Now that the flow of the conversation allows him to, Captain Gareth takes the chance to speak on the fate of the prisoners.

"You see, as we just spoke about consolidation, I need to say that there is the pressing matter of the prisoners we made and how we intend to deal with them. I doubt anyone here will be surprised if I say that we don't have the capacity to contain them in town." (Gareth)

"I understand. We'll need to find a way to make use of them, without incurring too great risks. Transports for the capital have to commence for further processing, after the operation is finished, of course. As of now, we need all of the manpower we can spare." (Peras)

"I feel like you don't see my point. The way we perched them together is straining available cells to the absolute limits and is by no means sustainable. We simply don't have the space! Not to speak of cramming further fugitives inside those." (Gareth)

"Then what do you suggest? We aren't even close to being through with cleansing all of the town and can't escort thousands of prisoners with minimal escort." (Shari)

Would this even be possible? Almost all of these people are violent or battle-hardened. Escorting them all without incidents doesn't seem feasible. Escorting them without proper security seems like madness.

"Ahem!" (Vela)

Now it's Vela's turn to speak up.

"Actually, we obtained quite a stash of slave collars from the enemy encampment. I recommend making use of those to ascertain a secure transport. If we do this, we can spare personnel we'd need at other places." (Vela)

The collars!?

"Wait! We're out here to get rid of these things for good, and now you want to put them to use in their intended purpose?!" (Shari)

Those wretched things should never be used by anyone. They're purely tools of evil.

"Hm, I can see both sides. We truly shouldn't stoop as low as this wretched traitor scum, but under these special circumstances, I think Officer Vela has a point." (Peras)

"Think about it like this, we need to keep several hundred confirmed violent criminals under control. Moreover, they have to be transported to the capital prison. Can you guarantee there won't be an incident with those people turning against their escort?" (Gareth)

The sad truth is, I can't. As he's right with those damned, criminal scum. None of them are completely free of guilt, for crimes too repugnant as that I'd even want to think about them. They'll certainly try to make an escape. Given their background, it's not even very unlikely that they'd join the rebel forces to get to do some pillaging.

"In any case, this would only be a temporary measure to avoid incidents during transport. We won't make use of them on a permanent basis." (Peras)

Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

So he says, but still, it feels like we're crossing a line here. Yet neither have I the standing to force my way on them, nor would it be right to make them incur greater risk than they'd have to otherwise.

"Fine, do what you want. But I want to have noted down that I won't stand for that decision." (Shari)

"Well, if nobody else here wishes to discuss ethical concepts, I'd like to conclude this meeting." (Peras)

"I have no intention of extending this gathering, but before they depart, I'd like to discuss one more thing with the 'royal agents' of her majesty, please." (Soma)

With us? What could he want?

"Then we will consider this concluded, and you three may speak as you please." (Peras)

"What do you think he wants from us, Shari?" (Liqu)

"I'd like to know as well." (Shari)

Despite the meeting officially being over, it seems some are lingering at the door, set on sticking around to witness what the captain from the capital has to say towards the two slimes.

The man in question begins with overly official speech.

"I was not only sent to support our position in Ekoras, but was also sent to contact our agents in town. First, on behalf of Her Highness, the Queen, I am to convey her appreciation for your service. The crown recognizes and thanks you for your efforts. While not everything proceeded as smoothly and, more importantly, covertly as she intended, in general, Their Majesties are content with your results. The fact that your identities may have to be considered revealed at this point is regrettable, but you can be sure that any possible backlash to your persons will be mitigated to any possible degree. Also, you'll be in due time rewarded for your work." (Soma)

The last part, I'm only going to believe once it happens. The last payment I had to extort from our liaison officer.

"However, there is no time to waste. Therefore, I was given new orders for you two. Before the enemy can prepare all too well against the change in situation, the queen wishes for you to relocate to Siras, which by now can safely be considered the exchange point for slave trafficking in all of Rakis. You will meet up with our presence in the area and wait for further instructions." (Soma)

Excuse me!?

"Ehm, by when do we have to relocate?" (Shari)

"You two are to move out at your earliest convenience. You are expected to arrive in three weeks minimum. As I said, there's no time to waste." (Soma)

I don't even get a break?! Fuck it! I certainly will make sure to spend some time at my leisure. At least pay me before making demands!

Fortunately, none of this shows in my demeanor. Perks of being a slime.

"I understand. I have a little to wrap up in town, but I'll make sure to head out as soon as possible." (Shari)

They can tell me to move out, but not to arrive super fast.

"Good. Coming from the reports of your liaison officer, there have been some concerns regarding your commitment, but I see you're taking this seriously." (Soma)

Michael badmouthed me!?!

"I'm quite appalled to hear something like this. Didn't you say the queen was content with our results?" (Shari)

"You need to understand that the crown is taking a great risk if they continue to support you, now that your cover is basically gone. The backlash could be severe. So you hopefully won't make them regret this." (Soma)

Hm, thinking about it, this could be the turning point. If this job arrangement stays in place even after everything becomes public, we should be golden. No extermination parties, no repressions from any official sides. We only need to keep it up a little.

"Sure. Of course, we are taking this seriously. Don't know why anyone would think otherwise." (Shari)

"Good to hear. In this case, it shouldn't pose to be an issue if you and your troop depart tomorrow." (Soma)

Tomorrow?!

Troop?!!

"What troop?" (Shari)

"The road can't be considered safe. Therefore, you will be escorted. As you are official representatives of the crown, this will also serve to back up your status." (Soma)

You could at the very least be honest that they're supposed to be our watchdogs.

"I understand. However, tomorrow is not acceptable. The day after, no sooner. In the first place, things are still too wild in town and we need to prepare for a longer journey." (Shari)

This should be believable, as it's to a great degree the truth. Even we slimes need sustenance and I sincerely insist on being able to finish my business before I go just because someone called.

"The day after. Fine. Be prepared to depart early by then." (Soma)

"Of course." (Shari)

Hopefully, with this, everything is settled. Well, at least it doesn't seem like he intends to keep us from leaving. Yet once Liqu and I are out of earshot, the former speaks up.

"You know, I didn't want to interrupt you. You looked very competent at whatever you were doing there, but I need to say, I didn't really process anything you talked about." (Liqu)

Should I appreciate her thoughtfulness or feel weird about her obliviousness? In any case, I'll have to remedy this issue.

"Alright, I'll explain everything to you once we're back home." (Shari)

"Thank you very much!" (Liqu)

Well, that's a given. She's a substantial part of my life and to the highest degree involved with my affairs. Therefore, I should make sure to involve her properly.

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