The purple dragon inn

Chapters

Welcome to the Purple Dragon Inn
The Fizzy Tops
Bare Minimum
New Staff

Welcome to the Purple Dragon Inn

“NOW GIRLS!” A young woman in torn flowing robes shouted above the raging storm surrounding them. They held out a staff made of gold with a multi pointed star at the top

Five other girls gathered around her, each sporting their own unique attire and weaponry. In unison they all clasped hands over their hearts before pulling what seemed to be necklaces from it. The six stood shoulder to shoulder, placing their hands outwards towards the storm.

A distorted and twisted voice laughed from in the storm. “So you finally show me your trump card huh? I suppose those cute pieces of jewelry are supposed to stop me?” The voice teased as the storm clouds parted to reveal and monstrosity the size of a fort in front of the girls. The monstrosity spread its arms wide.”Well take your best shot, just know you won’t get a second chance!” It threatened, a dark laugh escaping it’s form.

The girl’s began to glow faintly, growing in brightness as magic pooled around them from the earth. Floating into the air a rainbow beam of energy shot from their figures into the monster, wrapping around in. As the girls slowly descended the sounds of a thousand voices screaming in pain filled the air. The girls didn’t like the noise but they knew it meant it was working. As they collapsed on the ground from exhaustion from fighting for so long and then using such a taxing move they took comfort knowing it would be over now.

“HAHAHAHAAAA!!!!!!!” The same twisted laughter tore through the air striking an icy knife of despair into the hearts of the girls. “Oh my, that tickled me silly!” The monstrosity complimented, it’s figure ripping the remaining magic from around it. “But now I think it’s about time we stop playing around. I have a world to burn down after all and I just can’t keep pushing it back.” It chirped happily. One of the gaping maws of the body opened up with a bead of energy building inside. What life that was left on the torn apart battlefield withered away as if being collected by the monster.

The girl’s watched in horror as the bead grew larger and larger as the seconds passed. This was it. They failed for the first and now last time ever in their mission and the world will be paying the price. As they each watched with tears in their eyes and prayers on their lips a cloaked figure walked slowly past them from behind. “I suppose I have to actually do my job don’t I huh?” A male voice spoke from in the folds of the cloak.

“Wait sugah, even if you take on that attack the toll on your body will kill ya!” A southern voice spoke from a blond haired and heavily armored girl struggling to stand.

“Even the gods would not be able to repair damages this could cause.” A soft voice barely could be heard from a soft yellow robed girl with wrappings loosened around her light blue eyes.

Others voiced their complaints against him even as this situation grew more dire. “Just run and try to gather more adventure parties to try and stop this monster!” A raspy voice ordered from a rainbow haired girl in leather armor.

The cloaked figure ignored all their complaints as they called out a name drowned out by the storm. Gesturing towards the monster the figure called out towards it. “What was it you said to my acquaintances? Take your best shot, cause you won’t get a second chance?” He goaded, taking out a readyed stance like on about to catch something.

“Oh hooo! Looks like someone still has confidence remaining. I’ll enjoy crushing it!” The monster roared from it’s other mouth with maniacal laughter. The beam shot forward towards the figure just in front of the weakened girls. Taking a step forward the figure shot out one of its hands towards the blast, taking it straight on. The magic shattered the ground, vaporizing anything it touched in an instant. The monster laughed as the dust slowly settled. As they started to speak aloud of how they can finally destroy this world a beam of energy shot out from the dust cloud, striking one of their arms destroying it in an instant. Moving the stomp close to their face they looked it over with a puzzled expression. “Hmmm. Well that’s not good.” They muttered to themselves, shifting their view back to the now settled dust finding a surprise. “Wah? HOW!” They shrieked.

Standing where there should have been a hole in the earth was the figure now missing their cloak, the injured girls still behind him looking untouched from the blast. The figure slowly pulled it’s arm away, a purple glow pulsing from around it. Anyone that looked close at the figures body could see something was wrong with it. Scales and spikes grew across the body, the mouth bleed as a maw like a dragon forcefully grew into place, sharp talons extended from clawed hands, all topped with a tail tearing through the man’s pants. The man now looked everything like a standing dragon. It looked slowly back at the massive monster while gritting its teeth as if in extreme pains. “That’s the thing. I’m the trump card.” They stated, flying through the air as their magical glow surrounding their body grew, pulsing faster and faster. They gave off a roar fitting of a mighty dragon. But wrapped by a thousand years of tormented pain.

The monster cried out for them to stop but were struck anyways at high speed, a wave of magic blowing through their body. The monstrous form blew away leaving a white haired woman with mismatched animal-like limbs floating through the air. They were grabbed by the man as he floated towards the ground. The girls further watched as he raised a clawed hand and jabbed it into the chest of the woman pulling something black and small from her chest. Even from their distance they could see that there was no blood.

As the girls passed out slowly from exertion they could each see the figure stand, his body slowly turning that into a normal human except for…

“Huh? I hope this isn’t permanent…” The male mumbled, looking at his still draconic forearms that hadn’t turned back to normal yet.

The seven kneeled in front of two shining figures. “Rise heroes! Claim any wish you may want. You have earned your share more than anyone else.” Commanded the large woman with pastel flowing hair. One of the ruling powers in the nation Celestia. Her pure white dress glowing in the sunlight. As the seven stood she looked over them but lingered slightly on the cloaked man, his sleeves hanging past his hands.

The girls took turns naming their desires. Each one met with confirmation and actions to make immediate effect by the woman. The smaller figure stood from her chair, the sister of Celestia and the one who takes over night courts Luna. Dark like the night sky clothing covering her body as her starry hair flowed in the air. “Now that you all have spoken your wish we can move on to the celebrations of your victory.” She explained, spreading her arms in a welcoming gesture.

A hand raised slowly from one of the women. Large pink curls shifted around as the woman moved awkwardly in place. “Um, excuse me your Highness but I think you forgot to hear someone’s wish…” She said, looking down in case she was going to be scolded.

“Hm, I don’t believe so. We have heard the wishes of all those that helped in stopping the god of chaos from destroying the world.” The starry royalty replied.

A woman in finely designed dress with purple curls spoke up before the noble could continue. “But your Highness, you are missing someone very important in the mission.” The fashion forward woman countered.

The others were growing in courage to speak up in complaint. That is until the pastel colored royalty raised a hand. “Enough. Why don’t we hear from the one you are defending thinks?” They challenged back.

As all eyes shifted to the cloaked figure one could see them visibly flinch under all the attention. Stuttering slightly, the cloak hood shifted as if looking around. “Um… uhh I think th-that you girls are more deserving of your wishes being granted. I didn’t really do much until the very end.” The stammered.

“Bull! If it ain’t for you we all would be dead. As far as I'm concerned just give my wish to him.” The southern voiced woman spoke up.

