Chapter 128

“Was that really okay, Erica?” -Francis

After seeing off Vincent who had left, Francis let out a small sigh before addressing Erica.

“Yes. It seems that the upper echelons of the Knight’s Order are indeed under the influence of Dr. Justus, but even so, after actually talking, I believe we can trust Captain Vincent for now.” -Erica

“Can you tell me the reason for that judgment?” -Francis

“Well, it’s undeniable that the Knight’s Order was dispatched to Yuno and Baston, and that they were cooperating with Harold-sama to evacuate the residents, right?” -Erica

“Yes, they were in close coordination with Harold-sama and Frieri.” -Yuno

Yuno answered in a tone different from usual, not drawn out. That itself was proof of a dire situation that left her with no room for comfort.

Erica felt the same. But precisely because of that, she had to keep her mind cool and act, she reminded herself.

“Then naturally, the situation on the ground should have been reported to Captain Vincent, the head of the Knight’s Order. But if not, there are several possibilities to consider.” -Erica

The first is that the Knight’s Order at Baston was completely annihilated or the situation on the ground was simply too chaotic to send any reports. However, according to Yuno’s report, that was not the case, and information should have been delivered, with there not being a significant difference in Sumeragi’s intelligence.

The second is that reports from the field are being suppressed before they reach the top. If there are people from Dr. Freud’s faction within the Knight’s Order, then this is probably the most likely scenario, Erica surmised.

“But there’s a third possibility, right? That the captain we just talked to is an ally of Justus and might be lying.” -Leafa

Leafa’s point was naturally made.

Even if they had some understanding of the situation, as long as they don’t understand Justus’s thoughts, they can’t know what he’s aiming for.

“As for that, any counterargument I prepare would only lead to a fruitless debate. If I were to provide a reason for thinking the possibility of that is low, it would be simply because I felt he was trustworthy after exchanging words directly.” -Erica

“I’m not denying your judgment of people, Erica, but there’s more to it than just that, right?” -Leafa

“…Yes.” -Erica

Even without knowing the details, Leafa could sense that Erica had some thoughts on the matter. In fact, Erica did have her own considerations, but whether to share them at that moment was a dilemma.

However, given the emergency, it might be crucial to share important matters. Erica, who had always hoped to be honest with Harold, knew that she couldn’t withhold things from her allies or she wouldn’t be able to face Harold.

“If we a.s.sume that he is an ally of Dr. Justus, then the reason for him approaching us is likely to confirm how much information we hold and what our next moves might be.” -Erica

No one interrupted her. Probably, Leafa and Francis already understood everything Erica was about to say.

“If the information we have is negligible, then they will be fine leaving us be. But if we know something that can’t be ignored, then they might resort to more drastic measures.” -Erica

“What kind of drastic measures?” -Liner

“The quickest would be our elimination. In short, killing us.” -Erica

In response to Liner’s question, Erica replied without any hesitation.

Liner and Colette gasped, not expecting such a response. It was evident from the change in their expressions.

“We previously crossed swords with Harold-sama. I’ll refrain from mentioning the outcome, but hypothetically, if he is equal or superior in skill to Harold-sama, then our annihilation is inevitable.” -Erica

Even though she mentioned it as a hypothetical, given their previous confrontation where they took the lead and repelled the a.s.sault, it wouldn’t be surprising if their opponent possessed combat capabilities on par with Harold’s.

“Well, I get what you’re saying, but can someone just casually kill royals or n.o.bles like Erica and Fran?” -Liner

“While it might be feasible in terms of ability, considering the aftermath, it wouldn’t be done lightly. Normally, that is.” -Leafa

“What do you mean?” -Liner

“Have you forgotten what we heard from Harold? If Justus’s plan succeeds, this continent might sink. In such a case, t.i.tles of royalty or n.o.bility will become meaningless.” -Leafa

Leafa was right. If an unprecedented catastrophe like the sinking of the continent were to occur, the very survival of the nation would be questionable. In such chaos, all security organizations would likely become dysfunctional, leaving no room to chase the murderer.

Moreover, if Vincent is indeed staking his life on the success of this operation, he would not hesitate at all.

“It is the worst-case scenario, but if such measures are taken, we need to avoid the risk of total annihilation. Therefore, I, along with Ventos and Lilium, will be the ones to go and a.s.sist Harold-sama.” -Erica

“It’s not like I’m against it at all, but why are you taking those two?” -Hugo

Hugo asked about the intent behind the team division. It seemed clear to him that it wasn’t a random a.s.signment, but he couldn’t discern the reason.

Erica openly shared her thoughts without any deception.

“It’s because there’s a possibility that the two of them might be informants for Dr. Freud.” -Erica

“W, what! I would never…!” -Lilium

Lilium began to object, but Ventos restrained her with his arm.

“Calm down, Lilium.” -Ventos

“B, but…” -Lilium

“What Erica is saying makes sense. We haven’t proven our innocence yet.”

Ventos seemed to understand their situation objectively, but for Erica, openly expressing such suspicion was distressing. It was due to her inherent kindness and, although their a.s.sociation had been brief, she had witnessed them fighting alongside her without regard for their own safety, especially in the recent battle.

However, if the two were not informants and genuinely wished to do something for Harold, this could also be an opportunity.

