49. Embrace

You here, Awakener?

Welcome back.

Feels like coming home when I hear that, haha.

Looks like we're just in time.

In time for what?

This whole mission was a trap. Our intel was false.

Rasparta issued false intelligence to lure you here.

We were really worried and rushed back.

I see...

We didn't find any clues, but at least you're okay.

Actually, you're late.

I already found our next clue for the Relic Component.

Huh?!

My god, you ran into Horus and fought off a Raspartan ambush with her?

And you traded a handful of gift ideas for a clue to the Relic Component?

I'm not sure.

All I know was Horus seemed genuine, before her cover was blown.

...And I took advantage of that fact.

No one takes advantage of Horus, without her consent.

She singlehandedly unified the Nebu Alliance and transformed it into the monster it is today.

You blew her cover. We need to get out of here.

As soon as Snezhana gets back, we leave.

I understand.

I wonder how she's doing.

What's all that noise outside?

Tourists. The guards let them all in.

Snezhana! You're back!

Knock me down with a feather. You'll never guess what I just heard!

What have you heard?

I heard a little rumor, concerning Horus, the Head of Nebu!

Horus again?

Huh? You heard it already!

I think it's probably different. You tell us yours first.

Sure, Captain.

Someone with connections to the Nebu military told me the Gift of Waters was reinstituted at Horus's insistence.

And only the reason she wanted to revive the Gift of Waters was so that she could give a gift to her bodyguard!

Guards at every checkpoint all agree that this was the reason.

And what would they know about Horus's business?

Well, Horus cordoned off half the city so she could choose a present in peace.

She didn't want anyone knowing what she was up to, and she wanted to take her time.

Only Horus is capable of such a thing.

A bit overly dramatic, but it does explain how Awakener came to meet Horus.

What? You MET Horus?

Was it close by?

Not just that, Awakener helped her choose the gift and received a clue to the Relic Component in return.

...what have I missed...

Okay. Remember, we're carrying passes issued by Wadjet.

We cannot remain too long in Nebu.

Huh? But what out Gift of Waters? I already got you guys presents.

I even went back into the city and got us some new passes issued by Ifurito so we can stay around for the festival.

I got gifts too. We should stay, at least until the festival is over!

I organized mine while I was helping Horus.

...

Fine... Fine. We leave as soon as we have exchanged gifts.

Here, Captain. I got you a fountain pen. I know you like this model.

Thank you.

(Coughing) I got you a purse. It's got a picture of a snow owl on it.

I got you a bookmark. They only make these in Nebu. I hope you like it.

Guys...

Sorry. I've been really busy. I haven't had time to organize any presents for you yet.

I know, you can give each of us a hug as a thank you!

A h-hug?

Me first!

Eriri!

Now me!

My turn?

Aaaaah?!

Hey, just a small one!

Hey, why'd the Captain react like that when it was Awakener's turn?

Maybe she doesn't really like Awakener?

Eriri!

Okay, okay. A quick hug. We won't look.

... Mm.