A New Brothers in Arms

The atmosphere in the adventurer guild was tense, with Lila's voice echoing her deep concern as she pleaded with the guild master, Aizeah. "Please, guild master!" she exclaimed, her eyes filled with worry. "It's already been three days; let me issue a search party! I'm very worried that something might have happened to them!"

Aizeah, a seasoned leader, crossed her arms and spoke firmly. "That I cannot do. I am not putting other adventurers in danger. We don't yet know what lurks in that dungeon."

Lila continued to press her case, desperation evident in her voice, but Aizeah remained resolute. "But..." Lila started, only to be cut off by Aizeah's authoritative tone. "I said no."

As they engaged in their discussion, the guild's entrance abruptly swung open, the noise from the other adventurers falling silent as they turned their attention to the four figures standing in the doorway. Lila and Aizeah both shifted their gaze from their conversation and there, at the entrance, stood Risky and Shiiyo, carrying a battered Kyru, while Creed carried a sack filled with items harvested from the slain demon.

The expressions on their faces transformed into delighted smiles as they looked at Lila. Her eyes glistened with emotion, and she nearly burst into tears at the sight of them. Aizeah, the guild master, observed their return with a proud demeanor and said, "I knew you idiots would make it."

Upon entering, Lila couldn't resist rushing over to them, her worry and relief mingling as she hugged Kyru tightly, her grip on his clothes strong. With a voice on the verge of trembling, she muttered to Kyru, "You dummy," though her words were muffled by her embrace. Kyru wore a wry smile and gently patted her head, his voice calm as he replied, "We're back." The other three watched with fond smiles, understanding the emotional reunion between them.

While the heartfelt moment unfolded, Aizeah approached with pride evident in her eyes and her voice composed. "You made it back, huh? And what souvenirs did you bring this time?" Creed tossed the heavy sack he was carrying, revealing parts of the gigantic demon they had slain.

The other adventurers were astounded by the sight, their reactions ranging from surprise to shock, creating a commotion and a chorus of whispers.

"Are you kidding me? Those are parts from a demon!"

"This rookie is something else! Are they really newcomers in this town?"

"Can you believe it? I'm seeing it, but I can't believe it!"

Aware of the attention they were receiving, the four couldn't help but share worried smiles. Aizeah recognized this and urged the group to take a well-deserved rest. "You boys should get some rest. I know you've been through a lot back there." The four adventurers heeded her advice and proceeded to make their way to the inn for some much-needed recuperation.

In the meantime, Lila and Aizeah discussed what should be done with the items they had delivered. Aizeah, deep in thought, turned to Lila and spoke with authority, "Call for the Great Sage; let's consult those with the knowledge to handle this."

Amidst the walk toward the inn, Risky was lost in thought as he watched the trio enjoying themselves. He couldn't help but see his old friends in them, feeling a pang of nostalgia in his heart. The camaraderie they shared tugged at his emotions. Clenching his fist, he decided to speak up.

"Hey!" he called out, drawing the trio's attention as they turned to look at him, their expressions curious. Creed, the natural leader, was the first to respond, "Got something on your mind, friend?"

With a sigh and a nervous scratch of his head, Risky gathered his courage. "Well... there's something I'd like to ask." The trio exchanged glances and encouraged him to continue. "Go ahead," Creed urged.

Risky took a deep breath and finally voiced his request. "Can I... join you guys on your adventures?" He watched their reactions closely, his heart pounding with anticipation.

The trio exchanged knowing smiles and nodded at each other. Creed, displaying his characteristic determination, stepped forward and extended his hand. Risky, brimming with gratitude, accepted the offer, sealing the deal with an epic handshake.

With this gesture, Risky officially became the newest addition to their team. They moved toward the inn together, a sense of camaraderie and newfound bonds of friendship forming between them. They decided to celebrate the momentous day with a hearty meal at the inn, solidifying the foundation of trust and camaraderie upon which their future adventures would be built. Risky, no longer alone, had found not just companions but true brothers in arms.