Fervent winds continually chimes along with the pungent yellow stream. The scent of numerous assortment garners my attention. Soon, green and yellow ceiling drip its colourful essence. Filling the damp passage with moisture.

"This stench feels like it could kill. Isn't there a filter of some sort?"

Saya leans forward and takes a sniff saying:

"Of course there is, else, where does the gust come from? Usually, we can use magic to filter the air but you haven't smelled the ones from the north yet. I assure you, it's so foul, that you'll get knocked unconscious before even entering."

"You got to be kidding- Urgmph!"

I clench my mouth shut with the help of my hand and try to stop my content from spilling. With small white shining crystals embedded in the walls, we were able to see the road and the surrounding area. What's piqued my interest the most is the writings which are written in Owlian. And some weird colourful arts and writings as if its made by spraying bright coloured paint. Irina walks ahead of us while the two heavy armoured guards walk beside me and Saya. Irina looks back at me and hands over a small blue pouch saying:

"It seems you can't handle the smell nor do you have the spell. Take it, I suggest applying it beneath your nose for maximum duration."

"Really? Thank you, General!"

I take the pouch and clasp my hand to bow, thanking her properly. Irina shakes her head saying:

"It's no big deal. Just glad I could help High Commander."

I twist my head replying:

"High Commander?"

Irina did the same saying:

"Hmm? Is there something wrong?"

"Oh, I was wondering why you called me High Commander?"

"Could you perhaps not know your own position in the hierarchy?"

"Well, to be honest, I only know my position is supposed to be special. But I didn't know it surpasses even a General."

"My~ High Commander. Your position even surpasses senior governors too. In fact, the only one you obey is none other than the Emperor or Empress if there's none, the Crown Chancellor and yourself. Not even the regent, nor the chancellor of sects can order you around and must instead shut up and listen to you."

(Really!? Even though I don't know what the last two positions, it sounds ridiculous!)

"I never knew. That's a lot of pressure..."

"Don't worry. High Commander, be calm and try your best. Since this is your first try, I promise I'll sweeten the words a bit."

"I don't know what that means but thanks, General."

"No problem! Glad I could help!"

I nod replying:

"Right!"

As Irina look ahead, I opened the pouch and see some ointment in the centre of petals. I smear some of the ointment below my nose and the sweet fragrance of flowers fills my nose than the gutters.

(This is amazing!)

I lean toward Saya asking:

"Is what she's saying really true, Saya? Like what about other Sectors? Are there Silencers like me? Well, I wonder if I can call my self a Silencer either."

Saya looks at me and tries her best to hold her smile saying:

"Well, half true. From what I learn recently inside the royal archives is that Silencers are divided into many categories and a single member can change branches whenever they want."

(That's kinda like what Sir, Libing told me).

"And here I thought I was just some diplomat or delegate to improve relation and ease up tensions."

Saya holds her chin and continues saying:

"Well, that's part of the job too. And as for other Sectors having Silencers is... Near Impossible."

"Huh? Are they really that rare?"

Saya nods her head saying:

"Yes, so rare in fact, not even the 12 out of the 13 who have the most influence in the whole Confederation have one. Well, now that the Phoenix have one too, that makes it 11 out of 13. And for context, this is the most populated nation in the entire world."

I hold my stomach from the intense responsibility saying:

"The pressure just keeps getting higher. Then what can a Silencer even do? I mean what's the point of a rare thing if it can't do anything?"

"Hehehe, true. Silencers are very rare and powerful. So powerful and influential that even a minor Sector can become a major with one. In fact, the Dragon Sector has been in peace and dominating everyone with one Silencer alone. Imagine what would happen when there are two Silencers now?"

"Umm..."

(So if one is enough to dominate, wouldn't that mean having two means...)

"It will be a fight for power and chaos..."

(What... What is Sis planning?)

I clench my hands from the mere thought. But Saya just smiles saying:

"That's right, it will be a team deathmatch where one had to pick a party."

"Ugh... Then wouldn't it be better to just hide me rather than this?"

"Heh~ never knew you could make a reasonable suggestion but you're right. Why don't you ask the Empress for her reasons? But if we're lucky, maybe we could just get along fine. Who knows?"

(Now that I think about, didn't Sis Yuwei say something about walking on cracking thin ice? Does it mean she's doing this for a reason or something? Currently, I can't do anything. So I really have to do my best for Sis!)

"Sure, when I have the time. Other than that, whatever happened to my-"

Cutting my own sentence, a certain view caught my eye. On the side of the walls are piles of pebbles with burnt-out incense sticking on top. And as we walk pass through them, the piles of pebbles begin to become more common. Saya pulls my sleeves asking:

"To my what, Sova?"

Instead of answering, I look at her asking back:

"What are those piles of pebbles for?"

"Huh?"

Saya looks around at the piles and looks back at me saying:

"They're graves, what else?"

"Graves?!"

"Of course! And just for the record, one pebble equals one body."

(That's ridiculous! One pile consist of hundreds of those pebbles. And now there are rows upon rows of those piles... What...)

"What died here?"

Those words slip out of my mouth as I saw the horror before my eyes.

"Rat-kins."

"Huh?"

General Irina answered me back while still looking ahead. She grips her blade and continues saying:

"They're all rat-kins."

(Wait, if so, isn't this a graveyard? If I remember what aunt told me is that no one is supposed to go to a graveyard unless they have a serious or clear purpose).

"Wait, how? I mean, if this a graveyard, we shouldn't be here."

I try to convince her to leave but she shakes her head replying:

"Don't worry, we're the one who made these."

"Wait, did you kill all these-"

"Of course, we did. We slaughtered them and they stood no chance against us."

"Why!? Why did we even have to kill so many?"

I look around and the number of graves exceeds hundreds and still more ahead.

"Why huh?"

