Passing Through Jaguar Territory. (Part 9)

As Tannan finally calms down. I ask her to sit beside Saya as she takes a sip of Dongxi's tea...

(Talking about Dongxi, where did he go?)

Like ghosts to your shade, like rivers to a stream, From miracles that birth to dreams, I'm starting to get a hang of this. Saya closes the door before standing behind me in a disciplined manner...

(Um what are you doing behind me?)

I whisper to her but she shakes her head saying:

(Just play along).

"Thank you for being so patient Miss Suowa. Please forgive my inexperience."

Tannan who regains her composure starts to thank us and I responded saying:

"It's fine. To be honest, this is actually my first time doing this so we're quite in the same situation."

"Oh, is that so? That certainly ease my worry..."

Tannan takes a bite of the little treat left and gasp saying:

"T-this is actually pretty good."

(I know right!?)

"So I won't beat around the bush. What is your proposal?"

I lean forward and rest my elbow on my knees as I say that. Tannan taking another sip of the tea closes her eyes responding:

"Very well, in truth, most of the territories are under my father's rule, the Sector Lord. But ever since father fell ill and hasn't been recovering much. Mother appointed big brother as regent and now all the territories that once given to us and the other nobles were quickly taken away, those who resist are promptly dealt with too. And as you can see, the result is not that great. That's why my proposal is simple if I can prove to you that I'm a worthy lord and governer. Then your sector can help me overthrow my brother and instigate me as Sec Lord. Do so, and I'll happily govern this land under your banner. And you can call me whenever you need me or my Sector's assistance."

"Hoh, I see..."

I smile at her proposal and think,

(What the fudge is going on here!? I have no idea what to say back... Um... Uh... Let's uh... Ask... Yea... Where first!? Bluff, act tough and use your deduction skills! And your acting skills you learn with Nanny).

"That seems like a reasonable proposal... But you did say all the territories have been seized by your older brother no? If so, where else am I suppose to you know, inspect and all that jizz...? And if what my friend says is true about your brother. I'm sure your Sector is... Unsalvageable. After all, the land you govern reflects you, yourself as a person."

(What the fudge am I saying!? Anyway, just bluff. Just act intimidating. I'm so going to ask compensation for this!)

Tannan looks at me with a confident smile saying:

"Yes, when I said all of our territories doesn't mean all of our lands per se. There are still hidden districts. That's not shown on the map you see."

(Hidden districts!? Oh! I only heard those in legends! The prospect of hiding a secret base is very cool during the World Invasion too. Especially that part where a giant city burst out of the ground and surprise an enemy's army. Most of all, are they even real?)

"Hidden districts you say? This is getting interesting."

"I've been secretly governing said district ever since 3 years ago by my grandfather's will. And I can confidently say I've accomplished what no normal governors can do. So please, just inspect this one district. I'll promise you, it will not be a waste of your time."

I lean back at the sofa and cross my legs replying:

"The prospect of having a hidden district is very appealing already... Very well, I shall "tour" around this hidden district of yours and report it to the Empress if it is really worth her time... In the meantime, I wonder if you'll be our guide?"

(That's right. One of the reasons we're in trouble right now is that we have no guide to help us traverse this Sector. So having one would really help me and Saya out. Then again, Saya is a guide before she joins us. I wonder if she knows some places other where she's from? Ah! My heart feels like it's going to burst! Calm down Sova, just make sure you don't stutter or bite your tongue. Remember, if you don't know what to say. Just keep silent and think with a smile).

"Of course, if you'll gladly have me! Thank you so much! I won't let you and Yuwei down for giving me this chance!"

(Yuwei, without any formalities huh? She looks a year or two older than me, so I guess she's Sis Yuwei's classmate? I think that's what they call friends at school?)

I nod at her energetic reply saying:

"Of course, of course. All in good work... So, when do we leave?"

"Oh, we can leave immediately if wish."

(Oh I certainly do).

I stand and wear my gloves and helmet on as I prepare myself saying:

"Splendid, since I'm but a stranger in these lands. Do lead the way, Miss Tannan."

Tannan stands and gives me a reassuring nod saying:

"The pleasures all mine. With this, the Sector will have a chance. Please, follow me."

She starts to walk first and we soon followed suit. As we leave, I see Dongxi standing beside the door.

(Ah so that's where you are).

"I'm sorry. But can you please wait for a while."

"Oh, yes. What do you need?"

"Oh just want to ask something to him."

I look at Dongxi who's looking at me with the stern in his eyes, asking:

"Dongxi, do you mind telling me where you bought those sweets?"

Dongxi, bewildered by my question soon shakes his head saying:

"Oh, the sweets I gave you? Sadly those are actually a recipe from my village. So I only commission some bakery to make it."

"Oh, I see. That's unfortunate. Thank you for answering."

"No, please. If you really want it, I can give you the recipe. I'll go get it if you want."

"Oh please do. It really fulfils that lost sweet tooth I have. I'll be waiting at the... Entrance to the district."

"Oh, yes. Let me go get it immediately!"

Dongxi dash out of our view and I look at Tannan saying:

"Forgive me for being selfish."

"Oh, no, it's fine. To see someone enjoy our cuisine is a joy. And if you like more, I can help you enjoy more of our sweets when we enter the hidden district."

"Oh, that would be wonderful. Please do."

"My pleasure."

Our conversation continues as we walk out of the base. And soon, as I step out, the view of a bustling street fills my eyes. Shops lined up as far as the eyes can see, selling groceries, tableware, pots, fruits, meats, and all the stuff you normally find... Unlike at my district where most of the stuff is sold at shops and convenience store, this is pretty a fresh view. Not counting the times when I travel with Sis Rubeca, where everyone is selling inside stores too.

