Rising Threat and Vulnerability. (Part 1)

A enticing fragrance hovers over the air tickling my urge to eat. But among that is sound of little rains tapping over the corridor windows...

(Hmm? Did we take this path before? I don't remember there being windows here).

"Urgh! How could she!"

*Munch* *Munch*

Yoo-Ah screams as she chew on some dumplings Ji-Hyun gave her.

"Even with this treat, I still won't forgive her!"

*Munch* *Munch*

"Um I'm sure its fine. I mean she did finish my check up and even told me some guides you forgot."

(Well, I doubt that's actually a check up since she stops half way).

"But, that last one is suppose to be my job! And she even tricked me twice and made me do her job along with hurting me with those tools! Rrgh!"

*Munch* *Munch*

Yoo-Ah finishes her first bun as I think how to improve her mood Yoo-Ah raises a second buns near my mouth and wave it close to my nose as to pull me close and take a bite.

(Oh is she sharing?)

"Thanks!"

*Chomp*

As my teeth clash and my tongue taste naught but the air. Yoo-Ah pulls the buns back quickly enough and when I look at her she smirks replying:

"Pff hahaha! See your face? That's what I feel right now! *munch!*"

Yoo-Ah continues to munch as my smile turns to a frown. Yoo-Ah rips a bit of the bun and hand it to me saying:

"Well, here! This is to show I'm not like her."

"Yay! Thanks!"

"Open your mouth!"

"Aaa~"

*Chomp*

"Yum!"

Yoo-Ah drops the piece and soon the mix of something spicy, sweet and juicy is spreading across my mouth. I wonder how can a bun be so good!? Even the ones near my home pales in comparison. Feeling cheered up, I look at the still mad Yoo-Ah saying:

"Oh, um, Yoo-Ah, can I just call you Yoo-Ah?"

"Hmm!? Well... I suppose that's fine."

"Thanks! And um, I decided to take the promotion test tommorow if you don't mind."

"Really!? Wait, did Ji-Hyun Unnie said something to you?"

"No! Not at all!"

(Well, I guess she did).

Yoo-Ah gets close to me with morbid curiosity and I look away replying:

"Well, can I at least know what I'm tasked to do?"

"Well, it's pretty simple! Just survive there for two days! Or you can over achieve and go to the centre and defeat the Dungeon Boss and bring his core so you can finish it in one day!"

"Sorry, dungeon? Boss? Core?"

"Mhm! Don't worry it's not a monster! Just a puppet the guardians created! Even though it'll not kill you, it's still pretty tough! They all call it the Noob Killer! Whatever Noob means!"

"I-I see..."

I force a smile as I she lost me even further. Still... I grasp my fist saying:

"Maybe it's a good chance to see how far I improved."

"Hum! Hum! That's the spirit!"

"But I gotta prepare some items first."

"Then it all lines up! Great!"

As we exit to the huge corridor of windows, a commotion is happening as I could see people gathering around the door leading to the training room where I took my test and I could feel huge hostility from inside.

(Weird, where did all this people come from? Have we been in the infirmary that long?)

Wondering what's going on, I check to see some staffs trying to break them apart the people at the door but the adventurer just brushes them off as they look at the commotion with glee.

"Hmph, just because this place is pretty empty doesn't mean they can just start fights. Wait there, Sova. I gotta call for help."

Since the crowd is thin I could see from the gaps. At the centre of it all is the boy and the target facing against another group of adventurer protecting a girl who seems to fall down. Leading the group is a huge man wearing a Gold trim in his fish scaled armour. As I listen and watch closely, I could see him cracks his knuckles saying:

"What's with that attitude kid? Apologize!"

"I already did, what else do you want me to say, old man? Is sorry not enough?"

The boy answers back annoyed and the huge adventurer suddenly summon a sword from his hand and plunge it to the ground near the boy's feet shouting:

"It seems your parents haven't told you any sincerity! Did you realize who you're offending and hurt!? Kneel down and say you're sorry!"

(I just realize this bit is getting soul weapons that easy? I mean his qi is not as big as the enemies I fought but he can already summon them? Back then that guy we met at the border of the jaguar also had soul weapons... No maybe it's different? Unlike the one back at the border or those crazy strong enemies I fought, his weapon feels... Cold and empty).

"Why should I show any sincerity to those that doesn't even reply with one? No wonder no one wants to join the adventurer guild here. This place is a toxic mess beneath its pompous splendour."