Her voice quivered and soften.

"If I have to give a reason is that it's inevitable."

"Inevitable?"

"It seems I have to explain."

Irina nods and continues explaining:

"With the unification of the entire Phoenix Sectors. All the treasures and resources now belong to a centralised power, the Empress. Now with a war-torn Sector, The Empress quickly consolidate, fix and improve her territory from above and below. That includes all the abandoned ports, stations, city, outpost, sewers and many more. And as you know, rat-kins live in these abandoned spaces."

(Right, Saya did say that our Sector is on the process of some heavy improvements and thanks to that, many rat-kins have to migrate).

"And these rat-kins are VERY territorial, so if we want this place, we have no choice but to slay them."

"Is there really no other way?"

"None, but the Empress decided to give them an option. Integrate and join her, or they can pack up and migrate somewhere else. And since she's developing all her Sectors it's basically telling them to die. Well, at least it sounded good on paper."

(That doesn't sound so convincing. In fact, she sounded like a villain!)

"Haaah, enough explaining. We've almost there. And as for the 2 good news to end my explanation is that the Sector where the old capital is left undeveloped for reasons, so there's actually many rat-kins migrating there. I'm sure you've met some on the way here if you use the train no?"

"Yea..."

I look at my own shaking hands thinking,

(I feel bad for these rat-kins that has to suffer so much- wait).

"What's the other good news?"

Irina looks back at me and smiles saying:

"Since rat-kins value their lives more than others. Many of them choose to join us. Like 8 out of 10 of them opted to live above ground too. It may be heartless to force them out of their homes but we're still trying our best to find out what's their best role in society."

"Wait, really?"

Saya joins in the conversation with hopeful eyes.

(It's rare to see Saya like that. In fact, this is the first time I see her like this).

Irina looks at her replying:

"Yes, most of the one that joins us now live near the coast and the new capital since that's where we needed manpower the most. I thought you would know, aren't you part of the horde too?"

Saya looks away saying:

"No, I'm not."

Irina looks at her confused and I continue after Saya saying:

"I actually found her back in..."

I halt my words and grab my head and realize,

(Wait! Now that I think of it, where did I found her? I mean yes, in the slums but which Sector is it? Like Rana's diner actually near a beach and a coast... I feel like she told me where it was before... I think? Doughnut noodles! If only I look at the map more and I would actually know which Sector actually has a coast).

I close my eyes trying to just think of an answer saying:

"To be honest, I forget which Sector I found her, but it's in the slums near the coast."

Saya looks at me with a disappointed face and Irina folds her arms replying:

"There are only a few Sectors that actually has a coast. And most of them are Major Super Sectors, puppets or vassals of the 13."

Saya tugs at my sleeve saying:

"You really don't know where we first met? Or you forgot?"

"No, I really don't know. I mean, I just recently escaped from the Reliquary-"

"You did what!?"

Irina and the guards glared at me as they raise their voice.

(Ah, maybe I should shut up about it!)

"I'm sorry. Please forget what I said-"

One of the guards places his hand on my shoulder saying:

"Sorry, Ms.Silencer but we're just in awe. To think you're actually a hidden Hero of the Confederation. No wonder the Empress has high expectations of you!"

"That's right. Not only a normal Silencer but a Silencer that manages to traverse the Reliquary and actually survive it! And at such a young age to boot."

Irina sighs and holds her forehead saying:

"Guards, I know this may be disrespecting of her, but you can't just believe what she said in face value. I mean what's the proof?"

The Guards look at her replying:

"That's right."

"I guess that's true. But didn't the people who actually manage to survive didn't bring proof with them either?"

(I wonder if it's the right choice not to correct them).

As they continue their conversation, I lean toward Saya asking:

"I'm sorry. But mind telling me where we actually first met?"

Saya sighs heavily saying:

"Fine, it's in the far north of the city."

"North?"

"That's right. It's the place where you're going to meet Fei. The Turquoise Turtle Sector."

"Wait, really!? I was already there before?"

"Of course! I'm a guide, do you think I ever get lost? It's essential that we know places and locations. Even in a city maze like this."

"Oh, I guess it's nice and essential having you around. But talking about when we first met, I know Rana never commented about your guild card being fake but is it real?"

Saya puffed her cheeks and looks away saying:

"Among the many lies I spouted when I first met you, I can assure you my guild card is real. Though it may kinda look fake, it's actually real in a legal and official sense. If you don't know, many guiders are actually unofficial jobs that are actually accepted by the many yet the guild nor government still does nothing to help."

"Wait, why? Isn't it essential so that people don't get lost?"

"Probably due to the fact that the one who applies for this job are actually native kids and rarely adults since they already quite memorize the place they live in. And another big factor is that they don't want to be seen as applying child labour since it goes against the council of Asteros back during the 4th century- you know what Sova. I think this too much for you now. Why not ask something else?"

Saya stops midway in her explanation and looks back at me.

(Wait, kids? Does that mean Saya's a kid? I thought she said she's like 18 or something).

"Sova, just to be clear, I have reasons for applying for that job alright. And I can assure you I am no child even though I look like one."

"Can you please stop reading my mind?"

Saya shows a calm smile saying:

"It's your face, Sova. Work with it."

"Aww... Watch me."

I try to make a poker face by moving my eyes and straighten my lips.

"Pfff, yes, you look- pfff... So much better now Sova."

"Really!?".

"Yes, really."

"I see... Maybe I should train more when I'm back home and ask Yuria and Kokkan for opinion."

(Talking about Kokkan, I wonder where did he disappear off to? Yesterday was the last time I saw him. Maybe he'll be back when I return I hope).

I look around and see more piles than ever before. So much so it leaves just barely enough space for all 5 of us to walk...

"General?"

"Hmm, what is it, High Commander?"

