Ark 2 Chapter 6: Journey to the Water's Edge
Nexus stood outside the dwarven forge, the newly reforged sword gleaming faintly in the dim light of the city. The smith had spent days fine-tuning every inch of the blade, ensuring that the divine steel was balanced with the other rare metals—mithril, orichalcum, and adamantine. It felt alive in his hands, humming faintly with power.
The weight of the sword was reassuring, but also a reminder of the immense responsibility that came with wielding it. Nexus tightened his grip on the hilt, a small pulse of energy resonating from the weapon.
"Careful, lad," the smith said, stepping out from the forge with a grin. "That blade's got a temper of its own. Treat it well, and it'll serve ye better than any other weapon on this world—or beyond."
Nexus nodded, offering the smith a rare smile. "Thank you. I won't forget what you've done."
The smith waved him off with a hearty laugh. "Bah, don't go gettin' sentimental on me. Just make sure ye use it wisely. Now, ye've got a long journey ahead of ye. Best get movin'."
With a nod of farewell, Nexus secured the sword on his back and left the dwarven city, setting his sights on the dock the smith had mentioned. It was said to be a place where traders and adventurers once gathered, a gateway to the seas and the lands beyond.
The journey through the forest was grueling. Dense trees stretched endlessly in every direction, their canopies blocking out most of the sunlight. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the distant sound of wildlife, though Nexus couldn't shake the feeling of being watched.
He moved cautiously, his senses sharp, the sword at his side a constant reminder of the power he now carried. Each step forward felt heavier, the weight of his mission pressing down on him.
Days turned into weeks as he trekked through the wilderness. The forest was unyielding, with tangled roots and uneven terrain slowing his progress. He encountered beasts—some merely curious, others hostile. But with every battle, he felt himself growing stronger, more attuned to the blade's power.
The memories of his time with Retro and his father, Atlas, kept him focused. He remembered their lessons—the importance of strategy, patience, and determination. Those memories fueled his resolve, even when exhaustion threatened to overtake him.
Nexus pressed onward, his boots crunching against gravel as the forest thinned and gave way to open skies. The air grew lighter, no longer stifled by the dense canopy, and the faint cry of seabirds drifted through the air. It was the first sign of civilization—or what remained of it—that Nexus had encountered in weeks.
The trees gave way to rocky terrain, the ground uneven but manageable. The scent of salt and seaweed grew stronger, carried by the crisp wind coming off the ocean. Nexus quickened his pace, his heart lifting slightly at the thought of finally reaching the dock.
Each step brought him closer to the coastline, and soon he caught his first glimpse of the sea—a vast expanse of blue stretching out endlessly to the horizon. The sight filled him with a strange mix of awe and relief.
"This has to be it," he muttered to himself, adjusting the strap of the sword on his back. "It has to be close."
Following the coastline, Nexus kept his eyes on the horizon, searching for any sign of the dock the dwarven smith had spoken of. The land curved gently, leading him to a small hill that overlooked the shore. He climbed it eagerly, anticipation building with each step.
But as he reached the top of the hill, his excitement turned to dread.
The dock sprawled below him, or rather, what remained of it. It was a graveyard of shattered wood and broken dreams. The piers that should have extended proudly into the ocean were splintered and sagging, some sections missing entirely and swallowed by the waves. A few rotting beams jutted out of the water like skeletal fingers, a haunting reminder of what had once been.
The beach was littered with the remains of ships—hulls cracked open, masts snapped like twigs, and sails reduced to tattered rags fluttering weakly in the wind. The entire area seemed frozen in time, a place abandoned to the elements and left to decay.
Nexus's stomach churned as he descended the hill, his boots sinking into the soft sand. The closer he got, the more apparent the devastation became. The dock wasn't just ruined—it was obliterated.
"This... this isn't right," he said aloud, his voice barely audible over the sound of the waves. "What happened here?"
He crouched near one of the shattered piers, running his hand along the splintered wood. The break was jagged, unnatural. This wasn't the work of time or neglect—it was destruction, deliberate and violent.
The air around the dock was heavy, charged with a faint but unmistakable energy that made the hairs on the back of Nexus's neck stand on end. It wasn't like the oppressive anti-magic barrier he had encountered before, but it was unsettling in its own way—a lingering trace of whatever had caused this destruction.
Moving cautiously, Nexus scanned the area for any signs of life. The sand was disturbed in places, faint tracks barely visible where the tide hadn't washed them away. Something—or someone—had been here recently.
His grip tightened on the hilt of his sword as he approached one of the wrecked ships. The hull was split wide open, its interior exposed to the elements. Peering inside, Nexus found only rotted crates and debris. No supplies, no people—just emptiness.
"This wasn't just a disaster," he muttered, stepping back from the wreck. "It was an attack."
Standing amidst the ruins, Nexus felt a wave of frustration and despair wash over him. He had spent weeks traveling to this dock, believing it would be his gateway to the next step of his journey. Now, it was nothing more than a shattered remnant of what once was, its purpose lost.
But even as doubt crept into his mind, Nexus forced himself to stand tall. He wasn't about to give up—not after everything he had been through.
He looked out at the ocean, the waves crashing against the remains of the piers. The horizon seemed distant and unreachable, but he couldn't stop here. There had to be another way forward.
Nexus turned back to the wreckage, his mind racing. The destruction was fresh—too fresh. Someone had done this, and whoever they were might still be nearby. If he could find them, maybe they had answers—or maybe they were responsible.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting the coastline in shades of gold and crimson, Nexus clenched his fists, his resolve hardening. He wasn't going to let this setback stop him.
"This isn't the end," he said firmly, his voice steady despite the uncertainty. "There's always another way."
With that, Nexus began searching the area for any clues or signs of what had happened. The path forward was unclear, but he refused to let despair take hold. He would find a way to continue his journey—no matter what it took.
—
As Nexus searched through the wreckage, the faint sound of crying reached his ears. He froze, straining to hear it again. The sound was soft, but unmistakable—a girl's voice, broken and full of despair. His heart raced as he turned toward the source of the sound, his instincts urging him to act.
Carefully, he moved toward the partially submerged ship closest to the water's edge. The crying grew louder, though it was muffled by the creaking of wood and the crashing waves. Panic clawed at his chest as he scrambled over the broken hull, cutting through the rotted beams and jagged metal with his sword.
"Hold on!" he called out, his voice steady despite the urgency. "I'm coming!"
The ship groaned under his weight, the weakened structure threatening to collapse at any moment. Nexus gritted his teeth, ignoring the danger as he followed the cries deeper into the wreckage.
He finally reached a narrow corridor, the air damp and stifling. At the end of the hall, partially submerged in the brackish water, he saw her.
A young girl sat huddled in a small iron cage, her arms and legs shackled with heavy chains. Her silver-scaled tail—an unmistakable trait of the merfolk—was bruised and torn, her once-lustrous fins ragged and dull. Her skin was pale, her frame frail and battered.
She couldn't have been much older than him, though the light in her eyes was dim, as if the life had been drained from her.
Nexus's breath caught in his throat. "What... what is this?"
The girl looked up at him, her wide, tear-filled eyes meeting his. "Please..." she whimpered, her voice cracking. "Please... end it. I can't... I can't take this anymore..."
Her words hit him like a punch to the gut. The hopelessness in her voice, the sheer weight of her suffering, was almost too much to bear.
"No," Nexus said firmly, shaking his head. "I'm not ending anything. I'm getting you out of here."
The girl's gaze faltered, disbelief flickering across her face. Nexus didn't wait for a response. He gripped the hilt of his sword and swung at the cage's rusted bars. The metal screeched as the blade cut through, each swing sending vibrations through his arms.