"Now you've done it, kid! I shouldn't have never expected the northern barbarians to act civilized."

"I could say the same for you, you southern savages."

The huge man kicks the sword up trying to slash the boy as the ground beneath breaks apart but he simply shield the target behind him and parry the attack up with his hands which cause some lights to be destroyed as the people gathering starts to spread out and some even leave.

"Just know that you're the one that escalate this, you stinky geezer!"

The girl behind the huge man is shaking in feat as she tugs at him saying:

"Uncle! It's fine! Enough of this!"

"Sweet Ye-Ri, there will be a time where this lowly mortals need to understand the majesty of us Gods, and remind them why they are even born in the first place!"

"San-Min! Stop this! Don't you have your "duty" ?"

"My responsibility don't span for people like him."

The girls behind them try to stop them but it seems the two doesn't want to reconcile.

(This is getting out of hand).

As they both release their qi, the gallery starts to flee and run outside while I back away hearing their screams,

"Foreigners ruining everything again!", "Northern barbarians can't seem to understand his own mistakes!", "Where does he think he is acting all high and mighty!"

"Sova! Huff huff, this is a bit troublesome."

Yoo-Ah comes back panting for air as I help her up asking:

"So? Did you bring help?"

"Turns out the guard already knew but knowing that a Gold bone and Pearl Bone is involved and that the offender is a foreigner they decided to let it be, it's irresponsible!"

"So what do we do?"

Yoo-Ah ponder for while before shaking her head replying:

"Sad to say we can only stop them but I doubt any of us could deal with that."

"Stop... Them huh?"

"Huh? What are you planning, Sova?"

I look back at those two as they start to take their stances, the huge man coat his great sword with immense qi and starts to emanate a spirit of waves that I could swear I saw sea creatures swimming around while the boy raise his arm and the ring on his fingers shine to summon forth a wall of swords each one unique and beautiful on their own way.

"Aaah! Those two will definitely wipe out the whole training grounds!"

"Sigh..."

Seeing the worried Yoo-Ah, I sigh and hope. Remembering how I used my sword back then, I pull my blade less sword out and dash forth.

"Eh!? S-Sova!"

Before the two blades could clash I form a spirit blade and hold it in my right for a sweeping skill and ready my left arm for the grappling technique on my left to stop the huge guy. Aiming the huge guy first, as he lower his hand I extend my arms and wrap it around him before kicking his knees, forcing him to kneel.

"Wha!"

With my right arm I charge my unknown power and use one of the wave blast skill.

(Immortal calamity dragon technique and silver tiger god technique combined, Armageddon path: apocalypse squall!)

My attack produce a rapid squall that shatters his swords and negate his entire attack.

"No way!"

The sheer force of our attack clash and blinded everyone with the flash of purple and blue. When the light subside, I realize stopping those two's attack have shredded most of my cloak, destroyed my badge and my right sleeves till my shoulders. Seeing the old man still struggling from my grasp, I let him go and vanish the blade before sheathing it back saying:

"I hope you two realize you're both still in public place."

"Who are you!? An owlian!? And without Qi too! There's no way you can stop both our attacks!"

"Hmph!"

The boy walks away before the target comes out of hiding from one of the large training tools. The lady he was protecting return to him with his group as she helps him up saying:

"Are you okay uncle?"

Before she looks at me and bow her head down saying:

"Thank you so much for stopping them."

I shake my head saying:

"No problem, I'm just helping a friend out."

"Hold it! Stand tall Lil Ye-Ri! And Who are you? And how did you have such strength!?"

"I simply, train. That's all."

"Don't lie-"

"I suggest you don't pry any further, old man."

Hearing a familiar voice, I look back seeing Juha accompanied by the soldiers and staffs.

"Juha-Ssi!"

"Hmm? Sova? And... Ye-Ri?"

"Eh? Juha-Unnie! Thank goodness you're here!"

The girl approach Juha as she stops her and pat her head saying:

"Now, now, calm down Ye-Ri. Soldiers and staff, clean up the place."

"Yes we obey!"

The group behind her scatter to clean and while she approach me saying:

"I don't know what happen but you better explain, got it!"

"Y-Yes, of course!"

"Hmph!"

She folds her arms and then look at the huge guy saying:

"I want you all to accompany me as well and explain what happen. Do you understand!?"

