Elma was bustling with activity even in the morning. Doors opened here and there, and stalls were being set up in preparation for the market day. There were quite a few mercenaries who seemed to have just entered town. Since his father used to serve Elma’s lord, Baron Nobira, Raven had been to Elma several times in the past. He walked silently as he soaked in nostalgia.

Then, Jody sneakily moved closer to Raven.

“By the way… Have you decided where to go after this is over?”

“Why do you ask?”

“Well… I haven’t told Scylla and Gus yet, but I really like you. The spirit you let off yesterday… is it a magic weapon? If it is not, then you would at least need to be an official knight of a great noble. Well, whatever the case, both are great. So, if you do not have a clear destination after this, why don’t you join us?”

Raven inwardly acknowledged Jody. He was a man of both skill and keenness. Raven probed further.

“Where are you thinking of going?”

“The Pendragon Duchy.”

“…. Hm.”

Raven held back an unexpected cough and asked back nonchalantly.

“Why there?”

“Why not? I have been at this for a while, I think it is time to settle down. I heard that they...