Passing Through Jaguar Territory. (Part 7)

Chicken dough with thick butter sauce, scones filled with jam and butter stuffed in rice. My long asleep essence now arise, my soul, my life shall now be brave...

(Wait, what am I thinking suddenly? Like what is a jam? And scones? Is that a new animal made by the Aologi Emp- I mean the United States like those tiny tiger called cats? Yes, I can't get the name of countries or Sectors wrong now.)

Feeling my shoulders being pressed down by a mysterious pressure. My hands holding the commandant's wrist for dear life to limit his actions.

"Damn you, you trap!"

He swings his right knee at my stomach but I counter back posthaste and knee him back before his attack could reach me, sending his right feet backwards and make him lose his footing. I pull my head back and ready myself for another headbutt.

(It seems I have to do what I seem to be doing a lot this week- no, everything happened because of self-defence or maybe not...)

Taking this chance, I let him go and he disappears in a moment's breath. The black mist vanishes and he appears a few meters away saying:

"Are you underestimating me? Me!?"

He places one foot forward and takes a weird stance I haven't seen before. Placing his right-hand upfront and raising his left blade up high.

(Wait, that looks quite similar to my stance).

Placing my right foot forward and raising my right fist up-front while tucking my left hand in and making my body face to the side. The commandant looks at me like he saw the afterlife.

"You... You... By Yunan's cyst covered nipples. Where did you learn that stance?"

His face darkens, rage and death linger all over his body like the reaper itself possessed him. Similar to what happens to Sis Yuwei and Sis Rubeca, I feel my body being pressured even more and suffocating me.

"This? I learn it from my Sister."

"Sister?"

I answer him honestly and he responded with a smile.

"That bitch... To think she actually still hide... Fuck it! I'll just ask this once, High Commander, let's make a deal?"

"Huh?"

He tightens the grip on his blades and glares at me with a smile as if his lips have been torn apart.

"If I win this duel, you will tell me everything about the Jeongjeog 3 years ago, and if you win... I'll do one request, no matter what. I'll even stop cursing for the rest of my life."

(Uh... What? The Jeongjeog? Doesn't that translate to silence in Pyoeo? Like what is there to explain? I feel like this is spiralling out of control. Like, what is going on? This has been happening lately that it even makes me wonder what I'm even doing... Let's just... Let's just be honest here).

"I wish I could accept, but... I know nothing of what you just said. Like, what is there to explain with Silence?"

He closes his eyes and leans forward till he faces the ground. Tensing his muscles like he is about to explode enmass the energy he gathered. Unlike the other suit of armour I see, where the helmet protude from their shoulders, his helmet comes out from the large pocket in his chest and covered his whole head.

"The fact you know my homeland's tounge... You just dug your own grave."

(Wait, what's wrong about learning that language!? I mean, isn't that the common language for the western peninsula...? Other than that, you can actually modify how your armour can function!? I'm really going to ask Sis Fei after this and ask her to let me see her collection).

"You're DEAD."

His words numb my ears, like the endless void beyond the eternal darkness you see. His presence vanishes similar to the light admist the night in the deep dark forest. Only an empty dark space, similar to that one time I unlock my weapon...

(Calm down...)

I close my eyes and take a deep breath. I felt my heart stops as I inhale the last air my lungs can grasp. The drop of sweat that's about to trickles halt its track, the particles of air I felt through my skin freezes and time itself cease. I focus my heighten hearing and shut my entire other senses.

(I use this once back at the Reliquary to dodge that monster attack in the darkness. This is the secret technique I came up to deal with Sis Rubeca back when we're training with my eyes closed and her removing her presence. He may have erased his presence but he can't erase his actions).

*swish* *swish*

The voice coming from my right, and soon left. A patterned attack. I dealt with this one, just like Sis Rubeca back then. Since he's so close already, his chance to attack me will be very limited. Unless...

(There...)

I exhale the breath I gathered and make a spinning kick with my right leg to encompass eveything ahead of me. And as time flows back, the commandant appears before my eyes, my leg went behind his blade's reach and is about to hit his sides.

*smash *crack*

Before his daggers could reach me, my knee slam against his sides, smashing his armour and probably broke his ribs. But not giving up there, rather than send flying by my kick, he uses that force to somehow appear behind me with his two daggers and hundreds more behind him raining down on me...

(Fudge...)

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

With tea and cookies filling up the table, two individuals sit across each other with an air of unease and heavy tension.

