The Pony Express

Fira had her first assignment. She was to help with night patrols of the kingdom. She was eager to prove herself! Protecting citizens of the kingdom from the creatures of the night was an honor to her. She knew she could prove herself!\n\n"Fira...why do you always follow every rule?" Bjorn set aside his broom.\n\nShe adjusts her knight's armor, a hint of mischief in my piercing yellow eyes.\n"Ah, I'm just trying to prove myself as a worthy member of the Hailstrom Kingdom's night patrol. Besides, someone has to keep the kingdom safe from those pesky goblins and dark creatures that lurk in the shadows."\nShe tucks rolled map into her belt, her hand resting on hilt of her sword.\n\n"Don't you think it is odd they intend to send such a small creature out on a dangerous task?" Her brother sighed.\n\nHer ears perk up, a hint of defensiveness in her tone.\n"Hey, I may be small, but I'm fierce! And besides, size doesn't matter when it comes to bravery and cunning. I've got skills that'll make up for what I lack in stature."\nShe puffs out her chest with her eyes flashing with determination.\n\n"I think you defeating that dragon was luck. A lot of the knights think so too." Bjorn cocked an eyebrow.\n\nFira's face falls, a hint of disappointment and frustration in her voice.\n"Luck?! You think it was just luck? I'll have you know, I studied the dragon's patterns, used my knowledge of its weaknesses to outmaneuver it. And when all else failed, I relied on my quick thinking and cunning to turn the tide."\n\nShe clenches her fist, her amber scales glistening with indignation.\n\n"You're going to get yourself killed Fira. There is no shame in working as castle staff." Bjorn crossed his arms as he looked her in the eye.\n\nHer eyes narrow, a spark of defiance igniting within her.\n"You know what, Bjorn? I'd rather die trying to protect this kingdom than spend the rest of my days stuck in some dusty corner of the castle, fetching tea for the nobles. I was born for adventure, not servitude."\nFira takes a step closer, her voice rising with conviction.\n\n"I will make sure you get a proper burial then. Where do you want to be placed? Next to papa that thought he could take on that band of trolls? Or mama that thought she could avenge papa?" he picked his broom up with a condescending look. "Our family has horrible luck. Best to play it safe when you can Fira. No shame in it."\n\nFira's piercing yellow eyes flash with annoyance, her amber scales glistening with indignation as she takes a step closer to Bjorn.\n"You think I'm afraid of death? You think I care about being 'safe'? Newsflash, brother: the only way to truly live is by taking risks. And besides, what's wrong with wanting to make a difference? Papa and mama may have had their flaws, but they died fighting for something they believed in. What are you fighting for?"\nShe pauses, her chest heaving slightly as she searches his face.\n"And another thing: why do you always assume the worst about me? Can't you see that I'm trying to prove myself here?"\n\n"We have terrible luck in our family Fira. There aren't many of us left and I intend to stay here...nice and safe." He began to sweep.\n\nFira's face twists in frustration, her pointed ears folding back in annoyance.\n"Safe?! You call being a broom-wielding servant 'safe'? I'd rather take my chances out there, fighting for what's right. And besides, our family may be small, but we're not just about survival - we're about living! What kind of life is it if you don't even try to make a difference?"\nShe snatches the broom from his hand and begins to sweep herself.\n"I'll have you know, I've been thinking... maybe our luck isn't so bad after all. Maybe it's just that we haven't found the right opportunity yet."\n\n"I rather wield a broom than be out there! What if they send you off to Sarno? The Dark Woods are full of trolls and goblins that love to eat kobolds!" He took his broom back and snorted as he began to stamp away.\n\nFira's eyes flash with determination as she matches her brother's pace, her sharp claws clicking against the stone floor.\n"Sarno?! You think I'm afraid of a little darkness? The Dark Woods are just a challenge, and I'm not going to let fear hold me back. Besides, what if they do send me off to Sarno? What if it's exactly where I'm meant to be? Maybe that's where my true purpose lies."\nShe pauses, her voice taking on a mischievous tone.\n"And besides, you're one to talk about being brave - you're hiding behind your broom like it's some kind of shield."'\n\nFira shook her head as she tossed her rucksack over her shoulder and set off to join the night patrol.