(If I have to give a word, this place is... Traditional I guess. But what was I thinking when I said this place is unsalvageable! This place looks pretty okay).

As I see people stealing glances at me and some parents even stopping their kids to look. Tannan approach me saying:

"Well then Lord Suowa, I have prepared a vehicle to leave. But we will have to travel a bit to get there."

"Oh, that's wonderful. But I'm still waiting-"

"Silver Knight, thank you for waiting. Here, this is the recipe."

Dongxi arrives with haste as he hands me a piece of parchment. I receive his gift and remember what Nanny thought me.

"Thank you very much Dongxi. Do you want something in return? I'll do it in my abilities if I can."

"Oh, no, please. The owner of that recipe would be happy knowing someone enjoyed it but... If I have to ask one thing, I hope you can fix this Sector."

(Fix huh? Those are some big tasks).

"I see, I'll do what I can."

I fold the recipe inside and look at Tannan saying:

"Well then, forgive me for delaying. Now shall we leave?"

"Of course! But... If you can, do you mind cleaning the blood on your gauntlets if it's not too much."

Tannan reply as she saw my hands...

"Ah, well this is embarrassing. Sadly I have no items to clean it with. Or is there a restroom nearby?"

(Do I need to go back into the base? And it's scary how I didn't really realize it. No wonder people are looking at me funny).

"No, it's okay. We can use the items in my vehicle. Follow me then, it's not too far from here."

Tannan offers me something to use later and I nod saying:

"If that is okay, then I can't thank you enough."

(Next time, I should bring a towel too. For the aftermath).

As I bid farewell and luck to Dongxi before following Tannan. The wave of people split in twine as we pass... Feeling a sense of De Ja Vu.

I remember the time I was walking back during the streets at home. Rather than disgust, and the occasional discrimination, all I felt is fear now. Their eyes that's filled with fear as they try to avoid looking at me.

(I wonder when will there be a time when I could walk without any problems?)

As I continue forth, the voices in the streets soon enter my ear.

"Mommy, look its the princess!" "Don't look that way, sweetie." "Is that blood?" "Hey, give some space!" "You crazy!? I don't want to walk near that noble!" "Change? Spare change?" "Is he a new bodyguard hired by the princess?" "Ugh, why is there a bihai with the princess?" "Mommy, what's that drawing in his cape?" "Say, do you have meat in stock now?" "Is the princess supporting those wall parasites." "Hey, shopkeep can't you cut the prices down?" "He looks so cool, I want to look like that Mommy!" "Come! Fresh fruits and vegetables!" "I want to grow up fast and fight alongside my big brother!" "How much does this cost?" "Is that an Owlian? Why is an Owlian doing with the princess?" "Hey, stop that thief!"

"Huh?"

Disrupted by the sudden disturbance, I look at where the sound comes from the countless murmurs in the surrounding...

"There."

Unlike the others, who are walking, I could only hear one footstep that is running. I walk a little to the side and extend my arm to the crowd. Easily capturing the running thief by holding what seems to be an arm, I pull the thief from the crowd and lift him high in the sky.

"Ow, ow, ow, ow! Let me go! You're breaking my arm! I'm sorry, I'm sorry!"

As I get to see the full picture, the thief is a young boy with ragged and stained clothes.

Wondering what to do next, he drops the stolen fruits in his arms as he continues shouting:

"I already let it go! So please release me! It hurts!"

"Lord Suowa just let him go, I'll deal with this."

Tannan appears beside me as she taps my shoulder.

(Oh good. Cause I don't even know what to do).

"Sorry."

As I let him go, I could see the blue marks left in his arm...

(Did I really hold him that hard? Oh right. My strength is boosted, so I guess this isn't even that far fetched... I really should really be careful and hold back).

Tannan kneels down and comforts the young boy as she cast healing magic on his arm and seeing the colour of his skin returning.

"Sorry for my friend's forcefulness. But you know you shouldn't steal-"

"And whose fault do you think is that!? If it wasn't for that stupid royal decree, both my parents wouldn't have to join that stupid army and leave me! The orphanage doesn't even give us meals anymore! So you expect me to lie down and die!?"

(This is... Bad...)

As I look around, I could see the people looking away, ignoring the kid while they pass. They too have the look of despair in their eyes. As if they have known but can't do anything against it. I look at Saya to see what she would do but Saya merely looks away with solemn silence.

Tannan not answering his question just give him a small fatten sack saying:

"Use this to feed your orphanage. I'm sorry but this is all I can do for now."

Tannan stands up and continues walking ahead. Trying to not get left behind, I follow her as I look back at the kid. He's still kneeling on the ground holding the sack tightly...

"I'm sorry you have to hear and see all that Lord Suowa. Even with the massive conscription, most of the soldiers are used to bolster the border with the mantis rather than security- No, forgive me for my rambling."

"Don't give up, Tannan. Just prove to us that you're worthy and I'll make sure the Empress will listen."

I try to cheer Tannan up but she doesn't look back at me replying:

"Thank you. But you don't need to tell me that."

As passerby becomes more scarce, I look at Saya asking:

"Saya, do you think I did well so far?"

Saya checks the surrounding before looking back at me saying:

"Well... I'll give you a passing grade. Most of your points come from your fear factor. As I said, Silencers need to be feared so stop acting like you care."

"That's going to be hard..."

"Just think of it this way, right now you can't do anything much. So you should burry all those problems for later and deal with your current problems now. Don't let yourself be dragged by someone else's problems."

"I see... But one more question Saya."

"What is it?"

I lean closer to her whispering:

"Why did you call me she back then? I'm a guy you know!"

