recognize them, but their presence seemed familiar.
“…Protect her…” Doc thought he heard a voice in his head, but he couldn’t hear it anymore. His attention returned to Claire as she began speaking.
"Those are the men who came with the mage yesterday," Claire clarified, "However, they are not wearing their magic armor and wield plain swords. They did not come here to conquer you again."
The two were alerted to a new presence running up to join the men. Doc recognized the human aspects, but this human was not like the others. "Claire, this human has lumpy things on her, like you," he exclaimed.
For some reason, Doc sensed he had somehow offended Claire. "Doc, those are breasts. They are found on females of most species and used to feed their young. They are not lumps."
"So does that mean you have children? How'd you make them?"
Doc felt a mental back slap from a blushing Claire, who cried out, "No, you idiot! I don't have kids! They are there for when we have children, and used to attract a mate."
"Weird thing to use to attract mates," Doc muttered under his breath. He went on to say to her, "So does that mean bigger is better? I think you have bigger ones even though she is larger than you."
Claire was feeling rather smug when she said, "Yes it does, and yes I am, thank you very much. Now, be quiet so I can listen in."
The two focused on the conversation that started when the girl arrived.
“Am I late? Did Sir Koran go without me?” The female asked.
“Don't worry ranger, Master Koran had other matters to tend to and you're on time. We won't be going far in today, but you came prepared for battle correct?” One of the men asked.
The girl nodded and showed off her weapons, “I'm all set! Thank you for bringing me with you on your dungeon excursion.” She bowed to them.
The men waved it off, “Think nothing of it young one, we are happy to help our junior to gain experience. It's important to learn what's expected of you sooner rather than later. Follow us.”
They entered the dungeon, leading the girl into its dark depths. Doc watched them closely, somehow not feeling as excited as he had the day before.
"Claire, somehow I don't feel comfortable," he told her.
She nodded, "I guess being an old soul makes you more aware of situations like these. Most dungeons wouldn't care at all."
"What do you mean?" asked Doc.
Claire sighed, "Not everyone is a good person in the world. Mommy showed me that when I was younger. Some evil people like to use dungeons to do things and get away from punishment. Don't interfere and watch them."
“…Save…” The soft voice disappeared as fast as he heard it, sending a shiver through Doc. Doc was unsure now, but relented and watched the men lead the girl deeper into the dungeon.
“Is this your first time in a dungeon Mrs. Ranger?” Asked one of the men.
She nodded, “That's right, I haven't seen a dungeon before. Is it supposed to be this easy?”
“Don't worry; it'll get worse the further we go in,” he reassured her. “The way to the first room is clear of traps for now and the room has a nice copper vein to mine.”
“Wow! They didn't teach me at the castle about copper veins in dungeons.” The girl was so excited she must have said something interesting. Doc wasn't the only one to notice because the man began eyeing her differently and coughing.
“Are you alright, sir?” She asked concerned.
The man nodded, “Don't worry, it's an old injury. Why don't you go ahead to the first room while I rest a moment? Take Jack with you while the others watch me.”
“Are you sure?” She asked while hearing splitting up sounds.
“Don't worry; it's safe till the second tunnel. Go, don't let me hold you back,” said the man.
The girl still looked unsure, but her eagerness overcame her reservations. So she and one of the men went on ahead to the room. The girl inspected the walls in fascination and asked the man about mines in dungeons. Meanwhile,