No. Of course not.

(chapter originally by Phantom Pen on writing.com)

Margaret opened her mouth to speak, only to be cut off by the ever-calm Igor.

"Of course not. The terms of the contract are admittedly vague in certain regards. Besides that, it is not as if your recent actions were willing or intended. The contract does not hold one responsible for times where extenuating circumstances remove one's own control. Considering the nature of some Shadows, it would be quite cruel to expect full compliance at all times." the mysterious man explained, his tone never changing from its eerily pleasant nature.

Margaret glared. "But, Master, surely she can't be allowed to walk away from this free of repercussions!"

"I have made my decision, Margaret. You do not have to like it, but you have to accept it. I will not have our guest punished." Igor said, his voice taking on a surprising edge. Clearly he did not take well to the attendants questioning him.

Margaret immediately backed off, fear flashing across her face. In fact, all three of the attendants seemed fearful at that moment. Clearly, Igor was not one to be angered if merely raising his voice could shake these three...

"So... uh... am I free to go, then?" Minako asked quietly, not sure if she should speak at all.

"Ah, I'm afraid not." Igor said. "You see, we've summoned you for a special reason. This Shadow you and your allies have encountered is an aberration. It does not seem to answer to any master, and instead works towards its own agenda. In fact, it has expanded its ambitions, looking to spread its influence to another place experiencing Shadow activity."

"And that is why I'm here." Margaret said, stepping forward. The look she gave Minako made it clear that the eldest of the three siblings still did not care for the naked girl. Staring intently at Minako the whole time, Margaret began to explain. "I am in charge of aiding another Wild Card guest, this one a young man in a small town called Inaba. This Shadow of yours has begun to make moves among the Shadows there. I cannot allow this to continue."

"Well, why don't you tell your guy? I mean, if he's a Wild Card, he can fight Shadows too, right?" Minako asked. "Or is he not strong enough?"

"My guest is plenty strong!" Margaret snapped, quickly regaining her composure. "Ahem. As I was saying. Since this Shadow originated here, in YOUR city, the Master has agreed that you and your allies should be the ones to face the problem."

"And if I refuse?"

"Then you'll have breached your contract." Igor said. "And Margaret would be entitled to punish you for allowing a threat to spread out of your control."

Minako realized she didn't have much of a choice. "Okay. I'll do it. So... when do we start?"

Margaret simply smiled. "You and your two friends begin-"