Along the path, Lyra continues studying her writing and drawings of the previously discovered artwork, thoughts drawing through many many conclusions. Her expression is focused. Silent. Calculating.

  Next to her, Kak-Yak observes his map deeply. His left paw continually moves across the rough fabric, humming to himself as he thinks about random things. At first he doesn't notice it, but eventually he catches onto something. Lyra. She hums a very quiet tune, although, as stated, very quietly. This peaks Kak-Yak's interest.

  "You've a lovely voice Lyra. I didn't know you liked to hum like I do." He gives a gentle smile, admiring her facial features. Her fur, in his opinion, was really pretty. He can't put his paw on it, but he seemed to really like her black and brownish fur pattering. It molded well with her personality, he thinks. Which could make zero sense. After all this is Kak-Yak's weird mind here.

  "..." Shaking her head, she remains quiet, continuing her deep thinking. Whilst her thoughts ran rampant as she studied the art she's tried to recreate, she continued her gentle, soothing humming.

  Although the two didn't notice at first, their humming began to mix together, forming a rhythm of sorts together as they walked the path forward. Eventually Lyra noticed, immediately stopping her gentle voice. Kak-Yak, ever so blissful didn't even notice. Continuing his viewing of the map in paw.

  "Woah! From the map, it seems we're not too far from the guild now. I wonder what it'll look like! Probably filled with mages everywhere!!!"

  Wind against their fur, the two eventually make their way to a bridge, the water below crystal clear as the fishes move around deep within. Standing before them, four guardsman stops the pair, one of them walking up to them, palms brimming with magic. Unlike other guardsman he's seen, Kak-Yak takes note of the more fancy, pristine appearance and more star like patterns that adorned the guardsman armor and under garments. Both helm and armor had exclusive mages guild coloring and symbols, black and purple coloring molding together to create an entirely unique character for the guardsman of the guild.

  "Oh my...Lady Lyra?" *bows* "Welcome back. It's been months." He turns to Kak-Yak, raising a brow under his helm. "And who's this?"

  "Kak-Yak. A traveling companion. We've only recently met a short while ago."

  The Suxarine spins, doing a flip before frantically waving. "HI!!! As Lyra said I am the one and only Kak-Yak!!! Hero of the lands and vanquisher of monsters all!!! Hahahaha!!!"

  *Low chuckle* "Well you are certainly cheery and hyper, that's for sure. You say you are a hero correct?"

  "Yep!!!"

  "Hmm." He turns to Lyra, raising a brow. Although no one could tell given him wearing a helm. Obviously. "I'm sure guildmaster Aurora will be overjoyed of your return Lyra. Especially given our current situation. More hands, or in your case, paws, will be of great help."

  "Mhm." *crosses arms* "Tell me. What exactly has been happening here? I was told some magical anomaly has occurred."

  "Ah yes. That. In short, a random magical burst of energy emitted near the guild a while ago. This spawned forth countless dangerous monsters. Mages have tried to quell and investigate deeper into the area of detonation, but have all failed. The sheer amount of monsters and the uncertainty of what dwells within has made us halt our investigation."

  "..." Lyra runs a paw through her head fur, sighing deeply. "Alright. Think I get the problem now. So. Can we enter now?"

  "Well, you can Lyra." *Turns to Kak-Yak* "As for your friend here, he'll need to take the test. You know what I mean. Of course it's entirely optional. It's just that the guild master loves getting a gist of those who enter for the first time. Also, if you wish to join the guild sir you'll have to take the test anyways. Now if it's purely just a visit you seek then this is optional, as stated prior."

  With a cheeky smile, hands on hips, our hero gleefully reply's. "Well I don't see too much issue in it!! Sure I'll take the test, although I'm bad at test hehehehe. Oh!!! Will there be numbers?! Please please don't let there be numbers I SUCK WITH NUMBERS!!

  Lyra quietly side eyed him, small smile present on her muzzle. One of the guards took note of this, but stayed quiet.

  "It's nothing related to numbers. It'll be something...unique, I'll simply say." The guard beside him opened both palms, holding his helm with one as the other waves in the air, magic energy surging through the air suddenly. "Ahem. First question. Do you know the basics of magic? Be it arcane or regular means?"

  "Nope! I have, like, zero knowledge of anything magic related. Like, I tried to get into it a while ago but man is it hard for my pea sized brain hehehehe. Which is why I use my trusty sword and shield!! Well the shield I found a short while ago BUT ANYWAYS hehehe."

  "..." He writes something down, a crow landing on his shoulder randomly as it studies Kak-Yak. "Second question. Would you say that you are an extroverted or introverted individual?"

  He rubs his temple in confusion. Seconds pass as his little noodle of a brain manages to find out what he means. "Ohhhhhhhhhhh...uh, I dunno honestly. I mean I LOVE being around others and brightening everyone's day, but I also love just being alone and having conversations with myself from time to time!! So it's even I guess hahaha!"

  "Well you certainly seem extroverted from first impressions. Anyways, moving on. Ok, what type of style of combat do you prefer? Ranged, offense, defense, or support? Or a mixture of some of them?"

  "OH!!! Offense definitely!! I like to be able to just get up in and BAM, WAM!!! BOP BOP BOP hehehehehehe. Although sometimes I do tend to swap styles if the situation calls for it."

  "Hmmm. Ok, the next question might seem simple, but just answer. What monster is known to deal severe physical and mental damage to its targets without even getting close, while also being intelligent enough to read minds and use telepathy? Remember, some monsters share these traits, but not to a tee."

  "Hmmmmm...hmmm..." As if a lightbulb lit up in his head, he turned to Lyra, giving a cheeky smirk before looking to the guard. "Warpers!!! The ugly looking things!!!"

  "Correct."

  Lyra shook her head, knowing full well that he only knew the answer because of a certain morning not too long ago. A morning where she shown him certain types of monsters. The more she thought, the more she wondered how Aurora and Zelphar would react to Kak-Yak.