Irina raises her hand to stop the guards from speaking and replied to me. I look at the abundant pile of stones asking:

"You said that most of the rat-kins choose to join Yuwei's cause but why are there so many graves? Like how much is most? Because I don't think this is little."

Irina's calm face straighten up as her eyes sharpen. Feeling my arms going numb as my chest tighten, she smiles eerily saying:

"For a Silencer, you seem to be very naive. Let's just say most doesn't include the location and tribes. So let me clarify my answer, High Commander. When I say most, I mean most of the entire rat-kin population in the Phoenix Sector.

Do. You. Understand?"

Irina's smile turns into a livid frown as she spouts each word.

(Did I make her angry?)

"Sorry, I didn't mean to anger, you General."

Irina smiles cheerfully again replying:

"Glad you understand, High Commander. Let us proceed, we're nearly there- sorry High Commander, I'll accept any punishment you'll give me in due time but it seems there's something ahead, I better take the initiative."

Irina sharpens her eyes and draws her sword before walks forward. Saya looks at me and shakes her head saying:

"I hope you learn your lesson, Sova."

"What lesson?"

I look at Saya confused and she sighs saying:

"Just because there are unanswered or missing pieces in a puzzle doesn't mean you should ask all the time. Sometimes you just have to figure it out yourself."

I look at Saya dumbfounded saying

"I feel like this is the only time you actually give a healthy response."

*pinch*

"Ow!"

Saya pinch my hand while puffing her cheeks saying:

"I can assure you it's not! And here I am being helpful, hmph!"

Saya folds her arms and walks faster ahead. Leaving only me and the two guards. I look at the guard on my left and he immediately bows down saying:

"Um... Ms. Silencer, if I may ask?"

(Wait, me? Really?)

"Please, stand straight! I can't really answer much since I'm still clueless about many things."

"Oh, no, no, no, it's okay. It's just... It's a rude thing to say this but I wish for you to be truthful about this."

"Truthful?"

I look at the guard with a confused face and he nods and continues asking:

"Are you perhaps here to investigate that incident?"

(Incident!? What happened here!?)

I feel more confused and question marks appearing in my head. I shake my head replying:

"What incident?"

"You don't know? Like the Empress didn't tell you anything?"

(Is Sis suppose to?)

I shook my head again saying:

"No, she just told me to get here so that I can get to the Jaguar Sector's meeting place."

"Oh, I see..."

The guard on my left stops on his track and get on his knees before slamming his head on the ground shouting:

"Thank you for answering this lowly one's question!"

(Wha! What's going on here!?)

I hold his shoulder and arm saying:

"Please, stand."

He straightens his back replying:

"Thank you, Ms. Silencer. About um... General Irina's attitude. I hope you can forgive her."

"Why would I hold a grudge?"

"You really are weird Ms. Silencer- I mean NO OFFENCE! Please don't get the wrong idea. Weird as indifferent and good kind of way!"

(My position is making communicating hard...)

I shake my head saying:

"It's okay."

"Oh, you're so forgiving! Please understand Ms. Silencer, General Irina holds a burning hatred towards the rat-kins, so intense that it even melts steel. It honestly took us by surprise she didn't blow up when you first ask something related to the Rat-kins. So please, understand."

Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

"No, I'm the one who should understand. And I think you should lessen your tension. It's making me nervous..."

I smile at the guard and he looks away. The other guard walks closer to the one beside me saying:

"Then don't mind if I do, Ms... Um, you don't mind if I speak some private matters to rookie here?"

"Oh, please do."

He wraps his arm on the other guard's shoulder replying:

"Thanks a lot!" And pulls him back.

(I'm having a hard time differentiating these people with the same armour. I wonder how did Sis manage to differentiate her Honour Guards back during the Invasion?)

Now alone, I turn away and try to focus something else so I don't accidentally eavesdrop on them. Focusing on the sound of the stream, the drips from the ceiling, weird silhouettes of children running along the road across the stream-

"Hold on..."

I look across the stream and saw silhouettes beneath the light when there's nobody...

"Uh... Guys? General? Saya!?"

I shout for an answer and look around and try focusing my hearing.

Soon, I realize,

(I fudge pool hate mazes!)

"I can't hear their footsteps at all. Where have I gone to? I'm pretty sure I was with the guards just earlier."

The light soon flickers and fade, darkness envelope my vision. And red lights appear where white once was. I hastily grab my weapon...

"Ah right, my weapon is with my armour and since I can't use my spirit weapon..."

I take a battle stance, raising my right fist forward and place my left hand near my waist. Placing right foot forward and my left foot back. I take a few steps forward and heighten my hearing trying to find my enemy...

(There's no one here. How is it possible? Don't tell me this is the Reliquary all over again!? But this time I don't have Rana's spirit to help me).

*thud*

"There!"

I clench my left hand and enhance my fist with qi and lunge my left fist at where the noise comes from. Carrying the wind pressure and sending it forward, I made a pseudo wave attack and blow all the pebbles away and dent the wall...

(Wait, is that attack suppose to be that powerful? Last time it only creates a small gust to blow the falling leaves. This is what I learn with Sis Rubeca back when I can't use my qi wave attack. It was thanks to mastering this that I was able to use the dragon's techniques).

*clap* *clap* *clap*

"Impressive, very impressive Sawyer."

A very deep and echoing voice enters my ears.

"Who!?"

(How does he know my real name!?)

My right arm which is still in battle stance starts moving on its own. Twisting around impossible ways forcing me to move along.

"Argh!"

I try to force control of my hand back. But my other hand starts to move, then my legs and soon even my neck twist and the body stops following my orders.

(What's going on!?)

My body kneels down, my hand is compelled to fold behind me and I was forced to look behind me by bending my body backwards till I'm looking upside down and my head touches the ground.

(This is making me sick...)

