Gathering Beneath the Storm. (Part 6)

As the dust settles in, dark clouds gather. Cold winds blew, and the gold sky shatters. Yet even with such distraught present, these certain group of people still chose to attend their vows. Dressed in the noblest attire of all, these immortals descent to the earth from heaven with grim tidings. Just recently, the infamous Phoenix Sector led by a new Phoenix has finally declared itself out of isolation. And along with it, the announcement of a new Silencer in this city...

One of such people holds to the foggy mirror as he stares down the uncivilized settlements below. With only the small glowing lights visible through the thick mist, he looks back at his peers saying:

"It seems we have arrived at their Sector."

Wearing a beautifully decorated golden dragon scale armour with jewellery and detailed artwork in each plate and a circling dragon crown on his head biting a sphere. The one who speaks is none other than the ambassador of the Dragon Sector. His long black hair and burning orange eyes give him a sense of pressure and weight to his stares, words, and presence.

"Hmph! I can't believe a silencer chose to work for these backwater Sector. He should've come to us instead! He must know no tact or class. I'm already regretting to delegate this piss!"

Even with her harsh language, she has the most soothing voice of all and the beauty to match. Wearing layers upon layers of the most beautiful and colourful dress that looks like fish scales that seems to compliments each other. Coupled with her shimmering ornaments, elegant stance, and long floating scarf as if a flowing river. Her very long sky blue hair that embraces her like a coat sway ever so slightly whenever she speaks. She's the ambassador of the fish Sector.

"Calm your tits down, will you? We were lucky they accept anyone at this point. Out of the 16 major factions, I'm surprised they chose me at all."

Wearing a decorated white half-plate armour that's crested with gold along with a beautiful white robe inside that gives off a slick shine. With horns protruding from his forehead and shoulders whilst he wears his hood. He gives off an air of mystique and mystery. He is none other than the ambassador of the Ox Sector.

"Hmph! That doesn't excuse their poor choice of place. At least, book us a place like a famous and elegant tea shop or something!"

"Sure, sure. If it makes you happy why don't we go on a date?"

The Ox ambassador invites her but the fish ambassador folds her arm in denial as she stares down beneath the lands she's about to step. The dragon ambassador closes his eyes as he smiles and changes the subject saying:

"I heard from the slumbering whispers that there were suppose to be 4 ambassadors. But it seems the Tigers refused since it's not a marriage proposal."

"Really? Hahaha, I still can't for the stomach of Dridari understand their fascination with family planning."

The Ox ambassador shakes his head in disbelief as he laughs it off as a joke. Being old friends, they talk to each other to pass the time while the slow transport brings them to the promised place. And as they arrive what greeted them was what they see from above. The sight of this backward civilization is at present. Not only they still use the olden ways of turbines and even such thing as concrete is obscene to their eyes.

The moment they step on the enemy's territory, their years of professionalism took place and keep their emotions in check and hidden.

"Welcome, to the Phoenix Sector esteemed envoys of almighty Segemntums. This lowly one shall be your guide to the royal palace."

The one that greeted them is a man in black armour. With his helm on, he hides his face but the intricate craftsmanship of his black foreign armour says otherwise to the state of this district. His elegant black feather cloak and the curve long rifle blades he holds in his left-hand shows he's a fighter. And the qi and magic that exudes from him enforce that idea even more.

(Hmph! To think they would send a warrior instead of a servant and not a lord to retrieve us. I wonder what awaits us next?)

The fish ambassador thought to her self as the three of them looks at each other before nodding. The dragon ambassador walks forth saying:

"Thank you for your welcome. So, if you wouldn't mind sending us?"

The other two look at the dragon ambassador with surprise as they didn't expect him to be so hasty. Sure the news and proclamation of a Silencer may be a threat to their hegemony but it's not so bad that it would make him act like this would it?

The black warrior nods replying:

"Of course, please excuse me."

He pulls out a cube from his pocket and soon lights embrace the three of them as if dawn had approached. Taking away their sights and replacing it with pure white.

(Teleportation magic!? What's going on here!? I know we agreed to their conditions but this is just...)

The Ox ambassador begins to panic and the other soon follows after. As the light fades what greeted them was a guest room. With all three already on their respected seats, the smell of an alluring fragrance pulls their eyes to what's on the table and what's in the centre of it. The truth scale, an item to discern lies and would ring loudly when someone lies. Sure it may have flaws but it's the best anyone can get. And the most disturbing fact of all is how they felt their magic being slowly but surely draining away the longer they stay in this room. But knowing the courtesy, they try to find the host of the room and soon found him with but a lift of their heads.

Unlike the Silencer back at Central where even when his powers are sealed, he still exudes magic. The Silencer before them has none. More like they can't sense anything from him at all. No magic, no qi, no sense of life or even the sound of his steps. His mere presence provokes fear to their hearts. His glowing red visor shines prominently with the black background and dimly lit room with only the uncurtained windows giving the clouded light. The man who's of a normal height walks forth with his ornamental platinum phoenix armour and a sword in tow. The beauty of his armour even catches the eyes of the Fish ambassador before he stands ahead of his seat with a certain dangerous medallion on his shoulder. Clasping his hand, he bows down saying:

"Greetings esteemed ambassadors of mighty Segmentums, this Silencer pay respect to all of you. This one's name is Sova Anmao, I am very pleased to meet someone like all of you."

His voice, deep like the abyss but so pure and honest like a child's complement which caught them by surprise. They can't help but think if this man is seriously genuine or honestly a very good actor but... Another contract they agree is to speak in the common tongue. The three of them stands up and clasp their hands to greet him back like it's a natural routine replying:

"The dragon ambassador greets Esteemed Silencer. You may call me Yuanwei."

The dragon's ambassador's greeting was swift and spot on.

"Greetings from the Fish Ambassador, Revered Silencer. You may call me Liyuyi."

Following him is the fish ambassador as she bends her knee and lowers her head with swiftness and elegance.

"Esteemed Silencer from far lands, the Ox ambassador sends you his greetings! You may call me, Dashu!"

Lastly is the Ox ambassador with his loud and deafening roar greets the Silencer while he opens his helm with thought to reveal a man in his early twenties with rough blonde hair and glowing blue eyes. The moment he appears and greets himself, coupled with the room that drains magic and the tool in the table. They know he's truly the Silencer. The Silencer gestures his hands forward as he takes a seat saying:

"I see, please, take a seat and enjoy the light sweets I prepared, esteemed guests. I hope they're to your liking. And I hope as well that you can forgive the weather, it's raining seasons whenever we're near the end of the year."

Unlike the other three, the Silencer doesn't show his face as per the contract they sign. They enjoyed the meal following the Silencer's word and can't help but think how big the contrast with how light the sweets taste and how refined the tea was. Still bothered by what to say and compliment for this unique pairing, other thoughts swirls.

Unlike normal diplomatic mission or council that they went to... This meeting is, for the lack of better words, too normal and simple for them. As if they're just visiting a friend's house, or could it possibly be that's the Silencer's intention to do so?

Questions, thoughts, theories, suspicion, and even conspiracies float over their head as they wonder who will start the conversation first. When to no one's surprise the Silencer begins by saying:

"To be honest, I've been receiving a lot of invitations and request on regards to meeting me. I wonder why that is?"

The three of them look at each other in shock as they can't believe the Silencer just ask something so simple and essential that he could probably think for himself or just ask someone else than them.

(Maybe this is a test?)

(What are his goals? Is he trying to gauge the response from other Sectors from our words?)

(I've dealt with the Central Dragon's Silencer but this... He's just so different than him!)

The Silencer sensing the tense atmosphere tried to tone it down saying:

"It seems I've somehow cause discomfort for you, forgive me. If informally talking with me helps then please do. I'm quite nervous myself since I'm not used to meeting strangers... Formally I mean."

