"Ah-ke-no..." Clive repeated the name to ensure he heard it correctly.
"That's correct. If you're not associated with the White Dragon, judging by your attire, you don't seem like students here," Akeno remarked.
"Well, Lady Akeno, it appears we've taken a wrong turn in our travels and ended up lost," Joshua explained. "Is there perhaps a tavern or inn nearby where we could stay temporarily?"
"A tavern?" Akeno's surprise showed. "I'm not sure about that, but maybe Kiba or Xenovia could assist. However..." Her gaze shifted to Clive, Joshua, and Jill briefly before she clapped her hands. "You could stay in our clubroom while we figure things out. Our club president will likely have some questions."
"Club... president?" Clive whispered to Joshua, who shook his head in response. "We're not entirely sure what that entails, but we'll play along until we understand more."
"We're grateful for your hospitality, Lady Akeno," Jill added with a warm smile.
"Very well! I'll arrange for someone to escort you to the clubroom. Perhaps Kiba can do it. Can you wait a little while?" Akeno asked.
Without hesitation, Akeno hurried back into the school grounds, leaving Clive to observe her departure.
"The women in this world are quite peculiar," Jill remarked. "Considering those... things, I'm amazed she can run so swiftly."
"I won't delve into that comment, Jill, but you likely sensed something," Joshua replied as Jill nodded.
"Alongside the lightning she conjured, her aura is noticeable, though not dominant-level. It's more subdued, perhaps intentionally," Jill observed.
"Or Ultima's manipulation," Clive suggested, sheathing his sword. "Let's remain cautious without drawing undue attention."
"We should change our attire, then," Joshua suggested as Akeno returned with a young man with bright blonde hair and a composed demeanor.
"Vice President, we should be assisting Issei," the blonde-haired man, Kiba, reminded Akeno as they approached Clive.
"Don't worry, Kiba. Koneko is with Issei, and Rias and I will join soon," Akeno assured him before turning to Clive's group.
"I'd like you to escort these three to the clubhouse," she instructed Kiba, addressing Clive, Joshua, and Jill.
"Are you sure about this, Akeno? Given today's events..." Kiba hesitated.
"I trust them," Akeno replied confidently, dismissing Kiba's concerns. "Issei would do the same. Please, accompany them for now."
"If you say so," Kiba acquiesced with a smile, turning to Clive. "It's a pleasure to meet you all. I'm Kiba."