The Arisugawa and the three others, having won a bet with the Dark Harpy woman.
We returned to the bonfire as promised to hear the story.
“So, what was it again? A woman with red hair?”
“Yes, a tall, slender woman with red hair. Do you know anything about her?”
The Dark Harpy woman lit a cigarette by the small bonfire.
“That’s an Elf of Red Hair. On the surface, she’s the Chieftain’s exclusive escort, but in reality, she’s his personal assassin. She seems to be quite skilled. And she’s his mistress.”
“Mistress? Are you dating?”
“No, he has a formal wife, but the marriage is only for show. They both have lovers.”
In short, the Dark Harpy chief had sent his mistress and assassin. As expected, she wouldn’t just obey silently.
“By the way, what kind of gathering are you guys?”
“We are pursuing the Dark Elves, well, there are various reasons…”
Before I could finish my explanation, she disappeared into the forest, seemingly uninterested.
“Well, thank you all three of you. Thanks to you, it somehow worked out.”
“I was so worried. I was really on pins and needles, thinking you might be killed. But you were brave and wonderful!”
Sharin nodded slightly at Philiana’s words.
“Honestly, you asked for it yourself, but let’s go. I’m tired.”
As Nina said, as our tension eased, our bodies gradually felt heavy. We returned the way we came, walking briskly.
The next day, I told everyone about what happened last night. When Cecilia heard my story, she suddenly stood up.
“So, that’s good then, the incident is resolved. Let’s finish each other off and be done with it. Those who were captured will also return. Come on, let’s get ready quickly.”
Philiana hurried to stop Cecilia, who was about to leave the room.
“Wait, wait a moment. That’s true, but why don’t we observe the situation a little longer? If we do this, a battle will break out between the two sides. Then, the people of this village might get caught up in it.”
“So what? Our purpose isn’t to go around solving problems everywhere, is it?”
Philiana was speechless at Cecilia’s retort.
“Th-that’s right, we should leave this place as soon as possible. A-and if a battle breaks out, w-we’ll get involved too.”
Lauren also voiced her agreement with Cecilia.
“I want to help the people here! I want to see this through, especially after all the effort we put into investigating.”
Unexpectedly, Pauline spoke up here.
“Hah? Wh-what are you saying? You’re the one who can’t fight the most! Wh-why is everyone so calm? Are you guys all weird?! It’s already been dangerous enough. I-I can’t take anymore!”
With that, she left the room. Cecilia showed a look of exasperation and also left the scene.
