One week had passed since we decided to accompany Katya on her journey.

After completing all the necessary preparations, we were finally ready to depart from Akoup.

Our first destination was the Twilight Forest, where we planned to rendezvous with the envoy from the neighboring country.

Although this was considered a private visit for Katya, meaning there wouldn’t be an elaborate reception or a grand social party, there were still certain formalities that had to be observed.

“Not having to ride in a carriage is such a relief…”

“Mii!”

Ivy, perched on my shoulder, seemed to be in a good mood today.

She closed her eyes contentedly, leaning against me as if entrusting her weight to me.

It seemed she wasn’t in the mood to walk but rather to relax for now.

[The wind feels amazing, boss!]

Sanshita, who had been left behind during our last journey, was brimming with excitement this time, thrilled to be coming along.

Yes, for this trip, Sanshita was officially allowed to accompany us.

Usually, his participation was deemed too flashy or troublesome, and permission would never be granted. However, this time, the Marquis of Endlord had made an exception.

It seemed the main reason was to ensure that we, who might not seem like the most reliable of escorts, wouldn’t be underestimated by the opposing nation.

And now, riding atop Sanshita, I was savoring the journey as a griffon rider for the first time in a while.

During our time in Akoup, we had become somewhat too well-known.

These days, descending to the streets would often attract a crowd, making it necessary to carefully choose our locations.

Being able to move freely without concern felt like a refreshing change.

“Haha, so high! This is amazing!”

Behind me, Katya was riding along.

With Ivy and me ensuring her safety, there was no need to worry.

“Ah, this is so much fun! I’m so glad you invited me!”

We also had another companion joining us on this journey.

It was Shannon, a first-rank adventurer who had previously helped us relocate a troublesome griffon.

Her inclusion, like Sanshita’s, had a specific purpose.

Having a first-rank adventurer in our party carried significant weight and added an extra layer of security.

And with that, our group was complete.

It might seem like a small number, but the Marquis of Endlord had a particular dislike for anything unnecessary.

Since Ivy and I were here, there was no need to attach additional escorts for appearances’ sake.

Traveling on Sanshita allowed us to reach the rendezvous point much faster and more safely than any carriage.

As Sanshita growled, Katya took notice.

“Bruno, what’s Sanshita saying?”

“He’s asking, ‘I can go faster if you want—what do you think?’”

“Of course! Full speed ahead!”

“Grururu!”

Even though he probably didn’t understand Katya’s words, it seemed her enthusiasm resonated with Sanshita.

After a brief pause, Sanshita surged forward, accelerating rapidly.

Alright, as Katya said, let’s get there as quickly as possible!

Thanks to Sanshita’s speed, we reached the meeting point—a pond in the Twilight Forest—in less than two days.

It seemed the people we were supposed to meet hadn’t arrived yet.

I wonder what kind of people they’ll be.

Hopefully, they’ll be friendly.