It had been a long time since we last visited the Alice Abbey, but nothing had changed. Mother Meisa welcomed us with a warm smile.

“Yuta, it’s been a while. I’m glad to see you’re doing well.”

“I’m glad to see you’re in good health too, Mother Meisa.”

Although Sister Myu had already shared the broad details of our plan, I explained the specifics and requested her permission. Despite the possibility that the Alice Abbey could become a battlefield again, Mother Meisa agreed without a hint of displeasure.

“Given the chaotic state of the world, even the Alice Abbey cannot be considered safe. If danger is inevitable, then it would be our honor to face it for a meaningful cause.”

Her words were those of a true saint. Touched by her resolve, I made a solemn promise.

“Rest assured, we will protect this place. I won’t let any harm come to the Alice Abbey.”

I meant every word. We were dragging them into our affairs, and I felt a strong sense of responsibility. I had to ensure that no harm would come to the Alice Abbey.

“Hehe, once again, we’re relying on you for protection,” she said with a gentle smile.

As we were leaving, a familiar voice called out to me.

“Yuta-dono, it’s been a while!”

It was Count Dairam, the local lord who protected the Alice Abbey. He remained as dedicated as ever to guarding the abbey. I had feared he might criticize us for putting the place he protected at risk, but his reaction was completely different. Instead, he eagerly offered his support.

“Gahahaha! If there’s anything I can do to help, just say the word! I’d love to show you how much stronger I’ve become!”

I appreciated his enthusiasm, but I preferred Count Dairam to focus on defending the Alice Abbey. I politely declined his offer to join the battle and steered the conversation toward small talk to ease the tension.

The fortification of the Alice Abbey proceeded smoothly, without interference from either the Raddle Axis Alliance or the Elysian Empire. Taking advantage of its elevated location, we positioned numerous Ride Carriers armed with cannons to enhance both offensive and defensive capabilities. The final result was a mountain transformed into a fortress—a towering iron castle that loomed over the surroundings.

“With something this imposing in their territory, there’s no way the Raddle Axis Alliance will ignore it. It’s only a matter of time before they make a move.”

“Even so, you’re telling us to avoid a full-scale conflict, right?”

“Exactly. Our priority is defense. While they’re focused on us, the Musou Iron Cavalry will carry out the rescue of Princess Yukiha and retrieve the hero.”

“Do we know their location?”

“Yes. With the defenses here in place, the moment the Raddle Axis Alliance acts, the Musou Iron Cavalry will begin the operation.”

With such formidable defenses, the Alice Abbey could hold its own even without the Musou Iron Cavalry. We made all necessary preparations and waited for the right moment to strike.