Trying to lighten up the mood and switch topics by asking some more personal question. Saya looks at me disappointingly saying:

"Sova, let's be real here. What do you think people will think if someone like you who looks like a girl goes around calling herself a guy all the time? Especially since you also sound like a girl. Long story short, our Sector's reputation will be in RUINS. The fact that you're wearing your armour whose meant for a guy is already pushing it now that you've changed."

"But I am I guy- uh... Fine, I hate to admit it but I guess that's true..."

Saya folds her hand and uses her tail to point at me saying:

"You should accept it by now that people won't accept you're a guy unless you show it to them (Not counting the very few who don't need to). And with your sudden transformation this morning well... The chances of you being acknowledged as a man are now even less. Like seriously, what's the deal with that? You're an Owlian aren't you? So why is so many magical stuff happening around you?"

Saya starts to look at me with suspicion in her eyes. I nod saying:

"That's pretty true... Well, I guess I do have an idea."

(But maybe I shouldn't tell her about Mary just yet).

"You do!?"

Saya's ear and tail froze up while she opens her eyes wide as the world has ended infront of her.

"What's with that reaction?"

Saya regaining her composure and leans closer to me too saying:

"I mean, this is the first time you actually have an answer to something. Like, aren't you usually dumb and speechless? In fact, who are you!? What have you done to Sova! Could it be you really are an impostor!"

Thanks to how I was leaning towards her, she was able to grab my head and ask as she looks into my eyes. I remove her hands forcefully saying:

"How could you say that! I'm completely capable of making my own answers okay! Don't you remember my deduction skills!? As I said, I'm willing to learn and change. I'm doing my best too okay."

I straighten my posture and back away a little feeling a bit frustrated.

"Alright, I'm sorry. I mean, you changed so much in just one morning. So you have to least give me credit for being suspicious of you."

(Well that's true).

I take the treats I wrapped up back at the border and hand it to her saying:

"Here, you didn't get to eat it since you've been pondering all the time. I save up some for you, you can enjoy it when we get in Tannan's vehicle or somewhere."

Saya takes the wrapping and smiles at me saying:

"Well, aren't you sweet? Thanks. But remember what you need to do okay? Try doing that blood in the gauntlet act again which is pretty neat."

"Um, that was actually an accident."

"Sure, whatever."

She holds the sweets in her hands as we walk in silence.

****************************************

Arriving in some empty neighbourhood. Tannan knocks on one of the giant steel walls beside the house whisperings:

"Xin, it's me open up."

*bzzzt*

The steel wall retracted and fold upwards and beyond it is a room with a giant vehicle and a door behind the room. As I was inspecting the vehicle and room, the door slams open with two people coming out.

"Tannan, perfect timing!"

A guy who looks like a professional Hunter approach Tannan with worry in his eyes and a box with holes in his hand.

"Hmm, what's wrong?"

Tannan surprised by his sudden rise in voice ask back but the Hunter merely gestures her to follow listen to the box saying:

"Y-You have to hear this! Your big brother, he's making a public announcement."

"What!?"

Tannan quickly goes beside him and the hunter starts to turn the circles on the box and soon,

*bzzzt* *pccsssshwt*

"-as of this afternoon, our beloved Sec Lord has passed away as his health deteriorates. It saddens me to the bottom of my heart but I shan't back down now when our Sector is in jeopardy! And so, by the will of Heaven and thy Mother. I shall take responsibility and step up to the throne! With me as your leader, those Mantis Bastards won't stand a chance!"

The box makes an announcement in runician.

"All hail the new Sec Master!"

"All hail the new King!"

*bzzzt*

The box went silent after that, and as we got closer, I could see the despair in Tannan's eyes.

"That doesn't make sense! Father was still stable when I left. What have you done you dumbass of a brother!!! Our Sector is being on the edge of being annihilated and this is... Arrrghhh!!!"

Tannan smashes the box into the ground and shattering it to a thousand pieces as the crystals inside spread across the room.

"My lord, please calm down! Being angry won't solve the issue."

The one speaking in runician is a maid the same age as me. She looks at Tannan's hand as she tries to check if there's any wound. Tannan takes a breather saying:

"Fuh, yes you're right. At this point, I would choose my lovestruck twin brother over this idiot."

The maid and hunter look at us.

"So, are those two the hope you told us about?"

The Hunter hands Tannan a pair of twin segmented blades as he asks.

(Oh, that's rare. I wonder how she fights with that. More importantly, why is he even giving her a weapon?)

Tannan equips both blades by placing one on the front while the other on the back saying:

"Yes, the one in the full armour is a Silencer from the Phoenix Sector."

"A Silencer!?"

The Hunter backs away from shock.

"The one from the legends!? No wonder I sense no magic from him."

"Mhm, her."

Tannan corrects the maid as she coughs.

"Oh, forgive me!"

The maid bowed down as she apologizes. The Hunter looked at Saya saying:

"Then who's she?"

Tannan looks at Saya and soon realize she doesn't know either since Saya never introduces herself. Saya giggles and tuck the sweets in her bag saying:

"Right, I never introduce myself. I'm Shala Anmao. High Noble of the Phoenix Sector. Pleased to meet you."

(Shala huh? I guess that is what it sounds like in runician).

She clasps her hands as she speaks and I took the initiative and clasp my hands saying:

"I'm Suowa Anmao, a Silencer under the direct command of Empress Yuwei herself. Also, please to meet you."

"Ah! Um..." The maid folds her leg similar to what the Eclipse Empire called seiza and bows down saying, "This lowly one is named Tanwa, a lowly servant of the Jaguar Jade Palace. It's a true pleasure to meet such esteemed and honoured ones."

"For the sake of formalities huh?"

The Hunter snarks and kneels down, clasping his hand saying:

"I'm Xin Lulang, former Gate Guard, now a High Ranking Hunter from the Mantis Sector."

