A Rainbow to Sunset. (Part 1)

It seems I couldn't fool anyone, nor will my luck last it seems. In addition, these people have helped me through it all so its appropriate I share something.

"I understand, after all that trouble I should share something... Well, I'm actually related to-"

"Forgive me, Sova."

Dal-Yong raise his hand to stop me before then stands up asking:

"I overstep my bounds and won't pry that deep. I understand some things are better remained hidden, especially when you even went so far to disguise as an Owlian. So at least tell me this instead, are you here with ill intensions?"

"Of course not! After everything all of you have provided to a stranger like me. I would never forgive myself if I repay your kindness with malice."

(Wait... Disguise as Owlians? I suppose the acts I did really does make me count out for an Owlian... But what am I now then?)

I answer back in a heartbeat to his inquiry as I realize how much it hurts to hear that and notice my own problems. He nods and turns around saying:

"I'll take your word for now, Lord Sova. Sorry for making this uncomfortable, let me prepare the spear for you to look."

"O-Oh, thank you so much!"

"While we're at it, do you wish to check on the sword as well?"

"No, it's fine. I'm sure you're taking good care of it.

The gramps heads back deeper into the armoury when I turn to look at Juha who seems to take things in a stride and sips her tea. She glances at me before looking away saying:

"Like I said, I'll let you and the colonel keep your secrets for now. So you better not betray that trust."

"Thank you very much, Juha!"

"Hmph! It's purely buseniss, dumbass! Make one stupid decision and I'll kick your bum out of this kingdom no matter what the Colonel says or who you're related with."

"I'm still grateful!"

"Hmph, Idiot!"

(I suppose my luck haven't ran out yet).

"Alright, follow me to the back."

Following his words, both Juha and I entered the back room again as I see the collection of weapons being kept inside. At the end of the road is the giant glass container that holds both the spear and my sword. A retractable heavy blue spear with a double blade and a golden blade-less sword filled by ornaments and decorations.

"Fortunately, the spear didn't suffer much problem other than the stains from your enemies, so you can take it to battle anytime you want."

"Woah, thanks! Honestly, I'm not very good with weapon maintenance so having someone to help really smooth things along."

"That kinda explain why you carry a blade-less sword. And talking about that sword, I'm surprised a weapon of such divinity have no conscious to it. Usually something a tenth worth of it would developed a sentience of it's own.

Maybe because it's not complete sword? Or is it because it's not a sword by definition? I still have a lot to study but as for its maintenance, I did the usual dusting and cleaning for the ornaments. You have nothing to worry, Lord Sova."

"I'm glad to have someone as reliable as you Elder Dal-Yong."

"Think nothing of it, Lord Sova that's the essential for a Craftsman such as myself. Also, I heard you lost most of your gear at the promotion battle, do you perhaps want something to replace it?"

"Huh? W-Wait, really?"

"Of course! Besides, with the discounts I provide you just think of it as a get well and promotion gift!"

The gramps gives a huge smug and place his hands at his waist with pride.

(The people here sure are very kind, even sending get well gifts and more for someone they know recently...)

I nod replying:

"Then sure! I could use another of those white cloak that can change colour, it's sad that it broke at the promotion quest."

"Huh? Oh, that is quite a surprise to me too. Since you need to be one of those Mythical Traditionalist Martial Artists, like the Colonel or those in Heaven to cut such condensed magic items. Either way! Hum! Hum! Very well! This is a perfect time to prove what I learnt from that sword of yours! Come back in a few days or I'll call you again when I finish with the design and ready to tell you what materials we need. I'll make you the best cloak you'll see! I'm getting pump and flooded with ideas!

Ah, maybe I should someone at the capital branch for help and maybe someone from the branch families too... Please excuse me Lord Sova, I'll be starting to work on the design. If you have anything you want, please do take it. Use it as a temporary for now."

"Oh! T-Thank you!"

(These are the most nicest people I met so far. If only there are more people around like them... But I wonder if I could actually stay that long?)

Dal-Yong went to the tables at the dark corners and starts taking out huge panels as I look at Juha who's fascinated at the golden sword.

