The airship of Knuckles Shi floated gracefully down to land before the imposing edifice of the Rune Knights Headquarters. It was impressively massive, with a structure that showed an intriguing architecture, tastefully combining both classical and modern elements. Majestic spires rose from the center, flanked on either side by strong walls with battlements; the large, arched entrance, flanking armored knights mounted on horseback, led into beautifully manicured gardens with immaculately trimmed hedges.

Knuckles turned towards the headquarters, and his heart felt a surge of admiration mixed with nostalgia. It was grand, but it couldn't hold a candle to the manor he grew up in his family's estate, sprawling with ornate columns and sprawling lawns, intricate frescoes adorning every inch. In contrast, the building of the Rune Knights Headquarters is rather austere, albeit impressive in its own right an embodiment of the disciplined nature of this organization.

As he landed and stepped off his airship, Knuckles felt a pang of uncertainty about Ittindi. How would his best friend and butler adapt to these surroundings? For Ittindi was used to the luxuries of Shi manor, where indulgence and comfort reigned supreme. Here, the grounds functioned and were pragmatic far removed from the elegant halls and florid rooms they were used to.

Knuckles hoped that Ittindi's loyalty and adaptability would help him find a place with the Rune Knights, even if the setting was less grandiose than what they had known.

Ittindi was at his old barracks doing the one thing a superior could count on when his demeanor was low. A surprise field day of the best activity…cleaning of course! He had just finished watching one of the Corporals scream at one of the privates for the same missed dust spot that had been in every room. Ittindi wondered what happened to the stipend he had gotten approved for telescopic dusters, he still saw the old cleaning equipment that should have been trashed or donated. When he found the corporal responsible he would ensure that they never received a promotion for the rest of their career. They had made a terrible enemy of the worse kind.

Sadly for the group of Rune Knights waiting for the room with a unauthorized female visitor they would be saved by a ship. As Ittindi heard a familiar rumble outside headquarters. He’d quickly dismiss himself from the group telling them to take the day off after setting up patrols and such. A quick salute here and there, then Ittindi was off as he opened the door out of the barracks his Tuxedo absorbed the summer rays peaking down, his pale face covered by the shadow of his top hat, Gold stripe changing to Red, with one long black feather tucked in the left side. Ittindi would see that Colonel Tōga had appeared as well. Ittindi knew he was at headquarters but hadn’t run into him busy schedules and all that.

”A regular calamity we are just the three of us, what are you doing here Young Master?”

He was curious why he decided to come visit, he hadn’t mentioned anything off to Ittindi in their usual correspondence. He wondered if there was some breaking news that had changed his current situation. Ittindi thought the only time he’d see his young master was when he was visiting Seven. The giant cross gun hung off Ittindi’s back with random quotes of Illumin that had been engraved in the weapon. Ittindi would be lying if he didn’t try a couple in the mirror and decided against catch phrases for himself.

As if trouble was afoot Toga and Ittindi arrived shortly after Knuckles landed. Seeing that warming smile from Toga, Knuckles offered a hand wave. Soon Ittindi joined them and Knuckles offered a handshake to each other them. It had been true that when the three of them normally met up the world had some crisis for the three of them to handle.

"Greetings friends, Sir Toga and Ittindi, I am pleased to be greeted by you two. I was half expecting a guard squad to surround my ship when it touched down. I am at ease that is was just you two. Friends, I mean. Hahaha. "

Knuckles inspected both his friends to ensure they were in good health. "Well, there is something wrong I am sorry to report. It seems that we have yet to capture an elusive target and I need you two to help me capture it! Knuckles took time to look over his shoulder and behind the two men scanning for any unwanted ears. "I have come so we may work together on this. You see there is a target nearby that we must work together in hitting. I believe it has serval aliases. Though the one most known by all is..."

