Realm of Token

Icarus's hooves clopped heavily on the ancient, rock-strewn path, while the distant calls of various birds echoed as Tiffin approached the Edgerest borderline. Fresh sunlight filtered through the leafy canopy above her, casting small spotlights on the ground that illuminated rocks and tree roots protruding from the compacted soil.

Tiffin had been traveling since she'd left Berkton's tavern. Her goal never wavered; she was more dedicated to her work as a bounty hunter than a wolf was to hunting. As a teen with no money and few skills, she entered the profession after leaving her father's farm. Her younger years had been filled with harsh judgments saying that a woman would never accomplish what men were supposed to do, which only spurred her to push herself harder. Not only had she mastered combat with a sword, but her quick thinking and resourcefulness had served her well, and she had adapted quickly to life on the road. Meeting fellow travelers along the way allowed her not only to hone her skills but also to learn from their experiences and wisdom. Her journey was more than just physical; it was a constant battle within herself to remain true to her principles and ethics while handling the most ruthless outlaws.

As Icarus trampled over the fallen leaves, sending frogs and squirrels fleeing, Tiffin's arm instinctively moved up and tightened around the hilt of her sword. Her fingers danced over the leather straps, caressing them gently. She noticed this happening more frequently than before, initially attributing it to battle reflexes. However, it grew more frequent, notably within the few days before arriving in Berkton. Her sword held immense sentimental value, as it was the last remnant of her now ruined family heritage. Forged by her great-great-grandfather, Athagus Grant, hundreds of years ago, the sword possessed powers that Tiffin herself had harnessed and refined. Oftentimes, the sword seemed to have a consciousness of its own, its power surging when danger drew near.

Lowering her arm, she tugged on Icarus's reins, bringing him to a halt. He snorted, seemingly irritated by the interruption to his steady stride, but she paid him no mind. Dismounting, her boots struck the well-trodden path, causing a miniature whirlwind of dust to rise around her feet. She scanned the vicinity but detected no signs of other Elves or any living beings, for that matter. Icarus's steadfast loyalty and dependability were marred by his noisy nature, which had succeeded in startling any nearby wildlife. Tiffin rolled her eyes and patted the horse's muzzle before heading for the saddlebag attached behind the saddle. Delving into its interior, she gingerly retrieved the bounty poster she had received earlier from the bartender in Berkton.

It was still as wrinkled as when she claimed it, but she could still read it well enough. There were two pictures, a boy and a girl. Both had small curled back horns like a Demi-Demon, and both had the sharp fangs of a Demi-Demon, but they both seemed like the last beings in Token to ever commit a crime. Tiffin's eyes narrowed as she studied the bounty poster. The boy and girl depicted seemed innocent enough, but appearances could be deceiving. She knew better than to judge solely based on looks. Her instincts told her there was more to this duo than met the eye. She leaned against Icarus and held the poster up closer, her eyes moving rapidly so she wouldn't miss a single thing. Both were smiling as if it were their birthday. The girl had her hair in two pigtails, resembling a little girl, and the boy had spiked hair, although the color was not provided. This would only make finding them more complicated, but she didn't mind. She enjoyed complicated puzzles. As a child, she would always beat her father at chess, checkers, and jigsaw puzzles, so she had become accustomed to difficult tasks.

]

Tiffin's mind raced with possibilities as she analyzed the bounty poster. She wondered what trouble this seemingly innocent duo could have gotten themselves into. Perhaps they possessed hidden power or knowledge that made them valuable targets. The writing underneath their pictures mentioned how they had murdered and stolen across the smaller towns in Token, which struck her as strange considering how happy and innocent they seemed. With a sigh, she folded up the poster and slid it back into Icarus's saddle bag.

"We're not far from Edgerest," she said aloud, hopping back into the saddle with practiced precision. "You've behaved well. Let's take a break by a lake for a while, then we can continue on our way."

Icarus gave a delighted snort and whinnied loudly, scaring off the birds perched high in the treetops.

***

Icarus drank the cool water from the small, slow-moving river. His dark brown tail swished behind him to keep away the flies. His snorts caused bubbles to float to the surface, making the nearby tadpoles and dragonflies skitter away in fright.

Tiffin watched Icarus from a short distance, leaning against a tree with an apple in hand. She couldn't help but chuckle as she reminisced about the day her father brought the young colt home to their ranch. Icarus was full of energy and always eager to run and play with the other horses in the pen. However, his exuberance didn't sit well with the other calm and gentle horses. Despite this, Tiffin was captivated by his happy nature and begged her father for a whole week to let her keep him as her own. Eventually, her persistence paid off, and she was granted her very own horse.