"What's wrong Juha? Do you perhaps want to use it?"

"Huh? Well... I mean..."

Taken back a bit Juha sighs before she folds her arms to puff her chest replying:

"Hmph! Don't misunderstand! It is just such rare opportunity to gaze upon such rare artifact. Since you're done here, let's get going."

"Right, see you later Elder Dal-Yong! And thanks for the tea!"

I wave back at the gramps and he waves back at us. Not really needing any equipment for now, we walk out the armoury and entered the quiet corridors. The distance murmurs, the echoing footsteps, I take in the cold air and breathe it out as I enjoy the peace...

(Now I have the urge to just walk outside for some reason).

Finding our way to the quiet lobby, I easily spotted Yoo-Ah at the distance busy piling down something behind the counter. With barely anybody but them, I approach the diligently working Yoo-Ah saying:

"I'm back."

"Huh? Oh! Welcome back!"

Yoo-Ah voice being the only loud source of noise in the guild I always wonder if the other staff just gotten use to it? And like before, Bai-Sumi is working alongside her while Bai-Sik is inspecting the marble he got from Tarkus.

"Just you wait! I'll finish this in a moment and then, we can clock out early! I mean everyone already does anyway!"

"Don't rush it, Yoo-Ah. If it's wrong you're gonna have to start all over."

"Don't you worry! And thanks for accompanying me!"

Seeing her hard at work makes me feel a bit left out as I wonder what I can do. I realize that I rarely spend a time where I get to watch others work while I watch... And most of them are usually when I got sick.

A bit curious and seeing there's no one lining up, I went closer and look at Yoo-Ah wondering what she is even working about asking:

"What are you even doing?"

(Atop of magic monsters, and the mysteries of the world, desk job seems to be up there cause it makes sense yet not at the same time why it just never ends and it causes headaches to those that look who understands or don't).

"Nothing much!"

"Huh?"

"I'm just tidying some leftover documents and records of the adventurers for this year while making some surplus panels for next year while at it! That way, I'll get more free time!"

"I have no idea most of what you just said, but good for you?"

"Yup! Plus, since I'm your personal staff, I have to record and keep tabs on your achievements and other stuff! Honestly, I doubt anyone would be interested in this!"

"Wait, so why do you even do this then? Do you like paper work?"

"Not really... I guess I kinda do?"

Contrary to her loud answer she replies softly before shouting:

"It's a bit complicated now!"

Remembering how she got the job from Yi-Il it makes me wonder,

"Why do you even want to be a adventurer staff anyway? I thought with your cooking skills, being a chef or baker would be the best choice. Do they pay you better here?"

"Hum! You're really asking the questions now! But I guess I can tell you..."

Yoo-Ah tidy up the few items left on the table before saying:

"I... I actually joined for my brother! Believe it or not, back then he was training and saving up to be a adventurer! He's even training under Jin-Yeon Unnie and getting the red carpet from many nobility!"

"Oh?"

"That's quite news to me."

Juha is a bit surprised to hear that and Bai-Sumi nods saying:

"That's true, and just like you he was attested to be strong enough to get the promotion test in his first day signing up. And him being the son of one of the Heroes of the Coalition and is said to surpass his father when he was the same age, he was being treated like royalty pretty much."

"That's right! And as family, I... Urgh! I can't believe I'm saying this but I was actually inspired and happy to have a brother like him! That's why I took the adventures staff training so I can be his personal staff and help him out! As family and as someone who wishes him the best! Everything was smooth sailing from there!

But then on the last day before his registry...! Out of nowhere, he approach Uncle Yi-Il saying he wanted to be a Hunter and asked for his commendation instead before fleeing the kingdom! It's ludicrous! It was just so sudden! Everyone is prepared and ready to accept him too, I even finished my training and became a proper staff! He wasted 2 years of my time and 5 years of everyone's resources!"

"Wow... That's a pretty... Douchey move."

"Right!? He's the worst!"

