"Because there were no other candidates." The Goddess of Mind's Eye spoke stiffly.
Victor's face flushed red, yet he was powerless to refute her.
Because he really had developed a slight fondness for Marilyn.
Professor Sylph finally seized the opportunity and, seeming almost unable to wait, began lecturing him.
Only after a quarter of an hour did she finally close her mouth in satisfaction, by which point Victor had become like a wilted cucumber.
"Alright, now you know how treacherous people can be, right? Get to sleep early. We'll head to the Free City tomorrow morning."
Professor Sylph was finally finished.
The thirteen of them then split into three groups and went to sleep in three tents.
The night passed without incident.
When Dark woke up, it was only four in the morning.
He crawled out of his sleeping bag, stuffed the little Gu Huo Bird that was sprawled over his face back into it, and then quietly slipped out of the tent.
It was still very dark. One of the adventurers on guard duty was adding firewood to the bonfire.
Dark recalled his name, walked over, and sat beside him. "Good morning, Mr. Daniel."
"Just call me Daniel," Daniel said hurriedly, his tone carrying a hidden note of reverence.
Dark smiled and asked, "What time did you get up, Mr. Daniel?"
"Three, I think," Daniel said. "I'll keep watch for two hours until five, then lead the team out."
Dark asked, "You're headed to the Free City too?"
Daniel nodded. "Yes. I imagine you are as well. We might even run into each other in the city."
"Probably." Dark raised his head, narrowing his eyes slightly as he looked toward the gradually brightening horizon.
Daniel rubbed his hands together and tentatively asked, "Could I treat you to something