endless path, infinite cosmos

chapter 24

Vahn exited the dungeon and prepared to head towards the Guild. Just as he was about to exit Babel he felt a powerful grip on his shoulder. Turning his head he saw Nicholas with black lines hanging down his face concealing his eyes. Vahn noticed a vibrant red flame-like aura emanating from his body...

Tightening his grip on Vahns shoulder, Nicholas slowly raised his head. "Vahn Mason, I believe I owe you a lecture."

Vahn could see veins bulging on NIcholas's head as the strength put into the hand on his shoulder increased. He recalled the chilling sensation he had felt when entering the dungeon before bowing his head. "I am very sorry. I should have been more careful."

Hearing the apology and seeing Vahn's expression, Nicholas released some of the pressure he had been using in his grip. He sighed while giving a cursory glance at the boy in front of him. Unlike the previous day, this time he managed to return without any injuries. Even his clothes, tacky as they might be, hardly had a single speck of blood even though Vahn had spent a longer period of time within the dungeon.

"Judging by your appearance, it would appear that you had learned your lesson. Make sure you show extra caution in the future and don't overlook making proper preparations. Remember that the Guild has numerous resources and books about the dungeon. Don't discredit the importance of knowledge, as it could be the difference between life and death when you encounter a new monster.

Lightly patting the shoulder he had previously been gripping, Nicholas began to turn away before noticing a peculiarity in the situation. He gave a second glance at Vahn and determined where the weird feeling was coming from. No matter where he looked he was unable to see a weapon on Vahn's person. Moreso than that, he didn't even see a pouch to hold magic cores and drop items...

"Where are your weapon and the loot you obtained from the dungeon? Don't tell me you just pretended to enter and spent the day playing around..."

As Vahn had already been preparing to walk away, he almost tripped after hearing the question. He tried coming up with various excuses in his mind but was unable to think of one on the spot. Sighing, he turned towards Nicholas and considered everything that had happened between them.

Though it was just his job, Nicholas had given him a very detailed explanation regarding the dungeon. He was also one of the people present when Vahn had passed out at dungeon's entrance. He was even there to lecture Vahn when he woke up at the medical ward..

Vahn looked closely at the aura coming from Nicholas, before remembering the contact from before.

'View Affection: Nicholas Grimm {[Affection: 51[Neutral], Intrigue:60[Concerned]}

Seeing the values Vahn decided to mention his 'storage magic' to alleviate Nicholas's suspicions. He held out his hand where it was not easily seen by outsiders and withdrew a magic core from his inventory.

Seeing an item aparate right in front of his eyes, Nicholas was very surprised. He quickly looked around before shepherding Vahn towards a more discreet location. After he was satisifed nobody was paying attention to their conversation, Nicholas looked towards Vahn and gave him a fierce look.

"Is that Storage Magic?" He glared directly into Vahn's eyes as if trying to peer through any falsities.

Seeing his expression, Vahn felt a bit of pressure. "Yes, it's a unique skill that I've always had since my time in the forest with my Grandfather..."

Though he could feel something off about the statement, he was unable to detect what was true and what was false. Knowing that it was considered taboo to force someone to reveal their secrets, Nicholas decided to not press any further. He looked towards Vahn before cautioning him with a firm tone.