Knuckles paused a moment for dramatic effect. Unsure how this was going to go over. "The bar. They are giving drinks away! We must hurry! Though perhaps a tour first hm? As a friend I must ensure that this place is worthy of holding the World's best Butler and the Rivial of Knuckles The Clout Chaser Shi."

He tried with all his might to hold back the thunderous laugh behind his lips, it hurt to hold in this much laughter and it was the perfect Con to set up a day drinking trip. Though that last part was true, if this place did not measure up to his inspection he would require them both to leave those uniforms behind and join Sleeping Calamity in Seven, despite if they wished for it not. It was not like either of them had the strength to escape his grip.

After all, since the last time he had seen either of them Knuckles had gained a sizeable difference in muscle mass. He had even been practicing using a two-handed weapon with one hand to increase his strength. His strength was not all gained from armor blessings anymore, though the enchantments did still work.

“Colonel Tōga, Young Guildmaster, getting drunk during the day what an atrocious idea.”

Ittindi would say curtly, but then would continue as he let the silence hang in the air for just a moment. He was glad Lady Lumikki wasn’t here she had a way of reading him, it ruined half the surprise.

”However, under the circumstances that we haven’t celebrated your newest accomplishment in Era my arm could be twisted. Just as long as we don’t get as drunk as we did when Lady Jikan killed me.”

Ittindi would adjust his neck thinking of the time he was slammed into the ground multiple times then hurled at a wall. Well, it was a wall before his body had destroyed it. That had been one of the more painful resurrections, as he could hear Naki laughing. Ittindi and Naki’s relationship had become more symbiotic since his awakenings. It seemed that he was on track to being one of the last avatars of death. If that meant he had to suffer for the rest of humanity, well that wasn’t much different than any other day being in service.

Sacrifice, even of his sterling reputation would be something Ittindi burdened alone. Drinking during the day in Era of all places, he’d have to keep his face stoic. Also did the Young Master mention that he had picked Colonel Tōga as a rival. The looming horizon of having to choose between his office or friend became more apparent every week. He had dueled with both and couldn’t be sure who was stronger. The Young Master had held back in their last fight, but Ittindi would get peaks of his true strength past the veil of his good intentions.

”Yes, I think we could get to Stella levels, though I don’t think we’ll be taking my car in that case. Probably not the airship either unless you have a pilot Young Guildmaster.”

Colonel Tōga may have gone all out, but they had both agreed to no magic, which was a severe handicap on both sides. He had some idea of his potential from their battle of the god, he was curious how thunder versus fire faired. The next time they fought he’d have to go watch, with Sleeping Calamity in Seven he found himself there more, especially after his talk with General Saturn.

He had neglected to mention to both of his friends his most recent change, the need to dye his hair back to it’s original color. His eye surgery that had to be redone close near every month. It wouldn’t do for his appearance to be the deep white he woke up with that morning. Their were some benefits, he was still a human at heart, his other awakening seemed even more powerful. He could now sense everything in his near vicinity and passively even know danger. It would change his up-close gun fighting style to more of a martial style. That and his other surprises, he needed to either train with Lady Lumikki or explain to either of his friends his magic’s change. Another thing that he had been keeping to himself, Ittindi had to be better about secrets or was this a lie?

Knuckles started to wonder when Ittindi had started calling him Young Guildmaster. It was something so small he just caught it, though then again perhaps it had been the first time this had occurred. Knuckles would have to address it later when he was alone with Ittindi, no matter what the case for it. He had told him already to stop with the master stuff, but he had gotten so used to it.

"Who's going to mind if two of the rising stars take off to broker a peace deal with the Sleeping Calmanity Guild Master? Or would they rather me return the guild to a nationwide threat?"

His face became serious with that question but then quickly changed as if he was joking. He was to an extent, he was here to broker some sort of alliance of the two guilds, but he also knew these two were not the one person he needed to see to make that happen officially. Though what he had said earlier was also true. If this place failed to hold to his standard he was bringing Ittindi back to Sleeping Calamanity with him and he would dare anyone to stop him.

