The pub was bustling with activity, a haven of warmth and noise against the chill of the night.
Adventurers filled the wooden tables, their laughter and banter creating a lively hum. The scent of roasted meat and ale wafted through the air as the bartender slid drinks across the polished bar. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and relaxation, a brief respite before the chaos of the impending monster wave.
The door to the pub swung open, and two figures stepped inside, immediately drawing the attention of the patrons.
First was Reychard, a mountain man with the eyes of a seasoned warrior. His plain white shirt and black pants did little to conceal the muscular strength that radiated from his frame—a testament to his prowess as a true warrior.
Fellow adventurers greeted him with nods and smiles, showing their respect for the B-rank adventurer and leader of the Lunar Vanguard.
"Reychard! Good to see you!" a burly man called out, raising his mug in salute.
"How's it going, Reychard?" another adventurer asked, clapping him on the shoulder.
Reychard acknowledged each greeting with a warm smile and a nod. "Good to see you all. Stay sharp, the wave is coming soon," he replied, his voice carrying over the din.
Beside Reychard walked Nikos, a stark contrast in appearance. Lean and slender, he dressed in an emerald green tunic with gold accents. His excessive beauty sparked envy as easily as admiration.
With eyes the color of a comforting blue twilight, sharp and calculating, his feature is framed by bluish indigo hair, he carried himself with an air of luxury and nobility.
His presence captivated the room, drawing the gaze of many, especially the women.
"Sir Nikos! Over here!" a young woman called, waving enthusiastically.
"Good evening, Mr. Nikos," a merchant greeted him, inclining his head respectfully.
"Such a pleasure to see you, Nikos," another woman said, her eyes twinkling with admiration.
Nikos answered each greeting with a light smile and polite interaction. "Evening, everyone. I hope you're all well," he replied, his voice smooth and composed.
The two made their way to an empty table in the corner of the pub and took their seats. Reychard called a waitress, a young woman approaching them, as she getting closer she couldn't help but steal glances at Nikos.
"What can I get for you gentlemen?" she asked, her eyes lingering on Nikos.
"Two beers and some food, please," Reychard ordered, flashing her a friendly smile. "And put it on my tab."
The waitress nodded, her cheeks flushing slightly as she glanced at Nikos again. "Right away," she said before hurrying off.
Reychard leaned back in his chair. "It is on me tonight, Sir Nikos, since I was the one who invited you."
Nikos nodded appreciatively. "Thank you for the treat, Reychard. I could use a good drink for tonight."
As they waited for their order, they began to talk about the preparations for the monster wave. The conversation quickly turned serious.
"The Adventurer Guild is pulling out all the stops," Reychard said, his expression thoughtful. "Nori is been a great help, coordinating everything. She is got a knack for this kind of thing."
Nikos noted the subtle softness in Reychard's voice when he mentioned Nori. "She's quite capable," he said, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "It sounds like you two work well together."
Reychard chuckled, a bit embarrassed. "We've known each other since we were kids. She's always been the organized one."
The waitress returned with their beers and a platter of food—roasted meat, bread, and cheese. She set everything down, stealing another glance at Nikos before retreating.
Reychard took a long drink from his mug, savoring the taste. "The guild is ready, but I'm worried about the town's defenses. The army is doing what it can, but they are stretched thin."
Nikos took a sip of his beer, nodding thoughtfully. "We need to ensure the adventurers are well-equipped. I'll make sure my shop will continue to supply potions and gear. We can't afford any shortages."
Reychard's eyes showed his appreciation. "Your shop has been a godsend, Sir Nikos. The potions you provide could be the difference between life and death out there."
Nikos shown a bittersweet smile, he nodded, the weight of their situation settling on his shoulders. "I've heard rumors that the monster wave might be bigger than any of the town faced before. We need every advantage we can get."
Reychard took another drink, his expression one of determination. "Agreed. We've got a tough fight ahead, but with everyone working together, we stand a chance."
The two continued to discuss the situations, the camaraderie between them growing stronger with each word. The pub around them remained lively, but at their table, a sense of purpose and resolve took root.
Nikos leaned back in his chair, his eyes sharp as he studied Reychard. "So, tell me, Reychard, what's the real reason you invited me for a drink tonight? I suspect it's more than just talking about the impending monster wave, right?"
