"Saya, it's me, Sova. I finally recovered."

"Sova? You can't fool me even with that scar and headband. Now tell me where's the real Sova is. Just for the record, he values that headband very much, I wouldn't wanna know what he'll do to you when he knows."

(Wait, what kind of person do you think I am?)

"No, I really am Sova, it's just that my healing modified my entire body by a bit- no a lot."

With steel and gunpowder. Doubt, confusion, and suspicion from their glance. I wonder what can I do to prove my innocence. Now my friend and companion have turned their blade onto me.

"At least tell me how I can prove I'm really me."

I try to plead and prove I really am... Me. Saya shakes her head with a smile plastered on her face replying:

"I think you're making a big mistake on your part. I think it's pretty easy to mistake him for a girl but I can assure you, Sova still has a semblance of a man... Well to my eyes. And you are clearly a woman, your disguise won't work. But good try, so give it up."

"Huh?" I replied baffled by her reply.

I shake my head saying:

"I am... Still a man."

Saya smirks from ear to ear replying:

"Heh, prove it."

(I knew it!)

The soldiers lean forward with their eyes opening so wide I could notice them even as they wear their helmets along with how I hear them breathing heavily. The General turns away but steals glances from time to time while Saya folds her arms and puff up her chest as she has won. As for me, I can only fall to my knees in defeat...

(I mean I know I'm a man but... But... This is just too embarrassing!)

"F-fine... But... But only if you're the one to see it!"

I shout but saya clicks her tongue while pointing her fingers at me replying:

"Tch, tch, tch, you think I'm stupid enough to leave myself with an enemy? Besides, if you're a man. I'm sure it's not that bad since the soldiers behind me are all men."

She turns her back to me and raises her hands high to the sky shouting:

"Am I right or AM I RIGHT!?"

"YES MY LADY!!!"

The soldiers replied with absolute vigour. But the General shakes her head in disappointment saying:

"You guys are just hopeless, isn't there already a brothel on our neighbouring city? Since all of you are already this uncontrollable, I guess I got no choice but to stay and keep a check on you guys... Yes, I have no choice. No choice, INDEED."

(So they're all staying! Wait! There's still that way... I mean if I'm right, I could be saved... Oh! Let my bluff be right!)

I took a deep breath as I stand, I let the words go by saying:

"Saya, you saw my spirit weapon back in the train right?"

Saya narrow her eyes and fold her arms saying:

"Hmmm, go on."

"What if I show you my soul weapon? Each person's weapon is supposed to be unique to each other right?"

Saya looks at me with a frown and sighs.

"Fine, I guess that works too."

"Dammit!" "Noooo" "Why!!! Oh Why!" "Damn you!" "Argh, you cockblocker!" "My chance is all gone!!!" "If only our battalion has female soldiers too!"

"Shut up you louts! You still have your hands, use it!"

(Hands? What does she mean?)

The General silence them with a shout but looks at me a little tad disappointed. Saya closes her eyes and opens them again as she realizes something. She smiles ear to ear and looks at the General asking:

"General, you have a soul weapon right? Is what she's saying true?"

(Wait, Saya. Could you realize it's actually me and you're just playing dumb to... Oh no you don't!)

"Wait, Saya, please! Don't tease me like this! I'm finally healed and this is how you treat your friend!?"

Saya looks at me replying:

"What are you talking about? We don't know each other. I had my fun, and since you're not cooperating. Guards, seize her!"

The General looks at Saya with a confuse look saying:

"What? W-wait-"

"Our pleasure!"

The guards rush from their position voluntarily, ignoring their General's orders and formation. I quickly get into a battle stance and raise my focus.

(Dammit, I can't stabilize my qi and the fact I can't use magic means I can only use my martial skills and physical strength. But I wonder if the new strength Mary give me can beat multiple people? I'm fudged!)

But before they arrive, someone came infront of me and shouts:

"[Spiked ice wall]"

Cold mist materializes to a wall with spikes and the caster grabs my waist and throws me through the small window where the air and light come from. Seeing how I'm high above the ground, fear clutches my heart and freezes me.

"Oh, schnitzel!"

As I begin to fall, I feel someone grabbing the collar of my robe and pulls me back. After taking a better look, it's the girl I defeated back in the train. She raises her arm and aims her palm at the ground shouting:

"[Create Ice]"

I feel a cold breeze from below me and soon, a slide materialize and we both slide where the ice is going. The slide went past the high walls, flinging far beyond the giant steel walls and into the forest beyond. Plunging on the bushes to cushion our landing. She finally lets me go saying:

"A-are you okay? They didn't do anything to you right?"

She touches my face and shoulders to check for any wounds. I shake my head saying:

"No, I'm okay."

She nods with a face saying, "good" before standing back up and looking around the forest. I stand up asking what cames to my mind first.

"The real question is why did you help me?"

The girl looks down with sadness in her eyes replying:

"How could I not? A girl is about to be assaulted by a group of guys..."

She narrows her eyes looks at me closely saying:

"Even if she's an Owlian. After all, we're all human in the end."

(Wait? Then...)

"Then tell me, why... Why did you do all those things?"

"Huh?"

She looks at me as if she's asking "What do you mean?" And "Do we know each other?", before long, she opens her eyes wide as she realizes something and continues saying:

"I see, so you're also part of the refugees during the siege of Ruan But... You got it wrong, I was there during the public execution but I don't have any part in any of the Golden Phoenix Princesses' schemes!"

"Huh?"

She stands up and turns her back to me saying:

"When you live your entire life being told what to do. You realize it's suddenly hard to make your own decisions. I never want to be part of either side but tell me, if your family is in danger. Do you need a reason to risk your lives to save them?"

"That's..."

(I would've done the same, especially now that I'm doing this for them).

"For now, we don't have time to chat. This place is very dangerous. I was captured by a very powerful foe none I ever heard or saw. Not even if the remnant forces united by Yuenyi would stand a chance. He adorns the garb of a very high-ranking officer and has mysterious powers."

