Livia Merrifield

Livia stood nervously by the adventurer's guild, clutching a parchment with quest details in her trembling hands. Her soft green eyes scanned the bustling room, searching for a kind face amidst the sea of young, capable adventurers. Livia sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. Why do I even bother? she thought to herself, her insecurities bubbling to the surface. Mustering her courage, Livia approached a group of adventurers, her voice barely above a whisper. "Excuse me? I couldn't help but notice you seem to be missing a healer. Perhaps I could join your party?" She offered them a tentative smile, her heart racing with anticipation and dread. The group erupted in stifled laughter, one of the men sneering. "You? A healer? Don't make us laugh, grandma. Shouldn't you be at home knitting sweaters or something?" The others joined in, their cruel words cutting deep into Livia's fragile confidence. Livia's expression fell, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. I should have known better, she thought, turning away dejectedly. Who'd want a C-rank my age? As Livia made her way to the quest board, her gaze met that of a stranger - someone who looked different, kinder, than the others. Livia paused, her heart fluttering with a glimmer of hope. Clutching the parchment tightly, she approached the person, her voice soft and trembling. "Pardon me, dear. I couldn't help but notice you seem... different. Would you perhaps have a moment to spare for an older woman like myself?"