"Yuwei, are you serious!?"

The person shouting was a little girl with large pink ears and tail. While her appearance may seem like a child, her demeanour is already an adult's.

"You don't need to shout. I already approve of this. And you shall assist him too."

Answering back is a woman so beautiful it would make someone stops and look at her to mesmerize and burn her image to their memories.

"You're insane! He's still not ready for such world! And not only that, you're about to send him outside your jurisdiction in case he succeeded!?"

The little girl yells once more but only to reply with a calm voice saying:

"You're truly upsetting, if you're worried for his life to be taken, you can rest assure. He will never die in combat nor assasination no more."

"What makes you so confidence Yuwei? Say that he won't die in combat but what about other factors? And aren't you the one who stop him from going to Central and give him that scar!?"

Yuwei brings her curious eyes at her replying:

"Oh, so you've seen? Alas, that's where you intervene. I'm sure spending time in the north provides you with the experience on how things function generally. I know I did since that's where I spend two years at school. And besides, I'm confident that you have your new master to help you out when the situation gets dire. From what I learn, she can't afford to lose him now can't she?"

"You really can't be persuaded... Fine. But you haven't answered me why you trust his combat capabilities. From what I see, sure he's strong. But he's the last person I expect for the cusp of the duel."

The little girl leans back on her seat as she rests her head. Yuwei continues to work saying:

"I sparred with him a few times. And I am actually... Amazed. He's... Strong enough. In fact, he's grown much stronger since I reunite with him."

"Well, colour me surprised-not! I've read through the records and gathered that you're actually on the bottom echelons when it comes to combat capabilities compared to your other Supreme Grand Masters you recruited, we're all bugs compared to what they are. What makes you think, you're qualified to say he's "strong enough" huh?"

Yuwei shakes her head in disappointment replying:

"It seems I overestimated your intelligence Sarah, or your mind is just splintered thanks to our palace' leasure. But what makes you think I am not qualified? I'm the one who recruited those so called supreme grand masters and created the army that overthrows and replace the 2nd most powerful faction in the Confederation with little losses and expense. What makes you think, I have no sway in saying if someone is capable or not in certain degrees?"

Sarah grits her teeth in dismay and sits back straight. Hanging her head down as she quickly realizes her own mistakes. Yuwei continues to sip her tea saying:

"And lest not overlook that Sis Rubeca is also my master for a few years back then and I've learned plenty about other Sector's secret techniques and even her original mix while also improving upon it as time goes by. And when I first sparred with him, he seems to be lax and very gullible which is pretty cute~"

Yuwei smiled pleasantly as she closes her eyes and recalls the thoughts.

"Can you please skip on your doting?"

Saya looks at her frustrated, and Yuwei frowned replying:

"Very well, the next time I sparred with him... Well, he won't fall for the tricks anymore. And no matter what techniques from each different Sectors I throw at him, he will always block it and even manage to counter back multiple times. The only case he doesn't is usually when he runs out of breath, exploited with the limits of the human body and overpowering him with my qi, magic, and overall strength by tenfold."

Saya looks at Yuwei with eyes of doubt saying:

"So you're saying he's a genius?"

"Pfff, it's even funnier since it's true. But for your answer, yes and no, genius as in only in his growth and how useful he is as a front-line warrior. It baffles me why didn't Sis Rubeca train him sooner. Now just imagine if he improves that fast, and he has been fighting against someone who is said to be the top of the food chain amongst the mightiest when she's raising the level by each day."

"No way..."

Saya blurts put in disbelief and Yuwei merely nods replying:

"Yes, Sova's pure battle capability when it comes to instinct and combat alone is already comparable to a Special Rank Hunter or a Great General, and maybe a potential Heaven's General. And the only thing preventing his growth is his lack of qi control, imagination, tactics, experience, strategies and an above-average physical body which can't improve to a certain degree since he's an Owlian. So, when he's in top condition, not even Special Rank Hunters can hit him. Given if they're holding back."

"When you say it like that, he sounded like he have more shortcomings than benefits."

Yuwei shakes her head replying:

"Touch some wood, what matters is the conditions, situatios, and how you utilize it. And besides, do you think he'll be safe if he stays in one place when THEY are already aware of his impresence and is already on their way here?"

