Hokka 5

I have magic.

Moreover, they possess a certain level of knowledge about aircraft. Thanks to having thoroughly studied the principles of flight, there are no gaps in their understanding.

If you asked me right now whether I'd be making an aircraft, I'd say certainly not.

Not that I can't do it.

It's simply a matter of brute force.

Secure the magic four-wheeled cart and platform firmly, then generate thrust from beneath the load using wind magic.

And the idea was to simply fly straight over the battlefield above.

Of course, it would be incredibly exhausting, and while generating high-power magic for flight, there would be no ability to do anything else—just like flying a plane.

Still, it was far more realistic than risking danger by advancing through the battlefield.

So, while receiving supplies, I connected the magic four-wheeled cart to the platform.

If not secured properly, it could snap apart mid-air—something that would be disastrous.

While hammering the metal plates, I receive a call from Anne.

"Is something wrong?"

"It's about the young lady—she's suggested that we remain in the town. However, the knights are strongly opposed, and we've made no progress at all..."

I had a vague feeling it might turn out this way.

The loyalty of Linah's knights is unwavering.

Otherwise, they wouldn't have risked their lives so recklessly to save her.

I head to the room where the knights are recuperating.

Voices from the conversation could be heard all the way outside.

"Miss, how many times must I say it? As long as you don't tell us to leave, we have no intention of stepping away from you."

"You're not... but I can't keep sending you on aimless journeys like this anymore."

"What does that matter? If I can fulfill my duty for you, there is no greater honor."

"Don't die for the sake of honor. I don't want you to die. You're important to me."

"We feel the same way. It's not just because we were asked by your mother. We wish to serve you personally, and that's why we want to stay by your side, my lady."

Was it noble loyalty or extreme love? Linna seemed unable to part from her knight.

"Isn't that fine? Let's keep traveling together like this. It'll surely benefit everyone."

"Mr. Taro... I'm sorry. I must have looked so disgraceful."

"No, not at all. Actually, may I talk to you for a moment?"

"Shall we move somewhere else?"

"No, this place is fine. I mean, it's about what comes next..."

"Yes, what is it?"

"Lewis-san, it seems he can't hide Lina after all. So, how about coming with me to the Empire? It's not like you'll be living like a noble—my lab is nearby, after all."

"I'd be honored to join you!"

The enthusiastic response surprised him. The knights behind him were likewise taken aback.

"S-so if Lina's okay with it, then it's fine... Right, so we're bringing everyone along, then?"

"Ah, um... I said I'd come along, but is it really feasible with this many people?"

"Ah, absolutely no problem. It's a piece of cake."

Lina's knight, wobbling on unsteady legs, approaches me.

"For the time being, I'll entrust you with guarding the young lady. I don't like it, but listen well—if anything happens to her, I won't forgive you!"

I'm stunned by the intense, almost terrifying resolve radiating from him, despite the fact that he's clearly severely injured.

Ah, ah, I understand. I swear I'll protect it at all costs.

Hmph, then it's settled.

Lina, watching the exchange, strangely seemed in high spirits.

In any case, everyone moved together.

I can't keep going without adding more cargo space...

I really wish I could do something about the knight's injury... It must be quite inconvenient.

Once I return to the empire, I'll have to get the research I'd put on hold moving again...

I should probably ask the imperial government some things, and while I'm at it, I might as well conduct some investigation as part of my report...

That night, I went to Clara's place. My departure has been decided for soon.

Clara had been placed under house arrest by Louis, but she was living in a separate residence without any hardship. Such is the advantage of being a powerful noble... Kenny was there as well.

The two of them were still enjoying a light meal by the fireplace on such a chilly night.

Wasn't she under house arrest?

"Tomorrow, we're leaving this place. What about Clara and Kenny?"

"What if I asked you to take me along?"

"As you wish, if that's your desire."

"Don't joke. If we go to the Empire from a place like this, it'll just be running away."

True to her spirit—her eyes blaze with determination.

Sharing a light snack with Kenny.

A hard piece of bread with melted cheese on top.

There's something especially delicious about eating this kind of meal under the cold sky.

"I once wondered what the point of noble education was, so I decided to go outside and see for myself."

She suddenly began speaking—unusual for her.

"Of course, a naive girl like me stepping outside would only end up being used by bad people. I was practically begging to be kidnapped, just like that."

That's exactly what Kenny had been talking about...

"In the end, Kenny saved me and nothing bad happened... but at that moment, I thought, if there are so many bad people in the world, what kind of nobility is that? What's the point of enduring such a boring education? So I trained hard and became an adventurer—to directly help the people in the town. But I couldn't save Rinna."

Her words were the kind of idealistic thoughts everyone has had at least once.

Yet she never gave up.

Looking at Kenny, she just silently listened. She seemed used to it.

Clara buried her face in her knees.

But she quickly lifted her head.

"That's why I've decided! I'll do both!"

For some reason. Yet, true to Clara, the most powerful solution had emerged.

"For years now, as an adventurer, I've handled various requests and gained experience. Now, I'll use that experience alongside my noble background to help anyone in need. Come on, Kenny—come with me."

"Got it."

She's fundamentally someone with strong principles and great initiative.

Whether she'll succeed remains uncertain, but she'll certainly start acting right away.

That ability to bounce back quickly is definitely a strength.