As if they're waiting for my response, I nod saying:

"Stand on your feet. And what do you wish to do now Miss Tannan?"

(Like seriously, what is happening!? How many times do I have to say this but I feel like this is seriously going out of control! I met so many people I'm afraid I might forget some of them already).

"My plan still hasn't changed. You're still going to inspect my hidden district. And evaluate it. Knowing Yuwei, she probably wouldn't like to take direct actions, even when everything starts to rot, this is the best shot. So you better pay attention alright?"

(Really? I mean Sis Yuwei's been pretty direct whenever she wants to pet me. Or whenever she wants to spend time together).

"I see, very well then."

I replied back to her. Tannan, a smile of confidence nods and look back at the two.

"Xin, quickly start the core! Tanwa, help Lord Suowa clean the stains on her gauntlet. Our time is running short, so double time!"

"Yes, we obey!" "Yes, we obey!"

They both shout and went to do what they're told. Xin enters the vehicle from the front while Tanwa went inside from the back and take a wet towel. She approaches me asking:

"If you wouldn't mind, may I wipe it for you?"

"Oh, please."

I raise my left hand where the blood is and Tanwa starts to wipe it off.

(Haah, if this is how my job is like all the time. I wonder when I'll get used to this).

"Thank you."

"W-wah, y-you don't need to thank me. I'm just doing my job. Now please excuse me!"

Tanwa bowed and walk away as she finishes cleaning my gauntlets and enter the vehicle again.

*vroom*

"All right! The magic core has been activated, get inside!"

I let Saya enter first before getting in myself only to find Tannan sitting beside me as she folds her weapon in half so she can fit. Unlike the limo I entered with Sis Yuwei and Moriz, this vehicle is taller is what I would describe it. Unlike the limo, we can stand here but it's not as long while also having a back seat. But just like the limo, there are many shelves with items.

Tannan looked at Saya before her gaze falls at me saying:

"Since you both have the same family name, are you two siblings?"

I quickly look at Saya to see a fire of passion burning in her eyes. I cover Saya's mouth saying:

"Yea, we're siblings!"

(Seriously, why are you always thinking like this Saya!?)

"Fascinating."

Tannan softly answers and looks infront while folding her arms.

"Alright, we're going to move now! Brace yourself! We're not taking any breaks!"

Xin who's sitting infront warns us and soon the whole vehicle shakes uncontrollably and the view outside turns black. I grab the holder on the ceiling and brace as he told us to.

(Someone please let me sort out what's going on! This mission feels like it has eaten up all my brainpower!)

*smash*

"Woah!"

"Wah!"

Feeling like we landed badly. I see Saya hugging my arm tight.

"Um, Saya?"

"Just shut it okay, it's natural to hold something when you fall! And why did you cover my mouth!?"

She lets me go and reply back with anger.

"I mean, you're definitely going to tease me by saying you're my wife or something ridiculous again aren't you?"

"Haah!? did you forget? I promise you that I won't tease you until we get back to the palace. Besides, I just want to say that certain information especially personal information is classified. So don't answer everything you DuuummmmbbAaasssss! Hmph!"

Saya realizing that I'm still wearing my armour decided to hold back her punches and fold her arms to look at the window instead.

"I guess you guys get along well huh?"

Tannan commented with a regretful smile as she rests her head in her hand. I hang my head low replying:

"Uh, I don't think we do. If what happened isn't clear enough."

"That's not true. After all, if you truly never cared, you wouldn't even speak to each other anymore."

Tannan's eyes sharpen to become a glare as if she remembered something unpleasant.

****************************************

Silence crept into our ears, with only the light on the ceiling giving us our vision, icy winds sunk into our skin and soon our primordial fear takes hold and surround us.

I look at Tannan beside me. Her long black hair seems to glitter even at the darkness like stars, it looks quite pretty...

"Why is everything so dark?"

I decided to break the monotony and ask Tannan who's been quiet for a while. Staring into the darkness beyond she finally looks at me saying:

"I guess this is a good time to start."

Tannan stands up and opens her arms with a smile saying:

"We're now heading to the hidden district. If you heard from the legends, hidden districts came in many variations! From hidden valleys, underwater, underground and the most mythical one is the sky districts."

Tannan starts to explain like we're on a tour.

(Right! And the most famous ones are the stories that detailed the adventure of one famous hero as he traverses the sky district in Central to pursue an evil cult... Can't tell if that story is real though. Well, with how the Theocracy deals with magic. I guess it wouldn't be so far fetched).

Since the vehicle has started to be more stable. Saya starts to take out the treat I gave her and eats them as she listens while Tanwa offers us some drinks.

"But as you know the term. Thanks to it being hidden, the district has a hard time sustaining itself, especially when the district's land is poor or it's underground and has a hard time getting sunlight. But that's not the case with our hidden district and you'll soon see why."

When light appears at the end of the tunnel. The entire view outside changes significantly. Giant towers and silos lined up behind rows upon rows of farm fields, small buildings in different shapes and sizes organized in an orderly manner like what you see in ancient cities. And more impressive is the city and farms that are somehow stuck on the wall and what connects said building to each other as they defy gravity are natural roads made of stones that connect to even more tunnels above and below. Where I could see countless moving boxes and objects where the people are tirelessly working their own duties but most impressive and mysterious of all is the giant light akin to the sun in the centre of it all. If I have to give a word, this looks like a city in an invisible tube.

"Wah~"

I was quickly struck in awe by the mystical view that enters my eyes.

(Yea, I wish I could take my family to visit places like this one day. And where did that light come from? Is it some sort of artefact?)

"We will soon arrive at the district. Pack your stuff up. And get ready for the tour of your life."

