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It was a beautiful day in the Holy City of Raziel. The afternoon sun shone down on the bustling streets, warming people’s backs as they hurried to and fro. A cool autumn breeze balanced the heat. A perfect day to be outdoors. 

Chastille let out a long sigh. Despite the fine weather, she was having a difficult time enjoying herself. She walked between the rows of market stalls aimlessly, her eyes skimming over the wares without really seeing them.  

“Hey, crybaby, are you even lookin’? You’re the one who wanted to go shopping, but we’re just walkin’ in circles.” Keeping pace beside Chastille was a tall, lanky man with unkempt hair and an unhealthy complexion. “Not that a klutz like you needs more shit to break.” 

Others might have taken offense, but Chastille had over a year of practice now interpreting Barbatos’ rough speech. While his question might have sounded rude on the surface, she could tell her distracted behavior had him concerned. “I’m not really looking for anything,” she replied. “We got here earlier than I planned. I just thought it might be nice to walk around for a bit before-” Her throat involuntarily tightened. Swallowing down her nerves, she continued, “Before our meeting at headquarters.”

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