*thump*
A huge folder over here, and a huge folder over there. I place the huge files according to their colours since runician doesn't have an alphabetical order. As I'm putting more on the corner shelf wondering what they need to write so much for. I could hear Libing shouting:
"Alright, we finished the important things and most of the others. So gather around and enjoy your drinks for some rest."
"Oh! Thanks!"
"Thanks, Shifu. I'm parched."
"Oh~ what kind of drink do the phoenix have I wonder?"
We gather around the long table. Seeing how Chibi has been taken by another servant, Abe now sticks close to me saying:
"Hehe, this is some weird drink. This is the first time I see a black beverage. Cheers!"
She grabs a cup and raises it high before gulping it down. I also grab a cup to sip the black drink she had and quickly blown away by the taste...
"It's bitter and cold yet I can't stop drinking."
I continue to sip when Abe wrap her hand around my shoulder saying:
"I know right!? What is this, Libing?"
"It's a traditional medicine from the south-west of the Phoenix Sector. It helps you clean your throat, digest food faster, wash your intestines and works for both Zerians and Owlians. You can pour for yourself if you want more."
I take a huge gulp before replying:
"Really!? I never knew there was something like this!?"
"Well then don't mind if I do."
Abe already finishes her cup and pours another cup herself when Libing walks and position himself between us three before saying:
"Alright, while we rest. Why don't we have a proper introduction then? Especially you, Yimu."
His pupil who's wiping off his sweat and drinking his cup looks at Libing surprised asking:
"Me? Oh, could they be working with us? Then I guess that's normal."
He looks at us saying:
"Well, the name's Yimu, just Yimu. I'm Libing's disciple who's learning more about foreign relations."
"Oh~! Wow, I never asked but what's your job, Libing?"
"I'm the Head of Foreign affairs in the Phoenix Sector. Kinda like the Head of Foreign Policy in the Empire."
"Woah! Didn't know you knew how to establish relations like a diplomat."
"I spend most of my free time studying the history, relations and international laws of foreign nations to the Aologi Empire and the opposite along with the importance of logistics, natural resources and reputation to one's country when I'm not hanging with my comrades. Who knew my hobby could get me such a prominent job."
"What!? Ain't you one lucky sob! I know you're a noble but I never really know you could just study that. I thought those are things available only in universities."
"I could easily found them even in the public libraries, and are usually found on the second floors. But then again, many libraries, studies, and archives were burned and destroyed during the start of the war so I can't blame you."
"Owh~ I was wondering why the Aologi Empire is called the masters of ingenuity and study. I was really born in the wrong time."
Yimu looks at Libing surprised asking:
"Shifu, you're a noble from the Aologi Empire?"
"Well, I mean if my hair colour doesn't give it to you but yes. I'm once a noble of the Empire. But now, I'm just a citizen of the Confederation and more specifically, an official of the Phoenix Sector. You don't need to act so differently.
"I never knew..."
Yimu looks at his master with awe when he starts looking at me and everyone does the same. I finish my drink and stand up, clasping my hand I bow down saying:
"I'm Sova Anmao. Well since we're in the palace, I guess I'm a Silencer under the direct command of the Phoenix Empress herself."
"What!? Wait... Y-You're that person from that gathering two days ago!?"
Yimu backs away in surprise and I pull out my medallion and nod saying:
"Yup! I just started working under Shifu. Pleased to meet you all."
"I-I-I-I'm so sorry for making you do the chores!"
Before Yimu could properly bow down, Libing grabs his shirt and put him on his seat saying:
"It's fine. Though I don't know how he? went out with a suit of armour and come back wearing makeup and a servant uniform. But he? Is no doubt the Silencer."
(Oh yeah, I wonder how he could tell? I'm me?)
"I-I see... I guess their face is still kinda the same...?"
(Really!? So I already have such a girl's face before this!? Aunt, you shouldn't have lied!)
Yimu begins to distance himself away when Abe looks at me asking:
"What the fuck is a Silencer?"
Libing takes a sip replying:
"Ah right. You don't really need to know about that yet. Since you're here why not introduce yourself too?"
"Ah yes! Name's Ana Burnside. But please call me Abe like your master do, okay lil boy?"
"Yes, Abe..."
Abe leans back on the chair as she hangs her arms and continues saying:
"I work as a General of the Aologi Empire before dispersing and found myself in the Rucina Frontier. As for now, I'm jobless and still waiting for approval after being invited."
"And she's also a hero too, I guess she will definitely be placed with the army by the Segmentum Secretary."
Libing continues to speak for her as he rests. Yimu places his empty glass on the tray replying:
"Oh, the Owlian Auxiliary will be quite thrilled to have a hero from their country."
