When Rover separated from Kenny, she created a mission for herself. She wanted to find the way up the tower and rub it in his face. She knew Kenny wouldn't mind it very much, but she didn't particularly want to enrage Kenny. She just wanted to throw a jab or two his way. It was fun for her. A type of fun that was harmless and calm, one she usually found in hearing stories.
Besides, the quicker she delivered this stupid letter to the stupid Dean, the faster they could leave and avoid all the stupid nonsense this city was going through.
So, Rover didn't traverse the building all lax and slow. She didn't spend her time ogling at the architecture or meticulously investigating what was behind those doors. No, when she deemed the distance between her and Kenny far enough, she broke into a sprint, covering the grounds of the hallway almost immediately.
When she turned the corner, she saw something at the end that was unlike the walls. From this distance, she could only tell that it was an opening, but there were signs beside it. Rover, proud of her senses for a reason, spotted the engravings on the signs from across the hallway. It was the caricature of somebody ascending rudimentary steps.
Rover smirked. She found her head start. She made it to the end of the hallway in a near instant. However, she didn't walk up the stairs immediately.
"..."
Kenny had told her to meet back at the entrance if they found anything. This suggestion was holding her back, which surprised Rover.
But, many things have been surprising her today. Many things about herself, about others, the list could go on. Though Rover had a part of her that wanted to honor Kenny's suggestion, her eager, daring part wanted to rise up those steps and get this letter delivered right here and now. In fact, she wanted to do it so fast that by the time Kenny would finish his inspection, she'd be back to meet him with their mission completed.
She listened to the latter part and ran up the stairs.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiupqw5puAh
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjfT6uA7w0A
What she found when she arrived on the second floor– which was a longer trek than she expected –was a series of rooms isolated in glass boxes. The floor was carpeted and there was a central path that branched off to all the rooms, with a few leading to doors embedded into the walls. Rover didn't care for the framework of the room, instead focusing on finding an exit. Unfortunately, the maze-like structure of the floor made navigating it difficult. Rover concluded that one of the doors lodged into the wall must've led to the next floor, but even though there were no obstructions to her vision courtesy of the glass, finding an exit from any point of the room was impossible.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUJcuFx5Qhn
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0jeAPzJZvG
"W-Who makes their rooms this confusing!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsHUUJC0xxW
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6MUbSlEPDn
Rover had nobody to voice her complaint to, however, so she saved it for whatever draftsmen would face her first and scoured the room for an exit. Though she compared the structure to a maze, in reality, the paths lead to destinations without any deliberately puzzling forks. Still, traveling in this area, where everywhere she looked had a desk and chair loitering around, was disorienting.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQju4GQycwF
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTAQgkFzD0x
She managed to arrive at one of the wall-embedded doors. She tried to open it, but the door didn't budge. She tried to kick it down, but even with her physical prowess, the door didn't falter.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3jAle2qHKT
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy4XFVxajn5
It was reinforced with mana– that was Rover's conclusion, and as Rover was unable to use any magic, there was no way she could tear the door down with just her strength. Maybe if she was stronger, she thought, but she discarded the idea quickly. She turned around and retraced her steps, tilting her head downward and fixing her eyes on the carpet. She returned to an intersection, and with two other paths to choose, she decided on the left one. The path only led to an ensemble of glass boxes, however, so she retraced her steps yet again.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGa1yZcQ29
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb7u0BISfIT
She was beginning to get a little thirsty. She began to regret her self-imposed restlessness. Nevertheless, she continued searching, and searching, and searching–
"--Who's there?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPymyDNawVp
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHw71KQr3kJ
It was faint. It could've just been a trick of the mind, or maybe the floor was settling from all the garbage placed onto it. But, she heard a distinct noise. She was sure it wasn't her body making it, or the rustling of her baggage. No, it was a noise of something foreign. So, she spoke out, sharpening her eyes and hearing to where even her heartbeat didn't fall upon her.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEeGT56q02s
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUedW4yd613
–Again. There it was again. She began crossing out the possibilities. It could no longer be a trick of her mind, nor could it be the settling of the room. Therefore, she asked again.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAN9C2qbqww
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf15G6e0pQA
"Who's there?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2h99IH3LQd
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡamQPXldLLl
She drew her rapier. Her eyes darted around the room. Whatever, or most likely, whoever made the noise, was hiding behind one of the dozens of desks sprawled around.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcERKEbmZMz
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmJGRFZlyve
Therefore–188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmmPxLWUxeT
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiJajDw9Gec
**SHATTER**188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdEG5bPPwNk
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVezKPUsOTQ
She would attempt to draw them out. And what better way to do so than to cause a little mayhem?188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSU3j7JtiOS
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhJtHPtfOV9
With a series of swift kicks, she shattered the glass boxes in her immediate vicinity and toppled over all the desks and chairs that her limbs could reach. But, even through all the noise and rumbling, she never let her vision drift away from her surroundings.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF970Pg5QZH
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgekzFYvZTQ
Her hasty action drew out her desired result.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡST1uzONLS3
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO2gRYGPHQa
