I was welcomed in the settlement of the Desert Scale Tribe.
I said I could return alone, but the two guides who accompanied me saw me to the door. The next morning, I told everyone about last night’s events.
“Oh, really? What did they say?”
“It seems their eggs were stolen. So I want to get them back as soon as possible, but this time, we’re completely outmatched in terms of force. What should I do?”
Philiana tilted her head, just like I did.
“That’s right, the Melon Farmers and the people of the town don’t seem to be good at fighting. I heard there’s a self-defense force, but I doubt they’re accustomed to fighting Harpies either.”
Upon hearing her words, Nina shrugged her shoulders as if to say there was nothing they could do.
“There’s no helping it, is there? Though the water is expensive, we’ll just have to buy it and go.”
“That’s unlike you, Nina. Usually, you’d be the first to charge in.”
I was also a little bothered by that. It wasn’t like the usual Nina. Well, I could certainly understand losing motivation in this heat.
“Haa, because I suddenly feel so lethargic. It’s like we’re always the ones getting worked up, and it’s a little silly.”
If you put it that way, it’s true, but then this whole journey would feel meaningless.
Amidst the stagnant atmosphere, Imon awkwardly approached.
“Ah, Imon, I’m sorry. I’ll help you now.”
“No, it’s not that. Uh, the water in the aqueduct that was flowing has dried up a little. All that’s left is the well, but if it continues like this, there will only be enough for our family, and the melons will be ruined.”
Nina cast a cold gaze at him as he bowed his waist low.
“Is that so? But we’re leaving soon. Thank you for your hospitality. Well then.”
She replied curtly and returned to the room. Philiana hurriedly corrected her.
“I apologize, she’s a bit out of sorts. We’ll think of something, so please wait.”
“Ah, ah, um, what should I do? Should I take what little we have and help open the aqueduct?”
He returned with a flustered expression. If this continues, it’s a complete vicious cycle. Eventually, resources will run out, and nothing will be resolved.
There’s no other way. I don’t want to, but I’ll have to use my last resort.