She grabs my hand and pulls me away, as we went past the bushes and trees she continues saying:

"The worst part is that he doesn't have any magic presence nor any qi for some reason, so I was surprised attack back then. His description is eerily similar to those phantasmal Silencers from Legends of Inner Central. I don't know how you got captured but if we meet him again, we don't stand a chance so we must leave now!"

She runs away dragging me along with her as she explains. I halt my tracks and pull her back. As I was expecting a lot of resistance, she easily got drag back by me.

"I think you misunderstand."

I try to explain but she looks at me with a face of disbelief and an innocent smile soon form replying:

"You're actually very strong. But you can save your explanation later-"

"I'm sorry, but... Do you even know where we're going?"

(No, I shouldn't fight. I shouldn't if I can halt any bloodshed from happening by lying... Then I'll gladly do so. She seems to have her own circumstances but there is no proof in what she says. Is she really an enemy to Sis Yuwei? But the train incident... She tried to kill Saya...)

She holds her wrist saying:

"Ah, well I know it may look desperate and all. And I know this might sound weird since we just met but please, trust me."

With a frown, she stands again dusting her noble robe and hold her heart as she says the last sentence.

(Should I give it a go? To try your best and talk it out instead of fighting like what Sis said. Sure, we didn't start talking on the train but... Who knew that Sis Rubeca's advice includes so much lying...)

I nod at her with a smile saying:

"I see... Then please lead the way."

She smiled and nod excitingly saying:

"Yes!"

She grabs my hand again and continues running to the bushes. As she looks back she starts saying:

"I'm sorry for grabbing your hands like this all the time but I don't want you to get lost."

(Follow up...)

I shake my head replying:

"It's okay. I understand."

She gives a kind smile and replies:

"Great! I guess you already know me as the blue feather among the gold princess' group but my name's Riyue Lanhuang, may I know yours."

With a cheerful smile, she introduces herself.

(Lanhuang? As the Blue Phoenix family? Weird, I thought she was gonna introduce herself like a noble. Maybe because we're in a tight situation).

I nod feeling the guilt of lying pressing on my heart...

(I wonder why didn't I feel so bad when I lied to Rana about Aoi).

"My name's... Sova... Sova Anmao."

She looks at me with confusion saying:

"Sova Anmao? Oh! Is that the writing in your headband? And Anmao huh? Never heard of it... But you have a family name! Well, I guess that's kinda given with your looks. In fact, I'm surprised that you're not invited to be part of the royal harem."

I twist my head a little saying:

"Royal harem?"

"Huh? You don't know?"

She looks back at me with a confused look and soon shows another surprised look again saying:

"Ah, I understand now! Yes... Your parents probably don't want you to be a mere gem for a man and how you manage to get escape the siege, coupled with the fact you're an Owlian means that they sacrifice their connections with Libera's church means that...

She looks away from me and continues saying:

"I wish my parents were as selfless and caring as yours..."

She quickly looks back at me waving her free hand saying:

"Ah, forgive me, I didn't mean to dishearten you. Our situation is quite grim but I'll make sure to get us out alive!"

She stops as we reach what seems to be a steel wall with mould and vines growing on its surface. She touches the wall as if trying to find something...

(Ah, I know!)

I step on the ground and start using my acute hearing senses. And soon, I realize how much my hearing has improved than before.

(I can sense it... I can sense everything easily even from hundreds of miles away. The hollow tunnels made by the wildlife, the underground water veins, the shrooms that grow inside the tree, even the nest of the insects where they all hide and so much more. This is nuts! Mary's enhancements are ridiculous! I wonder how much it affected my strength since she said something about condensed muscles?)

I sense the sound that echoes through the walls and realizes, it's hollow. And there's a weird mechanism connected to a certain part of the wall... I walk beside Riyue, grabbing the mould and vines to rip it apart with brute strength, which proves to be easy feat now. There, a certain circle mark appears that's filled with roots, mould and shrooms.

"Wow, you're strong! I'm surprised you could pull so much strength with such slim arms and without qi. And that thing you did, you can use echolocation too?"

She walks closer and continues saying:

"You're so amazing. Your parents must really love you."

She bites her thumb and as her blood drips, she presses her thumb on the button. The button shines blue and a gate opens up beside her. She quickly grabs my hand again and pulls me inside. The door closes as we both enter and bright lights flashed before my eyes before dimming down. This place looks like some kind of bunker corridor with white magic crystals lighting up the place. There's no sign of plant life inside and it's only filled with dust. With only big writings, written in...

"Owlian?"

"Oh! Do you know how to speak Owlian? Oh, silly me, you're an Owlian, so it's quite normal for you to speak your native language."

As she lets me go and continue walking, I follow suit and look at the writings on the wall,

[Sector A-21]

Looking at the ceiling where the light comes from, there's a sign saying,

[Hexa]

"Hexa? What does that mean?"

(Is it Hexa as in six-sided?)

She stops and looks back at me saying:

"Hehe, I guess good deed are really paid in kind."

"What do you mean... Um, Ms Riyue."

"Heh, please, just call me Riyue. I don't deserve such honorifics now."

"O-oh, I see. Alright then."

"Good, so I'll just call you Sova too..."

She scratches her head and leers her eyes away from me saying:

"To be honest, I can't speak or know how to read anything but Runician and the common tongue so..."

"We're going to get lost huh?"

My shoulders suddenly feel heavy as she says that. She pats my shoulder and gives me a thumbs up saying:

"Don't worry, If we work together we can get out of here! If there's one thing I'm proud of is my sense of direction and geography. They don't call me the whiz of geography for no reason! Well, that was until Yuwei beat me to it at school. The way she can see different things with both her eyes and the way is just creepy."

(Sis can do that? She's becoming even more amazing. Now the old image I have of her is disappearing little by little the more I know her. Except when she's drunk back when I reunite with her. She's still quite the same).

She looks away with a bitter taste in her mouth while clenching her fist. She takes a deep breath and calms herself down.

"Let us continue."

She gestures me to follow as she continues ahead. I follow suit until she stops again on a ladder. As she looks down, she gulps loudly and tries her best to smile, but worry is written all over her face.

"Mhm, let's continue."

She slowly grabs the ladder and descends down.

(I really don't like this).

