019 – She, Who Will Go Solo
The orcs of Sutin Village, like Montego, seemed peaceful and innocent, painting a picture of a tranquil community.
"Montego, I quite like you," I admitted with a smile.
The pig beastman chuckled shyly in response.
After a night of camping, with little difficulty, we arrived at Sutin Village. As I had been told, just before reaching the village, a small hill offered a vantage point to see the entire settlement. Extensive wheat fields surrounded the settlement, stretching far beyond it. The village itself consisted mainly of wooden buildings, with a notable single-story structure at its center—the assembly hall.
"That's where everyone's gathered. Guards are stationed inside and out, making movement restricted. Sometimes Lady Serena is taken to the village chief's house for discussions... but are you sure about this?" Junos asked, concerned.
It had been about four days since Montego had escaped from the werewolf tribe with magic.
"Well, we won't know if they're alive, dead, or captives until we check for ourselves," I replied.
Junos surveyed the village and reported, "There are two werewolf guards at the assembly hall, and one at the village chief's house. No one seems to be at the grain warehouse. There are no signs of activity in the wheat fields. Should we observe a bit longer?"
"It's clear. I'll go alone. Then we'll assess the situation. If things go peacefully, I'll return walking normally. If not, I'll give a signal. If a house burns or explodes, it's a cue to attack," I instructed.
"Should I leave someone behind?" Junos asked.
"Perhaps. Have someone ready to intervene if needed. The rest, we'll play by ear. Agreed?"
"Got it. We'll watch for the signal."
"Indeed, let's hope Serena is alive," I remarked.
Without the means to signal magically, a flashy event like a fire or explosion would have to do.
"Lady Euphemia, are you... going alone? Is that wise? The wolf tribe could easily overpower even your comrades," Montego voiced his concern.
"No problem," I reassured him, and with that, I strolled leisurely towards the village.
What sort of people were these werewolf tribes, I wondered? Perhaps they'd be interesting, though I held no expectations at all.