*thud* *thud* *thud*

"I have to give that she trains your flexibility well. I wonder if you could do the split I wonder? Wait, the split is nothing compared what you're doing now. I think they call it rad! Yeah, it's rad!"

His deep voice now echoes through the gutters. Walking closer with heavy footsteps is a man in black, wearing a long coat and a black enrage tiger mask with golden lines while the opening in the neck from the black tight suit shows his brown skin.

"Y-you're, the Silencer of the Black Tiger Triad!"

(The man I met back during my travel back home. What's he doing here!?)

"Me? A silencer? I'm sorry, but you're wrong in your assumptions, Owlians can't be Silencers after all."

"Wait, what!? You're an Owlian? But how did you do this then?"

(What did he do to send Sis Yuwei, Moriz and that Scarface to their knees!? And that weird golden light that sprouts out and causes the earth to shake!?)

"Hmm? Well, I guess that is magic but I'm still learning how to use it after taking the tonic created by your parents."

(My father? What's going on!? Nothing makes sense now!)

"Oh well, I was planning to speak with you telepathically by making your brain react a thousand times slower like your friends so that it looks like only a second pass while we talk for an hour or so... But it seems something is mending your brain and preventing me, Young Master."

(Young Master?)

"What are you talking about?"

(And here I thought my body is supposed to be resistant to magic. How is he able to this easily? I can't resist him at all!)

"Oh, this is not magic, Young Master."

(Oh no, is my face being read again?)

I try to keep my face straight but he shook his head replying:

"Sorry Young Master, I'm not reading your face either. But it is a viable way of source."

"Wha!"

"Young and so curious."

As he gets closer, he forces my head to look up and face his enraged mask.

"I'm probably going to get in trouble since I forcefully met you before and get punished when I rendezvous with the others back in Central. But since I got lost and separated during the cleansing of the Reliquary mission this time. It can't be helped that I have a blank record now so I can finally talk to you personally Young Master."

His deep voice filled with joy and excitement as he says that.

"What are you talking about?"

Feeling my blood rushing to my head, my heart beat faster as my vision blurs.

"Oh, forgive me, Young Master. It seems the blood is flowing faster than I thought. Let me release you."

With those words, I felt my body being released, as if all the heavy chain in my body is released. I take this chance to turn around and swiftly deliver a counter-attack aim at his face.

[Roaring dragon force technique: ascending dragon!]

I scream in my head as I use my toes to dash and give me the extra boost I need to heighten the effect of my punch. But my hand forcefully stops before I could my contact. My body paralyzed and I can't move again.

(Seriously, what is he?)

"I guess it makes sense you're so hostile since I haven't show my face."

(Wait, do I know him?)

"Ho ho ho, we know each other pretty well... Probably, I mean you always spend time with Elizu."

(Who!?)

He detaches some thick wires from his mask. With a sound of gas leaking out, he took a step back and open his mask. He's a man in his early twenties, with messy black bed hair. His sharp purple eyes shine brightly among the red lights among us. Giving him a cold demeanour similar to the one Coryn gives. What caught my eyes is the long scar from the edge of his left eye that cuts even his hair.

(Wait, do I know him? Could it be he's from back during when I still live with my real parents? But who is he? I don't think there's anyone who looks like him back in the house).

His eyes wander away as he shows a wry smile while scratching his head saying:

"Ah, forgive me, Young Master. I guess I went ahead and become younger when I drink your father's tonic. I mean, who can't resist trying to look dark and edgy as to attract the younger ones now."

His voice doesn't echo any more but sounds pretty normal.

(What's the point of showing me your face then!? And I feel so pitiful to him for some reason I can't explain...)

"Well, I'm glad I can see you again."

He shows a peculiar gentle smile and it hit me...

(That scar, and that smile... Add more wrinkles and make his face more square-)

"Gruncle Tommy!?"

"Oh my! You finally remembered, Mhm!

He tucks his feet in and salutes saying:

"Former Union Commisar Jordan T. Ashfield. Reporting for duty- oh wait, I think they change the name to the Union."

(That's actually kinda cool...)

Uncle breaks off his salute and reply:

"I know right!? So you still remember the people in our household?"

"Of course! I may not remember the faces too clearly but our house doesn't actually house many people. Just my mommy, daddy, me, Big Sis Elli, Big Bro Ezurus, you and the mysterious lady in the library... Who sometimes is there or not. She had this eerie feeling like I'm not with someone the same."

"Hmm, not the same huh? Well, that's kinda rude since she's the Owner of-"

(I think I should not learn anything more and disrupt my concentration for now...)

"Um, Gruncle. Mind letting me free now?"

I interrupt him.

"Why of course!"

Feeling as my body has been released from eternal torment. I look back at Gruncle saying:

"Gruncle, just because we know each other and that this is a happy reunion doesn't mean that I will forgive you for hurting my friends."

Gruncle waves his hands as he's brushing away my statement saying:

"Don't worry, Young Master. They're completely fine. Didn't I tell you that I'm just slowing their thought? So basically they're now laying down on the ground while still thinking, "What just happened!" But like a thousand times slower. And don't worry, I'll let them free when I'm done talking to ya."

(That's still cruel).

I look around the eerie lighting and the frequent silhouette without bodies asking:

"Then what about this eerie atmosphere, the red lights and those children silhouettes?"

"What silhouettes?"

"Huh?"

"And I thought it was already red when I got here..."

His last words become soft and he looks behind him. Soon red mist begins to spout out, blinding the path behind. The light crystals shatter one after another, turning the path behind us like and the abyss. Gruncle stretches both his hand forward and pulls his right hand back. The two guards flung past from above us. Landing on the edge of the stream.

"What's going on Gruncle?"

Confused and panic, those question comes out of me like a popped balloon.

"Rage, fury, Asjorjava... Vengeance shall be ours."

