Chapter 19
Avnas had imagined that the City of Thieves would be a place where laws held no sway. She envisioned a place where criminals roamed freely, unhindered by any consequences, while the helpless victims remained voiceless and powerless to prevent it. However, to her surprise, the city turned out to be entirely different from what she had anticipated. The city's streets were vibrant with life, as the vendors sold every kind of item imaginable, from fresh fruits to jewellery and weapons of all types.
Many individuals, armed to the brim, could be seen sitting or leaning against walls, observing quietly as the residents carried out their daily routines. Avnas and her companions were uncertain whether these individuals were city guards or mere mercenaries. However, one thing was evident to them—these individuals were safeguarding the streets. Surprisingly, the city was not devoid of laws. In fact, it seemed to be the complete opposite. Yecora, known as the "city of thieves," paradoxically appeared to be a city where law and order prevailed.
"Ain't that surprising?" Lynas whistled as she watched around her in amusement. "This is the most peaceful city I have ever seen. Not at all what I expected from a city filled with thieves."
"That seems to be the situation," Alex muttered, his brow furrowing as he scanned the street for any signs of visible danger. However, amidst the bustling scene, he occasionally spotted small children darting about. Some giggled from the shadows while vendors energetically waved and shouted about their merchandise, proudly proclaiming its quality and affordability compared to others. Nonetheless, a sense of something unfolding in the long, bustling street permeated the surrounding air.
Princess Mariel started to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of people surrounding her. Although touching Avnas helped her block out the voices, it didn't change the fact that she wasn't accustomed to being in such a crowded place. It felt like, at any moment, she would be attacked by visions of people she knew nothing about. Thankfully, Avnas sensed Mariel's worries and brought her close to her.
"Stay with me. I'll protect you," Avnas whispered softly, smiling at the girl who felt relief at her words.
"Yes," Mariel mumbled back as she clenched Avnas's hand.
"It's getting crowded," Elian muttered, sensing people getting perhaps too close to them.
"Too crowded," Lynas added. Now, the half-elf turned her attention to the small children sneaking around the long avenue. Lynas now understood what was happening. But before she could say something, she soon felt the weight of eyes watching them from above the rooftops. "Hmm, I take back what I said earlier. This city is actually quite dangerous," Lynas stated, causing the group to sense the unmistakable presence of danger looming around them.
"Fight?" Elian whispered, her grip tightening around her sword. Her blue eyes shifted into combat mode, ready to harness her Mana and unleash her abilities swiftly in anticipation of any potential ambush.
"Easy there, Elian," Avnas spoke as she put an arm on the blue-haired girl's shoulder. "There won't be a need for that."
"Master?" Elian's gaze shifted towards Avnas. Her confusion was evident. The white-haired woman's eyes briefly scanned the rooftops, causing a momentary pause in the tense atmosphere.
"I think they were just testing us," Avnas stated as she watched the group mumble under their breath.
"Testing us, mm? I wonder why," Alex whispered with a sigh before sensing how those children who were running around the street appeared to vanish as if they weren't there.
"Fresh meat has to taste good, I suppose," Lynas remarked, glancing around to find a few children glaring at her from the alley. It seemed they were throwing a tantrum to someone. There was no doubt they were told not to do something to Avnas's group, or it would end up badly for them, and Lynas has no doubt that was the case. "But only if it doesn't put up a fight."
Lynas smirked as she mockingly stuck her tongue out at them. And they, like the children they were, did the same before running away. Little thieves were told not to play with animals bigger than them. Lynas thought of it before relaxing her muscles. She did not perceive herself as an apex predator at all. No, but she was walking next to one.
It was evident that as soon as everyone saw Avnas, they immediately realised that attempting to steal from her or anyone near her would be a fatal mistake. Avnas's striking golden eyes carefully scanned her surroundings, assessing each potential thief or threat, and she was fully aware of this fact. She knew thieves were lurking around and observing her, but they simply followed her without taking any action. However, what intrigued Avnas was the minimal reaction from the people around her regarding her demonic features. Although they appeared fearful, it seemed to stem more from their awe of her power rather than her being a demon.
Aren't they afraid of us? Of a demon walking among them? Avnas thought as she carefully glanced around. However, soon enough, her questions would be answered as they reached what appeared to be a large park thriving with many species. So, that's the reason. Avnas chuckled before hearing Mariel's excited voice.
"Lady Avnas, look!" Princess Mariel whispered in awe as she pointed out the large creature before them. "Is-is that a—!"
