The forest was shrouded in an inky darkness, the moon's feeble light struggling to penetrate the dense canopy overhead as she descended gracefully upon a small clearing, her figure morphing and shifting as her ability subsided — the colorless, almost transparent photon particles slowly returning her body to her original humanoid form; lustrous multi-layered armor platings that once covered her entire body receded, revealing her slender frame clad in a sleek, white dress. Two magnificent wings — their pinions a mesmerizing blend of ebony and gilded edges — folded against her back, shedding their feathers of black before they too started to dissipate into the night like scattered stardust.

"Hmm," she murmured softly to herself, a hint of nostalgia creeping into her voice; the Guardian looked down at her own hands, flexing her fingers and watching as the ambient light danced across the polished surface of her gauntlets. "It has been quite some time since I last assumed that form…"

Beside her, two spherical devices floated, their holographic interfaces flickering with faint luminescence; one of them — the MAG containing a fragment of Auria's consciousness — emitted a gentle chime as it hovered closer, concern evident in the young AI's haste to inquire about her well-being.

"Is there something wrong, Commander?" A feminine voice resonated through the air, its tone filled with a mixture of care and curiosity. "Do you feel some sort of discomfort after using your ability? I… confess, that I have little information regarding that transformation technique."

"Thank you for your concern, Auria, but there's no need to worry about me. As you can see, I am perfectly fine." She turned her gaze towards the floating MAG, a soft smile gracing her lips as she shook her head. "I simply forgot how… exhilarating, the entire experience could be. Normally, I would much rather go for Appregina instead; still, perhaps utilizing the other forms every once in a while wouldn't be such a bad idea. Regardless…" Her voice flowed with a sense of tranquility as she spoke, like a gentle breeze whispering through the trees. "Do you have any complain regarding the new MAG itself? Some sort of problem whatsoever?"

"I have yet to encounter any issues, Commander." The artificial intelligence replied, its cadence measured and composed. "The MAG's performance has been satisfactory thus far, and I must admit that certain functions of the device appear to be superior compared to our own. It is an… intriguing piece of equipment, to say the least, and I believe it wouldn't be wrong to say that there's much ARKS could gain from further study and analysis of the device."

"Is that so?" She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, filling her lungs with the earthy scent of moss and the sweet fragrance of wildflowers that mingled with the crisp night air. "An unexpected boon, then… well, no mater; I suppose we should be glad that it managed to exceed our expectations. Both the Research Division and the Department of Intelligence are going to have a field day once we managed to return to the fleet." The cold wind brushed against her bare shoulders, and with a contented smile, she opened her eyes and looked up at the star-studded sky above, its vast expanse a canvas of shimmering lights. "Still, it is a shame that you've decided to stay behind. Having you around would have made this entire venture much more enjoyable."

"I… shall endeavor to do my best should the next opportunity arise."

"Mhmm, next time then…" A soft sigh escaped from her lips as her eyes proceeded to scan the surrounding forest, its dark silhouette seemingly alive with whispers and hidden secrets; the trees stood tall and proud, their branches reaching towards the starlit sky like ethereal fingers yearning for a touch of the heavens, while the undergrowth rustled softly in the night breeze — a symphony of sound that danced on the edge of her perception. "Remind me; if I'm not mistaken, then the city of Orario should be somewhere to the west, correct?"

"Yes, Ma'am," the MAG bobbed in the air, its spherical form pulsing with a faint green light as it began to project a holographic map of the continent. "According to the navigational data we have obtained, Orario is indeed located to the west of our current position. It should be within a reasonable distance, approximately two hundred and ninety-five kilometers away." A series of glowing dots appeared on the map, outlining a path that would led them through several villages and towards the city. "If we follow the predetermined route, we should be able to falsify our trail, making it appear as if we hail from the Empire instead."

"Excellent, that should provide us with a sufficient cover story." She responded, her voice carrying a note of satisfaction as she turn and took a step forward, her greaves barely making a sound on the carpet of fallen leaves that blanketed the forest floor. "Let us get going, then; I prefer to reach the first village before morning comes."

Several strands of blue started to materialize around her as she continued her leisurely pace, moving and coalescing into a radiant, shimmering sphere of photon energy. With a wave of her hand, the sphere fragmented, scattering motes of light in every direction; the tiny particles danced in the air, imbued with the energy of creation and alteration.

She extended her hand towards the scattered photons, her fingers curling around the intangible shards of energy as she began to manipulate them with delicate precision, and the particles responded to her touch, weaving and swirling in an intricate dance as they formed the shape of an ethereal book. It materialized before her, its black cover adorned with golden accents that glinted in the faint moonlight; several crimson gems were embedded into the leather-like material, their vibrant hue contrasting against the dark surface.

Atlas Letra EX… a grimoire, so to speak — one of the strongest talis-type weapon she had in her possession, and something that shouldn't look entirely out of place in this new realm.

She reached for her belt, the sound of metal clinking against metal filling the air as she hung the grimoire on a specially designed hook, allowing it to rest comfortably on her waist — the golden chain that adorned its spine glinting as it swung gently with her movements; the purple demonic eye ornament placed on the center of the book seemed to emanate a subtle aura of power, drawing one's attention to its mysterious allure.

With a swift motion, she raised her hand once more, commanding the photons to reshape themselves. The radiant energy responded to her will, coalescing and taking shape as she summoned a blade, a sword hidden behind the veneer of another weapon. Its hilt, adorned with an intricate engraving of a lion, gleamed with an opalescent sheen, while the steel itself possessed a scarlet edge that seemed to shimmer like liquid fire. The elaborate weapon — a variation of the Imperial Crimson — was nothing more than a camouflage to deceive the eyes, allowing her true weapon, the Trailblazer Sword, to imitate the regal blade wielded by Rosalinde of Idola, if only in appearance…

"Not as long as I would've preferred, though it is nothing a little photon manipulation couldn't fix." The Guardian mused, her voice a whisper that blended seamlessly with the nocturnal symphony of the forest as she tested the weight of the weapon in her hand, her eyes tracing the scarlet line that goes up the central ridge of the blade. "But I suppose it will have to suffice…"

She slid the sword into its custom made scabbard, the smooth sound of metal meeting leather reverberating throughout the night; the weapon hung comfortably at her side, its pristine hilt peeking out from beneath the flowing folds of her white dress.

"Aren't you going to manifest the shield as well, Commander?" Auria asked a few seconds of silence, her voice filled with genuine curiosity.

"Hmm…" The Guardian trailed off for a moment, considering the question; she glanced towards the pair of devices floating beside her, a faint smile playing on her lips as she shook her head gently. "No, not yet… the shield would only serve to inhibit my movement at this point, not to mention that I'm stuck with the 'Hero' class at the moment; at least, until we managed to fix the necessary equipment." She replied, her voice carrying a touch of amusement. "Of course, that is not to say that I am incapable of utilizing the rest of the arts and techniques from the other classes, but I believe it would be best if I stick to those my photon are currently optimized for; no reason to waste more than what was necessary."

"… and is that the only reason?"

"Well, it might have something to do with how a single blade would complement my overall appearance better compared to a sword and shield." She admitted with a chuckle, a hint of pride seeping into her voice; the Guardian turned and looked at her reflection in the mirror-like surface of the lake as she walked, her eyes tracing the elegant lines of her dress and the glimmering accents of her armor. "It does makes me look like a knight, don't you think? Or perhaps a princess knight?"

"… of course it is." The AI responded with a dry tone, the slight edge evident in her words hinted at a mix of exasperation and fondness. "As always, your… preference, for style over practicality is well deserved."

"And did you expect anything different? We've been together for eight months already; you should know by now how… particular I am when it comes to appearances." Her voice carried with it a playful lilt, a melodic sound that blended with the rustling leaves and the chorus of the creatures of the night. "Besides, a little style never hurt anyone; in fact, being presentable is just as important as being effective in battle. After all, what good is a Guardian who lacks the presence and charisma to command and inspire others?"

"With all due respect, Commander," Auria interjected, the light on the MAG's visor flickering slightly as she spoke. "Your presence alone is often enough to drive the ARKS into a frenzy…"

"Mhmm… a quality that even someone like Xiao never hesitate to utilize in our battle against the Armada of Demise." The words that came out of her lips held a touch of nostalgia, tinged with both acknowledgment and a hint of regret as she gently shook her head; a cascade of rosy pink swayed with the motion before she returned her gaze back to the winding path ahead — the memories of her past battles and the sacrifices of those around her danced in her mind, a bittersweet reminder of the countless failures she had experienced despite the power she held within her hands. "Yes… I suppose it can be quite useful in certain situations."

"… Ma'am?"

"It's fine… nothing you should concern yourself with." The Guardian dismissed the topic with a wave of her hand, her voice carrying with it a sense of finality before she switched to a more jovial tone. "That reminds me; I never did get to thank you for helping me modify the dress, didn't I?"

The moonlight filtered through the canopy above, casting ethereal patterns on the ground and illuminating her every movement. She glanced down at the flowing white dress that clung to her form, the fabric rippling like a gentle stream as she walked; what was once a pure — if somewhat elaborate — white dress with silver armor had now been transformed into a dazzling ensemble with golden armor and ornamentation. The fabric around the hemline was tinged with hints of crimson hues, adding a touch of subtle vibrancy to the overall aesthetic; patterns of crosses lined the edges of her skirt, intertwining with the intricate engravings on the surfaces of the glorious metal that covered parts of her body — their surfaces catching the faintest glimmers of starlight and reflecting them in a mesmerizing dance.

"I'm, ah… I'm glad that you're pleased with the outcome, Commander." The young artificial intelligence, ever humble, replied modestly. "Although, to be honest, the design itself was already exquisite; all I did was just a bit of re-coloration and some other minor adjustments, such as swapping parts of the armor."

"Nonsense; you underestimate yourself, Auria." Her voice held a warm undertone as she turned her head and cast a grateful smile at the floating MAG. "This 'Blanche Tiares' looks absolutely stunning." She proceeded to glance at the other MAG with a twinkle of delight in her eyes. "Isn't that right, little Skye?" Her loyal companion let out a quick chime in confirmation, bobbing up and down while emitting a series of cheerful beeps; she reached out and gently patted the MAG's spherical body, her touch eliciting a chorus of excited melodies. "See? Even Skye here agrees with me…"

"T-thank you, Ma'am," the numerous lines on the surface of AI's borrowed form glowed with a faint light reminiscent of a blush, its gentle hue illuminating their surrounding as she stammered. "But I must insist that it was a collaborative effort. Y-your vision and guidance played a significant role in the final result."

