“An unidentified army is approaching, and they are already in battle formation!”

Just as we were about to move in pursuit of the missing people from the Amuria Kingdom, an unfamiliar army was heading towards us. The atmosphere was far from peaceful, and it was clear that there was a murderous intent directed at us.

“We are outnumbered ten to one. There’s no chance of winning, so we should escape.”

“Yes, there’s no point in fighting. Please escape immediately.”

We turned the ship’s bow away from the approaching enemy army and attempted to flee at full speed. However, in the worst possible turn of events, another army appeared in the direction we were trying to escape.

“Enemies ahead as well! It seems we’ve been ambushed. There’s no escape route!”

Further reports came in from other scouts.

“Enemy shadows on the starboard side as well! They seem to be a mobile unit centered around high-speed ships. They’re all faster than us, and we won’t be able to outrun them!”

Hearing the reports, the captain made a grim decision.

“There’s no choice. Prepare for battle! Deploy the Magicraft units!”

Escape was no longer possible. The only option left was to fight, but our combat power was limited to only five Magicraft units on Echigo, while the enemy had dozens of ride carriers and at least 300 Magicraft units. The disparity in strength was overwhelming, and despair began to set in. The captain seemed to share this sentiment and spoke up.

“President Ranelle, I apologize for not being able to protect you. There are small, high-speed ride carriers mounted on the rear of the ship. We will hold the enemy here as long as we can, so please use those to escape.”

It was clear that they intended to sacrifice themselves to ensure my escape. As president, I should accept their offer, but my emotions rejected it.

“Don’t give up! It’s not over yet. The units left behind might come to our aid, or a federal army not involved in the coup might appear. Besides…”

As I said this, I remembered Yuta’s face. Just like before, when my hero, the Musou Iron Cavalry, arrived in a pinch, I had sent word to them. It wouldn’t be surprising if they came to our rescue here as well. With this thought, an intuitive sense told me that he would definitely come, and my feelings shifted to a firm belief that he would arrive.

“Moreover, the Musou Iron Cavalry will come to our aid! It will be alright. Just buy some time, and he will definitely come.”

The captain might have thought this was an incomprehensible statement, but after a brief moment of consideration, he gave orders to his subordinates.

“Change of plans! Return to the castle and fortify it! We will survive as long as possible and wait for reinforcements!”

The castle walls were crumbling and not particularly strong, but it was certainly better than fighting here. I nodded in agreement with the captain’s decision.