"Huh?"

"It seems they have come from all over the city and some even come from the walls too."

"Gruncle?"

I call out to him but he merely looks at me with slit eyes and smile. A giant axe flings towards me from the red mist but before it could reach me, it stopped mid-air and propel itself back to whence it came.

"ARGAGAFAGGGGHHHHAHHHHH!!!!"

Indescribable screams ring throughout. Gruncle tidies up his collar and wears his mask again saying:

"It seems the rat-kins have come for retribution. You five won't be enough to handle these foes."

Gruncle's voice begins to echo once more. I look at him asking:

"Wait, Gruncle! What about you!?"

"Pfff, me? I'm more than enough to handle this first wave."

He looks behind me and pushes his hand into the air. My body begins to float and the guards too start to rise up.

"Young Master, Sova. Before I send you all away. I just want to say that I'm happy to see you've grown up now. I'm sure your parents would be happy if they're alive."

"Gruncle..."

Feeling my heartstrings being stroke, tears form from my eyes since I get to meet someone from my past. He looks back into the dark saying:

"But you better work on your looks, Young Master. You look girlier than we last met. You're a guy for fuck sake! Your father will be ashamed! Not your mother though since she came from the Theocracy where everything is like turbo gay. Anyway, just change it or you'll never get a girlfriend! Take it from a hunk like myself when I was your age, hehe~"

Gruncle strokes his chin as I feel like he's smiling behind his mask.

"Oh..."

My face tire as he boasts and my body flew across the gutters.

(For some reason, I just felt my worry for him is gone like leaves blown by the winds breathe. Now I remember why not many care nor remember Gruncle cept for Eli- Wait, didn't mom told me that dad's still alive out there? Does that mean... I'll think about this later. I have a bigger fish to fry).

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

With my body still in mid-air, one of the guards beside me twitch and woke up shouting:

"Wha! What's going on!? I'm levita-oh Holy spirits!!"

As he shouts, a colluding black mass is hurling towards us with no room to evade.

"This is it for me! Xiao Weiwei, Daddy's not coming home tonight!?"

(What the hell is that!)

I scream in mind while the guard shouts in agony, light appears at the end of the tunnel. Soon...

*crash*

Before my eyes are all green. The lush scenery is made more beautiful with the beds of colourful blooms. Feeling my body free with the soft gentle winds. I tried getting on my feet and look around me, feeling the soft grass bed below. Other than the giant closed door where I come out from. I look behind me and seeing everything is just nature-

(Oh wait, I can see a massive Citadel built ontop and integrated inside a mountain as it pierces over the white clouds while being shrouded in mists. Under it is layers upon layers of walls and more natural mountain barriers coupled with the forest where behind of it is the giant border walls that separate each Sector stretching from left to right...)

"Is that where I entered from? Is that really a border watch? It looks more like a Castle from the fairy tales. It makes the green scenery from behind me look so out of place."

The guard that woke up earlier shakes the other one shouting:

"Wake up rookie! Dammit, wake up!"

He opens the slumbering guard's helm and slaps his youthful face left and right until he woke up with both his cheeks swollen.

"Ugh, Cowandaf? Wuf hafen?"

"No time to explain rookie, get on your feet. We're changing mission, now our job is to escort the VIP."

"R-fright way sir!"

The rookie tries his best to respond gets back on his feet before wearing his helmet again.

"So, how long does it take for us to get back?"

I ask them to asses the situation and the senior guard looks at me replying:

"It's going to take days to get there by feet. So I'll just send a distress call. To a nearby post, hold on."

He pulls out a round crystal from his pocket and starts speaking. He's probably speaking with someone but for me, all I see is him talking to the crystals. Which is pretty weird. He looks back at me saying:

"They'll arrive around 15 minutes or so. And Ms. Silencer, if you could please answer me, mind telling what happened when we're unconscious?"

(Let me remember what Gruncle said first...)

"Oh, there's an army of rat-kins from all over the city and even the walls. Something about retribution."

"Oh, holy spirit... You just save us from an unholy crusade."

The senior clasp his hand and bow down saying:

"Thank you so much for saving us."

Soon the rookie who saw him follow suit saying:

"Thank you for saving us!"

(I want to look away but if I do so, it will be rude! Ah, why must things be so complicated!)

I nod saying:

"You're welcome. It is just part of a day's job. And by the way."

"What is it, High Commander?"

The senior guard walks closer to me looking at the citadel as he asks.

"Where's General Irina and Saya? I mean the rat-girl."

The senior Guard looks left and right saying:

"Oh shit, they might be down there. Rookie, you take care of the VIP. I'll go and reinforce them-"

The rookie holds the senior guard down shouting:

"By yourself!?"

"Ah right, I guess it's only been a few weeks since you join. So it's normal you don't know our second name."

"Huh?"

The rookie, responding with a baffled voice was pushed away by the senior guard. He pushes away the rookie to operate the weird tech on his left arm.

"We're part of the Axikularis crack troops. Nicknamed the Daredevils."

He smiled and try to open the gate but met with strong resistance as if his attacks were absorbed.

(Is this the same guy who cried when he gets punished?)

"Nia mā ni-"

He stops his sentence midway and raises his hand high up. His gauntlets shine bright red and he sends it down to the door. But the door won't even show a dent. Not stopping there, he sends one blow after another. Kicking up dust and dirt around us.

As the dust cleared, the door leading below is still intact. The senior guard can only stare in disbelief when the rookie walk beside him asking:

"Sir, can't we just contact her through the crystal coms?"

"If I or we could. I wouldn't be this panic. The only one to have her contact is high ranking officers and only a few of them at that thanks to her censored documents... And most of the people that do are on expeditions somewhere and can't be contacted."

"Not to question the higher-ups' decision but isn't that kind of redundant and grave Sir?"

