Another story

Volume 3 act 1: return to the nation of justice

The sky mirrored the waters beneath us, both a deep, tranquil blue, as we journeyed toward the main city of Fontaine in one of their own creations. The tour guide proudly called it an 'aquabus,' part of a unique transportation system dubbed the 'aquarail.' Essentially, it's just a boat, but the twist is that they've built an elevated waterway for it, high above the ground on towering columns. The hype around it will always be alien to me

"I know we've been to Fontaine before," Guizhong said, admiring the luxurious cityscape outside the window. "But I still can't help but marvel at how grand it looks from this distance."

"Can't we just use my gaster blaster?" I asked via telepathy. "You know, the floating dragon skull, or whatever you call them as. It'd be much faster than this." I glanced around, mindful of the other passengers who couldn't see or hear Guizhong.

"I know, but it won't be as fun as this," she replied, continuing to gaze at the city and the sea surrounding it. "Besides, didn't you tell Aether in your letter that you'd meet him at the station to share the commission money in person?"

"I suppose you're right," I conceded as we slowly approached the station. In the distance, I could make out the silhouette of a yellow-haired teen and a small white-haired child with something that looked like a tiara floating next to him.

At least I might enjoy my vacation here with aether and hear about his adventures, see what new adventures he had been on. It's been a while since we last met in person, outside of that cozy teapot home of his. He's a good friend, and we've had our fair share of adventures, even though we parted ways after Sumeru."

The sound of the vehicle's horn blared as we approached the station. They seemed happy to greet me as they swiftly approached me.

"Long time no see" I said, stepping down from the vehicle. Aether gave me a subtle nod, his expression warm but reserved.

"Wow!,Sans I can't believe you are finally here in Fontaine!" Paimon exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Has the lure of the sweets I gave finally convinced you?"

"Uh, yeah, definitely," I answered, feeling a twinge of guilt. I hadn't tried any of the sweets she gave me while in Aether's home yet, but I wasn't about to admit that, and I can't really tell her that I am here just to share the commission money with Aether and have a vacation here either.

"Great! Let's get going then!" Paimon chirped, practically bouncing on her feet—if she isn't floating, that is. "There's so much you need to see, and the food—oh, the food!—you can't forget about that, hehe."

As we trail along the streets, I hear Paimon and Aether telling stories about their adventures here, from the friends they know to even the recent major event of this nation while enjoying some fries. Of course, at least the snacks look like fries to me.

"A very interesting story indeed, and as much as I want to hang around you guys more, I sadly have plans, and well, here is the commission reward money," I said as I handed him a medium-sized pouch filled with mora.

"eh ? plans for who?" paimon asked

"You shouldn't ask a personal question, you know? And don't worry, I will return shortly after I finish some errands," I said as I bid them farewell once more and we split up, my hand holding a camera I borrowed from Aether.

"You got plans?" Guizhong asked as she appeared once more.

"Yup, this place looks like Paris; at least it gives me the vibe of it, so I definitely have some plans here." I replied,

"Paris?" she asked, her eyes filled with curiosity. Well, I don't blame her for not knowing; after all, that place is outside the limits of this world, but I would love to take her there.