(The fact that we're not doing this formally is the problem here! You are dumbass! You? A Silencer? You better call your self a fish scaler!)

The fish ambassador shouts in her head as she sips her tea with a pleasant smile before she finally responds saying:

"Yes, I guess it's appropriate we state why we're here. As for me, I guess I was just curious to see what the Silencer of Huang is all about. To think he would be such an imposing figure!"

"Imposing? I am? Thanks..."

The Silencer looks away and scratches the back of his head as if he's embarrassed.

(Dammit, act like what you dressed! Are you seriously a Silencer you twat maggot ass for a brain! Are you trying to make a fool of yourself, Huh!?)

"Yes, just like Liyuyi said, I too am here to see what the Silencer of Huang will be like. It is said that we can't see your face. If you wouldn't mind but may I know why?"

Yuanwei asks him and the Silencer holds his cheek and looks away replying:

"It's just... I'm embarrassed to show my face. Sorry."

(Are you fucking kidding me!? Don't say that with your god damn deep voice! If you're trying to make me uncomfortable than congrats! You already did!)

"Okay, okay, I guess let's talk informally then like you said. Say, bro, just between you and me. What do you think of the Silencer of the Central Dragons? Don't worry, just be honest. I'm sure Yuanwei will forgive you right?"

Dashu leans forward as he asks, hoping that by following what he said will make him more susceptible to speak more.

"Of course! An insight from the junior might even improve our Silencer."

Yuanwei, who also wish to gain insight into what and how this new Silencer thinks to give "leeway" for an answer.

"Honest huh..."

Sova looks at the truth spirit before taking a cup not from the table and drinks with his helmet on. When the mouth part opens, you could see his pearl white skin and natural pink lips that made you wonder if he's a man but when he closes his helm's mouth and looks back at them. He simply answers:

"Sorry, I don't care about him. And to be brutally honest, I don't even know about him until someone said, "Hah even the Silencer from the Central Dragon can only use 2 techniques," and that's when I realize there's another Silencer than me?"

Two ambassadors look at the truth spirit for a while before,

"Pfff!"

"Pfff HAHAHAHAHA! What the hell!"

"Kirk!"

Yuanwei finally snaps as he spits out a small ember between his gnawing teeth. While Dashu burst out laughing while hitting his knees so hard, alongside Liyuyi who's trying her best to half her laughter while clattering her drink and cracking up a smile.

"Do you even understand the veracity and magnitude of your words? Do you even know what a Silencer is, Lord Sova???"

"Nope, someone just gave this job to me and I was like well I want to repay you so why not. In fact, I didn't even know I was a Silencer until someone told me about it."

"Pwahahahahaha! Your face is totally ruined, Yuanwei! Hahaha!"

"Bwahahahahaha! Oh, this is a cow's shoe! Ah, screw formality! It's in the contract right? Hahahaha! See? This is what I meant when nobody cares about your Silencer anymore!"

Liyuyi and Dashu finally crack as well. Liyuyi tries her best to hide her face while she laughs while Dashu just ends up dropping down and hitting on the floor. A nerve pops on Yuanwei's head when he replies back saying:

"I-I see... Thank you... For your honest answer..."

(At least the best part to me now is the fact that this meeting is absolutely secret...)

Yuanwei thinks as his mouth and eyes twitch constantly as he says that before he sits upright. And so, all of them got the answer they need, a very brutally honest answer. Probably not the answer they want but an answer none the less. Sova smiles behind his helm saying:

"Well, I'm glad the tense atmosphere is gone. So, in all seriousness, are all of you here just to see what I'm like? If so, I'm sorry for not meeting your standards and making you follow my terms."

"Oh, no, you're okay! I like you more than the Silencer from Central already (Or the one in mine)."

I could read Dashu's lips ever so clearly with his last words when Liyuyi nods replying:

"I agree, thank you once for accepting our request."

Yuanwei calms down and takes a bit of the sweet before asking:

"Say, Lord Sova... May I ask you, what is your goal?"

"Goal?"

"Yes, what do you really intend to do as a Silencer?"

The silencer places his cup down revealing he's not been drinking the same drink as the others.

"Hmmm, I see... Since no one's listening on this. Let me give you a little insight."

The three of them immediately gains composure and return to their proper posture. Their face becomes serious as they open their ears to hear every word he would speak next... Hoping he's not fooling around with what's he's saying before. Sova leans forward and opens his hand and reveal something ancient and rarely been used in modern times...

A magic circle forms and on each edge has a small purple flame that lits up. And the weirdest part is how there are still no magic detected in his hands or presence as he presents something saying:

"I'm only doing this to repay a favour. Once that's done and the Empress follows her words, I'll be leaving soon."

Each flame diminishes when he speaks in an interval. This news, this bit of information opens the eyes of the ambassadors to countless possibility and proposals. But they all kept quiet and nod along saying:

"I see..."

"Is that so..."

"So, it's only temporary yes?"

"That's right. And I won't be changing my mind anytime soon."

The last flames in his hands fade away as he clenches his hand. The fish Ambassador, suspicious of this intel looks at the truth spirit saying:

"I don't wear make-up right now."

"LIAR!!! LIAR!!!"

The three ambassadors now even more surprised when the spirit is actually active. They finally got what they thought is invaluable and can't help but smile at the weakness he has shared from inside their hearts. After all, with this information, they now know the stance the Phoenix is taking. Sure this may be what his master told him, but even then he can't lie to his heart or the tool in the centre of the table would say he's truly not lying. The tool in question is the spirit of truth that rests inside the crystal and would shout when someone lies and they can say the tool is genuine with how much life and magic it produces even in this detrimental room and proof of activation. Another term they must agree to meet him is, to be honest, and they have abode by it very well.

"So, is that what you need to know dear guests? But with how we talk, you wouldn't mind if we call you dear friends do you?"

Sova leans back on his seat as he rests his arms on the armrest. The three of them smiles and nods along saying:

"Of course! Friends we truly are! The Dragon Sector fully supports the Phoenix having a Silencer."

Yuanwei agrees truthfully since he knows that not only if he could get on his good side. Not will they gain a unique Silencer like him if possible, the Phoenix is truly not a threat to be feared. And won't threaten their hegemony.

"Yes, if the Phoenix need anything, don't hesitate to contact the Fish Sector for any business opportunity. We will always welcome a customer in need."

Liyuyi agrees for a golden opportunity has shown himself. Unlike the Dragon Silencers who are always bound to their family, the Silencer before her is a temporary Silencer, unlike any Silencer before him. And the best of all, the Fish Sector is a master of handling mercenaries and temporary contracts. She must report this to the Masters above.

"Yes, friends we are..."

Unlike the other two, the Ox merely answers quietly with a quiet smile. Since he is not really sure what this information could do to his masters. And why he would even tell one of the weakest Segmentum this information... Turtle, rabbit, goat, horse, ox, monkey, rat, tiger, dragon, rooster, phoenix, pig, bear, wolf, fish, and snake. 16 factions excluding the missing snake and only 13 of them are usually chosen as the top and the Ox will soon fall to the wayside and changed.

"If you wouldn't mind. I think it's time I leave. May the spirits bless you."

"This has been an interesting meeting to date, I hope we meet again, may the spirits bless you."

"Yes, this will be all... Thank you for accepting our request, Lord Sova. May the spirit bless you."

They stood up as they say that and Sova nods replying:

"Yes, thank you as well for visiting. Let me help you out. May the spirit bless you all."

Sova taps his fingers on his armrest and soon light envelopes all three of them and the light soon blinds them all. And to their surprise, only two out of three of them left. The Dragon and Ox ambassador were left hanging while the light dissipates and they were still in the room.