  "Alright, final question is really simple. Have you ever actually fought a monster before?"

  "Duh!!! I fought monsters before hehehehe."

  *nod* "It's just that we used to get some aspiring mages who never fought a day in their lives. Which isn't bad, sometimes simply knowing magic is enough. Anyways, test is over. Or as I'd like to call it an interview and masked interrogation."

  *loud caw* "I'll tell the guild-master you've been talking behind her back!!!"

  "Shut up, stupid bird."

  The guard writes some more things down before folding up the well decorated paper, handing it to the crow as it flys into the guild.

  "Ok, don't cause any trouble inside the guild sir. But judging from your company, it's safe to say you're to be trusted."

  *giggle*

  Stepping aside, the two are allowed entrance as Lyra leads forward. The bright rays of the sun disappears as darkness surrounds them. In an instant, a night sky engulfed their surroundings. The deeper they went on forward, the more...interesting, things had become. Dolphins flew through space, dragons ensnared the stars, calming singing soothed the ears. Kak-Yak couldn't help but be intrigued.

  "And THIS is the inside of the bridge?! I can already imagine the inside!!!"

  "You're in for a big surprise then."

  A specific piece of music begins playing, adding to the already peaceful atmosphere. The light at the end of the tunnel became brighter, further adding to the mystery as to what the inside of the guild truly looked like.

  "Say Lyra. I've been wondering. What's a magical anomaly?!?! Perhaps I can help with it!!! You know, pull my weight around and really help the guild! I know nothing about this place yet but I wanna make a good first impression!!!"

  "You can't just rush in and handle an anomaly. I have zero clue as to what it is, even with the description from the guards. It could change suddenly and become even more dangerous. But to answer in the most basic of terms, magical anomaly's can vary. Some are new monsters, others could be simple events, such as magical burst of energy." She glances to him, seeing utter confusion plastered on his face. *low growl* "Ok. Imagine an alligator. You like those right?"

  "YEP!!!"

  "Ok. So imagine an alligator that has the powers of, let's say, a regular mage like me. Alligators can't use magic abilities, but this specific one can. Understand?"

  "Mhm!!"

  "Alright, as for events, imagine a tornado that just randomly explodes, yet maintains its tornado like movements and form. Understand?"

  "Yep!!!"

  Shaking her head, she returned her gaze to the beautiful night sky above. Her purple eyes shine, focused on everything around the two of them. Sighing, she gently holds herself as she walks, paws resting calmly against her stomach. As for Kak-Yak? Well...

  "WOAH!!! WAS THAT A DRAGON SHOOTING LAZERS FROM ITS EYES?!?! WOOOOOAH, I-ITS FIGHTING A UNICORN NOW?!?!?! WHERE DID THE GIANT SWORD GUY COME FROM?!?!?!"

  Despite the chaos happening in the definite illusionary space, the bridge will, in fact, remain a bridge and not appear infinite, as the two inevitably arrive. The two hero's step foot through exit, countless voices and chatter sounding their ears. Staring in awe, Kak-Yak looked upon the wonder that was the Mages guild. Despite it being day, the inside was lit with stars upon stars as countless spectral creatures roamed about. One even walks over to them, a large tortoise.

  "OH MY GOSH ITS SO ADORABLE I WANT TO PET IT!!!"

  As Kak-Yak began playing with the spectral tortoise, a very large Raven swiftly landed nearby, perching itself on top a boulder within the small pond nearby. "Hello again Lyra. It's been a while."

  Ears shooting up, Lyra quickly turned to the voice, immediately smiling upon seeing an old friend. She quickly ran over, immediately becoming confused as to why there's a giant boulder within the pond. "Mind explaining why there's a boulder in the pond?"

  "Ah. That." *croak* "One of the new mages accidentally experimented a bit too far, ended up making this mess. We could get rid of it, but Aurora thinks it adds to the ponds beauty."

  "...Yeah...beauty." *head shake* "Well what are you just gawking for? Don't want to come play peck at me? Shout stupid nonsense?"

  "Well when you put it like that, yes."

  He quickly flys off of the boulder, going around to play peck at Lyra before perching himself onto arm. "Who's the Suxarine?"

  "Someone I met a few weeks ago. He's...unique, let's just say."

  "Everyone's unique genius."

  "Shut up, you know what I mean."

  The raven studies Kak-Yak, tilting its head as he watches him play with the tortoise. "Suxarine usually only have one fur coloring, what's with this one? Genetic defect or something?"

  "Don't insult him. He's unique amongst the Suxarine people. I'll talk to you about it once I get settled in."

  *Low Croak* "Call him over. Actually, scratch that, I'll do it. Hey!! Cat fellow! Over here!!"

  Quickly looking to the two, Kak-Yak springs upwards, promptly rushing over as the air catches in his fur. "Hiya!! Did you just talk?!"

  "Yes. Obviously. Suxarine! How did you acquire the company of Lyra? I wish to know, for Lyra never has company with just anyone! Speak!"

  "O-oh. Well uh, funny question really haha! Kinda crossed paths accidentally one can say. In a tavern...or inn, I dunno, I forget the meanings hehehehe."

  "Yes. Now let's leave it at that."

  Lyra shakes her head in annoyance. She promptly looks around, taking in the beauty of the guild she once inhabited. It was clear Aurora was one to show off, the guild covered in rich architecture, colors that mix well with magical blue auras, and hey, even a giant statue of a dragon adorned the top of the main building!! Rad! Well, at least in Kak-Yaks mind.

  "IS THAT A DRAGON STATUE?!?! That's so cool!!!"

  *Light chuckle* "Anyway. I feel like i should introduce my friend here." She playfully smacks the Raven.

  "Hey!!!"

  "Shut up, you pecked me mere moments ago." *Quick head shake* Anyways Kak-Yak, this is Vielvex. Close friend of mine. He can be a pain sometimes, but you get used to him."