(Yeah... I wonder what is Sis Yuwei plan is).

The senior guard backs away and calms his self down saying:

"I won't argue with that, I guess I have no choice but to place my faith in her to get out of there."

(Uuuh... I wonder if Gruncle also brought them out? I mean I can't continue my mission without Saya!)

I shake these thoughts out of my head saying:

"Let's just wait for the escort to arrive. We'll deal with the situation and explain it with full details when we're back at the base."

They both nod in agreement and look around the green scenery.

"Can't believe she'll turn these entire steppes into an industrial sector soon."

The rookie muttered those words as the wind whistle upon the empty steppes.

"Hmm, what do you mean?"

I ask the rookie back and the senior looks at me replying:

"Don't you know? There's a reason why our regiment started recruiting new recruits this past month."

"Sadly no, I became a Silencer just a while ago. So forgive me for being misinformed."

"Oh, please you don't need to apologize!"

He shakes his head and hand in surprise to say no.

"Then do you mind telling me more?"

The senior guard scratch his head saying:

"Well I don't know much even though I serve her for more than 3 years but I heard from the dripping grapevines in heavens that most of the armies she brought during her Rebellion are being transported somewhere else."

He walks closer to me and leans closer to my ears saying:

"Beyond this point is just my speculation from experience if you don't mind hearing?"

I shake my head replying:

"Of course, since we're waiting it wouldn't hurt to listen."

He nods and takes a seat on the grass plain saying:

"I hope you don't report this for causing low morale but I think she's planning on conquest."

(Conquest? Sis- wait, this is just a speculation. Don't take it for granted).

"I was born in the country sandwiched between 3 powerhouses in this Frontier and our small county is located in the borders of those three countries as hard as that is to be believed."

(What is?)

As the rookie gets close and listen, the senior guard continues his story saying:

"Usually when someone finishes a skirmish or war, they usually either disband or station their troops to prevent rebellion and unrest but seeing how our Empress is not doing either but instead sending them off somewhere else. Well, I wonder what those soldiers are doing? I mean, carrying their weapons and banner high and marching outside home territory is a pretty clear indication of battle. Just because there are no people living there, doesn't mean it can't be conquest. But then again, 90% of the Empress' army is a coalition of warriors from hundreds of countries. So maybe she's paying back the favour or something."

"Hmm... I see..."

I try nodding to pretend I understand when a small shadow hovers above our head, landing close to us. The wind pressure blowing against our general direction. Two more soldiers land carrying swords and rifles, their armour filled with aesthetics and scars easily marks them as foreign veterans. Marching closer with heavy steps, the man with a scar in his helm speak softly saying:

"Chet, I hope you can explain in more details back at the base."

With both their face covered by their helmets, they approach us.

"Of course, I was able to gain more intel thanks to the Silencer who was with us. You better pay your respect to the Silencer, Hilmi."

"Wha! The Silencer!?"

One of the guards look at me with surprise and quickly clasp his hand and bow down shouting:

"Forgive my insolence Ms. Silencer for not recognizing you immediately!"

And the guard beside him quickly followed his example shouting the same. I shake my head saying:

"It's alright, I mean I'm not wearing my armour right now. So it's a given you won't know."

"You're too humble, Ms. Silencer. Now, if you would please let us escort you."

I nod saying:

"Yes, if you would please."

I walk to the weird box. It has seats softer than even my bed which made me wonder,

(What is the standard living of the people in my district? I mean, I know that we're all kind of wearing the same clothes but I didn't know soldiers get better treatment...)

The guards enter the box and keep their distance from me. Some even went so far as to hang on the pillar that holds the ceiling of the box.

"Um... Is there something wrong?"

"Oh, nothing at all."

"Then why are you distancing yourself?"

"Mhm, High Commander, this is just a way to show respect to your authority by giving you space. So please don't worry about us."

The rookie responds with anxiety in his voice.

(Really...? So you show respect to someone higher rank by distancing yourself when resting... I see, so other than the face, you need to give space too).

I stare at the rookie face to face, seeing his green eyes behind his helm, I smile at him responding:

"I see, this is quite new to me, so thank you for letting me know."

He hastily looks away replying:

"Of course, I'm glad I could help!"

(Passing through the Jaguar Territory will be hard if things like this keep happening... I wonder if we'll be late at this rate? Now that I think about it, I'm glad I depart early, and what time is it now? Either way, I hope Saya and Irina are safe).

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

Hands numb, knees weak, and legs like spaghetti...

(This is a bad idea! Why didn't I realize sooner!)

Clutching the soft seat with all my might, leaving marks of my finger deep within the steel inside. The mighty citadel that pierces the clouds and swallows the lands below is now infront of me.

(Problem is, even if I probably conquer my fear of height, this is just too much! This is just like back when Rana jumps the wall and into the ground level!)

"Um... Ms. Silencer, are you okay? You don't look so good."

The rookie who is hanging by the box we're floating is not showing any signs of fear but instead worry me instead.

"Don't you fear of falling?"

I ask in hopes of finding someone who has the same problem as me. But he shakes his head saying:

"Even if I did my armour could cushion the blow and help me float for a while. So it's okay."

(Damn, that's cheating!)

"We'll arrive soon, Ms. Silencer. We'll let someone bring you to your room soon."

"I see, thank you."

I nod and thank him as the citadel gets close.

(It made me wonder why Saya calls that a Border watch when it's clearly a Citadel).

As our transport gets close, I could see our landing spot. A giant magic circle with intricate runes inside of it. On the sides are giant walls, barricades and more extreme fortifications with a variety of cannons ranging from gigantic to the weird looking small ones... I think they call those Artillery when I read the books during the World Invasion. With each being man by 3 people and between all those is pillars with floating crystals and towers packed with more armaments while I could see giant transport flying away from behind the buildings... If it already looks so frightening from up here, I wonder what the people think when they look from below and see the walls too.

