The Guild's Home Base IV

Outside Kaori's apartment, Hwa and Erina sat on the bench by the railings.

With their backs facing the door, and front facing the drop.

Hwa stretched her arms above her head, glancing at the buildings around.

"So, Ryuen's sister, huh? Bet she's got some interesting stories about him."

Erina tilted her head. "She might be... kind. Not like him."

Hwa snorted. "Kind's overrated. I prefer interesting. And Ryuen? He's a real mystery." She leaned back, staring at the sky.

"Bet there's a hundred things about him we don't know."

Erina didn't respond, her thoughts wandering.

Despite Hwa's teasing, she couldn't help but feel a strange sensation around Ryuen—a feeling she hadn't experienced in years.

It wasn't long before the three emerged from the apartment, each carrying a bag.

Kaori followed behind, her arms crossed.

"I'm coming with you," she announced.