Confused, perplexed at what's happening as they wonder if this is the Silencer's doing. They look at him with eyes full of dread and anticipation as they wonder what will happen next when he holds that medallion. To their surprise, the Silencer retracts his helm back to his shoulders and leave the two of them in awe. The Silencer long blonde hair flows like a golden ray of light in this grey room while his... No, her beauty entrance the both of them as her pearl white skin and feather-like eyelashes close and opens. Her doll-like face is a sight to behold if it wasn't for the scar under her left eye. She opens her small mouth saying:

"Forgive me for forcefully making you stay when you're so busy. Please, take a seat, I have a proposal for both of you that I hope can make up for it."

Her voice is sweet and so soothing, unlike her previous one. As if they could taste the honey from her words, both of them as if entranced follows her words and quietly sits down as if awaiting her terms.

"I'm now going to propose to you a plan her majesty wishes to make and this shall be secret of course and you can report this to the higher-ups but you may not speak of this to another faction that's not involved. If any of you wish to leave, you are allowed to do so."

"No, I'm willing to listen. You can continue."

"Yes, what is it that you would keep the both of us here for?"

Both of them give clear to her and sharpens their ears even more.

"The dragons may not be a mystery to this but... Let's make an Alliance."

The Silencer presents them with two sealed beautiful purple scrolls. Each of them takes one and was about to open it only for the Silencer to hold their hands and stop them. Her grip was immense even to the Ox ambassador who is a certified Master that could shake hills feels like he is being held by two mountains as he is unable to even move his arm. The Silencer shakes her head as her golden hair sway saying:

"Don't open it now. Read it when you've gathered all the elders and leaders. I assure you, this is no trap. But a golden opportunity for all of us. Well, that's what I and her majesty believed. You can discuss it further as per instruction."

Both ambassadors nod silently as she lets them go. They both soon look at their scrolls respectively and the Silencer nods one more time and lit the cube in purple light.

"Well then, for real this time, may the spirit bless you all."

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

Now alone, cold and hungry. I take the bars Kokkan gave me last night and eat it to fill my stomach...

"Phew glad that was over. Who knew you can actually put words inside the panel in the helmet! Man, that saves me a lot! I wonder if I did good enough too?"

Looking back at my armour, I can't believe she manages to fix it in a day and make it even better.

*crunch* *crunch*

I continue to eat when the door finally opens. Entering the room was none other than Libing who looks at me with a smile and gives me a thumbs up saying:

"Good job!"

I make a peace sign shouting:

"Yea! I did the sign right, right?"

"You sure did! High five spassy!"

Libing raises his hand and I raise my hand and tap his hand softly saying:

"Yea! I learn a lot of weird signs from you, Shifu."

"Pfft, these are all signs from our Homeland. It's nothing weird."

I open my palm and activate the toy and summon forth the magic circle again saying:

"Hahaha, I can't believe I actually fool anybody... It's unbelievable..."

"Haha, you gotta be kidding right? I mean even I manage to trick my friends back at my school!"

"LIAR! LIAR!"

The spirit in the table who's been afraid of me has spoken for again.

"Well, she says otherwise."

"Tch!"

Libing folds his arms and starts sitting on his personal seat. For some reason, she never bothers calling me a lier when I lied. For example...

"I'm a girl..."

The spirit stayed quiet from my words and Libing smirks replying:

"Well, spassy, got anything to say to that?"

"This doesn't count! It just doesn't react to Owlians is all!"

"Where does that leave me then? Anyways, thanks to that, we were able to fool them completely, fuu!"

Libing takes out the long pipe with a crystal attached in the end. He sucks it and turns his eyes green as I wonder...

"Shifu, you're an Owlian? I mean you could use magic."

"Huh? Me? Yea I'm an Owlian but... Let's just say special circumstance make me able to use magic now. So I'm kinda like a hybrid like those new Federation soldiers."

"I don't know what that is but I can also use magic. I'm still resistant to magic. So am I like a hybrid too?"

"Hahaha! No, you're different, those hybrids can still be subdued with Owlian Steel but you can't, so it's fine! It all works in your way honestly. Don't think too much about it. Well, your works over and so are mine. Go have some lunch, Sova. You deserve it."

"Okay then, see you later, Shifu. May the spirit bless you."

"May the spirit bless you too, spassy."

When I exit the room, I found Yuria waiting for me with anticipation. I nod and smile and she smiles cheerfully as well and hugs me saying:

"Congrats!"

"Yeah, let's go have some lunch."

"Yeah! Let me show you my new skills after learning from Lord Sarah!"

As we start walking, I reply back with spirit saying:

"Oh!? Now I'm more pump, give me some extra portions."

"You got it! And she told me she won't be joining in since she's doing something."

"That's a bit of a disappointing but that's okay I guess."

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

Entering Ptelophy's office after an explosive lunch, darkness greeted me with only a single candle ahead lighting the table she's working on. As if I'm in a black space wondering if I could just fall. I found her busy writing papers after papers by moving 8 pens in total by moving her single long finger. When her mismatch eyes fall to me, the table disappears making this room empty.

Candles lit up from both my side and hers, as the room brightens up, I was greeted by a hall of mirrors that never ends, each separated by huge pillars that keep going up where no light can reach. Making this place a maze of mirrors.

(When did she decorate her room? And I don't remember it being this big...)

"Welcome back, Sova."

"Ah, Hello, Ptelophy. I'm here to return the armour."

She nods along and disappears, feeling someone behind me, I look back seeing her masked face seems to meld with the darkness as her eerily long fingers creeps to my shoulders.

"I'm glad that you have gained your spirit back, Sova."

"Yeah, again, sorry for making you worried."

She appears from infront of me with her back turned to say:

"Don't be... You can leave the armour where you stand Sova."

"Okay, thank you for helping me keep the armour, Ptelophy. I really appreciate it."

I feel my spine tingle as the armour open and I get out. The armour sinks into the darkness on our feet when she stands in front of me. Her cold black hands touch my cheek as she asks:

"Can you feel it? Your power?"

Weirded out by her question, I nod along saying:

"Yea, I can feel and control it like how I can control qi... By the way, how are Jaya and that black sludge girl doing?"

Ptelophy nods and pulls her hands away replying:

"They're doing fine. As per your suggestion, I got a new room for her and she has been more cooperative and happy. As for the sludge girl... She's now... Calmer."

"Really? I'm glad. Sometimes I wonder what you're doing, Ptelophy. This room and your vanishing acts... Do you mind if I spend some time with you when I have time?"

Ptelophy stays silent for a while, standing there stiff like a statue before she finally speaks saying:

"We will be spending a lot of time together when we begin your lessons. You don't need to spend more of your time with me."

"Oh, okay... I just remembered but do you know where Nanny Yunyun has gone? I can't seem to find her anywhere."

Ptelophy walks away replying:

"She has retired, as to where she has gone. I don't know."

"Wait, what? But..."

"I don't know anything more, Sova. I have other matters to attend to, can you please leave?"

"Oh, sorry. I'll be leaving now. May the spirit bless you, Ptelophy."

"Apology accepted."

With those words, the mirror hall disappears along with her. With only darkness and the door behind me, I turn around and exit as my suspicion has been confirmed...

"At least, you could say goodbye. We didn't even get to catch up."

(And talking with Ptelophy is awkward as usual...)

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

The golden dawn is swallowed once more by ashen clouds. The room was barely lit as I let the natural light to brighten my room. For once I look outside my window and what greeted me is but an empty field and the wall at the end of the road.

*crackle* *crackle*

A blinding flash swallows the room and vanish as it arrives...

*boom*

And with the clap, drizzles fall, and soon a downpour. The view outside obscured by splashing rain as my room darkens even more while the sound of beating droplets echoes ever so loudly making my eyes heavy.

*click*

With the sound of a button, light envelopes the darkness. Looking back at who it could be, Kokkan stands there wearing his new armour and weapons.

"Sova, you shouldn't stay in such dark rooms. It's not good for your eyes."

"Sorry, it's just too comfortable before I sleep. But Kokkan, why are you here?"

