We pass from one hallway to another, as we were stuck in a maze, the surprise I got is how the festival works. From the conversation I picked up, It seems that this place works like some random roulette where the stalls and stores you travel to will be depending on which path you choose. And to make sure people don't get lost, it seems you can ask the students or follow the exit signs scattered on each hallway. All the items here are free if you're being toured by a student. So now, we're visitors or guests.
(Maybe that's why Sis Fei invited me here and what Sis Qiyue meant not ruining her record).
"Woah, that uniform, she's from the all-girls school right?", "Damn, she's hot, and the girl with her is cute too, you think we have a chance bro?", "Oh, I know her, she's one of the all-girl school's Super Stars! The first year, Qiyue!", "Really that's Qiyue? I thought she'll never go here.", "Well lucky us, c'mon, try to bring her to our stall! She must hold a fortune!"
I could hear whispers and people gossiping behind our back. Since we didn't buy anything, Sis Qiyue swiftly traverses the place like she knows where she's going. Leaving me to only guess what place will appear next. And to my surprise, I found a familiar double steel door with a button on the side. It's my nemesis...
(Elevators...)
"Um, Sis Qiyue. There won't be any windows in there right?"
"To be honest I don't know. I have never been to the co-ed school before."
"Huh!? Then, then, how did you know there's an elevator here? And which place to go to reach here?"
Sis Qiyue folds her arms and smiles proclaiming:
"It's all luck!"
"What!?"
(What kind of crazy luck is that!)
"I mean they said each school is supposed to have an elevator. Since elevators are used by staffs, college students, and teacher, our purpose is simply to go in deeper, the fewer stalls you see the more you're getting closer... Other than that it's just luck."
"I wish I have your luck..."
"Sure sure, c'mon get inside."
Qiyue presses the switch and gesture me to get inside the elevator.
"Um, there's no windows right?"
"Well, judging from the design, no."
"I-I see..."
I enter first when Qiyue follows soon after and press another button to close the door. She takes out her black wallet from inside her coat and places it on the black spot before she presses the button on the top.
(There are so many things to the elevators...)
The room begins to shake and I quickly cling to Qiyue.
"Oh! S-Suowa. Don't just cling to me suddenly like that."
"Sorry, Sis Qiyue. But let's just say elevators bring bad memories."
She pats my head saying:
"I see if it calms you down then hold me tight."
I squeeze on her as she lets me.
"You're pretty strong. Well, I guess that's a given with how you're able to carry those bags all day long."
I look up at Qiyue asking:
"Sis Qiyue, how did you met Sis Fei?"
"Hmm? How we met huh? It's... Well... Simply put, we met during the first day of school."
"You met on the first day? Wait, but isn't Sis Fei in the co-ed school? How did you meet?"
"You don't know? It's because Fei first joins in the all-girls school section first."
"Wait, Sis Fei is from the all-girls school?"
She nods and looks up saying:
"Yeah, her looks alone pretty much caught the attention of many students and teacher. Coupled by her background, connection and how she reveals she can actually use more than just the phoenix technique, she easily became part of the first-year Super Stars. But let's just say, her personality leaves much to be desired."
"Why?"
"Not only is she pretty quiet. She doesn't socialise much nor does she really work well in groups. She may have a pretty high record and a very powerful backing, well let's just say, she's not very liked by many since bad rumours of her spread in just her second day here. The envy and jealousy she garnered are pretty immense."
(Quiet? Sis Fei is quiet? I thought she was pretty rowdy).
"So why did she leave?"
"Who knows, the only ones she talks to are the Super Stars and some teachers. And yet she didn't say anything when she left."
(Now that I think about it, Sis Fei never told me anything about her school life other than back when she first enters middle school).
"And, you still haven't told me how you met her."
Qiyue pats my head and mess my hair saying:
"Simple enough, we have a duel the moment we met."
"Wha! How!?"
(She didn't say anything like that in the letter!)
"We don't get along well and one event let to another, then we fight."
(Please, elaborate!)
"Well, at least who wins?"
She points at her self saying:
"Of course this big Sis did win."
(Really!? So experience does make the difference!)
"You did!? Wow! Even I haven't beat her at all-"
"Wait you fought her? How dare she bullies a normal Owlian!"
"Um Sis Qiyue, I think you misunderstand."
"No, Suowa. You may believe it is but let me guess she teases you aplenty too right?"
"Huh!? How did you know!"
Qiyue curls her fist as I hear a tightening sound.
*ding*
When the door open to a large open room, she hugs me close and carry me like baggage again before exiting together with her shouting:
"I knew it! That's it, I may just arrive but I'm issuing another duel!"
With 4 huge pillars decorated by hanging statues, the middle of the room looks like some kind of meditating chamber with flowing water, dancing light sphere and floating flowers surrounding it.
(This place looks pretty mystical).
As we get close to the middle, the dancing sphere bounces away while the floating flower floats farther from us. With only the wooden gate ahead of us in the way. I could hear voices from the inside, two girls arguing over each other. One is definitely Sis Fei and the other is someone unknown.
Qiyue rush forth pulling out her wallet once again and press it against the black spot beside the door. When another invisible brick hit my head, shaking my conscious thoughts.
(Isn't my looks different now? Would Sis Fei even recognize me with now with not only my looks but my voice's different too!)
*knock* *knock* *knock*
Qiyue knocks the door slowly saying:
"Principal of the North Wing district, I, Qiyue am coming in!"
*bang*
Qiyue bust the door open and what greeted us is,
"Eeep!"
A small figure wearing a robe jumps away, hiding behind a giant table while I could see Sis Fei from her long tied up purple hair. She sits calmly on some huge marshmallow, not even giving us any attention since she's wearing huge headwear that swallows her upper head. When I take a quick look, the room is dark with only the soft glow of dark blue from the closed curtain, making it pretty hard to discern the things inside. Qiyue bows down with me still in her arm saying:
"Greetings principal, I'm sorry for the sudden entrance and..."
She stands straight and points at Sis Fei shouting:
"Fei! I'm here to issue another duel!"
Sis Fei calmly opens the headwear off as I see the silhouette of her hair. She takes the steel bottle she uses for training every morning. Shaking it and takes a drink, not even giving us any attention as her face is pretty hard to discern in the dark. Her face covered by the dark seems a bit scary, while I could see her lips, she looks at the wall ahead of her with a smile saying:
"Qiyue, It seems you're finally got the guts to walk past the crowd of men. I commend you for your bravery."
