Qian Qian, Oh Qian Qian

The carnival was over. Though many people were still reluctant to leave, even the lively fireworks gala could not hold back the departing festival. In the end, as the most magnificent burst of fireworks turned Shadow City's sky as bright as day, a pillar of light rose from the Assembly Hall's main avenue, guiding visitors toward the exits.

At the closing ceremony, Sandora delivered a brief speech with distinct Imperial flair. The entire speech lasted no more than fifteen seconds, forcing Older Sister to step in and add a couple of lines so that the heroic spirit honor guard, which had been preparing to leave before even taking their positions, could depart the stage with some dignity. Meanwhile, I sat below the stage enjoying Suigintou's special service—don't get the wrong idea. The girl was merely sitting on my shoulder and wiping my face.

Two Two-Foot Kicks had exploded over my head, a Thunderclap Bomb had gone off in my hand, and Sandora's mouth-fireworks had blasted my face head-on. On this day of nationwide celebration, I had no idea what sins I had committed to end up nearly sharing a Luck stat with a lancer. Still, if it meant getting to enjoy one of Little Lantern's rare moments of tenderness, it seemed like a fair trade.

Crack!

No sooner had I finished sighing inwardly than my head received a solid bite. I froze. "Girl, what are you doing?!"

"Habit."

Suigintou replied blandly, then picked up the rag and began scrubbing my head viciously. I was nearly in tears. I knew she was clean, but did she have to spit on it and scrub like she was polishing shoes? Besides, wasn't it a ridiculous design flaw for a doll to have saliva in the first place?

I gave Suigintou's head a light