Meting First Companion

Months had elapsed since Amukelo's first encounter with the direwolf. The wilderness of Elandria had shaped him into a fierce and astute survivor. His physique had grown even more robust, his senses sharper. The once overwhelming challenges of Elandria's wildlife became somewhat routine, even a pack of ferocious direwolves now fell to his might with comparative ease. His attire, however, told a different story. Tattered and worn, they bore silent testimony to his numerous encounters and battles. His once neat hair now fell unruly onto his forehead, signifying his days away from civilization.

During one of his explorations, a chance meeting led him to cross paths with a group of individuals. Their colorful garments, and the variety of weapons they carried, gave away their identity as adventurers.

The band of adventurers, with their exotic weapons and charming demeanor, seemed like a welcome respite from the lonely rigors of the wilderness. Their leader, a tall and muscular man named Kaelor, was particularly skilled in wielding a double-bladed staff. Then there was Lira, the group's rogue, with a penchant for knives and a certain nimbleness that made her hard to track. Completing the group were the twins, Brin and Bren, warriors who fought in tandem, and Selvan, a mage with a mysterious aura.

Together, they traversed challenging terrains, tackled monstrous creatures, and unraveled the mysteries Elandria threw their way. Evenings would see them huddled around a campfire, laughing, singing, and exchanging tales of their adventures.

One such evening, after a meal of roasted game, Kaelor shared a tale of his encounter with a three-headed serpent in the marshlands to the east. Lira, in turn, showed off a small scar on her arm, narrating her close call with a shadow stalker. Brin and Bren recalled their venture into the Luminous Caves, where they faced off against crystal golems. Selvan remained largely quiet, occasionally showing off a spell or two, leaving Amukelo and the rest in awe.

But it wasn't all just tales and laughter. They trained together, honing their skills. Amukelo, with his expertise in swordsmanship, even managed to teach Lira a move or two, while he learned from Kaelor the art of using momentum in battle.

Yet, as days passed, Amukelo noticed their interest in his belongings—his sword, in particular. Lira once nonchalantly inquired about a pendant he always wore, the last gift from his mother. He had brushed it off, but Brin and Bren's constant whispers and Selvan's penetrating glances added to his unease.

The fateful day when he found the "Wanted" poster changed everything. Without knowing why they were wanted, Amukelo decided to return to the camp with hope of getting explenation from them.