*slam*
Speaking in runician, Sis Fei slams the steel bottle to the floor and gets up slowly with only her legs when I realize she's holding some kind of item on her other hand with many symbols and buttons.
(Wow... Sis Fei really does seem to be a different person. I mean, she acts so sinister doing that! Especially in this darkness, she looks like some kind of grand manipulator or something).
"Touch some wood, Fei! I'm not doing this personally but for her! You're going to pay for bullying her!"
Qiyue brings me upfront as she hugs me while still lifting me up. Sis Fei turn her back on us replying:
"Come on, really? I never bully any of the students ever since I left that all-girls school. You can ask Senior Jinxi here. Aren't I right~? I've been such a good student, attending class every day, getting good scores, respecting teachers and even garner the respect of my fellow friends."
(Wait, she has friends here!? Then... What's happening right now!?)
"F-Fei, please don't bring me into this! T-The sudden gathering is already t-too much for me. J-Just chase her away so we can continue our game! T-This... T-This is the principal's order!"
A girl's voice replied back from behind the table when Fei merely laugh saying:
"Pfff, hahaha! You really know how to use that position now huh? Fine, as you wish headmaster!"
Sis Fei plunges her hand behind the table for a while before approaching us while looking down at her own feet. She throws the magic item at the huge marshmallow she's sitting as it seems to sink in.
*clack* *clack* *clack*
Slowly she walks closer to us. Curling her finger one by one, gradually making a fist.
*clack* *clack* *clack*
"To be honest, I've been waiting a whole day for someone precious to arrive."
Her qi burst forth in purple colour, bringing heavy pressure and tension on our way. She slowly lifts her head our way saying:
"Qiyue, It's been a while since we meet and if this is how we celebrate our reunion... Then bring it on-"
When her face finally becomes clear, I could see her purple eyes becomes wide when her gaze reaches me. She stops moving, leaving half her feet off the ground and her whole qi dispersed. The heavy pressure I felt disappear as we stare into the window of our soul.
(Oh? Did she recognize me?)
I raise my hand waving at her saying:
"Hello, Sis Fei... Sorry, I'm late. And there seems to be a-"
"Fei, took you long enough to look at me... You never change."
Sis Fei looks at me dumbfounded as her entire face seems to freeze and her eyes spiralling in confusion. Her body seems to become a statue as she stops entirely. Qiyue finally puts me down on the marshmallow where Sis Fei is sitting and approach Sis Fei. Her face comes close that their forehead clash.
"Then bring it what, Fei?"
Qiyue cracks her hands as she asks but Sis Fei just keeps quiet. Qiyue backs away and looks at her worried, slapping Sis Fei's cheeks softly asking:
"Um, Fei, y-you okay?"
Sis Fei finally moves, but her whole body seems to be rigid like a rusty machine as she points at me asking:
"W-Who's she?"
Her voice cracking and uncertain she tries her best to smile while asking. Qiyue backs away and points at Sis Fei at her face shouting:
"How dare you forget the victims you torment! I'll only say this once so listen close!"
Qiyue walks beside me and pats my head saying:
"Her name's Suowa Anmao and she's a servant from one of your lords! Not only does her master abandoned her on the streets alone like a sad puppy, you even bullied her in her house! If I don't bring justice to this innocent soul, I'll never be able to live my life!"
"Suowa? Oh right, Sova's name is Suowa in runician- wait, she? H-huh? B-But that headband a-and... And h-her light... But t-that voice..."
Sis Fei seems to spiral down into something beyond confused and bewildered as her entire understanding seems to be distorting.
(I need to do something, and fast!)
I drop the bags and dash between them, raising my arms as to sperate them as far as possible saying:
"Sis Qiyue! Please! You're sorely mistaken about something!"
"Suowa, you don't need to defend her! If words can't reach her, then the fist is the best answer for her!"
"No! I am not a servant!"
I shout out loud for everyone to hear. Qiyue tilts her head asking:
"Y-You're not? Huh...?"
"These clothes were given to me when my armour got obliterated during my mission! And when I say tease me, she's just playing with me at the house!"
I turn around grabbing the stiff Sis Fei shouting:
"Sis Fei, so many things and circumstance have happened to me today that I really wish to explain! So please, get a hold of yourself!"
Before letting go and stand between them again shouting:
"So please, no fighting! I don't want to see any of you hurt!"
I look at both of them when Sis Fei regains her sanity and Qiyue breaks her stance. I breathe out a huge sigh of relief saying:
"So that's why. Please... I'm sorry for not being able to explain sooner!"
I bow down to Qiyue as I beg for forgiveness. Qiyue pats my head saying:
"I see... Very well... Sorry, you probably didn't get the chance to explain either."
Qiyue walks to Sis Fei and bow down saying:
"Sorry, Fei, it seems this is born from my misunderstanding. Please forgive me."
Sis Fei who seems to return normal bumps her fist on Qiyue's shoulder replying:
"Sure, now why don't you go ask for the headmaster's forgiveness too since you scared the living daylights out of her. I need to talk with... Her."
Qiyue returns her posture and bumps her fist on Sis Fei's shoulder replying:
"Thanks."
(Not friends my ass!)
As they went in the opposite direction. Sis Fei approach me and wrap her hand around me. Pulling me out of the room asking:
"Sova, i-is that you?"
She talks to me in common tongue and I nod saying:
"It's me, Sis."
"Your voice, your body, your looks and hair..."
Sis Fei grabs me all over before grabbing my face and continues asking:
"What happened!?"
I try to summarize what happens to me and hide Mary's appearance by saying:
"All I know is that when I'm cultivating, I unlocked this new power inside of me. This power hurts me so much when I use it that I fell unconscious when the battle ends. And when I woke up, I suddenly look like this..."
Sis Fei looks at me dumbfounded before she,
"Pfff, ahahahaha!"
Cracks up a smile and push me away laughing ecstatically shouting:
"I-I- pfff ahahaha! I see! Yes! It all makes so much sense now! But to think- pfff... Ahahahaha!"
"Sis Fei, stop laughing! Do you know what happened!?"
Sis Fei holds her stomach in desperation before she hugs me tightly as her hair, brushes my nose while sweet orange her scent pierces deep.
"I'm just happy you finally arrive. But I need to check something."
"Huh? What is- Uhyyaa!"
