Nestled in the eastern region of the continent of Zeltharia, Eldoria is a bustling town known for its vibrant markets, diverse inhabitants, and strategic location at the crossroads of several major trade routes. The town is a haven for treasure seekers, merchants, and explorers, all drawn by the promise of fortune and glory. Its streets are lined with taverns that echo with tales of daring quests and legendary battles, while shops offer exotic goods and rare artifacts from distant lands. Eldoria's skyline is dominated by the imposing silhouette of Castle Eldor, an ancient fortress that now serves as the Guild Registry's branch office, dedicated to maintaining records of guilds, providing quests, and safeguarding the realm from a myriad of threats. In Eldoria, every corner brims with opportunity, and the spirit of adventure is a constant presence, weaving through the lives of all who call this dynamic town home.
Among the many guilds in Eldoria, three stand out for their influence and unique contributions to the town's vibrant community. The Golden Sentinels, led by the formidable Kael Stormborn, are renowned for their combat prowess and unwavering commitment to protecting the realm. The House of Versare, an all-female guild headed by the charismatic Heena Shaekh, is celebrated for its skilled artisans and powerful sorceresses who bring both beauty and strength to their endeavors. Lastly, Exousia, under the joint leadership of Rieze Crestfall, Gress Windwalker, and Serys Larkwell, embodies a harmonious blend of adventurers with different goals and interests, making it a cornerstone of Eldoria's adventuring scene. Today marks Exousia's 10th founding anniversary.
The Great Hall of Exousia shimmered with golden light as enchanted lanterns floated gracefully above the long oak tables. The air was alive with laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the warm, inviting scent of roasted meats and fresh-baked pies. Banners of the guild, burgundy red and black with a large intricately designed golden scale in front, hung prominently, adding to the festive atmosphere. Both young novices and senior veterans helped each other arrange the final decorations for the night's grand celebration.
At the heart of the commotion stood Serys Larkwell, the guild's vice-captain and one of its founding members, directing a group of junior mages struggling to hang the guild crest.
"Careful with that spell," Serys said, her tone gentle but firm. "You're about to set the crest on fire, not attach it to the wall."
The younger mage flushed red, shyly muttering an apology as they adjusted their focus. Serys gave a small, reassuring smile.
"You're a saint, Vice Captain," the mage mumbled, trying to balance their spell work. "We'd be hopeless without you."
Serys chuckled, her eyes soft with affection. She enjoyed teaching, even though it took more patience than she often had. Being the steady presence in the guild, the one who held things together, was something she had long grown accustomed to.
Just then, a familiar voice broke her concentration.
"Serys, you're wasting time with the novices again," came the voice of Rieze Crestfall, the guild's captain, and her oldest and closest friend.
His polished armor gleamed in the warm glow of the lanterns, and his intense, dark watchful eyes seemed to take in everything at once. Rieze was one of the tallest members of the guild, his muscular frame towering over her, though his stern yet reassuring presence made him a figure of command and respect rather than intimidation.
"Try being soft on them, Rieze," she replied with a playful smirk, shaking her head. "Not everyone learns by smashing their mistakes with an axe."
Rieze snorted, clapping her on the back with such force that she stumbled slightly.
"That's why we're a good team, Serys. You keep them in line, and I keep them on their toes."
Serys smiled, warmth flooding her chest. For a decade, they'd shared the responsibilities of leading the guild—Rieze as the bold and brash captain, Gress Windwalker as the comic relief, and Serys as the quiet, steady vice-captain who patched up the aftermath of his daring plans. It had been a good partnership. They balanced each other in ways no one else could.
Rieze's laugh faded, and he grew serious again, his sharp eyes studying the young mage. His introverted nature often led others to underestimate him, but Serys knew better. He was cunning, always thinking several steps ahead, and his quiet demeanor masked a mind that was constantly strategizing. It was this duality that made him such an effective leader, capable of guiding the guild through countless dangers with a steady hand.
"Don't forget, Serys," Rieze said quietly, his voice carrying a weight that belied his relaxed posture, "you're the one who keeps us grounded. Without you, this place would fall apart."
Serys smiled, the compliment warming her. She knew Rieze meant every word. Despite his reserved nature, he valued her presence deeply, understanding that her balance was the glue that held their chaotic family together.
Just then, a burst of laughter heralded the arrival of Gress Windwalker. The silver-haired elven paladin bounded in, his lean frame moving with surprising agility. His laughter filled the space as he made a joke about Rieze's lack of tact.
"Careful, Rieze, you might scare the poor mage with that glare," Gress teased, his silver eyes glinting with mischief. His infectious, bubbly personality contrasted sharply with Rieze's gruffness. Always the comic relief, Gress's goofy antics and risk-taking nature brought a lightness to the guild that was much needed.
He clapped Serys on the back next, his easy smile making his teasing remarks all the more charming. "You know, you're always the last one to pick up the pieces, Serys. Good thing you have so much patience—because I sure don't!"
Serys rolled her eyes, but the warmth in her gaze made it clear she didn't mind the teasing.
