Chapter 48 [Count Vazari's Territory 5: Main Assault Force]
The elves from the Silva Forest, accompanied by the beastmen who had hastily arrived in response to their information, hid in small groups within sight of the makeshift detention center near the slave market.
"Elves, can you really hold off the lord's army?"
"Trust in the Archmage of Spirits. That person showed remarkable skills in the previous battle against Valen."
"I've heard that, but... honestly, it's hard to believe."
"Stop it, Huck. Whether the Archmage succeeds or fails, our course of action remains the same since we've come this far."
"But!"
"Hey, there seems to be commotion near the lord's mansion..."
Just as those who should have been hidden began to forget to hold their breath and started arguing, a well-timed elf messenger arrived.
"It's an order from the Archmage of Spirits! Implement the liberation operation immediately!"
...
Like arrows released from tightly drawn bowstrings, the mixed forces of elves and beastmen, fueled by long-held grudges and frustrations, rushed forward with shouts. Some aimed to take down the notorious slave traders at their lodgings, while others sought to liberate their kin at the detention center. Armed with weapons and magic, they descended into the chaotic streets, creating a tumultuous uproar.
The slave traders were completely caught off guard. They never expected sub-humans to attack Vazari's town. While the slave traders were not defenseless, they had hired guards, assuming any attack would occur just outside the town. Once they safely entered Vazari, the guard contracts terminated, and the rewarded guards scattered to taverns and brothels. There were few left to protect the slave traders.
The defenders at the detention center were also taken by surprise. Originally assigned for guarding against unauthorized attempts to steal slaves or for intimidation, they never anticipated a large-scale military operation like this. Moreover, due to the town's arson turmoil, a considerable number had gone to investigate, leaving the remaining small force powerless against the sub-humans.
The slaves were bound by slave magic. Attempting to escape triggered the magic, leading to severe consequences, even death. However, for elves skilled in magic, dispelling the slave magic was a simple task. Amidst the darkness and confusion, they dispelled the magic on anyone they came across, liberating the slaves and leading them to escape.
There was no time to take attendance until they reached a safe distance from the town.
Hence, there was no time to wonder who among the liberated slaves might be.
"...A human child?"