Sis Fei grabs my private part and then backs away before I could react. I hold my crotch and sit down with my legs folded shouting:
"What was that for!?"
"Oh, c'mon! I'm just making sure of something. And now I understand more... Yes... So not even the sensors can even detect you and even Qiyue's senses went pass you. This is just too hilarious! You always bring new experience to me, Sova... Thank you."
Sis Fei gives me a very sweet smile as my heart seems to jump and my face becomes warm. She sits beside me saying:
"I'll pretend that you're a female and besides..."
Sis Fei brings her lips to my ear whispering:
"This is not the first time I did embarrassing things to you."
I felt my face burn and my chest tighten as memories of the past flashes before me. I push her away and distance myself, shouting:
"Enough of that, Sis!"
"Pfff hahaha! Sorry, sorry! I can't help myself since you're the joy of my life, Sova."
"Huh, w-what do you mean!?"
I felt my face becoming even hotter when she says that. She crawls closer as I try to back away. She gets even closer until I reach a dead-end where if back away, I'll fall into the stream. As her face gets close that our nose finally touches, she smiles cheerfully saying:
"I say this many times already, You're someone very precious to me."
And jumps back on her feet, tidying up her uniform and gives me a hand to stand. I take her hand asking:
"Um, Sis, what do you mean you understand what happened to me? Do you know why I look like this?"
(I mean I already know why but if I can give them a much more plausible reason than mine it'll be better).
Sis Fei pulls me up saying:
"You've experienced the true awakening. The steps of creating the true foundation."
"True Awakening and foundation? What's that?"
"It's like what every true martial artist experienced. I mean many people will change when that happens to them. For a famous example, do you realize how some Martial Artist would suddenly have long hair one day? I mean, just look at all the heroes of martial artist in the past. Don't they ALL have long hair?"
I nod at her explanation replying:
"Oh yeah! You're actually right! Even Emperor Rucina have long hair!"
"See? And as for the girls, they usually regain their youth and become beautiful too. I mean, have you ever seen an old grandma in the fairy tales you read? And usually ugly bitches and fat bastards are the villains too."
"I guess no... Not that I remembered. So things like that could happen huh? And the same thing happened to me..."
Sis Fei nods saying:
"Yup! That's why they're pretty popular with some of the older readers since they can relate. But as for you, I guess there's an anomaly in the technique you use or something. But it's fine. (I think I read this one in the book she gives me).
"R-Really?"
"Yup! I mean just take a look at Sis! She's the same as you. She's supposed to be 2 years older than me but we're so far apart that she basically looks like my mom already. I even heard a lot of visitors mistook her for a teacher since she doesn't wear her uniform all the time. Other than looks, I guess nothing much change. I mean you still have your manhood right?"
Sis Fei whispers the last sentence and I push her away shouting:
"Don't say that! And... You're right..."
My voice becomes softer in the end and Sis Fei grabs my hand and brings me back to the office
(I'm still grateful that I still have it and how Mary didn't make it disappear. So even Sis Fei thinks like that huh? I suddenly feel bad about Sis Yuwei... Maybe I should help her out with something).
"I see... I guess I now have to look like this forever? I mean, my long hair got cut in the last battle, and it regrows back when I sleep for a while."
"Yup that's normal too. If you want to make it shorter, you can try practising how to control your qi more proficiently."
"Practice huh? Will you help me out?"
"Of course! Just call me and I'll be at your beck and call."
"Thank you, Sis."
"No problem!"
We return to the office when I realize the lights are on and I can see the room more clearly now. The room is filled with shelves filled with thin boxes with pictures and those books Kokkan calls Manga. I could see Qiyue standing ready with her posture straight near some box with black glass and snacks and drinks sprawl all over the floor.
"Mhm! So it seems things have calmed down. Member Fei, it seems we have a guest from the east wing. She's the representative of the East Wing Academy's first-year students, Qiyue.
Why don't you entertain her and bring her around the school?"
(I've been curious about Qiyue's family name. I mean for someone important and popular as her, what's her family name? And why don't people say it?)
The sound came from the curved table but no one is there to be seen.
Sis Fei shakes her head saying:
"Really Senior Jinxi? Can't you at least show your face to me now at least?"
"N-NnnnnNO! I-I-I will not oblige my appearance t-t-to the stranger beside you!"
*sigh* *sigh*
Sis Fei and Qiyue sighs at Jinxi's reply. Qiyue walks to us saying:
"Well, I'm glad things calm down at least. Why don't we leave her alone with her antics and tour the school together? With two guests, it's double the points."
*sigh*
Sis Fei sighs and grabs her steel bottle saying:
"Fine by me, but this is only because of Sova. Have fun Headmaster! Thank you for letting me play your console. I'll see you next time."
Sis Fei waves her bottle and leaves while still holding my hand. I grab the bags with my finger again while Qiyue follows suit and walks beside me asking:
"Sova huh? So that's you name in the common tongue... So, what's your relation with her Fei?"
Qiyue speaks in the common tongue for once probably to ease me when Sis Fei hugs me saying:
"She's a sworn sister to both Sis Yuwei and me."
"Sworn Sisters!? Hmm, I guess I was wrong about you at some point. You're lucky to have her."
Sis Fei nods saying:
"That's right! And what's with you? You seem much kinder than usual infront of me."
Qiyue folds her arm and look away replying:
"Hmph! Don't misunderstand. I'm only being nice to you because of her. She told me about your circumstance a bit and I understand a bit better about you now."
Sis Fei tightens her grip on me and speak in runician asking:
"Really? What did she say?"
Qiyue looks back at Sis Fei replying in kind:
"She told me how even the servants talk behind your back. And how happy Suowa become when he heard we're rivals... I can only guess how lonely you are."
"Don't misunderstand! I choose to be like this! I don't need a lot of friends when I can have one that's worth more!"
"Do you, now? That kind of mindset can lead you to your doom you know."
Qiyue asks back and Sis Fei can only stay quiet as she lets go of me and look annoyed by not answering back. When we arrive at the escalator Qiyue opens the door for us and we all enter. Sis Fei grabs her card and places it on the black spot before pressing the 3rd lowest button.
The door closes and the room begins to shake. I drop the bags and rummage the bag I got from touring with Qiyue. I take out the mini-cakes and hand it to Sis Fei saying:
"Sis Fei, you have to try these tiny cakes!"
Sis Fei looks at me confused asking:
"Hmm? Didn't you hate cakes, Suowa?"