" "Yes, we obey!" "

"Yes, Unnie! Uuuu..."

(Woah, is she that important?)

"Hold it!"

Yoo-Ah jumps ahead of me and raise her arm as to shield me shouting:

"You again! I won't let you take her! She's done nothing wrong!"

Juha snickers at her remark replying:

"Don't worry, it's because she done nothing wrong that I need her testimony."

"Urgh!"

Yoo-Ah glares at her but I hold her shoulders and pull her away saying:

"Don't worry Yoo-Ah. I travelled with her for a while so I know she can be trusted."

I could see Juha smile in the corner of my eye but she quickly turns away while Yoo-Ah brush my hands aside replying:

"What!? But! Urrgh! I hate this! You're here trying to help but gets being called instead while the real preparator runs away! That's so unfair! Don't be afraid to find me when things get dicey okay!? No I'll just just barge in!"

I nod and smile to assure her replying:

"Please don't, but I'll make sure to count on you."

"You better!"

Yoo-Ah backs away reluctantly clenching her fists as I turn around to follow Juha. Juha slows down to walks beside me saying:

"Thanks for trusting me."

"What do you mean? Of course I do."

"Hmph! Dumbass."

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

"Forgive me! I didn't know you're such an important figure! And to think I would assume you're an Owlian as well, I beg of you to please forgive my rudeness!"

(Wait, assume? So Guardians are not Owlians? But he believes I'm a Guardian even though I have no magic? Wait! Don't tell me that they are also the same as... Ah! Whatever it is!)

"Oh please! It's alright!"

Seeing the huge man bow his head down to thank me I can't help but wonder if it's right for me to just accept an excuse that falls to my lap. Which is being a guardian in training.

"I see, thank you once again. If our kingdom is blessed to have Lord Angeo and now he already trains a new Guardian from Heaven who's young and this strong? It seems our kingdom future truly is bright."

"Hahaha, yea..."

"Very well, don't be afraid to visit us if you're in need, future Guardian."

"O-Of course, thank you!"

The two of them bow down once more when the little girls looks at Juha saying:

"Juha! It's been a while since you visit the Leaping Palace, won't you come visit again?"

Juha smiles and nod replying:

"Well, I suppose if the princess missed me I can't say no."

(W-Wait! P-Princess!? Her? But she looks different the one on that giant panel!? And well... Much smaller...)

"Hmm? Did you just think something rude about me?"

"E-Excuse me?"

I tilt my head in confusion when Juha pats my back saying:

"It must just be your imagination, Ye-Ri. Still, here I thought I nobody wants me to go ever since I joined the army."

(Yea, maybe they're siblings then).

The princess quickly turn to Juha hastily replying:

"T-That's not true! Many likes you! Like me! W-Well, I'll be waiting! Oh, and you can invite your friends too if you want! The merrier the better! So... Please come..."

The girl tugs on her shirt and Juha sighs with a smile replying:

"Sigh, fine..."

"Really!? Yay! I'll prepare your favourite beverage too! Well then see you!"

The girls waves her hand and leaves alongside her group while Juha finally sighs loudly and takes a seat.

"Well, now that everyone's gone, take a sit and relax, Sova."

"R-Right!"

It was already past noon as we quietly sit down in silence and contemplation. After the interrogation we had some time to just sit down together after they left. Juha closed her eyes and bow her head down saying:

"First things first, thank you, Sova."

"Huh?"

"You're the one who brought me back and escaped those bandits right? I can't thank you enough for saving my life and probably a worse fate than death..."

Juha hugs her body as she says that and I can't help the events that transpire replying:

"Oh, that's..."

"After waking up the only thing in my mind was worry and despair. To think someone could easily sneak up on us and defeat me in one strike, it brings no end to the shame!"

"Uh..."

Juha grasp clench her hands close to her heart saying:

"So, it's my turn to say... If you need anything just tell me what you need okay? I won't forget this favour."

"N-No problem!"

(Aaah! Now I can't say that I actually know those bandits! I feel so bad! Is this what it feels to deceive with bad intentions!? Ah right!)

"Ah, right, I was worried since you didn't arrive early and might still be hurt so I was planning to visit your barracks and baked you something."

"Huh? My how kind of you but don't think you'll receive thanks for that, hmph!"

Juha looks away as I place the basket down and push it to her saying:

"This is my first time baking so I hope you don't mind the taste!"

