”PAT. PAT. PAT PAT PAT. PAT. PAT. PAT PAT PAT PAT PAT PAT.” My eyes jutted open at the sound of rain, probably only getting an hour of sleep at this point.

”PAT. PAT. PAT PAT PAT. PAT. PAT. PAT PAT PAT PAT.” The wall reverberated through each impacting raindrop. “Why does the rain have to be so loud?” I asked no one in particular.

Looking out the window, the rain obscures the view, showing no signs of stopping. “Hope this doesn’t ruin my plans to leave, so…” Before I finished, something stood out from my mana sense, for the fifth time. The others being Stool, the light crystal in Pioneering Merchant, the turbulent mana in the center of Greycott, and the turbulent ‘mana man.’

Not the turbulent mana of said nightmares, but something quite familiar. The bubbly sphere formed in the distance, existing peacefully with the surrounding mana. It gathered around, being sucked in as it got close through natural regeneration. Without hindrance or disturbance.

Just like my own. A mana core.

I sensed two mana cores, moving up and down as they approached the Inn, following a natural movement. The natural movement of a walking human.

They entered the building and my senses only made the core’s clearer as they got closer, jubilant and free flowing, exactly like mine. Smaller than my own, but something to understand or someone to ask.

I placed my hand on my chest, feeling my heart pound as I sat up, understanding what’s before me. ‘The turbulent mana man’ is all but bad news, but this is… different, but good? Or, more importantly, is it worth the risk to figure out more?

The mana cores enter the Inn, shuffling over to the lobby's edge before stopping.

Oh boy, looks like they're staying here for some time. Do I go look for them? It’s not like the man I met at Pioneering Merchant, so they might be good. Well, good as in not messing up my insides by their mere presence.

It’s also the first time I’ve felt a mana core besides my own. ‘The turbulent mana man’ might have had a core, but it was impossible for me to sense one in all the chaotic mana.

Every grain of information I can get now is worth its weight in… books? They're valuable, right? I took a second to think before adorning my armor, a decision already made. “Gotta be prepared for anything, and I ain’t fighting half dressed again.”

I opened my door, peeking down the hallway. I knew they weren’t there, but I couldn’t help myself. Rule number whatever; There’s always someone watching. I took each step with the balls of my feet, afraid any noise would give me away. It wasn’t needed in any sense, but I was getting nervous, recalling the memories from just a few days ago.

Despite my efforts to remain quiet, the rustling of my armor and the cracking of the wood planks prevented any silence, but I continued.

The moisture from the rain stuck to the planks, making my shoes slick on the ground. Butterflies build in my stomach, but not the ‘nightmares’ ones, but one from my nerves. If everything goes well, I could gain a better understanding of what having a mana core means; whether I’m put on a list, captured for being too much of a risk, or any other shenanigans.

My next steps took me down the stairs, and the packed lobby revealed itself. Not as bad as when I first entered, but several groups were laying on the ground, trying to sleep, while others were awake and conversing in small groups. The rain's pink noise drowned out anything beyond a few lengths.

Kinda unfortunate for them, but thank mana, I got into a room. Would’ve been a mess otherwise. The lack of sleep would’ve made tomorrow's journey, ‘escaping the city,’ quite arduous, and In fact, I’m surprised someone didn’t offer something for my room.

The ruckus from last night could have something to do with it. Who would want to share a room with someone who fought for it after all? That’s not what technically happened, but it's probably how it looked from the outside.

As I looked around, I saw the two ‘room stealers’ from earlier. They’re sleeping along the wooden bench seats in the corner. Probably the best place in the lobby as it gets them off the floor. Hurack's colossal form leaned part way off the bench, but he somehow stayed balanced. The sister, on the other hand, fits comfortably along the bench, right next to him.

My thoughts were a little sour, but hey, at least they were apologetic and left when she realized who was in the wrong. I’m not really holding a grudge, but they definitely lost a few points in my book.

[?]

[?]

At least worth a shot.

[Identify Soul] fails, but I hurry my gaze across the lobby to the actual targets. 3 individuals sat at the table, 2 of which had the mana cores from a minute ago. The cores were happy as the particles moved around with joy, but they’re a bit sluggish near their cores, at least compared to mine. Not exactly the same, but close enough.

The mana cores aside. Something immediately caught my attention. The 3 wear a standard beige cloak, covering most of their form. As they talked between each other, a small piece of metal shined through the front gap.

A small pin, one of two crescent moons, one black and the other white.

…

I gulped, my heart dropping, leaving a void in my chest. The exact symbol that was on Hollow's book and the ring on my finger.

What! I looked down at my hand, confirming the same symbol that lies upon it.

…

It’s the same…

…

I shook my head. Come on, Ayla, get your thoughts together.

