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Chapter 43

Recovery was just fine. As fine as it gets. Minus the time I face planted onto the ground. Nobody needed to know the details of that. The main suspect of the dizzy spells and nausea was the body’s reaction to Celestie’s soul departure. I had to report to Seonghwa once a day in case there were hidden implications with the soul departure.

My feet dangled from the examination bench. I let them swing and my eyes wandered. The gold framed spectacles perched lowly on Seonghwa’s nose as he flicked through my file. The soft humming from him was the only entertainment that kept me from complaining about boredom. 

My ears perked at the hum of a motor vehicle entering the garage. I tipped my head at the doctor who was still focused on the papers in front of him. There was nothing scheduled for business. Everyone was busy with resting and recovery. I hopped off the bench and peeped my head round the doorway to catch sight of Yunho striding with a grave face towards the captain’s office. The captain emerged moments later with an aura exuding confidence and authority with Yunho a few steps behind. Business came knocking on our door. 

I neared the room they used to host the guest. It was strange to pick my office space over the communal office. My office was dimly lit and relatively small due to the clutter that took up the darkest corners and the various inventions Yeosang kept stashed in the office that he would occasionally whip out. I neared the doorway and leaned in to listen. 

“I’m providing the offer for our groups to join.” The guest boldly claimed. “Of course as per previous conditions.” 

I heard Yunho scoff and the captain stood his ground without batting an eye. I dared to peer in and spotted Ethan. He generally had a cleaner appearance but the lack of lustre in his complexion suggested otherwise.

“I would have to decline. We have more than enough capabilities.”

“Would you accept the addition of a trade agreement?” Ethan threw out once again.

“We accept neither agreements nor embargos on our part in how we operate our business. We do not accept derivative contracts and we extend our services to everybody regardless of political history. I shall make it clear that there will be no strings attached to anybody in future.”

“I worry you’ll become a target.”

“And that simply doesn’t concern you. Whether you would provide aid or not is dependent on your conscience. Do not expect anything in return.” The captain polished off with professionalism. There was nothing else to add.

“You know it’s rude to not extend your greetings to guests Mist.” 

Nevermind there was something to add.

I jumped at the call-out. I slowly stepped out, sheepishly fidgeting with my fingers. Yunho curiously peered at me then at the captain as if to question how he knew of my previously hidden presence. Ethan seemed a little stunned and in a daze when I stepped forth. The captain gestured for me to say something, gaze scrutinising. Truth to be told, I did not know how to greet somebody, especially when there was history between the previous body’s owner and the whole battle. 

“Hi.” I awkwardly waved. 

I glanced back at the two who pressed their lips together. It was safe to assume they mentally facepalmed at the greeting. I nervously shifted my weight from one foot to the other before I dared to look up at Ethan. He was still stunned, mouth agape. 

“I-” He began before he shut his mouth.

“I’m Mist, Celestie already said her farewells and left.” 

I didn’t know how else to break it to him. It took a minute for Ethan to regain his composure, acceptance slowly descending on his features.

“You are welcome to join me.” Ethan extended the offer.