The Return of Mia ~Princess Mia Harbors Ambitions~

Mia and Rafina safely returned to their carriageswith the company of guards from the Forest Clan, led by Malong. After her brave return with over ten cavalry troops under her command, Mia felt exceptionally pleased.

Im beginning to grasp the allure of having attractive guards by ones side, a preference that Esmeralda seems to enjoy! Personally, Id lean towards having a line of sturdy individuals, adorned in that formidable armor. I envision them dressing akin to the Mushroom Knight, and

Unbeknownst to others, a lofty ambition had taken root in Mias heart!

Lady Mia!

Anne, along with the others, awaited outside upon learning of Mias imminent return. The moment Mia came into view, Anne hurried towards her.

Are you well? No injuries, I hope?!

Annes concern was evident as she gazed directly at Mia. Out of consideration for the two noble girls, Anne abstained from the horseback ride that Mia undertook. Though she still had Citrina and Bel with her, it seemed to weigh on her conscience that she wasnt with Mia in a potentially perilous situation. At least, thats what Mia assumed. Trying to reassure her maid, she gave a confident nod.

Thank you, Anne. Im perfectly fine. No need to worry.

Interestingly, not a single scratch marked Mias head from the encounter with branches. Mia was a prodigy; her Diamond Head was not easily marred. Just as her head was filled with dried shiitake mushrooms, it exhibited their characteristic firmnessshe wasnt just Diamond-Headed, she was Dried-Mushroom-Headed!

I didnt fall off a horse or anything of the sort! Everything went smoothly. Dont you think so, Miss Rafina? Mia glanced at her companion.

Y-Yes. Youre absolutely right.

Rafina responded with a nervous nod. So, this is how the misleading image of the Great Wisdom of the Empire spreads. The realization didnt fill Rafinas chest with astonishment; rather, she was preoccupied with feelings of pure admiration. Mia is truly remarkable, taking such care to alleviate Annes unnecessary concerns!

And thus, the distorted image took shape. Well, anyway

So? What harm did those bandits inflict on us?

Mia turned towards Ludwig and Dion, who were right behind Anne in welcoming her return. Catching her gaze, Dion shrugged slightly in response. The Princess Guard didnt engage in battle at all. It turned out to be a minor skirmish between the bandits and the Equestri forces.

I see. A skirmish

Mia expressed her satisfaction with a nod. Malong had referred to a member of the gang as a cousin, suggesting that the Equestris were likely making efforts to minimize damages. Perhaps Malong had issued such an order himself.

It appeared that their gang had been on the move with the intention of looting, showing a reluctance to engage in combat unless necessary. Mia recalled the bandits previous attack, noting how they retreated when Sunkland troops arrived. If not for their honor, the bandits would undoubtedly have suffered considerable harmor so Mia believed!

Having Dion with them ensured assured victories, but for the sake of her own mental well-being, Mia felt the need to keep him in check. She simply couldnt muster the mentality to celebrate victories while standing amidst a river of blood flowing from the corpses of her enemies. Just the thought sent shivers down her spine.

Your Highness, who are the man and young woman behind you? Ludwig inquired, focusing on Malong and the girl he had brought with him.

The girl is one of the bandits. I havent had the chance to introduce him, but the man has taken excellent care of me in the Horsemanship Club. His name is

Its Lin Malong. Nice to meet you, Malong interjected.

I see. The pleasure is mine. Im Ludwig Hewitt. Thank you for watching over Her Highness when I couldnt, Ludwig said, offering a calm smile. The horsemanship skills youve taught her have saved her in the past. There are no words to express my deep gratitude.

While Ludwig bowed deeply, Dions attention was elsewhere. So, this girls with the bandits, huh?

Noticing Dions scrutiny, the girl turned away. Please dont frighten her too much, Dion, Mia intervened. Your bloodlust can be quite unsettling.

Startled, the girl jumped. Dion You dont mean Dion Alaia, do you? Her wide eyes were fixed on Dion, and the color drained from her cheeks.

Oh? Youve heard of me before? Dion grinned, causing the girl to let out a small Eek! and seek refuge behind Malong.

Dion Mia grumbled.

All I did was smile at her!

Far too aggressively!

Not only had Dions smiling antics dislodged Mias brain from her consciousness in the past, but they had also figuratively removed her head from her neck. With this history in mind, Mia let out a sigh before continuing.

In any case, I think its best to extract the details of our situation from her.

I see In that case, Id be happy to take on the responsibility, Ludwig offered with an audacious grin, met by Mias saccharine smile.

Oho ho! Theres no need for you to go through the trouble. Ill be questioning her myself.

Dions eyes twinkled in amusement at Mias response. Ha! So, the princess is going to do the interrogating herself.

He cast another glance at the young bandit, prompting another small shriek. It affirmed Mias suspicion that she might get along well with this girl.

I mentioned earlier that these guys are Mia reassured Malong with a calming smile. Theres nothing to worry about! Theres absolutely no need to resort to something asbarbaricas torture!

After giving a self-affirming nod, Mia turned to Anne. Anne, could you prepare my secret weapons? The ones I acquired in Sunkland.

Oh, yes! Right away!

For a brief moment, hesitation clouded Annes face, but almost immediately, she rushed back toward the carriages. Mia once again addressed the young bandit, saying, Were about to have a wonderfully delightful tea party. I hope youre looking forward to it!

Mias face lit up with a wide grin.