"Do you want to join some secret gatherings?"
Connelly Earse thought for a moment, then picked up a note and wrote several lines on it before handing it to Aaron. "I only know of one secret gathering. This has the way to enter it... Well, it doesn't require an introduction. As long as you get in, you're a guest. Of course... I needn't tell you about the danger, right?"
"Thank you for your generosity."
Aaron rose to his feet and put on his hat. "Then... I'll be taking my leave."
"Aaron... my friend..."
Bruce stood up and gave Aaron a fierce hug, somewhat reluctant to part.
"Parting is only for the sake of the next reunion. There's no need to be so sad. Once I'm settled, I'll write and tell you how to contact me."
Aaron walked out of the clock shop and disappeared into the vast sea of people, yet his heart suddenly felt much lighter.
Mm, finally rid myself of that burden.
He turned into a secluded, deserted alley, took off his coat and tossed it into Carnivore's Satchel, then swiftly changed into a new outfit.
Immediately afterward, Aaron took out a piece of human skin and placed it over his face.
When the hands stroking his cheeks fell away, his face had become completely different from before—his features were deep-set, his lips thin, and his wine-red eyes seemed to brim with the vitality and vigor unique to youth, shimmering under the light.
The next moment, Aaron took out several more materials and performed a rudimentary "anti-divination" ritual for himself.
Finally, he tossed a coin. Only after confirming that it was safe did he slowly emerge from the other end of the alley and merge into the crowd.
Only then did Aaron let out a long breath.
That