Under the guidance of the stable boy, Tiffin learned how to ride, feed, brush, and care for Icarus. It didn't take long for their bond to grow, and they became inseparable, like old friends.

Icarus was a magnificent Akhal-Teke horse, known for his tall stature, fine-boned structure, flat muscles, and long, narrowed head. One of Tiffin's favorite things about him was his stunning metallic brown coat, which would gleam brilliantly in the sunlight.

She let out a sharp whistle, and Icarus's head shot up from the water, turning towards Tiffin with an eager expression. Tiffin smiled and threw her apple core in his direction. Icarus caught it mid-air and happily began munching on it.

As Tiffin watched Icarus nibble on his snack, her muscles relaxed one by one, her breaths deepened, and her thoughts of Edgerest's mysteries softened into the background. The serene ambiance of the lake and the unspoken understanding with her horse companion acted as a balm, soothing her worries. She slid down to sit against the sturdy tree trunk, an arm lazily draped over her knee. She let her eyelids drop, her world now filled with the rustling symphony of the leaves overhead and the rhythmic crunching of Icarus's meal. Her blonde hair danced lightly in the breeze, loose strands tracing patterns on her shoulders, the rest tamed in a low ponytail.

Just then, a slight rustling on the opposite side of the lake caught her attention. Opening her eyes, she saw a small group of wolves emerging from the forest. Their fur, a vibrant palette of black, red, and an unusual yet striking blue shimmered in the waning light. Their movements were graceful and coordinated, a ballet of wilderness. The blue one, noticeably leaner than the others, had an air of vulnerability about it that tugged at Tiffin's heart, its ribs vaguely visible beneath its striking coat. The larger, black-coated wolf stayed steadfastly by its side, its eyes seemingly glued to the blue one, a low growl rumbling in its throat whenever the blue wolf moved too far away or neared the others.

Just as the wolves began to retreat, the blue one paused. It turned its head, locking eyes with Tiffin. There was a curiosity in its gaze, an intelligence that belied its wild nature. 

Tiffin held its stare, a silent communication passing between them. The moment was shattered when the black wolf nipped at the blue one's flank, growling fiercely. With one last glance at Tiffin, the blue wolf turned and followed its pack, disappearing into the forest.

The sight stirred something within Tiffin, a reminder of why she had chosen to become a vegetarian in her teen years. She had decided to protect and preserve the wildlife of Token, to live harmoniously without causing harm to the creatures that shared her world. The wolves, in their raw and unfettered beauty, were a testament to the importance of her choice. Animals were her favorite part of the world, so she always made sure she did everything in her power to protect them in any way she could.

The cool, slender blades of grass playfully brushed against Tiffin's palm as she traced them absentmindedly. Her mind sauntered down memory lane, reliving the laughter-filled afternoons with her father, the comforting lullabies of her mother, and her sister's infectious giggles that she hadn't heard in years. She pondered her strengths, the skills she had honed over the years. Edgerest was merely a stepping stone in her odyssey of Token. With each city she visited, she left a piece of herself behind, gaining in return, a piece of the city's soul. Steelgate's bustling markets, and Talet's towering spires, they all beckoned her. Her heart yearned for the unexplored territories of Eastbourne or Queenstown. Her dream was to weave a tapestry of travels encompassing all of Token, its vastness, and intricacies not daunting to her but fueling her resolve. A promise she had made to herself, a promise she intended to keep.

As the wolves' presence gradually became a distant silhouette against the bright afternoon sun, Tiffin found her thoughts drifting back to the task at hand. Edgerest. A town she'd yet to step foot in, despite her extensive travels. She knew it only by hearsay, its reputation a fragmented patchwork of stories and rumors. Yet, it was there she was headed, lured by the bounty that would provide her with another meal an upgraded saddle for Icarus, or some new boots. Either way, the prize money would go to good use.

She'd never faced Demi-Demons before. Their notorious reputation was well-known across Token, their formidable strength and cunning making them a challenging quarry even for the most seasoned of hunters. But Tiffin wasn't one to back away from a challenge. She had faced dire wolves in the North, cunning thieves in the bustling cities, and treacherous terrain in the Southern wilds. Demi-Demons were just another adversary to be bested, another chapter in her journey.

