“Thank you very much Rose. And I’m sorry.”
I let go of Rose when my feet touch the ground. I’m sure that was putting a lot of strain on it too, because the moment I let go, those vines are torn and collapse.
Rose can stop Hipopo charging at full speed, and yet it’s so worn out. Without Rose, I’d be minced meat right now.
“《Activate》, 《Transcribe》… Seventy percent has been destroyed. It’s just enough to maintain its being, but I can’t push Rose any further. When this is over, I’ll give you a full-scale reconstruction. I want to let you rest, but at least Taula…”
I say while looking into the remaining vines. But then, one of the vines points behind me.
“Rust!?”
“Master Rust! What happened?”
I turn around, and see Roa and Taula running my way.
Apparently they were near the entrance to the cave. They made it out with the spare magic crystal key I gave Roa beforehand.
They’re running this way and show no signs of slowing down.
“Roa! Taula! I’m glad you’re both all…”
Both crash into me. I stumble, but somehow manage to not fall back.
It’s pretty impressive if I may say so myself.
It’s at times like these that I’m secretly thankful that I have the shaman’s memories to help me move my body well.
“Thank you Roa. I’m glad you’re awake, Taula. Are you feeling all right?”
I say while looking down at their heads.
“How did you make it out before us, Master Rust?”
“Yes, no problem at all. In fact, I feel pretty good. I have also heard from Roa that you have been working very hard to save me. Thank you, Rust. But try to take better care of yourself.”
Both speak at the same time.
And then I hear Seilook’s cry. I look up and see it descending.
“You two…”
Is all I say before they stop talking.
Their expressions tighten, as I’m sure my tone is enough for them to figure out what’s on my mind.
“Still?”
Asks Roa to confirm.
“Yes, I couldn’t do a thing. I was just flung away, and I’m pretty sure the hole is still there.”
“I recommend retreating.”
“Yes. Let’s regroup.”
Seilook lands.
“Taula, here.”
I try to give Taula her sword before we get on top of Seilook.
“…It’s not suitable for me anymore.”
She looks at her sword in my hands, and says like she’s biting her lip.
“But this is not the time for that, right Rust?”
She says, but still sounds sad. She looks to have mixed feelings, as she makes up her mind and takes the sword.
“The sword left my hands, and I couldn’t cut through this disaster. I swear to god that next time I will become the sword that does so even if it costs me my life.”
She says quietly as she takes the sword, but her vow doesn’t quite reach my ears, because it happens just as Seilook flaps its wings.
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