The others voiced in kind each willing to hand their wish abilities over to their male companion. It was clear the rulers were growing annoyed by the complaints but before either could tell them to be silent the man shouted “Girls!” shocking the six women. The cloaked figure hunched over as if sighing. “Listen, it’s heartwarming to know you all think so highly of me but please do not throw away your wishes that you’ve fought to make reality just for me. It would make whatever I wanted bitter and unwanted.” He explained.

When they tried to counter Celestia spoke up. “Enough. You girls are part of the strongest and most well known party ever. The only one to be recognized by other countries as well as this one as a triple S ranked. He has spoken stating for you all not to give your wishes away.” She began to lecture before taking on a softer tone. “But it is obvious he has had a positive effect on you all so I will hear what he desires but it may not be as grand as the rest of yours.” She added. With a gesture she called him forward. “What is it you desire, young man?”

The girls took easy notice how she didn’t call him a hero. The man stepped forward kneeling once more as he pulled the hood from his head. Short green hair bent back from his head on top of slightly tanned skin. “I don’t really wish for anything. Just to live a simple life away from attention. I know I'm not really recognized as one of the party members but I am still known to have worked with them.” He started, looking up with sharp emerald eyes. “That is why I wish to have a guild under my command. That way I can work a simple job and help others get famous so I can just relax in their shadows.” He explained.

Luna looked to her sister with a questioning look. On getting a nod she turned back to the kneeling man. “Rise, Spike Drake. We will allow you to open a guild off in one of the far reach towns. Should you prove able minded to grow it to other spots then it will be allowed.” She accepted.

The six around Spike sighed, content that he was able to receive his wish. They were dismissed by the rulers as a group of people began to walk into the throne room. They regathered in the gardens, each taking a different place to relax while Spike stood off to the side. Fidgeting with his sleeves, muttered quietly to himself.

“Are they still bothering you darling?” The fashionably dressed woman asked, stepping closer to the man.

Flinching away slightly from her approach Spike looked away as he gave one final tug at the sleeves before letting them hang. “Don’t worry Rarity I’m fine. Just a bit nervous is all.” He replied.

“Ain’t nice to lie boy especially to friends you almost died with.” The southern gal spoke up, resting with her feet on a table and a cowboy hat tipped over her eyes.

The rainbow haired girl slapped a hand on the table across from the southern woman. “Applejack’s right. You shouldn’t lie, are they still hurting you?” she questioned, leaning towards him in her chair.

Shaking his head dismissively Spike said “I said it's fine.” His voice was straining to not raise. “Listen. You all should focus on what you wished for and make them part of your life. We finally are free to do as we desire with no more leashes holding us back.” He spoke softly after breathing. With that he pushed off the wall and started to make his way out of the area. “If we meet again I’ll treat you all to a meal. Hell, I’ll even make it but for now goodbye everyone and good luck with things.” He finished, turning to bow towards the silent group before fully disappearing from view.

Two weeks later

A woman walked covered in robes towards a building with a sign swinging lightly in the breeze. “So this is the fabled place ay?” She said aloud to no one. Stepping through the doors warmth surrounded her. People of all races laughed and shouted across the building floors. To the back was a bar with a strange looking woman in a casual maid uniform. A few patrons scattered on the stools talking with each other save for a single figure dressed in a trench coat that covered his arms completely.

“Do come in dear customer. We have a spot open right here.” The maid at the bar called out clearly over the noise, gesturing to a stool in front of her.. As the robed woman sat down the maid leaned across the counter with a gentle smile. “What would you like, little one?” They asked.

Looking around the woman leaned forward close to the maid. “I would like the dragon’s shield please.” Speaking the words she had been instructed to repeat. A nervous look taking over her face.

The man next to her in the trench coat tapped a covered hand on the counter. “Another filling of yonder days please.” downing his drink fully.

The maid’s smile didn’t change as a bottle of purple liquid floated over and poured into a glass placed in front of the woman. “The dragon’s shield is a great drink to have over a story. Got any to share?” The calming voice of the mysterious maid replied.

The robed girl gulped as she received the confirmation. She told a tale of how her village was being attacked by bandits and no one would help them. After she told the story she swallowed the drink, feeling a wave of calm covering her body and mind.

“Why don’t you rest in one of the rooms above dear. We will be having some bandit style soup later tonight.” The maid soothed, her voice seeming to puppeteer the woman away towards the stairs. Once the woman was gone she turned to the man. “How strong would you like your drink sir?” She questioned.

“I’m feeling like a rank C will do.” He chuckled, taking a drink of the liquid after his glass was filled up. His sleeve dipped just slightly to flash a purple surface underneath.

The Fizzy Tops

Vanilla Soak tapped her leg happily as she rode in the horse drawn wagon. She looked around at her teammates, each in a different state of relaxation. "So what do you think we outta' do 'bout this request we picked up from the guild master?" She asked aloud to her party members, an easy smile on her face.

Snapping a spell book closed Sparkle Timber coughed into a clenched hand. "I do believe it would be best to stop at the village first to gather information on these bandits." He answered, his reptilian tail swishing lightly across his lap.

"Bah! Where's the fun in that?" A scratchy voice questioned. A griffon named Jitter Pops pilled out a dagger to pick at his teeth as his wings spread slightly out from behind him. "Just let me an' Shakes hunt some tracks down. We'll be in the bandit camp in no time." He boasted.

"But if we don't go to the village how can I see if they have any sweets that I haven't tried yet?" The named Shakes countered through stuffed cheeks full of candy. A battle axe sat balanced between her horns, her large form making the weapon look small in comparison. Gulping down the mouthful she strutted quickly to the front of the wagon she was walking next too. Smiling at the driver she asked "What about you Fizzy?" Her cow like tail flicking in the air like a dog.

The driver frowned at the large woman. Raising a hand they held up two fingers. "Two things. I told you to cut back on the sweets, you'll ruin your teeth before you hit your thirties. Second, I told you not to call me Fizzy. Makes new people think we named the party after me." He listed with Shakes giggling the way a child barely listening would. "As for what we are doing is getting rid of those bandits as quickly as possible. We'll start by meeting the village chief outside the place's outskirts as the request stated." Fizzilton Worf started to explain. "After that we are hunting these criminals as fast and clean as we can. Remember folks, this request will bump us up into B-rank as a group." He finished, catching everyone's attention.

Jitter slammed the dagger back into the sheath at the side of his boot and shouted "Hell yeah!" Clapping his hands together he threw a hand over Vanilla's shoulder, waving a hand in front of them. "Once we hit B-rank I'll be able to pull all the hot babes with ease." He crudely boasted.

Vanilla gave a laugh, shoving the excited griffon to the side. "Like a rank up'll help with your game if you keep that womanizing attitude." Jabbing at the man.

"Uh!" Jitter cried out, clutching at his heart. "You wound me Vanilla. Just because I won't sleep with ya doesn't mean you have to take your dry spell anger out on me." He sarcastically complained.

"Oh you want to go there?" Vanilla warned, cracking her knuckles.

Leaning in with a sharp smile. "Like you could hit me anyways" He challenged back.