From the saddlebag that sat beside her, leaning gently against the tree trunk, she pulled out the worn parchment. She had taken it off Icarus earlier to give him more relaxation and now, she examined the poster yet again, as if she had missed something the first thousand times she had stared at it. Their faces were a disconcerting blend of human and demonic features, a stark reminder of the unnatural union that had resulted in their creation. Their capture or demise, she thought, should bring some semblance of peace to Token.

***

The bright Edgerest sunlight bathed the town in a golden hue as Jester and Lumi made their way to the library. The hustle and bustle of the day was just beginning, the townsfolk oblivious to the unusual pairing navigating their way through the busy streets. Lumi's heart pounded in her chest, and her senses heightened. It was a risk, bringing a Demi-Demon into the heart of the town, but it was a risk she was willing to take. Jester, despite her crazy mannerisms and over-excited behavior, was starting to grow on her, so much so that Lumi didn’t mind her presence. However, that didn’t mean that she would suddenly start tolerating everything the crazy Demi-Demon did.

Jester skipped happily by Lumi’s side, her eyes wide as she took in everything she was seeing, as she was more accustomed to a Demon society, not an Elven society. As Jester's eyes widened in awe, she couldn't contain her excitement and exhilaration at the sight of the bustling Elven town. The way the townsfolk interacted with one another displayed a warmth and friendliness that starkly contrasted Demon territory, which she was far more accustomed to. The bustling Elven town was such a dramatic departure from the tense, cutthroat environment she was used to in Demon society.

The architecture of the Elven buildings was intricate and aesthetically pleasing, resembling woven branches that shimmered under the Edgerest sunlight. This differed from the crude, dark structures commonly found within Demon territories, which prioritized function over form.

The Elves have a distinct way of interacting with one another, which Jester couldn’t help but notice. Their communication was defined by a deep sense of respect and understanding, as they engaged in animated yet gracious conversations. They seemed to have an unwavering ability to listen carefully to each other, showing empathy and patience. This behavior stood in stark contrast to the Demons, who often exhibit aggression and dominance in their interactions, leading to conflict and disharmony.

In terms of attire, Jester observed that the Elves wore elegant, flowing garments made from fine materials. Their clothing reflected their affinity for nature, with colors that gracefully mimicked the hues of their surroundings like forest greens, warm browns, and vibrant autumnal shades. As for their movement, the Elves walked with a fluid grace that carried an air of confidence and poise. Each step was purposeful and measured, giving the impression of balance between body and mind. Unlike the Demons who moved with a chaotic haste, the Elves were always mindful of their movements as they exuded a calm elegance that set them apart.

Jester marveled at the sun-dappled cobblestone streets lined with vendors selling aromatic foods, sparkling trinkets, and intricately woven textiles. Her nose twitched as she took in the plethora of scents – the smell of freshly baked bread, robust coffee aromas, and sweet wafts of floral perfume swirling around her. The chatter of vendors haggling and children laughing seemed almost like an enchanting symphony to her.

Occasionally catching sight of herself in store windows and reflective surfaces, Jester realized her ruby-red eyes and sharp fangs marked her as different. She hastily swept a strand of her red hair behind one ear, as if by doing so she could better blend in. She double-checked to make sure that her tail was still tightly wound around her waist to stay out of sight, then hurried to keep up with Lumi’s quick strides.

Lumi walked quickly, avoiding eye contact with the Elves walking by them along the sidewalk. She gripped her book bag strap so tightly that the leather started to irritate her skin. The cobblestone streets glistened from a recent rainfall that night, reflecting the vibrant hues of the budding flowers that filled the window boxes of quaint Elven homes.

"Hey Lumi," Jester whispered excitedly, her eyes wide with curiosity, "can you tell me more about this town?"

Lumi sighed. "Well, this is Edgerest – a small Elven community nestled at the edge of a forest at the base of Eldenthorn Mountain. Elves here are skilled artisans and value knowledge above all else. The library we're heading to is sacred to them; it houses centuries-old scrolls and tomes on various subjects," she explained.

"The Elves are usually very friendly and curious beings," Lumi continued, "Yet they maintain an air of mystery around outsiders. Nature magic is abundant here, and Edgerest has been recognized as the town with the most nature-wielding Elves in all of Token.”

As they walked under an archway woven from living vines, Jester nodded thoughtfully. "What about their chief or leader? Bellcrest has a Queen, but you already knew that. Who governs this town?"

Lumi hesitated before answering. "Edgerest doesn't have a singular ruler but follows a council system where twelve Elves represent different aspects of our society. Together, they make decisions for the whole town."

