“Hmm.” Eugene watched as the ship carrying the Holy Empire’s delegation disappeared into the distance.

“You must have mixed feelings, right? Still, I think it’s a relief and that we achieved the best result possible,” Prince Localope said after sneaking up to Eugene’s side.

Eugene glanced at the prince before turning his eyes back to the ship of the Holy Empire.

“That’s not it. I just find it a little strange,” Eugene said.

“Strange? What do you mean?” Localope asked.

Eugene answered, “That ship. It looks too untouched, no matter how I look at it.”

“Hmm?” Prince Localope turned his gaze toward the disappearing ship. He couldn’t make out the details like Eugene could, but it certainly seemed rather pristine.

“Well, it seems like it. But what about it?” Prince Localope asked.

“Are ships usually left like that after being attacked by pirates?” Eugene pointed out.

“That’s…”

“There were no scratches at all. There’s not even a trace of a single arrow hit,” Eugene continued.

“Hmm…” Prince Localope fell into contemplation. It was certainly strange. Even if the pirates had intended to take the delegation hostage, it would have been normal for them to fire harpoons or arrows to intimidate.

“Moreover, you must have seen the holy knights accompanying the high priest and the others, right? What did you think of them?” Eugene asked.

Prince Localope responded, “Judging from their...