《The 7th Lord [HIATUS]》


 Part 1: Life of a mercenary, Chapter 1: Reminiscence

    ''''Milord your please wake up!¡¯¡¯


    The bright sun light was shining through the room directly on the young man¡¯s face.


    However, neither the voice of the young maid nor the bright sun could bother him.


    ''''Ugh just 5 more minutes''''


    Suddenly a high pitched tone received the young man¡¯s ears.


    ''''Don''t you just 5 more minutes me!¡¯¡¯


    Before the young man processed what was happening his entire mattress was flipped over. Apparently he had awoken the sleeping beast that was roaming inside the young maid.


    ''''Oof!¡¯¡¯


    ''''There now you''re up.¡¯¡¯


    Almost suffocating under his mattress the young man jumps up, and looks over to his maid with a smug smile on her face.


    ''''Setsuna have you lost your mind¡¯¡¯


    Looking at the maid gently playing with her blond hair with a single braid in it which goes all the way down to her hips and looking around the room with her azure blue eyes, the young lord could not help but feel the need for revenge.


    ''''Ah, Setsuna don''t move.¡¯¡¯


    ''''Milord?¡¯¡¯


    ''''There''s a spider on your shoulder.¡¯¡¯


    ''''Eh...¡¯¡¯


    For a few seconds there was a dead silence in the room, the one breaking it was the blond haired maid Setsuna.


    ''''KYAAAA! GET IT OFF, GET IT OFF, GET IT OFF!''''


    Within the split of a second the young lord prayed to all the gods he believed in, as the young maid was coming at him with the force of an entire cavalry squad.


    ''''Is it, is it gone? Eh milord?¡¯¡¯


    I guess I can''t tell her it was a joke anymore.


    After putting the mattress back on the back the young lord quickly got down on his knees and apologized.


    ''''I''m sorry Setsuna, I felt like getting a little payback, guess I shouldn''t take light of your arachnophobia.


    ''''Yeez to do something like that you should know better than that milord. Also will you look at this room it¡¯s a giant mess!¡¯¡¯


    ''''To be fair a lot of damage was done after your little tantrum.¡¯¡¯


    ''''...What was that.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at her lord as if he was a piece of trash cold air filled the room. The young man thought that if he said the wrong thing he would wake up with his throat slit. That was the moment he heard a knock on his bedroom door.


    ''''Milord are you alright?¡¯¡¯


    The voice belonged to the head maid Cynthia who had heard all the commotion coming from the room. Cynthia was a woman of stunning beauty, with brown hair coming down to her shoulders and an ample bosom. One would think she wouldn''t be a day over 20, but in reality she was 38 years old.


    This is my only chance!


    But before the young man could answer the young maid started walking to the door.


    ''''Hello miss Cynthia do you need anything?¡¯¡¯


    Pretending like nothing happened Setsuna is smiling like without a care in the world.


    ''''Well there was quite a lot of ruckus coming from the room, is the young lord alright?¡¯¡¯


    Not knowing what would happen if he didn''t draw Cynthia''s attention the young man started to think. But even though he wanted to run to the door as quickly as possible there was a force preventing him from moving.


    Turning his face towards his young maid he felt a strong killing intent coming from her back. The young man was baffled while looking at his young maid, she had a smile as bright as the sun and giving of a friendly inviting vibe.


    While her back gave of a vibe that said don''t even think about moving. All the young man could do was wonder and shiver in fear of what could happen, the conversation was quickly coming to an end.


    ''''Well then when the young lord is done please send him to the dining hall.''''


    Cynthia NO please look inside the room, I''m right here!


    ''''I''ll make sure he gets there.''''


    As the door closes Setsuna turns her head back in the room. The young man is still sitting on his knees, afraid to move a muscle.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.


    ''''S-Setsuna you¡¯re not still mad are you? Hehe.¡¯¡¯


    As Setsuna was looking at her lord she slowly started laughing. Not knowing what to do the young man starts laughing with her. Breaking the cycle of laughing Setsuna looked at her lord with a bright smile on her face.


    ''''Looks like you''re going to be a bit late lord Kazehaya''''


    ''''Bhahaha looks like you''re in quite the pickle kid''''


    ¡®¡¯Don''t just laugh at me Khutsomier save me!¡¯¡¯


    The young man kneeling in front of his maid went by the name of Kazehaya Nivalis. A young man who had just turned 18 with dark blue hair and had a medium slim build. His surname came from the country which he ruled.