Jester absorbed all she could from Lumi's explanations as she guided her past colorful alleyways, fragrant gardens, and bustling shops selling anything from spell materials to handicrafts.

They came upon the library in very little time, the vines creeping along the sides, showing its age and wisdom. Jester stared at it as if it were a large castle, her eyes tracing up the stone pillars and grazing across the statues of lions by the towering double doors.

As they approached the entrance, Lumi instructed Jester to be respectful and quiet inside the library. The interior was as grand as its exterior suggested – filled with ornately carved bookshelves reaching up to the frescoed ceiling. A warm golden glow from tall candles danced across the spines of countless books, their soft light reflecting on the polished marble floor.

"Impressive, isn't it?" Lumi whispered, and Jester could only nod in agreement. They proceeded farther into the library, their footsteps echoing in the vast chamber. As they explored, they noticed a few Elves engrossed in reading or discussing animatedly around large cedar tables. A few teens sitting lazily atop some of the larger tables ranted back and forth about this teacher who didn’t like or this girl who had worn the same pair of shoes more than once. Ridiculous teenager discussions and Lumi couldn’t help but scoff at how simple-minded and overly judgemental they were.

Lizz stood behind the librarian's desk, idly flipping through a worn book with dog-eared pages. When Lumi spotted her, she quickly glanced at Jester behind her and took a few cautious steps back to avoid being noticed before she was ready. "Alright, Jester. Let me handle the talking."

“But I like talking.” Jester pouted. “I already promised I’d be good.”

“I know, but it’s too risky. Stay behind me.” Lumi whispered sharply, reaching into her bag for her book. “I’ll just return this book and then we’ll be on our way. Okay?”

“Fine,” Jester grumbled, crossing her arms.

As Lumi stepped forward and approached the librarian's desk, Lizz looked up from her book and waved cheerfully. "Hey Lumi! How's it going?" she asked with a warm smile, completely unaware of Jester hiding behind her friend.

"Hi, Lizz!" Lumi replied, her tone friendly but a little strained. "I've been doing well, thanks. Just returning this book. How about you? Has it been busy here today?"

Lizz shook her head, shutting the book she was reading. "Nah, not really. It's been pretty quiet all morning. I'm just doing some light reading to pass the time," she said, casually gesturing towards the book in her hands.

"Ah, I see," Lumi nodded and placed her returned book on the counter. "Speaking of reading, I’m here to return this.”

Lizz scanned the book's author's name and placed it on the cart beside her for reshelving later. "Did you enjoy this one? I've heard good things about it."

Lumi smiled, her eyes darting momentarily toward Jester before refocusing on Lizz. "Oh yeah, it was an interesting read. I think you'd like it too, knowing your taste in books."

Lizz beamed at the recommendation. "I'll have to check it out once my current pile of books-to-read gets a bit smaller." Her eyes caught Jester attempting to sneak a piece of candy from the bowl of butterscotch on the librarian's desk and frowned, tilting her head. “Oh? I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you there.”

Suddenly, Lumi panicked at Lizz's sudden notice of Jester, her heart racing as if she had just run a marathon. "Oh, uh... This is my, um, cousin! Jessabelle.," she stammered, trying to come up with a cover story on the spot. "She's visiting me for a little while, and I promised her I'd bring her to the library to pick out a book."

Jester caught on quickly and piped up with a charming smile. "Yeah! I've heard so much about your library from Lumi. She said you have the best collection in town!"

Lizz, still slightly perplexed but accepting the explanation, smiled at the young girl. "Well, we strive to provide something for everyone. What type of books do you enjoy?"

“Uh…” Jester’s mind went blank and she quickly looked over to Lumi, her eyes wide as she silently mouthed the words ‘What do I say?’

Lumi gaped as she struggled to form a swift response, her face flushing as she envisioned all the potential negative outcomes. Jester could get exposed. She could face danger or imprisonment. Both herself and Lucky might also be detained for harboring a Demon in Elven territory. She could feel her heart beating rapidly as if she had just run a marathon.

Jester continued to look at her desperately for help. Lumi quickly glanced at Lizz, who seemed to be waiting patiently for a response. With no other option in mind, Lumi took a deep breath and prayed to God that her quick thinking would work.

Lumi spoke up quickly. "She likes fantasy novels! Adventure, magical creatures, that sort of thing."

Lizz nodded, her expression brightening. "Ah, yes, we have plenty of those, you should know. And of course, you know where they're located. Feel free to go grab one and I'll check it out for you."

