Chapter 169: Gathering Companions
Leaving the workshop, I teleported to the Elven forest with Sophie. I explained the situation to Luna and the Elder—that a massive horde of monsters had attacked, causing heavy casualties among the Royal Knights—and told them that I intended to go to the Woodpole Barony.
“A massive horde of a thousand monsters? It seems the offensive of Darkness has finally intensified. We cannot stop the Savior from fighting monsters, but if it becomes dangerous, please escape using Teleportation Magic.”
The Elder, like my father, advised that I should flee with Teleportation Magic when push comes to shove. If I were a Hero or a Sage, I probably wouldn’t have caused them so much worry.
“The battle against the monsters is a problem for the entire world. You must not be fixated on a small territory. I know I am saying something unpleasant, but your safety concerns the future of this world.”
The Elder says it is unpleasant, but I know she is worried about me. So I am grateful. “Yes, I will try not to push myself too hard.” When I answered, the Elder looked relieved.
There is one more thing I want to convey. “We need the Elves to proceed with the development of the southern undeveloped lands, and since I cannot teleport a large number of people at once, I think it is better if you do not come with us this time.”
Elves excel in forests like the Sea of Trees, but they are not good at clashing with numerous enemies on flat plains. I want to avoid heavy Elven casualties in this battle at all costs.
“Indeed. Since you will be clashing with a massive monster horde on the plains rather than in a forest this time, the Elven warriors will not accompany you.” I was relieved that Luna understood as well.
“However, I shall accompany you.” “No, Luna is the Chieftain, so you must avoid going to dangerous places.” “The one who is irreplaceable even more than a Chieftain is the Savior. I cannot let William-sama go to a dangerous place alone. Besides, am I not a companion?”
When she brings up the fact that we are exploration companions, it is hard to argue. Moreover, the Elder, who cherishes Luna, is not trying to stop her. It seems the flow is such that I cannot refuse.
“I understand. I am grateful that you will come with us.” “It is reassuring to have Luna-san come along.” “Yes, Sophia-san. Let us do our best together.”
“By the way, William-sama. Since Luna will be participating, may I attach just two guards to her?” “Of course, Elder. Since the Chieftain is going to the battlefield, I think it is only natural.”
“Thank you for your understanding.” “No, I am sorry to expose the guards to danger as well.” “Fufu, there is no one who would be unwilling to share danger with the Savior.” I feel grateful. But that is precisely why I wanted to avoid taking many Elves. I am afraid that they might push themselves too hard to protect me and become casualties. Elves are few in number, after all.
“By the way, who will serve as the guards?” “I think meeting them would be fastest. I will call them now, so they should be here shortly.”
While waiting for the Elven guards, I spoke a little with the Elder. “Has the full-scale offensive of Darkness finally begun?” “It seems so. However, it is joyous that no countries have perished so far, and there have not been massive casualties.”
“Is that so?” “Yes. Last time, before the full-scale offensive of Darkness, many victims fell to famine and infectious diseases, and wars broke out between humans over scarce food. This time, thanks to William-sama’s activities, there have been no massive casualties so far.” “Come to think of it, you mentioned that before. I am happy if I have been of use.”
As I was talking with the Elder, Luna‘s guards arrived. “”It has been a long time, William-sama.”” One was Aurasneel. Even though he is an Elf, he is also skilled in close combat, and I know his ability from the exploration of the undeveloped lands. “Aurasneel, it is reassuring to have you come.” “Those are grateful words, Savior.”
And… “It has been a long time. Is your sister doing well?” “Thanks to you, she has become completely healthy.” “That is good to hear.”
The other guard who appeared was Erenruel. His sister had been captured by illegal slave traders. When the traders attacked us after we found the Crosspoint in the undeveloped lands, James and the others fought them off, and we liberated her along with the other captives.
“I heard the story from Luna-sama. I am confident in my archery skills. In the undeveloped lands, I let blood rush to my head and got injured, but this time I will show you my strength.” “Is that so. I’m counting on you.” “Yes, I was hoping for an opportunity to repay my debt to William-sama. I will show you that I am strong.”
Together with Sophie, Luna, Aurasneel, and Erenruel, I teleported to my room in the workshop. There, Letty was waiting. “I heard you are going to the Woodpole Barony.”
“Yeah. I’m hoping we can buy time until reinforcements arrive.” “I see. Then I’m going with you.” “No, I intend to escape with Teleportation if push comes to shove, but the battlefield is more dangerous than the undeveloped lands. I want you to think carefully about whether you really want to come.”
“What are you saying? I am a swordsman. If my fiancé is fighting, I will protect him by his side. Our knights can’t go to another noble’s territory, but there shouldn’t be any problem with me acting personally.” I had a feeling Letty would say that. “Thank you. It is reassuring to have Letty by my side.”
Before long, Theo, Ophelia, and Gilbert also gathered, fully prepared. In the end, all the exploration companions gathered, and two Elves joined us as well. “Everyone, thank you for coming even though we are going to a dangerous battlefield.” “Thank you very much.” Sophie and I bowed our heads.
“We are companions, so there is no need to thank us.” Letty answered, and everyone nodded. “Thank you, everyone.”
Together with Letty, Sophie, Theo, Ophelia, Gil, Luna, Aurasneel, and Erenruel, I teleported to Woodpole.