"What?! Is that why you're sending me and Sova away? It seems both cults really can't hold their fingers in, why didn't you just said that first, and we wouldn't be arguing like this... Now that I remember it, you didn't even manage to land a hit when you first sparred with him. Very well, it seems your words hold sway. I shall follow your orders for now. I'll tell my master of your offer."

"... Swell, and you can tell her that if you succeed in this, I shall assist you and your new master with her coming conflict when you succeed. Think of it as a bargain sale."

"Haaah," Sarah sighs heavily.

"Do you have something to share?"

Yuwei looking annoyed to ask back whilst Sarah merely slump back replying:

"It's been almost a week since I met him. The first time I saw him, he was just gullible and I was surprised that he was somehow associated with the Central Dragons since he can use their techniques. But not much of a threat per se. But many perspectives I have of him has changed so much I wonder... When did Sova become such a major threat? If someone from Central or a noble would see who's he connected with. They'll shit their pants and lick his feet! In fact, if he realizes his true potential and connections he has coupled with how he's still this young. He could very well gun for the position of Supreme Deity of the Confederation with high chances."

"Fufufu, maybe that's just one of the surprises of life."

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

Darkness reigns from above in the form of blades, leading the vanguard is a man clad in a veil of shadows. His eyes burn with unceasing hatred as his blades scream for blood and death. His azure blue eyes shine incandescently like the 2nd moon. It wouldn't be a joke if someone called him a ripper of death...

(I've stared death more than I could count and this shall not hold me).

Not stopping my momentum, I continue to spin and using the weight left by my kick, I improvise and turn into the air, spinning my body and make a cartwheel kick by flipping back instead of forward. My attack caught him off-guard without him even being able to stab my feet. Soon, my kick landed harshly on his covered head.

His daggers shatter as he's thrown away by the force of my kick. Smashing hard to the ground, again and again till he hit the steel door of the elevator behind me, leaving an imprint of his body...

(I wonder how much did my strength gone up?)

He twitched and tries to get back on his feet but only staggered and fell on his face again.

"Sova!"

Saya rushes to me with hastened steps and holds my body as to check for wounds. I shake my head saying:

"No, I'm fine. I wonder when did you get so worried for me?"

As if I struck a nerve, she gives another hit at my sides saying:

"This is part of the mission, don't get yourself hurt at all cost! Or I will get punished too!"

Saya screams at me with harsh criticism but ai merely smile as this is pretty much normal at any point replying:

"But didn't you just hit me? And what about that part where I lose consciousness in the train?"

"Shut your face, Sova! That doesn't count!"

"Haha, sure. After I got my armour back... Right, I almost forgot, where is my armour?"

As if a storm hit the walls, I felt as if my body has been pierced by a thousand cold needles even when there's none. I push Saya away and face where the sensation comes from. My entire line of sight was greeted by a murky scene of carnage. Someone that looks like Soldiers in glittering jade armour slaughtering people who run ontop of beasts. Dark smokes gather around, and a sea of flames swallows me. Unlike the battle with Aoi, these flames are not real, merely shoddy illusions...

Scorching flames split in twine, a towering shadow surges from the abyss below raising its grim scythe.

"You shall tell me where you take my siblings!!!" Commandant's voice echoes fervently as the shadow bring down its weapon towards me.

(I think I understand why Sis Yuwei wants me far from her. It's nothing but one trouble after another).

His swing carries with him, power and anguish. So much fear and despair yet my eyes won't look away.

(If I can't even handle this, how will I prove that I'm capable! How can I repay back Sis Yuwei for what she has done for me! Even if my power is unstable right now, and I can't use my weapon. Doesn't mean I can't unleash it!)

In a desperate action for hope, I stare back at the shadow, gathering whatever power I have within me, my unstable qi, my unknown magic and all my physical might. Seeing as the shadow flinched for just a second, I use this chance to-

*crack*

"Hmm?"

*shatter* *crash*

As if it was a dream, my whole vision shatters like a palace of glass. Before me a is a gigantic figure that could easily be mistaken for the Giants of myth. His figure easily overshadows even Aunt Palka and that knight I saw a few days ago. His body clad in heavy armour that looks like a combination of lamellar and plating is surreal. Combined with him holding his ginormous dragon glaive and almighty-

*crash*

"Huh?"

Caught in my thoughts, the ground quakes while great winds blew. I glance at where the sound resonates and see a giant hole where the commandant's unconscious body lay. The giant looks at me with his face covered by his dragon helm.

Everyone except me and Saya clasps their hands shouting:

"Supreme Marshal!"

