Chapter 1 - 7, cooperation with Elf

After a long journey to their temporary home—a modest inn nestled on the outskirts of the bustling town—Saphire, Elara, and little Aria arrived beneath a sky slowly darkening into a cool, tranquil night. The gentle chill in the air, coupled with the exhaustion of a day packed with fierce battles and turbulent emotions, began to settle deep into their bones.

No sooner had they stepped inside than Elara made her way straight to the kitchen, ensuring that dinner was nearly ready, while Aria, still bursting with youthful enthusiasm, leapt onto the soft bed and chattered endlessly about how magnificent "Mama" had been in the arena that day. Saphire only offered a small, tired smile as she listened; the weariness of the long day was already overtaking her. Setting her trusty katana carefully by the door, she sank onto the mattress beside Aria, feeling as though she were melting into its comforting embrace. Elara soon joined them in the room, checking on everything before returning to her own duties.

As the night deepened, Aria's lively storytelling gradually dwindled until the little girl, still clutching Saphire's arm tightly, drifted into a peaceful sleep. Saphire closed her eyes, letting the quiet of the night wash away the remnants of fatigue.

At dawn the next morning, soft beams of sunlight pierced through the window, gently rousing Saphire from her slumber. Ever so careful not to disturb Aria's rest, she rose, freshened up, and dressed in comfortable attire, ready to face a new day with renewed purpose. Over a simple breakfast prepared by Elara, the three shared a few quiet moments. During a brief conversation about the inn's chores, Elara reminded Saphire that if she truly wished to secure a steady income, she needed to head to the guild without delay to pick up a new assignment as an adventurer.

"I know it's risky," Saphire admitted while gathering her gear, "but it's the best way to earn money quickly."

Elara, her eyes reflecting both care and a touch of worry, reassured her, "I'll take good care of Aria. Don't worry about her."

Comforted by the promise, Saphire glanced over at the still-sleepy but happy Aria. "I'll be off for a bit, Aria. Take care of yourself and help Elara, okay?"

With an enthusiastic nod and a small wave of her hand, Aria bid farewell as Saphire stepped out of the inn and made her way to the guild.

Upon entering the guild hall, Saphire was immediately engulfed by a cacophony of voices and activity. Wooden tables, scattered haphazardly throughout the spacious room, hosted clusters of adventurers engaged in serious discussions punctuated by occasional boisterous laughter. The blend in aromas of spiced ale and hearty food filled the air, while one subject dominated nearly every conversation—a growing menace of goblins.

"I heard there are countless goblins roaming near the western valley," remarked one scarred adventurer in a low, firm tone, his companion nodding as he sipped from a wooden mug.

"Yes, they're increasing in numbers. That valley used to be safe, but now... it seems their lair is creeping ever closer to the city," his friend replied, frowning at the grim news.

Drawn to the mission board, Saphire scanned the postings until her eyes caught a detailed notice about a goblin threat in the western valley. The reward was enticing, yet the description warned of a goblin force more organized and aggressive than ever before—hinting at a formidable leader behind the chaos.

Intent on accepting the mission, Saphire's steps faltered as she noticed a striking figure: a beautiful woman with elegantly pointed ears. It didn't take long for Saphire to recognize her as an elf—her delicate features, long wavy blonde hair cascading down her back, and the gentle glow of the morning sun accentuating her serene, determined expression made her stand apart from the usual crowd. The elf's attire was simple yet refined—a green vest layered over a lighter gown—and on the table before her sat a glass of herbal tea still warm to the touch, accompanied by a small wooden bottle sealed tight. The elf, absorbed in studying the mission board, seemed to be searching for someone.

Unable to quell her curiosity, Saphire stepped forward. "Hi, I'm Saphire. You seem to be looking for something."

The elf turned, her smile widening warmly. "You're right. My name is Elenea, and I'm looking for an adventurer to help clear the goblins from the western valley. They've become a serious threat to the local residents."