"You're an insolent, deleterious girl, but you have good discretion."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzBMqZAIgNA
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡULMbcSjRKm
A man popped up from a distant set of tables. He grabbed a chair and chucked it, shattering a glass wall in its trajectory toward Rover. She merely kicked the flying object into a wall.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMFdxgl7rg
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwTzn3Py5PP
"Powerful, too."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeAqK9W9GXF
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsbEKuUO7zO
Rover raised her rapier, brandishing it and pointing it at the man.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG8lTcUUkBY
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiXxD1UrnBq
"I don't know what deleterious means. Is that supposed to be a compliment?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnZFk3rOxrb
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡriYye1BxIB
"If the poor man who will have to clean up after your mess thinks so, then yes."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5qaMVLxa9K
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4tCj5kSPLR
Rover narrowed her eyes. It wasn't just the fact that he liked to hide, but his articulation infuriated her. She was naturally wary, but holding back the desire to rush in and ravage him was difficult.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdXG9oyPcFa
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ50EMz3Fwct
She inspected the man's outfit, seeing a large coat, reaching to his ankles. He likely had a set of weapons hidden beneath it. After all, Rover thought, men with hair as kempt as his always carried an excessive deal of weaponry.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwJ4154u5L2
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQgv9fpIN79
"...I don't know how you got up here, but it's obvious that you're a threat. Sorry, I'll have to fight you now."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpTMNPBbbl4
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuFgxejjzZF
The man fiercely unzipped his coat and reached both his hands inside, taking out a duel set of–188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBvWI9StUIs
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeKmw7yrgPL
"Crossbows!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5CwzSpP9FQ
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwclZXUXuHa
Rover's heart sank, but only for a moment. The crossbows weren't big or imposing, and Rover couldn't begin to fathom how he would reload them, meaning that handling them was clunky. It wasn't so different from fighting a mage. At least, it shouldn't have been.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNUnrSgfbdv
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjOyJxqPm8C
But Rover saw two pillars– or, what could be better described as chimneys –attached to the ends of the crossbow, creeping from the depths of his coat. The man fired them, and Rover evaded them easily, but then another couplet followed, and then another, and another, and another–188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29HVp5Tqse
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVpKVfW1tyw
"Ngh! How!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLZ6SkdY8DE
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5iPOOkjKMA
She flipped a desk over and used it as a shield, blocking the maelstrom of arrows to little effect. Their momentum was stopped, but the arrowheads happily pierced through the several inches of thick wood, stopping just short of hitting her face. Unfortunately, the cumulative force of the arrows ruptured the table, splitting it in two and forcing Rover to roll away to grab a new one. She went through two more desks before the flurry of arrows ceased. Cold sweat ran down her spine, but with the quantity of her sweat, it would be more accurate to call it a river.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqbgxi2SkzT
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqlx4wttFhl
Rover peered over the desk. The man clicked his tongue and put his crossbows back inside his coat, and Rover exhaled in relief. The man dug through his coat and pulled out a large, serrated knife.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡohZu5z4T2Y
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5rSCTsWEwH
"I'm a fool, using my crossbows in a place like this where you can simply block them. Arrows don't come cheap."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoeA6fFGm3q
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL7MzMWRBPh
"What are you talking to me for? Are we going to fight or not?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpqGrHWZ76X
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcyRVLalUcz
"You ought to know the answer by now."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh2sFGPq9M0
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7zViAFN2kp
The man entered into a restrained fighting stance, taunting Rover by jerking his fingers and telling her to bring it. Rover was more than happy to oblige.
As she ran to the man, bursting through glass walls, she grabbed her parrying dagger and raised it. The man backed away and hopped onto a desk, kicking a chair at Rover. She blocked it with her arms and shoved it aside.
"--Huh?"
The chair had blocked her vision for barely over a second, and yet, the man had disappeared from her view. She frantically looked around the floor but found nobody, likely meaning–
"You're hiding behind a table again!"
With how little time had passed, the man must have been hiding by the desk he stood on. Rover rushed to the desk and kicked it and nearby ones over. Indeed, Rover had found the man, but she also found a ball of water hovering right in front of his palm.
Rover's instincts kicked in and forced her to duck, allowing her to get by with just a few grazed strands of hair. But the man didn't let up, rushing at her with his knife in both hands. Rover backed away from the first thrust, but the man caught up quickly and thrust at her again, forcing Rover to parry it with her dagger.
She'd typically be thrilled about such a situation, as having the opponent's weapon interlocked with her dagger made their movement cumbersome. But his weapon was light and smaller than hers. Rover realized it too late, and thus, the man was able to easily deliver a kick to her abdomen, knocking her away.
She didn't go far, and though the kick hurt, it granted her beneficial information.
"Ack," the man shouted, shaking his foot like he'd stubbed his toe, "that was through a shoe, too! Are you made of iron?"
She smirked. Rover now knew her physical strength was superior to his.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuOCfn3sKFN
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdgpNsz7v2Z
"Before we keep going," she started, "what is your name?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlFcvLXNe88
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhL7PeSAdtb
"Hmm? What's this, are you trying to duel me?"