"So you say…" The Guardian chuckled softly, the sound that came out of her mouth echoed like a delicate note weaving through the night, carrying with it a sense of genuine appreciation. "Though let us be honest; you always manage to make it look so… effortless. I, on the other hand, am fairly certain that I could never do it as well as you did."

"R-really? I-I mean, your words are too kind, Commander," Auria replied, her tone filled with a mixture of gratitude and mild embarrassment, along with a not-so-small amount of pride. "But I assure you, i-it was simply a matter of adapting to your preferences and utilizing the resources at our disposal; of course, none of the processes costs us more than a few units of photons."

'How adorable…'

While the young AI may have appeared stoic and composed on the surface, the Commander — along with the rest of her crew — had come to understand that she had a number of… susceptibilities; among them were compliments, particularly one in regards to her private 'hobby', as well as a few other things — not that the young woman was aware of their observations. Nevertheless, it was a rare glimpse into the artificial intelligence's more human-like qualities, a vulnerability that she personally found rather endearing.

"Oh, I know… still, it does not change the fact that you're exceedingly skilled at this particular subject." The glow from the MAG intensified ever-so-slightly, enhancing the vibrant colors of the forest; the trees seemed to sway in response to the gentle illumination — their leaves shimmering like emerald jewels — revealing a large expanse of grassy landscape that lay beyond. "Regardless, back to the matter at hand, I believe it would be best if the two of you started to hide yourselves, just in case someone managed to stumble upon our path."

"A-ah? Y-yes, understood, Ma'am; e-engaging cloaking protocols…" Auria stammered once more — momentarily caught off guard by the abrupt change in topic — while Skye let out a quiet whirr, both of their forms growing translucent and blending into the surrounding environment with each passing second.

"Well then," the Guardian continued as she stepped out of the forest, her gaze sweeping across the vast plain that unfolded before her eyes; verdant blades swayed gently in the soft breeze, rippling like a sea of green waves beneath the moon's luminous glow. "Let us see what this world has in store for us, shall we?"

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The narrow tunnel trembled with the onslaught of the approaching horde; her heart beat steady and strong, a stark contrast to the cacophony of growls and screeches that echoed throughout the confined space, bouncing off the tunnel walls and filling it with an eerie resonance. Without hesitation, she unsheathed her crimson blade, the polished steel glinting with deadly intent in the dimly lit corridor, and in a blur of motion, the creatures lunged at her from all sides. She twirled her blade in an effortless gesture, her movements a symphony of fatalistic grace despite the tight confines; the Guardian's agile footwork allowed her to dance around her assailants, exploiting the limited space to her advantage.

She twisted and spun, Imperial Crimson cutting through the air with lightning speed, each strike finding its mark with lethal precision — her blade became an extension of her will, a scarlet blur that left a trail of devastation in its wake. With a swift kick, she sent one of the more diminutive creatures hurtling backward, and in the same motion, she deflected the swing of a giant's crude club — its muscles bulging like taut ropes ready to snap. Her senses were heightened, and the tunnel's every nuance was etched into her mind — the faintest echoes of claws scraping against stone, the acrid scent of the creatures' fetid breath, and the cold touch of the dank, damp walls against her skin.

Allowing a soft sigh to escape from her lips, the Guardian wasted no time before she propelled herself off the ground with a powerful push, somersaulting over the heads of the encroaching 'monsters'. Time seemed to slow as she hung in mid-air for a fleeting moment, her blade slicing through a row of creatures in a scintillating arc; the crimson streaks painted the air with a deadly flourish as the tunnel seemed to shrink around her. Landing gracefully behind one of the creatures, her eyes locked onto its exposed back, and with a flick of her wrist, she unleashed a precise strike that sent her blade slicing through the air like a deadly wisp of crimson light; the golden edge found its mark, severing the creature's spine with surgical precision before it crumbled to the ground in a lifeless heap.

Cold, frigid winds began to whisper through the narrow tunnel as she channeled the essence of her photon manipulation technique through a page of her grimoire, carrying with them a biting chill that made the very air brittle — an ethereal blizzard formed, swirling around her in a mesmerizing dance of icy particles. The once gentle breeze now howled with a fury akin to a vengeful arctic storm, transforming her surrounding and turning the dank and humid atmosphere into a frozen landscape, the air thick with crystalline frost that shimmered like a thousand tiny diamonds; her breath materialized as delicate puffs of mist, her exhales becoming part of the swirling tempest she had summoned.

The blizzard expanded outward, spreading with a speed that defied nature — frosty tendrils reached out, encasing the walls of the tunnel in a layer of glistening hoarfrost, and the ground beneath her feet crackled with frozen fractals as she harnessed the full might of her technique. Most, if not all of the creatures that had been trying to assail her — their forms twisted and grotesque — were now imprisoned in their own icy tombs, their movements stilled by the unyielding grip of the winter's embrace.

Her weapon started to shimmer with a pulsating aura, its radiant energy enveloping the steel with a dazzling luminescence; the azure light flowed down the blade like a cascading waterfall, its ethereal glow extending beyond the sword's edge, creating an otherworldly aura of sapphire brilliance that seemed to draw the very essence of the frozen landscape into its grasp. With a masterful flourish, she swung her blade, and as if an artist's brush had painted the canvas of reality, a series of crescents erupted forth from the weapon's arc — each one leaving behind a faint trail of cerulean streak as they cleaved through the frozen creatures with a fluid precision that belied their lethality. The rocks shattered, the walls scarred, and the floor cracked as the crescents carved their way through the tunnel with a sound akin to the ethereal song of the northern lights.

"Hmm…" Her voice carried with it a serene grace as she observed the aftermath of her devastating assault; the blizzard subsided, the icy winds gradually ceasing their relentless onslaught as the aura of azure dissipated from her blade, leaving behind only the soft glow of the crimson steel. "That should be everything for this area…"

She turned her gaze towards the lifeless corpse at her feet, her expression contemplative before she lifted her blade and brought it down in a swift arc — the frozen flesh shattering with a brittle snap, revealing the magic stone nestled within the creature's chest. It pulsed with a dim, otherworldly light as she reached down to grasp the gem between her gloved fingers, a hint of disappointment flashed across her features as she gave it a cursory examination; the stone was smaller than expected, almost unremarkable in size compared to the ones she had encountered thus far… and with a flick of her wrist, she tossed it aside, the glittering shard skittering across the frozen floor before coming to rest against the wall.

"This is getting tedious," she pressed her finger against the tiny device situated inside her ear, the words that came out of her lips a soft echo that resonated throughout the labyrinthine tunnel. "Auria, if you would please provide me with a status update…"

"Of course, Commander," Auria's composed voice echoed through the hidden earpiece. "According to the scans I've performed, there are still more than a hundred of these creatures left outside of the cave. Skye also seems to concur. It appears that your effort have been quite effective in thinning their number."

"More than a hundred, you say? I am fairly certain that the villagers warned us of only a few." The Guardian's tone held a hint of amusement, her lips curling into a playful smile as she proceeded to make her way through the icy corridor, her greaves barely making a sound against the frost-covered ground. "Well, I suppose we should be grateful that it was simply a few hundred instead of a few thousand, though in hindsight, we really should've expected something like this."

"To be fair, it is entirely possible that the villagers themselves underestimated the true extent of the creatures' presence." Auria's voice remained composed, her words thoughtful as she continued to analyze the situation. "I do not think they are even aware of this underground network to begin with. At least, its location is far enough from the village that it would be unlikely for them to have stumbled upon it in their daily activities."

"Perhaps…" She replied, her hand reaching for another page of her grimoire as she navigated the narrow path with a practiced ease; its surface shimmering with a faint golden glow as she began to channel her photon energy through the nonetheless unremarkable object. "Just as well, I suppose; in a way, surprises like this are one of the few things that keeps our lives interesting."

The dampness receded, replaced by a faint breeze that whispered of freedom as she emerged from the confines of the tunnel into the wide, open valley nestled deep within the mountainous region — her eyes narrowing as she took in the sight of countless creatures milling about in the distance. Rock formations jutted out from the ground like ancient sentinels, their craggy surfaces bearing the scars of ages past; moss and lichen clung to their rugged exteriors, adding a touch of vibrant color to the otherwise muted landscape. Beyond them, the land stretched out in an undulating expanse of lush greenery, a crystal-clear stream snaking its way through the valley; the sound of trickling water filled the air, its gentle murmur a soothing melody as opposed to the cacophony of growls that resonated down below.

"Shame… the whole area seems like it would have been a good place to settle down in." She took a moment to appreciate the surrounding, a soft smile tugging at the corner of her lips as she observed the few creatures that had begun to turn in her direction — their beady eyes glowing like molten orbs in the fading light of the afternoon sun. "Hmm… might as well; keep your distance, both of you, I may end up resorting to compound techniques."

"Understood, Ma'am." Auria responded with her usual composure while Skye let out a beep of confirmation, affirming its understanding of the situation.

With effortless grace, she launched herself up into the air, her long white dress billowing around her like a silken cloud; its flowing folds left a trail of glorious crimson as the wind played with her hair, teasing strands of rosy pink like a wisp of blooming cherry blossoms. The creatures, now aware of her presence, unleashed a volley of projectiles in her direction — crude stones, sharp fragments of bones, and even globs of muck, all propelled through the air by the sheer force of their limbs.

'… to think that everyone believes that these creatures are without intelligence.' She mused to herself, her feet barely grazing the ground before she sprung into action; her movements were as fluid as a river's current, evading the attacks with the ease of a leaf dancing in the gentle breeze. 'Hmm… going about this normally will only result in a prolonged battle, and it's not like anyone would've been affected, regardless…'

A single use of her technique conjured over half a dozen whirlwinds, the crimson blade in her hand carving through another 'monster' before it returned to its sheath; hundreds of malevolent creatures with green, warty skin and gnarled features hurtled through the air, their brutish forms flailing around like ragdolls as they were sucked into the swirling vortex of destruction. Goblins and Orcs, the villagers called them — repulsive vermins that had plagued their peaceful mountains for generations, or so they said… and yet, their putrid appearance belied a sinister cunning that had allowed them to thrive in these rugged lands.

