The Clock & Cog Inn

@♆ Joy "I see." He uttered, still in disbelief that the demon princess is allowing Sooyoung to run the place. He’d learned long ago that arguing was futile. He was bound to her, not by chains, but by a strange sort of loyalty and a healthy dose of fear. He wasn't sure which was stronger. But the sudden change of who is in charge meant there might be some people who won't listen. "I'll see what's happening downstairs."

The bell above the door jingled, piercing through the rhythmic scraping of chairs and Mackenyu's humming as he worked. Two figures stood framed in the doorway, their cloaks dusty and travel-worn. One was tall and broad, with a hand resting on the hilt of a sword, the other shorter and wirier, with eyes darting nervously. They looked like adventurers, the kind that usually asked for gruel and a stable for their steeds, not the kind Mackenyu expected to appreciate the inn's interior design choices.

The tall one, his voice thick with impatience, boomed, “We’ve traveled far and wide, and we’ve heard tales of this establishment. We demand to be served by the owner, the legendary demon princess herself!”

Mackenyu sighed internally. He'd seen this scenario played out more times than he can remember. Word spread about Joy's inn, and sometimes people are expecting more.

He forced a polite smile. "Welcome to the Clock & Cog Inn. I'm Mackenyu, I can see you both are tired from your travels. What can I get for you? We have ale, mead, some hearty stew--"

"Enough" The impatient adventurer said. "We didn't come here for minion service. We demand to speak to the demon princess. Bring her forth!"His hand tightened menacingly on his sword hilt.

Mackenyu straightened, his patience wearing thin. "The princess is… busy. I can assure you, I am perfectly capable of taking your orders." He gestured to the newly arranged tables. "Please, have a seat."

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ “Joy doesn't know about it. When she rests, I do the work in her place and she doesn’t care about it as long as I’m responsible for it.” She explained before sitting on the chair and she starts writing down who will be changed for the next week, “Plus, the old man died protecting his grandkid in that accident, might as well letting him know his debt is already paid and his family no longer burdened with a huge debt owed by the inn.”

@♆ Joy He looked at her bewildered that the man tilt his head. "You compensate him." Mackenyu couldn't believe what he was hearing. The contrast between the two is polarising. The other compensated the deceased man, the latter... "How did she react?"

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ While Sooyoung was organizing the papers, she took a moment to look at the paper that Mackenyu was holding. Before going back to arranging the papers, "He already passed away months ago, carriage accident." She responded before looking back at him. "Joy did not leave him some compensation but I did." She explained before finishing stacking the papers.

@♆ Joy Mackenyu remained stoic but he walked inside and followed where she pointed at. The papers a lot that made him cringe. He is a man of sword, of spells but never of administrative tasks. He reached at his nape and scratched. He started picking up the papers, reading them intently trying to categorise each. "How does Joy deal with discrepancies? Because this man seems to be missing his repayment." Mackenyu said, waving a piece of paper.

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ Sooyoung went to the desk and looked at the papers Joy had compiled before looking at Mackenyu, "Well... Help me with the inn, the more people working the better." She said with a smile on her face before going to the cabinets and start organizing the schedules and supplies of the inn. "We need to reorganized the schedule of housekeeping and restroom cleaning, then the supplies, we need more mercs, the strongest ones to guard the shipments of supplies for the inn." She pointed the papers while explaining, trying to juggle everything while Joy is on a recovery stage.

@♆ Joy He sure looked a lot better far from what he had in mind. But the burden tangible in her voice reminded him of his iniquity. The man remorseful inside but kept his mouth sealed about the demon princess - she did not hesitate to use that power. Should he feel a little bit of sympathy? Mackenyu did not move, looking at Sooyoung’s back. “It is her. Not Joy.” He tried to convince himself that he only cares for the human soul.

When she pulled away, he stepped aside and followed. “Is there anything you’d need help with besides me manning the door?”

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ As Sooyoung walked out of the room, she was greeted by Mackenyu's voice which she was surprised a bit upon looking at him. "Thanks, I'm glad that you're okay." She smiled at him before she leaned against the ledge of the balcony where she could overlook the customers drinking, eating and playing pokers. Although both of them are safely returned to the inn, Sooyoung felt guilty of falling asleep and Joy took the risk of sacrificing all her energy to teleport them back to the inn.