The two were about to lunge for each other but were interrupted by Timber, shocking them with the tip of his tail sparking with electricity. After both gave yelps from the sudden pain he frowned at the two trouble makers. "Enough you two. We're supposed to be saving energy for the bandits, not each other. Besides, Fizz is right about the rank up. The guild system requires a bandit subjugation quest fulfilled to qualify to go higher than C-rank. This is the last thing we need to fill out to get recognition." He lectured, bopping both on the head with his spell book.

"Focus up front folks. Our destination is in view." Fizz calls to gather the group's attention drew their gazes towards the front of the cart. Peeking over the hill revealed a small forest in a smaller village with a lake near the edge. Whipping the reins Fizz got the wagon into a faster pace to get at their target even faster.

Shakes got into a small jog giggling. "Oh, this is so fun. We haven't had to take down any living targets like us. Only ever been zombies or undead. I wonder how it'll feel to hit a person with my axe?" She mumbled aloud earning a few looks from her companions. "What?" She asked innocently, cocking her head. The axe snuggly in place.

Jitter's lips tightened into a line as he looked at her confused. "Shakes, gotta say yer a weird gal." He said.

Shakes gave another giggle as she pulled out another handful of candy. "Well duh. It's boring being normal." She replied, shoving the handful into her mouth immediately after.

The group continued progressing towards the village when Vanilla tapped Fizz's arm, pointing past him at a hut on the edge of the village with an old man standing next to a young girl. "Think that's our important individual." She suggested.

Nodding Fizz shifted directions towards the two figures. pulling in front of the pair Fizz stepped off the wagon. "Afternoon mister. You wouldn't happen to be the chief of this place would you?" He asked casually, a hand resting on the hilt of his sword.

The old man stroked a beard as heavy brows furrowed under a horn. "Depends youngin'. You from the guild?" He countered.

Pulling out his adventurer card Fizz passed it over to the old man. "The names Fizzilton Worf. I'm the leader of Fizzy Tops. Does this let me know you are the chief?" He asked, introducing himself.

Nodding slowly the old man passed the card back looking over the group. "Looks like my granddaughter was effective in getting some help. Yes I'm the chief of this village and I do hope you can help with our problem." He answered. Raising a wrinkled hand he pointed east of the group towards a rocky outcrop visible over the tree line. "The bandits always come from that direction. We think they took over the old cave system that's inside the rocks." He added.

While the two were talking the rest of the group chatted with the young girl. "What's your name sweetie?" Vanilla asked, leaning on her knees to be closer to the young girl's height.

"My name is Gumdrop." The young girl answered, smiling sweetly at the group.

"Oi, kid. Ya got any women here looking to get with an adventurer?" Jitter asked, his arms crossed as he looked around the area.

The girl raised a finger to her chin. "Hmm, a few but I think they prefer guys that think with their head more than their dicks. Or at least that's what mama says." Gumdrop answered innocently.

Jitter felt a bolt from the comment go through his heart as he fell into Shakes' arms while Sparkle and Vanilla struggled to contain their laughter from the child's words and their effect. Clutching tightly at Shakes' sleeves Jitter looked up with teary eyes. "I don't want to be here. The children are mean." He begged.

The group talked with the child more with less words coming from Jitter. Fizz on the other hand figured out all he needed from the chief before calling their attention. "Come on guys. We got a job to do." He ordered. As they moved away from the waving pair Fizz looked to the sulking Jitter's. "The hell happened to you?" He asked with a raised brow.

"I don' wanna talk 'bout it..." The usually proud griffon mumbled, the rest of the group laughing behind him.

Shaking his head Fizz looked to the rest of them. "Well at least you guys will listen. We have an idea where the bandits are staying. Apparently they only come out at night to raid the area so most if not all should be inside the cave. Once we get near I want Vanilla and Shakes to scout the outside for any stragglers. We are on a clear kill job so don't bother with holding back." He instructed smoothly.

"What about when we get inside?" Sparkle inquired, sorting through his spell book for appropriate spells.

"We'll take up the usual blocker position. That should help cover any openings we may have against the enemy." Fizz answered.

Pumping her fist Vanilla gave a quiet cheer. "Yes, get to take the front. I can't wait to test my skills against a thinking target." She smiled happily.

The group discussed further tactics as they moved through the woods. Eventually they settled into quiet silence, checking their equipment as the goal entered their view. Crouching down Fizz gave the signal for his two hunters to spread out. Without a word they disappeared into the foliage with little sound. The remaining three shuffled further through the underbrush towards the cave.

"Hey Fizz question before we really hop into this job?" Sparkle questioned lightly, bookmarking his selected spells.

"What is it? Getting second thoughts about taking a life like this?" Their leader replied, asking his own question.

Shaking as a small puff of fire left Sparkles mouth. Adjusting his glasses he said "No, becoming an adventurer sort of requires the will to already take a life in some way or another. What I'm thinking is actually are we aiming to get a higher rank then B? Like our old parties..." He frowned at the mention of parties.

Jitter spat to the side while Fizz continued to look straight forward. "I want to go higher. How else will we show those that left us behind that their way of doing things aren't the only way to reach the top?" He answered, just in time as Shakes and Vanilla reappeared with the group.

"Got four!" Shakes whisper shouted, a goofy grin on her face as she wiped blood from her axe.

Vanilla straightened her hair. "Got three on my end." She added with a small pout. "Stupid bandits. Couldn't have set out at least one more for me..." She moped.

The group moved as one to the edge of the forest, the cave entrance just in front of them. "Everyone ready?" Fizz asked, looking back at his party members.

"Let's do this thing!" Shakes whispered excitedly, vibrating in anticipation.

"We came this far. No point turning back." Sparkle answered, making a praying gesture.

Jitter and Vanilla nodded while bumping fists with large grins on their face.

Looking over the people he chose to trust Fizz couldn't help let a small smile across his face. "Least kills has to pay for dinner back at the Dragon." He said. The group rushed forward as one, having done hundreds of jobs before. The sounds of clashing metal and spells igniting echoed from the cave for hours.

Smoke spilled slowly from the mouth of the cave as five figures slowly walked out covered in ash, grime, and bandages. The sun's weak rays landed softly on their tired forms. Silently they walked back to the village, leaning on each other or weapons for support.

Nearing the village the five could see a group of villagers waiting nervously at their approach. Stopping just a little away from each other Fizz limped forward. With a raised hand he gave a thumbs up. "Bandits are no more." He said, a smile breaking out on his face as the village erupted into a roar.

The villagers swarmed forward, heaving the group above them. Some of the adventurers gave outcries at the sudden lift while Shakes just giggled while five men tried to lift her up a little. A modest party was started in celebration helping the adventurers relax a little. Fizz chatted with the chief while Shakes and Vanilla gorged themselves on the food. Sparkle tried to find a quiet corner but was quickly surrounded by children let by Gumdrop who wanted to hear what happened. While Jitters finally got some attention from the fairer sex. Of course though he almost immediately drove them away with his attitude.

