One at a Time. (Part 4)

"I'm actually a man."

(This usually don't works but...)

Juha eyes widened before she cracks a smile giggling, hiding her face afterwards.

(I knew it... Now I remember why I don't even try. But how do I convince her other than the extreme methods?)

"Pfff, hahaha."

Juha burst out laughing for once hiding her face and turning around as I realize she's pretty cute when she's not doing her serious or scary attitude. Wiping a tear, Juha stands back up looking refreshed and merrier, smiling as she looks at me replying:

"Okay, Sova. You win this time, sorry for being so serious. Come, let me inform you some recent events as we walk through the gardens. Maybe I could share you some stories?"

"Right... You know, I'm saying the truth, can't you see how flat my chest is?"

Juha turns away again covering her mouth as I hear,

"Pfff, ahaahaha! Enough! I don't know the regular size of foreigners buy you don't need to deprecate yourself! Sheesh, this is the first time I saw a girl actually do something as gutsy as you to cheer someone up or joke. I suppose you earned a bit of respect, alright, keep your secrets with the Colonel for now."

(Secrets? Oh, right... Even when I'm topless Yoo-Ah thinks I'm a girl...)

Juha nods in approval as she leads saying:

"And thanks I suppose, I needed that release after so long. Honestly, I'm still doubtful on how you saved me but I'll let that slide as well since you saved my life and all."

"Uh..."

(Right... That's still going to weight on me).

"Come, let me inform you as we walk and enjoy Lord Hwang-So's Garden. I heard he actually plant and took care of it himself."

"Woah! Really?"

(It's hard imagining someone battle hardened like him just kneeling down to water some flowers... Then again, there's Sis Rubeca who actually likes knotting and sewing dolls and garments).

I walk beside her thinking of something but enjoying my time as well and maybe show some "real" proof in due time. At least, I told her the truth, believable or not...

(Now I remember why I stopped trying to tell I'm a guy, at least it was easier before I...)

I look at myself and hold my long hair whispering:

"Turn to this..."

"You said something?"

"Ah, nothing."

"Right, then...

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

"So... Basically, I've been out for 4 days? And these past few days the whole kingdom or peninsula is getting happy to have multiple prominent Adventurers around like me, Zenon and Ye-Hua? And there's rumours about the Martial Law being lifted since the Monster has been killed?"

(Great! It seems the message I brought to Yoo-Ah went and they took care of the monster, like what the Colonel said right? Good news indeed).

"That's right, other than that I suppose it concerns only the high society of this kingdom you need not worry about. And for people below its been peaceful and the populace are still content since not many raids by either that bandit group. In fact, they've gone too quiet, hopefully they already left this kingdom.

Also there are many entertainment to watch and keep them occupied. Like that huge event yesterday behind the Idol tower with some high tech game the Owlians made overseas. And I should tell you that Lord Hwang-So sponsored it since his grandson played it a lot. Guess some times we all had our fun."

"Haha... Right."

My eyes wander off as she says that. Seeing the beautiful garden up close, I can understand why Gruncle picked up the hobby to make a garden. Seeing so many eye-catching thing gather and arrange before your eyes, even under the snow they still shine brightly and fresh as if cared daily as I notice each flowers has its thorn shave clean. Even the scent of natural sweetness hovers around as we rest at a bench nearby.

"And trailing off the serious topics, what about you, Sova? Do you have any hobbies? Seeing as how you are interested in cups I wonder if you picked up on tea ceremonies? Albeit your table manners are still lacking."

"Ah!"

(Wonder how Abe's doing? But seeing jow she met the Colonel I suppose she's fine?)

I look back at Juha saying:

"Sadly to say, I have no knowledge at all about tea parties. And besides, I thought those are just events where you sit down, chat, and drink tea?"

Juha nods replying:

"In concept that is true but as time pass it got more complicated... That's why I wanna ask, are you interested in fishing? It's good to fish here in winter."

She looks back at me as she says that with eyes filled with excitement as she asks. I tilt my hand realizing that,

"Fishing? Well that's... A first time someone ever ask that of me. And you can fish in the winter? I thought the lakes and rivers are suppose to freeze in winter?"

"Haha, there are many ways to circumvent those simple obstacle. Like just cutting a small hole atop the ice, after all the water below are still not frozen."

"Oh! That's a first!"

Juha looks at the frozen fountain and see the crystalized stream reflecting us saying:

"Then you have much to learn. Unlike others, I personally prefer fishing at winter. The winds are more calm in winter at least in this kingdom, my favourite winter fish are more apparent, and enjoying the winter view is just a must in my hometown. That's what I did In the past years before this. And I would spend time fishing alone or with my family at the frozen lakes, rivers, or shores near our hometown."

