These Demons Do it for Free

The contract negotiations were finished, but I lingered at Enigma for a while longer.

Surprisingly, I hit it off rather well with Ms. Book, if I could call her that.

Ms. Book, it turned out, was also a training academy graduate. Between talking about that and discussing the Abyss, there was never a dull moment in our conversation. And honestly, she did most of the talking—probably around 70-80% of it.

Once she started speaking, it was like a floodgate had opened, yet it wasn’t boring in the slightest. Perhaps it was because she had a knack for visual aids; when I couldn’t grasp something she said, she’d draw images on her pages or even morph into a pop-up book with intricate three-dimensional movements.

The wealth of useful information she provided kept me attentive, which only encouraged her enthusiasm. It became clear that she was lonely—a realization that left me feeling a bit sorry for her.

"Ah~ That was fun. It’s been a while."
"I enjoyed it as well."
"Come to think of it, I never told you my name, did I?"

What a speedy revelation. Then again, I hadn’t properly introduced myself either, so I guess we’re even.

"I’m Roman Sen, as you already know."
"Yeah, I know. But I’m Alice—eternally 17 and a shy, literary girl."
"Neither of those statements seem true."
"They’re both true!"

Sure they are.

Conscience? Where art thou?

‘Though, now that I think about it, maybe the "shy literary girl" part isn’t entirely false. Perhaps that’s why she communicates through books instead of face-to-face interactions.’

You know, like those people who are quiet in person but turn into keyboard warriors online. That kind of vibe.

"Anyway! As thanks for listening to me ramble, let me give you some advice."
"Advice?"
"Yeah. You don’t use that magic tome of yours at all, do you?"