Chapter 31: Thief Town

Hmm...

What's wrong, Elizabeth?

Wherever we go, people's faces look so lifeless... They all seem to be struggling a lot.

It's the age of war. Just surviving in a world like this must be overwhelming...

Is there anywhere that's different from this?

At least the world I lived in wasn't this gloomy. Of course, there were many who prioritized survival there too...

What is it, Ethan? Why are you staring at me so intensely... Don't tell me you found out I secretly ate your bread?

That's not why I was looking at you... but was that really you? What a naughty fairy.

U-uh... I don't think this is the time for this.

Ethan! Thieves are here!

I knew it. I thought it had been peaceful for too long.

Let's teach them a lesson. Just living an ordinary life is hard enough these days.

Whew, we defeated them.

We should notify the guards when we reach the next destination.

Good idea. Then how about we gather some loot?

You're planning to take from the thieves? Typical greedy pigs... they're all the same.

W-we'll return valuable items to their owners if we find them.

And... we all know why we're always short on travel funds, don't we?

Uh... hoo dat? (who's that?)

...?

Morgana, there's something in your mouth.

Before long...

...I may be shameless for taking their treasure, but you stealing their emergency rations in no time is impressive.

Gulp...! Hmph, I need to eat to keep my strength up.

Wait a second. Morgana, this food... it's spoiled. Are you okay?

What...?

Gasp! I... I need to... go to the bathroom... right now...

Reacting immediately... it must've been badly spoiled.

Serves her right. Let's leave her behind and go.

W-wait for me!

Is that...?

It's full of corpses...

Looks like a battle happened here. Judging by their attire, they're thieves.

Still some left?

It seems that person dealt with the thieves.

Prepare yourself!

Ugh, to lose to mere thieves... Kill me.

If we fight with the sword, you'll know. We're no mere thieves.

... Then...

I am Elizabeth Pendragon, First Princess of the Kingdom of Britannia.

A princess...?

Hmph, I, Baylin, have committed a grave sin. Please take my head.

You serve the royal family, so why didn't you join the war?

... I lacked training. By the time I discovered the truth and went to the battlefield, King Uther was already...

We're searching for the Holy Sword and gathering an alliance.

If you join us now, you'll have the chance to support Elizabeth and make your name shine.

... Would Her Highness grant me such a chance?

Lady Baylin, if your loyalty to the royal family remains, could you help me by joining the allied forces?

Your Highness...

... Thank you for showing mercy. I, Baylin, will devote my life to protecting you.

Very well, Baylin. Let's swear the knight's pledge.

We've accidentally recruited Baylin.

Yes, Baylin joining the Salisbury front, where we're short on troops, will be a huge help.

This must be fate smiling upon us.

As expected, Ethan's words have a magical way of persuading people.

Heh.