"Oh! So you're a fisherman? Or angler? That's neat! Wait, does that mean I took your usual vacation away? Sorry!"

"It's fine, it's rare that the Colonel would ask someone from the Bureau so it all pays off in our own way. So, maybe you wanna try fishing? It is a test of patience and skill, especially in winter and you could use some of those."

"Am I really that rowdy? I think Yoo-Ah is more appropriate for you to say that."

"True enough but your Adventurers Exam proves otherwise. You can be brutal in your finishing and your technique are peerless, like crushing the arms of the Mountain Brothers or breaking the bones of the 2 hunter groups with that clean strike. But I guess they get what's coming to them."

(So they saw all that huh? She did say she saw until that Guardian Dropped kick me).

Still, I nod saying:

"Right, but I know nothing about that so maybe you could teach me?"

(I mean, I never really attempt to fish back when I train with Sis Rubeca. Partly since I hate seafood back then as well).

Juha smiles happily replying:

"Sure! I'll even prepare the rods and jacket for you if we did go. But..."

Juha looks at me curiously and worried asking:

"You don't think my hobby as being too old or weird?"

"Huh? What does that even mean? And as for weird, I think its not. I say it's unique."

(I mean I have my own weird hobby and so do the people I know. Like Sis Fei obsession of magic equipment or items, May's drive to learn by collecting tomes, books, files and other parchment, or Nicole's insistent on weird crafts he called art that he usually makes in Aunt Palka's workshop that involves moulding and lots of glue).

Juha smiles again cheerfully replying:

"I see... Most of the people my age don't like the things I do, or those of my gender so that's good to hear. Maybe because you're a foreigner as well with your different interest..."

"Ah! I guess I can understand, I mean not many people likes marble wars."

(The only who played that was only the three of us back then... Or maybe because none of May's female friends likes to play marbles).

"Haha, I see, I may not know what that is but I guess we do have many shared circumstances, anyways! We're a family of fisherman, we can provide you with all the tools you need. After all, we have more rods and nets to spare than our own treasury, there is no reason to turn down someone who wish to learn our ways."

"Oh? That sounds pretty neat. Here I thought you came from a militaristic family since both you and your brother are in the military."

(And I guess it would make sense in a country so influenced by sea creatures).

"Hmph! Just because some of us are doesn't mean we're all in it, Dumbass! And back then it was a time when the probability of a war threatening to wipe our kingdom of the map will come and it did. So it's not strange that most able bodied people who are old enough to hold a spear are being drafted and enlisted to protect the kingdom. But as for me, I guess I was inspired by my waste of a brother when he still act the part of a Hero. (I haven't even visited him to give him the gift you left me yet)."

Juha whispers softly for her own ears as I realize as well,

(Ah! She did say there was some War about a coalition war. It's still amaze me how some events could change people's lives entirely no matter how many times I heard it. It just sounds so... Magical and sometimes sad).

"Anyways, take my little Sister for example, she's in line to inherit the family's fishing ports thanks to her passion in being a fisherman and learning management skills. In fact, she's the one who usually tags alongside me for my yearly fishing trip... (And I guess the only time I spend with her)."

"Oh? You have a little sister?"

Juha nods looking at the snowing sky replying:

"Yeah, two of them, the youngest being 7 years old and the other one, the same age as you."

"Whoa, she's destined to inherit a port the same age as me? That's amazing!"

"Well, you becoming a proper Adventurer the first few days you entered and garnering the attention of a Pioneer is even more amazing compared to someone just in line to have a fishing jetty. In fact, are you sure you're 16?"

"Of course I am! And I suppose each had their own specialty!"

(I mean isn't Moriz and the students at that school also ridiculous strong? I mean if she considers me that strong what about them?)

Juha nods brushing the snow of her cap replying:

"True so about-"

*Gurgle* *Gurgle* *Gurgle*

My stomach rumbles loudly as I hug my stomach to hide it.

(I just realize this but I don't remember getting so hungry so quickly. And my stomach to proclaim so loudly).

Juha stands and look back at me saying:

"Ah, right, its already past noon. I should call the caretaker to bring you your meal. And what I'm about to say, since you're all better now I think you could return to sleep in your previous room, or with that girl again."

"Really!?"

"Of course, now follow along, or do you remember where your room is?"

"Ah right."

Juha smiles again saying:

"I suppose it's not too bad to just relax and talk under the hail."

"Yea! And by the way, talking about Yoo-Ah where is she anyways?"

Juha looks at me and brush the snow off my head and shoulders replying:

"Work of course, though with how little reception in these vacation days and with the paper works done to help the influx of refugees from Mohyusig. I doubt we can call it work."

"I see... So is it okay to visit?"

"Sure, but after your meal."

"Right."

(Hospital meals... I wonder if it's the same meals I ate back at the clinic at Sis Fei's school?)