  "Says you Lyra. The quiet, ever so mysterious brooding woman who sits in corners and side eyes people. I mean seriously, we had to force you to work in groups that one time. Remember?"

  She lowly growls, recounting the hated memory. "Don't remind me. Look, introductions aside, where is Aurora and Zelphar? Need to speak with them."

  "I know already why you're here, with one of the two sending the letter and all. Aurora is out at the moment, going to meet Leo. You know, leader of the fighters guild. Those two, sheesh. Always lovebirds. As for the elf you'll find him in the library, as usual. Probably seeing how to effectively deal with the anomaly. Now!" He flys off her arm, flapping in the air. He points a wing to the library in the distance, the outside decorated with fancy coloring and rugs. "I'll lead. Now come!" The Raven leads the two hero's as his deep voice sounds through the air. "So tell me!! You didn't exactly answer my full question!! Besides first meeting, why are you two still even in close proximity?! Lyra NEVER sticks with ANYONE for long periods, unless it's a tough mission that stretches a few days, but since you are here...WHY ARE YOU WITH LYRA?!?!"

  Giggling, he simply rubs his head awkwardly. "Well, she offered me to come along with her to the guild. Before that, we did some things such as fight a stalker, some giant mantises and more!"

  "WHAT???!" He turns, flapping backwards to keep direction. "You OFFERED him to come along with you?! YOU HATE ANYONE WHO SO MUCH AS COMES NEAR YOU!!! Is this a prank?! Some sort of joke? I don't buy it, not one bit." *points wing to Lyra, looking at Kak-Yak* "She is the definition of quiet and brooding!!! I refuse to believe she would just buddy buddy up with some random stranger out of the blue!!! I don't buy it, Nuh uh."

  As Kak-Yak laughs, Lyra averts her gaze away, simply crossing her arms as they walked. He bounces up and down recounting past fights together with her. "Well you haven't seen me in action Mr. Raven!! Uh, Vielvex!" He nudged Lyra. "Go on! Tell him how much help I was with the Stalker!! I was AWESOME!! Hehehe."

  Despite her rolling her eyes in annoyance, she spoke with a sense of fondness. "Not many would keep their composure in such a tense situation like you did. Despite your great focus and composure, your cockiness was your biggest weakness. You do realize you could've died right? You might not remember, but you were an inch away from having your throat sliced open by the Stalker. But I have to admit...that parry you did to prevent that outcome was quite the display. I was impressed. Takes skill to deflect a devastating blow like that."

  "Hehehehehe, thanks!! I'll try not to act too cocky anymore around dangerous monsters. You know, since I can potentially get hurt really really bad hahaha."

  Dumbfounded, Vielvex croaks loudly before playfully falling to the hard ground below, talons facing the sky. "PRAISE?!?! FROM LYRA?!?! To a stranger no less?!?!?! The world's coming to an end, I can already tell. ITS A SIGN!!"

  "Shut up and get up you stupid bird."

  She grips him by the neck very gently, lifting him off the ground before letting go, the Raven resuming its leading to the library. As they inched closer and closer, Kak-Yak took in the beauty of the guild, never really having seen such amazing and beautiful architecture before, especially with such colors blending together to give the feel of, well, a mages guild. At first he figured the guild would just be one large building, but he had to admit, this is far cooler and way more interesting.

  Glancing downwards, our hero admires the colorful designs of the patterned and pretty...carpets? Rugs? To his mind it was weird, but beautiful nonetheless, showing off the many different species all using some sort of magical art, coming together to create a display of amazing artwork. The same designs were engraved onto some of the walls as well, others showcasing other depictions of many other magical depictions.

  Eventually they arrive to the entrance of the library, Vielvex perching onto a post nearby. "Zelphar is inside. He'll be happy to see you Lyra."

  Vielvex flys over to perch himself onto Lyra's arm once more, making her smile for a short moment. Taking a breather, she steps foot into the library, the fresh scent of certain berries filling her nose.

  "Wow!!! It smells really good in here!! Do libraries always smell like this? The one back home always smelled of lavender."

  "We always make sure to make each and every part of the guild smells wonderfully! After all this IS the mages guild. What would we be if first scent impressions is that of smelly travelers and newcomers who fail to even smell decent before walking through our many halls, hmmmmmmm? Hmmmmmmmmmm?"

  *giggle* "People come here stinking?"

  "Well not always but there is the rare instance!!! And we ALWAYS make sure to sort out the smelly situation immediately!!! Now all that aside, let me go fetch Zelphar."

  He flys off in search of the elf. Our two hero's go to rest their legs, many voices in the vast library filling their ears as they did so. Even the tables looked elegant!!!

  "Woah!!! Even the tables look cool?!?! What even is this material? Whatever, it looks cool!! And this chairs pretty comfy too!" He stretches quickly, finishing with a slight slap of his paws to the table. "Sooooo tell me. Tell me tell me! Is it true? You're usually all grumpy and quiet around most people? Well at least that's what the bird said hehehehe. But hey!! I made you laugh and smile some! That's progress to breaking that shell of yours!"

  "W-wha?" His random comment on her rather reserved self caught her off guard, but only for a moment. She quickly shakes her head, sighing before resting her chin on her paw. "Listen, you're just...different. I don't get you, I really don't. But you know what I can discern? You're just...you. It's so off putting." She leans back a bit, boot tapping on the ground in steady rhythm.

  Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.

  "Still got you to smile and laugh though! And hey! I may be off putting to some, but that's fine! At least I can make those who need a good smile or chuckle, chuckle and smile hahaha!"

  "..." The smallest of smiles is ever present on her muzzle. "I hate how you off all people get me to smile, it's so infuriating. We haven't even known each-other for very long, at all."

  *giggle* "Maybe it's my charm! I dunno, I just do stuff randomly and sometimes it kicks other things off. Like this one time I purposefully slammed my arm into a dresser!! Man did that hurt a lot!!!"

