The Crown's Fire

Back at the tavern, Aurelia gazed in the direction where the black portal had long disappeared, murmuring, "It took all my restraint not to follow you into that portal, but I’m relieved to see you’re back safe with me. I just hope you can overcome whatever it is you’ve been going through, my friend."

"I’m hoping for that too, Aurelia," Tarah muttered back with a sigh. "Hopefully, we can hang out soon without hiding like this. And I’d finally be able to use my true identity."

Aurelia took a sip of wine from her cup and refilled it from the bottle. "So, can we stay up late?" she asked with a grin while munching on some piece of meat.

"Hmm... Let’s just finish this drink and then head out. There’s a celebration at Cordon Castle, and they’ll be expecting you there, right?" Tarah replied. "I’m not sure when we’ll see each other again, but how about breakfast tomorrow?"

"Sounds good!" Aurelia enthusiastically smirked. "I know a great place near the castle with private rooms where we can meet safely."

Tarah chuckled. "Tell me more about yourself then, or we could just save time and—"

She then reached out to touch Aurelia’s hand, but Aurelia quickly pulled away.

"There’s no way I’ll let you delve into my past memories," Aurelia snorted. "You know I hate that."

Tarah laughed, enjoying the playful banter with her friend just like old times.