Elydes Chapter 187: Stalker

Chapter 187 - Stalker

Bidding goodbye to the Silver Edge, Kai and Flynn stepped on the ivory docks. The shuffle of people and voices washed over them. No matter the place or the hour, silence and privacy were foreign concepts in Higharbor.

I already miss Sylspring peace and quiet.

Goods and news from all over the archipelago and the mainland flowed through the capital, and it was also where a certain stalker lived. With her fa and reputation, the little princess shouldnt be hard to find, though getting her help might prove more problematic.

One step at a ti.

He had missed his own house more than he thought possible. Clean and spacious, if a little ssy. While he enjoyed spending ti with his family, six people were too manyespecially when they had to share a single bathroom.

Happy to be ho? Flynn put down their luggage and went to check the rooms for any signs of intrusion.

Sotis I wonder whos more paranoid

Im happy to have a bed and not sleep on the floor every other day. Kai took in the familiar atmosphere and sll of herbs. Do we have anything to eat?

Hmm rember you told your mother youd take a fair share of the chores? Flynn mused, coming back from his inspection. I wouldnt want to tell her you lied next ti we talk.

Kai narrowed his eyes. I should have seen it. You only bought the communication cubes to blackmail .

Youre catching on to my sches. The teen gave him a sly grin. Unfortunately, its too late to save yourself. Groceries are on you, Ill rest my poor bones here. He stretched out on the couch, kicking off his shoes. His lower thigh had healed well, and he had deed his scar cool enough for him.

If you want to play, lets play.

Okay, but before I go, have you decided to keep your perception and social skills? Kai inquired.

Yes His voice was lined with suspicion. Why?

Most of your skills need other people to work. I wouldnt deprive you of such a chance for valuable training opportunity.

Ive plenty of ways to train from here. He produced a throwing knife, juggling it between his fingers. Ill keep myself busy.

Im sure of it. I do have a few Mana Sense exercises that would be great to practice. Counting the mana filants inside a tangleweed is extrely rewarding. You should be getting a level soon. Now, where did I put that herb? He began taking out random plants from his ring. You promised to do as I say if its useful, and I wouldnt want to make you a liar.

Flynn pressed his lips together and put his shoes back on with a sulk. Fine, Ill go. Only this ti.

Of course. Well share the duties that dont interfere with your training. Dont forget my mangos. Kai waited for the door to shut before he slumped on the couch.

Ho sweet ho.

* * *

Kai was proud he had managed to track down Valela without Flynns help. He kept an open ear and made so discreet inquiries. As the daughter of the high councilor, everyone in the upper city gossiped about her.

Their estate occupied the largest swath of land after the governors family. The lavish complex of ivory stone and imported woods spread over the top of the hill towards the sea, enclosed by a dense edge and a cloaking array that barred his Mana Sense.

He only caught a glimpse of the high buildings and flowering trees inside. The private guards patrolling the ground stared down at anyone who walked closer than ten paces. They strode towards him with steely faces when he didnt move along.

Selling your soul to the Republic must pay well.

He had known she was filthy rich since she buried him in silver to satisfy her curiosity, but he had underestimated the scale. It confird she would have access to the restricted list, and that she wouldnt be moved by any amount of money he could dish out.

At most, shell say no, or demand an outrageous price

The problem was getting her alone to talk. The little princess rarely graced the streets used by common mortals. When she did, she always moved from one place to the next escorted by a pack of guards and lackeys.

He didnt want to discuss such a private request in front of everybody, and he couldnt knock on the gate of her estate. Well, technically he could, though that would attract unwanted attention. Odds were the guards would shoo him away before she knew he was there.

His possible embarrassnt played no part in his choice to discard the option.

Kai strode through the paved roads of the upper city. Getting enhancing elixirs for his mom was a tily matter. He had given himself a week to find a semi-discreet way to learn her habits and figure out a way to contact her. If he failed, he would swallow his unease and approach her directly.

I can't believe I beca the stalker. What a world.

Five days passed with little aningful progress. Despite his misgivings, he had grown a begrudging appreciation for the immaculate streets and parks of the upper city. Little oases of green and quiet with stunning vantage points to admire the sun setting over the capital and the sea.

