Chapter 14: New Adventurer Bern (12). Desperation
After leaving Renya to take care of the clean-up, Bern escorted Blanca back to the inn where she was staying.
Immediately after the battle, Blanca had been stunned and speechless at Bern’s words and actions. But as time passed, her expression grew darker, and now, it was obvious to anyone that she was openly displaying a deep sense of melancholy.
Bern scratched his cheek and spoke to Blanca.
“You don’t seem to be in the best state today. Why don’t you get some rest, and we’ll meet tomorrow? I’ve reserved the room next to yours, so if anything comes up, I’ll be able to respond right away. Please rest easy—”
“Bern. Wait, can you spare some time?”
Blanca interrupted, looking at him with a determined expression in her eyes.
Bern hesitated for a moment, then sat back down in the chair.
Blanca’s story began.
***
Blanca’s mother had been a mage.
This wasn’t some metaphor about how a child might see their parents as magical figures.
Her mother really did spit fire from thin air, and could heal others just by touching them.