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

"Yup, the same..."

I quickly gobble up the porridge with bland steamed fish in a few gulps, swallowing it easily as of I'm drinking soup with how soft it is and push aside the bowl saying:

"Thanks for the meal, now lead the way!"

(I wonder if they feed me this while I'm still in comatose? This thing slide down my throat pretty easily).

"You must really like the food. Didn't know Hospital meals were quite a treat."

Juha tilts her head in amazement and I quickly shake my head responding:

"Quite the opposite! I hate it! I eat it quickly Just like ripping off a band aid."

"Weird analogy but acceptable. Now follow along."

"Someday I need to memorize the place quick."

"What? You don't like me accompanying you?"

"No! I do, it's better to have a companion. It's just sometimes if I need to go alone like to the bathroom."

"Um, Sova, I don't know how females do their deeds at your hometown but in this kingdom females are obligated to go to the bathroom together, for multiple reasons."

"Are you serious!?"

(Wait, then again I never actually went to the bathroom alone ever since I got here. Even when I departed off the train the other follow along. It still feels weird to not be suspected).

"Never mind, I just realize that too here."

"Hmm, so the females in your place go alone? Interesting thought."

"Um... Right..."

We both quickly leave the room as I took my time to hide the two medallions under my pillow. While here, I check what the gifts are for me too, like the bag and shovel really is from Ye-Hua, she even left a note saying she's sorry and thank you for helping to defeat the boss.

Walking down the empty corridor Juha looks back asking:

"Talking about your hometown, you said your place never had winter. Is that true? Even the desserts up north have winter you know, albeit thin snow."

"Yup! All it does in my place is rain heavily and blazing suns, I heard my childhood friend talk about temperature being around 36° - 42° in normal summer days whatever that means."

"42!? Here our summer don't even reach above 25! Heck the desserts up north had a maximum of 40° heat in the hottest summer and it's killing me to be regular summer here! You're saying you live in that kind of weather just fine!?"

"Well, it's not that bad when you get used to it and our clothes are much more thinner to block the sun than the heat. Plus, the daily rain in the late year helps a lot to cool down, though sometimes it just rains in one neighborhood and the others don't. We call them, rain stealers or neighborhood rain."

(Now that I think about it, the snow here doesn't affect me much than I thought).

"Truly interesting. And I have to admit you have some resilience of steel to endure that heat. But where are you from? I heard from my grandpa that Heaven may have been one huge place but the people inside are divided."

"Oh! I came from the Phoenix Sector which down in the south east of the huge Rucina City. And it's true that there many many Sector inside. Like the Dragon, Tiger, Turtle and Fish."

"Fish? Ah, right our ancestors are told to be descendants of the Fish family from Heaven moving north to this peninsula. Truly fascinating, I wonder what kind of creatures are Dragons? I hear the saying of dragon straws but not knowing of the creature. Or even Tigers, Turtle and those where you come from, Phoenix?"

"Hehe! Phoenixes are a mighty winged creature that symbolize virtue and prosperity. It is said those that seen one will be bless with wealth and a bright future, though for Owlian like me I doubt those magical stuff actually works."

"Interesting, maybe when the time comes, would you bring me to sightsee in your Sector? In return I'll gladly show you around our kingdom."

I raise my arms high remembering the time I dropped off replying:

"Of course! I may not know much about my place but there's this city called the City of Art. From the station where we dropped off, the floors, pillars, statues, and walls, even the rooftops are filled with stories and fairy tales etched on to them in pictures."

"Why, that's certainly a huge cultural place. The only art exhibit we have is a museum in the capital and another one in my hometown. Our profession lies more in the art of music and oral tradition. Like we have more than enough opera house thanks to our ancestry of sea shanties, in this city there are around 4 theater. Even those idols spent more time singing than whatever they're doing, and I heard our musical theatres are really angry about them stealing their customers."

"Woah! Singing huh? I'm curious to see one. And sea shanties? What's that?"

"It's a song sailors sing when they sail the seas to relief them of boredom in the past. Many of our naval officers know and so do I."

"Oh, oh! Can I hear some?"

Juha blushes and punch my shoulders shouting:

"Like hell you can! I prefer quiet sails and fishing, thank you very much!"

"I-I see..."

"Though I suppose if you wish to hear some music, I could help you get a seat at the Theaters."

"Really? Neat!"

(After so long maybe I get the chance to visit one?)

"And talking about sightseeing, I suppose the Capital is a good place to start. I'll show you around as we travel to the Princess' party."

"Thanks! I'll show you around my home when you can visit."

"You better be!"

We soon enter some sort of huge lobby with grand stairs circling around-

"Woah! What's that?"