    The young lord was 1 of the 7 great lords of the continent of Siegdrak.


    The lordship of these countries weren''t passed down through blood line but through the power they obtained.


    But in times when a great lords passes away the search for a new lord will begin. In this time the spawn of the previous great lord will take reign over the country until the new lord has been found.


    The 7 great lords got their power of contracts which were formed with supreme beings.


    For the young man Kazehaya it was the ice demon Khutsomier in spirit form he looked like a small blue imp.


    His physical form remained in another plain of existence, due to Kazehaya''s contract with Khutsomier he was able to wield over the power of ice.


    After a few minutes of both physical and mental violence Kazehaya and Setsuna went down to the dining hall.


    While still apologizing to Setsuna, Kazehaya was unknowingly walking into a much more dangerous situation.


    The sound of a string being released hit the sound of his ears, on instinct he grabbed Setsuna and jumped out of the way. Looking up he saw a figure which was well known to the young man,it was a young maiden with white hair glowing like moon light going down to her hips. The young maiden looked at the Kazehaya with her ruby colored eyes like a scornful parent who was about to lecture her child.


    ¡®¡¯Oi Kaze how long are you going to keep your hand there.¡¯¡¯


    Suddenly Kazehaya came back to his senses, finally realizing that he was still on top of the Setsuna, his face inches away from hers and his hand on her chest.


    ¡®¡¯L-L-L-Lord K-K-K-Kazehaya!¡¯¡¯


    Looking at the bright red face of his maid the young man was at a loss of words. While trying to calm down his young maid he was unable to notice her fist coming straight for his face.


    ¡®¡¯Ah! Lord Kazehaya I¡¯m sorry.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ho ho you really sent him flying, so did you enjoy your little treat?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Lady Yukino!¡¯¡¯


    While Setsuna was holding her hands against her chest and trying to hide her bright red face, the other maiden had no problem teasing her.


    After a while Kazehaya regained conciseness, not yet completely awake he could only feel the warm soft feeling that was under his head.


    ¡®¡¯Looks like you¡¯re finally awake Kaze¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Welcome back to the world of the living kid.¡¯¡¯


    Finally fully awake and realizing his position he noticed that his head was on the lap of the white haired maiden Yukino.


    Looking around for a second he saw Setsuna sitting in the corner moping and the head maid Cynthia trying to console her.


    ¡®¡¯By the way how long do you plan on laying there?¡¯¡¯


    Still laying on the lap of the white haired maiden he jumped up as if full of energy.


    ¡®¡¯Yukino why was I lying on your lap?!¡¯¡¯


    ''''This is retribution for giving Setsuna such a nice gift this early in the morning.''''


    Getting a wry smile on her face the young maiden explained about her shooting the arrow and getting punched by Setsuna for copping a feel. Having his face turn beet red Kaze felt that he needed to redirect the attention to something else.


    ¡®¡¯S-So me being late is bad enough to get shot at?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yup.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯The fact that you can say that with a bright smile on your face is what scares me the most about all of this. But what if I hadn¡¯t dodged you could have hit me or Setsuna.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I didn¡¯t aim to hit, plus I knew that you would jump to Setsuna to try and shield her.¡¯¡¯


    Getting his thought rearranged Kazehaya decided to console Setsuna. After everyone calmed down Yukino got down to business. Looking with a surprisingly serious face.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze prepare yourself for what I¡¯m about to tell you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yukino.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯He¡¯s made his move.¡¯¡¯


    While looking at the shock on their masters face both Setsuna and Cynthia knew what Yukino was talking about. As for Khutsomier he started expelling strong blood lust.


    ¡®¡¯You mean.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes the Great Lord of Falak¡¯¡¯


    Hearing this news the young Lord could not help but remember back to what had happened 2 years ago.


    -2 years ago-


    ¡®¡¯Hey Fubuki, Rentaro!¡¯¡¯


    Looking at the waving young man approach the two youngsters smiled and waved back at the young man running at them. It was Kazehaya still only 16 years old, and living his life as a mercenary.


    ¡®¡¯Yo Kaze where¡¯s the fire.¡¯¡¯


    The young man Rentaro couldn¡¯t help but comment on the young man in a hurry. While Fubuki greeted Kaze in his normal soothing tone. Though Kaze wanted to chat with his friends he could not forget his duty.