"*sigh* To be honest, I wanna work as something else. Spending all of my life in warfare has left me pretty exhausted both physically and mentally. Can you try to recommend something else, Libing?"
Breathing out a long sigh, Abe looks at Libing for help. He nods replying:
"You can try writing the resume I'm about to give you later. If you can convince him as I did then sure."
Abe jolted back up shouting:
"Woah, I guess I better start now. Where is it?"
"Honestly, I told her to bring me some promising recruit but I didn't expect her to bring one the moment I told her too and you of all people too... Hold on."
Libing gets up from his seat and went to the shelf where I put the folders. Searching through the stacks, before grabbing one of the black ones saying:
"Got it, you can write it here. And..."
As he hands her the black folder, he raises his hand to one of the boxes and pulls out a pen holder and place it on the table.
"There, you can use it."
"Neat, thanks a bunch. It seems the tonic mixes well with you."
"It sure does. You take it too, didn't you?"
"Yup, but it doesn't work that well with me. Maybe because of my Animal genes but who knows."
When she opens the file filled with pages she rubs her finger on the cover saying:
"Sweet~ this thing is coated with Owlian covers. No wonder you didn't just levitate it. So secrecy."
"Just write it, Abe."
"Alright, sheesh..."
As she begins to scribble, Libing walks to me asking:
"Since we're still resting. Why don't you tell me about your mission? Did you succeed?"
I nod vigorously replying:
"Yup!"
"Nice, nice. See, chap? You could learn from that spassy... Hey, let's be clear here, Sova. You're a man right?"
"Of course!"
For some reason, when I said that, I could hear the sound of something breaking when Libing coughs once replying:
"Well discounting your voice sounding like a girl now, I guess I'll hold to your words. See, chap? Don't be nervous and just do your best."
Yimu nods with a sad look saying:
"Very well Shifu. I'll try even better than before. It's just that, I didn't think I would be standing toe to toe with those Generals. I mean do you see their sizes? I can't even look at their face without using a ladder."
"Oh, it's fine. As long as you show respect. So, Sova, you met with the princesses yes?"
(Princess?)
"Who?"
I quickly answered back when Libing's eyes widened saying:
"Really? You know the two girls I showed you in the picture. Don't tell me you forgot about them."
Libing panics and asks me more question when I answer back:
"Um, sorry but no. I don't remember."
*sigh*
With a long sigh, Libing fell on his knees and rest half of his body on the table asking:
"Then do you remember your mission going there?"
"Yup, to improve relations with the Jaguar Sector yes? I do that by touring the Sector and go to their capital district."
"Yes, and did you do any of that?"
"Nope!"
"Ah, fuck..."
Libing falls to the ground as his body flail like noodles. Before I could say anything, he stops me by raising his hand asking:
"Say, what happened to the letter the Empress handed to you? Your partner helped you, right? I mean, I did tell her majesty to ask your partner to recruit people too, but how did you manage to find Abe?"
"Oh, well firstly, the moment we arrive and meet with the noble waiting there. The letter got ripped apart-"
"I'm sorry, WHAT!?"
"Yea, he then proceeds to attack me, while shouting some bad things about Sis Yuwei and he will never hand them over or something."
I raise my clenched hands and smile saying:
"So I defended myself and sunk his face in with my fist. But the magic he cast seems to hurt the other guards too-"
"Ah-kay! Stop! Just tell me what you manage to achieve spassy. Don't worry, I won't disturb you this time."
"Well... I met the real lady noble named Tannan and her followers. She showed me around a hidden district which has its own light source and is even connected to outside the walls."
When I said that Yimu leans closer while Libing revives back and now listening close with anticipation. Even Abe's ears are twitching.
(Maybe I should explain more).
"While travelling there, I heard that the old Sector Lord died and is replaced by her older brother and she went mad. She told me that if Sis Yuwei can put her in charge of the Sector then she will gladly join back into the Phoenix Sector entirely. She told me to inspect the district and write a report about the district and her capability."
"Sorry, Sova. But where's that report?"
"Oh, it's with Saya, the other small rat-girl. She'll hand it to Sis."
Libing nodded replying:
"I see, I see, continue."
"Since Tannan is Sis Yuwei's classmate and all, I hope they do get along well. Oh, and by the way, both I and Saya even manage to stop a rat-kin invasion while we're there."
When I said that, Libing smash his fist to the table and look at Abe. She pulls the folder up and covers her face when I continue explaining:
"I manage to defeat their commander. But that's when she was already weakened by Pasha and I still almost got ripped in half."
"Oh, so that's the name of that monster of a man."
I could hear Abe whispering to herself before I continue saying:
"After the invasion was over, Tannan sends me off to the Turquoise Turtle Sector and we finally had some rest."