He raises his hand and all of them quiet down and stands straight. He kneels down, with a heavy thump, the earth, quakes once more before his weapons fade and remove his helmet with hand. Clasping his hands with so much strength it feels like I had my heart crushed... His every being exudes the power of his qi and might it's overbearing.

"Greetings High Commander, I am Supreme Marshal of the North, Kazmierz Heilong."

"Ah!" Snapped back to reality by his greetings I clasp my head and bow down replying, "Greetings to you too, Supreme Marshal!"

He looks like he has lived for so long, his long greyish white hair, brows, beard, and moustache just adds up his age. He nods and bows his head lower saying:

"I beg of you to please forgive my disciple's blunder and overstepping of authority! If need be, I shall gladly pay the price as his superior, High Commander!"

"Huh?" Surprised by his sudden plea, I shake my head replying, "It's fine. If what he says is true, then he's free."

"No! Not only does he break a code in an honorary duel, but he also took the initiative to assault a High Ranking Official! Please, at least give him some sort of punishment!" He answers back with a determined shout.

And all I could think was,

(What should I answer with? Oh, wait... I think Nanny Yunyun said that if you can't handle it, just let someone help... Why not try?)

"Since that's a range out of the duel and along with him being your disciple... I'll let you be the judge."

He looks at me with widened eyes so much so his entire long brows rise up and reveal his white eyes...

(That's actually pretty scary).

"I see... Thank you, you're truly kind. For someone the same age as my disciple, you seem to be more mature. It's wonderful."

"Oh, um... Thanks!"

(Really? I am!?)

He stands back on his feet saying:

"I'm regretful that we have caused so much trouble for you already. Please, use our resource to replenish your supplies and recover if you need any. And if you truly wish, I could even accompany you to the border. That's at least what I could do to repay you back."

"No, no, no, you must be busy with such a gratifying position."

(Like, to be honest, I seriously don't know military hierarchy so much, so I don't know much about positions. Like all I know is Generals are super important and By the sound of his title, he must be even more important... I really need to learn more so I don't assume things).

"I see, thank you for your consideration, High Commander."

He looks around and soon, his gaze falls to the Senior Guard, he gestures him to come over saying:

"Chet, rookie, and..." He looks at General Irina who's been staring at us alarmed and continues saying, "Youngster Irina, you will help these two guests with what they need and send them off properly. After you're done, you can return to your stations."

General Irina snapped out of it and the three of them clasp their hands replying:

"Yes, we obey!"

"Yes, we obey! Please, excuse us."

The two guards and Irina gathers close, she gestures us to follow her saying:

"Follow me High Commander. Since you're going to the Jaguar Territory, we will be heading to the 4th level."

(4th? How many or how big is this citadel?)

I clasp my hand and bow my head down saying:

"Alright then, please excuse us."

The Marshal clasp his hand replying:

"Of course, have a safe trip."

With Saya by my side, the general and guards in the other, we all entered the elevator and left the arena. As I left, everyone except Saya looks at me differently than before, their eyes are filled with awe and terror as if they've met someone different. Inside the elevator, I look at the General asking:

"Before we leave, do you mind bringing me to my armour?"

She jolts as if shock by lightning answering:

"Of course High Commander!"

Her tone... Now that I realize it now sounds different too. I hope nothing weird developed in their heads about me.

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

In a giant practice field, 2 individuals stand while one falls unconscious in a gaping hole created by a mighty blow. One is a man so enormous that he would be mistaken for a giant while the other is a soldier with a specially decorated suit of armour that easily tells he's a high ranking officer.

"I may arrive late, but you see it too didn't you, Deputy Hansa?"

The deputy looks back at the giant answering:

"Yes, Master... That's... Definitely not human. In fact, I don't even know how to describe it. It's... More than monstrous and... Demonic."

The deputy shoulders the unconscious youngster as he answers. The giant looks at the black window in the walls replying:

"Youngster Yong powers helps reveal the truth of a person with visions he creates in his mist. And if what the Empress tells is true and he's an Owlian, nothing is supposed to change. But... Even his guardian deity flinched at the sight. Just to clarify this is not me being senile right deputy? You clearly see that monster right?"

"It'll take you another millennium before you go senile, Master. And I didn't get to see it too clearly but I remember the distinctive colour of gold."

The deputy whispers softly as he walks closer to the giant. He looks at the where the giant stares saying:

"I wonder if we get the footage?"

