Nilos Royal Park was a place that gave the impression of an expanse of grassland.
　After making a few rounds for inspection, we arrived here before noon.
　We stopped the carriage, and Aena and Mercier were looking at the fountain in the center of the park.
　It had been built many years ago and was one of the landmarks of the capital.
　It is said that in the evening, the water rises higher and the shadows cast by the setting sun look like works of art. Even in the daytime, it is known as a beautiful fountain.
　In such a place, the three ...... Iris were already gone.

(So far, as planned, I guess.)

　(So far, so good.) As I had planned, I asked Iris to act alone where necessary.
　The park was large and sparsely populated, so there was a good chance that Aria would come into contact with her.
　Conversely, it would not be surprising if an assassin was sent to target Aena here.
　However, the "Shadow Apostle" only wanted to expose the fact that "Aena was assassinated" to the public.
　The park is a bit crowded, but it's more comfortable than the area around the arena yesterday.

Alta, can you come by here again in the evening?
"I think we can, if we coordinate. At the pace we're going today, we should be done before dusk.
"Well, if you're going to ......, I'd like to see the fountain in the evening.

　Aena said and looked at the fountain again.
　I'm sure you'll be able to find something that you like. I'm not sure if it's ...... a matter of getting to know each other or if it's a matter of being accepted - it's a bit of a toss up.
　At the very least, they recognize that I have the power to protect her.
　They also readily accepted the fact that I was a knight of the kingdom. I can say that they are very adaptable, including Mercier.
　That's a big help to me.

I'd like to say that I want to head to the next location ...... as soon as possible, but Iris hasn't returned yet?

　Suddenly, looking in the direction Iris had disappeared, Aena said.
　I've told Iris not to leave the park.
　If necessary, I will contact you with a signal shot.
　...... There was a chance that I might lose my cool with Aria, but as far as we talked yesterday, I think I'm fine.
　In fact, she might want to bring Aria back by herself without my help.
　For her, Aria is not only her best friend but also her family.
　However, it was more likely that Aria's situation was more complicated than that.

(I almost know why Aria joined the enemy side ....... That is, if what Mr. Mercier says is true.

　I glanced at Mercier.
　Aena's subordinate, but someone who knows a lot about the Shadow Apostle - I heard the details from her yesterday. If all of this is true, it may be that Mercier is the one who has more to do with this than anything else.
　Aena is also aware of this, and that's why she is carrying out this operation.

(The kids around me are amazing in so many ways: ...... Well, maybe it's not my place to say...)

　Iris and Aria, as well as Aena and Mercier, are actually still children in my eyes. But each one of them was still thinking and acting.
　All I could do was to help them, I guess.

(Well, I guess I can't ask the Commander for a wage for this. It's just a hobby, I guess.

　Watching over Iris's growth - especially, it's one of my main objectives right now.
　If she eventually becomes the "strongest knight" and protects this country, then my role may come to an end. ...... For that, Aria's presence will surely be necessary.
　I'm sure that abandoning your family is not an option in Iris' goal.

(Although the strength to protect someone is more difficult than being lonely.

(Though the strength to protect someone is more difficult than being lonely) When I was a 《Kensei》, I was strong because I was lonely. I can say that with certainty.
　Raul Isaruf didn't have many people he could call friends.
　That is why I am able to act as a knight, as Alta Schweizer, without any worries.

"Are you worried about Iris?

　I'm not sure what to make of it, but I think it's a good idea.

No, she's strong.
No, she's strong." "Hmm, trust. I don't envy her, but it's a good relationship.
"I think you have a good relationship with Melche, Aena.
You and Melche are ...... right. I care about my people.
If you feel that way, you should be concerned about yourself.
"Mmm, that's unnecessary .......

　Mercier, with a clear face, interrupted Aena's words.
　I also let out a small smile at that.
　You will find a lot of people who have been in the business for a long time. ...... but...

I'm not sure what to do.

　I'm not sure what to make of that.
　With this in mind, we stared at the flowing fountain and waited for the time to come.