Chapter 83

Even if it is extremely unwilling, there are things that need to be done as a lord.

In other words, Sir had to return to the temporary bed in the inn, even if he disliked it.

After being ordered again not to do anything dangerous, I thought, "I'm not trusted," as I saw him off.

"It seems the matter has been settled."

Illegar came out of the shop.

The fact that he came out after Sir left suggests that he did not want to meet him too often.

"Where is Carnac?"

"He's sulking, but it's fine."

"I see."

"Did you find out?"

When Michelle asked, Illegar opened the door and let her in.

This time, when Michelle entered, Carnac was sitting there quietly.

"Going now would just be a hindrance. I told him to stay here."

Well, he was excited, and I could understand what Illegar meant.

It would be troublesome if he said something strange.

"You don't seem very worried."

"Me?"

It's not that you're worried, but you don't seem to be.

Perhaps it's more like you're detached.

Indeed, I knew that Murdoch was on Sir's side, but we had spent a considerable amount of time together. Moreover, I think we recognized each other to some extent.

I wondered if he could so easily cut off his feelings just because Murdoch wasn't on his side.

Sir could probably do it.

Despite some hesitation, he is a person who firmly does what he should do.

"Perhaps he's not really worried. He was already told that it could happen at any time. However, if the villagers get involved, it would be hard to stay calm. According to Carnac, only Murdoch and that young lady are inside. I think I understand Murdoch and the mine well, for better or worse."

His words were slightly barbed.

It seems he still has some reservations.

"I don't know the extent of the collapse, but at least the entrance is blocked. However, the inside might be fine. It's surprisingly sturdy. Besides, there are several emergency exits. However, the inside is like a maze."

I felt a bit relieved, but I couldn't let my guard down until it was confirmed.

"Murdoch remembers all the routes. There are also supplies scattered throughout the mine that can sustain them for a few days if they are trapped. If they are alive, the chances of rescue will increase significantly. On the contrary, it might be dangerous to act rashly."

There is a possibility of secondary damage.

"Even if it withstands once, the pressure inside will be greater the second time. If you believe they are alive, it's better to wait a day before taking action."

By then, Sir should have mobilized and help should arrive.

"The good thing is that no villagers were harmed. But from their perspective, that's not something to be said lightly."

"Isn't Murdoch also not a villager?"

"Who knows, you'll have to hear it from him. Carnac, go tell everyone to come back. If you heard the story, that's your job."

"Understood."

Carnac wasn't entirely convinced, but if he came back as a messenger, it was his job to return with instructions.

"Do you believe they are alive?"

"It's not that I believe, but if they are dead, it's better to do nothing. Just two deaths are better than causing significant secondary damage. It would be much easier to cover it up and pretend it never happened."

"That's just like Sir to say."

"There are such choices, but it's not that I want to abandon them. I have a responsibility to this village. Sometimes, to protect the whole, you have to sacrifice the part."

His cold words made me feel that he was a person in a position of authority.

Even in a small, isolated world, such decisions always cause suffering.

"Once everyone is back, we'll hear the story."

Saying that, he went to the back of the shop.

"What should we do, Lady Reisha?"

"At least, there's nothing we can do. I'm worried about Miss Rosalimonde, though."

"What do you think? She might come back with a carefree attitude, saying it was a valuable experience."

When I sent a disapproving glance at her light-hearted comment, Michelle closed her mouth and apologized.

"I'm sorry, that was inappropriate."

"Even if it's to cheer her up, it's better not to say it."

I'm not Miss Rosalimonde's family, so I can take it lightly, but Michelle's words could be unpleasant to some people.

"By the way, there's also the issue of the large wild beasts. What about that?"

"I only heard that they are still investigating. The collapse happened in the middle of that, so I think they couldn't focus on it."

"If Lord Claude sends people, we should investigate that area as well. If we want to start some industry here, we need to reduce the risks as much as possible."

Illegar said that one problem after another was happening, but indeed, if something happens frequently, it might raise people's spirits.

The villagers' livelihood is at stake.

Moreover, the cash flow has been cut off, which makes it even more worrying.

"If asked who is to blame, it seems that Sir will also be held responsible."

"I think he has a side that brings it upon himself. His personality is more likely to make enemies than friends."

"He's not a bad person, though."

"Lady Reisha, that doesn't mean he's a good person, does it?"

I remained silent in response to Michelle's smiling remark.

That silence was also an answer.

After a while, Illegar came back with his belongings.

"Sorry, but I'm going out for a bit."

"Where to?"

"Carnac's words aren't enough. I'm going to the site."

"Are you going alone, even though you told the villagers to come back?"

"Just to check the surroundings."

"Considering the large beasts, I think it's better not to go alone. At least, it's safer to go with a group. Or should I lend you a few people?"

When Michelle suggested, Illegar shook his head.

"It's still early. Besides, I don't want to owe anyone."

"I see."

Michelle backed off without pressing the issue.

"Then I'll do as I please."

Immediately after backing off, she declared this.

Illegar glared at her, but Michelle ignored him.

He didn't say anything to stop her or to let her do as she pleased, and left the shop.

"I'll go give some instructions to the people outside."

Michelle left, and I was left alone in the quiet shop.

I sat at the counter where I had been sitting earlier.

The rockfall, which Murdoch had said would happen someday, had indeed occurred, yet the village was strangely quiet.

Of course, all the men were out, but it would be strange if there was no commotion.

Carnac rushed in, but thinking back, he was the only one who had been passionate since the first time I came to the village.

A stifling, resigned atmosphere.

It wasn't just because there were few children; the whole village must be exhausted.

I want to do something, but I no longer think my ideas will be welcomed.

The frustration of being unable to do anything.

When alone, various thoughts start to churn.

Just as I sighed, Michelle's face appeared.

"Ah, Lady Reisha. I'm sorry, but can I talk to you for a moment?"

Her face was confused, or rather troubled, and it was hard to describe.

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