Mealtimes and rest were often the easiest times for villains to launch sneak attacks. Rhode knew this well.
So during the meal, and during the drowsy period that followed, he became even more vigilant.
He ordered the river crabs to patrol the canal carefully, occasionally extending their feelers for a clearer view of the shore.
In that tense state of mind, they arrived at their destination.
The boatman steered the boat to the shore. "Crocas is up ahead. My boat isn't permitted to travel freely within the Royal Capital, so please disembark here."
"Thank you for your hard work."
"Thank you."
One thanked him for his trouble, the other simply thanked him. The boatman watched Rhode carry up the suitcase, then help Mira ashore.
He braced his oar against the riverbed, then rowed with all his strength, swiftly putting distance between himself and those two dangerous people.
That had been far too thrilling. Those two were carrying dangerous items capable of destroying an entire village!
When they had come to reserve the boat yesterday, he had thought the young lady was very beautiful. Today, though, he hadn't dared look at her even once!
Being alive was wonderful.
In the future, he had to be cautious whenever he encountered Fairy Tail wizards.
Rhode looked doubtfully at the rapidly departing boat. "Isn't he taking any passengers or cargo on the return trip? That feels like a huge loss."
Mira adjusted her sunhat with one hand and squeezed the little crystal ball in her shoulder bag with the other. Her eyes were full of amusement as she looked at Rhode. "Yes, why was that?"
Compared to Magnolia, Crocas had far more of a big-city atmosphere.
The entire city had been built atop a relatively flat highland, surrounded by thick city walls.
A