Having left the role of Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces to Henrik, I teleported to the imperial capital. Silver would be essential.
"――You're back."
I teleported into Grandfather's room, where he was the only one present. Sebas was likely guarding Mother and Finne.
"The final battle is upon us, Grandfather."
"It's been 500 years since we last fought the demons... The Adler family has honed its bloodline well."
I nodded at Grandfather's words. The appearance of demons wasn't new. One or two would show up occasionally, but SS-rank adventurers could handle them. This time, however, the number was unknown, making it a first. The Adler family had been preparing for such a continental crisis.
"However, the empire will be sending its strongest forces, leaving the capital vulnerable."
"Exactly. I'll make preparations, but in case of an emergency, could you look after Finne and the family?"
"I'll do what I can."
Reassured by Grandfather's words, I left the room.In Finne's room, both Finne and Sebas were present. I teleported in after confirming their presence through magic.
"Welcome back."
Finne greeted me with a slight smile and a bow, probably expecting my return. I was about to explain the situation when Finne spoke first.
"Lady Mitsuba has stabilized, though she still feels weak. She should be fine for daily life."
"Thank you."
Finne probably knew that was what I wanted to hear the most. I felt relieved hearing it from her, someone I trusted.
"His Majesty has gone to the guild's capital branch. Is it for the Wise King's Council?"
I nodded at Sebas's question.
"The demons have appeared. The council will likely decide to dispatch the strongest forces. I'll escort Father and the others to the kingdom."
"Will His Majesty also go to battle?"
"Most likely... He intends to use the Imperial Sword."
The Imperial Sword was a weapon created by a former emperor. It could harness the magical energy gathered from people across the empire, stored in the Imperial Sword Castle. This energy could be used freely by the wielder of the sword.
"It's a dangerous weapon, but it's also humanity's trump card against the demons."
"But we can't be sure of victory."
"True, but we'll do what we can. I don't intend to lose."
Finne's expression brightened a bit at my forced bravado.
"The real problem is after we win."
"After?"
"After a hard-fought victory, humanity will be weakened. Then, a showdown between Erik and Leo will likely occur. The continent will be in chaos. Wepar, who returned to the demon realm will surely see this as an opportunity for a second invasion. To add fuel to the fire, I'll make my exit from the public stage." ＲаꞐóBÊś
"Exit? How?"
"I'll fake my death. The imperial capital won't be the only place that's vulnerable; the headquarters will be too. It's the perfect opportunity for an assassination to occur. Henrik will act as my double."
"Will you tell Lady Elna and Lord Leo?"
"No. It can't be exposed as a scheme."
"I can act sad. Thinking about the two of them... I could cry right now."
I nodded, understanding how much Finne would be hurt by this.
"Finne... I'm going."
"Take care."
Sent off by Finne, I teleported to the Adventurer's Guild in the imperial capital. There, Father, fully armed, and all the remaining captains of the Imperial Guard were present.
"You're here."
"Where are you headed, Your Majesty?"
"Obviously, to the Kingdom."
Father grinned as he spoke.
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