The group sat at the table, surrounded by an echo of silence. Despite the tension surrounding their serious discussion, the village remained unaffected. The beast-ruled domain around them was getting a feeling of normalcy, a feeling of calmness.

“Sir, as you know, there was an order for division two to inspect a northern village about a potential beast attack. And, because of division sixes scans, they reported that a large group of beasts rampaged through the city.” Hetomo clasped his hands together, “and from the reports, we assume that there were no survi-”

“Incorrect.”

The Captain looked at Mia, seated at the far end of the table.

“She’s the only survivor, and because of that, I had her join our division. Because of her exceptional affinity for her huntsman powers and the feats she accomplished in this village, I think it’s a necessity for her to be a huntsman.”

Hikaru nodded in agreement.

“Captain, Yuai and I believe that there’s some sort of conspiracy happening. Right after you and Hikaru left, everything became weird. It was only after you and Hikaru departed that Court 9 gave out the order to have division two arrested. We believe they wanted the two most powerful members to be gone while they did it so that they could move their plans more smoothly.”

Hetomo sighed and looked around the table, “of course all of our personal thoughts are complete speculation but- we need you to help us, an” I think that the secret division is forcing Court 9 to do their dirty work. I think we have enemies working among us.”

The Captain stood up and looked down at Hetomo and Yuai. “you don’t even need to ask. I found it odd that a Captain and Lieutenant were assigned to investigate such a small village. But since Court 9 has complete authority of the ruling system and orders, there was nothing I could do to question it.”

He crossed his arms together. “We’re heading out. We’re gonna go to Seiren and save our division, as well as deal with any obstacles in our way.”

The group smiled in unison and nodded.

“Yes, Sir!”

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–

As the group of huntsmen began preparing for their departure, Mia needed more information on the situation, specifically the parties involved.

“Uh, Hikaru, can I ask you a few questions? Regarding everything?” Mia stood beside him.

“Hm? Of course, it’s gonna be a hassle if you go in lacking information.”

“Well, as all of you were talking, I kinda became lost… On what Court 9 is, what the secret division is, and a few other things.”

“Hm, easy enough questions to answer. Firstly, Court 9 is our ruling system. They give out orders and missions as well as running the governmental side of things. They also deal with legal matters, such as punishing huntsmen who have done something illegal. The secret division is, well, exactly what it seems, they’re a group of huntsmen whose only reason for existing is to handle very hush-hush information as well as protect powerful pieces of technology.”

“Hm, with a name like ‘secret division’, you’d assume they’d be like the assassins of the Huntsmen Covenant or something.”

Hikaru shook his head and chuckled, “assassins? That’s a whole separate unit.”

Mia and Hikaru continued to chat for a few minutes.

“Oi! Hikaru! Mia! Quit chatting and hurry up!” The Captain turned back around and summoned a Seshi. “We’re leaving now.”

–

As everyone summoned Seshi’s and began mounting them, Mia looked at the sky.

In such a short period of time, my life has changed drastically. First I lose everything, then I’m saved by total strangers. Now I have such a huge mission to do. I’m not sure whether to be excited or terrified… At Least now I’m meeting more friends and allies along the way.

She looked back down and smiled.

“I guess good things happen to those who wait,” she whispered.

“MIA!”

The Captain grew more impatient.

“Yes! Yes! Coming!”

She quickly mounted the same Seshi as Hikaru, and they all began to depart.

–

Their departure from the once beast-occupied village was quick, goodbyes were brief.

As they rode, Mia glanced back to the village.

Her eyes widened as she saw a large group of village folk waving them off and cheering. She heard men, women, and children screaming their thanks.

Wow, I-I never thought I’d get this feeling, or that someone would thank me… It feels like I made a difference.

She smiled and turned back around, resuming her ride.

“Hikaru, you think I could handle the reins?”

“Pfft, no way. I’ve seen how easily you fall asleep. There’s no way I’m letting you in front.”

“Rats.”

For the time being, Mia just looked around as they rode. She bent to the side, staring at the Captain who was riding in front, with Hetomo and Yuai riding behind him.

Mia looked back. The village was slowly getting further away. What was once a clump of buildings was now just a speck in the distance, slowly being swallowed up by the green grass and occasional tree.

“How long do you think it’ll take us to get to Seiren?” She hollered.

Yuai looked back, “Well, it like totally took us a couple days to find you guys, yep.”

“Hm.”

I guess it’ll be a while till we arrive. Might as well take in the scenery… And try not to fall asleep.