"Yep! That's quite a massive Orc!" Lynas chuckled, observing a group of towering Orcs as they passed by. These creatures were enormous, standing nearly four meters tall and robust in every sense of the word, almost shoving them aside as they passed them by. "Hey, careful there, big fella! You almost squashed me!" the half-elf exclaimed, feeling annoyed as the group of Orcs glared down at the diminutive half-elf.
"Lynas!" Alex hissed as he was now being glared at by the group of Orcs, who were all wearing what he could sense was a powerful set of armour and magical weapons. They were not a simple group of Orcs but warriors who were dangerous if provoked.
Still, the reaction Avnas expected from them was not what she thought.
"I do apologise, my dear. It was not my intention. My conversation with my brethren momentarily diverted my attention. Please forgive my momentary lapse of manners," the Orc spoke, his posh accent leaving Avnas in awe.
"By our ancestors, Url'tharbarenk, it is unwelcoming of you to cause botheration, whether blind or not. Our mother would be displeased!" Another Orc with a distinctly feminine voice chimed in, astonishing Avnas again with what could possibly be the most refined English accent she had ever heard. Witnessing these colossal killing machines speak with such genteelness and elegance as if they were partaking in a leisurely afternoon tea and savouring delicate biscuits was unsettling.
"Bah! It's alright, I am just taking a piss, mate," Lynas chuckled loudly. "I love messing with you, Orcs. It's all with love!"
Avnas was not one to adhere to clichés, but Orcs were often portrayed as savages in countless games, books, and films. However, in this specific situation, they appeared to only bear a resemblance to those monstrous creatures yet were fundamentally distinct in nature. It even made her wonder if Elves like Lynas were the true savages; after all, Lynas didn't possess many of the typical characteristics associated with elves, if she were being completely honest.
But it could also mean that Lynas was simply a brute.
"Oh, the futility of our savages' nature. Please allow us to pass by this small little elf without shattering her meagre bones!" One of the Orcs stated dramatically.
"Darling, please move aside a little because we have a lot of things to get done! Many mercenaries to butcher and a variety of unpleasant monsters to eradicate, as well as a few many other businesses! So excuse us, and have a good day! Ta-ta!"
The orcs left, walking with the arrogance of an upper-class person, leaving them behind.
They may still be violent but very eloquent and posh about it. Avnas thought with amusement.
"Lynas, why do you have to antagonise them constantly?" Alex hissed, annoyed, as Lynas scoffed loudly as she watched the orcs leave them behind.
"Don't worry—it's nothing! They are big teddy bears, well, at least those I have met before," Lynas replied as she scratched her chin.
"You're so brave, Lynas," Elian whispered in awe.
"They are so enormous. They could crush boulders with their hands!" Mariel exclaimed, all excited. "Don't you agree, Lady Avnas?!"
"I have no doubt," Avnas chuckled, only to quickly realise that orcs were not the only race present in this vast park. She had come across many races that resembled those she had seen in Antherion. Avnas observed the presence of Minotaurs, Orcs, and the Cat People, known as Etlines, in this world. She also spotted tiny gnomes, dwarves and other races that were new to Avnas. Among others, she noticed a few elves who seemed to have a mixed human-elf heritage, much like Lynas. So many races mixed together in this strange city. However, what truly surprised her were those who appeared more demon-like, similar to herself. Yet, there was a distinction, as these demonic individuals shared a more human characteristic.
Their horns were not fully developed; some possessed only one or half of one. Meanwhile, others merely exhibited protuberances on their heads, which added to the allure of their mixed heritage. Their tails were either short and skinny, or they had none at all. Yet, none of them had wings like the ones Avnas possessed, nor did they appear to be powerful, or at least not like the ones Avnas encountered at Riverfork.
Is it possible that they are part human? Avnas pondered intently, her focus shifting towards the peculiar behaviour of these particular demons. It became apparent that they were actively attempting to evade her presence, casting hostile glares filled with a mix of anger and, predominantly, fear.
"Look there," Elian said, pointing at the big sign hanging outside what appeared to be a large and famous tavern. "The Weeping Queen."
"Mmph! What a name for a tavern!" Lynas chuckled. "But by my ancestors, I need something to drink now!"
"Try not to get drunk; we are far from home, and the last thing we need is you with a hangover," Alex mumbled, earning a rather offended scoff from Lynas.