Hearing Sis Fei calling my name in different language for once caught me by surprise while Qiyue grabs my shoulder and pulls me close saying:
"Well, you can thank me for this. It was thanks to me showing him the greatness and ways of the cakes. Now, Suowa doesn't hate cakes anymore!"
I shake my head saying:
"That's not exactly true."
Qiyue grips my shoulder harder asking:
"But didn't you told me that you don't hate them anymore?"
"No, I think it's more of, I understand it more now. Since I still hate the usual cakes we eat. But... I realize cakes also have many variations. Like the butter cakes, those cake lollipops, pound cakes, and those exceptional stack of pancakes toppled by sweet, sweet syrup!"
"Pancakes are cakes? I thought they're suppose to be bread despite their name?"
Sis Fei asks me in surprise while Qiyue nods replying:
"There's a reason why they have cake in their name... Maybe I should ask the pastry club more. I last heard different Sector, culture and nation calls them by different term."
Sis Fei takes the box saying:
"I see... But I feel like your understanding is skewered. But no matter. Cause I'm going to show her the best stalls around the school!"
I nod in excitement when Qiyue finally lets me go saying:
"Don't forget about me too."
"Yeah, sure but you're paying for yourself okay?"
"How rude. Don't you know I'm the one whose been treating Suowa to the entire school."
This time, Sis Fei grabs my shoulder asking:
"Is it true!?"
I look back at Qiyue and she merely smiles at me...
*sigh*
I sigh and nod along saying:
"She did."
Sis Fei looks at me suspiciously and backs away saying:
"Did she now? Or does the people just give her stuff for free?"
I nod saying:
"Yea..."
*sigh*
Sis Fei sighs at my answer and nods saying:
"Yeah, I guess that's still counted as treating you, in an indirect way. Fine, I may not have the same popularity as her but I'm still someone paying back the dues."
"Pff, hahaha!"
*ding*
The door to the room opens when Qiyue laughs and hits Sis Fei's shoulder saying:
"Just kidding! You don't have to do that. You sure grow soft with her around."
I grab the bags and we walked out of the elevator before Qiyue continues saying:
"I treated her because of how I mistreated her. So you don't have to treat me."
Sis Fei opens the box I gave to her asking:
"You mistreated someone? WHAT did you do to her?"
Qiyue's face reddened and look away replying:
"You don't need to know! I'll be leaving now. You both better enjoy yourself okay? And I'll tell the Gangding to find Fei instead when they bring... Your precious lord back to you. Goodbye, and may the spirits bless you."
Qiyue walks away leaving us behind as she waves her hand for goodbye. Before she turns around the corner, she looks back at Sis Fei saying:
"By the way, we're having an after-party festival a week after the festival at the eastern port. I hope you'll come. I heard for once, all the superstars will be there."
Sis Fei close her eyes replying:
"I'll think about it."
Hearing Sis Fei's reply. Qiyue walks away, leaving our sight. I look at Sis Fei saying:
"Will you finally get more friends!?"
*ptonk*
"Oof!"
Sis Fei hits my head saying:
"Don't misunderstand. I said I'll think about it, so I might just not come."
"But..."
"Don't worry Sova. I know what I'm doing. Now, follow me! The first spot is the roulette stall!"
"Yay!"
(Not that I know what that is).
"And by the way, who's the one she's talking about?"
"Oh! I actually came here with Saya and Kokkan. But recently they disappeared without a word. Or more like Saya was not where she promised she be. I'm starting to get worried now."
Sis Fei closes her eyes and walks first replying:
"I'm sure they'll be founded if her dogs from the Order Guards are sent. Don't worry, they're not called the keeper of peace for no reason."
"Okay..."
*************************************
The golden sun circle around the stars, multiplying right before our eyes while the demons of black and red bets their lives. And so it begins when the clouds gather. When the planet falls to the right place, so shall one devil be the victor. For only one can come out of this place alive.
"..."
I look at Sis Fei who's hogging a sack of magic items leaving many corpses of broke people and stalls behind...
"Sis, this is gambling, isn't it?"
"Prrffff! Psssh! What are you talking about Sova?"
Sis Fei looks back at me with a smile saying:
"Students aren't allowed to gamble you know? And besides, since I'm touring you around, I'm doing this for free, which means this is a free giveaway!"
"It's still bad..."
Sis Fei pats my head saying:
"I don't need you to tell me that."
Sis Fei looks at the last stall with a malicious smile. The small stall clerk who saw Sis Fei immediately hugs his machine with tears in his eyes, looking like a cub holding his mother so that she wouldn't leave. Begging her not to come clearly without speaking just with his puppy eyes alone. So much so that he takes a marker and cross the open sign and rewrite it to closed just below the crossed word.
"C'mon, let's go there."
"But it says closed."
"Stop taking things too literally and just follow me. You wanna at least try playing once right?"
I nod hesitantly saying:
"Yea..."
"Heh, perfect then!"
Sis Fei drags me along when we arrive at the stall. The girlish boy was a bit different than the other students in all the stalls we've conquered. He's wearing his own custom clothes that look like a butler outfit. But even with his boyish clothes he still exudes a female's aura.
(I wonder if he's just like me?)
Sadly, I can't get a full view since he's already cowering behind his stall, putting his hand behind the head as he hunches like someone forcing himself to sleep. Sis Fei places the sacks on his table saying:
"Hey~ I wanna bet."
He slowly looks back by peeking behind the table replying:
"I'm sorry ms, but the sign says closed."
Sis Fei just stares at him with a smile. Before longs, the confidence he got to talk back begins to whittle away little by little as his face continues to despair and tear up. Sis Fei shakes her head saying:
"What about this then. I'll bet all the stuff I won here, and you bet all the items inside the machine? Win this and you'll help restore the stalls behind me."
I could see the countless corpses coming back to life as their eyes plead this boy. But he still hesitates until Sis Fei drags me infront of him saying:
"Don't worry, the one playing will be this girl here."
The boy's eyes dim as he realizes something is happening, everyone soon gathers around us shouting:
"Win it, Bao!", "Please Win it, Bao!", " Baobao, win it and I promise I won't steal your lunch for a weak! I swear!", "Do it Bao and I'll give you my coupons!"
I look back at Sis Fei asking:
"What, me? But I don't know how to play!"
