By the time we reached the capital city of Shirone, Latakia, it's already sunset.
When Zanoba passed the city gates, he looks deeply moved.
It also been a long time since I visited this place.
The scenery doesn't look very different from how I remember it.
There are plenty of adventurers on the streets, ready to challenge a labyrinth.
But, well?
It feels rather tense since our arrival, and the streets more unkempt.
Not just the adventurers, it feels like a lot more hoodlums and suspicious types are about.
"Mm, the number of mercenaries have grown since I have been away. Looks like war is coming."
Zanoba sounds a bit happy in his voice.
How can he sound so happy with war approaching?
Somehow I feel he isn't just putting on a brave face.
"You look happy."
"Shisho, that's because battle raises your spirit."
"Does it."
"Yes. It's what it means to be a man. Isn't that the same for everyone?"
I don't really get it.
Like the excitement from seeing a robot in person?
Regardless, we head to the residence Ginger prepared for us.
We'll stay here for a night, then change tomorrow to announce our return and have an audience with the king.
We didn't cross the border, so it's a bit sketchy, but we have an excuse prepared.
If he didn't ask, all the better.
"Zanoba-sama, I'd like to lie low in the city and collect more information."
Ginger said and takes her leave.
Zanoba stops her.
"Eh? Ginger, you're a knight. Shouldn't you come with me tomorrow to report to his highness of our return?"
"... No. While I may be a knight, I'm also Zanoba-sama's royal guard. I sense something amiss in the city."
"Well, do that then."
"Yes!"
While taking her bow, Ginger shoots me a glance.
As if to tell me to please take care of Zanoba-sama.
I nod in return.
Well then, from now on this is the real deal.
Only Zanoba and I will have an audience with Pax.
From there, we'll gain some idea of what Hitogami's up to.
Alternatively, that might become our battlefield against the Death God.
In that case, I'll grab Zanoba and run.
With Roxy covering us from outside, we'll retreat outside of the city.
From there I can use the Magic Armor and do battle with the Death God, or make a run for it.
Those are Orsted's instructions. For battle, attack from a distance.
Assuming it's [Sword of Bewitching], I should have the advantage in a ranged battle with the Magic Armor.
If a fight does not happen...
I'm afraid Zanoba will march to war.
A battle against the northern kingdom, I don't know how it'll turn out, but..
Also, I don't know what will satisfy Zanoba.
How will I bring Zanoba back?
What do I have to say in order to persuade Zanoba?
If Pax is aiming to take Zanoba's life, will Zanoba reconsider?
Well, let's think about this again after our audience.