The Life I Gained From Dying

Chapter 58 - Ventus

"So, this is Ventus." Mai said as the group walked along a sturdy rope bridge that connected two of the columns.

"From above, it looks way bigger than Aestus." Aaron added. "Where are we supposed to find this 'Tuzi' guy?"

"Maybe they can tell us." Kaden replied as he gestured to three women standing at the exit of the bridge ahead of them.

The three women were all dressed in a white and red assassin like outfit, with a white bunny mask covering their eyes and nose. Red markings extended from the nose of the mask, up between the eyes, then up the bunny like ears that extended from the top of the mask. The women did not say a single word to them. Instead, they just stood there blocking the entrance with their hands behind their back.

"Hello! We've come from Aestus to provide assistance!" Mai announced.

However, the ladies didn't move an inch.

"This doesn't feel good." Kaden stated.

A swiftly moving shadow flew past the group, prompting them to look up and then behind them as they felt something land on the bridge. It was another woman who wore the same clothes as the others except hers were black rather than white with red outlining. She also didn't wear a mask, but she did have rabbit whiskers painted on her cheeks. On her back, she carried a similar kite like device to the one Newt had.

"Who are you?" The lady asked sternly.

"... My name is Mai Aira. I'm a guard from Aestus sent to investigate the situation here in Ventus."

"The message sent to your people was scheduled to arrive yesterday, so how is it possible for you to be here now?"

"We came through the gate." Mai answered as she pointed to the top of the mountain.

The lady appeared stunned by Mai's answer.

SCAWWW!!!

Taibai finally flew down and perched on Mai's shoulder once again. Once the lady saw the falcon, her demeanor quickly changed.

"So, it is true. My apologies, Lady Aira. Please forgive my questioning."

"No, no, it's completely understandable." Mai replied in a friendly tone.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, I am General Shih Gao, leader of Ventus' special forces. Emperor Tuzi will be delighted to know that Aestus was actually able to send assistance even during your desperate times. I only have one final question for you."

She stepped forward and skeptically gazed directly into Jayson's eyes.

"Who is he?"

They all looked over to Jayson, who hesitantly stepped forward to introduce himself.

"My name is Jayson Hillinger."

"You're Ignian, yes?" Shih questioned.

"Well -"

"I can feel that the air around you is warm. Don't lie to me."

"... Yes, I am Ignian." Jayson replied.

"He is an ally." Mai quickly interjected. "He was on our side when they attacked Aestus, and he was the main one that wanted to assist you so that you may, in return, assist us."

Shih continued to glare at him with skepticism but eventually chose to believe in Mai's words.

"If you will follow me, I shall see you all to the Rabbit Palace." Shih stated.

.....

The initial column they started on was shorter than almost every other column in the vicinity. Once they arrived atop the adjacent column, they were given a better view of Ventus.