The Last Link

Chapter 2: A Month Later

A month has passed since I arrived. It took me less time than I thought to get used to the city, although I must mention that it was thanks to Wilbur that I was able to settle in without any problems. Putting on a performance in exchange for lodging is a fair deal, and thanks to the missions the city offers, I have been able to earn enough money to eat.

Obviously, we do these missions together, and we have developed the habit of meeting at night in the tavern to talk. That first assignment left some of us quite disturbed.

Sometimes, Eleanor comes and spends some time with us, but she usually retires early to her lodging. In the same way, after every mission, it always does us good to gather together. Little by little, I have gotten used to each one’s quirks: Daiki, despite his sour expression, is always willing to help; Eleanor, at times, seems like a rabbit, getting startled by everything, and her strength is… deplorable. Cain is somewhat foolish, but he has a good heart, although that makes him fall into traps far too easily. And Yadiel… well, he remains a mystery to us. He appears and disappears whenever he wants; I suppose that is what comes with being someone from the city.

Despite spending a month together doing small errands, my mind does not forget the words of that young man: “We will all die.” Did he include us as well? This last week I have not been able to stop thinking about it.

And while Alana was lost in her thoughts, Wilbur called out to her.

Wilbur: Girl, come here!

Alana: Yes, sir? What do you need? —she said with a smile, expecting him to ask her to do something in the tavern.

Wilbur: You have been in this city for a month and you have done nothing but work for the tavern, so hold out your hands.

Alana held out her hands, somewhat confused.

Alana: It is true that I only worked, but I was able to meet many people in the city, like Hélix from the forge, little Orin, María, some of the ladies from the market…

Orin is a young man with copper-colored hair and a very cheerful spirit who works in the tavern helping Wilbur, together with María, a woman just as kind, who comes from the south just like Wilbur.

Wilbur handed her a small pouch with some coins inside.

Alana: —when she checked the pouch, she was surprised— What is this? —she asked with disbelief.

Wilbur: It is extra pay. I have received more customers thanks to your performances, and lately I notice you are more distracted than usual.

Alana held the pouch, doubting whether it was a good idea to accept that gift.

Alana: There was no need, sir. I am truly satisfied just being able to sleep here.

Wilbur, crossing his arms and showing a stern but paternal expression, replied firmly:

Wilbur: Of course there was a need. This is not about whether you like it or not, girl. It is about what you are worth. Besides, lately you have had a distant look in your eyes. Whatever it is that you are carrying, deal with it. Let us see if with this you clear your head a bit and treat yourself.

Moved, Alana smiled warmly and replied:

Alana: Thank you. You are right, starting from zero is not easy at all. I will not waste what you gave me, I promise.

Wilbur let out a deep, dry laugh.

Wilbur: You do not have to promise me anything; you earned that money. Just make sure you do not get any stranger than you already are. And now go, today there are few people. You have the day off; take care of your matters.