Let Him Come

It took me approximately thirty minutes to return to the hotel, whereupon I detoured to a clothing store to purchase a new outfit.

After all, I couldn't possibly show up looking like this.

By the way, the physical repercussions of utilizing the 'Embrace Discard' had begun manifesting on my body.

My muscles were ablaze and my bones ached with intensity.

Interestingly, this time the side effects appeared much later than they did when I last employed the 'Embrace Discard' against Quinn.

Perhaps as I advance in the mana core rankings, the onset of the side effects will be delayed even further.

As I made my way toward my room, I could sense the red ruby beginning to materialize within my chest once again, causing me great discomfort. 

Despite the pain, I clenched my teeth tightly and marched on.

"Welcome back, sir. Can I see your room key card?"

Upon passing the hotel entrance, the receptionist greeted me with a warm welcome.