Here's a short snippet from the chapter that just dropped. Guildmaster Arlen reconnects with a former party member:
It wasn’t until the path began to dry under their feet that Arlen finally spoke.
“You know,” he said thoughtfully, “I always thought you’d stick with Jared. After the Valorbound Pact split.”
Elena didn’t answer immediately. She flicked a clump of swamp gunk from her sleeve and kept walking.
“Honestly?” she said at last, voice light but honest. “So did I.”
Arlen raised a brow at her. She gave a half-shrug, like the truth wasn’t complicated, just heavy.
“Adventuring was good. More than good, most days. But Jared…” She waved vaguely at the misty trees around them.
“He wanted to build something lasting. To be a symbol. And me?” A crooked smile tugged at her mouth. “I wanted to keep moving. Tinkering. Brewing. Blowing things up for the greater good.”
“You were useful,” Arlen said, sincere. “You still are.”
Elena snorted. “I’m useful like a firecracker in a library. Memorable, sure. Just not always... appreciated.”