Morning came and went into midday before the group finally woke from their sleep after the party. Slowly they left the village who all had woken up to wave them goodbye with large smiles.

"Hey guys?" Vanilla asked softly as the village disappeared from view, gaining her party's attention. "I'm glad we met." She quietly said.

The others gave their own thanks as the wagon worked its way back to the inn. They arrived back at night slowly pushing open the doors to find the place dead silent with everyone looking at them with deep glares. Fizz pulled out the bounty with the chief's stamp marked clearly on the front. "Where's a party gotta go for a rank up?" He questioned, dropping his seriousness for a moment.

The Purple Dragon inn erupted into cheers as the party was pulled towards a table with drinks ready for them. The inn grew to its normal loud volume as things went back to normal. Taking the drink Fizz raised it in a toast towards his companions. "To our new rank and our next goal of A-rank!" He shouted over the noise.

The others crashed their drinks into his before downing the liquids inside. When they pulled their mugs away they found the maid normally behind the bar standing at their table. "Eris! What can we do for you?" Shakes asked, leaning towards the woman.

Patting the large woman on the head the now named maid Eris pulled five cards from behind her. "More like what can I do for you dear." She corrected, holding them out to the group. "Welcome to a new level." She complimented.

Jitter looked over his new card with a whistle, taking in it's iron color. "This put me high enough to have a chance at ya sweety?" He inquired, leaning towards Eris.

For a brief flash Eris' professional air dropped as she leaned towards the griffon. "Try that again when you are at least an S-rank junior." She countered, walking away back to the bar as the party laughed.

"So...Think they'll grow any further?" Eris questioned the covered patron at the bar.

A chuckle escaped his form as a clawed hand wrote something on a document. "Oh I'm sure you'll have to answer for that comment sometime in the future dear." He replied, standing up and heading towards a door marked guild staff only.

Nodding her head as she looked over the filled building at the wild group of people. "I suppose so if you took them in Spike." She muttered, orders already taking her attention away.

Author's Note

I want this to be an interactive collection of stories and characters. So if you have an OC or character you'd like in here send me a PM or comment here. But please no "This is Razor, he's a lone wolf who doesn't work with others but suuuuuper cool and powerful and invincible and everyone loves him and he gets all the girls and and and...." K? Just need names, maybe the fantasy job they have (fighter, rouge blacksmith even), characteristics with looks and quirks, even a MLP race or fantasy one.
Course as the writer there may be changes so no yelling at me please haha.

Bare Minimum

"DRINK! DRINK! DRINK!" The crowd chanted, pounding their fists on tables or stomping their feet. Their attention directed to two short men chugging from barrels of beer. Money passed hands as it became clear the end was close.

With heavy gulping one of the men slammed his barrel down, splintering it from the force. "Raaaahhhhh!" He roared in victory as the first to finish.

The second man slammed his down only a moment after the first one giving a bubbling belch that reeked of liquor.

Parts of the crowd cheered while others gave jeers at the results of the drinking match. Spike clapped his hands from his position above on the second floor. "Hurdy and Gurdy really know how to put down drinks." He complimented, nudging an armored figure next to him. "Remind me not to drink with them any time soon." He joked.

"Shouldn't you go tell Eris to charge them for the beer?" The figure questioned, looking over the crowd of people. They adjusted their lean against a poll, a set of hammers swinging lightly at their hips.

"Pshhh!" Spike waved away. "They have a contract that connects their tabs with their bounties. As long as they work they get paid and don't have to worry about leaving a bill." Spike answered before taking on a teasing tone. "Which reminds me. It's been a while since you took a job Mister Hotshot or did that barmaid really get a leash on ya like the rumors say?" He teased, making a whipping sound towards the man.

Shoving with a hand at Spike the man blushed. "Shut it! If you weren't my boss I'd kick your ass..." He complained, glancing at the wolfish smile Spike still had on. "But yes, I have saved enough. I can just focus on Lizzy and I's relationship." He sheepishly added much to the Guildmaster's enjoyment.

Clapping the man on the back Spike's smile grew. "Ahh, you know I only joke. I'm happy you found someone to try settling down with. Most S-ranks let stuff like that slip their minds until it's too late. Which reminds me! How is your team doing Magner?" He asked, calling the man by his name.

Rolling a hand Magner leaned against the railing. "You know better than anyone how things are when a team is S-rank for a while. We all are trying to relax for a little. Get back to level ground ya know?" He said, tapping the side of his head.

Nodding sagely Spike rubbed at his chin, his clawed hand slightly visible, catching Magner's attention. "Yeah, spose I do know what you mean." He replied before looking at the man. "Just make sure to know when to call it quits in this job before you lose the important years of your life." He advised in such a way that Magner knew instantly there was underlying experience to the words.

The two continued to chat before a loud bang came from the entrance of the inn at the door blew off its hinges. Swaggering in came a cocky man with a more calm individual right behind him. The guild all readied themselves for a fight as the two stepped fully into the building. A sharp whistle came from Eris causing all the guild members to immediately lower their weapons.

"Whaaaaat? Is this how adventurer's are treated trying to join this guild?" A man with a multitude of knives and crossbows of different sizes scattered over his form complained, a cocky grin on his face.

"I do hope you have the coin to pay for that door Sir. That was made of Gravewood you know." Eris spoke up from her usual position at the bar.

The man's eyes lit up as he teleported to the bar. "Heyyy tuts. How's about you help me get a meeting with the Guildmaster and a date with ya?" He suggested, reaching a hand out to grab hers.

A dagger slammed down between the man's finger tips, stopping his hand. "Suggest ya pull back that hand lad. Unless that lady tells you so best only touch yaself." A mountain of a woman warned, deep scars scattered over her visible form.

"Terry thinks it would be good to focus on what we came here for first Spend." A large dog-like man suggested a slime attached to one of his pointed ears.

Eris' eyes narrowed slightly at the man as he pulled his hand away. "I'm sorry but our Master is terribly busy at the moment." She explained, the slightest head turning towards Spike's position just above her. "If you'd like I am eligible to accept any requests you may have and deem proper processes." She added, looking the man over.

Spend went to answer but was tapped lightly on the shoulder by Terry. "We wish to join this guild as we have heard one can grow further then in any other. We are both S-rank if that helps anything." Terry answered.

On that answer the room turned into an uproar of laughter. When Spend whirled around asking them what is so funny Spike nudged Magner with a clear signal. 'Show them a good time'

Rolling his eyes Magner walked down the stairs and towards the two. "Hey Eris, since they say they are S-rank could you pull up their info?" He asked, giving a relaxed smile as he stopped in front of the two.

"Terry does not know you, stranger." The large dog man stated, grabbing the slime from his ear and holding it like a plushie in his arm while dipping a finger into it.