Be that as it may, she was not one to underestimate her foes, no matter how… weak, they may appear to be.

The surrounding air rippled with ethereal energies, creating a luminous field of twinkling particles as wings of iridescent light manifested behind her — verdant and vibrant, they shimmered like the emerald leaves of a majestic forest. It propelled her forward with a breathless velocity, each flap generating a sonic boom that resonated throughout the valley. The creatures scattered in disarray, their clumsy attempts to strike at her thwarted by her unparalleled agility; bolts of lightning crackled and danced across the landscape, striking the area around her as she passed by with a blinding speed, leaving the scent of ozone and the echo of thunder in their wake.

Spheres of radiant hue materialized in each of her palm, their brilliance swirling together in a mesmerizing dance; one shimmered with a soft, icy blue — the cold essence of winter's frost encapsulated within its form — while the other glowed with a pure, translucent white — the essence of purity surging through its core. Her arms moved with a fluid grace as she brought the two orbs together, their luminous forms a cascade of azure and opalescent splendor, blending and merging into each other like the delicate harmony of a celestial ballet.

'Barantsion', the effulgent glaciate…

With a masterful flourish, she drew her hands apart, a trail of flickering light following her motion; in the next instant, two crystalline swords materialized, their blades infused with the combined essence of ice and light. Each weapon emanated an aura of pristine white, the blades reflecting the colors of the surrounding landscape as they shimmered in the fading light of the afternoon sun. The Guardian's grip tightened around the twin swords, her fingers wrapped around the handles with a sense of familiarity and control that spoke of years of honed skill — each movement flowing seamlessly into the next as if the swords were mere extensions of her own being.

'Well… they're definitely better than what was expected.' She thought to herself, a hint of satisfaction seeping into her serene demeanor; the multitudes of compound techniques had proven to be far more efficient than she had initially anticipated. Already, the Guardian could feel her reservoir replenishing at a rather astonishing rate — each photon particle taken directly from the very air that surrounded her. 'The output, though…'

She weaved through the mass of grotesque beings with the grace of a dancer, her motions were a blur of calculated strikes — each swing of her twin crystalline swords a symphony of lethal elegance. Bolts of lightning continued to rage around her, illuminating the battlefield with a dazzling display of crackling energy, while whirlwinds of viridescent green swept across the valley, tearing through the horde with a force akin to nature's fury.

Nevertheless, despite the reduced potency of her compound techniques, in the end, it took her barely a minute to wipe out the entirety of the creatures; the once teeming valley now lay still, their lifeless bodies scattered like broken, discarded dolls amidst the grass and rocky outcrops — residual energy crackled in the air, the scent of burnt flesh mingling with the fresh aroma of earth and foliage as the whirlwinds and lightning quickly receded. She swept her gaze across the valley — her eyes reflecting the changing hues of the evening sky — while the sun's golden rays bathed the landscape in a warm, honeyed glow, painting the mountains and distant horizon in shades of amber and sienna; the clear stream shimmered like liquid crystal, its gentle flow a soothing murmur that provided an accompaniment to the harmonious stillness.

With a soft exhale, the Guardian lowered herself to the ground, her wings dispersing into a cascade of dazzling particles before vanishing altogether, her blades dissolving in a brilliant display of light that left a trail of fading mist in their wake. She ran her fingers through her hair, pushing back a few loose strands that had escaped the single elegant braid she had adorned her flowing locks with.

"… that should be all of them." Her voice resonated with a composed grace as she moved with a certain regality, her movements akin to a waltz amidst the tranquility of the valley. "Auria, please confirm the elimination of the targets."

"Of course, Commander; all enemies have been neutralized. There are no further signs of hostility in our immediate vicinity." Auria replied promptly, her form materializing along with Skye with barely a sound — the holographic map being projected on the ground supporting the AI's analysis. "I believe there are a few of them left in the tunnel, but they shouldn't prove to be too much of a threat for the village to handle."

"Good to know," the Guardian nodded, her lips curving into a faint smile. "Regardless, we'll have to make sure that they are aware of the underground network, if only to prevent any future surprises."

"Agreed, Ma'am… though if I may ask, what do you propose we do with the remains of these creatures?" Her tone held a hint of curiosity, her gaze shifting towards the scattered bodies of the fallen creatures that still remained in the valley. "Should we gather their magic stones?"

"No need; their size are small enough that I doubt they would aid us with our predicament." The words that came out of her lips carried with it an air of finality, her hand reaching for the book hanging from her belt. "On that note, do we even know if there's any unwanted consequences should we choose to leave them unattended? Disease or something similar, perhaps?"

"Results from the database indicate that there have been no records pertaining to such cases." Auria responded with certainty, the light on the MAG's visor flickering slightly as she spoke. "Still, it appears that there is a minor risk of another creature consuming the magic stones and becoming what they called an enhanced species, although the probability is relatively low."

"I see…" She mused, her fingers gently tapping against the surface of the grimoire as she contemplated her options. "That does pose a potential problem, and while the likelihood of such an event occurring may be small, it is not something we should entirely disregard." Her brows furrowed slightly in thought, her gaze settling on the lifeless corpses before her. "In that case, it would be best to err on the side of caution. Very well, then… I will dispose of them myself."

She ripped another page from her grimoire, and with a single, elegant gesture, she sent a surge of photon coursing through her fingers. The glowing parchment emitted a soft luminescence while hundreds of icy spikes materialized around the valley; they hovered in the air, their crystalline forms shimmering with a cold brilliance — each one was as sharp as the finest blade. With a graceful flick of her hand, the icy lances shot forward with the precision of a guided projectiles. They pierced through the chests of the lifeless creatures, each strike hitting its target with unerring accuracy; the magic stones hidden within their flesh shattered upon impact, releasing a pulse of energy that turned the grotesque forms to ash in but an instant… and when the Guardian lowered her hand, and the icy spikes gradually dissolved, vanishing into the ether like melting snowflakes.

"Hmm…" She watched as the fine particles of ash drifted on the gentle breeze, her expression impassive, yet with a touch of somber reflection; the Guardian then turned her attention towards the reddening sky, her eyes tracing the arc of the setting sun as it dipped below the horizon. "How unfortunate… we have an hour — or perhaps two — until sundown, which means that it would be better for us to spend the night in the village, if only to keep up appearances." The Guardian turned on her heel, her flowing dress billowing around her like a graceful river of silk as she began her journey through the valley; the remnants of the fallen creatures were now nothing more than a fine layer of ash scattered across the ground, the last vestiges of their existence lost to the wind. "Well, no matter; we've done what we can… the rest will be for others to deal with. Come, let us make our way back to the village… oh, and just in case, you may switch to telepathic link should it ever become necessary."

"Understood, Ma'am." Auria replied in her ever-composed manner, the young artificial intelligence hovering beside the Guardian as she walked; Skye followed closely behind, emitting a soft hum of agreement before its form started to flicker and fade, leaving behind only a faint trace of residual particles in the air.

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It had been approximately three and a half days ever since the start of their journey… almost four, if she were to count the time she had spent eliminating those creatures. Now she found herself back in the village nestled deep in the heart of the mountains, its quaint charm a stark contrast to the bustling streets of the few cities she had visited a few weeks prior. A long period of time, if she were to be honest — especially considering the short distance that she had to cover — though admittedly, she always made a point to stop and assist with any urgent requests that came her way, lending a helping hand to the people whenever she found it appropriate.

The fact that almost half of the villages she had traversed thus far were plagued with problems had not escaped her notice; it was a reminder that nothing is always as it seems, a proof of the harsh reality that lurked beneath the surface of this seemingly peaceful land…

Regardless, by all accounts, the journey had been a fruitful one, if perhaps a bit more eventful than she had initially hoped. Hushed whispers and curious glances are what had greeted her arrival, the villagers' eyes scrutinizing her appearance, which — though not unusual — carried with them a hint of hostility, even if most of them turned into a stuttering mess the moment she chose to address them. It was… strange, in a way; after all, she is fairly certain that she had never done anything to warrant such distrust or disdain. Then again, someone of her appearance was rarely seen in these parts, and for all she know, their treatment towards her person was merely a reflection of the village's isolated nature and its residents' limited exposure to the outside world rather than genuine malice.

'Or perhaps there's just something more to it…' The Guardian mused silently, her steps light and graceful as she moved through the village's narrow, dirt-ridden path; she heightened her senses, checking her immediate vicinity before her hand moved towards her hidden earpiece.

A holographic interface materialized itself in the corner of her vision, its luminescent display visible to no one else but her as she acknowledged the soft chime that accompanied its appearance. The projection showed a detailed map of the surrounding area, complete with geographical features, outlined trails, and a scattering of symbols representing potential landmark; a blue dot marked her own location, while two smaller one — highlighted in green and purple — represented Auria and Skye respectively.

'Hmm…' Her lips curved into a faint smile as she focused her attention towards a certain part of the holographic display, causing the map to zoom in closer to a specific area a fair distance away from the village — the same area where her two companions were currently conducting their survey. 'Slow… at this rate, it will probably take her until tomorrow morning before she finishes her task, though it's not like we all have anything better to do; still, that workaholic tendency of hers…'

She shook her head lightly, the strands of her rosy pink hair swaying like cherry blossoms caught in a gentle breeze. The young artificial intelligence had requested her permission to catalogue the surrounding area with Skye's assistance earlier in the day… a simple activity that she had allowed, believing that the AI could benefit from the experience and perhaps find a moment of relaxation amidst the tranquility of the mountains. It was not an unreasonable request, though she would admit that she might have underestimated just how thorough the artificial intelligence could be. Her meticulousness was commendable, to say the least, and it was evident in the way the survey was unfolding — every pieces of the land seemed to be meticulously recorded, categorized, and analyzed, with attention given to even the smallest details of the terrain.

'A pity…'

With another press of a button, the holographic interface vanished from her vision, dissipating into thin air like a mirage; her steps halted as she reached a particular house nestled among the others — an unassuming abode that seemed to blend seamlessly with the village's rustic charm. It was made of timber — the wood weathered by the passage of time — and the roof was adorned with moss and small, delicate flowers that added a touch of colorful beauty to the otherwise simple structure.

'… this should be the place.'

