"Hey, don't cry... I was only joking. It's alright if you don't love me or even if you continue to dislike me. For now, let's just focus on getting back home," Rio spoke gently to the little girl, trying to coax her not to cry.
He then turned and patted his back, signaling for her to climb on so he could give her a piggyback ride to their next destination.
Rose's eyes sparkled with happiness when she realized her new big brother was just teasing her. She quickly hopped onto his back, her spirits lifted, and cheerfully exclaimed, "Let's go, big brother!"
With Eve's guidance, Rio expertly navigated through the twisting and turning passages of the cavern, effortlessly carrying Rose on his back as they made their way toward the exit.
The sunlight gradually grew brighter, signaling their imminent departure from the dark, maze-like structure.
As they ventured through the rugged terrain outside the cavern, they encountered several yellow-stage beasts.
With his greater strength and agility, Rio swiftly dispatched the creatures, leaving Rose in awe of his abilities. She marveled at the fact that this remarkable boy was only a year older than her, yet so incredibly capable.
Rio showed no signs of fatigue or annoyance as they pressed on, despite carrying Rose on his back. His unwavering determination and kindness warmed her heart, and she felt grateful to have him by her side on this perilous journey that had nearly cost her life and separated her from her mother.
As they traveled through the rugged terrain, Rio noticed Rose's voice becoming softer and more lethargic. He could sense that she was growing increasingly drowsy, likely a side effect of her recent exhaustion and desperate situation.
Without hesitation, Rio shifted his grip on her, carefully lifting her up and cradling her in his arms like a baby. He felt her body relax against his chest as he adjusted her position, making sure she was comfortable and secure.
"You can sleep now," Rio whispered soothing words of reassurance to Rose, telling her that she could rest now.
In response, she nuzzled closer to him, seeking comfort and safety in his embrace.
As he held her close, he felt her breathing slow and deepen, and the rhythmic rise and fall of her chest indicated that she had fallen asleep instantly.
In the midst of the dangerous situation, Rose felt an overwhelming sense of safety and security, reassured by the strong, steady presence of her reliable big brother. The warmth of his embrace provided her with solace, and she slept soundly, knowing she was protected and cared for.
With Rose sleeping soundly in his arms, Rio continued to move forward, navigating the strange terrain with ease.
Despite the added weight of carrying Rose, Rio's movements remained unimpeded. His only focus was to ensure her safety and he was determined to not stop until he had completed his task.
Rio was aware that Second Mother had suffered greatly in the past five months, having lost two of her children. Therefore, he felt a sense of urgency to bring Rose to her as soon as possible.
The duo continued their journey, Rose's soft breaths and the sounds of the wilderness accompanying them, as they drew closer to their destination with each passing step.
After seven long hours of travel, the boy finally caught sight of a building in the distance. As they marched nearer, the structure slowly revealed itself to be a three-story building, fortified by a sturdy wall.
Rose, now awake and perched on Rio's back, gazed at their destination with a mix of curiosity and relief.
"Is this place safe, big brother?" she asked, her voice tinged with a mixture of hope and uncertainty.
Rio nodded confidently, reassuring her. "Yes, it's safe. And even if it turns out not to be, they won't be able to harm us. Judging by the looks of it, this seems to be a low-level shelter, so its inhabitants won't be a match for me."
Rose's eyes sparkled with relief and admiration as she listened to her big brother's words, her trust in him growing stronger by the moment.
Rio came to a stop in front of the building, standing tall and proud as he faced the guards dressed in their white shirts and black pants.
The guard's eyes widened in recognition and surprise as he exclaimed, "Rio Havenglow???"
He gazed upon the crimson-haired boy before him in disbelief, especially given that most people had assumed Rio was long dead. The news of his victory over Lex Magnus had yet to spread among the humans in the Land of Asura, so their astonishment was entirely understandable.
Without missing a beat, Rio addressed the guard, "Yeah... let us use the teleporter here."
"Yes, sir..." The guard nodded in agreement and led them to the portal capsule located in a spacious hall. While most portal capsules were placed in private rooms, some were also available for public use in the larger hall.
Rio gestured towards the portal capsule and said with a feeble smile, "There... I've fulfilled my promise."
Rose's eyes lit up with excitement, and she eagerly dashed towards the capsule, eager to return home as soon as possible.
Watching Rose approach the capsule, Rio saw her hesitate just before stepping inside. In an unexpected move, she sprinted back towards him and enveloped him in a tender embrace.
Her voice, barely more than a whisper, carried a genuine warmth as she said, "Thank you, big brother... I'll never forget you, and you'll forever be my favorite."
The depth of her gratitude was evident through the heartfelt words she spoke and the tender embraces they shared. As Rio basked in her genuine appreciation, a wave of happiness washed over him, raising the joy he felt in response to her earnest expression of thanks.
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Edited By: TheWhiteSnow
