Once outside the forest and within sight of Moonlight Village, Raymond breathed a sigh of relief. As he walked into the village, a few adventurers noticed the weapons strapped to his back. Though they didn't recognize him, they didn't mock him either. Instead, some of them exchanged knowing glances and sighed, understanding the cost of the forest.
Raymond reached the tavern and was about to enter when he heard Sylph's voice coming from inside, laced with concern.
"Lorene, why hasn't Raymond come back yet? Do you think... Bah, no, that's not possible..." she trailed off. "He should be fine. After all, he was the only one fighting since we entered the Moonlight Forest yesterday."
Her voice faltered, though, showing she wasn't entirely sure.
By now, most of the other adventurers had left, having completed their commissions or heading back into the forest for more work. Only a few remained in the tavern.