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[color=hotpink]"Hello, Ami. Didn't think you'd be showing up."[/color] Akiko dealt with an ounce of slight joy in her voice. Truth be told, it was likely better that the hothead was around. At least if it meant that the group was willing to stand more of a chance. Especially with the arrival of a new, yet uninviting, presence into the area. Of course, ignoring Riku and Thomas' arrival alongside, the new face of Nephetos and... interestingly, another unseen presence. It seemed like Nephy wasn't alone, and had someone playing along from the sidelines. Thankfully Akiko happened to have another set of eyes, Castle's own, trailing around and keeping an eye for the lurking soul she could sense. 

She rose from the lake on a clasping set of krakenous tendrils, simply sitting and watching for the moment. [color=hotpink]"Everyone, watch your step around this place. Nephetos isn't the only threat we've got to worry about, and I'm not just talking about the cannibalistic crabs. I'll keep an eye out, just keep focus on the target."[/color] Her eyes narrowed onto Nephy, simply watching and observing through that same, [color=ed1c24]callous stare,[/color] all the while her fingers simply tapped against each other as she sat.

[color=red][ You're planning something, aren't you. ][/color]

[color=hotpink]"Indeed, though I lament wishing to try it for myself, Castle."[/color] She glanced over at her stand, simply observing it. [color=hotpink]"Speaking of which, is that still a fitting name? I figure you should have a say."[/color]

Castle lifted up its master into its arms from the kraken limbs emerging from below. [color=red][ It is fine, though certainly you could think of something greater for my abilities. ][/color]

[color=hotpink]"Hmm, yes, I believe that can be arranged later. For now..."[/color] Akiko's hands flicked through her cards, choosing a single one from the pile and summoning it.

[color=forestgreen][b]"You've requested our aid."[/b][/color] Hellsword stood ominously behind Akiko, stretching from the sea below her. [color=forestgreen][b]"We believe you desire for us to control the crabs and turn them on our side?"[/b][/color]

She smiled. [color=hotpink]"Indeed. I remember somewhere that mycelia and crustaceans formed an interesting synergy."[/color] Hellsword did not respond, simply sinking into the lagoon behind the summoner. Akiko grinned with a sheer grim aura. She had a plan cooking, and she just needed to play it safe for now. [color=hotpink]"We're on the defensive right now, Castle. Let's give the swordsman some time to work..."[/color]