"That's very kind of you to offer, but we have to be on our way. Just a simple trip into town to return this book. You know how I ate overdue library books." She laughed a little too loud, causing several Elves to turn their heads in her direction, some even sending death glares. She quickly grabbed Jester's arm and began to lead her away, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

Lizz was left standing there, a bit bewildered, but shrugged it off. "Well, feel free to come back any time. I'll...be here...all day."

Lumi practically dragged Jester to the door, opening it and letting the cold morning air rush in. She shut it behind them and leaned against the door, taking a deep breath and sighing heavily. "I...can't believe that worked." She mumbled, almost not believing herself.

Jester smiled at her, nudging her with her elbow. "You did a good job! I thought you were gonna tell her that I'm a Demon and try to sacrifice me for your skin. I mean, that's what happened in one book my sister let me read. But we made it out! She didn't even realize! Is she stupid or something?"

Lumi laughed, shaking her head. "No, no, nothing like that. She doesn't notice things sometimes, but it's part of her charm."

Jester shrugged as if accepting Lumi's response, then reached into her pants pocket and pulled out a pile of butterscotch candies. "Want one?"

Lumi gaped at her. "You stole ALL of those? I thought you were just taking one!"

"I couldn't just take one!" Jester cried, shoving the candies toward Lumi's face. "They smelled so good, and I'd never had them before."

Lumi sighed and rubbed her temples with her fingers. "Jester, you can't just...never mind." She waved her hand to dismiss the topic. She turned her attention to the shops and storefronts across the street, where little children were running around with paper airplanes, and old women in flouncing dresses pranced by. It was a normal day in Edgerest, one that Lumi had seen time and time again, and it calmed her nerves to see it.

"Well, let's just make sure you don't get into any more trouble, hm?" Lumi said, giving Jester a small smile.

Jester grinned and popped a piece of butterscotch into her mouth, nodding enthusiastically. "Mhm!"

Lumi chuckled and pulled her bag strap higher over her shoulder, then began to head towards the sidewalk. "There are some food vendors around here. Maybe we should bring some food home to Lucky and Lenix, and of course, we can get some stuff for us as well. Edgerest cuisine is a delicacy, in my opinion. What's the Demon food like in Bellcrest, anyway?"

Jester hummed thoughtfully, popping another piece of butterscotch in her mouth. "It's different from yours, that's for sure. They like a lot of spices and meat and potatoes. I don't like potatoes that much, but I'll eat them if I have to."

Lumi couldn't help but smile at Jester's honesty. "That's understandable. I'm not a huge fan of potatoes either, but I love the vegetables and meats."

"I think my super favorite foods are the spicy ones! Noodles, chicken, anything spicy is my super-duper favorite." Jester said as she threw yet another butterscotch into the air, letting it fall into her waiting mouth.

"Really? I'm sure we can find a vendor that's selling some spicy foods for you." Lumi said as she scanned the crowd. Most vendors set their stalls up right when the sun was just barely peeking over the treetops. They liked to entice the early risers to purchase their goods. Lumi's eyes traced the stalls lined up along the sidewalk, each showcasing different foods different textiles, and very different aromas. She could smell the fresh bread from one stall, the spiced meats from another, and even the sweet honey from a third. It was a mixture of smells that Lumi loved to experience, as it reminded her of when she was a young child, walking through the marketplace with her parents and friends.

She saw one vendor who was selling an array of spicy meats and soups, so she gently nudged Jester. "Hey, here's a stall that might interest you. What do you think?"

Jester sniffed the air, her eyes grazing over the booth that Lumi was pointing at. The air was tinged with a multitude of spices that only her enhanced sense of smell could decipher - a bold hint of cayenne pepper, a strong undertone of black pepper, a subtle dash of paprika, and a refreshing whiff of ginger." Her eyes sparkled as a wide, eager grin spread across her face. "Yes! Let's go get some food!"

The two of them walked up to the stall, Jester practically drooling at the sight of all the different dishes. Lumi smiled and pointed to a dish of noodles with meat and vegetables, seasoned with a heavy amount of garlic and cayenne pepper. "This looks good. What do you think?"

Jester's eyes sparkled with delight, and she nodded eagerly. Lumi could practically see the drool falling from the corners of her mouth.

The vendor, a gently smiling old man with a pipe sticking out of his mouth, greeted them with a wide spread of his arms. "Welcome, welcome. This is a challenge booth. I have gathered the strongest spices from all over Token, you see. Can you handle the heat? I'm warning you, it will burn your tongue."

