Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix - C.288: Delay

Rain's plan didn't sit well with the group. His suggestion to capture a sea folk member as a means to initiate negotiations was met with skepticism. They voiced concerns that such an action could anger the captive and further provoke the sea folk and their formidable sea monsters, escalating the already precarious situation.

Despite these reservations, the group found themselves in a difficult position with few alternatives. The urgency of the situation compelled them to take a bold step and pursue negotiations through unconventional means. They understood the risks involved but recognized that inaction would only prolong the conflict, potentially leading to more dire consequences.

In the face of uncertainty, Rain's plan, although not without its flaws, emerged as the most practical course of action. Reluctantly, the group agreed to proceed with this unconventional approach, hoping it would yield a breakthrough and eventually pave the way for resolving the ongoing conflict with the sea folk.

"If we are going to try that, we will have to be quick on the negotiations and release the prisoner as soon as possible as well," Lorene said. "Also, how are we going to convince them that we didn't brainwash the prisoner? They should know about the truce with the magic people."

"We can talk with the prisoner in the open where the sea folk will see them," Asche said while scratching her chin. "It might enrage them further, but that will clear their suspicions."

"So, we will have to make everyone in the city ready for a very tense situation where lives will be on the line since the other side won't hold back," Jori nodded. "Terra and those who can use healing magic should stay behind and treat the injured."

"Your sisters can use healing magic, right, Rain?" Branden said.

"... Yes," Rain replied while squinting his eyes. "I know where this is going..."

Rain found himself caught in a dilemma. He had a dual desire when it came to his younger sisters, Dana, Kei, and Gila. On one hand, he wanted them to understand the world's harsh realities, the dangers and uncertainties it held. He believed that such awareness could serve as a powerful motivator, urging them to work harder and exercise caution in their actions—a valuable life lesson.

However, on the other hand, Rain was wary of exposing them to the full extent of the peril lurking beyond their sheltered lives. Allowing them to witness the colossal sea monsters, which were the embodiment of that danger, could potentially scar their young minds irreparably. Striking a balance was crucial; he didn't wish to burden them with unnecessary fear and anxiety.

Additionally, Rain recognized that such encounters could awaken an insatiable sense of adventure in his sisters, possibly pushing them to seek out danger without fully comprehending the risks involved. While adventure had its merits, he was concerned that it might lead them into perilous situations they weren't prepared for.

In the end, he recalled his mother's words… he couldn't protect them forever. They had to grow and become their own people.

"I will tell them to work with Terra," Rain added.

"I will be sure to keep an eye on them," Terra tapped on Rain's shoulders.

"I will be counting on you then," Rain said.

"All right, you guys should rest for a bit while the rest of us prepare for the plan," Branden declared.

Exiting the tent, Rain and the group reunited with Dana, Kei, and Gila, who were waiting outside. They wasted no time and started preparing their breakfast. However, this time around, Rain wasn't the one in charge of cooking, and the soldier's meal they received left something to be desired. The girls displayed a subtle frown of disappointment, although they refrained from voicing their discontent.

Seeing their dissatisfaction, Rain decided to lift their spirits. He informed them of the opportunity to assist Terra in providing healing aid to the wounded. This news immediately brought a newfound enthusiasm to their faces, dispelling their earlier breakfast-related disappointment.

It was a chance for them to actively contribute to the ongoing efforts, and they eagerly embraced the opportunity with renewed energy.

"I guess I can charge Branden more for making my little sisters work," Rain said. "Anyway, Terra, focus on those who are the most wounded… don't let them see too much blood."

"You are such a worrywart," Terra shook her head. discover-stories-on-NovelFire

After the group finished their meal, they embarked on a walk around the town. Their mission was clear: to lend their healing skills to aid the wounded residents. The situation was dire, and every pair of hands capable of providing assistance was invaluable.

During their efforts, an unexpected turn of events occurred. Some of the grateful soldiers, recognizing the girls' remarkable healing abilities, chose to compensate them for their services. This revelation ignited a spark of excitement in the girls' eyes as they realized their skills could also bring in some income.

Witnessing his sisters' newfound enthusiasm and acknowledging their potential to both make a meaningful impact and earn money, Rain decided to momentarily cast aside some of his worries. The relentless pace of recent events and the weight of responsibility had begun to take a toll on him, making him feel as though he was aging decades in mere weeks.

However, at that moment, he found solace in the joy and purpose his sisters had discovered, allowing him to momentarily set aside his concerns.

Rain and his companions found themselves somewhat taken aback by the sea folk's lack of activity until noon. This unexpected delay came as a surprise since Branden had not indicated a focus on nighttime attacks in their previous discussions. Their plan hinged on daytime operations, so this shift in the sea folk's behavior raised both questions and concerns.

Despite the sea folk's altered schedule, the group knew they needed to stick to their plan, which was designed for daytime execution. At noon, the preparations were ready, and fortunately, two hours before sunset, the sea folk and the monsters arrived…