"Someone has to hold things together when you two cause chaos," she shot back, grinning as Gress and Rieze exchanged playful glares.
The evening unfolded with an infectious energy as the sun dipped below the horizon. Guild members flooded into the hall, their faces lit with excitement, ready to celebrate their shared achievements. The long oak tables filled quickly with food, drink, and laughter as stories of past adventures were exchanged.
"Vice Captain Larkwell!" one of the junior rogues called out, raising a mug of ale. "A toast to the woman who kept us all alive after that room of mimics mission!"
The hall erupted in cheers, and Serys chuckled as she raised her own glass. It was moments like these—watching her guildmates, her friends, happy, whole, and thriving—that made her years of hard work worthwhile.
As the night wore on, Serys moved through the crowd, checking on the food, chatting with old friends, and laughing at exaggerated tales of their adventures. But amidst all the joy, she couldn't shake the growing weight in her chest. The decision she had been carrying for months now seemed to press down on her with an undeniable force.
Her time with the guild had been filled with fun and purpose, but lately, a quiet voice in her heart had grown louder— whispering of a life beyond the call of duty. A life where she could finally chase the dream she had tucked away for too long.
As the evening drew on, Rieze stood at the head of the table, slamming his tankard down twice to grab the room's attention. His deep voice cut through the chatter, demanding silence with an air of authority only he possessed. His gruff exterior and no-nonsense attitude had always kept the guild in line, but there was an undeniable pride in his eyes as he addressed his comrades.
"Everyone!" he roared, his voice filled with a mix of pride and mirth. "A decade ago, we were just a bunch of misfits with more courage than sense. Now look at us! One of the longest-standing guilds this side of the continent!"
A round of applause and cheers filled the hall. Rieze raised his hand to request silence, his expression becoming serious. "However, I cannot accept all the credit without recognizing one individual, aside from Gress—" there was laughter as Gress made rude gestures towards Rieze, who continued, "—who has helped sustain this guild through all the turmoil. Our vice-captain, Serys Larkwel!"
The crowd erupted in applause, and Serys rose from her seat, giving Rieze a wry look. "You always did love putting me on the spot," she muttered, though her lips quirked into a smile.
Stepping forward, she raised her hands, asking for quiet.
"Thank you, Rieze, and thank you all," she began, her voice steady but filled with warmth. "Ten years ago, we were three friends with different interests but one dream. Together, we've built something incredible. We've faced dragons, bandits, guild house renovating problems, and more near-death experiences than I care to count, but we've always come out stronger. You've all made this guild a family."
Her words were met with cheers and raised glasses, but Serys wasn't finished. She took a deep breath, steadying herself as a flicker of uncertainty crossed her features. She met Rieze's and Gress's eyes—their gaze both confused and knowing, as if they already suspected what was coming.
"But every adventure has its turning points," she continued, her voice softening. "And tonight, I have an announcement of my own."
The hall grew quiet, the guild members leaning in to hear her next words.
"For ten years, I've given everything I have to this guild," she said, her gaze sweeping over the room. "And it's been the greatest honor of my life. But I've also carried a dream of my own, one that has nothing to do with monsters or relics or battlefields."
She paused, glancing at Rieze, her heart racing as she finally shared the truth. "As of tonight, I'm stepping down as vice-captain. I'm retiring to pursue that dream."
A murmur rippled through the crowd. Rieze, arms crossed, raised an eyebrow. "And what dream might that be, Serys?"
Her smile softened, a rare warmth lighting her features as she spoke the words that had been weighing on her heart for months. "I'm going to open a bakery."
For a moment, the room was utterly silent. Then someone near the back burst into laughter, quickly stifled by an elbow to the ribs. Rieze's lips twitched, a teasing smile forming despite his surprise.
"A bakery?" Rieze's voice held a hint of amusement. "You're trading spells for pastries?"
"That's exactly what I'm doing," she replied proudly and confidently, her tone unwavering. "I want to create something that brings people joy without the threat of danger. A place where travelers and townsfolk alike can rest and share stories over fresh bread and hot coffee."
Laughter and a few bewildered protests rang out, but the applause quickly followed. Rieze stepped forward, clapping her on the shoulder.
"Well, Serys, you've always had a knack for mending things. I reckon you'll do just fine mending broken hearts with pies instead of poultices."
The room erupted into cheers and applause, and Serys felt a weight lift from her chest. Her decision was made, and the next chapter of her life awaited—a quieter, simpler adventure that she could call her own.
But even as the celebration continued, she couldn't ignore the bittersweet feeling that lingered in her heart. Rieze's gaze met hers across the room, and for a moment, she saw something deeper in his eyes—something he hadn't yet said aloud. Rieze Crestfall had been her rock, her oldest friend, and she could feel that tonight was a turning point for more than just her.
Gress's laughter interrupted the moment as he made a joke at Rieze's expense. Nevertheless, Serys couldn't ignore the sense of warmth she felt upon realizing that her journey was about to change, but she would not face it alone.