Zero

Carry you. . .

The night unfurled its velvety cloak over the desert, the air thick with the scent of sage and the whisper of ancient winds. Jaylen sat by the crackling fire, the flames casting flickering shadows on the sandstone walls that loomed like silent sentinels. Periodically, he turned his gaze to the still form of Astral, lying peacefully under the tent that shielded him, his wounds tended with care. The wound on Astral's head was now wrapped neatly, glistening in the firelight, a reminder of the dangers that lay ahead. As he pored over the parchment detailing their next mission, Jaylen's heart surged with a blend of excitement and bravado.

They were on the cusp of confronting Anubis, the trickster god known for his cunning traps and illusions. Jaylen's confidence swelled; he envisioned himself outsmarting the god with ease, a mere mortal standing against divine chaos. Yet, a small whisper of caution lingered in the back of his mind, warning him not to underestimate the ancient powers they faced.

With dawn's first light spilling across the horizon, painting the world in hues of gold and amber, Jaylen knew it was time to rise. He gazed once more at Astral, who snored softly, wrapped in dreams of valor while Jaylen donned his silver and purple armor—each plate shimmering with a promise of strength and protection. Grasping his spear, he caught a glimpse of his reflection in the polished metal; determination burned in his eyes, unwavering and fierce. This was his first solo mission, yet fear eluded him, replaced by the exhilarating rush of potential.

Nestled in the heart of the quaint village of Eldergrove, the tavern, known as The Whispering Hearth, exudes a charm that draws in travelers from far and wide. Its exterior, with folksy plastered walls and sturdy stone beams, invites all who pass by to step inside its warm embrace. Though the large stained glass windows obscure the view, they shimmer with the vibrant energy that pulses from within, hinting at the joyous revelry taking place just beyond the threshold.

As patrons push through the old, wooden door, they are greeted by a symphony of laughter, clinking mugs, and the lively strains of music that fill the air like a fragrant brew. The bartender, a jovial figure with a twinkle in his eye, deftly navigates the bustling bar, mixing drinks and sharing hearty waves with everyone who enters.

Inside, the tavern is a feast for the senses; rounded stone beams arch overhead, adorned with flickering candles that cast a warm, golden glow across the room. The walls, a tapestry of signatures and messages from delighted visitors, tell stories of laughter and camaraderie that have woven the fabric of this beloved establishment. The atmosphere is electric, with families gathered around long tables, their laughter mingling with the aroma of delectable food wafting through the air. Smaller tables are animated with the sounds of competitive games and animated storytelling, where friends exchange jokes and embarrassing tales, their raucous laughter echoing like a spell of joy. Even the barstools are filled with patrons eager for companionship and good cheer, creating an inclusive vibe that welcomes all who seek solace from the world outside.

In a cozy nook at the bar, Irilla and Liah find refuge from the chill of the outside elements, the radiant warmth of the crackling fireplace enveloping them like a comforting blanket. The tall paladin, her drink swirling thoughtfully in her hands, hums a soft tune, her brows furrowed in concentration. "It's going to be hard to find them... Astral doesn't really stop going—" she sighs, the weight of her quest settling around her like the flickering shadows cast by the dancing flames, as the tavern continues to pulse with life, oblivious to the challenges that lie ahead.

Irilla, with her radiant blonde hair shining like spun gold in the light, turned to her friend Liah. Her teal eyes, vivid like the sea under a clear sky, scanned the bar, taking in the murmurs of patrons lost in their own tales.