Lines of orderly lights ran through the lower city to fight off the darkness and tinged the capital in a soft glow. If he stretched his Perception, he could hear the faint echoes of people having fun in the Ring Road.

Its probably the closest anyone can get to peace in the capital.

A week wouldn't be enough to ascertain her routine. Stalking without social dia was a hard job. He might succeed in a month, or maybe soone would take notice of his suspicious behavior and arrest him. Both sounded equally likely.

I admit it! I should have taken Flynns help from the beginning and endured his teasing. Happy? The damn jerk will be so smug.

Kai stifled a yawn. He had gotten a little sidetracked and wandered aimlessly. Globes on sculpted iron poles illuminated the tree-lined avenue while the blue shard of a pale moon hung lonely in the sky.

A rose marble mansion with bronze statues near the porch helped him get his bearings. He headed towards the residential area Valela was known to frequent. At this point, his best shot was a eting by chance. He had stocked up on Favor and it was ti it paid rent.

Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.

Blessed spirits!

Kai blinked twice. The girl walked by herself at the intersection of his street. He hadnt thought it would actually work. He took a few hesitant steps and squinted to confirm he wasnt mistaken.

The figure was female and young, perhaps a couple years older than him. She wore a blue lace dress that was relatively plain for the standards of the upper city. Her face was hidden by a wide cream sun hat. Given the absence of the day star in the sky, there could be few reasons to carry one.

A runaway princess. Being constantly subjected to other peoples attention must be exhausting.

Each step increased his certainty. Despite her discreet attire, her walk exuded the quiet confidence of soone who didnt need to raise their voice to be heard. A stark contrast with the shy girl who hid under a hat.

Valela! Kai sprinted after her before she could disappear into another street or mansion. His Favor might not give him a second chance.

The runaway princess turned to watch him with mild surprise. She looked more mature than he rembered, fully inhabiting her royal deanor. She wasnt a girl playing dress up any longer, though her young age was noticeable in the soft curves of her face.

Another figure blocked his way. Kai dodged, but the naless stranger moved to stand between them and grabbed his arm. A middle-aged woman, plain face and stony expression built like a gnarly spike. She regarded him with a cold gaze like a buzzing insect.

Mana gathered in his palms, Empower was ready to surge through his body. Only Hallowed Intuition's lack of warning held his hand enough for Valela to talk.

Its fine, Ferla. I know him. Hes not a threat.

The woman brusquely let him go. Let know if you need help, miss. She gave Valela a nod and a stern look to Kai. This one is more dangerous than he appears.

Then she was gone. Kai caught a swirl of Shadow mana and a slippery presence camouflaging into the night. What a charming lady. He peered at the trees, trying to follow the rude woman.

Ferlas my bodyguard. She doesnt like when strangers approach without permission. Valela strode up to him, her bright erald eyes unmistakable behind the brim of her wide hat. What are you doing here, Kai?

I

How could I not prepare for this part?Stupid brain!

I could ask you the sa question. He stared back suspiciously. Have you been following ? I thought it was a strange coincidence to find you here.

Really, Improvisation? Was that the best you could give ?

Though her expression didnt change, Kai could feel the skepticism flood down from her high nose. I was nearby and needed to get so air. I didnt know you also lived on the hills. Valela challenged him.

Kai held up her gaze. So, you know where I live? I dont rember telling you that last ti.

I it was a reasonable assumption given your financial situation. You know the Republic has a file on you, which has not been updated since last ti, by the way.

Kai had lived long enough with Flynn to notice the tell signs of high social skills. He let the matter drop in a tie. Well, since were both here, we might as well walk together if youre fine with it.

Valela considered him from her height advantage, unreadable thoughts churning behind the surface. Why not. The air is pleasant tonight.

Is your bodyguard listening to us?

She glanced at the spot the woman was hiding in. Ferlas a professional, and she knows how to be discreet. Nothing we say will be shared with others, unless I choose to.

Of course, Your Majesty.

Hmm Why do you even have a bodyguard? Kai asked. The enforcers regularly patrolled the upper city and checked every person coming and going from the hills. I doubt there is a safer place in Higharbor, or is it a rich people thing? Cant be seen walking around without a servant.

