The Turning Point [part 2]

As I hurried through the streets of Orario, searching for any sign of my sister, a wave of guilt washed over me. I couldn't help but reflect on my own shortcomings as a sister.

I've always admired Ais and her unwavering determination. She is very strong, both physically and mentally, and I often feel like I pale in comparison. I've tried my best to support her, but there have been moments when I've let her down.

There were times when I failed to understand her—when I couldn't provide the guidance she needed. I would get caught up in my own concerns and lose sight of her struggles. I've let my quippish nature overshadow the caring and loving sister that I aspire to be.

Now, faced with the possibility of Ais venturing into danger on her own, I can't help but blame myself for not being there for her. I should have been more attentive, more in tune with her needs.

I replay the memories in my mind, moments when I could have been a better sister, moments when I could have offered more support.

But dwelling on past failures won't bring Ais back. I have to focus on the present and find a way to protect her. I won't let my own insecurities hold me back from being the sister she deserves.

With renewed determination, I quicken my pace, scanning the faces of the passersby in the hope of spotting Ais. I navigate through the familiar streets, my mind racing with possibilities.

Where could she have gone? What dangers she might be facing right now?

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Continuing my desperate search for Ais—my steps growing more desperate with each passing moment. The streets of Orario were bustling with activity, but there was still no sign of my sister. The worry gnawed at my heart, fueling my determination to find her.

Realizing that searching aimlessly would yield no results, I made the decision to head towards the guild headquarters. If anyone knew where Ais had gone or had any information that could help me, it would be there.

As I arrived at the grand entrance of the guild, I took a deep breath, steeling myself for what lay ahead. Inside, the guild was abuzz with adventurers coming and going, their voices blending into a cacophony of chatter.

I made my way through the bustling crowd, my eyes scanning the room for any familiar faces. And then, I spotted her—Rose Fannett, the red-haired werewolf who served as a guild receptionist.

Approaching her with determination, I could see a slight furrow in Rose's brows as she recognized me. She tried to put on a polite facade, but I could sense the underlying toughness in her demeanor.

"Good day, Althea. What brings you here today?" Rose asked cautiously, her voice laced with caution.

"Cut the small talk, Rose. I need information. Where is my sister?" I dismissed her attempted cordiality, knowing that time was of the essence.

Rose sighed, her tough exterior cracking slightly. "Look, Althea, I can't just disclose personal information like that. You know the rules."

Frustration surged within me, and I confronted her directly. "I know Ais was here. She came to ask about how to level up, right? Tell me what you know."

Rose shook her head, denying my accusation. "Well, I didn't tell her anything. I can't divulge such information without proper authorization."

Confusion swirled in my mind. If Rose didn't tell Ais about leveling up, then who did? I pondered the possibilities, searching for any leads.

"Did Ais speak to anyone else here? Anyone who might have given her information about leveling up?" I asked, hoping Rose might have some answers.

Rose's expression grew solemn as she replied, "I'm sorry, Althea. I have no idea. I didn't see her interact with anyone else while she was here."

Disheartened by the lack of answers, I thanked Rose for her time, realizing that I needed to continue my search elsewhere. The puzzle of Ais's whereabouts and the truth behind her quest for leveling up grew more complicated by the minute.

As I left the guild headquarters, my mind raced with questions. Who had spoken to Ais? And why did they lead her down this dangerous path without proper guidance?

Determined to uncover the truth and find my sister, I stepped out into the streets of Orario once again. The weight of responsibility and worry settled upon my shoulders, propelling me forward.

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After several minutes, I stumbled upon Riveria, Finn, Gareth, and Loki on the bustling street. Worry etched their faces as they noticed my presence, and they quickly approached me.

"Althea, have you found Ais?" Riveria asked, her voice filled with concern.

Shaking my head, I replied, "No, I haven't found her yet. But I did confirm that Ais sought information about leveling up at the guild."

Finn furrowed his brow, seeking further clarification. "Did they give her any details?"

"No, they didn't," I responded, frustration evident in my voice. "Someone else might have provided her with the information, but I don't know who."

Loki, who had been observing the conversation, chimed in with a pensive expression. "It seems our brave Aisuu is determined to forge her own path."

Gareth crossed his arms, his forehead creased with worry. "That's highly reckless. She should know better than to trust just anyone."

Riveria's tone turned solemn as she spoke. "Regardless of how she acquired the information, we must find her as soon as possible. We can't allow her to face these dangers alone."

Finn nodded, his determination shining through. "You're right, time is of the essence. Althea, let us assist you in the search for your sister."

Hope flickered in my eyes as I heard the captain's words. "Thank you, Captain!" I muttered, expressing my gratitude with a bow.

Loki's mischievous grin faded, replaced by a serious expression. "Alright. We'll explore all possible leads and comb every corner of the city if necessary. We won't rest until we locate her and bring her back safely."

A surge of gratitude and relief washed over me as I realized I wasn't alone in this search. With the support of my Familia, we would find Ais and ensure her safe return—or so I hoped.

