The Falling Bridge

A little earlier.

Around the time flames rose from the main gate, Mia was directing the fleeing people alongside Shuro and Jini of the Romelia Corps just before the bridge behind the castle.

The fleeing people were in the midst of a panic. People shoved one another, causing many to fall or be injured, and if nothing was done, some would even fall into the river.

Mia helped those who had fallen back to their feet and raised her voice, doing everything she could to calm them.

"Mia-sama, this place is dangerous. Please evacuate to the other side of the bridge, at least."

Shuro, who had come to help her, told her to flee to safety, but she could not do that.

The two had been dispatched by Romelia to rescue Mia. They had sworn absolute loyalty to their master, Romelia. Since Romelia had ordered them to rescue her, one of them would have to stay with her as a guard to carry out that order. In a situation like this, Mia could not afford to tie up one of these excellent soldiers solely to protect her.

"I'm all right. More importantly..."

Mia was about to tell him to prioritize guiding the people to safety, but before she could finish, she ran forward. A mother and child in front of her had been knocked down by people fleeing past.

Mia immediately scooped up the child, while Shuro, who had followed behind her, helped the mother to her feet...