Aftermath

You help the panther man to his feet, brushing some of the dirt off him. Victor rubs his jaw as he collects his axe, hooking it back onto his belt. You return your borrowed sword as Ferra and Melora walk up to you. Ferra reaches you first, eyeing you strangely.

“That was a very risky move, Nicholas. That could have easily gone badly for you.”

You smile at the golem girl. “I am aware. It was a calculated risk. I knew I couldn’t beat him without luring him into a mistake.”

Ferra shakes her head. “You shouldn’t take risks like that. It’s too dangerous. Next time yo…”

You cut her off with a kiss, pulling her close. She seems to relax against you, and you hear a cheer from the crowd that you forgot was watching. Breaking the kiss, you see Melora standing in front of you, smiling.

“Very nice, Nicholas, and a well earned victory. Can I receive a similar reward, my champion?”

You chuckle. “If that’s what you desire, of course!”

Melora blushes slightly. “Well, I desire many things, but for the moment this will do.”

With that, she steps closer and kisses you on the lips. It’s a far more chaste than the kiss you had with Ferra, but the crowd whoops all the same. Stepping back, Melora bites her lip a moment, then composed herself, though a smile tugs at the corners of her mouth.

“Perhaps we can discuss more of my desires in private…”

You smile at the blind seer. “I would like that, very much.”

Victor approaches, still rubbing his jaw. A small lump has risen where you hit him, and he’s clearly sore. He looks between you and Melora and sighs, shaking his head. Finally, he extends a hand, and the two of you grasp forearms.

“As I said, well fought, Nicholas. You’re more skilled than I expected, and it cost me. You’re definitely more than the pampered rich kid I took you for.”

You smile. “Well, let’s not go too far. But it was a good fight, you’re very good yourself. I would welcome another try in the future.”

Victor nods. “As would I, but let’s let my jaw heal first. As for Melora, I still don’t approve of her going with you, but as you said, it’s not my decision to make. And at least my worries about her safety are laid to rest.”

Melora laughs. “Don’t act like I’m leaving forever, Victor!”

Victor shrugs. “I’m a cautious person, you know that. So, Nicholas, when do you plan to begin sailing?”

You think for a moment. “The sooner the better, honestly. I’ll need to speak with Captain Ben, he’s the expert.”

Victor nods. “Let me know, I may have some people willing to fill out your crew.”

You smile. “I’ll keep you updated.”

Just then a blaze of fire streaks through the sky, splashing down onto the training field. The crowd, which had already been slowly leaving, scatters in a panic. The fire doesn’t spread, however, instead coalescing into the form of Alex, who giggles as she bounces over to your group.

“Did I miss it? Is the fight over? I overslept!”