The First Clues of a Missing Truth

"This one is a B-rank mission posted by the city guards regarding the investigation of people who have recently gone missing from the capital," Lily explained, her voice calm yet tinged with concern as she placed the mission slip on the counter for the group to review.

The five of them exchanged thoughtful glances. The room bustled faintly with adventurers entering and leaving, their chatter filling the air like a soft hum. After a brief silence, Adam spoke, his tone measured. "It's an investigation. Seems like a good choice for our first mission."

Emilia nodded, excitement battling shyness as her voice trembled slightly. "I agree—it's something we can handle."

Claire gave a small, approving nod, while Casial grinned broadly. "Then it's settled! Let's take it."

Lily smiled, her gaze scanning their eager expressions. "I think this mission will suit you well—especially since it might be straightforward for your first attempt," she added encouragingly.

With the mission accepted, the group thanked Lily for her guidance and stepped out of the guild. The grand building loomed behind them, its tall marble pillars and intricate engravings catching the fading light of the evening sun.

"So, how should we start this investigation?" Casial asked, his energy bubbling as usual.

Adam rubbed his chin thoughtfully before suggesting, "How about splitting up to ask around the city? We might cover more ground that way."

"Let's do it," Aqua said firmly, his tone filled with resolve. Claire chimed in with agreement, adding, "We'll regroup at the city center afterward."

With the plan decided, the group dispersed, each heading in separate directions to begin their search. The streets of the capital stretched before them, alive with activity even as evening descended. Vendors packed away their goods, street performers concluded their acts, and townsfolk hurried home beneath the growing amber glow of lanterns.

Hours passed, yet Aqua and Claire found little success. By the time they reunited at the bustling city center, the sun was already sinking beneath the horizon, casting long shadows across the cobblestone square. Aqua stood quietly, his gaze fixed on the sunset. The fiery hues of orange and red painted the sky, illuminating his face with a soft glow. His black eyes shimmered like stars as the sunlight reflected in them, making him appear lost in thought.

Claire's curiosity piqued as she observed him. "Aqua, what are you thinking?" she asked gently, her voice breaking the silence.

Aqua turned to her, his expression tinged with melancholy. "I was thinking about Ray," he admitted softly.

Claire chose not to probe further, sensing the weight of his thoughts. Instead, she stood silently beside him as they waited for the others to return.

Adam arrived shortly after, his expression neutral as he shook his head. "No leads," he said, disappointment evident in his tone.

From another direction, Casial and Emilia came running toward them. Casial's face lit up with excitement as he waved and called out, "We found something!"

Aqua's attention snapped toward them, his black eyes narrowing slightly in focus. "What did you discover?"

Casial, unable to contain his enthusiasm, explained, "While we were investigating, we found that most of the missing people are either children or homeless. And—get this—Emilia's wind spirits discovered traces of blood near one of the locations where people disappeared. The blood has a hint of strange mana!"

Emilia nodded shyly, clutching the container holding the sample.

Aqua stepped forward, his voice steady. "Can you show me the sample? I have a way of detecting the source of mana."

Casial held up the container and smirked. "I thought we might need Mother's help, but it looks like you've got us covered, Aqua."

Aqua reached into his coat, activating a circular device from his subspace artifact. The artifact gleamed faintly as he held it up. "This device can analyze mana sources. Let's see what it finds."

The group gathered around Aqua, anticipation thick in the air as the evening deepened. The faint glow of lanterns scattered across the square added a layer of mystery to the unfolding investigation.