444 Finding the Book Heaven 1 (1/2)
The master of Gnaway was nervous. Ever since they entered the city, not a single trap had been triggered. In fact, they've been swiftly dodged, avoided or disarmed. Frustrated that they were progressing too quickly, the ruin master decided to spice it up. If they won't trigger the traps, he would bring it to them. Zero wanted to prove his sincerity and worth so this much should be alright.
The clatter of metal and low grinding sound of rocks made Jermine perk up alertly. She couldn't tell what these things were nor sensed any dangerous magic but there was an unsettling feeling.
”Um... did anyone hear that?”
Zero was still casually studying the map and trying to decide the best course of action. Even without Jermine's prompt, the red dots were already starting to appear within the map. They were surrounded.
Truen didn't need to be told what to do. If there was a threat, he would deal with it. The friends shared a single glance before nodding. The archer quickly fired a few arrows in the air and left like the wind.
Zero smiled and turned to the blind girl. ”Shall we continue? It's just your imagination.”
Jermine wanted to ask why Zero thought she would believe such an obvious lie. There was clearly trouble if Truen had to leave. Why wasn't Zero worried at all? Then again, she remembered that Zero was a doctor and he probably wasn't very aware of Truen's deeds behind his back even if they were friends. Of the two elves, Zero was more innocent. Hence, she decided to not question it and follow him.
Zero was silently communicating with Mii in his mindscape. He didn't want the poor child behind him to be caught up in the violent mess so he allowed Truen to silently take care of the problems but the archer wasn't fast enough. The red dots might be taken out on the corners but new ones kept appearing.
Not knowing any better about the nature of their enemies, Zero had to make a choice. There was no way he was going to be able to avoid battle so he had to leave Jermine somewhere safe while he fought them.
”Jermine, can you do me a favour?” Zero asked.
The mole girl nodded and Zero passed him his sling bag that was covered in overpowering magical enchantments. This should be good enough to keep her safe while he takes care of the problem.
”I need to go to the loo, please watch my belongings. The bag is very important, if you lose this we won't have dinner from now on. Stay in this house and don't get out until I return, alright?”
Thinking fast, the mole girl decided to do what she did best. She slung the sling bag around her shoulder and started digging. If they didn't see her, chances were that they wouldn't attack her.