It wouldnt really work if Ferla hides in the shadows

Her hand fell on the left side of her stomach with a complicated look. A mont later, she was self-assured again. You cant expect us to keep every pest away by ourselves. She gave him a wry smile. And why do you always worry about being overheard? One might think you have sothing to hide.

Damn, shes gotten better.

I just like to be mysterious. Kai gave her a cheeky grin, hoping she wouldnt dig deeper.

Im sure thats the entire reason. Valela seed close to rolling her eyes, only slightly shaking her head instead. Why did you co looking for ? Dont get wrong, its nice seeing you, but you usually run away like a startled cat when you see .

For your information I only make dignified retreats, thank you very much.

Kai briefly debated denying his reasons for being here. Itd be a terrible idea. There was a subtle difference between teasing and treating soone like an idiot. Sothing told him Valela wouldnt appreciate the latter.

No beating around the bush, eh? Why is it so hard to say?

Uh I I need a favor. Kai muttered, looking for her reaction. Valela didnt give anything away and waited for him to continue.

Would it kill you to say sothing? And why is the night so warm?

He dried his hands on his shirt and took a breath, bracing for rejection. Do you have access to the list of restricted items of the Republic? I need sothing I cant buy anywhere else. Of course, Id pay for it.

Her eyebrow arched, face still impassive. I wont ask how you learned about that list, but even if I wanted to, you need to register before making a purchase. And I wont lie for you.

I understand, Kai hung his head low. So you cant get the enhancing elixirs

Valela faltered the rhythm of her steps. You an the potions for an unborn baby?

Yes? What else did you think I wanted?

The princess looked away, examining a tree that had suddenly caught her interest. The items on those lists are restricted for a reason. They could pose a security risk in the wrong hands.

Kai didnt stop himself from rolling his eyes. Of course! Never be that so peasant babies are born with a higher grade. The Republic would be overrun in a day!

Thats not what I ant. She said, flustered. The elixirs arent even supposed to be there. You dont know the other items that are on those lists.

Communication tools? Bombs? Did she think I was planning to burn down a town? What exactly is the Republic keeping for themselves?

Yeah, sure. What could even be that dangerous?

Valela didnt take the bait. Unfortunately, its restricted information. I cant talk about it.

Pity. Maybe Reishi knows

Does this an you can get the elixirs for , if I pay you?

It depends. I would need to know who they are for. She looked at him with her brows furrowed. Youre a little young to be having a child.

Kai replied with a flat stare. Im not. My moms about twelve weeks pregnant.

Oh, congratulations to your family. She strolled along like nothing. Then I could get you the red ones, but they wont be cheap.

The price wont be a problem. Are you saying there are higher-grade elixirs?

No. Valela bit her lip, lowering her voice. Well not on sale. And not that anyone in the archipelago could afford them anyway. Id also like your discretion on this.

Ill keep silent like a fish. Kai smiled. He wanted to quiz her for more information, but first, he needed to secure his prize. How much do the red ones cost?

She had a pensive look, likely knowing an answer would an she was agreeing to help him. Two golds.

Two for a bottle! His eyes bulged. Wasnt the Republic stock supposed to be cheaper?

A bottle? Its two golds for a four-month supply. What would you even do with one dose? Only a scamr would sell them individually. Valela peered at him in realization, playing with an auburn curl that had escaped her hat. The elixirs need to be consud consistently to be effective. If you want more, its seventy silvers for every extra month.

I knew I wasnt stalking you for nothing.

His heart pumped in celebration. When can you get them? You know its a tily matter.

Valela pulled the lock of hair behind her ear. Ive yet to agree to anything, I only said I could, not that I would. The Republic doesnt want people to abuse the system, so I can only buy restricted items for soone else twice a year. And Ive already used it once and the year is far from over

Kai pressed his lips in a line. He didnt know whether this rule was true or just an excuse. Either way, there was no arguing when one person held all the cards. What do you want in exchange? I can pay you in gold.

My poor shiny coins.

I dont want your money. Valela pursed her mouth as if offended by the notion. Lets just say you owe one favor. Ill co to collect it when I need it. Do we have a deal?