" Of course I do! Who the hell do you think I am, I have my entire faction from my days as a Don on that ship. "

Knuckles looked back at the Airship and smiled. Turning back to his friends Knuckles pointed to the building. "Shall we?" Without waiting for either of the two men to lead the way, Knuckles started walking towards the building.

”Well broker a peace deal, that sounds like Colonel Tōga’s department. I’ll be there to scribe notes lets go!.”

The idea of Sleeping Calamity being a nationwide threat would hamper his ability to freely visit them while a Rune Knight. He’d hate to have to invest in some kind of disguise to see the Young Master, or even worse him doing something so heinous that he’d have to cut ties.

Cut ties with the Rune Knights or the Young Master?

Ittindi would think the answer in his secret sanctum a place that even Naki couldn’t peer into. As Colonel Tōga had a question about him dying, Ittindi would no doubt have multiple slip ups with a conversation between the Young Master and the Colonel here. He’d just have to explain it any time it came up, odd to have someone be curious.

” Well it’s simple Colonel, the worlds greatest butler’s oath to cleaning is so strong that not even death could stop me from getting those stains out of a restaurants stove. I had the job the next morning. I know what you’re thinking before you ask…it was hydrogen peroxide with baking soda you let the mixed paste solution to sit overnight then you can get it clean out the next morning. Even when cooking with magical meat like this restaurant. I found out that tip in Minstrel.”

Ittindi was satisfied with that stove it had turned out great, the owners more so trying to find a way to make him a permanent employee. That was when his Young Master and Colonel Tōga would have one of their usual spats over Ittindi. It was an odd feeling; he still wasn’t entirely comfortable with their relationship since they almost seemed to be rivals. Luckily he hadn’t heard about any serious fights between the two.

If it did happen Ittindi would prefer not to watch, nothing would be worse than finding out his Young Master was holding back on the Colonel. He hoped they were close to the same league that way when Ittindi topped one he could top the other, even higher sat his teacher. Her bird feather almost seemed to shine in his top hat at his thoughts.

”I’m fine in the Rune Knights though I have yet to find a good second, what about you Colonel?”

Ittindi was curious what kind of place they were going first following behind both Colonel Tōga and the Young Master.

Knuckles let out a hearty laugh at Ittindi's explanation, finding the butler's dedication both amusing and admirable. "Only you, Ittindi, could cheat death just to clean a stove," he remarked, a smirk playing on his lips. It was moments like these that reminded Knuckles why he valued Ittindi so much—not just for his skills, but for his unwavering loyalty and quirky sense of humor.

Turning his attention to Tōga, Knuckles' expression became more serious, though a glint of mischief remained in his eyes. "You know, Tōga, if I ever did decide to cause some real trouble, you'd be the first to know. But for now, let's just keep things friendly, yeah? Besides, the last thing I want is to make an enemy out of a drinking buddy."

As they walked toward the building, Knuckles couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The tension between the Sleeping Calamity and the Rune Knights was palpable, but here they were, about to share a drink and some stories. It was a small victory in his larger plan to broker peace and strengthen alliances—one that he intended to see through to the end.

Once inside, Knuckles glanced around the room, his eyes scanning for a suitable place to sit. "Ittindi, take notes if you must, but make sure to grab a drink too. We're here to talk, not to hold court. And Tōga, let’s see if they’ve got that sake you’re so nostalgic about. I might even join you for a glass or two."

Knuckles then found a spot and settled in, his mind already working on how to steer the conversation. He knew this was just the beginning. Whether this meeting would end with a stronger alliance or an unspoken understanding between old friends, Knuckles was ready for whatever came next. "Alright, gentlemen, let's see what this place has to offer," he said, signaling for the drinks to be brought over.

The day was still young, and Knuckles had plans—big ones. But for now, it was time to enjoy the moment, build some camaraderie, and lay the groundwork for the future. As the drinks were served, Knuckles raised his glass, looking first at Ittindi, then at Tōga. "To old friends and new alliances," he toasted, the smile on his face as genuine as it was rare.

