When Rover separated from Kenny, she created a mission for herself. She wanted to find the way up the tower and rub it in his face. She knew Kenny wouldn't mind it very much, but she didn't particularly want to enrage Kenny. She just wanted to throw a jab or two his way. It was fun for her. A type of fun that was harmless and calm, one she usually found in hearing stories.
Besides, the quicker she delivered this stupid letter to the stupid Dean, the faster they could leave and avoid all the stupid nonsense this city was going through.
So, Rover didn't traverse the building all lax and slow. She didn't spend her time ogling at the architecture or meticulously investigating what was behind those doors. No, when she deemed the distance between her and Kenny far enough, she broke into a sprint, covering the grounds of the hallway almost immediately.
When she turned the corner, she saw something at the end that was unlike the walls. From this distance, she could only tell that it was an opening, but there were signs beside it. Rover, proud of her senses for a reason, spotted the engravings on the signs from across the hallway. It was the caricature of somebody ascending rudimentary steps.
Rover smirked. She found her head start. She made it to the end of the hallway in a near instant. However, she didn't walk up the stairs immediately.
"..."
Kenny had told her to meet back at the entrance if they found anything. This suggestion was holding her back, which surprised Rover.
But, many things have been surprising her today. Many things about herself, about others, the list could go on. Though Rover had a part of her that wanted to honor Kenny's suggestion, her eager, daring part wanted to rise up those steps and get this letter delivered right here and now. In fact, she wanted to do it so fast that by the time Kenny would finish his inspection, she'd be back to meet him with their mission completed.
She listened to the latter part and ran up the stairs.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAjaRwM96Hz
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What she found when she arrived on the second floor– which was a longer trek than she expected –was a series of rooms isolated in glass boxes. The floor was carpeted and there was a central path that branched off to all the rooms, with a few leading to doors embedded into the walls. Rover didn't care for the framework of the room, instead focusing on finding an exit. Unfortunately, the maze-like structure of the floor made navigating it difficult. Rover concluded that one of the doors lodged into the wall must've led to the next floor, but even though there were no obstructions to her vision courtesy of the glass, finding an exit from any point of the room was impossible.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf5xYqKt5zu
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"W-Who makes their rooms this confusing!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7faWdXTqVG
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Rover had nobody to voice her complaint to, however, so she saved it for whatever draftsmen would face her first and scoured the room for an exit. Though she compared the structure to a maze, in reality, the paths lead to destinations without any deliberately puzzling forks. Still, traveling in this area, where everywhere she looked had a desk and chair loitering around, was disorienting.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUIsOJIjWUV
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She managed to arrive at one of the wall-embedded doors. She tried to open it, but the door didn't budge. She tried to kick it down, but even with her physical prowess, the door didn't falter.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz09dDLRvDI
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It was reinforced with mana– that was Rover's conclusion, and as Rover was unable to use any magic, there was no way she could tear the door down with just her strength. Maybe if she was stronger, she thought, but she discarded the idea quickly. She turned around and retraced her steps, tilting her head downward and fixing her eyes on the carpet. She returned to an intersection, and with two other paths to choose, she decided on the left one. The path only led to an ensemble of glass boxes, however, so she retraced her steps yet again.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHntQJ6e03
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR5YST3ohls
She was beginning to get a little thirsty. She began to regret her self-imposed restlessness. Nevertheless, she continued searching, and searching, and searching–
"--Who's there?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjS38vTIGLR
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It was faint. It could've just been a trick of the mind, or maybe the floor was settling from all the garbage placed onto it. But, she heard a distinct noise. She was sure it wasn't her body making it, or the rustling of her baggage. No, it was a noise of something foreign. So, she spoke out, sharpening her eyes and hearing to where even her heartbeat didn't fall upon her.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNBgqw9Tde
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrV1SJSXLYk
–Again. There it was again. She began crossing out the possibilities. It could no longer be a trick of her mind, nor could it be the settling of the room. Therefore, she asked again.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZGblrV91W5
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"Who's there?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9bcXqd4j58
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She drew her rapier. Her eyes darted around the room. Whatever, or most likely, whoever made the noise, was hiding behind one of the dozens of desks sprawled around.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNo6h8EgvGd
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Therefore–143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPNsKul9ZC6
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1MSCjs2tNA
**SHATTER**143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO9yUXbUgPN
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIZcttbA452
She would attempt to draw them out. And what better way to do so than to cause a little mayhem?143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjUWivlnR7D
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With a series of swift kicks, she shattered the glass boxes in her immediate vicinity and toppled over all the desks and chairs that her limbs could reach. But, even through all the noise and rumbling, she never let her vision drift away from her surroundings.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWmR79EsLfV