"What else would I be doing!?"
The man lowered his knife for a moment, tapping his chin–
"I decline."
And dashing towards Rover yet again. The split second of rage Rover felt from his response was enough to stun her and allow the man to close the distance. He thrust his knife at her repeatedly, then switched to slashing, the first of which Rover quickly blocked with her rapier. She reacted faster than the man and delivered a kick from the side, but her foot didn't meet with the man's body. Rover looked down and saw the man's free hand open, and a tiny yet dense mass of stone was in between that and her foot.
"Tch!"
She dashed away, shaking her head and clearing her mind, then took the offensive. She poked her rapier at the man, able to stay at a distance where his knife couldn't reach her. The man kept backing away and dodging her thrusts until he collided with a table. Rover smirked, reeling her arm back and stabbing the rapier into the man's leg– but it failed. Instead, the man perfectly blocked the oncoming strike with the flat side of the knife. Rover's eyes widened, the brief moment of disbelief weakening the force she was applying, and allowing to shove her rapier aside. Nonplussed, but more so because of her broken stance, a punch to the face and subsequent kick to the stomach sent Rover rolling across the floor. The glass tore her clothes and dug themselves into her lower legs.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWkQMbjGZHW
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzUl1kOfi3m
"Hrk! Ahh, this sucks!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp8FHit6Rn0
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVupM3CEtjx
The prickling pain of dozens of miniature shards lodged into her skin was as oppressive as it was unique. Rover struggled to grit her teeth through it, and more than that, struggled to keep her legs standing straight.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2sSsQI8f1v
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡolM9tQQqiy
"Phew. Give up now?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ7ABBvSQmP
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvQmbFocOLq
"'Course not, just thinking."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGuvvRRTc1K
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1nLGmVe90
Her rapier was an effective but exploitable tool. She also lost a substantial amount of mobility, and now blood was slowly leaking from her body. The one time she utilized her dagger only led to a counterattack, but that instance was a defensive use.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMRgb8FaQU
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtEaB0vGC2p
The man didn't let her analyze the situation unperturbed. He broke into a sprint, yet again clutching his knife in both hands. But Rover had already sheathed her rapier brandished her dagger, and challenged the man's rush.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy5XqOnp14q
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLCL6xGTdYN
The surprise on his face was evident, and he skidded to a stop. Rover weakly slashed at him and the man backed away. She caught the hem of his coat but missed his body. The man didn't rush in again, instead, continuing to back off. He freed one of his hands and began mana expulsion.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLxRoLNU5Sx
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFGeAG3y4pj
"--Shit!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66BiUh3w3A
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdxaQtFoti
Rover realized how precarious the situation had become. After all, if the very thing locomoting her had been impeded, then evasion became a mountainous task.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7zybG73COX
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgNuIzxtiCw
The man must have had a similar epiphany.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRn1Xp8Y4mU
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjVTfcSWS5m
It was a blade of wind this time. It was speedy, but Rover could tell that its strength was far less than the water spell from before. Instead of dodging it, she grabbed her rapier, still in its scabbard, and blocked the spell.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaAJsy5J0Ql
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGQHWLSQDxl
"--Huh?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEgiPtJOXQw
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUxo9NGqUNw
Rover was surprised by her move's effectiveness. Or, rather, she was surprised by how weak the spell was. Then, she lowered the scabbard and looked at the man again, who was preparing a far more voluminous spell.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVgJsZkaJaP
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh8f9iowyd3
Before she could even react, she was sent flying.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wWMZmS1ny
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROuJGn0ZdA
The spell itself didn't hurt her, but the distance she was flung was simply absurd. She flew across the entire floor, only stopping when making contact with the wall. She slid down, rubbing her back when she met with the floor.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjMebepC4xp
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcR39JxAMvd
"Ngh..."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUR59ZCHNCl
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK2YgVmEiv1
She got on her feet, using the scabbard to help her rise. Her breathing was heavy, and her vision was becoming hazy.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlM4yxeuDd7
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnR9zVCiLuu
"This just... isn't my day, damn it."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPrXATqfFLr
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRGnAOOqMnc
"--Rover!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vDlHv9iSI
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFuy05djBRt
And then, she was taken out of her exhaustion, if only for a moment. A familiar voice, yet one that should not be here, called out to her. She turned her head to the person with the voice and saw a red-haired boy with a white coat peeking out of the floor's entrance.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoIds3gXuIU
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZTEpJh4PhM
"K-Kenny!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuiXt0uEdNj
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwDcCVtLQ96
"Rover– goodness, what the hell happened here!? Actually, nevermind that, listen, you–"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUKGNDrpKMD
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zOq3SVllB
"Sorry, Kenny, I'm in the middle of something here."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVX9qxZJZPe
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyJA7YqFRLE
She straightened her posture and rubbed the saliva off her chin, limping to continue her fight.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIXPd6pOMDr
