Hero Squad

In the merchant ship's kitchen, Voldemort, having stuffed his stomach full, finally paused to rest. He set down the pickled fish that was now nothing but bones and began searching the kitchen for water.

The fish and pickled vegetables had been far too salty. He had not noticed it right after eating, but once he was full, a faint dryness filled his mouth and a burning sensation rose in his throat, becoming unbearable.

Voldemort opened the lid of a wooden barrel on the stove and found it filled with clean water.

He casually picked up a bowl, scooped out some water, and drank.

The water was full of the taste of dust and mold, but it eased his thirst.

Just as Voldemort was drinking his third bowl, a voice suddenly came from the kitchen entrance—

"Eh? Who are you?"

Startled, Voldemort threw down the bowl, drew his wand, and pointed it toward the source of the voice—

At the dark kitchen doorway stood a girl who looked no more than sixteen or seventeen. Her strange blue hair hung loose over her shoulders, and she wore a tall pointed wizard's hat. Her clothing was exceedingly light, a purple-and-white gauze dress, and she leaned on a Crystal Staff taller than herself.

"What happened, Valta?" a rough voice asked.

A series of clanking sounds followed. From behind the girl emerged a tall knight completely encased in heavy armor, along with a Stone Man holding a massive axe that glowed orange-yellow.

"Who are you?"

The tall knight and the axe-wielding Stone Man had clearly seen Voldemort as well. The knight immediately pushed the girl called Valta behind him, then drew the sword hanging at his waist. Together with the Stone Man, he blocked Voldemort from the girl.

"Wait, Stone, Iligor, wait a moment!" the