"You must be wondering why Joy had a trump card in the last minute." She said and watched the customers, "As the demon of greed, teleporting to another place in a very long distance isn't one of her strengths but she can still manifest it at the cost of her own demonic energy." Sooyoung explained to him.

She tilted her head to look at the male, "She couldn't take over my body for now, all she could do is to talk to me inside my head. She needs a long period of time to recover." She pulled away from the ledge and she walked towards her office, "So I had to take care both the inn and the underworld."

@♆ Joy The sign of the Wild Boar Inn creaked in the gentle breeze, bearing the image of a proud boar. Inside the atmosphere was lively, with patrons laughing and chatting over mugs of ale and plates of steaming hot food.

At the door, a harried-looking Mackenyu wiped the sweat from his brow as tried to juggle multiple conversations at once. He had been the princess' guard and guilt pressing down on his shoulders. Joy had fallen ill, wounded in a battle with those bandits. He looked upstairs. "I did what I can." He remembered saying to the maid who hesitantly tend to their mistress' wounds. The man used all of his healing potions to try and slow down the effects of the holy water. Yet he knows nothing how to completely heal her from it. So for now, he had taken responsibility of running the inn in her absence, and it was proving to be a daunting task.

The Wild Inn Boar was no ordinary inn, it is catering to a diverse clientele of both mortals and the supernaturals. Keeping the peace and ensuring everyone's safety was a delicate balancing act, one that Mackenyu was determined to maintain. On top of this, the amount of supplies coming in must be properly put in inventory.

As he lists and checked every cargo that comes in, Mackenyu's mind wandered to Sooyoung's condition. She was recovering slowly. He never thought a demon would fell unconscious. An idiot notion that a creature like Joy never runs out of power.

The door to the inn burst open, a group of rowdy adventurers strode in, seeking refuge from the night's chill. Mackenyu's eyes narrowed as he assessed the group, his hand resting on the hilt of the dagger at his wrist. There was a human roque, a cleric and a fairy, all whom looked like they had been through war. He nodded curtly, assigning them a staff to show their rooms and takes their order for food and drink.

As the night wore in, Mackenyu grew wary and made his way to Joy's room. His eyes grew wider when he saw Sooyoung walked out of the room. "I'm glad you're awake." He uttered.

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ Joy never felt exhausted like this before, is this the feeling of being helpless? A mortal trait of someone who had already through a lot of painful experiences. Sooyoung already burdened enough sin before she took a leap on that cold waterfall to her death. Joy hated it, her soul being one with Sooyoung, to experience a humane emotions coming from her. It’s funny how the princess of the underworld getting beaten by a mere mortal’s soul to fuse into one body.

The maids treated the demon princess’s wounds, they were scared that Joy herself might make them a petrified statue of gold if they touch her skin, but this time around, they can’t let their mistress to get worst because no one will pay them if she wasn’t treated well. They changed her clothes into a white night gown and bandaged clean where her wounds are before they went out of her room.

A few hours later, Sooyoung was the one who took over. She slowly opened her eyes and she felt the surge of exhaustion in her body, she groaned softly as she slowly sit up from the bed. She wondered what happened to the cargos they retrieved and she holds her temples, “Joy… What the hell happened…?” She whispered, expecting the other half should be answering her but not a whisper of her voice heard inside her head. “Mammon…?” She calls her real name but nothing.

She reluctantly moved away the blanket and she went to the full-body mirror, “Joy, did we retrieved the goods—” But she was not there, only Sooyoung’s reflection was there. However, she sees a small green flame in her chest through the mirror— That was Joy, or what’s left of her form. ‘Exhaust my powers to the core… Now look what I am…’ Joy said faintly. ‘Not the first time I did this, and I did it for myself and my reputation and not for you or someone else…’

Sooyoung looked down as she felt sorry for the sin demon which Joy felt what she felt and it irritated her, ‘Stop pitying on me, Sooyoung! You will be the one to handle things for now, my job will be your job until I muster up enough souls to get back on my feet. You got that?’ Joy commanded and Sooyoung nodded, “I will, you need to rest now. Thank you.” Sooyoung smiled and she goes to the coat rack and gets a leather coat to cover her body and walks out of the room.

