Chapter 110: Inner City
Finally!
Riku wanted to leave immediately, but held back for some reason. Something told him that things might not go as smoothly. He had to take precautions.
He watched Lila and Elara chatting by the window, sharing a piece of fruit, their laughter filling the small, dusty room.
A profound sense of protectiveness washed over him, but it was coupled with a practical thought. This rundown inn, a place of shadows and secrets, had served its purpose. They deserved better. And more importantly, their expanding operation required a more suitable base.
Internally, however, a cold fear still gnawed at him. The laboratory, Malakor... I can’t let them anywhere near that. If something happened to them... I wouldn’t be able to control myself.
Just the thought was terrifying.
"Lila, Elara," he began, a warm smile on his face, "I’ve been thinking. We’ve been through a lot, and this inn, while cozy, isn’t exactly a place for long-term recovery. How about a change of scenery?"
Lila’s eyes lit up. "A change of scenery? Where are we going? A fancy new inn?"
"Even better," Riku said. "I spoke with Baron Charles. He insists we use Hummer Manor as our base of operations while we’re in Luxia. Proper beds, good food, and a secure place to coordinate everything." He paused, looking at them both. "You’ve earned a bit of luxury. And frankly, it’s a much better place for you to rest properly."