"E-Eh? (Dumbass how can I say no when you say that). Uhum! Well, since you took your time to bake for me I can be magnanimous enough to accept your gift."

Juha takes my basket and open it up saying:

"Eh? Taaeg Ppang? Pfff, hahaha! I suppose you really are a foreigner. Who gives these for gifts!?"

"Uuuh... Wait, taaeg ppang?"

(Wait taaeg ppang? Saliva bread? Huh? I'm sure it's called Pulpaeg?)

"That's right. Anyways, thank you, I never seen this variation before and it looks quite pretty with the flowers not minding the shapes, I suppose you do have some talent, hmph! Thanks for the food."

Yoo-Ah pick one up and starts licking it.

"Eh?"

As she sees me, she looks away covering her mouth as she eats saying:

"Don't look! This thing needs water so I gave it one! Us soldiers don't have the luxury of having our canteen full or ability to cast water magic all the time when we're on campaigns or expeditions to the north and south. So we had to suck or lick it till it's soft enough to eat! That's why we in the army call it, taaeg ppang. And since this thing is shaped so weirdly, I can't put all of it in my mouth!

Anyways, this biscuits melt so easily like licking ice cream and it actually has such a natural sweet taste... Never thought I would actually enjoyed Pulpaeg. And you made it with the ingredients here? You're good... I don't mind if you make more of these. I actually might enjoy this with some of my favourite tea..."

She finish one and pick up another one and continue saying:

"Anyways, as for the conclusion of what happened, usually we would execute him for his transgressions but it's safe to say we can dismiss him from this guild since he's still an important figure up north."

"Huh?"

(Execution? Dismissal? Wait, wait, wait, wait! If... If he leave now wouldn't that mean the target would leave as well? Not only do I have no way of finding her next I don't even know her name yet!? Oh schnitzel!)

"Um, Juha. If you don't mind."

"Hmm? What is it?"

*Nom*

Juha after licking the biscuit small enough starts to put it in her mouth. I shake my head saying:

"Can you please not kick him out yet!"

"Huh? What are you saying!?"

Juha glares at me with suspicious eyes and I can only try to come up with an excuse saying:

"It's... It's just that since both party are fighting why not just show him that the adventurers guild haven't abandon him! Like... Like..."

(Think!)

"Like, mmm... Oh! His companions could stay and still use this place but he must stay outside just temporarily but he could still operate with the adventurers guild. After all, I saw the girl that accompany him actively tries to stop him from fighting in the first place!"

Juha looks down on me before sighing to say,

"Sigh... What you said contradicts but, I suppose that's reasonable since the one that causes trouble first is him."

(Yes! It works! But... Damn nuggets do I feel bad for a favour that is made from bad coincidences!)

"But I'm not doing this for you okay!? So, thank you for reminding me! Hmph!"

(What's that all about? And wait, she can do that? 2nd lieutenant must be a high position? Or is ot something else?)

Juha packs up the leftover biscuits and stares daggers at me as if she's trying to pry me open before she stands up asking:

"Since this is already lunch time why not grab ourselves a meal?"

"O-okay! Um, let me invite Yoo-Ah as well. I mean she's the one who gave me that recipe for the pulpaeg. So maybe she could teach us more of those."

Juha smiles and nod saying:

"Oh really? She must be a talented cook. Then please do, I mean... Well, Do whatever you want, but before that, let's get you some new clothing first."

"Huh?"

I look at myself and realize the only thing left of the cape is the part around my neck and I have lost my right sleeves. Exposing the expensive and opulent blade on my belt. To be honest, I probably look a lot like a clown with a out pf place sword.

"Oh right, um, I guess I need to change-"

"Nope! Come with me, we'll get you some new adventurers wear. My treat."

"Uh... Thank you?"

(Wait, since all stuff here is free, then again that place Juha actually paid with her money. Where are we going?)

"Stand up and follow me!"

"R-Right!

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

Juha brought me to the previous clothing store.

"I never said it but the adventurers guild provides one of the best gears, equipment, and items in every city. And since this place is the second largest city and neighbouring to the capital, the quality here is easily on par with the best shops in the kingdom, now get in!"

"R-Really?

(The best usually mean the most expensive right?)

"Just think of this as my way of repaying you, so don't make me repeat myself."

"R-Right!"

Once again she steps in shouting:

"Clerk!"