Kokkan walks close replying:

"I heard you're going on your next mission tomorrow."

"That's right."

He pats my head and as my hair slips between his fingers he frowns saying:

"Be careful okay? I won't be there to protect you- I mean, Sorry... I don't deserve to say that when I let you get hurt before."

"Don't worry Kokkan, I'll be fine! I'll try to train along the way."

"Haha, very well. I just wanted to say I'll be leaving on a mission as well. And won't return for quite a while."

"I guess it would be pretty lonely with this palace lacking a lot of people."

Kokkan ruffles my hair replying:

"I'll be back as soon as I can. I guess best wishes to you Sova."

"I think it's more appropriate to say, best wishes to both of us right?"

"That is true..."

Kokkan embraces me tightly in his arms as he says that. I could feel his warmth even through his new armour as his breath tickles my ear. With my hands locked I was forced to stay still for a while before he finally lets me go and smile peacefully saying:

"You really remind me of her... Goodbye, may the spirit bless you."

"May the spirit bless you as well Kokkan."

*click*

The lights turned back off and he slinks to the shadows as black feathers fell and vanish. Feeling something on my neck, I soon realize Kokkan has left me a blue pendant that seems to shine whenever I touch it.

(Isn't this the pendant he uses? Maybe he wants me to hold it for him? Hmm... And here he said being in the dark is bad for my eyes).

I untie the pendant he gives me and places it inside the shelves I put my savings and items I bring yesterday-

"Kokkan!!! Hmm? He's not here? Where could he be?"

Appearing without warning is none other than Hanami. She looks around before finally look at me and get closer asking:

"Did Kokkan come here?"

I nod saying:

"Yea, he came here to said his goodbye and go to a mission."

*sigh*

Hanami sighs heavily as she slinks to my bed.

"Hmm? *sniff* *sniff*, I can smell his scent on you. Did he do something?"

(Smell? What does Kokkan even smell like?)

"Mhm, he gave me a hug and this necklace."

I nod and show her the necklace Kokkan gives me.

"Well, ain't he sweet? You better take care of it okay?"

"Of course! I'll help him keep it until he returns."

"Tch! Since he already left, there's nothing I can do. Well, sorry for disturbing, have a nice rest, Sova. May the spirit bless you."

When Hanami went ahead, I nod replying:

"May the spirit bless you- hold on."

"Hmm? What's wrong?"

"I never asked but what's Kokkan doing?"

Hanami looks back at me and takes a sit on the edge of my bed replying:

"It's something personal really. He's probably trying to revive our dead clan..."

"Dead... Clan?"

Hanami leans on the pillar and shakes her head saying:

"Forget what I said, if you want to learn more... Why don't you ask him? He seems to like you a lot for some reason. And I guess, he never really lets go of his past just yet..."

"I see... Okay, sorry for holding you back. May the spirit bless you."

Hanami pats my head and waves back at me before merging with the shadows...

(I never really think much but Hanami and Kokkan are still really in the dark).

Keeping the pendant in the shelve as I get on the bed. Opening the blanket and slip inside... The sound of the rain tapping on the window, the ticking on the wall, the slight sound of wind pushing the locked window, and my breathing synchronize as I close my eyes...

(Hold on... It's already been a week, let's try and visit her. I hope I don't get sick anymore).

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

*splash*

Submerge in water, I quickly swim up in retaliation.

*splash*

"Haah! Haaah!"

Water enters my ear and nose as winds blew my way making me freeze. When I look around, it was some sort of dimly lit tunnel that looks like a bending cylinder. With a yellow light that keeps moving in circles, I pull my self out of the water and realize the entire place looks like a sewer but it's smaller than the one I use to travel back to the Phoenix Sector. The muddied water that seems to pour endlessly from some small hole in the wall, the horrendous stench and limited vision raise my awareness to the maximum limit.

"Where am I?"

As I look left and right, I can't help but sighs as I wonder what have I gotten myself into. Taking my chances I went to my left, holding the wall as I travel.

(It was a red room the first time, a beach a second and onwards...)

"Now, a sewer huh?"

When I look at my self, I realize I'm wearing some sort of unknown body armour different than the ones I wear before. Whereas the ones I wear usually has a feel like you're wearing something this one feels like it fused in your body like some sort of exoskeleton that makes it look like a mirror of the body. When I look at my left chest, I see a gun I never saw before. I pull it out and hold it in my hand as I inspect every detail of this... Small gun.

"What a weird looking gun. It's like only 1/8 the size of a rifle... Pew pew! Haha!"

I point the gun in front of me as if I'm playing. Holding my head I realize I'm not wearing any helmet either but I still have my headband.

(I have to admit, how many different clothing have I wear just this month? It's quite ridiculous. It's like I'm... What's the word they say to people who wear many clothes? Cosplayers? No... Ah, yes! Models!)

*bang* *bang* *bang*

"Hmm?"

"Aaargh!"

*slash* *gush* *tear* *splash*

I stop on my tracks as I see flashes of light and silhouettes of people beyond. Hearing screams on the other side and seeing blood in the wall. A brief flashes show a shadow that's being split and torn apart by something huge...

(Is this really my dream?)

"Urgh! Arrgh!"

Someone drags himself with his hands, he leans on the wall. Seeing him missing his legs, I rush to him shouting:

"A-Are you okay!? Uuuh, what can I do?"

He grabs my hands and looks at me with his face hidden behind some black glass on his helm saying:

"You... You must kill it... Ughh..."

He lets me go and becomes limp. I try to check for a pulse but I can't seem to find an opening in his armour which is similar to mine.

"What the hell is going on here!?"

*slam*

I look at my left as I see where the sound comes from. The circling light gives a bit of a shadow to the beast every brief moment. All six eyes look my way...

I point the gun at the monster...

Disfigured upper body with many long claws on it's back...

I put my finger on the trigger...

With the head of some sort of bug as it mandibles open and close while its antennae whip back and forth...

I hold the gun with two hands as I take a step back... Ironically it has the lower part that makes it looks like a girl growing something on top of her... I try to pinch my cheeks to wake myself up.

(Wake up!)

When I stop moving back, it also stops moving. I take one foot back and it brings one foot forward. I soon keep moving back until the thing finally stands beside the yellow circling light on the wall. It moves its myriad of claws protruding on it's back and...

*smash*

The little light there is disappear as I quickly run away in the opposite direction.

*smash* *smash* *smash* *smash*

Hearing it chasing after me with its loud smashing steps.

(Oh, no, no, no, no, no! Wake up! Wake up!)

I point the gun behind me and shoot blindly without looking back.

*bang* *bang* *clang* *bang*

Feeling no recoil, I keep shooting until,

*click* *click* *click*

No more bullets come out and I keep it in the pocket where I found it and run even faster. The sound of smashing steps stop and I keep running ahead when I found another light source on the walls...

Stopping below it, I look back and forth for any signs and kneel to touch the ground and focus... Sound of running water and the whistling wind... No sign of anything moving.

"It seems it has stopped chasing me... I better keep moving."

I look around holding the walls once again and keep moving forward...

"I hate mazes."

"That I have to agree."

Hearing my own voice from behind me, I look behind taking my stance. And what greeted me was...

"Mary!"

I look around and quickly grab her hand saying:

"Come quick, we shouldn't stay here for long."

Seeing my self wearing a simple one-piece dress appearing from the darkness, I ignore any reason and run away together. Our footstep echoes loudly as we run on these dark tunnels. Mary tightens her grip asking:

"Sova, it's already been a week. Don't you want to learn magic?"

I shake my head replying:

"We can do that later, our safety comes first. I don't know if this is a dream or whatever but we need to go somewhere safe."

Mary smiles saying:

"I see, then I could tell you. This is a dream and not at the same time."

"Hmm? Do you know what's happening?"

"Yes, I'm the one who created this after all."

I slow down and stop running as I look back at her asking:

"What do you mean?"

