Prince Philip halted, his eyes turning back as he caught sight of my dark expression. The silence of the night enveloped the library, only interrupted by the gentle breeze flowing through the window.
"If I help you ascend to the throne, what's in it for me?" I asked seriously, my eyes fixed on him with intensity.
Philip turned fully, his eyebrows raised. "Hey, what are you talking about?" he replied, surprised but still composed.
"I'm serious!" I stepped closer, my voice deepening with pressure. "While others are preparing to overthrow you, how can you stay so calm? You have support within the palace, right? And how long will that last?!"
Philip gazed at me with sharp eyes, as if trying to decipher my intentions. "Johan, this isn't your problem, is it? You were just dragged into our world's issues because my father is a coward! So as much as possible, I don't want to use or take advantage of you, even for the sake of this world's survival," he stated, his voice firm yet filled with concern.
I clenched my fists, feeling a surge of emotions within me. Seeing the light in his eyes full of sincerity made me admire him. Philip was someone different, someone with morals and integrity. It seemed I had found someone truly intriguing. Even if this mission hadn't led me here, knowing about this issue, I would willingly help him. Alright, the test is over, and now back to the main issue.
"Fine, but please let me help you. In four hours from now, a rebellion will take place against you," I declared firmly.
"Huh? How do you know that?!" The prince's voice rose slightly, his eyes widening in shock.
I pulled out a small device from my pocket and played a recording I had obtained while eavesdropping on Princess Rosaria speaking with her personal guard. It happened right after we returned from the expedition. I had crossed paths with them in a deserted corridor. Princess Rosaria was discussing a sinister plan, and I didn't want to miss the chance to expose it. So, I recorded the conversation using a sophisticated device I had purchased from the Deus Machina system.
Princess Rosaria's cold and decisive voice echoed clearly in the recording, "In four hours, make sure all troops are ready. Philip must be eliminated tonight. We can't let him interfere with our plans any longer."
Philip listened to the recording with a serious expression. His eyes glinted with newfound anger and awareness. "I can't believe it... Where did you get that—"
"Where I got this device isn't important right now. I'll explain later. The point is, I can help you with power very different from the current heroes. So, I ask you again, can I help?" I explained with confident eyes.
Philip didn't immediately accept my offer. He placed the book in his hand on the nearest table, then thought for a moment. With one hand rubbing his temple and the other folded across his chest, he seemed deep in thought. Several times his gaze shifted to me, then looked away as if weighing a heavy decision.
After what felt like an eternity, Philip sighed deeply and looked at me with newfound resolve. "Haah, even if I refuse, you won't give up easily, will you?" he said in a more relaxed yet still serious tone.
I grinned slightly at his words, feeling somewhat relieved that he was beginning to trust me.
Philip continued, "Alright, Johan Anderson. As the Prince of this Kingdom, I command you to help me out of this situation!" His voice was firm, reflecting his strong resolve.
I nodded seriously, feeling the weight of a great responsibility. "Alright, Prince Philip. We need to act quickly. First, make sure your loyal supporters are ready. We need a plan to escape the palace and head to a region that supports you."
Philip nodded, his gaze full of determination. "Right. I'll inform some of my closest people to prepare. So, do you already have a plan?" he asked with hope in his eyes.
I gave a slight smile with a determined face and confident gaze. "Of course. Give me an hour to execute my plan. And trust me."
Philip stared at me for a moment, then nodded. "Alright, Johan. I trust you. We must move quickly."
I walked out of the library, my mind racing with the plan that needed to be executed immediately. Each step through the empty palace corridors felt heavy, but I knew every second was precious. Once I reached the room that had been provided for us, I immediately informed Hiroshi, Yumi, and Takeshi about the situation we were facing.
"Johan, are you serious? We're going to help Prince Philip escape?" Hiroshi asked, his voice full of worry.
"I'm serious. In four hours, there will be a rebellion. This palace is no longer safe for us. Right now, I need you to make a decision: do you want to stay here or come with me?" I said, giving my three companions a chance to choose.
I knew it would be hard for them to leave because their classmates were here, and this place held their hope of returning to Earth. Forcing them to join me could lead to unnecessary conflict during our journey. That's why I gave them the chance to decide.
They fell silent for a moment, considering my offer. I could see how anxious they were. Their eyes blinked rapidly, and their hands trembled. They were young and unstable, finding it hard to imagine surviving without support out there. Their anxiety almost felt like thick air around me.
"I can't—"
"I'll go..." Takeshi, who usually didn't say much, suddenly spoke up. His surprising decision drew all eyes to him. Hiroshi stared at him, mouth agape, clearly not expecting that the usually quiet and calm Takeshi would agree to go.
"Takeshi!!" Hiroshi nearly shouted, his tone reflecting his shock.
Takeshi looked at Hiroshi with a serious expression. "Listen, everyone. I know this is surprising, but the others will be fine here. We can't become like them because we've been left out of the group. The only way we can grow is by leaving." Takeshi's voice was firm, filled with conviction.
Hiroshi seemed like he wanted to argue, but Takeshi continued more forcefully. "But!!"
"Takeshi is right..." Yumi's voice was calm but filled with concern. "Also, there's something strange about our friends, as if they're not themselves. I spent time with my group earlier and talked to them, but I got blank stares from them. It was scary. Not just them, but the others too, like their minds were being controlled."
I nodded, trying to piece together all the information. Yumi continued with a worried tone, "They looked like soulless dolls. I don't know what's happening, but I can't stay here and pretend everything is okay."
This was new, and this information was important. If what Yumi said was true, then this place was already dangerous.
Hiroshi seemed hesitant but finally nodded slowly. "Alright, then we'll go together. We can't stay here if something is wrong."
"Thank you, everyone. I promise, once we're out there, I'll support you with everything I have. And Prince Philip guarantees our safety, so don't worry about being stranded." I said, trying to encourage them.
They all nodded, looking more resolute.
"Alright then—"
"Hey, can Sensei come too?" The door to the room suddenly opened, revealing Mrs. Nakamura standing there.