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Her hasty action drew out her desired result.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcvAsgUDfNA
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"You're an insolent, deleterious girl, but you have good discretion."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRfK7TmzJKL
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDIGmnFQA4j
A man popped up from a distant set of tables. He grabbed a chair and chucked it, shattering a glass wall in its trajectory toward Rover. She merely kicked the flying object into a wall.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwbYaLpLL60
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"Powerful, too."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHDPGHUEz54
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Rover raised her rapier, brandishing it and pointing it at the man.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE1iOFKiEBM
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"I don't know what deleterious means. Is that supposed to be a compliment?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVqU8FKHJFV
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPVEpsdghOe
"If the poor man who will have to clean up after your mess thinks so, then yes."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcdCFHBmT53
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Rover narrowed her eyes. It wasn't just the fact that he liked to hide, but his articulation infuriated her. She was naturally wary, but holding back the desire to rush in and ravage him was difficult.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQuFbWq8NzR
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She inspected the man's outfit, seeing a large coat, reaching to his ankles. He likely had a set of weapons hidden beneath it. After all, Rover thought, men with hair as kempt as his always carried an excessive deal of weaponry.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgRA8RYTnzk
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"...I don't know how you got up here, but it's obvious that you're a threat. Sorry, I'll have to fight you now."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgVs645lNXQ
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzw1rVNSjZw
The man fiercely unzipped his coat and reached both his hands inside, taking out a duel set of–143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc7ls2WDpkM
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"Crossbows!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyYiAu4TXgK
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Rover's heart sank, but only for a moment. The crossbows weren't big or imposing, and Rover couldn't begin to fathom how he would reload them, meaning that handling them was clunky. It wasn't so different from fighting a mage. At least, it shouldn't have been.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4eYVWgEXBS
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But Rover saw two pillars– or, what could be better described as chimneys –attached to the ends of the crossbow, creeping from the depths of his coat. The man fired them, and Rover evaded them easily, but then another couplet followed, and then another, and another, and another–143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT9BHqfziAS
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"Ngh! How!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTly7Dfb5TP
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She flipped a desk over and used it as a shield, blocking the maelstrom of arrows to little effect. Their momentum was stopped, but the arrowheads happily pierced through the several inches of thick wood, stopping just short of hitting her face. Unfortunately, the cumulative force of the arrows ruptured the table, splitting it in two and forcing Rover to roll away to grab a new one. She went through two more desks before the flurry of arrows ceased. Cold sweat ran down her spine, but with the quantity of her sweat, it would be more accurate to call it a river.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoI6tKVnxPh
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Rover peered over the desk. The man clicked his tongue and put his crossbows back inside his coat, and Rover exhaled in relief. The man dug through his coat and pulled out a large, serrated knife.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk5V4eNemBL
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"I'm a fool, using my crossbows in a place like this where you can simply block them. Arrows don't come cheap."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJh3AYqhnzg
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6QAOKbRXld
"What are you talking to me for? Are we going to fight or not?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xduPrZ8Fg
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"You ought to know the answer by now."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFRBVFvpgES
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The man entered into a restrained fighting stance, taunting Rover by jerking his fingers and telling her to bring it. Rover was more than happy to oblige.
As she ran to the man, bursting through glass walls, she grabbed her parrying dagger and raised it. The man backed away and hopped onto a desk, kicking a chair at Rover. She blocked it with her arms and shoved it aside.
"--Huh?"
The chair had blocked her vision for barely over a second, and yet, the man had disappeared from her view. She frantically looked around the floor but found nobody, likely meaning–
"You're hiding behind a table again!"
With how little time had passed, the man must have been hiding by the desk he stood on. Rover rushed to the desk and kicked it and nearby ones over. Indeed, Rover had found the man, but she also found a ball of water hovering right in front of his palm.
Rover's instincts kicked in and forced her to duck, allowing her to get by with just a few grazed strands of hair. But the man didn't let up, rushing at her with his knife in both hands. Rover backed away from the first thrust, but the man caught up quickly and thrust at her again, forcing Rover to parry it with her dagger.
She'd typically be thrilled about such a situation, as having the opponent's weapon interlocked with her dagger made their movement cumbersome. But his weapon was light and smaller than hers. Rover realized it too late, and thus, the man was able to easily deliver a kick to her abdomen, knocking her away.