"We'll review it and share what we saw back to the Empress and the meeting we'll have soon. I hope you learn what happens when you pry too deep to the abyss, Deputy Hansa. Especially everything involving the Empress's inner circle."

"Yes, I've learned my lesson."

The giant nods in relief and look at the deputy saying:

"Now as for both your punishments."

"Wait, are you really going to follow that!?"

Surprised by the giant's sudden statement, the deputy answered back with vigour.

"You're in cahoots with Youngster Yong in this. I didn't even know that Youngster Yong made a deal with the Empress and rather than bringing the Silencer to me, you instead bring it to Youngster Yong. You've broken such crucial yet simple rules deputy. Do you know how much this could cause in the coming operations? We may have not pledge eternal allegiance, but if we can't take care of ourselves, what will become of the future!"

"Yes, that's-"

"Even if the Empress's Army may be ragtag of multiple coalitions. You must know that we adhere to rules and discipline as absolute. Now meet me at my temple after you bring Youngster Yong to the healing chambers."

The deputy grits his teeth replying:

"Yes, master!"

As the giant left, he wonders,

(Youngster Yu, even if you're not chosen, you hold so much influence to change the chosen's fate head-on and even surpass them. We already receive our reward. But I wonder what you're planning next Youngster Yu? What do you plan to do with such horrific mons- no... It's no exaggeration to call it the enemy of the Almighty).

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

Arms ready, legs steady, spirits filled with vitality! I got my armour back on! I tried cutting my hair but it's so tough not even General Irina's qi attack could cut it. I know I got my body modified to stay alive but I didn't know even my hair will be so tough, I wonder what else am I given? With help from the General, I tuck my hair and tie it in before the helmet activates.

My vision becomes black before appearing again clearer and many tiny boards pop up showing my stuff but not obscuring my vision. I took a deep breath in and pull my retractable halberd from my back waist and extend it as I let my breath out.

*thump*

The sound of steel clashing steel reverberates in my ears. Twirling the extended glaive around, to get used to it. From the back, front, sides and stop.

*thump*

(Yea, I feel much better already. Since I can't use qi, this weapon is more of a spear with a mace on top than a halberd. Still...)

"Are you sure you don't need help with the sudden invasion?"

I ask the General who's now standing near the door out while I retract and put my weapon back.

"No, High Commander! We got this, and besides, this is a perfect experience for the new recruits."

She stands stiff while replying to me with a cord of steel.

"Well, if you say so."

"And you better don't."

Saya equipping her dagger interjects and join in the conversation to continue saying:

"You've been given direct orders from, mhm, HeR MaJesTY! To travel to the Jaguar Territory and solidify our relations. So don't stray far, Sova."

Saying Her Majesty with a weird tone, she reminds me of my mission. I nod to her words and assess my bags for my items replying:

"Sure Saya."

Seeing the broken black weapon still inside and necessary items like water and money still there, I close my bag again and reattach it to my belt.

"Alright, I'm ready."

I whispered and General Irina nods and guides our way out. My cape flutters as the steel door opens-

"Kyaaah!" "A pervert!" "Where did a man come from!" "Get Out!!!"

And I was greeted by a scene of girls changing and throwing stuff at me.

"A-ah! S-sss-sorry! What's going on, and where did they come from!?"

(This place was empty when I enter you know!)

"Eh? That voice..."

"A girl?"

"Ah... False alarm, guess I'm storing ammo."

"She sounds so sweet and cute~"

"Ay, she must look pretty cute inside that armour. What a shame."

"I suddenly feel grateful for my assets Hae-unnie..."

"Could she be the Silencer we heard so much about?"

"No way, girl. Think of what would happen to us after what we did."

"Isn't that their fault for entering in the first place?"

"Nah, girl. From what I heard, in the Confederation, people with such high positions are always so out of touch, with how they're called gods and all. So they are all spoiled and can do whatever they want."

"That's horrible."

(Do the nobles really do that?)

They continue to whisper to each other not knowing that I was listening with my heightened senses. As if what transpires a while ago never occur, they continue to chat among themselves as they... I turn away and look at General Irina as I feel my cheeks getting warm.

"G-General, why are there girls here?"

"Why? This is the female's changing chambers. Of course, there will be females, especially when we're being sortied out, High Commander."

"I... I see so that's why the two guards are waiting outside. And how both of you not feeling embarrassed when entering..."

