When William followed Ulise out of the storeroom, Ulise reached out and pressed a hand against the wall.
A pulse of something resembling leather quickly spread out, causing all the scattered clutter to return to its proper place.
William did not rush to ask about Ulise's identity as a Skin Slave. Their earlier conversation had already shown that Ulise seemed somewhat repulsed by the identity. Considering the situation at the Skin Factory, it was understandable.
Ulise was very likely a member of the Skin Factory's Purity Faction. After merging with the Blood Plague, he had broken away from the Skin Factory and severed all ties with it. Naturally, he was unwilling to acknowledge his identity as a Skin Slave.
Outside the storeroom was a winding, narrow wooden passage. Although electric lamps illuminated it, the place still gave off an oppressive feeling.
"By the way, does this entire place belong to the Magic District?"
"That's right. Several assistants, myself included, are training in magic in different rooms. Mr. Gian is at the end of this passage.
"When the time comes, just stand straight at the door and wait for Mr. Gian to finish what he's doing. Generally speaking, the waiting time is five to ten days.
"Consider this a special warning: whatever you do, don't knock on Mr. Gian's door. If you disrupt his thoughts, the most terrifying Human Body Magic will descend upon you."
"Don't worry. I won't do anything reckless."
After winding through the passage several times, the two reached a place with no more branches ahead. The door at the end had also been replaced by a large door coated in Black Metal paint.
A black hat resembling an abyss was carved into the door. Merely looking at it made William uncomfortable all over.
Even Ulise, who had