She didn't go far, and though the kick hurt, it granted her beneficial information.
"Ack," the man shouted, shaking his foot like he'd stubbed his toe, "that was through a shoe, too! Are you made of iron?"
She smirked. Rover now knew her physical strength was superior to his.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDEP74z2qNK
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"Before we keep going," she started, "what is your name?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZQ0Sw3KuU
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"Hmm? What's this, are you trying to duel me?"
"What else would I be doing!?"
The man lowered his knife for a moment, tapping his chin–
"I decline."
And dashing towards Rover yet again. The split second of rage Rover felt from his response was enough to stun her and allow the man to close the distance. He thrust his knife at her repeatedly, then switched to slashing, the first of which Rover quickly blocked with her rapier. She reacted faster than the man and delivered a kick from the side, but her foot didn't meet with the man's body. Rover looked down and saw the man's free hand open, and a tiny yet dense mass of stone was in between that and her foot.
"Tch!"
She dashed away, shaking her head and clearing her mind, then took the offensive. She poked her rapier at the man, able to stay at a distance where his knife couldn't reach her. The man kept backing away and dodging her thrusts until he collided with a table. Rover smirked, reeling her arm back and stabbing the rapier into the man's leg– but it failed. Instead, the man perfectly blocked the oncoming strike with the flat side of the knife. Rover's eyes widened, the brief moment of disbelief weakening the force she was applying, and allowing to shove her rapier aside. Nonplussed, but more so because of her broken stance, a punch to the face and subsequent kick to the stomach sent Rover rolling across the floor. The glass tore her clothes and dug themselves into her lower legs.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzyH05T0kbr
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"Hrk! Ahh, this sucks!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdaNVTw0pHr
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The prickling pain of dozens of miniature shards lodged into her skin was as oppressive as it was unique. Rover struggled to grit her teeth through it, and more than that, struggled to keep her legs standing straight.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc9eS579yH1
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"Phew. Give up now?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡui7m9cxNfk
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"'Course not, just thinking."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOFWthzzug
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Her rapier was an effective but exploitable tool. She also lost a substantial amount of mobility, and now blood was slowly leaking from her body. The one time she utilized her dagger only led to a counterattack, but that instance was a defensive use.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeQP1rR2NGi
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The man didn't let her analyze the situation unperturbed. He broke into a sprint, yet again clutching his knife in both hands. But Rover had already sheathed her rapier brandished her dagger, and challenged the man's rush.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6685G5LtRF
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The surprise on his face was evident, and he skidded to a stop. Rover weakly slashed at him and the man backed away. She caught the hem of his coat but missed his body. The man didn't rush in again, instead, continuing to back off. He freed one of his hands and began mana expulsion.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKWMDeLwk4K
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"--Shit!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLY25UuXSLu
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Rover realized how precarious the situation had become. After all, if the very thing locomoting her had been impeded, then evasion became a mountainous task.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGz36DCPiGM
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The man must have had a similar epiphany.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Z4fuJj3W0
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It was a blade of wind this time. It was speedy, but Rover could tell that its strength was far less than the water spell from before. Instead of dodging it, she grabbed her rapier, still in its scabbard, and blocked the spell.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrwtxKuBgXk
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"--Huh?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLPN4bhlvxi
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Rover was surprised by her move's effectiveness. Or, rather, she was surprised by how weak the spell was. Then, she lowered the scabbard and looked at the man again, who was preparing a far more voluminous spell.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT1rCtOOE3D
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Before she could even react, she was sent flying.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUJkUvRCUy0
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The spell itself didn't hurt her, but the distance she was flung was simply absurd. She flew across the entire floor, only stopping when making contact with the wall. She slid down, rubbing her back when she met with the floor.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNEpCraDUfj
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"Ngh..."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyKQ5oWllm8
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She got on her feet, using the scabbard to help her rise. Her breathing was heavy, and her vision was becoming hazy.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ020E8x6OHy
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"This just... isn't my day, damn it."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2L2kjw0LUO
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"--Rover!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLt4d5WwjBt
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And then, she was taken out of her exhaustion, if only for a moment. A familiar voice, yet one that should not be here, called out to her. She turned her head to the person with the voice and saw a red-haired boy with a white coat peeking out of the floor's entrance.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJDvzq5pJpI
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"K-Kenny!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxzbliRqsTA
