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As the sun set, casting a golden hue over the land, two young Rangers stepped into the local Fire Brew Tavern. Freshly graduated from the Ranger Academy, they stood on the precipice of their separate paths. The first was a striking young woman, her short brown hair framing a face that mirrored her vibrant eyes. The second was a man who seemed to have stepped out of a legend, his dark hair and eyes adding to his allure. His rugged features and resonant voice were a magnet for attention.
However, the two were only friends, not a couple. They'd been pals since they were young and had mutual respect. Courtship would never cross their young minds. The young lady uncovered a table while the fine-looking male went to the bar to pick up their beverages and a late dinner. Ten minutes later, he returned to their table. He'd brought them fruit cocktails and roasted pheasant to enjoy their last night together.“You're unbelievably kind, Alban,” the brunette replied as she placed her napkin on her lap. Her friend only smiled before answering.
“You're worth it, Kaina,” Alban replied thoughtfully as they savored their dinner. However, the weight of their impending separation hung in the air, a silent question that Alban couldn't ignore. “Kaina, are you certain you must seek out your sister Laurinya? From what you've said, her path is fraught with danger.”
Kaina sighed, “I feel it in my soul that I must locate her. Her own quest is far too treacherous. Moreover, my dreams have told me for the last month that we must find each other. It is just discovering a starting point that will be the most challenging.”
“Well, if we are destined to go our own ways, let's make the most of the sweet final days. I want us to look back on the memories with pride. Just remember you don't have to do everything on your own. Friends are always there for you. I'll always be there for you. So don't ever believe you're alone or must do it all alone.”
“That means a lot coming from you, Alban. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Do you think they have crisp pink apple tarts? I want to enjoy one for dessert tonight. Somehow, they always cheer me up.”
“I'll go ask, as I'm also fond of that dessert,” the attractive young man said as he returned to the bar and snagged the last two pink apple tarts. Kaina thanked him profoundly. As the evening wore on, the pair continued to converse about their favorite memories of the Academy and their dreams for the future they hoped to create. They also promised to remain friends to the end. Unfortunately, it soon came time to say the hardest word ever, “Goodbye.” So, as they rode off into the night, they prayed this goodbye wasn't their last.