“Moreover, this is exactly what we wished for. If Harold-sama is in danger now, there couldn’t be a better time to repay our debt, could there?” -Ventos

“Ah! T, that’s… right…” -Lilium

After their exchange, Erica asked again.

“So, will you accompany me?” -Erica

“Of course.” -Ventos

“Yes! Please let us go!” -Lilium

“…That’s how it is. What do you think, Liner?” -Erica

“W, why are you asking me…” -Liner

“Well, because you are our leader after all.” -Erica

Liner was taken aback by the sudden question.

From Erica’s perspective, it was clear that Liner had harbored doubts about Harold since a recent incident. She sensed that it wasn’t something that should be lightly touched upon and hadn’t delved deeper yet.

Considering all this, there might be a possibility that these doubts could lead Liner to be reluctant about rescuing Harold. If Erica acted unilaterally, it could potentially lead to the disintegration of the party, which was not her desire.

Therefore, it would be better to discuss and align everyone’s thoughts thoroughly.

“Wanting to rescue Harold-sama is solely my decision. However, we need to properly discuss this as a party.” -Erica

“I, I… um…” -Liner

Liner’s hesitation and internal struggle were evident.

In front of him, Erica thought to herself that she was being unfair. A young man as naive and just as Liner wouldn’t lightly disregard human lives due to personal feelings. Moreover, rescuing Harold was also in line with the wishes of the captain of the Knight’s Order he admired.

Knowing all this, she felt guilty for putting him on the spot.

“…I think we should go rescue him. So, I agree with Erica’s proposal.” -Liner

“…Thank you, Liner.” -Erica

“That settles it. Let’s start with what needs to be done right away,” Leafa said, clapping her hands together.

First, they had to prepare their equipment, plan their actions after splitting into groups, and decide on the period and timing for regrouping. Both Travis and Baston were unpredictable, and unforeseen circ.u.mstances could arise. They needed to devise contingency plans accordingly.

Even if they managed to rescue Harold, the situation could change significantly before they regroup, and unexpected events might make regrouping itself impossible.

Outside of that, there were many other things to consider, and it took over a full day before everything took shape.

In the meantime, they also had to oversee the arrival of the Santiya Trading Company at Travis and a.s.sist with unloading, so by the time they finished preparing and went to bed, it was almost the next day. At dawn, they would board a merchant ship heading to Baston.

Even understanding that it was better to sleep early, Erica still felt restless and went down to the courtyard of the inn to gaze at the night sky. Her mind felt foggy, but above, the stars stretched across the sky.

She wondered if Harold was safe or if the worst-case scenario awaited them.

Even while believing in Harold, doubts occasionally crept into her mind. As she acknowledged her own vulnerability, she tried to regain her calm by looking up at the starry sky and taking a deep breath. Then, she heard the sound of someone approaching through the gra.s.s.

“Good work, Erica.” -Leafa

Leafa, the source of the sound, addressed Erica in her usual firm voice. Erica felt a considerable sense of relief from her voice.

Even though she must be feeling anxious and impatient herself, her att.i.tude of not showing it was rea.s.suring as both a comrade and a friend.

“You too, Leafa. You were meticulously adjusting every detail, weren’t you?” -Erica

“Because we don’t know what will happen. Especially since the situation there is unclear.” -Leafa

“Yes…” -Erica

While the incident at Baston has been reported, the actual situation on the ground can’t be known until seen firsthand. After all, there were reports of ma.s.s monster attacks and large-scale collapses.

There might be remnants of monsters or difficulties in navigating the collapsed terrain, possibly hindering the start of their search.

“Still, I will do everything I can, no matter what the outcome may be.” -Erica

“…You kno~w, Erica, you’re starting to resemble Harold.” -Leafa

“Eh? Really? Do you think so?” -Erica

Erica was taken aback by the unexpected comment. While she was somewhat pleased to be compared to Harold, it was clear from the nuance that it wasn’t exactly a compliment.

“May I ask in what way?” -Erica

“The way you act, knowing the danger to your life, and trying to shoulder everything by yourself.” -Leafa

“Indeed, I have no reb.u.t.tal to that…” -Erica

If Vincent or Ventos and the others are informants, her safety is not guaranteed. If Justus is indeed involved in the incidents at Baston, there might be some trap set, similar to the ma.s.s of monsters.

Even the fact that she, as a n.o.ble lady, has been on this perilous journey for months is quite extraordinary.

“But I was able to have such resolve partly because of you, Leafa.” -Erica

The charm she was given on the hilltop. It seemed to make her complex feelings for Harold more decisive and clear.

She may not have completely changed yet, but it’s undeniable that she has gradually become able to take steps forward, largely due to Leafa’s presence.

“Really? Then I’ll bear a part of that responsibility.” -Leafa

Leafa smiled mischievously, just as she did back then.

Seeing that smile, Erica was once again deeply aware of how much she was saved by not being alone. If she hadn’t been supported by someone, her spirit would have surely broken long ago.

The words she once told Harold, “You should learn to rely on others a little more,” are now firmly etched in her own heart.

“Thank you, Leafa. And please, continue to support me.” -Erica

She expressed her genuine grat.i.tude. Receiving those feelings, Leafa smiled shyly.

She wants to be a strength to Harold. That determination was no longer wavering.

The dawn was drawing near, just moments away.

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