"Well, why don’t we tackle that puzzle together?" A familiar voice rang out, accompanied by the rhythmic sound of approaching footsteps.
With a creak, the door swung open, unveiling two figures standing before us.
"Wait, it’s Lvonette!" I exclaimed, my eyes lighting up as I recognised one of the figures. Her vibrant scarlet locks made her easily memorable.
Lvonette Kraus is the name of the woman who warmly welcomed us in the 8th realm known as the Sea of Devils. She had also provided invaluable guidance on navigating the realm, which greatly aided our survival during the journey.
"Actually, it’s Lady Lvonette," she retorted, correcting my words with a touch of playfulness.
Despite her foreign appearance, she possessed a fluent command of the English language, allowing us to communicate seamlessly without any language barriers.
"Why are you here, and with Kei?" I asked, confirming that the person next to her was our companion, Keiichi.
Without wasting a moment, she reached into her backpack and pulled out an object. Upon closer inspection, it revealed itself to be a wooden binocular.
"I was there! I witnessed it all—the Herald’s clash with the Voidshade and the arrival of another Herald. I even saw how you valiantly fought on par with the leader of the Voidshades!" she exclaimed, excitement shimmering in her eyes.
It was highly unlikely that she was fabricating the truth. Having departed from the 8th realm just hours before us, it was probable that she arrived in Niafell around the same time, increasing the likelihood of her presence nearby.
"But that wasn’t me—" I began to explain, but she interjected swiftly.
"Even if it seemed like a miracle, I sense that you are different from the rest. You desire to return to Limbo, don’t you? I will assist you," she explained.
"Why?" I asked, a hint of uncertainty lingering in my voice.
"If aiding you means securing the future of that place, then why not lend a helping hand? Should anything happen to Limbo, the Kraus family would suffer significant losses. Our businesses within the respite zones would crumble, and our array of ventures would have nowhere to go," she clarified, her reasoning becoming clear.
I had no choice but to listen. If accepting her assistance meant I could once again delve into the depths of Limbo, I would seize the opportunity without hesitation, for alternative choices were scarce.
"But this place is under surveillance, and moreover, how did you manage to enter?" Elsie chimed in, voicing the concerns that had been circling in our minds.
"Never underestimate the power of the Kraus family. Our intelligence team has successfully infiltrated the H.A.D.E.S. server and implemented the necessary modifications. As far as they’re concerned, everything will appear normal, as if you’re leading your everyday life within these confines, even when you step beyond this place," she explained, her voice resonating with a touch of pride.
The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
"Prepare your belongings. We set off tonight!" she concluded, determination infusing her words.
**
Under the enchanting glow of moonlight, we discreetly exited through the backdoor, our steps silent and unhurried. The midnight hour lent an air of mystery to our departure. Carrying only the essential items in a compact backpack, I followed Lvonette’s lead, guided by her confident strides.
Awaiting us outside was an inconspicuous car, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Its unassuming appearance belied its significance. Lvonette motioned for us to enter, and our attention turned to the driver.
He was a slender man with deep red hair, contrasting Lvonette’s own vibrant locks. His tousled hairstyle exuded a refined yet unkempt charm. His eyes, reminiscent of small apples, gleamed with a light red hue.
"Allow me to introduce my brother, Chandler Kraus, the future head of the Kraus family. He is a paladin and a skilled third-phase glass weaver. He may well be the next in line to become a Herald," Lvonette proudly announced.
"Please refrain from elevating my status, Lvonette. Compound 009 is home to numerous individuals whose power rivals my own. The passing of the title is not a certainty," Chandler calmly responded, his voice resonating like a tranquil lake.
With the car engine humming to life, we embarked on our journey into the night, guided by Chandler’s expert navigation.
"Greetings, friends. I have been briefed by Lvonette about your situation. I will show you the path, but it is up to you to tread upon it," he explained.
"What would be our course of action?" Elsie translated Kei’s words for me, allowing me to grasp their conversation.
"While we have successfully breached the H.A.D.E.S. server, it won’t be long before they discover our intrusion. Do not underestimate H.A.D.E.S.; it is one of the most technologically advanced organisations in the world. Caution is imperative to ensure you remain undetected," Chandler began.
"Travelling by air to the lakefront is not a viable option, as it would undoubtedly lead to a security check, compromising your cover. Your only feasible choice is to proceed by land, evading their notice," he suggested.
"So, does that mean we have to cross the Amazon Rainforest?" I inquired, realising the gravity of the undertaking.
"That’s correct. It’s the only viable option. Despite your initial entry into Limbo through a white ticket, thanks to your connection with Gary, you’ll now have to follow the path of the black ticket. It will require you to navigate the perils on your own as you make your way to the lakefront," he responded, emphasising the need for self-reliance.
Drawing from my recollections, I remembered the ticket system introduced to me when I first arrived at the lakefront.
"Elsie, please ask Kei if he can guide us since he used to possess a black ticket," I requested, with Elsie promptly translating my words. Kei nodded in affirmation, his previous experience making him an invaluable asset for our journey.
Before long, we reached our destination—an international airport. Chandler rose from his seat and handed each of us a parchment, initiating his parting words.
"This is where the Kraus family’s assistance comes to an end. From now on, the three of you are on your own. My sister and I must take our leave to avoid jeopardising the Kraus family’s relationship with H.A.D.E.S. Your absence will soon be noticed, and they will be on high alert. Exercise extreme caution with every step you take," he explained, his tone brimming with seriousness.
He gestured towards the parchments and continued speaking.
"These parchments contain forged identities, essential documents, tickets to Brazil—the gateway to the rainforest—and a map to guide you. You’ll also find some money enclosed," he elaborated.
"With this, we bid you farewell. Good luck!" he concluded as we stepped out of the car, which promptly departed, leaving only the three of us behind.
I silently vowed to repay the Kraus family’s favour someday, mentally preparing myself for the demanding journey that lay ahead. My companions exchanged nods, and together we blended into the bustling crowd, making our way towards the airport, our footsteps seamlessly merging with the thousands of others.