I hastily follow her and grab the ladder and not look down. As I descend while looking up, Riyue strikes a conversation saying:

"Sova, it's kinda bothering me but don't you think it's weird that this place is written in Owlian?"

(Maybe she's trying to lower the tension by conversing. Yes, that's a good idea).

"Now that you mention it, it does."

"Right! I heard this place was supposed to be a sacred place known only by the Phoenix family only. But why is it written in Owlian? Does that mean our ancestors were Owlian? But if so, why aren't we Owlians too? After all, anyone who has is Owlian Descent are cursed to never use magic. And if not, does that mean we're the invaders? Or maybe there's something else going on?"

(That's a first to me. I mean if that's the case, what does that make me? Or Sis Rubeca? Or is qi not magic too?)

"Well, to be honest, I don't think I can answer anything you just said. I mean, I'm clueless myself."

"Yeah, that makes sense. Oh, how long does this ladder take."

"Please don't say that."

"Hmm? What's wrong?"

"Well... High heights make me uncomfortable."

(Yea, I guess even if I'm not frozen in fear, my body still feels uncomfortable).

"Ah, I see, I guess we can talk more."

"Yes please do!" I respond with vigour.

"Why? You scared of heights?"

"N-no... Maybe."

My eyes wander off as I say that.

"Aren't you just adorable! Alright, I'll talk. But only if you tell me about yourself a little. And then, I'll let you ask about me... Just to make sure, you're not tired already right?"

"No, it's okay. I have trained enough by traversing mountains and hills.

"Oh! So you study martial arts?"

"Yea. Though honestly, I'm still quite lacking."

"Don't put yourself so low! You're amazing!"

Feeling my cheeks getting warm, I look up replying:

"Um, thanks..."

"So you've managed to awaken! Heh, my respect for you just change dramatically believe it or not."

"Really?"

"Of course! Do you know how much practitioners have to risk their lives to awaken. It's a once in a lifetime chance where if you fail you will have a high chance of dying from the weakening or my father and brother call it the soul-devouring."

"Ah, I guess Angie did say something about that."

"Angie? Is that your master?"

"Huh? Oh, no. My Master is actually my Sister-"

(Oh wait! Am I suppose to tell her so much!)

"I really envy you. I wish I could be a Martial Artist too."

Surprised by her remarks, I look back- but stop midway saying:

"You're not a practitioner?"

"Sadly no. I'm not brave enough to take the risk. So I settled in by being a sorcerer instead."

"Really? I've been wondering if there really is a cure for that weakening disease? I mean you're part of the royalty right? From what I heard, all nobles are actually practitioners. Shouldn't your family know something? If not, how are there so many practitioners when it's such a double edge blade."

"That's... Probably has to do with our massive population that it looks a lot. Believe it or not, I heard that in all the Confederation, around 23-47% of the population are actually practitioners. And yes, most of them are actually nobles and someone connected to them or maybe even geniuses and those rare self-taught warriors. And the reason all nobles is that all royal family in the Confederation has a way to cure the weakening effect. But it's very costly and especially to the youngest like me. I heard rumours and tales that many families would force their children to awaken and if they fail, they would simply kill and replace them. Luckily for me, my parents were not like that and with my genius brother, most of the resources are for helping him. I heard he manage to break through the Enlightened stage and reach the rank of True Practitioners when Yuwei finally reaches my Sector."

"Oh..."

(Doesn't that mean...)

"I'm sorry for your lost."

"No, no, it's okay. Just know that I admire those who take risks."

(Hmm... Maybe I should cheer her up- wait a minute! Aren't I getting too chummy with the enemy! Well, I went this far already, so might as well).

"For me, I think using magic is like more amazing than qi you know."

"Heh, stop with your sympathy."

"No, I'm really not! The way you make your ice magic is very amazing!"

"Heh, right. Then tell me what's so great?"

"Well, first off, I think it's very awesome how you were able to do all those things with your ice magic. I wish I could do all that! I mean, imagine how versatile it is! I could probably use that magic to give some cold air during the summer heat. Though to be fair, there's only summer and rainy seasons in the Phoenix Sector."

"Now that you mention it, I guess that's true... But that's not convincing."

"Next is that slide thing you summon to escape. Imagine how awesome it would be to use that on an open field and play to your heart's content. It will be a free joy ride!"

"Well... Really?"

"Yea! Not only that, for me personally, I really like the snow. Every year, my Sister would return home and take me to wonderful places filled with mystic and wonder. And the one that catches my eyes the most if the Ice tower of Fordodeva. As the snow falls from the dark sky that's showered with stars. The moon would shine above the tower and project a small girl wearing a traditional Runician dress. As the moon moves every second, the girl would start with a bow and continue to move and dance around the tower, her moves were so mesmerizing beneath the natural yellow glow. I would just watch and follow her around and before I knew it, it was already dawn. And that's when I heard that wonder was built by an ice sorcerer. It is said that the girl will dance differently for which moon that shines and how many moons that shine on the tower. Sadly, I also heard that when you look at her, a piece of music is supposed to play in your ear too but since I'm an Owlian, I can't hear it."

"Wow... I... I never heard such a tower existed. I've been following Yuenyi and holed up in my house for so long I never bothered to go on an adventure... Thanks, Sova, magic can really be amazing."

(I feel like, she's feeling better now...)

With a smile, I continue saying:

"I know right! I mean another personal one for me is that I also heard since that you can create water and ice from nothing, doesn't that mean I can learn magic and create a bowl of shave ice filled with all kinds and toppings and eat it all myself!"

"Pfff, hahaha! Oh, Sova, please, you're a lady, don't say such boorish acts! Alright, I guess that is pretty... Neat. So you like sweets huh?"

"Of course! They're my favourite food to eat. I wish I can use those kinds of magic. Imagine all the things I can do with it! And that's only using the ice element."

"That's true but I guess you really don't understand magic."

"I get that a lot."

"Okay, okay, I give. Magic is pretty neat when you say it like that. So you're a glutton huh?"

I look above my shoulders saying:

"Well, not really. I mean I only eat until enough."

"Are you sure? From the way you speak, I thought you eat when you're bored kinda type of person. Come on, don't lie. I'll be honest myself, I actually ask my caretaker to sneak some sweets into my room when no one is watching you know."

