The monster attacks decreased significantly, much to the caravan’s surprise. For the mercenaries who were always prepared for the dangers of areas teeming with monsters, the lowered frequency of attacks ended up being nothing out of the ordinary.0

However, the problem was that the group atmosphere had become heavy and somber. Some of their comrades had been killed in the sudden assault, and there were strong indications that others had been kidnapped. 0

Yet, what weighed most heavily on their minds was Evangeline. Sitting curled up at the back of the caravan, she let out a gloomy energy that no one could ignore.0

“Evangeline,” one of the mercenaries called out softly.0

“…”0

“Here, take this,” he said hesitantly, offering her a piece of jerky. “Um… Thanks to you, we’re all still alive. Sure, it’s tragic about those who were taken or killed, but if you hadn’t been here, the rest of us wouldn’t have made it either.”0

“Uncle…” 0

“So don’t be sad—it’s not your fault. We mercenaries always accept the risk of losing our lives whenever we take a job. Besides, the ones that were kidnapped were taken in the same direction as where we’re already heading. But it’ll be dangerous for us to go faster to try to catch them, and the guild and merchant group have begun helping with the search after learning what happened.”0

The reason the guild and merchants were so cooperative was because of Evangeline. Her immense popularity and charm made many eager to support and placate her. 0

Still, depending on the situation, sacrifices had to be made for the greater good. Mercenaries were paid well because they put their lives on the line—their lives weren’t hopeful and bright all the time, like those in fairytales.0

“Uncle…” Evangeline mumbled.0

“Yeah? What is it? Go ahead,...0