  "...You what? Know what, I'm not even going to comment on why you did something so stupid like that."

  *shrug* "I'm very very weird!!"

  "Yeah, I can tell. Genius."

  "Oh!!! You called me genius!! I'm now smarter than you and all of the guild combined!!"

  "Sure. Whatever you say."

  Seeing her more relaxed attitude and demeanor after his playful banter, he decides to ask a simple question. "I've been wondering. What's the difference between hero ranks? Like is it just to show off? Like oh, I just slayed this massive troll look at me, compared to i just slayed an entity that SHOOTS FIREBALLS AND LIGHTING AT YOU!'!"

  *Short laugh* "Interesting comparison. In short, ranks determine how experienced and well suited hero's are for certain missions. It's also to boast, I suppose. While yes, lower rank hero's could theoretically take on higher missions, it's way too risky. At that point just let an experienced higher rank deal with the job instead of sending in lesser experienced hero's to their demise. Get it now?"

  "Mhm!! It's actually simple now having been explained it." *big grin* "And your an S rank hmmmmm? Makes me wonder what you've had to fight to get to be such a high ranked hero. I bet everyone knows who you are!!!"

  *nod* "Indeed. I guess you could also add notoriety into the perks of being a higher ranked hero."

  Kak-Yak play smacks his paws onto the table, getting deep into conversation now as he leans forward. "Ok, so basically everyone recognizes you? EVERYONE?!!!"

  "No, not literally everyone. But there are some."

  "Hmmmm...now I'm wondering what the city would be like for a well known hero. Does everyone just surround them and start praising them?! Wait...I'm just now realizing I've barely been in any cities!!! Oh man, i totally need to check more city's out! Guess I can scratch GoldenLeaf city off that list hehe." Sitting straight in his seat, he takes note of the small smile present on Lyra's muzzle. Despite this, he doesn't comment on it, simply saying what comes to mind in hopes to keep her relaxed expression. "Weird question...but what's the difference between an Elemental and Golem?! My brain is struggling to understand. Man, so many questions are coming to mind!"

  "You're hopeless aren't you?" Her tone was low, but was obviously satirical and joking like, that adorable smile still present.

  "Yep!!!"

  "Thought so." *sigh* "Anyways, Golems can either be created by experienced mages through the means of magical influence in a specific environment, or through the means of a monster familiar with magic. Example being Warpers. As for Elementals, they are purely natural entities, forming when burst of natural magical energy becomes concentrated into one area. When concentrated long enough or when heightened intensely, the magical energy in the area can give birth to elementals. Depending on the area, variants vary. See? Simple."

  "Ohhhhhhh...haha, yeah, I was going to ask how they were formed, haha. Beat me to my question! Now I'm even MORE curious as to who'd win in a duel!! The golem or elemental!! That'd be awesome to witness!! They could even turn that into a viewing event, that'd be cool!!!"

  "Yeah, and potentially put the spectators at risk of being near such monsters."

  "...Oh." He gives a light hearted laugh, both paws behind his head as he leans backwards. "Well just put special protection around the stadium where the epic duel shall commence!!! That'll help the spe- woah!!!"

  Falling backwards, he lands hard on his back, knocking the back of his head onto the hard ground below. "Ow ow ow ow ow ow...yeahhhhh, that's gonna hurt for a while...unless you uh, can quickly heal me using FANCY MAGIC HAHAHAHA ow ow ow."

  Lyra covers her mouth, holding in a laugh as she stands up. She walks over to him, hands on hips. "You're such an idiot."

  "I know...ow...hahaha."

  Shaking her head, she leans down to offer a paw. Accepting, Kak-Yak grips his paw with hers as he's helped up. He quickly dust off his clothes, laughing as he gives a wide eyed, goofy expression. "Thanks Lyra! I was sure gonna be a let down if I stayed on the floor, hahaha."

  "Yeah, sure." She rubs the back of her neck, holding in a small laugh. "Don't ever make a joke that bad ever again."

  "Hey!! At least you caught onto it!!!"

  Rolling her eyes, she picks up the fallen chair as Kak-Yak spins in a circle. For whatever reason. Whilst doing this silly act, a thought crosses his mind. "Oh!! I've an idea!" He plops back into his seat, putting his right elbow down onto the table as he wiggles his paw. "Let's arm wrestle!! See who's got the better physical strength!!"

  "Are you serious?"

  "Yep!! C'mon, it'll be fun!"

  "..." She rubs her temple, shaking her head before going back to sit down, promptly doing the same motion as Kak-Yak as she adjust her arm. "I can't believe I'm doing such a childish game."

  "CHILDISH?!?! It's anything but!! Cmon, like I said it'll be fun! You need to let loose a little!"

  She gives a playful eye-roll before they both begin to arm wrestle. Not much time passes as the two eventually arrive at a tie, both having gotten five wins each.

  "Awwww no fair!! I wanted to win!" He leans back in his chair, pouting as he sticks out his tongue playfully.

  "It's a tie. So technically we both win." *shrug* "Whatever. Regardless though, it was...interesting, I guess."

  "Hey!!! If you think simple arm wrestling is interesting, I HAVE to get you into alligator wrestling!!! If we find an alligator I'll show you the ropes!!"

  She doesn't even comment, simply chuckling before looking away, small smile still present on her face. Usually she would never be this talkative, let alone comfortable with someone. Usually it's a mixture of quiet stares and distancing. But Kak-Yak was different. Why was he different? Why? Even Lyra is struggling to figure it out. Although it's quite clear at this point he's safe to let her guard down around. Which can't be said for most people. One things for certain however. Aurora is definitely going to prod and ask her about her new companion. Much to her future annoyance.

  The comfortable silence is swiftly interrupted as Vielvex returns, landing himself onto the tables center. "Zelphar! Over here you boring fool."

  Near one of the rows upon rows bookshelves, an elf turns corner. His long hair draped down, long enough to touch his cheek, his eyes a piercing orange coloring. Hands folded behind his back, he walks to the three.

