Nina raised her voice in anger at the uncooperative Centaurs.
“I want to help too. My father isn’t coming back. I’m sure he’s been captured by humans.”
The boy must have come after hearing Nina’s story earlier. But everyone’s faces were still clouded. In the heavy atmosphere, Nina spoke.
“I appreciate the sentiment, but this is a dangerous battle, and children…”
“No, let’s include him as well.”
I interrupted Nina’s words and suggested including him as a companion. While it’s not good for an adult to involve a child in danger, I didn’t want to dismiss his feelings.
“Arisugawa, are you serious?”
“Right now, the more companions we have, the better. Come here, and let’s think of a plan together.”
When I beckoned him, he gave a cute smile and happily sat next to me. My companions, including Sharin, all gave me skeptical looks.
Just then, another middle-aged, slightly plump woman arrived.
“My foolish husband hasn’t come back either. Honestly, he’s hopeless. He’s probably regretting going now, showing off when he can’t even do it.”
It seemed her husband had also been captured. She sighed and plopped down onto the ground.
“I may be like this now, but I was an excellent magician when I was young. You’re absolutely right, what’s the point if we don’t act? Leave the vanguard to me. I’m an old hag now, I’ve got nothing to fear.”
Saying that, she laughed heartily. For the time being, at least one more person capable of fighting had been added.
“Then I’ll leave the planning to you all. I’m going to go and regain my old skills.”
The middle-aged woman stood up with a grunt and went somewhere.
“I’m going back to the Kinnara. I also want to discuss the matter of the guns. Until then, um… everyone, please stand by.”
I introduced Piyo and Pauline to the boy, who looked anxious. At first, he was shy, but as they were close in age, they soon became comfortable with each other.