Without hesitation, the Guardian raised her hand and gently rapped her knuckle against the door, producing a soft but distinctive sound that echoed through the stillness of the village. She waited patiently — her demeanor unchanged — while her senses kept a watchful vigil over her surroundings; her ears picked up the soft shuffling of feet approaching from behind the door, and within moments, it creaked open to reveal a young boy, the grandchild of an old farmer who had graciously offered her shelter for the night should the need arise. The boy had an air of innocence about him, his eyes were a vivid shade of red that held a spark of curiosity and wonder — a striking contrast against his pale, white spiky hair that resembled a snow-capped mountain peak; his attire was simple, a green shirt paired with a brown open vest that had seen its fair share of wear and tear, a reflection of his humble upbringing in this backward society.

"Ah… hello again, little Bell," the Guardian's gaze met the boy's — her expression calm and welcoming — as she offered a gentle smile that held the warmth of a benevolent sun; she addressed him with a soft, melodious voice that resonated with something akin to a motherly affection. "It is good to see you again."

"M-miss Hero…" He stammered, a tinge of pink spreading across his cheeks as he met the Guardian's warm gaze; the boy shifted his weight from one foot to the other, his nervousness evident in the way he avoided direct eye contact, his words trailing off into a barely audible whisper. "Gr-grandpa said you were c-coming back…"

"Did he, now?" The Guardian's tone carried a touch of amusement as she observed the boy's shy demeanor, her eyes sparkling with a fondness that one might have for a younger sibling; she knelt down to his level, her dress pooling around her in an elegant cascade of white and crimson. "Well, he did offer me shelter for the day, and I was thinking of accepting hospitality."

"S-shal… tear?"

"Shelter, little Bell," she corrected gently, her voice soft and soothing like a lullaby; her hand reached out to lightly ruffle the boy's snow-white hair, her touch as gentle as a breeze rustling through a leaf. "It means a safe place to stay for the night. Your grandpa said I could stay here if I needed it."

The boy nodded, his red eyes still avoiding direct contact with hers, but a small smile now tugged at the corners of his lips. He seemed to be struggling with his words, his nerves apparent, but she did not press him any further; instead, she decided to take the lead in the conversation.

"Do you know where your grandpa is?" She inquired kindly, her hand withdrawing from his hair to rest gracefully on her knee as she patiently awaited his response. "I'd like to speak with him, if that's alright with you."

"He's… he's going out to meet a friend," Bell replied, his voice barely above a whisper, his cheeks reddening even more as he nervously played with the hem of his vest. "He said he'd be back a little bit after sunset, but um… y-you can stay here until then if you want, Miss Hero!"

"Oh? You're not worried about me staying here until your grandpa comes back?"

"It's… um… g-grandpa told me that I should always listen to a girl and be kind to them, t-that I should take care of them." The words that escaped from his lips wavered slightly, and he glanced up at her with an adorably bashful expression. "A-and um… y-you don't look like a bad person, Miss Hero…"

"… I see; that is very kind of you." The Guardian did her best to maintain her smile, though inwardly, she couldn't help but wonder about the nature of the lessons his grandfather had been imparting to him; the boy's innocence and naivety were evident, but the advice he had received seemed to have… an odd twist to it — his kindness was certainly a commendable virtue, but the underlying connotation seemed to suggest towards a more questionable lesson. "Then I suppose I'll accept your offer." She said with genuine appreciation, rising to her feet with a graceful fluidity; the Guardian stepped over the threshold of the small abode, and Bell followed her inside, closing the door behind them. "Thank you, little one…"

The interior of the house was modest, with wooden beams crisscrossing the ceiling and a few carefully placed decorations adorning the walls. Her keen senses took in the details of her surroundings with a calm curiosity, absorbing the essence of this humble dwelling — a hearth crackled in one corner, the flickering flames casting a warm glow that illuminated the room with a soft, golden light; the air carried with it a faint scent of burning firewood, a comforting aroma that enveloped the abode.

Nevertheless, it did not take long for the child to offer her a seat at the small wooden table in the corner of the room, which she graciously accepted… and as she sat down, she observed the room with a composed serenity, her gaze eventually falling upon an open book lying on the table — it was old, its pages yellowed with age, and yet, the language it bore had a striking resemblance to the few she had known in the past.

Tales of Argonaut, Chapter I: The Clown's Departure…

Her fingers gently traced the foreign characters on the page, her touch delicate and light as a feather — her eyes going over the unfamiliar curves and lines of the written language, each stroke evoking a sense of intrigue and curiosity.

'Koine', they called it…

The Guardian couldn't help but allow a faint smile to tug at the corner of her lips as she continued to browse the page. To think that so many different worlds could share a common language was both odd and amusing at the same time. Moreover, its similarities to Latin were undeniable, even if there were subtle nuances that distinguished it from the language she had come to learn in her past.

"Ah, t-that is… I-I mean, w-would… would you like anything to drink?" The boy interrupted her silent contemplation, his voice soft and hesitant, but still full of warmth and sincerity. "I-I think grandpa kept some of the tea left from today's breakfast… or… or we might have some milk too."

"Oh no, water would be perfect, thank you…" She replied as her eyes landed on the boy, her luminous orbs meeting his crimson ones with a gentle grace that seemed to reassure him; Bell nodded, a hint of relief visible on his face before he disappeared into what she assumed to be the kitchen, leaving the Guardian alone in the room.

Taking advantage of the momentary solitude, she reached into the folds of her dress, retrieving a small, rugged pouch that she had acquired earlier using the valis earned from her successful subjugation of the creatures. She examined the aforementioned item closely, her fingers tracing the neat stitching and feeling the texture of the fabric; its design was simple, lacking in any luxurious embellishments that one might find in the markets of larger cities. Be that as it may, while the pouch was certainly not of the highest quality, it was nonetheless sufficient for her needs.

A single mental command resulted in dozens of precious gems materializing in the air all around her, their forms floating in a mesmerizing dance of shimmering colors; each sparkled like a distant star, their brilliance a testament to their rarity and value. Her gaze swept over the gems, a serene expression on her face as she observed the subtle variations in their hues — some were a deep, velvety blue like the depths of the ocean, while others glowed with a fiery red akin to a burning flame… and with a graceful fluidity, she began to delicately place the precious stones into the small pouch, their smooth surfaces cool against her fingertips as they settled into the confines of the rugged fabric.

Their luminous colors seemed to dance within the confines of the pouch, creating a breathtaking kaleidoscope of brilliance before the Guardian closed the pouch, securing it tightly with a simple yet effective drawstring. As she tucked the object back into the folds of her dress, the soft sound of footsteps brought her attention back to the present, and she looked up to find Bell returning with a small wooden cup filled with water, his tiny hands gripping the container with utmost care; he approached the table and placed the cup before her, a shy smile gracing his lips.

"Here's the water, Miss Hero," he said, his voice still tinged with a touch of nervousness, but there was also a hint of excitement in his tone. "I-I hope you like it."

"Thank you, little Bell…" The Guardian responded with a gracious nod, her fingers gently wrapping around the cup; raising the cup to her lips, she took a small sip, savoring the refreshing taste of the water as it quenched her thirst. "Have you been reading the book before my visit?" She gestured towards the open tome on the table as she placed the cup back down, her gaze softening with genuine interest as she regarded the boy. "I hope that I didn't disturb you or anything."

"Y-yes… I was reading it before you arrived." Bell's cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink as he fidgeted with the hem of his vest once more, his eyes darting away for a moment before meeting her gaze again. "It's a story about a hero and his adventures, and… and I really, really like it!"

"Hero, is it?" Her smile grew warmer, a chuckle escaping from her lips — the sound resembling the soft tinkling of a distant chime. "I must admit, I am quite fond of such stories myself."

"Ah! That's right!" The boy replied with newfound enthusiasm, his voice no longer as shy as before. "Do you go on adventures too, Miss Hero!?"

"In a way," she nodded, her expression serene, her luminous orbs glinting like a star-filled sky. "My travels have taken me to many different places, each with its own unique wonders and challenges. It's been… a remarkable journey, to say the least."

"Wow… that sounds amazing!" Bell's eyes widened in awe, his imagination undoubtedly running wild with visions of epic quests and heroic deeds.

"Oh, I don't think my adventures are quite as grand as the tales you will find in that book, little Bell." The Guardian humbly replied, a gentle glimmer of amusement dancing in her eyes. "Nonetheless, perhaps someday, you might embark on your own journey and discover even greater wonders than the stories written in those pages."

"Really? Mmm… I wish I could go on an adventure like you," Bell mused wistfully, his voice tinged with a hint of longing. "I-I'm just a simple village boy though, and I need to help grandpa with the farm."

"There's no shame in leading a simple life, little Bell…" She said reassuringly, her tone soft and comforting like a soothing melody. "Besides, every person's journey is unique, and I know that heroes can be found even in the most unexpected places."

"R-really? You… you really think I can be a hero?"

"Mhmm… let me tell you about a little secret; heroes come in many forms, and sometimes, being a hero means fulfilling duties and responsibilities that may not be as glamorous as slaying monsters or exploring distant lands… and more often than not, something as simple as making other people smile can be seen as a heroic act in itself." Her hand reached out to gently pat his head, the touch was as soft as a feather brushing against his snow-white hair. "For me, I think heroes are defined by their actions and their willingness to do what was necessary, even going as far as to sacrifice their very own self if it meant protecting those they care about or making the world a better place." The Guardian continued to speak with the same composed demeanor, her voice carrying a soothing cadence that seemed to wrap around the young boy like a comforting embrace. "It's not about seeking glory or recognition, but rather about doing what's right and standing up for what they believe in — to show courage in the face of adversity and to make a difference in the lives of others, no matter how big or small that difference may be…"

'Yes… even as twisted as their belief might be.'

The boy listened intently to her words — his eyes wide with fascination — and she knew that her words had ignited a newfound sense of purpose within him, a realization that even in the confines of his seemingly mundane life, there was potential for greatness; it was a concept that seemed to spark a semblance of hope in his heart, a flickering ember with the potential to grow into a roaring flame.

"You are kind, little Bell, and that kindness of yours can make a world of difference to someone in need." The Guardian's gaze softened as she looked at the boy, her affectionate smile never wavering. "But enough about that… why don't you go back to your book? I wouldn't want to keep you from your reading."

"Okay, Miss Hero!" Bell's eyes shimmered with appreciation, a bright, genuine smile spreading across his face like a ray of sunshine breaking through the clouds. "Thank you for your kind words!"