"You don't need to worry, Sova. I can assure you it's safe now. That monster won't show up again for now."

"I'm still confused..."

Mary pats my head and hugs me while still holding my hand replying:

"It's okay like promised, I'll teach you some magic now then. Close your eyes."

I follow her words and close my eyes...

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

*kaw* *kaw* *kaw*

A soon hear the cries of a familiar bird above. I feel the cold winds blew as I dig my feet in as I feel the cold waves washing my feet.

"Oh, I'm back. This is the first time I see night time here. Mary! Where are you!"

I run ahead on the small beach as the sea of stars and for once in my lifetime I saw something that can only happen once in 200 years if what May said is true... I stop my steps as I see the beauty of nature manifest before me.

All 3 moons in the sky appear at once as it moves closer to a linear position. But knowing what I have to do, I pull my eyes away and keep running ahead to where Mary usually reside.

"Mary! Answer me!"

Seeing the four familiar tree with a large blanket bed tied in the centre, I run ahead shouting:

"Mary!"

"Zzzz"

As I look at the bed finding Mary sleeping soundly. I breathe out in relief seeing her okay as I sit on the blanket bed. I stare at her for a while as I ask,

"Is that how I look like when I sleep?"

*sigh*

I lay down beside her as I take an extra pillow. I look at the skies above as the tree serves as some sort of picture frame. All of the 3 moons fit perfectly inside the frame as the stars fille the empty spots, making it like some sort of painting by mother nature...

"That looks nice. I wonder if I could someday bring my family to see this?"

Enjoying, relaxing, and admiring the beauty before me, I stare at the skies as the moon moves ever closer together while stars sometimes fell out of the frames and to the sea... I look at the sleeping Mary once again saying:

"Yea, as long as you're safe you can teach me in another time. Good night."

I close my eyes as I feel Mary embracing me saying:

"Good night."

(I hope Mary could try and change her face. It really feels weird talking to someone with the same face).

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

*swiish* *swoosh* *shiing*

I could see someone holding a sword and spear swinging his weapons. Standing on top of some round platform with my halberd on top, I see his moves in an unknown manner, different than any techniques I have learned...

His moves are sharp, clean, precise, and flowing smoothly like water...

(Most of my moves hit quickly like thunder and filled with power... If I remember correctly, unlike me, Sis Rubeca's moves like that when we train. And thanks to that sometimes my block would just be rendered ineffective since her hand would magically curve around mine and slap me... I always wonder if I could move like that?)

Every swing he makes feel like it could cut through anything while his thrust could pierce it all. His moves become faster and faster as his blades leave an after images and he strikes a stance when he finishes a move...

When I seem to close my eyes, unknown words seems to enter my head as it seems I'm learning an unknown language. Words written in an unknown language appear in the darkness. Runes connect these words to form a shape and soon becomes a circle...

My head hurts, my chest hurts... My arms feel numb and my legs feel like it's being bitten by many things. Yet, something tells me to endure it, to hold it out...

"-ova... Sova... Up..."

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

"Wake up, Sova... Wake up."

I felt my back being stung by a thousand needles. When I open my eyes, lightly pierces my eyes forcing it to close again and move my hands to block it.

"Sova, hey, are you okay?"

A familiar voice keeps calling to me when I feel her holding my hands. When I open my eyes once again, I look at the shadow of a girl blocking the sun. She lets my hands go and soon feel it on my neck and back as she seems to drag me somewhere. Feeling my head laying down on something soft and warm, I feel my hair being caressed as she holds my cheeks...

"Sheesh, I didn't know you would sleep out here."

I ignore her remarks and turn my head as my face seems to plunge onto something soft...

"Hey, that tickles! Sheesh. Enjoy yourself then. Hey, Yui, can you go grab some drink for him... Her? Grab a drink for this person."

"Yes, on my way!"

Hearing her steps on some grass going further, her steps soon grows louder again as I hear her shouting:

"H-Here, you go, Mashter!"

"Good girl! Who's the smart girl? Who's the smart girl!?"

"Hehe, stop mashter, yur making me embarresh."

"It seems you're getting used to speaking the common tongue. Smart girl!"

"Hehehe!"

"Here, let me teach you a technique. This will be useful in the future."

"Really?"

"Mhm! Watch..."

As she said that, I can't help but open my eyes when I see a hand in a flicking stance and...

*splash*

"Ack!"

I close my eyes again in reflex as I feel the water in my face.

*splash* *splash*

"Ack! Stop it! I'm still trying to sleep! I'm still tired!"

"Really? It's going to be lunchtime soon and you still want to sleep? I wish I still have your power. I lost it after boot camp."

(Power?)

"Ack!"

I quickly get up as I felt pain on every inch of my body. I look around and found myself lying on the withered grass field...

"W-Where am I?"

"Huh? You don't know? Well, I actually use this as my secret hideout. I think we're in the edge of the back garden nearing the walls that lead to the mountains in the back."

"Hold on, what?"

"Bra, did you sleepwalk? Now that's creepy."

I wipe my eyes as I feel the water remnants she has splash on my face. My blurry vision clears up as I see the two people beside me, it's none other than Abe and Yui. And we're in some sort of open space with a wooden shack, tall walls around and only one way out.

"Abe and Yui? Good morning I guess?"

"It's already noon but good morning."

"G-Good Morning..."

Abe pats Yui's head saying:

"Oh, look at that, you said it correctly now! You're smart!"

"Hehe!"

I look around again asking:

"So, where am I again?"

"Like I said, my hideout or the edge of the garden..."

"Really? I never saw this place before."

"Well, that's because you never explore this palace."

"I guess you're right."

I try to get up and feel my legs shaking and soon fall again. Abe helps me in time grabbing my arms as I feel pain jolt through my whole arm and shoulders.

"Urgh!"

"Hey, you okay? Sheesh, you just healed a few days ago and now you're getting hurt again. Like a drunk person aftering a chunky cheese and Kim-Hwa."

"What?"

"Ignore that, come on. Your servant is panicking and looking for you."

"I see, thanks."

"No prob! And here I was wondering why you didn't show up in the morning. I almost got an impression you're a delinquent. A cute delinquent hehehe~"

"Sorry..."

"It's fine, just get ready for the day and go find, Libing."

"Okay, once again, thanks, Abe."

"Hehe, it's fine. Man, you're really soft and pretty light. (And smells so nice too... Yum, yum, yum...)

Feeling a chill down my spine as I hear Abe whispers at the end. She and Yui help me traverse the garden maze back to home.

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

"Sooovaaa!!! Oh~! Where have you been!?"

Yuria jumps at me, hugging me tightly as I feel the pain vibrating through my whole body.

"Ow ow ow..."

Yuria lets me go saying:

"Ah, sorry! W-What happen to him? Where did you found him?"

Abe who helps me sit on the office shake her head saying:

"I found him in the back garden. How he got there I don't know."

Abe brings me to the work office with Libing and Yimu present as well. Libing walks closer to me and touches my forehead for a while before saying:

"He's not having any fever."

He then touches my neck with his backhand for a while before he pinches my arm.

"Ow!"

He nods saying:

"I think he's only having sore muscles after working out so much. Hmm, sleep training huh? What a weird sickness."

"Wait, do you know what happened to me?"

"Not really, but now that you've been found. I guess we could call off the search."

"Search? H-Hold on... I'm sorry for worrying all of you."

"Ah, it's fine Spassy. You just need to explain it to the Chancellor and Mistress Fei later."

"I see..."

*bam*

"Sova! Is he here?"

Slamming the door open and shouting is none other than Sis Fei. When she looks at me she jumps at me and knocks me down on the sofa as Yuria backs away. She embraces me tightly shouting:

"Sova! Where have you been???"

"Owowowie!"

(I gotta admit, I haven't felt this much pain ever since the first month of training with Sis Rubeca and fighting for my dear life these past weeks).

