The sea was calm, the blue sky clear overhead, and the bright sun hung high above, casting golden glimmers across the waves.
"Mate, why are you in such a hurry? The fighting up ahead won't end anytime soon. Whether our ships go a little faster or a little slower doesn't matter, as long as we arrive before the deadline."
Several merchant ships carrying weapons and supplies were sailing steadily across the sea.
On the deck of the first merchant ship stood several long benches wrapped in soft leather. A few men lay sprawled across them, lazily basking in the sun.
They were a fleet contracted to handle logistical duties, having departed from an island in the rear headquarters. Their destination was the headquarters island of the Human Allied Forces.
Since there was no danger of war anywhere along this route, their mission could be called exceptionally easy and pleasant.
However, one accompanying officer had suggested that the ships increase their speed. The moment he raised the proposal, the others opposed it.
"Isn't it fine for us to sail normally? If we speed up, all the plans will have to be adjusted. Something might even go wrong, and then the loss would outweigh the gain."
"We have to hurry. You've all seen it—our ships are loaded with weapons and supplies, and those things are urgently needed on the battlefield. If we don't deliver them quickly, and the war is delayed, you, me, and them will all be punished. I endured for so many years before finally reaching where I am today. I don't want to start climbing step by step all over again." The officer who had proposed increasing speed let out a quiet sigh.
"Mate, what you say is true, but we set out according to plan this time. We