Libing nodded with a smile replying:
"I see... That's one lucky or unlucky stroke. I thought the reason why you wear a servant clothes and makeup is so you can infiltrate the palace and meet the 2 princesses when you said the king or Sector lord died. But it seems my imaginations got the better of me. Well, whatever, who knew the jaguar Sector will be such a jade mine. No wonder they manage to gain independence with such little territory.
Connected to outside the city? And a hidden district? That place would rake us more fortune than a Segmentum if properly utilized. And you somehow manage to get that proposal too and how you improvised in the heat of the moment that leads to such event that put them under our debt... I take it back, your mission really is a great success. Though not the result I wanted but since we're going to integrate them back here, those princesses are still as good as ours. Good work. I'm looking forward to your future results."
"Really? Thanks!"
"Yes, yes, now... Mind explaining yourself Abe?"
"Hehehe, well... It's true that I was part of the invaders but I assure you, I didn't take part in the huge battle at all! I was more like an armchair critic and only move when forced to."
"I thought you don't want to go to war from what you said."
"Well, it's a long story. I mean I only joined that group because my old friends were there and finding new occupation is a bit hard in the Rat Sector."
"Old friends huh? Well, I guess that's that and sweep it under the rag. Cause now, since this your first mission success, Sova... Let's celebrate and have a party!"
Raising his hands high, he shouts out in surprise as I can't help but tilt my head asking:
"P-Party?"
"Ooh~ a party!"
"Shifu, are you sure this is not you trying to make a reason to drink? And besides who's going to provide us with the food and who's going to clean up after we finish? You don't expect the servants to actually do it are you?"
He brushes his concerns away replying:
"Pfff, did you forget where we are chap? And don't think so far ahead, what matters now is we have fun! And besides, to do this, we just need to borrow his name."
"For someone who speaks about being polite, you sure do some retarded things with bollocks of steel, Shifu."
"Yeah, I don't remember you being this lax back at the imperial army. You were pretty much like a boot camp sergeant."
"Pssh, that's that and now is now. So, you wouldn't mind right, Sova?"
"A party huh? If we're having a party, can we invite everyone?"
Libing nods enthusiastically replying:
"Sure, sure! Invite everyone! That way, everyone will clean it up too!"
Yimu face palmed himself saying:
"Sometimes you make me question how did you get your job, Shifu. But the real question is where do we even party? This room doesn't fit the entire people at the palace you know."
"Ohoho, if you're asking that, that means you're in huh? Good! We'll be using this building's backyard."
"There's a backyard!??!"
Yimu shouts in confusion when I take the used glass and tray saying:
"Alright then. I'll try to find everyone and invite them, here let me help give the used glass too."
(And to change as well. I think I left my old distributed clothes at my drawer. I kinda miss those clothes. Luckily, I was able to memorize how to get to my room from the main gate).
"Then I'll get the supplies."
"And I'll be arranging the place."
Libing proclaims and Yimu follows suit. Abe finished writing her paper taps her pen at the table saying:
"Not to burst the bubble but are you sure you want to have such a big party? I mean, to be the voice of reason here, when we were walking back, Sarah told me that this district just survived a monster invasion (not that I know how they got here) and a lot of people lost their homes and loved ones. They're now all living in tents and make-shift houses in the streets as they await their homes being fixed. While some is still looking for either the missing bodies or the ones they got separated within other shelters.
What do you think the people outside will think if they saw us partying while they are suffering? And when most of the soldiers of this palace are dispersed to keep public order and patrol? Especially when they just overthrew the previous government a few weeks ago, I think."
We all stopped what we're doing and stare at her. Seeing the attention, Abe became flustered and continue saying:
"I-I'm right, right? Or did I get something wrong?"
*smash*
Libing whack his face so hard with his own hand it leaves a bruise and a bleeding cut before he takes a long breath in and out. Stroking his long beard, he nods replying:
"Yeah, you're right. I guess living in this luxury made me so out of touch. I see why my families at home don't indulge so much. If we have a surplus of food, we should be giving it to them instead. I guess the celebration will be just me treating you to some food at the canteen, you wouldn't mind that right, Spassy?"
I nod, clenching my free hand replying:
"That's more than enough, in fact, you don't need to if you can. Hearing Abe made me realize how I kinda forget about my surroundings too..."
Yimu crunched his hands saying:
"You're right, Abe. I'm more than ashamed to think like that. Thanks..."
Abe becomes more flustered and back away replying:
"Hey, I mean, we can still do it when the district is restored. So c'mon, let's not be so sombre."
Libing, still stroking his beard nods replying:
"Yes, since I still have more time, I guess I'll help with the logistics office and outside the palace. Since you've just finished the mission Sova, I suggest you get some needed rest and bathe."