The chains binding her wrists and ankles were tougher, reinforced with some kind of magic. Sweat dripped down Nexus's face as he worked, his hands trembling with the effort.
"Hold still," he said, his voice softening as he glanced at her injuries. "I'll get you out, I promise."
The ship groaned ominously, the floor beneath them shifting as the wreck threatened to collapse into the water. Nexus ignored it, focusing on the chains. With a final strike, they shattered, the clinking metal falling into the water below.
The girl's body slumped forward, but Nexus caught her before she hit the ground. Her weight was light—far too light—and he could feel her trembling.
"Come on," he said gently, trying to lift her. "We need to get out of here."
As Nexus helped the girl to her feet, the ship shuddered violently. Wood splintered and groaned, and water began to pour in through the cracks.
"Damn it," he muttered, tightening his grip on the girl. "We're running out of time."
The girl tried to speak, her voice barely a whisper. "Leave me... you'll... die..."
"Not happening," Nexus said, his tone resolute.
He hoisted her onto his back, her arms weakly draped around his shoulders, and began making his way back through the wreckage. The corridors were narrower now, the walls caving in as the ship leaned dangerously to one side.
Each step was a fight against the unstable floor and rising water. Nexus's breathing was ragged, his muscles burning from the effort, but he refused to stop.
Finally, he saw the opening he had come through earlier, the faint light of the outside world shining through. With one final burst of energy, he leapt through the gap, landing on the sand as the ship collapsed behind him with a deafening crash.
Nexus lay on the beach, gasping for air as the girl clung weakly to him. The wreckage of the ship settled into the water, its remains swallowed by the waves.
He rolled onto his back, carefully easing the girl off his shoulders and onto the sand. Her breathing was shallow, her eyes half-closed, but she was alive.
"You're safe now," Nexus said, his voice hoarse.
The girl's lips trembled as she looked at him, a single tear sliding down her cheek. "Why... why did you save me?"
Nexus hesitated, the weight of her question pressing down on him. He thought of Retro, of his father, of the countless lessons they had taught him.
"Because you didn't deserve to be left behind," he said simply.
The girl closed her eyes, her body relaxing for the first time in what must have been weeks. Nexus sat beside her, his gaze fixed on the horizon as he tried to process everything that had just happened.
The dock was destroyed, and the journey ahead was uncertain. But at least, for now, one life had been saved.
Nexus looked to the sky as the colors began to shift, blending hues of deep purple and vibrant blue. The jagged cut in the sky from a month ago remained, stark and unyielding against the serene backdrop. He sighed softly, the memory of that mysterious rift still lingering in his mind.
"The sky still has the cut from a month ago," he murmured to himself, the faint warmth of the air brushing against his skin.
Night began to fall, and the moon rose slowly, its silver glow stretching across the horizon and reflecting off the gentle waves. The sight was breathtaking, a rare moment of peace amidst the chaos he had endured.
Beside him, the young merfolk girl was fast asleep, her body curled slightly as the soft moonlight illuminated her battered features. Her breathing was steady, though her face held the faintest trace of discomfort, as if her dreams were haunted by memories of her suffering.
Nexus leaned back, laying down in the spot he was in, and gazed up at the stars. The vast expanse of glittering lights felt like a world apart from the turmoil of his journey.
His thoughts were interrupted by a quiet voice from beside him.
"Why did you save me?"
The girl's voice was soft and hesitant, barely louder than the sound of the waves. She hadn't turned to look at him, but her question lingered in the air, heavy with emotion.
Nexus took a moment to process her words, his gaze remaining fixed on the stars above. His fingers dug lightly into the sand, the weight of the question settling over him.
Finally, he turned his head slightly toward her and spoke, his voice low but steady.
"Because I know what it's like to be chained up," he said, his tone carrying a mixture of pain and understanding. "And I don't wish that on anybody."
The girl didn't respond immediately, her eyes still fixed on the horizon. Nexus couldn't tell if his words had brought her comfort or simply stirred memories she wanted to forget.
After a moment, she spoke again, her voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you... for not leaving me."
Nexus nodded silently, his own memories flashing briefly before his eyes. The feeling of being trapped, helpless, with no one to turn to—it was something he had vowed never to let anyone else endure if he could help it.
As the moon climbed higher into the night sky, casting its silver light over the quiet beach, Nexus closed his eyes. For the first time in a long while, he allowed himself a brief moment of rest, knowing that tomorrow would bring new challenges.
But for now, under the stars and beside the young girl he had saved, there was peace. And that was enough.
*Clank. Clank.*
Nexus stirred, his eyes fluttering open to the faint sound of metal striking metal. The rhythmic noise pulled him from his sleep, and he groggily sat up, rubbing the sand from his face. The cool morning air brushed against his skin as the horizon began to glow with the soft hues of dawn.
He turned his head, searching for the source of the sound. The girl who had been lying beside him the night before was no longer there. Instead, she was a few feet away, crouched by the shoreline. Her fragile hands gripped a jagged piece of metal, which she was using to strike at the heavy chains that still clung to her wrists and ankles.
Nexus frowned, his heart sinking as he watched her struggle. She wasn't just trying to free herself—she was fighting against the invisible weight of everything she had endured.
He reached instinctively for his sword, intending to offer her assistance, only to realize it was out of reach, lying slightly buried in the sand. He blinked in confusion. "Why is it—"
The answer was obvious. She must have tried to use it herself, but the blade was far too heavy for her to lift, let alone wield.
With a sigh, Nexus stood and walked over, brushing the sand off his sword and picking it up with ease. As he slid it back into its sheath, the sharp clanging ceased, and the beach fell silent once more.
When he looked up, he found the girl staring at him.
Her silver eyes were dull, lifeless, devoid of any spark. There was no anger, no curiosity, no hope—just a hollow emptiness that made his chest tighten.
The sight was far more unsettling than the crying he had heard the night before. At least then, there had been emotion, a sign that she still felt something. But now... it was as if she had resigned herself to her fate.
Nexus took a cautious step forward, unsure of what to say. Her gaze followed him, unblinking, as if she were waiting for him to confirm the despair she already carried.
"Hey," he said softly, his voice careful not to startle her. "You don't have to do this alone. I can help you."
Her lips parted slightly, but no words came out. She simply stared, her expression unreadable.
Nexus knelt in front of her, keeping his movements slow and deliberate. He placed a hand on the chain around her wrist, inspecting it closely. The metal was crude but reinforced with faint traces of magic, making it harder to break than ordinary shackles.
"I'm going to get these off," he said firmly, meeting her gaze. "You're not a prisoner anymore. You're free."
For a moment, her expression flickered, as if she were trying to process his words. But the emptiness quickly returned, and she lowered her head, her shoulders slumping in defeat.
Nexus clenched his fists, frustration bubbling inside him. Whoever had done this to her hadn't just chained her body—they had crushed her spirit.
"I don't know what you've been through," he said, his voice steady despite the anger building in his chest. "But you're not alone anymore. I'm not going to let you stay like this."
The girl didn't respond, but Nexus refused to give up. He stood, gripping his sword tightly, and began to strategize. These chains weren't unbreakable—and neither was she.
For now, though, he had to start by removing the physical chains. The battle to restore her spirit would come next. And Nexus was prepared to fight it, no matter how long it took.
After carefully working the locks and breaking the chains, Nexus finally freed her. The clinking metal fell to the sand, and he stood up, brushing his hands off with a sigh of relief.
"There," he said, stepping back. "You're free now."
He turned to walk away, giving her space to process her freedom, but he didn't make it far. A tug on his pant leg stopped him in his tracks.
Glancing back, he saw her small, trembling hand gripping the fabric tightly. Her silver eyes met his again, still hopeless and hollow.
