The arrival of upper-class soldiers who attacked my parents—combined with the appearance of the leader of an organization seemingly plotting a coup against the kingdom, 1Life—changed everything in an instant.
After running long enough to finally escape District Two, we were picked up by someone who appeared to be one of Jenny’s subordinates.
“Everything is proceeding according to plan, Jenny,” said a woman from beneath a black hood that concealed her face. “Lightning, Sound, and Water are already in position. All that remains is waiting for Barsk to show his face.”
“Good,” Jenny replied calmly. “For now, remain hidden in the shadows. No casualties.”
“Yes! I’ll take my leave.”
The woman’s body suddenly turned into water and vanished, as if she had never existed.
“H-hey… so what do we do now?” I asked, breaking the silence.
“While we wait for Barsk the Tremor Hand to be defeated, we’ll take shelter in the underground base,” Jenny answered briefly.
“Um… this might be late,” Father finally spoke, “but thank you for saving the Alz family. Without you, we would probably be dead.”
“Hmph. There’s no need for gratitude,” Jenny replied. “Protecting lower families who are being—”
DUMP!!!!!
A violent impact shook the air behind me.
What was that?!
“Huff… huff… at last I’ve found you, Iron Talent.”
“What?!” Jenny shouted. “How did you get here?! Where are my comrades?!”
“Hooo… so you’re their leader?” The giant grinned, then paused as if thinking. “If you want an answer—”
He lifted his head.
“—they’re ANNIHILATED.”
“W-what…?! Impossible! My precious comrades… defeated?!”
“Yeeeah, cry in despair, you filthy terrorists!” Barsk jeered loudly. “There is no hope for those who seek to destroy this kingdom! I—Barsk, the Tremor Hand—will crush all of you right here and now!”
My legs trembled violently. I glanced at my parents, who sat helplessly behind me. My chest felt tight, as if it were being crushed.
What should I do…?
Am I only meant to stand here and watch everything fall apart…?
Ah… so this is the point.
They’re after me.
“Jenny, I’ll pro—”
“Pfft! BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA—HAHAHAHA!”
Jenny burst into loud laughter.
“I never imagined an upper-class soldier could speak so foolishly.”
She flashed a sharp, mocking grin.
“Hey… how about we make a bet?”