With that, Bell eagerly returned to the open book on the table, his youthful curiosity drawing him back into the fantastical world of heroes and adventures; she watched him for a moment, her heart filled with a sense of pride and affection for the young boy before she gracefully rose from her seat — her movements imbued with the same fluid grace that seemed to define her every action. Feeling the gentle pull of curiosity, the Guardian's eyes wandered to a nearby bookshelf. It held an assortment of tomes, each with its own story to tell… and among the collection, one book stood out to her — its spine adorned with the same familiar, yet at the same time foreign characters.

"May I?" She inquired politely, addressing the boy who had looked up from his reading at her request.

"Of course, Miss Hero! Please, help yourself," Bell replied with a beaming smile, his eagerness evident in his voice as he gestured towards the bookshelf.

"Thank you," the Guardian said, her gratitude mirrored in her gentle smile; she stepped gracefully towards the bookshelf, her eyes scanning the titles of the various tomes displayed before her — each one seemed to hold its own tale, a unique story waiting to be unraveled, yet her gaze settled on the one that had caught her attention earlier.

Dungeon Oratoria…

The title itself piqued her curiosity, and she couldn't help but wonder about the contents of the book. She reached out, her slender fingers carefully grasping the book and pulling it free from the shelf; the soft leather cover felt smooth against her touch, and she flipped it open to inspect the contents. Hundreds of words on the pages danced before her eyes, their meanings gradually coming into focus as she mentally translated the foreign script, with heroic tales of old revealing themselves as seconds turned into minutes. Nevertheless, it did not take long before she chose to break the silence — her heightened senses had long since picked up on the subtle shift in Bell's attention as he occasionally glanced her way while pretending to read his own book.

"Is there something on your mind, little one?" She inquired gently, her gaze shifting from the pages of the book to the boy seated at the table.

"Um, well, y-you know, I…" The boy hesitated for a moment, his cheeks flushing slightly as he tried to find the right words to express his thoughts. "I noticed that since you're an adventurer, and you've been on so many amazing journeys… I-I was… I was wondering, if it's not too much trouble…"

"Go on; there is no need to be afraid…. you can ask me anything." Her voice remained calm and encouraging, her eyes warm with understanding as she patiently waited for the young boy to voice his request.

"C-could you… could you please teach me how to fight!?"

"Oh?"

----------------------------------------

She stood at the edge of a rather steep cliff, the first rays of dawn began to pierce through the darkened sky, casting a soft golden glow upon the picturesque scenery. This village, like so many others before it, is quite beautiful in its own right; its houses were made with timbers and shingled roofs, while the air was filled with the comforting smell of smoked woods and freshly baked breads, their aroma mingling with the scent of dew-laden grass and the distant murmur of a nearby stream.

The Guardian allowed her gaze to sweep across the village, taking in the details of each dwelling and the activities unfolding in the early morning hours. Some were already tending to their fields, the earthy scent of upturned soil and the rhythmic sound of tools striking the ground rang through the air, while others carried baskets laden with freshly harvested produce, their vibrant colors a testament to the bountiful nature that surrounded them.

Unfortunately, despite her help in dealing with the local 'monster' infestation a few days ago, the villagers — their faces etched with lines of labors and life — still regarded her with a mix of curiosity and wary fascination; not that she mind, considering that from what she had been told last night, these people had endured several encounters with rogue adventurers in the past. While the scars might've faded, it doesn't change the fact that their village had been victimized by unscrupulous individuals who took advantage of their vulnerability… and looking at her appearance, it was understandable that they approached her with even more caution — their eyes flickering with a blend of trepidation and interest as they watched her every move.

"Mr. Suez," she called out the name without as much of a fanfare, an innocent smile tugging at the corner of her lips as she nimbly moved to the side in order to avoid the outstretched limb that was about to touch her rear. "I would appreciate it if you could please refrain from doing something so… inappropriate."

"Ah?" The elderly man froze in his tracks, his hand hanging in midair for but a moment's before he let out a boisterous laugh. "Bahahahahahaha!" He scratched his grizzled beard, a slight flush of embarrassment began to color his weathered cheeks, his voice tinged with a mix of contrition and amusement. "Ah… apologies, my dear; you know how this old man's eyes isn't what they used to be… just a harmless little jest, I swear!"

The Guardian maintained her smile, though the subtle arch of her brow hinted at her skepticism. It wasn't the first time she had encountered such behavior, for the innuendos and playful flirtations that often crossed the line were something that she had come to expect… although admittedly, the man before her was a bit more forward and shameless in his advances than most. Still, she had learned to navigate these kind of interactions with grace and composure, always asserting her boundaries while maintaining a façade of polite detachment. Nevertheless, she decided to let the matter slide; after all, the man was known to be an eccentric, and his intentions — despite the occasional lecherous comments — were relatively harmless.

"I'm sure you didn't mean to do any harm, Mr. Suez," she replied with a serene demeanor, her voice carrying a subtle hint of gentle admonishment. "But please remember that not everyone appreciates such jests, harmless or not…" Her eyes twinkled with mirth as she shifted her attention, waving her hand at a nearby dwelling where a young boy stood — his crimson orbs wide with curiosity and innocence; the boy, holding a small basket of freshly picked fruits, returned the gesture with a shy smile before disappearing back inside. "Besides, I would hate for your grandson to think poorly of his dear grandfather, wouldn't you?"

"Hmm?" The elderly man followed her gaze before he burst into laughter once again, slapping his knee with a hearty chuckle. "Ha! You've got me there, young lady! Can't exactly have little Bell thinking I'm some sort of a pervert now, can I?" He scratched his head, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes as he looked towards the horizon. "Well, I hope the boy hasn't heard too much of my ramblings; wouldn't want to give him the wrong idea, really…"

"Yes, I suppose that would be quite unfortunate." She nodded appreciatively, though her eyes narrowed slightly as she considered the man's words. "… you're grooming him, aren't you?"

The old man's jovial expression faltered for a moment as he registered her question, his eyes briefly widening in surprise; he glanced at her, his brows furrowed in contemplation before he let out a deep sigh.

"Well, I suppose there's a chance that someone would've pick up on that, sooner or later." He replied, his tone tinged with a mix of resignation and fondness. "The boy has potential, you know? He's got that spark in his eyes, that hunger for something more." A silence settled between them, the air filled with unspoken words and a ponderous pause before the elderly man broke the silence, his voice a mixture of introspection and uncertainty. "Still, was it really that obvious?"

"To a certain extent, yes…"

"… I see." He murmured, his gaze drifting off into the distance; the lines on his weathered face seemed to deepen as a gentle breeze rustled through the village. "You are an adventurer, are you not? I've heard that you gave my boy quite a bit of a trouncing yesterday… tell me, what do you think of his skills?"

Her eyes flickered with a hint of contemplation as she recalled the couple of tutoring sessions she had with the boy just yesterday — their sparring matches, the earnestness in his eyes as he sought to improve his abilities. She had agreed to the boy's request, to teach him how to wield a blade, testing his abilities and offering him guidance along the way… and while he is by no means untalented, there is also no denying the boy's enthusiasm and determination — his eagerness to learn and grow.

The only thing left is to see whether life itself would be able to shatter that naivety in his eyes…

"To begin with," the Guardian all but ignored the first of his question, her voice carrying a gentle but honest tone, each syllables that came out of her lips a note of measured assessment. "His innate abilities is practically non-existent, subpar at best; his movements were unrefined, his strikes lacked precision, and his reactions were often delayed." Her gaze turned towards the distant mountains, their peaks kissed by the golden light of the rising sun. "Though I will not deny that the boy is a quick learner… no, I suppose that, in itself, is an understatement. Perhaps it would be more appropriate to say that his learning capabilities is nothing short of prodigious."

"… he is, isn't he?" The man's voice held a certain pride as he listened to her words; his eyes, hopeful and glinting with unspoken wisdom, yet clouded with a mixture of conflicting emotions — a blend of self-reproach and contentment. "I take it that you disagree with what I have been doing, then?"

"… I don't like it, but young minds are quite impressionable, and it is our duty as their elder to guide them along the right path and help them shape their perspectives. In the end, so long as your intentions are pure and that you allow the boy to choose his own path, then I see no reason to object." She turned and regarded him for a moment, her gaze steady and thoughtful; there was no judgment in her gaze, only a sense of genuine curiosity as she considered her next words. "You're not just some farmers, aren't you?"

"And you are not just some adventurers, aren't you?"

"Hmm… fair enough." The Guardian's smile deepened, a glint of amusement dancing in her eyes as she inclined her head slightly. "I suppose we all have our own secrets…"

"Indeed we do…" He nodded in agreement, a knowing smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Still, I thought you told Bell that you would depart before dawn?"

"Yes, that was the original plan, but Mr. Warren approached me last night and requested that I accompany his caravan to Orario. Apparently, a few of his guards were injured in a recent monster attack, and he believes that my presence would provide additional protection." Her gaze shifted towards the distant horizon, the golden light of the rising sun casting a warm glow on her face. "Though unfortunately, he have yet to elaborate on the details…"

"Well, can't blame him for being cautious." The old man's face creased with concern, his brows furrowing as he listened to her words; he stroked his chin thoughtfully, his voice filled with a mix of sympathy and understanding. "Orario is not exactly the safest city with Evilus' activities being on the rise lately. Why, I've heard that they also struck against the surrounding regions not far from the city, though their attacks was few and far between."

"… and would you be able to tell me more about this 'Evilus'?"

"Oh, never been to Orario before, have you?" He asked her with another question of his own, a note of surprise in his tone as he considered her line of inquiry. "Eh, I'm sure that you'll understand once you reach the city; they've been causing quite a stir, and a little bird might've told me that their number seems to be growing."

"… I see." The Guardian reached up to tuck in her hair, her hand brushing against the hidden earpiece as she listened to Auria's report — the AI's voice providing the final update on their progress regarding the data collection in the surrounding area. "I suppose I will just have to find out more on my own." Her eyes shifted towards the head of the caravan where a man stood, his figure tall and commanding amidst the hustle and bustle of the caravan's preparations; the merchant caught her gaze and waved at her, signaling that they were ready to depart… and with a nod of acknowledgement, the Guardian turned her attention back to man beside her, her smile softening as she spoke. "Regardless, it appear that it is almost time for me to depart."