It could be a complete coincidence considering the time that passed, but I can’t take that risk. If they see my ring, it will create more questions than I’m willing to answer and considering my luck, they’ll probably kill me thinking that I stole something from them or whatever group they're a part of.

Putting those thoughts aside for now, the one without the mana core had a sizable weapon along his back. Not really the best with weapons, but it looked like a massive sword as the handle sticks up past the shoulder. Sheathed in a cloth, but the handle itself looked impressive enough with a roughed leather wrap.

The other 2 individuals were more of a mystery. One had nothing resembling a melee weapon, while the other had a much smaller sword sticking past the cloak. Remember Hollows notes, mana is the force that powers everything, so its possibilities are endless.

Ok, ok, ok, ok. You got this, Ayla. Just try to get some information. Even if it’s only a small amount, it’s better than nothing. I can’t keep to myself forever and they don’t seem too important that I’d gain the wrong type of attention.

I took my last step off the stairs and approached them. They were sitting around a corner table talking about something, but the rain obscured whatever it was. Probably the painful rain, given that they needed The Withering Spoon’s shelter. I twisted the ring on my finger, moving the symbol out of direct sight and towards my palm, preventing any unfortunate accidents. And considering how still everything was in the lobby, I stood out as my feet taped along the floor.

That proved clear, as the one with the short sword turned slightly to face me. His eyes remained hidden beneath the shadowed hood, making my steps hesitate. Soon, the others, yet to turn, joined. I was too committed to turn around and, with the direct stares, even more so.

Regret filled my mind as my heart practically jumped out of my chest. One mana core individual reached over and placed their hand on the turned shoulder of the short sword guy. He turned and made a nod with his hood fluctuating, then turning back.

Now at the table with everyone looking at me, I start. “Do you have time to answer some of my questions?” Upfront and honest, the less of a threat I appear to be, the better. They don’t respond, just staring back with their hidden expressions, probably expecting something else than just a, ‘hey, how's it going, kinda confused about the world, care to help me out?’

The silence grew before the short sword one turned around and eyes his companions. They nod and he spoke. “Sure, join us at the table.” He said with a smooth and precise voice. I breathed a sigh of relief and sat in the only open chair. The butterflies remain, but at least the doors opened. As I sit, the others scoot their chairs to face me more directly.

Ok, ok, ok. I was here, but there was a problem. I didn’t think this far ahead. Not even sure how to form my question.

I could straight up ask about the pin on their apparel, but then I’d be giving my agenda away immediately. It could turn dangerous with that question, so I’ll need to be careful and take my time.

“I’m Alysia, a [Villager].” I said, but to be met with only silence. Oh, come on. Give me something to work with! I can’t carry this all by myself.

“Do… do you mind if… if you all introduce yourself? Ahh.” I waved my hands a little. “You don’t have to, bu… but it would be nice.” At least I got the words out, but come on, Ayla, stop stuttering. They give a quick look at themselves before the short sword guy responds.

“I’m Isaac.” After the statement, Isaac points around the table as he introduces everyone. “Garnot is the one with the great sword.”

“Hey.” Garnot responded.

“And the other one is.” He pointed to the other.

“Royse.” She said, cutting Issac off by introducing herself with a quick wave.

You got this, Ayla, just don’t stutter, but before I could get going, the words stopped in my throat.

I wanted to hide my intentions to not seem too obvious or reveal something I shouldn’t, but that was stupid. I wasn’t an actor or really capable enough to ‘smooth talking’ my way through this. I’d probably seem like an idiot with bad intentions, so I’ve changed my mind. Better just ask outright. If I try to wordsmith my way through, it’ll only make it worse. “Ahhhhh.” I let out a sigh with some looks from the others.

They seemed nice enough, considering their willingness to answer my questions, so let's go right for it. “I… I…. I don’t know if this is off… offensive, but wh.. what does the pin on your apparel mean?” COME ON AYLA, ALL YOU HAD TO DO WAS NOT STUTTER!

“Do you not know what it means?” Issac said, with the tilt of his head.

Come on, already giving myself away.

It seemed that even as a [Villager], it should be known. Regardless, this is the first time I’m seeing the pin out in the wild, granted that I haven’t been in the wild for long, but it should count for something.

Just be honest and ask. “I know little about the world, since I’ve kinda been by myself. It just caught my eye when I walked down the stairs, so I had to ask.”

He thought for a second before responding. “Ah yes, I guess that makes enough edense.” He repositions himself on his chair, taking a more formal stance. “We're a part of Barren Moons. Our purpose is quite simple, in nature at least. We seek the truth and to carry that information past time itself and make sure things… are kept that way. Curators of knowledge, if you will.”

The words reminded me of Hollow's introduction letter.

