A Temporary Pact Part I

“What’s the meaning of this, Joker? If you don’t give me a good answer, I swear I’ll knock you flat! Spill it now!”

“Uh… how exactly do I answer that?”

“Just explain why you had the audacity to steal my prey! Make it sound good!”

“How was I supposed to know you’d staked a claim on it? It’s not like there was a sign with your name on it. Besides, is there any rule in AOS that says whoever spots a boss first automatically owns the hunt?”

“You little…!! Spending all that time with Ace has made your mouth way too sharp! Do you want to see how far I can push you?!”

The heated exchange between Joker and Dia was loud enough to sound like children squabbling, with Dia grabbing the taller man by the collar while Joker stood there with his usual deadpan expression, responding with calm, biting remarks.

“Long time no see, you haven’t gotten taller at all, Zoey! Looks like you came all the way out here to help your big sis. Aw, you must have missed me so much!”