"Well, duh, why would I want to enter a room filled with so much testosterone. And besides, didn't you see the sign outside Sova?"

Saya sarcastically replied for General Irina back as she leaves the room we're in.

(Testosterones? What's that? I feel like that's super important to me for some reason. And there's a sign out in the door?!)

"And besides, aren't you a G.I.R.L?"

I felt her words piercing my ears.

"I'm a man! And we don't have time for this!"

"Yes, you're right. So show it then."

"L-like I said, I can't..."

Saya leans closer to me as she tiptoed on her feet yet she can't reach my ear.

"Waaah~ so she's that type", "Tomboyish huh? Well I'm pretty sure that's why we're soldiers in the first place no?", "Don't lump me together with you! I didn't choose this!", "Girl, please, watch your language", "Ey, we all got our reasons, just finish this quick and deploy, lest we get more drills from our jarls" "Y-you mean our d-drill seargeants?" "Ye, cute one."

As I listen to their gossips, I follow Saya's gesture and kneel down before she continues whispering:

"I think this is for your own good. Think of what you'll end up? So just put your head down if you don't want to see. But then again, you're a Silencer, you, suppose to look powerful. Choose wisely."

"..."

I turn back and look ahead as I try to leave the room.

(The view is very distracting...!)

Saya walks first guiding me out as General Irina follows me from behind. As soon we leave, the two guards rush over and halt in their tracks as fear fills their eyes when they lay their gaze upon me.

"High Commander, welcome back!"

"W-welcome back High Commander!"

"I don't think you need to greet me again. So please, now that I feel much better, please do lead again."

"Yes, High Commander!"

Both guards and General Irina walks ahead as me and Saya walk behind them.

"Um, Saya, can I ask something?"

She looks at me with tired eyes replying:

"Sure, it'll at least liven up this quiet scenery."

"Saya, is it me, or have they suddenly become so distant..."

Saya closes her eyes as she tries to avoid looking at me replying:

"That's for your own good. Since this is a good time, and I promise to help you, for now, I guess I could teach you as we move. As a Silencer, you must be polite, be patient and be feared. That's your job, Sova. If they're afraid, then you're doing your job right."

"I didn't hear the being fear part from nanny though."

I reply back softly but Saya only shakes her head.

"Let's just say it's because it's convenient. Your palpable innocence is seen as terrifying by the upper society in the Confederation. Truth, after all, is nonsense here."

"I have no idea what you just said."

Saya looks at me with a sweet smile replying:

"That's fine, just know that in politics here, they interpret that as saying I know everything."

"That's just confusing and I hate to say this word... It's stupid."

Saya nods as she agrees, replying:

"And coupled with your looks now and how honest your tone is... I say you're more than perfect in appearance and voice."

"Really? Like I'm cool right now?"

"Yes, yes, whatever."

"Hehe, Thanks!"

(One step closer to be manly!)

Saya folds her arms as her ears twitch saying:

"Since I'm your guide and helper now, I'll do my job and give you advice. I'll refrain from teasing you till we got back to the palace, and here's my advice. Try to say as little as possible, okay Sova?"

"I really can't tell if you're being serious with all the stunts you pulled but okay. Then again, you did tell me to not speak unless I have to. But can you not tease me even in the palace?"

"Didn't you said you want to know and spend more time with me?"

"That's true but I don't see where teasing is-"

"Listen, Sova, me teasing you is a sign of love. And think of it as paying me back for all the problems you caused me."

"Still a no."

"It's but a pat in the head~"

I shake my head thinking,

(Well, I guess if it's a pat I guess it's fine...)

"I guess that's fine..."

"Heh, can't believe you actually accept."

"Well, you did say it's but a pat in the head..."

"Ah, right, you like to be pat in the head if I remember correctly."

Saya looks away as she said that. I look ahead as I feel my cheeks getting warmer.

(Why did I even tell her that back then?)

I look at Saya's large rat ears that's twitching and her pink tail that sways every time she moves.

(I guess sometimes I do wish to touch that).

"You know, Sova. Try to not look at a person for too long either."

"Wah!?"

"Trust me, a girl can clearly tell where someone is looking. Especially those with great... Ass-ets."

(Assets? Like money? Well, whatever).

"Sorry. I'm just wondering if I can touch your ears and tail?"

"Really? You do know, what kind of beast I am right?"