@♆ Joy He watched his own kin scream in agony at every explosion that’s tearing them to pieces. A horse blew up underneath its rider, causing the woman to break her neck. Numb. He felt no remorse. Just the bitter taste of survival. They treated his family like mules to fund their so called war against the supernatural, only to sign a peace treaty right after losing it. The crown deserves to rot. Their screams fading to the background. “Huh?” He snapped a look at Joy and was greeted by the great oblivion awaiting them. He hang onto the carriage and tightly shut his eyes. His body jerked forward into a halt. He peeked through his left eye and saw the familiar front of the Wild Boar Inn. “Why didnt you think of that before—“ Mackenyu stopped and went to her rescue. “Come on.” He picked up Joy and carried her inside.
There were loud gasps as they stared quizzically at the sleeping princess. “Ehem!” Mackenyu cleared his throat. “There are supplies outside. Make sure it is stored correctly or I’ll chop your heads off and feed it to the dogs.” That did it as the staff rushed almost tripping over to return to work. Upstairs where her room is, Mackenyu carried the princess and laid her safely in her room.

@⚜ Wi Hajun The warm glow of the Wild Boar Inn’s lanterns danced across your features as you spoke, your voice rich and inviting, effortlessly pulling me into the world you painted. The mention of the Forgotten Island made my ears twitch, curiosity and excitement bubbling up like champagne. I leaned forward slightly, my golden tails swaying in unison behind me, as if they too were eager to hear more.

“A beach, you say?” I murmured, tracing the rim of my glass with one finger. “I’ve… never been to a proper beach before.” It felt almost embarrassing to admit, but your smile made it easier. My mind betrayed me then, conjuring an image of you under the sun’s golden rays, water streaming down your toned, shirtless chest. I could almost feel the cool splash of the ocean as we played in the waves, your laughter infectious and carefree.

A flush warmed my cheeks, and I quickly sipped my drink to mask the heat rising in my face. My gaze flicked back to yours, and there it was—something in your expression, equal parts playful and sincere, that made my heart flutter like a caged bird. I didn’t dare let my thoughts wander further, not with you sitting so close, your presence intoxicating in a way that both thrilled and unnerved me.

“You make it sound like a dream,” I said softly, setting my glass down and meeting your eyes. The coy smile I couldn’t suppress crept onto my lips. “Treasure hunting, swimming… It all sounds too good to be true.” My voice dropped, laced with mischief. “Though, I must admit, the thought of seeing you wading through the surf, soaked and glistening, might just be the real treasure.”

The words were out before I could stop them, and my heart skipped a beat as I realized how boldly I’d spoken. I glanced away, pretending to admire the intricate carvings on the table’s edge, but the smirk tugging at the corner of my mouth betrayed my feigned innocence.

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun wasn't surprised that he had been there as a youth. Their shrine was a staple in many kits life even if they were from the tribe or sister tribes. It was made famous due to all the amenities, games, and worship that their parents had created. Plus, people would commission garments, tailoring, and accessories from his family. But, Hyojong was still young compared to him - so his family probably didn't come around with Hajun was still alive. It was most likely when Irene had completely taken over the shrine. "Ah, you have sisters as well? You probably went there when my sister was in charge," He answered. He chuckled and couldn't help but let the corner of his lips curl up at the mention that his sisters would play pranks on him. The priest? "The priest? Not the shrine maiden?" Hajun sounded a bit puzzled by his story. Like, of course, he didn't know that time of teh shrine's history. He knew that Hyojung wouldn't have been a kid when his father was alive since he perished right before Ireen's litter was born and Hyojung was similar to her age. He shook his head as this wasn't the place to talk about this as this was a date not anything else.

Hajun was glad that Hyojung didn't ask about his past with his Irene. He wasn't sure if he was ready to talk about it to others that knew her about her well - he didn't know what reputation that she had here. He knew a little from speaking with people or listening in on others' conversations at the tavern - but he didn't know her reputation in the kitsune council. He knew that Hyojung was probably confused about him not owning any at the shrine - but technically he was dead so the only living member of their family to take the deed would be Irene.