Before landing, I can see droves upon droves of soldiers running to the other side of the building, each with different doors and wearing different weapons and armour. Looking at the soldiers beside me, I could feel their confusion even with their face hidden. As our transport arrived, and we set foot to the base. I take a deep breath and fill my lungs with the smell of steel and high mountain winds.

"Pheeew, Back on land."

Soon, 3 people come forth with more advanced armour and weapon with the middle man shouting:

"100-man commander Hilmi, explain."

The guard called Hilmi clasp his hand replying:

"We've received a distress call from a detachment led by General Irina. And so we've retrieved them and returned, Deputy Hansa!"

"I see, so it's those three. Good."

He looks at the guard on his left saying:

"Recall the scout team, and tell them that they've already been found.

"Yessir!"

The guard beside him clasp his hand and run back inside. The deputy looks back at Hilmi saying:

"Great work commander, you've done more than enough."

"Thank you, sir! But one of the guards wish to inform-"

The deputy raises his hand to silence him saying:

"It's alright, General Irina and the noble sent by Her Majesty has told us already. That's why we're deploying the soldiers. And... Who is she? And why doesn't she have any magic? Could she be..."

The deputy looks at me and Hilmi bows his head down shouting:

"Ah, forgive me for forgetting! She's the Silencer sent by the Empress herself!"

"Uwhat!"

The deputy clasps his hand and kneels down before me shouting:

"Please forgive me for not realizing immediately High Commander! I am, Han Sa, Lord Deputy under the command of Lord Commandant Eun Yong!"

"Ah," I clasp my hand responding saying, "Sova Anmao, Silencer of the Phoenix Sector under the direct command of Empress Yuwei. Please to meet you."

"Thank you, High Commander! And to think that I almost lump you together with those Black Tongues!"

(Black Tounges? What?)

The other guard beside him also clasp his hand and kneel down. I shake my head from the repeating events saying:

"It's alright, it's my fault for not being easily identifiable."

The deputy stands on his feet and straightens his hands saying:

"You're too kind, High Commander. Different than the Silencer back in my country."

"Excuse me?"

(Wait, I thought Silencers are rare and all).

"Ah, forgive me for my rambling."

"No, it's okay, do you mind explaining what you mean?"

"Oh, my pleasure, even though Silencer must have their magic sealed, they usually let a sliver of magic out so that people don't mistake them for those Black Tongues."

(That's not what I want when I ask... Wait, so he calls Owlians Black Tongues? I don't think any of us have black tongues. Well at least I know a little more but maybe if I arrange the words a little, I could make him answer me...)

I nod saying:

"I see, thank you for letting me know Deputy, but I thought Silencers was supposed to be a rare existent, does that mean there are more Silencers other than Central?"

"Oh, Silencers are rare alright. But just because we can't find a natural-born Silencer, doesn't mean we can't make one. And besides that, each country calls them by different names. Like where I came from, Silencers there are called Champions. Um, don't you know this already High Commander?"

He looks at me with a giant question mark above his head and I shake my head saying:

"Sorry Deputy, I don't. If I have to be honest, I've only become a Silencer just a few days ago. So please forgive me for being so... Lacking."

With a forced smile, he shakes his head vigorously replying:

"No, not at all! The most important quality for a Silencer is their battle prowess! So the fact the Empress must seal your entire magic means that you must be more powerful than the natural Champions."

His voice is stern and loud as to prove his words are true, not really knowing where this conversation is going. I nod my head saying:

"I see, but other than that, you said something about General Irina and a noble. Mind, bringing me to them?"

"Yes, of course! Please, follow me to meet Lord Commandant. And as for you two, return to your post. And the two behind the Silencer, please follow me too."

The guards clasp their hands saying:

"Yes, Sir!" And join the droves of soldiers while the two behind me stay close.

I look at the deputy saying:

"If you would please."

"Of course."

He turns around and walk away from the drove of soldiers and instead into a different building. The beats send from the endless stomps echoes pass the doors we pass. Our soft steps only ring close between the two walls and occasionally doors. Until we reach the end of the way, only the dim light and our foot steps echoes. Soon, we encounter a very familiar door...

(Oh no...)

The deputy press the square in the wall and the metal doors open. Inside is the familiar place where I entered back with Sis Rubeca... He gestures me to enter saying:

"You first, High Commander."

"Just to make sure, there are no windows in this elevator right?"

"That will be very detrimental to the word of fortress my lady. So, no, there's none."

"Good."

I try to squeeze my words out and enter. With a weird tune playing inside, and the cold air seeping from every corner of the room, I grab the handle on the walls. The deputy enters and closes the door by pressing another square on the wall. The room shakes for a while and stabilizes, leaving both us in silence as we listen to the playing tune... I look at the steel walls beside me, seeing my own reflection, I remembered my time back in Central.

(It was here, that I met Rana and see May being afraid. And it was here that I faint when I want to go to Central. I wonder how Sis Rubeca, May and Aunt Palka is doing right now. I hope you're all safe, because soon when I'm finally ready, I will find and reunite all of you. Just you wait... As for now, I wonder how much time has passed? It feels like it has been forever).

"Excuse me, Deputy?"

"Y-yes, yes! Do you need anything?"

He replied with surprise in his voice.

"I wonder how long has it been since they search for me?"

"T-time? Forgive me High Commander, I think you should ask that to General Irina since I'm from a different army, I have no records of their deployment."

"I see, forgive me for asking."

"No... Not at all."

Even with his face covered by his armour, I could feel his gaze becoming sharper with those words as he falls deep into thought.

(He must be working hard. Even though I don't know military ranks, at least I know his rank is pretty important... I think).

I look at the soldiers behind me asking:

"What about you two? Do you know?"