"Take me with you," she said, her voice fragile but desperate. "I have nowhere else to go. No place to return to. My hometown..." Her voice cracked, and she looked away. "It was destroyed by a monster."
The words hit Nexus hard, a flicker of pain crossing his face. He knew that kind of loss all too well. He stopped walking and stood still for a moment, weighing his options.
Finally, he turned to face her fully, his expression softening. "Can you stand?" he asked, his tone gentle. "Or do you need help?"
The girl hesitated, looking down at her legs and the bruises on her tail. She shifted slightly, testing her strength, but her body trembled under the effort. Nexus knelt down, offering her a hand.
"Come on," he said. "I'll help you."
Her eyes flicked up to his face, searching for something—maybe reassurance, maybe trust. Slowly, she reached out and placed her hand in his, her fingers cold and delicate.
With a careful pull, Nexus helped her to her feet, steadying her as she wobbled unsteadily.
"See?" he said with a small smile. "You're standing. That's a start."
She nodded faintly, her grip on his hand tightening as if she feared letting go.
"I won't leave you," Nexus added, his voice firm but kind. "If you don't have anywhere else to go, then you'll come with me. We'll figure it out together."
For the first time, something flickered in her eyes—a faint glimmer of hope, fragile but real.
"Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Nexus nodded, adjusting the strap of his sword and glancing toward the horizon. The road ahead would be long and uncertain, but at least now, they wouldn't face it alone.
As they walked along the shoreline, the girl limped slightly, her frail form leaning on Nexus for support when the uneven terrain became too much for her battered body. Her eyes wandered to him, studying his face as he scanned the horizon for any sign of another dock or path forward.
She furrowed her brow, something about him stirring a strange sense of curiosity and safety within her. **He has no control over his aura,** she thought, sensing the faint yet undeniable energy radiating from him. It was raw, unrefined, and unguarded—like a flame flickering in the wind.
**His aura is pure, with just a touch of darkness to it.** That was normal for most people, she knew. No one was entirely free from the shadows within their soul. But this darkness... it was different.
It wasn't malicious or suffocating like the auras of those who had chained her. Instead, it felt strangely comforting, like a protective barrier that shielded those around him. It wasn't darkness meant to destroy—it was darkness that could withstand the worst and still endure.
**It feels safer to be with him than to be out there alone,** she realized, her gaze softening as she watched him walk.
Her attention shifted to the sword strapped to his back. The blade's aura was entirely different.
Her breath caught in her throat as she studied it, an involuntary shiver running down her spine. **That sword, however, is something else.**
The darkness emanating from it was vast, ancient, and unfathomable. It wasn't chaotic or reckless, but it was overwhelming in its sheer presence.
**That darkness... it's like nothing I've ever seen in my life. It's scary,** she thought, her heart pounding as the aura seemed to ripple faintly, almost as if the blade were aware of her scrutiny.
**The power it emits is bottomless,** she realized, her hands trembling slightly at the thought of what it might be capable of.
She tore her gaze away from the weapon, focusing instead on Nexus's steady stride. He carried the sword as if it were just another tool, seemingly unaware of its full weight or the aura it radiated.
"How can he bear it?" she wondered aloud, the words slipping out before she could stop herself.
Nexus turned to glance at her, his brow furrowing slightly. "What did you say?"
She shook her head quickly, forcing a faint smile. "Nothing. Just... thinking out loud."
He studied her for a moment longer before nodding and turning back to the path ahead.
The girl fell silent, her thoughts swirling as she tried to make sense of the strange boy who had saved her and the sword he carried. Whatever lay ahead, she knew one thing for certain: Nexus was no ordinary person, and the blade on his back was no ordinary weapon..
After a few hours of alternating between walking and resting along the shoreline, Nexus and the girl finally came across a docking site that wasn't destroyed. The sight of it brought a sense of relief to Nexus, though he didn't let it show too much.
The dock was bustling with life. People moved about in a flurry of activity, hoisting cargo onto and off boats, shouting orders at one another in a cacophony of voices. The air was filled with the fresh scent of sea salt and fish, mingled with the earthy smell of damp wood from the dock itself.
The girl hesitated, shrinking back slightly at the overwhelming energy of the place. Nexus glanced at her, giving her a reassuring nod.
"Don't worry," he said, his voice calm. "This is a good sign. It means we're finally making progress."
She gave a small nod, still clinging to his side as they stepped onto the dock. The rhythmic creaking of the wooden planks underfoot was oddly comforting, a reminder that they were no longer stranded in isolation.
Nexus scanned the area, his eyes sharp as he took in the busy streets and colorful banners fluttering in the breeze. This was a far cry from the desolation of the previous dock, and while the noise and activity were a bit overwhelming, it was a welcome change.
"First things first," Nexus said, turning to the girl. "Let's find an inn. We'll get some food and restock on supplies. We're running low, and we'll need to be prepared for the next leg of the journey."
The girl nodded again, her movements still timid, but there was a flicker of trust in her eyes.
"Do you think... we'll stay here long?" she asked softly, her voice almost drowned out by the commotion around them.
"Not too long," Nexus replied, scanning the crowd for any signs of an innkeeper or a familiar symbol that might guide them. "Just enough to rest and figure out our next move. Let's keep an eye out for somewhere quiet—this place might be lively, but I don't want to draw too much attention."
With that, they began weaving through the bustling crowd, Nexus keeping a protective arm near the girl as they navigated the lively dock. The promise of food and a warm bed spurred them forward, a brief respite before the journey ahead.
As Nexus and the girl maneuvered through the bustling dockside, a man with a clipboard in hand spotted them. His sharp eyes scanned the crowd before landing on the two of them, their worn-out appearances catching his attention.
He made his way over, weaving through the throng of people with practiced ease. "Hey, you two!" he called out, raising his voice just enough to be heard over the noise.
Nexus stopped, turning toward the man while keeping a protective presence near the girl.
"If you're looking for the inn," the man said, jerking his thumb to the right, "it's just past that fish-and-cat sign over there." He nodded toward a painted wooden sign depicting a fish in a cat's mouth.
Nexus gave him a curt nod of thanks, but before he could move on, the man looked them over more closely. His brow furrowed, and his tone shifted to one of concern.
"Damn," he said, scratching his head with the edge of his clipboard. "What happened to the both of you? You look like you've been through hell."
The girl flinched slightly at the direct question, her hands gripping Nexus's sleeve tightly. Nexus glanced at her, then stepped forward to answer.
"We were at the other dock," he said, keeping his tone even but letting a hint of exhaustion seep through. "It fell apart. We were attacked, and as far as I know, we're all that's left of that dockside."
The man's eyes widened, and he let out a low whistle. "That dock? I heard rumors it went silent, but I didn't think... Damn. That's rough." He paused, his expression softening. "You're lucky to be alive, kid."
Nexus nodded, his gaze steady. "Luck had little to do with it."
The man frowned, looking like he wanted to ask more, but he held back. Instead, he gestured again toward the inn. "Well, you'll find some rest there. The owner's decent—he won't ask too many questions if you keep to yourselves. Take care of yourselves, yeah?"
Nexus nodded again. "Thanks for the directions."
As they started toward the fish-and-cat sign, Nexus felt the girl's grip on his sleeve loosen slightly. She glanced up at him, her eyes filled with unease but also a hint of relief.
"You handled that well," she murmured, her voice barely audible over the noise.
"Just keep walking," Nexus replied quietly. "We'll talk more when we're somewhere safe."
The two continued on, the promise of food and a roof over their heads spurring them forward, even as the weight of what they had endured lingered in their minds.