Hajun nodded as he listened to the other speak about where he would want to travel if he could. He had noticed that others that bore that slave mark didn't travel much out of the city or the land their owners hailed from - but Hajun didn't really care about all the nonsense. If the other wanted to escape to see the faes - he would take him there. "Both of those lands are beautiful from what I hear - we will have to plan two trips there so we can explore," Hajun answered as he smiled at him, sipping on his drink. He tilted his head to the side as he thought about where he would want to go. "I would want to travel to the forgotten island - the beaches are lovely and swimming is a fun activity. Plus, treasure hunting is the best there for trinkets and things that wash up on the shores," Hajun nodded to him.

@⚜ Wi Hajun Astonished, I paused as the mention of the shrine peaks being your native home. “Oh yes, I've been there a few times in my youth as a boy. I used to go through with my fathers and sisters to pray and offer tribute to the thunder gods.” I smiled that the memories of my eldest sister playing a prank on me. “I remember the first time I was there, my sister played a joke on me and my little sister.” Amusement crept into my smile before lifting my gaze towards you, my five platinum golden tails mindlessly swishing back and forth behind me. “She told me there was a rumor that if you jump in the to the koi pond and eat on of the fish, the gods would allow me to grow another tail instantly. So I did,” My eyes grew distant at the memory that had felt like a lifetime ago. “Father certainly tanned my hide in front of the priest that day and my sister was forced to buy the priest a new fish.” I giggled, sipping my drink once more.

Squinting curiously when at the mention of you also having a sister. I resisted asking further about the matter when I sensed tension in your voice. There was a story to be told there, no doubt. Why would the shrine be entrusted to one sibling instead of sharing the family estate as one? That’s what I would do if I had my sister’s still around. But this was a date and not an interrogation, it’s best I’d have that conversation for another time.

A wave of reprieve came when you changed the subject to one of mutual interest. The question taking me a bit off guard as I’d never really given it any real thought of where I’d might travel first. As far as this brand mark on my wrist goes and the invisible shackles of servitude bonded me to my master’s side, I never thought it possible to leave. “I…I suppose I’ve always wanted to see the meadows of the Faes or stroll through the kingdoms of men in the highlands.

Their castle, legend says, is among the world’s tallest; only the Angels’ crystal citadel surpasses it. “What about you, my lord? Where would you go if you could travel anywhere, and why?”

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun picked up his drink and sipped on it, watching the other slip off into lala land for a moment before the other returned. He seemed a bit off or what they were talking about was bringing back memories that the other didn't think about a lot anymore. Hajun couldn't help but laugh at his next statement. "I wouldn't call it distinguished or affluent - my parents built it up a nice place for us to live and it's been in our family for a very long time. Have you been to the shrine in the peaks? That was my childhood home, now it's my sister's," Hajun shrugged one shoulder. Hajun smiled as he watched the other finally talk about some that seemed to genuinely make him happy or something he genuinely enjoyed. "Well, then I must get you up in an airship to explore the world and see the world," Hajun gave him a playful wink. He was serious and genuine when he said that he would at some point get the other in an airship. "Where would you want to explore first?" Hajun asked him.

@⚜ Wi Hajun I brissled at the notion of willful igronance. I struggled to accept it, considering the lifestyle of my kins in the Thunder clan. Everyone as onem words my father used to preach to me and my sibilings. We the people come together as one cloud for we can not dimenstrate the lawful power of our strenght without our community at our back. For what is lighting without his host of clouds.’ I wasn’t sure how long I remind silent recalling the words of wisdom. It feels like a distant memory when I was welcomed back home. “I see,” was all I could manage to say, feeling foolish. If anyone could emphazie with your circumstances it was me. For I was also struggling stay afloat with the burdens the Gods seems so eager to place on my shoulders. “A Place and a estate you say. You clearly hail from a distinguished, affluent background.” The words once again peaked my interest. "Travelling, I’ve often dreamt of travelling aboard on a airship, boat of even griffon back to other destine lands of Heleo as child.” My smile slowly feeling bittersweet the those childhood promise of adventure that slipped through my fingers before I was even offer the opportunity to pursue them. I noticed myself adjusting my tunic sleeve to conceal the slave brand on my right forearm. “I’ve never gotten the chance to go no further than Grand Central Westward and my current residence of my Master in Lioncourt De Sovereign eastward. That is excluding my birth place in the realm of Kirin of course.”

