Chapter 185 - Nothing to be afraid of

It was not easy for her to fend off the crumbling surroundings and even the odd beings that came out of the rocks. However, Lyn somehow managed by herself.

Kazuya was hugging her tightly, "My Lyn, don't do that again," he wasn't angry, or at least he tried not to show it in the open.

"Okay," she said. Lyn had to admit that it was far too careless. However, the others understood to stand back and not join her. They must have felt it the moment she summoned the blade.

"Oi Pupillam."

"Right," her aide placed her hand on the light around the wall. "Eh? I can't dispell it. How strange."

That's... Lyn immediately recognized it and left Kazuya's side. "Pupillam, move."

Pupillam blinks in confusion yet she moves, in that split second the wall was torn in half, and there stood a familiar person. It belonged to Leo. A deep and frustrated sigh passed the mans lips, "I should have known you'd do this."

"Going to stop us?" Lyn was still wary of him.

Leo shook his head, "I really should as the second Knight. But," he sighed again, "It seems like there is no need. Come, I will lead the way."

At that comment, Rhys turned to her. He wrapped his cape around her shoulders. "From this point onwards it's the same as before. A path to the mountain region. Take care; otherwise, you'll catch a cold."

She says nothing in response as Leo leads the group inside. She doesn't have to say anything, because Rhys understands it already.

.....

Lyn is well aware that Kazuya was against splitting off from her. But the group of three couldn't include her since larger groups tend to stand out more. Although she's fine with fighting again, Leo isn't; not because of her health either,' You'll cause a freaking landslide.' Well, it's true that she probably wouldn't be able to control her strength here. But did he really have to say it like that?

Rhys wouldn't split from her either, his legit reason being that he was her guard. However, Lyn knew it was because of the words she said to him then.

"Damm it. It won't open."

Just as they were heading down the steps, Lyn stepped on something on the ground and fell in. Rhys, who was beside her, reacted the quickest and now they were trapped underground.

"Let's go further in; there could be a exist somewhere."

"Even though this might be really dangerous, your pretty calm aren't you?" Lyn noticed. Then again, Rhys is most likely used to danger.

"Yeah. Before I could panic, Pupillam gave me a bunch of stuff and told me to watch over you."

"Ah," Lyn nodded, "I understand, Pupillam probably trusts you now."

Rhys raised his eyebrows, confused, "She does? How come?"

"I don't know, but since Pupillam said so you should be grateful. And also, yeah it's the same for me. I trust you, as long as you are next to me there's nothing to be afraid of."

Realizing the words that just left her lips, she remained silent, and it appeared as though Rhys was too stunned too; yet it didn't last long since Rhys spoke up.

"Say that one more time. . ."

"Pupillam trusts you."

"I already got the trust part," Rhys looked her up and down, "Well, never mind."

Lyn sighed a breath of relief, that was close. She almost said it. Words that should not be said; and emotions she doesn't understand. Back then and even now, it's still the same after all. Still, "Did you know Kazuya would be arriving?"

"I figured he would find a way to see you, so in a sense, yes, I suppose."

...

When Lyn opened her eyes, she saw the darkness of the night seeping inside from the opening in the tent.

Rhys was beside her, scribbling something down. She would have honestly loved to sit up and take a walk around to asses the situation. However, right now, her body feels so weak. 'Odd,' Lyn thought. Weren't they still in the caves earlier? Rhys said they would be going down a mountain path, but when did they get here?

"Rhys?" Lyn called out.

Rhys turned to her, "You're up," he trailed off, "You fainted not too long after you heard my answer regarding Kazuya."

"I see."

"Anyhow, do you want to eat? I made you some food. Don't worry; I asked that stupid aide what you like; it should be edible."

Lyn laughs, it seems like they've all been getting along together even if she isn't with them. That's a relief.

"I sent word to Kazuya; he's coming here right away. So by early morning, he should be here. Is there anything you want me to do, or bring?"

Kazuya is coming here. But she doesn't want him seeing her in such a condition again; she should rest up properly. Something she wants other than Kazuya. Lyn thought for a moment, "I think I need my pet bird."

It was just a small parrot, but it was one of her only companions.

Rhys suddenly imitates her bird, and she rolled her eyes.

"You know my bird would always sleep by my shoulder," Lyn lied. She just wanted to test him, but Rhys next actions surprised her.

At that comment, Rhys bent down and rolled up into a ball beside her. 'Is he serious? Does he not realize how ridiculous he looks?

But he really is doing whatever she wants, that's not new already, and yet she can tell what's different now. Lyn lifted her arm with what little strength she had and patted his head. "There, there, time to sleep."

"Uh, Princess," Rhys is dumbfounded. But Lyn carried on.

"There there." Her violet orbs softened, "You don't have to worry too much about Kazuya, he will be fine."

"That obvious?"

Lyn nodded; she still didn't understand the friendship between the two. But, "Thank you," Lyn whispered, "I know I'm not the best person to rely on, and I have my faults."

"Like neglecting your health and fainting?"

It almost feels like he is trying to rub it in. Lyn shook her head, don't think of it that way.

"Ah-huh. So, what I'm trying to say is even if I'm not the best person you can count on. I'm right here by your side; I will never leave you alone."

Even though she isn't dependable right now in this state, there is still something she can do for Rhys. Her eyes went wide when he pulled her into a deep embrace. "Rhys?" his lips were dangerously close to hers again. Lyn, however, tried to remain calm.

"Lyn," Rhys whispered.

"Huh?"

". .ove . .ou"

She cant hear him in this position, Lyn tried to shift in his arms, but it was challenging. So instead she looked up, and called out, "Rhys? What is it?" Why is Rhys trembling in her arms? Is there something wrong with him? Does he feel unwell? Is he sick? As these questions ran through her mind, Rhys suddenly drew back from her. A complicated look on his face.

What? Lyn was genuinely confused. After a few minutes, Rhys broke the silence.

"Goodnight Princess, sleep."