Good Fortune Born's face turned even paler. Behind him, Climber softly urged, "It's not a major matter. Your Fate Mold is strong; there will surely be a chance to remedy it."
Good Fortune Born nodded.
"Keep moving," Commandant said helplessly.
Book-Listener walked over to where the crushed melon had been, bent down, scooped up soil to cover it, then rose and continued onward.
The group became even more cautious, watching every step they took. Only after quite a while did they reach the clearing around the melon shack.
Everyone let out a long breath. Some of the Night Guards looked at Good Fortune Born with sympathy.
"Good Fortune Born, you said the wrong name earlier, and now you've stepped on a melon. Be extra careful." Commandant's voice was far colder than usual, and he stood well away from Good Fortune Born.
Good Fortune Born froze for a moment, then lowered his head deeply and clenched his teeth.
"You go knock on the door and ask Mr. Melon," Commandant said.
"Huh?" Good Fortune Born abruptly raised his head and glared furiously at Commandant.
Commandant remained perfectly calm.
Many Night Guards looked elsewhere.
Behind Good Fortune Born, Climber forced a smile. "Lord Commandant, Good Fortune Born is still young, and his Fate Mold is the strongest among us. This sort of dangerous task isn't suitable for him."
"Then you go?" Commandant asked.
Climber stiffened where he stood. Usually honest-looking, he now appeared exceptionally wooden and dull.
Commandant looked at Good Fortune Born. "Don't blame me. I don't want you to go either, but knocking on a door shouldn't be dangerous. Even if it is, the danger should be slight. It's only right that you go."
Sunshine Boy thought, As expected of a leader. Those words were simply brimming with sunshine.
Good Fortune