‘I’m an alchemist of sorts, one who focuses on perfecting my craft and bringing knowledge to the world, well, the world among other alchemists, as the countries highly restrict the information.’

He wanted to bring knowledge to the world, but references the countries’ restraints on his information. Was their goal to fight against that? Or something similar?

Considering that 2 of the individuals before me have a mana core, they could have the power to fight against those restraints. Especially if mana gave you the advantage I think it does. Or it could just be a radiance of strength, something as ‘the mere thought’ to serve as a deterrence.

But there's still the problem, how this relates to Hollow. Wasn’t he some sort of hero, so who had control over him? Some sort of gentleman's agreement, or did he spread the knowledge to those who would use it for good?

Wait, this makes little sense. Is the definition of a hero different from what I think it is? He himself said that restrictions limited it to between the other alchemists of his group, a distinction from what a hero status is. Or does a hero mean beneficiary, helping others in a time of need? Were the records about Hollow distorted through time? Not telling the whole truth? Missing context? Hmmmmmm…

There’s also a chance that mana adds more value than just fighting prowess. I can’t remember if Hollow specifically said mana is always power, but from what I’ve seen, I don’t see a reason why it couldn’t do other things.

The statement from Issac is also quite simple, which raised some flags. I can’t recall directly why I think this is with the whole ‘missing memory thing,’ but nothing is ever that simple.

“Barren Moons, how long has it stood?” I raised my next question, aiming to find the truth.

Issac raised an eyebrow in response. “A peculiar one to answer, but it is beyond my knowledge. Ancient is all I can say.” He turned to his side. “You know anything, Royse?”

“Hmmmm, it’s a troublesome question. It’s laughable that even an organization based on carrying knowledge past time itself wouldn’t know, but it’s beyond even our oldest scrolls. A few might know, but not anything we can answer here. But with even that, it's aged past its 5 thousandth year, and probably more. One of our Librarians could carry what you seek, if your interest would last long enough for such a solution.” Royse said.

Well, Yark. That ain’t too far to my 10,000 years, all considered.

“That old?” I asked again.

“Yes.” She states directly.

Ok, I’d say it's a possibility that Hollow’s related at this point it quite likely. Now I really want to know if the ring symbol signifies anything.

If it does, then I need to keep my hand out of view at all costs. The last thing I want is to be mistaken for stealing something or getting involved in who knows what. There might be a way to change the ring's aesthetic, but with it connected to my soul, it isn’t looking likely.

Royse’s suggestion doesn’t sound half bad of talking to a ‘librarian,’ but that may be for the future. I need to leave this city immediately. And I really need to figure out the world before I go asking for favors that may come with hidden costs, so Hollow’s connections can wait. But first, let’s see what else I can get out of this conversation.

“What does the pin signify?” Since I couldn’t ask directly, I got as close as possible.

“Ohhhhhh.” Issac lets out a surprised voice, leaning forward. “You aren't just some [Villager], are you?” And for once, an oil lamp was in just the right position, lighting up the top half of his face. I could see his eyes, focused and clear. It sent a shiver down my spine, not due to ill-intent, but I could feel his power.

His mana core pulsed, radiating mana outward. I couldn’t tell what, but it was moving to his will. It wasn’t the pitiful control I had, but complete control over movement and intent.

Stay calm, stay calm, stay calm, Ayla. They know nothing if you don’t give it away. The last thing they'd suspect is an ancient 10,000-year-old granny sitting before them. I kept my poker face to the best of my ability, at least I hope I did.

He leaned further forward and placed his elbows on the table, the tension building, but before it burst, Royse placed her hand on Issacs shoulder again.

“Issac, stop, you're scaring her.” She said, tightening her grip on his shoulder, her fingers straining.

“Agh.” Issac grunts, leaning back into his chair. “Yes, yes, fine!” Quickly trying to pry off Royse’s hand.

Not gonna ask… Royse quickly removed her hand.

“Ok, to answer your question, the pin signifies our allegiance to the Barren Moons in the simplest of terms, but it does much more than that. It allows us to accomplish our mission by letting others know what we are a part of. It gives power and trust when needed and helps us handle hindrances all the same.”

Hm, simple enough, sounds like there is, at least, some good intent. The name Barren Moons brings power to those associated with it, through fear or awe of what they're capable of. Whether the purpose and execution of the organization's goals are truly ‘good’ has yet to be decided, but it’s a good start.

As I absorbed the information, Royse's head shifted to the side as her chair creaked in response, looking through the wall next to us. I heard her audibly gulp and once again; and she placed her hand back on Issac’s shoulder.

It took a second after the hand placement for Issac to react, but he turned to me and smiled. “Yes, it was a pleasure, but I’m afraid it must end here.” Issac said, strained and barely getting it past his own teeth.

