He was an imposing man, Lucian feeling dwarfed by his looming figure. Bare arms were exposed, folded over a broad chest, and his pale gray eyes lacked patience. A bear of a man that would put alpha Ursaring to shame. The Lycanroc quickly left Lucian to sit beside the man, tail wagging.
“Good work," he commended the dog, petting its head. Focusing on Lucian, he said, voice gruff, “You. Stand, " he ordered, pointing at Lucian. The lad listened, doing as he was told immediately.
“I don’t-”
“Don’t say a word.”
Lucian stiffened. Even Shiho went stiff at the command, nervously eyeing the loyal Lycanroc at the man’s side. A dog. The darkly spoken words Zane had said made sense.
“Right…” He clicked his tongue, staring at a small book in his palm. “You’re Lucian Kikuchi, yeah?”
Never looking up from the book, he muttered, “Looker told me to look after you while this is happening. Don’t get any ideas about trying to ditch me. Nothing can fool Conlan’s nose. He might like the challenge though,” he said, gesturing towards the Lycanroc. Conlan licked his nose but his blue eyes shimmer with excitement at the words.
Thinking twice of his options, Lucian cautiously asked, “May I at least ask what your name is then?”
“It's Agnes.” He extended his hand. “Agnes Reignar.” His hand engulfed Lucian's in a strong grip.
Lucian raised a brow. “Kalos?”
“Galar.” Agnes quirked a brow. “I take it you are familiar with the region then.”
“Aha.. more or less.” The name felt distinctively from Galar. Rough and rugged, fitting the man who released his grip. “What was this about looking after me?”
“Don't act stupid. You're the only witness to the incident and you have seen more than enough to make what you know dangerous.”
“You know all about it then.”
“Yeah, ‘course I do. Looker filled me in on the situation. You were better off staying with the good doctor. I thought a kid like you was smart, not foolish.”
Lucian clenched his teeth. “I expect a bit of professionalism out of you.”
A deathly pause. Then Agnes leaned in. “None of it you will get since I came out my way to fetch you and play a glorified babysitter as a favor,” he growled. “Stay in line, do you understand?”
“Good. Glad we're on the same page."