"Hmm? Yes, so it seems…"

"Indeed, though I believe we already had this conversation, Mr. Suez." She could feel her face twitching as her hand batted away the man's wandering fingers, a mixture of exasperation and amusement in her voice. "I'll have you know that this is the second time you've tried to do this. Nonetheless, I thank you for hosting me last night. Now I won't lie and say that I enjoyed the entirety of our time together, but please, do give my regards to young Bell; I have no doubt that he has a bright future ahead of him."

"Ah, what a real shame… still, I'm sure the boy will be happy to hear that." The perverted old man took no time to reply to her jest as he shook his head, a twinkle of pride and embarrassment in his eyes as he began to let out a hearty laugh. "Safe travels, Child, and may your path be filled with success and triumph…"

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She had scaled the wall the last time she had entered the city of Orario, running up the towering defenses that encircled the city under the cover of darkness, and with little to no guards standing on the battlements, it had been insultingly easy to infiltrate the city. She recalled how the moon had cast an ethereal glow upon the ancient stones, illuminating her path like a beacon guiding her ascent — her form clinging to the shadows as she made her way over the parapets and into the heart of Orario.

Now… now, she found herself in a different position, the memory of that daring feat dancing in her mind as she mingled with the crowd outside of the city gates, waiting for their turn to be inspected by the gate guards. The line stretched out before them — a meandering serpent of carts and travelers — each patiently enduring the tedious process with silent resignation. Merchants and adventurers alike exchanged stories and gossips while they inched ever forward, the sound of clopping hooves and the occasional jingle of harnesses echoed through the air, a rhythmic interplay that mixed with the murmur of voices and the bustling of activity; the sun hung high in the sky, casting its golden rays upon the grassy landscape where the caravan had come to a halt.

She observed her surroundings with a calm and tranquil demeanor, her keen eyes meticulously taking in the details of the scene — the field outside the city gates was dotted with colorful tents and makeshift stalls, their brightly hued fabrics billowing gently in the warm breeze. Merchants — their faces alight with eager smiles and hopeful eyes — peddled their wares to the passing crowd; the enticing fragrance of freshly baked pastries and the tang of spices filled the air, a seductive symphony of scents that tickled her nostrils and stirred her appetite. Sounds of laughter and haggling mingled with the distant chatter of guards, the hum of conversation blending harmoniously with the occasional braying of pack animals and the clatter of metal as they inspected the other incoming caravans.

Glancing back to the way she had come from, the Guardian couldn't help but notice a vast expanse of farmland stretching out in the distance — a vibrant patchwork of fields and crops that would soon yield their bounty to sustain the bustling city. The blades of grain fields swayed gently in the breeze, their sun-kissed hues and rippling waves providing a stark contrast against the lush greenery of the meadows and forests that framed the outskirts of Orario.

Shaking her head to clear out the errant thought, the Guardian proceeded to sit upon a sturdy wooden crate, settling into a position of quiet contemplation; her relaxed posture betrayed no outward signs of tension even as she felt the weight of curious gazes lingering on her — more than a few people passing by couldn't resist stealing glances in her direction, their faces flushing red, their eyes drawn to her like moths to a flame. With a subtle but deliberate movement, she calmly pulled the hood down even further, its pristine fabric obscuring her striking features just enough to keep prying eyes at bay. Her sight eventually drifted to Mr. Warren, the merchant who had sought her service for the added protection during their journey; the middle-aged man stood nearby, engaged in a merry conversation with a group of fellow merchants, his tall frame exuding confidence and a certain air of authority… and as she watched him speak, he glanced in her direction and made his way over.

'At least he has the tact to act normally…'

"Well, guess I owe you big time, eh, young miss? You fending off those monsters really saved our caravan." The man began, his voice tinged with a hint of respect and admiration. "Knew I made the right choice; without your help, we would've been in deep trouble."

"It was a team effort, Mr. Warren." She offered him a humble smile in response, her gaze momentarily drifting to the bustling activity around them. "I was fortunate to have capable individuals by my side. Your own guards fought valiantly to protect the caravan, and I, for one, believe that we all played a part in ensuring our collective safety."

"That so? Guess I'll take your words for it, then…" He nodded appreciatively, his expression a mixture of gratitude and relief. "Pretty sure my boys appreciate your assistance too. It's not every day we come across adventurers like you, willing to lend a hand to a humble merchant like me."

"I'm flattered, really…" She raised a delicate eyebrow, a subtle curiosity flickering in her eyes as she turned her attention toward their surroundings. "Still, is this kind of situation normal? I knew that as the proclaimed center of the world, the city of Orario would be bustling with life and prosperity… yet even so, with the news regarding the re-emergence of this 'Evilus', I thought that the city would be much more… hectic, for the lack of a better word — or perhaps devoid of the vigor and vibrancy that most would had come to expect from such a renowned hub."

"Ah… I forgot that this is your first time visiting Orario." Mr. Warren sighed, his expression clouded with a mixture of resignation and weariness. "But yeah, might not have been obvious, but these are actually tough times for the city. Honestly, it's not a good place to be around either, but eh, what else can I say? Gotta keep the business going; provide for my family and all that." He confessed, his words tinged with a hint of determination. "Everyone's on edge with Evilus running around, what's with the recent bombing 'accident' in the Industrial District. Most of 'em just pretend that everything's okay. Still, can't deny that it was still far better compared to the time of the Great Feud… back when those two monsters were still around."

"Truly?" The Guardian's voice held a hint of concern as she probed further, her brow furrowing slightly as she turned her attention back towards the greying middle-aged man. "And what has the city done about it? Surely, they must have made some efforts to quell this growing threat?"

"The Guild has done what they can… still doing what they can, I guess, but I've also heard that their resources are spread thin as it is." The merchant's face darkened, lines of worry etching themselves deeper into his features. "Must've become harder to protect the city with all the attacks happening around here, and to make things worse, the people still don't exactly trust the Guild to keep 'em safe right now; can't say that I blame those poor sods, after what happened last year…" A deep sigh escaped from his lips as he continued, his voice heavy with weight of his words. "Well, at least those girls from the Astraea Familia are helping with the problem. Heh, not much of a success on their part, mind you, but they do manage to maintain some order. Really wish the other two familia would step up and do more, though…"

Astraea — the goddess of justice, innocence, purity and precision — she who held the scales of balance with unwavering grace. As the celestial virgin, she was the last of the immortals to live among humans during the Golden Age, one of the five deteriorating Ages of Man… or at least, that is who the divine woman is if any of the tidbits of knowledge she had learned from the past still held true in this realm.

She shook her head slightly, a soft smile playing at the corners of her lips as she shelved the assumption for later contemplation, her mind going towards the mention of the two other familias. It really wasn't that hard for her to infer their identities, as their names had come up multiple times in the information she had analyzed along with Auria — Loki, the goddess of mischief and trickery, and Freya, the goddess of love and beauty. Both are a prominent goddess within their own familia, each one boasting a sizeable following of skilled adventurers under their respective banners… though unlike Loki Familia who often lent their aid and resources to combat the threat of Evilus, Freya Familia seemed content to let the situation continue… for now, at least.

Then again, perhaps — in regards of Loki Familia — they simply saw it more as an opportunity for glory and adventure instead of a genuine desire to protect the city and its inhabitants…

"Look over there," the man continued, interrupting her thoughts as he pointed towards the city gate where two individuals stood. "Those two by the gate… they're members of Astraea Familia. One of 'em is the vice-captain, if I remembered correctly. Uh… what was their name, again? Kaguya and ah, Lyon or something?" He squinted his eyes, his voice trailing off momentarily before he let out a sheepish chuckle. "Bah! Doesn't matter, really. Most would just call her 'Gale' or something."

The Guardian followed his gaze, her eyes falling upon the pair of adventurers; they both stood tall and proud, their forms exuding an air of confidence and purpose as they conversed with the guards stationed at the gate. One was a young woman with long black hair cascading down her back, adorned with a delicate kanzashi and dressed in a traditional kimono; a flowing robe draped over her shoulders, its plain appearance adding to the elegance of her attire — her presence exuded an aura of grace and tranquility as she scanned the area with a discerning gaze, as if constantly assessing her surroundings.

Beside her stood a female elf — a species whose appearance is similar to that of a Newman back on the fleet — her figure possessed an ethereal beauty that matched the enchantment of an ancient forest; her golden locks shimmered in the sunlight, framing a face adorned with sky-blue orbs that seemed to hold a hint of both mystery and wisdom. She wore a green hooded cape that bellowed gently in the breeze, its vibrant hue contrasting with her white sleeveless top and brown pants. There was an air of serenity about her, as if she were attuned to the whispers of nature itself; her posture was relaxed yet alert, her gaze focused and observant.

"Hmm… they certainly live up to their reputation."

"Aren't they? Then again, it's gonna take more than just a few adventurers to-" His words were cut short as a weary-looking caravan worker approached him, interrupting their conversation; the merchant leaned slightly to the side as he listened to the worker's report, his expression shifting from concern to relief in but an instant. "Well, looks like it's finally our turn!" He shifted his gaze back to her, his eyes bright with anticipation. "Come, come… just follow my lead, and we'll get through without any issues."

She nodded in acknowledgment, rising from her seat on the wooden crate… and as she and Mr. Warren joined the queue, inching ever closer to the city gates, she couldn't help but notice a tired-looking girl approaching their location — a Pallum, if her memory served her right — the pin depicting a quill on top of a parchment marking her as a member of the Guild; her steps were slow and heavy, her uniform slightly disheveled, as if she had been on her feet for far too long — her eyes weary from the repetitive task of managing the influx of travelers.

"If I may have your attention, please?" Stopping in front of the Guardian and the rest of the caravan's member, the Guild Staff let out a weary sigh before she continued; her voice was laced with exhaustion, yet there was an undertone of urgency that caught the Guardian's attention. "I'd like to apologize for the inconvenience, but before you proceed, is there anyone among you who hasn't been to our city before?" She explained, her voice carrying a sense of resignation. "Due to the recent increase in security measures, all first-time visitors are required to undergo an additional inspection as well as the initial registration process before they are allowed entry into the city."

She arched an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued as she exchanged a glance with Mr. Warren, who wore a faint frown on his face; the merchant nodded at the Guild Staff a moment later, signaling their compliance.

