As Artur made the formal introductions to Lin, Ferma just âHmmphdâ softly to herself, keeping her arms folded. It wasnât until little Bianca spoke up to push the girlâs buttons did she turn her attention back to them, unfolding her arms and stepping towards her.
âWhat was that you little brat?! Say it once more.â Glaring evilly as she attempted to get in Biancaâs face, Arturâs arm stopped her, while a quick yank of her ponytail from Lin was enough to stop the boisterous lancer, Ferma crying out in pain again and holding her neck, rubbing it. Geez, Lin was always so rough⊠Still, as she listened in to Arturâs scolding, she couldnât help but grin, stepping to the forefront again and leaning around Artur to get in the mini-mageâs line of sight.
âHeh-heh, Baby Bianca just got scolded! Ha ha ha - Ow!ââ Ferma winced as Lin bashed her over the head once more. To add to that, the archer stomped on her foot, causing another cry of pain that quickly changed to alarm as Lindell gave the Piker an arm to the chest, sending her careening backwards off balance and into the dust.
A little dazed, it seemed Ferma finally got the hint, Linâs expression and her actions more than indicative of the discipline and disapproval she was giving. Grumbling as she got back up and dusted herself down, Clerven found herself flushed with embarrassment, and remained silent, looking away from the group with her head held high. Lindell knew just how to hurt Ferma where it would sting the most, as such a display in front of their guests was a real blow to her pride.
With the âproblemâ taken care of, Lin turned her attention back to Artur to answer his question. âOf course, thatâs fine. Iâll have to head back and let them know that youâre coming, but Ferma here will be your guide.â Lindell gestured with a grin, Ferma wheeling around at once.
âWhat?! Youâve got to be kidding me!â Ferma shouted in alarm as the archer continued to grin, quite satisfied with the reaction to her punishment.
âNow now, youâve offended these people enough for one day. This is your opportunity to show how sorry you are.â Lindell would forever cherish the memory of Fermaâs expression - the torturous look was priceless. Giving a wave as she headed down the road, she gave a quick salute as she went on her way.
âBe sure to do everything you can to help them and listen to what they say â Oh, and be nice too!â Walking off down the road, Ferma took a few steps to chase after Lin.
âH-Hey! Wait up! You canât be serious!â As Lin showed no signs of stopping, Ferma sighed. Great⊠Just great⊠Tromping back towards the Red Wolves, she frowned, scratching her head. âWell, letâs get going to get your friends thenâŠâ Kicking a stone in frustration, despite her annoyance, she would be surprisingly helpful and loyal to the Red Wolves for the time. There was the matter of little Bianca though, the lancer taking a moment to bend over her, intimidating and meeting her eyes when she found the opportunity to get her alone.
âAnd you. Youâd better watch your back little princess. Never know what might be behind youâŠâ Grinning with evil intent as she muttered a spell to herself, a small bit of earth would raise up behind Biancaâs left heel, likely tripping her if she did attempt to back away. A contented Ferma would laugh to herself before catching up with Artur.
Of course, Lin hadnât left the Pikeman alone with stranger â Friendly as they may be. Juke continued to tail the group, having spoken with the archer just out of earshot of the Red Wolves. It was just a precaution though, and the Tengu wouldnât be so foolish as to disclose his location unnecessarily.