The Parallel Universe.

Chapter 7.

Chapter Seven

The following day starts unexpectedly peacefully.

There are no nightmares interrupting my sleep, no one urging me out of bed, and no strange shadows as far as the eye can see.

My eyes move over the dimly lit room and come to a stop at the sight of the tattoo on the back of my right hand. This mark might very well be the reason for this rare moment of harmony.

When I heave my legs out of bed, I realize that the heaviness from yesterday is nowhere to be found. It feels almost like all of that happened to another person…no, rather, another me.

The confusion disperses when I lay eyes on two sets of clothes on the floor in front of me. On top of both of them sits a card: one of them neatly folded, the other a simple, slightly torn note.

I pick up the torn note first.

"Dear Ms. Human," it reads.

"I noticed your smell yesterday and realized that you haven't had a real chance to change your clothes since you got here. Or a shower. Luckily for you, there is a bath conveniently located across your room.

"Anyway, I left you some clothes that I'd thought you'd like, what with you being from the human world and all. I'm pretty knowledgeable about the fashion sense of your kind, in case you hadn't noticed!

"P.S. I saw that Azuridian had left some clothes for you, too. You can just go ahead and ignore them, he won't mind!

"Gwyndal"

I look down at the pile of clothes. It honestly looks like someone has thrown up a rainbow.

I turn to the folded clothes that were apparently arranged by Azuridian. I have to look at both sets before making a choice regarding this.

The second piece of paper is, unsurprisingly, extremely neatly folded.

"Paladin," it starts. Is that how Azuridian plans to address me from now on?

"I took the liberty to enter your room and leave you something clean to wear. I will not be associated with you as long as you smell like an ogre. Of course, I have picked out attire that is not only carefully calculated to be flattering to your figure but also will inspire obedience and order in those around you.

"Consider this a belated welcoming gift.

"Signed,

"A. du Valeric"

I lower the note to look at the clothes he has laid out for me.

It's a white shirt, a dark blue skirt accompanied by a black belt, and a pair of polished black shoes to complete the set.

I give the clothes a skeptical look before letting out a resigned sigh. They're not my style, that's for sure…. But if there is a chance I can make Azuridian happy by wearing them, then it's a small sacrifice to make.

Besides, it's not like I have many options as it is.

I put on the skirt and shirt, after which I step into the black shoes. It's a near-perfect fit.

The first thing I see when I go out is a door. According to Gwyndal's letter, it must lead to the bath.

I look down at my stylish outfit and frown. It would probably be nice to clean up a little before trying to find the others, but I could also explore some other part of this place instead.

Whether I like it or not, Gwyndal was definitely right about the smell. It'd probably be best to clean myself up first.

My initial thought when I'm met with the sight behind the door is that Gwyndal must have pulled a prank on me.