Of course, the Young Master was more worried about their drinking than any note taking for the evening. What a bore, but Ittindi never had a problem keeping up with the festivities, even if he didn’t seem as jubilant as the others.  Ittindi wasn’t surprised by Colonel Tōga’s answer to what he’d do with his powers. However, there were countless Colonel Tōga’s like figures in Naki’s memory so far in all his exploration there had been none similar to him. He wondered if that meant he was suited, after all the cycle for someone paired with Oni could be decades. Ittindi wouldn’t truly surpass anyone until his time stretched so far the horizon of his origin was longer than any memory of another user.

As they sat down, it wouldn’t be a surprise that drinks were already on their way before the conversation had begun. They would all toast, and Ittindi hoped for the best silencing any thoughts from Naki or his own inner turmoil.

”To old friends and new alliances, and I always want to clean Colonel Tōga. I just know how to control myself. At least until we drink more!”

He’d finish his drink with a gulp after speaking. It was the first of the day, and Ittindi did enjoy the slow creep of the initial buzz, after that the drinking became pedantic for him. As he looked around the bar to take in the crowd, and the ambience, he did indeed hate the atmosphere of a bar. However, it was one of his favorite battlegrounds for the truly passionate. The staff of course, they had to not just fight drunk customers, but also the disgusting child like messes they created spontaneously.

”So last time I was out socially with each of you I asked you both about your romance life, I’ve heard about yours Young Guildmaster. Has yours faired any better Colonel? I’m afraid I haven’t found anyone worthy of my adoration on my front. Not that I was looking to hard to be honest.”

Indeed, he had given it thought the other day at Naki’s request. Going on a date following the pointless social conventions to try and find someone who completed him more than a suit or the warmth of a clean abode.

Knuckles took a long sip from his cup, feeling the warmth of sake spread while Tōga and Ittindi exchanged words. The tavern was alive, often easy to be swept into, but only if one joined a conversation; his mind, though, was several paces ahead.

He leaned back in his chair with a chuckle. "Ittindi, I must admit that I don't envy your disinterest in romance. Of course, I have my plate full in that regard. Soon I will be setting off for Iceburg to begin the trials I must undertake to wed Lady Lumikki."

His eyes shifted to Tōga as a knowing smile played on his lips. "It's not about strength or power, but about proving your worth in every way. A different type of battle, but one I'm ready to face.".

He raised his cup once more and nodded to Ittindi. "While you clean bars, and Tōga here relives epic battles, I'll be out in the cold fighting for something worth more than any conquest or title.

Knuckles was interested in what Toga's love life was looking like, he had never thought of the man outside any light besides battle. To be fair though, Knux had not thought of love for himself until Ittindi had brought the idea up to him saying how he needed to find a suitable wife to bear an heir to the Shi name and also restart the nobility of the Shi name outside of Fiore.

Knuckles finished whatever remained in his cup and started on the second round. As for Ittindi, Knuckles was unsure if the man could do something like a relationship knowing how dirty it could get.

Ittindi was pleased to hear from both of his friends that they found suitable matches. He chuckled for a second, a break in his usual stoic demeanor before taking a swig of his refreshed drink before talking.

”I think the last time I had any interest in a women was when we invaded that guild years ago. I just have a natural affinity towards stronger women I guess. Though I didn’t see her in the guild hall when I went to visit Lady Lumikki and Sir Brone”

Ittindi thinking reflectively on his love life in recent years, there hadn’t even been a stirring in that area in so long. He wondered some days if he was asexual, but then he’d remember certain catalogues he was interested in as a boy. The need for certain maids for certain moods, usually reminded Ittindi that he was just busy not asexual.

”Hm, I’m sure if its meant to be it’ll happen. Though I suppose that’s what people who are lazy say, I imagine I’ll get lonely enough to search again one day. For now the only thing I’m searching for is my next promotion.”

