Ticking clock

"I shouldn't go to any gatherings for the time being," she said, hoping he wouldn't push. She didn't want to have to be stern about her rejection. 

"Why not?" He asked. Before she could answer, he added, "Gatherings are how you meet people and you need more allies." 

She cursed under her breath. "I know. I just…I have have a lot on my plate right now." 

He was one of the things filling up her plate, he realized. So he didn't push it. He simply gave her an invitation. "I'm staying in Yorucia for a day more. If you change your mind, you know how to find me." 

She agreed and left the tea room. The crow joined her soon, perching on her shoulder. 

"Am I still being followed?" She asked.