Chapter 125

From every corner, white smoke rose, accompanied by a scent that stung the nostrils, as if something had burned. If one were to describe it in a single word, it would be the entire city of Travis.

From the high ground that served as a shelter and clinic, one could overlook the ravaged city of Travis below. It was a scene that could bring tears to ones eyes just by looking at it.

Nevertheless, Erica kept her lips tightly sealed, engraving the sight into her eyes.

This was a reality she couldnt protect with her own power. And if it werent for Harold and her companions, Sumeragi might have met the same fate as Travis. She etched that fact deeply into her heart.

Erica. -Leafa

Is it time for a s.h.i.+ft change, Leafa-san[1]? -Erica

Hmm, I could use a break too. -Leada

With her small body stretching as far as it could, Leafa stood next to Erica. Both of their gazes were directed toward the burned-out Travis.

Its really a terrible sight, isnt it? -Leafa

Yes -Erica

To tell you the truth, I keep wondering if there was something else we could have done. -Leafa

I feel the same way. I keenly felt my own powerlessness -Erica

A few days ago, a sudden attack occurred by a wave of monsters. The number of monsters was greater than those discovered in the Sumeragi territory, and the Knights, who had received prior information and reinforced their defenses, launched a two-p.r.o.nged strategy to stop the monsters while evacuating the people of the city by sea and land.

Ultimately, they were able to save many lives, but the city was devastated, and there were, of course, lives they couldnt save, the number of which was not insignificant.

Therefore, not only Erica, but also Leafa, their other companions, and surely the Knights, all must be thinking the same thing.

There must have been a way to save more lives.

But that would be presumptuous, wouldnt it? -Erica

She hesitated for a moment before uttering those words. Leafa accepted them without denial.

Yeah. Were not heroes or G.o.ds from a story. Its impossible for us to save everyone right in front of us. -Leafa

And if were just filled with regret, we might end up overlooking the feelings of those who were saved and grateful to us. -Erica

Among the people who were saved, many had suffered serious injuries. If left untreated, most of them would have died.

For that reason, Erica and Leafa, who could use healing magic, worked tirelessly for more than two days without sleep, treating the injured even after the attack had ended. Thanks to their efforts, they were able to save those who had suffered injuries severe enough to require healing magic.

Additionally, it was thanks to Elu, a traveling merchant they had encountered several times during their journey, who proposed the triage method of categorizing the injured, that they were able to efficiently treat the severely wounded. Elu claimed to have learned it from an acquaintance, and once the situation settled, Erica planned to ask for further instruction.

For now, they had reached a state of relative stability, where the need for healing magic was not urgent. They were engaged in various tasks at the evacuation center, starting with providing cooked meals to the displaced individuals.

Everyone understood the urgency of the situation, yet they couldnt overlook the scene unfolding before them. The women were busy with food distribution, while the men diligently searched the city, ensuring no one was left behind.

Though they knew this effort couldnt be sustained for long, thats precisely why they were putting in their utmost effort. Ventos and Lilium, who had requested to accompany them until they found Harold, were no exception.

Undoubtedly, they too had their own thoughts and feelings. They had been working tirelessly, more energetically than anyone else.

Ill get back to work now. Leafa-san, take your time -Erica

Wait a moment! Just spend a little more time with me during my break. -Leafa

Huh? Uh, yes, of course -Erica

Although it wasnt a particularly st.u.r.dy bench, it was still enough to sit on. Leafa and Erica took a seat together on the adequately prepared stone. It couldnt be called comfortable by any means. However, even so, it brought a sense of relief after such a long time.

Perhaps they had been on edge for such a prolonged period. Leafa seemed to have discerned Ericas inner thoughts as she spoke up.

Lately, theres been a lot going on, and none of us have had a moment to truly relax. -Leafa

Thats true. Given the pressing issues, it cant be helped -Erica

Well, thats why we should take this opportunity to rest. -Leafa

As soon as she spoke, Leafa laid down and rested her head on Ericas lap. It was the cla.s.sic position of a lap pillow

Ah~, as I expected, the perfect sleeping position -Leafa

Le-Leafa? What made you suddenly -Erica

I wanted to enjoy Ericas lap pillow. Well, its good that you finally called me Leafa. -Leafa

Huh? -Erica

Leafa, that is. Lately, youve been calling me Leafa-san all the time. -Leafa

I-I mean -Erica

Im not blaming you, you know? I think Erica has had a change of heart or something.

The phrase change of heart unsettled Ericas emotions. That day, she realized that she wasnt qualified to stand by Harolds side. It was the moment she understood that everything she had built up until then was meaningless.

Erica felt her heart wrenching inside. And Leafa seemed to somehow grasp Ericas state of mind. She looked into Ericas eyes intently while wearing a gentle smile.

But, that aside, Erica, youre too serious. -Leafa

Is that so? -Erica

It is. Well, that in of itself is a virtue, but when it comes to love, isnt it okay to be a bit more selfish? -Leafa

Erica understood what Leafa was trying to say. To express her feelings openly and honestly as an individual, without being bound by roles or barriers.

Harold a.s.suredly wouldnt want that. With that thought, Erica had kept her affection hidden, convincing herself that it was for Harolds sake.

