"Because of that, Sister Hua had no choice but to return to the Garden of Recollection to recover, so she couldn't go to Penacony with us."
Welt beside them adjusted his glasses, his gaze behind the lenses steady and certain.
"That's right. Miss Dahlia has been Trailblazing with us all this time. She is the most ambitious, and the finest, of The Nameless."
Himeko smiled and set down the coffee cup decorated with elegant patterns. Its base lightly struck the saucer with a faint crisp sound.
Her gaze moved between Yan Huan's bewildered face and Dahlia's composed posture, carrying understanding and a touch of helplessness.
"Why would we need to remind him? Yan Huan has spent more time traveling with Dahlia than anyone else."
She looked at Dahlia, then let her gaze fall on Yan Huan. Her red lips curved into a gentle smile.
"Why not let her diagnose you? When it comes to matters related to Remembrance, she is the most skilled person on the train."
Welt nodded, agreeing with Himeko's suggestion.
"Time is of the essence. The welcome party can wait. Miss Dahlia, we'll leave this to you."
"..." Seeing everyone speak up for Dahlia left Yan Huan rather speechless.
He leaned against the wall of the carriage, his gaze sweeping across his companions.
Then he looked again at the woman calling herself Dahlia.
She remained seated calmly. The shadow of her broad white hat obscured half her face, revealing only her elegantly contoured chin and lips curved in a faint, ambiguous smile.
He gave Dahlia a detached glance, then finally dropped the Watermelon Knife in his hand onto the small table beside him with a clang. Its blade reflected the cold light of the ceiling lamp.
"Are you sure you still want to provoke me?"
"Even an