The familiar grandma appears saying:

"Welcome, oh to think we would be visited by the jade goddess again. We are truly blessed."

"Enough with the flattery and get her a comfortable travelling wear similar to what she's wearing, or do you have any other preference, Sova?"

Juha looks back at me and I shake my head replying:

"N-No, clothes like this is fine!"

"Hmph! You heard her, get to it!"

She bows down replying:

"Right away."

The old lady levitate some items and quickly strap them to me. Feeling them wrapping around my whole body the old lady nods again saying:

"It seems not much has change so the same size as before should do. Sweetie!"

"Deary."

"Yes, Granny!"

She called the girl again and they discuss something before heading to the back room. Before I could say anything they both appear with a pile of folded clothes in their hands and place them beside me saying:

"Well, then , please choose which one you like. I recommend this one for all 4 seasons."

The granny pulls one from the fold and unfolds it to show the clothes. Judging by the looks it actually looks pretty nice but so... Foreign. With a dominant green colour, simple open collar design, and as I touch the clothes to feel it, it feels so smooth and perfect for sleeping.

(Is this really a adventuring clothes?)

"Oh, maybe you prefer those for the winter? Then I suggest you pick this one."

The granny hands the clothes to the girl before pulling another one out which is white with furs on the shoulder.

"Uh, um..."

"Oh, maybe something more thick or durable?"

The granny hand the girl the clothes again as she hangs the clothes on some floating wires. Seeing her showcasing all these clothes, I can only wonder what to wear and decide on one...

"Um, I'll just take this one."

As she presents more and more I just let my luck decide and grab what my hand holds. I look at my clothes and found a...

(What is this?)

With long sleeves, and longer hem, this thing looks more like a one piece dress but not long enough to be one.

"Ah! Wonderful choice! That would look nice on you! Please try it on on the changing room."

She directs me to the corner of the store and I follow along reluctantly...

(What am I doing? It's not me to be picky about clothes. And... Well, since Juha is kind enough to provide me with new clothes, I shouldn't refuse her).

Looking at the mirror, I remove the torn off clothes, the broken adventurer's badge and use the new shirt. Feeling the soft materials rubbing against my skin and how it's especially loose abd baggy, I nod in approval of the shirt while staring at the mirror. Going out with the old torn clothes in hand I look at Juha saying:

"I'll take this one. It's very nice."

Juha nods replying:

"I see, then that would do."

She looks at the clerk saying:

"Clerk! Get her another two more of the same shirts and size as well for back up!"

"Yes, we obey!"

The clerk runs back with the little girl and I can only wonder if that's okay?

"It's for back up in case it rips again. It's adamant for all travelers to carry extra clothing after all."

"I-I see!"

As the granny hands the extra clothes in a paper bag while she helps me dispose of the torn one. I keep the broken badge at my pocket while Juha then throw another coin again before we leave. Wondering if now's the time to find Yoo-Ah she stops me from going away saying:

"Where are you going!? We're not done yet!"

"Eh!? We're not?"

"Course not! I'm sure there's a reason why you wear your cloak right?"

Juha looks at the my bladeless sword and I gasp saying:

"Ah right!"

"I understand you might be hungry but it's better to finish your job before doing something else. Now follow me to the armoury."

"Oh? Wait, why the armoury? Shouldn't it be the clothing store from before? Ack!"

Juha chops my head replying:

"Dumbass! The cloak is one of the gear outside your armour so of course it has to be tough! Unless you forget, you're an Owlian. Magic clothes don't respond to your body well so those enchantments won't even work. So we need to get you something that would even work on Owlians!"

"I-I see! So you thought that far for me... Thanks a lot!"

"Hmph! Save it! Now let's go."

"W-Woah!"

Juha pulls me along for a while before leading me to the weapons store I saw when I first came here. Displaying its best gear on the windows while maintaining a clean and fancy look. But just like the how the guild is empty, so is the stores inside of it.

"Get in!"

"R-Right!"

Juha pushes me inside either way and as we I could see the display of not only melee weapons but mid-range and long-range as well. From the shortest daggers to the longest cannon. And as I wonder how they fit it all inside, the giant old man at the counter raise his hand to greet us saying:

"Welcome to the Adventurers Guild armoury how can I help you- by Taegma's flames!"

The old man behind the stand runs out to us and went to his knees begging and saying:

"Oh! Please pardon this lowly one's rudeness Jade Bone Goddess and her servant but please, may I look upon that blade closer!? I beg of you!"