We divided our efforts, determined to cover as much ground as possible in our search for Ais. Each of us took charge of a different area, utilizing our unique skills and resources to gather information.

Riveria focused on the commercial district, employing her keen observation skills to scan the crowds for any sign of Ais.

Finn concentrated on the residential areas, reaching out to locals and gathering information about recent sightings.

Gareth delved into the depths of the dungeon, meticulously examining the remains of defeated monsters in search of any clue.

As for Loki, she employed her network of connections and informants, using her resourcefulness to gather any useful leads.

Together, we scoured the city, leaving no stone unturned in our quest to find Ais. The clock ticked, each passing minute intensifying the urgency of our mission.

Our determination fueled us, pushing us forward in our relentless pursuit.

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Night had fallen, and the rain poured relentlessly, shrouding the city in a somber veil.

Despite the defiant conditions, I refused to let despair consume me as I continued my desperate search for Ais.

However, voices began to echo in my head, attempting to discourage me from reaching my goal.

[You have failed Ais...]

'No, you're wrong,' I defiantly retorted. 'I'm still trying my best.'

[You will never bring her back...]

'Of course, I will. Just watch me,' I responded, my voice laced with determination.

[You're pathetic and weak...]

I chuckled in defiance. 'Wow, that's quite harsh. I don't even know you, and yet you're already insulting me. However, I won't let your harsh words break me.'

The rain poured relentlessly, drenching me to the bone. But I refused to let it dampen my spirit. With renewed determination, I scoured every corner and alley, my heart pounding in my chest.

And then, amidst the downpour, I heard a faint voice calling my name.

"Althea—"

"Ais...?!" I gasped, hope surging through my veins.

There, shivering in the cold winter rain, Ais emerged from the darkness and walked toward me. The area was illuminated by the soft glow of a magic stone streetlight, revealing her battered and broken appearance.

My heart sank as I took in her condition. Her armor was stained, her battle dress in tatters. The rain washed away the blood, but the wounds on her skin remained visible—vivid red gashes that marred her once flawless complexion.

She even forgotten to sheathe the sword I had given her, and her bleeding palms were evidence of the relentless battles she had fought.

She looked at me, her expression blank and distant, a far cry from the stoic yet determined Ais I knew and loved. I could see the pain and exhaustion etched in every line of her face.

Without hesitation, I rushed to her side and embraced her, pulling her close. The rain continued to pour around us, its rhythm echoing the turmoil in my heart.

"Ais," I whispered, my voice choked with emotion. "I finally found you."

She remained silent, her body limp in my arms. Tears mingled with raindrops as I held her, a mixture of relief, anguish, and unconditional love flooding my soul.

"Let go of me—"

But then, to my utter confusion, Ais pushed me away—her voice filled with anguish and desperation.

I stood there, stunned by her rejection—unable to comprehend her actions. "Ais, why...? What's wrong?"

Ais hesitated for a few seconds before muttering, "I need healing...."

Realizing that I might have hugged her wounds too hard, I quickly gathered myself and apologizes, "I'm sorry, Ais. I'll heal you right away."

I extended my hands and channeled my healing magic—gentle golden light enveloping Ais' wounds. I focused my energy on mending her injuries—pouring my love and care into each healing touch.

When the healing process was complete, I stepped back and examined Ais. The wounds had healed, leaving behind faint scars as a reminder of her battles.

She looked at me—her expression softer, the anguish in her eyes replaced by a slight glimmer of gratitude.

"Thank you, Althea," she whispered—her voice showing a little bit of vulnerability and appreciation.

I smiled warmly—my heart swelling with love for my sister. "You don't have to thank me, Ais. I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

But I could continue talking, Ais turned her back to me—uttering, "However, I'm going back to the dungeons now."

My heart sank as I heard her words, so I quickly grabbed her hand and tried to reason with her. "Ais, please reconsider," I pleaded—my voice filled with concern. "You've already been through so much. Let's go home."

Ais turned to me—her eyes filled with determination. "No, Althea. I have to keep doing this on my own." She then shook off my grip and proceeded to walk away.

I bit my lip in frustration and ran ahead of her— stretching my arms out wide to block her path.

"Ais, stop. You don't have to do this alone. We can face these challenges together," I begged—trying to persuade Ais to change her mind.

However, instead of complying with my request, Ais drew her sword and pointed it at me. "Move aside, Althea. Do not get in my way."

My eyes widened in shock at seeing her draw her weapon at me, but I furrowed my brows in determination. I grabbed my magic staff—gripping it tightly. I prepared to defend myself and restrain Ais if necessary.

"Ais, please... Don't make me do this," I whispered, my voice filled with a whirlwind of emotions.

The rain poured down around us—the intensity of the moment matched only by the storm raging within our hearts.

How did it come to this? This is not what I expected. However, I won't let our bond be severed. I will fight with every ounce of my being to bring my sister back from the darkness that threatens to consume her.