[TIDK] 128 – Who Will Protect Whom?

Confused, Isaac questioned her, "Scarlett, what are you planning to do?"

Already deep in thought, Scarlett rushed up the stairs and began retrieving her notebook. Without missing a beat, she declared, "We need to build an aircraft too."

Isaac's eyes widened in disbelief. "Huh?"

With her hair tied up high, Scarlett's determination shone through as she laid out her plan. Her voice filled with conviction as she spoke rapidly.

"If we can demonstrate our ability to fly aircraft in Salantier, Vestina won't dare to make a move so easily. Our navy is formidable, and when the war breaks out, Viktor will launch an immediate attack on Vestina from the South, inflicting significant damage. But he won't stop there. He'll be the first to locate and bomb with the Rubied. That's why we need to showcase our anti-aircraft capabilities."

Scarlett pressed on, her words flowing seamlessly.

"With so many spies present in Salantier, we can't afford for them to discover the extent of our technological advancements. If Vestina learns of our capabilities, they won't hesitate to declare war. We must keep them in the dark."

Isaac's disbelief was evident as he questioned Scarlett's plan. She remained resolute, collecting her notes with determination.

"Yes, I'm heading to the Salantier College of Technology immediately," she affirmed.

Isaac couldn't hide his astonishment as he blurted out, "You, attending engineering school?"

Scarlett nodded firmly. "I possess knowledge passed down to me from my parents. It's crucial that I put it to use now."

Isaac's concern for Scarlett's safety resonated in his voice, raising valid points about the risks involved. Scarlett's determination remained unwavering as she tried to explain her perspective.

"I understand the risks involved," she acknowledged, "but I can't simply stand idly by in this critical situation."

Isaac's expression softened, and he spoke with a touch of compassion, recognising Scarlett's sense of duty. "I can't comprehend why you must put yourself in harm's way for this cause."

Andrei chimed in, observing the conversation from the doorway with his usual nonchalant demeanour. "He's right, ma’am. What's your plan at the Salantier College of Technology? It's a dangerous endeavour."

Isaac gestured to Andrei in gratitude. "Thank you, Mr Andrei."

Andrei nodded slightly in response. "Nevertheless, the boss has a point. What good is a war if we can't even have access to basic amenities like water? We should explore all possibilities if there's a way to prevent it."

Isaac's intense gaze was directed at Andrei as he mentioned the possibility of seeking Sir Viktor's escort for Scarlett. Andrei, seemingly unfazed, grinned back in response. Scarlett couldn't help but feel she had a knack for attracting eccentric individuals.

"An escort?" Isaac tilted his head, seeking clarification. Andrei's appearance, resembling Scarlett's, gave him an uncanny resemblance to a freshly minted criminal.

Andrei explained further, his tone nonchalant. "To be precise, it's more like post-treatment. If anyone tries to betray that the boss wants to build an engine, he'll handle it."

Isaac nodded in understanding. He turned his gaze back to Scarlett, sighing with concern. "Do you really have to undertake something this dangerous?"

Scarlett replied with a sense of resignation. "I don't want to, but I have no choice. This is not a matter of personal preference for me." The two men chuckled at her words.

Isaac then brought up a past incident. "Scarlett, do you remember when I hit you?"

Andrei feigned ignorance at the remark. Scarlett responded, "Uncle instructed you to do it."

"I know. I hit you back then because our uncle told me to," Isaac explained.

"He..." Scarlett began, but Isaac continued, "That's when I chose the wrong path. Scarlett, it's just that you don't see the wrong side. You always have a choice too."

Scarlett let out a sigh, hoping Andrei would take her side. "Andrei, support me on this." Andrei shrugged dismissively.

"Sorry, I'm a spy. Being on the wrong side is my job," Andrei admitted, causing Isaac to react in surprise. "A spy?"

Scarlett quickly intervened, reassuring Isaac, "That's all in the past."

Isaac remained sceptical, questioning, "Can I trust you?"

Scarlett responded confidently, "Yes, absolutely. He has kept the secret of me repairing the tram."

"Really?" Isaac's suspicion lingered, prompting Scarlett to add, "I trust him the most."

Isaac reluctantly raised a smile, his faith not fully evident. Andrei was convinced, but Scarlett still saw Isaac as a child who would go to any lengths for her, stemming from their time in the attic.

'Who will protect whom?' Andrei clicked his tongue in frustration.