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw2FbU3zOCG
"What are you doing!? Look at yourself, you're in no state to fight!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOAILBbhl1
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUYBD4tyUgP
She turned her head to him, conflicted.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMoOkUBUj0b
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmjKZA1YzBe
"I... So what, I don't need your help! I've got it under control, it's fine."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOLijOFRqZ
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtkxDmIgBbO
Kenny grimaced and pinched his nose. Then, the door opened again, and out from the threshold walked a white-haired woman in a robe.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXmHoPWOdWe
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS4uuuxHUoU
"W-who's that," she asked, confusion momentarily overtaking her burning drive.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS360k57AtM
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeuOgfwst4z
"Ah, you must be Kenny's friend. We can introduce ourselves later. Please, stand aside for the time being."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsfJ8YDfPYQ
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8qRV2LvaLe
"H-Huh?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeKlMf9nie8
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwST0E1yarF
The woman walked with a bold gait, brushing past Rover without even sparing a glance. Kenny ran up to her, gnawing at his finger as he looked over her wounds.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH9eGEfOrvr
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVpCixnxJup
"You... you are so reckless!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGp04ahxV73
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQqlNMROi8T
Then, the boy raised his voice, stunning her.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1aPxUOIkmN
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTmrOuCzaB
"Why is fighting the first thing you do, huh!? Can't you use that head of yours for something else!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPoHlN2a9v
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2uYMW3uvXe
His words, to her surprise, slashed at her egregiously.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb2ek2nQoPC
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xwC6vMNwx
"...T-The hell are you talking about!? What else was I supposed to do!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXMU3lCjZT0
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrssLIVyeUB
"Didn't you think of waiting, or running back to me or something!? I could have shown him that note! Or, if nothing else, we could have fought together!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXGUwkeY9EV
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxwBQ0ACLg8
"--!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0nOBjlXWf9
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEsIfUHMZkW
His words had left her paralyzed and her mouth agape. Kenny's expression was suddenly tainted by guilt. He exhaled and rubbed his head.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjwLRoAY270
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfJJgCSk744
"Sorry, I'm just a little angry right now. But, I'm glad that you're fine. Relatively speaking."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXdTU1AOblg
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIhiv8ezJOP
"I... hmph, of course I'm fine!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgB0q7Goto
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbZ740bKIbJ
A light smile found itself on his face.
"We'll talk later. For now, let's defuse the situation."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxs088h1so
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ72t862Es4i
Kenny walked past her but stopped just short of passing her to speak.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9k8iBpxizp
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSl1ntFiQz4
"S-Seriously, though. You have no idea how glad I am that you're still alive. I don't know if I could've handled it."
"...Handled it? What do you mean?"
Kenny blinked a few times and shook his head.
"N-Nevermind, I said something weird, ignore that."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5MP9MymIt6
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS6bG7qGCOc
Rover turned around, eyeing the two new figures in the room. Kenny was behind the mysterious woman with his tendril out and a bellicose stance. The woman had a peculiar two-pronged dagger. Rover found it strange; she knew that they would be trying to talk the situation out, but they were poised to battle at any moment.
"Pars," the woman spoke, "I'll keep it quick. These two are here to deliver a letter issued by the Zariel Kingdom itself. I know you're a stuck-up guy, but please, don't force me to fight alongside them."
"..."
The man didn't immediately respond, but his posture did loosen.
"Stuck-up? Really? What'd I do to get on your bad side?"
"Oh, come on, you know your sins."
The man sighed.
"Is there a reason I should believe them?"
"Why, yes, there is."
Kenny took it as a cue and reached for his pocket, unfolding and showing the note. The man nodded, opened his coat, and placed the knife in.
"That better be authentic. Not like it matters though. It isn't as if I'd win a fight against you Lola."
–
–
–
I had a lingering anxiety during the exchange. After all, Lola had told me that Pars was an obstinate individual. I was left doubting her assessment. Judging by the look on her face, even she was reconsidering it.
Still, though, a victory was a victory, and it deserved some kind of celebration. I spent mine dropping to the floor, narrowly avoiding the sea of glass and panting as the delayed exhaustion set in.
"Phew... that was nightmarish."
I retracted the tendril and wiped the sweat off my brow. A little this sounded beside me, and I turned to find that Rover had joined in my rest.
"You don't look happy," I said.
"Hmph. I've got a sour taste in my mouth. I dunno how to feel about this."
"Well, be glad you're still kicking, and dread the scolding I'll be dishing to you."
"You already gave me a good one, there's no need to waste your energy."
Then, Rover began to pick the glass out of her legs. It was obvious from her wincing that the process hurt. I didn't have a potion on me, but I did have something to soothe her. I took out the tendril and summoned a Soothe-Bloom. Rover looked at it quizzically.
"...So that's the tendril you were talking about."
"Hmm? Did I not show it to you?"
"No! Don't you remember how much of a priss you were about it!? Eh, forget it, what does that flower do?"
"Just watch. Or, listen, I suppose."
The Soothe-Bloom shook, and a gentle chime rang throughout the room. It was a single and quick occurrence, and it left Rover only more perplexed.
"Alright, try picking the glass now."
"Okay."
Much to her nature, she tugged the largest one she could find, her mouth agape at the speed at which the wound was closing.