As they stepped into the inn, Nexus and the girl were greeted by a warm, cozy atmosphere. The scent of freshly baked bread and simmering stew filled the air, mingling with the faint aroma of sea salt that had followed them from the docks. The crackling of a small fireplace in the corner added to the inviting ambiance.
Behind the counter, a middle-aged man with graying hair and a thick mustache looked up from the book he was reading. His sharp eyes quickly took in their disheveled appearance, and his brow furrowed with concern.
"Damn, kiddo," he said, closing his book and setting it aside. "What happened to y'all? You look like you've been through the wringer."
Nexus straightened, meeting the man's gaze with a calm but weary expression. "The other dockside," he said simply. "It was attacked and fell apart. As far as we know, we're the only ones left from the aftermath."
The innkeeper let out a low whistle, his mustache twitching as he frowned. "That bad, huh? Heard some rumors about trouble over there, but I didn't think it'd gone to hell like that." He shook his head, muttering, "Damn shame."
Nexus nodded. "We're just trying to get a place to stay for the next two days, restock, and see about finding a way to **Lay Wing Island.**"
The innkeeper raised an eyebrow at the mention of the island but didn't comment on it. Instead, he gestured toward the staircase leading to the upper floor. "You'll want room three—it's clean, and the bed's comfortable. Two nights, you said?"
"That's right," Nexus confirmed, fishing a small pouch of coins from his pocket.
The innkeeper waved his hand dismissively. "You can pay me later. You both look like you need some food and rest more than anything right now. Kitchen's just through that door," he added, pointing to an open archway near the fireplace. "Grab yourselves a bite, and I'll send someone up to bring fresh linens and water."
"Thank you," Nexus said with a slight bow of his head, his voice sincere.
The girl stayed quiet, her eyes darting nervously around the room as if she were waiting for something bad to happen. Nexus placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, guiding her toward the archway.
"Come on," he said gently. "Let's eat."
The innkeeper watched them go, his expression thoughtful as he leaned back in his chair. "Kids these days," he muttered to himself, shaking his head. "They're carrying more than they should."
The innkeeper returned to his book, the creases in his brow softening as he immersed himself once more in the words on the page. The quiet crackling of the fireplace filled the room, a comforting sound that seemed to ease the tension hanging in the air.
In the kitchen, Nexus and the girl sat at a small wooden table, a modest meal of fresh bread, stew, and fruit laid out before them. They decided on something light—neither of them had the energy for anything too heavy after their ordeal.
Nexus ate quickly but with purpose, his mind already churning with plans for their next move. Across from him, the girl nibbled at a piece of bread, her movements cautious, as though she wasn't entirely sure if she was allowed to enjoy the food.
"Eat what you can," Nexus said, glancing up at her. "You need to regain your strength."
She nodded slightly, taking another small bite. The warmth of the stew seemed to bring a hint of color back to her pale cheeks, though her eyes still held a shadow of uncertainty.
When they were finished, Nexus stood and collected their plates, placing them neatly on the counter before turning back to her. "Let's head upstairs and get some rest," he said.
The girl nodded again, standing with some effort. Nexus offered her his arm for support, and together they made their way upstairs to **Room 3.**
---
The room was simple but clean, with a single bed neatly made and a small window that overlooked the bustling dock below. The faint sound of waves lapping against the shore drifted in through the open window, mingling with the distant hum of voices outside.
Nexus stepped inside first, setting his belongings near the bed. He gestured for the girl to sit down, which she did without protest, sinking into the edge of the bed with a sigh of relief.
"You can take the bed," Nexus said, pulling a blanket from the corner and laying it on the floor. "I'll sleep here."
She hesitated, glancing at him with uncertainty. "Are you sure? You've done so much already..."
"I'm sure," Nexus replied firmly. "You need it more than I do."
The girl didn't argue further. She shifted toward the center of the bed, curling up beneath the blanket and closing her eyes. Within moments, her breathing steadied, and Nexus realized she had fallen asleep almost instantly.
He sat down on the floor, leaning back against the wall with his arms crossed. His own exhaustion tugged at him, but his mind wouldn't quiet. Thoughts of the destroyed dock, the journey to Lay Wing Island, and the strange aura of his sword all weighed heavily on him.
With a quiet sigh, Nexus closed his eyes, resolving to get whatever rest he could before the next day began.
It was nearly nightfall when they had both finally fallen asleep. The room was quiet, save for the occasional creak of the wooden floorboards and the muffled sounds of the docks below. Nexus slept lightly, the tension of their journey still lingering in his mind even in rest.
But as the faint light of dawn began to creep through the window, he stirred, something pulling him out of his slumber. He blinked groggily, confused by the weight pressing against him. Looking down, his eyes widened in surprise.
The girl was lying on top of him, her arms wrapped tightly around his chest. Her silver hair spilled over his shoulder, and her soft breathing tickled his neck. Nexus's fur, usually hidden beneath his armor, was exposed, and it seemed to have drawn her to him during the night.
For a moment, he froze, unsure how to react. "What...?" he muttered under his breath, his voice barely audible in the quiet room.
Her grip on him was firm, her body nestled against his as if seeking comfort. Nexus shifted slightly, his mind racing with confusion. He wasn't used to this kind of closeness, especially not from someone who had been so distant and hollow just hours ago.
For the moment he just played there slowly falling back asleep. The warmth of the morning sun began to filter into the room, casting a soft glow across the bed. The girl stirred, her breathing changing as her eyes slowly fluttered open.
She froze as soon as she realized where she was. Her hollow, emotionless expression was replaced by a deep blush that spread across her cheeks.
Her eyes widened in panic, and she scrambled to move, stammering, "I—I didn't mean to—"
Before she could finish or pull away, Nexus groggily opened his eyes, blinking up at her in confusion.
Their gazes met, and for a moment, neither of them said anything. The awkward silence stretched between them, her face beet red while Nexus's expression remained somewhere between perplexed and resigned.
"...Good morning?" Nexus said, his tone unsure, as though he wasn't entirely convinced it was a good one.
The girl quickly rolled off him, her face buried in her hands as she muttered incoherently. Nexus sat up, scratching the back of his head as he tried to process what had just happened.
"Uh... Are you okay?" he asked, glancing at her.
She peeked at him through her fingers, her blush deepening. "I—I didn't mean to do that! I don't know why I..." She trailed off, clearly mortified.
Nexus sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's fine," he said, trying to sound calm despite his own lingering confusion. "Just... maybe give me a heads-up next time?"
The girl nodded quickly, still unable to look him in the eye. Nexus stood and stretched, his fur bristling slightly in the cool morning air.
"Well," he said, trying to lighten the mood, "I guess we should get moving soon. We've got a lot of ground to cover."
The girl nodded again, finally lowering her hands from her face, though her cheeks were still flushed. As the two of them prepared for the day, the awkwardness began to fade, replaced by a sense of quiet understanding.
It wasn't the most conventional way to start a morning, but it was a reminder that even amidst the chaos of their journey, there were moments of vulnerability—and, perhaps, trust—beginning to form between them.
As Nexus strapped on his armor, adjusting the buckles with practiced ease, the girl broke the lingering silence.
"I haven't told you my name yet, have I?" she asked, her voice quiet but steady.
Nexus paused, glancing over at her. "No, you haven't," he replied with a small chuckle. "And now that I think about it, I don't think I ever gave you mine either." He straightened up, offering her a slight smile. "My name is Nexus. And yours?"
She hesitated for a moment, as though weighing whether or not to share it, before finally speaking. "Maris," she said softly. "It's Maris."
"Maris," Nexus repeated, as if testing the name. He nodded approvingly. "Nice to meet you... officially."
As Nexus turned back to fastening the last piece of his armor, Maris found her gaze drifting toward him. The way he moved—calm, deliberate, focused—drew her attention in a way she hadn't anticipated.