"I can handle it," Jester said immediately, then glanced at Lumi with a raised brow. "What about you?"

Lumi quickly shook her head, a slight grimace on her face as memories of past challenges flooded back. "No way. I've tried challenges like these in the past, and they left me with a terrible stomach and a burnt tongue. However, you might fare differently...considering...you know."

“Can I have one? I love spicy foods!” Jester pleaded, giving Lumi her best puppy-dog eyes.

With a sigh of surrender, Lumi made her way to the old man and requested a serving of the Sunfire Pepper Delight, a cherished Elven dish teeming with sun-kissed peppers, fire-roasted vegetables, a unique blend of Elven spices, and a dash of citrus over a bed of hearty grains. Handing the steaming bowl to Jester, she watched as her companion took a hearty bite. The flavors burst in Jester's mouth, a symphony of spice and tang that made her taste buds dance. It was a stark contrast to the heavy, dark flavors of Demon foods from her hometown of Bellcrest, which were more smoky and meat-focused. The Elven dish had a lightness to it, a blend of fresh vegetables and grains that was a pleasant change from the dense, rich foods she was used to.

As they continued their stroll through the bustling market, Jester reveled in the lively atmosphere. The animated chatter and the rhythmic bartering of goods were alien, yet charming to her; these were sights and sounds she never experienced in the more solemn and quiet Bellcrest. She found herself drawn to the overall joviality of the marketplace, her eyes sparkling with fascination and delight.

Just then, a familiar voice echoed through the commotion of the crowd. "Lumi!"

Lumi froze in her steps turned towards the sound of the voice, her eyes wide and her mind flooded with a million thoughts of who could be calling to her as she spotted Ikuo waving at her through the throng of the bustling market.

Ikuo brushed past the crowd with heaves and shoves, then finally arrived in front of Lumi and Jester, panting heavily. “H…Hey, Lumi. I saw you leave the library and wanted to come say hi…man, this crowd is intense.”

With a deep breath, Lumi swallowed down her nervousness and waved back with a chuckle, her hand trembling slightly. "Hey, Ikuo!" she said, attempting to keep her voice steady. “Sorry I didn’t see you. I was…a little preoccupied.”

“It's good to see you," he said, his eyes meeting hers. His gaze was warm and kind, causing Lumi's heart to flutter uncontrollably.

Ikuo's attention shifted towards Jester, his eyebrows arching in surprise at the sight of the unfamiliar face. "And you are...?" He asked, the question hanging in the air.

Lumi quickly interjected before Jester could introduce herself. "Oh, this is Jester, a distant cousin from out of town. She's visiting for a while," Lumi lied smoothly, plastering a convincing smile onto her face.

Ikuo extended a hand towards Jester, a friendly smile on his face. "Nice to meet you, Jester. I'm Ikuo. Sorry, I guess I just didn’t realize that Lumi had a distant cousin.”

Jester shook his hand, her eyes glinting with amusement at Lumi's quick thinking. "Yep. I’m the fun side of the family.” Then she stuffed another bite of grains and veggies into her mouth.

“We were just…uh…strolling through the early morning market.” Lumi said, nervously rubbing the back of her neck. “Would you like to join us?”

“Yeah. I was actually planning on walking around anyway. Might as well do it with you instead.” Ikuo smiled innocently, his eyes sparkling with energy. 

Lumi felt her face heat up like a furnace and forced herself to continue walking, her eyes glued to the random booths and the puffy dresses and the horse-drawn carriages. Anything to distract her from her rapidly beating heart thumping in her ears. Anytime Ikuo was around, she would feel herself panic and she would forget all reason to things. It made no sense, and Lumi was a girl who disliked things that didn’t make sense.

As Lumi and Jester continued their stroll through the market, now with a newcomer joining them, Ikuo and Lumi fell into a conversation about Edgerest. They talked about the recent changes, the new faces, and the upcoming community events. It was a casual, comfortable conversation that made Lumi feel at ease, giving her heart a chance to calm down.

Mid-conversation, Ikuo turned to Lumi with a serious expression. "Lumi, about our plan of leaving for Mirstone... Are you still considering it?"

Lumi hesitated, her eyes darting to Jester before meeting Ikuo's gaze again. The truth was, she was uncertain. She hadn't given it much thought recently, especially with Jester and Lenix’s arrival and the new experiences they were sharing, as well as not having fully planned out the travel to Mirstone properly. "I... I'm not sure, Ikuo," Lumi admitted, her voice barely a whisper. "I still need to think about it."

