«We are comrades! So, how about a military discount next time I come to eat at the Brilliant Emporium? One soldier to another… wait, actually, how about a family discount? Princess and I, we are practically sisters! Right, Neph?»
She looked at Nephis expectantly.
Nephis remained silent for a moment, and then said in an exceedingly even tone:
«I don't know her.»
Effie stared at her with a betrayed expression.
Then, she whispered loudly:
«Come on, Neph. Help a sister out! Marry this guy fast so that I could save some money…»
Nephis' eye twitched a little.
—— —— ——
The ferry floated across the lake, slowly approaching the castle. The conversation flowed naturally, with Effie easing up on teasing them… a little… after getting her fill.
Sunny was not supposed to know much about the inner workings of Bastion, so he mostly kept silent, letting the two women catch up after not seeing each other for a while.
Effie was leaning back, looking at the water with a wistful expression.
«…Anyway, I don't have much time to waste. As soon as we reach the castle, I'll be rounding up people and bringing them back to NQSC. There's trouble in the Western Quadrant… again. I'm afraid that I'll be gone for a while, this time.»
Nephis frowned, a hint of concern written on her face.
«How bad is it?»
Effie chuckled.
«Bad enough that they're sending Jet, as well. That should tell you everything you need to know. oh… I'm sorry, Master Sunless. Beast Farm is going to be gone from Bastion for a few weeks, maybe even a couple of months. You'll need to find a new supplier.»
He shook his head.
«That is okay. Don't worry about it.»
He had other means of getting ingredients, albeit not as fresh and delicious as what Effie's husband grew. The Brilliant Emporium would have to cut down on food services, too, with him being busy following Neph around and crafting a Memory. 𝚏𝚛ee𝐰𝗲𝚋n𝐨𝘃𝗲l.𝐜𝐨m
Effie smiled, then looked at Nephis.
«What about you? Where are you off to next? I don't believe that those Valor bast…»
She glanced at Sunny, then corrected herself:
«That those wise Valor elders will let you rest for long.»
Nephis lingered for a moment, then answered in a calm tone:
«Back to Godgrave, I suppose.»
The huntress suddenly seemed excited.
«Oh, right! You must have met him! That mysterious Saint, the Lord of Shadows… what is he like?»
Sunny was suddenly all ears.