Even as a captive, I heard news about the Raddle Axis Alliance. It’s supposedly an organization against the Elysian Empire, but who knows when their hostility might turn towards the Amuria Federation. I wonder what Ranelle intends to do…

“Princess Yukiha, a major battle between the Elysian Empire and the Raddle Axis Alliance is beginning in the north. Since we’re hired by the Raddle Axis Alliance, we will also be moving.”

Fistoa courteously informed me of this, despite my status as a captive.

“Why are you telling me this? I’m just a hostage.”

“While you may technically be a hostage, you’re not just any hostage. In my view, you are an important guest, and I see you as a friend with whom I hope to establish a new relationship.”

“What do you mean by ‘new relationship’?”

“No one can predict the future, but at the very least, I hold you in high regard.”

I hadn’t yet grasped the full meaning of his words, but for some reason, his phrasing made my heart race. I wondered why I felt this way about someone with such a mysterious dual nature—someone who, technically, could even be considered an enemy…

“But more importantly, Princess Yukiha, I’ve heard that you’re an exceptional rider. You seem to have time on your hands; would you be interested in trying the rider training program we’ve developed?”

Fistoa offered an unexpected proposal. I’d previously undergone the training program provided by the Amuria Federation’s Musou Iron Cavalry, but perhaps this was something different. Even back then, my Ludia value increased several times over in just a month, which was astonishing…

“What kind of training program is it?”

“It’s an enhancement program that dramatically increases Ludia values. While results vary among individuals, I believe that, for you, Princess Yukiha, the effects could be remarkable.”

I couldn’t deny my interest in increasing my Ludia value. If I became stronger, perhaps I could protect everyone during critical moments, as I’d hoped to do before…

“I don’t have anything else to do, so please, let me take part in the training program.”

“Understood. I’ll arrange it immediately.”

Though I was supposedly a hostage, I had surprising freedom. Yet, there was one restriction: I was not allowed to meet the two people known as heroes. I suspected it might be inconvenient for them if those two revealed unnecessary truths. I decided to subtly probe into the matter.

“By the way, on a different note, how are the two heroes doing?”

“They’re being treated generously. However, they seem disinterested in luxury, and they don’t indulge much.”

“I see. They’re from the era of the old civilization, aren’t they? I’d love to hear firsthand about that ancient culture, which we can only glimpse through legends.”

“Apologies, but that’s the one thing I cannot allow.”

“Why not?”

“Because there’s a chance that lies surrounding them might come to light. Princess Yukiha, you carry a wealth of information that we wouldn’t want them to uncover.”

Fistoa revealed this truth with unbelievable ease. His straightforward honesty was so refreshing that I almost found myself liking him.