Shadow Slave

«…He's standing right behind me, isn't he?»

Nephis slowly released Effie's hand, suddenly feeling weak.

It was too late.

«Oh, gods…»

She briefly considered lighting the ferry on fire.

That would resolve the situation, wouldn't it? Yes… she would not have to face Master Sunless, at least. That was an actionable strategy.

But, no… no, she couldn't. The ferry had cast off moments after Effie showed up, which meant that the passengers would have nowhere to escape and drown in case of a fire. It also meant that Nephis, Effie, and Master Sunless were stuck on the VIP deck-just the three of them, with nowhere else to go.

There was no escape.

Nephis barely suppressed a shudder.

«I can summon my wings and flee…»

But that would mean leaving the charming young man alone with Effie. She… was unwilling. No, actually, she was vehemently against it! For some reason.

So, Nephis just stared at the boisterous huntress Impassively and said in an even tone:

«Yes, He is.»

Effie trembled.

Nephis wanted nothing more than to sigh and hide somewhere.

She had just managed to regain her composure after the… the incident in the park. And now…

«Oh, no! Why did I think about what happened in the park?!»

To her distress, the image of the beautiful enchanter making timid excuses for his clumsiness resurfaced in her mind, and all her composure evaporated.

…The memory of embracing him tightly surfaced next.

At that moment, Nephis did something that she never thought she would do.

Maintaining a nonchalant expression, she took a casual step left and hid behind Effie.

robust body hiding Nephis from Master Sunless, she

just…

voice made

Nephis greeted her teeth.

not! I just… retreated.

with a dubious

few

Sunless. You

sounded a

see the charming young man from behind the tall huntress, but she could hear his pleasant voice. He answered after a

a pleasure

view, carrying two glasses of wine. Luckily, Nephis had settled down

handed her one

«Your wine, my lady.»

second glass to Effie. The huntress silently took the

see! Has the Brilliant Emporium been contracted to provide catering for the ferry, now? Good

man remained silent for

not providing catering for the

Effie seemed confused.

Then how come you are here on the VIP deck? Not that I'm complaining! In fact, it's nice to see a pretty face… a friendly face! I meant

without saying anything, secretly stunned. This… was probably the first

«Amazing.»

Sunless was far more formidable

last long Knowing the vivacious huntress, she was going to double down on her suggestive remarks soon. And if that did not work… well, quadruple

Effie. Anyone she aimed her sights on was doomed to

Nephis wouldn't mind seeing the charming

I

air and explain the

would not be able to help herself and tease

Him. Definitely not herself.

her mouth, intending to say

beat her

over, he leaned on the railing

took

Nephis froze.

I am on the VIP deck… because Lady Nephis

Her eyes widened slightly.

burning from his