Chapter 240: Saving the Queen 6

"So, you're letting me go now?" I asked, a hint of skepticism lacing my words.

"Ho ho, if you say it like that, your words can be misunderstood, you know, sir hero," the Pope replied with a chuckle, his tone carrying a hint of amusement.

"I told you last time, right? I don't like speaking in riddles, right?"

Guessing the implication of my words, the Pope sighed and shook his head, his expression betraying a mix of resignation and understanding.

Even if he denied confining me to this kingdom, he knew for a fact that it wasn't entirely true.

The number of times I had requested to leave over the past few days had been strictly blocked by him. And even after pledging my alliance and connection to the church with Elena, he still had multiple high-ranking Templars monitoring me.

Some priests and staff even acted as spies... Just how paranoid was this old man?

"You are truly blunt with your words, sir hero," he remarked, bowing his head slightly in acknowledgment. "I sincerely apologize if my indirect actions have caused you discomfort, sir hero... This may seem like a lie, but it was all for your sake..."

"Yeah, sure..."

Making a cough at my nonchalant answer, he then stood up, his movements deliberate and purposeful.

"Your journey is about to unfold, sir hero, but that doesn't mean you have to do it alone. Just like the tales of old, the hero needs his comrades. The demons alone aren't your only enemies, after all. Having trusted comrades by your side to make decisions and take actions that don't restrict your role as a hero is much needed. As you may be the light of this world, but you're walking in constant darkness," he said with a slight hint of excitement, as if relishing the opportunity to share his wisdom.

I could then hear a flurry of footsteps entering the grand hall from the side as the large door swung open, revealing a group of people.

The first to enter was a man with brownish skin, carrying a gigantic black axe behind him. One glance was all it took to recognize him as being from a barbarian tribe.

The sheer amount of muscle he exposed made it seem as though he were completely naked. His imposing tattoos, combined with his menacing face adorned with scars, exuded an aura of power and strength.

Then, from his side, entered a very short man. Judging from his slightly pointed ears and very big beard, he was probably a dwarf. He was holding a shield and a heavy hammer, his sturdy frame suggesting a formidable warrior.

Next to him stood someone I was quite familiar with—Isabella, the apostle of love. Was she planning to join my party, or was this something the higher-ups had decided? I already had Elena in my party, though, so I didn't think any more priestesses or saintesses were needed.

When she looked at me, she avoided my gaze, her cheeks flushing slightly. Even though she was blindfolded and couldn't see, the way she acted made it seem like she could fully perceive the world around her, as always.

'Mom you didn't interfere right...?'

For some reason I had a feeling the only reason Isabela was here was because of mom.

As I looked at the other two joining, my eyes slightly widened in surprise.

"Yo!" a voice I was quite familiar with boomed, carrying a manly atmosphere. With red hair that seemed to blaze like an inferno and crimson eyes, he could easily be mistaken for one of those demons from Japanese games.

But despite his appearance, he was probably the kindest person here... Alex Darja, one of the few friends I made back in Estelle Academy. It had been truly a long time since I last saw him.

"Please do forgive Sir Darius for his words, Sir Hero... Dwarves as a whole just have a very unique way of speaking," the priest clarified, adjusting his glasses nervously.

"Hahahaha, I guess I forgot to introduce myself. My name's Darius Emerald. I'm one of the few dwarven warriors left in our country. Nice to meet you, kid. Oh, and did my words offend you, kid? No worries, my intentions mean no harm. I'm just trying to state the truth. As someone born from the great Kuru, the god of the earth, we dwarves can never lie," he said, laughing heartily.

"I see..." I replied, somewhat taken aback. If this is just how he naturally is, I guess I don't mind... I don't even mind if he dies as we go along...

"Isabell—" Isabella began to introduce herself, but I cut her off.

"You three don't need to introduce yourselves," I stated firmly, as I looked at Alex, Bella and Isabella.

"Ok"

"Sure"

"As you wish"

All three of them spoke simultaneously

"I hope you don't mind the excessive amount of people joining, sir hero," he said, his words carrying weight. "As the kings and queens of each country discussed which individuals would be permitted to join your party, we ended up selecting the best of the best, those whom we were sure could aid you on your journey."

The pope's voice then chimed in, its resonance cutting through the air. Instantly, the five individuals standing behind me shifted, their deference to his imposing presence palpable. I couldn't help but reflect on my own initial encounter with the pope, remembering how I too had felt a need to compose myself in the face of his undeniable aura.

"Well, I can see that," I responded, my gaze sweeping over the five figures behind me. My eyes lingered on Alex and Bella, both already renowned for their exceptional skills in their respective fields. Bella, in particular, seemed to emanate a newfound strength, her presence exuding confidence and power. It was evident that the decision to include Buka and Darius in the party was met with pressure, likely from various countries vying to invest in my success.

With the inclusion of the five new members, it became apparent that our departure would be delayed. Training as a cohesive unit in group combat would be essential, adding another layer to our preparations.

Now, with them among us, our party composition consisted of two vanguards in Darius and Buka, two mages in Aria and Bella, a summoner Louise, and two main damage dealers in myself and Alex. Isabella and Elena filled the roles of support, rounding out our lineup.

While our party boasted formidable strength, its balance was questionable. I couldn't shake the feeling that we lacked effective ranged attacks, especially considering our reliance solely on spells.

Despite my reservations, I decided to put them to the test. Since they were all gathered here anyway, why not assess everyone's abilities firsthand?

Gathering at the training grounds, I observed as the five individuals readied themselves, each assuming unique stances and activating their abilities.

They awaited the signal to begin our practice skirmish.

It would be just Elena and me versus the five newcomers for now. As I looked over the assembled group, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of uncertainty.

Would they live up to my expectations?

[Authority: Sword of light (Activated)]

'I may not look like it but I certainly am strong... especially with the progress I had with my swords skills, I'm confident I wouldn't lose'

Not long after that I lost miserably...