We turned right in the middle of the road and continued uphill.
Huge walls are being guarded by soldiers, but when Luke showed his crest, we’re allowed through easily.
After we passed through the district of intermediate nobles, and under a wall again, we were surrounded with houses that were as large as the castles of a small country.
It’s the district of the upper nobility.
The second house of Ariel was in a somewhat distant position from the royal castle.
Despite being located within the city, it is five times larger than my house.
Not as big as Eris’s family home that doubled as a fort in times of war, but way too big to be a private home.
It was already evening.
Since we entered the city in the early afternoon, we've spent half a day already.
When we were entering the building’s garden, people that looked like butlers came out.
Seeing Luke, they immediately went inside and collected the maids in a hurry to greet us.
In total, there are around five or so people.
Even during her absence, they continued to manage Ariel’s house.
We are greeted by the servants and moved into the building.
Inside, it was gorgeous.
Although the furnishings in Perugius’s castle are also top tier, it gave off a vibe of being a fine arts gallery, this feels like a villa belonging to an Asura noble.
The rank of the place is on par with Eris’s castle.
After being assigned a room, I wash away the fatigue of travel by bathing.
The bathroom had decorations made of metal, even on the pail that is used for bathing, was glittering.
There is a bathtub right in the room, but there is also a bathroom as well.
I probably wouldn’t use that.
After bathing, I had a meal.
Present are four people, Ariel, Eris, Sylphy, and I.
Ariel’s attendants seem to be dining at a different location.
"Well, Rudeus-sama"
"Yes"
"With your help, Rudeus-sama, I was able to come here safely"
After the meal is over, Ariel called me again.
"I will begin my operations from tomorrow.
To welcome Perugius-sama, and to prepare the 『Venue』 where I will bring down Senior Minister Darius.
To verify the nobles’ request during my absence, and to gather information.
Make contact with allies that have been lying in wait for us, strengthening our foundations…. We will be busy "
"Yes."
"Before Darius makes his move, let’s get the 『Venue』 ready as soon as possible. Fortunately, the powerful nobles have already gathered here in the capital at the news of father’s illness."
Soon, there will be a decisive battle.
"How much time will you need to make your preparations?"
"Ten days"
"OK."
...... Ten days.
That’s fast.
“I have all the pieces gathered here.
It’ll depend on how the other side plays this, but I believe our victory is assured.
Although I think that the possibility is low,
but the possibility exists that the 『Venue』 might unfortunately become a battlefield."
Honestly, we should try to preserve our strength, but that’s determined by what the other side has planned for us.
“I think our strength here is enough, but you can’t be too sure. Before that, lets reduce the enemy’s main force as much as we can first."
"Right."
"Rudeus-sama, Eris-sama, and Sylphy, I would like you to play that role."
Preemptively depleting the enemy's forces...
Indeed, our opponent may have employed many from the North God Style.
"However, it will be difficult to launch an attack and ensure the safety of Ariel at the same time."
In this city, Ariel has many allies.
But, there is no one at the North Emperor level.
Eris, Sylphy, and I are the offense team, while only Ghyslaine and Luke will protect Ariel.
Ghyslaine is dependable, but if they send more than a North King, she might be in trouble.
"Therefore, I will act as the bait."
"The bait...... ?"
“I will reveal an opportunity for them to attack this place on purpose. I’ll be safe thanks to the magic items in my possession"
Like that substitution magic ring, for example.
Someone can use it to impersonate Ariel.
Create a situation where we look vulnerable and strike the opponent back.
In that situation, Ariel will make her move.
Returning from meetings with nobles and behind-the-scenes work.
During morning, evening, late at night.
It would be possible to feint vulnerability in our movements.
If the other side comes to us, it saves us the trouble of finding them.
"But Sylphy, it means that you will have to play a little dangerous role....."
"I have no objections."
Sylphy answers back immediately.
"This is the last push, so let’s do our best."
So Sylphy will be Ariel’s double...
Well, if it becomes a battle there is no safe place anyway.
After coming this far it doesn't matter where you are.
Since the person herself is willing to do it, I will protect her with all my power as well.
"Will they take the bait?"
"It’s about… 50-50 I’d say."