Zero

Bard

As the sun spilled its golden light across the horizon, the world awoke with a soft, ethereal glow. Astral's eyes fluttered open, revealing the vibrant colors of dawn filtering through the flaps of their tent. He sat up, rubbing his temples, only to discover that the throbbing ache that had haunted him was now a distant memory. Had he truly mended not just his own wounds, but Jay's as well when the healing magic surged through him?

A flutter of concern gripped him as he noticed Jay's absence by his side. Stepping outside, Astral's heart quickened with worry. "Jay?" he called out, his voice laced with unease. The campsite was alive with the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant call of awakening creatures, yet his friend was nowhere to be seen.

A soft whine escaped him, a testament to the bond they shared, now tinged with uncertainty. Just then, Jaylen emerged from the nearby grove, a piece of fabric in hand as he scrubbed at his damp hair. His red, baggy pants hung loosely about him, casting a playful shadow as he moved. Although his chest bore scars—remnants of battles fought and won—the sight of them no longer struck fear into Astral's heart. Instead, they told tales of resilience and the unbreakable spirit of his friend.

Jay's smile broke through, warm and genuine. "Good morning—" Astral's gaze fell to the scars, a pang of sorrow awakening within him.

"Did you get all the blood out of your hair?" he asked, trying to mask his concern with lightheartedness.

With a wistful smile, Jaylen looked down, the weight of their journey evident in his posture. "Yeah... I needed that," he sighed, tilting his head as if pondering the mysteries of cleanliness. "I wonder what bathing can do for the spirit. You should go wash up; I'll pack the camp."

Astral nodded, a sense of camaraderie washing over him. "Sure... I'll go do that." He turned toward the beckoning river, its waters glistening like liquid sapphire in the sunlight. As he walked, he couldn't help but feel that their journey was just beginning.

As Jaylen packed their camp, a rhythm of purpose enveloped the clearing. By the time Astral returned, refreshed and with a renewed sense of determination, the sun had climbed higher in the sky, casting long shadows behind them. They mounted their horses, ready to ride back to town, where whispers of their next mission awaited them.

In the sweltering heart of a vibrant desert town, two girls, adorned in shimmering new garments, navigated the bustling market, their laughter ringing like bells amidst the din of merchants hawking their wares.

The sun blazed overhead, casting golden rays that danced upon the vibrant fabrics and colorful trinkets. Suddenly, the atmosphere crackled with magic as the two boys, a mischievous group known for their playful antics, approached the mystical teleporter, a swirling gateway shimmering with otherworldly energy. With a sudden flash, Astral vanished into the portal, leaving behind a trail of ethereal sparkles.

Liah, her heart racing, turned just in time to catch Jaylen's gaze, their eyes locking in an unspoken connection. "WAIT—" she gasped, urgency lacing her voice.

Jaylen, caught off guard by her shout, turned with a perplexed expression. "Huh—" But before he could grasp the situation, Liah sprinted toward the steps of the teleporter, panic fueling her every step.

"Where is he!? Where is Astral—"

Jaylen stood frozen, one foot hovering over the glowing teleporter that pulsed with magic. "Uhhhhh—" he blinked, confusion clouding his mind as the energy enveloped him, turning him into a cascade of shimmering sparkles that vanished in an instant.

"JAYLEN—" Liah screamed in frustration, her heart sinking as she realized the gravity of the moment. "UGH—"

Just then, Irilla dashed onto the scene, worry etched on her face, her breathless hops betraying her anxiousness."Jaylen! Where!?" she cried, her eyes darting in search of her friend.