Chapter 209 Promises and Quests
Feeling as though she needed to honor Aleshia's promise, Lucia said firmly, "We—no, I promise that as long as nothing too serious happens, I will continue to treat your cursed. In exchange, you will continue housing us and share information. Agreed?" Lucia then extended an arm.
Daniel appeared pleased by her words and shook it in thanks. After letting go, he shared some information for Lucia to consider. "Alright then. If you're determined to go outside this place, I recommend going in a group of three to five people, similar to last time. I'll be giving you one of the quests I picked up from the adventurer boards. It may not involve as much danger as you might hope, but it would be better than staying cooped up here. You would like to be accompanied by them again, right?"
Lucia's hat form bristled but eventually calmed as she reasoned with herself that he would know they had been outside, considering that all the children would share the day's events with him. "Yes, I understand that you wouldn't want me or others to be in danger. With that in mind, I want to make Ren an absolute member of our party. Tristan seems sociable, but it feels like he often gets into trouble," Lucia commented as she considered her options for party members.
Not expecting such decisions so late at night, Daniel encouraged Lucia to reconsider when and where they should continue their conversation. "Slow down," he said. "Given the time, I think we should pick this up in the morning. The girl might be awake by then, and we can discuss it with her. What do you think?"
Lucia was annoyed by his desire to postpone their plans, but after reflecting on it and understanding the need for rest, she replied, "Very well." Afterward, she returned to her floor, gently placing Aleshia's body down. Lucia then powered down. Although she didn't sleep in the same way humans do and didn't need much rest, she entered a low-power state that made her look like a regular witch hat—less energetic and more limp. Nonetheless, she would still be able to create defenses and sense those around her.
Lucia felt that the night stretched on, but as she reviewed her lesson plans—taking into account the school curriculum and her approach to teaching her students—time flew by. She mentally organized everything she would need for the upcoming days. Finally, morning arrived.