"W-Woah, it barely hurts. Is this some kind of black magic?"
"Black magic!? Don't insult my plants like that!"
She paid little heed to my demand, continuing to pluck the glass out of her legs. She finished a few minutes later. I offered to wash her legs with water magic, which she accepted when I insisted. Afterward, she got on her feet. Her leg was still injured, but the bleeding had stopped thanks to the Soothe-Bloom.
"I feel... kinda tired, though."
"You just fought somebody and had your wounds speed-healed. I'm surprised you didn't fall asleep."
"Huh? That flower knocks people out?"
"No. Not directly, at least. Anyway, enough of that."
I got up, swiped the debris off my shorts, and walked to Lola and Pars, moving around all the toppled furniture. The two of them were talking about something, but from the little bit I caught, I couldn't distinguish what.
"Hello, kid," Pars started, "Kenny, right? Look, I don't want you to get the wrong idea from Lola here. I'm a decent guy, just a hard worker. She likes to ignore that part, though, which–"
"I do not care about that. I just wanted to know if you two were ready to lead us to the Dean."
Lola let out a chuckle and Pars, a tired sigh. Lola took the initiative in the conversation.
"Don't mind him, he's still young. Whenever your friend is ready, we'll gladly lead you."
I turned my head behind me and looked at Rover. I threw her an oscillating thumb, asking her for an assessment of her condition. She smiled and returned a stern thumbs-up.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkNaTdPqJlO
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAQ9fTJTrLI
"Looks like we're ready. If you don't mind, though, could you please get her some bandages?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL6cowC5oqR
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf47D2XH8qf
–
–
–188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXY3VfbI8js
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOPSR11nv0b
Rover and I were at the final stretch. We were walking through the floors of the building like it was a morning stroll, all thanks to our guides. Truly, if it weren't for them, we would have gotten hopelessly lost.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi5yOQlJt5D
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvcdBYKdfcz
According to Pars, the interior of the Pillars was designed to disorient those unfamiliar with it. Rover spoke from her experience and confirmed that the design worked. The Pillars were perfectly defended from the outside, but hiring someone to infuse their mana for every square inch of the building was an impossible proposition. So, instead, the builders were ordered to make each floor– with the first being a notable exception –like a maze. The walls were also stuffed with foam, which explained how I didn't catch any noise from Rover's fight until I reached the stairs.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJEyGBYmHGr
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94xmPyBxeg
Speaking of Rover, she was glum, moody, and seemingly deep in rumination. I thought that it had something to do with her pride since she scratched at her bandages very frequently, but it turned out that they were just made of shoddy fabric that normally irritated skin. I realized that I was overthinking and that it would be best to just ask her, but I hesitated to do it. The mood was gloomy, however. If nothing else, I could claim I was just trying to liven the place up.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEIBOAqW091
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW9DPddrBIn
"So... Rover, what's on your mind?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNLS3D4mGUN
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS5Xy1I7OeF
"I'm thinking about what you said. Don't talk to me right now."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjil8ZrXPrO
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYl3m5MjDK
"O-Oh. Carry on, then."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBWB8QGJvjn
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjZNEh66Ee
I was shot down quickly and was left feeling sheepish. Somehow, hearing that she was thinking over my words was foreboding. It scared me into being silent, but I still wanted to talk about something, since simply talking and walking through these floors was nerve-wracking.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHkmHlYYXul
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf17ivseN96
So, I decided that now was a better time than ever to ask a question that had been plaguing me for hours.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXIjHOXmtfd
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlo8tsCdiPh
"Hey, Lola, do you mind if I ask that question I was talking about?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUYXPutfr6I
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEA2asKC2jr
"Hmm? What are you referring to?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcqyioLFQ7C
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPOqVTMohKp
"...Nevermind. Can I ask you a question?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIQhxDMTjSW
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCuB7aGEt3k
"Of course."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfwOYFpyN50
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsRyMff4HCk
"Hey," Pars interrupted, "Why don't you ask me that question? Come on, give me a try."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqFkrN68930
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMbLGkUkc2
I blinked a few times, failing to see any reason why not.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡItaP6ZX2Mu
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ47TuE7V6CZ
"Very well. What is going on to make the security so tight?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWVkMWzKo2c
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK5uPw6ZGlk
"..."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP4YM5MiNBk
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCh9SPhfLV1
I was met with silence. Lola and Pars exchanged looks, Pars' expression grim.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9CUpAjGEf
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8oe6JLFn4b
"Since they are delivering to the Dean, why don't we–"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0BNYIBWINd
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJKdocdaA63
"No. We have been explicitly told not to share. I won't make any exceptions."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe8w9InLULQ
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqirXEFYiyp
Lola frowned and let out a tired sigh, rubbing her brow.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHVn1bjFyk9
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP4l0H4Rknm
"If you can't answer, that's fine. It would ease my anxiety if you did, though."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOANYLz8cst
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6yjYVLu81U
"Then I suppose I have no choice."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDG076JU4p6
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq0hDqiHqJZ
"Lola! Are you kidding me!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxPdzpQKK5b
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvdiMp7jNGD
Pars glared at Lola, his hazel eyes lit aflame.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh9emWo5TGy
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk293sGcAr8
"What? They aren't citizens anyhow, they're unlikely to spread the information."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGjoJBYce7g
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQxUQzcxVts
"That's beside the point! We were told not to tell them!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgcyr04XMQ
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrDbhugC0uj
"You are such a priss, Pars."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoJouDZWasH
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFV14YGgnDm
I perked up, hearing that word from someone that wasn't Rover. It was ultimately a coincidence, so I just kept listening.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv5cqmrM5oS
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCnCnuqdEGK
"Hurl your insults, but we can't tell them anything. Even if it wasn't demanded, what if they told everyone in Zariel Capitol, hmm?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡueP6vv7dPS
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoPc2zBKOXg
"That won't happen, and I know you know that."
