The air grew colder as they ventured deeper into the dungeon, the once vibrant glow of the safe zone fading behind them. Despite the looming darkness, the group's spirits were high.
Mark and Jackson led the way, cracking jokes and teasing each other as they walked. Angel followed closely, laughing at their antics and occasionally adding her own sarcastic remarks.
JC and Lissy trailed behind, their hands intertwined. Lissy glanced up at him, her face lit with a soft smile. JC's expression remained calm, but his grip on her hand was firm, a silent reassurance that he was there to stay.
---
A Moment of Peace
"You've been quiet," Lissy said, tilting her head to look at him.
JC glanced down at her, his crimson eyes softening. "Just… taking it all in," he replied. "It's been a while since I've felt this."
"This?"
"Normal," he said, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Being with all of you again."
Lissy's heart warmed at his words. "Well, you're stuck with us now," she teased. "No more running off to mysterious places."
"I'll try," JC said, his voice lighter than usual.
---
The Group's Antics
Ahead of them, Mark pretended to trip over a nonexistent rock, earning a loud laugh from Jackson. "Smooth, Mark. Real smooth," Jackson teased.
"Hey, I'm testing the terrain for traps," Mark shot back, puffing out his chest dramatically. "You're welcome."
Angel rolled her eyes. "Yeah, because tripping on air is a highly effective trap-checking technique."
The banter continued, echoing off the stone walls of the dungeon. For a brief moment, it felt as if they weren't in a dangerous place, but just a group of friends on an adventure.
---
A Watchful Eye
As the others joked and laughed, JC's eyes scanned their surroundings. The lack of monsters this deep into the dungeon was unusual. It made his instincts buzz with caution.
Still, he didn't want to dampen the mood. For now, he let himself enjoy the moment, his hand still holding Lissy's as they walked.
"This feels too easy," Lissy whispered, noticing his subtle tension.
"It won't last," JC murmured back. "But let them have this. They've earned it."
Lissy nodded, squeezing his hand as they continued forward.
---
A Growing Bond
As the group moved deeper into the dungeon, their laughter faded into comfortable silence. The camaraderie they shared felt stronger than ever, a bond forged through countless battles and hardships.
JC glanced at each of them, his heart swelling with pride. These weren't the same inexperienced adventurers he had left behind years ago. They had grown, and so had he.
And no matter what lay ahead, he knew they would face it together.