Realm of Myths and Legends

Chapter 1185 Beyond A Bold Statement

ʼTheir connection must have been a lot deeper than I thought. Iʼm not sure if thatʼs a good or bad thing given what I came here to do.ʼ

To be honest, it was a bit beyond Izrothʼs expectations. After all, as her foster mother and after viewing the two interact with one another, Izroth knew that Nova was someone precious to Aurie. That being said, while he anticipated that Aurie would be dejected and not in her best state, Izroth did not think he would see the usually fierce and proud Aurie reduced to her current state.

”I congratulate you on your promotion, Commander Izroth. Unfortunately, I have not prepared a proper gift.” Aurie said without lifting her head.

”Oh? You donʼt sound surprised that I was promoted to Commander despite it being the General Support Unit.” Izroth replied as he took the chair across from Aurie.

”That woman has always done whatever she wants without a care of what others think. To speak frankly, with her nature, I wouldnʼt be surprised if she offered command over the General Support Unit itself.”

ʼShe knows her quite well.ʼ

”I donʼt think my present level of influence will suffice when it comes to leading the General Support Unit. Of course, I would turn it down without hesitation.” Izroth stated calmly.

”Thatʼs precisely why you will go far. Even if itʼs the General Support Unit that weʼre talking about, others would jump at the chance to obtain such a position. Yet, you can see ahead in a way that others lack. It would seem that I lack such an ability...” Aurie muttered the last part of the sentence to herself and, with it, a presence of sorrow intertwined with her voice.

”You are too harsh on yourself. If even someone with General Solomonʼs abilities missed it, how could you have possibly foreseen it?” Izroth said as he shook his head.

General Solomon possessed an ability known as Absolute Symmetry that was capable of seeing what was hidden along with the connections between things. If something got past him, it was only natural that it also managed to slip past Aurie.

Of course, Izroth was referencing the traitor who backstabbed Nova during the raid on the Night Lordʼs Crypt.

Izroth could tell that Aurie was blaming herself for what happened; however, he also understood that even though it was not her fault, there was not much to be said that could change her outlook in the short term. That being said, Izroth was not the type to ignore those he considered his comrades. And, it just so happened that he had a way to potentially turn things around without relying on words alone.

”On the battlefield, the only thing worse than incompetence is ignorance.” Aurie said as she raised her head and rested her face on her hand.

The first thing Izroth noticed about Aurie were the dark circles under her eyes, accompanied by a pair of bloodshot eyes. Furthermore, the look in her eyes was listless as her gaze seemed to wander every now and then.

ʼIt looks like she hasnʼt had any rest since the Night Lordʼs Crypt. I can see why Edgar stopped me earlier.ʼ

”Your words are not wrong. However, should not one work to correct their ignorance so that they no longer remain so for when the next battle approaches? There is a difference between being ignorant and choosing to stay ignorant.” Izroth commented.

”You are wise well beyond your years, Commander Izroth.” Aurie replied as her voice carried traces of self-loathing.

She then continued, ”Now, I assume you did not come all this way to hold a casual conversation and show off your promotion. So, what can I do for you, Commander? Though I must warn you that I might be not the best person to ask for assistance or advice right now.”

”Commander Aurie knows me well. Then, I wonʼt stand on ceremony. Iʼm afraid I will have to intrude on your kindness. But, before I say what needs to be said, I think it would be best if you ask Captain Kalmesia to set up a barrier. It involves Lady Nova.” Izroth said with a meaningful gaze.

The moment Izroth mentioned Novaʼs name, a wave of pain flashed through Aurieʼs eyes. However, as the wave of pain settled, there was also a mix of curiosity.

The news regarding Novaʼs state was not known to most. But, a few members of the 9th Division was with Aurie during the chaos that unfolded that day at the Night Lordʼs Crypt.

While it was instructed to be kept under wraps by the higher ups, given the trust the 9th Division placed in Izroth, there was no way there would keep it a secret from him. Plus, Izroth was no stranger and a trustworthy person. Therefore, Aurie had no plans of finding fault with him or the 9th Division.

More importantly, Aurie understood Izrothʼs character. Not to mention, the fact that he requested that she have Kalmesia set up a barrier—Aurie could not help but wonder the purpose of his visit to her command tent.

”Very well, Commander Izroth. I will hear what you have to say that is so important.” Aurie said as she did her best to collect herself.

The next moment, Aurie called Kalmesia into the command tent and, as per Izrothʼs instructions, had her set up a barrier.

ʼThis should be enough. It might be a little excessive. But, given the recent events, one cannot be too careful.ʼ

”The barrier is in place. I will now close off my senses.” Kalmesia stated.

”Thereʼs no need. Captain Kalmesia is someone who can be trusted. Besides, I will be in need of your assistance.” Izroth commented.

ʼKalmesia is a Child of the Forest, while Nova is a High-Born trephasia. While the trephasia bloodline isnʼt as controlling as the skounaeʼs, someone like Kalmesia would feel an instinctive strong sense of reverence when it comes to a High-Born like Nova. The chances of her doing anything that would bring harm to Nova is virtually nonexistent.ʼ

Kalmesia brows rose at Izrothʼs words.

Izroth could see a trace of reluctance in her eyes, even though Kalmesia tried her best to hide it.

Of course, Izroth was aware of why she was reluctant with everything that happened lately. But, once she heard what he had to say, Izroth knew that her reluctance would not last long.

”Then, Iʼll speak plainly, Commander. I need your help to see Lady Nova. I have a way to treat her injuries and help her awaken.” Izroth said calmly.

Bang!

Aurie jolted to her feet, knocking over the chair she sat on in the process as she stood with her eyes widened in shock.

Kalmesia was also unable to hide the surprise on her face.

”...Commander Izroth, Iʼm sure you realize what youʼre asking and the weight that your words carry.” Aurie stated with a serious expression.

Aurie understood that Izroth was no fool. Surely, he must have realized that there would have been no expense spared when it came to curing someone of Novaʼs status.

For him to say he had a way to treat her when even those experienced healers and legendary recovery items failed—it was far beyond a bold statement!