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"Rover– goodness, what the hell happened here!? Actually, nevermind that, listen, you–"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYuwNVGLFLH
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"Sorry, Kenny, I'm in the middle of something here."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlxzqp70j89
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWeztVd4CUx
She straightened her posture and rubbed the saliva off her chin, limping to continue her fight.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIO7dyiY28e
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"What are you doing!? Look at yourself, you're in no state to fight!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡal19y4mW5K
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She turned her head to him, conflicted.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1a5CRCzLqn
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"I... So what, I don't need your help! I've got it under control, it's fine."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxYUKufiCNB
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYqIMhRztTN
Kenny grimaced and pinched his nose. Then, the door opened again, and out from the threshold walked a white-haired woman in a robe.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGpygxV2zv
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"W-who's that," she asked, confusion momentarily overtaking her burning drive.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDx9OfZNDJA
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"Ah, you must be Kenny's friend. We can introduce ourselves later. Please, stand aside for the time being."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTVKSkOVyX7
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"H-Huh?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrNXoKrP25M
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The woman walked with a bold gait, brushing past Rover without even sparing a glance. Kenny ran up to her, gnawing at his finger as he looked over her wounds.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL1CK3KTiJ8
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"You... you are so reckless!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI0SPgSiV0P
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Then, the boy raised his voice, stunning her.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbZgEVEwyvA
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"Why is fighting the first thing you do, huh!? Can't you use that head of yours for something else!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzsbi0VZWVN
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His words, to her surprise, slashed at her egregiously.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIGQ7DbYhmj
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"...T-The hell are you talking about!? What else was I supposed to do!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHBPreIWit
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"Didn't you think of waiting, or running back to me or something!? I could have shown him that note! Or, if nothing else, we could have fought together!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3C9BsoidaW
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"--!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0iWfrGrMni
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His words had left her paralyzed and her mouth agape. Kenny's expression was suddenly tainted by guilt. He exhaled and rubbed his head.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfETUkbucpW
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"Sorry, I'm just a little angry right now. But, I'm glad that you're fine. Relatively speaking."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJzNZUW2Wb1
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBDA6o7gVAV
"I... hmph, of course I'm fine!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNzwm9TY3VN
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A light smile found itself on his face.
"We'll talk later. For now, let's defuse the situation."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpHFQVE0Vy
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsvZsZOJBly
Kenny walked past her but stopped just short of passing her to speak.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc5ZumRiAvX
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"S-Seriously, though. You have no idea how glad I am that you're still alive. I don't know if I could've handled it."
"...Handled it? What do you mean?"
Kenny blinked a few times and shook his head.
"N-Nevermind, I said something weird, ignore that."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9eZCBYZf97
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmsLX8Z3wUH
Rover turned around, eyeing the two new figures in the room. Kenny was behind the mysterious woman with his tendril out and a bellicose stance. The woman had a peculiar two-pronged dagger. Rover found it strange; she knew that they would be trying to talk the situation out, but they were poised to battle at any moment.
"Pars," the woman spoke, "I'll keep it quick. These two are here to deliver a letter issued by the Zariel Kingdom itself. I know you're a stuck-up guy, but please, don't force me to fight alongside them."
"..."
The man didn't immediately respond, but his posture did loosen.
"Stuck-up? Really? What'd I do to get on your bad side?"
"Oh, come on, you know your sins."
The man sighed.
"Is there a reason I should believe them?"
"Why, yes, there is."
Kenny took it as a cue and reached for his pocket, unfolding and showing the note. The man nodded, opened his coat, and placed the knife in.
"That better be authentic. Not like it matters though. It isn't as if I'd win a fight against you Lola."
–
–
–
I had a lingering anxiety during the exchange. After all, Lola had told me that Pars was an obstinate individual. I was left doubting her assessment. Judging by the look on her face, even she was reconsidering it.
Still, though, a victory was a victory, and it deserved some kind of celebration. I spent mine dropping to the floor, narrowly avoiding the sea of glass and panting as the delayed exhaustion set in.
"Phew... that was nightmarish."
I retracted the tendril and wiped the sweat off my brow. A little this sounded beside me, and I turned to find that Rover had joined in my rest.
"You don't look happy," I said.
"Hmph. I've got a sour taste in my mouth. I dunno how to feel about this."
"Well, be glad you're still kicking, and dread the scolding I'll be dishing to you."
"You already gave me a good one, there's no need to waste your energy."
Then, Rover began to pick the glass out of her legs. It was obvious from her wincing that the process hurt. I didn't have a potion on me, but I did have something to soothe her. I took out the tendril and summoned a Soothe-Bloom. Rover looked at it quizzically.
