From what I've seen, Dodona seeds heal flesh wounds much easier than broken bones. So then why... are my ribs wholly healed?
That potion that Kina concocted must have increased the Dodona seed's effectiveness several times. It's only been a few minutes since I left, and I feel better than I ever have!
Full of energy, I've quickly made my way to the Lord's manor, where I am greeted warmly. Outside the front entrance stands a plethora of hired men. They differ widely, from stocky thieves to massive strongmen. One man stands in front, who is of average size. He's well built, and I quickly recognize him as the man who initially kidnapped me. I believe Alice called him-
Before I can take the time to recall, the man shouts, "Halt! It is I, Atrus, the commander of the Lord's forces."
My eye involuntarily twitches as I'm taken aback by the grandeur of his statement.
Adachi: "Very impressive. I suppose there's no chance that you'll stand aside and allow me to pass."
Atrus: "You've guessed correctly. We've been hired to protect the Lord, and that's all that matters."
Adachi: "Let it be known that I am no terrorist. I've come to expose the Lord's various crimes and restore Lord Kiichi's place in society. If you align with my views, I don't wish to fight you. Please stand down immediately."
None of the apparent mercenaries budge as they're only in it for the money and have no political agendas. The target of this statement is Atrus and others who serve out of a sense of duty.
Atrus: "Is that so...?"
Atrus' face contorts in thought as he realizes the truth of the situation.
Atrus: "In that case, I'll stand aside. I, and many others serving this city, knew Kiichi personally at one time or another. We know of his innocence. Can you guarantee his return?"
I scan the masses standing in front of me for a formidable opponent but find none besides Atrus.
Adachi: "I can guarantee my success in removing Gishie from his position, but I cannot guarantee Kiichi's return. I may be the closest thing he has to a son, but that doesn't mean he'll do what I ask of him. What happened to him here... it broke him."
Atrus nods his head to acknowledge my claim before stepping to the side.
Atrus: "In that case, my men and I will neither help nor hinder your endeavor. Our assistance could amount to treason if you fail. I hope you understand."
Adachi: "Your compliance is all the assistance I require. Without you standing by his side, there is nothing left between Lord Gishie and me."
Around four to five minutes later, I've finished clearing out the masses. All the credit for my success goes to those at the Seiei Dojo.
I wipe foreign blood from my face, which has gelled with my sweat. Before I can continue into the manor, Atrus grabs my arm. At first, I believe that he does intend to hinder me. However, when I see his face, that suspicion is quickly dismantled.
Atrus: "There is one more obstacle between you and the Lord. There is an abomination under his control... a shapeshifter that-"
Adachi: "The shapeshifter has already been... removed from the picture. Thanks for your concern."
The well-toned knight removes his large hand from my shoulder and stands down.
Atrus: "I see. All the same, proceed with caution, young man."
I turn my back to the man who has just gained my utmost respect. He may have removed his hand from my shoulder, but he's left a heavy weight resting on my shoulders.
Meanwhile, in the capital of Itamor:
Obo: "I wonder how Adachi and Mito are doing on their 'task.'"
Shiki: "Focus on the task at hand. The midstless have evolved yet again, and we've just now found out about it. Who knows how far they've infiltrated human society?"
Obo: "I know. Let's do a thorough job here. Perhaps we can consider letting the others know about what's really going on when we return."
Shiki: "Perhaps..."