''Ladies, please this way.'' Belmont leads you back into the corridor and stops midway to unlock the western door that directly leads into the western road outside. Same place where Augustine had that arm-up moment... is this where Olin died?

This street is empty despite the busy marketplace in front of the church, people are coming and going without minding it. Once you, Shigeko, and Seyraphal are outside, Belmont nods and promptly closes the door without further comment.

''Boy,'' Shigeko lets out a heavy breath. ''I'm not sure if he's pissed off or trying to help. Maybe both.''

''Sey, are you okay?'' Her gaze hasn't left the ground once.
''Y-yeah... You said the baron permitted you to host us, yet these guys want me to return over there...'' There's a light peek of white as her hands wiggle beneath her heavy cloaks.
''Either the news hasn't spread yet or the mercs are ignoring it for some reason.'' Perhaps the dear leader of your home is far lazier than anticipated. ''What he showed us is... Phew, it's a lot to think about.''
''Indeed, the priest also mentioned Augustine being in the Mamono village today,'' Shigeko says, crossing her arms while inspecting the road. ''If Olin manifests tonight, I think it's only right for his mother to be there.''

''Hm, but if people want Seyraphal to remain in the village, going there is likely a bad idea.''
''It's okay, I'm quiet.'' You're not sure if she's trying to don a cocky smile, her forced grin combined with all the bandages around her face gives the moth an almost ghastly look. ''Now that I'm not coughing blood every four steps, I'll easily be able to sneak back to your... our home.''
''Alternatively, going to find Augustine shouldn't need us to separate. Might be time to make people understand there's another option now...'' Shigeko speaks without moving, her face remains a pretty stoic statue. She's so controlled all the time...

''Give me a moment girls.'' Leaving them briefly behind, you walk ahead until you can peek around the corner to observe the market and the front of the church. Up the step is a single man standing around looking mighty bored but garbed with fitting chainmail and a sword on his belt whose handle is (like you) wrapped with a piece of white fabric. I don't think he'll respect the promise of only drawing it in self-defense.

Unlike all the middle-aged part-time thugs you've been forced to endure so far, this one has the atmosphere of an actual warrior. Solid stance, strong body, tall: the mercs played favorite amongst their ranks.

''Someone that isn't a thug with a club is guarding the church door,'' you say after returning to the girls. ''A detour won't be complicated.'' Slowly but surely, you're starting to get familiar with this city, your new home. Both girls nod, waiting for your decision.

Up above in the clear blue sky of autumn, Mother Earth has moved away from her throne of justice. It's early afternoon now... Usha might wake up soon.