"Shifu, I'll come with you! I need to release this pent up anger to myself."
"Heh, then you better use it to study chap."
Seeing them, gathering their spirits, I nod saying:
"Alright then, I'll be leaving first. See you all if we can. May the spirits bless you."
"Yes, may the spirit bless you."
"Mm! May the spirit bless you!"
"Oh, is that how you guys greet someone goodbye here? Bless ya!"
I open the door and leave those three, setting a course through the palace.
*************************************
With a tray full, with my feet shoed, I slowly march as I start to wonder,
(The servant's robe is actually very comfy to walk around. I mean even if the robe wraps around your leg, it doesn't really halt my movement).
Ascending the stairs and opening the gate by myself. Sis told me that this phoenix gate won't open unless the owner, or in this case Sis Yuwei acknowledge you and would lock itself up in worse cases. So this is basically a living door.
*drrrr* *brrrrg*
With a loud sound of stone being drag open. I enter the small crack and close it with my feet.
(The door's lighter than I thought).
Proceeding to travel, I look at the usual minimalist decoration present. And the minimal lighting that gives this place a purple and gold glow. And even now, I could see silhouettes dispersing and running away from the corner of my eyes. Hearing whispers in the wind and air currents raging in the vents, I look left and right as I try to get a better view-
*bump*
Bumping into someone, I quickly try to help and give her my free hand saying:
"I'm very sorry. Are you okay?"
(Woah, when did she get there? I didn't even felt her presence).
I speak in runician since that's what most people here speak. Feeling the small soft hand grabbing mine, she pulls and stand up. Brushing her robe and apron before fixing the decoration on her long black hair saying:
"Please watch where you going next time, sheesh! The hair I spent hours is almost ruined because of you!"
I bow my head replying:
"I'm very sorry!"
She stroke her long hair with a smile saying:
"Well, if you're that sincere I guess I'll forgive you just this once. So, who are you anyway? Are you new? I definitely won't forget someone as eye-catching as you."
I look back at her asking:
"Huh? New?"
Seeing her now, she's wearing a similar servant uniform as mine when she places her hands or her waist and leans forward shouting:
"Of course, you dip head! Do I need to repeat what I said? Who trained you anyway?"
"I-I'm sorry! I guess I just arrive here almost a week ago, I think."
(And trained? I guess in attitude, it will be...)
"And Nanny Yunyun's the one who's training me."
She stands straight, nodding her head replying:
"Hm, hm, I see, I see... Well since you're new I guess I'll let it slide. (Tch, fucking amateurs) Well, it seems you're gonna bring that tray to the kitchen yes? Follow me, this kind and generous senior will help you out. So you better be grateful!"
(I didn't know the servants here are like this. Maybe because I've been spending time mostly with Hanami and Yuria that I haven't seen many servants... Where are they anyway?)
I nod reluctantly with a smile replying:
"Yes, thank you very much."
"Mm! At least she got that low esteemed drilled within you. Follow me. After that, we'll have a gathering soon."
(Gathering?)
She gestures with her fingers as she walks ahead. I follow her with the tray in my hand thinking,
(Hmm... I wonder what the servants do here? And where do they usually go? Now I'm interested. Maybe I could find Yuria).
"Yes, thank you very much, kind senior."
I reply to her suggestion and she folds her hands replying:
"Mm, good. Anyway, what's your name anyway?"
"Oh, yes, it's Suowa Anmao. Very pleased to meet you, kind Senior."
Even from behind, I could somehow tell she's smiling widely, replying:
"Hm, hm, a noble-born too huh? Names, Lin Shuren. So you better remember that!"
"Yes, Senior Lin!"
"Mm, good!"
We travel the long corridors and hallways front and back. I could still hear the soft sounds coupled with Lin's constant nagging and tips.
(I wonder if this is what being a servant is like? Maybe I should give Yuria and Hanami some credit. I think I kinda understand why they call me politest if this is how servants usually act. But who knows, maybe there's someone different).
*************************************
Replying her nagging and advice with yes and thank you while also learning some neat tricks and some tips on how to clean up rooms. I realize that she's actually saying some pretty interesting stuff.
(Like I'm surprised that sometimes you can just mop the floor at once and just gather the trash in one fell swoop. And the best way to easily do the thing is to be lazy... Wait, is that suppose to be how servants mindset to be?)
We soon arrive at the familiar entrance of the canteen. Just like before, the place is particularly empty yet wide and filled to the brim with long tables and chairs where people could gather and dine together. Unlike the personal diner room, this place is much more simple. Lin lead me to the place where we get our food and tell me to put it in a small window.