She continues to hug me when Yuria walks close saying:

"Um, Mistress Fei, Sova is hurting from your hug."

Sis Fei hugs me for a little while longer before she helps me up and lets me go. She pats my head and looks them asking:

"So, who found him?"

"That would be me."

Abe replies quickly and Sis walks to her and bows her head saying:

"Thank you, so much!"

"Ah, it's fine! We're all living in the same place. That's a given."

"I thank you none the less."

"No problem then."

Sis Fei walks back to the sofa and sits beside me as she pats my head saying:

"Glad you're safe."

"Uhm! Sorry, for worrying you, Sis."

Libing takes a sip from his gourd and shakes his head before saying:

"You always seem to find trouble somehow. Anyway, I guess the briefing can be told later. Why don't you get your self a massage and rest for the day?"

"Really?"

"Yeah, we still haven't received any news from the northern citadel so you don't need to worry."

"Okay then, Shifu. Thank you for letting me rest."

He fans his hand saying:

"Yeah, sure, whatever. The safety of the people comes first in work. Now go get some rest."

I look at Yuria saying:

"Um, can you help me up?"

"Of course!"

"Let me help as well."

Yuria and Sis Fei support me up. I bow my head at them saying:

"Well I'll be leaving now then, thank you and may the spirit bless you."

"Yeah, may the spirit bless you as well."

*click*

Yuria and Sis Fei help me out as they close the door when Yuria suggests:

"Let's go meet Hanami, I'm sure she can fix you up."

I nod replying:

"Yeah, she fixed my arm before. I guess this could work. I wonder if she'll be at that room again?"

"Nah, but I think I know where to find her today."

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

Finding ourselves in the kitchen, the wonderful smell hovers in the air. I see Hanami preparing a meal for a huge crowd. With huge plates for dish lined up on the kitchen table. Flames roar from under the cooking pot and pan as I see her stir the food up and to the side with the spatula in a flashy way...

(She's a pretty good cook).

When she saw us, she turns the fire off and pulls the thing she's frying up saying:

"Ah, welcome back. It seems you've found her-"

*gurgle* *gurgle*

Maybe because I haven't eaten since breakfast but my nose has become so sharp that the smell of the entire kitchen makes my stomach growl.

"Sorry..."

"Oh, right! You haven't had anything to eat yet! Hanami, can you give him something to eat first?"

"Of course, I just finished the first batch you can eat that."

"Thanks, it seems I troubled a lot of people today."

"Don't worry!"

"I am worried! I wonder how I can repay you all."

Sis Fei covers my face replying:

"Sheesh, you shouldn't think about that yet. C'mon, let's get you something to eat. Yuria was it? Go grab him some meal."

"Yes, my lord!"

Yuria lets me go and runs to grab a plate as she talks with Hanami. Sis brings me out and put me in a chair saying:

"Rest here, I'll help feed you."

"Um, Sis I don't think I need to be fed, I can still move my hands-"

"Shush and touch some wood. I'm feeding you today."

I look away replying:

"But... It's embarrassing..."

"No buts! Now, we wait."

Sis looks at the kitchen door as she says that. When I remembered how Sis has been bush lately, I can't help but ask:

"Um, Sis, I've been wondering but what do you usually do after training? Do you still go to school?"

Sis looks back at me and pats my head saying:

"No, school is actually on vacation already. And since I already go to the festival once, I don't need to go there anymore."

"Oh? Then what are you doing?"

Sis Fei folds her arms, looking down while she closes her eyes for a while till silence takes hold. A smile appears as she says:

"I guess I'm... Sorting out my things."

"Sorting out? Are you cleaning?"

"I guess you can say that."

"I see... Then can I help? When I get better I mean. I want to see more what you have in your storage. That magic cape that can turn you invisible sounds amazing! If I use that, I can play hide and seek everywhere- urgh!"

Sis's looks at me with a gaze that feels like it could pierce even the heavens. I try to look away but Sis clicks her tongue saying:

"Tch! It actually sounds believable when you say it... But I guess, sure, that's when you're free of course."

I hold my chin as I look up and remember... My days as of late has been hectic and full of activities.

"Free huh? Usually aren't I'm the free one?"

"Yeah..."

(Hold on, festival? Oh yeah!)

"Sis! Did you go to the festival Sis Qiyue invited you?"

"Huh? Oh, that... It's still 4 days from today, Sova. I'm surprised you still remembered."

"Of course I do! That's the first time I ever went to school and fulfill my dream! And What do you mean? Didn't a week and a few days past already? How long was that festival?"

"Around 10-11 days? But yeah, she said a week after the festival. The festival ended like 3 days ago... Counting their time. So there's still 5 days left for them counting today... I think? So we still need to wait 3 more days in our time."

"Now, I'm more confused about time more than ever... Why is it so complicated? I never bothered asking what date is it today huh?"

"Ahahaha! True! But I can just check on my calendar. Why do you ask? Do you want to go as well?"

"Well, I guess... I mean, I rarely go out. So I was just curious- and of course, I want you to make more friends as well! And maybe- umph!"

Sis cuts me off by patting my head and messing my hair before saying:

"Sheesh, fine... Just don't get your hope too high. If you want to go then I'll go along with you."

"Really!? Then sure! If it makes you go, then I'll go too."

"What a confusing way of getting someone to leave. Still, that's if you don't have any missions of course."

"Hmmm, then I'll try asking Shifu for some break time then. Though I just realize how I'm afraid of meeting Sis Qiyue now since I won't be wearing a dress."

"Ahahaha! Sheesh, aren't you desperate?"

Patting my head, Sis looks back at the kitchen door and continues saying:

"What's taking her so long? I'll go check on her, wait here."

"Okay!"

Sis walks inside the kitchen as I look at the wooden table. Swaying my feet back and forth as I feel the pain jolting my senses back. Soon I feel itchy on my wrist and decided to scratch it. Feeling something filling up my nails, I look at my hands and saw some black cracks like before.

(Oh no! W-What do I do?)

"Sova! Here's your dinner!"

Seeing Hanami, Yuria and Sis Fei bringing the dish, I quickly hide my hands replying:

"Everyone, Welcome back!"

Sis Fei tilts her head and walks closer to me with suspicion.

(Wait, she's suspicious already!?)

I try to back away and make some space but Sis place the plate down and grabs my hand, forcefully pulling the sleeves down.

"!??!?"

"Oh my!"

"S-S-Sova!? Your hands!"

"U-Um, this is..."

I try to make a reason but Sis Fei grabs my mouth to shut me up shouting:

"This is no time to make excuses! You two! Go find a doctor or healer at the walls!"

" "Yes my lord, We obey!" "

They both went inside the walls to quickly travel and Sis shakes her head in desperation thinking what to do. Biting her lips as she holds her head in panic.

(Who can I... That's right!)

I hold her shoulder when she sees my skin falling off saying:

"Um, Sis, can we try visiting Ptelophy? The chancellor I mean. She might know something."

(I mean, she's the one who probably healed me and ask about my powers... Maybe I should also limit my visit to Mary even more as well).

Sis Fei nods firmly and carries me as her face worsen. She stayed silent along the way as she hides her face behind her long hair. My head drops down as I can only say:

"Sorry..."

(For all the things I did, I seem to just make more problems as well).

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

*slam*

"Excuse me! Is the Chancellor here!?"

Sis Fei slams the door open without knocking and entered the room with me in tow. When I look ahead, I could see Ptelophy vanishing and appear beside Sis Fei. The room was dark like when I first entered and Ptelophy holds my cheeks and scratch it for a while as I see my cracked skin on her hands. She walks away nodding as I see the eyes of someone smiling when Sis Fei shouts:

"What's happening to him!? Can you help!?"

Ptelophy looks back at Sis Fei with half her eyes open replying:

"Of course, simply call that new member, Ana here. She will do."

"Ana? Who?"