With keen interest, Saphire replied, "What a coincidence—I was planning to take on that mission as well. Do you have any additional information about them?"

Elenea nodded. "Indeed. There are far more goblins than initially reported. I witnessed it firsthand a few days ago while traveling through that valley. They seem to be constructing something—a larger lair, perhaps. I cannot handle them all on my own, so I need assistance."

After a brief pause to digest the news, Saphire offered, "If you're willing, we can work together. I've had my share of encounters with goblins."

Grateful, Elenea smiled, "That would be immensely helpful. Together, we can stop them before the situation worsens."

Without hesitation, Saphire agreed, "Alright, we'll set out soon. I just need to finish a few preparations, and then we can head to the western valley."

They sealed their agreement with a firm handshake, and Saphire sensed that this partnership might lead to something greater than merely clearing a goblin nest.

After confirming the goblin mission was registered at the guild, Saphire returned to Elenea, who remained seated by the window as the sun's warmth enhanced the glow of her blonde hair.

"Ready?" Saphire asked casually, resting her sword at her waist.

With graceful composure, Elenea stood, smoothing back her wind-tousled hair. "Always ready," she replied softly yet with unmistakable determination. "Shall we head out now?"

"Yes," Saphire nodded firmly, "the sooner we leave, the sooner we can end this threat."

Together, they stepped out of the guild amid curious glances from other adventurers—many surprised to see an elf and a human warrior uniting to fight goblins, especially given Saphire's notorious reputation as "The Deadly Outsider" following her recent martial arts triumph.

As they strolled toward the city gate, Elenea broke the silence, "So, do you often battle goblins?"

"Only a few times," Saphire replied evenly. "Usually, they're not too troublesome—unless their numbers swell beyond control."

Elenea hesitated for a moment. "Well, this time they're quite numerous. I've seen them several times during patrols. They seem to be organizing, perhaps even planning an attack."

Saphire's gaze drifted toward the distant forest. "Then we must hurry before they grow any stronger."

Elenea managed a small smile, albeit with worry in her eyes, "You're right. But I'm confident we can handle them."

Saphire gave a brief, knowing glance. "Don't underestimate them. Goblins may be small, but in large numbers, they're a real disturbance."

Determined, the two set off toward the western valley along a winding path that steadily climbed, bordered by thick, shadowy foliage beneath an overhanging forest canopy. The gentle burble of a nearby stream provided a deceptive serenity, even as their hearts pounded with vigilance.

Breaking the quiet of the forest, Elenea spoke softly yet clearly, "You know, I'm not just a guardian of these woods. I come from an elven race that lives deep within the forest, far from this city."

Intrigued, Saphire asked, "An elven race? So you come from a prominent family?"

Elenea offered a faint smile. "Yes, our people are renowned for our affinity with nature, though life among us isn't always easy. I once patrolled our borderlands, but after several conflicts with dark forces, I chose to leave the elven community and explore the wider world."

Saphire nodded appreciatively. "And now you're here, using your skills to help protect the city?"

Elenea exhaled slowly. "Exactly. After leaving my kin, I joined the guild. I believe it's better to use my abilities to aid more people, ensuring that the places I love—including these woods—remain safe."

"I'm sure you have strong reasons for choosing this path," Saphire said sincerely.

Elenea nodded, "I want to protect everything dear to me and maintain the balance between humanity and nature. Every creature—even the goblins we face—has its place in the world, but if they upset that balance, I must act."

Their conversation deepened their understanding as they pressed on. The forest darkened with the setting sun, and an eerie silence fell over the land as they reached the valley's edge. They paused to survey the scene below: a rough circle of goblins gathered around a crackling campfire. There were roughly two dozen, including several larger ones who seemed to be their leaders, standing guard over the rest. Saphire studied their movements intently, searching for any vulnerabilities.