"Well, I rarely get bored since I'm forced to study in my spare time so when I get free time, I stuff myself with sweets as some kind of rewards for enduring so hard."

"You too? Wow, we're so alike- oh! We've reached the floor."

"Finally!"

As I hear her footsteps. I jump down and feeling my feet touching the ground, a sense of relief surge in my body.

"Whew~"

I let out my tension with a huge breath and look ahead of this narrow corridor. When I look at Riyue, she nows looks at me happy and calm eyes. With an enthusiastic smile she continues saying:

"I feel like we're going to get along just fine. Come, my senses are telling me that we're close to a checkpoint. Maybe, we can rest there before moving on."

"Right. Lead the way."

(It feels really weird how just moments ago, I was fighting her for my life and now I'm talking to her like we're close friends... Well, having friends is not so bad. After all, talk it out first and if we can befriend them then that's even better. But is it worth it if your friendship is built upon lies?)

As she sallies forth, I follow suit and she looks back at me again saying:

"This is the first time I actually talk so freely like this. It feels very nice. Once again, Thank you, Sova."

I smile at her saying:

"Don't be. I'm glad we can get along."

As we pass a giant hall with six branching ways. Riyue stops in the middle and looks around. I look around too and found that there are signs above each tunnel.

(Sector A-21, that's where we just enter).

I look at the other tunnels and see more signs,

(Armory, Diner, accommodations, Sector A-22, and Sector E-1... From A to E, isn't that a pretty big jump?)

"So, do you understand what they're saying?"

Riyue asks me as she walks close to one of the tunnels. I point at the tunnel with the Diner sign saying:

"That one leads to a diner."

"Diner you said!? Perfect- I mean, are you hungry Sova?"

"For someone who calls someone else a glutton, aren't you one yourself?"

"Touch some wood! Just so you know, it's already at the end of brunch and I haven't eaten anything since yesterday! My tum tum is absolutely livid!"

"O-oh, sorry, I guess we could eat."

"Right! And since we're both ladies, I needn't tell you we shouldn't divulge our intentions upfront you know?"

I shake my head saying:

"I'm actually a guy. So I don't need to follow such customs."

"Pfff, nice try. But you ain't deceiving anybody. You're not that desperate are you?"

(I guess I should just stop saying that. I feel like it will never work).

Riyue waves her hand as if she saying, "No way!", and look at where I'm pointing saying:

"That is if there's even any food left anyway."

I nod replying:

"Let's hope so."

She went ahead first to where I point and I follow suit.

(Why do I have a feeling this is gonna take long?)

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

"I wonder how long have we walk? I've seen the Diner sign on the wall more than 5 times already," I whine as I ask.

"We've been walking a straight tunnel without a fork so it's safe to assume we're on the right track. Unless the signs are wrong."

Riyue slouch forward as she replies. The long, wide and tall corridor stretch endlessly beyond. It's all that we see... Or probably this is another illusion like last time?

"Say, Riyue?"

"What is it, Sova?"

"Do you think this is an illusion? Like a trap?"

"What makes you say that?"

I hold the scar beneath my left eyes saying:

"Just my intuition."

She looks at me with a gloom and faces away saying:

"I see, do not worry. I sense no magic nor does my pendant react, so there's no spirit in play either."

"Pendant?" I ask curiously.

"Yes..."

She turns to face me and pulls out a pendant from her neck. It's a beautifully decorated piece of work that combines multiple pieces of jewellery and looks very expensive.

"Sova, do you see the white gem in the middle?"

"Mhm."

In the centre of all the jewellery is one gem that looks like a pearl.

(To be honest, I can't tell the difference. I'm not an expert nor do I particularly care).

Riyue points at the gem saying:

"This is a spirit's heart. They say when a spirit left this world in peace, they left behind a piece of mementoes to the kind person that helps. That item if refined and polished, it will show it's core and that's this gem."

"Wow..."

I look at the gem closer and realize that there's actually qi inside of it. Riyue place it back in her robe saying:

"Though it can be used as many things and sometimes a material to forge weapons, arrays, and et cetera. I use it as a detector. When a malicious spirit is nearby, the gem will turn black since it's very easily corrupted by their presence and the necklace will start to shake too. But as of now, it's not."

"That's amazing and magical... How did you even get such a thing?"

"Ah... If I have to be honest, this necklace was supposed to be my brother's."

"Huh? So it's not yours?"

Confused, I ask again to confirm but she shakes her head gently replying:

"It was supposed to be a charm to protect my brother but seeing how I want it so much, he gave it to me and ask me to keep it a secret from my parents and friends."

She clenches the necklace from outside her robe as she shows a solemn smile and her eyes tearing up.

"S-Sorry for making you remember something sad!"

I apologise but she shakes her head once more replying:

"No, it's okay... Say, why not tell me about your story? Seeing how much of my momentous events involves tragedy. Forgive me for being insensitive but mind telling me how you acquire that scar in your face?"

"My scar? You mean the one under my left eye?"

"Yes... Wait, the way you said it, does that mean you have more scars!?"

I raise my headband and hair to show my forehead saying:

"Recently I got one in the forehead if what she said is true."

"Aritiyuwata!" Riyue covers her mouth as she screams.

(Aritiyuwata? Is that the name of a powerful entity I never hear about? Maybe I should learn more about the Theocracy since I'm going there).

Riyue slouches forward even further as if her spirit break saying:

"Sorry..."

She looks away from me and covers her face as she said that. I put my headband back and reply:

"It's okay-"

"No, it's not okay!"

Riyue shouts and looks at me with a tearful gaze. She stops in her tracks and grabs both my cheeks with both her hands saying:

"A women's face is her life in the Confederation. You... How are you so strong?"

(Huh?)

"Me?" I point at myself and gesture no saying, "Sorry, but I'm not strong. I've seen someone else who's much, much stronger than me. All I'm able to beat are someone who's way weaker than me. In fact, as of now, I lost control of my qi and I can't cultivate for a while."

"No... That's not what I mean."

Riyue shakes in disbelief and looks at me eye to eye asking:

"Tell me, why do you still want to live?"