Fira tilts her head, a hint of confusion in her piercing yellow eyes as she turns to face the captain. "My mount? Oh... you mean my trusty steed?" She pats her rucksack with a grin. "Well, I've decided to take matters into my own hands. Figured I could move around faster on foot and use my agility to dodge any pesky creatures that come our way." Fira's sharp claws flex excitedly at the prospect of adventure. "I'm more than capable of keeping up with the patrol without a pony - after all, who needs a horse when you have quick feet?"

Fira's eyes widen with surprise as she takes a step back, her amber scales rippling in annoyance. "A rule? I wasn't aware that it was mandatory to have a mount. Besides, wouldn't I be able to navigate better without one?" She shifts her weight from one foot to the other. "I'm sorry Captain, but I don't think getting a steed would be in our best interests right now. But if you insist... I suppose I'll have to find something suitable." Fira flashes him an impish grin before heading off towards the stables.

As Fira approaches the stable, she takes a deep breath of fresh hay and warm horseflesh. She walks towards the pony with a determined expression, trying to avoid its angry snorts as it intimidates the other Azurians.

Fira moves slowly towards the frightened animal, keeping her movements calm and controlled. "Hey there, little guy...it's okay." Her voice is soft but firm as she places one hand on his flank. The pony snorts again in protest before settling down slightly under her touch.

With gentle coaxing, Fira begins to lead the stubborn steed out of the stable and onto a nearby meadow. The sun had just started to rise over Hailstrom kingdom and light began pouring into the vast sky.

"There we go - nothing like some fresh air to start off our day!" Fira smiles encouragingly at him while gently patting its mane. However inside she was disappointed; "This rickety thing can barely keep up!"

She thought about how they would need more agility than what this pony could provide should something happen during their night patrol duties tonight.

Fira grits her teeth, her pointed ears folding back in irritation at the knight's taunts. "I'm sorry... am I not tall enough for you?" Fira replies with a sneer while adjusting herself on the pony.

She knows that these types of teasing come often to someone like her who is small and has something to prove. "These arrogant fools don't know what it takes!"

Her piercing yellow eyes flick towards each of them as she circles around them slowly.

"I may be small but that doesn't mean I can't keep up with the likes of you." She juts out her chin defiantly.

"You want to make jokes? Fine, we'll see who laughs when I outsmart whatever trouble comes our way."

She pulls sharply on the reins causing some laughter again from some knights and continues "And besides if any goblin tries his luck, he'd have my pointy little friend here waiting for him." she unsheathed one of her twin daggers showing off its razor-sharp tip.

Fira rolls her eyes, a hint of amusement flickering in her yellow orbs as she hears the knight's jests.

"The name is Dax," She says pointedly with a sly grin. "And don't worry, he might be small but he can run circles around you lot."

She nudges the pony slightly and flashes them all another impish smile. "And besides... I wouldn't want to bore him with anything too fancy like Pipsqueak - it doesn't quite match his level of majesty."

Fira nods obediently as she and her squad set off to patrol the city walls. As they march towards their post, Fira scans the perimeter of Hailstrom kingdom's wall, alert for any signs of trouble. "Patrolling... how thrilling."

She tries to keep herself busy by scanning through the contents in her bag for a scroll or something that would entertain her on this seemingly boring duty.

As they settle down at their post, she peers out into the darkness below, feeling slightly envious of those assigned to far-off lands.

"Who knows what kind of adventures await us here," She mutters under breath while drumming her fingers restlessly against Dax's mane. "Better make sure we're ready when they do come."

Her eyes scan intently along every direction trying hard not get distracted and let someone pass undetected.

As Fira scans the walls for any signs of danger, she feels a prickle of unease down her spine. It's as if something or someone was watching them from the shadows. She clutches tightly onto her dagger, every sense heightened as she continues to scan their surroundings.

"Dax senses something too... he seems to be uneasy."

Just then, a small movement in nearby bushes catches her sharp yellow eyes. Fira motions for the others on duty and advances slowly towards it while keeping an eye out.

"Who goes there?" She calls out with confidence and readiness apparent in voice as they reach closer to bushed location.

Fira waits with bated breath, clutching her dagger tightly and watching the nearby bushes like a hawk. "Is it an intruder? Or just my imagination running wild?"

