Chapter 90 (2/2)

Those were Lifa’s true feelings; this was honestly the main reason behind her actions.

She did not know how much time was left before Harold’s death, so even if she were to help him, chances were that she would only extend his life a little bit. Also, in the first place, she probably had only one in a ten thousand chance to actually be of any help to him.

However, even if her actions were meaningless, that was no reason to give up on Harold’s life. At least as far as Lifa was concerned, Harold was a cynical man whose attitude was not all that good, but he was the first person to acknowledge her efforts and achievements, which were basically her life itself.

Surely, no one other than Lifa would be able to understand how gratifying that was to her.

【”Stop that, and don’t ever do it again.”]

【”No, I won’t stop.”]

【”Are you kidding me? Do you want to die?”]

【”I’m aware of the risks.”]

For the time being, it seemed like just investigating that story could get her killed. This matter was becoming more and more abnormal, and it just went to show how dangerous Harold’s situation was.

Well, maybe that was only natural since Harold’s goals were so important he was willing to trade his life for them. As for Lifa, she could no longer withdraw from this.

Perhaps because he felt her strong determination, Harold changed his approach.

【”Why go that far? Do you want me to owe you?”]

【”That’s not it. Rather, it’s the opposite.”]

【”What?”]

【”I want to express my gratitude to you. And I’m willing to risk my life for it.”]

Even though she wasn’t as twisted as Harold, Lifa was able to express her feelings honestly only in these kind of circumstances.

But Harold had a dubious expression on his face. He likely did not understand what Lifa was being thankful about.

【”I don’t remember doing anything for you to be grateful for.”]

【”I didn’t expect you to. Even if I tell you, you probably won’t be able to understand.”]

It was useless on Harold’s part to pay attention to Lifa’s motivations anyway, because the truth was that no words were going to persuade her.

【”….If, as you said, you’re grateful to me, then do as I say.”]

【”How is that related to me being grateful?! What I want to do is to help you.”]

【”I didn’t ask for that, and I don’t need that either.”]

【”I am doing it because I want to do it, it doesn’t matter whether you wish for it or not.”]

Harold didn’t want anything to interfere with his situation, and Lifa wanted to do anything possible to help him.

No matter what, there was no way they would reach a consensus. After that, their dispute continued, and the only thing that progressed was the passing of time. They did that for more than an hour, until they started seeing signs of weariness appearing on each other’s faces.

There was already no more choice for either of them than to get the other to give in by force.

【”You god damn block head!”]

【”Like you’re one to talk!”]

【”….This is my last warning. Stop digging into my past.”]

Harold said so while gripping the handle of the sword that was hanging at his waist.

However, Lifa answered without stepping back.

【”…I refuse. “]

【”…Oh, is that so?”]

With a “shing” sound, Harold drew his sword out of its scabbard. It was a black sword that Lifa had seen many times over.

On the sword’s blade, there was Lifa’s own reflection.

【”I guess there is no more room for negotiations](Harold)

【”Sure seems that way.”](Lifa)

Harold swung down his sword without any hesitation. The sword then cut right through Lifa ―― or rather, right through the rope that was retraining her.

She was freed from her restraints as the rope that was binding her feebly fell to the ground. Harold was making a sour face. He clicked his tongue as he put his sword back into its scabbard.

This meant that Harold had given in.

However, Lifa did not think that was surprising. She knew that Harold was unexpectedly kind despite being cynical. Even though it was extremely difficult to understand that kindness.

【”….Lifa. Do you sincerely want to help me?”]

【”Yes.”]

While looking into Harold’s eyes, Lifa gave him a strong nod.

That was in order to transmit her feelings, even just a little bit, to this stubborn, awkward man.

【”Then, you better follow my instructions if you don’t want to die. If you act on your own accord, he’ll get rid of you.”]

【”Who will?”]

【”Maybe Justus, or maybe someone under his control.”]

【”…I see.”]

For some reason, Lifa had expected that answer. As she recalled that man with his washed-out white hair, there were many things Lifa wanted to say, but she refrained from doing so.

【”Then, what should I do?”]

【”For the time being, leave the royal capital.”]

【”You’re not trying to get rid of me, are you?”]

【”I’d sure like to do so, but I’ll be coming with you.”]

The fact that Harold had said that, even though he should have been unable to move about freely at present, just went to show how alarming the situation was. Lifa figured her life was possibly in very serious danger.

Hence why Harold had come to contact her in a hurry.

【”I understand. So, where will we be going?”]

As Lifa asked him that question, Harold’s facial expression became distorted even more than it already was before. He sighed and told her the name of the place the two of them were going to head for.

【”Going forward towards the east from here, there is the sumeragi territory. I’ll have you do some work there.”]

Translator’s note: Seems like the Sumeragis are back, I’m sure many of you are pretty happy about that, at least, I know I am, it’s been a while since we’ve last seen them ><

Anyway, I hope this chapter was to your liking, and I wish you a good day ?