118 bodyguard (1/2)

”Mr. Liddy, ......?

In my surprise, I had called out Mr. Liddy's name. It would have been more convenient if we hadn't met, but it was too late.

”Mr. Eizo!

Ms. Liddy also called out my name in a rather loud voice. Her long slit eyes widened to a degree I hadn't seen before during my stay, indicating her surprise.

”Do you two know each other?

Marius asked, making no secret of his interest. The way he asks, it's not like Marius is guiding him. He's not smirking.

”Well, yeah, I've done some work for him before.

There was no need to hide it, so I answered honestly. Ms. Liddy's face is back to her normal cool self, and she nods silently. But she's probably a little embarrassed.

I see. I see. You have a naive face and can't seem to put yourself in a corner.

”Oh, no, you don't.

Marius says with a slight grin. It's obvious that he has found a new toy. I can barely reply, trying my best to keep my current position intact.

”So, I guess I don't need to introduce myself, but she's my escort. Your mission is to bring her safely to the deepest part of the cave.

”Yes, sir. I will protect her with my life.

Marius and I have a polite exchange. In fact, I'm a little embarrassed because we know each other.

”I'm reassured that you'll be guarding me, Eizo-san. I'll be counting on you.

”Yes, I'll leave it to you.

Whether or not she knew how embarrassed I was, Liddy said with a smile that made me feel like a flower was blooming.

Even though I was a guard, there were soldiers around me, and I heard that there were not many ferocious beasts, so it was rather easy to get to the cave. Even so, we kept a minimum of vigilance so that we could always have a spear at hand.

Eventually, the forest breaks up and a meadow spreads out. Over there is a mountain that doesn't look very high, but there is probably a cave at the foot of it. A soldier who was a little ahead of us found the trail where the main army had passed, and we followed it.

Most of the beasts must have gone elsewhere, since people had passed through. We were outnumbered, but still, not many beasts would dare to attack us.