I jump back to the corridor seeing a gigantic statue towering over us between the circling stairs. It is a huge sea monster with horns, jaws, and sparkling scales striking a pose of swimming upwards. It looks so real that I almost thought it was about to attack.

Juha giggles a bit replying:

"Hah, yes, that's one of the most important trophy of the Sangeo family that it became the emblem for the family banner. Just like us, they too are a family of fisherman but they arm more of a Sea Hunter. I heard the founder of the Sangeo Family was given a second and third name after he hunted down a Rex class Monster you see before you.

It is said during the founding of the kingdom, that monster has terrorized the entire east coast for a century until the founder of the Sangeo family who was still a young boy jump to the seas and killed said beast with his bare hands and teeth."

"Awesome! And so cool!"

(So she's saying that somebody actually jump into the sea where this monster roam and hunt it down with his bare hands!? That's definitely magic right!? But I still have no clue what is Rex, champion or Apex Rex whatever it is a monster classes as).

"And that is just a replica, the real trophy is in his home province south east of this province. I suppose that monster has been the symbol for the family since forever."

"Woah, you sure know lots of stuff, you must have studied or read a lot."

Juha brush her twin tails a bit and walk ahead replying:

"I just still remembered subjects at my time at the Academy. It's nothing much. Now come on, we still have a long way to go."

I follow suit asking:

"Neat, so does each noble families come from a mariner lineage? Or involved with the seas?"

"Of course! Our ancestors before this kingdom were built sailed here through the thousand rivers from the Capital city and beyond. The oldest noble families in this kingdom and the royal family- no the entire people of the peninsula come from the seas. Though the exact landing and where from they did before they got here is still to be debated. Many speculate the Ri river which said to flow from Heaven but who knows."

"Oh?"

(It's fun learning history, because they're always filled with heroes and even more amazing people).

"So is there more heroic tales like those? I love hearing epic sagas."

I ask as we leave the huge lobby and arrive at some open field with snow thinly blanketing the grass. Juha nods replying:

"There are many but I know only a few. History is not my subject, I think Yoo-Ah's sister is more into that."

"I see. Then those few?"

"Just the heroes mostly everyone knows, like the first King of the kingdom with the monicker of Builder of bridges, I don't know about you but I like hearing stories of Heroes that made Wonders than the ones that cause destruction. After all, everyone can take take a life but not many can give one."

"Destruction huh?"

(I suppose she's right with how the ones I know are mostly warriors. And that sounds quite... Profound).

"So what did the king do? From his title, did he built a lot of bridges?"

I ask as we reenter another building and into another empty corridor. Juha ponders before saying:

"Well, that title holds true since literally each bridge and other foundation for future bridges in the capital is built by him."

(That's just crazy, with the name of thousand rivers does that mean he built thousands of bridges by himself? He must've been using some sort of magic).

"And where do I even begin? But I suppose his greatest creation has to be our capital city of course. He created the foundation to build the biggest city in the Peninsula. In fact, I heard from our gramps that our Capital city is the second biggest city in the continent beside Heaven itself. And that the Heavens uses our foundation to built other huge cities across their dominion and other continents for their main Hub or something."

"Woah! I mean 800 million is probably a lot of people."

"Too much in fact, sometimes even the king could spend a century in the city trying to govern it and still haven't walk every land."

"That is big... Just like the saying in Heaven."

"I see."

We soon arrive at a familiar place and there are a staff in sight. It seems we have entered the Guild building.

(Remembering what her brother told me last night, I wonder how do I even help her? She seems to have everything in mind and even better yet much more prepared than me).

"By the way, Juha."

"What is it?"

"It's just that... Hmm..."

"Just say it, you twerp!"

"I'm just wondering do you have any special way to carry stuff? I heard you soldiers learn how to survive on your own buy what do you actually carry along? Do you carry bags?"

(Not knowing what to say I just blurt out whatever I can).

"I have a feeling you have no idea what to say do you?"

I felt defeated as I slouch over replying:

"No..."

"I said it before, but I prefer peace and quiet. But, for that question, you Owlians are just fated to carry Huge bags compared to us with our spacial bags."

"I wonder how do those things even work? Do you keep it in another place?"

"I heard each people have different methods but in our kingdom, we just shrunk our items."

"Wait, what?"

Juha shows her watch again as she then tweak at the clock saying:

"There are actually small- no miniscule spaces at the watch like lockers of sort, so there are stuff this things can't keep."

"Oh! Zerians really have it good, but how do you even know what to pull out?"

"Like I said, magic we just know what we want to. Like so."

Juha summon her baton as I realize so that's where it comes from. She swings it for a bit before it disappears again and I remember,

"Didn't that armoury gramps said some magic items that can be activated since there's already magic? Like that white cloak I used to wear?"

