Returning to the Group with Melody – 2-1A (End Route-Mirrored)

Chapter 2 Alternate Route 1 – Melody (continued)

Lyria was the first one to spot Kaylen approaching with Melody just a step behind him. “Who’s your friend?” She asked, then narrowed her eyes, “Wasn’t she one of the candidates at the guild?”

“Yes, that’s right.” Kaylen acknowledged. “We ran into each other while I was purchasing supplies, and we had a conversation. She made a somewhat compelling argument for why she could make a good addition to the team.”

“Oh, you’re not replacing someone are you?” She asked, and by that point a couple of the others had lined up alongside her, while Alanthea came forward to examine Melody more directly.

Kaylen chuckled, “Of course not. I figured she can work alongside our existing roster.”

“So two rogues?” Lyria’s skepticism was obvious, and a bit surprising to Kaylen.

“That wasn’t the deal.” Melody cut in. “You agreed to change your party lineup, not simply add to it.”

The girls all looked to him and his reaction. He shook his head, “I agreed to nothing of the sort.” He told her, turning to face Melody. “You should have been more specific if that was what you wanted. You just said you wanted to change my mind about letting you on the team.”

“We’ve already sealed the deal, now you have to hold up your end of the bargain.” She insisted, scowling at him.

“No.” He returned, “If you want on the team, these are the terms.”

“You bastard!” She growled.

“Take it or leave it.” He said, meeting her gaze calmly, and not backing down.

Eventually, she turned and stormed off.

“What did you give her in exchange for being brought on to the team?” Lyria asked.

He shrugged, “It doesn’t matter now.”

Ursa stepped forward, “You’re not giving a very good impression of your leadership and strength of character if you’re going to change up the party at every opportunity.” The half-giant said.

“Then I’ll just have to work harder to earn your trust.” He assured them.

“Give us a moment.” Lyria gathered all the other girls to confer with them, though Alanthea lingered a moment watching the direction Melody had gone. Finally, Kaylen’s sister turned back to him. “We’re going to give you one more chance. Don’t screw it up.”

He sighed, “Very well. Shall we get going then?” The turned as a group to resume gathering their supplies.