Tannan says with a confident smile in her face. It's as if she's doing her best in the face of despair, then I shall do all I can as well.

"Um, Lord Suowa, would you like for some refill?"

Tannan offers a small cup of drink and I happily accept it saying:

"Of course, thank you."

"Y-you're welcome."

"This does feel like a tour."

(Yea if it's like this I can relax till the job is finish- But wait, didn't I agree that I should report this back to Sis Yuwei? If so, wouldn't that mean I'm supposed to write and make all that report like some kind of assignment so that I won't forget midway or something!?)

My hope soon came crashing down like a shooting star. That is when Saya tugs at me saying:

"Don't worry, Sova. I'm the one who's going to write all those stuff. So just enjoy the tour- waah!"

I was hugging Saya before I know it saying:

"Thank you, thank you, thank you so much! You really are a respectable great Senior!"

"Oh, so you only call me respectable senior now huh? You ungrateful junior! And let go of me! You're Silencer remember! Don't act so approachable!"

"Oh right!"

I let her go and straighten my posture saying:

"Yea... Thank you, Saya."

"Hmph!"

Saya continues to enjoy her treats and drinks while I see Tanwa leaning to Tannan asking:

"What language are they speaking with my Lord?"

Tannan shakes her head replying:

"Ah, you don't need to worry. They're just having fun."

When I look ahead, I realize there's a small mirror reflecting Xin's smiling face.

(Ah, my intimidating image is ruined!)

"You could see our landing spot there."

Tannan points at some large entrance on the end of the road. Xin presses a button and soon we speed up by a ton. Forcing my body to lay back by the pressure. The vehicle pierce the circle with immeasurable speed but thinking the car was going to crash, it stopped the moment it entered and people start to gather around.

Tannan and Xin open the door and went outside as they take in the air.

"People of Ten, I have returned!"

Tannan shouts from the depths of her lungs to the crowd.

"YEAH!" "TANNAN'S BACK!" "THE PRINCESS' BACK!" "YEAH!!!"

The crowd cheers loudly to her defining roar with an even bigger one.

(She must really beloved by her people).

I followed suit and leave the vehicle to take in the new sensation that burns my adventuring soul. But Silence greets me as I leave. As they are cheering, they all quickly shut their mouth as they see me went out of the vehicle.

"Sorry, did I ruin the mood?"

"Oh, no, no, not at all. They're just surprised is all. We don't get many visitors after all."

Tannan looks at me and answers back calmly as I saw the people behind her whispering to each other.

The people who gathered are... Unique in their own way, just like gruncle Tommy, most of them have dark brown skin. But unlike him, they have blonde hair and beautiful jade eyes-

*twinkle*

Sensing something coming at us with high speed. I look at the source and saw a giant segmented blade coming towards us from above with a speed compared to a falling boulder. I take out my weapon and extend it but Tannan holds me back saying:

"Sorry, Lord Suowa, it's okay. That's not an enemy!"

"Eh? But it's a giant saw coming straight at us!"

"No, it's fine Lord Suowa!"

*crash*

The giant blade smashes through the ground below, raising the dust off from our feet.

"Tannan!"

I could hear someone shout Tannan's name and as the dust cleared, a girl is hugging Tannan's waist and scissor lock her as if she's stuck like glue saying:

"Mwooooh! Your slim fit body is always great~! no, wait! Tannan! You need to help me! The kids are bullying me again!"

Speaking in runician, her reaction changes like how a Chameleon changes colours. But Tannan ignores her loud pleas as she tries to remove her saying:

"Not now, Sutra! I'm busy!"

"That's what you said last time and the other last time! And the other, other last time before that!"

"Can't you see the two guest there!?"

Tannan shouts as she still tries to rip her off her body.

"Guest?"

She looks at the vicinity and rubs her face on Tannan's stomach again saying:

"Well, it's just Xin brat and little Tanwa. It's nobody new!"

(Did she just look past me and Saya!?)

*smack of discipline*

"Cut it out already!"

Tannan smacks the girl's head so hard she plops off Tannan like how a fruit falls from a tree.

"Awuuu..."

The girl falls to the ground rubbing her head with tears welling up in her eyes as she curls up like a ball. She seems to be a few years younger than me. With dark brown skin, small body, very long jet black hair and jade green eyes. She wears something akin to a Linshi from the Spirit Church. But unlike the usual green ceremonial robe, she has a black and white patterned one.

Tannan with her reddened face dust off her clothes and looks at me again saying:

"I'm sorry you have to see that Lord Suowa. But let me introduce you, she may not look the part but she is Sutra Karma, a high priest of the Jinmi Order from the Spirit Church."

(Oh, the Spirit Church? I rarely heard of their activities even at home. They are usually pretty quiet except when they ring their ceremonial bells early in the morning and night which is a hassle).

Sutra looks at Tannan saying:

"You meanie! Hmm?"

She finally looks at me and slowly stands on her feet while she still rubs her head.

"Um... Who are you, evil entity?"

(Evil entity?)

"Waah!"

Tannan panics and carries Sutra like a potato sack, shutting her mouth saying:

"Please, ignore her words. She sometimes speaks gibberish."

I retract and put back my weapon before clasping my hand saying:

"Very well then. I'm Suowa Anmao, a Silencer under the direct command of Empress Yuwei herself. Pleased to meet you Miss Sutra. And behind me..."

Saya clasps her hands saying:

"I'm Shala Anmao, High Noble from the Phoenix Sector. Please to meet you, High Priest."

Tannan lets go and drop Sutta to the ground and approach me saying:

"Now that the greetings over. Let me show you around! Follow me!"

"Yes, please lead the way."

