IGSAGCSAWAYSH) A Plot Unfolding Part 1 (Patreon)

“Did you set it up?” 

“All set, just like you asked. But are you sure this will work? Will the Sword Saint really come to defend the fields?”

“Of course. She has done a lot for this town and is human. We only need to wait. If we see no response by nightfall, bring some bait to the forest edge and sprinkle it around.”

“Understood.”

- - -

“So these girls were slaves of Priestess Helen and are now your slaves?” Miyumi asked in surprise.

“I offered them freedom, but it seems they were given a mission by Goddess Yunni to protect me. They are all good girls, though. They had a hard life.” Shizuku sighed as she leaned into Mei’s embrace.

“I can see that. That woman is just….” Miyumi took a deep breath and let it out slowly. She did not want to get angry all of a sudden.

“So, what do you plan to do with the information you received?” Lishia was hung up on the monster baiting to the orchard.

“Nothing. If the priests of this town wish to destroy the livelihood of this town, let them. It is not my problem. I do not get paid to protect those who wish me harm. They want to use it to blame me for their actions. This is why I am not taking a single step outside this inn. I will not make any moves that will allow me to get caught up in their plan. If they still want to say that I am the cause of it all, then fine. As soon as they draw their sword I will draw mine.” Shizuku did not care for any of these dumb plots. Since they want to make her out to be an enemy, she will cut down anyone who dares to stop her from leaving this town.

Or that is what she would like to do but she does not wish to get Lishia in trouble. “But, the issue is, is that, if I did do anything to retaliate it will come back on you as well since you were the one who brought me here.”

“Don’t worry about me. I couldn’t care less. You are right to do as you need since the people who are trying to cause you trouble deserve what they get. I know you are a good person. You treat those who treat you kindly with the same kindness back. This I could tell back at the camp in front of the dungeon. You never looked down on anyone who did not attack you first. I respect you for that, and that is why I was so willing to become your slave.

“Someone who does not treat slaves as slaves and is willing to help those in need. You listened to my selfish request to use you as a lifeline. You are willing to take in Mino who could end up causing you all kinds of problems. To be honest, I kind of wish you were the one who ruled over this world. Such a person would make this world so much better. Maybe this is why Goddess Yunni has plans for you?” Lishia smiled as she stood up. “I will go out and take a walk around town. I want to get a feel of what is going on. I did not plan on leaving the inn with just you and the girls here, but now, with the shadow guards, I can feel more at ease since they are all human as well.”

“Be careful. We do not know what other plans they might have.” Shizuku did not want Lishia to fall into a trap.

“I will.” Lishia smiled and said goodbye before leaving the room. She walked downstairs and had just stepped outside when two people walked over and stopped in front of her.

“Sword Saint, it is a pleasure to meet you. My name is Gerogino a helper at the church. I had just arrived, so this was good timing. The Head Priest wishes to speak with you.” Gerogino had lowered his head to show Lishia respect, but Lishia did not even acknowledge him as she pushed him and walked down the street. 

Gerogino raised his head and looked at her, retreating back with a bit of hate in his eyes. He had always hated those of higher power ignoring him. Even the priests at the church did the same even though he worked so hard for them. With nowhere to vent his anger, Gerogino turned and kicked a rock with his foot. The rock soared through the air and crashed through a nearby window. Hearing the loud crashing sound of glass breaking, he quickly ran off, not daring to stick around. 

Lishia continued down the street with a furrowed brow. It did not seem that Gerogino was the only one watching her. “They sure do have a lot of people mobilized. Did they think I wouldn’t notice people following me? I mean, their skill suck.”

Not wanting to risk anything, Lishia darted into a side alley and then jumped up onto the roof of one of the buildings, heading back to the inn to make sure nothing was going on there. 

On the street level, three men entered the alley that Lishia went in and stood staring at the empty space in front of them. “Where did she go!? Did she know we were following her?”