All the people's hope suddenly burst to glory like a rising phoenix when they heard me say that. Sis Fei pats my head saying:
"Don't worry, this one's easy. So, what're you waiting for barter? Distribute it."
Bao hesitantly hands me three needles saying:
"G-Good luck."
I take it saying:
"Thanks. So how do I play it?"
Sis Fei points at the many tiny holes at the machine saying:
"You see the spinning wheel at the machine? Your job is simply pinning where the prize will be when the light shows up."
She lets me go and push me ahead saying:
"But since we're betting everything. There will only be one spot to pin, and you get three chances. I think it would be best to let you trial play once. It's fine right?"
He looks at Sis Fei with fear and nods saying:
"O-Of course! Here let me show you, pretty ms."
He turns the machine on and I could see a light appearing on multiple slots at once creating some kind of a giant circle. The sign soon begins to move slowly and he tells me that I have to pin the light. I followed his word and plunge the needle in.
*clap* *clap* *clang* *clang* *clang*
The machine reacted loudly and the boy tells me if the machine reacts like that I won. I nod saying:
"Okay! I think I understand now, I'm ready!"
The boy smiles saying:
"Good, cause I'm sorry for I will not hold anything back!"
Even as he shouts his voice doesn't sound particularly intimidating. But then, when he turns the machine on. That's when his true colour shows. Unlike during the testing play, the difference between now and before is like black and white. Not only there's one light shining among the thousand holes, it moves so fast it actually gives an illusion that there are multiple lights shining at once like during the testing play. And the speed it moves from one place to another is ridiculous!
He looks at me with pitiable eyes saying:
"I'm sorry pretty lady, but I have to win this, no matter what it takes! I'm sorry but if I don't do this I'll-"
I plunge the needle while he's still giving his reason and,
*clap* *clap* *clang* *clang* *clang*
"Huh?"
He and everyone gathering behind us looks at me confused as the machine told me I won. He gets close to the needle I stick in asking:
"Um... I'm sorry, but can you please try that again?"
"But didn't I won? I mean you said the machine-"
"Please do it again! Double or nothing, I'll even give you all my canteen coupons!"
He begs me with tears in his eyes as he grabs my clothes. Pleading while kneeling down and looking up at me.
"But I don't even know how important that coupon is."
"Ummm! Then... Then... I'll give you my treasured item!"
*slam*
"And what could that be?"
Sis Fei drags the sack to the ground and stomps her feet on the stall table. She leans forward, looking down on him from above as she smiles maliciously.
(Sis Fei looks scary... Well she does look intimidating sometimes, but not like this).
Bao takes out a beautiful decorated sheathed knife that seems to glow in blue light, everyone gasps at the sight whispering to each other.
"I heard about you from that world. You would make famous Martial Artists or Sorcerers bet their treasured artefact, be it their own items, arms or pieces of their soul. So, will you accept this term?"
(Wait, arms and soul!?)
Bao is saying his terms but my attention is now with Sis Fei. Sis Fei's eyes sparkle and her smile grew larger as I could see greed has taken over Sis Fei... I tug at her saying:
"Um, Sis I think we should just refuse. Don't you think you already have enough weapons and armour in your room?"
Sis Fei pats my head saying:
"Sova, listen close. There's no such thing as enough in pursuit of human desires. And now, I'm merely following mine. If my room isn't enough then I'll just have to use another empty room to fill it."
"Sis, I think you need help."
Sis Fei messes my hair replying:
"Aw, shush it! And win this for me! I believe in you Sova."
"You know I can't say no when you ask me like that! Urrgg, fine! But this will be the last time you this okay Sis!?"
(And if worse come to worse, I have to tell Sis Yuwei about this).
"That's fine by me."
Bao holds the knife tightly and nods saying:
"Alright then, it seems you've got lucky there or I've underestimated you. But I won't take any chances, I'm increasing the difficulty to the max!"
He turns the machine on and everyone behind us gasps in terror as what's happening in front of them. Even Sis Fei was taken aback as she smiles with curiosity asking:
"So, can you do it, Sova? Want me to do it?"
I shake my head saying:
"Don't worry Sis I got this!"
"Heh, alright then, give it a go."
I was wondering what worse could have happened. But turns out other than to becoming faster, it seems the holes in the machine becomes smaller from thousands to ten thousand, and there's only one light in that many holes. It moves so fast it gives a smaller size than before. Well, to be honest, this light moves slower than that black armoured rat-kin I fought before. So, the only problem is how the hole is actually the same size as the tip of the needle I'm holding and probably how there are many fake red lights with a different gradient all around the prize so I can't blunder in my precision.
And is it me or is that considered cheating? There's actually a thin glass in all of the holes except the ones in the edges so that it prevents the needle from getting in deep to click the machine. And to add salt to the injury, the light never moves outside the place without any of that glass.
(But with my strength, I could easily pierce it if I just enhance this needle with qi. I'm sorry, but I'm going to win this. With one of my spear speciality used to land the first strike during ambush!)
[Immortal Tormentor Crane Technique: One pierce, one Kill].
*stab* *clap* *clap* *clang* *clang* *clang*
"Eh? N-No way... That's impossible..."
Bao fell to his knees as I heard the last words he whispered while everyone behind us froze like a statue, their hope fading away and disintegrating to dust. Sis Fei grabs the knife in his hands pulls it away saying:
"Well, is it fun bullying the newbie? It seems karma has struck again."
He holds on to it like dear life, not letting it go. Crying as he begs, shouting:
"Please, don't take this away! Please!"
"I lost count of the number of people who refuses to give up their items after losing to me. So listen close, cause I'll only say this once. If you're so scared and can't accept defeat, then you shouldn't have bet or gamble in the first place. In fact, you shouldn't have set up this shop and work an honest life."
"That's..."
Bao bits his lips until it bleeds before he slowly moves his finger away and let Sis seize the item.
"And thank you for the other items too!"
Sis fills the sacks behind her and walks away leaving another victim in her wake... Or should I say... Mine. While Sis Fei walks away looking at the new weapon she got with a pleasant smile. I grab her by her coat asking:
"Sis, won't you please return the items?"
She looks back at me with a sinister smile and anger in her eyes, for once I see another side on Sis Fei I never saw before.
"And why is that?"
Her voice is cold and resentful. But I muster up my courage replying:
"I know you spend a long time to get them but we're here to have fun right? But this... This is just cruel!"
(I mean there must be a reason why someone tries to shoo and trick us away when we entered).