"...So that's the tendril you were talking about."
"Hmm? Did I not show it to you?"
"No! Don't you remember how much of a priss you were about it!? Eh, forget it, what does that flower do?"
"Just watch. Or, listen, I suppose."
The Soothe-Bloom shook, and a gentle chime rang throughout the room. It was a single and quick occurrence, and it left Rover only more perplexed.
"Alright, try picking the glass now."
"Okay."
Much to her nature, she tugged the largest one she could find, her mouth agape at the speed at which the wound was closing.
"W-Woah, it barely hurts. Is this some kind of black magic?"
"Black magic!? Don't insult my plants like that!"
She paid little heed to my demand, continuing to pluck the glass out of her legs. She finished a few minutes later. I offered to wash her legs with water magic, which she accepted when I insisted. Afterward, she got on her feet. Her leg was still injured, but the bleeding had stopped thanks to the Soothe-Bloom.
"I feel... kinda tired, though."
"You just fought somebody and had your wounds speed-healed. I'm surprised you didn't fall asleep."
"Huh? That flower knocks people out?"
"No. Not directly, at least. Anyway, enough of that."
I got up, swiped the debris off my shorts, and walked to Lola and Pars, moving around all the toppled furniture. The two of them were talking about something, but from the little bit I caught, I couldn't distinguish what.
"Hello, kid," Pars started, "Kenny, right? Look, I don't want you to get the wrong idea from Lola here. I'm a decent guy, just a hard worker. She likes to ignore that part, though, which–"
"I do not care about that. I just wanted to know if you two were ready to lead us to the Dean."
Lola let out a chuckle and Pars, a tired sigh. Lola took the initiative in the conversation.
"Don't mind him, he's still young. Whenever your friend is ready, we'll gladly lead you."
I turned my head behind me and looked at Rover. I threw her an oscillating thumb, asking her for an assessment of her condition. She smiled and returned a stern thumbs-up.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3fAb0lcope
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"Looks like we're ready. If you don't mind, though, could you please get her some bandages?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyl0Zy0FbNv
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–
–
–143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI6jYrOvFHf
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Rover and I were at the final stretch. We were walking through the floors of the building like it was a morning stroll, all thanks to our guides. Truly, if it weren't for them, we would have gotten hopelessly lost.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPiG3RPF2xr
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According to Pars, the interior of the Pillars was designed to disorient those unfamiliar with it. Rover spoke from her experience and confirmed that the design worked. The Pillars were perfectly defended from the outside, but hiring someone to infuse their mana for every square inch of the building was an impossible proposition. So, instead, the builders were ordered to make each floor– with the first being a notable exception –like a maze. The walls were also stuffed with foam, which explained how I didn't catch any noise from Rover's fight until I reached the stairs.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPGK1iHEDt2
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Speaking of Rover, she was glum, moody, and seemingly deep in rumination. I thought that it had something to do with her pride since she scratched at her bandages very frequently, but it turned out that they were just made of shoddy fabric that normally irritated skin. I realized that I was overthinking and that it would be best to just ask her, but I hesitated to do it. The mood was gloomy, however. If nothing else, I could claim I was just trying to liven the place up.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtbVyTqYlGs
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"So... Rover, what's on your mind?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2kLiQLH0jm
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"I'm thinking about what you said. Don't talk to me right now."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd1nnaD8K7A
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"O-Oh. Carry on, then."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8VhwIvDYuz
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I was shot down quickly and was left feeling sheepish. Somehow, hearing that she was thinking over my words was foreboding. It scared me into being silent, but I still wanted to talk about something, since simply talking and walking through these floors was nerve-wracking.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv25z9en7yi
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So, I decided that now was a better time than ever to ask a question that had been plaguing me for hours.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkMC5XfurqY
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgVinNmDqrl
"Hey, Lola, do you mind if I ask that question I was talking about?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOSQYNQMPsF
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdterWByYnu
"Hmm? What are you referring to?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpAoFK6HUCW
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG8fFEUKAXB
"...Nevermind. Can I ask you a question?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsOndr4KcVh
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"Of course."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx1bFSc8a3y
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"Hey," Pars interrupted, "Why don't you ask me that question? Come on, give me a try."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ44RKgSJhpt
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I blinked a few times, failing to see any reason why not.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTm8pF8mpAp
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"Very well. What is going on to make the security so tight?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbgFiWrF7bj
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"..."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJCYHMnYBEp
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I was met with silence. Lola and Pars exchanged looks, Pars' expression grim.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi1jOeHhjXu
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"Since they are delivering to the Dean, why don't we–"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN38EX3ayIq
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSq600IayWO
"No. We have been explicitly told not to share. I won't make any exceptions."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3xfXz244IU
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5mb7BgUemo
Lola frowned and let out a tired sigh, rubbing her brow.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNtL94FrhJ0
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"If you can't answer, that's fine. It would ease my anxiety if you did, though."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡABtVq2wB7e
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"Then I suppose I have no choice."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPlSaRRr7nW
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"Lola! Are you kidding me!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgaZyN1cBCN
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Pars glared at Lola, his hazel eyes lit aflame.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfe1kWcg0J6
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"What? They aren't citizens anyhow, they're unlikely to spread the information."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYHUT1kuYu5
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"That's beside the point! We were told not to tell them!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFN2EdnlNH7
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"You are such a priss, Pars."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAPrN9NRg24
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I perked up, hearing that word from someone that wasn't Rover. It was ultimately a coincidence, so I just kept listening.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXOA37UNOf0
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"Hurl your insults, but we can't tell them anything. Even if it wasn't demanded, what if they told everyone in Zariel Capitol, hmm?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5MJiexeh1M
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"That won't happen, and I know you know that."
