The Forest Of Radia

The next day, Vim woke up much earlier than usual. Morning light streamed through the window, and a draft of crisp, clear air flowed into the room. After finishing his preparations, Vim stepped out.

“Good morning.”

Outside the inn, the Knights and the Magic Division had already assembled. It seemed Hana was also ready and waiting.

“Good morning, Master Vim.”

“Sorry, I hope I didn’t keep you waiting.”

“Not at all, you are right on time. Please don’t worry about it,” Grand Master Camille said with a smile, looking as handsome as ever.

“Shall we head out, then?”

The site for this subjugation was a forest located very close to the city of Radia. The locals simply referred to it as the “Forest of Radia.”

“Yes, let’s go.”

Vim and the others boarded the carriages. It appeared they would travel by carriage until they reached the outskirts of the forest.

“Hana, don’t push yourself this time. Leave the slimes to me.”

“Understood. I’m sorry… that I won’t be of much use.”

Hana’s shoulders slumped slightly. Their opponents this time were slimes, which were immune to physical strikes. For someone like Hana, who relied primarily on physical combat, it was a poor match-up.

“Don’t let it get to you. It’s all about the right person in the right place. You’ve saved me countless times before. This time, I’ll be the one to protect you, Hana.”

As he spoke, Vim reached out and lightly patted Hana on the head.

“Master Vim… thank you.”

Hana’s eyes grew watery. Seeing this exchange, Grand Master Camille wore a teasing grin.

“My, the bond of trust between you two is truly wonderful. I’d love to show my subordinates an example like this.”

It was true; though they hadn’t been together for a long time, facing various situations side-by-side had naturally built a foundation of trust.

“Those who can do something should do what they are capable of. I think that’s enough.”

It’s fine to leave things you aren’t good at to those who excel in them. In return, you hone your skills in your own areas of expertise.

“In that case, please leave the ordinary monsters to me! I will guard your back, Master Vim.”

“I’m counting on you, partner.”

Vim gave Hana’s shoulder a light, encouraging tap.

“We have arrived!!”

After a few dozen minutes, the carriage came to a halt. It seemed this was as far as the carriages could go. From here, they would have to proceed on foot. As they stepped out, the Magic Division and the Knights gathered around.

“We will now organize the squads. Everyone, move according to your instructions.”

Under Camille’s direction, squads were formed, typically consisting of three mages and two knights. Vim’s squad included himself, Hana, and the Grand Master.

“Um… isn’t my squad a bit over-powered?”

“Don’t worry. We’ve reduced the headcount to compensate.”

While the other squads had five members, Vim’s squad had four. A rookie from the Magic Division had been added to their group. Even so, it still felt like excessive combat power. Vim’s magic was off the charts, Hana’s combat skills were superior to the average guard or knight, and the Grand Master’s strength was guaranteed to be on par with an S-rank adventurer.

The rookie mage was looking incredibly intimidated by his company.

“Well, just take it easy. There’s almost zero chance of us being defeated,” Vim said, calling out to the young mage.

“Y-yes! Thank you very much!!” the rookie mage replied, snapping to attention.

“Well then, shall we?”

“Yes!”

With Vim’s squad in the lead, they stepped into the forest.