(Hmmm, is that why he isn't here at all? At least shouldn't he return knowing his home is in danger at least? And for someone so hated I'm surprised they still congratulate him on his promotion).

"So that's why the upper echelon is quite an uproar back then."

Juha comments as she looks up remembering something and Bai-Sumi pinch between her eyes, shaking her head replying:

"You can't even imagine the looks on everyone's face when they learn that. Especially Jin-Yeon nim, his own teacher."

(Why do I feel a lot of pressure falling on me now? And if I do the math correctly... For 3 years she trains to be a staff... And Yoo-Ah is the same age as me? So... What age did she begin training? Yoo-Ah is definitely talented).

Yoo-Ah leans on the table as if tired from explaining. Taking a chair beside the busy Bai-Sik, Yoo-Ah sits down saying:

"Remembering all that just makes me angry! And honestly, I just needed to work for half a year here per the contract Uncle Yi-Il help get for me!"

Yoo-Ah then stares at me, and soon that stare turns to a glare. Wondering why, I ask:

"Um, Yoo-Ah?"

"Honestly, I continued working as a staff out of spite ever since! Back then I thought maybe he would see how wrong he was when he left! But that sure as hell prove nothing! And I was planning on quitting next year! Well that was until I met you. Say, you keep asking why I do so much for you right?!"

"W-Well yea, I mean the things you did. Even I have to say it's a bit much for someone you know just recently no?"

"I notice that that too okay! And well... As for why..."

*Slam*

"I honestly don't know!"

" "Huh?" "

Both Bai-Sumi and I respond in unison when Yoo-Ah stands slamming the table to answer.

"Back when I met you under the last storm back then, it felt like... It's weird but... It feels like Destiny! I know there's something special about you and I just have to make sure! And what do you know, you're super special! Heck! Jin-Yeon Unnie probably felt the same when she saw you too and help me get you registered! And just like my brother, you caught the attention of many people too! Well, not the best people but great I suppose."

(I think Jin-Yeon's helping me for a whole different reason than you might think. And when you say it like that... It feels weirdly warm...)

Yoo-Ah blushes a bit scratching her cheek before saying:

"So if I have to say why, I guess I'm doing this... For you."

*Badump*

(Hmm? I have many helping me before by why is she making me feel this way?)

Feeling my heart skip a beat, hearing such kindness and honesty for me, I was quite stunned. Especially when we have only met for a short while.

"Oh my gosh! Yoo-Ah that's so sweet!"

"Ugh! Stop that! And I just realize how corny my words are!"

Bai-Sumi jumped and hug Yoo-Ah hearing her answer before she backs away saying:

"You're such a good girl, Yoo-Ah! I can't believe you're siblings to that Gisa jerk."

Bai-Sumi then looks at me with a stern face saying:

"Well, you heard her answer. It may sound a bit selfish since you have your own goals and probably things you want to do but I hope you can stay to go along as an adventurer, at least for just a little while."

She pats Yoo-Ah and she respond by brushing her hand away saying:

"Hey, stop that!"

Snapping back, I hastily nod replying:

"Of course! She provided so much to me, that's the least I can do."

Yoo-Ah fiddles with her thumb hearing my answer before she then asks:

"You know, Sova, if you want to quit I really don't mind."

"Excuse me?"

"I mean! We could just relax at Uncle Gum-Soo's farm and help tend his fields! With your strength you could probably finish the entire farm's labour in half a day- Oh yeah, Uncle Gum-Soo is Soo-Li's dad! There we are mostly safe around his wired enchanted fences."

"Um..."

(Honestly, that sounds much more hard than working as adventurers. But I suppose here it may be easy but you're betting your life).

"I mean! Sigh... Okay... At first, I thought being an adventurer could make your life better! And for a short while I thought so as well until you got hurt! Seeing your successes and hypse makes me forgot about the dangers of it as well. I may hate my brother but I wouldn't wish for him to be in your situation either. I'm sure we'll find some other ways to live other than such a dangerous work."

"I said it before but don't worry about it!"

"But..."

