Clearly praying that it didn't snap.

"Got a story to tell?"

Huff...

"Thanks, Rei... I needed that wakeup call. Let's get my day started." 💧

"...maybe I can have one drink, Rei."

"I only throw the tail on for someone extra special."

"I've got no reason to hide. Let's hope she's a dog person!"

There's a sense of satisfaction over her face, creeping into a smile.

"I'm starting to think that the job I was sent off for was a bit too exaggerated...she's in good hands. You have my trust -- can't say the same with the rest of the state, but that's what reports are for."

"Some peer you are."

"Do you even have a plan? There'll come a time where the kid's standing over you."

"You know how Dizzy can be."

Hands onto her hips as she kept her pace behind Baiken.

"All of that regality and status and she still sobs like a baby when she's heartbroken."

"Whatever grudges you have with them should be put aside for the well being of a child. That's only right."

"That's not the queen's intent, and you know it."

"I bet you wouldn't say it in her face, either way."

"Would you believe me if I came at the request of the Queen of Illrylia?"

"It is a collaborative effort, to broker peace. Something you wouldn't agree to."

...Giovanna does as told. Her boots come off of her feet right before she stepped to the wood.

"Work is sloppy enough. My subordinates seeing me inebriated will get around and make me look bad."

"I'm not drinking. I'm on the clock, technically."

"Save the liquor for the next date, bushido."

"Be fortunate that I'm flexible."

Giovanna 's arms fold beneath her chest, as the stern expression over her face softens.

"Your reputation is well documented...as a slayer. Not so much a caretaker. But, who am I to judge?"

"Sorry to say that as long as that young woman is in your care, snooping eyes and ears is what you're stuck with."

"At the very least, you can be grateful that it's me instead of any other gumshoe."

"...Can we get this 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 with...?"