They all followed his lead. They were at the center of the forest by evening.
To their surprise, in the middle of the forest looked like a piece of land that came directly from the heavens.
Everyone except the archmage and lieutenant remained on their steeds while others ran to the pond that was surrounded by various types of flowers with vibrant colors.
"Inspect the area while you explore the place," Johannes ordered his men.
"Aren't you joining them, sir?"
Canute couldn't help but feel strange about the place.
"No. I think we should resume the march."
"Why so? This place seems to be perfect for rest."
"...I sense something dangerous in this location. Let's get out of here. We can find a better place to rest."
Sigh*
"All of you gather up. We will continue to
march ahead."
"Ehhhh?!"
"Lieutenant. We've been walking for hours. Shouldn't we rest to recover ourselves?" A sandy brown-haired knight complained.
Others protested against Canute's idea.
"Sir Canute. I think you should listen to them. Before they start a revolt against you."
Chaol suggested worriedly.
Canute let out a deep breath with disappointment.
"Master I wonder if I'll be able to survive."
He gestured Johannes.
"Set up the camp. We will rest here for the night."
——–––———
At the City.
"Ahh, there's more to be taken care of."
"Captain if you slack off the lieutenant will eventually know about it."
"Gah-! Damn that Johannes. He never lets me off the hook."
A knight entered the office and saluted.
"The preparations are complete."
"Good job.Any further reports on their location?"
"Yes sir. We've pinpointed their location."
"Present me the coordinates of their location."
"Right away."
The soldier bowed and left.
He reclined back on the chair and took a deep breath.
"Chaol, Blue Head, and Johannes. I hope you are doing well."
------------------
The camp had already been set up. The troops were divided into several groups of ten each. All had to fulfill their duty to guard against the chaos-ridden.
Canute sat on the edge of a rock watching others in silence while listening to their stories around the campfires. He didn't join them.
A figure approached him from behind. Canute's ears perked up. The moment he was ready to attack, he heard Johannes' voice.
"Sir Canute. May I sit here?"
Canute smiled and moved to offer the lieutenant a seat.
"Thank you."
"Drop the formalities."
"A-alright.So Canute-san why aren't you joining them?"
"We need to be on guard 24/7."
"I see."
Johannes smiled.
"I thank you on behalf of the honor of the Elysian Knights."
" ...?"
"Our captain has always been cold. He never expressed his emotions openly. But when you came to the city. Not only did you give us new hope, but changed his life as well."
".....What made him be this cold?"