"There, now that you're done. Let's proceed to the hall. It seems both head servants are calling. It must be something big."
Placing the tray inside, I tilt my head asking:
"Oh? Well, what do they usually say during the gathering?"
"Just follow along Xiaoshou."
(Xiaoshou? Little hand? I don't think my hand's that small).
I nod and follow along saying:
"Yes, senior."
We enter the kitchen and seeing the empty place filled with only the basics tools for cooking, Lin brings me to the metal cage door far back which I never knew it was there.
(Woah, this palace sure is filled with surprises).
She swipes the door the side as it contracts and open with a large sound. The door led down to the darkness where no light seems to shine when she raises her hand and ignite a small kindle.
"Since you're an Owlian you definitely can't use magic right? Follow along close behind me okay?"
(This is suddenly getting creepy).
She led me down to the tight stairway. With only her tiny flames showing the way, I hold the walls as I follow her as I descend. Unlike when she was talking a lot when she led me to the canteen, she's looking pretty serious right now. Time seems to pass in the darkness when the light appears at the end of the stairs, as we exit I could see a large basement.
When Lin extinguishes her flames, the dull colour that covers everything becomes more prominent. Unlike the regular place, I visit that's filled with the colour that exuded opulence. The grey colour shaded with green and yellow marks the concrete with the distinct border as if telling us where to go. She leads me into a tunnel with two large open gates. Inside, I could hear voices whispering to each other. One thing for sure, the place must be crowded.
We entered inside and soon found many servants lining up in front of a stage. The group of people made up of roughly around 40 yet I couldn't see Yuria or Hanami anywhere.
(I wonder if she left?)
Lin brought me to the edge of the line. Everyone doesn't really bat an eye on us as we enter and line up. All of them are focused at the empty stage up ahead... Maybe it's because of my height but I can't really see half of the stage...
(I'm starting to have second doubts. I mean, am I suppose to be here? Like, I can just ignore this whole situation by just presenting the medallion at my apron yes?)
But before I could do any of that, smoke begins to rise from the stage, pillars of light pours down from the dull ceiling and soon, silhouettes appear from where no one supposed to enter and slowly I could see two familiar figures.
One is a lady in her twenties, her silver hair and bright blue eyes easily stand out in this place and the other is a girl in her teens with bright pink hair and frilly servant uniform. It's none other than Nanny Yunyun and Litan.
(I wonder how those twins are doing? And it seems Nanny has recovered while I was on my mission, that's good news).
"Servants of the Phoenix Sector, thank you for coming to this gathering."
Her voice was different from the strict Nanny that teaches me about attitude a few days ago. Her words are cold and heavy.
"And of course~! This gathering will be short like the other. Just a quick announcement for everyone from your favourite head servants~♡"
Litan sounds cheery and energetic like the first time I met her back at the hall.
"Soon, we will be emptying the entire palace and only leave the bare minimum skeleton crew to attend the people still here. Pack your bags and prepare for a journey, for your hard work has earned the attention of even the Empress herself. You are to work in the new capital by the 12th moon. That will be all, disperse!"
Nanny Yunyun shouts aloud as she sweeps her hand. And the whole servant body clasps their hands and bow down shouting:
"Yes, mother witches! We are willing the serve!"
"-willing to serve!"
I try to follow up but only follow in the middle. When I try to look up without moving my head and realize the servants ahead is blocking the view. I decided to look back at the floor and wait when I see the other servant's return posture and disperse. Talking to each other as if that serious tension disappears like it never happened...
(What? And wait, they'll all leave? Does that mean, Yuria and Hanami will leave too? And wait, why did they call those 2 mother witches?)
So many questions float around my head when someone holds my shoulder asking:
"Hey, Xiaoshou, you okay?"
"Huh?"
It was none other than Lin being worried about me. I shake my head replying:
"Oh, sorry. This is my first time, so I was really nervous."
Lin pats my back saying:
"Heh, your kind senior will help you out! So no worries! I can't blame you if you just station here for a while, we haven't had any announcements for months."
She tucks her hands in her sleeves and continues saying:
"Well, if you still have anything confused. Don't hesitate to ask."
(Ah right, I guess I should ask some things).
"So... Why are they called mother witches? I mean..."
"Ah! Well... Who knows, it's just tradition as far as I'm concern. I mean that's just how servants say they're happy to the head servants and it's not like they're really witches... I think? But, just ignore that. C'mon, it's lunchtime. Let's get something to eat."
"Okay..."
Lin gestures me to follow her and we exit the huge room. While I see the servants phasing through the wall like Yuria usually does and others take the door out. I can't help but ask another question,
"So... Is it true? I mean, are we really moving out to the new capital?"
