Yes
'You didn't have to confirm it.'
-They're still not back?
-It's impossible that the former soldier had trouble dealing with these monsters. What do you think, François?
-I suppose it's possible. I don't know the full potential of either the monsters or the former soldier.
-I'm sure they're fine.
-Funny, it's already been five days.
-The former soldier has been gone longer.
'Now we're witnessing a debate on "Should we, yes or no, go and get them?'
-I don't think we should go.
-Do you want to let them die?
-Jean, calm down. Nobody wants them to die, but Roald's right, going would be suicide if they didn't make it.
'It's freezing here. It's logical to think that what's impossible for these two to beat is impossible for the village to beat. I've seen their teamwork though, and I think if François is prepared, they're invincible.'
-What do you think, Kayle?
-Huh?
'There's something I don't understand, though... Why am I here? I've got nothing to do with their team. I just came to train at the base. I didn't think he'd make me come to their meeting.'
-Why would he ask me?
-I know you're smart and thoughtful. Your plans are usually pretty good.
-Yes, but what you've seen has only come from fighting. I don't think I'm a real strategist.
-On the contrary, your intelligence could be put to good use.
-If you say so...
At that moment, Kayle's nose lengthened.
'Shut up.'
-I think we should go get them.
-Kayle.
-I know it's dangerous, but we can't risk losing these two. When you work as a team, the results are conclusive.
-Have you seen what these things have done to us?
-Two things: firstly, I didn't think it would stop you. Secondly, all the more reason to go and get them. If these things are stronger than we thought and even they're struggling, I refuse to let them die and blame it on cowardice.
At these words, everyone realized how right Kayle was. They were afraid to die, but let their comrade go because they were afraid. It was cowardice, pure and simple.
'I don't want to die though, our team is super weak compared to these monsters but...'
-We noticed that they attacked the weakest first. I'll be the bait.
-Kayle...
-I'm immune to poison. It'll stop me collapsing at the slightest injury and as for physical injury...
A blonde-haired girl entered the room. She was still dressed as a waitress and her gaze was somewhat enraged.
-I think she can handle it.
-I thought I told you I'm out of your hair.
-I know. But I know you won't let Rack die.
Lilly looked at Kayle with her angry gaze.
-'I don't want you to die either, idiot.
-So, we're good.
'Successful entrance.'
-Lilly...but you...I thought you never used your az.
-My boyfriend's about to raid an eight-armed humanoid spider's nest and my dad's already trapped in there, so, yeah, I'm going to use it.
-Agreed.
Everyone was surprised at how haughty he sounded. Kayle was used to it by now. François spoke next.
-Get ready. Tonight, we get those two idiots back.
Kayle walked quietly through the village while waiting. The tavern was closed until further notice. François and his group were preparing a plan of attack. Lilly walked beside him with a softer look, but less than usual.
-Your BOYFRIEND will do what's necessary to bring back his father-in-law and protect his girlfriend.
-Thank you, your GIRLFRIEND will do what's necessary too.
-Well, I'll give it my all.
-I'll give my life if I have to.
-I'll sell my soul.
-I'll sell my body.
-No, that's mine.
-I'm only kidding. Don't sell your soul, it's mine too.
They walked for a good hour, circling the village where the sun was gradually setting.
-You know I love you, Lilly?
-I know you do.
-I mean it.
-But I know you do.
The wind blew stronger and stronger in a light, warm breeze. Then came the rain to accompany the weather, bringing water to hydrate their day. But Lilly didn't let a single drop fall on them. She made an umbrella out of az, which lit up with a golden purple light. The villagers looked on. The two lovebirds lounging on the road.
-I love you, Lilly.
-How many times are you going to tell me?
-Not enough.
Lilly couldn't help laughing. She was happy. Happier than she'd ever been.
-I think you'll probably have to reveal most of your spells.
-Spells?
-The stuff you do when you throw your az.
-Az?
-Is that what you call them? It can be confusing.
-Yeah, it is. I'll have to give it my best. Do you remember ?
Kayle smiles.
'Was it my fault? She didn't want anyone to know. I don't think...'
-Don't worry. I was going to have to use it sooner or later. It's not your fault.
'Can she read my mind now?'
-I'm your girlfriend. Remember ?
'I guess so.'
-You know, Kayle? I'd really like to be with you when you leave, but...
-You don't have to force yourself to tell me. Either way, I'll understand.
Lilly looked at her boyfriend. She was surprised he was so understanding despite all the trouble she'd caused him.
-You've never really caused me any trouble, you know?
-You just...
-Yeah, I can read your mind too. I'm your boyfriend, remember?
Lilly smiled and they continued their walk quietly.
-I'll tell you about it later then.
-Okay.
They walked on, time not really affecting them....
Later, they met again in the same place to discuss their strategy. François spoke again.
-Kayle is the weakest of us all.
-There's no point insisting on that.
-He doesn't even have an ounce of az.
-I get it.
-He sucks.
-You want to bury me, too?
-That's why we're going to use it. As he so eloquently suggested, these monsters prey on the weakest, so we're going to use Kayle and me to get ahead.
-You suck too, don't you?
-As soon as they attack, Roald strikes or Jean tanks. Roid, you're in the back, with your arrows. Stay as hidden as possible and never leave without your arrows. Lilly, you stay in the middle of the formation, so they won't attack you while we're there. You look after Kayle and me as we go along. Remember, this isn't an attack, it's a recovery mission for two idiots who got lost. If we go down, everyone goes down. Gotcha.
-Yes.
'It's super dangerous. I'm really the front line bait. Even though Roald is right behind me, my survival depends mostly on me. I'll have to outdo myself. Last time, I could barely keep up with them. Since then, I've been practising the detection and reaction technique. I have no idea what it's going to do.'
-Kayle?
-Yes.
-We're in the same situation, you and I. The only difference is that I've got az and I can heal faster. But I'm not invincible. It's just a faster healing factor. Believe me, I'm as panicked as you are. But I know you're better. I've never worked on my martial arts. I'm not as talented as you. So believe me. Just because I fall, or you fall, doesn't mean the fight's over. Fight to the end.
'Oh...I understand why he's the one who gives the orders and strategies. He has a real aura of leadership. Despite his small stature, his eyes reflect an unprecedented fighting spirit and an irresistible desire to follow orders. It's as if he's always right. Maybe he is.'
-I don't intend to die, Chief.
-Very well, then.
'François already knew that.'
-Let's go.
.....