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun had learned that it was easier to ignore the suffering of others who weren't in your life - or you'd always have problems or having people run to you to fix thier problems. But then again, Hajun wasn't a very morally righteous person anymore - being stuck down where he was for as along as he was. Hajun raised up one shoulder as he heard the other say that he was surprised that he wouldn't have extra time. "Well like I said, I've only been up here on the surface for a short amount of time. No place to call home, no money, not knowing many people - that really only leaves time for working and making money to get someplace," Hajun told him. He wasn't going to hide everything about himself - or the fact that he was technically dead and not completely his old self. He had come to terms with he wasn't in his old life anymore. He shrugged again. "I am not a slave to the coin - but we do need it to live comfortably and well. Plus, I can't lie - I like living in a big place and estate like I used to," Hajun admitted as he sipped on his drink. "I do travel a bit to places I am familiar with - but this place is relatively new to me," He looked at the other. "Do you like to travel and explore?" Hajun asked him as he could tell the other was thinking about something.

@⚜ Wi Hajun Ignoring the suffering of others when it’s not right in front of you is easier said than done, but it’s morally wrong. I stilled my tongue, keeping my thought to myself as I spared one last to the trio of grands. Deciding the conversation topic would be inappropriate for a date topic, I placed a pin the matter. My full extent of my attention fell upon you. It was strange to feel at ease, realizing I wasn’t the only one out of practice, but at the same time, there was a warning feeling lurking beneath. For what, I couldn’t be certain. “That’s surprising consider you are a merchant.” I reclining more comfortably in my chair as I studied your profile once more. I assume you have more time to spare as an entrepreneur. Do you not take time for yourself, or are you simply a slave to the coin?” I titled my head curiously to see which of the latter you’d be. “I would imagine you’d have the opportunity to travel a variety of places given you working nature.” I paused, reflecting on what I would do if I were a free man. The ghost of my youth hunted me for the opportune privileges I took for granted, doing my time as a free Kit.

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun noticed the other kit being in a state of distraction - probably from overhearing the guards and what they were saying. He had learned a long time to let that go in one ear and out the other. There was nothing they could do about that things had already happened or out of their control. He followed the other's gaze as he took one last look at the guards. "Did you hear their conversation and it bothered you?" Hajun could read it straight from his face. "You shouldn't let their words bother you - it might be upsetting, but you can't do anything about that situation - so it isn't worth it to let it get under your skin," Hajun mentioned as he moved from leaning on the chair to sit down across from him.

Hajun then shook his head, chuckling. "You don't have to apologize," He said as one of the waitresses brought what he had ordered. "Thank you," Hajun said to the waitress who brought him the order. He mixed the two drinks together then took a sip from the glass then set it down again. He watched the other as he could tell teh other was bit nervous, which was cute to watch. "It is the same as well - this is my first time hanging out with someone before this - i was six feet under so to say," Hajun laughed as he shrugged one shoulder. Hajun returned his grin with his own smile and a little wink, smile getting a bit from the compliment. "My lord? Gosh, I don't think that I'm a lord - but I can't lie that it didn't sound nice," He took another sip of his drink. "You look rather fine yourself," Hajun stated.

@⚜ Wi Hajun I’d snapped out of my stupor as you reached off over, plucking a piece of lint from my ear. Failing to hide my surprise, I'd offered you a smile, hoping it would mask the terror in my eyes. “Oh no no, I’m_” I paused, sparing one last look over your shoulder towards the guards. “Fine.” I said, shifting back my seat. I dropped my eyes towards the steel mug before me, realizing I must have looked like a crazy kit. Without hesitant I immediately began sipping its contents welcoming the aromas of citirus light ale. The relief of ale couldn’t be more welcome. My first date in years was already feeling awkward, with me caught up in local rumors that weren’t even my business. But these were Kirin Kit people being attacked, were they not?

Your warm eyes on me finally lifted the burden, bringing me back to life. “Sorry, I’m just.” I began to fidget nervously before deciding to place my hands in the lap. “It’s been awhile since I’ve enjoyed leisure time out," I paused, chewing the bottom of my lip, looking everywhere and anywhere else but directly at you. When I finally surmounted the courage to meet you gaze, I offered a small grin. “You look very handsome this evening, my lord.”