(Man, I miss that thing, and I haven't even got a lot of use to it too! I feel like all the things I bring will break on every mission?)

"Oh? Sadly our advancement in that magic department is still not there yet. If we could we wouldn't be using a huge warehouse like the one here."

"How is that related?"

(And if I think deep, how does the thing even shrink? Can you call it shrink? I mean she sure don't lok like she's carrying the items weight or anything).

"You have no concept and basics of magic do you? There won't be a point of me explaining it, hmph! Just hurry up, we're close to the guild hall!"

"R-Right!"

We travel quietly, passing through the staff as they see me with sparkling eyes and fear to Juha. Passing through the training grounds, I could see eyes of admiration, hate and envy, mostly the latter two.

"It seems you're everyone attention now, Ms. popular."

"Yea..."

With a short pass, I heightened my hearing:

"Woah, is that the Star Child? She's really an Owlian huh? Hard to believe without seeing it directly.", "It's such waste that beauty being put in an Owlian.", "So she's the one who has potential to be a Void Explorer? 2 Void explorer in our kingdom huh? It seems we're looking at a bright future.", "Come to think of it, is she one of those refugees?", "Yeah, where did she come from? And who invited her in anyways?", "Hey, talking about the news, it's said that the kingdom has dealt with the monster and the Martial Law is about to be lifted.", "Really!? Bright future indeed.", "If that's true, I suppose we should prepare to head for home as well. The month is still long for our rest days.", "By the way, did you heard it? It seems the Tower is taking in someone very important.", "Important? Even the royal family is still considered normal customers, who would they deem important?", "I don't know but I heard it's this tall lady that participated in the games yesterday.", "Wait could it be the one two days ago when even Miso herself said to change her schedule because of that?"

(Nope! Don't want to hear anymore! But I suppose it's good that people are starting to relax).

Remembering what I'm doing trying to do visiting Yoo-Ah, we have arrived at the lobby. Like Juha said, there's almost no one here but staffs and when I look at the reception I see Yoo-Ah waiting energetically as Bai-Sumi is beside her slouching and resting her arms as she waits. When Yoo-Ah notice us she waves her hand shouting:

"Sova! Here!"

Hearing her call I notice the gaze of many staffs looking at me as I realize I am probably famous now like what Moriz said last night. I didn't know being an adventurer would bring this much fame. Walking closer, I notice a little boy sitting quietly behind Bai-Sumi at the corner of their stand as he stares at me with surprised.

"Why, look at here, if it isn't the famous Star Child? I guess you do deserve that title now."

Hearing her speak, I focus back on her and see her nod in approval while Yoo-Ah replies shouting:

"Right! But... I think it's best you take it slow Sova! I mean you lost most of your equipment and got hurt badly!"

"Yea, I can agree with that."

(Plus I still have some stuff I need to accomplish for Sis).

"Hum! Hum! I think it's best we visit gramps to collect your weapon and find some replacement for your protective gear."

"True..."

(But I think I'm going to try not wear any if I could. I have a feeling it'll break again).

"Hold it, Yoo-Ah. What do you mean we? You already had many cuts waiting for Sova there. You'll be staying here to fill up those missing spots."

"Eeeh!? Okay I guess, I mean she'll still be close and its not like there are any people... Well, we can visit him together anyways when I finished today!"

(At least I will need something to wield, using my soul weapon will be too suspicious).

Seeing Bai-Sumi shake her head disappointed, I nod replying:

"Sure and by the way, who's the kid at the corner?"

They both look back when Bai-Sumi clap her hands replying'

"Why! That's my niece! Bai-Sik, come over to meet a famous adventurer!"

The boy gets off rushing beside Bai-Sumi with a skeptic look saying:

"Is this really that famous adventurer everyone got hyped up? Are you sure it's not the girl behind her-"

*Smack*

"Ow! Aunt Sumi, what was that for!?"

Bai-Sumi smack the back if his head when she scold him saying:

"Don't anyone ever tell you not to judge a clam before opening it?"

"That's Owlian speak! And what do you expect when she can't change with magic?"

"You little brat!"

"Eep!"

The kids runs behind Yoo-Ah as she caress where Bai-Sumi hits when I shake my head saying:

"Its okay, Bai-Sumi Ssi. I care less for what people think. So, he's your niece?"

Bai-Sumi sighs and nod replying:

"Yup! His parents is heading out of the kingdom for business, so they decided to left that brat with me. Just saying here, he's not a bad kid okay?"

"I really do not mind, I mean he's still a kid. I'm sure he don't mean or understand any of it."

Bai-Sumi shakes her head replying:

"It's those mindset that makes the kids spoiled, and here I was hoping you could give him tips or advice since he wants to be an Adventurer as well."

"I don't think I can give him any advice since I just joined myself."

