his eyes. "Thanks, Gruff. We won't let you down. Besides, with your guidance, I'm sure we can handle anything that comes our way."
Gruff smiled, a sense of pride swelling within him. "That's the spirit, lad. We'll make a formidable team, the three of us. Now, let's keep moving. Who knows what challenges await us on the road ahead."
Tommy smiled, a surge of determination coursing through his veins. Together, he and Shadow would continue to defy expectations, to overcome whatever challenges lay ahead. With renewed purpose, they pressed onward, their bond unbreakable and their destinies intertwined.