Ikuo nodded, understanding in his eyes. "Take all the time you need, Lumi. I just want you to know that whatever your decision, I'll respect it. I mean, it’s not like I’m gonan drag you there. Where’s the fun in that?”

Lumi chuckled and nodded, grateful for his understanding. As they continued their journey through the bustling market, Lumi's mind was filled with thoughts and uncertainties about her future, her home, and what leaving Edgerest would truly mean.

Meanwhile, Jester remained uncharacteristically silent, studying the interaction between Lumi and Ikuo with a keen interest. Her vibrant eyes darted between the two during their exchange, taking in their body language, the nuances in their voices, the subtle hints of their unspoken feelings. She was an outsider, a distant observer into a world she had just stepped into, and yet she felt an inexplicable connection to their story.

She noticed how Lumi's eyes sparkled a little less when she discussed leaving Edgerest, how her voice trembled with uncertainty. She noted how Ikuo's eyes softened with understanding, his gentle reassurances that seemed to stem from a deeper place than just friendship. She watched, she listened, but she never interrupted, which surprised even herself. Usually, she wouldn’t hesitate to barge in on anyone’s conversation.

She devoured another bite of her meal and listened to their back-and-forth, humming idly to herself to keep her brain occupied. The market was far busier than she had expected an Elven market to be, but she was slowly adjusting to it. Being a Demi-Demon, she had enhanced hearing and sight, and as she walked she picked up on distant conversations between those she didn’t know, and saw things that most others wouldn’t see, such as the small child trying to sneak an extra sweetroll from the baker's stall, or the elderly couple exchanging knowing glances as they haggled with a merchant over the price of a silver necklace.

Her eyes caught sight of a young woman weaving intricate patterns into a tapestry with such finesse that it was clear she had been doing it for years. Jester saw the small dog hiding under a table, its eyes following a sausage hanging from a butcher's hook. She watched the leaves rustling in the wind high above the market stalls, creating a beautiful dance of shadows and light on the cobblestone below.

Her ears picked up the distant sound of a lute being strummed, the melody blending seamlessly with the cacophony of the bustling market. She heard the soft whispers of a mother soothing her crying baby, the hearty laughter of a group of friends sharing a private joke. She heard the gentle clink of coins as they changed hands, the occasional hushed argument, the steady beat of horse hooves on the cobblestone.

As Jester continued to take in the sights and sounds of the busy market, her enhanced hearing picked up on a heated argument unfolding a short distance away. Two men, both elves, were engaged in a fierce debate, their voices rising above the hum of the market.

Jester's eyes narrowed as she listened, her ears picking up every inflection and accusation. "You stole my horse, Elron!" one man accused, his voice choked with anger. The other, presumably Elron, responded with equal vehemence, "I did no such thing, Kael! Your horse probably just ran off!"

Jester paused, her attention fully on the quarreling men. She watched as they continued to accuse each other, their argument escalating with each passing second. She observed as the crowd around them began to disperse, their faces filled with unease and discomfort.

For a moment, Jester simply stayed still, her senses keenly tuned into the escalating argument. As an outsider, she was not quick to interfere in the affairs of the elves, but as the argument became more heated, she felt an urge to step in. Even though she was bred into a town that thrived on violence and conflicts daily, it stirred something in her at realizing that even the Elves got into fights. She recalled Lumi saying that Elven communities were all mostly peaceful and filled with caring individuals, so it struck her as odd seeing two men bicker back and forth over the location of a horse.

She listened a little longer, her eyes flicking between the two men, observing their body language. One was full of righteous anger, his body tense and ready for a fight. The other seemed more defensive, his stance guarded as he continued to deny the accusations. She watched as if she were observing a picture show, absently taking bits of her food, chewing slowly. The Evles around the two men had vanished like cockroaches then the lights came on, leaving the two men quarreling like children. It was far from the first time that Jester had ever seen conflict, but it still didn’t sit right with her head. Her entire life, she pictured Elves being kind and considerate and gentle and caring, but watching the two men argue about a measly horse sent her for a loop.

With a sigh, Jester decided that she had listened enough. It was clear that their argument was not going to be resolved without some form of intervention. She looked forward towards Lumi and Ikuo, and they appeared to be distracted by a booth several feet away selling shoes and different styled soles. Jester flicked her gaze from the the bickering pair to Lumi, then back at the arguing men. Gathering her thoughts, she steeled herself and stepped forward, ready to intervene in the most peaceful way she could manage.

