CHAPTER 177: ENTERING THE TOPIC AND PREPARING THE PLAN (2)

"That said, it is what it is," Alvaron replied with a small nod. He picked up his cup and took a sip of tea before continuing, "As I mentioned earlier, two of our warships were destroyed by those monsters. General Luvistar, you’re well aware of how advanced those ships are, aren’t you?"

Luvistar wore a serious expression as he gave a slight nod.

"Yes, I know, Duke Austin. Our two newest warships are equipped with twenty-two magic cannons on both sides. Each cannon is powerful enough to destroy a city wall in a single shot. That’s why they’re so expensive," he explained solemnly.

The newest warship was the most advanced vessel owned by the Great Velmora Empire. Its development had taken more than twenty years before it was finally ready for deployment.

Since the eastern region bordered the sea, it was only natural that they were given priority to receive these ships.

However, even two such highly advanced warships were unable to defeat the monster—a clear testament to its overwhelming power.

"Have you tried using mage power, Duke Austin?" Elina asked curiously.

"I have, Your Highness," Alvaron replied with a nod. "We summoned twenty high-ranking mages, ten Great Mages, and even one Sage. But the result was the same—the monster remained unharmed. According to the Sage, the creature possesses an anti-magic ability that renders all attacks from mages below the Celestial level ineffective."

"So..." He let out a soft sigh before continuing, "Summoning mages below the Celestial level is nothing but a futile effort."

In truth, he had intended his previous letter to the palace as a request for one of the Seven Celestial Mages. However, he hesitated to mention it outright, worried it might offend Elina.

Fortunately, Elina had the backing of the Singularity of Chaos. That alone was the main reason he could remain calm and composed until now.

"So, do you have any other plans, Duke?" Luvistar asked.

"No. I’m at my wit’s end," Alvaron replied with a wry smile. "There’s no point in sending more troops or witches if the result is always the same."

Luvistar nodded in agreement. "Then leave this matter to me, Duke. As it happens, I’ve dealt with powerful monsters before. I may not have fought one from the sea before, but I’m sure I can take it down."

His title as one of the two great generals wasn’t just for show. He had fought in hundreds of battles since his days as a soldier.

His strength, tactical brilliance, and experience far surpassed anyone else he knew.

For that reason, he had full confidence in his ability to defeat the sea monster.

"Very well, General. I’ll leave this task in your hands," Alvaron agreed without hesitation. "Don’t worry—the eastern region still has three unused warships. Just let me know what you need, and I’ll see to it."

There was another reason they had lost the previous battle against the sea monster—the absence of a competent war strategist.

Just like facing a human army, defeating a powerful monster requires careful planning and precise strategy.

Unfortunately, the eastern region lacked such a person—and that was their greatest weakness.

"I will be joining this mission, General Luvistar," Elina suddenly interjected, her tone serious.

Luvistar frowned and shook his head.

"No, Princess. It’s far too dangerous. You’re better off staying at Duke Austin’s mansion. Leave this to me," he said firmly.

He understood why the Emperor had sent Elina with him, but to him, it was merely a formality. There was no way a powerless princess could stand against a sea monster.

But Elina refused to back down. On the contrary, she stood her ground. "Father sent me here because he trusts me. How could I betray that trust? So please, General Luvistar, let me go with you!"

She even bowed her head to Luvistar, leaving him dumbfounded.

He quickly straightened Elina’s posture and looked at her helplessly.

"Princess, you’ve really cornered me. Fine, you may come—but please, don’t act recklessly. If anything happens to you, His Majesty will have my head."

Elina let out a relieved sigh, her smile returning.

"Of course, General. You can count on me," she replied solemnly.

Beside her, Nolan watched the exchange in silence as he sipped his tea.

But inwardly, he was already forming contingency plans—preparing for the worst.

Alvaron, having witnessed Elina’s determination, slowly nodded in agreement.

She truly is a responsible girl, he praised silently.

Despite having the option to stay safe and comfortable, Elina chose otherwise.

She treated the Emperor’s orders with utmost seriousness—even if it meant risking her life.

Such a trait was rare, found only in those whose courage surpassed the norm.

"Father, let me come too."

Rafine’s firm voice rang out from the side, causing Alvaron to stiffen on the spot.

He turned to her and met her gaze with a serious expression.

"Are you serious, Rafine? Do you realize how dangerous this mission is?"

Rafine glanced briefly at Elina before turning back to her father.

"I do, Father. But dealing with this monster is also my responsibility—as the heir to House Austin. If I’m not even involved in this mission, how could I ever be worthy of becoming the next head of the family?" she replied calmly and clearly.

Elina’s determination had struck a chord in Rafine’s heart. Although Elina wasn’t from the eastern region, she showed remarkable courage and composure.

And what about her—a true daughter of the East and its future ruler?

How could she let herself be outdone by Elina?

Her pride flared. She refused to fall behind.

Alvaron was silent for a moment before letting out a long sigh. But instead of anger, a faint look of relief appeared on his face.

"Alright, you can come. But make sure you don’t cause any trouble for General Luvistar. Understand?"

"Of course, Father," Rafine replied with an eager nod.

Alvaron then turned to Luvistar and said, "General, I’m placing my daughter in your care. I apologize if I’ve caused you any trouble."

Luvistar let out a light laugh and waved his hand dismissively. "Think nothing of it. Just leave everything to me, Duke Austin."

He then shifted his gaze to Nolan. "And what about you, Prince? Will you be joining us, or staying here at the mansion?"

Feeling everyone’s eyes on him, Nolan stayed composed and gave a casual shrug.

"Naturally, I’m coming. If my father finds out Elina went without me, he’ll probably beat me up."

The group went silent for a second—then broke into laughter.