I replied back energetically and Yoo-Ah trues to say something but before she could I continue saying:

"I'm aware of the dangers and this is the price to pay for all the luxuries I'm getting. And if it wasn't for you I'll probably still be a vagrant wandering outside the city and possibly worse.

Now, seeing you're done cleaning the table shall we go back to our room? I'm excited for the celebration!"

"Well... Hum! Hum! Of course! I already prepared the treats back at the room!"

Seeing Yoo-Ah regain her spirit back, I look at Bai-Sumi and was about to ask when she raise her hand replying:

"Nah, no thanks Sova, I have that brat to take care off. Still, a bit late but Congratulations on your promotion! I couldn't really say it in person when you're still unconscious."

"Oh, t-thank you."

"Well, either way since you're done Yoo-Ah, I'll clock out now. Have fun at your party."

"Hum! Hum! Alright! Thanks again for accompanying me!"

Bai-Sumi waves her hand and Bai-Sik follows along as I hear her ask:

"You want something for dinner?"

"Hmm, I'm craving more of those delicious cakes, can we order more?"

"Like hell we can! We're more than lucky enough to get a custom order. Trust me, not even your dad can rush to the waiting line with his cash."

"Not even my dad!? I guess that's expected from a former Special Rank from the World Hunters no less."

Seeing them leave to the back and their voice becoming softer, Yoo-Ah stretches her arms with a huge smile before letting out a huge sigh shouting:

"Freedom! Haaah! And the best is that tommorow is vacation too so we could do whatever we want! Alright! Let's go home!"

Yoo-Ah exits the table and rush out to the front exit. Juha seeing her sighs and go quietly while I follow suit. As we exit the building, the dusk calls forth a golden hail. Like glitters in the wind they flow. Winter, my first winter and in foreign land alongside kind people. They greeted me with warmth to numb the cold. A pleasant feeling for the last season of the year.

"Oh! This is going to be great! I even got to improve on some of my recipes and you just gotta try them, Sova! And I suppose you too, Juha..."

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

"Hey, you..."

"Huh? Urgh.... M-My head... What happened?"

A large piercing sound rings, echoing loudly in my head like a rubber ball bouncing inside as I'm having a tough time lifting my head.

"You're finally awake. Begeesus, you sure do know how to party. Damn, here I am working my ass off while you're partying like in the roaring 20's."

"Huh?"

Noticing we're speaking in Owlian, I try to open my eyes or at least attempt to clean it for feeling sticky not just the eyes but hands too...

"What the?"

Feeling light resistance pulling me down, my vision begins to clear and I realize that I'm in bed with Yoo-Ah hugging tightly beside me...

"Murmur! Don't leave! Hum! Hum!"

With only the dim corner lights on, I could still smell lingering scent of sweetness all over as I realize there are other guests in the room as well. Ye-Hua who's lying face down like a washed up coat with her ass up and Jana who's sleeping peacefully wrapping herself like a cocoon on Yoo-Ah's bed. It's a chaotic mess-

"Hmm?"

Looking around, the room is actually pretty neat and tidy with most of the dirty plates and wrappings in one place.

I can't seem to remember what happened which is probably for the best.

(Juha has also already left it seems and she's probably the one to help clean up, I better thank her later).

"You really are a chick magnet, where do you find all these girls? Seriously! But anyways, congrats on getting well, Sova. And I heard you went up on the ladder too, great job!"

Knowing who would be visiting me secretly and late. Her crimson hair, eyes and ears seemingly glow at the dim room.

"Thanks, and..."

"You don't need to say it."

Before I could ask, her large red ears twitch and her tail sway to toggle her glasses saying:

"I got a mission for ya. Heh, technically speaking you're like my senpai but dammit do you don't feel like one. Anyways, your mission today is to accompany the Colonel, so clean up and I'll escort you to his private residence there."

"Huh? The Colonel? And what time is this?"

"It's past 10 and still pretty early. Haah, I miss having consistent sleep time."

"Right, but what does the Colonel wants with me? Is it involving the am... Embarrassed doors?"

