Chapter 43 - Arrangement (2/2)

Along the way, they all got to know each other a bit better, and finally got the figure's name which to their surprise was very strange. She called herself 'Number ', third of the twelve executors under the Grandmaster. She didn't say any more about this mysterious Grandmaster or the group she is a part of, nor about their goals. She also mentioned that as an executor she has relatively big freedom in how she completes her missions. Only results matter, the way she achieves them, do not.

The afternoon sun long shone its brightest by the time they arrived back to the hut, the last rays of the sun was slowly receding below the horizon. Lily slowly started regaining her consciousness, and groggily waking up. Realizing she is still being princess-carried, she let out a giggle and snuggled her face on his chest. Her low voice was only heard by Aiden.

”Ehehehe… I love you, brother!”

Smiling, Aiden gave a kiss on her forehead, as he whispered to her.

”Rest well big sis, we have just arrived back home. I will carry you to our room, and you can rest until dinner is ready. We will have a guest, but don't bother with that for now, okay?”

As she continued to snuggle, no words could be made out through her muffled mumbling, only the giggles she let out every now and then.

It was way into the evening by the time dinner was ready, it was dark and eerie outside. Sitting around the table, Lily looked at the still cloaked figure and as she couldn't really understand her reasoning, she asked confusedly.

”Lady, why are you still having a cloak and that ugly mask? How will you eat if you can't use your mouth? You could remove them, you will have a better time then!”

Aiden started laughing hearing her innocent words, and even Granny let out a small chuckle before she cleared her throat.

”Sorry for that, she is still a child. Please, don't take offense for her words.”

Shaking her head, Number 3 answered.

”No, it's quite alright, she is right. I have no reason to hide anymore.”

Taking off her mask, and then hood, a dazzlingly beautiful face revealed itself. She had long, silky black hair, that was mysteriously hiding behind the hood previously, and deep-sea blue eyes, that you could get lost for all eternity. Spotless bright skin it felt like an angel was amongst them, a perfect being.

Looking at her, Lily as innocent as she was, gave voice for her admiration.

”Woaah! Lady, you are sooo pretty!”

”Thank you…” smiling, she picked up a piece of meat and placed it on her plate. ”I know it's not my place to say this, but let's eat, shall we?”

Agreeing, they all started picking their favorites and started eating. Soon, the trays got replaced with Lily's favorite tarts, and some tea.

Placing down her cup, Granny looked at Number 3 and broke the silence.

”Listen. I know your mission is above everything and all, but you see, we're have no desire to cause harm, or do anything against you guys. We didn't even know you existed till you showed up!

However, what I would like to suggest is that we work together. You also saw the main issue with Aiden right now, his power. He has too much power and has no idea how to effectively use it, how to exert his strength in a proper manner. He also needs guidance, someone who could teach him the basics of combat, and anything that I sadly cannot provide him with. What do you say?”

Before Number 3 could react, Aiden looked her in the eye, and added.

”What she says is true. I would be grateful if you could teach me. You can even report back to your Grandmaster and continue with your mission meanwhile, we will say nothing that you moved in, and started interacting with me.”

Lily also chimed in.

”Yes! You could move in and be more effective in watching us! You could teach brother and do your job!”

Listening to all of their arguments, she couldn't help but sigh, and as her angelic face donned a gentle smile she nodded.

”I can't argue with you guys… If you keep it a secret, let me continue report back regularly, and let me observe your brewing sessions, I am willing to stay and teach you both. But! You have to keep my presence here a secret, I will not show myself when you go back to the city, nor will I defend any of you there, and we will act like you don't know anything about me, understood?”