Usha Again

Ranav and his sisters arrived in the city yesterday. Earlier that day, they had joined Ganesh Deolalikar on a trip to the central street to shop for kitchen and bathroom fittings for their new home. The outing was exhausting, with hours spent finalizing items from Ganesh's meticulously detailed list. However, Camilla and Vivita seemed to relish every moment, eagerly debating tiles and faucets like seasoned interior designers.

After completing the purchases, they bid Ganesh farewell and decided to explore the bustling market. Ranav took his sisters to a clothing store to buy outfits for themselves and their parents. While browsing, a simple wall clock in a decoration shop caught his eye. Its ornate golden frame sparkled in the sunlight, but the price tag… 10 gold… quickly dispelled any thoughts of ownership. Ranav sighed, suppressing his desire, and walked away.

By the time they returned to their rented house, they were utterly spent. The cozy two-story home had sturdy wooden walls and a tiled roof. Its small garden, neatly maintained with vibrant flowers, offered a sense of tranquility. From the courtyard, they could see the imposing structure of the Hunters Guild, a constant reminder of their task the next day… their awakening ceremony.

The house had been arranged by Nanima, who had gone to visit the countess earlier in the day and had yet to return. As they had afternoon snacks at the market, none of them were particularly hungry. They decided to rest and prepare for the significant events awaiting them tomorrow.

Ranav headed to his room on the ground floor. The soft creak of the wooden floorboards under his feet was the only sound breaking the silence. He was about to change his clothes when a strong knock echoed from the front door.

He frowned. "Who could it be at this hour?" he muttered, making his way to the door.

As he opened it, he froze for a moment in surprise. "Usha!" he exclaimed.

"Ranav! Are you the new tenant of this house?" Usha asked, her face lighting up with equal surprise.

"Yes. My master rented this house for four days. But what are you doing here?" Ranav asked.

"This is my uncle's house," Usha explained. "Our house is the one right next door. My uncle lives in the capital, so he rents this place out for short-term stays. As the caretaker, I came to check if you needed anything."

Jessica's voice sounded in Ranav's mind. "Why are you standing at the door like a fool? Invite her in."

Realizing his manners, Ranav quickly stepped aside. "Usha, please come in. Let's sit and talk. It's been so long since we last met."

Usha entered, and Ranav gestured toward the lounge chair. "Please, have a seat. We just got back from shopping, and I'm not sure what supplies we have at the moment. Let me ask my sisters if there's anything we can offer you."

Usha waved him off. "No need for that. You'll be here for a few days… plenty of time for tea and chit-chat. Besides, my house is right next door. I should be the one entertaining you."

Ranav smiled as he sat across from her. "I didn't expect to see you here. It's such a pleasant surprise. You were part of my first mission, and I remember all of you clearly. I have to thank you for the experience."

Usha's expression softened. "I should be the one thanking you. I never got the chance to properly express my gratitude for saving my life that day." She stood up and bowed slightly. "Thank you, Ranav."

Ranav waved his hand dismissively, looking flustered. "What are you doing? There's no need for such formality. Anyone in my position would have done the same."

"Don't downplay your actions," Usha said firmly. "It was your sharp senses and swordsmanship that saved us that day. Without you, Raaz and I might not have survived."

Ranav smiled awkwardly, trying to divert the conversation. "So, how is everyone else doing?"

Usha relaxed in her chair. "The boys are currently out of the city on an escort mission. Rita and I are planning a small herb-collection expedition to the mountains. It's not a dangerous mission, but I was wondering… do you have time to join us?"

Ranav hesitated. "I'm busy tomorrow and the day after. Besides, herb-collecting missions don't pay much. It's better if you two handle it yourselves."

Usha chuckled. "We're not doing it for the pay, Ranav. Herb-collection missions rarely yield the exact herbs we're sent to find, but the journey always brings surprises. We often find rare herbs that sell well at the guild. Besides, I thought it might be a good experience for you. The route is mostly safe, and I could teach you a bit about herb gathering as a small thank-you. My family has run an herb business for generations."

Ranav considered her words, but his hesitation lingered.

Sensing this, Usha added quickly, "It'll just be a day-long trip. We'll ride horses and be back before sunset. You can ride horses, right?"

Ranav nodded. "Yes, I can ride. I even have a horse at the count's ranch. But I'll need to get permission from my master first. Last time, the countess was... less than pleased when I joined a mission without informing her."

Usha smiled. "Fair enough. Let me know once you've spoken to her. Oh, and speaking of your sisters… you said they're here with you?"

"Yes," Ranav replied. "They came to help with the shopping. They'll be returning the day after tomorrow. But I'll stay at the count's house for a few days."

Usha's face lit up. "If they're free, I'd like to invite them over for an afternoon tea party tomorrow. My mother and I would love to host them."

Ranav hesitated. "I'll discuss it with them and my master. I'll let you know by tomorrow."

"Perfect. I'll wait for your answer," Usha said, standing up. "Now, I'll let you rest. You look exhausted."

Ranav walked her to the door, thanking her once more before closing it. He returned to his room, changed into comfortable clothes, and sat cross-legged on the bed. Using Regenesis to remove his fatigue, he decided to start meditating.

Jessica's voice broke the silence. "What do you think about Usha?"

Ranav smiled faintly. "She's kind. She looks out for me like a caring senior. I like her as a friend… or even as a sister."

Jessica's tone grew thoughtful. "Her family has been in the herb business for generations. There might be valuable knowledge in their home library. Building a friendship with her could open doors for us in the future."

Ranav nodded. "You're right. I'll do my best to maintain a good relationship with her. If she's willing to share her knowledge, it could be incredibly beneficial."