  "Lyra. It's a pleasure to see you again."

  *low bow* "Likewise, Zelphar."

  Zelphar turns to Kak-Yak, studying the fellow as his piercing gaze narrows . "And you are?"

  "O-oh! I'm Kak-Yak!! A hero!!! Gotta say, nice place you've got here!! Fancy looking!!"

  "Well we can't exactly have the guild looking like a swamp now can we?" *Extends hand* "As you've heard, I am Zelphar, second in command of the guild. I help run the guild essentially, making sure everything is in working order, as well as help any member with any issues, so on so on."

  The two shook hands, Kak-Yak promptly looking around some more. "There's so many books here. Never seen a library this big before!!!"

  *nod* "We must have a large library to support our many members. Obviously. Now then, Vielvex mentioned to me that you two have been traveling together for a short while. Even managing to defeat a Stalker together. Is this true?"

  "Oh. Yeah!!!" He jumps from his seat, demonstrating the battle with absurd movements. "We DESTROYED that monster. WE WAS LIKE SWOOSH, BAM BOOM!!! POP SHA BA!!!"

  "..." Zelphar quickly glances at Lyra, who's becoming slightly more embarrassed by the entire situation. "...Interesting." He holds up a hand. "That's enough demonstrating. You may stop now."

  "Awwww."

  Despite her slightly embarrassed state, Lyra speaks up. "So. The anomaly. Tell me about it Zelphar. Because I know you're the one who sent me the message."

  *nod* "Here, allow me to give a brief overview." Zelphar opens his pouch, taking out a folded map of the surrounding areas, as well as the guild. He opens and lays it out onto the table, pointing to a certain area marked with a large circle. "The area near our west is currently undergoing drastic anomaly like changes. The weather is a constant roaring storm of hazards. Thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, hurricanes, it's like a mix of disasters rolled up into one absurd storm. Along with this, deep within the center of the anomaly is a portal. Monsters from time to time keep exiting it and causing issues. Mainly elementals due to the severe concentration of magic energy in the area." He points to marks made around the anomaly. "We've set up defenses in case any monsters try leaving the anomaly. Many guard post have been set up, as well as mages constantly observing the area, making sure the storm from within doesn't get free."

  Lyra stays quiet for a moment, observing the marked out locations, countless thoughts racing through her head.

  "Only a matter of time before the storm gets free, then all chaos breaks loose!! I'll be fine since I'm a bird, I'll just fly aw-"

  Lyra ignites a small, magical flame within her palm, getting Vielvex to jump back. "Keep talking and I'll turn you into lunch."

  "Rude!!!"

  Kak-Yak, ever so confused speaks up. "I don't get it, how'd something this COOL happen?! Free monsters to fight?!?! Sign me up!!!"

  "No one knows for sure how it happened, but it's safe to assume it started from a random burst of intense magical energy. But HOW did that HAPPEN anyways?" Vielvex flys around the table at high speeds croaking. "And who's to say it can't happen anywhere else hmmmmm? It could happen anywhere!"

  Lyra leans back, arms wrapping around her waist as she thinks. "Has anyone tried to stop this? Get to the source within?"

  "Much of our mages and even those from the hero association. Alas, we've had no luck in dealing with it. Combine the threat of monsters, raging storms and magical disruption, this anomaly will be hard to deal with. However, we have found a major weakness we have yet to exploit." Zelphar points to the very center of the anomaly. "One of the mages pointed out that the center is heavily concentrated with magical power. With enough combined energy, we could be able to discharge the center and destroy the anomaly completely. Although that will no doubt cause a large explosion to occur, as well as risk significant damage to the surround area."

  *sigh* "Great. Just great." She leans back and closes her eyes, thinking deeply. "It'd be best if we held out on any planning until Aurora gets back."

  *nod* Zelphar turns to Kak-Yak, who's staring off into space confused about the entire situation. He takes note of the unique pattering and colors on the Suxarine's fur. Quickly thinking, he speaks up, planning something in secret. "You said you're a hero, correct? Why not help us with our situation? Other hero's like Lyra here are already helping around. Perhaps you could lend a hand? Or in your case paw?Of course you'll be rewarded for any provided help."

  With a bright smile, he jumps from his seat once more, placing a paw over his chest. "Of course!!! I, KAK-YAK, SHALL HELP!!! Well, at least do the best I can hehehe."

  "Well in that case, allow me to properly show you around the guild. Vielvex told me you two have only recently arrived, and it'd be wrong of me to not show any newcomers the grounds of the guild."

  "I GET TO SEE MORE PRETTY COLORS?!?! YES!!! HAHAHAHA!!! Lead on sir!" He quickly turns to Lyra. "I'll see you soon Lyra?" He says with a bright smile.

  Hiding a smile, she simply nods, waving him goodbye. Both Vielvex and Lyra watch as the two leave, the raven nearing Lyra as a cheeky question enters his mind.

  "Sooooooooo, that your boyfriend Lyr- AHHH-"

  Struggling in her grasp, a very annoyed and angry Lyra looks into his eyes, fangs showing. "No. We're just...just" *growl* "Acquaintances."

  "W-well to m-me! Ah, it seems as if you two a-AHHH not so hard AHHH!" Still annoyed though less so, she releases her grip on Vielvex, the raven seeing stars as Lyra gives him an annoyed glare, her narrowed eyes staring into his very soul. "AH! Strong grip. What I was going to say is that you two look to be friends! And to my knowledge you've only ever confirmed of actually being friends with only one other person. Well, besides me Zelphar and Aurora of course." *Croak*

  "You're talking about Shrieeks." *Sigh* "He's still my friend. Just haven't seen him in a while. I wonder how he's doing."