"Hey," Jester began, her voice carrying over the sound of the arguing men. She stepped forward, placing herself in between them, her hands raised in a placating gesture. "You’re pretty loud, maybe we can-

But her words fell on deaf ears. The accusing man, his face red with anger, snapped at her. "This is none of your business! Scram!" Without waiting for a response, he lunged at the other man, fists flying.

Jester sighed, her patience wearing thin. She was a Demi-Demon, but that didn't mean she enjoyed senseless fighting. Sure, she was used to engaging in random acts of combat in Bellcrest, but against Elves, it was something different entirely. With effortless ease, she stepped forward, using her strength to pry the men apart. "Guys," she admonished, shaking her head. "You're Elves, so you’re supposed to be creatures of peace and stuff."

But the angry man was having none of it. With a roar, he swung at her, his fist aimed for her face. But Jester was quick, far quicker than any Elf. She dodged his blow, stepping neatly to the side. The man collided with the other man, sending the two stumbling forward.

"You guys remind me of when me and my sister would fight over the last steak strip," she continued with a laugh, unperturbed by the man's aggression. She expertly sidestepped another punch, her expression calm. "My friend told me that Elves don’t fight and that they are super kind and nice. So don’t worry, I know how to solve this.”

With that, she grabbed the man by his collar and with a swift motion, lifted him off his feet and dunked him headfirst into the nearby horse trough. His surprised yelp was cut off as he splashed into the water, his legs kicking wildly in the air.

Jester dusted off her hands, her face a mask of satisfaction. "That's better," she said, stepping back. "Now, why don't we all calm down and talk about this like civilized Elves, shall we?"

Ignoring the spluttering man in the trough, she turned back to the crowd, her eyes twinkling with amusement. It was not every day that she got to teach an elf about their own values, after all. She was proud of her actions and smiled broadly to the crowd. That is, until Lumi hurried over with the most panicked expression on her face that Jester had ever seen on someone before.

“What did you do!?” Lumi whisper-shouted, her eyes wide as she examined the scene before her. A soaked Elf and a thoroughly shocked and confused Elf standing before a nearly broken horse trough, and Jester standing proudly in front of it all.

Jester took a moment to assess Lumi's agitation before responding gently, "I was trying to help defuse their argument. It looked like they needed a helping hand, and I didn't use any real force, just a bit of... water therapy." She gestured toward the soaked elf, who was now clambering out of the trough, his dignity very much submerged.

Lumi glanced back and forth between Jester and the two men, her face reflecting the mixture of disbelief and concern that ran through her thoughts. "Why would you think that soaking an Elf in water is going to calm them down and make them more reasonable?"

Jester shrugged. "It worked with me and my sister back in the day when we'd fight over food. Figured it could work here as well. Besides, I never intended to hurt anyone. Maybe it's time for these Elves to step out of their comfort zone and learn a thing or two."

At that moment, Ikuo joined them carrying an assortment of shoe soles, curiosity apparent in his eyes. "What's happening here?" He took one look at the scene unfolding before him and blinked. “Whoa.”

“How the hell did you do that?” The not-drenched man asked, stepping towards her. “No Elf has that kind of strength.”

Lumi felt her heart surge in her chest, and she fumbled around in her brain for something to say. However, right when she thought she had landed on a good excuse, Jester spoke up for her.

“I’m from out of town. You know, the other Elven villages and stuff.” She adjusted her hood, then beamed at the man. “You’re welcome!”

“Yep, very welcome, now come on, time to head home!” Lumi snatched Jester’s hand and shoved her way through the crowd, her heart thumping in her chest. She couldn't shake the lingering sense of dread that twisted in her gut as she dragged Jester away from the crowd. Thoughts raced through her mind, leaving her nearly breathless. Had the Elves of Edgerest been moments away from seeing through Jester's disguise? Lumi knew full well the disastrous consequences if they did; Jester's Demi-Demon identity would not only be shockingly exposed but would also put her life in peril.

Why did she reveal so much to a bunch of strangers? Lumi could hardly comprehend the risk she had taken. As they weaved through narrow alleys and bustling streets, Lumi couldn't help but sneak glances at Jester. Her heart sank – was Jester's usual carefree spirit beginning to falter under the pressure of maintaining her secret?

She looked back at Jester one last time, and she was met with a wide, tooth-filled smile.