She hears no reply and cautiously approaches closer to the bushed location where she spotted movement earlier.

"Just come out now and save us all some trouble," Fira continues to call out, trying hard not to let fear overcome her thoughts as she senses something there but can't figure out what exactly.

As they move closer however still keeping their distance, Dax seems agitated which further confirms that there was someone hiding around them.

Fira jumps in surprise as the sound of clattering pebbles can be heard from behind her, followed by a quiet chuckle. Her amber scales gleam under the faint moonlight.

"Alright... enough hiding around, let's just have you out," She tries to keep her voice steady but inside she was frustrated that whoever is there isn't making any real moves or answering back.

Her senses were on high alert as they move towards where he is assuming the person could still be lurking.

She knew someone was watching and their childish prank did not make them appear dangerous at all; it made her question if this was really something she needed to waste energy on right now instead of searching for other threats.

"This game might go both ways my little rogue", she thinks with amusement and cautiousness boiling over within her.

Fira's sharp eyes narrow as she sees the Northern Azurian step out into the light. Her grip on her dagger loosens slightly, realizing that it was just a harmless prank.

"Very funny," She says with a small smile, letting out a sigh of relief and relaxing her stance. "You almost had me there."

She takes in his appearance for a moment before addressing him directly. "I don't think we've met before... I'm Fira Fangsworth - one of the Night Patrols assigned to this area."

Fira's smile fades slightly at the Northern Azurian's comment, her amber scales rippling in annoyance. "Size doesn't determine one's capability," she retorts with a hint of defiance. "We may be small but we're swift and agile - traits that can come in handy when it comes to defending our kingdom."

She glances down at Dax, who was still agitated from earlier. "And besides... sometimes it pays off to have someone who is smaller and can easily navigate tight spaces."

Fira shifts her weight from one foot to another before addressing him again. "But enough about me... what brings you out here this late?"

Fira follows his gesture and looks up at the night sky, taking in the beauty of the stars twinkling above them.

"I can see why," she says with a small smile before turning her attention back to him. "But be careful out here... there are dangers lurking around that even the stars won't protect you from."

She gives him a nod of acknowledgement before turning on her heel and heading back towards her post. "Stay safe."

Fira nods in response, a hint of amusement flickering in her yellow eyes as she walks back towards the city walls. "He's quite the charmer," she thinks to herself with a small smile.

As they reach their post again, Fira resumes her vigilance and keeps an eye out for any other potential threats that might come their way. She couldn't shake off the feeling that something was still lurking around them but decided not to mention it to anyone else on duty unless there was solid proof or danger. She grips tightly onto Dax's reins and stays alert for whatever may come next during this night patrol.

Fira's eyes widen in surprise as she watches the azurian, Lucio, summon a magic shield spell to aid their fellow kobolds. She had heard of some azurians having magical abilities but it was still rare and impressive nonetheless.

She quickly moves towards them to make sure they are safe. "Are you both alright?" she asks with concern evident in her voice.

As she helps them off the shield and back onto solid ground, Fira can't help but feel grateful for Lucio's quick thinking and use of his magical abilities to save their fellow patrol members.

"Thank you for your help," She says sincerely while giving him a nod of acknowledgement. "You really do have some tricks up your sleeve."

Fira's sharp yellow eyes flick towards the kobold with a heavy sack slung over her shoulder. She recognizes the kobold as Kippa, an old childhood friend who had disappeared from their village years ago.

"Kippa?" Fira says in disbelief while taking a step closer to get a better look at her. "Is that really you?"

Kippa looks up and meets Fira's gaze, recognition dawning on her face as well. "Fira? I can't believe it's you!" she exclaims before setting down the sack and embracing Fira tightly.

As they hug, Fira can feel something hard clinking within Kippa's sack. "What do you have there?" she asks curiously while pulling away from the embrace.

Kippa hesitates for a moment before opening up the bag to reveal various pieces of jewelry and trinkets inside. "I... I've been working as a thief," she admits sheepishly while looking down at her feet. "It wasn't my first choice but it pays well."

Fira frowns slightly at this revelation but decides not to judge her friend too harshly. Instead, she reaches out and places a hand on Kippa's shoulder reassuringly. "Well, we all have our own paths to take," she says with understanding in her voice. "But just be careful

out there, Kippa. You don't want to get caught and end up in jail."

