The enemy’s territory was vast, making the search for Yukiha and the Hero a daunting task. It was bound to be a long-term mission, and just thinking about it was exhausting.

“What are you doing?”

“Well, just searching would be inefficient, so I’m also taking notes on the enemy’s forces and their formations.”

As expected of a former spy—serious and meticulous. On top of that, Fistina had somehow already prepared boxed lunches and handed them to me and the escorts.

“I assumed this would take a long time, so I took the liberty of preparing these.”

“No, seriously, I was starving to death, so this is a lifesaver. And these lunches look insanely good.”

The bento was packed into a fairly large rectangular container, crammed full of a wide variety of side dishes. It had plenty of volume and was incredibly appetizing.

“This looks amazing. As expected, Fistina, you’re really thoughtful.”

“Not at all. Anyone who understands the situation and thinks ahead would realize that securing meals as a source of energy is necessary for this mission.”

Hearing her say it so matter-of-factly made me embarrassed that I hadn’t even considered it.

Not only did the bento look great, but it also tasted incredible. The escorts, too, were happily devouring their meals with satisfied smiles.

“I’ve found it. It’s Fistoa’s ride carrier. With those crimson mechs patrolling around it, there’s no mistaking it.”

Just as I was sipping some tea after the meal, Fistina, who had continued reconnaissance, reported her findings. I hurriedly grabbed my binoculars to confirm.

“You’re right. I recognize that ride carrier.”

“I don’t see the Hero’s magicraft, but it’s likely stored inside.”

“Alright, let’s head back and start preparing for the retrieval.”

“No, we still can’t say for sure that the Hero and Princess Yukiha are there. We should continue scouting until we can confirm their presence.”

She had a point. If we rushed in only to find they weren’t there, it would be disastrous. It was safer to follow Fistina’s plan and confirm their presence first. But spotting people from this distance would be quite difficult.

“Try adjusting that dial over there—it’ll increase the magnification.”

“This one?”

Following her instructions, I adjusted the binoculars, and the image zoomed in rapidly. At maximum magnification, I could even make out the faces of the people inside the ride carrier.

“Oh, this should make it a lot easier.”

“Let’s focus on the ride carrier with the crimson mechs around it. If we can spot either Princess Yukiha or the Hero, then we’re good to go.”

“Is there a chance Yukiha and the Hero are being held separately?”

“With Fistoa’s personality, he’d want to keep his most important assets in one place. The likelihood of them being separated is low.”

I see—so if we found one, the other would likely be there too. That would make things much easier for us.