Aria

As I followed Jessinia back into the abandoned streets of Tirovna, I couldn't help but feel a sense of emptiness in this once bustling city. The buildings around us were in disrepair, their broken windows and crumbling walls a testament to the neglect they had suffered over the centuries. The only sounds that echoed through the air were the soft footfalls of our boots on the cobblestone road and the occasional screech of a bird in the distance.

We soon came upon a small street corner where a few vendors had set up shop. The vendors themselves seemed to be just as weary as their surroundings, their faces lined with wrinkles and their eyes dull with exhaustion. They were few and far between, and their wares were sparse, but it was clear that they made a living off the few settlers who lived in this part of the city.

"We should be able to find what you need here," Jessinia said, her voice breaking the silence. I watched as she approached one of the vendors, a small smile on her face. She struck up a conversation with the vendor, and I was amazed at the ease with which she haggled for the items we needed. Within minutes, she had managed to secure a few pieces of clothing and some toiletries for me, all for free.

As we continued down the row of vendors, I couldn't help but be awed by Jessinia's ability to get what we needed without spending a single coin. It was clear that she was well-known and well-liked in this part of Tirovna, and that her reputation preceded her.

At the last vendor, Jessinia produced a small gold coin and used it to purchase a few food items. The vendor's eyes lit up at the sight of the coin, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of gratitude towards Jessinia for her generosity.

As we exited the store, the cacophony of the marketplace slowly faded away. Jessinia led me through the labyrinthine streets and alleyways, and after some time, we arrived at a dimly lit building that hummed with energy. The noise coming from the pub grew louder as we approached, with the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses spilling out onto the street.

Inside, the pub was packed with people, all enjoying themselves in various ways. The air was thick with the smell of ale, sweat, and smoke. The low lighting and the flickering candles on the tables created a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Jessinia led me to a small table in the corner of the room, where we settled in and ordered drinks. I sipped my ale and looked around, taking in the scene. People of all kinds were here, talking, laughing, and dancing. I felt a sense of excitement, as if anything could happen.

As the night wore on, Jessinia introduced me to a man named Marcus. He was a tall, muscular man with a warm smile, and he seemed genuinely interested in getting to know me. He explained that he was a scholar who had spent many years studying in the knowledge district of Tirovna, and he offered to take me on a tour the next day.

I was thrilled by the opportunity, and eagerly accepted Marcus's invitation. As the night continued, the three of us chatted and laughed, and I found myself enjoying the company of these two strangers. I felt like I was beginning to make friends in this new place, and the prospect of exploring the city with Marcus filled me with excitement.

As Marcus and I chatted, Jessinia excused herself and slipped away to speak with a tall, dark stranger who had been watching us from across the room. The stranger's face was partially hidden in the shadows, but Jessinia seemed to know him, and she leaned in to whisper something in his ear.

I couldn't hear what they were saying, but I couldn't shake the feeling that something important was being discussed. I watched as the two of them finished their conversation and the stranger disappeared into the crowd.

As the night wore on, the conversations eventually drew to a close. Jessinia turned to me and asked if I felt safe in Tirovna. I hesitated for a moment before admitting that I didn't feel completely secure. I had heard rumors of danger in the city, and I was nervous about walking the streets alone.

Jessinia nodded sympathetically and offered to accompany me to the mall the next day to purchase weapons or other means of protection. I felt a sense of relief wash over me, knowing that I wouldn't have to face the dangers of the city alone.

As the night came to a close, Jessinia led me back to my apartment. The two of us chatted about our plans for the next day as we walked, and I felt a growing sense of excitement for the adventures that lay ahead.

When we arrived at my apartment, Jessinia gave me a warm hug and wished me good evening. "I'll come by an hour after sunrise in the morning, Aria," she said, and kissed me on the cheek. And then she was gone.