I nod replying:

"Yea, to be honest, when I first saw it. I was taught that they're all pest. But thanks to May and knowing you, I guess now I found your twitching ears and swaying tail... Very tempting to touch now. Even when there's no fur on the tail and one side of the ear."

Saya covers her ears with by pushing it down and wrap her large pink tail around her waist saying:

"Sova, for beast-kin like us. We found someone touching our extra parts feel like someone touching our special areas."

"Special areas?"

"Let's not continue this conversation. It's hard to control my emotions right now."

"Oh, okay. I feel like I've been restraint from doing a lot of things lately. And you know, sometimes I'm kinda grateful how big the places I travel with."

"Oh, and why's that?"

Saya looks at me with curiosity in her eyes.

"It's because I get to talk and converse with someone else as we travel. And I get to learn more about things and that person too."

I look at her as I answer back and Saya just nods in agreement replying:

"That I can agree. In fact, do you know it became a tradition for the Western Sectors. So much so their leaders and even the commonfolk connect deeper by walking side by side?"

"Really? I never travel to the west before, so that's actually new. Say, Saya, do you mind telling me about the nobles? I mean since I'm going to meet them soon, I thought maybe it's good to know them more."

"Heeeh~ didn't know you're that kind of person."

"Well, I did say I wanna improve myself, so I'm starting with simple things like knowing more."

"Alright then, since you're taking efforts I guess your humble senior here wouldn't mind helping out. So, what do you want to know about Sova?"

"Well let's start with how I study with May, I'll first tell what I know then we can improve from there."

"I guess that's etiquette enough. Continue."

"Well first off, noble families are people responsible for many things from heavy duties like governance of a Sector and Mass grand scale ritual and prayers of some sort till the smallest menial task they could have as a Hunter or a soldier. And each family is given are revered highly amongst the people, and from what I hear just now, they are even revered as gods. And to distinguish each other, nobles usually wear clothing of red. Just like you Saya."

(Now that I look closely my armour's colour is a deep velvet purple while the other parts like the thick fur near my neck and belt are actually red while the inside layer of my armour are black).

"Hmm, I guess that's good enough for peasants like you... Or not since now you're standing on the same ground as them and with how Yuwei is changing the system, it a lot different than we got now. I guess you need to know more than that, didn't that Young hag wannabe tell you more?"

"Who?"

Her eyes sharpen as if she thinks I know the answers until she sighs saying:

"... Head maid Yunyun."

"Oh, nanny! Nah, we've been learning etiquette and qi control since I wear this armour so we didn't get to learn anything more."

As we continue to walk and follow the guards and General Irina in the narrow bright halls. Saya raises her arms as to showcase her clothes.

"Listen, Sova, I guess I could tell you about how colour works in the Confederation. Even though we all share the same blood and ancestor which is Rucina's legacy. We started to grow different and distant to each other thanks to the warring states period during the chaos era until the start of the world invasion. And so different our beliefs in life, that we soon become strangers now... I guess that's how it always go huh."

"Wait, what are you talking about? And what the hazelnut is a chaos era? Isn't there only before the Liberation Era and after?"

"Ah right, this piece of information is supposed to be locked off."

"Wait, then we shouldn't be talking about this in broad daylight right?"

"Yes, I suppose you're right. So I'll just skim over and say, each Sector have their own interpretation of what colour means to them. So if the Phoenix Sector view red as the colour of sacrifice and birth, while black is a colour of disdain and corruption. Then there's the Central Dragons where they actually believe that Black is the colour of wealth and prosperity since the gold they use is actually for some reason black, that's why merchants from there always wear black robes while they view the colour red as a symbol of might and diligence since the term "Blood is the toil of power," That's why soldiers and Martial Artist from the Central dragons wear red."

"Oh... Wait, why didn't you just explain that first rather than saying all those eras and stuff."

"Dammit, Sova, there's clarity in pacing okay. And I thought you want to learn more so I gladly tell you more and this is how you treat me? Your kind Se-ni-or?"

"I-I'm sorry."

"At least you understand."

She tries to look down on me with the apparent smug on her face but her height prevents her to do so.

"Then, what about the jaguars? What colour do they use?"

(Or now that I think about it, what about the mantis too? Seeing how many wear green and so little red back when I pass their streets. Are they the same as us?)

"Well... I didn't study much about their history since they are considered new even with the Confederation standards. So I guess their foundation is pretty feasible, to be honest."

"Hoh~ so there are things even you can't answer huh?"