"Well yeah, I mean aren't you happy? Other than the old capital, the best place to earn you a lot is working in huge places like the fortress citadels or the new capital."
"Well... I guess..."
"Ah, well since you just got here, I can't blame you for being annoyed that we're moving out soon. But I'm sure our families back home will be happy and that's all that matters no?"
I tilt my head asking:
"Family?"
(Wait, family? Now that I think about it, why are they working here?)
She looks at me with a surprised face before closing her eyes and hangs her head slightly saying:
"Sorry..."
"Huh?"
Getting more confused, she stops on her feet and looks back at me saying:
"Well, I'm sure it'll work out somehow. So anything else you want to ask?"
(Oh right! Might as well).
"Do you know where Yuria and Hanami are now? I didn't see them at the gathering just now."
"Huh? Yuria and Hanami? Ah, so that's why we haven't seen you. Hmm..."
Lin stroke her chin before brushing her hair behind her ear and hit her palm saying:
"Ah, those two. I heard Yuria is now the servant of that mythical Silencer despite being an amateur herself. So she's definitely going to stay here. Heh, being his private servant I guess they must have some intense night action for him to keep her with her skills."
"I-Intense night action? What's that?"
Lin pats my head replying:
"Well, aren't you innocent? I guess I'll teach you about the stings and the feathers when the time comes. She's now probably looking for that Silencer. I heard that he just returned from his mission today and she's preparing to surprise him. Now, I'm double convinced that they must have some sort of relationship."
"R-Relationship!? And s-surprise???"
(Now, I kinda feel bad. I guess I should pretend to be surprised when I find her. But wouldn't pretend to be surprised be meaner?)
She flails her pointing finger at me saying:
"Eh, don't worry about that. All you need to know is stay away from that Silencer. I heard he's really bad news and very barbaric. He wouldn't even flinch to ruin a women's future."
(What kind of rumour have they been spreading about me!?)
"As for Hanami... I guess since she's not technically a Servant. So she doesn't really need to follow either head servants. She usually hangs outside the palace doing whatever and returns at midnight. Must've been a midnight butterfly. I don't know where she is usually is but just don't get caught in her influence okay?"
I nod saying:
"Okay..."
"Good! Now let's have that lunch. You can have my share of Gao Gao."
"Gao Gao? Turtle paste? Or paste turtle? What's that? Is it from the turtle Sector?"
"Pff, who cares. Just know it's sweet jelly. What? You haven't had one before?"
"Sweet jelly?! Tell me more!"
My worries seem to lessen with the knowledge that Yuria and Hanami are still here and some new sweets I never heard about.
"Oh right, they haven't served that for 2 weeks. I guess they really want to send us off with a good meal. Follow along."
"Yes, ma'am!"
A few moments later...
*************************************
"Blegh! So bitter!"
"Pff hahaha! Always gets me all the time."
I spit my tongue out as the black bitter jelly seems to slide its way inside my throat. Lin laughs at my misery while I could see the other servants snicker as they hide their smiles and enjoy their meal. I ate the crusted beans to mitigate the taste but it seems it doesn't really do much.
"Uuuh, you big jerk."
"Okay, okay, I'm sorry. Here's how you really eat it."
Lin takes out 2 small cups from her sleeves and pours one at my bowl of jelly. Seeing the yellow water giving the black shining jelly a golden gleam, I can't help but move my spoon to take a scoop again to have a taste.
*nom*
With just a single add-on, the entire bitter taste disappears. Making a weird sweet blend I never taste before.
"This is delish!"
(How come no one told me about this before!?)
I quickly finish my portion and Lin shakes her head saying:
"Hmph, it seems your table manners still need some work. But I guess that's fine. Just make sure you're chewing properly."
"Hehe, kind senior. You really are a nice person. Thank you so much!"
Lin's face reddened as she brushes her nose replying:
"Hmph, of course, I am. And wait, what do you mean by that?"
"Don't think too hard about it. Let's enjoy the meal."
I reply back with a huge smile and Lin points at me with a straight face replying:
"Hey, don't you pull that move on me now."
We had our jolly dinner when finally lunch seems to be over and we return the plates. I'm more surprised that there is another entirely different canteen in this palace. Just goes to show how big this place is. When I was having thoughts, a group of servants gather around me and started saying:
"Oh, Lin, who's she? She's so cute!"
"Hey, hey, introduce yourself won't you? Where you from?"
"Your hair's so smooth and long. How do you do it?"
"Hmm, your nails indicate perfect health by the white spots. It seems you're also gonna have three kids in the future by your palm lines."
They all surround me and starts to fee feel my hair and my hand while talking about stuff I don't understand before Lin grabs me and brush them all away saying:
"Hands off my Xiaoshou! She's my disciple for now."