Tannan looks at the whispering crowds saying:

"Don't fear people of Jaguar Sector! They are my guests from the Phoenix Sector! The one in full armour is a Silencer that will save our Sector, so please show your best when doing your work. Return to your stations!"

When I listen closely, I could hear their whispers as they scatter.

"He's a Silencer?" "Well, he does look the part." "Mommy, what's a Silencer?" "Daddy, can I get something like that?" "Well, Tannan said so, we should really do my best!" "Heh, I'm going double time! Watch me Tannan and fall in love!" "Why is there a bihai with the princess, mommy? Aren't they evil?"

Their whispers are a mix and full of curiosity. I look at Saya who's writing something and wonder,

(Bihai... Wall dwellers, another term for rat-kins. It is said that the original rat-kins in this city all came from the most outer wall of this city and spread from there. Hence the people here call them wall dwellers or Bihai in runician. I wonder when is it that we begin to view them like that? I wonder what Saya thinks about them and herself?)

Occupied by my thoughts, Tannan starts to walk and the party moves along with Sutra carrying the giant segmented blade in tow.

"Okay, let's start from the outer layers till the core. Sadly, this district doesn't support walls like the normal district you normally hear. But from the shape alone you can guess we have a lot of vintages and choke points for defence just in case."

I bury my thoughts inside and follow Tannan as I listen.

"After that, you can look around you, the fields you see is actually a levitating panel, powered by magnite, not to be confused by the Owlian artificial ore called magnetite."

"What!?"

Surprised by her claim, I decided to look at the fields and realize...

(She's right).

From above it looks like it's actually buried on the ground. But looking from the sides, the fields are actually something akin to being attached and I could already see one actually being levitated. Below the levitated field, there are people different than the one in the entrance. With different pigment hues, they carry and wear some sort of advanced technology and is working together with the ones who don't to fix some sort of machine thingy that glows.

"And as you can see, we don't discriminate against Owlians. Unlike my brother who actively supports Libera's Dogma, I support the Spirit Orthodoxy. Which having Sutra here should be enough proof isn't it? After all, we should all work together and strive for bigger heights. It was thanks to them that we were able to combine both science and magic to reactivate the ancient technology and artefacts we have now. In fact, that artificial Sun you see in the centre is activated thanks to our cooperation."

"Woah~ that's amazing!"

Tannan gives off a smug face saying:

"Impressed huh? This isn't even our greatest work yet. But, I guess I'll tell the engineers that they're admired by a legend."

Ignoring her boast, I look at the people underneath the field asking:

"But if I may ask, are Owlians also native residence here?"

(As an Owlian myself, I can't really tell if someone's an Owlian or not since we all look the same and that we a can't actually "sense" magic. And the only one who can tell the difference is Zerians themselves).

"Oh, no. My grandpa told me they all came here from the Aologi Empire a few years before the war started. In fact, I wasn't even born yet at the time. They said they're all refugees and renegades that are running away and found their way here."

"I'm guessing it must be a hell of a lot of problems when they first show up here huh?"

Saya asks abruptly as she walks closer to Tannan.

"Hahaha, yeah! I guess gramps did say it was chaos when they first arrive but that all came to pass peacefully."

I look around the tunnels and start to wonder,

(Districts always connect to somewhere right? If these Owlians refugees get here, where did they even entered this city from? Like the district I live connects to Central, The Royal District and the one more district I forgot is called. And thanks to how close it is to both the Royal District and Central, it's the perfect place for both Sis Rubeca to work as a Hunter and May to go to "work" with Sis Yuwei when we first moved in.

So do they went pass the wall either legally or illegally in a group? And if they made it through, not counting the troubles they get by being Owlians. How did they even found this "hidden" district then?)

"You know, I've been wondering. Where does this district even connect to?"

I ask Tannan as she's in the middle of her explanation. Tannan flinches after hearing me, closing and opening her mouth continuously before saying:

"Well..."

Whiles Tannan is thinking for an answer, Saya walks beside me and gives me nudge saying:

"Heh~, I guess you can be very sharp sometimes, Sova," Saya praise me with a fulfilling smile.

"I guess I can tell you. If only you promise you won't become livid with what I'm about to tell."

(Livid?)

"Um, why? Is there a reason to be angry?"

Tannan stops and looks at me saying:

"I mean, you do know our Sector is once part of the Phoenix right? We caused a lot of turmoil as we do it too."

I nod remembering what Saya explained to me this morning saying:

"Yea, I also learned that your Sector is actually pretty young compared to the other Sectors that have existed till now."

"Then I'm not going to speak the long history for time sake and make it short. To put it simply... This district is one of the main reason we were able to attain our independence."

"Oh, I see. Is that why there are many foreigners here? I mean, from the name alone it is clear that it's not native. I'm guessing... This district connects outside the city somehow?"

I try repeating what Saya told me back before we entered here while also speculating on my own by deducting what I know.

"Pfff, Hahahaha! Haah~ Yes! Good guessing. One of the places this district connects to is outside the city."

"Really!?"

"Of course! Where do you think the Nirnunese people living here come from? The founder of this Sector or My great, great Grandfather offered them this district to stay if only they help fought in the war for independence back then. But enough about this Sector's history. Right now, we should focus on what the present holds."

(Nirnunese? What the fudge is that? Is that what the people living here called? Like their nationality? Nirnunese... Yea, I don't know what country's that from).

"Very well. Please do continue your tour Miss Tannan, after hearing that I feel keener to know more."

"Hah! That's excellent! Please, drop the miss and do call me Tannan. Next, we're going to tour the city now."

"Very well... Tannan, lead the way."

"You got it!"

As we continue our tour, Tannan places her hand behind her head saying:

"Haha, sorry for even asking you to not become livid. Since Yuwei the only one who actually responded to my call for help, it is ungrateful of me to suspect her for sending someone who would ruin things..."