  *loud croak* "I still can't believe he ditched the hero gig to become a singer!! An Imp as a hero looks FAR better than being some singer!! Oh well, at least he's actually popular! Actually succeeded! Even I have to admit, his singing is amazing!! Oh!! That just unlocked a memory! Lyra, remember how you two used to sing together? That was so adorable!"

  The memory made her blush slightly, making her look away in embarrassment. "Shut up." Her expression shifts slightly, a hint of sadness washing over her.

  "Hey! Don't go getting all broody on me!! To lighten the mood, allow me to spill some water on that hot surface!! One of my little crow buds spied on you and the Suxarine while you were inching closer to the guild. Told me that you and Kak-Yak, although for a brief moment, were humming together in harmony. If that's not adorable I don't know what is."

  "It's a mere coincidence that it happened."

  "Coincidence or not, it's pretty darn cute!! Lyra, we could be looking at the potential of a brand new friend here!!! I only just met the guy, but he seems the perfect one to be your buddy! And he's got the same job as you?! Win win!! I mean cmon, I saw you SMILING!!! SMILING?!?! You?!?! Pfft, you never smile often. Well unless it's me, but hey! I'm me! Ha!" He perches himself onto her arm, extending a wing to boop her nose. "Listen. All I'm saying is that having a friend to laugh and be yourself around can work wonders for overall happiness. I mean I'M here and all but that's beside the point."

  She gives him a questioning glare, foot gently tapping lightly on the ground as she thinks. She flicks her tail up to the right, resting it onto her lap as she gently hugs it. "You know I can't just trust others so easily."

  "But you might make an exception for Kak-Yak I take it? Don't worry, if he even THINKS of betraying your trust, me Aurora and Zelphar will make sure to swiftly deal with him!"

  She shakes her head, burying her cheek into her tail fur. "I appreciate it. But dial it back a bit. I never said I'll make an exception for him. I don't make an exception for anyone." She growled lowly, continuing to burry her cheek into her tail fur. "Trust is earned. I haven't known him for very long. You can't just expect me to be buddies with someone who I've only known for a short while."

  "And is a few weeks a short while in your opinion? Just making a rough guess of how long you've had him with you."

  She shrugs, fully burying her face into her tail, mind deep in thought as she growls low.

  "Don't you shrug me off! Whatever, be that way. I'll let Aurora bother you with the questions once she gets back. HA! Now, moving onto something else. I made sure to keep your room in tip top shape whilst you've been gone. Made sure that nobody had made it into their own. So your stuff's still where it should be. Well, the stuff you left. Remember, the guild will always be a place for you to come back to and relax. Same with the other mages who wish to stay here."

  *nod* "Thanks."

  "Don't mention it. Now then! I'll leave you alone with your thoughts. I'll just perch my talons up top the chandelier over yonder. I'll be here if you need a second opinion for anything!" *Croak*

  "Sure, whatever. Now shoo you silly bird."

  "Sheesh, fine."

  Vielvex made his way on-top the nearby chandelier, spying around the library and keeping a close eye on things. As for Lyra? She slowly began to close her eyes, resting, but not entering sleep as thoughts begin to enter her mind. Happy, peaceful thoughts.

  ...

  Meanwhile, In the center of the guild, Kak-Yak bounces around as he yaps a bunch, slightly making Zelphar annoyed. "MAN!!! This place is HUGE, COOL, AND ENTERTAINING!!! So many heros are here!!! It's like one big gathering before a mission. WOAH!!! What's that!?!" Our hero rushes over towards a bright, beautiful light illuminating the center. Many hero's surround it, conversing with one another as they ready themselves for travel. Our hero looks up, eyes widening once he gazes upon a creature that dwarfs him in size, it's large intimidating eyes scanning him. "WOAH!!! What. Is. THAT?!?!"

  "A Skylvereek. It's a monster that soars through the sky at breakneck speeds. The Guardsman order began training these things for the use of transport, which eventually led to the creation of the Skylvereek transport system. Now every major city and location has an area dedicated to them. So that one can quickly traverse the lands to their desired location." He turns to him, hair flowing in the wind as he studies the Suxarine. "So. What do you think? Because going off your expression you had no idea these things existed."

  "It's so...so...SO COOL!!! I WANNA RIDE IT!!! I WANNA I WANNA!!!"

  Winds picking up, a loud roar sounds as one of the Skylvereek returns, a passenger onboard its massive back as it lands safely onto the ground below. Jumping off its back is a Zirikey woman, her long tail flowing and her expression joyful. "I'll never get used to flying on these things. Sheesh, I need a good bite to eat haha!" She brushes a bit of hair from her face, turning to both Kak-Yak and Zelphar. "Hi Zelphar, I'm back!! I know the guild was struggling without their best cook, mhm." She quickly takes note of Kak-Yak, expression turning even more joyful. "Wait wait wait wait, I think I know you hehehehehe. Let me guess, you were in Honeycomb village a ways back right?"

  Our hero nods, smiling as he recounts his time there. "Yep! How do you know that though?"

  "Oh my sister told me!!! Ninthara!! Said you helped around the village and solved some issues, hehehehe. Also said that you had met a certain someone who I'll get to in a bit."

  "WHAT?! You and her are sisters?! Wow. Uh, hehehehe, yeah, she makes some AMAZING FOOD!!!"

  "RIGHT?! Well I make the better food." She smirks, quickly running up to him and studying him. "Mixed eyes, check. Mixed coloring. Check. Cool sword on back, check. Yep." She snaps a finger. "Kak-Yak."

  He beams his eyes, chuckling. "CORRECT!!!"

  She giggles. "Me and you are gonna get along just fine sweetie don't you worry. Now. Since you're a friend of my sister, I'll give you a free meal!!! But here's what I want to know." She gets close, eyeing him. "Know of a gal named Lyra, sis said that you and her might have did some missions together. It just so happens that I AM PRETTY PROTECTIVE OVER HER!!!"

  Without warning, she pounces onto Kak-Yak. Rather than being surprised, our hero simply grins, not at all bothered by the pressure being applied to his chest. "Uhhhh what's happening?"

