A green guide

In the morning, after breakfast everyone gathers at the edge of town. Daigo is waiting, and smiles as you approach. “Ruka will meet us in the forest. She can guide you through Ellon.”

You nod. “We should get going, then. I’m worried about things happening behind us while we’re out here.”

Daigo nods his agreement. “I heard of the splitting of the Allied Kingdoms. Bad news, and only plays in the demon lord’s favor. But with the dwarves and Mermouthia on your side, I would imagine that you have the upper hand.”

“For now. But if the demon decides to turn his attention back here, we’re in trouble if he recruits them.”

“Fair enough. Let’s go, then.”

Your group walks into the forest, with Daigo leading you down a narrow path. After maybe a half an hour, you’re stopped by what appears to be a wall of vines. Daigo chuckles.

“Ruka likes to make an impression on new people. You would think she would have outgrown that by now.”

He places a hand on the vines and calls out. “Ruka! The mage you wanted to meet so badly is here, with his girls.”

At his words, the vines unwrap and slither away, revealing a small clearing. Standing in the clearing, striking a rather dramatic pose, is a dryad.

You look at her as you approach, noticing that her skirt and top are made of still-living plants. In one hand she holds a staff of gnarled wood, and the other is lit with a green light as she pulls the vines away magically. Her green, elfin face is framed by long green hair and green eyes watch your approach. Her sizable chest is barely contained by her leafy top, which also revealed her toned midriff. Her skirt covers her wide hips and drops to just above her knees, showing off her shapely legs just a little.

You smile as you approach. “Hello Ruka. I am the magus Josh, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

You hear a squeal from behind you, and Maya bounces up. “Ruka! It’s Maya! Remember me?”

Ruka’s face lights up in a smile and she steps forward and hugs Maya. “Little Maya, all grown up! Look at you! And Daigo told me you’re with this Magus now. It’s part of the reason I wanted to join him...”

You smile. “Part of the reason?”

Ruka nods. “It’s...it’s been hard to be a dryad on the border with the demon lord. Of my circle of sisters, I am the last. The rest have fallen. You are my chance to strike back.”

Ruka gestures to your group. “You represent the strongest group outside his realm, and you’re all a family, according to Daigo. I need to be a part of that. I am alone, and without significant power. Would you accept me in your family?”

You chuckle. “Of course. Even without the nudge from our little seer over there, you deserve a chance at happiness. Welcome, Ruka.”

Ruka’s eyes go wide. “That easily?”

You nod. “Daigo speaks for you, and he’s basically my father in law at this point. More importantly, Maya is your childhood friend, and I trust her with my life. So welcome!”

Maya giggles and hugs Ruka. “Yay! Buddies again! And maybe more than that...”

Maya whispers in Ruka’s ear, and you see the dryad gasp and giggle. “Well, I’m definitely going to have fun with this group!”