"Yeah yeah. But it might."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiwNjWdUPgn
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUsnfGkUCKf
Though I didn't see her face, I could by the movement of her head that Lola rolled her eyes.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡft6l4C0E2L
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"I'm going to tell them."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2OWU6roWBz
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"Don't you do it."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq41mKqB3Aa
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"Listen up, Kenny. The reason for the increase in security–"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡutUi2HZoM8
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"Lola, I'm for real about this."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGTqaEHVD22
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPcmwAgFbbQ
"--is because of a series of assassinations."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZFco6iqgjv
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Pars let out an exhausted, lengthy groan. Lola leaned in beside my ear, not giving me a chance to digest the information.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxwwobLOfP1
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"Pars is a pushover, too. Watch, he won't do a thing."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0m1lmKSbcF
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"...Well, cat's out of the bag, so I might as well elaborate. Don't want the kid thinking I'm all fussy too."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEF3UbfvcFt
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Lola's eyes widened. An overwhelming quantity of thoughts were swerving in my mind, but at the very least, I could be sure to never trust Lola's assessments of people's character.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRtQCOrm08r
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"Lola told the truth. There was a series of assassinations just a week ago that happened right under our noses. Assassinations are naturally a cause for concern, but the people who were assassinated are why security is so tight right now."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡovz409qGq5
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"Uh, well, who got killed?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGISJa3Y6mh
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"Three of the four Sherrifs, and three of the eight Officers. Some of the strongest defenders the city has to offer, and half of them were killed. Some of them were my friends, too."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbuMeJbbX1
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His voice became sullen. I was about to comfort him, but he continued speaking before I could.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxeZpPtV0HC
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2c0LsbEdUh
"I'm an Officer, and Lola here is a Sherrif. Since we're prime targets, we've been living in this Pillar for the past few days, having the Head Guards on watch duty. The other pillars are in a similar situation. Let me tell you, this place sucks to crash in."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp12nwBGNLc
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"I-I see."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgFFZ3FFE6
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The explanation put everyone's behavior into perspective. Frankly, it made me surprised that they believed me and Rover so readily, even with the letter. I felt lucky.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3gLveSD6dn
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡScGKK6gtA4
"The worst part is that we don't have any suspects, let alone culprits," Lola spoke, "It's been nothing but hassle and heartbreak."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJU4I1for2
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"...You have my condolences."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv5Da10g4pv
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"Thank you, Kenny. You're sweet."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXrVVjGirk9
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"Mmm."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLYq0Zpclxj
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I suddenly began to admonish myself for the previous frustrations I had about this mission. I cleaned my slate and loosened my muscles.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmZ8UVDvLTC
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"Alright, we've made it.'