At the mention of group dates, Ittindi suddenly felt much better about his decision to forego romance. He had never been on anything like a group date, and always wondered why people would want to compete as a couple against other friends. Better to have a general group meeting and invite couples and singles, perhaps their dates will be so fun Ittindi will be inspired. The thought almost made him chuckle, before taking another drink. His second cup was almost finished Ittindi would wonder a question he couldn’t speak aloud. Something to ask another day when both were alone, not together.

”More on your level, I do have a new artifact I’m acquiring soon from one of my former employers. Should be quite effective in both of your passions aka my fleeting hobby combat.  I was mainly interested because supposedly it isn’t visible when not deployed as armor, so I’ll be able to exercise my excellent fashion.”

"Ah, Tōga, ever looking to add some chaos in the cauldron," Knuckles Shi chuckled, raising his cup in friendly toast. "Glad to hear you're finding your rhythm with Ursula-chan. Sounds like she's got a fire in her that matches your own. I can definitely see how she'd be a good fit for you."

Knuckles sipped his drink thoughtfully, letting the warm sake seep through him. "As for Lady Lumikki and me, well. it's been a journey, to say the least. Ups and downs all over, but I wouldn't change that for anything. She changed the way I see things, and if anything is worth more than an arena victory, that is it." He paused looking at Toga in the eyes.

"Though what allures me is why you find that shocking."

He sat back, with a grin turned to Ittindi. "A group date, huh? That could be kind of fun-a way to mix things up. And who knows? Maybe you will get inspiration about your next big adventure. If not, it is a good time with friends. I would not pass on an opportunity to kick back and enjoy some company out of the grind."

Knuckles nodded in appreciation when Ittindi spoke of the artifact. "Sounds interesting. I have always liked how you balance functionality and style. Eager to witness what's next; perhaps it'll give me a run for my money in fashion!" He laughed outright, a real merry sound. "Anyway, here's to us-the victories, the loves, and the adventures to come. Cheers!"

He’d listen to the two romantics go on about their love lives and the struggles of relationships. That Ittindi could understand, it was hard enough maintaining his friendships something more advanced did sound taxing. Not to be all negative, Ittindi was aware that the reward was more than worth the struggle, when you found the right person at least.  He’d raise his drink for the cheers.

”To my few friends, and my many clients!”

Ittindi would take a drink while thinking about his sparring, while he hadn’t fought Lady Lumikki as Colonel Tōga and no doubt the Young Master had; Ittindi’s relationship with Lady Lumikki was as a mentor so while he had witnessed her power firsthand it was in a different avenue. It was odd to find that mage closest to his understanding of magic was a demon and his Young Master’s bride to be.  He had seen the colder parts of her personality, but much like Ittindi’s emotions they often stayed beneath the surface. Ittindi would laugh again this time much harder at Colonel Tōga’s implication that Ittindi’s suits weren’t destroyed. Looking over at Colonel Tōga, he’d answer back.

” Well the last Tuxedo I had was enchanted, as for my other suits I usually have 5-7 made at a time. It hasn’t happened as much in the Rune Knights, but back when the Young Master and I were in a guild I could barely go a day without having to buy a new outfit. I remember weeks I’d go work at a soup kitchen to eat the leftovers at the end of the day so I could afford more designer. Now days I don’t have to worry about that with a Major’s paycheck. Though I am thinking about buying property soon to store my growing collection.”

Ittindi was also thinking about eventually opening a school of etiquette. It wouldn’t be anytime soon with his obligations expanding with General Saturn’s new approach to the Rune Knights. A global force for good was the best way Ittindi could find to summarize their new intent. He’d listen to the Young Master’s answer on being a Guild Master. Ittindi was curious, it seemed that sometimes he was prouder than Knuckles on his achievements. He wondered if it that was a relic from his parental abuse, or something else entirely.  

