NOVEL NEXT WORLD Chapter 43
Chapter 43: The Knight Versus the Mercenary’s Enemy
“There are two bowmen hiding to the southwest, and one to the southeast. I’ve already informed Axel and Aureik. Until Lord Raoul gives the signal, they’ve been told to act naturally so as not to arouse suspicion.”
Upon returning from reconnaissance, the mercenary deliberately dismounted his horse, seemingly to lull the enemy into a false sense of security, and then delivered his report.
“Aye, you’ve endured much. Please stand by for now.”
Raoul carefully moved only his eyes, trying not to shift his head, to check on the apprentices.
“…”
This is unfortunate.
Unfortunately, the two apprentices weren’t wearing helmets, and their pale faces kept darting worried glances in our direction. It wasn’t concern for their lord so much as confusion about what to do, and their gestures suggested they were appealing for help. Understandable for first-timers in battle, but their suspicious behavior was bound to be noticed by the bandits sooner or later.
However, seven to the northeast, two to the southwest, and one to the southeast…
How shall we distribute our forces?
With our already scarce numbers of guards now surrounded from three directions, the situation is dire. Though Lord Renald will evacuate to the carriage, even so, there’s no other choice but for all the guards to gamble everything on this fight.
Though unavoidable, Raoul felt as if he were swallowing a needle at the thought of having to abandon his lord’s protection, his heart heavy with guilt as if he were about to commit a sin.
“I’ll position myself and Cross to the northeast, Axel to the southwest, and Aureik to the southeast.”
“I doubt Axel can hold off two foes on his own. It may not make much difference since I’m not exactly helpful, but… I’ll go to the southwest too.”
“Absolutely not! We are knights tasked with protecting Lord Renald. For as long as my life persists, I will not permit you to take up arms.”
Though Lord Renald carried a spike sword hanging at his waist, this was merely an ornamental piece for a nobleman, a brass replica without a blade. Although I was responsible for teaching him swordsmanship, even I couldn’t deny that drinking tea while practicing elegant motions was far removed from actual combat.
“But if that’s the case, Axel will…”
“Axel may be an apprentice, but he is of the knightly order. He’s prepared for such eventualities.”
“There’s no need for a young man with a bright future to die for my sake. In that case, let’s all attack in unison towards Pina. If we gather together, perhaps we can turn this into a group battle…”
“Out of the question! We may be expendable, but Lord Renald hasn’t donned armor. Surrounded by bowmen, such an approach would be nothing short of suicidal behavior.”
It was unacceptable to lead Lord Renald into danger chasing an unreachable ideal, like a moth flying into a flame.
“Well then…”
Raoul, prioritizing the lord’s safety, and Renald, unwilling to sacrifice anyone, struggled to reconcile their differing views, leading into a whispered exchange of arguments.
“With that plan, only I will survive!”
“Please understand your status. Should anything happen to Lord Renald, we will surely be executed by the master anyway. If you allow us to die honorably for your sake, that would be the greatest kindness you could show us.”
Their debate escalated into a heated, albeit low-toned argument, growing more aggressive and less constructive with each passing moment, resembling a street brawl more than a knightly discussion.
“But…!”
“May I interrupt?”
Having observed the situation patiently with his eyes closed, the mercenary interjected rudely, cutting through the intense conversation between master and servant. Though Raoul and the others might have rebuked him for his impertinence, Renald noticed a change in Cross’s demeanor, and instinctively nodded his assent.
“This situation seems rather serious, but are these highwaymen truly so powerful? Are they notorious bounty heads or something?”
“Huh…? No, I don’t think so…”
“Then why in the world are four trained warriors hesitating when the enemy advances? Is this what the tactics of your so-called “knights” are like? They’re mere highwaymen, a collection of amateurs.”
Having let go of his crossed arms, the mercenary took a bold step towards them, his imposing presence forcing Renald to involuntarily step back.
“For the past while, I’ve been listening silently, and your conversation sounds as if you’re trapped in a dire predicament. …Are you testing me, perhaps?”
Cross’s tone grew steadily more aggressive, his intimidating demeanor and sharp gaze leaving no room for argument.
Unaccustomed to such pressure, Renald’s voice faded entirely. Raoul, overwhelmed and unable to catch up with the mercenary’s words, fell silent as well. Suddenly, Cross’s demeanor softened.
“…Never mind. It’s too much trouble.”
His face reflected a profound sense of disappointment.
“Lord Raoul, as your leader, my colleagues have instructed me to follow your orders, but this situation… having accepted this commission, I can’t indulge in your games any longer. Lord Renald, when I attack, get into the carriage and stay there. Lord Raoul, protect the carriage. Let’s go.”
Cross swiftly pulled three arrows from his quiver, immediately nocked his bow, and rapidly fired them off while shouting.
“Axel, Aureik! Return here and protect the horses from the arrows! Understand? Absolutely no injuries allowed! Lord Pina, don’t move!”
From the underbrush came several sharp cries of anguish, followed by the emergence of several figures from a different direction. Cross discarded his bow, drew his sword, and charged fiercely into the group.
“Lord Renald, this way quickly!”
Stunned by the sudden shift, Raoul and Renald eventually followed the mercenary’s orders. Renald leapt into the carriage, while Raoul positioned his spear at the door. The apprentices soon joined them.
“Leader, what’s the situation? Why is Lord Cross launching a solo assault?”
“Shouldn’t we provide support?”
The apprentices bombarded Raoul with questions, but even he was utterly confused.
“No… I don’t understand either. He suddenly took command on his own.”
As they spoke, the sounds of intense clashes and shouts continued incessantly from beyond the carriage, but it was impossible to distinguish ally from foe amidst the melee.
“You two, stay and protect the carriage! I’ll go provide support.”
Leaving the scene to the two apprentices, Raoul made his way around the carriage to assist Cross. However, he froze at the sight on the other side.
“Lord Raoul, explain yourself. What was that earlier behavior of yours? Are you mocking me?”
Before him stood a mountain of bandit corpses, the mercenary smeared in blood, gripping his sword and glaring at Raoul with unmistakable hostility.