Eris quickly pulled some papers from the air and handed them to Magner. As he flipped through them he leaned against the bar. "Let's see here...Spend Thrift, S-rank. ok not lying there. Top shot and highest known record of assassination missions for special monster requests." He muttered loudly while flipping a few more pages. "Terry...That's all you got for a name?" He questioned loudly, looking to the dog man with a side stare before chuckling. "Also S-rank and a known genius when it comes to alchemy but has a habit of blowing up your workshop from experiments. OH! As an addendum also has a pet slime named Gibby, fully licensed monster pet." He continued to speak to himself. After a moment he slapped the papers on to the bar top. "Good enough for me. You two follow me. I'll test you ya and see if you are worth enough to join this guild." He ordered happily, rolling his shoulders while moving away from the two.

Spend moved in front of the man, getting his face close to the larger man. "An' who do you think you are ordering us around?" He demanded, jabbing at Magner's chest.

Smiling softly down at the man Magner's form sizzled lightly. When his eyes opened a small flow of what seemed like lava flowed from them. "I'm Magner the Magma Demon. One of the S-ranks from this little guild. You want to really show you are S-rank then what better then a little bout with me ey?" He answered with the same smile, patting Spend's cheek.

Spike couldn't help spit out his drink as he and a few others laughed at Spend's step away from him. The room emptied in an instant as they followed the three outside to the back of the guildhall. Magner stepped slowly towards a wide hole in the ground. Spend and Terry stopped just short of the lip of the hole while Magner just stepped off to fall inside. Landing gracefully he gave a twirl as two cuff like objects were tossed at him.

Terry and Spend lowered themselves slowly into the hole before asking "The hell are those things?" Spend pointed at the red cuffs Magner locked onto his wrists.

Holding his arms up Magner twirled. "Oh these little things? They are just so controlling my power output. Ya know so I don't burn ya to a crisp." He explained, striking a pose with a peace sign closed to his head.

For the first time since showing up Terry's form bristled. "Are you looking down on Terry?" He growled, his hand being placed fully into the slime Gibby while his other hand pulled out some vials.

"Oh no no no. Would never do that. It's just you guys wouldn't be able to handle my heat. Only the Guildmaster can handle them and he's a special case." Magner waved away, stretching. Giving a 'come here' gesture He smiled at the two. "Whelp, whenever you are ready you can come at me. We'll see if you fit here." He ordered.

Grinding their teeth the two rushed forward, spreading to either side while Magner laughed. "Shut up!" Spend shouted, firing a cross bolt at Magner's head. It got a foot away before melting away in the air. A second bolt with an icy tip slammed into his cheek turning his smiling face away. A shudder ran down his back, his instincts screaming at him to dive. Throwing himself to the side a wall of flames exploded from where he once was.

Terry threw a vial landing just a few feet away from Magner, splashing across the ground. "Good, good! Split apart and force me to watch only one at a time but.." Magner coached, clapping his hands as he looked down towards the blue liquid on the ground. "Shouldn't you try to hi-" He started to suggest before being engulfed in a ramp of ice coming from the puddle.

"Terry wins!" Terry yelled happily, waving Gibby around. "Terry gets to join the guild and become more famous!" He cheered. As he danced around Spend couldn't help call out to him.

"Hey buddy uhhhh...How hot can that ice last against?" Spend questioned with a gesture to the block of ice slowly steaming.

Looking at the person he came in with Terry gave a scratch at a slightly damaged ear. "Uuuuhhhhh about a thousand degrees why?" He replied, looking at his friend. As if on signal the ice erupted as Magner tore chunks from his now flaming armored form. "That's not ho-" Terry mumbled in shock, being interrupted by a rushing fist from Magner.

Shaking his body Magner cracked his neck as his simple smile twirled devilishly. "Very good! You took the hint about my name to create a counter. Just one bit of advice." He complimented turning unnaturally towards Spend. "I get a little hotter than a thousand degrees." He chuckled, a wild look entering his eyes.

Shakely taking a step back, Spend stuttered out "H-how much-much hotter...?" He asked.

Taking a flaming step towards the man Magner waved a dripping hot hand towards the terrified man. "Last time we measured I broke the scale around ten thousand degrees." He answered, striking across the large field in a flash of speed like a wall of flames consuming the world. His fist raised towards the man who had collapsed to his knees. Bringing it down to slam into the kneeling man he gave a maniacal laugh.

A dark shadow appeared behind Spend rocketing a fist forward into Magner's chest sending him rocketing into the wall across the floor. Eris appeared next to his body as it fell out of the hole in the wall. A bucket appeared in her hands, pouring onto the molten man. An eruption of steam came off him as she dropped the bucket on him. "Dunk your head for a sec Magner. You were just supposed to test the pair. Not kill them." She reprimanded, walking towards Spend. Getting close enough she reached a hand out. "Come on sweetie get up now." She commanded.

As he was pulled up he hung his head. "I-I'm sorry for acting like I was tough. The rumor's are right you guys are monsters." He apologized. "I'll get Terry and we'll leave...after we pay for the door." He added moving to grab Terry who was still unconscious with Gibby laying on top of his face. Eris smacked him on the back of the head, making cry out. "OW! What was that for?" He whined, looking back at the maid.

Folding her arms Eris glared at him. "And where do you think you are going huh? You won't be able to pay for the door if you don't take some jobs." She lectured. When he looked at her dumbfounded she softened her tone. With a wave to the crowd watching them she explained "Each and every single person you see here was in some situation. Debt, bad families, dead end jobs. One thing they all have in common though is the drive to keep climbing. To become the best they can be." She looked back to the man. "We at the Purple Dragon Inn accept any and all who come." She added.

His eyes widened slowly. "So does tha-!" He started, getting cut off at her glare.

"What this means is you were accepted the moment you wanted to join. Just know we have two bits for you to always remember no matter what." She continued, looking at the crowd for a certain person. When she found him she explained further. "You most always strive to improve yourself even if you think you are at the top AND!" She shouted at the end glaring back at him. "The moment you get too big for your britches there'll be someone to knock you down a few pegs. Got it buster?" She finished, jabbing at the man.

Saluting Spend straightened out his posture. "YES MA'AM!" He shouted, shaking slightly as he watched the same shadow arms like the one that punched Magner away appear around her.

Patting his cheek lightly Eris smiled sweetly. "Good boy, maybe if you talk with some of our more refined members we can fix that attitude of yours and get you a woman." She teased, disappearing in a puff of black smoke. The crowd clapped as she appeared at the top of the hole. "OH! Before I forget that by joining our guild you forfeit your rank from your old guild. You get to start right back at the bottom. So if you want to pay back that door you best start ranking up fast." She shouted down at the stunned man.

A groan from Terry made Spend rush to his side. "Uugghhh...Terry doesn't feel too good." He moaned, rubbing at his head where Gibby was.

The two helped each other out of the hole only to be surrounded by the guild members who dragged them into the building to celebrate them joining. A lone figure hopped into the hole to stand next to the downed Magner. Kicking at his prone form lightly he chucked. "You always were a hot head when you found something interesting." Spike teased.