Elenea patted Saphire's shoulder softly and signaled for them to advance slowly. In perfect silence, they moved between dense trees, each step meticulously planned to avoid snapping dry twigs or rustling leaves that might give away their presence. As they drew nearer, a rotten stench—a nauseating blend of dried blood and filth—wafted through the air. Saphire gripped the hilt of her katana tightly, steeling herself for the impending fight. Behind her, Elenea nocked an arrow, inhaling deeply before drawing the bowstring with practiced precision, her eyes fixed on the nearest goblin.

"Now," Saphire whispered.

In an instant, Elenea released her arrow. It flew silently through the cool night air, striking the goblin in the throat as it was distracted by its meal. The creature crumpled to the ground, lifeless. But the abrupt silence soon shattered as several nearby goblins sensed the sudden death.

"Let's go!" Saphire shouted, leaping out from her hiding place. With incredible speed, she dashed toward the group. Activating her signature Wind Slash in one swift breath, her katana flashed as a searing blade of wind burst forth, cleaving through two goblins at the forefront. Blood spattered and agonized cries filled the air.

Chaos ensued as other goblins panicked, clutching makeshift wooden clubs and rusty dagger. Two of the larger, leader-like goblins roared furiously, rallying their comrades to attack. Saphire sprang forward, evading a sweeping blow from a hefty club. Ducking low, she spun and slashed horizontally, her katana sliced through a goblin's leg cleanly. The creature dropped to one knee, its pained groans barely audible before Saphire's swift strike severed its neck in a single, decisive motion.

Meanwhile, Elenea was engaged with three other goblins. One of her arrows missed its mark, yet her calm demeanor never wavered. She stepped back gracefully to evade an oncoming club swing, then steadied herself. When two goblins charged, she leapt back, kicking aside one goblin's club, and then, with fluid precision, drew her bow again. Her arrow struck the chest of an advancing goblin, sending it spread out wide to the ground with a pained cry. The last goblin stood frozen, watching its comrades fall, only to be dispatched by another arrow that pierced its throat, felling it instantly.

Just then, the goblin leader—angered and desperate—let out a deafening roar that summoned a small contingent of reinforcements armed with spears and wooden shields, arrayed in tight formation like a miniature battalion. Realizing that this was their final defensive stand, Saphire muttering, "This is going to be tough," her eyes gleaming with unwavering resolve.

She adjusted her grip on the katana and braced herself. The goblins surged forward in unison, spears thrust high. Saphire vaulted over the spear line with a nimble leap and landed amid the enemy. Spinning rapidly, she swung her katana in a wide, sweeping arc—the power of her Wind Slash amplified into a ferocious gust that shattered wooden shields and sliced through several foes at once.

Taking advantage of the ensuing chaos, Elenea darted between the trees, closing in on the goblin leader. With remarkable composure, she hurled two small daggers that struck the leader's knees, forcing him to buckle. In one fluid motion, she appear behind him, drew her bow with determined strength, and loosed her final arrow. The projectile found its mark, piercing through the back of the goblin leader's head and ending his challenge resistance.

The battle ended as suddenly as it had erupted. Standing in the center of the valley, Saphire and Elenea caught their breath, their bodies marked only by minor scrapes despite the malignancy of the fight. Around them, goblin bodies lay scattered on the bloodstained ground, the scary greenish hue of their spilled blood pooling in shallow depressions.

Unsheathing her katana once more, Saphire exhaled deeply while Elenea lowered her bow with a satisfied smile. "Nice teamwork," Elenea remarked, her eyes meeting Saphire's. "It seems we've managed to clear this valley."

Saphire nodded, still pulsing with adrenaline. "Yes, but we must ensure that none remain."

Together, they methodically scoured every corner of the valley, confirming that the threat had been utterly eradicated. Despite their exhaustion, a profound sense of accomplishment filled them—a quiet victory earned through unwavering courage and steadfast cooperation.