Chapter 67

After being led into the room and passing through the door, Hartis was sitting there.

We exchanged light greetings and took our seats.

To be honest, if things have progressed this far, there’s almost nothing left to discuss.

When I informed them that we had made contact with a part of what seemed to be the main force of the enemy, the guild mentioned that they had already infiltrated deep into the forest and were monitoring the core of that group. They haven’t confirmed the presence of a command entity yet.

Many retired adventurers become guild staff, so the quality of scouts and messengers is likely high.

Currently, it’s impractical for us to enter deep into the forest, but the staff are specialized in scouting and messaging, and they are monitoring the situation.

Based on the group’s movement speed so far, they estimate that they will reach the operational area by about three hours after dawn.

Even if the speed increases in the forest, it’s an unorganized group. They expect the group to move slowly, advancing in clusters of moderate size.

The movement speed of a group unaccustomed to group actions is quite slow. Although there are uncertain factors, the people who have been monitoring it have made this judgment, which is likely quite accurate.

The arrival of the knight squadron and their formation is expected to be around noon. This is highly certain. They seem to be advancing quite urgently. They are already within a distance where frequent communication from the village is possible.

In other words, if we can buy just over two hours, we should be fine.

There are no major changes to the plan. With the estimated arrival times of the enemy group and the knight squadron, only minor adjustments have been made.

We will reiterate the importance of information sharing. A mistake here could lead to irreparable consequences.

We discuss potential issues and work out solutions.

Once we reach a satisfactory point, we shake hands and leave the guild.

I arrive in front of my house. I put my hand on my face and massage it. I don’t want to return home with a tense expression.

I knock on the door and announce my return.

Everyone has already gathered in the living space, and the meal is ready.

It’s a slightly more elaborate table setting, which is a bit disappointing considering tomorrow’s situation. I want to make sure we have a victory celebration.

Everyone, now that we’ve come this far, avoids a somber atmosphere and enjoys a pleasant meal.

After the meal, I return to my room, clean myself, and do the laundry. While doing the laundry, Rizu visits my room.

I think to myself that doing something special at a time like this might set a flag.

"That smile looks forced."

Rizu says harshly. I think she’s being considerate, but it also shows how much time we’ve spent together.

"I don’t want to worry the two of you too much."

I answer while quickly finishing the laundry.

No matter what emergency arises, daily life is still daily life. Even during a war, life must go on. I need to change clothes for tomorrow.

"I know you’re worried, but do you think something will go wrong, Hiro?"

Rizu asks as I finish wringing out the clothes.

"I think something will go wrong. We don’t have enough information. Anything can happen unexpectedly."

I could say comforting words, but if something does happen, unexpected events are inevitable.

"The biggest concern is if Rizu or Fia gets hurt. In that case, I can’t support the surroundings; I have to prioritize them. Of course, Rizu is my top priority."

There may be no hierarchy among people, but emotions are different. My priorities are clearly defined. In this world, Rizu is the most important to me.

"It’s nice to hear you say that, but listen."

Rizu’s expression turns serious.

"Everyone thinks about their loved ones the same way. You think you’re carrying all the responsibility... but that’s wrong. It’s incorrect. People can only do what they can. Everyone is in the same boat. Everyone thinks about their loved ones. I don’t want Hiro to get hurt either."

Have I been self-righteous again? Have I thought I had to do everything myself?

"You know, Hiro, I was really happy when you proposed. I can’t forget that night. You might not realize, but I’ve been lying and telling lies."

"Huh? Lying? Lies?"

"When I first met you and talked about the proposal, you were very confused. But maybe I was being selfish. I thought it was fine as it was. We spent time together, and there were many happy moments. But, Hiro, you always look like you’re dealing with something painful. It’s like you’re always trying to handle something difficult."

As an adult, looking ahead is a normal behavior. I never thought it was painful. I just thought it was normal and went about my daily life.

"I don’t care about the distant future. Look at me in this moment. Look at me, the one you can touch. Hiro, if you keep going like this, you might disappear. That scares me..."

Rizu gently approaches and hugs me.

"Look at your feet. I’m here, Fia is here, everyone is here. It’s okay. You’ll definitely come back. So, you can feel at ease."

I blush, realizing I’ve been acting in a way that makes a younger girl worry. No matter how old I get, I don’t understand myself.

I’ve been doing things to make others happy, but if asked whether I’ve really looked at their faces and understood their feelings, I can’t say for sure.

Somewhere deep down, did I think it was okay if I sacrificed myself as long as Rizu lived?

Thinking about it, there are many aspects that make sense.

"I love you, Hiro. That’s for sure. If we’re looking at the future, let’s come back safely together. It’s an engagement, right? We’ll get married in the future. We might even have children..."

Rizu’s cheeks turn a bit red.

"So, let’s come back without dying. I’ll do my best to protect myself. You take care of yourself too. Otherwise, it will be painful..."

Rizu’s expression turns serious, as if she’s made a decision.

"It’s nice to hear you say that. But I don’t want it to be based on your sacrifice. Let’s get hurt together. Let’s walk together. That’s my wish."

Ah. I was aware of my introverted nature, but from others’ perspectives, it might seem like I’m giving up. The line between dependence and love is blurry. But I want Rizu to be happy.

"Sorry, Rizu. I was wrong. Let’s come back together."

I hug her tightly.

"Let’s see the world together. We haven’t even been to town yet. Let’s see and enjoy many things together."

We hug each other and roll onto the bed, gently lifting each other and looking into each other’s eyes.

"I love you, Rizu. Thank you so much."

The lack of coordination in certain aspects is a bit concerning, but it’s a minor issue. Right now, spending time together is more important.

In the futon, we talk about the future. The night deepens.

Tomorrow, we are determined to survive. With that resolve, we fall asleep.