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyzNZJjebfZ
And then, we stood before a set of double doors. Not particularly grand, but certainly not shabby. There was a plaque above it with "Dean's Office" written in bold.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9jtKxnJuG0
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"I'll ease us in," Pars said, "It's time to utilize my expert charisma."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8xnHol7zM6
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9X92slvseA
"You need to stop talking," Lola replied in a deadpan while Pars flung the doors open. Lola walked into the room. Rover and I followed, but I stopped right beside Pars while Rover went ahead. It looked like he was on the brink of tears, but erased the look once he noticed I was looking at him.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb3V0io2MK3
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"Hey, Kenny. Do you think I'm unfunny?" He asked, pointing a finger at his chest.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy3Jp3LFMOh
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"...Well, you haven't made me laugh."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7q4eudPP1Q
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"Come on, kid. I can't even get a 'yet?'"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxWIBtREQ9j
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I shook my head and walked away from him, rejoining with the others. They were standing before a lengthy and opulent desk. An older man flipping through documents and stacks of paper stopped his activities to look up at us, raising an eyebrow.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpRLT3fju7y
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"Sherrif Nico, you bring along unfamiliar faces. I assume that they are here for good reason?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSsX6zpZfP
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"Of course, sir. Here, you two, give him what you must."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4CYuCIkGZy
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She signaled me and Rover to pull out our cargo, and we obliged. I grabbed the package from Rover's hands and delivered it with the note on top, placing it on the Dean's desk.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFQIHwyC6qx
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"..."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRjy8zUEEDs
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He looked at me as if he was expecting something. I realized that he likely wanted elaboration.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6VAwzIqWIv
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"U-Uhm, we're here on official business, sent by the Zariel Kingdom. All necessary information should be listed in the note, and–"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp9Jh3by7S9
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"I see, thank you. I'll see to the letter being delivered."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq2sOysg1cD
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The man took the package and placed it aside, giving me a novel smile.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNX976LntQ
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"You two are free to go. Sheriff Nico, Officer Abbas, please escort them back."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ97mtnz7741
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdFlRRGFXRe
I looked back at Rover, who was brimming with a giant smile. I couldn't help but copy it. I walked up to her and held my palm up, and she slapped it powerfully.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGan5Ppg4s6
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmIZVHYozM0
"Nice," she shouted, "Good job," I yelled. We weren't quite in sync, but our points crossed over.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb9Erk4uTRZ
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We had completed the mission.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeqIkVLOFLa
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–
–
–
The trek back was quiet but laden with good spirits. Rover and I commemorated our job well done with silent exchanges of looks and gesticulations. We separated with Pars and Lola once we reached the first floor, and Rover and I practically sprinted to the exit.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBQgPFdtXWU
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When we got out, we were blasted by fresh air and a breath-taking sunset. It was so invigorating that I didn't even pant from the running. Truly, it was the best of times.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO0LyMNxbGL
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"One last high-five, Kenny!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjeKKxpEZ0n
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"Alright alright, geez."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡevrdMc97sY
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Despite my tone, I reciprocated the gesture with a smile.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwGnLWj3da9
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"I can't wait to see Juke's face," Rover continued, "He's gonna look like a such a dolt."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa7pkt28LXi
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ62ewHLErnc
"I'm just glad that we're done. Let's meet up with him and leave this place."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEMn1U0EIr9
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUpMuCNHKHA
Nodding along to my suggestion, Rover and I began to exit the premises of the Pillar. Mason wasn't here, and neither was anyone by the fence, but that didn't deter the start of our footslog. We passed through the tiny gated entrance and traversed the streets. Surprisingly, the hustle and bustle I've grown accustomed to was absent, but I was in such a good mood that I didn't bother to think about it.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbQ0ST5xXf
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"...This is quite convenient. I feel like I'm flying, and nobody's here to block me."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvrXRdO4Om
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"Huh? What are you talking about?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwjqElyPUvM
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"I'm talking about the crowd, or the lack thereof I suppose. It's nice, being able to travel here with some peace and quiet."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbsCjOfFncm
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She looked conflicted about my statement.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0j6WG5CBge
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"I dunno, it just feels creepy to me, but I can see where you're coming from."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeo7Ynh9Xm8
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"Our dispositions are just too different. It's not much of an issue."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvNHViVLwJa
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"Dispositions...? What?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUV54VfkFed
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"Uh... our natures, basically."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUpZIiWebcY
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"Ah, why didn't you just say that then!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUpAgcjor47
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I answered her with a shrug, which elicited a stern huff out of her. We walked in silence afterward, giving me a chance to mull over her words.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcmTZB8TiXX
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I could understand why she would think it was creepy, especially considering how busy it was not too long ago. But at the same time, it was the evening, so it made sense.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4PGXU2HI3x
