"This is a battle between two major territories in Ward 24. Are you sure you want to get involved?" Viper took out the map but did not unfold it immediately, instead questioning Louis.
Ice Mask was only nominally third-in-command. Their original agreement had been that he would hold the title without participating in any conflicts in Ward 24 or receiving any actual authority.
"I came here to get stronger, so some fighting is unavoidable. If I can eliminate a threat to the territory in the process, all the better."
That was only one reason. He had other goals as well. For instance, if he wanted to bring the ghouls of Ward 24 under his command, he first had to understand how things worked here.
As Louis spoke, he dissolved the ice mask on his face, revealing his horrifying features.
He would be staying here for a while, after all. Wearing a mask all the time would inevitably arouse suspicion, so he might as well take this opportunity to explain things to the leaders here.
Both Viper and Sakuragi Aoi froze. Even ghouls could be left with scars to some extent, but cases like Louis's were truly rare.
"What happened to you...?" Viper was not frightened, but she was still somewhat astonished. He certainly had not looked this ghastly a month ago.
"Someone outside beat me beyond recognition... I barely escaped with my life. Now you know why I want to get stronger, right?" Louis sighed helplessly.
"I think I get it now..." Viper shrugged and spread the map out on the table.
"Oh, right... Don't tell Hinami about this yet..." Louis said, pointing at his face.
"Okay, okay."
"..." Looking at Louis's miserable condition, Sakuragi Aoi recalled Hinami's opinion of him, and some of the hatred in her eyes faded.