"Mmmmmmmmmmmm" Magner groaned, his face in the ground.

"Ha! Tell me about it. She hasn't lost her touch since I fought her the first time." Spike laughed, kicking the man lightly some more.

A gentle voice called from on top of the hole. "Um, excuse me mister Guildmaster? Could you please stop kicking my fiancé?" Looking up revealed a simple dressed feline woman with a basket in one arm and red hair in a bun.

"Lizzy dear! Perfect timing! Maggypoo here just finished work. He's all yours." Spike called up to the woman. With a snap of a clawed hand Magner appeared at the top of the hole next to Lizzy. "Be sure to treat him well. He got a little crazy and Eris had to step in.

Reaching down the woman easily lifted the man up into a lean on her shoulders. "Of course Guildmaster." She replied. As they walked away Spike could hear her lecturing the man. "Now Magner you know it's a bad idea to annoy miss Eris now don't you..."

Chuckling to himself Spike jumped to the top of the hole, strolling slowly into the building full of noise. "Just a little bit louder then before huh?" He spoke to himself, closing the door behind him.

New Staff

Spike awoke slowly, stretching his armored hands above his head with a deep grown. Sitting up in his bed he squinted around the room as sunlight came through his blinds. Yawning he reached to the side finding a glass of water where it always was on his bedside dresser. Gulping it down he sighed, giving a small cough. "New day new troubles." He mumbled, placing the glass down to pick up a stack of papers next to where the glass was. Leafing through them with a clawed hand he hummed to himself. "Let's see... Three groups ranked up this week along with most of the members inside them ranking up as well. Oh! Look's like Slayer is trying to break my record for most behemoths killed in a month. Hope he breaks it, that things been sitting for stagnant for to long." He muttered to himself. Getting out of bed he continued to dress himself in a suit as he continued reading. "Glad Eris helps so much. Our profits have doubled ever since I let her handle the face of the guild." He happily said aloud, sliding a long sleeved coat over his shoulders.

Placing the papers down he tapped his chin. "Maybe I should hire more people to give her more breathing room. It's always hectic when a big quest or disaster is finished by the guild and everyone wants to celebrate." He mumbled to no one as he stepped out of his room into an office. Multiple monsters heads mounted across the wall roared in silent rage as if frozen in a heated moment. Books lined shelves holding knowledge of all kind and a large piece covered by a drape sat in the corner. Slipping behind the desk into a cushioned chair Spike kicked his feet up on to the top of the desk as Eris walked in, balancing a tray on one hand.

"Good morning Master. Would you care for some tea and breakfast?" She said, smiling warmly at the man.

Nodding his head Spike returned the smile. "Of course. Your cooking beats the chefs that rotate in the guild kitchen." He replied, leaning back in the chair with it softly creaking. As she poured him a cup he looked her up and down. "You really have filled this role easily ever since the battle." He pointed out, reaching a hand out to flick some of her loose hair behind an ear.

Squirming away from his ticklish touch Eris bowed. "Well you dragged me from an abyss of anger and rage. It is only fair I repay the kindness shown." She answered back. "By the way Sir, a letter from Them arrived for you." She added, her tone shifting to one of annoyance.

Spike groaned as well on the news, taking his feet off the desk and gulping down the drink. "Hand it here." He ordered, holding a hand out. A letter was quickly produced and laid in his grip. With a jerk of a clawed finger Spike sliced open the letter, breaking a white and blue seal. Pulling out the note he scanned over the contents, his face grimacing further with each passing moment. Placing it down gently he leaned back into his chair, dragging a claw down his face. "Fuuuuuuuuuu-"

"Luna! So good to see you your highness." Spike said, holding his hands wide open as he entered the empty café staffed only by a minimum work force, Eris following closely behind. He had spotted no less then twenty guards around the outside and inside the building itself.

A familiar figure with flowing starry hair sat at a seat next to one of the large windows, looking outwards while sipping at a small tea cup. Setting it down the royal sister looked to Spike. "It is good to see you in good health Spike. I hope our letter didn't interrupt any plans you may have had." She returned the smile.

Both knew that their smiles hid annoyance at the situation they were in.

Taking a seat across from the princess Spike waved a hand. "Bah, forget about it. Let's focus on what you need of little ol' me?" He countered, waving down a waitress who quickly brought out a small plate of appetizers.

"Yes, lets...." Luna began, folding her hands in front of her. "The reason we needed to talk with you is we have a job for you." She explained.

Stabbing a salad harshly Spike chewed slowly. Swallowing he smiled once more. "You know I run a guild right? You could have just posted a quest for the adventurers to take up." He said, snapping another bite of the salad. His coat slipped slightly to show his scaled hand.

Luna's eyes immediately settled on it before glancing up at Eris who stood silently behind the guild master. "This isn't a job we can entrust to those who lack the experience." She started. "It's one that needs someone we know who can handle things." She added.

Tugging at his sleeve Spike bit into a cracker with cheese on top. "Have you contacted the girls first? I'm sure they can handle whatever this is considering you both made it clear you didn't want to deal with me anymore." His tone chipper but with a heavy undertone of sourness.

A few guards around the room shifted, blades slightly peeking out of scabbards. Luna raised a hand that made them settle back. Looking to the man in front of her she frowned. "We normally would but this is a situation that you have the most... Experience in." She said, glancing at Eris.

Spike looked between the women as things clicked. His hands thumped against the table, jostling the plates and their contents. "Oh don't tell me there's another demon lord." He complained, now biting into the food more quickly.

Frowning Luna nodded her head slowly almost as if not wanting to admit it. "We can't send the girls as if they moved it would draw attention about the rising problem. But if you go..." She left hanging.

Spike's face sneered. "Of course. Can't send Harmony but you can send me, your favorite toy." He growled. Placing an elbow on the table he propped up his head. "How long, how strong, and who is it?" He listed, stowing his emotions.

Luna visibly flinched when he said toy. Clenching her hands she looked down like a child in trouble. "Two weeks, about as strong as Sombra, and... Eris' brother." She answered, flinching once more when she told him who.

Spike didn't even look back as he heard his companion stiffen. His mind ran over the situation with the info he gathered. "Two weeks isn't to far into the process if it's when he started, I was able to handle Sombra myself, and if it's Eris'..." He muttered. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out five gold coins, setting them on the table. "Fine. I'll handle this." He grumbled, standing and moving for the door.

Luna rose raising a hand out towards him. "Spike wait!" She called out.

Pausing at the door Spike smiled at the princess. "Don't worry Lulu." He soothed, calling her a nickname few knew about. "The Shackled Beast will handle things like you all tell him to do." he coldly stated with the smile still hiding his real feelings.

The door clicked softly behind the man and woman as the ruler stood there silently with a hung head. In a quick motion Luna sent a fist through the table. "Stupid nobles don't know what they've done to the boy." She muttered, pulling a platinum piece out and setting it next to the five gold coins. "Though we didn't stop them from acting like that." She thought to herself. rubbing at her knuckles.

