Morning light filtered through the inn window in Oakridge. Vesna sat up in bed, stretching, her braids tousled. A faint pink-azure glow pulsed subtly on her skin. Leshwai yawned cutely on the pillow, big eyes blinking. Zzyzx's presence stirred, voice humming in Vesna's mind.
Rested… and this goo-girl's real. The dungeon called my name before — now with her boost? Time to finish what I started. Deeper levels, better loot.
Vesna geared up, strapping on her sword and cloak. Leshwai hopped onto her shoulder.
"Alright, Zzyzx. We're heading back to the Echoing Depths. Got a handle on you now — no more surprises."
"Mmm, back already? Delicious. Your drive… intoxicating. But first — this 'guild'? Memories say hub of quests. Show me!"
"It's just a board for jobs. We're not sightseeing. We finish the dungeon quest — clear lower floors, grab relics."
The argument continued downstairs and across the square to the guild hall. Zzyzx kept pushing, playful and insistent. Vesna muttered under her breath the whole way, drawing odd looks from adventurers who thought she was talking to her pet.
At the quest board she turned in the boss core. The elf receptionist eyed her glowing skin oddly.
"Vesna, right? Solo'd that spider? Impressive… but you look off. Glowing skin? Poisoned? Cursed relic?"
"Fine! Just… energized. Payout?"
Zzyzx chimed in excitedly. "She knows you? Regular? Tell her about me!"
"Zip it! Not helping."
The receptionist handed over coins, still concerned. "If it's dungeon fever, see the healer. Talking to air ain't normal."
Vesna forced a smile. "Not air — pet. Thanks."
She stormed toward the dungeon path, facepalming. "You're a headache, Zzyzx. Like arguing with a clingy ex."
"But effective. Admit — fun. Deeper now? Show me your skills."
"Yeah. Let's wreck it."