Shota's Isekai NTR Adventure Chapter 1938: Under the sea

Securing authorization to depart proved to be less difficult than anticipated.

Ultimately, Rose practically forced me out the door, her attitude suggesting I was to blame for not leaving sooner.

Her behavior didn't surprise me; I understood the reason behind it perfectly.

It was simply because Dorothy had been the one targeted in the end.

Although she harbored deep resentment toward the royal guards for their delayed response, she couldn't easily vent her frustrations on them. Consequently, that bitterness was redirected toward me.

Given the atmosphere, I made my exit as quickly as possible.

I wasn't traveling solo, however.

Since our destination was a place she knew well, I had Ariel accompany me.

To the public, this was merely a diplomatic visit to the Merman Empire.

In truth, that region served as the domain for the god’s messenger.

It was logical for one of them to reside beneath the waves, even if the deity they served wasn't Aquaron, the God of Water.

Beyond that, this trip provided a wonderful opportunity for Ariel to visit her parents before her child was born.

Her due date was approaching rapidly. Though she never voiced the request—knowing how overwhelmed I was with current affairs—it was clear she longed to see them.

This was a point of personal guilt for me, so I saw this journey as a way to make amends.

Naturally, the royal guards requested to escort us.

Thanks to the various advancements made by the sea witches, it had become far simpler for them to operate in the depths of the ocean.

However, on this occasion...

"That won't be necessary. Remain here and protect the estate."

Such were my instructions to the guards.

Upon hearing this, Klein and his comrades immediately showed their displeasure.

Klein looked as though he intended to protest, but I preempted him. "The royal guards of the Merman Empire will be providing security, so your presence isn't required. Or are you implying a lack of faith in the guards of our closest allies?"

Their scowls deepened at my words, yet they remained silent. They couldn't help but notice the Merman Empire’s elite guards watching the exchange from the sidelines.

The expressions on their faces made it clear they understood my underlying motive.

This wasn't a matter of petty spite; it was a formal reprimand.

Their conduct during the assassination attempt had made their lingering prejudice against Dorothy painfully obvious.

I didn't question their devotion to the crown, and I truly considered Klein a comrade after all our shared experiences, but their negligence required a response.

At the end of the day, I held the title of King, and they were my subjects.

Allowing such behavior to pass without consequence would establish a dangerous precedent.

I could not permit that, which is why I had to enforce this standard firmly.

Ultimately, they had no choice but to submit to the punishment.

Looking into their eyes, I could tell a few of them still harbored resentment. It was obvious that they hadn't fully accepted the situation in their hearts.

That was a change I couldn't force upon them.

Thus, I let the matter rest there.

Under the protection of the Merman Empire’s royal guard, we made a swift journey toward the ocean.

We traveled via a river that flowed directly into the sea—the primary trade artery between our nations. It was evident they had deployed their most advanced transport methods for us.

We reached the coast in only a single day.

While underwater travel is inherently faster, they had clearly utilized specialized assets not available to common merfolk.

Such are the privileges of being connected to the Merman Royal Family.

Of course, there was a more personal reason for the speed...

"My dear child, how are you? Are you feeling alright?"

While the Merman King wasn't quite as overbearing as the Queen, he was quick to greet Ariel. Like his wife, his primary concern was ensuring her well-being.

They ignored me entirely, but I didn't take it personally.

She was their precious daughter and she was carrying a child; their intense focus on her was only natural.

Once the greetings concluded, we were formally invited to the Merman capital.

As we traveled toward the city, I began questioning the Merman King.

"Why do you seek information on that location? For that matter, how did you even learn of its existence?"

Avoiding a direct answer, I replied, "It is of great importance to me. Please share whatever knowledge you possess regarding those sites."

The Merman King gave me a skeptical look, but I met his gaze with unwavering resolve.

Finally, he let out a weary sigh. "We generally avoid that area due to its unique properties. It is considered a forbidden zone because of a certain force that repels all who approach."

I sighed in return. "I believe that 'force' is exactly what I am searching for."

The King's expression grew even more bewildered, but he eventually relented. "Very well. I will have the relevant reports gathered for you once we reach the palace."

I gave a brief, appreciative nod.