The cheers of the villagers echo behind them as Vuvi, Pip, Penelo, and Veena trudge down the dirt road and out into the sun-drenched fields of the western countryside.
"Bless you, golden one!" an elderly woman cries, waving a carrot like a flag.
"Save our daughters!" shouts a hoarse old man, before adding under his breath, "and if you have some time, lad, please save our loins, too."
Pip offers a sheepish beep and waves while Vuvi groans beside him.
"I got into alchemy," she mutters, "to avoid fights. And forests. And missing daughters."
Veena strides behind her, unbothered, cloak fluttering in the morning breeze. "You also got into it to prove to the Mystberns you're the best."
"That's different. That was personal."
Penelo skips ahead, bouncing like a bunny in spring.
A while later there were birds fluttering overhead, chirping, and little animals peeking out from the bushes to watch them.