"Really? I mean I saw the footage of you dodging, avoiding and maneuver across the tall forest like it's nothing, you must have some tips to tell?"

"I suppose I use echolocation to determine the traps and moving across the forest is easy because I lived in it I suppose."

"Hmph, I guess you're the type to show than tell. I guess that's perfect, why not show that twerp there around the guild? It would really be helpful."

"Wait, really?"

"Really!?"

Both me and the kid asks in unison when she nods saying:

"Yup! Why not show him your training? You might need some exercise after lying in bed for so long or try doing some feats at the training room? Blow that brat's mind away."

"Heh, like she can do that."

"Hmm?"

"Eep!"

The boy who pokes his head out to comment sleek behind Yoo-Ah again when she realize something saying:

"Wait! She's suppose to accompany me today for the job! It's not that long before our shifts change!"

"It's because of that you're staying with me. We'll visit you three at the training ground for lunch, how's that?"

Remembering I just had lunch, I still nod replying:

"Sure! I always have an extra space for Yoo-Ah's cooking."

*Slam*

Bai-Sumi slams the table and stand replying:

"I know right!? She's wasting her talents working in the desk!"

"What are you saying! I enjoy my times here! And it's up to me if I want to open a restaurant."

"Sure, whatever you say, alright you brat, go with that lady."

Hearing her command, the boy walks out of the counter. Approaching full of expectation and he seems to analyze me before folding his arms, with full of haught saying:

"Heh! Don't know what you can do but I doubt you can do much."

"Okay..."

I look back seeing Juha who doesn't seem to care for the situation.

(Ah right, I didn't get to introduce myself).

"By the way, my name's Sova, can I know yours?"

"Hmm? Didn't you hear my aunt? Well I guess, you should know my lineage as well, mhm!"

The boy who looks a much younger than me puff his chest saying:

"Name's Ing-Eo Bai-Sik, and my dad is one of the owner of one of the major corporation in the peninsula, so you better show some more respect!"

I could see a nerve popping from Bai-Sumi's forehead and wonder why didn't she has his family name, but either way, I crouch and nod replying:

"And my Sisters is a Special Rank Hunter. Nice to meet you, Bai-Sik Ssi."

(I mean, is this how the nobles greet? Didn't Yoo-Ah greet Juha differently?)

Seeing Bai-Sumi giggle and Yoo-Ah a bit conflicted but smiling, the boy stomp the ground

"Use Nim! And like hell that's true!"

"I thought that was how you greet people here?"

His face turns red in both embarrassment and anger while hearing Bai-Sumi laugh at his back.

"J-Just get me away from that devil aunt of mine, let's go!"

He walks away as I wonder if he'll lead the way and Bai-Sumi waves her hand saying:

"See you soon, we'll pick you up for lunch~"

"See you never blegh!"

Bai-Sik turns around letting his tongue out while I wave goodbye and follow Bai-Sik. Seeing I see Juha silently smirk she looks at ne saying:

"Heh, kids, so Sova, are you going to eat again?"

"Yup! That porridge could barely satiate my hunger."

"I see..."

(Come to think of it, I never got to visit that bakery Yoo-Ah talks a lot about. I guess I can ask her about that for lunch and...)

"So... Is it true, his dad owns one of the biggest corporation is the peninsula?"

As we enter the corridor where we exit, I lean towards Juha whispering and she nods replying:

"Yes, the Ing-Eo family is said to own roughly half of the entire Peninsula's food industry and transportation in the process. Rivaled only by their foreign competitor the Zhixi conglomerate. And unlike us, they say the Ing-Eo is directly related to the main Fish Family from Heaven which is the direct descendants of the Sovereign of life."

"That's right! Noble bones like her and even the royal family paid my dad for all their travel and food expenses!"

Bai-Sik turns around as I wonder if his nose got longer answering that. Juha sighs saying:

"Indirectly that's true but... Let's just leave it at that."

"Okay... Say, Bai-Sik Ssi?"

"It's Nim!"

"Yes, Bai-Sik Nim?"

"Huhu! Go on!"

I scratch my chin as I realize something and asks,

"If you are so important why are you dropped off here? Shouldn't they brought you along? Or put in Heaven if they are directly related?"

"I am important!"

Juha turns away hearing me ask and Bai-Sik puffs his cheek and shed a little tear and continue saying:

"It's... It's just that my parents need to focus on their job! And *sniff* I promise them I can take care of myself, they needlessly drop me with that devil aunt! And! And...! Sniff!"

Seemingly asking something sensitive I try to calm him down saying:

"A-Alright, I'm sorry. You are important! Um, please don't cry."

"I'm not crying! Sniff! Hmph! I can't believe my aunt just sent me off with such stranger! Anyways, you! Uh... Your colour is... Jade bone!"