He begs even further as he place his head to the floor and feeling a bit uncomfortable, I look at Juha and she softly replies,

"It's your choice."

Wondering what to do, I help the old man up saying:

"P-Please, stand up!"

"Ah forgive my rudeness again! I am one of the disciples and sons of the great Dal-Jang! Dal-Yong! In my pursuit of improving my arts of craftsmanship would you please let me take a closer look at that golden sword? I'll gladly provide you with whatever you need here or whatever you wish me to make so please! Just for a while! No a minute is fine as well!"

The old man slams his head to the ground as he begs and I am left wonder if he would actually give up. Seeing an old man in his knees I shake my head at the sight nod saying:

"Very well, but just for a little while."

"Oh! I thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you-"

The old man continues to slam his head to the floor when Juha finally place her feet where his forehead woul hit and forcefully lift him up with a kick replying:

"Enough of that! Just get to it!"

"Y-Yes!"

(Woah! I'm surprised Juha is brave enough to do that!)

Following my words, I pull out the entire sword and present it to him. Seeing an old man in his late years yet still so fit on his knees and tears slowly reaching his hand to grab my... Well, uncle's sword leaves a weird taste in my mouth. He grabs hold of my blade and soon starts to eye it from the tip of its pummel to the tip of the sheathe.

"Since you're that kind enough we should look around while we wait."

"I-I see..."

Leaving the old man alone I start looking around the shop when I notice the armour section of the place. Filled with many light armours, protectors and shields the old man comes to us and hands me the blade saying:

"Forgive me for my shameful display. Also, I'm eternally regretful to say that we have no method to produce a Qi weaving blade as of yet, nor do we- no this kingdom have the ability to make such quality. Even an imitation wouldn't reach a tenth of the strength this blade possessed!"

(Qi weaving blade? Now that I think about it, didn't the sword Rana borrowed me in the Reliquary? It also has no blade).

I take the blade back and hang it on my belt, shaking my head to his comment and replying:

"Don't worry, I'm here to get something else."

"I-I see! Then please if there's anything you wish, don't hesitate to ask! Since you have shown me such a fine item, as promised you may take what you want!"

"No, that's a bit much."

"Hmph! Get to it already, you twerp!"

Juha cuts in before she glares at the old man saying:

"She's looking for a non-magic usage cloaks, something sturdy, and hard to destroy and would easily protect her."

"I-I see! Then please wait as I procure them!"

The old man runs to the back door excitingly like a child who's been given a gift. Juha looks at me and then the blade before saying:

"I know I didn't ask back at the room and I won't pry deep how you manage to get such a weapon or manage to use it. But just make sure you don't show it to anyone you don't trust okay?"

I nod firmly replying:

"Yea."

As we wait the old man barge open the door with a basket full of folded cloaks. He pours them out and starts to present them one by one saying:

"What about this? Using magic to turn Agraian steel to silk, we weave a cloak that's softer than cotton but tougher than any armour? Will this do?"

"Oh!"

(That's actually pretty neat).

He shows a deep shaded grey cloak that gleams with a purple sheen. Before I could continue to say something, he puts it down and pulls a blue fish scaled cloak saying:

"No, wait! Maybe this one! This is a rare cloak made of the scales of a magical aquatic monster! It has the properties to protect any elemental attacks! Especially water based. And has the ability to let you swim freely and breathe underwater! And even Owlians can use it! Provided you have a backup- no! Hold on!"

(Woah! Any elemental attack!?)

"Maybe this one!"

He pulls another one, a pearl white cloak with a surface that seems to reflect light.

"This is another fine piece, made the same by turning the core of another aquatic monster to silk, this cloak can easily camouflage you and help you hide anywhere from the green fields, the dry desserts and even the snow!"

(So it's similar to the invisibility cloak Sis Fei showed me back then huh? I want that!)

He then puts it down with a frown before going down on his knees and slamming his fist to the ground crying and shouting:

"No, who am I kidding! This cloaks are trash compared to the sword in your hips! All my pride as one of the finest craftsman in this kingdom is nothing but a joke to whoever create that blade! No, wait! If you can provide me with the materials I can craft you a cloak that surpass all of this! Please just give me a chance!"

