Chapter 87

At the gate, we arrived in Tsire, and decided to split into two groups. I, Tithia, Cocoa, and Blitz would go to rescue the knight imprisoned in the dungeon. Reo, Tarte, Kent, and Mimosa would scout the inside and act as decoys if anything happened.

According to Reo, under no circumstances should Tithia be harmed. Therefore, he volunteered to be the decoy. Reo, being in a position of authority, was perfect for the role.

"Well, let's go."

I pulled my hood deep over my head and entered the Crystal Cathedral through a secret underground passage. I didn't know about this route, so I was surprised when Reo told me about it. It apparently connects to various other places besides the cathedral.

"Lady Tithia, if anything happens, run immediately."

"Reo, please don't take any unnecessary risks. This time, we're here to rescue our captured comrades."

It would be counterproductive if we were captured while trying to rescue them. Reo knelt before Tithia and said, "Of course." Then he looked at me.

"Sharon, I'm counting on you to protect Lady Tithia."

"Of course. Tithia is our supreme commander!"

It would be unthinkable for her to be captured by the enemy.

"Alright, let's get ready to go!"

"Oooh!!"

The four of us—me, Tithia, Cocoa, and Blitz—began walking toward the dungeon. Blitz led the way, followed by me, Tithia, and Cocoa. It was late at night, so there were few people around. However, it wasn't completely deserted. We had to be cautious as there were guards stationed at various points.

"When I saw it from the outside, I thought it was beautiful, but the inside is even more stunning."

Even in this situation, Cocoa sighed in admiration. I couldn't help but nod in agreement.

The Crystal Cathedral is the symbol of the Holy City of Tsire. Not only the exterior, but the interior is also adorned with abundant crystals, sparkling brilliantly. The light, like an aurora, captivated my gaze. The high ceiling and the colorful crystals reflecting the moonlight created a scene of indescribable beauty. I wished I could have toured it more openly. I strongly vowed to myself that I would definitely come back after reclaiming the Crystal Cathedral.

"---Guard!"

"!"

Hearing Blitz's warning, we stopped. It seemed there were two guards, yawning as they walked. We covered our mouths and hid behind a pillar, holding our breath.

"Phew. It's good that Rodney increased the number of guards, but it's so boring."

"Rodney hasn't returned yet either. I wonder what will happen to Tsire..."

Listening to the guards' conversation, I could only smile wryly. It seemed our decision to infiltrate today was a good one. We waited for the guards to pass before I spoke.

"They don't seem to be fanatically loyal to Rodney."

"As long as they get paid, they don't care who's in charge."

Blitz nodded and pointed to a door. "This way." Opening it, we found a staircase leading down to the basement. Cleverly hidden, I would have missed it if I didn't know.

"---! Sharon, I sense someone coming from behind!!"

"Quick, let's go down!"

We hurried down the stairs just as a guard passed by. It was a close call.

"Phew, that was scary. But we're almost there. Tithia, are you okay?"

Tithia seemed more nervous than I was. She replied, "Yes," but took a deep breath.

---However, there would likely be guards watching the dungeon, so avoiding combat would be difficult. Our plan was to knock them out and take their place in the cells.

At the bottom of the stairs, we found an entrance to the dungeon with a guard standing in front.

"I'll go first..."

"Wait."

Just as Blitz was about to draw his sword, Cocoa stopped him. She held a staff, and I understood.

"I have a skill to make them sleep. It won't make any noise, so the other guards are less likely to notice. ---'Sleeping Rose Princess.'"

Cocoa used her skill quietly, almost singing. The guard yawned, rubbed his eyes, but couldn't resist the sleep and collapsed.

"Wow, that's amazing... We can rescue the knights without a fight."

"Leave it to me!"

Cocoa smiled at the delighted Tithia. Blitz nodded and slowly opened the door to check inside.

"...There's another guard inside. A cathedral knight."

"Then I'll put him to sleep."

"Please do."

Cocoa nodded and skillfully used her ability through the door's crack. The guard quickly fell asleep, and Blitz opened the door.

"It should be safe now."

Relieved, Blitz tied up the guard to prevent him from waking up and causing trouble. Tithia rushed in first, and I followed closely behind.

"Everyone, are you all right!?"

"---Lady Tithia!?"

The reaction came from the holy knights and cathedral knights. There were about 200 people, all looking malnourished and weak. According to Reo's information, about half of the 500 cathedral knights, or 250, had not betrayed. There were 32 holy knights, including trainees. With Blitz and Mimosa acting together, there were at most 30 holy knights. Some were not captured, so the number was a bit lower.

Blitz, who had followed me, said, "The rest might be in the 'Flordia Cathedral.'" Indeed, if there were cells there, it was a strong possibility. Capturing them in different locations would reduce risk and create a hostage-like situation.

"I'm sorry for taking so long to come. I'm an inadequate leader..."

When Tithia knelt and said this, the knights responded, "That's not true!"

"We are the ones who failed to protect you, Lady Tithia."

"We are relieved that you are safe, Lady Tithia..."

Despite their difficult situation, they were more concerned about Tithia. Blitz immediately used the guard's key to open the cells. But just then, a loud explosion shook the ground.

I realized it had been about two weeks... (Sorry)

I think I can upload the next part sooner!

Thank you for purchasing Volume 3! I'm so happy!!!!

I would be very happy if you continue to support me~ (I feel the next month or so will be crucial...!)