Stripped City Adra: El-Melloi II's Great Mountain-Climbing Adventure

The wind in mid-September was cool and refreshing. All kinds of scents mingled along the mountain trail, and the surrounding scenery was beautiful. Looking into the distance, one could feel nature's masterful handiwork.

It truly was a season perfect for hiking and outings, but clearly, someone did not think so.

"Wait... wait a moment..."

A man's groan broke the pleasant atmosphere.

He looked to be around thirty. With both hands braced against his knees, he panted heavily. Deep lines ran from his nose to the corners of his mouth, lending him a rather imposing air. His taste in clothing was eccentric but not vulgar, and he possessed an inexplicable elegance. His long black hair fell smoothly like a dark waterfall.

Under normal circumstances, he would probably have looked like quite the gentleman. But drenched in sweat and gasping for breath as he was now, his image suffered greatly.

"Let's slow... down a little... Just a little, a little... slower..."

"Really, Teacher? You don't look to be in very good shape right now."

A clear male voice rang out, one that immediately brought sunshine and youthful vigor to mind. Its owner was indeed just like that.

He was a handsome young man with a canine-like air. His soft golden curls looked like spun sugar beneath the noon sun, while his face was sharp and strikingly handsome.

"Of course. If they hadn't received an invitation, who would travel all this way to come here?"

Walking behind him, Sefen turned his head. Seeing his teacher in such a state, he could not help sticking out his tongue.

"Oh my, what a dangerous aura. But everyone, please rest assured as much as possible. I'm not some dangerous figure."

As he spoke at length, he pulled a relatively clean envelope from his pocket. Its