Hokka 1

A cargo platform, linked to a magic-powered four-wheeled vehicle, speeds across a barren plain.

The road is completely unpaved, causing violent jolts.

Several people are huddled together on the platform.

They are not clinging together out of cold.

The temperature is kept constant by my magic.

They huddle close to each other because it provides greater stability.

The cargo platform attached to the magic four-wheeled carriage has no handles or seats installed.

Lina and Anne are diligently attending to them.

We tried everything possible—restoration magic stones and the like—for the wounded soldiers, but their condition did not improve.

Although their injuries healed, it was impossible to restore what had been lost.

She puts on a brave front in Lina's presence, but I've caught her staring at her missing arm or leg when she's alone.

There's nothing we can do about it—right now, further recovery seems impossible.

After finishing treatment, Lina sits down beside me.

"Have you ever been to this area, Taro?"

"No, this is my first time. The fields stretch endlessly—it's a beautiful place."

"This area is used for grazing, so there's a plentiful supply of food."

"Ah~, you know a lot about this, don't you?"

"Of course. I did receive noble education after all. I've memorized details about regional characteristics."

Lina proudly puffed out her chest.

She'd always lived a restricted life, and for entertainment, she'd studied diligently.

It also matched her natural disposition perfectly.

"For the sake of me, so many people have given their lives. What, in return, can I possibly give them?"

"...That's a tough topic. Is studying also for that reason?"

"Yes, I'm trying to learn as much as possible, hoping to put it to use somehow... But it's not yielding much results. Now, I've even moved away from the town I used to live in."

Regardless of the reason, she had lost her hometown.

I somehow understand how she feels. I can't return to my original world the way I am now.

The scenery of the hometown I can never see again flashes into my mind unexpectedly.

It was unbearable, tightening my heart.

...I suddenly felt like I should do something for her.

"It's fine. I'm not lonely. I can't say that, though. But Linna has plenty of companions, and she won't be stuck there forever, right? When the war ends someday, she can come back anytime."

I wanted to say something comforting, but nothing came to mind. I understand how she feels, I really do...

"That's right. When the war ends."

An unexpectedly solemn atmosphere had settled in.

Awkward.

"Right. How about you come visit my home in the Empire once you've settled down and had a chance to rest at Clara's place?"

"Really?!"

The words I'd spoken out of desperation were met with far more enthusiasm than I'd expected.

"I have a daughter around your age too. I think she'd make a great conversation partner."

"...What kind of person is she? What's your relationship like?"

What's this? I thought she was happy, but her mood suddenly turned sour.

"Just friends, that's all."

"Hmm, is that so..."

What's wrong with her? The atmosphere feels heavier than before.

We couldn't continue the conversation any further.

A few days later, arriving a day earlier than planned, we reached Clara's hometown—someplace called Hokka.

The town isn't particularly large, but the people walking the streets seem to live with ease.

Evidence of great wealth in a kingdom at war.

Before reaching this town, I’d heard a bit about Clara’s family home.

Clara’s father holds real power in the town and is said to be highly capable, as well as a man of strong character. Perhaps he can help us somehow.

Negotiations might be difficult, but sheltering Lina for a short while shouldn’t be much of a problem.

For now, they stopped the magic carriage outside the city and only Clara and Kenny entered the town.

They said they’d return shortly after settling things.

But Clara never came back even after a full day.

That night, I spoke with Lina.

"Clara’s father is a man of principle, but he’s also well known for being strict. If things go badly, perhaps we could ask her and Kenny for help. I’d beg them, even if it meant bowing my head to the ground."

"There's no need to go that far."

"No, I can't keep putting them in danger. I can't rely on protection forever."

A couple of days later, Kenny finally returned alone.

"Kenny, anything happen?"

"Alright, entry permission's been granted. I'll show you the back entrance at night—come through there. We'll talk once you're inside."

With that, Kenny headed back into town.

"This is going to turn into a full-blown argument, that’s for sure..."

"It seems so. I’ve left the negotiation to you."

Alex doesn’t seem to care at all.

Even if I’m not good at negotiations myself...

I’ll just do my best.

The sun had fully set, and we circled around to the back of the town.

The area was completely enclosed by a wall, making it appear as though there was no way in.

Yet, right there for all to see, an entrance with lights on stood open.

The gatekeeper made eye contact, but said nothing in particular.

When we reached the gatekeeper,

"Cut the output of the magic four-wheeler and proceed around the back of the castle while keeping it in that state."

We heard a warning that sounded like a cryptic message, exchanged glances with one another, and got off the vehicle and the cargo platform.

Pushing the magic four-wheeler, we entered the town.