Juha folds her arm and rolls her eyes before closing it replying:

"Yes Lord Bai-Sik?"

Hearing that, he wipe his face and smile a little saying:

"G-Guide us to the training ground, I wanna see this girl fail!"

"I'm sorry what?"

I ask back when he runs behind Juha and points at me replying:

"I don't know! Challenge someone and get beat up!"

(He's a pretty sinister kid...)

"Sorry lord Bai-Sik but I can't help you with the last one."

"Eh!? But I'm-"

*Grab"

Juha grabs his head and pulls him infront of her, she brings her face closer with a glare saying:

"Listen here you Brat Lord. I'm already playing nice enough following your whims to help a friend but I'm still on mission. So you better do well to behave or else I'm gonna have to follow protocol."

*Gulp*

Juha let's him go and Bai-Sik runs behind me hugging my waist with his short height.

"J-Just show me to the training room and distance yourself from the jade bone!"

"Yea...?"

Confused by the twisting development I just walk ahead with tye boy clinging close to me while using me as some kind of barrier against Juha.

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

"We're here."

I said to Bai-Sik who's been clinging close to me the whole time. He looks around as I realize there's much less people around then before.

(Probably to have lunch).

Juha who's leading us turns around asking:

"You're not really going to follow what that kid said are you?"

"Course not, maybe I could just do some feats the kid asks. Like you know, a hundred push ups or something."

"Heh! I guess that's what you can expect from Owlians. Hmm, let's see here..."

(I wonder if this is what it feels to take care a kid? If so, it's quite annoying...)

Bai-Sik wonders about looking at the training equipment before he stumbles at one of the largest bench with 8 plates each bigger as it pile on, like the thing is two time bigger than the ones used during my entrance exams and it's twice bigger than me too.

"Aha! This one! This one! Let's see if you can lift this! Or even train with this!"

"I knew it..."

I mumble to myself as I approach Bai-Sik and hear the murmurs of the thin crowd at the room. He folds his arms and nods to himself as if he has accomplished something and continue saying:

"I heard something funny from that friend of aunt. She told me you wielded one of the heaviest weapon in the entire Peninsula, no the continent. The previous War God's Spear, Malia!"

"Woah, is that true!?", "Didn't you see the recording of her battle? She wielded that thing like it's nothing.", "It must be a fake, I mean must be an imitation.", "Imitation or not she did defeated the Moonlight Swordsman and the Mountain Brothers. And didn't you see how that spear shine? There's no way that's a normal weapon.", "Yea, and if all rumours are true she might actually be the Successor to the previous War God.", "My God!"

(Successor? The fudge? But I guess that makes sense if I'm carrying his weapon... But I guess I'm glad they think the power I use belong to the spear).

The few crowd left makes a stir as I look around wondering if I should really show anything when I realize I've been causing trouble anyways.

"Alright, but clear away."

"Huh? You serious!?"

Bai-Sik was shocked hearing I agree and I nod saying:

"In the past, I would refuse knowing I couldn't but..."

I grip the handle of dumbbell twice my size and lift it with one arm as I realize it feels like wielding a long sledge hammer with a head on each end. The weight is surprisingly lighter than the spear as I swirls it around creating a massive wind stroke and encountering a huge resistance thanks to its flat and unbalance ends.

(I think that makes sense since I'm not suppose to lift it like so).

*MURMUR* *MURMUR*

Bai-Sik runs away behind Juha who seems a bit deterred by my action while the thin crowd is left gasping with their mouth wide open and some are making noise.

"By the Ruyan Waves, how is that even possible!? She's an Owlian right?", "Is she a Martial Artist? But I sense no qi on her.", "Come to think of it isn't that the new Governor's personal training equipment? I heard the only one strong enough are someone of his caliber which are the heroes if the Coalition War... I refuse to believe she's as strong as the heroes of the coalition!", "I suppose she wielding Malia might not be a lie."

Ignoring their cries, I try lifting it up and down with one arm easily before straitening my arms forward and starts doing some squats. The sound of clenching steel echo loudly on the silent room before I lift it on my shoulders and continue my squats. I could feel my muscles churn and burns as it seems to extend and stretch at parts I never felt before.

(I wonder if this is the hidden muscles they talk about? And... The hospital gown is a bit in the way for my legs to bend).

I did one last squat reaching 50 and place the thing back at the bench asking:

"So how is it? Impressed? Though I doubt just physical test would do much."

(I didn't even break off any sweat. I really have gotten that much stronger but... Is this really anything impressive when my enemies are that much stronger?)

"T-That's right! That's nothing impressive! Even I could train and reach the same level as you!"

"Hmm, I guess I could give you an advice. There's a reason why I started training only recently and that's because if you train like that at a young age it will hinder your growth-"

"That's owlian speak! It doesn't account Zerians!"

