"...Now then. Regarding the letter from Big Brother Cabajid, what do you think? I want to hear everyone's candid opinions."
Since they were currently waiting for a reply, Frederic and the rest of the Negotiation Delegation had been given a large tent within the Mercurio Army’s encampment to remain on standby.
Now that only the members of the Mercurio Army remained, Mercurio opened the floor.
"I am against it! There is no need to fall for a scheme they’ve prepared!" one of the nobles declared, and others quickly voiced their agreement.
"He’s right. By deciding on a specific date for the battle, we are giving them more than enough time to set traps. We are already at a numerical disadvantage; we shouldn't intentionally fight in a situation that favors them. We should drag this into a war of attrition instead. Fortunately, it is currently autumn. Winter will be here soon, and conducting a campaign will become difficult."
"Wait, wouldn't that be the same for us? It would be one thing if we held a proper base, but we're currently operating out of a temporary camp. If we welcome winter like this, we'll be the ones suffering the most damage!"
"No, no, you're mistaken. It's true that we will suffer significant damage as well. However, considering the difference in numbers between us and them, they are undoubtedly the ones who will ultimately sustain the greatest blow."
"Just because we expect them to suffer doesn't mean I can approve of a plan predicated on us taking heavy losses! In the first place, once winter comes, even procuring food will be a struggle!"
"On that note... how about asking Lord Rei to lend us his strength? Since he is, after all, an Item Box User."
The noble man stole a glance toward Rei as he spoke, prompting Rei to consider the suggestion.
It was true that he had been hired to cooperate in this Civil War. Even so, he didn't find it pleasant to be treated like a convenient tool.
There were likely several others who felt the same way. In particular, Vihera's gaze turned cold upon hearing them suggest using Rei, the man she loved, for their own convenience.
The noble seemed to notice the sharp look directed at him and averted his eyes for a moment in confusion. However, believing Rei to be their most effective asset at present, he pressed on.
"There are many high-ranking nobles on the other side. In other words, there are many who cannot afford to be involved here indefinitely. I would like you to consider that factor."
Among those listening, several people nodded in understanding.
In fact, since two members of the Imperial Family—Cabajid and Schuls—had taken the field, the nobles cooperating with them were required to send the heads of their houses or representatives of equivalent status. If they sent someone completely useless, it would cause them numerous political inconveniences once the Civil War ended. To prevent that, the nobles had to send individuals of appropriate standing.
Furthermore, because they were sending important figures, they had to provide a suitable escort. Due to the vanity that existed between high-ranking nobles, they also felt compelled to maintain a certain number of troops.
With an army of that size, staying away from their territories for a short period might be acceptable, but remaining absent throughout the entire winter was a different story. They would face issues with bandits, monsters that common adventurers couldn't handle, and unrest elements within their own lands. There was a high probability that their response to such internal problems would be delayed.
Of course, if a noble’s territory was near the current theater of war, it would be possible to send their soldiers back. However, the territory of the Bestia Empire was vast, and not every region was easily accessible.
"...In other words, just by us staying here, the influence of the nobles on the Subjugation Army's side will continue to weaken."
"But wouldn't the Mercurio Army suffer similar damage in that scenario?"
"On that point..."
The noble's gaze turned toward Rei once again.
Certainly, with Seto's assistance, it wouldn't be difficult to pinpoint and deploy Rei—who could be described as a Match for a Thousand or Unmatchable by Any—wherever he was needed.
But...
"I wonder about relying on Lord Rei for everything. We have our own pride as warriors to consider," said the person leading the mercenaries, and many of the people around them nodded.
Even seeing this, the noble did not back down.
"Then what shall we do? Surely you don't mean we should accept their challenge head-on, just as the letter Lord Frederic brought suggested? That simply isn't possible. Have you forgotten they claimed to have a definite way to deal with Lord Rei?"
"...But is that really possible?"
The voice of one noble muttering that question echoed strangely in the surrounding silence.
It was a doubt shared by many. Precisely because they knew Rei's power, they couldn't simply take the enemy at their word when told there was a means to counter him. Rei’s track record spoke for itself.
"What about the claim that they mass-produced a Flame-absorbing Magic Item like the one used by the opponent Rei encountered while traveling with Her Highness Frizion's army?"
In response to the noble's question, Rei shook his head.
"No. While that could certainly nullify Flame Magic, it seemed like it wouldn't activate unless it directly touched the flames. Most of all, while my magic can indeed strike a wide area, it's not like I don't have other means of attack. Even with the Overlord's Armor I used when I came to help this camp, if you're asking if they can counter it..."
"It would be impossible," he finished with a mutter.
In reality, the Overlord's Armor was a skill with extremely formidable capabilities, provided one ignored the drain on his resources. Just by charging into the enemy, he could inflict massive damage, and it would be impossible for them to stop him.
(As for the only issue, the magic power consumption...)
Reaching inside his Dragon Robe, he softly touched the bracelet on his wrist. It was the Bracelet of Magic Absorption—an item he had completely forgotten about during the previous battle. It was a Magic Item with the ability to absorb magic power in proportion to the damage dealt to an opponent.
(Normal magic is one thing, but if you ask if it can cover the massive magic power consumption of the Overlord's Armor... honestly, I have my doubts.)
The Bracelet of Magic Absorption did indeed absorb magic power from opponents who were damaged. However, it couldn't absorb an infinite amount. It was impossible to drain more magic power than the opponent actually possessed.
