Chapter 510 Paphield Battle 3 (2/2)

”What do you mean by crawling into her bed? That sounds awful.” Rhode's expression sunk slightly.

”Ah, sorry, Master. I should say that the chance of Little Lydia crawling into your bed instead.” Gillian stuck her tongue out cheekily.

”Yes, that's more like it.” Rhode nodded in satisfaction after hearing Gillian's seriousness in changing her words. Even though Rhode had many loyal subordinates in this world, there were not many who he could hold a conversation with casually. Canary, Mini Bubble Gum, and Gillian were the only ones who dared to joke with Rhode without dividing their superiority. On this continent, one's concept of social class was definite and one would speak according to one's social class. Even a cheerful soul like Joey dared to joke harmlessly with Rhode, but he would never dare to make a joke out of Lydia.

Rhode wasn't disrespectful towards Lydia, but he always felt that the generation gap between these aborigines was due to this reason. As a player, he preferred the kind of unfettered, fearless momentum that belonged to the players. Although they might respect or adore an aborigine, they wouldn't worship her as a god and they wouldn't worry about offending the other party.

This was why he could gossip jokingly about Lydia with Gillian and Canary or discuss how much he hated the Parliament and the silly, cowardly Light Dragon Soul. However, aborigines, including Marlene, would express their resentment tactfully and wouldn't express their hatred bluntly.

Of course, jokes were only jokes.

”M-Mr. Rhode,” Lize hesitated as Rhode was having a conversation with Gillian. However, she continued to approach him, nonetheless. ”Erm… I heard you were asking for me?”

”That's right, Lize.” Rhode turned around and spotted her uncomfortable expression. He pondered for a while before replying. ”Inform Joey and Randolf to get ready. Even though we may not be required to take action, we won't just sit by idly. Also, since Marlene isn't around, you shall take over her adjutant rule. When I'm not around, you shall give orders. Understood?”

”Okay, Mr. Rhode… Huh?!” Lize nodded subconsciously before she widened her eyes in disbelief. ”M-Mr. Rhode, you want me to be your adjutant?”

”That's right; are there any issues?”

”B-But, I…” Lize stuttered and an unprecedented fear grew in her heart as she gazed at the giggling Gillian. Lize was very clear of what the duties of an adjutant entailed. However, she had never thought that she could do it. She wasn't Marlene and she wasn't as capable as her. The thought of her giving a wrong command due to her bad judgment that would lead to the deaths of many sent chills down her spine. Furthermore, this overwhelming pressure had almost let her breathless.

”Mr. Rhode, I-I can't do it… I think Miss Gillian will be a much more suitable choice. I…”

”Sorry, Little Lize, I'm busy enough warming up Master's bed and I don't have time to take over other tasks oh~”

”The weather is warm enough, so I don't need anyone there to disturb my sleep,” Rhode glared at Gillian before turning towards Lize. ”I have decided and I won't change my mind. Gillian has her own duties and you can discuss your options with her if you can't make up your mind.”

Rhode cut off Lize's explanations and he could see pressure, fear, and worries in the young lady's eyes. However, he had to do this because ever since Marlene had left, Rhode had been trying to find the right person to take over her role. He thought that Lize had the potential as she had always been extra meticulous about her tasks and her exquisite display of Cleric skills proved that she wasn't a careless person.

Besides, she had the most seniority amongst the mercenaries and seniority meant everything. She didn't need to worry about the mercenaries disobeying her orders. Moreover, a Cleric would always be a staunch support to the mercenaries. Of course, even though Lize seemed to be lacking proper judgment in general situations, Rhode wished that she could act as an adjutant and fill up Marlene's spot. Lize's only flaw now was her lack in self-confidence.

But this wasn't an excuse for her shrink away.

”That settles it.” Rhode gestured forcefully and Lize could only close her gaping mouth and nod in silence before returning to her tent.

”Is this fine, Master? Little Lize seems a little sad.”

”She has to grow up and not continue to live under the shadow of a large tree,” Rhode said softly with knitted brows.”Besides, this isn't good for her in the long run.”

On the other side, Nemo had completed his reporting in the shabby room. He stood before the table and gazed at the Fortress Commander, who had fiery-red long hair and an unbuttoned commander's uniform draped over his shoulders negligently. His face was full of slovenly beard stubble and he leaned against the chair with his legs resting on the table.

”Hmm… You're saying that these people have the strength of a peak Elite? And the Lion Legion was so battered that they couldn't even retaliate?”

”Yes, Sir. Besides, they have used some odd tactics… And I never imagined Clerics to be this useful for battles…”

”That sounds interesting. I can't imagine those harmless young ladies killing their enemies on the battlefield. Did they use their tiny fists? Haha, what a funny joke.”

”…” Nemo shrugged his shoulders hopelessly because he knew that this Commander had such a personality. The Commander got out of his seat and tidied his rumpled clothes with both hands.

”Alright, thanks for the report, Nemo. I shall go and greet our respectful guests now.” The Commander paused for a moment before revealing a ruminating smile. ”By the way, is that Rhode… really beautiful?”