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ (okies)

Hajun wouldn't lie that he wasn't curious and excited for this little adventure or date tonight. He closed his tailoring and trinket stall early to get ready for this event, so he wouldn't look like a complete mess. He of course changed and wore something a little less casual - but still in traditional clothes with a more modernized style. A simple deep black hanbok-styled jacket with silver trimmings and ribbons with a matching black top. Straight-legged pants in the same coloring. He styled his hair a bit ruffling his bangs as bit as his ears on top of his head twitched. He didn't like looking into the mirror for too long as the image or the beast that looked back at him wasn't exactly the bringing he was born to be - but was forced to become.

Luckily for him, he didn't have far to go honestly since at the moment he was still living in a room at the inn - turning into a long-term guest. He was close to being able to get a small place maybe - but the room that he had right now wasn't horrible. He stuck his hands in his pockets as he stepped down the stairs of the inn. He let his tail absentmindedly swish behind him as he walked. He could hear the typical songs that the pianist was playing in the lobby as he glanced around to see if the younger kit had arrived. He spotted the kit up on the second level most likely waiting for him. He stopped a passing bar wrench to order some bear and soju as that was always his go to drink when spending time with another.

He heard the tail end of the conversation that the other kitsune guards were having as he made his way over to Hyo-jong. He noticed that the other already had a drink and some bread. He leaned against the table as he reached out gently picking some lint from the other's ear. "So, I do hope that I have made you wait for just little me for too long," He chuckled, taking his seat across from him. He glanced at Hyo-jong noticing the corners of his eyes blur a little. "Is everything alright - what they said bother you?" Hajun asked, tail swishing quickly to point at the guards before curling around his leg.

@⚜ Wi Hajun [I’mma just reply in the Wild boar inn.]

As I reached the Wild boar inn, I swayed on my mount’s back. Upon dismounting my Deerbit, I tipped the stable hand with a silver fang coin and give her one final pat on the neck. With anticipation, I took a deep breath and smoothed out my hand-me-down red vest and black blazer, a gift from my master on my name day. I removed the invisible beast hairs from my charcoal gray and black pinstriped pants with my hands. I spared one last glace at myself in the puddle infront of the establishment before finally finding the courage to go in.

Despite its slightly worn appearance, the three-story building was still worthy of royalty. I pushed the door and heard a pianist playing, guards shouting, unsure if they were on duty. A few giggles of woma playing coy as a mage slide his hand underneath the slit of her skirt. Peeking down at my pocket watched I noticed I was rather early so I decided to explore then find a comfortable spot on the second level. I was quickly seated by the fireplace near the balacony railing by the bar wrench and brought bread and mead.

“They foud Garrett just out side the blood forest of marshall lands, dead.” I looked upon from my cards across the surface at the three other men sitting at the table two away from mine. Guards from Kiren’s peak, but unclear clan, no badges, only queen’s emblem. “Dead?” Another guard replied the previous.“No he wasn’t just dead but completely drained of blood. His flesh chewed up like wild dogs had a go at him then left the Kit scattered into pieces.” My vision blurred at tiny bits of ice formed in the pit of my stomach. Wild dogs didn’t do that…ing ghouls.

@♆ Joy Unnecessary. Mackenyu thought to himself since he believe not in wasting resources. Yet, this is the demon princess he is now serving and her anger must be appeased. He nodded his head and on his right a sword battle-ready. "Then why are you here?" Mackenyu mumbled in a low voice, rolling his eyes at the demon. He cocked a brow when the demon snapped him a look and sighed that Sooyoung once again was summoned to deal with the problem. Mackenyu scratching his head since he never see Joy lift a finger but expects a great reward. He did not say a word to Sooyoung basing on the reaction. The last thing he desires is to stress the poor woman even more. He took a liking on Sooyoung, feeling that connection as she was also human. He drew closer to her and coughed to hear where they are going. As he followed the trail the demon princess took, he received a slap from reality. For the man haven't been to Materia Highlands for years. Oh how he loathes to go back.

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ 'What would I have you do is to rip their ing hands off from their wrist and make them suffer with no hands!' Joy stomped the ground and made a small crater in anger. Most of the staffs knew the bandits are up to no good, witnessing Joy's anger too many times will end to those who steal from her met their worst consequences. She stomps her way out of the gates of the inn before she calmed down for a bit.

