Before anyone could connect him with the fleeing book thief, Astredian himself made his own getaway - though at a more measured pace so as not to attract too much suspicion. By the time he plodded back into Pounce, the catton cleric had kicked everyone out from the guild hall regardless of whether or not they’d finished their dinner.
The only people remaining were Ichigo’s party, Moltar’s, party and Larkin - who was glancing at the book that Ichigo had set in the middle of the dining hall table with a sneer of revulsion etched on his usually good natured face. In fact, everyone who was gathered at the table was pointedly not looking at the book; it emanated a dark power that made it impossible for the eye to focus on it for too long. Elise actually looked like she might throw up when she
