Was it worth forcibly taking the bear Druid away, cleaning up the Druids' mess, and angering Lord Franco?
Annan didn't know, but he felt he had done nothing wrong.
Whatever dispute existed between Franco's Territory and the Druids, they had both stood by while the border between them burned. That was undeniable.
Free City had every reason to intervene.
As Annan sent his companion, who had lost too much blood, back to the city and told the Druids of the antlered Druid's death, they were left bewildered by their conflicting hatred and gratitude.
They had been attacked by humans, then saved by humans.
Only Ogal, the elven Druid, stared fixedly at Annan as though he were an enemy.
"I saved you and the forest," Annan said calmly.
At that moment, Ogal suddenly recalled what the human soldiers had muttered earlier. His resentment gradually faded, leaving him looking awkward.
"Th... thank you," he said with difficulty.
Annan looked startled.
"We do know how to show gratitude!" Ogal snapped.
The Spring Operation came to an end after half a day.
Free City had mobilized over a hundred thousand people. There were no rewards, but the operation itself had been an interesting experience.
The Legion Soldiers had been put through their paces on a forced march through the mountains, the civilians had taken part in a collective effort, and the children had treated it as a grand adventure.
Of course, there had been a few mishaps. Quite a few people had lost their way in the Mountain Forest... They even had to send The Faction to look for them, and the House-Elves were helping guide the lost back.
As soon as he returned, Annan asked his elder sister what lay behind the conflict between Franco's Territory and the Druids.
To his surprise,