Her cheeks flushed as her eyes traced the contours of his lean, muscular frame, his fur adding a unique softness to his otherwise strong presence. The calm, laid-back demeanor he carried so effortlessly only added to his allure.
*He's so...* Her thoughts trailed off as her face grew redder than she thought possible.
She quickly turned her head, trying to look anywhere but at him. She even placed one hand over her face as if it could block the heat rising in her cheeks. But despite her best efforts, her eyes kept flicking back to him, unable to resist the pull.
She bit her lip, internally scolding herself for staring. *What is wrong with me?* she thought, her heart racing.
Nexus, oblivious to her flustered state, secured the final strap on his armor and glanced over at her. "All set," he said. "You ready to head out?"
Maris quickly straightened up, hoping her face wasn't as red as it felt. "Y-yeah," she stammered, nodding a little too quickly.
Nexus tilted his head slightly, noticing her strange behavior but choosing not to comment on it. "Alright, then," he said, grabbing his sword and slinging it across his back. "Let's see what the rest of the day has in store for us."
Maris followed behind him, her mind still a whirlwind of embarrassment and confusion. She didn't fully understand why she felt this way, but one thing was clear—there was something about Nexus that made it impossible for her to look away.
As Nexus descended the stairs, his steps steady but his thoughts elsewhere, he approached the innkeeper at the counter. Maris, meanwhile, headed to the kitchen, deciding to grab something light to eat before they set out for the day.
The innkeeper leaned against the counter, a sly grin spreading across his face as he listened to Nexus's request.
A couple of minutes later, Nexus entered the kitchen, his expression a mix of confusion and resignation. He rubbed the back of his neck, clearly unsettled by whatever conversation had just transpired.
Maris looked up from her bowl of soup, a curious glint in her eye. "What's wrong?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.
Nexus let out a deep sigh, his shoulders slumping. "The innkeeper said we can stay for free," he began, "but there's a condition."
Maris raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to continue.
Nexus hesitated, avoiding her gaze. "We have to help out around the shop."
She blinked, setting her spoon down for a moment. "And the problem is...?"
He sighed again, this time more dramatically, and ran a hand through his hair. "The problem," he said, his tone flat, "is that he wants me to use the maids' outfit while I help."
Maris froze, her mind replaying his words to make sure she'd heard him correctly. "Wait, what?"
Nexus crossed his arms, his frown deepening. "Apparently, it's some gimmick he does to attract more customers or something. He said it'd 'add to the charm.'"
Maris couldn't stop herself—her spoon slipped from her hand, clattering loudly against the table. Her cheeks puffed slightly as she tried to hold back the laugh that was building in her chest.
"You—you're serious?" she asked, her voice shaking with barely-contained amusement.
"Dead serious," Nexus replied, his expression as grim as if he were discussing a battle plan.
That was the breaking point for Maris. She doubled over, clutching her sides as laughter erupted from her. "I-I can't—" she gasped between laughs, tears forming at the corners of her eyes.
Nexus groaned, rubbing his temples. "Glad to see you're enjoying this," he muttered sarcastically.
Maris tried to compose herself, wiping her eyes as her laughter finally subsided. "Well... maybe you'll pull it off?" she teased, her lips twitching as she struggled to keep a straight face.
Nexus shot her a deadpan look. "Don't push it."
Maris couldn't help but giggle again, the mood in the room lightening considerably. Despite the absurdity of the situation, Nexus couldn't help but feel a bit better seeing her laugh like that. At least for now, the weight of their journey seemed just a little less heavy.
Nexus sighed and leaned against the wall, watching Maris struggle to calm down. He wasn't sure how to feel about her reaction—part embarrassment, part amusement—but at least the laughter seemed to bring some life back to her face. She'd been so hollow and withdrawn when they first met, and seeing her like this, even for a moment, was a welcome change.
Maris eventually caught her breath, though a few stray giggles escaped her lips. "I mean, you're going to do it, right?" she asked, her voice teasing but hesitant.
Nexus raised an eyebrow. "What choice do I have? We don't exactly have endless supplies or money. If this is what it takes to stay here and figure out our next move, then yeah, I'll do it."
Her smile faltered slightly, and she looked down at her hands. "You're willing to do all that... for someone like me?"
Nexus blinked, taken aback by her sudden shift in tone. "What do you mean, 'someone like you'? You're not some burden, Maris. You've been through hell, and I'm not about to abandon you now."
She hesitated, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her worn sleeves. "It's just... people aren't kind to me. They never have been. I've been treated like a... like a thing. A problem to be gotten rid of." Her voice grew quieter, and she avoided his gaze. "It's hard to trust that anyone would care."
Nexus softened, crouching slightly so he could meet her eyes. "I'm not 'people,'" he said firmly. "I'm Nexus. And I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't leave you behind. So stop doubting it, okay?"
Maris glanced up at him, her silver eyes searching his face. For a moment, she said nothing, but then she gave the faintest nod.
"Okay," she whispered.
Nexus straightened up, giving her a small, reassuring smile. "Good. Now let's get through this ridiculous situation so we can figure out what's next."
A short while later, Nexus found himself standing in the back room of the inn, staring at the dreaded maid's outfit. It was an old, frilly thing—completely impractical and clearly meant more for show than functionality.
He groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "This is ridiculous."
From the corner of the room, Maris peeked in, her curiosity overcoming her usual timidity. The sight of Nexus holding up the outfit made her stifle another laugh. "You'll look... uh... great?" she offered, though her voice betrayed her amusement.
Nexus shot her a mock glare. "You're enjoying this way too much."
"Maybe just a little," she admitted, a small smile tugging at her lips.
As much as he wanted to argue, Nexus couldn't deny that her smile—frail and fleeting as it was—made the situation slightly more bearable.
While Nexus reluctantly agreed to help with the innkeeper's strange gimmick, Maris found herself faced with her own set of challenges. The bustling activity of the inn and the nearby dock was overwhelming, and she flinched at every loud voice or sudden movement.
She stayed close to Nexus whenever possible, her fear of people keeping her from venturing far. Even when she tried to help, her frail frame and lack of strength made her tasks difficult. Carrying trays, cleaning tables, and interacting with customers all felt like monumental efforts.
The innkeeper, though rough around the edges, noticed her struggles and assigned her lighter tasks, like folding linens or preparing small portions of food in the kitchen. He didn't say much, but his subtle adjustments made things a little easier for her.
One evening, after a long day of work, Nexus and Maris sat by the fire in the corner of the inn. The other guests had gone to bed, leaving the space quiet and peaceful.
Maris stared into the flames, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. "I don't belong here," she said softly, breaking the silence.
Nexus looked at her, his expression unreadable. "What do you mean?"
She hesitated, struggling to find the right words. "In a place like this... with people. I've been alone for so long, it feels like I'm just... wrong."
"You're not wrong," Nexus said firmly. "You're just hurt. That doesn't make you any less deserving of being here."
She glanced at him, her silver eyes shimmering in the firelight. "Do you really believe that?"
"I do," he replied without hesitation. "And I'm going to keep proving it to you until you believe it, too."
Maris's gaze softened, and for the first time, she allowed herself to lean against him, her head resting lightly on his shoulder.
The warmth of the fire and the quiet companionship filled the space between them, a small but meaningful step forward in a world that had been so cruel to her.
After a good while sitting by the fire, the warmth and quiet of the inn began to lull them both into a comfortable haze. Maris let out a soft sigh, her silver eyes drooping as the exhaustion of the day caught up with her. Nexus noticed and gave her a small nudge.
"Come on," he said gently, standing up and stretching. "We should get some sleep. Tomorrow's going to be another long day."
