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''What's true is the witch made powerful enemies, including our divine mother.'' Canaan continues. ''Which makes this situation so incredibly odd. We may not be the heart of the Allied Kingdoms, but the web still covers us. This situation with the Leylines and the increase in Pearls of Power would not only have Mother Earth but the Demon Lord keep a <span class="mu-s">very</span> close watch on what's happening.''
''Yet..nothing.'' You say, feeling breathless.
''I'll speak with that fox tomorrow.'' Canaan slaps her fist into her palm. ''The rangers always had an awkward relationship with the Witch. She saved plenty of them during confrontations with Outsiders over the years and delivered vital details about nests in need of culling and their dangers. If her subordinates are in Eichenwald...'' She shakes her head. ''...better avoid convincing myself of anything for now.''
''Hm, at least tonight we can sleep easy knowing we've all participated in a bright deed.'' Shigeko isn't forcing the cheer in her voice; everyone imitates her when she pumps her fist in the air.
''And to the beginning of more.'' You say, forcing a smile on your face. <span class="mu-i">My heart isn't in it.</span>
--
''What do you mean, you're leaving?'' You barely finished eating!
Your parents stand in full traveling garbs, one half-plate away from actual battle preparation. Your mother held her bow, arrows, and magical wands, while your father fastened his metal gauntlets specially forged to get good protection while holding his two Focii. Outside, night has completely shrouded the horizon with starless, moonless obscurity.
''We have to do a little something.'' Your father says as he gazes at you and your Mamonos friends looking on in confusion. ''We'll be back in the little hours of the morning. Don't worry.''
''Don't worry!? You remember the last time...'' Alarm, stress, panic, anger all mix into an exhausting, putrid heat that saps your energy. <span class="mu-i">I'm tired.</span> You can't even scream inside your head.
''We're going to infiltrate the church.'' Your mother's voice comes out muffled due to the mask covering her face from the nose down. ''What that fox said makes too much sense.'' Rikard continues, pulling out a key from one of the bags on his belt. ''I've had the opportunity to fetch this little thing earlier, so we'll sneak in and I'll ring Mother Earth bells.''
''I might have failed my training as an exorcist.'' He continues, looking at you with such hard blue eyes, you know it is impossible to dissuade him. ''I've still been taught a few tricks. Since the inquisitor isn't doing a damn thing, I'll force this matter into Mother Earth and her daughters.''
''It's been long enough since Nyct presumably returned for something -anything- to happen.'' Canaan continues. ''You three will be fine here, don't worry.''<span class="mu-r">Unity</span>
''What was that earlier about not antagonizing the priest?'' For a second, you're left breathless by speaking alone.
Your mother responds with a silent thumbs-up.