  "Shhhhhhh. Now then...HOW DO YOU KNOW LYRA?!?! ANSWER OR I'LL THROW YOU INTO MY NEXT BATCH OF FOOD!!!"

  "Relax Melvhara. Get off him. You're drawing eyes."

  Zelphars words made her laugh, sadistic grin slowly forming. "SO?! Let em look! I wanna know why this guy thinks he can just get to suddenly go on missions out of the blue with Lyra. LYRA!!!"

  Many hero's glance in both amusement and suspense. Guards slowly surround Melvera as tension rises.

  "Ma'am! Get off of him!"

  "NO!!! He needs to answer my questions!!! ANSWER!!!"

  Swooping down below, a certain Raven lands onto the shoulder of Zelphar. "MELVERA! He is fine. Lyra herself, despite my utter disbelief has seen something in this one. They even fought a Stalker together. Or so she told me. Also, you are being incredibly loud. Our lovely Lyra is trying to rest. So shut it!"

  "Wait she's here? As of now? And hey, you don't boss me around you stupid bird!!"

  Walking behind her, Zelphar bends down to swiftly flick Melvera off of Kak-Yak. She quickly gets up, snarling. "How dare you Zelphar!!!"

  "Shut it Melvhara." *sigh* "Vielvex is correct. Lyra is here within the guild."

  "WHAT?!?!" Her tail moved frantically, expression surprised and mischievous. "I'm going to go ask her some things then!!!"

  She quickly books it towards the Library, an annoyed Vielvex quickly following suit. Situation calm, the guards head back to their positions.

  "That one is so incredibly annoying." He runs a hand through his hair, shaking his head in annoyance. "Come. Allow me to show you the other areas of the guild. Without interruption this time."

  Kak-Yak follows the elf as he shows him all the important locations of the guild. Our hero immediately gets giddy at the sight of the cafe. Also the training grounds. That also gets him exited. Other than that it's the usual guild locations within. The guardsman quarters, sleeping quarters, etcetera. Throughout the showing, the beautiful colors and many ascetics gets Kak-Yak to stare in awe. The walls even down to the carpets and rugs themselves are finely detailed with various figures, concepts, all showing the masters and wonders of the magical arts. It's clear the guild master really wanted to show off the type of vibe she was going for. Especially with the purple blue and black detailing most of the well made architecture.

  Eventually the tour had concluded, Kak-Yak still picturing the countless pretty colors he had witnessed. "Well that was cool. Makes me appreciate the art of things."

  *nod* "Then you've an good eye for the finer things."

  "Man. It's crazy that I'm even here! Never would've imagined myself in a place like this until today. Things just keep getting better and better." After that sentence, our hero's stomach growled, making him chuckle in embarrassment. "Uh oh. Looks like I'm getting a bit of the hungry hungry, hehe."

  "I see...well, i suggest making your way to the cafe. We've a wide selection of foods for you to...consume. Yes. Consume." *sigh*

  "YAAAAYYYYYYYYY!!!"

  With an appetite craving for delicious food, Kak-Yak waste no time in rushing for the cafe. Zelphar, who has secretly been observing Kak-Yak's personality and appearance wonders how Lyra managed to score such a rare person.

  "You've certainly lucked out with this one Lyra. Hmmm." He thinks for a moment, mandibles twitching in deep thought as he makes his way back towards the library. "If I recall correctly, Full moon Suxarine are said to have tremendous power. I'll have to read over about the Suxarine people once more. Get my facts checked."

  He eventually reaches the entrance to the library, opening the main doors and stepping inside. The quiet, serene atmosphere mixed with the large area within gives a calm feeling over anyone who enters. A beautiful, pleasant smell engulfs the senses, though from where is unknown.

  "What do you mean he just showed up Lyra?" The Zirikey held her tail up to her chin, grinning with beaming eyes.

  "That's not how it went. I had visited Honeycomb village like I usually do. Wanted to check up on everyone, make sure everything was ok. That's when I came across him for the first time. In Ninthara's Inn."

  *croak* "Look alive girls, the serious guys back."

  They both turn to Zelphar, who pulls up a seat to join them. "I've shown Kak-Yak around and have come to two conclusions whilst doing so. One, he is a rather joyous and carefree fellow. Two..." He looks to Lyra, expression serious. "He's secretly more powerful than his personality lets on. No Suxarine has such diverse color schemes as much as he does without being of a certain group of Suxarine. Usually Suxarine only have a specific color scheme and pattern. Again I need to fact check my words, need to go over some things."

  *quick nod* "Yeah. At first i didn't believe it, but came to the conclusion that he's indeed different. Here." She digs into her bag and takes out a book, author who wrote it going by a Ruven Davis. She slides it over to Zelphar for him to study, the elf taking the book and quickly flipping pages. "Me and him fought a powerful enemy together. That day. That moment. I had witnessed him use abilities only Full Moon Suxarine can. Never seen anything like it before." She shakes her head, recounting that day with a long growl. "I don't much care about this so called hidden power of his. He's someone who just wants to do good by being a hero. Protector, same as I. That all that matters in my eyes. Still, he's yet to earn my full trust."

  Grinning, Melvhara flicks her tail to Lyra, pointing at her with said tail. "Seems like you've grown fond of this guy Lyra. Despite your trust issues. Pfft, i don't care about silly hidden powers either, what I care about is Lyra getting a new pal!"

  "That's what I said earlier!! Told Lyra that Shrieeks is out doing his singing thing. Sooooo for a good replacement this Suxarine fellow can be her new pal! And hey! Maybe him and Shrieeks could meet up one day, talk about how they both managed to make friends with the quiet girl hehehehehe."

