As always, Hipopo runs fast and smoothly, without straining the people riding it.
We exchange some information in the meantime.
“Did you see Harold’s wounds?”
I ask.
“Yes. Those were made by swords and spears. I also got a peek at the enemy through my future sight, and they were human soldiers.”
“A lot of people wearing armor.”
Says Roa while leaning forward.
“I knew it. Harold said something about people being manipulated too, so the enemy is probably a human army that could include his comrades too. Kalin told us to do reconnaissance in force, so we are going to have to take a shot at them, but I want to avoid killing if possible.”
“If you say so, I won’t disagree.”
“Me neither.”
“Thank you.”
This might not be the safest way to go about this if we are to protect the people of Habbafulton, but that’s still my proposal.
The most effective way would be to whittle down the enemy before they get to Habbafulton. I could do that, but my friend came all the way here to warn us and told me his wish before fainting. He definitely wanted to ask me to save his comrades that were after him because they’re being controlled by something.
I want to honor that wish, and I’m sure Kalin would agree. After all, she didn’t tell me to eliminate the enemy or anything.
Ahri and Roa also agreed without arguing. I think that’s proof that they trust me.
So to summarize, I’m not going to try to annihilate the enemy. I’m going to try to gather information to save them.
Of course, I don’t know if this will go well, and I have to be prepared to take responsibility if it doesn’t.
If worse comes to worst, I have to do whatever I can do to prevent Habbafulton from being harmed.
I quietly steel my resolve. I might have to stain my hands with the blood of Harold’s comrades if it becomes necessary.
“Kyuru.”
Seilook moved from my shoulder to Hipopo’s head earlier, but now it turns back and makes a sound. Is it worried? I guess I was making a scary face.
“Thank you. It’s all right.”
I whisper quietly so only Seilook can hear, while patting its head.
“Kyu…”
Seilook still sounds worried, but just as I’m about to respond, I see something on the horizon.
It looks like a cloud of dust raised by a marching army.
“Judging by Hipopo’s speed and the average speed of the army, I would say they will reach Habbafulton in two and a half days.”
I gladly take Ahri’s efficient analysis.
We found the enemy headed for Habbafulton, and the conflict we were expecting begins.
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