Reychard shifted uneasily, the flickering candlelight casting shadows across his rugged face. "Well, Sir Nikos, I... There's something I wanted to ask you," he began, his voice softening. "From what I've observed, you're amazing at interacting with women. You're quite popular and charming. Do you... do you perhaps know how to charm someone?"
Nikos raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Are you asking for advice on how to charm a woman, Reychard?" he asked, his tone teasing but kind.
Reychard nodded, looking a bit flustered. "Yes, I am. There is someone... someone special."
Nikos leaned in, his gaze intense. "Is it, Nori?"
The sudden question caught Reychard off guard, and his face turned crimson red with embarrassment. "Is it that obvious?" he asked, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly.
Nikos chuckled softly, nodding. "Yes, it is. So, do you want to know how to charm her?"
Reychard nodded again, this time with a hint of determination. "Yes, I do."
Nikos being silent in thought for a moment. She's only see him as a friends, even if all going to work, it's definitely going took quite a longer times. But, well if he truly destined for her, they'll eventually going to be together. Let's just see.
Nikos leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "Alright, listen to this carefully…" he began to share some insight to Reychard how to charm Nori and create chance for her to fall in love to him.
"When it comes to charming someone, especially someone like Nori, it's not just about grand gestures or only saying the right things. It's about being genuine, showing that you truly care, and being true of yourself."
Reychard listened intently as Nikos continued. "For now, the thing that suits your position is to enter her world, do the things she likes, and be genuine in your desire to be a part of her world. Pay attention to every detail about her, showing that you care, and it will make her happy." Nikos sipped his drink and continued again. "Lastly, don't be afraid to share part of yourself, your vulnerability, and your best self. Let her see your whole self as a human, this will create a connection between the two of you. I guess that's enough for now."
Nikos paused, watching Reychard's reaction. "It's going to take time, Reychard. But if you're patient and sincere, she will definitely notice."
Reychard nodded, absorbing every word. "Sir Nikos, you explained that so clearly. I never thought about it that way." He was amazed at Nikos directions.
Nikos smiled lightly. "It's all about understanding people, Reychard. It might take a while, but if you do it right, she'll eventually fall in love with you."
Reychard's face lit up with a mixture of hope and determination. "Thank you, Sir Nikos. I will do my best." His mind is thought how to follow Nikos guidence at approaching Nori.
As Reychard excited in his mind, suddenly remembered about rumor of things that happen on Nikos shop from some adventurers, he turned back to Nikos. "Sir Nikos, about your store I've heard something happened related with some competitor, and it was done intentionaly. Is it true?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.
Nikos's smile faded slightly, replaced by a subtle melancholy. He brushed it off with a wave of his hand. "It's nothing, really."
Reychard leaned forward, his tone insistent. "Sir Nikos, you've helped me a lot tonight. Please, let me return the favor."
Nikos paused, his expression thoughtful. Eventually, he sighed and explained. "You're right Reychard, someone is destroyed my shop and the damaged is held our progress tremendously. But good things the stock of the potions is safe."
Reychard listened with empathy, his mind racing with possible suspects. "There's no other competition for your business other than the Alchemist Association," he said, his voice low. "If there's anything myself and my party, the Lunar Vanguard, can do to help, just say the word."
Nikos was silent for a moment, then he smiled lightly. "Thank you, Reychard. I appreciate your offer. Than I will accept your help, if it's not troubling you. Could you come to my shop with your party tomorrow?"
Reychard nodded firmly. "No worries, it is fine. We'll be there tomorrow."
The two men continued their conversation until the night grew late. The pub began to quiet down as patrons trickled out, heading home to rest before the challenges of the coming days.
When midnight arrived, Nikos and Reychard stood, settling their tab with the waitress, who still seemed enchanted by Nikos's presence. They stepped out into the cool night air, the streets quiet and empty.
Walking side by side through the silent town, they shared a few final words of encouragement before parting ways.
"Good night, Reychard," Nikos said, clapping him on the shoulder.
"Good night, Sir Nikos," Reychard replied with a respectful nod.
On the next day.
As the sun climbed in the sky, the 'Lunar Vanguard' party led by Reychard and other adventurers who had responded to the bulletin quest gathered at the back of Nikos' shop.
Nikos stood in the middle and began to explaining the work to them.