"Yeah, she's new," Mr. Warren replied with a gesture in her direction, his other hand reaching into his bag and producing several pieces of neatly folded paper. "Though me and my boys have been to Orario before. Prepared our identification and everything."

"I see… thank you for your cooperation, then." The diminutive young woman nodded in appreciation, scribbling something down on a parchment in her hand. "As per usual, you will need to present your identification papers for verification later on. The process itself shouldn't take too long, but you will also be asked to answer a few questions regarding your visit. Nothing too intrusive, I assure you, though please have your papers ready when you reach the gate. It will expedite the process."

"Of course, of course… we'll have everything ready." Mr. Warren assured the Staff with a nod, glancing back at the rest of the caravan members to ensure that they were prepared. "Still… guess this is where we part ways, eh? I mean, it's probably only for bit." The middle-aged merchant muttered, his voice filled with a trace of disappointment. "Well, least I think yours is gonna take longer than mine." A fleeting breeze whispered through the city gates, rustling the leaves on the nearby trees as he turned and looked at the Guardian, a small small laugh escaping from his lips. "Guess I'll just wait for you in the Hearty Cauldron, then! Don't worry, you can't miss the place. It's the inn near the Market District, just a few hundred meders away from Babel. Anyway, just come and find me when you're done; I'll make sure you receive your payment… a merchant's word on that!"

With another nod of acknowledgment, she watched as the man along with rest of his workers made their way towards the city gates, blending into the line of travelers that were being processed for entry; meanwhile, the Guild Staff directed them towards a small building adjacent to the gates — the structure, weathered and worn like the rest of the surroundings, stood as a temporary checkpoint where the additional inspections seems to take place.

'Excuse me, Ma'am,' Auria's telepathic voice reached her through the earpiece, its ethereal echo intermingling with the ambient sounds of the bustling crowd. 'I was wondering if would it be better for both Skye and I to remain outside, or perhaps scout the city on our own?'

'Hmm…' She pondered the question for a moment, her mind drifting back to the recent events and the knowledge she had gathered thus far. 'No, I think it would be more prudent for the two of you to accompany me at the moment. The situation within the city is… unpredictable at best, and despite your individual abilities, I rather not risk leaving you both unattended. Besides, having the three of us together will provide an extra layer of protection in case anything goes awry.'

'Understood; I will relay your order to Skye immediately…'

The Guardian followed the Staff's instructions and entered the building, her footsteps muffled by the worn wooden floor… and just as the door was about to close, she caught a glimpse of movement from the corner of her eyes — two members of Astraea Familia casting curious glances in her direction, their gazes held within them a mix of intrigue and caution. Nevertheless, she allowed a soft smile to grace her face as she all but ignored their stares, maintaining her composure and pretending not to notice their scrutiny as she proceeds to the designated waiting area. The air felt stagnant, thick with a mixture of dust and the faint scent akin to mildew. She took in the sight before her — rows of chairs lined against the walls, worn and creaking with age; the dull glow of what appeared to be magic lanterns illuminated the room, casting a warm, golden hue that flickered in rhythm with the faint wavering of shadows.

"Now, if you would please have a seat and wait for your turn to be called," the Guild Staff instructed with a weary yet polite tone, her smile suddenly becoming slightly strained as the Guardian pulled down the hood of her cloak — locks of lustrous hair cascaded gracefully over her shoulders, the center front of the white fabric revealing glimpses of an attire that hinted at a life of luxury and refinement. "I-I mean, if you so desire, then we… we could arrange for you to be the first in line. It's, uh, within our means to accommodate such requests."

"It is fine; there will be no need for special arrangements…" She replied, her voice calm and reassuring.

"Ah, o-of course, I understand…" The Pallum stammered, her nerves remain palpable as the diminutive woman proceeded to bow slightly. "R-rest assured, my Lady, w-we'll try our best to make the process as efficient and quick as possible."

She simply nodded in response, her steps graceful and measured as she made her way towards an unoccupied seat. It was clear that she didn't belong with the rest of the individuals in the waiting area, as evident by the several pairs of eyes lingering on her person; both her demeanor and he bearing contrasted sharply against the well-worn surroundings, setting her apart from the others… and just like the last time she had infiltrated the city, the Guardian couldn't help but allow her eyes to track several individuals standing guard around the room, their face hidden behind their masks — intricate pieces of carved wood painted with achromatic colors, depicting the all too familiar creatures with their trunks raised high, as if in a triumphant pose.

'They looked… odd.'

'Really? I think they are rather cute… in a way.'

'I… see?' The AI sounded a bit puzzled by her response, the inflection in her voice betraying her lack of understanding.

'Oh, everyone has their own preferences.' A soft smile made its way onto her face, her focus shifting onto one of the guards while she settled into her seat. 'Just be honest, Auria; you really don't need to worry too much about it.'

'I suppose…'

Then again, everything considered, they did look fairly hilarious, though she also found it amusing how these masked individuals somehow managed to instill a sense of security while simultaneously lending an air of absurdity to the room — their presence was both comical and intriguing at the same time. Regardless, perhaps it was her stare that caught the attention of the guard, for he shifted uncomfortably under her gaze.

"Is, ah… i-is there something wrong, Miss?" His hand involuntarily rose to adjust the mask, his movements betraying an anxiety that wasn't uncommon when faced with such close scrutiny.

"Oh, my apologies, Sir…" The Guardian, realizing that her observation may have made the guard uneasy, coughed into her hand and offered him an apologetic smile, her voice carrying with it a hint of amusement as she spoke. "I couldn't help but notice how… unique, your mask is. I hope you don't take offense; it's just that I have rarely, if ever, seen one quite like it before. It is… rather captivating, in a way."

"… t-thank you?" The guard's voice wavered slightly as he responded, his hand still fumbling with the mask, his nervousness becoming more palpable.

"You're welcome…"

The room seemed to come alive with muffled chuckles and suppressed smiles at the Guardian's remark, the quiet momentarily broken by her innocent observation; a few of the other guards moaned in mock exasperation, their gloomy expressions brightening as the room was filled with a ripple of laughter.

"C'mon, let's just be honest here," another one of them chimed in, a playful smirk on his face. "This thing looked ridiculous, isn't it?"

"It is… a wonderful piece of art?"

She wasn't exactly sure what to say to that question, so the Guardian simply settle for the first thing that came up in her mind, though it appears that her answer seems to have caused the room to erupt in laughter once again.

"Uh-huh… a wonderful piece of art, eh? That's just… wow." He chuckled, a genuine smile gracing his lips as he used his fingers to tap on his mask. "So we do look ridiculous. I knew we shouldn't have gone with Lord Ganesha's suggestion, but well, at least we could provide some entertainment while we do our job."

The room settled into a comfortable atmosphere as the laughter subsided; the occupants proceeded to exchange banter and shared anecdotes, their collective mirth providing a brief respite from the gloom that permeated the air. Her gaze then shifted towards the center of the room, where a Guild Staff sat behind a wooden desk, diligently sorting through documents and inspecting the paperwork of those being processed; the red-haired woman's brow furrowed in concentration as she meticulously scanned all the available information, her quill poised and ready to make any necessary notations.

"Excuse me; your attention, please…" The Staff started to speak the moment the stone on top of her desk began to glow, her voice cutting through the murmurs and conversations in the room. "Since the additional inspection for the previous group has been completed, we will now proceed to the your batch. Please understand that there will be a need to check on your falna, so all males are to line up and enter the inspection room to the left; one by one and in an orderly manner, if you please. Females are to line up and enter the second room to the right."

The room shifted as the occupants rearranged themselves, forming two separate lines according to the instructions; the men, complaining about the process, lined up and shuffled towards their designated inspection room, their expressions a mix of boredom and compliance, while the women — including the Guardian — followed suit, forming a line that stretched towards the entrance of the second inspection room… and fortunately, it did not take long for her to reach the front of the line, her eyes glancing towards the entrance and at the fresh batch of individuals entering the building just as she was about to step into the room.

With a calm and composed demeanor, she entered the inspection room and cast her gaze around the dimly lit interior. Sitting in the corner of the room was a Guild Staff, diligently recording the details of each individual as they passed through; three female guards — their faces obscured by the same intricately carved elephant masks — stood watch over the inspection process. One guard, standing stoically by the door, maintained a stern vigilance, her eyes scanning the Guardian as if anticipating any potential disruptions. Another guard stood beside the Guild Staff, ready to provide assistance or intervene if any issues arose during the inspection. The third and the final guard stood beside a woman seated on a plush sofa, her presence unmistakable even amidst the subdued lightning — a goddess, if the faint aura surrounding her was any indication.

All in all, nothing they did not expect…

"Good afternoon," the Guild Staff greeted her with a warm smile as she approached, her eyes widening imperceptibly for a brief moment before she quickly regained her composure; she wore the Guild's standard uniform — a practical and functional attire befitting her position — the young woman's hair tied into a neat ponytail that cascaded down her back. "Please, have a seat…" She motioned towards the chair in front of her desk, and the Guardian obliged, taking off her cloak and gracefully lowering herself onto the worn seat. "My name is Judith, and I'll be assisting you with the inspection today."

"Well met, Miss Judith; I appreciate your help." The Guardian replied with a serene nod, her eyes briefly glancing at the goddess seated nearby before she gave another nod of acknowledgment. "Lady Goddess…"

"Ah, yes… before we begin, I must inform you that Lady Achelois will be present during the entire process." Judith gestured towards the goddess on the side, who looked regal and composed despite the modest setting of the room; Lady Achelois inclined her head in acknowledgment, her curly brown hair cascading like a waterfall down her back, shimmering with a natural radiance that seemed to mimic the soft glow of moonlight — her silver eyes studying the Guardian with a gentle yet penetrating gaze. "We do not mean to be rude, but considering the current circumstances of Orario, we hope that you would understand and comply with the additional measures."

"I understand," she replied with a soft smile on her face, her posture relaxing as she settled comfortably into the chair. "By all means, I hold no objections to the presence of Lady Achelois during the inspection."

"Thank you for your understanding…" Judith acknowledged, her turquoise eyes briefly flickering with relief. "Now, to begin with, could you please state your full name? Additionally, if you're comfortable with sharing, we would appreciate knowing any information regarding the place you came from."

"Of course; my name is Shizuna… Mitsurugi Shizuna. I've come from one of the regions inside the Empire's border."