She looks at me with a more natural smile saying:

"Now then, continuing from where I left off. With my help, we were able to upgrade the silos and the underground storages..."

As Tannan continues her explanation, I try to focus on something else that's been bothering me.

(I know I've been trying to ignore this but... Is it me or is Sutra has been staring at me for the longest time now? I think I understand a little about what Saya said about being stared at. I think last time I felt like this is when I went to eat an evening meal with Sis Yuwei when she stares at me as I eat).

I look back at her but she looks away before our eyes met. I look back infront and look back again when our eyes finally meet and she promptly looks away... Before she finally approaches me, whispering:

"You're a girl right?"

"Huh? Um..."

Surprised by her sudden question. I look at Saya who's been busy writing everything and everyone who's doing their own business as to try to find an answer. Especially Xin who's been holding his chin while observing Tannan with a very strained face.

(I admit this is the most difficult things to answer now! Especially when my Sis' reputation is at stake here! But then again, what would happen if she founds out I'm a guy. Wouldn't that be worse... Fine, I think I know what to answer. If there's one thing I know. I should trust Says for now).

"Y-yes?"

Sutra puckers her lips as she furrows her brows. She closes her distance by making piercing glare beside me as I felt a thousand cold dagger stabbing through my skin.

"Is there something-"

*sniff* *sniff*

"Uwaahh!"

(What the!)

I felt someone breathe on my ear and neck, even though I'm wearing my armour. Sutra who's suppose to beside me appears ahead blocking my path.

"You smell and sound like a girl, but why are you wearing a man's clothes? Can you show me your face? If not, you're... Very suspicious. And that weird aura around you too... Double suspicious... And my instincts tell me you're very dangerous... Ultimate suspicious!"

"Um..."

"No man is allowed near Tannan's side!"

"Eh? W-what about Xin then?"

Confused by her sudden proclamation, Sutra ignores my question by dropping her giant segmented blade and close the distance even further by moving her face so close it feels like our nose could touch.

"..."

With how close she is. I could see every detail on her face, her long eyelashes, her pink lips and deep coloured jade eyes... Feeling my cheeks becoming warm, I try to back and say something but...

"Mmm..."

Sutra just keeps getting closer as I try to avoid her.

"..."

"Miss Sutra?"

*stares of ULTIMATE SUSPICION!!!*

*SMACK OF DISCIPLINE*

"Awuuu!"

Tannan appears at the last moment to save me shouting:

"Stop it already!"

Tannan grabs both Sutra in her robe's collar and her giant weapon saying:

"I'm sorry. Sutra wasn't always like this. If you'll please excuse me for a moment. Tanwa, if you would please replace me for a while."

"Eh? Eeeeh!? m-me!?"

"Unlike Xin who always just stay at one place. You're always following me by my side. Please."

Tanwa's eyes shine with a burning passion shouting:

"Yes, I obey! I won't let you down!"

"Thank you, Tanwa. I know you won't."

Tannan yanks the resisting and crying Sutra into a secluded place and disappears from our sight.

"Uhum! Alright, continuing on where we left off. After telling the functions of the silos, you can see the watchtowers beside them which are placed in key locations so we can watch the cattle grazing below."

(There are cattle here!?)

As she continues to explain, I begin to wonder again,

(This place is supposed to be hidden right? Then why is there a high priest here? Does that mean the spirit church knows of this place?)

****************************************

"Alright, everyone! We've finally arrived in the city!"

Tanwa runs to what seems to be the city entrance and waves back at us with a flag with the jaguar emblem that she picked along the way. As for me, I receive a small bag of juicy-looking fruits from the kind farmers and kids below the watchtowers. As I share it along with everyone and watch them eat it. I look at the people working around me.

(They're all so kind! And to be honest, I don't know what fruit this is but it sure looks weird. Should I eat it now- wait! Aren't I suppose to be intimidating? The fact that people and even kids are approaching me means that I'm not intimidating at all! Dang nuggets Sova! Get your act together!)

When I look at Saya, she takes a bite with her tail while still writing, which is pretty impressive.

(I...)

Feeling something bad grasping my heart. I approach her whispering:

"Saya, I feel like I'm not intimidating anymore. What should I do?"

Ignoring the lingering feeling in my heart I asked her another question. Saya still writes and doesn't look at me saying:

"So you finally realize it? Better late then never I guess. Just stand straight and be quiet, also try not to look amazed by everything you see like some country bumpkin.

"What's a country bumpkin?"

"Just don't disturb me. And enjoy yourself."

"Oh, okay, thanks, Saya..."

I straighten my posture and look at Xin who's also eating the fruits I give and while still making that strained face...

(Is he okay?)

I wonder as I continue along the road and into the city. What greeted me was a bustling city square filled with activity. From the playing children, the people wondering and talking to each other. It's a restless but positive active square as I could see the smile in everyone's faces... Unlike the border before here.

"Welcome to the main square! This is the centre of our district. The busiest place from all the district rivalled by only the market place!"

Tanwa leads us to the centre where there seems to be a giant drawing on the floor. I could see the people stealing glances and looking at us.

"Whoa, who're they?" "Is that a bihai?" "Isn't that Tanwa and Xin? Where's the princess?" "Is Tannan making another event?" "Wait, I feel like I see that emblem before?" "Gramps, do you think I can get armour like that General?" "Are they Tannan's new friends?" "Is that a Bihai?"

"Okay, gather up! This place connects us to all the sub-districts, from the farms, market, forge, and many more! This main district is where the governing happens. Where Tannan and the District Lord governs."

(District Lord? Oh, I guess Sis Yuwei did say each district have their own lords).

