Chapter 76: The Schemer.

"It seems nothing happened, after all." Ikaris approached Han and Lily nodding to the woman as she gave her a respectful bow. "I apologise for stepping away unannounced, I needed to clear my head," Ikaris patted Lily's shoulder. "You have my permission to take rest."

"Are you certain?" Lily asked, glancing at Han who was playing the fool once more.

"Absolutely, rest up for tonight." Ikaris smiled at her, and Lily spared one more glance to Han and then gave Ikaris a bow again.

"Then, I will take my leave, be vigilant milady, monsters lurk around every corner." She warned her, but Ikaris only smiled at her and nodded again, slightly pushing her back so she would leave comfortably.

"What the hell's that supposed to mean?" Han mumbled watching the veteran leave before looking at Ikaris. "Where have you been?"

"I just said I was clearing my head," Ikaris stood at attention with her gaze set on the dark horizon. "I did not stutter."