Chapter 12: The Troupe Reunited
Subchapter 12.1: Renewing Energy — Payonnes Hot Springs

After the exhausting battle against Noaka Noshita at the Earth Arena, Renjir and Jack felt relieved to have finally earned the Sand Medallion. However, the weight of the battle still lingered on their tired bodies. Seeing their fatigue, Noaka invited them to a special place near the city: the famous Payonnes Hot Springs Tavern. Known for its restorative waters and serene environment, the tavern was a haven for warriors and trainers seeking solace after grueling battles.

As they walked through the streets of Payonnes, Noaka guided Renjir and Jack through seemingly endless narrow alleys. The gentle aroma of herbs and the warm steam from the springs grew stronger as they approached the tavern. Renjir, still sore and lost in thoughts about the battle, barely noticed when Noaka stopped in front of a modest entrance flanked by tall bamboo stalks.

"Here we are," Noaka said, opening the wooden door to reveal a cozy interior. The tavern's rustic charm featured hanging lanterns and sturdy wooden tables scattered throughout the main hall. Yet, the most striking feature was the large glass doors at the back, leading to the moonlit hot springs.

As they entered, Renjir immediately spotted two familiar faces. Shakadera and Lora were seated near a window, chatting animatedly with Minoru, the group’s calm strategist, and Rahgris, the silent and reserved warrior. They appeared more relaxed than usual, clearly enjoying the welcoming atmosphere.

"Hey, look who’s here!" Jack exclaimed, waving enthusiastically at their friends.

Shakadera offered a faint smile at the sight of the two, but it was Lora who stood first, rushing toward Renjir and Jack with a look of relief.

"Finally, you’re here!" she said, hugging Jack tightly. "We were starting to think Noaka had turned you into sand statues!"

Renjir chuckled, feeling the warmth of the moment and the comfort of reuniting with friends.

"Almost, Lora," he joked, glancing at Noaka, who smiled enigmatically. "But we made it. The Sand Medallion is ours."

Minoru raised his glass in a silent toast, acknowledging their achievement. Rahgris, as usual, remained quiet, but his steady gaze and slight nod spoke volumes about his respect for their efforts.

As the group settled in, Noaka walked toward a figure seated alone at a distant table, their back turned to the others. The atmosphere around this individual seemed different—serene yet heavy with an indescribable weight. Noaka’s steps slowed as she approached, almost hesitant.

Upon reaching the figure, Noaka suddenly knelt with deference, to everyone’s surprise.

"Miss Zoe… how has life been treating you?" Noaka asked, her voice filled with reverence.

The woman, silent until now, turned slowly to face Noaka. Her silver hair fell in gentle waves to her shoulders, and her deep violet eyes radiated an aura of wisdom and mystery. She wore a simple cloak, but her presence was undeniably powerful.

"The usual, Noaka-san," Zoe replied, her voice soft but laced with a subtle, sweet irony that made Renjir and Jack exchange puzzled looks.

"Ton!" Lora, Shakadera, and Minoru exclaimed in unison, grinning at Zoe’s ironic tone.

For a moment, Noaka broke her rigid demeanor, laughing openly. Zoe also let out a light laugh, which quickly spread to the group, dispelling the tension that had formed.

Intrigued, Renjir stepped closer to Shakadera.

"Who is she?" he whispered, observing the enigmatic woman.

"Zoe is… peculiar," Shakadera replied with a mischievous grin. "She’s one of the few people Noaka genuinely respects. Rumor has it she’s far more powerful than she appears. Don’t be fooled by her calm aura. Zoe has faced challenges that would make most of us tremble."

Renjir gazed at Zoe again, now with renewed respect. It was evident that she was no ordinary person. The way Noaka, a formidable and ruthless opponent, behaved around her spoke volumes.

Zoe’s violet eyes briefly met Renjir and Jack’s, sending a shiver down their spines as if her gaze pierced beyond the surface.

"It seems we have new heroes on this journey," Zoe said with a faint smile. "Take care of the medallions you carry. They are more than mere symbols of victory."

Renjir nodded, unsure how to respond. There was something about Zoe that intrigued him—a feeling that his journey was just beginning and that this woman knew far more than she let on.

"Come on, let’s enjoy the hot springs before the water cools!" Jack interrupted, trying to lighten the mood. "Nothing beats relaxing after a battle like that!"

With laughter and lighthearted banter, the group headed toward the hot springs, setting aside, for a moment, the battles and challenges yet to come.