"Don't you know that they also scammed..."
*sigh*
Sis Fei lets out a long sigh and throws all the items away at them as the content spills saying:
"ALRIGHT. JUST. THIS... ONCE."
*stab*
Sis Fei stabs the knife half-deep into the table while it's still being sheathed. She glares down at the crying Bao saying:
"You're lucky this time."
I bow my head down shouting:
"Thank you, Sis! For hearing my selfish request. When we get back home, I'll try my best to fulfil your wish!"
While everyone is busy picking what they lost, Sis Fei looks at their state and pats my head, dragging me away as she frowns saying:
"Hmph, let's just leave."
*************************************
Reality and matter distort back into a place with many students walking around. I can't help but wonder,
"When did you start doing that Sis?"
We walk through the crowded hallway. I don't know how long we have been playing in that place but it seems, the place is still as crowded as ever. I dare say, it's merrier and fuller when we arrive here.
"To be honest, I don't remember much when I start doing it... But, all I know that I'm good at it. I mean, seriously very good at it. All the items in my room, from my bed, my sheets, clothes, equipment collection and even my own room. I won it all with my own ability. I seize it all with my own two hands, from my friends, strangers and from my own family."
Sis Fei looks at her palm and clenches her hands as she says that.
(She won all of that? Now that I think about it, through the whole palace, only Sis Fei's room that looks pretty conspicuous and larger from the rest. And what does she mean her own room? Didn't Sis Yuwei give her her own room or something? It seems there's something I don't know yet).
Sis Fei pats my head saying:
"We can talk more when we get home. I guess you're right, it's not fun when there's no challenge at all. So what do you want to do?"
I think back when I'm still touring the place. And I can't help but remember that shop where there are many girls sitting around stabbing dolls with the needles.
"Sis, I saw this stall- or more like a tent. Where there are many girls stabbing a doll with needles, do you know what kind of place is that? Can I try it? It looks fun!"
Sis Fei smiles kindly at me and pats my head saying:
"Um, there's a reason why that stall is only in the all-girls school section. You're a guy, right? You're a man right!?"
I nod shouting:
"Yea!"
"Then you should totally forget about it."
"Oh, okay then... I don't really know what to play since Sis Qiyue brought me to many of the new games. Oh, do you have any recommendations? Other than places like that."
Sis Fei puts her finger on her chin as she ponders. I look around the place and just like when we enter the public place, many students seem to distance themselves from Sis Fei which cause other visitors to do the same. On the good side, it seems we now have a more spacious place to walk.
"Hey, Sova. Follow me."
"Huh?"
Sis Fei grabs my hand and pulls me away. As if she knows where to go, we reach outside the school without being led astray. The night sky shines bright along with the stars and the bright glow of lantern lights. I can't help but wonder how it seems time has moved so quickly and night has arrived.
All I could see was her glowing bright into the night, maybe it's the colour contrast she had but I can't look away. All I know is that she's bringing me higher and higher as we soon reach a garden where no one seems to be around. The night wind blows as the sun sets below. Petals from turquoise blooms forth giving the night more shades of blue. A garden without a fountain, a park of flowers bathe by moonlight, the petals of snowflakes.
(It's beautiful).
I can't help but think that as Sis Fei brought me here.
"Hey, Sova, sit down here."
Sis Fei pulls me down to the flower bed and I can't help resist asking,
"Wait, won't the flowers be destroyed?"
Sis Fei already takes her seat replying:
"Pssh, it's fine. There's a reason why there are no chairs here."
I hesitantly take a seat when I realize the flowers actually move away like they're alive. Revealing the hidden patch of grass below. We sit close as Sis Fei wraps her arm around me, with her finger pointing to the shimmering skies, she smiles saying:
"Since there's not really any place I want to bring to you. Let's just relax here. After all, this is the place to look at the event that's about to come."
"Event? Will something happen in the sky?"
Sis Fei release me and nods her head replying:
"Yeah! I mean, this event supposed to happen all over the Confederation. But thanks to the troubles inside our home, the people can't even celebrate it. I just hope now that the troubles are over, we can celebrate it next year at our own homes."
"Really? Now that's new... Say, Sis, what is this place? I mean, where's everyone? This place seems pretty empty."
Sis Fei lays down and stretches her arms wide as the flowers give way. She raises her hand as if she's reaching for the stars answering:
"This place? Well, this is the botanist club garden."
"Are we even allowed to be here?"
I can't help but ask her with how she's been acting but Sis Fei merely smiles at me and raise her shoulder replying:
"Who knows?"
"Sis!"
"Just kidding, sheesh! Of course, I do, I had to ask some favours for this you know? Since this is a very special day after all..."
"Really? Then, I'm sorry..."
Sis pats my head saying:
"Fine, just come and lay down with me then."
Sis Fei pulls me down and my view soon turns to the stars...
"Hey, Sova, mind telling me about your mission? What happened after you leave?"
"Huh? Well..."
As I recount the events to Sis Fei, she seems to smile no matter what I said as if she's just happy to hear me. I told her how I see massive graves of rat-kin, how I must fight the commandant before I finally arrive at the Jaguar Sector only to fight another battle. Let's just say, it's one battle after another battle before I finish the mission by saving the jaguar Sector's hidden district before finally arriving in this Sector.
I told Sis Fei about what I do, sightseeing with Saya, meeting her friends, getting to know the hunters guild. Sis Fei smirks when I told her how I was bringing an illegal item along the way just inside my apron pocket and she tried to hold her laughter in. Then I told her how I bring that illegal item to the restaurant just beside this school to fix it since that's where I got it but Sis Fei seems confused about the details.
"Either way, let's just say I'm connected to the owner of that restaurant."
"Really now? You? I'm impressed. Even I don't know who the owner of that diner is you know? It's fully operated by golems too."
"Ah right!"
I rummage around the bag La gave me and pull out Sis Fei's portion of the meal saying:
"Here Sis Fei, I want you to have this."
"Huh? What's this?"
"It's from that diner, Sands and Seasons. I manage to get a meal for three."
"You did!? I'm impressed! Well then, let's eat!"
Sis Fei gets up, taking the food away and open it immediately. The scent of the food waft through the air, replacing the sweet smell of flowers with the heavy smell of food.
"Wow, hahaha! How much money did you spend Sova? I probably have to sell parts of my collection to buy just one box and you gave me three."