I tap Sis Fei's hand saying:

"It's the rat-kin that brings me to the office. The one you said thanks to."

"Oh her! Very well, please take care of Sova, I'll be right back!"

Sis Fei puts me down on the floor and runs out of the room with haste. The door shuts by itself and darkness reign. I could now barely see Ptelophy as I try to stand on my own as I hear sounds of cracking in my body. She walks around me, inspecting every inch of my body asking:

"Does it itch? Or do you feel anything?"

Her tone was joyful as if she's glad that this is happening. I nod along saying:

"Yes it does and right now, I guess I'm feeling worried."

Candle lights up from beyond and behind as the mirror maze becomes visible once again. She nods along as she pulls her sleeves back to her shoulder, revealing her arms covered by black clothing until I could finally see her skin. Her shoulders were dark grey, like the clouds above it too has black cracks similar to mine going further to her arms and back. She holds my cracking hands and laughs:

"Mwahahaha!"

Her malicious laughter echoes loudly around the mirror mazes as all her reflection soon turns to look my way and laughs as well. Hundreds if not thousands of laughter echo endlessly as they seem to enjoy what's happening before them. Fear clutches my heart as I fear what comes next.

Her laughter becomes softer and softer as her reflection returns to how it's supposed to be. She lets me go and pulls her sleeves back. Placing her hand in thin air as the world itself swallows her before pulling it back and present me what seems to be a wrapped candy between her long fingers. She gestures me to take it saying:

"Eat it, it will ease your worries for a while."

(Ugh! This all looks extremely suspicious but if she's helping then I better cooperate as well).

I hesitantly take her candy and unwrap the black paper. Inside is the contradictory colour of pure white. I pick the candy and is about to put it in my mouth as I see her black helm making a smile from ear to ear somehow. I close my eyes and eat the ball shape candy...

(Please don't be bitter... Oh... It's sweet...)

I move the candy all over my mouth to let the sweetness spread before saying:

"Dish ish ashually preshy goosh."

She tilts her head with the smile still on her black helmet asking:

"Really?"

Her eyes widened as I could now see her mismatch eyes of blue and red clearly before I nod replying:

"Yup! Are you perhaps making personal candy? This is delicious... It's sweet yet not too sweet that it makes you sick, it's perfectly balanced I might say. You should try opening a candy store."

I try to lighten the mood by speaking something normal and she merely responds with,

"Hahahaha..."

Laughing softly as her smiles disappear. She turns her back to me saying:

"Yes, I made that personally. Check your hands, it should've healed."

I pull my sleeves up and look at my hands. As she said, the black cracks seem to disappear and my hand returns to normal as the itchy sensation is also gone.

"Wow! Thanks! Should I look for the others?"

"No, stay here. Wait for the rat-kin to arrive."

"I-I see... Then can I have more of that candy?"

She turns around shaking her head slightly saying:

"That was the last one."

"I-I see, that's a bit disappointing, hahaha..."

I look at her and she looks back, I soon look away and look back at her and she's still not moving.

"..."

"..."

We stand quietly face to face... As it seems we finally run out of things to say, it was silence after I finally seem to hear her speak loudly... I scratch my elbow and wait...

"......"

"......"

I continue to scratch the back of my ears thinking,

(Awkward indeed... As if all that creepy act she did doesn't seem to matter now since this just feels more unbearable...)

I scratch my head afterwards saying:

"So... We just wait?"

"Yes..."

She responded while she stands still. Not making any sounds after that and just stood still like a statue... I look around the mirror maze as I could even hear the sounds I'm making from how serene this is. I see her reflection around. Her long ears that come out of the helmet, also part of her blonde hair, that looks like a drill... I look back at her as she seems to stand still and look back at me silently.

(I wonder if she opens her helm when she takes a bath? She does right?)

I scratch the back of my head again asking:

"So... Yeah... Don't you want to work while we wait?"

She shakes her head replying:

"I already finished a month worth of work. So you don't need to worry."

I point out the door behind me quickly saying:

"Then, want to go have lunch with me?"

"No."

"Um... Why?"

"I already ate."

"I-I see..."

"....."

"......."

".........."

"..... Cough, cough..."

(Somebody please help me! I would rather train till my bones break than endure this!)

"So... Could you tell me what I'll study when we do begin?"

I try to think of something to say and keep a conversation going. She nods saying:

"I will teach you some basic magic techniques of your power and that's probably it. Master it and you can create new ones."

"Anything else?"

She holds her chin and closes her eyes. It was silence before she finally says:

"Since you have those cracks you probably have your own techniques already. Maybe you can expand from there as well."

"Anything else?"

"No."

"That's all...?"

"That's all."

I try to prolong the conversation but she just keeps shooting them down somehow!

(Ah! I know!)

"Say about Vestals."

*twitch*

I nod and continue asking:

"I've been wondering but are you perhaps the one who gives that name?"

She turns her back to me replying:

"N-Noou... Yes! Yes, I did..."

Her voice cracked and I continue asking:

"Why? I mean I understand when you explain that sometimes names can be changed. But is that all?"

Ptelophy presses her long fingers and taps them together constantly explaining:

"Well, that's because at the beginning, all the unique power-holders from thousand years past has been virgin females first as of late from all over the world and you're the first male which just throw many of my proven facts, essays and thesis to the drain. Causenowthere'sa1ina80millionchanceforamaletobecomeoneandIhavetocreatenewthesisandtheoriesandfindmorefactstoresearchastowhybutthenthatmedicinealsoworksonyou-

I mean, that has nothing to do with you!"

(Thousand years? And wow she speaks like La there).

I ignore her explanation and continue asking:

"Could you perhaps name anything else? I'm curious now."

Ptelophy swings her arms wildly as her drill hair moves up and down shouting:

"E-Enough! I will not answer any of your gibberish questions!"

She then folds her arms and I smile saying:

"Okay!"

(Yay, short as it may be, but fun nonetheless).

"They sure are taking their time."

I commented on how much time has probably past and Ptelophy nods still folding her arms replying:

"Yes, I would wish to spend less time with you. I sometimes wish you didn't have that power as well... (For I'm feeling conflicted)."

Ptelophy, whispers at the end and I nod replying:

"Please don't say that, if I can help out please don't hesitate to ask. I'll try my best to help if I'm free."

She looks back at me and finally moves when she vanish and appear behind me asking:

"Really?"

"Well, as long as it's not too extreme."

"..."

"..."

She stares at me for a while before holding my shoulders saying:

"Very well, I'll hold you to your words."

"Okay, I'm also wondering if I can meet Jaya too? Or when will she be released?"

"When she can finally control her powers... Intriguingly, her powers don't seem to work on you when it clearly works for Owlians as well. Is it because you're an Owlian and a Vestal? And the fact that you're the first Owlian Vestal as well... There is much to be written and researched and not many comparisons to take so this will be hard."

"I-I see..."

Ptelophy holds both my cheeks and looks at me, face to face saying:

"And-"

*slam*

"I'm back! I have brought Ana! Is Sova okay!?"

Sis slams the door open with Abe and Yui behind her. When my eyes look at Abe, my chest burns like before as if I'm being swallowed by flames.

"Hoh?"

Ptelophy looks at me with curiosity when Abe walks inside saying:

"You can just call me Abe okay?"

Ptelophy turns my face to Sis Fei saying:

"As you can see the cracks in his face have disappeared so you may cast your worries aside."

"Oh... You're right... Phew, thank you, Chancellor."

"Yes, but his operation is not completed yet. Ana will stay, the rest of you can leave."

Sis Fei looks down with worry still in her face replying:

"Very well, I'm counting on you."

Sis Fei walks out and Abe pats Yui's head saying:

"Wait for me outside okay?"

"Yesh, master!"

Yui walks out of the door and Ptelophy points her finger and shuts it. Leaving only 3 of us here. Abe walks closer asking:

"So what do you need me for?"

