Ruger noticed that as the Mushroom Man changed, disturbances occasionally rippled through Ruined Island on the other side, as though it were connected to something.
"There are fifty-four people doing the same thing. They flew off in every direction, and the center they all point toward is where I found the seed. I never expected one of them to happen to fly to you, Lord Ruger. I must thank you for lending a hand. Every additional person who reaches the designated position gives me a slightly better chance of success. Unfortunately, I have never believed in fate. Otherwise, I would have to marvel at fate's arrangements like those Wizards do." Barry Danton laughed as he spoke.
The Mushroom Man also opened his mouth wide, planting both hands firmly on his hips with all his might. Unfortunately, his master stopped after only a couple of chuckles, leaving him looking a little sheepish.
But soon, the little Mushroom Man composed himself and put on yet another expression.
"You must have learned something from Mr. Salvador, but there are many things I only finished confirming today, so he does not know very much," Barry Danton said. "In fact, this is a grand undertaking to defend the Cavern World. You need not regard it as a struggle over personal interests. In theory, at least."
Barry laughed again as he spoke. Just as he had said, he really seemed to be in an excellent mood today, and he was quite relaxed in Ruger's company.
"Protecting the Cavern World?" Ruger laughed too. "That sounds rather interesting."
"Actually, even without this encounter, you would soon have learned certain things. Of course, I have always looked forward to meeting you again, Lord Ruger," Barry Danton said. "Some changes and leaks of information cannot be controlled. They are only