Furthermore, the magic power consumption of the Overlord's Armor was extraordinarily high. Even if he charged into a crowd with it and struck many enemies at once, the amount recovered wouldn't keep pace with what the skill consumed. Rei's innate pool was immense, and the armor drained a vast amount to maintain itself. In short, unless he could steal magic power from a massive number of people simultaneously, it would be like a drop in the bucket.
While he was lost in thought, the conversation moved forward.
"Even if it’s a disadvantage for them, I’d rather pass on any plan that puts us at a disadvantage as well. Besides, our opponent is His Highness Cabajid. There’s no way he hasn't considered the possibility of us refusing this battle."
"...That's true," Vihera murmured. "At the very least, he would spread word to the commoners that we ran away from the fight to circulate information that paints us in a bad light. Moreover, he would likely take this opportunity to spread rumors that we are needlessly prolonging the Civil War."
Everyone wore a bitter expression at her words.
The Mercurio Army currently held the advantage because they kept winning. Regarding the defensive battle at the camp the other day, since they had repelled the attacking Subjugation Army, the word was spreading that it was a victory for the Mercurio Army.
Although the damage sustained by the Mercurio Army in that battle was quite considerable, to the outside world, it was being publicized as their triumph. Of course, the Subjugation Army's side was also well aware of this and was trying to spread word that they had dealt a heavy blow to the rebels. However, the fact that they were repelled without being able to capture the camp was the deciding factor, and in the eyes of the populace, it was perceived as a victory for the Mercurio Army.
Because many believed those rumors to be true, they were more willing to cooperate with the Mercurio Army. But if that perception changed—if the Mercurio Army ran away without fighting—the consequences would be dire.
Given that there were members of the Imperial Family who were highly popular with the commoners, such as Vihera and Frizion, there might not be an immediate collapse. Even so, from a strategic perspective, it was certain they would be at a distinct disadvantage. Because their numbers were few, the Mercurio Army had to keep winning.
Also, it wouldn't be pleasant if stories spread that they were intentionally expanding the flames of war. Mercurio absolutely wanted to avoid a reputation as someone who cared nothing for the common people and only sought the pleasure of battle.
"In other words, the best course of action is to respond to the challenge from Big Brother Cabajid and Big Brother Schuls, and then win," Mercurio concluded.
Several people instinctively frowned at his words. They understood that it was the logical choice, but...
"In the end, it comes down to whether or not we can actually beat them..."
One of the nobles directed his gaze, naturally, toward Rei. He was the strongest person present and the key to this battle.
Rei, feeling the pressure of the gazes from everyone in the room, spoke up.
"I think the results so far have shown that Seto and I won't lose that easily. If refusing their invitation will put us at a disadvantage, then I think it's better to accept."
"Rei says so as well... and besides, I trust the strength of this army," Mercurio added. "With Theoreme and his subordinates, Big Sister's high combat power and commanding ability, and Big Sister Frizion's White Rose Knight Order. I don't believe that we, with so many people gathered together, could possibly lose to the Subjugation Army."
"His Highness Mercurio... to think you trust us that much..."
"Victory for His Highness!"
"Victory! We are the ones who will win this battle!"
"The Imperial Throne for His Highness Mercurio!"
"For His Highness!"
Mercurio's words resonated strangely in the hearts of everyone present. What he said wasn't particularly revolutionary, yet his voice carried a weight that undeniably stirred the souls of his listeners.
Vihera and Frizion watched him with happy expressions. They were clearly pleased that he had acquired the charisma to draw people to his cause.
"Then, regarding our response to this decisive battle, does anyone have an objection?"
The surroundings fell silent at his question. Rei also looked on in silence at Mercurio's figure, saying nothing.
"Then the matter is settled. Well then, could someone call Frederic?"
"Yes! Immediately!" one of the nobles answered, promptly calling a knight and ordering him to bring Frederic back.
"Pardon me, Your Highness Mercurio, Your Highness Frizion, Your Highness Vihera. I have come at your summons."
Frederic entered the Magic Tent along with his entourage. However, the moment he stepped inside, a faint look of surprise crossed his face.
The atmosphere was clearly different from before. It was a weight very similar to the one found in the camp of his own lord, Cabajid.
(This is...)
Frederic wondered if he had failed in some way as he looked toward Mercurio.
"Ah, I'm sorry for sending you out and then calling you back like this."
"No, considering it is a discussion that will decide the future of this army, that is only natural. ...So, what was the result of your consultation? Would you mind informing me?"
Mercurio felt the gazes of his supporters directed at him as he spoke.
"Yeah, we'll accept. However, we won't take Big Brother Cabajid's conditions exactly as they are written."
"...I see. Given Your Highness Mercurio's position, that is to be expected. I understand. Specifically, what are your concerns?"
"The battlefield that will serve as the stage for the fight. If Big Brother Cabajid or Big Brother Schuls chooses that location in advance, there is a high probability that they will set some kind of trap."
Frederic nodded, acknowledging it was a valid point, but offered a rebuttal.
"But couldn't the same be said for the reverse? If Your Highness Mercurio were to decide on the battlefield, there is the possibility that Your Highness Mercurio would set something there."
Frederic wasn't trying to be insulting. If his words were taken as an insult, then Mercurio, who had been the first to express suspicion, was equally guilty.
"That might be true. Then, how about this? We each dispatch several people to keep watch over the battlefield in advance. That way, neither side will be able to pull any foul play. If anyone were to attempt such a thing... they would surely become famous as the one who defiled this battle."
At Mercurio's words, Frederic thought for a few seconds and then slowly nodded.