I swallowed my saliva as maybe it's my empty stomach but I feel so much hungrier right now. My breathing becomes heavy as my saliva seems to leek out of my mouth. But Ptelophy keeps holding me saying:

"We're going to need something from you."

"And what would that be chancellor?"

He pushes me forward saying:

"Let him drink your blood."

"Sorry, what? And Sova, you okay? You kinda look like you have rabies. Man, you really are sick."

Before I knew it I was growling as the burning sensation in my body grows ever so heated and my fingers moving by my own. I shake my head to snap out of it but the corner of my vision slowly becomes red as if my eyes is sinking in a pool of blood.

"Hey, I know you're a Chancellor and all, but getting ask to let someone drink your blood is just... Not happening."

As I can't seem to see clearly anymore, I feel the back of my neck getting tapped and just like that, I lost all the sensation below my neck. And when she lets me go, I fall like a doll with no strings as the only thing I can move is my bloodied eyes.

"Then perhaps a deep kiss?"

"W-Well... I guess since he's pretty cute. I don't mind but it's kinda moving too fast~!"

I feel my head bobbing as I hear her asking:

"So you wouldn't mind, yes?"

"Well, it's a bit too early and the sun's still up-"

"It's raining."

"Well, at least wait until I get drunk..."

"I have some wine on my shelf-"

"Dammit, lady! Get the signs will you! I'm saying no! Not in the mood right now."

"I... I see..."

I feel my head fall as I hear Ptelophy walks away and stops... She turns around asking:

"So your piss-"

"Enough already! I get it, so you want my fluids! But at least tell me why it's so special, will you!? Do you know how creepy it is for asking such things? I'm surprised you could even ask it straight to my face... No scratch that, you're wearing a helmet."

I could hear someone tapping their feet to the ground as Abe's voice gets more annoying.

"Well... It doesn't have to be your fluids really, just a part of you. Like maybe let him eat your hair."

"Hair huh? How much?"

"I'll take all-"

"No, hair tonics don't seem to work on me, anything. Else?"

Abe's voice is now filled with rage as I could even hear her grasping her clothes tightly.

"Hmm, teeth?"

"Chancellor, please give me an-"

"Your poop-"

"Chancellor... One more stupid request and I'm gonna have to re-establish our contracts."

"Umm..."

I open and close my mouth as I try to say,

"Y-Your nails and whiskers?"

(Since she's a rat-kin).

"Ah, finally a reasonable suggestion. Will that work?"

"Hmm, I guess... But the concentration won't be high."

"Then how is my saliva will be higher!?"

"That's because in my research bodily fluids seems to be more effective than solid objects."

"As I said, what makes me so special!? Or why does he even need to eat that?"

(Wait? Eat?)

"Because you're an other-worlder."

"Well, I guess I would be found out sooner or later. But so what? I still have the same body as everyone else. And the Eclipse Empire doesn't seem so different really than my old world... Not counting gun swords, monsters, beast-kin, monarchy and all the other stuff."

(Wait she is!? Then again, Mary did say my body would react to special circumstance so the circumstance is to see other worlders? But then why didn't it react before? Is it because I'm not hungry or something?)

"I can tell you more but won't you help this poor boy first?"

"Tch, fine! You have healing magic yes?"

"Of course."

"And fluid seems to be more effective yes?"

"Yes."

"Very well..."

(Wait, she isn't going to do what I think she's going to do right?)

I feel someone picking me up and soon I could feel a soft sensation touching my lips as something slippery forcefully opens my mouth. Feeling someone tapping the back of my neck, the burning sensation in my body dissipates. I could feel the insides of my mouth being lick all over as my tongue seem to move violently from something warm and soft. I could taste rust and something sweet like honey seeping to my throat.

(She did it! T-This is a kiss!? I thought, you only let the lips touch!?!???)

The blood in my vision clears as I finally see who it was. Abe who is kissing me with her eyes closed, forcefully opening my mouth with her tongue as she pulls me closer. I try to push her away but my arms somehow weaken as I don't want to push her away. She continues to deliver more as I feel her whiskers on my cheeks and another different warmth going in my body and something else going up...

(This is too much of stimulation for me!)

She finally lets me go and I fell on my shaking knees. She looks at me with reddened cheeks and asks:

"Healing, please."

"Yes, thank you for your cooperation, [Esor]."

Light envelopes Abe as the bleeding on her lips seems to stop. I hold my lips as I wonder if that really happened... Abe pats my head saying:

"Well, I don't hate it and how's the taste of fruits I ate just now?"

"S-Sweet..."

She ruffles my hair replying:

"That's cute. So, will that be enough, Chancellor?"

"Yes, since you're a very powerful one and he's still new. That will last him for years. Granted he doesn't grow like this again."

"Hmph! It wouldn't be surprising if you ask for a blood donor soon. You better try finding someone else."

"Yes, I already have someone in mind. It's just that you're the closest for now."

"So, do you mind explaining more of what you said? And maybe more?"

Ptelophy nods saying:

"Yes, you can leave now, Sova. I believe you can walk on your own as of now."

"Y-Yes! T-Thank you so much for helping me out. I-I... Appreciate it."

"No problem! Just keep quiet about it, okay? Maybe if you do, I could reward you even more~"

(M-More? No get the thoughts out of your head! And does that mean I have to drink something like that all the time!?)

I quickly get up and make sure to face away so that they won't look what's on my front. I really want to stay and ask more questions but I doubt I can ask anything when something else is present! As I hold the doorknob, I soon realize...

(Isn't Sis Fei waiting outside? And Yuria could be out there as well. And then there's Yui! Can I even show her this embarrassing side!?)

"Hmm? Do you need the door opened, Sova? Hold on."

"W-Wait!"

*slam*

With the door prying open, I react to the situation, jumping out and diving into a crouching position as the door behind me closed shut...

(That was close... I hate this all...)

"Sova!? Are you okay now? Does anything still hurt?"

Laying down hugging my knees, I nod softly replying:

"Yes..."

"What's wrong Sova? Can you stand-"

"No! I mean, wait, just leave me here for a while..."

"What did she do to you? At least let me carry you to your room."

I shake my head replying:

"It's okay, Sis. I can go there on my own..."

"No!"

"Huh? W-Wait!"

With a shout, she picks me up and put me on her shoulder like a sack of grain. And soon, she stops as a certain part pokes her shoulder...

"Sova... What did they do?"

Sis' voice was heavy and I can only reply:

"Um... I'm sorry, but I can't say!"

"I see..."

Sis starts to walk with me still in tow. And I try to relax as it's all been found out saying:

"Sorry..."

"Did they strip you and do anything to your body?"

"H-Huh? N-No! Why would they?"

"I see... Sova, please take good care of your body. In fact, when was the last time you do it?"

"D-Do what?"

(Where is this conversation going?)

"Y-You didn't do it?"

"Like I said, do what!?"

Sis looks conflicted before she covers her eyes with her other hand saying:

"You know... Choking your c-chicken- I mean forget I asked!"

She then holds her reddened cheeks as she shouts in the end.

"Choking the what now? Now you got me curious. Why is everyone keep avoiding the question!"

"Sova, that is not something I'm supposed to answer! So stop asking!"

Sis answers back with her tanned cheeks becoming even redder but having enough of being hidden about it, I try to force for an answer asking:

"Then how do you even know about it more than me!? Do you know something I don't about my pp! Didn't you make it rise the last time too!"

Sis' cheeks reddened even more as she shouts back replying:

"Touch some wood! I'm bringing you to your room and that's it!"

Sis stops talking and won't answer me any of my questions. This 2 days has been so hectic and weird!

"By the way, what about lunch? Or breakfast? I'm quite hungry now."

"I'll just ask your servant to deliver it to your room."

Leaving the place, I soon realize how Little Yui is watching all of this from the sidelines...

(Oh, the humanity!)