Guilty for probably making an old man bawl like a baby. I try to calm him down and nod saying:

"Okay, okay, please don't cry. Um, since you're willing to do so much I'll just take one of the cloak first since I need it. And if I find a good material, I'll ask you to make me another cloak."

"Really!? I-I can't thank you enough, little girl! Ah! That's right! Forgive me! But may I please have your name?"

"Oh, i-it's Sova Anmao."

"Sova Anmao? I see! I thank you for giving me such an opportunity!"

(Wait, what did I just agree with!? Now I'll be more guilty that I could just leave him without giving him any material at all!)

He gets up and wipe his face with his apron saying:

"Such shameful display, I know my skills are unsatisfactory, but please don't hesitate to come here when you need a maintenance! I know it may be free but I'll prioritize yours first!"

"I-I see, thank you..."

I look at the pearl white cloak at the ground and grab it saying:

"If you don't mind I'll take this one okay? It's sturdy too right?"

"Of course! Like what the Jade Goddess specified, these cloaks wouldn't break even from the full brunt assault of master class martial artist or even champion class monsters! Even better yet, I made it so no substance would stick easily so you don't need to clean it so often. They are my masterpieces! Well that's until I saw your sword."

(R-Really? Is this sword that amazing?)

"Say, mind explaining a little about how the shops here work? I mean I heard you say maintenance is free, so you have to pay for equipments?"

"Yes! Wait... So you the star child our little Yoo-Ah talks about right? Lord Sova, please Forgive my brazeness! But I promised little Yoo-Ah she would be the one to explain such stuff so why not ask her about it she did promise to bring you here. Please forgive me for not complying! Come to think of it where is Yoo-Ah? She said she wish to show you around today."

"Oh really? So you know Yoo-Ah too? Well, that's fine. Thank you for the cloak, Dal-Yong nim. I'm actually planning to meet her after this."

(Wait so she's gonna bring me here? Will she get angry again?)

"No! I must thank you, Lord Sova for giving me a chance to study that sword! Please come again!"

He bows down while I wear the new cloak... The cloak's is long enough that it reach the floors and cover my neck. In fact, there's even a hood that can cover my whole head as I pull it up. Looking close it seems the cloak have some almost invisible etchings on them that's gard to see. Like the pores of a shirt.

"So cool and comfy, okay... So how do you actually change to camouflage?"

The old man comes near to me and poke at the collar saying:

"Oh, since it's something Owlians can use, please simply use the thin switches at the collar. It's located at the edge so you can still see it."

"I-I see! So neat!"

"I truly don't deserve such praise!"

I follow his instruction and see there's actually some writing in hwansea at the edge of the collar.

"I see! Well, I'll try it when I'm alone. Thank you again, Dal-Yong nim. And if what yo said is true about Yoo-Ah, can you try forgetting that I actually went here when I come with her?"

"Ah! Well she's pretty bratty from time to time when someone stole her role so I'll comply. And It's is appropriate to show how to operate the tools so no thanks is needed."

"Thank you!"

I thank the old man again and look at Juha, trying to show her the new cloak saying:

"What do you think?"

Juha folds her arms and looks away saying:

"Hmph! Your taste is a bit too much for me! But if you like it I won't criticize much. Now let's go."

"Okay!"

We both greet the old man goodbye and leave as I feel a bit excited to have such a cool new gear.

(I wonder how much time has passed since she helped me get all this clothes? Well, no point thinking about it).

I look at Juha and bow my head down saying:

"Thank you again, Juha! Um, I'll go find Yoo-Ah now."

She smiles saying:

"Hmph! Go ahead, I'll be waiting at the canteen."

"Okay!"

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

As we separate, I quickly arrive at the entrance hall to find Yoo-Ah. Wondering if she's at the table I look around to find Bai-Sumi servicing the few adventurers left in the table. Hoping she would know, I walk to her or waiting on the line since there's only one person left. As he leaves, Bai-Sumi is surprised to see me but soon smile bow her head saying:

"If it isn't Sova? Good afternoon. How may I help you? And where's Yoo-Ah?"

"Oh, good afternoon too, Bai-Sumi Ssi. And Yea, that's what I wanna ask. Do you know where she is?"

"Oh? Well, I thought she would be close to you... But if we follow her schedule, she should be on the table beside me but since she's not, hmm... I suppose I can help with this."

She place the [On break] sign on her table before leaving it saying:

"Follow me."

"R-Right!"

