Rushed footsteps came from deeper inside the alley as Esperia could overhear some children talking in the distance. "I got disturbed by them stupid adults!" One of the children exclaimed which led to the other to reply with a groan. "You had one job Gunther, one job!" Which made Esperia chuckle inwardly and slowly approached the alley's exit.
The children were clearly arguing about the fact their group's member had failed to spray the paint properly, yet they were so occupied with each other they had not even seen Esperia approach. "So what do we do next?" The one inquired?" To which Esperia hummed playfully. "How about retiring?" The comment made their leader shake his head lightly in response. "Yeah retiring right now seems a good idea---- WAIT WHO SAID THAT?!"
The group turned toward her in a panic, the children glaring up to her while their leader commanded his friends. "Everyone run!" Two of the boys ran toward the east, two toward the west and one tried to run past her, yet Esperia raised a hand sideways, causing a series of golden portals to emerge behind her, two bolts of light landing to the east and west side as the shields landed in front of the children, making them yelp in a panic while Esperia raised a hand toward the child that tried to run past her, grabbing the back of his neck.
"So~ Has the retreat been intercepted?"
The leader groaned in frustration. "Y-yes, we won't retreat..." Hearing those words Esperia hummed softly as she placed the child down in front of her. "Now~ Why don't you hand in those cans and tell me what is making you kids be up to this mischief?"
Hearing those words the children sighed audibly, making their leader decide to start explaining the reason for their crimes to Esperia. Yet what consequences would this story have? Only time would tell...