Deal With It Before Trouble Arises

Akiol didn't take offense to the previous suspicion. The circumstances didn't allow any leeway for mistakes. So Akiol spoke as if it was a trivial matter, "No need."

Terwin lowered his head nonetheless, "I have been a horrible host. Not only have I assumed you to be suspicious, but I have even endangered your life."

"Let's focus on the important things. First of all, what is going on?"

Although hesitant, Terwin found it only proper to tell Akiol the truth, "In my line of work, you can call us arms dealers. Privately owned companies who design weapons of sorts to be sold, patented or not. Harrell was our top competitor. That weapon you hold currently is a prototype we've been designing."

"Poor sword design, there's no guard."

"It wasn't meant to be a sword. Rather a larger version of the knife Hank wielded. These were designed to make it easier to cut through doors regardless of the material. The one you hold was a prototype to make it larger, although our technology falters the larger the tool becomes."

Akiol flipped the sword around and offered the handle to Terwin, "In that case it gets a pass. It was quite sturdy."

Terwin accepted it and handed it to a nearby guard, "Part of the trouble was a recent increase in hostility from Harrell's company. It was because of this that I asked you to visit me. I hadn't predicted he would strike so blatantly like this."

Looking towards the suit Terwin noted, "Although it seems I've come across the reason why."

Corolla tugged at Terwin's sleeve, "Now. . . isn't the time for this?"

Nodding at Corolla's comment Terwin continued, "Let us treat your wounds. I have several questions, but that can come later."

Akiol accepted the offer. His body ached terribly from being tossed around. Additionally deflecting the suit's blows proved to be a difficult ordeal and put a burden on his arms. Truth be told he was almost struggling to stand without the assistance of Aura.

After being led by a medical staff to another room. Akiol reflected on his usage of Aura. To be blunt he was too used to the vast quantity he had in A World's Legacy. It was clear that the quantity still remained, but the output was drastically limited. Perhaps it was due to the difference in physical body? Or maybe it was because A World's Legacy allowed easier access to the soul?

Time passed in a blink as he contemplated all of this. Eventually the next day arrived and his temporary living quarters was visited by Terwin. Taking a seat in the corner Terwin held a grave look, "We were careless. I have to ask for your forgiveness yet again."

"What happened?"

"Harrell was cautious. It seems the data from the suit was being sent back to their headquarters. This means they know we have their suit, and who dealt the damage to it."

"They know of me?"

"Yes. Since you're an ordinary citizen it was easy to figure out your identity through some strings. They may very well be trying to hunt you down."

". . ."

"I'll have to ask you to stay here. We will make sure your every need is met, and even fulfill many of your wants. Any demands we will do our best to meet since this is entirely my fault.", Terwin gripped his knees, "This is all I can do however. For now we're trying to solve this matter, but since we have access to the suit they're being entirely too hostile."

"They won't accept it back?"

"They can't."

"A reason you can't discuss?"

"I'm afraid so."

"What of my friends and family?"

"There is a chance. . . they may be put at risk. We can send people to keep an eye on them at all times. Should anything occur it will be handled-"

"Passive excuses.", Akiol's eyes narrowed.

Terwin flinched, "What?"

"Diplomatic reasoning, negotiations, it's all just talk. I've seen it all. Time and time again.", Akiol turned his head to stare directly at Terwin, "I'll make this clear. This clear hostility must be dealt with. No matter what. I will not allow this potential threat harm me or anyone I care about. I have seen what they are capable of on a small scale."

"I cannot allow you to do that. Such violent-"

"You have heard my warning."

Terwin felt he misjudged Akiol's character. Often times he felt as if Akiol was a free-spirited type. Someone who didn't take too much care for the world. Right now he couldn't have been more wrong. Remembering how Akiol eliminated Johnson without hesitation reminded him of Hank's unhesitating efficiency. This was someone who was experienced with these matters.

Akiol on the other hand was being extremely cautious. He had underestimated this world without mana for too long. After what happened with Rebecca, he knew for a fact that any threat that showed itself needed to be eliminated. So no one will be hurt again.

This emotionless attitude. A determined fighter protecting who he cares for. Features Akiol had that slowly faded away with James' presence. They were now resurfacing. The old, deadly, efficient warrior. The one hailed as Hero.

Jokes, humor, carelessness. These were aspects of James. Now that he was gone. . . the several decades he spent in unconscious training. . . it dug back up his real self. Someone who was used to constant bloodshed. Someone who knew better than to let a threat fester like an infected wound. If something arose, threatened him or anyone, then cut it down and don't let it arise again.

Terwin couldn't meet Akiol's eyes. It felt as if they were piercing through him, like some sort of beast weighing his worth. When was the last time he felt like this? Even when facing Hank's cruel nature he didn't blink. Years of training to make this constitution. A facade meant to bluff the most experienced veterans. All of it shattered under the man who faced the end of the world, and cut it down.

He would not fully submit. His pride and will refused to. If he cannot stop a situation, then profit from it. Looking up and braving Akiol's stare he spoke some daring words. Words that shocked even himself.

"Then let us be of assistance."