The Reinforcements Came Too Late

Beneath the lily-of-the-valley banner, I rode south toward the territory of Mikala.

I dug my heels into my horse’s sides, urging the army to quicken its pace. Beside me, Mitya of the Romelia Corps did the same, spurring the horse onward. We were both eager to break into a gallop.

We had headed north through the Roberk region to defeat the remnants of Grand General Barbal’s army, but someone had already defeated them. We didn’t know who, but enormous footprints led south toward the territory of Mikala.

The tracks ended partway along the route, so we couldn’t be sure they were really heading for Mikala.

But if the Demon Lord’s Army was making for Mikala, then not only Kara-san but also Mia-san, who was being held there, and Sonea-san, who was working to rescue her, would be in danger.

All three were important to me, and we had come all this way to the Roberk region to save the people of Mikala. I wanted to protect them, no matter what.

Mitya, riding beside me, felt the same way.

Mitya seemed to have feelings for Mia-san, the healer, and cared for her deeply.

When Mitya learned that the Demon Lord’s Army was approaching Mikala, where Mia-san was, Mitya was ready to dash off at any moment.

I had kept Mitya close as my escort to stop Mitya from acting on impulse, but our anxiety and frustration were rubbing off on each other, making me even more impatient...