"Yeah yeah. But it might."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS0CRtMKhiZ
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZB8LDbUZjO
Though I didn't see her face, I could by the movement of her head that Lola rolled her eyes.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcceogRmqSC
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡszzgrjSSih
"I'm going to tell them."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcBa2Ytwt9s
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJonEmsB0qe
"Don't you do it."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3osMcdQm1c
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gQu0oAFOL
"Listen up, Kenny. The reason for the increase in security–"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8WFZUIZbXU
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBA1fy1b1XO
"Lola, I'm for real about this."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeaX6nWw6uF
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe5tZoFd3ZT
"--is because of a series of assassinations."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFOn6nIc9A9
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7s3ea2Pslj
Pars let out an exhausted, lengthy groan. Lola leaned in beside my ear, not giving me a chance to digest the information.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuxBvC3sNpr
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqDxFakfSAJ
"Pars is a pushover, too. Watch, he won't do a thing."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGUdh9KegE
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA7QAYFG9gL
"...Well, cat's out of the bag, so I might as well elaborate. Don't want the kid thinking I'm all fussy too."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfr7TwpXyQD
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlNzXGeBMPh
Lola's eyes widened. An overwhelming quantity of thoughts were swerving in my mind, but at the very least, I could be sure to never trust Lola's assessments of people's character.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡktuuL4D0mH
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQ7CSUcAIr
"Lola told the truth. There was a series of assassinations just a week ago that happened right under our noses. Assassinations are naturally a cause for concern, but the people who were assassinated are why security is so tight right now."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZez06xn0B
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡljhIRYYpqj
"Uh, well, who got killed?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9wngGe4uwj
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQhm0Yt4mo0
"Three of the four Sherrifs, and three of the eight Officers. Some of the strongest defenders the city has to offer, and half of them were killed. Some of them were my friends, too."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv8XSWzJQJW
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ03e9Qo2TE
His voice became sullen. I was about to comfort him, but he continued speaking before I could.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcYBLKcrte3
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkBYD0WZXNZ
"I'm an Officer, and Lola here is a Sherrif. Since we're prime targets, we've been living in this Pillar for the past few days, having the Head Guards on watch duty. The other pillars are in a similar situation. Let me tell you, this place sucks to crash in."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc49QZdbLJ0
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdlx5Z5PPQ
"I-I see."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCyBkXD2UxH
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY9hJNkznsz
The explanation put everyone's behavior into perspective. Frankly, it made me surprised that they believed me and Rover so readily, even with the letter. I felt lucky.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8gknSuJy1l
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡppcj2UrVvN
"The worst part is that we don't have any suspects, let alone culprits," Lola spoke, "It's been nothing but hassle and heartbreak."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYuPJ3WbQrW
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpr8Mp2thvT
"...You have my condolences."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNJRyuejCK
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqXrt93Tnh4
"Thank you, Kenny. You're sweet."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ74F1fhAuHB
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡujTjCCtjjf
"Mmm."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwK1MAjDFGq
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnM0qFASNr7
I suddenly began to admonish myself for the previous frustrations I had about this mission. I cleaned my slate and loosened my muscles.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6sGlfNHG5S
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeojeHsyJPB
"Alright, we've made it.'