Maris nodded, slowly rising from her seat. She wavered slightly, still feeling the effects of the physical effort she wasn't used to, but Nexus steadied her with a quick hand.
The inn was silent as they ascended the creaky stairs to their room. The moonlight spilling through the windows cast faint shadows across the hall, and the sound of distant waves accompanied their footsteps.
When they entered Room 3, the familiar modest setup greeted them. Nexus set his sword down by the wall and shrugged off his armor, placing it neatly in the corner.
Maris moved toward the bed, sitting down carefully on the edge. She glanced at Nexus, her gaze lingering for a moment before she spoke softly. "Thank you... for today."
Nexus looked over at her, tilting his head slightly. "For what?"
"For not... giving up on me," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
He smiled faintly, pulling the blanket he used the night before off the chair and spreading it on the floor. "I already told you, Maris. I'm not going to leave you behind. You're part of this now."
Her lips twitched into a small, hesitant smile before she laid down on the bed, pulling the covers over herself.
Nexus settled onto the floor, crossing his arms behind his head as he stared at the ceiling. The room fell into a comfortable silence, save for the occasional rustle of the blanket as Maris shifted slightly.
"Goodnight, Nexus," she said softly, her voice warm but timid.
"Goodnight, Maris," he replied, his tone calm and steady.
The faint sounds of the dock outside and the gentle rhythm of their breathing filled the space as they drifted off to sleep, preparing for whatever challenges awaited them in the days to come.
In the early morning, Nexus stirred from his sleep to the soft sound of something unusual. A faint, high-pitched squeak reached his ears, rousing him from his rest. Groggy and still adjusting to the morning light filtering through the window, he turned his head toward the source.
Maris was standing near the small table by the window, holding up what appeared to be a bundle of neatly folded clothes. Her cheeks were flushed, and she seemed to be struggling to suppress a mixture of surprise and awkward embarrassment.
"What's going on?" Nexus asked, sitting up and rubbing the back of his head, his voice still heavy with sleep.
Maris glanced at him, her silver eyes wide. "I... uh... someone left these clothes for me," she stammered, holding up the bundle.
Nexus raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "New clothes?" He got to his feet, stretching briefly before walking over to her.
She unfolded the top piece, revealing a simple but well-made dress in soft shades of blue and green. The fabric was sturdy but light, designed for comfort and practicality. There were also a pair of soft leather shoes and a shawl to match.
"Looks like the innkeeper came through for you," Nexus said with a small smile. "Probably noticed you could use something more suited to traveling."
Maris clutched the clothes to her chest, her face red as she avoided Nexus's gaze. "It's... it's too much. I don't think I can take this."
Nexus tilted his head, crossing his arms. "Why not? You need it. Besides, I doubt they'd leave it here if they didn't want you to have it."
She hesitated, looking down at the bundle in her arms. The warmth in her cheeks spread further as she glanced briefly at Nexus, her voice barely audible. "Do... do you think I'll look okay in it?"
Nexus blinked, caught off guard by the question. He thought for a moment before giving her a confident nod. "Yeah. I think you'll look fine. Better than fine, actually—it suits you."
Her blush deepened, but a small smile crept onto her lips. "Thank you," she said quietly, holding the clothes closer.
"Go ahead and change," Nexus said, stepping back to give her space. "I'll be outside if you need me."
He picked up his armor and sword, heading for the door to let her have some privacy. As he stepped into the hallway, he glanced back briefly, seeing her hold the dress up with a look of cautious excitement.
For the first time, Maris seemed genuinely happy. That small spark of joy was enough to make Nexus's morning.
Heading downstairs, Nexus adjusted the strap on his sword as he walked into the warm light of the main room. The comforting crackle of the fireplace greeted him, along with the faint smell of freshly baked bread wafting from the kitchen.
The innkeeper, as always, was seated behind the counter with his nose buried in a book. Without looking up, he greeted Nexus with a casual, "Mornin', kiddo."
"Morning," Nexus replied, stepping closer. "What's the plan for today? What do you need help with?"
Finally, the innkeeper glanced up, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Not a thing, kid. Take the day off. You and your lady friend should take some time to look around this quaint little town. There's plenty to see if you keep your eyes open."
Nexus blinked, his face flushing at the implication. "She's not—! I mean, we're not—!" he stammered, completely caught off guard.
The innkeeper chuckled, leaning back in his chair with an amused glint in his eyes. "Relax, boy. I'm just messin' with ya. But seriously, don't worry about work today. You've got bigger things to figure out, don't ya?"
Nexus sighed, trying to shake off his embarrassment. "Yeah, we do," he admitted, scratching the back of his neck. "Thanks for the break."
The innkeeper waved him off, chuckling to himself. "Go on, get out of here. And tell the girl that dress looks nice on her. It's about time she had something decent to wear."
Nexus nodded, turning toward the stairs. His face was still red as he muttered under his breath, "Lady friend? Really?"
The innkeeper's laughter followed him as he made his way back upstairs, where Maris was waiting. It was going to be an interesting day, that much he was certain of.
As Nexus ascended the stairs, his mind still spinning from the innkeeper's teasing remarks, he noticed the door to their room slightly ajar. A pair of silver eyes peeked out cautiously, locking onto his own.
The instant their gazes met, Maris let out a small squeak, her cheeks turning bright red as she quickly closed the door. The soft thud of it shutting echoed down the hall, leaving Nexus standing there, puzzled.
"Uh... okay?" he murmured, scratching the back of his head.
After a moment of hesitation, the door opened again. This time, Maris stepped out into the hallway, her movements tentative as she fidgeted with the hem of her new dress.
Nexus froze.
She stood before him in the dress the innkeeper had provided, the soft hues of blue and green accentuating her silver hair and delicate features. The dress fit her perfectly, flowing just enough to highlight her slender frame while the accompanying shawl rested lightly on her shoulders. Her silver eyes shimmered faintly in the morning light, and for the first time, she looked... at ease.
For a moment, Nexus couldn't speak.
He had never thought much about appearances—it wasn't in his nature—but seeing Maris like this left him completely at a loss for words. She looked... beautiful.
Maris shifted uncomfortably under his gaze, her cheeks flushing deeper. "What? Is something wrong?" she asked, her voice small and uncertain.
Nexus blinked, snapping out of his daze. "No! Nothing's wrong," he said quickly, raising his hands in defense. "It's just... you look... uh..." He struggled for the right words, his face heating up as he avoided her eyes.
"You look really nice," he finally managed, his voice quieter.
Maris's blush deepened, and she glanced down at her hands, a shy smile tugging at her lips. "Thank you..." she murmured, her fingers nervously playing with the edges of the shawl.
Nexus cleared his throat, trying to regain some composure. "The innkeeper said we don't have to work today. He suggested we look around the town and, uh, take it easy for a bit."
Maris nodded, glancing up at him briefly. "That sounds... nice."
"Alright," Nexus said, gesturing toward the stairs. "Let's head out, then."
As they walked down the hall together, Nexus couldn't help but glance at her out of the corner of his eye. She seemed more confident, more at ease than before. The dress wasn't just clothing—it was a symbol of a fresh start, a small but meaningful step forward in reclaiming a part of herself that had been lost.
And for some reason, seeing her like that made Nexus feel a warmth he couldn't quite explain.
As Nexus and Maris descended the stairs, the faint sound of raised voices reached their ears. Nexus slowed his pace, his sharp hearing catching snippets of an argument. By the time they reached the bottom, the source of the commotion became clear.
The innkeeper stood at the counter, his face flushed with irritation as he argued with two knights in battered armor. The knights were anything but respectful, their tone condescending and their words laced with hostility. One of them leaned heavily on the counter, pointing a gauntleted finger at the innkeeper.
