Chapter 400 Leavers & Stayers (1/2)

As Rhode stepped into the room, Christie was seated in front of the easel and carefully portraying a beautiful scenery painting.

The little girl's skills seemed to have improved yet again. At least to Rhode, the sceneries that Christie drew was almost similar to photographs… Or perhaps, more beautiful than photographs. He didn't immediately speak and he chose to quietly observe the little girl from the doorway.

The current Christie was so much different from when Rhode first met her. During those times, her body was weak and haggard. According to Marlene and Lize, Christie was all skin and bones which was a heartbreaking sight for everyone.

Now, with sufficient nutrients and food, Christie's body condition became much better than before. At least she seemed like what a girl of her age should be. However, unknown if she was weak inborn, the development of her body wasn't going on too well. Just look at Anne who was only about one or two years older than her, the maiden had a body that even Marlene and Lize were envious of… Of course, there tend to be differences between all humans.

Rhode had been very busy these few days and to be frank, there wasn't much time for him to accompany Christie. However, this little girl had been obedient and she didn't display any unhappiness. She continued to rest in her room, leisurely painted and read some books. But, all these activities seemed a little too bland for Rhode.

Christie was always serious whenever she's painting and she didn't detect Rhode's presence. On the other hand, Rhode only quietly observed the little girl. Only after a few moments when Christie laid down the painting brush, Rhode stood up and lightly coughed.

Christie curiously turned around and a delightful smile instantly unrolled on the little girl's face at the sight of Rhode.

”… Rhode…”

Christie jumped off the chair and scuttled towards Rhode before diving right into his wide-opened arms. Rhode hugged the little girl's soft body and revealed a gentle smile.

”I'm back, Christie. How have you been?”

”… I'm good…”

Christie hurriedly lifted her head from Rhode's arms and nodded.

”That's good…”

Rhode couldn't help but smiled in response as he extended his arm to gently caressed Christie's long hair.

”All these while I have been busy and I didn't look for you…”

Rhode paused for a moment.

”Christie, I will be leaving here tomorrow to the Land of Atonement. You should also know that the place will be our guild's territory.”

”… Yes…”

A trace of disappointment revealed in Christie's eyes, but she still obediently nodded. Rhode was hesitant but he eventually continued.

”But… If you want to go, I can bring you along. But Christie, you need to know that the conditions there are harsh and it wouldn't be as bustling as Deep Stone City. If you don't wish to go, then I wouldn't force you to.”

”… Ah…”

Christie's gloomy eyes suddenly flickered. She wanted to give her answer almost immediately but some concerns caused her to ponder for a moment.

”… But… if Christie follows… will I give… Rhode… everyone… more trouble…?”

”Don't worry about this.”

Rhode smiled as he shook his head.

”I can guarantee that you wouldn't cause any trouble.”

Up until this moment, a smile resurfaced on Christie's face. She looked up towards Rhode and happily nodded.

”… Ok… I want to go. I want to be… with Rhode… and Anne… Sister Marlene… everyone…”

”Sure, since you want to go then we will all welcome you.”

Rhode released his hug and scanned the little girl from head to toe with a smile.

”So then, Christie, go get changed. We will have dinner soon. And remember to pack up your stuff okay?”

”… Ok…”

Christie delightfully nodded and swiftly began to pack the sketchpad and paint brushes. On the other hand, Rhode quietly observed the little girl and hopelessly revealed a bitter smile while shaking his head after a few moments, before stepping out of her room.