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz4S7hkcFvS
And then, we stood before a set of double doors. Not particularly grand, but certainly not shabby. There was a plaque above it with "Dean's Office" written in bold.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbdJUaJw6Xb
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWze5ELb1OL
"I'll ease us in," Pars said, "It's time to utilize my expert charisma."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7WRdHROVP
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5t08dP426F
"You need to stop talking," Lola replied in a deadpan while Pars flung the doors open. Lola walked into the room. Rover and I followed, but I stopped right beside Pars while Rover went ahead. It looked like he was on the brink of tears, but erased the look once he noticed I was looking at him.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh4lKuSFC7y
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAwc1l5cDA1
"Hey, Kenny. Do you think I'm unfunny?" He asked, pointing a finger at his chest.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgVoy4UshvT
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4HC1wzzwKa
"...Well, you haven't made me laugh."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq1Hju5xrmT
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7lfL2Dfbwh
"Come on, kid. I can't even get a 'yet?'"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnF564SRXmK
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1uNK9QvEQ8
I shook my head and walked away from him, rejoining with the others. They were standing before a lengthy and opulent desk. An older man flipping through documents and stacks of paper stopped his activities to look up at us, raising an eyebrow.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuCQmZV86h7
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZ9Uq28fY8
"Sherrif Nico, you bring along unfamiliar faces. I assume that they are here for good reason?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡip2dW0EQsK
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQW9ZBQZTB
"Of course, sir. Here, you two, give him what you must."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEwMt9eel04
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL9schDuNhS
She signaled me and Rover to pull out our cargo, and we obliged. I grabbed the package from Rover's hands and delivered it with the note on top, placing it on the Dean's desk.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKaQ8Xp20q
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAtJpVgooFC
"..."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfRUbTq3GIr
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5gCryOhR8g
He looked at me as if he was expecting something. I realized that he likely wanted elaboration.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJra1KpavN
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo0ib4qVAS1
"U-Uhm, we're here on official business, sent by the Zariel Kingdom. All necessary information should be listed in the note, and–"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZT13dUnZBX
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpISnej4Lmf
"I see, thank you. I'll see to the letter being delivered."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsMwaf9BmVx
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqy5mEVIsQj
The man took the package and placed it aside, giving me a novel smile.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeCl1YSgjM
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡheqVbNmaKG
"You two are free to go. Sheriff Nico, Officer Abbas, please escort them back."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDtSBuLXCop
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIsIluHD7sS
I looked back at Rover, who was brimming with a giant smile. I couldn't help but copy it. I walked up to her and held my palm up, and she slapped it powerfully.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmaODJ4UmmV
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYdZZHliUsr
"Nice," she shouted, "Good job," I yelled. We weren't quite in sync, but our points crossed over.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpnoisse3Yd
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo7YX4UunzA
We had completed the mission.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKr9gZpmUrd
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSMLfBeQkkZ
–
–
–
The trek back was quiet but laden with good spirits. Rover and I commemorated our job well done with silent exchanges of looks and gesticulations. We separated with Pars and Lola once we reached the first floor, and Rover and I practically sprinted to the exit.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNlrkHbN1mD
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTwaV6b4XkM
When we got out, we were blasted by fresh air and a breath-taking sunset. It was so invigorating that I didn't even pant from the running. Truly, it was the best of times.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUkAlHPYIz6
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRAXQcFj9NE
"One last high-five, Kenny!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmWKJMJMgBu
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXitwCNwXx6
"Alright alright, geez."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXwmTTt7hpA
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt3eyWU0h7W
Despite my tone, I reciprocated the gesture with a smile.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3MJSUQKuN9
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzFrfBdvGF
"I can't wait to see Juke's face," Rover continued, "He's gonna look like a such a dolt."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdS9LohJT2S
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnB04LL6YnC
"I'm just glad that we're done. Let's meet up with him and leave this place."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSNEkdGrDSL
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRv10K2THU0
Nodding along to my suggestion, Rover and I began to exit the premises of the Pillar. Mason wasn't here, and neither was anyone by the fence, but that didn't deter the start of our footslog. We passed through the tiny gated entrance and traversed the streets. Surprisingly, the hustle and bustle I've grown accustomed to was absent, but I was in such a good mood that I didn't bother to think about it.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVYRlM4EdZO
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5fgWcANHNZ
"...This is quite convenient. I feel like I'm flying, and nobody's here to block me."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKngTjWd3y6
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFnkqbHT6nI
"Huh? What are you talking about?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcayyzQSDGJ
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQZYHwuXbLF
"I'm talking about the crowd, or the lack thereof I suppose. It's nice, being able to travel here with some peace and quiet."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYuLOCB8lug
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc4HkuA6oXh
She looked conflicted about my statement.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡokY4ZIx61f
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1UiMRCwr7T
"I dunno, it just feels creepy to me, but I can see where you're coming from."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiQpUckPOUj
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Eu5gB6pF2
"Our dispositions are just too different. It's not much of an issue."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMZOQuGP62B
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuosOlobaFB
"Dispositions...? What?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU9RdEqglED
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVQ0Ki5IMTd
"Uh... our natures, basically."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuVO8xWPWDk
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXSv7QPYzu8
"Ah, why didn't you just say that then!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRoEnpQCRt6
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBaefjHeM7s
I answered her with a shrug, which elicited a stern huff out of her. We walked in silence afterward, giving me a chance to mull over her words.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVAvL5rjEFL
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ48GoxIVBbQ
I could understand why she would think it was creepy, especially considering how busy it was not too long ago. But at the same time, it was the evening, so it made sense.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrr0FYXRsdF
