...

After that interesting event had transpired, we spent the next few days performing many pleasurable tasks together, such as having a picnic in the Ponggo's Hideout despite Add's strong detestation towards the race (I'm sure the prepossessing waterfall made up for it, however~), casually hanging around the Garrison in the Sky (Add insisted on traveling to a place filled with Nasods, but it was terribly difficult to convince him to cease with the Nasod research junk, and to just enjoy himself instead.), and entertaining ourselves by playing classic/childish games, for example, tag and hide 'n' seek, in the Nasod Dumpsite. (Its layout was perfect for activities like this, plenty of obstacles for a challenge. The odour wasn't very pleasant, though.) Sometime during all of this, I had violently assaulted him once again, like the "sadist" I am, for experimental purposes. He displayed masochistic behaviour, which was both comical and terrifying.

For the most part, Add seemed to have had a delightful time with me, which was splendid to see. The commitment he put into his work was somewhat fascinating, and he was a kindhearted person deep, deep down, I could tell. It was safe to say that he makes everything humourous.

During our fun bustle, I felt as if somebody was watching over us, just like before. Who could it be? It was bothering me, I had to know who the stalker was!

...

We were taking a leisurely stroll in Altera Village to pass the time when suddenly, a woman that was about my height approached us. She had long, straight blonde hair tied into a ponytail. To adorn her head, she had a small red and white hat. Her dark blue eyes were dazzling; simply sparkling. She wore a white blouse with traditional crimson rose patterns across her shoulders, and a big scarlet bow. Her black skirt reached up to her knees, embellished with a vermilion string of some sort. For whatever reason, she seemed familiar...

The girl handed us both flyers. "Hello! This is Ariel, employee of COBO, the largest adventure company which will ensure your happiness always cater to your adventuring needs! We have a special event coming up! Altera's Seasonal Night Market! Hosted by the Ponggos and sponsored by COBO, the lively festival will have many stalls, merchants from all Elrios will be attending! Consumables, equipment, miscellaneous, and more, you name it! We have everything to fulfill your needs! But that's not all! Live events will also be taking place, such as karaoke! Packed with fun, COBO will ensure that you will not be bored! Admission is only a mere 5,000 ED! This will be running tonight, and tonight only! Don't miss your chances, adventurers! It's also a wonderful spot for a romantic date, don't you agree? Goodbye now!" Ariel waved, proceeding on to the next group to give handouts to.

"Man, that woman can sure talk." Add muttered; I could notice a slight blush on his cheeks. "Seriously, what the hell? 'Romantic date' my ass!"

I was blushing quite a bit myself. Did she think we were a couple? Nonsense!

I looked down at the flyer. In big letters, "ALTERA'S SEASONAL NIGHT MARKET" was plastered over the page. Under it were the event details, such as the location, date, etc. The leaflet was very colourful, whoever designed it was quite artistic.

"Let's attend." I slightly smiled. It did seem like an enjoyable occasion.

"Fine, whatever you say. Just to be clear, this is NOT a date. I repeat, this is NOT a date." he replied.

I laughed. "Yeah."

...

—-[CHAPTER 8 - ALTERA : END]—-