"Spike-" Eris started as they moved through the streets.

"No." He cut her off, striding quickly through the crowds.

"But Spike-" She tried again.

"No." He answered again, pushing the side door to the guild open. His footsteps stomping up the flight of stairs to the office.

When they pushed into the office Eris got in front of the man. "He's my brother. I should handle him!" She countered, glaring at the man.

Moving around the old demon lord to the drape Spike gave it a tug revealing a scratched and worn suit of armor that could send shivers down a weaker mans spine. "The fact he's your brother is exactly why I'll handle it." He replied, taking the helmet off the model. Eris tried to argue again only to have a slap shut her up as Spike's hand struck the desk. "Enough! I handled you so it only makes sense I handle him next. Now be quiet and handle the front." He ordered, stripping out of his suit and into padded leather.

Eris stood silent before turning and leaving the room. "Please Spike..." She thought quietly as the roar of the adventurer's filled the air. Putting on a bright smile she stepped into the lobby, immediately handling the crowd.

Spike strapped the armor to his body, finding he didn't need the gauntlets he once wore what with his arms forearms and hands already being covered. A sigh he leaned against the desk, gazing into the empty slots of the helmets eyes. "I just wanted to relax. Is that seriously to much to ask for." He grumbled, slipping the helmet on. Only the glow from his eyes could be seen as he moved towards a rune on the wall behind a marble head of a random adventurer of days past. In the blink of an eye he disappeared from the room.

Appearing in a field surrounded by nothing Spike breathed to steady himself. After that he tapped a foot on the ground, sending a wave of magic through the air. Soon a ping went off in his mind making his body rotate in that direction. "Found you." He said, darting off in a blinding burst of speed.

The world blurred around him as he followed the ping. fields turned into forests, forests into plains, plains into mountains, and mountains into corrupted lands. In no time at all Spike skidded to a halt on a cliff face looking out into a valley with swarms of monsters milling about, a dark castle lying just off slightly away. Sitting on the cliff edge for a moment Spike rested his arms on his legs. Swinging his legs lightly he took in the scene and sighed heavily. He knew he should have been feeling some kind of emotion at what lay in front of him. Be that anger of another enemy against humanity or awe at the scale of things but all he truly felt was boredom. "It's just not exciting anymore." He whined lightly, pushing off the edge into a freefall.

The monsters moving around jumped in surprise at the sudden crash of something near the cliff face. A few moved forward only for a line of purple energy to whip out from the dust cloud cutting them in half. Roars went out signaling an attacker as Spike darted out of the cloud through the wall of monsters. His form could best be compared to a blender. Monsters went in, red mist came out as he tore his way through the valley moving ever closer to the castle. He met no resistance until a massive club slammed down on top of his form. A troll the size of a small building chuckled as it lifted it's club from the ground. It's eyes scanned over the splatter marks of a few monsters that got caught in the swing but no sign of the attacking Spike could be found. Scratching it's head it caught a flash from above in the air. Looking up it's eyes widened as Spike sliced through it's body in one clean motion, landing with not even a speck of dirt disturbed on the ground. Before the troll's body could even hit the ground Spike was on the move again, turning the army of darkness into mincemeat.

less then ten minutes passed as he made his way to the steps of the castle, it's dark stone walls looming ominously above. Spike lifted a goblin he had grabbed along the way up to his face. "Tell your master he has guests." He growled darkly, dropping the monster. He watched as it scrambled into the castle, a trail of liquid following it's path. Tapping his foot impatiently Spike folded his arms. A group of monsters lunged at him from the shadows to his left only for a wall of flames to erupt next to him burning them all to ash. After another minute Spike started to walk his way into the castle with little concern about the mayhem of corpses he left in the valley.

The dark lord of the castle sat on his throne, his leg bouncing in thought as he looked at the doors of the throne room. A elven woman laid a hand gently atop his own making him instinctively grab it tightly as two young children appeared from behind his throne. "Why is there no noise anymore since the call?" He asked aloud.

"Easy dear. I'm sure it's just a group of troublemakers that are being handled as we speak. Nothing can stop you from reaching your goal." The elven woman soothed, rubbing at the mans exposed cheek.

One of the children hopped in front of the seated man. "Yeah! Besides, no one is as tough as daddy!" The little girl shouted, grinning with a smile missing a few teeth.

The little boy just silently nodded next to the girl, clutching a stuffed ursa minor teddy bear.

The group silently remained there until a loud banging came from the door. The orcs stationed at the door looked to the demon lord and on his nod opened the door. Collapsing inside was a goblin that peddled it's way to the feet of the stairs leading to the throne. It's garbled vocals spoke and with wild gestures pointed to the door, making a slicing gesture across its throat.

The lord stood slowly as a heavy aura appeared around him. Turning to the three other people who had been around him he pointed to a door off to the side. "Quickly. Hide yourself. Trouble is approaching and it seems that trouble is a hero." He commanded, striding down the steps as the woman picked up the two kids who questioned what was going on.

"Hush children, Daddy needs to focus on work." She ordered gently, opening the door and moving behind it. She closed the door almost fully with only a small crack to see outside.

The demon lord moved his cape out of his way as he stood there silently facing the door. It felt like eons until a slow thumping at the door made him stiffen.

THUMP..... THUMP.... THUMP....

The orcs looked to their lord once more and on his nod moved to open the door. As their hands touched the handles the door exploded open taking them with it. A metal boot was the first thing the lord noticed. It's sharpened edges to cut when kicking making him gulp slightly. The boot moved down back to the earth slowly drawing his attention to the rest of the figure. There Spike stood caked in blood, his fingertips dripping still. The demon lord could see a single red eye glowing through an eye slot as smoky breath exhaled from the mouth of Spike's helmet. Stuttering lightly the demon lord waved a hand out dramatically. "We-welcome hero! You have done well to make it here but your adventure ends now!" He did his best to keep a brave face as he drew a wicked sword from it's scabbard. "I, The demon lord Fulgrim will put an end to you here and now." He confidently stated, taking a step forward.

"You talk to much." Was all Fulgrim heard before a fist connected with his chest, shattering his armor and sending him backwards into the steps. His weight and the force of the strike making the stone steps crumble. Spike didn't even give him the chance to cough up blood as he appeared above the prone man, a boot raised in the air. With quick motions Spike stomped into the man with force that drove the lord deeper and deeper into the ground. Blood splattered further around Spike's feet as he stared coldly down at the man. Stopping for a moment SPike reached into the ground to grab Fulgrim by the throat. With ease he raised the broken lord with his hands into the air, squeezing his neck tighter and tighter.

Fulgrim for his part kicked and thrashed, clawing at the scaled arms holding him as his vision blurred. He was about to lose consciousness when suddenly the grip loosened and he sucked in a small amount of air. His eyes focused back on the armored warrior holding him, finding the figure staring to the side and downwards. With some struggle Fulgrim was able to see a stuffed ursa minor sitting on the ground. "Oh no..." He quickly thought as a voice called out from the side.

