“Have they still not found anything…?”
I, Gungrave, am sitting at my desk in the dead of night, head in my hands.
It’s been over a month since Shuri was kidnapped. He’s probably not in Apurada territory anymore. If that’s the case, he might already be in Grand-Ende’s domain.
I’ve had Tegue infiltrate Grand-Ende to track their movements, but we’ve found nothing. He’s investigated villages and highways, but no one has seen any covered wagon matching the description.
So where could they be? I just don’t understand… damn it.
“Gungrave”
Arius, who is in the office with me, calls out to me in a gentle voice.
Arius’s belly has become slightly more noticeable. That’s only natural – it’s been some time since she became pregnant. It’s not strange for it to be showing by now.
Her words help me regain my composure as I reply.
“Yeah, I know. I know full well. I can’t let myself get impatient. I was prepared for this to take time.”
“That’s right.”
“But it’s taken too long. It’s not Tegue’s fault – I should have been more thorough in having others gather information.”
“Don’t you think Shuri might already be in Grand-Ende’s capital?”
“No… I don’t think so.”
I have reasons for thinking this.
“The fact that they’re not in any villages or on any highways means they’re taking backroads to avoid being seen. But Shuri is with them, and even the horses pulling the wagon need rest. They’ll need supplies no matter what.
So they must be moving while taking detours, stopping somewhere for supplies along the way. If they’re using such routes, it must be taking them considerable time.”
“So there’s still a chance to save him?”
“There has to be.”
I say this as if trying to convince myself.
“There has to be a chance.”
“Yes, I believe that too. And Kuuga has been training non-stop, determined to redeem himself.”
Since losing to Ryufa, Kuuga has devoted himself even more intensely to practice.
The defeat must have really affected him. He might feel guilty that his loss resulted in Shuri being taken away. That’s what’s driving the current Kuuga.
“I’ll ask Garn and the others to keep an eye on Kuuga.”
“Good idea. Lill and Aeclys are also working hard right now, but… we don’t know what might happen where. I’ll stay alert as well.”
“Please do.”
Just hang on, Shuri. I’ll definitely save you.
…But where are you…?