(Is it really that expensive? I mean, the shop doesn't really look that expensive at all).
"It's totally free since I'm part of them. Since I'm important to them or something..."
Sis Fei looks at me with worry in her eyes asking:
"You're not joining anything shady are you?"
I shake my head replying:
"Of course not! They told me I'm investment or something but either way, they're nice people. Ignoring how they sometimes speak very quickly."
"Whatever then. Let's eat Sova! Why don't you take out yours?"
"Um... I gave mine to Sis Qiyue, for thanks. And I'm actually quite full from her treats."
"Well, then who does the other box belong to?"
"Oh, those? They belong to Saya since she said she wants to eat those."
"Saya huh? So you didn't buy that Kokkan guy any?"
*chomp*
"..."
"This is seriously good!"
*chomp* *chomp*
"..."
(I totally fudging forgot!!!)
"I admit... I Forgot."
Sis Fei pats my head and hands me one box from her saying:
"Here, don't forget next time okay? Some uneven treatment can really cause discontent you know?"
I slowly take the box with trembling hands. I can't help but express,
"Sis... Thank you so much!"
I try to give her a hug but Sis Fei pushes me away from my face replying:
"Sorry, Sova. I'm still eating. And didn't I tell you no sudden hugs?"
"But... Sorry..."
I back away and keep the box inside...
"Say, Sis, can we go to another place after this? I suddenly remembered something."
*chomp*
"Hmm? What?"
Sis asks with her mouth full but I continue on explaining:
"You see, Kokkan actually want to visit the engineering club or something. Can you please bring me there? At least so that I can learn some things they have and tell Kokkan who missed his chance. And another thing is that I also agreed to get there with him but since he's not here... Well, I guess I kinda forgot about that too..."
(Now that I think about it, won't Kokkan be reminding me if he's close? Then he really is not with me right now... Where could the two of them been?)
Sis pat my head once again and finish her first box saying:
"I see... If we're talking about their exhibition then it's definitely closed already this late. But, I'm sure the members are still there so we can meet them."
"Really!? Yay! I wonder what kind of info should I get for him? I know, he did say he's interested in transportation like bikes."
Sis Fei gets on her feet and stretches around takes our a pocket watch saying:
"It seems... There's still like 5 hours left before the event, so let's go now."
I nod and grab the stuff while Sis Fei takes the empty box and push it inside her magic pocket bag...
"Sis, can I put the stuff inside your magic bag?"
Sis gives me a condescending smirk and pats my head saying:
"Sure."
(Magic is so cheating!)
Sis grabs all the stuff I had, from my second bag, the items in my apron pocket and even the foods.
(I feel so free now!)
"I guess that's all. Alright, let's go."
"Yea!"
*************************************
Rather than going to the crowded place, Sis Fei brings me to some empty wide road similar to the one from when I entered the all-girls school scanner gates. As the turquoise petal falls, like snowflakes they dress the world with their colour.
"Alright Sova, listen closely now."
"W-what is it Sis?"
"This is pretty late and the members are probably really tired. So I hope you don't act too impolite okay?"
I nod saying:
"Okay, Sis!"
"Good, follow me."
"Huh?"
Sis Fei walks inside the forest and I quietly follow suit. It was soon that we entered some sort of open area with no trees or even plants. Just an empty patch of grass circled by trees. Sis Fei look around the trees before nodding saying:
"Yup, this is the place."
*stomp*
She steps on the ground hard enough and causes it to shake. Yet with so much force, the land beneath her doesn't seem to crack nor break...
(Is there something down there?)
*psssh* *clang* *clang*
"Huh?"
With the sound of steam and clashing steel, the ground shook once more and at the centre of the open field, a giant tunnel below opens.
"Alright let's go in."
"Sis, at least explain what is that place!"
"Ah, this? Sis told me it's the previous engineers club workshop. And now it's like their hideout. C'mon, let's go."
"Oh, okay then..."
I ignore all the questions popping up on my head and follow Sis inside. Then again Tannan's friends did make a train that seems like it can time travel in those books May asked me to read, so why is a secret underground base below the school be so different huh?
I look around when I notice some similarities with the underground station Riyue and I pass through to get to the Jaguar Sector. Lights attach to the walls while I could see Owlian writings reading,
[A - 1]
(A? If this is A and back then is A too right? This is too much for me to think about now).
*clop* *clop* *clop* *clop* *clop* *clop* *clop* *clop* *clop* *clop*
(Footsteps... Two people...)
"Senior is that you!?"
"Are you back Senior!? Did you bring Tanwa with you!?"
(Wait, Tanwa? Not Tannan?)
I could hear a boy's voice at the end of the tunnel as their footsteps grow ever louder. When I could see them, two students wearing the same uniform as Sis Fei appears with pen and parchment, mind and letters. But the smile they bring along and the excitement they carry soon fade away as their lips turn upside down and their spirit crumble with every step. As we continue to walk to them, they instead halt their steps till we face each other where we could see each other's face clearly.
"Fei..."
"What... And how do you know of this place?"
"How I know its not that important club president-"
"If that's so, then please leave. Since you're Senior Yuwei's little sister, we'll forget this ever happen. For we don't take kindly to intruders."
The two turn around and is about to leave when Sis Fei pushes me forward saying:
"Even when there's an innocent young soul hungry for some lush crispy knowledge?"
They both stop on their tracks and the one Sis Fei calls club leader responds saying:
"Your servant? Well, aren't you just the kindest... Well, I guess since she's an Owlian so her interest in the machine is granted. Tell me why do you seek this knowledge, little dolly?"
Sis Fei nudge me to answer. I think back for an answer before saying:
"Actually, before arriving here with Xin and Tanwa-"
The other person dashes forth asking:
"Hold on, you came here with Tanwa? Where is she, little girl? tell me!"
His glasses reflect the light brought by the one in the walls as it covers his eyes. Making him look a bit weird and mysterious.
"Um... She and Xin left when they finished driving me here."
"Why!?"
"That's enough Volkov! Don't scare her!"
"Sorry."
Volkov bows down and walks beside the leader again before he says:
"Well, please continue."
As I continue to explain about what we talk about in the train. From how Tanwa told us about how the train is modified, how Kokkan is interested and she told him to visit the exhibition but sadly he couldn't come. So that's why I try to learn something so I can help him.
"Pssshahahaha! What kind of stupid reason is that!?"
"Hey!? Wait... Is it stupid Sis?"