"You worry too much, Alex. Besides, I really need to have a drink," Lynas responded, and with a single glance, Alex grasped the underlying reason for this urgency. Lynas may have seemed to be adapting to the chaos that had unfolded a few days ago, but she was barely managing to suppress her anxieties. Maybe he would soon have to deal with his uncertainties as well.
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They immediately noticed a bustling scene inside the Weeping Queen as they entered the tavern. A multitude of armed individuals were gathered, engrossed in drinking, feasting, and engaging in lively conversations. The familiar aroma of roasted pork, the mingling scents of wine, beer and ale, and the boisterous debates among groups of adventurers filled the air. Amidst it all, the laughter of intoxicated individuals echoed in the background. This was an environment that Lynas was well-acquainted with, one that made her feel at ease and comfortable. But one Avnas appeared to be not welcome in.
Soon, everyone quieted inside the tavern as they watched them—specifically, Avnas—enter the place.
No one dared utter a word or make a single movement. Avnas stepped forward while Mariel sought refuge behind her, finding solace in the shelter of Avnas's expansive, ebony wings, which shielded her from the prying gazes. Avnas made her way towards the bartender, who possessed the visage of a demon or perhaps a half-demon. His complexion was tinged with a reddish hue, his hair a short shade of brown, and his eyes exuded a gentle humanity.
But Avnas saw it, in his eyes, fear and mistrust towards her.
"Welcome to the Weeping Queen," Berth greeted, introducing himself as the caretaker of the establishment. He nodded towards a group of individuals on the second floor of the tavern who quickly retreated into the shadows. The atmosphere in the tavern resumed its normal liveliness as everyone resumed their activities, but it was evident that they were still vigilant, watching Avnas's group.
"We are looking for a ship that could take us to Equidaeria, to the Kingdom of Aplacia, to be precise," Avnas said, a bit loud enough for perhaps someone with business in mind to appear. Berth frowned for a second and could only look at the group before him in surprise.
"Aplacia? That's a few months away if you're lucky," Berth replied, carefully examining Avnas.
"I don't care about how expensive it will be. Gold or silver is not a problem," Avnas declared with no concern in her voice. Soon, Berth's eyes caught a glimpse of a small human girl hiding behind Avnas. Berth was now very confused; he was told about a strange group that had arrived at the city with a trueborn demon among them. Normally, hearing of a trueborn demon arriving in the city would bring discomfort to Berth and many others like him. Yet, this trueborn demon was walking next to humans, a half-elf, and a child. It was so preposterous for him to witness that it bewildered him.
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Berth could not believe it. But the evidence in front of him was too hard to dismiss.
"You could put up a petition on the board," Berth stated as he cocked his head towards the large board of quest in the tavern. "You'll find someone who would be willing to take you there, with any luck."
Avnas frowned deeply at those words. "How can we do that?" She asked.
"We can assist you with that right here. Just head over to Melinda, who is sitting at a desk on the edge of the tavern. She will provide guidance on how to fill out your request," Berth directed, pointing towards a woman with long bunny ears. Avnas was taken aback, audibly gasping, as she internally squealed with delight at the sight of the charming bunny woman sitting cutely on the other side of the tavern.
Melinda boasted a sun-kissed complexion resembling the rich hue of chocolate. Her eyes shimmered with a hazel sparkle, and her long, messy brown hair was expertly fashioned into a braided masterpiece. Compared to the people in the tavern, she appeared like an innocent young woman.
Avnas wasted no time and swiftly made her way towards Melinda, causing the Etline woman to be taken aback by her rapid approach. A slight squeal escaped from Melinda's lips as she observed the trueborn demon standing before her. Her instincts screamed at her, making her tremble at seeing this woman with white hair on display, sensing the imminent danger. Yet, Avnas surprised her with one simple comment.
"You," Avnas whispered, her golden eyes sharply fixed on Melinda's, who seemed to tremble under the intense gaze of a predator. "You're adorable. I want to touch your ears."
Stunned to say anything, Melinda remained quiet for a few seconds before nervously replying. "I would prefer if you don't."
"Ah, I apologise for asking. My intrusive thoughts escaped my lips," Avnas said, surprising the Etline, who could not understand nor believe a trueborn demon was apologising.
"Don't worry!" Melinda exclaimed, flabbergasted.
"You're one weird woman, Avnas," Lynas mumbled under her breath. "You can't just go around asking Etlines if you can touch their cute fluffy ears or cute tails! You have to, at least, invite them for dinner!"
"I apologised already," Avnas replied, embarrassed.