"Right..."

*Clap* *Clap* *Clap*

A loud hand clap echo across as we both look at the source, standing at the entrance of the training room is a large man wearing a yellow sash.

"Isn't that Tarkus? Why is he here?", "Hey, hey, hey, 2 pioneers in a single place? Is this some kind of event? And isn't he a Pioneer from the Eastern Frontiers?", "Maybe he's just here to rest up and prepare?", "Ooooh, to think I get the chance to see 2 Pioneers. This is already a achievement!"

(Pioneer? He's a pioneer? And eastern? And his name... Is he from somewhere close the Aologi Borders?)

With half plate golden armour, piercing red eyes, long luscious silver hair that flows like a river, he easily sticks out among the thin crowd, and grabbing my attention more is the black tight suit he wears inside with a U opening on the neck...

(He's definitely one of those Taiga's group or whatever. But who is this Taiga anyways? For He or she to have Pioneers to command?)

He walks to us smiling leisurely and as he gets closer I realize he is much taller and larger than Sis as his huge body towers over us. He exudes an almighty aura befitting of his figure as I can sense a familiar power coursing through, he looks at the dumbbell saying:

"As expected of the one who defeated my lifelong rival... Sorry, my old rival. Back away a little you three."

He grabbed the huge dumbbell and lift it up easily with one arm and throw it in the air.

*Fooom*

Catching it easily as it lands at the tip of his index finger. Balancing it easily before he throws it and catch and slam it to the bench as the large clenching steel echoes through the training room. He brush his hands saying:

"He lagged behind while I keep getting stronger and jumping through the ranks and become a Pioneer."

(Pioneer? He's someone important! And wait, when did I get to sense my own power?)

Bai-Sik looks at him with shimmering eyes and awe, approaching him saying:

"A-Are you Tarkus? The Sun Devourer!?"

(Sun Devourer? That sounds so cool! Yet scary, but cool! Can I get a title like that if I move up the ranks?)

"Hmm?"

He looks down to my waist and crouch down to see him at equal level. He smiles merrily replying:

"He-hey, little fellow, yup I am!"

"Awesome! So awesome! C-Can I get your autograph!"

"Heh, sure you- hmm... Wait, how about I give you this instead."

He opens his hand and a glass marble form at his palm, inside the marble are moving flames and bright soft light.

"This could make as a great night light. And you can recharge it by basking it at the sun."

Bai-Sik comes out of hiding behind me and rush towards the item. He takes it by

"Woah! Is that true!? I can't wait to show it around with my friends!"

"Haha, Come on, it's nothing that great to boast about a night light."

He looks back at me and stands up again saying:

"Sorry, now where was I? Ah, right, seeing your recording yesterday and what you did I suppose you could defeat the Moonlight Swordsman in his Devourer form since he is a failed disciple."

(Devourer form?)

Not really knowing where this is going and what he wants I just reply with,

"Um... Yea?"

Juha walks closer to me and stand between us as to shield me when he clap his hand again saying:

"Ah right, where are my manners! Name's Tarkus Solway. As you heard from that little boy, I'm a Pioneer like Jin-Yeon. But I came from the east where the once mighty Aologi Empire stands."

"O-Oh! My name's Sova Anmao, and you know Jin-Yeon Ssi?"

(So he really is from there! Now that I hear what those people said and what the Colonel told me, did he and someone took care of the Monster King Vessel Moriz talked about?)

"Of course, she's my senior but it won't be long before I catch up to her."

"Oh! You must be very amazing, and I also got to thank you, you're one of people that helped take care of the extra monsters causing the Martial Law right?"

He tilts his head confused and stare back as of I should know all that before an epiphany shows. He makes a curious smile and he nods replying:

"Ahaha, yea, I guess that did happen. The monster is "taken care of" yup! Took care of it alongside Jin-Yeon and the 2nd Royal army or whatnot."

(What's with his attitude? It's just like when the Colonel reported the monster is gone... Wait... Could it be...?)

He shrug his shoulders and raise his hand as if he is holding something saying:

"Anyways, getting to know such promising newbie is always a boon don't let those other jealous pricks bring you down, Sova Ssi."

"Oh? Thanks for the encouragement!"

"No need, it seems to be a custom for "normals" to hate those that is "special", so just crush them."

*Crack* *Crack*

He grasp his hands tightly as I see a hint of anger at his glowing crimson eyes. He then opens his empty hand and continue saying:

"If they care not for you why should you care for their well being? Am I right?"

"Um... Uh..."

"Hmph, anyways, what I do need is a request, that's a reason why I stayed here too. Sova Anmao Ssi..."

With his raised hands he showed me his palm shouting:

"I challenge you to a duel!!"