Kippa nods solemnly before closing the sack and slinging it back over her shoulder. "I know... I'll be careful," she says with a small smile.

Fira's eyes widen in alarm as she hears Bjorn's warning about trolls being outside the city walls. She knew how dangerous trolls could be and didn't want to take any chances.

"Kippa, you need to get back inside the city walls now," Fira says firmly while grabbing her friend by the arm. "It's not safe out here with those creatures lurking around."

She turns towards Bjorn and nods at him. "We'll make sure Kippa gets back safely," she assures him before turning back to Kippa. "Come on, let's go."

As they start making their way back towards the city walls, Fira keeps a watchful eye out for any signs of danger while keeping a tight grip on Dax's reins. She couldn't shake off the feeling that something was still lurking around them but decided not to mention it unless there was solid proof or danger.

"Stay close and keep quiet," she whispers to Kippa while glancing over her shoulder every few seconds.

Fira's sharp ears pick up the sound of shouts coming from the other side of the wall, and she can't help but feel a sense of unease. She glances over at Lucio and Kippa who seem to be taking things lightly.

"Let's not take any chances," Fira says with a serious tone. "We need to get back inside before we're caught by the guards."

She quickens her pace while keeping an eye out for any potential threats that might be lurking around them. As they reach the city walls, Fira leads Kippa towards one of the hidden entrances that only Night Patrol members knew about.

"Follow me," she whispers before slipping through the entrance and motioning for Kippa to follow suit.

Once they were safely inside, Fira lets out a sigh of relief. "That was too close... you really need to be careful next time, Kippa," she scolds gently while giving her friend a stern look.

Fira rolls her eyes and can't help but smile at Kippa's antics. "Oh, please... Bjorn is a scaredy-cat when it comes to goblins and trolls," she says with amusement. "I'm surprised he didn't faint on the spot."

She playfully nudges Kippa, trying to hide her own concern about their close call earlier.

"But seriously, next time let's avoid drawing attention from the guards, okay?" Fira advises gently.

Kippa nods enthusiastically while keeping a hold of Bjorn's arm. "Deal! And thanks for watching out for me tonight, sis."

Fira's heart skips a beat as Lucio's smooth voice whispers in her ear, making her feel a flutter in her chest. She looks up at him, trying to keep a neutral expression but can't help but be drawn into his piercing blue eyes.

"Anytime," she says softly, feeling a sense of unease wash over her as she realizes the close proximity they're in.

She takes a step back, trying to create some distance between them while keeping an eye on Kippa and Bjorn who seem oblivious to the tension. "It's just part of the job," Fira adds hastily before turning away from Lucio and focusing on her friends instead.

Fira watches as Lucio and Kippa make their way off towards the woods, a mix of emotions swirling inside her. She feels a sense of relief that they're leaving, but also a pang of disappointment that she won't get to see Lucio again soon.

She turns to Bjorn and gives him a gentle nudge. "Let's get back to our post," she says quietly before leading him away from the hidden entrance.

As they walk back through the city walls, Fira can't help but wonder what just happened with Lucio. Was he trying to flirt with her? Or was it just innocent banter? Whatever it was, she can't shake off the feeling that their encounter has left her with.

Fira's expression turns serious as she realizes Bjorn's shock and concern. She stops walking and turns to face him, her amber scales catching the moonlight.

"What do you mean?" Fira asks softly, trying to gauge what exactly is bothering Bjorn.

She places a hand on his shoulder, trying to reassure him that everything is fine.

"I just let them go because it wasn't our place to interfere," Fira explains calmly. "It was a simple matter of thieves in the night...they wouldn't have gotten caught if they didn't want to."

Bjorn looks at her skeptically, but Fira can tell he knows better than to push the issue further.

"You know how it is, brother," she says with a gentle smile.

Fira's expression softens as she looks at Bjorn with a warm smile. "Of course, brother," she says gently. "Kippa may be a thief, but she's still my friend and someone I care about." She pauses for a moment before continuing in a conspiratorial tone. "And besides, it's not every day we get to see the real Kippa...you know, the one who used to sneak into our village and steal sweets from the bakery?"