Avnas coughed awkwardly before focusing on what was important. "We are to put up a request. My friends and I need to go to Equidaeria, or, to be more specific, Aplacia. We were looking for someone who could take us there. The cost is not a problem."
Melinda hummed deeply. "I see. I suppose you don't mind whether your transportation is by sea or air."
"No," Avnas replied. Melinda nodded in response. She then retrieved a few white sheets of paper and, utilising a unique typewriting machine, proceeded to type out the specifics for the request.
"Excuse me, lady," Alex spoke as Melinda glanced at him while still typing away. "How does the adventurer's guild work here?"
"You're clearly not from around here," Melinda remarked as she retrieved a set of stamps from her desk. "The adventurer guild in Iuphan, as well as the hero guild, function on the same principle as their counterparts in Equidaeria and Alberam. However, they are more open about granting their members a wider range of job opportunities. The guilds here are known to be more flexible in our clientele and employees."
"More flexible?" Elian whispered, confused. "What does that entail, exactly?"
Melinda cast a quick glance at the girl with blue hair, her lips curling into a gentle smile. "Iuphan is an untamed beast. What you'd call a criminal organisation where you're from, here they are simply business industries," she remarked, intentionally leaving out any further explanation. This cryptic statement caused Elian and the others to furrow their brows in confusion.
"Please, sign here," Melinda pointed at the end of what appeared to be a contract. Avnas raised an eyebrow; she used to work in an office, and if there was something she learned early, it was not to sign something without reading it.
"Could I read it first?" Avnas asked. Melinda tilted her head slightly before nodding in agreement. Avnas began reading the contract meticulously, examining every word. As she read, she couldn't find any errors, or at least that's what she believed. However, her attention was drawn to a specific set of words within the contract. "Buccaneers?"
"Wait, you want pirates to take us there?" Elian exclaimed, now visibly upset.
"Buccaneers are not pirates. Their profession is vastly different," Melinda argued back.
"Yeah, like smuggling," Lynas scoffed lowly.
"Among other things," Alex added in a murmur.
"We mustn't place our trust in them, my lady. Buccaneers are nothing but pirates in disguise. They masquerade as mere smugglers, but in truth, they are ruthless mercenaries of the sea and sky! Each and every one of them is nothing more than a common pirate! Filth, all of them!" Elian hissed with anger, her nails digging into her flesh as she clenched her fist tightly. Avnas, Alex, and Lynas were all taken aback by Elian's intense anger and couldn't help but ponder the cause behind her sudden outburst.
Melinda's bunny ears stiffened as she shot Elian a fierce glare. "A wretched buccaneer is the one who rescued me from a life of enslavement," Melinda proclaimed, revealing the lingering marks of chains on her neck and wrists. "If you don't want their help, then I suggest you start swimming."
"Elian, enough," Avnas said sharply, snapping Elian from her outburst.
"I apologise, master," Elian mumbled, inhaling audibly.
"Please forgive my companion," Avnas spoke gently, her mind filled with curiosity about why Elian seemed so aggravated about buccaneers and pirates. "Something must have struck a nerve."
Melinda's nose twitched, displaying a slight annoyance, before she finally relaxed and sniffed the air. Ignoring Elian's comment, she stayed focused on her task. "The petition cost is twenty-five silver coins, with an additional daily fee of approximately ten silver coins to keep it on the petition board. However, since this job falls outside the guild's jurisdiction, technically speaking, I cannot determine the exact cost, nor do I suggest you put up a reward yet. You will need to pay whatever the ship's captain requests. Also, please note that the guild will impose a tax once the job is accepted."
"I understand. How long will it take?" Avnas asked, and Melinda simply shrugged.
"It's difficult to say. You'll have to wait for someone to take up the request. The trip is long, and the Emerald Sea is known for its storms, sea creatures, and pirates. Additionally, the Xenia Dynasty and Liberia are currently engaged in a fierce battle for sea supremacy. If you're lucky, maybe an aerocrucible captain will take you. But again, the dangers are the same. The seas and skies face the same problems, well, without the sea monsters, that is."
Avnas nodded, realising that it wasn't as simple as taking a ship and leaving. "Thank you."
"Once I receive an offer, I will inform you," Melinda confidently stated. As Avnas signed the contract, she meticulously examined all the details. She then pulled out a pouch of coins and briefly pondered whether Antherion's currency would hold the same value in this realm. However, she remained hopeful that gold and silver would retain their worth. Avnas possessed an absurd amount of gold and silver, much like other players at her level who had no use for it. She could amass mountains of gold, towering high enough to cast a shadow that could engulf an entire city. Such was the craziness of her inventory that Avnas began to realise that she needed to inspect it again.