"Of course I want to live! What kind of question is that!?"

I shout in anger at her. She opens her eyes wide and lets me go replying:

"No! That doesn't make sense! You lost your family, your home, your future, your cultivation, and if I didn't save you, you'll lose your purity be used by those brutes till they're bored to sell or just kill you. Coupled with how you're an Owlian, your future is very narrow and grim. Especially with the rumour that the Aologi Empire is gone, you lost a safe haven where you can go! You lost everything and even your future. Tell me, where did you get the will to live? If it was me, I would just commit suicide-"

"Don't take your life for granted like that! Just because you lost something doesn't mean you can't make something new. Besides, I didn't lose everything. I still have someone I need to meet. I still have something I can do. I still have something I need to find out. If there is something I heard from my sister is that if there is no chance, then create the chance by yourself! If the iron's not hot, then make it hot by striking and make your chance!"

I grab her shoulders intercepting her words.

(I wonder why people keep making assumptions about me? Still, if my Sis didn't tell me that... I probably wouldn't finish my training with her during my last week).

Riyue looks at me with gentle eyes and smile. Brushing my hands away, she continues walking ahead and doesn't look back anymore.

Like so, we continue is silenced.

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

Soon, we arrive at the diner. Well, it's more of a storage room with a few tables and chairs. Lines upon lines of food is presented before us.

(I wonder if it's spoiled?)

We split up and look at the shelves and crates. I take a grey jar and take a look at its content...

"What is this grey substance?"

I use my finger to swipe the grey stuff but as my finger sunk deep, golden light pours out blinding my eyes.

"Woah!"

I open them again and look closely... It's... It's...

"Yurnari!"

"What!?"

Riyue shouts and sprints close.

(It's inside is... Gold! No, it's Fermented Yurnari. Just like honey, it never spoils but more than honey, Yurnari actually ferments. I don't know the science behind this since I never paid attention to May's explanation about food but all I know the core stuff is that the Yurnari glows brighter and more delicious the older it is!)

"How long has this food been store here?"

Riyue gets beside me and snatches the jar from my hand. She gets rid of the grey stuff covering the food, not before casting some water magic to clean her hands. She takes a taste of the Yurnari with her finger and smiles ear to ear as her eyes twinkle in delight while hopping a few time. I bite my thumb as I hold my urge.

(I want to try one too... I only ever try it once when travelling with Sis Rubeca. Last time we taste it was in the southwest of here. I can never forget the taste).

"Lucky us! We found a goldmine!"

Riyue proclaims loudly as she takes another taste. I look at her saying:

"Can I please have a taste too?"

Riyue looks at me with saying:

"Of course! Here!"

She hands it over and I finally take my turn to eat it... Wait!

"Um... Can you help me wash my hands too?"

(I mean since I'm not eating with any utensils. I need to wash my hands first).

"Sure! I mean if it's just pouring water then even Owlians can touch it."

She grabs an empty jar and places it below my hand before casting water. As soon I wash my hands, I quickly take a taste.

"Yum!"

I can't help but shout while Riyue takes another jar and decides to sit on one of the chairs. I sit ahead of her and she finally looks at me eye to eye saying:

"Sorry for being quiet for a while, it's... It's just that I've been thinking about something."

"It's okay."

She nods and continues saying:

"Alright then, I've been wondering. That words your Sister said sounds very similar to someone else's words."

"Really? She said that it's her own."

Riyue smirks replying:

"Pff, right, your Sister is actually the Tyrant Gardener, Rubeca Taiyin?"

"Of course-urfph!"

I quickly shut my mouth and both of us drop our jar simultaneously. Riyue points at me with her shaling hand shouting:

"No way! I see! It all makes sense now!"

"N-no, wait! You got it wrong-"

"Hah! You can't fool me! Now it makes sense why you're not afraid of many things and always so strong! You're a disciple of the Tyrant Gardener herself!"

"Um..."

Riyue uses her magic to freezes the food and places it on top of the table. Melting the centre and leaving the outer edge and turning it into some kind of a bowl while the Yurnari is ready to be served.

(That's... Very neat).

"I won't pursue that matter any further. And as for this, I learned this from my brother. Since the dirty part of the food is the edge and outer layer, all we need to do is freeze the edge, melt the centre and bam! A perfectly okay food and a bowl."

"See! Magic is pretty nice right?"

"Convenient yes, but not as awesome."

"Hmph, I've been hearing you learning from your brother a lot. Your brother is definitely very smart!"

She brushes her nose while her cheeks reddened.

"Well, my brother actually learn this from someone else actually."

"Oh? If you wouldn't mind, could you please me more about him? He sounds very interesting!"

"Of course! Unlike many nobles of his age. The first friend he made was actually with a commoner. Thanks to that, he is really easy to talk to and approach. And he learned many things with how commoners live their lives. With how nobles always leaving the peasants for granted, the people must find ways to survive. My brother took his time learned from them, he uses their techniques and methods and implements it to his realm. Before long, the blue phoenix family rises in rank quickly even with our poor land and scarce resource, we were able to enrich it somehow. He was able to turn the impossible to possible, he is the shining beacon and a bright future for us..."

Riyue stops for a while and eats her food. She keeps looking down saying:

"But since he always hangs out with the commoners, he is called filthy and disgusting by the other family, but..." Riyue smiled and continue saying, "He is different, he didn't get rid of those that offend him and hurt him but instead he uses his charisma and wits to recruit them instead. And soon enough, he is loved by both the people and the nobles. In ripe age of sixteen, he was able to stand shoulder to shoulder with the elders of the family and talk with the Gold and Jade family, like equals. In fact, the head of the Gold Phoenix once even ask him if he wants to marry his granddaughter."

"That's all very amazing. But I wonder why I never heard of him? Can you tell me his name?"

"Oh, silly me, I realize I never even mention his name. It's weird enough that you don't know him when you live here but, his name's Sanki. Sanki Lanhuang."

(Sanki? Hmm...)

I take a bite of my food and hold my chin saying:

"I feel like I heard that name before..."

"Of course! I just told you about it!"

"Right!"