"You're late with your dues again," the knight said, his voice dripping with disdain. "Do you think the law is optional here, old man?"
The innkeeper gritted his teeth. "I've already paid my share this month. You're just trying to squeeze more out of me because you think you can."
The second knight, taller and more menacing, chuckled darkly. "Watch your tone, old man. We're the only ones keeping this town safe from bandits and worse. Maybe you should be a little more grateful."
The innkeeper slammed his hand on the counter. "Grateful? For what? You're just thugs with badges, and you're—"
"That's enough!" The taller knight leaned in, his tone low and threatening. "You'd best watch your mouth before I shut it for you."
Maris stiffened beside Nexus, her silver eyes darting nervously toward the scene. She clutched at the hem of her shawl, her body trembling slightly. Nexus, noticing her unease, gently placed a hand on her shoulder.
"It's fine," he said softly. "Stay calm."
Maris nodded, but her eyes stayed fixed on the knights, fear evident in her expression.
Nexus, on the other hand, kept his face neutral. He didn't want to get involved if he didn't have to, especially not with knights, but the situation was grating on him. Still, he decided to take the safer route.
"Let's just get something to eat," he muttered, steering Maris toward the kitchen.
As they moved, the taller knight's voice carried over the noise. "You don't want to make an enemy of the law, old man. Maybe next time we'll just take what's owed in advance."
Nexus clenched his fists, his sharp ears catching every word. It was taking everything in him to stay quiet, but for now, he focused on calming Maris.
They entered the kitchen, the faint warmth of the stove doing little to ease the tension. Maris sat down at the small table, her hands trembling slightly as she avoided Nexus's gaze.
"They're awful," she whispered, her voice shaking. "How can they... treat people like that?"
Nexus sighed, grabbing a piece of bread and some fruit from the counter. "They're just bullies in armor," he said, sitting across from her. "It's nothing new."
Maris looked at him, her silver eyes filled with concern. "Are you really okay with just... ignoring it?"
Nexus paused, his grip tightening slightly on the bread. "No," he admitted, his voice low. "But I don't want to make things worse for the innkeeper—or us. If they keep pushing, though..."
Maris tilted her head, curiosity mixing with worry. "What will you do?"
Nexus's gaze darkened slightly, but he forced a calm smile. "We'll cross that bridge if we come to it."
He handed her a piece of fruit, trying to shift the focus. "Eat. We'll need energy for whatever comes next."
Maris nodded hesitantly, but the uneasy tension in the air lingered as they ate in silence, both keenly aware of the voices still arguing in the other room.
After finishing their quick meal, Nexus and Maris stood and made their way toward the front door. The tension in the room was palpable as the innkeeper's argument with the knights grew louder, the exchange filled with accusations and thinly veiled threats.
As they neared the door, Nexus tried to keep his focus forward, intent on leaving without incident. But one of the knights turned his head and spotted them, his gaze lingering a little too long on Maris.
The knight, a stocky man with a greasy grin, stepped away from the counter and blocked their path. "Well, well," he said, his tone oozing mockery. "What do we have here? A couple of runaways, or just a pretty little thing and her babysitter?"
Maris shrank behind Nexus, clutching the back of his sleeve as her silver eyes darted nervously toward the knight. Nexus stiffened but remained calm, his expression unreadable.
"We're just passing through," Nexus said flatly, his tone cold but even. "Step aside."
The knight ignored him, his eyes fixed on Maris with a predatory glint. "You've got quite the catch here, boy. She's a little scrawny, but I bet she cleans up nice." He smirked, leaning slightly to try and get a better look at her.
Maris flinched, her grip on Nexus's sleeve tightening as she moved further behind him.
"Enough," Nexus said sharply, his voice carrying a warning edge. "Step aside. Now."
The knight chuckled, clearly enjoying the discomfort he was causing. "Oh, don't be like that. I'm just having a little fun. No harm in a friendly chat, right?"
His companion, the taller knight still near the counter, glanced over but didn't intervene, his focus remaining on the innkeeper.
Nexus's patience wore thin. He stepped forward, his towering presence forcing the stocky knight to crane his neck slightly to look up at him. "I said," Nexus growled, his voice dropping dangerously, "step. Aside."
The knight sneered, clearly unimpressed. "What's the matter, boy? Scared someone's going to take your precious little—"
He didn't finish his sentence.
In a blur of motion, Nexus's hand shot out, gripping the knight's face with crushing force. The knight's muffled yelp of surprise was cut short as Nexus slammed him into the floor with bone-rattling force. The impact echoed through the room, causing the entire inn to go silent.
The other knight turned, his eyes widening in shock. Even the innkeeper paused mid-argument, his mouth hanging open slightly as he watched the scene unfold.
Nexus stood over the downed knight, his hand still gripping his face, pinning him to the floor with ease. "You will not speak to her like that," Nexus said, his voice low and dangerous. "And if you ever so much as look at her again, I'll make sure you regret it."
The knight squirmed under Nexus's grip, trying to free himself, but it was no use. Nexus's strength far outweighed his own.
"Do we understand each other?" Nexus asked, his tone icy.
The knight let out a strained grunt, nodding as best he could under the weight of Nexus's hand.
Nexus released him with a shove, stepping back as the knight scrambled to his feet, clutching his face and glaring at him with a mixture of fear and rage.
"Let's go," Nexus said to Maris, his voice calm once again.
Maris nodded quickly, staying close to him as they moved toward the door. Her hands trembled, but there was a flicker of gratitude in her eyes as she glanced up at him.
The taller knight finally spoke, his voice hesitant. "You're going to regret that, boy."
Nexus stopped at the door, turning his head slightly to look back. "If you want to try me, go ahead. I don't have time to waste on cowards like you."
With that, he pushed the door open and stepped outside with Maris, leaving the stunned silence of the inn behind them.
Leaving the tension of the inn behind, Nexus and Maris wandered through the small town, the bustle of midday slowly giving way to a more relaxed rhythm. The streets were alive with faint chatter and the occasional vendor calling out their wares. Nexus kept a watchful eye on Maris, who seemed to be slowly taking in the sights, her wariness easing as the hours passed.
They walked for a while longer, eventually finding a quiet spot near the edge of town where the view of the horizon was unobstructed. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, painting the world in hues of orange and gold, Maris sat down on a grassy patch near the water's edge.
For a moment, the world felt still.
"It's beautiful," Maris murmured, her silver eyes reflecting the colors of the sunset. A soft smile played on her lips, the first genuine expression of peace Nexus had seen from her.
He stood nearby, arms crossed as he watched her. "Yeah," he said simply, though his gaze wasn't on the sunset—it was on her.
The peaceful moment didn't last long.
Heavy footsteps echoed from behind, accompanied by familiar mocking voices. Nexus tensed, his hand instinctively moving toward the hilt of his sword as he turned to see the knights from the inn approaching.
"Well, well," the taller knight sneered, his smirk as smug as ever. "Look who we have here. Thought you could just walk away after what you pulled?"
The stocky knight, still nursing his bruised pride from earlier, spat on the ground. "You think you can embarrass me like that and get away with it?" His eyes shifted to Maris, and his grin widened. "And you brought your little friend along, too. How sweet."
Maris shrank back, her hands clutching the edges of her shawl as fear flickered across her face.
"Enough," Nexus said, his voice low and sharp. He stepped in front of Maris, his stance protective. "You've already made fools of yourselves once today. Walk away before it happens again."
The taller knight laughed, drawing his weapon—a battered longsword. "Big talk from a kid. Let's see if you've got the skill to back it up."
The others followed suit, drawing their weapons with cocky grins.
