Chapter 97: The Shrine (2)

"Is that your real name?" he asked.

"Who knows? Why, do you want to find out?" she teased, her eyes sparkling mischievously. "Not yet, though. Once we know each other better, maybe I'll tell you my real name."

"…Fair enough. Since we've run into each other here, I wanted to chat for a bit, but it doesn't seem like we have time for that," Wataru said, sensing that she had her own agenda.

"Indeed. I have a lot on my plate right now. I'm sorry, maybe next time?" she said, her tone genuinely apologetic.

As she sighed, Wataru couldn't shake the feeling that she was trying to make him feel guilty. He didn't sense any ill intent from her. In fact, he was more indebted to her than anything.

"I advise against using this gate to head north. Just a word of caution," she said suddenly, her eyes locking with his.

"Why not?" he asked.