We both headed to one of the back doors. When Bai-Sumi scans her hat, the door leads to a room filled with a bunch of magic tools and black panels on the wall and a few staffs enjoying some drinks and snacks. When they see us enter they froze for a while before they look at us and sigh with relief when one of them says:

"Sheesh, it's just you Sumi-Unni. And you brought a friend? Well, you almost gave us a heart attack! Anyways, you need something? I hate to blow it but none staff personnel are not allowed here. *Slurp*"

The staffs continue to slurp at her noodles while the other enjoys his snacks Bai-Sumi sighs saying:

"Ah right, well sorry and please wait Outside, Sova."

"Y-Yes!"

Bai-Sumi enters and close the door as I wonder what she's gonna do. Wondering what to do as I wait, I look around and seeing no one around, I play with the function of the cloak. Fiddling with it, I manage to change the colours. From its original pearl white to emerald, crimson, and even specific mix like lavender or vermillion is even viable.

(This is so cool! And controlling it is so simple as I only have to twist and turn on the colour spectrum).

"Come to think of it, I learn how to differentiate colours from May's older friend a long time ago huh?"

(She was an escentric painter who taught me the names and variation of colours along with how to mix them. Though I never seen her again after I moved away to live alone, maybe she moved out of the district).

As I play around and turn the cloak to a bright white I found another small button and press it. The cloak soon blend with the surrounding making it look like I lost my feet. Wondering what happened, I look at the reflection of the furniture to see that I'm basically a floating head.

"A-Amazing! Wait!"

I pull up the hood and cover my face when I realize that I can pull the hood further and cover my whole face. And even then, I could see through from inside the hood clearly but a bit hard to breathe. Still, I was practically invisible!

(Hahaha! With this, no one can beat me in hide and seek! Oh, I can use this to surprise Yoo-Ah!)

*Click*

Seeing Bai-Sumi exit the room, she looks around before scratching her head saying:

"Weird, where did she go?"

(She will be the first one!)

Since my steps are already pretty silent, I sneak up behind her and hold her shoulders and whisper to her ear saying:

"Bai-Sumi Ssi~"

"Kyaaa! A ghost!"

Bai-Sumi jumps as I spook her and before she could fall, I grab hold of her and open my hood saying:

"Surprise!"

"S-Sova!? Don't do that!"

*Thump*

Bai-Sumi pushes me away and brush her coat shouting:

"How rude!"

I deactivate my cloak and snicker a bit replying:

"Haha, sorry. It was too perfect not to try it."

The door from the room slams open as the two staffs from inside rush over saying:

"Bai-Sumi Unnie! I heard your scream, what happened!?"

"Bai-Sumi Unnie! Are you okay!?"

Her face reddened and she shakes her head saying:

"It's fine! Get back inside! And listen, Sova a lady is not suppose to play pranks like that! And besides you're not a kid anymore!"

Hearing Bai-Sumi scold me I lower my head saying:

"Sorry..."

(I guess I should try holding back).

The two staffs looks at me saying:

"Hey, Owlian, better watch it! If something happen to Bai-Sumi Unnie, you're gonna regret it!"

"Yeah! What he said! You should be grateful you can even still be in the city!"

"Get back inside you two. And you know to zip it right?"

"O-Of course..."

"Y-Yes!"

The two staff reluctantly replied as they slowly back away. Bai-Sumi returns her composure and her posture as she cough once saying:

"Ahem! Try not do that again okay? Not many can take it easily like I do."

"O-Okay...?"

"Good follow me... And just making sure, you're not gonna do the same to Yoo-Ah right?"

"Of course I will!"

I replied back immediately and Bai-Sumi sighs covering her face and as I see her ear turning red she replies saying:

"I should've expected, I didn't know you're the type to pull this sort of stunts."

"Oh not really, it's just that I gor this cloak and seeing it can turn me invisible, I just HAD to try it!"

"Sigh... And can you forgot you hard me scream just now? And what I said alongside it?"

"Huh? Sure I suppose."

She turns around pointing at me with fave reddened either with anger or blushing replying:

"You better! Or you'll regret it! Especially to Yoo-ah!"

"O-Okay..."

*Thump*

I grasp the clothes where my heart is and wonder...

(Weird... Ghost huh? Well, I suppose I do have some experience with them but if she's that afraid are they that scary here? Well I suppose I shouldn't make her more angry... Still... I have this weird feeling everytime I see someone older so flustered like that...)