After leaving Okegis behind, Duanmu Huai set off on a patrol with Ann and Lorena.
Of course, it was called a patrol in name only. In reality...
"This is Avenue of Radiance. Legend has it that this was the road first opened by the founders of this city. Our ancestors escaped the vampires' pursuit through here, and then built the City of Glimmer."
"Ah, look over here. What do you think? Pretty, right? These Night Moss Plains are the scenery we're proudest of. If you're lucky, you might even see beautiful butterflies, though unfortunately, it seems it isn't their season yet."
"Be careful around the river channel over there. Blind Eye Snakes occasionally appear. They're monsters without eyes, but they can catch prey through their keen hearing. They aren't as dangerous as the beasts created by the vampires, but they're still dangerous to a certain extent."
That was right. Rather than patrolling, they were sightseeing. Hiiragi Shinoa had completely taken on the role of tour guide, leading the three of them along with a cheerful smile while chatting and introducing them to the local customs and scenery.
However, someone soon fell behind.
"W-wait, Knight, let me sit down for a bit!"
Ann panted helplessly and raised her hand, declaring that she couldn't walk any farther.
"Honestly."
Duanmu Huai reached out, grabbed Ann, and set her on his shoulder. Once Ann was sitting on his shoulder armor, she finally let out a sigh of relief.
"You're way too weak."
"I'm a mage, not a warrior! I don't have the kind of abilities you people do!"
That was true. Although only a short while had passed, strictly speaking, they had already walked the equivalent of a marathon. Duanmu Huai and Lorena naturally didn't feel tired, while Hiiragi Shinoa looked small but had