"Prfff! Hehehehe, no. And I don't know, just head there and he'll brief you up. And man, did you heard they finally built an embassy for us? That's so nice, usually the foreign country is the one paying up."

"Mhm, oh maybe you can live there? I'm sure he'll let you stay."

"Hehe, just my idea. Can't wait to get my own servants. Anyways, come let's get you clean up. Or honestly speaking, let me clean up."

Abe gives me a hand and I take it... But Yoo-Ah's being a bit of a problem as she pulls me down and hugging me tighter. Gently getting her off, Abe pulls me with both arms before I tug in Yoo-Ah and cover her with a blanket.

"Alright... Let's go."

"Yay! Another day at the hot baths! It seems I have a lot to look for when meeting you."

(I know she might have use magic to silence our voice but it's still worrying when she's speaking so loudly).

"Sorry, but I think I'm just going to use the private-"

"Nope! You're taking me there and that's final! Hmm..."

Abe walks to the sleeping Jana asking:

"So, Sova, looks like you somehow completed your mission. Want to submit her over?"

"H-Huh?"

(Oh right! When I got her I could just contact Abe and she'll bring her out. But...)

"W-Wait-"

"Wait? You serious? Do you realize what you're saying? I guess she's right with you being too soft."

"Soft huh?"

(Whoever she is might be right...)

"C'mon! She's right there! Helpless, vulnerable, and defenseless. I could fondle her and she can't do nothing! Mwehehehe~!"

Abe raises her hands, moving each fingers like it has a mind of it's own as she gives off a shcnitzel eating grin. Seeing her action, I can't help but feel chills on my back as I reply with,

"That's a very dangerous thing to say and I'm gonna have to stop you if you try."

"Ooh~! Scary! Anyways, you somehow separate her from that cheat of a character and knock his partner out cold without suspicion. (I could probably learn some tricks from you), and this is the perfect opportunity you created! Just say the word, Sova. And I'll bring her right to the Empress!"

"Sis Huh? I know I need to... But it's just not right!"

(Wait, she knows? Could she have been following me?)

Abe sighs and take a sit at the chair beside the bed saying:

"And let me remind you, right now you only have 1 long term mission from the Empress. Finish that and honestly, you can go home and do whatever you're doing."

"Huh? Wait, really!?"

(Wait, didn't she say this is from the Crown Chancellor?)

"Of course! Hey, tell you what, the only reason they keep giving you mission is because you're still here. Get it to your head, Sova. They know you're soft and kindhearted, so you're being exploited right now."

"That's... Wait, how?"

"So much for being under the direct command of the Empress when the Council of Chancellors are the one giving you orders. But I suppose this is one part her fault since she knows this too."

"Wait, Yuwei... Huh? Hold up! Explain!"

Abe lunge from her chair, stopping just a hair breathe infront of me replying:

"I have nothing to explain for someone who can't know the context. All you need to tell me is, will you submit her to me or not?"

I back away, my hands curls to fists...

"That's..."

(Should I? I mean, if I just submit her I could go back travelling to the Theocracy and make progress on finding May and Aunt. Plus, if what I heard in the baths is right, they could reunite with San-Min by tommorow).

I look back at the sleeping Yoo-Ah remembering what I promised her sister.

(If I submit to her, I'll be free so does that mean I'll be able to help Yoo-Ah out more to repay back their hospitality without keeping secrets? Right, I haven't even come clean to them yet. All points lead me to say yes, but what is this weird feeling I get?)

"Hey, Sova, unless you forgot you're a Silencer here. You have more authority than those Chancellors! If you complete this mission you can just say no to the mission I'm giving you now and ditch them all away for your private matter. And a warning, this mistake might cost you your only mission-"

"That's enough, I made my decision and I won't hand her over now."

"Boo~ well, I suppose if that's what you want, Sen-pai~ aaah, I always wanted to say that!

Thinking back, I kinda knew you're not the type for this kind of missions. Now, c'mon then lead me to the baths now. And here I thought I improved my persuasion skills, but I still can't persuade you enough."

"I don't know if that's a good or bad thing."

"I consider it bad! Come now! Warm baths!"