91. Life & Death

At a lively picnic on the Island, friends and mentors gather to decompress after recent battles. Rufus toasts the iron-rankers for defeating a bronze-rank marsh hydra and notes Jason’s growth since arriving in Greenstone. Jason thanks everyone for their support, acknowledging how they helped him build a better life.

Jason, Humphrey, and Clive recount the hydra fight, omitting sensitive details tied to Rufus’s confidential mission. Jason produces the bronze-ranked, five-tailed biting whip they looted, which Gary demonstrates. Humphrey announces his promotion to two-star, prompting further toasts and day-drinking.

As questions arise about awakening stones, Vincent explains they are not awarded for overrank kills to avoid reckless rank-jumping. Rufus cautions about jumping ranks but hints at an opportunity in about a month, refusing specifics. Light banter follows—training talk, the mirage chamber being booked, and Jason’s playful exchanges with friends.

The mood turns solemn at the Adventure Society’s mausoleum, where a memorial service is held for the recovered adventurer. Humphrey presents the badge to the family, and the tracking stone is placed in the Hall of Fallen Heroes. Jason and Clive maintain respectful decorum, declining a private family gathering per etiquette.

At an adventurer’s wake, a silent drink honors the dead, followed by toasts to Humphrey, Jason, and Clive for bringing him home. Stories shift the mood from grief to celebrating the adventurer’s life. With growing reputations—especially Humphrey’s—they receive gratitude and respect. The chapter closes with the trio leaving quietly through the Island’s lamplit streets.