"STOP"
A commanding voice cut through the turmoil, halting Eidos in his tracks just as he was on the brink of unleashing his berserk skill. [Equipping set Canceled]
The tense atmosphere seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the unfolding events.
"That gentleman is with us."
The declaration came from a little girl, her voice carrying a surprising authority as she stepped out of a grand carriage that looked really familiar to Eidos. Her long, beautiful blond hair cascaded down her back, an ethereal sight in stark contrast to the turmoil that had gripped the scene.
Walking beside her was a striking lady, her hair a shade of shoulder-length blond that matched the girl's. She appeared to be around the same age as Eidos, and both of the girls demeanor exuded a sense of assurance and command.
As they approached Eidos' location, the players and guards exchanged bewildered glances, their tension slowly dissipating.
Lily, the younger sister with her flowing blond hair and an air of innocence, stood before the guards with an unwavering resolve. She looked up at them with wide, determined eyes and declared again, "That gentleman is with us."
Sylvia, the older sister, radiated an aura of grace and authority as she walked alongside Lily, her shoulder-length blond hair shimmering in the sunlight. Her presence was commanding and yet calming, and her gaze bore into the guards, leaving no room for doubt.
The guards, who had moments ago been poised to take action against Eidos, now found themselves in an unexpected and somewhat bewildering situation. Their expressions shifted from tension to curiosity as they regarded the two sisters.
The little girl, Lily, continued to speak, her voice unwavering but gentle, "We are on a journey, and this kind gentleman has been helping us along the way. He's been invaluable in ensuring our safety."
The guards exchanged glances, a sense of respect and deference evident in their demeanor as they listened to Lily's words. The reason for this sudden change in attitude towards Eidos remained a mystery, yet they couldn't deny the sincerity and authority with which the young girl spoke.
As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that Lily and Sylvia held a level of influence and power that transcended their youthful appearances. The guards, with a newfound respect, gave a nod of acknowledgment and allowed Eidos to proceed into the city.
Eidos, still somewhat perplexed by this turn of events, couldn't help but wonder about the true identities and intentions of these two sisters. Their unexpected intervention had not only saved him from a potentially dire situation but had also left him with a sense of intrigue and curiosity.
*
Inside the grand carriage, Eidos found himself seated opposite Lily and Sylvia. The opulence of the carriage's interior was not lost on him, but he maintained his composure and respect for the two sisters who had extended their help. With a graceful bow, Eidos expressed his gratitude, saying, "I am truly thankful for your assistance in allowing me to enter the city safely. You have my deepest appreciation."
Sylvia, the older sister, raised a delicate hand, halting Eidos mid-sentence. Her voice held an air of sophistication as she spoke, "No, dear sir, it is we who should be expressing our gratitude. You came to our aid when we were beset by a fearsome monster just a day ago."
Eidos's memory flashed back to the moment when he had intervened to save the grand carriage from the menacing creature. The realization dawned upon him as he connected the dots, thinking, "So that's why this carriage looks familiar."
Lily, on the other hand, gazed at Eidos with an admiration that transcended her childlike appearance. Her words flowed with an almost timeless wisdom, her dialect and mannerisms belying her youthful countenance. She spoke with sincerity, "Indeed, kind sir. We are deeply grateful for your heroic actions. You risked your own safety to protect us, and for that, we owe you a debt of gratitude."
Eidos bowed graciously once more, his gratitude evident in his expression. "But anyway, you guys really helped me in the right moment, so please accept my gratitude."
Lily, speaking in her old, passionate, and cheeky manner, her voice filled with an unusual wisdom, chuckled softly before revealing, "Well, that's because I purposely timed it at the right moment."
Eidos's brows furrowed as he looked up, a puzzled expression crossing his face. "Eh?"
Sylvia, the older sister, appeared slightly flustered as she added, "I'm sorry, but we've actually been watching you for a while. My little sister kept insisting that we have to wait for the right moment."
Lily nodded with a mischievous glint in her eye. "That's right. I planned it and timed it just right so we would get your maximum gratitude. Now you don't have a choice but to be our personal escort inside the city, gahaha." She let out a playful laugh, her demeanor oscillating between that of a cheeky child and a woman who had lived for hundreds of years.
Eidos found himself staring at the siblings, utterly dumbfounded by the turn of events. He was about to ask Lily to reconsider, but her head turned to the window.
"Ooh, look! We're inside the city!"
Lily exclaimed with unbridled excitement, her demeanor shifting to that of an enthusiastic child appropriate for her age. The aura of wisdom that had surrounded her moments ago seemed to have vanished completely. She pressed her face to the window like a curious child, taking in the bustling sights and sounds of the city with wide-eyed wonder.
As soon as we entered the city of Euquator, the air was filled with a melodious symphony. The enchanting sound of a flute, accompanied by various other instruments, gently caressed my ears. It was a tune that resonated with the spirit of adventure, and as I listened, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement coursing through my veins.
The city itself sprawled before us, a bustling metropolis with towering stone buildings, winding streets, and a kaleidoscope of colors. The music played in the background, like a soundtrack to this grand, unfolding spectacle, and it infused with a sense of wonder and anticipation.
Merchants haggled with customers in the market square, their voices blending harmoniously with the music. A group of street performers enchanted a small crowd with their acrobatics and juggling, adding a whimsical touch to the lively atmosphere.
The architecture of the city was a blend of old-world charm and modern innovation, with ornate facades and intricate detailing that hinted at a rich history. It was a place where cultures, traditions, and stories converged, and I couldn't help but be drawn into the vibrant tapestry that surrounded me.
As we navigated the bustling streets, my eyes were drawn to the various guild banners that fluttered in the breeze. Each guild had its own unique emblem and colors, and the competition for recruits was fierce. I couldn't help but wonder if, in this city of adventure, I might find allies who could aid me in my quest for vengeance.
I smiled by the Idea but I quickly dismissed it. This journey for retribution was mine and mine alone, a burden I was willing to carry to the bitter end. I didn't want anyone to share this heavy load or attempt to take it away from me.