"A far easterner? Your appearance is rather unique for a far easterner…" The Guild Staff looked up from the paper on the desk, her eyebrows raising slightly as her eyes went over the Guardian's features. "Apologies, Miss, but you… don't quite look like one, if you don't mind me saying."

"Please, I do not mind." Shizuna chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "My family history is quite complicated, as you put it. I suppose you could say that my looks are the result of various influences and heritages."

And isn't that putting it lightly?

Cultivated and born straight out of a tube, created solely for the purpose of satisfying some mad scientist's curiosity in his quest for 'omniscience' — an existence tailored to fulfill the whims of another, a puppet that was once pulled by the strings of fate.

Yes… she suppose 'complicated' would be a severe understatement.

Regardless, she did not lie when she claimed 'Shizuna' to be her name in this life, for that was the only name she knew, the only name that Xion had called her with; it was a name she had admittedly grown fond of, a name that held a deep sense of familiarity and comfort to it, even if it wasn't her original one from the time of her previous existence.

Her title as the 'Divine Blade', on the other hand…

"… I see?" Judith's eyes seemed to linger on Shizuna for a moment longer, as if trying to discern something hidden beneath the surface of her response; there was a flicker of uncertainty in her gaze as she glanced towards the Goddess sitting on the side, her expression loosening up as Lady Achelois — a hint of confusion on her face — gave a hesitant nod in response to the young woman's unspoken question. "I will not press any further then…" Her gaze returned to the documents before her as she returned to her task. "Well then… would you mind telling us the purpose of your visit to the city of Orario?"

"I am mainly interested in the dungeon," she replied in a steady and sincere voice, the words that came out of her lips carefully chosen to conceal her true intentions without them being an outright lie. "Although I confess that I also wish to experience what the rest of the city has to offer, its culture, and interact with the diverse individuals who call the city their home."

"Oh? You are an adventurer, then?

"No… no, I'm not." Shizuna's response came with a gentle shake of her head, a soft smile gracing her lips as she elaborated. "I have yet to pledge myself to any of the divines, nor do I plan to do so in the immediate future."

"Ah, my apologies… I didn't mean to assume. It's just that adventurers are the most common visitors if it involved the dungeon. Not to mention that your appearance suggests that you are either a noble or an adventurer." Judith explained with a polite and apologetic tone, her quill moving swiftly across the parchment as she jotted down the information; she then glanced at Lady Achelois, who gave a subtle nod of approval. "So, that means a temporary visitation, then?" The young woman inquired, her eyes meeting Shizuna's with an air of curiosity. "Wait, since you're not an adventurer, then…"

"A noble? Yes, I suppose I am, in a way… and please, there's no need for formalities; I prefer that you treat me as you would any other individual." Despite the guilt in her heart, she kept the fact that she is only a 'noble' through her standing as one of the two Noble Protectors of Harukotan — as designated by Sukunahime herself — carefully omitting any details that might've exposed her actual identity as an outworlder to these people. "As for the duration of my visit, it will not be longer than a few weeks… a month, at most. Unfortunately, my duties demands that I return as soon possible."

"Ah, as you- I mean, understood, Miss Mitsurugi; temporary visitation for a few weeks, possibly a month." Judith nodded, her pen poised in mid-air as she absorbed the information. "Next is, well… as part of the inspection process, I'm afraid I must request that you hand over your weapons and any items of interest for brief inspection. It's just a standard procedure, nothing to be worried about."

"Of course…" Shizuna replied amiably, knowing it was a necessary precaution given the current circumstances. She unbuckled the belt that held her blade, handing it over to the guard standing beside the young woman — her other hand reaching towards the book nestled on her waist, her fingers unhooking the clasp that had secured the object in place; the guard looked a bit perplexed at the sight of the book, but he took it nonetheless, securing both items for the inspection. "Please, treat them with care."

"… it's a book, Miss Mitsurugi."

"Indeed; it is a book…" She let out a soft chuckle, her voice carrying a hint of amusement as she refrain from giving the young woman any other explanations.

While she would have preferred to keep the true nature of her weapons a secret, she couldn't ignore the fact that the Goddess had been stealing a glance at both her weapons every once in a while throughout the entire conversation. It was clear that Lady Achelois… no, perhaps all of these divines possessed some sort of intuition that allowed them to see through the superficial layers of appearances and perceive the true essence hidden within her weapons, if only to a certain extent. Nevertheless, Shizuna had no other choice but to watch as the divine woman gestured to the member of the Ganesha Familia, the Goddess' interest only seems to grew more apparent as the guard approached with her blade and book in hand.

'I believe it would've been better for us if we had stick to a more mundane weapons…'

'That may be so, Commander. Unfortunately, we… don't exactly have one in our possession.'

'Hmm… to be fair, I could have used my fist.'

'Yes, but it will nonetheless draw attention, given that a person of your 'stature' would likely be carrying some sort of weapon. Alternatively, we could've procured a weapon during one of our visits to those villages.'

'Perhaps… so long as it is a high quality weapon. Well, it can't be helped; we'll just have to play along for now.'

She couldn't help but allow a soft sigh to escape from her lips as she returned her attention to the young woman before her. In the end, the Guardian realized that she might as well hand them over, as attempting to keep the blade and the book to herself would only raise further questions… questions that she rather not answer.

"I… see?" The words that came out of the Guild Staff's lips did not match the confusion evident in her eyes; a momentary pause filled the air before she recovered her composure, deciding not to dwell on the matter any further. "Moving on, did you bring anything else of note with you for your stay in the city?"

"Hmm… there are a few other things that I'm planning to sell; nothing dangerous, I assure you." Shizuna nodded, reaching into the fold of her dress to retrieve a small pouch; her fingers moved to untie the drawstring that held it close, carefully pouring out its contents onto the table — diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and other valuable gems spilled out of the bag, each and every single one of them shimmering like stars scattered across the wooden surface, their pearly sheen gleaming under the soft glow of the lantern.

"Ah, I see… quite a collection of valuables you have here." Judith blinked in surprise, her turquoise eyes widening at the sight of the glittering treasures. "Still, with these gems on your person, I would strongly advise that you stay clear of the Daedalus Street. It's located in-between the east and south-east Main Streets, and has a reputation for being a gathering spot for the city's… less savory characters, and with everything going on in the Orario right now, the place is even more dangerous than usual; it's not an area you want to be wandering alone, especially with such valuable items on you." A moment of silence passed between the two of them before the young woman let out a sigh, her voice carrying a note of concern as she raised her gaze back towards the Guardian. "This is off the record, but I honestly think you chose a bad time to visit the city, Miss Mitsurugi. With the increased threat from Evilus and the strained resources of the Guild, it's becoming more dangerous to roam the streets. Even the Main Streets are not completely safe at this point…"

"So I've heard…" Shizuna offered the young woman a sympathetic smile in response, her gaze momentarily drifting towards the Goddess on the side. "I'm well aware of the current situation, and I intend to be cautious during my stay here. Regardless, your concern is duly noted, and I appreciate your honesty, Miss Judith. Rest assured, I will take the necessary precautions and avoid any unnecessary risks that might be hazardous to both myself or those around me."

"As long as you understand…" The young woman's voice carried with it a hint of relief as she spoke, her shoulders relaxing slightly as she nodded in acknowledgment. "Now, there is just one last question that we must ask. Again, we hope you do not take offense; it's just standard procedure."

"I understand," Shizuna replied, her demeanor composed and unruffled despite the sudden tension that seemed to linger in the air. "Please, feel free to ask."

"Thank you… then, if you allow me," Judith cleared her throat before asking, her tone measured and cautious. "Are you, in any way, associated with Evilus?"

The question hung in the air, and for a brief moment, the room seemed to hold its breath, the silence punctuated by the soft hum of lanterns and the distant sound of shuffling outside the door. She could feel the subtle but distinct change in the atmosphere the moment those words left the young woman's lips; the three masked guards seemed to tense ever-so-slightly, their eyes narrowing as if they were prepared to launch themselves into action at a moment's notice — they stood a little straighter, their hands inching closer to the weapons at their sides, ready to act at the slightest sign of danger.

It was nothing more than a minute detail, but It was one that did not escape from her notice…

Even the Goddess, Lady Achelois — who had immersed herself in Shizuna's crimson blade moments ago — now seemed to focus her attention on the Guardian, her gaze holding a hint of both curiosity and scrutiny.

"… am I associated with Evilus?" Shizuna blinked owlishly — a momentary pause before she let out a small chuckle — her voice tinged with a hint of amusement as she shook her head.. "Oh no, not at all. I can assure you that I have no association with Evilus nor do I have any malicious intentions towards the city of Orario. My visit is purely exploratory and personal in nature."

.

.

.

"She is telling the truth…" The Goddess interjected, her gentle voice breaking through the tension that had enveloped the room; the weight of her words seemed to have succeeded in dissipating the unease that had settled upon the others present in the room.

"Thank you, Lady Achelois; your insight is as invaluable as always." Judith said, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "With that said, is there anything else you would like to add?"

"Hmm…" She shifted her gaze back to the two objects in her hands — the crimson blade and the book — her newfound smile turning enigmatic despite the frown on her face. "No… no, I believe that is all, Child." With a graceful motion, she handed them back to the guard who had retrieved them earlier, a silent indication that everything was in order — her silver eyes holding a glint of mystery and wisdom as she returned her gaze to the Guardian. "The inspection has been completed, and there will be no need for any further inquiries."

"I… yes, of course, Lady Achelois." A slight furrow formed between the young woman's brows before she shook her head, giving a small nod of acknowledgment and turning her attention back to the paper on her desk as she choose to trust in the Goddess' judgment. "Thank you for your cooperation, Miss Mitsurugi. Your weapons and items have been cleared; all you need to do is to retrieve your temporary identification at the counter, and then you'll be free to go about your stay in Orario. Of course, keep in mind that losing your identification will cost you up to one thousand valis, so please make sure to keep it safe and secure at all times."

"Thank you, Miss Judith; I appreciate your assistance. You and everyone else…" Shizuna replied with a warm smile, her gratitude genuine as she retrieved her crimson blade and the book, carefully securing them back in their respective places. "To you as well, Lady Goddess. I thank you for your help and understanding during the inspection."

"It was my pleasure, Child." The Goddess nodded in response, her smile never faltering as she acknowledged the Guardian's gratitude with a slight incline of her head. "While the situations might be less than ideal, I hope that your time in the city will prove to be more than fruitful…"