”So, how long will your patience hold before I hear of Sleeping Calamity’s first guild raid? Or do you find yourself amicable with your neighboring guilds this time?”

Knuckles leaned back in his chair, a grin spreading across his face as he listened to Tōga and Ittindi banter about their romantic lives and sartorial dilemmas. The laughter and camaraderie filled the air, and he couldn't help but feel grateful for moments like these.

“Ah, you two sound like you’ve got your hands full! But it’s those fiery battles, whether in the arena or the heart, that make life interesting.” He poured himself another cup, enjoying the warmth spreading through him.

“As for being a Guild Master, it’s a different kind of challenge. It’s not just about leading; it’s about forging bonds and building trust. Each member has their own battles to fight, and I need to ensure I’m strong enough to support them. I can’t wait to show everyone what Sleeping Calamity is made of!”

He raised his cup for another toast. “To victories, love, and the adventures that await us all! And who knows, maybe a raid isn’t too far off. We’ve got plans brewing, and I intend to strengthen our ties with neighboring guilds before we strike. It’s all about finding the right moment.”

Knuckles glanced at Ittindi, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. “And hey, with your flair for fashion, I think you’d make a great addition to our guild's reputation. Imagine the shock on our enemies’ faces when they see you and I roll up looking like we just walked off a runway!”

The lightheartedness of the conversation surrounded them, and Knuckles felt a sense of determination. The future was full of possibilities, and he was ready to face them head-on, with friends by his side.

The similarities between Sir Knuckles and Colonel Tōga were striking, they even found motivation in similar things. It was really just a difference in how their estates panned out, though Ittindi hadn’t learned what happened in Colonel Tōga’s past to leave Joya behind and join the Rune Knights. His aversion to titles, seemed to indicate he was either a noble, or a man scorned by them most likely in the military with his skills. Either way Ittindi wasn’t one to pry secrets out they’d all reveal themselves in due time.  He smiled listening to the Young Master talking affectionately about his guild, it was the first step to being more human and less demonlike.

”Haha, we can strike out as duo without me being in your guild. Though I doubt I’ll engage in such wanton destruction again in my life. I do miss it so, sometimes I’ll see someone…like that lout over in the corner. Can you believe his brutishness and disregard for modern convention, if it were the old days I’d teach him some manners right now…the disrespect.”

If one were to glance at the man Ittindi was looking at, the proof would be in the pudding. He was holding his steak knife like it was a writing utensil. And to add insult to injury, he also was holding his fork with prongs upwards. He was obviously struggling to cut his meat, what a fool. It also might be the drinks getting to Ittindi as he finished another glass, signaling for another while producing a tip for the staff. They had provided 7/10 service so far, and he always appreciated those who worked above average especially in such a bustling establishment.

Ittindi was also curious on the Young Masters answer to Colonel’s Tōga’s question. When he answered Ittindi wonder if he would be able to keep his face passive. Normally a stoic, the more he drank around the Young Master, the faster it would unravel. That was the curse of being friends with someone, Colonel Tōga was fast approaching a level similar. Though Ittindi doubted he’d ever do much besides take off the rank when talking to him.

The same thought occurred to him that happened when he was talking to General Saturn on Vander island. On whether Colonel Tōga knew about all the ins and outs of the Communication Ministry. Ittindi had given it a lot of thought and realized he would want his own place for the department. He still hadn’t decided where he wanted it, that was a problem he could possibly bring up later in their conversation. Between the three of them they had been all over the world.

Knuckles paused a moment, allowing the vibrant feel of the tavern to seep into his consciousness: the lively chatter, the clinking of cups, and the rich atmosphere of food wafting through the air. The camaraderie at the table was palpable, and he could see it oozing from Tōga in contentment as the other spoke about Ursula.

“Sounds like you two have found a real treasure in each other, Tōga. It's those contrasts that keep things exciting, right? Like ice and fire—one moment you're freezing, the next you're ablaze! Perfectly balanced.”