"Stupid huh? I guess."
"Hrrgh!"
I stomp the ground in frustration as my effort seems to be mocked but the leader responds saying:
"Hey, it's fine. There's a big difference between a stupid person and a stupid idea. And as for you, you may have a stupid reason but you're a good person. (Unlike the one behind you)."
He explains to me before gesturing us to come in saying:
"Anyways, I'll help you out then. My name's Tesla Hongyu. And the one beside me is Volkov Chernobyl. Nice to meet you."
"Yes, nice to meet you."
Both of them greet themselves and I was caught shock.
"Ah!"
I clasp my hand and hastily bow down replying:
"I'm Sova Anmao, pleased to meet you too. And thank you."
"Just one question though."
"What is it?"
He walks first which prompt us to follow before he continues asking:
"This Kokkan fellow, is he a samurai?"
"Huh? Well, I guess."
(But he moves and acts more like a shinobi honestly).
"And does he has a gun-sword?"
"I think, more specifically a rifle."
"I see, if he has that much technical knowledge then it's fine. I'll just give you an item anyway."
"An item? You won't teach me?"
"Listen, little dolly, to learn the techniques you Owlian need is not only dedication and diligence. But also a set of practical experience and knowledge before you can actually begin to learn the basics of engineering, architecture and computer science along with chemistry... And I doubt you understand what I'm saying either don't you?"
I look down replying:
"Yea..."
"That's why I'm just going to share you our data and results for what he wants in a compact space instead, to this boyfriend of yours."
"B-B-Boyfriend!?"
Sis Fei pats my shoulders and whispers in my ears saying:
"Just let him assume things, it'll make things progress faster."
"But..."
"Don't worry. What determines a man is his will to face all ordeals!"
I stare at Sis Fei before nodding replying:
"Okay..."
Sis Fei raises her thumb saying:
"Nice!"
"Anyways, what's the relation with you two, Fei? She seems to call you Sis. And that's pretty rare or should I say the first time?"
"Oh, shut up, this cutie here is sworn siblings to both me and Sis Yuwei."
"Sworn siblings!?"
"You two?"
Both of them look at us with surprise, before Tesla nods saying:
"Hmph, to be honest, I thought you'll never get one."
"I can assure you I have more friend than you could imagine."
"Sure you do."
As they continue their conversation, I can't help but look around asking:
"Say, did you build this place? Because I saw some similar tunnels like this back at home."
"Hoho~ interested now are you? I guess Fei is right about you being hungry for some lush crispy knowledge."
Tesla looks back at me with a pleased smile and I nod saying:
"Yea! I mean, why are the writings even in Owlian?"
"Oh no..."
Volkov holds his head as if he got a headache but Tesla with a smile of satisfaction continues explaining:
"Well little dolly, to be honest... We don't know."
"Huh"
Tesla places his hand on the wall as we travel deeper. He stares at the writing and explains saying:
"We once asked the forensic team to research this place to find out the date when this place was built. And do you know what we found?"
"W-what?"
I ask back curiously as nervousness fills my chest for some reason.
"This whole Owlian tunnel under the city dates back more than 2000 years ago. Imagine that, we're now walking on some ancient historical site. And it's no mystery that the Owlians are the one who built this bunkers. And what baffles me how Owlians from 2000 years ago built such a mighty architecture. I mean, this place here is built to last and sponge all the damage.
In fact, 500 years ago when an earthquake with a magnitude that could split the continent apart happened. Many Sectors in the city were devastated and they're on the surface. Yet, this bunker under the tunnel where the quake is happening is still somehow intact and didn't even crack. So we thought is it the material it's built? The technique? Well, it's many things!"
"President I think you should summarize your explanations even Fei is almost asleep."
(Huh? Really?)
I look back seeing Sis Fei nodding her head up and down. Tesla folds his arms saying:
"Tch, this is for the dolly. So it's fine. You're not asleep right?"
I shake my head and he nods excitingly saying:
"Good! But I guess he's right. If I tell you the result my seniors and I found about this place it'll take days. So I'll just say this. These tunnels are ancient web ways that connect all parts of the city until the Reliquary, or in another term, a humongous dungeon like the Reliquary. Many adventurers interested by the idea of ancient treasure have dared to take the challenge of mapping this place since the day it was found and do you know how much progress we made since then?"
"How much?"
"It's been 800 years and they say they could only map around 30%."
"30%? Isn't that just a third of this city?"
"That's right. And these places that are founded are being remodelled for public use. Such as the underground station used by the public for trains and even evacuation sites. So for adventurers that somehow manage to found this place are usually rewarded very generously by the District Lord. If I have to say, it's kinda like finding a port inland. It's very valuable since Sector that's surrounded by enemies could bypass them and make it a very rich hub for trade. And sometimes, if they're lucky, they could find a tunnel that leads to a hidden district."
"Woah!"
(Wait, so does that mean Tannan's hidden district is connected too? When I thought I learned a lot about this city, there seems to be a lot more to know. Still...)
"Who are these adventurers? Do you mean Hunters? I never heard of that profession before."
"Adventurers? Oh them? Well, It's kinda complicated but if I explain their history we would also be here for days. And since I doubt you would ever meet one, let's just say they are a profession as popular as the hunters."
"Really!? There are other professions that are as popular as the Hunters? Yet how did I not know of them!?"
"That's pretty simple actually, while you could find Hunters easily within the inner worlds, most adventurers live on the outer worlds or frontiers. That's why inner worlds people take jobs as a Hunter while the outer worlds become adventurers. Since they hate each other, they don't mention each other often. You could still find adventurers here but I doubt they'll treat you kindly if they know you're a hunter. But there is an exception like the 5 main groups of World Hunters who are both Hunters and Adventurers."
"Woah! I can't believe there are so many things like that... This world sure is big."
"Big doesn't even give credit to it. I'm glad you're a good listener. Anyways, we're getting close."
"Finally! Your exposition is killing me..."
Sis Fei display her boredom by leaning on my back, hugging me while we walk.
"Tch, you're lucky you're that your Sworn sister is such a sweet girl. If else I would kick you out already."
Tesla express his contempt to Sis Fei but she responded with a simple hand gesture saying:
"Sure, sure."
"So, what else do you want to know Lil dolly?"
(Why does he keep calling me that?)
"Well..."
As we continue on, I ask Tesla about some minor stuff. It seems there's a long way before we arrive.