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But, as I briefly looked into the passing alleyways, failing to spot a single soul, I wondered if the time of day was the whole picture.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWWNexBG7Bw
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"Hey, Kenny, I think I made up my mind."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NdLUmtAen
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She pulled me out of my rumination.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI6WHa0Ytrt
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"About what?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhKx3KUWyII
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"About what you said."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOY1jkhdLbQ
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A speck of dread entered my body, but I kept my ears open all the same.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ95bjCGocss
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"Well, what is it?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR14R5klm0K
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHyYtlCyTNf
"See, when you said that thing about fighting the guy together, that stumped me. I already told you that I used to only work alone, so it didn't even cross my mind."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJh1XCCNqxg
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"Right."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmiBzkYhQGg
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"So I decided that I'm gonna consider the idea. If I can, then I'll gladly work with people. I just hope that it won't have to be with a priss. If it is, then I'd rather not work with anybody."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYp2eT8dFK9
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"..."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2KJyXgoFXU
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Somehow, I was left disappointed. Certainly, I was glad that she opened her mind to the idea of collaboration, but I was upset that she didn't address any aspect of her recklessness. Her wording struck me as dubious. 'Consider the idea?' Really? I set those thoughts aside, and for this one moment, I let it slide. I didn't want to trample upon either of our moods. Instead, I shot her a thumbs-up with a neutral expression.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt5MJYctqLu
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"That's great."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyHz2Dz4Jjp
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She thumped her chest proudly. And so, we returned to silently roaming the streets, moseying down to our inn–
"Kenny."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwn555NuVcb
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC3BcN63rzB
"Uh, what's the matter?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPEDE3IlpG
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9t6mhCykJA
Rover suddenly stopped moving and called my name. Her face was grave. It made my hair stand at its end.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR8MyAJ5aLS
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQSxKiD5K6Y
"Don't you hear that?" She asked, curling her palm around the back of her ear. I copied the gesture, but still, the silent street remained the same.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEd7vRyrpkK
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"I can't say that I do."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡydY7GQHu7z
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8OBSgMLKCp
Her face morphed into one of irritation. She suddenly clasped my arm and began to drag me away.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLptibetOll
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"W-Woah, what are you doing!?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP94CNTiCR0
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"Just trust me here!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡizhgTCgzFt
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Her sentence, mixed with a pleading one with gravity, shut me up. She let go of her grip, but I followed her to wherever it was that she was taking me. We diverted from the main street, weaving between alleyways and even climbing walls. And, as I progressed further and further into the depths of the city, I began to hear a noise.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29ZZVmbuOa
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It sounded like chatter.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRAEEJ8wVnq
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Tens of minutes passed by the time we finished. Rover stopped by the edge of an alley, motioning me to do the same. I peeked around the corner and laid eyes upon a plaza brimming with people. The sheer number was overwhelming, likely in the hundreds– no, even in the thousands. I couldn't make an accurate assessment, so I gave up on it, instead focusing on the surroundings. I noticed that the crowed had gathered around a stage. The stage had dozens of figures in robes.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjlPCwM0WvK
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"Kenny, wait here."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Z3ndHBGTL
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"Huh? Why?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnwksvsg66Y
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She didn't respond. Instead, she crept out of the alley and took a left turn. I heard a thud, and a minute later, she returned with an unconscious body locked between her elbows.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc6XdRf2IGF
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"W-Wha–"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEi78AVI4tl
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"Shhh! Shut up!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgehRw32WNN
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I wanted to protest, but the appearance of the robe caught my eye. It was lengthy fitted with a hood. But, most of all, I noticed its distinct dark blue color. Rather, it was a distinct color until I laid my eyes on it at that moment.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO1OzUKGPu4
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"This is..."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCWxHxcemNv
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"Something fishy is going on here."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9T98212YsK
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I couldn't voice the connection I made, but my mind still thought it, and it horrified me. It paralyzed me and left me standing there like a fool. Rover paid no heed to it. She likely thought that I was spectating the ceremony, much like herself. I couldn't call her assessment inaccurate.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1OfGdesrIQ
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbcuLxDPQrL
Two halves of my brain worked separately. One focused on the robe, the other, on the stage. A woman in baggy clothing walked up to the podium, the crowd quieted down.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ20ika4EDTG
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"Alright, can you all hear me?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH0YkgIYzgr
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhN0dzYgJkl
I noticed that around her baggy clothing, she wore the same robe. No, it wasn't the same robe as this random man, but the one robe that I truly had seen before, the one robe that I associated with an entirely different person. It was the robe–
"I don't want to waste my time, so I'll keep it brief. I am Hard-Bringer's Harbinger of Rage, and we're seizing this city!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4sV8k6l38e
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdR5Fu4ya5h
It was the same robe that Ng wore.
and then Add to home screen.