"Shut up, at least I know more than you ever could, Sova. And when it comes to information, it's more of authenticity than information that matters. Like I said they are new even in Confederation standards, you can judge by their name alone that they are not natives of this lands. And if it's true, you need to consider that the Phoenix Sector isolated themselves for more than a decade. Can you imagine how different a ten-year gap of information can be!? Especially to a new Sector who's policy can change any time!!!"

"Uhm, sorry..."

"Hmph! Royal archives my ass! But if from what I read is true. They are actually a break off Sectors from ours, so their colour scheme might still be the same as us."

"Oh, I see. I'm learning a lot today~"

"Well, good for you I guess."

"Now that I think about it, why didn't he tell me about this in the briefing this morning? All he did was treat me to milk, showed me some ridiculous pictures and give me a badge while telling me that you're the one who's going to give me the mission."

(I mean, if I remember correctly, didn't Sis Yuwei said that he's the leader of all foreign relations? If so, wouldn't he know more about this? Or is just that I never ask?)

Saya looks at me again with tired eyes replying:

"Well, I did give you your mission no? And to remind you again, all you got to do is deliver the letter, walk around where they tell you to, and then head to the Turquoise Turtle territory in the north."

"Say, Saya?"

"What is it, Sova?"

"With all these things going on... Do you think we're already late?"

"..."

"..."

"......"

As we stare into each other, Saya nod her head reluctantly replying:

"Yes, we're definitely late- But! Luckily, we didn't set a specific time, so we're clear of fault one way or the other."

"That's... Quite rude isn't it? I mean I feel really bad when I turn late for work."

(That's why I always try my best to make waking up early my habit).

"Well, that's what happens when you're dealing with those, that are desperate and dying. Not exploiting someone's weakness is just idiotic."

Saya speaks softly with a tone of mockery as she says those words.

(Desperate and dying?)

"Do you know something I'm not told about Saya?"

"Well, it's more of a speculation."

"Well, just tell me. I mean, you're pretty smart about things like this."

"Heh, when did you learn how to compliment. Very well..."

Saya holds her reddened cheeks, smiling as she continues saying:

"You heard how the mantis is currently, expending right?"

"Yea, he told me about that, and thanks to that. They have to divert their forces up north leaving our borders very thin or something- let's just say it's not good."

"Mhm, so have you ever wonder what's Yuwei's real objective by sending you in there?"

Her reluctant attitude quickly changes to an eager smile.

"Real objective?"

"That's right! Why don't you use your SUPER deduction skills huh?"

"D-don't... You're just mocking me aren't you?"

Saya nods vigorously with sparkles in her eyes.

"Just answer it already."

*sigh*

Breathing a long sigh, I rack up my brain as to think why...

(Since this is a mission to help... And since my position calms down the conflict and all that... With how Saya's acting too... Wait, she did say that the jaguar territory is a break off sector from ours... And just recently, didn't Riyue told me that the Golden princess was there too? Could it be that...)

"We're trying to form an alliance so that we can stop the mantis from expanding? And try to take the Golden Princess back?"

"..."

"..."

"... Just tell me already! If I'm wrong or not!"

Feeling the pressure cracking me up, I hastily demand an answer. But Saya keeps smiling and nod to herself replying:

"Sure, sure, I guess you're half correct."

"I am! Really!?"

"Yes, but remember just half. Then again, this is just my speculation, so there's no right answer yet unless you ask her directly."

"If so, just tell me already then."

"Aww, I don't want to spoil the fun there but I guess I can tell you the end result..."

She smiled and fold her arms as we continue to walk...

"So, are you going to tell me?"

Until I ask her about it. And she whispers:

"Domination."

"Huh? Can you repeat that?"

Baffled by what she whispers, or maybe I just misheard, I ask her again.

"She's planning on the full annexation of the Jaguar Sector and reconciliation of their territory to her own core lands."

"Wuh-what?"

"Can you just imagine the headlines!"

Saya slouches her head down as she closes her eyes with a smile plastered on her face.

"Breaking News! The top graduate of the most famed academy declared for reunification after being crowned!"

"T-this is just speculations right?"

Afraid of what she just said, I try to reconfirm her words. But she merely nods saying:

"Of course! Sorry, seeing developments like this is so entertaining- not if it's happening to me though. So come on, let's continue."

"R-right."

With an uncertain future within my grasp. I wonder what holds me as I pass my trials.