NOVEL NEXT Chapter 25: A new critical mission has emerged
"Mmm…"
Savonne slowly opened her eyes, confused by the unfamiliar ceiling above her.
She was in the empire's advanced medical ward, a facility dedicated to treating high-ranking imperial officers.
Savonne tried to move but found herself utterly drained, unable to even lift a finger without great effort.
Oddly, despite her physical exhaustion, she felt an unprecedented sense of inner peace.
The contrast between her physical and emotional states puzzled her deeply.
"You're awake?"
A familiar voice reached her ears. Turning her head, she saw Kriz sitting by her bedside.
Under normal circumstances, Savonne would have been overjoyed, leaping up to salute Kriz with enthusiasm.
"Lord Kriz… I'm sorry."
"It's alright. Don't push yourself."
The frailty in her tone made Kriz realize she needed time to recuperate.
He motioned for her to rest, knowing it was the best course of action for now.
As for what Savonne had been through, Kriz decided to inquire about it later.
Shortly after the battle ended, Avic and I were escorted to an underground reception room in the empire for some rest. Savonne, in worse condition, had been sent to the hospital for treatment. Since we arrived first, it was just the two of us for now.
Using the "Ignore Parameters" ability, I activated a skill to alleviate Savonne's negative emotions and restore her psychological state. In theory, it should have worked.
After the ability took effect, her gaze and complexion indeed improved, but she remained slumped on the ground without moving further.
The medics who arrived later speculated that she might have been overly fatigued, but their conclusion was merely a judgment call, not necessarily accurate.
Under such circumstances, I couldn't entirely put my mind at ease.
"Someone's coming. Snap out of it."
Avic patted my shoulder, gesturing toward the rear.
Following his gaze, I saw a finely dressed man with green hair approaching us.
"Looks like you two are doing alright."
The newcomer was none other than Kriz Calderon. Dressed in a pristine high-ranking imperial uniform, half of his body was draped in a black cape. His previously braided green hair now flowed freely down his back. If not for his voice, I might have struggled to determine his gender.
Kriz spun a pen in his hand before asking:
"Are you two available?"
Hearing this, both Avic and I instinctively grew serious.
We hadn't rested long at all.
"Just say it. Where are we headed this time?"
"To the northernmost point of Earth, the Gate of Celestial Prayers. Use this 'special token' to send a signal for aid to [Abyssal Court]. You're familiar with that organization, aren't you, Avic?"
Kriz smiled as he turned his pale blue eyes, faintly glowing, toward Avic.
"Tch… Of all places, it had to be there."
Avic frowned, his already sickly expression darkening further.
"The detailed route and instructions will be provided on the day of departure. My apologies, but among our current combat strength, you two are among the most suitable for this mission."
"How much elite manpower has the empire lost for us new recruits to be the best choice?"
"Don't worry about that for now. You'll find out soon enough. Departure is set for tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. Any objections?"
"None."
"I don't mind."
Though we agreed, both Avic and I would have preferred to rest a bit longer.
However, given the empire's dire state, delaying the mission would be unacceptable.
"That settles it. As for Savonne, her condition has stabilized."
With those words, Kriz vanished on the spot.
What he said was a relief to me, putting one of my worries to rest.
As for the mission to seek external aid, I can only hope it goes smoothly.