Maybe she was forgetting something there.
However, Melinda carefully examined the coins, utilising a magnet of sorts. She placed Avnas's silver coin on the table and cautiously brought it closer to the magnet. Observing no reaction, Melinda concluded that the coin was indeed made of genuine silver. Yet, the marks of the coin intrigued Melinda, who realised that she would have to send these coins to her employer in order to see where they came from.
"Everything is settled then. If you wish, you can rent a room in the tavern, or you can find another inn in the city. But please remain close."
"Understood."
Avnas and the others took advantage of the opportunity to find a peaceful table away from the bustling atmosphere of the tavern. They sat down and began discussing their next steps. However, Lynas promptly caught the attention of a waitress and gestured for her to come and take their order.
Begrudgingly, a young human girl approached them. She appeared nervous but tried her best to ignore Avnas's presence.
"Welcome to the Weeping Queen. My name is Jillbania. What can I get you?" the brunette girl asked.
"A big mug of beer, please! Oh! And roasted pork!" Lynas said happily.
"I do hope you have coins with you, Lynas," Alex commented as Lynas looked sheepishly at him. "You don't have money, do you?"
"It's not a problem, I'll cover it," Avnas said, earning big teary eyes from the half-elf who could've kissed her right then and there.
"I want to have your adopted babies," Lynas replied, sobbing dramatically.
Avnas ignored her but nodded at the rest. "Please, order what you want. It's been a long journey. You deserve it."
Alex let out a sigh as he leaned back in his chair. Perhaps it was indeed true. After such a long period of time, he needed to unwind and relax. "If you happen to have some wine, that would be great, and some chicken soup as well. Although I'm not particularly hungry," he stated.
"What about you, Elian?" Avnas asked the blue-haired girl, who was still noiseless.
Elian shook her head softly. "No, thank you. I'm not hungry," she responded, her gaze fixed downwards. It seemed as though she was either still embarrassed about her earlier outbursts or harbouring some other internal turmoil.
"Alright, but if you change your mind, please let me know," Avnas said, glancing over at Mariel, who was seated beside her. "How about you, Mariel? Would you like anything?"
"Um, do you have orange juice or grape juice?" Mariel whispered nervously, still clinging to Avnas's hand. The little princess was afraid that if she let go, the visions would soon overwhelm her. Avnas was becoming increasingly aware of this and wondered if there was anything she could do to prevent those visions and dreams from recurring.
Jillbania smiled softly at the small girl, nodding slowly. "We do have, and I strongly recommend, watermelon juice as well! It's delicious!" She stated. Mariel glanced at the brunette with awe in her eyes.
"Yes, please! I would like to try! And if you have apple pies, can I have one?" Mariel asked, and Jillbania nodded.
"Of course!"
Avnas chuckled at Mariel's excitement. "Well, since I am the one paying, I would like to try that watermelon juice, too."
Jillbania's expression turned into a frown as she gazed at the trueborn demon. She couldn't shake off her unease regarding the demon's presence in the city, fearing it would raise concerns among the cartels. Nevertheless, knowing that it was beyond her authority, she simply nodded in acknowledgement and walked away.
"I would like a piece of that apple pie you ordered, my princess," Lynas teased, and Mariel could only gasp at her.
"No! It's mine!" Mariel squealed, making funny faces. Her antics caused Alex and Lynas to chuckle and brought Avnas a smile. She couldn't believe how greedy the princess could be when it came to such things.
However, Avnas quickly became aware of the stares emanating from neighbouring tables. Her golden eyes swiftly darted towards the source, catching glimpses of some groups muttering and glaring in her direction. It occurred to her that it might not be her, the one they were fixated on, but rather someone sitting beside her. Without further ado, they muttered something indistinct and resumed their previous activities.
Avnas would have to keep an eye on it.
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Lynas breathed a sigh of relief as she sank into the soft bed. "Finally! A proper bed!" she exclaimed with joy, joining the rest of the group in the rented room. Like Elian and Alex, she removed her armour and stretched her weary limbs. Meanwhile, Avnas stood silently by the window, observing the bustling park and street outside the tavern. Avnas couldn't help but notice the sadness in Elian's eyes, a painful memory resurfacing. Avnas longed to offer support, but how could she when she couldn't confront her own haunting nightmares?
Slowly, Avnas approached Elian and awkwardly put her hand on the blue-haired shoulder. "Elian, you've been quiet for a while. Is everything alright?" She asked. Elian took a few seconds before smiling back at Avnas.