Fira's smile grows wider as she sees Bjorn's expression light up with nostalgia. "Ah, yes...those were good times," she says wistfully, her eyes sparkling with memories.

She leans in closer to Bjorn, her voice taking on a conspiratorial tone. "You know, I never thought I'd say this to you, but...I think Kippa might have been the most adventurous of us all."

Bjorn raises an eyebrow at this revelation.

Fira's smile grows wider as she sees Bjorn puzzled. "Ah, yes...I know what you mean," she says thoughtfully. "But for me, being a knight isn't just about following rules and protocol. It's about taking risks and pushing boundaries."

She pauses for a moment before continuing in a more serious tone.

"You see, Bjorn, Kippa may be a thief, but at least she's living on her own terms. She takes risks every day to survive and thrive in this world."

Fira looks up at the moon with a thoughtful expression.

"I think that's what I admire most about her...her willingness to take chances and live life on her own terms."

Fira notices Bjorn's introspective expression and can't help but feel a pang of sympathy for her brother. She places a gentle hand on his shoulder, trying to offer some comfort. "Bjorn, don't be so hard on yourself," she says softly. "You may not be as strong or bold as Kippa and me, but you have your own unique qualities that make you special." She pauses for a moment before continuing in a reassuring tone. "And besides, being brave doesn't always mean being physically strong. It means having the courage to stand up for what you believe in and facing your fears head-on."

Fira's eyes follow Bjorn's gaze to the wall, her expression growing serious. She knows that kobolds are vulnerable to many threats, and the thought of Fira being sent to the battlefront is a terrifying one.

"I don't think so," she says softly. "As a knight, I'm sworn to protect Hailstrom and its people, not engage in war with other kingdoms."

She pauses for a moment before continuing in a reassuring tone.

"But even if that were the case...I would still find a way to stay safe. I have my armor, my skills, and most importantly...my friends."

Fira's expression turns thoughtful, her eyes clouding over with concern. She knows that the war between the Empire and Emerald is a serious threat to Hailstrom's safety.

"I guess I've just learned to expect the unexpected," she says softly. "As a Night Patrol member, I've seen my fair share of danger and uncertainty. But even so...I always try to stay focused on what needs to be done."

She pauses for a moment before continuing in a determined tone.

"And besides, as long as I have you and Kippa by my side...I know we can face whatever comes our way."

Fira's expression softens, and she reaches out to gently touch her brother's arm. "You have it, Bjorn," she says reassuringly. "You just need to believe in yourself."

She looks up at him with a gentle smile. "Remember when we used to explore the castle together? You were always so brave then. You've just forgotten what that feels like."

Fira's smile falters for a moment, but then she bursts out laughing. "Oh, Bjorn, you're such a skeptic!" She playfully teases him.

She leans in closer to him and whispers conspiratorially, "I know what I'm talking about. The castle may seem safe now, but trust me, there are always hidden dangers lurking in the shadows."

Her eyes sparkle with mischief as she continues to whisper her secrets into his ear...

Fira's eyes sparkle with mischief as she turns to face the scout, a hint of embarrassment on her face. "Uh, no...just, uh, just discussing some strategy with my brother," she says hastily.

She straightens up and salutes the scout proudly. "Ah, welcome back! How was your patrol?"

Her tone is light and carefree, but Fira can't help but feel a pang of guilt for being caught gossiping with Bjorn instead of focusing on their duties.

Fira's face flushes with embarrassment and anger as the knights jeer at her. She feels a surge of defensiveness on behalf of herself and Bjorn, but she knows that getting into an argument with the other knights will only make things worse.

She takes a deep breath and tries to compose herself, her expression softening slightly as she looks up at the scout.

"I understand your concerns, Scout," she says calmly. "But sometimes it's good to think outside the box and consider unconventional perspectives. My brother may be a civilian, but he has his own strengths and insights that can be valuable in our discussions."

She pauses for a moment before continuing in a gentle tone.

"And besides...I'm just trying to do my job as best I can."

Fira's eyes roll in exasperation at the Captain's joke, but she can't help but smile slightly at Dax's reaction - the poor pony looks utterly unimpressed by the comment.

She follows after the Captain, trying to hide her annoyance and instead focusing on reviewing their reports for the day.