  Lyra growls lowly, not at all pleased by the teasing of both Vielvex and Melvhara, the two laughing in unison. While this goes on Zelphar study's a certain page going over Full Moon Suxarine. Pretty safe to say all his words previously were proven correct. "You two stop the teasing. Lyra is a very guarded individual. No matter how joyful and friendly this so called Kak-Yak is, he still needs to earn Lyra's full trust. No matter how long it will take him. It's up to him if he wishes to break her shell fully." With a gentle close of the book, he slides it back over to Lyra. "Anyways Lyra. I've took note of how you didn't bother taking the fast ways of travel using any Skylvereek, horseback or even the many Travel stations. So i suggest heading to your room to get some needed rest. It's the same as you've left it. Bed and all."

  At first she was going to voice her non tiredness. However the mention of her old room quickly changes her mind. "Fine. Need rest anyways."

  *loud croak* "Speaking of rest. How's your sleep been? Any restless nights as of late?"

  "Some. But only a few. Especially with you out of the way."

  "Hey!!!"

  Lyra chuckles lowly, paw covering small smile. "You know, I've missed you three. And when Aurora gets back, it'll make four."

  "Don't get all sentimental with us Lyra! Go on love, get some rest. I'll be sure to make something special for you when you awake!"

  *simple nod from Zelphar*

  *Croak* "And I'll be the spy the guild has always relied on. We all know I'm the best one!" He flys up, making a circular motion. "Come come, I'll escort you to your room! Like a knight!! Although Ravens can't be knights...pfft, one can dream thought am I right?"

  Springing from her seat, Melvhara flashes a bright smile, tail flowing quickly in the air. "Alright. I'm heading back to the cafeteria. Gonna go cook a LARGE batch of...I dunno, something. See ya!!!"

  The three watched the joyous Zirikey exit, leaving only three. "I'll stay within the library. See you two."

  Lyra nodded, standing up with a small smile. Both her and Vielvex left the library, the Raven leading her towards the large living area of the guild. Much like the other locations within the guild, it was pretty and filled with the signature colors of the guild. Members left in and out, some even simply hanging outside the area as they chatted. Along with this were two guardsman chatting.

  "There is no way you just said the guild leader is, and I quote, as beautiful as a star. You are so lucky she is off visiting the fighters guild."

  "Have you SEEN her?! She's so pretty. If only she wasn't already with that one guy."

  "Talking about Leo, leader of the fighters guild. You know he's half human right?"

  "What?! I thought he was a Wolfian!"

  "He is. It's just that his parents are a Wolfian Human combination. Which then led to him being born. So yeah. Wild."

  "...How does that work? You know the whole interspecies thing?"

  "What do you mean? The intimate stuff?"

  "Duh."

  "No idea. Ask Zelphar, he's got the knowledge of that more detailed stuff."

  "Na, it'd be too weird. It's like asking your parents where babies come from."

  "Not really. Hold on, I just thought of something."

  "What?"

  "What would the offspring of a Prilvorvial and human be?"

  "Good question. Wait, can that even work?"

  "No idea. It's why I'm asking you!"

  "How would I know? I don't even think it'd work in all honesty. Ok, let's think about it like this. A Prilvorvial and human love each-other and they want to make a child together. Do we even know if that's actually possible with the thick bulky scales and armor that they have? Naturally?! Also they are just better elementals!! They literally can use ANY core element as a weapon. So what if the Prilvorvial in question accidentally injured their partner with any of the many elements?"

  "Good point good point."

  The two guards notice both Lyra and Vielvex slowly approach, immediately returning to stand guard. "Oh! It's Lyra! Welcome back Lyra."

  "Hey hey, Lyra!"

  She stops, giving a small bow. "You two again. It's been a while."

  "That it has. Don't worry, nobody's entered your room while you were gone. Not like that's an issue given the amount of space we have here. Anyways, go on in Lyra. And I guess you as well birdbrain."

  Lyra and Vielvex enter, being greeted by the familiar scent and decor of the inside. Not having to walk far, she takes a few steps up towards a door, digging into her waist belt to take out a key. With a deep breath and tapping paw, she puts the key into the hole, turning to open the door. Almost immediately her senses are greeted with the familiar scent of berries and scented candles. She steps inside, closing the door behind her as she observes the room.

  "I made sure to always make your room smell good Lyra. The least i could do."

  *nod* "Thank you."

  Vielvex perched himself onto...well, a bird perch. Though it was crafted specifically for ravens. Lyra began to kick off her boots and take off her travel clothing. She next took off her equipment belt and sat it onto a nearby table, humming to herself. Her gentle, soothing voice brought back life to the room as she gathered newer clothing to put on.

  "I'm taking a bath. Don't interrupt me with your annoying voice."

  "Pfft, yeah, as if I'd interrupt. Go into the bathroom already you troll smelling wolf."

  With an eye roll, she entered the bathroom, promptly setting her changing clothes down as she looked at herself within the mirror. Her purple eyes were indeed a stark difference from her black and brown fur. She briefly smiled, showing off her razor sharp fangs as she gently chomped down in slow motions. At the end of the day, it was her. And it will always be her. Sharp fangs and all.

  ...

  Semi-asleep, Vielvex jerks awake once the door opens once more, Lyra stepping out with a new change of clothes, her fur polished and blending well with her new attire. She waste no time in heading to bed, grabbing a book from her dresser drawer to read before heading to bed.

  "Really? The aspects of nature? THAT'S the book you picked?"

  "Be quiet, as if you'd know the beauty of nature."

  "I am a BIRD. Of course I know the beauty of nature!!" *croak* "I don't have the energy to get into this, I'm going to try and rest now. Have fun reading your boring book Miss boring bore!"

  She rolls her eyes, beginning to read the book she picked out. The atmosphere was quiet, calm and peaceful. Much like nature to an extent. Although most wouldn't see it. Lyra though. She's one who would.

  Roughly half an hour had past before she began to get drowsy, yawning and setting aside the book onto the nightstand. With a deep sigh, she turned onto her side and held a pillow close, promptly entering a deep sleep as she wraps her tail around herself in comfort.