"Disciple? Yeah, right."
"When did you start that? Still, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't forget someone as pretty as her."
"Yeah, yeah! Big Sis, you're so pretty!"
I could see servants ranging from kids to adults around me and I quickly clasp my hand and bow down saying:
"My name's Suowa Anmao. I guess I just moved here a week ago."
"A week ago? Oh along with the replacements. Okay, okay."
"Hehe, aren't you a polite one? Unlike the one beside you."
"Lay off, Qiyi. I'm about to bring him to the bathe soon."
(Wait, bathe?)
"Oh? Then let's all go together! The sweat's making my body all sticky."
"Yeah, I guess it's a good time. But I wonder if it's a good idea to take a bath after a meal?"
"Pssh, I guess you don't know yet but half an hour will pass when we arrive there so no worries."
"Oh, yeah, you're right."
"Ooh~! A bath! A bath! Can I scrub your back Big Sis Suowa?"
"Huh? W-wait! What about clothes?" And towels?"
I start to give a desperate reason to stop their momentum when one of them brush it off saying:
"You can borrow mine since we're probably the same size. So no worries. Just make sure you help wash them okay?"
"W-wait!"
I try to stop them but they just brush it off again when one of them says:
"What are you insecure about your size? It's fine. Don't worry. It just goes to show you got to save money by not buying a bra at all. (Damn bitches with their humongous tits!)"
I hug myself replying:
"No, it's just that... I have something I don't want to show."
They look at me surprised and soon their eyes seem to focus at the scar under my left eye. Some of them nod in understanding before Lin says:
"I see... I understand. Sorry, we'll take the bath first then."
Confused, I nod hesitantly saying:
"Okay...?"
"May the spirits bless you, Suowa. You can find us again during the lunch break."
Lin bows down and walks away. The others soon follow after when the little girl nudge at the older lady asking:
"What's wrong Sis? Isn't Sis Suowa gonna follow us?"
"No, Lil He, it's not something you will understand yet. Come now."
"Okay~"
Soon, I found my self alone once again. Still confused and not sure what happened. I stand up and decided to walk away and soon realize...
"Um... How do I get to my room from here?"
*************************************
Once again in life, where life seems to just throw you into a predicament. Alone, full of whispers in the walls and above, and the ever feeling of something running away from me...
"I wonder where could Saya and Kokkan be at this time? Usually, Kokkan would be in the next room beside mine while Saya... I don't know where she could be."
"Hahaha!"
"Hehehe!"
A familiar laughter echo past the empty halls and corridors.
(Oh, could it be?)
I hurry off to where the voice is and soon find someone familiar. Peering through the wall, as I peek. I could see mirror twins with short dark black hair are sneaking around, clinging to walls as they look left and right like some kind of thief in a drawing book.
"See? I tell you we cold ush cape."
"And all we need ish pwetending to sweep!"
"Hahaha!"
"Hehehe!"
Their childish antics only make me smirk as they continue on their journey.
(I guess I could accompany them for a while. Still, I wonder who they are to Sis?)
Slowly following them as they sneak around. Jumping from one huge vase to another, they try to act like thieves before looking around and gather at the middle of the long corridor. When one of them accidentally bump into the vase, shaking it. The vase moves uncontrollably and falls to them.
*boom*
Worried, I quickly dash ahead with all my strength to stop the vase from falling. Making just in time, I seem to leave a huge trail of spiralling dust behind and my own foot mark on the floor...
(What dash technique is that? And someone's gonna have to fix that mark).
When I look behind the vase, seeing them both raising both their hands up as to catch it and closing their eyes shut.
*phew*
I can't help but breathe a sigh of relief seeing them alright. I put the vase back in place when they open their eyes and look around and finally looks at me. At first, they were happy and slowly their smiles turn to frown and Lan shouts:
"Oh, no! A sir vent has spotted us! Subdew her!"
"Huh?"
"Hiyaa!"
Lin charge at me by flailing her hand around and bump at my leg. Lan then continues to jump and grab on my neck, hugging me tightly...
(Um... I guess I don't really mind this).
"Why ishint it working!"
"Nanny Litan would ushuly fall awready. Hrrgh!"
Lin continues to deliver more weak punches that feel like soft taps while Lan just continues to hug me before biting my shoulder that seems to be more akin to nibbles...
(This is freaking cute! Should I just pretend to pass out? And I guess they don't realize who I am and I guess that's a given too... Or more like do they remember me? Now that I think about it, I haven't introduced myself yet to them... Oh well, getting knocked out it is).
"Aaah! To much damage!"
