Honkai Impact 3rd: Don't Die For Me/ Book 3 Paradise

Chapter 3 The Mull

"How's your studies?"

"They're going well."

"And your sister, Arbella?"

"She's also enjoying academy life."

"Hmm, I see," Sasha murmured.

There she sat in her abode she rarely ventured to. Chrystalium tea, a rare import from the east fumed from an antique chipped pot whose stout was adorned with floral designs. Over the counter was a friend, a boy reaching around 150 cm, nearing her height. Brown frizzed hair that went well with hardened brown eyes. The boy was looking to be a dependable man in the future.

"Is it really ok to be in here?" Henry asked, casting an awkward glance at the empty shelves. It was a well-kept place, a constant flow of money supported the shop maid that cleaned Sasha's shop every week.

"I'm a bit over the final stages. Though it might not be good for my health if I stay here too long."

"If you need a place to stay Arbella is quite small still. I'm sure she'll be delighted to share a room with you."

Sasha shook her head and took another sip of her tea while looking at a new clock ticking on the counter. It was brewed a minute past optimal time but Sasha didn't mind. She preferred something bitter, a little discomfort in her husk of life. The tea Otto taught her to make could never taste fragrant without his company. Henry sipped politely, though Sasha's spiritual center came at the expense of his taste buds. He never understood the trend of tea making anyways. What was better than cool clear water?

"I've got business to attend in the city. Else I'd be watching over the girls back at home. A friend of my father informed me of some news. But let's not talk about my troubles. Let's focus on your studies. What interests you so far? I've heard from your sister that you're a genius. Winning a few awards in the arithmetic department."

Henry scratched his head in embarrassment. Gentle praise went a long way toward buttering up his mood. Luckily for Henry Sasha was just a friend, her intentions were kind and pure. Despite a history of thievery but then again had been resolved the second time they had met.

"I'm particularly fond of numbers. The worker station center also said that math was crucial to building houses. I don't know of the details but I'm going to start an apprenticeship soon after I graduate. Part of the city planning team. Ha, maybe I'll get to see instructor Kaslana."

"Hmm, maybe. But it seems your sister understated your achievements. You're graduating years ahead of everyone. Not to mention getting a job that would, well I think you've become quite an impressive man."

Henry blushed this time. His dreams were coming true before his very eyes. He could give his sister a safe home, and build a house. Maybe even find a girl he could love. His future was full of hope and it was all thanks to that doctor. Though covered up, it was clear who the benefactor was, Otto Apocalypse had saved him twice.

"You praise me too highly. But yeah I've become dependable because of... Well, Sasha how are you faring? Should I visit more often? Bring Bella along?"

"No, it's fine. Thanks for coming today. Can you be my witness?"

Sasha's eyes darted towards the clock, that Henry had bought as a gift. The time was around one, the second hand inched closer to the end of the minute.

"Witness for what?"

Sasha made her way to the door of her shop. The words closed switched to open and poof. A could of dust swept the streets outside. Before Henry could react a man with fairy noble clothes sat before him, tied to a chair.