What? That’s… abrupt. Not sure what to think, but I’m glad they even entertained the thought of answering my questions. “Have a good night, then. Thanks for the time.” I said, standing up and walking away.

“Likewise.” Royse said.

The second Ayla left the lobby, Issac turned back to Royse. “What was that for?!” Royse sat back. “We have problems. My senses flared.”

“Ahhh..” Issac let out an unconscious confusion, his face growing cold. “Your senses flared for once? What’s the plan?”

Royse flipped her hand. “You know how it works. I can hardly tell anything, but when it goes, it’s normally something large. Remember the invisible crawlers?”

Issac shivered at the statement. Almost eaten alive as he barely escaped the jaws of one particular big crawler. He still had nightmares occasionally because if there was one thing that could, that thing is giant bugs.

“Ya, how could I forget?” He took a deep breath. “Ok, let’s take care then. What's our mission? It’s probably related to that.” He looked around the lobby before activating [Barricade]. The light surrounding the table shimmers with a soft cloud before returning to normal.

“Remember to be quick, it’ll take 2 days to regenerate the mana for the ability.” Issac closed his eyes, focusing on [Barricade] and the following words.

Garnot leaned forward, mimicking the others attentiveness. “Ok, I hate to bring it up this late, but you know the drill. The investigation target is Elano, the lord or Greycott.”

Silence. Garnot’s eyes opened wide.

“What?” Garnot asks.

“Our goal is to watch his movements, and since we’re here, if my sensing flaring means anything, we’ll head out after this to investigate. We will pull back if we can’t figure anything out, but if we’re successful, we’ll evaluate it and take action if possible. I wish I could have told you guys earlier, but you know the sensitivity of this. One of the vice leaders had some suspicion. He doesn’t know what, but there was an excess of imports over the last months of food products, an amount that would just rot before being useful. And with the current scheduling of squads, it made sense for us to investigate.”

Garnot spoke up. “Must be some suspicion then, even with an excess of food, it could just be something we’re not thinking of. The lord's reputation is stupendous, considering his policies and taxes.” He lets out a sigh. “Regardless, I’ll start looking into that.”

Royce nodded to him. “Yes, you’d fit the role perfectly. I’ll start working on his connections. Who he talks to and when. I already have ideas from the contents of our library, but it’s lacking in content.” She said.

“Ok, but I still can’t believe it… My Ma and Pa wanted to move to the region because of the lord, and that’s despite the challenges of being a border city.” Garnot states.

“Agreed, but we must take all precautions to establish our ambitions. Lay them in stone.” She said, puffing up her chest, then turning to Issac.

“Issac, make yourself obvious, like usual. Visit the upper class area, well, what counts for it in a border city like this. Meet us at the meeting point once you're done. I’ll contact both of you if needed, but we are to have little to no contact until then. Otherwise, we’ll stick out like a sore thumb and that’ll make our job a lot harder.”

Issac nodded, sweat forming along his forehead and the strain showing due to [Barricade]. It was a useful ability, but it required immense concentration with his face turning white. “As soon as the rain subsides, we take action. Questions?”

“The lord’s combat potential?” Garnot said, still unsettled, that his family almost moved out of here.

“We are to only engage if all of us are present. Since we won’t be contacting Issac for a week, we need to group up immediately if a fight is inevitable. Contact use the emergency contact procedures if needed.”

“Understood.” Garnot responded.

Royce turned to Issac. “Ok, Issac, cancel the ability and let's start.”

The light shimmers around the table once again and Issac lets out a breath of air.

The perspiration dripped down Issac’s face with the color that drained now returning. “Come on... can’t you.... be quicker than that?!” He heavily inhales in between his words, leaning on the table.

“How many times have you used that? You should be used to that by now.” Royse responds with a snort.

“You can’t… get used to that… It always sucks.”

“It's part of the job Issac.”

“Ya, ya, ya.” He waved his hand at her, taking a second to compose himself before getting up, moving to the other side of the inn and sitting against the far wall.

The door shut and I was back in my room, plopping onto the bed a second later. I brought my right hand and viewed the black shine of the ring, thinking about what just happened. “Hopefully, this won't attract unwanted attention.”

I shook my head. “The last thing I want is trouble, and I’m afraid this works against that. I should probably cover the ring with something, like wrapping a small cloth around it.” I looked towards my non-existent supplies. “Ya, I ain’t ripping my only spare shirt, so I’ll need to pick up something tomorrow.”

Let's get some sleep, get everything, and leave the city. My ignorance will cause problems if I’m not careful. Things might seem good on the surface, but everything underneath tells a more authentic story.

“Just want to outrun this luck and live a normal-ish life. Whatever that is at this point.”