"It's nothing. Don't worry, master, I'm alright," Elian replied, and Avnas knew it was a lie. After all, she has told herself the same thing many times before. But this time around, Avnas wanted to be the person she wished she had been back then.
"If you ever need someone to talk to, I want you to know that I'll always be here," Avnas said, her voice tight and awkward, yet sincere in every word. Elian looked at Avnas, and a bright smile appeared on the blue-haired girl's face.
"Thank you, master."
Avnas smiled, happy with herself, while patting Elian's hand as if she were a pet.
As night descended, the city took on a wholly different persona, and while everyone else slept, Avnas diligently sought out any potential threats. With a seemingly boundless existence, she never succumbed to the limitations of a mortal body, always remaining awake and alert. In her perspective, this was a beneficial trait, as she could tirelessly watch over her companions, ensuring their safety.
However, it also led her to ponder whether she should occasionally indulge in sleep. Avnas no longer required food or water, yet she found pleasure in consuming them, nonetheless. It gave her a sense of vitality, a connection to reality. Maybe sleeping would enable her to stay aware of her existence, to affirm that she was still herself and not merely the entity residing in her mind. Perhaps, in some way, engaging in human activities would prevent her from crossing the threshold and permanently abandoning her humanity.
Avnas sat on the edge of the bed, observing Mariel as she slept. A smile formed on her face as he noticed the princess using her rather big tail as a makeshift pillow.
"I wonder what I could give her to stop those visions. Maybe I could help her control it?" Avnas whispered.
You do talk to yourself a lot.
Avnas snapped back as she heard a familiar voice inside her mind. Albarien?
Yes, that's me—your new best friend.
How are you talking to us?
I am inside you. We share everything now—even minds. So, I've been here all along. But it was not until recently that I was able to speak with you. Or, well, you two. It's funny how you refer to yourself as us. Interesting.
Great, what we need is another voice in our head.
You should have witnessed my reaction when I experienced being inside the mind of someone with apparent schizophrenia. Your alter ego is incredibly hostile towards both me and yourself. How do you manage to keep yourself composed? Your mind is fragmented, held together by desperation, anger, and shame.
Experience. Avnas felt incredibly exposed and nervous, wondering if Albarien was secretly exploring her thoughts. She took a deep breath, preparing herself for the nerve-wracking experience of sensing her humming inside her mind.
Don't worry. I am not lurking inside your memories. I am not that sort of intrusive god-like entity.
We are so grateful for that.
Ah, sarcasm, something we share. See, we are going to be great friends.
What do you want, Albarien?
Nothing, I'm just letting you know I am still here.
Fantastic. We should charge you the rent for living, in our mind. Avnas then heard Albarien's condescending chuckle, which was getting on her nerves, perhaps very literally.
You have a great sense of humour. I'll give you that.
Avnas took a deep breath, knowing that she'd gain nothing from playing Albarien's word games. Look, stop wasting our time. Tell me if you have any plans for the upcoming end-of-days and trumpet sounds.
Albarien went quiet for a few seconds before replying. No, I don't have a plan yet. Sort of. Well, some ideas are getting to me. However, each one leads to an unpleasant outcome.
How unpleasant?
Everyone ceases to exist.
Avnas scoffed loudly as she heard Albarien's mumbling. Not good enough, see?
What's the plan then? Wait until you have an epiphany and solve the upcoming Armageddon.
I am figuring it out, but maybe I just need another perspective. This world has a lot of secrets buried within it. If you help me, maybe we can find an answer together.
You're still keeping secrets, Albarien. It's hard to trust you.
Don't you think we're in quite a predicament? Our survival depends on one another, yet we lack trust.
Avnas let out a sigh as she gazed out of the window, her eyes fixed on the shadows dancing on the rooftops of the nearby buildings. However, as soon as her gaze met theirs, they mysteriously disappeared. Aware that they had been observing her for a few minutes now, she decided not to respond aggressively. All Avnas desired at this moment was to depart this city in the most tranquil manner possible.
DON'T TRUST HER! NEVER TRUST HER! SHE WANTS TO USE US!
Hush you, I am not talking to you. See what I am dealing with?
Avnas sighed as she felt an unusual pressure inside her mind, perhaps not physically but mentally. Headaches seemed to be something she would definitely feel. Maybe it was because of Albarien or something else. Regardless, Avnas felt like she wanted some coffee. Yes, she truly needed some of it.