Earth Quest - Villain x Hero

Earth Quest - Villain x Hero 21 - Personal Protection

You decided to opt for the personal protection over everyone. It seemed likely that Inari would defend the mountain, or at least serve as a deterrence for most threats, making it a de facto safe space regardless. The safety of Inari's protection outside would be indispensable to those of you who were going to venture out to find the things you needed to repair the barrier. Especially for Asuka, who was granted an additional layer.

You split into two groups. Mishiko was the only one staying behind to handle the preparations. Maoka, Asuka, Fin and you ventured down into the alleyway. The glowing confluence of spiritual activity that snaked its way throughout the city. Making your way down into the busy alley there were shops flanking both sides, and figures with utterly strange shapes walking up and down the road, going about their business. There were many beastfolk-like beings with more pronounced animal heads. There were shadow people and those who simply looked like demons or horrors walking about like they were on a normal shopping trip. Asuka and Maoka tried to keep their heads down. You and Fin were looking around in amazement.

"This is incredible." He remarked.

"Seems like they're avoiding us."

"It's the protection... it creates a sort of passive aversion, like an electric fence." Aran claimed from above. Her towering spider-human figure gave her the appearance of a Dryder. Denizens of the spirit world skirted around her cautiously.

"Are you a big deal?" Fin asked.
"Didn't feel like it..."

"I also have the protection. If I did not, I would have also been a tasty target..."

"What about you? Do any of these guys look tasty to you?" You asked.

She licked her lips. "A few... but I feel it not appropriate to just... try and eat someone right out in the open or every strong being would be consuming every weaker being right before our eyes."

"Fair." You shrugged.
"You two still be careful, but you're probably drawing more attention by being nervous."

"O-oh." Asuka lifted her head, as did Maoka. Asuka eyed Fin as the first thing she properly regarded.
"Is it true you're the Demon King?"

"Not anymore. I also wasn't really ever a King. I was..."

"A cult leader?" You smirked.

"What?" He eyed you.
"Listen... I am..." His shoulders slumped. He looked at Asuka and Maoka earnestly.
"I don't feel great about who I was or what I did. Leave it at that for now."

Maoka cocked her head to one side. "You feel bad?"

"Of course." Fin nodded.

Asuka was thinking rather deeply. "You're definitely different from what I expected."

"I hope to leave a better impression than the one I had before I showed up."

"Was what Inari said a lie?" She asked.

"Nnn... o. Not exactly." He sighed, shaking his head.
"I could've done way better."

"Hmm." Maoka leaned over and patted him on the arm.

"Thanks." Fin chuckled.

"No problem."

"What're we looking for, folks? Anyone know?" You looked around. Maoka and Asuka shrugged. Fin raised his hand.
"Go ahead."

"We could just ask someone."

"Wow, I didn't think of that." You retorted sarcastically.

"Be nice." He narrowed his eyes on you.
"But also, I think you're still not allowed to offer your opinion and I'm not allowed to take it. So asking someone is out of the question, now. Look what you did?"