You can expect a merchant to pull bullshit negotiation even with a child

Thankfully, I didn't get sucked anywhere this time, and safely crossed the gate.

Natha had waited for me in the garden, and once I saw him...I don't know--I just ran over and hugged him, laughing joyfully. I didn't even know what I was laughing about; that there was no incident even though I stepped through the gate alone? That I would officially start a new adventure by living here?

Anyway, I just felt happy, and even Jade did not chirp in protest at how I jumped at Natha first thing, probably sensing the joy inside my heart.

"Welcome," Natha whispered against my lips, as if it was my first time there, with silver eyes sparkling beautifully under the sun. 

Jade gave us about a minute long for intimacy, before finally chirping in protest and demanding attention. This time, Natha relented easily without even insulting the little bird, which made me rather suspicious.

And my suspicion was proved not long after.