Chapter 30 - The Smug One Is Back
Incredible. Absolutely incredible.
That very night, the news arrived through Lily, no less. Commander Thalos had delivered on his word. Tave had officially been granted a place in the squad. Lily shared the update just as she herself received the final list of those selected for the expedition.
Tave felt a surprising wave of gratitude swell in his chest. Commander Thalos had done it. He'd actually made it happen. He granted Tave's special request.
But... why?
What did the man stand to gain by helping him?
Surely, it was just part of his duty as a Knight Commander. He shook the suspicion off. Enough with the paranoia, Tave.
As long as he kept his eyes open, tracked every subtle shift, watched every detail. He wouldn't drop his guard. Not even for a second.
Preparations moved quickly. And by early morning, Tave and Lily stepped out together once more, joined by Fang, heading for their final meeting with the squad. The Rift Expedition was now in motion.
In truth, it was an emergency deployment. The previous group of adventurers tasked with the Rift had failed catastrophically. They were completely wiped out. The Rift was nearing expiration. If not conquered soon, it would collapse outward and unleash far worse consequences. Time was running out.
"It was a smart move to sign up with me, you know," Lily said, walking a step ahead of him, voice casual but pointed.
"Yes, Lil... this is my first Rift Expedition. Of course I'd want to go with someone I trust the most," he replied smoothly. "And I couldn't think of anyone better than my own little sister."