Joy sighed and puts her hands on her hips , she sighs. 'I shouldn't be doing this dirty job...' She muttered before looking back at Mackenyu then she had an idea, Joy smirked. 'Ah that's right, you and Sooyoung will do the job for me.' Then she closed her eyes and her transition from Joy to Sooyoung took effect as her eyes no longer glowed its green hues.

"W-What? Me?" Sooyoung groaned, "Oh well, I guess let's do the dirty job then." She looks at Mackenyu. "We're going to Marteria Highlands by air." Sooyoung unleashes her dark angelic wings, not terrifying enough the last time when Joy had her demonic wings. She looked back at Mackenyu, "Come on, get in front of me." She pulls the other in front of her, facing his back as she wraps her arms around his waist. "Hold on tight!" Then she lifts them off to the sky and she flies to the highlands with him.

@♆ Joy “Certainly.” The man uttered, showing almost the same courtesy that Sooyoung is showing him. Gathering the empty glasses, he stole a glimpse of the woman and wondered if she gets tired of being in the same body as the demon princess. He scoffed reminding himself that it is not in his best interest to be nosy.

The man frowned, heart pounding against his ribcage when the other man walked drenched with his own seat in complete dread. Mackenyu asked one of the maids to take the empty glasses from his hand. Anyone in a close radius from the woman gasped and some backed off in fear when the demon princess surfaced. He balled his fist since the bandit only made him day difficult.
“Oh damn. She is upset. Careful Mackenyu.” The maid commented but quickly run back to the kitchen when the Joy descended from her office.

“Hmm.” He hummed, nodding in his and followed the woman out of the inn. The man placed himself three steps from the woman since not only he works for her but he saw her as unpredictable. “What would you have me do to them?” He asked.

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@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ She smiled at the other, "I guess we're one and the same in one thing." Sooyoung chuckled before she nodded as the other starts to continue taking care of his job. "Sure, I'll see you after work." She waved before going back upstairs before looking at the time, it's almost lunch time. She looked back at the man tidying up the mess on one table, Sooyoung is wondering if the other already took a break for a lunch.

The back door burst open when the delivery guy panicked and ran to see the owner, he said that the cargo he's delivering was robbed by bandits in the Highlands. Sooyoung gasped before her eyes briefly turned into green hues, slowly transitioning into Joy hearing what happened to the cargo of supplies for the inn, 'You what?!' Joy exclaimed before she clenched her fists and groans. 'These filthy bandits already getting on my nerves!' She stormed into her office and gets her black velvety jacket before descending down to the ground floor, the demon looked at the male slave. 'You, human. Come with me.' Joy demanded as she toss her jacket over her shoulder, 'Those bandits are up to no good, they always steal what they are mine!' She growled as she walks out of the inn.

@♆ Joy The thought of having to read all day seems dull for Mackeyu. He does a love a good read or studying potions and spells but never he dreams of sitting in an office pushing papers. He nodded, genuinely empathic towards Sooyoung. “But everything is running smoothly. And you paid that debt. What more is she asking of you?” The man asked. “Regardless, i cannot slack off either.” He grinned that turned to a frown when he noticed the messy table that the bridal entourage left after having their little send off party for the bride to be. He looked around and wanting to ask for any attendants but all are probably busy doing their own chores. His eyes fell on Sooyoung and dipped his head. “Excuse me.” He said, going through sea of drunken creatures towards the said table.m and start to tidy things up.

@♦ Mackenyu Arata ¥ Sooyoung slumped het shoulders down, "Contract reading, business paperworks and all." She sighed. "It's boring on my part, I want to roam outside but I can't since Joy would strangle me if I slack off once again." She laughed and looked at the other, "I hope you don't get hard on your work," Sooyoung responded. "Joy doesn't really care about who is the best employee, as long as you do your job it's fine. That's why there's no employee of the month here, they work at heir own pace."

@♆ Joy Once the brawl died down, Mackenyu went around reassuring the other patrons that everything is under control. The crowd returned to mind their own business and that’s something the man believe is a win. About to return to his station, it was Sooyoung who greeted him with a smile on her face. At first, he did not seem to get the point of the compliment but from what he can see, it was Sooyoung and not the demon princess who is offering her kind words. “Oh that?” Mackenyu said, pointing at the men who just let their drunk friend go alone. “I’m only doing my job. How are things for you though?”