Renato walked slowly through the deserted streets and alleys, his steps light, his longsword burning with flame.
Perly followed close behind, maintaining her concentration on Protection from Blades. A pale blue layer of Mage Armor also enveloped her.
Before they set out, the little mage had already cast Magic Weapon and Cat's Grace on Renato.
In his current state, Renato was confident he could win within half a minute even if he faced "Red Hair" Bastu again.
According to the markings on the parchment, the alley on the right was their rendezvous point.
Renato listened closely but caught no other sounds of breathing.
Either there were few of them, or they were exceptionally well hidden.
He turned into the alley. Only one person stood at its far end, leaning against the wall and idly plucking her bowstring.
She raised her head. The sight of familiar eyes made them both blurt out:
"Lailas?"
"Renato?"
"So you're the 'friend' Albert mentioned." Renato relaxed a little, though he sounded puzzled. "Hadn't you already been working with the Atwood Family for some time?"
"My companions disagreed. Some believed Eric, with his more rebellious spirit, was the right person to lead this city, and no longer wanted to help Albert."
The half-elf walked ahead, her tone regretful:
"They naively thought that because Eric's power base was still weak, and because he claimed to be defending the city's founding Code, he must be a freedom fighter."
"But they don't understand. How could a new baron so skilled at using violence, winning allies, and disregarding family ties ever surrender power willingly? In time, he'll only become an even more brutal tyrant."
"So your organization split up? Over differing ideals?"
"We share the same goal. Only our methods differ, so how can you call it a split?