The beast tamer exiled from the hero’s party and the cat eared girl from the strongest race meet
Chapter 409: Change of Plan
(TL:By Rafael,valhallatls.blogspot.com)
"That's quite a troublesome number to deal with..."
"W-what should we do?"
"...For now, let's give it a try."
As before, I made a temporary contract with a small animal.
I had it move discreetly and create some rustling noises.
"Hm? What's that sound?"
"Is someone there!?"
"Alright, you two go check it out. It could be a diversion. The rest of us will stay here and guard the entrance tightly."
Two were successfully lured away, but more than eight remained stationed at the entrance.
And the two who left came back within five minutes.
"This is... an impenetrable defense."
"H-how are we supposed to infiltrate?"
"Hmm..."
I observed the situation while contemplating a strategy.
Next to me, Finia looked at me with eyes full of expectation.
Sakura also gazed at me, seemingly hopeful.
I wanted to come up with a clever plan to meet their expectations.
I wanted to, but...
"It's impossible."
"What...?"
"There's no way to slip through that ironclad defense without anyone noticing."
"T-that can't be..."
"Maybe if we took our time... No, that won't work either."
The longer we took, the more prepared the enemy would become.
A full-scale "hunt" would surely begin.
Once tangled threads get twisted, they only become more complicated.
If possible, I'd like to untangle them while it's still early.
That said, charging in recklessly wasn't an option.
Fail, and it's over.
There's no chance for a do-over.
"What should we do...?"
"U-um!"
"Hm?"
Finia looked at me with a determined expression.
"Um, so, uh..."
"Calm down. If you have something to say, I'll listen. Just convey it in your own words, Finia."
"Ah..."
"What's wrong?"
"Rain, you always say the words I need to hear. And... you give me a push forward. Even though you're human, you're so reliable."
"Do I? I'm not sure, but... if so, that makes me happy."
"Um, well... I have an idea."
Finia clasped her hands tightly in front of her chest, making an earnest plea.
"Will you... hold on to me?"
――――――――――
"Hey, this feeling..."
"I know. It's the scent and presence of humans. They're approaching."
"Coming straight at us so brazenly... Are they mocking us? Fine. Everyone, prepare to engage!"
"U-um..."
Caught in the tense atmosphere, I timidly peeked out from the shadows.
As I did, everyone's expressions turned to shock.
"Finia!?"
"Thank goodness you're safe. We were worried after hearing you'd fallen into a human trap."
"But wait... wasn't there also the scent and presence of humans?"
"Well, about that... Sakura-chan."
"Woof!"
Emerging from the shadows was Sakura-chan.
On her back were two women, Leen and Monica...
And in her mouth, she held a rope that bound Rain-san's hands behind his back.
"About this human... I, um, captured him."
"What!?"
Everyone was stunned.
Maybe they were thinking, "Someone like her?"
Ugh... It might be a fair assessment, but it still stings a little.
"Ah, no... That's amazing, Finia. Well done!"
"That's quite the achievement. I see you in a new light."
"Ehehe..."
"Alright. Let's interrogate those humans immediately. You, go report to the leader!"
"Now, Finia. Hand them over to us."
"Um, about that... Could you leave it to me!?"
"What?"
"First, I think we need to report to the... uh, the leader. And I thought it'd be quicker to have these humans present when we discuss things..."
"That may be true, but wouldn't it make more sense for us to handle it?"
"Yeah. You've been through a lot, Finia. You should rest."
"Ugh..."
They made valid points, and for a moment, I almost nodded in agreement.
But I couldn't do that.
If I did, the plan I'd worked so hard to devise would fall apart.
"Um, um... Please let me handle this!"
"Finia?"
"I... I'm the leader's daughter, after all! I need to show how much I've grown!"
I said it with determination.
It was a bit forceful, but maybe they'd accept it...
I nervously glanced at everyone’s faces.
"To think Finia would say something like this..."
"I see... She’s grown without us realizing it."
They all looked deeply moved.
Ugh... guilt.
Even though it’s for resolving this situation, I feel terrible, like I’m betraying everyone.
"Alright, then. We’ll leave it to you, Finia."
"We’ll stay on alert around the area just in case."
"Th-thank you."
With a smile, I passed through the gate and entered the village.
Once I reached a secluded area, I let out a huge sigh of relief.
"It... it worked... right?"
"Yeah, I think it’s fine."
The one who answered was Rain-san.
He smiled warmly, as if to say, "You did great."
"Pretending to capture me and infiltrating the village... Yeah, it's a really good plan. And it’s worked so far."
"Ehehe... It was a little nerve-wracking, but it worked somehow."
If sneaking in secretly was impossible, the next best option was to boldly walk in through the front.
That’s how I came up with this plan.
What would happen if I pretended to betray my people?
It was a risky gamble, but Rain-san trusted me.
So, I felt like I had to live up to that trust.
Even if the ones I had to deceive were my own kind—or humans.
When someone trusts you, you have to give it your all.
"I’ll... I’ll do my best!"
TL Note- In Finia we trust and Merry Christmas in advance and Happy Christmas Eve.
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