The rest of the trip went by in relative silence, Ferma losing her âsparringâ partner and forced to entertain herself amongst the now stoic members of the Red Wolves. Looking around their expressions, she had the feeling she hadnât made a good impression on them, varying degrees of annoyance and contempt on each of their faces. Well, it wasnât like it mattered. After today, the chances of them seeing the Red Wolves were next to none, so it didnât matter what they thought of her.
As they made their way to meet the last of the Red Wolves, Fermaâs attempt at an introduction was interrupted by the little Bianca shoving her way past towards the only other female of the group. Ferma mumbled a little incoherently to herself in annoyance, remaining quiet until the opportunity for her to speak arose, stepping forward.
âWell, I AM as valuable as two women, but itâs just me. Ferma Clerven of the Blade Wings - Iâll be your temporary travel guide.â Rapping her lance on her shoulder twice, Ferma stretched and moved over to the wall, going into a lean as she waited for Arturâs return. She contemplated making conversation with one of the strangers, looking over each of them, but for the most part everyone seemed to be keeping to them and hard to approach. Breathing a puff of air that flipped her fringe from her eyes, she decided not to let it rile her too much. She didnât need to be proving herself to these guys.
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Korin unfolded his arms at the sight of a figure approaching down the road, and after taking a moment to confirm it was Lindell, made his approach to meet her half way. Though his initial concern was for her, the lack of Ferma was slightly worrying â Had that girl gotten herself into trouble again?
Lindell gave a slight wave as she approached, chuckling nervously as she rubbed the back of her head. Itâd probably take a bit of explaining to Korin for this one. He wasnât the kind to like these social events, but she was certain he would agree considering what the Red Wolves had done.
âNow, before you ask, Iâm fine, and so is Ferma. Juke is with her back in town.â Lin started with reassurance as Korin stopped up next to her before matching her pace, continuing with her back to the encampment.
âYou had me worried. It shouldnât have taken that long to get supplies.â Korin took the time to look over Linâs slightly messy hair and dusty clothes. Something had happened at some point, and Linâs expression wasnât exactly the best for keeping secrets.
âWell, youâre right about that. We kind of stopped for some fun⊠And, well⊠Got involved in an ambush on the way backâŠâ Lin chuckled some more, before Korinâs stern expression indicated she was to continue.
âDonât give me that look. You know we can handle ourselves.â Lin poked out her tongue, but it didnât provoke a cheery response from Korin. Instead, she decided to just continue her tale.
âAnyway, we were making our escape when another Mercenary group came to our aid: The Red Wolves. Turns out theyâre pretty nice people, and, after their help I invited them back to stay the night with us. Fermaâs with them now so she can show them the way back.â Lindell smirked at the end from Korinâs surprised expression, giggling a bit. It was funny seeing him put out of his comfort zone.
âAnd you did all this without my permission?â Korin sighed, holding his head a moment. âI donât suppose we can turn them back, can we?â
Another giggle from Lin. âNo, not really. Besides, you want to thank them too, donât you?â
Korin nodded. âI am grateful youâre both okay. Very well, speak to Barryn about preparing enough food. Iâll see to it we set up some tents for our guests.â
Lindell smiled as they entered the base, giving Korin a quick kiss on the cheek as she darted inside. âThanks so much, Commander!â Giving a wink, she went off to find Barryn, while Korin simply shook his head, a slight smile on his face.