"It's late," Eli said, her voice softer now, as though trying to lighten the mood. She glanced around the quiet streets. "Most people are already asleep."
We walked in silence for a while until Viri suddenly darted ahead, her usual smirk playing on her lips. "Hurry up," she called over her shoulder.
Eli and I exchanged a glance before following her to one of the few shops still open. As we approached, I recognized it—the stall I'd visited before. The elven shopkeeper was there, speaking with someone.
Viri slowed as we drew closer, her gaze fixed on the man in leather armor leaning casually against the counter. He had a confident air about him, his brunette hair falling slightly into his golden eyes, which seemed to glint even in the dim light.
"Adrian," Viri said sharply, drawing his attention.
He turned, his expression shifting from relaxed to curious as he noticed us. "Evening," he said with a polite nod.
Without warning, Viri slammed her hands on the counter, startling the shopkeeper and earning a raised eyebrow from Adrian. "We need mana bombs," she said, her tone leaving no room for argument.
Adrian chuckled softly, his demeanor calm. "How many are we talking?"
"Two hundred of each," she replied, sliding a gold piece across the counter.
Adrian gave an approving nod and moved to retrieve several boxes from nearby crates. As he worked, Eli stayed close to me, her fingers clutching my arm nervously.
When Adrian returned and handed over the boxes, Viri leaned in slightly, her green eyes gleaming. "You know, Adrian, your guild's been spreading false information."
Adrian's confident smile faltered. "What do you mean?"
"The Spider Queen healed itself during our fight," Viri said coldly. "Your guild conveniently left that little detail out."
Adrian's expression turned serious. He bowed his head slightly. "I'm sorry if that caused any trouble. The information we've been using is from the beta. Not everything is accurate anymore."
"That's not good enough," Viri snapped. "That misinformation nearly cost us everything."
Adrian straightened, his tone sincere. "What can I do to make it up to you?"
Viri's smile widened. "Simple. Let me challenge you. Off the books."
Adrian's lips twitched into a grin, his confidence returning. "That's what this is about? Fine. You can challenge me anytime."
"Floor 7," Viri said sternly.
Adrian nodded. "Not tonight, though," he added with a laugh. "It's late, and I've got plans."
Viri's gaze didn't waver. "Then I'll see you there."
Adrian gave her a mock salute before turning back to the shopkeeper. Viri grabbed the boxes and walked off, her smirk firmly in place.
Eli glanced at me as we followed her, worry flickering in her eyes. I forced a smile, but inside, the weight of what I couldn't say crushed me.