Chapter 264: The Enigmatic Fairy King’s Proposal

The group exchanged determined nods, preparing to leave the dense forest. Spending the night under the current weather conditions was not a wise decision, especially considering Ritsuka Fujimaru, a human, who needed safer grounds for rest. Fortunately, the woods were not extensive, and the Chaldean group, with their vast experience in navigating peculiarities, moved swiftly through the forest.

It wasn't long before they saw the edge of the plain. Just as Ritsuka was considering their next destination, a figure appeared before them. The stranger held a basket of fruit and smiled warmly as he approached, extending the basket towards the Chaldean team.

"Good evening, travelers from another time. It looks like you're having some difficulties," he said, his voice gentle.

Ritsuka studied the man. He was of average build, handsome, and exuded a soothing presence. His constant, kind smile gave the impression of a gentle breeze on a spring day.

"And who might you be?" Ritsuka asked, curiosity piqued.

"My name is Oberon, and I am a fairy," the stranger introduced himself.

Ritsuka and her companions were taken aback by this revelation. Oberon, noticing their surprise, let a pair of delicate butterfly wings unfold from his back, revealing his true identity.

"An elf?" everyone thought in unison.

Da Vinci, ever the scholar, came online to share her knowledge. "The most famous Oberon in literature is the Fairy King from Shakespeare's play A Midsummer Night's Dream. In the play, Oberon is depicted as powerful but capricious and somewhat childish. Judging from this Oberon's demeanor seems to match that description."

"You're the Fairy King? Then why didn't you appear when the fairies attacked Camelot?" Lancelot demanded, his voice filled with suspicion.

Oberon sighed, his expression turning slightly somber. "I am very different from the war-hungry fairies. If I had declared myself their king back then, they would have likely eliminated me altogether."

"Then why are you here now?" Ritsuka pressed.

"I'm here to help you. Like you, I want to restore the timeline to its proper state by defeating Camelot," Oberon replied calmly.

A fairy appearing out of nowhere, claiming to help them restore history? The sudden offer of assistance left Ritsuka and Mash skeptical.

Up until now, their allies had been Lancelot and Merlin. Lancelot had been forced to join them after being relentlessly targeted by Lott and Morgan. And then there was Merlin, the enigmatic seer with his own agenda, who also wanted to correct the distorted timeline.

Both had clear reasons for joining Chaldea. But Oberon? He had never been seen before. Ritsuka and Mash knew that Camelot had already clashed with the fairies, yet Oberon hadn't been involved in that battle.

"If you want to help us, what's your motivation? Do you believe Camelot under Lott and Morgan's rule is wrong?" Ritsuka asked directly, eyeing Oberon critically. Camelot was thriving under Lott and Morgan. If someone wasn't satisfied with such a country, they were either a disgruntled noble or someone with hidden agendas—neither of which Chaldea wanted as an ally.

Ritsuka's sharp gaze conveyed her caution to Mash, signaling her to be ready if Oberon tried anything. Mash, having fought by Ritsuka's side countless times, understood instantly. Her calm eyes reflected her resolve: Don't worry, Senpai. I won't let him harm anyone.

Noticing their defensive stance, Oberon spoke in a soothing tone. "I hold no grudge against Lott or Morgan's actions. In fact, I greatly admire their policies. No, 'admire' is too weak a word—I truly respect them."

Ritsuka and Mash were stunned by his response. It wasn't what they had expected. Typically, someone intending to oppose a regime would denounce it and present themselves as a righteous alternative. But here was Oberon, expressing respect?

"Then why are you helping us?" Ritsuka asked, still puzzled.

Oberon's smile didn't waver. "It's simple. If history continues as it is, your Chaldeans will cease to exist. If I allow this history to continue, my own existence will be erased. I don't want to disappear, so I need to help you change this history."

His explanation was straightforward, almost disarming in its honesty. He wasn't fighting against Lott or Morgan out of malice—he was fighting to preserve his existence.

Hearing this, Ritsuka felt her initial distrust waver. Was Oberon truly on their side?

After a moment's thought, she extended her hand. "Alright, we welcome you to join us."

"Thank you, leader of Chaldea, for placing your trust in me," Oberon said, his smile broadening.

"Can you show us your capabilities? It would help us coordinate our efforts," Lancelot interjected, his eyes studying Oberon carefully.

Oberon shook his head lightly. "I'm not a combatant. My strength in battle is negligible."

"Then how can you assist us?" Lancelot pressed.

"With strategic planning," Oberon replied confidently. "Our forces are no match for Camelot's right now. What we need is to develop an army strong enough to stand against them."

"Are you suggesting we rally the remaining Scottish forces?" Lancelot asked skeptically.

"That would be unwise," Oberon replied. "Most Scottish kings have already sided with Morgan. The few that remain lack the strength to challenge Camelot."

"Then where do we go?" Ritsuka asked.

Oberon's eyes gleamed. "Ireland. I've been preparing for this. Once we reach Ireland, we can build a stronghold and amass forces capable of challenging Camelot."

It was clear he had planned this long in advance. Bringing Chaldea into his scheme would make things much easier for him.

"You're fully prepared?" Ritsuka was surprised.

"Yes, everything is ready. Once we're in Ireland, we can begin the next phase," Oberon confirmed.

Ritsuka, still harboring some doubts, felt a glimmer of hope. At least they wouldn't be wandering aimlessly, searching for a way to turn the tide.

Even if Oberon had hidden motives, Ritsuka believed her team could handle it.

When it came to building an army, Fujimaru, with the accumulated experience from countless battles, felt confident. With their combined skills and knowledge, she was sure they could stand against Camelot.

"If that's the case, then let's head to Ireland," Ritsuka declared.

"Agreed," Oberon nodded.

With their next move decided, they set off together, ready to take on the challenges that awaited them.