Tanna points her flag at the giant building from afar saying:

"That's the lord's mansion, from there you can see the entirety of this district and where my Lord and this District Lord usually is."

"Woah-mmm!"

I shut my mouth before I could be amazed. Tanwa continues on with her tour and explaining the buildings around but what caught my eyes was a certain workshop. Unlike Aunt's workshop, where she displays her best pieces of equipment. This shops displayed tiny figures similar to what Moriz was carrying during our trip to home.

As I look closer, it's a figure of a girl a few years older than me. Her long black hair sways to the right, with a small mask on just one of her cheeks, a very long blue scarf that spirals around her. Unlike the one Moriz have, this one is wearing fancier clothing and soon I realize who it is...

"Isn't this Rana?"

(But she looks younger. But didn't Moriz said they stop making these things?

*SLAM!!!* *tring* *tring*

"Eh?"

The door to the shop slammed opened and a guy came out shouting:

"You must be the one who spoke her name! Ha-ha!"

He coils his arm around me saying:

"I knew it, the moment I heard that name, we really are brothers! Come! I have to show my masterpiece. Collections~~~"

*whimper*

He easily towers over me with his built body inside the work clothes and was able to lift me up like nothing. With dark brown skin, short and messy jet black hair along with a pair of Jade green eyes. He carries me inside saying:

"You're quite heavy but that's nothing to me! Mwahahahaha!"

As I was forcefully carried inside and he was about to close the door,

"Hold it right there Pasha! Let her go! Don't involve her with your weird hobby!"

Tanwa stops him before it was too late.

"Her? You're a girl?"

The guy looks at me as he asks with a bewildered stare.

"Uh... Um..."

As I think of an answer, he quickly puts me down shouting:

"Aritwata! You really are! I'm so sorry I didn't notice! I can't believe I touched a girl so easily like that! I deserve a thousand punishments!"

Falling in his knees and despair, he slams his head so hard it buried into the ground.

"Please forgive me!"

His voice echoes from below as he shouts.

"Ah, yes. I forgive you. So please pull your head out."

His head comes out dusty and full of sand saying:

"You do? Oh, you're truly kind. I'm even ready to take responsibility if I have to."

He dusts himself off and looks at me again saying:

"Hmm... Never seen you here before, especially someone wearing something like you. And I just realize that no one here knows about her, so I guess you really are from the outside huh?"

Tanwa approaches him saying:

"That's right! And you better not be rude to her! She's an important guest to my Lord and a Silencer from the Phoenix Sector, so show your respect!"

"What's a Silencer? And she's that important? Well, I guess should I kneel or something?"

"Oh, it's okay. You can just greet me normally."

I reassure him before he kneels. He gives me a wide smile saying:

"Haha, good! The names Pasha Karma. A self-serving 3D artist with a burning passion!"

He holds his chest and pulls out another small figure from the pocket n his work clothes.

"I'm guessing if you're from the outside I guess you already met my little sister when you enter since she flew there when she saw the van coming."

He puts the figure back inside and looks at Tanwa saying:

"Say, if Xin and you're here. Where's that brat and Tannan? Aren't you two kinda like inseparable?"

"Me and my Lord? Inseparable!? Please, you're making me blush!"

Tanwa smiles merrily as she covers her face with one hand and slaps Pasha with the other. As they're preoccupied with each other I look at the figure on display asking:

"Still, where di you get this? Didn't they stop producing these things when she disappeared in her last concert or something?"

Pasha appears beside me, his eyes shine like a twinkling star saying:

"Heh, I thought female fans of Rana didn't exist but to think you even research so far. Alright, my sworn sister! Let me tell you about-"

*grab*

Xin instantly appears beside Pasha grabbing his mouth as to never let go. His eyes look bloodshot as he glares at Pasha saying:

"SssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssSSShhhhhhut UP! I DON'T WANT TO LISTEN to ANYTHING ABOUT THAT STUPID IDOL FOAMING OUT OF YOUR MOUTH For even a Second. You got me!?"

His curling bloodlust sends chills down my spine as he tries to shut Pasha up. Pasha easily removes Xin's hand away saying:

"Sheesh fine, what are you guys even doing here anyway?"

Tanwa waves her flag saying:

"We're now going on a tour of this district. Don't really know why but it's Tannan's orders."

"Touring the districts huh? Mind if I tag along? I'm running low on clay and paint. I'll separate when we get to the market district if you don't mind."

"Oh, sure just don't give us a bad impression like your Lil sis."

"Oh! So that's what happened. I guess she's being with Tannan now huh? Alright then lead the way Tanwa."

"Sure," she looks at me saying, "I'm sorry for the delay Lord Suowa but let's continue on!"

"Alright."

I answer her back and still seeing Saya writing my report... As we continue onward, I approach Saya saying:

"Say, Saya, mind letting me write that? Since I'm going to do it in the future it's better to start getting the feel of it now no?"

Saya smiles and hands me the thick stack of paper and quill pen saying:

"Go ahead, I'm glad you're taking the initiative to learn. But I'm still going to supervise you okay?"

"Oh, that would be great! Thanks, Saya."

Saya folds her arms asking:

"Still why the sudden motivation?"

"Well, I just want you to enjoy the tour too. And I guess it leaves a really bad taste in my mouth if it's not made by me when it's supposed to be my job."

(It feels wrong to claim someone else's work for your own. Especially that one time I take the time to sleep all day while Nicole offered to help with the assignments May gave to me. I never want to feel like that ever again).

"I see well I'm glad you have the right mindset. Listen carefully to her now okay?"

"Yea!"

With new determination, I continue on with my job in mind.

(If I want to help Sis and reunite my family, I need to do my best and not slack off!)