Chapter 77: Humble Headquarters
Besides the crowd that had rushed out to greet Givia, many other townspeople lined the streets, respectfully making way for her procession. Santos, Abyss, and the girls followed closely behind, along with the guards who hadn’t been assigned to unloading duties.
Leona, experiencing such a grand welcome for the first time, couldn’t help but feel a twinge of envy. She was a far more powerful warrior than Givia, yet she had never received such enthusiastic adoration from the people.
“Thank you for your warm welcome. I must return to my duties now. Please, everyone, return to your work! Until we reclaim our kingdom, the future of Ossi depends on our collective efforts!” Givia said, waving to the crowd, urging them to disperse. Although they were reluctant to leave, her words carried weight, and they gradually returned to their daily routines.
Givia led them through the town, stopping before a modest house. Shodo Town wasn’t large, its population only a few thousand. The house seemed almost humble, less luxurious than even a moderately wealthy home in Lavoisier City. Its low walls enclosed a small, two-story building, its only remarkable feature being the well-tended garden, lush and vibrant. Two wooden watchtowers stood within the courtyard, the soldiers atop them saluting Givia with the formal Ossi military salute—striking their chests with their weapons.
“This is my headquarters. I receive reports from our guerrilla units here,” Givia explained, leading them through the gate. “We haven’t engaged in any major battles yet, mostly harassing their forces, avoiding unnecessary bloodshed. Although the Ossi army now serves Prince Kevin, they can still be swayed. I believe they will eventually abandon his cause and join us, fighting for the future of Ossi.”
“What’s the current state of public opinion in Ossi?” Abyss asked.
“Most people support the Restoration Army. Once we defeat Kevin’s forces, reclaiming our cities will be easy. The people will open their gates for us,” Givia said, smiling. “We Ossi people are resilient. We never surrender. Few support the treaty Kevin signed. Only the wealthy, fearing the loss of their possessions in the chaos of war, have sided with him.”
“What are your plans after reclaiming the kingdom?” Rebecca asked, curious about the Restoration Army’s agenda.
“We won’t recognize the treaty Kevin signed. We’ll reclaim Oakning, then seek the Eastern Empire’s support. They wouldn’t want the Western Empire to gain control of this territory. Oakning has several valuable mineral deposits. If they fall into the Western Empire’s hands, it would significantly strengthen them,” Givia explained. “This information comes from my intelligence network in the Eastern Empire. They’re definitely interested in Oakning.”
“Hmm, with the Eastern Empire’s support, the Western Empire wouldn’t dare attack. And with the local population’s resistance, they’ll have a difficult time controlling this territory,” Rebecca said, nodding in approval. “It seems the Restoration Army’s victory is inevitable.”
She wasn’t just being polite. With their help, Givia’s victory was practically guaranteed. And it aligned perfectly with Abyss’s goal of confronting the Lord of Nightmares.
“Ha, that spineless Beos,” Leona scoffed. “If you secure the Eastern Empire’s support, he won’t dare attack. He can’t even control his own daughter.”
As Beos’s half-sister, Leona was qualified to make such a judgment. Beos had always been controlled by his mother, never developing any independence. If Princess Helen actively sought power, Beos would be a mere puppet emperor. And Helen, who cared about her people, would never approve of this unjust war. The Western Empire had ample opportunities for growth. They didn’t need to conquer Ossi.
“I hope the people won’t suffer the ravages of war. A peaceful resolution is always preferable,” Flora said, agreeing with Givia’s plan.
As they followed Givia further into the courtyard, they realized how small the house was. When she opened the door, they were surprised—it was just an ordinary house, stripped of its furniture.
“This is where you command your army? Isn’t it a bit… small?” Leona asked, looking around, her voice filled with disbelief.
“It’s conveniently located, and the environment is pleasant. A local gentleman donated it to us,” Givia explained apologetically. “It is small, but it’s sufficient for my needs. I’ll arrange separate accommodations for you. I wouldn’t want you to stay here with me. It would be too impolite.”
“You live here?” Leona asked, surprised.
“I don’t require luxury. I just need a place to rest my weary body,” Givia said, shaking her head. “Besides, before you arrived, I was tormented by nightmares. Even the softest bed couldn’t provide me with restful sleep. I might as well stay at headquarters, so I can receive reports from our soldiers quickly. Santos, please organize the reports that have accumulated during my absence. I’ll read them shortly.”
“Yes, Your Highness,” Santos replied, heading inside to fulfill her request.
“Would you like to rest, or would you prefer to explore the town? My men can escort you. We have accommodations for distinguished guests. They’re not luxurious, but they’re comfortable…”
“Your Highness, Alva requests an audience,” a soldier announced, entering the room.
“Alva’s here? Bring her in!” Givia exclaimed, her voice filled with joy. “It seems she has recovered from her injuries.”
The soldier left to relay the message. Soon, two pairs of footsteps approached, and two figures entered the room.
Flora, standing at the back of the group, turned to face the newcomers, her eyes meeting those of a young woman in a blue mage robe.
“Shhh…” the young woman started to say something, but her companion quickly covered her mouth.
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