But deep down, she was simply afraid of confessing her feelings and being unequivocally rejected. The notion of Harold not desiring her was just a convenient excuse.

I dont have the confidence nor the courage -Erica

Huh, are you teasing me? -Leafa

I-Im not! I never intended to tease you! -Erica

Well, if even Erica cant muster confidence in herself, who can? -Leafa

While saying such things, Leafa furrowed her brow, still resting her head on Ericas lap, lost in thought.

The sight somehow reminded Erica of a cat, prompting her to stroke her hair. Despite the fact that they were supposed to be discussing something important, the presence of Leafa seemed to ease the normally tense atmosphere.

It felt like a leisurely moment, detached from the grim reality. Leafa, who had been quietly stroked for a while, suddenly spoke up, as if she had come up with a clever idea.

How about continually confessing until Harold nods yes? -Leafa

What do you mean? -Erica

Leafa was undoubtedly a talented girl, deserving of the t.i.tle of prodigy. Although they hadnt spent a long time together, Erica had witnessed her intellectual side on numerous occasions. Leafas proficiency in the field of science often led her to unconventional ideas that Erika would not have considered, yet when thoroughly examined, they were based on rational judgments grounded in knowledge.

Was there perhaps some profound meaning behind this statement that sounded so forceful?

Youre scared because you think itll be over if he rejects you once. You should approach this with the mindset of confessing to him as many times as it takes until he says yes!. -Leafa

It seemed that there was more to it than initially thought.

While the approach of trial and error until success might be very scientific, Erica couldnt help but voice her concerns, That might be bothersome for Harold and cause him trouble

Its fiiiiine~. -Leafa

Rising to her feet, Leafa stood before Erika and gently held her cheeks with both hands. She looked directly into Erikas eyes.

You are beautiful, like a flower dancing in the moonlight. -Leafa

Why are you suddenly? -Erica

This is a charm pa.s.sed down in my village for girls in love. Its my first time doing it and although they call it a charm, it feels more like a confession, Leafa mischievously smiled.

Releasing her hands from Erikas cheeks, Leafa continued, But this should give you confidence and courage, right?

Why are you pus.h.i.+ng me so far? Youre also fond of Harold-sama. -Erica

I think Im just attracted to him. Not to the extent of being able to say it clearly like you, though. -Leafa

Then why? -Erica

Because I also like you, Erica, Leafa confidently declared, without hesitation or a trace of embarra.s.sment. Although she understood the different context, it made Erica feel more self-conscious than ever before.

To be honest, I dont know if pus.h.i.+ng you like this is the right choice. If I truly care about you and Harold, perhaps remaining pa.s.sive and observing would be the correct approach, Leafas face slightly darkened. It seemed she had her own worries to bear. Her expression resembled someone making a difficult decision.

But I dont want that after all. I dont want to regret not taking action, even if it turns out to be a mistake! I want to dream of a future where everyone, the people I love, can genuinely laugh together! -Leafa

Leafa -Erica

Even if someone resents me or hates me as a result, I dont mind. This feeling is the essence of Leafa Goodridge. -Leafa

How much determination lay hidden within those words? Erica couldnt fathom it.

Yet surely, it was a sentiment worthy enough to shape Leafas way of life. Erica couldnt help but feel a sincere envy for that path of existence that seemed to somehow overlap with Harolds.

I must express my respect for you once again, Leafa. -Erica

Its I who should say that. Because I can sincerely say it here, I think thats why I came to like Erica as well. -Leafa

? -Erica

Baffled by the meaning of those words, Erica tilted her head.

Observing Ericas perplexed expression, Leafa wore a slightly exasperated look.

Even my encouragement can be regarded with suspicion by some people, you know? -Leafa

Suspicion you say? -Erica

Thinking that Im trying to stir up a rival in love, making Harold reject you. -Leafa

Startled by the remark, Erica had an epiphany. Indeed, if viewed from a different perspective, such an interpretation could be made. It was a viewpoint that Erica had completely overlooked.

If Erica were to be rejected by Harold, it would reduce the number of rivals for Leafa. While pretending to be sympathetic, in reality, it would create a scenario where she could kick her enemies down.

Leafa You might be suited for politics as well. -Erica

Is that a compliment? -Leafa

Yes, of course. -Erica

As they sat face to face for a moment, Leafa burst into laughter, and their faces met, chuckling softly.

Erica realized that she had finally managed to display a smile without a trace of shadowa genuine smile.

Meeting Leafa and becoming close friends would undoubtedly be a significant a.s.set for Erica.

It might not be easy right away. But not for Harolds sake, rather for Ericas own desire to be of benefit to Harold. Slowly, step by step, she would change her perspective towards Harold.

(What needs to be done for that is not a question with an easy answer, but at least by the end of this journey)

Determined, Erica returned to her tasks with a slightly brighter heart.

She felt that she could change, not hastily, but steadily. She truly felt it.

The following morning, Yuno brought her a report of a monster attack in the quaint town of Baston, resembling the events that had unfolded in Travis, and that, Harold, entangled in the chaos, had gone missing.

Note from the author:

Part 5 comes to its conclusion for now.

TL Note(s):

[1] Lifa/Liefa changed to Leafa