The senior guard shakes his head saying:

"Forgive me High Commander but no, no we don't."

"I see..."

I look at the steel door thinking,

(Now that I think about it, I don't actually care about time that much just a few days ago. It's thanks to the promise I made to Sis Fei that I'm more worried about it now... Now that I think about it, I wonder if I'm late for my first job?)

*Ding*

When the box above the door writes [UG2], The door opens with the sound of the bell. When we exit the room, we were greeted by blinding light. But unlike before, the light doesn't blind me and I could see clearly, ahead. Standing before me is a tall man in his teens, probably just a few years older than me. With eyes burning with azure blue light while his short black hair compliments his advanced light suit of armour and the black long coat that seems to fuse with his body. Behind him is Saya and General Irina, looking at me with eyes of worry.

Looking around as I walk closer to them, the entire floor is a giant empty field and pretty close semblance to an arena with a line on the edges. With the exception of a giant glass window where we can't see inside.

"Saya, General Irina, I'm glad you're safe-"

"It seems we meet again you Sissy Fuck. It's just this morning and you got yourself a makeover."

"Wait, what?"

The man in black walks closer to me while adjusting his gloves and continue saying:

"I'm gonna skip with the pleasantries and say I'm Lord Commandant Eun Yong, in charge of the defence of the bottled neck north. But more importantly, I wonder how in Libera's blue balls did you gain the Empress' favour?"

"Um... Excuse me?"

With a flurry of insults he spouts at me, he sighs at my question saying:

"Listen here you She-male demon. Unlike the cunning foxes of my staff, I'm a man who says things directly without twisting the truth nor facts. So let me say this, no one in the gathering back at the old capital trust you one bit, (exceptforthatbitchofawitch). But the fact that the Empress pulling a no-fuck what from her ginormous rack is no surprise either... Except for this one."

"Um..."

I try to say something but why does he speak like that? Even if we both speak the common tongue, I don't understand some words his saying!

"Don't look at me with such innocent an clueless eyes! I don't know how you were able to hide your malefic intent but you're not fooling me nor anyone!"

"P-please, hold-"

"No! I serve and observe her for more than a year now, and I never saw her act or talk like that. Not even to the people she recruited along the way back here. Everyone can clearly tell that both your relationship is more than just sworn siblings."

Stopping just a few meters away from me, he looks down at me and continues saying:

"So tell me, you Agma-spawn. How in the feth, did you seduce the Empress when not even Arakin can't?"

(Seriously, what is wrong with him?)

"Um... I don't really understand but I've known Sis Yuwei for 4 years before we stopped living with each other. You speak as you know her but do you even really know her?"

"Hmm?"

He twists his head in confusion and I continue saying:

"I won't admit I know her well since we haven't met for another 4 years but after talking and spending time with her these last few days, I can confirm that her favourite food hasn't changed, she still sometimes tease and bully me even though she said she's a grown-up, and she still has the habit of saying "touch some wood" thing while cursing by saying food names and above all, she still cares deeply for her family.

I don't know what kind of insults you hurl at me but if you dare mock Sis Yuwei, I won't forgive you."

I clench my fist and my eyes glare at him before I realize it. He shows a sweet smile saying:

"Heh, I almost didn't recognize you again there. And luckily for you, I'm gonna do you a favour by battling you, and I got a seal of approval from her majesty for a mock battle."

"Wait, what?"

Confused by another thing he said, he summons out two curved black daggers with ornaments and a weird insignia on its blade.

"Just think of it this way, you Eclish reject. One of the most important thing about Silencers is their combat capability. Even though her Majesty and The Crown Chancellor has given you the seal of approval. They still haven't given us the proof of so. Words mean no shit if there's no proof."

"Um... What?"

He points one of his daggers at me replying:

"I pulled some strings with my homeland and with the help of her majesty, I got myself one of the cutting edge cameras from the renegades of the United States called the Guardian Cams. In turn, she told me to fight you and prove that you are at least worthy of the Silencer title."

"That's..."

(A mock battle. I really don't understand what led to this but if I can help Sis Yuwei by gaining their trust- No, I shouldn't resort to violence just because it's a shortcut. He told me that power is just one of the most important, but that doesn't mean that's the only way. Now that I think about it, didn't I kinda break that vow but accepting Sis Yuwei's offer for a mock battle back then too? Ah, I'm being a hypocrite myself now haven't I? Saya seems to be right-)

*slam* *crack* *smash*

"Sova!"

In the middle of my thought, hearing Saya calling my name. A large dark cloud of dust and dirt surround and covered me as if it has a mind of its own. My eyes catch tiny shadows moving closer to me between and the dark clumps for just a mere moment. I move my hand by following my instinct and soon, I felt both my hands grasping something with all its might. With my vision being obscured by black dust and dirt I thought to myself,

(I have a feeling this is something that always happens. I'm not falling for the trick again).

Feeling like I'm holding someone's wrist, I drag it closer to me and soon his blades reach a uncomfortable distance to my nose while I could see his shocked expression as I stopped him.

(Maybe this super strength is the enhancement Mary told me about. Giving me about the something build or something... I have to thank her when I meet her again. Other than that, I wonder if this is karma for that time with Aoi- but that was Rana's fault! But on one of the downside, with how much my body is... Altered, like how my proportion is being changed. I'm still haven't gotten use to it yet. Especially when I'm walking, it feels weird.

I wonder if I can fight properly? But then again, if I can use my techniques back in the sewer, it means that it's not really that different).

"How did you find my- Urrrrggghh!"

I grip his hand with all my might and as I hear him squirm while gritting his teeth. I push his hand away so I can see him face to face and look at him in the eyes saying:

"Commandant, I begin to wonder if the Confederation's way of fighting is by sneak or surprise attacks. Do you know how many times I've suffered from a sneak attack just this week."