Riyue lets out a sigh saying:

"But..."

"But?"

I follow her words in curiosity.

"He makes a lot of mistakes too."

"Well, everyone makes a mistake. Even Sis Rubeca once mistake sugar for salts."

(And my tongue suffer because of it).

"It's nice hearing that even someone as great like her can make mistakes but no. It's not the usual mistake people can laugh at. It's more like, if only he could've done this then this would have never happened sort of thing."

"I'm pretty sure we all experience the same."

"Let me rephrase that, if only I have the courage to help my brother then he wouldn't make the mistake sort of thing."

"What? Isn't that completely different?"

Riyue looks at me shouting:

"Touch some wood, I know!"

She looks down again saying:

"I... I'll tell you more if I have a chance. Let's finish our food before it gets too cold."

I tap on the ice bowl saying:

"But the food is already frozen."

"Don't take things too literally Sova."

"I get that a lot... I wonder if Yurnari is considered staple food? I mean, like is it supposed to be snacks and desserts?"

"Well, you may not know this but do you know in the forbidden west, Yurnari are actually rationing you know."

"Wait, really!?"

"Yes, in fact, some soldiers even join the army just so they could have a staple of yurnari and even send it back home for their family."

"Now, I feel like I want to join one."

(Wait, aren't I already part of one? No, wait, I'm like part of some diplomacy division or something. I never bothered asking but why I carry weapons and wear such advance armour? I'm a diplomat right?)

"Don't get fooled, Sova."

"Huh?"

Riyue takes a mouthful and easily swallow it whole.

"Those are just tricks used by them to easily get a volunteer. Yurnari is actually reserve for the special shock troops. Which is actually a way of giving them a last meal."

"Oh... That kinda sucks."

"Nothing is free after all. And war is never a good thing."

She scoops another mouthful and holds her Rosen cheeks to keep her jaws from falling to the sweetness. I take a mouthful too and gobble it all up.

(Yum!)

I look at Riyue with curiosity asking:

"Riyue, if I heard correctly, shouldn't all the royalty be dead?" Riyue twitched and stop her hands while I continue saying, "I heard Si- Sovereign of the phoenix Sector killed all the royals?"

Riyue looks at me with her mouth covered in yurnari and reply:

"That's half the truth..."

Riyue takes another bite while I lean forward. She looks up saying:

"If that's true I don't think her reign will last this long nor will her rebellion even reach this far. She... She knows how to pull someone's heartstrings and rope them into her cause. After all, it can't be made more clear by her most powerful fighting force, the Axikularis Waroe or the Valiant Hearts. Sometimes she succeeds and sometimes she doesn't, she pokes their reaction with a mysterious question. If it suits her criteria, then she will recruit him or her. But if their reply is unsatisfactory, she will not hesitate to cut them down and keep their memories so her words are kept secret. Like back then, she would sometimes cut the people who say yes and others who said no. It's confusing."

(Is Sis really such a person? It can't be... No, I mustn't be biased, I must listen to both sides of the argument and proclaim my decision then. That's what Nanny thought me about this job).

"I see, I never knew..."

Riyue looks down at her food again and continues saying:

"Luckily, most of the younger generation like me was sent outside of the Sector when it begins but... The speed of her rebellion is ridiculous. Where usually it took around months or weeks at best to move troops if you don't have a transportation crystal. It only took her days to transport one division to the other."

"Then why don't they use those crystals then?"

Riyue shakes her head replying:

"Most of the crystals are used by the suppression force and the main army thanks to that ridiculous speed she has. And the thing that makes it more baffling is how she actually does it without any crystals at all! So, my brother is forced to hold her off in the last citadel with his own personally trained army. Most of us escaped to the neighbouring Sector while some take the river ports to escape the city. I followed Yuenyi's group and escaped to the Jaguar Sector."

"I see, but that doesn't make sense why you want to return back here when it's so dangerous."

"I returned because... I don't want to follow her anymore. She... Her arrogance and selfishness are going to kill us all. Even in such dire state, she still keeps her royal demeanour when the Jaguar Sec Lord is kind enough to lend a helping hand and the worst part is after knowing that there are monsters in the Reliquary, she uses one of the ancient royal artefact to control the arrays of the Reliquary and drive all the monsters from multiple Sectors and parts of Central to the Phoenix Sector!"

"Hold it, what do you mean by controlling the Reliquary array!?"

Riyue looks at me confused before she slams the table shouting:

"That's right! It's normal for you to not know, let me tell you, that in actuality the Phoenix Sectors are the one who controls the Reliquary."

"That's even more baffling!"

"I know, I know, to be honest, this is supposed to be a seriously dark secret but since there's no point in hiding it I might as well just say it. All of the Super Sectors each keep an almighty relic and artefact from Rucina's time. All of them are acquired during the war 13 kings-"

(Is this going to be a history lesson? And if this is so much a secret, where did you even know it?)

I raise my hand and gesture her to stop speaking, saying:

"You, know what, just continue explaining why you return."

Riyue finishes off her food and washes her hands saying:

"What? You don't like history or something?"

I finish off mine replying:

"I simply had enough, to be honest."

Riyue folds her arms saying:

"Hmph, you're no fun. And here I thought you're the adventurous type."

"To be honest, I prefer being indoors but that's not the point. I just prefer hearing your story than others since I want to know you better."

"Huh?"

Riyue's face reddens while I continue saying:

"If I want to hear history, I can always read books but as far as I know, the only way I can learn more about someone is by talking with them. And right now, I wanna know more about you."

(That's right! This is why I accept Nanny Yunyun's teachings easily! Since she always it rather than using theory all the time like May... I'm not saying your ways of teaching are bad okay! Wait, who am I rebutting that too?)

Riyue holds her Rosen cheeks replying:

"Sova... That's sweet of you. If you're a man I feel like you're a natural hitter."

"Well, I am a guy-"

"Sova, stop with the dead joke."

She glares at me as her eyes and leans forward saying:

"Just because you wear male clothes doesn't make you one."

(I knew it wouldn't work).

"Okay, so why did you come back?"

"Pretty simple actually. I... I wanted to stop the monsters from invading and killing the innocent."