I make a fall of faith and land on my back. Lin backs away while Lan still clings close even as I fell. Soon, Lan lets me go and stands while Lin comes close. They circle around me as I close my eyes and try not to smile.
"Is she a sweep?"
"Hehehe! Our might is unchawenge!"
One of them poke at my face asking:
"Sho... What do we do with her body?"
(Huh?)
"I don't know, put it in the phase? That's what Nininin would do. But we can't which it."
(Nininin? Who's that?)
"Hmm... Then we need to just drag her away."
They begin to ponder when I decided to open my eyes and seeing them grappling my legs and armpit as to carry me but failed miserably.
"She's sho heavy! Uuh, just leave her here then. Let's go!"
"Okay, Sis..."
It seems they didn't even realize I opened my eyes yet...
(Maybe...)
I move my fingers slowly and await for an opportunity for them to walk side by side and...
"Wahahahaha! Got you!"
"Uwaaah! She's a wife!"
(Wife? Oh, alive).
"Waaan! No, she's too stwong!"
I catch them both under my arm and raise them up with vigour. They both scream in surprise as I laugh loudly hugging them close.
(This is fun!)
*shiiing*
I could hear the sound of an incoming projectile. Dropping them down, I jump up at the ceiling and soon more projectile flings my way with even faster speed and I quickly kick down the ceiling and soon more projectile come with unprecedented speed while I'm still mid-air. Dodging a couple few and grabbing most between my fingers, I land on my knees close to them and look at the thing at my hands.
It was a long needle or more appropriately a skewer with some kind of liquid coating it. Each skewer seems to have a different colour of liquid where one tries to sink in my skin but was ejected out immediately. I quickly throw the needles when the kids run away and soon two new presence closing in.
*clack* *clack* *clack*
Their heavy steps echo in the corridor and I could soon see two people on each side. At the front is a lady in her teen, her curly pink hair and frilly dress make her stand out in this solemn and opulent corridor while on the other hand, a lady in her twenties with tied up white hair and bright blue eyes seems to contrast the colours of this place. It's none other than Nanny Yunyun and Litan.
While Lin and Lan runs and hugs Litan, I look at Nanny Yunyun and wave my hand shouting:
"Nanny Yunyun, you're healed! You're okay now right?"
"It seems this pervert is more knowledgeable and skilled than I thought~! Did you see her dodge our combo attack~?"
Litan answered back with something else entirely when Nanny Yunyun comes close pulling out more skewers from under her sleeves saying:
"I don't know how you got in here. But Litan, bring the kids to safety. I'll deal with her."
"Very well~! Good luck~!"
Litan along with Lin and Lan dive down into the floor while Nanny Yunyun takes a step forth and take a stance. I raise my arm as to stop her shouting:
"Nanny, Yunyun, please! There must be some misunderstanding! It's me, I'm Sova. I had my true awakening and changed my appearance."
She hesitates at first and I continue saying:
"If you don't believe me then just bring me to Sis Fei. She already saw me like this."
She pulls all the skewers inside her sleeves and folds her arms asking:
"Really now?"
"I mean, for example, the first days I got here, I got lost and ended up in your room. We had some fruits and a small chat before you helped me out by calling a maid. And if that's isn't enough..."
I pulled out my medallion which causes Nanny's eyes to almost popped out before I continue saying:
"Is this proof enough I'm working for Sis Yuwei?"
Nanny for once bows down, hiding her face saying:
"I see... Forgive me, Sova. I... I have committed such an atrocious act. It seems I really am in no position to teach or hold this job any longer."
"It's okay Nanny. I mean I kinda understand the reason."
Nanny slowly gets up with her face relaxed a bit asking:
"So, why are you so deep into the east palace? Your room is supposed to be in the central palace you know?"
I scratch my head replying:
"Haha, well..."
Nanny walks close to me and grabs my arm, looking closely at my hands before nodding to herself saying:
"I remember this palm lines. You really are Sova. Still, is your fingers okay? The poison coating the needles are very dangerous even just by touching it can really deal a mortal wound."
"Oh, wait what!? Is it okay?"
Nanny observe my fingers closely before saying:
"It's fine. Your body immunity seems to grow with your awakening. Once again, I'm very sorry, Sova."
"No, it's fine Nanny-"
"No, it's not! Don't take this so lightly, Sova! What happens if I accidentally killed you? What if the attack made through? With your blood in my hands, what will I tell lil Yu or Fei!? I could never appear before them anymore!"
Nanny Yunyun shouts back before I could finish and she turns around. She looks back where I could barely see her face saying:
"Follow me, I'll lead you to your room. Remember the road well, okay?"
"O-Okay..."
I nodded and follow her along as she explains where we are and where to go by following the decorations. Confused and worried for her, I can't help but wonder what she will do next.