As Ittindi chimed in, Knuckles couldn't help but chuckle at the jab about guild raids. “Oh, I wouldn't want to spoil the fun with a full-frontal attack! There's an art to it, after all. Perhaps a little stealth, maybe a surprise party? Nothing like keeping our enemies on their toes!” An impish sparkle was in his eyes as he shared in the light-hearted banter, enjoying the thought of managing to pull off something different.

Knuckles leaned forward, placing his elbows on the table. “As far as our fashion sense goes, you know it's all about making an impression, Tōga! What better way to confound our foes than to show up looking like we stepped off of a runway?” He laughed, finding the humor in the idea.

He turned to Ittindi, who looked like a fish out of water, staring off blankly for a moment. “But Ittindi, if the chaos of old is what you miss, then why not turn that energy into something constructive? A mentor, a teacher, or even just a guardian of sorts. You've got the skills, after all! Also, not everyone holds their fork as if it's a weapon, so perhaps you could just start there.” He gestured toward the man Ittindi had been watching, his laughter threatening to boil over again as he took in the view.

Ittindi would laugh more at the thought of the Young Master sneaking anywhere, their adventures as children or when they found each other as adults. Either way stealthy is not a word he’d ever associate with a man so brazen with his lust, no need for power. Surprise was something that he could pull off just fine, as he talked more about love. Contrast huh, that would mean possibly dating someone who wasn’t human. The very thought disgusted him, he’d rather be single for eternity than date anyone besides a human.

You would give up on love for such a minor reason. You humans are so amusing, maybe you will be my last avatar being as cold as death Ittindi.

Ittindi would nod along as the Young Master explained that fashion was important for him to make an impression, and it also worked as a method to lower an enemy’s expectation erroneously. Ittindi’s reasons were similar, but with a small difference.

” Yes the Young Guildmaster is correct, it’s about the impression. How else can we expect to inspire the future Rune Knights, not all are inspired by combat. Not to mention I’m stimulating the economy I rarely visit a tailor who isn’t local wherever I happen to be. One of my brothers is a tailor funny enough.”

As they said the man that he pointed out wasn’t nearly as bad as Ittindi assumed, they’d be wrong but he expected as much from his friends. They all had parts of them that were misunderstood, but they looked past it for each other. As the topic switched to disciples, the Young Master was correct, Ittindi had been looking for a disciple.

”The last one I tried to mentor left for Sleeping Calamity funnily enough. I think I’ll focus my endeavors on finding someone in the Amaforth Academy so that I don’t have to worry about guild affiliation. The only lower personnel I have my eye on the moment is a Sergent named Anika, I think she will be progressing through the ranks rather quickly.”

At Colonel Tōga mention of wanderlust, Ittindi wondered if he was hinting at more than just his usual travels. If they lost him after the loss of General Konstatin, the organization would suffer another heavy loss. It just meant more that Ittindi needed to take his job more seriously, well his hobby, butlering still remained his main priority.

Smiling at the conversation moving well, Knuckles slammed his empty cup down and leaned forward in his chair. "Well, boys this had been a fun and entertaining time. However, I believe there are two things left that I must do before departing this region. One, get that tour, and two set up a meeting with the new leader of the rune Knights. "

If he was honest he would be upset that Ittindi or Toga had not taken command after Kon's demotion. Something that Knuckles was going to be looking into heavily when he had the time. There was something funny going on with that man and Knuckles would have to seek him out to get to the bottom of it.

For now, Knuckles needed to progress his current agenda, going out and meeting with the guild masters of Fiore and getting alliances or peace with those he could while also scouting for places to raid.

" I have not sought anyone to train, but I am glad that we were able to steal a recruit from the Knights. Hopefully, I can gain many more followers who seek the path of a warrior. "

Knuckles then lifted a brow at the mention of Alisa. "Yes, she owes me a fight as well, as do you Sir Toga. "