Nexus's patience snapped.
In one fluid motion, Nexus unsheathed his sword, the blade gleaming faintly in the fading light. The air around him seemed to shift, his calm demeanor replaced by a sharp, focused intensity.
The first knight lunged, swinging his blade recklessly. Nexus sidestepped with ease, delivering a quick, precise strike to the knight's leg, sending him crashing to the ground with a cry of pain.
The second came at him from the side, but Nexus parried effortlessly, using the momentum to slam the knight's weapon out of his hand before delivering a powerful kick to his chest that sent him sprawling.
The stocky knight, now seething with rage, charged in a blind fury. Nexus met him head-on, their blades clashing in a shower of sparks. With a twist of his wrist, Nexus disarmed him, then grabbed him by the collar and threw him to the ground.
"Get up," Nexus growled, his voice cold and unyielding. "If you want to keep going, I'll gladly finish this."
The knights hesitated, their bravado crumbling as they realized they were outmatched. The taller knight struggled to his feet, glaring at Nexus. "This isn't over," he spat, blood dripping from his lip. "You'll regret this."
Nexus pointed his sword at him, the tip hovering inches from his throat. "The next time you even think about causing trouble for her," he said, his tone deadly, "I won't hold back."
The knights staggered away, their egos bruised and their confidence shattered. Nexus watched them retreat until they disappeared into the distance, then turned back to Maris.
Maris sat frozen, her hands trembling as she stared at him. "You... you didn't have to do that," she said, her voice shaking.
"Yes, I did," Nexus replied, sheathing his sword and crouching down to meet her eyes. "I told you, I won't let anyone hurt you. Not while I'm here."
She looked away, her cheeks flushed. "But they'll come back. They always do..."
"Let them," Nexus said firmly. "If they want to keep making bad decisions, that's on them."
Maris hesitated, her gaze flicking back to him. For a moment, she didn't say anything, but then she nodded, her lips curling into a faint smile.
"Thank you," she whispered.
Nexus stood, offering her his hand. "Come on. Let's get back before it gets too dark."
She took his hand, her grip still hesitant but steady. Together, they walked back toward the town, the sunset fading into the cool embrace of night. The peace of the moment had been disrupted, but Nexus promised himself he would make sure Maris felt safe—no matter what it took.
As Nexus and Maris made their way back toward the inn, the streets were quieter, the evening crowd beginning to thin out. The moonlight cast long shadows across the cobblestone paths, and Nexus remained alert, his hand never far from the hilt of his sword.
Just as they turned a corner, a figure approached them from the opposite direction. Nexus's sharp eyes immediately caught the polished armor and the distinct insignia of a captain of the guard. He instinctively moved in front of Maris, his hand gripping the hilt of his sword as his muscles tensed.
The man stopped a few feet away and raised his hands in a non-threatening gesture. "Peace, traveler," the captain said, his voice steady and calm.
Nexus didn't relax, his eyes narrowing as he studied the man. "What do you want?"
The captain sighed, bowing his head slightly in an apologetic gesture. "I wanted to offer my apologies—for the idiots I unfortunately work with."
Nexus blinked, caught off guard by the unexpected response. His grip on his sword loosened slightly, though he didn't completely lower his guard.
"They've been detained," the captain continued, his tone filled with frustration. "Their behavior was inexcusable, and I assure you, they are no longer a problem. We're working on a proper punishment to ensure they understand the gravity of their actions."
Maris peeked out from behind Nexus, her silver eyes wide with surprise. "You... you arrested them?" she asked softly.
The captain nodded, his expression grim. "Yes. Their abuse of authority and disrespect toward the people of this town are things I will not tolerate. I've received complaints about them before, but tonight's events made it clear that immediate action was necessary."
Nexus finally released his hold on his sword, his posture relaxing slightly. "And what kind of punishment are we talking about?"
"They'll face public humiliation," the captain said bluntly. "Stripped of their rank and made to answer for their actions in front of the town. Afterward, they'll be reassigned to a less... favorable post. Far away from here."
Nexus stared at the captain for a moment, his sharp green eyes studying him for any sign of deceit. Finally, he gave a small nod. "Fair enough. But if they come after us again—"
"They won't," the captain interrupted, his tone firm. "You have my word."
Maris hesitated, stepping out from behind Nexus. "Thank you," she said softly, her voice still trembling slightly but sincere.
The captain gave her a kind smile and bowed his head again. "You've both been through a lot. I'm sorry for the trouble they caused."
He straightened up and looked at Nexus one last time. "You've got a strong sense of justice, kid. Keep that fire burning—it's rare to see someone with that kind of resolve these days."
Nexus didn't respond, but the faintest hint of a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.
The captain gave a polite nod and stepped aside, allowing them to continue on their way. As Nexus and Maris walked off into the night, the tension in the air finally began to ease.
Maris glanced up at Nexus, her expression thoughtful. "You didn't even have to fight this time," she said, her tone almost teasing.
"Maybe," Nexus replied, glancing back at her. "But I was ready to."
Her soft laughter broke through the night's stillness, and for the first time that day, Nexus felt like things might finally settle down—at least for a little while.
As the first light of dawn spilled through the window, Nexus and Maris stirred from their rest. The peaceful rhythm of the waves lapping against the docks filtered into their room, a calming reminder that their next step was finally within reach.
After a quick breakfast of bread, fruit, and a warm broth provided by the innkeeper, the two of them packed what little they had and prepared to leave. Nexus donned his armor, securing his sword to his back, while Maris carefully adjusted her shawl over her shoulders.
"You ready?" Nexus asked, glancing at her as he adjusted the strap on his pack.
Maris nodded, her silver eyes meeting his briefly. "As ready as I'll ever be."
With that, they headed downstairs, where the innkeeper was waiting at the counter. He gave them a small wave as they approached.
"Heading out, are ya?" the innkeeper asked, closing his book.
"Yeah," Nexus replied. "We've got a boat waiting to take us to Lay Wing Island."
The innkeeper nodded thoughtfully, his gaze lingering on Maris for a moment before shifting back to Nexus. "Safe travels, kiddo. And keep an eye on her, yeah?"
"Always," Nexus said firmly, giving a small nod.
Maris offered the innkeeper a shy smile. "Thank you... for everything."
The innkeeper waved her off. "Take care of yourself, lass. And remember—you're stronger than you think."
With their farewells said, Nexus and Maris stepped out into the crisp morning air. The town was just beginning to stir, the faint sounds of vendors setting up their stalls and fishermen preparing their boats filling the quiet streets.
When they reached the docks, the sight of their waiting vessel brought a sense of relief. The boat was modest but sturdy, its sails already unfurled and flapping gently in the breeze. The captain stood at the gangplank, barking orders to his crew as they loaded the last of the supplies.
"You Nexus?" the captain called out, spotting the pair approaching.
"That's me," Nexus replied, stepping forward.
The captain gave him a once-over before nodding. "Good. We're just about ready to set sail. Get aboard and find a spot to settle in—we've got a long journey ahead."
Nexus gestured for Maris to follow, and the two of them boarded the ship. The deck was bustling with activity as the crew prepared for departure, but Nexus quickly found a quiet spot near the railing where they could sit and watch the horizon.
As the anchor was raised and the ship began to drift away from the dock, Maris leaned against the railing, her silver hair catching the morning light.
"This is it," she said softly, her voice carrying a mix of apprehension and hope. "We're really leaving."
Nexus stood beside her, his gaze fixed on the open sea. "Yeah," he said, his tone steady. "And whatever's waiting for us on Lay Wing Island, we'll face it together."
The two of them watched as the town slowly disappeared from view, the journey to the unknown stretching out before them. For better or worse, their next chapter was about to begin.