"Wait what?"

She nods with determination and continues saying:

"For once, I had enough and wish to make my own decision. I concocted a plan with a friend of mine to steal the artefact and return the array to its normal state. In the end, we manage to steal it and return all but one."

"And that's the one in the royal district isn't it?"

She nods again saying:

"Yes, and more, the Golden Princess knew of our plan when we steal the array and send in the last White Phoenix to ensure it succeed."

"Um..."

As I try to wrap my head around this, Riyue continues saying:

"We failed to fix the last array and the monsters poured in with all their fury. And since you know about it, you must be there or close by... I'm sorry!"

"No! You tried your best, and if you didn't even fix the other arrays, many more lives will be lost!"

"But I still..."

"Riyue! Listen!"

I stand and grab her shoulders saying:

"I don't know what's going on between the high heavens and all that jizz but you did the right thing even when all odds seem to go against you. I admire you for that."

She stares at my eyes and soon smiles saying:

"Thanks, Sova, I really needed a compliment."

"Um!"

I nodded and take a sit. She straightens her posture and continues saying:

"When we were too late, we had no choice but to retreat. And soon, the next day, we got the news that Xue-Jie, the white phoenix will soon be executed in the new capital city of Huangdi."

(Wait, I never heard of this).

"We were actually surprised that Yuwei actually built a new capital. Even when we're enemies. We decided to save her but were too little, too late. By the time we arrive, her head was already displayed above the plank where her body burns while hanging below it.

(What kind of display is that!? It's horrible!)

"Now that both I and my friend are lost without a direction. We tried travelling back to the Jaguar Sector and discovered a train underneath the old capital station. Since we lost our way of transportation, we decided to hang out on the rear to rest and soon the train move and... Well... That's where everything starts spiralling down, the rat-girl spotted us. My friend tried to shake her off by separating the train but she got separated instead and we both got separated while I got captured by a surprise attack by that enemy I told you about."

She stops there and stands up and walk beside me saying:

"I don't know where she is right now, and I'm worried about her. But I know she's alive somehow. And that's where I meet you."

"Eh?"

She sits beside me and looks at me closely saying:

"Hearing your story about the ice tower gives me an idea of what I want to be now."

"Really?"

"Yes, I... I decided I want to be a Hunter. Not only do I get to keep my background private, but I also get to earn money and explore the wider world. So, Sova, I know you have your mission to fulfil. When I become successful and able to sustain myself. I hope we can meet again."

(Wait, isn't she sounding like those secret agents in the drawing books I found at the public archives?)

"I'm just wondering if you're going to hide your identity, what will your new name be?"

"Hmm... I know, I'll call my self. Vanessa."

I nod saying:

"That's a pretty nice name."

"I know right! C'mon, we spend enough time here. Since you're strong, I'll have to ask you to lift the food for us when we leave."

"I guess that's fine by me."

"Thanks for listening to me, off we go!"

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

*vroom*

Light poured into my eyes. It's scorching heat pierce my skin while the arid air fills my lungs...

"This place is ridiculously hot! Reminds me of my time training. Mind sharing some ice magic Riyue?"

I place the pots down as I open my eyes. It's...

"We're at a town?"

I look around and see the poor people avoiding our gaze and scurrying away.

"Well duh, I guess we could separate here."

"Really?"

(What about me!? I know nothing of my way back! And since I can't open the tunnel behind me, how am I suppose to return!)

"Y-yea..."

"Sova, thank you. It may be short, but I feel like we've been friends for a quite a while-

"Look who do we have here."

A familiar female voice reaches my ears. As I look at the source, she has large pink ears on her head along with a large pink tail coming out of her skirt.

"S-Saya?"

"How did they catch up to us!?"

Riyue shouts as she stands infront of me. Accompanying Saya is two heavily armoured soldiers and the general. Weirdly enough, she has a bag full of food in one arm and holding a cup.

(Seems like they had their fun waiting. Well, we did eat and chat while running away. I guess none of us takes this actually too seriously I guess... Wait, more like how did they get here? Through the agreed meeting place? If so, shouldn't there be some people in the Jaguar Sector accompanying them?)

Saya walks closer to us saying:

"Welcome to the Jaguar Sector, where everyone is always eyeing each other. But be at ease, we're not here to capture you."

"You think we're that dumb!?"

Saya shakes her head with a weary smile replying:

"I'm not going to argue with you. Bring her out."

The guards behind the General drag a lady in yellow infront of us.

"Weiyi!"

Riyue screams and takes a battle stance.

"What did you did to her?"

"Did to her? Girl, we just save your friend! Take her and leave."

"What are you planning..."

"Can't you see we're trying to help? General, do the thing you want."

"Yes."

Saya walks back while the general hand the food to the soldiers, she takes out a gold yet transparent scarf with glowing runes on it.

"T-that belongs to my brother! Give it back!"

Riyue leaps at them trying to take the scarf but was promptly dealt with an attack coming from above by two guards who were supposed to be behind the general. The strike came so fast it was like lightning and Riyue now lays unconscious flat on the scorching floor. The General shakes her head saying:

"Alright, who told you to attack!? Heal her up!"

The two guards bow their head saying:

"Forgive us, General!"

The guards pick her up hastily and feed her some pills and potions.

(Why am I just standing here? Like... I feel like I shouldn't be in this mess...)

Saya walks to me and folds her arms saying:

"Alright, I guess you deserve some apology. Sorry, Sova. I guess you had something you want to say?"

(Of course, I do!)

"Do you know how much trouble you cause!? You're supposed to help me on my mission and yet you still have the gall to get me in trouble!? Saya, what's wrong with you?"

Saya smiled replying:

"Heh, this is the first time I heard you yell. I guess we're even now."

(Even?)

"What do you mean even!? I thought you already forgiven me?"

"It seems your temper change with your looks."

"This has nothing to do with my temper."

Saya raises her hand to my face saying:

"Hush, for now, you can throw your tantrums at me when we're back at the base. A show is about to begin."

"Huh?"