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxQlBTeCUqH
But, as I briefly looked into the passing alleyways, failing to spot a single soul, I wondered if the time of day was the whole picture.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDaSiiQe8h
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6cxy4D51DG
"Hey, Kenny, I think I made up my mind."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMJLXucsnw
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw0QygSb2pL
She pulled me out of my rumination.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKBVSMAKUoX
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqyoGDk3fnX
"About what?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDG9M4Iafvv
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHRQeya4NA
"About what you said."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEfTMOMpUdR
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxnGFglNjqt
A speck of dread entered my body, but I kept my ears open all the same.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMyOGPJ6FBT
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpnLkNDagHE
"Well, what is it?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡegOi6yEkVf
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAvV4N29kCY
"See, when you said that thing about fighting the guy together, that stumped me. I already told you that I used to only work alone, so it didn't even cross my mind."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9WuXNbmv99
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUoEFbdQt6X
"Right."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ388L8ayBHL
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuOaeGslyEi
"So I decided that I'm gonna consider the idea. If I can, then I'll gladly work with people. I just hope that it won't have to be with a priss. If it is, then I'd rather not work with anybody."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH4EfTSAFHq
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEs6pfGujA
"..."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlZtw9Wzsf5
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBkkq1yGIDu
Somehow, I was left disappointed. Certainly, I was glad that she opened her mind to the idea of collaboration, but I was upset that she didn't address any aspect of her recklessness. Her wording struck me as dubious. 'Consider the idea?' Really? I set those thoughts aside, and for this one moment, I let it slide. I didn't want to trample upon either of our moods. Instead, I shot her a thumbs-up with a neutral expression.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE6UQ4UrolA
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsmXd6VfuEx
"That's great."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcy3JulNoxI
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP6vJzvuYuY
She thumped her chest proudly. And so, we returned to silently roaming the streets, moseying down to our inn–
"Kenny."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrCha1N2lpx
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaWt9LoOvG9
"Uh, what's the matter?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTfBR7wGSu1
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSm431LcflI
Rover suddenly stopped moving and called my name. Her face was grave. It made my hair stand at its end.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw9TxFGI2H1
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2GOfhUWcf3
"Don't you hear that?" She asked, curling her palm around the back of her ear. I copied the gesture, but still, the silent street remained the same.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2k1aO4TdQ5
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKAG7T7JWy5
"I can't say that I do."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4es9UasnEO
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzcKvWdMiz3
Her face morphed into one of irritation. She suddenly clasped my arm and began to drag me away.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP4M8cHJ3Ji
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqmnhqwg0vb
"W-Woah, what are you doing!?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZniJBLiqQx
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoFJJQJOj7X
"Just trust me here!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9FyehM7Lfd
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaCE88NRgPV
Her sentence, mixed with a pleading one with gravity, shut me up. She let go of her grip, but I followed her to wherever it was that she was taking me. We diverted from the main street, weaving between alleyways and even climbing walls. And, as I progressed further and further into the depths of the city, I began to hear a noise.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlfBSC33HaE
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXaejIYrwbw
It sounded like chatter.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡij0pPa3owW
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvhpmmaO6Rp
Tens of minutes passed by the time we finished. Rover stopped by the edge of an alley, motioning me to do the same. I peeked around the corner and laid eyes upon a plaza brimming with people. The sheer number was overwhelming, likely in the hundreds– no, even in the thousands. I couldn't make an accurate assessment, so I gave up on it, instead focusing on the surroundings. I noticed that the crowed had gathered around a stage. The stage had dozens of figures in robes.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgsnZpPo8T2
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1NcLxl0Aq9
"Kenny, wait here."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8R856d3fVv
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu9SyAlM3B4
"Huh? Why?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNeoYYc4DVd
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVnHE1jfKX
She didn't respond. Instead, she crept out of the alley and took a left turn. I heard a thud, and a minute later, she returned with an unconscious body locked between her elbows.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPbvu9jwnGA
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ69DP2seXY9
"W-Wha–"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSNM9tnczby
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoK1CChuCiw
"Shhh! Shut up!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrI6Komb2Xz
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡblLnJ8FOEq
I wanted to protest, but the appearance of the robe caught my eye. It was lengthy fitted with a hood. But, most of all, I noticed its distinct dark blue color. Rather, it was a distinct color until I laid my eyes on it at that moment.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1rq2C2KTHK
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgb0c0dd0gQ
"This is..."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡteC5FPbjqa
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl9mPtvjmiE
"Something fishy is going on here."188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCzKSh6QevJ
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMcIxZUuEde
I couldn't voice the connection I made, but my mind still thought it, and it horrified me. It paralyzed me and left me standing there like a fool. Rover paid no heed to it. She likely thought that I was spectating the ceremony, much like herself. I couldn't call her assessment inaccurate.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ55nWbZdWJL
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMex2Na1Nja
Two halves of my brain worked separately. One focused on the robe, the other, on the stage. A woman in baggy clothing walked up to the podium, the crowd quieted down.188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDXZjs2rM0l
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtV4HQqwyxe
"Alright, can you all hear me?"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyApLKjAIM
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy1Yp5tanVB
I noticed that around her baggy clothing, she wore the same robe. No, it wasn't the same robe as this random man, but the one robe that I truly had seen before, the one robe that I associated with an entirely different person. It was the robe–
"I don't want to waste my time, so I'll keep it brief. I am Hard-Bringer's Harbinger of Rage, and we're seizing this city!"188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeCM9MPGOH4
188Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYrSRNx1FH7
It was the same robe that Ng wore.