"Let go of daddy you meanie!" The young boy cried out, standing halfway between Spike and the now mostly opened door that revealed the woman and the other child.

Spike's grip completely dropped letting the lord drop to the ground gasping for air. An armored boot took a step towards the child. "Hector run!" Fulgrim coughed out, holding a hand out to grab at Spike's clawed hand but missing just slightly.

Spike's attention sat fully on the child as he moved with slow steps towards the kid. For the most part the child stood firm but with clear shaking legs as Spike stepped fully in front of the kid. "Did he kidnap you?" Spike's voice came from the armor.

"N-no! Daddy and mommy loved each other a lot and made us!" Hector answered, taking a fearful step backwards. "We...we won't let you take away daddy like you all took auntie Eris." Hector added, his voice close to tears.

"Auntie Eris huh?" Spike muttered, straightening himself slowly. His vision moved to the elven woman who clutched the little girl tightly to herself. He could see a spell glowing in the palm of her hand. "Teleport. She's ready to get the kid in case I make a move. Smart parent." He mentally complimented, turning back to the still down demon lord. "What is your reason for becoming a demon lord? Power? Wealth? Control?" He questioned, moving back towards the man.

Rubbing at his throat Fulgrim scowled at Spike. "To get revenge for the death of my sister. I know you adventurers took her life months ago." He answered, spitting at Spike's feet.

Spike stood there silently for a moment. "What if I told you she was still alive? Would you stop trying to be a demon lord and give up those dark powers?" He inquired, squatting in front of the fallen lord.

A harsh laugh came from the injured throat of Fulgrim. "Let's say she is alive. If she was safe then yes I would stop. But she's dead! Has been for a while now." He answered.

Spike's hum echoed a little more then usual thanks to the helmet. Standing up he clapped his hands. "Alright it's a deal then." He suddenly stated. With a click of his fingers the elven woman and children appeared next to Fulgrim. "You all are coming with me." He ordered, runes flashing to life around his form. Before anyone could do anything they disappeared in a flash of light. The castle slowly collapsing on itself after they left.

Eris sighed as she sat down in Spike's office, taking her break for the day. "I hope Spike at least gave him a quick death." She said to no one, raising the cup to her lips. A flash of light in the center of the room blinded her for a second. As it cleared she took in the sight of Spike standing over four familiar forms. Spitting out her drink Eris rushed over to the group. "Grimmy! Eluma!" She cried out, clutching the beaten lord and elven woman tightly. "Hector! Saphira!" She added, letting go of the adults to hold the boy and girl.

As she grabbed them tightly Spike walked around the desk, collapsing into the chair with a groan. Tossing his bloody boots on to the top of the desk he said "How's this? Good enough to stop being an annoyance?" He took off the helmet revealing a slightly more angular jaw line with sharp teeth poking out from his bottom lip. Tapping them lightly he grumbled "Hop these don't stay too." As he leaned back further into the chair.

Fulgrim looked stunned as he was gripped by Eris. "I...Is that you sis?" he asked, looking her in the face.

"No silly, it's grandma apocrapha. Of course it's me!" Eris teased instantly before yelping as a spurt of blood hit her in the chest. This made her notice his beaten up form. "Master you didn't kill him but why is he practically a corpse?" She demanded to know, casting healing magic on his body. One could hear his bones snapping back into place.

With a tired wave Spike closed his eyes as he took of armor pieces, letting them fall to the ground. "be thankful with what you get Eris." He countered, his leg guards slamming into the ground. "By the way once you get them healed up and settled in try to get their measurements for uniforms." He added, pulling a measuring tape out from a drawer.

Eluma spoke for the first time since meeting Spike. "Uniforms? For what exactly?" She inquired, looking over her still sore husband.

Clapping her hands Eris smiled. "What a wonderful idea Master! Master is pointing out that to make you all safe and functional members of society who won't be hunted by the crown anymore you will be joining me in working at the guild here." She explained, already catching onto what Spike meant.

"Has this been where Auntie was all this time?" Saphira asked, looking wearily around.

Ruffling the little girls hair Eris nodded. "Master saved me when I went to far, sparing my life when others would have only taken it. By working here I don't have to worry about anything other then the occasionally rowdy adventurer. But you are free to knock their heads together when that happens." She answered, helping the four up and slowly out of the room.

Spike let himself slowly fall asleep in his chair as the last of his armor fell to the ground, dreams of nothingness filling his mind.

Spend and Terry followed behind two individuals. "Come on. I promise I didn't mean to miss that trap in the dungeon. It was something I've never seen before." He begged.

"Terry believes it is still fair to pay for repairs after the trap incident." the dog man stated, gibby wobbling slightly on the side of his face.

One of the figures a woman pushed open the doors to the guild, it's noise hitting the group. "Because of your screw up I lost my brand new dagger set. That was five hundred gold pieces man." She jabbed at him. "I think he needs to pay up. Right Dink?" She added, nudging the other person with scorch marks across their equipment.

"Viper's right. Looks like you are outvoted three to one there Spend." Dink replied.

"Good afternoon adventurers." Eluma welcomed, bowing towards the group as they stepped past her stand. "We hope your quest was successful. If not the drink of the day is Siren's tears. Great for drowning out the taste of defeat." She smoothly advertised.

Spend hunched his shoulders as they group gave small laughs. "I'll take one order please Eluma and maybe a nice kiss from ya." He tried to make himself look pitiful to get a reaction.

Eluma raised a hand showing a ring on her finger. "Once again Spend I'm already taken dear." She smiled sweetly like a mother gently putting down a kids crush.

A mug slammed near Spend's spot, the liquid swishing around. "More specifically taken by me champ." Fulgrim tightly smiled at the shrinking man.

A plate of food was placed on the table by two kids. "Yeah, and mommy is to busy helping other adventurers who can actually complete their jobs." Hector and Saphira added the last jab through Spend's heart as he grabbed his mug and nursed it much to the enjoyment of the other party members.

Magner breathed in tightly as he frowned at the negative attention Spend was getting. "Dang, kinda feel bad for the guy. Kids always go for the biggest stabs don't they." He said, turning back to his fiancé and Eris who were both giggling at the show.

"I'm sure he'll be back up in a day or so." Lizzy suggested, sipping lightly at her wine glass.

Eris chuckled as she filled Magner's drink. "Or right now." She pointed out. Her finger showing Spend already perking up as a group of all female adventurers passed him. Casting a look up to the second floor Eris smiled at Spike's low profile figure who gave a nod at her looking. "I wonder what's gonna happen in the future." She said aloud.

Magner and Lizzy looked to each other and smiled. "Who knows with that man. He makes his own lane through fate." Magner said, the building getting louder as people drank, laughed, and enjoyed themselves with Eris' family moving around to help the work load.