Chapter 37: Adapting to the Times

The nobles' reaction aligned perfectly with the plan. With the Spina di Rosula's main force needing to remain in Fleuve Cendre to resist Fontaine's ruling elite, the safety of the evacuees could not be guaranteed.

Without the threat from Fontaine's upper echelons, the evacuees no longer had to fear being taken hostage.

Most of those needing evacuation were children and women. The elderly, already struggling to leave Fleuve Cendre, had no hope of relocation. After consulting with Navia, Lofan designated a section of Fleuve Cendre for them to live in, while those who stayed behind would protect their way of life.

Thanks to Lofan's hastily erected tents and relatively ample supplies, the residents' spirits remained stable. They were deeply touched to see so many people staying behind to safeguard them.

Despite the impending storm, the assembled crowd seemed oblivious, laughing and chatting amongst themselves in an atmosphere of remarkable harmony.

In recent days, Lofan and Navia worked tirelessly to recruit new members, and the Fleuve Cendralys organization gradually grew stronger.

Simultaneously, Lofan continually shared his ideals with the people, making them understand that their current actions were not mere rebellion or a venting of pent-up anger, but a collective effort toward a brighter future.

Occasionally, Lofan would pause among the crowd, take out his guitar, and play passionate, blood-pumping melodies. After each performance, the listeners would erupt in thunderous applause, their blood boiling with fervor.

To those who didn't know him, Lofan appeared to be a refined gentleman—knowledgeable, thoughtful, and blessed with extraordinary musical talent. But those who had witnessed him in battle knew that he wore two completely different faces: one for his friends, the other for his enemies.

When questioned about this duality, Lofan would simply reply, "Humility and courtesy are reserved for comrades. Against enemies, only a strong fist speaks the truth!"

Needless to say, Lofan's words struck a deep chord with many residents of Fleuve Cendre.

As time passed, Lofan's deeds became increasingly well-known, and his image gradually solidified in the minds of the people.

Through Lofan's deliberate guidance, most had come to understand that their actions could fundamentally transform their lives.

The vast majority of those who remained in Fleuve Cendre were elderly, nearing the end of their days, yet they now felt a fierce fire burning within their chests.

Though Lofan repeatedly urged them to call him "Comrade," out of deep respect, they continued to address him as "Monsieur Grett."

In the hearts of more and more people, Lofan's image began to merge with that of Callas. They began to believe that Lofan was the beacon of hope who could lead them out of the darkness of despair.

Meanwhile, Lofan was at home, handing over the last batch of modified weapons to Navia.

Most of these weapons, salvaged from Gardemeks, had been distributed to protect the women and children who lacked the means to defend themselves.

The Fleuve Cendre Faction currently has a limited arsenal, but there's no need to worry. "Kind souls" will soon be delivering weapons.

"Teacher," a voice reported, "the Spina di Rosula in Poisson has transitioned from open operations to covert activities. They've established a new settlement on a relatively flat area nearby to house the relocated residents."

There were two reasons for settling the people near Poisson. First, it allows the Poisson branch of the Spina di Rosula to provide close support. Second, the monsters in the area are regularly culled, making it relatively safe. The weapons transported with the settlers should be sufficient to protect ordinary citizens.

Maintaining complete secrecy about the relocation proved impossible. Moving such a large group of people under the watchful eyes of others is difficult to conceal. That's why the earlier arrangements were made—to deter the nobles from acting rashly, fearing public backlash.

"Hmm, that means we can rest easy for now."

But this security is only temporary. The nobles underestimate the Fleuve Cendre Faction and haven't prepared extensive countermeasures.

In fact, their arrogance prevents them from openly declaring war. They're still concerned about their reputation, which gives the Fleuve Cendre Faction an invaluable opportunity.

"Then what are we waiting for, Navia? Let's prepare to welcome our less-than-friendly guests!"

Lofan chuckled, leaving the gentleman's three-piece suit hanging on the hook. Instead, he rolled up his sleeves, revealing his muscular arms, slung his guitar over his shoulder, and strode out of the room.

Navia could feel Lofan's aura shift, transforming from that of a mild-mannered gentleman into a predatory beast on the hunt.

When facing an enemy, smash their head in...

Navia couldn't help but smile, remembering Lofan's earlier words to her. She drew her claymore and hurried after him, staying half a step behind.

This was Fleuve Cendralys's first battle. Let those ignorant nobles see just how far we, the bottom-dwelling rats, could push them.

"Teacher, want to try my weapon? Claymores are really effective."

"How many times do I have to tell you? I'm a musician. What would I do with a claymore?"

"Don't worry, my guitar has kept up with the times. It can fire bullets now. This thing's way more practical."

"???"

The final deadline for the evacuation of Fleuve Cendre residents had long passed. The nobles, who had been closely monitoring the district, were well aware that many people remained within its borders. Without hesitation, they mobilized a large force of Gardemeks and Clockwork Mekas through the Court of Justice to drive out any living souls from Fleuve Cendre.

The Court of Justice was an official organization similar to the Maison Gardiennage, but it typically handled more complex and critical matters, such as this operation. The nobles' ability to indulge in lavish excess stemmed primarily from their control over the Court of Justice; they held the limited authority of the Maison Gardiennage in utter contempt.

Meanwhile, the Marechaussee Phantom, which secretly handled Fontaine's clandestine affairs, had once been the nobles' sharpest blade—though its edge had dulled somewhat with the arrival of Neuvillette and the Melusine.

The official dispatched by the Court of Justice to oversee the Fleuve Cendre operation was also a noble loyalist. Initially unconcerned, he believed the Gardemeks and Clockwork Mekas would handle everything effortlessly. He dismissed any possibility of resistance from the "lowlifes" within Fleuve Cendre and even refused to enter the district himself, unwilling to soil his pristine boots.

However, when they noticed the number of signals from the Gardemeks and Clockwork Mekas dwindling, they immediately realized something was seriously wrong.