"I never imagined it would be you..."
When Teres arrived at Ian's laboratory building with a puzzled look and saw the group of Fairies who had specifically requested his squad for the escort mission, he was no longer surprised. "I was wondering who had enough pull to stop us when we were already about to depart and make us serve as guards."
"Things are easier with someone you know. You don't mind, do you?"
Ian carried a case in one hand. He had donned his Sky-Binding Armor, marked with the Inspecting Knights Order's emblem, and said through its built-in voice system, "If you're dissatisfied, I won't apologize."
After registering his name at headquarters, Ian had made a minor modification to his Sky-Binding Armor: he had installed the internal communications module of the Inspecting Knights Order's standard-issue armor.
With this custom communications module, he could access the Inspecting Knights Order's private communication channels, making coordination easier.
As a Sublimation Armor, the Sky-Binding Armor naturally outperformed standard-issue armor. The module could also be removed at any time, so Ian did not consider it much trouble.
"Of course I don't mind."
Teres shrugged and smiled rather cheerfully. "It's all for the Empire. Reconnaissance missions and escorting observation teams are equally important."
This knight had spent too many years undercover to shake off the habits he had formed. Even his speech carried a distinctly streetwise flavor. "Besides, I could guess with my eyes closed that following you would earn greater merits. You must have a proper reason for seeking out an acquaintance like me, someone who'll cooperate with you better."
"Guarding an observation team means fewer fights, more merits, and the favor of important people. What's not to like?"
As he spoke, he shrugged again. "Don't worry. Since you're willing to share the merits,