The Price of Loyalty

  Denki’s group spent the day roaming the Yvonary Plaza, hoping to find more recruits to bolster their strength. Luck seemed to be on their side when Roshlann crossed their path once more.

  "I’m heading out of the fortress tomorrow," Roshlann said, drawing his sword and inspecting its edge. He looked at them curiously. "I saw you talking to the guards earlier. Why so busy?"

  "We need new members for our crew," Brendarg replied.

  Roshlann lowered his head, thinking for a moment. "Try the tavern, or perhaps Uncle S.’s workshop. That’s where warriors and adventurers hang out to rest. You might find someone looking for work there." With a nod and a smile, he left them to their search.

  They headed straight for the Yvonary Tavern. As they scanned the room, a staff member approached them. "What brings such capable-looking young men here?"

  "We’re looking for recruits," Grekknark answered bluntly.

  "Try the bulletin board," the staff suggested. "Post your requirements there and see if anyone takes the bait."

  Denki sat at a corner table and drafted their recruitment notice. After handing it to the staff, they were told to wait at their designated meeting spot. Hours passed until finally, two figures approached them.

  Krizz Kragnork, a 26-year-old female archer, and Brookhan Deghuzra, a 27-year-old male specializing in Shield Blast.

  Krizz admitted she had always dreamed of being part of a team, while Brookhan was eager to see the world beyond the fortress walls. With the addition of the two, Denki’s small band grew to six. Denki felt a surge of hope; he was one step closer to his goal. Yet, as the leader, the weight of their safety sat heavy on his shoulders.

  A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

  "We’re heading to Sector A2," Denki told the newcomers. "We need info on the slavery operations there. Stay alert...the world outside is nothing like the safety inside these walls."

  Krizz went silent, and Brookhan swallowed hard. As they marched toward the gate, the reality of their choice began to sink in. Am I really ready for this? Krizz wondered. Can I actually protect them? Brookhan thought, his grip tightening on his shield.

  Noticing their tension, Brendarg leaned in and put her arms around their shoulders. "Nervous? We are too. But you have to believe in yourself...and in us." Her words seemed to steady their resolve as they finally reached Sector A2.

  They began questioning the residents of the settlement, but the reactions were unsettling. Some refused to speak, while others looked away in sheer terror, as if they were being watched.

  "Ah! So you’re the ones who took my man!" a voice boomed. A figure dressed in soldier-like gear stepped out, blocking their path.

  "We didn't take anything from you, and we don't know who you are," Denki replied, his hand instinctively reaching for his sword.

  "Where’s that dog you were traveling with?" the man sneered.

  Denki’s eyes widened. They were looking for Fodio. "He joined us of his own free will. I didn't steal him," Denki said firmly, though his mind was racing. (Dammit, so Fodio was a runaway?)

  More armed men emerged from the shadows, surrounding the group. One of them, a dog-kin like Fodio, looked at his boss. "Is this them, boss?" The leader nodded, his eyes locked on Denki.

  "Kid! Give him back to us!" the leader barked.

  Weapons were drawn on both sides. "He isn't here," Denki countered. "If you want him, go look across the whole region!"

  The leader didn't wait for another word. "Kill them!" he roared as the ambush began.