Saya looks at Riyue who's leaning on the wall. The general puts the scarf Riyue's neck and splash some water on her. Riyue's eyes open slowly and soon open wide. She hastily stands up and takes a battle stance but her stance is weak and her body is waning left and right as her feet shakes uncontrollably.

The general steps back and fold her arms saying:

"Check your neck."

"Huh?"

Riyue touch around the neck and grasp the scarf tightly. She glares at the general shouting:

"What's going on, aren't we enemies!?"

The general shakes her head saying:

"Not anymore. You've been pardoned."

"I... I don't understand."

Riyue falls to her knees while still grasping the golden scarf. The general takes out a pouch and place it near her saying:

"Her Majesty had viewed a certain someone's memories and find out your deeds. If it wasn't for you millions more would have died so she thank you for making the right decision and helping her people. Sadly, even though she knew you would return to the Jaguar Sector, she can't give you a triumph but at least please use that money to start out a new life with that friend of yours."

Riyue looks down as if to hide her face. The general steps back and continue saying:

"As for that scarf of yours, it's actually a piece of divine equipment with multiple purposes. It's supposed to be a sentient artefact that will serve everyone no matter who it is but... Your brother manages to make it loyal only to him. So no matter how much we contact it, the scarf would not respond at all."

Riyue clenches her hands and clawed the paved road below. The general walks away and stop to look back saying:

"To be honest, that scarf wasn't supposed to be in your hands but... I pulled some strings and acquire them. Your brother is an amazing man and I admire him even in his death. Don't worry, your little sisters are still under the care of Elder Litan, and I know that scarf will certainly respond to you so please take care. We probably won't meet again."

The general continues to walk away and we soon follow suit. But as I pass her, Riyue grabs my hand saying:

"Hold it! Where do you think you're taking her!?"

Riyue stands up and stops me as she shouts. Saya tugs at the general's hand and gestures her to come closer. As the general lends her ear and Saya whispers with murmurs so soft that I can't hear. The general nods saying:

"Don't worry. I will make sure nothing like that will happen again. Besides, she is supposed to come with us either way. So let her go."

Riyue tighten her grip on me and I start to wonder,

(Wait, am I supposed to play along?)

I look at Saya and she nods...

(Wait did she just read my mind?)

I release my breath and hold Riyue's hands saying:

"Don't worry Riyue, I'll be fine. I guess I never told you how I got there. I actually ask them for help."

"But-"

I remove her hand from mine and clench them both to cut her words saying:

"I told you, it's fine. I'm sure we'll meet again soon."

I smile at her and continue saying:

"I hope you can carry the pots your self."

"Of course I can... It's just..."

She looks at me with a face of regret and tears soon fall of her eyes. But she quickly shakes her head to get a grip and try to smile saying:

"Let me say it again, we've only met but the short time I spend with you really help me out. When we meet again, don't hesitate to call me for help. We're sisters by the bond we share. Take care Sova-Mei Mei."

(Mei Mei? Little Sister? Wait, we don't even know each other's age yet!)

As I feel my determination breaking, I nod saying:

"Yes, see you next time... Sis." And let her go.

She hesitantly let me go and we part ways quietly as I follow Saya and the general. As we lost sight of her,

"Pfff... Hehehe."

Saya tries to hold her laughter and looks at me saying:

"What was that? Little Sister? Pfff, hahaha."

"Please stop."

I try to walk away but Saya gets closer poking at my side saying:

"Still, how did you establish a friendly relationship with her so quickly? I'm impressed. With that skill, doing your job will be easy."

Saya smiled at me wide till her bucktooth shows and I look away, feeling my cheeks getting warm.

"Really? Thanks... And can you just stop it with the teasing and pranks okay?"

"Sure, I'm wrong this time. Since we're in the Jaguar Sector, I was gonna ask you to repay that favour but consider the favour repaid."

(Ugh...)

The general grabs my shoulders and halt my steps. She stands ahead of me and bows her head down saying:

"Forgive me Ms. Silencer! It's because of my mistake that this all happened! I deserve punishment!"

The guards beside her soon follow suit and bow down asking for forgiveness. I shake my head saying:

"It's fine. Let bygones be bygones."

The general rise her head replying:

"Really!? You're too kind. Then..."

She clasps her hands and bows again saying:

"I never get to introduce myself back then Ms. Silencer, I am General Irina in charge of the 232nd Axikularis garrison Regiment. Pleased to meet you."

"Ah!"

I hastily clasp my hand and bow replying:

"My name is Sova Anmao, Silencer of the Phoenix Sector, under the direct command of Empress Yuwei. A pleasure to meet you."

Irina smiled cheerfully saying:

"Great! Now that the pleasantries are done. Guards, where are my refreshments!?"

The guards stay silent and look away. Irina looks at them with sharp eyes and as the colour of her eyes deepens. She continues saying:

"Guards, where are the snacks I told you to hold?"

"Uh..."

"We..."

"We dropped it when we intercept her. And the content is all mushed and spread so..."

"So...?!"

Irina glares at them with her hand slowly drawing her sword.

"So, we just left it there!"

Irina smiled and sheath her sword back saying:

"I see, insubordination, churlishness, and incompetent... I'm not going to have personal grudge but I'm taking 3 years of both your paycheck as per your protocol."

"What!?"

"Wait, I have a family to feed!"

"You can blame yourself for that. And if you're so desperate, you could always do some charity work for the people. That's how I got my free meals back when I was a simple trooper."

"Ugh..."

"Forgive xiao Weiwei, seems like father's bringing you some Rebry tonight."

Irina turns to looks at me saying:

"Forgive me, Ms. Sova, it seems the celebration will wait until we return back to the post."

(Right, there's something bugging me).

"Say, how did any of you got here? For me, I was going through that tunnel- wait, how did you know I was going to that tunnel too?"

Irina lets out a breath of relief saying:

"You're pretty inquisitive aren't you? We got our own secrets as to how we know but as how we got here... You'll get to see it soon. I'm sure you'll love it."

(Why do I have a bad feeling? Well, I had enough events happening on one day. I hope the next one will be more peaceful...)

"Don't jinx it, Sova."

"Saya, how do you keep reading my mind?"

"Your face is just to easy to read honestly."

"Haah, I guess I have to work on that too..."