A QUEST OF DEATH : Dawning Darkness

07 | To Meet Someone • Part 2(edited)

Just the way she did it every morning for seven consecutive years Ada unlocked the shop doors to Brew Haven, the quaint coffee shop nestled on the corner of Elma Street. The day typically began with the rhythmic hum of the espresso machine and the distant chatter of customers eager for their morning pick-me-up.

The early morning rush was a predictable chaos, with customers streaming in for their favourite brews before heading to work. She swiftly tied on her apron, adjusting it with a practised motion, ready to face the day ahead.

The clinking of cups and saucers formed a melodic background, creating a cosy ambiance within the cafe's walls. With a notepad in hand, she deftly navigated between tables, taking orders with a warm smile and engaging in casual banter with the regulars till the mid-morning lull allowed Adaa moment to catch her breath. She'd wipe down tables, restock the sugar and creamer stations, and steal a quick sip of her own much-needed coffee.

Even amidst the busy schedule her mind wandered back to the encounter with Flitch earlier that morning. Flitch knew everything. Its peculiar nature, though typical of an elf, lingered in her thoughts. It probably knew what she had for breakfast, that her first Caramel Latte she brewed this morning was a tad bit too sweet and that she would be meeting up with Kaya anytime now.

When she first moved into this neighbourhood of common humans, it was utterly strange for her. Sure, she was human-flesh, bone, skin, hair, and she bled red like the others. But unlike anyone else around here, she had honed her skills in manipulating her core energy. Casting a spell to make her broom sweep the floor, summoning a spirit to guard her door, or warding her room with an elf was as normal as breathing for her. However, in her current situation, using her magic wasn't in her best interest. If not for the disrupted flow of her power and the lack of ability or knowledge to live as a living, breathing horcrux, Ada would have tried some tricks at home.

In terms of survival, Kaya had been her saviour. As a trader of both allowed and prohibited secrets of the realm, he frequented places a normal mage from Crepusculum would never visit. According to him, "Normies"-or common humans-were the dumbest, and thus the easiest to blend in with for someone in hiding like her. Now, after seven years and two good common human friends, Ada wouldn't say normies were essentially dumb. They were a bit slow and ignorant due to a lack of proper training like hers, but their blissful unawareness saved them a lot of trouble.

The lunchtime rush brought a new wave of customers, making her completely forget her worries. She skillfully juggled multiple orders, ensuring each cup was crafted to perfection. The symphony of the coffee grinder and the frother blended with the chatter of patrons, creating a vibrant energy in the air. Amidst the hustle, she found joy in small interactions - recommending pastries to a first-time visitor, remembering a regular's usual order, and interacting with David and Lucy.

"OMG, Ada, your hair is fire today!" Lucy exclaimed, her tone dripping with enthusiasm.

Ada grinned, tucking a loose strand behind her ear. "Thanks, Luce! New shirt?"

"Boify got me a quarter birthday present," Lucy beamed, happy that Ada had noticed her new outfit.

"He's got a good eye for that. Looks super good on you."

"Aww, honey, you're the best!"

As she passed by the counter, taking an order, David winked at her. She smiled back at him, feeling a pleasant warmth. It was these little moments that made the rush enjoyable.

The afternoon hours trickled by with a steady flow of customers seeking an afternoon caffeine boost or a cosy spot to work on their laptops. Ada's steps became a familiar rhythm as she moved from table to table, clearing empty cups and replenishing supplies.