    ¡®¡¯Have you two seen the captain?¡¯¡¯


    Looking at each other for a moment Fubuki was the one who answered.


    ¡®¡¯We just saw the captain over near the farms.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Thanks guys.¡¯¡¯


    Not leaving the youngsters a moment to respond Kaze began running towards the farms. After reaching the farm Kaze spotted the captain helping around the fields and chatting it up with the farmers. The captain saw the youngster running towards him and started waving.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze are you here to help us till the field?¡¯¡¯


    Looking at his captain with a questioned face he couldn¡¯t help but wonder what he was doing.


    ¡®¡¯Captain weren¡¯t we supposed to restock in this town and then leave?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes but there¡¯s nothing wrong with helping out the villagers is there?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯But why are you doing this¡¯¡¯


    After moving his hoe through the earth a few times the captain finally began to talk.


    ¡®¡¯Do you know how grow crops Kaze?¡¯¡¯


    An odd question coming from leader of a mercenary guild.


    ¡®¡¯We are mercenary why would we know how to grow crops, were constantly on the move.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at the young man who was more than half his age the mercenary captain began to smile.


    ¡®¡¯Exactly why would we know how to grow crops, us mercenaries make our living by fighting in battles.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Then why?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯These farmers get up hours before anyone else and get to work every day. If a farmer is sick one day the who would tend to his fields?¡¯¡¯


    The youngster thought about it for a moment and the came up with an answer.


    ¡®¡¯The other farmers right?¡¯¡¯


    At the youngsters answer the captain stopped his hoe from moving and started looking out at the fields.


    ¡®¡¯Wrong, farmers each have their own fields to tend to. Without anyone else their fields would go untended.


    ¡®¡¯Then what would happen?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Humans live in different rankings, what importance does a farmer have to an aristocrat. An ordinary person wouldn¡¯t turn around to the sick farmer, no one would start to help the farmer out of his own will, there will always be that one person who decides to gather others and help him in his time of need. A good leader is one who helps others in their time of need regardless of ranking, be they a farmer, an aristocrat or even a mercenary.¡¯¡¯


    While still in awe of the words spoken by his captain, Kaze could only utter a single word.


    ¡®¡¯Captain.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Do you see what I mean Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes sir.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Good so do you feel like grabbing a hoe and lending us a hand?¡¯¡¯


    The bright smile of the captain he respects so much the youngster couldn¡¯t help but feel pumped about lending a helping hand, and learning about the farmers and people living in the village.


    ¡®¡¯And Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes sir?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Remember what I say about when it¡¯s just the two of us?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ah yes my apologies father.¡¯¡¯

 Chapter 2: Andors sight

    While chatting with the villagers, the captain of the mercenary guild started to say his goodbye¡¯s and started preparing for his departure. Signaling his companions to start packing up the captain was approached by one of the most elderly of the mercenaries.


    ¡®¡¯Captain Skald preparations will be done in about 20 minutes.¡¯¡¯


    The captain of the mercenary guild, Andor¡¯s sight. Named after Andor the god of war to bless their companions in battle and proclaim victory. He was a man of the age of 45 years old, who went by the name of Skald. With a big sturdy build and a battle axe hanging on his back, he truly was a man you would trust your life with.


    ¡®¡¯Thank you Victor.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Could you make sure Kaze isn¡¯t still playing around with the villagers.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Haha, I¡¯ll make sure we won¡¯t repeat what happened last time and get the young master.¡¯¡¯


    The man who called out to the mercenary captain was his retainer. He went by the name of Victor and was around the age of 60 years old. Having a surprisingly tough build for his age people couldn¡¯t help but think of him as a man to be wary of. But in reality he had one of the most gentle souls around the country, as long as no one dared to hurt someone close to him.


    When finished loading the last remaining supplies the mercenaries were ready to depart once again, and said their final goodbye¡¯s to the townsfolks.


    After having traveled for about 8 hours captain Skald decided to stop for the rest of the day and set up camp. Near the camp ground flowed a river where part of the mercenaries decided to clean themselves of in. While others started building up camp, before long day had turned into night.


    Skald called out to his men to start the strategy meeting. Gathering in the captains tent, the walls were covered with tapestries and multiple torches which lit up the entire tent, in the middle of the tent stood a big oak table on which laid a map together with cups filled with wine, and the floors were covered with carpets to keep the could feel of the earth away.


    Gathering in the captains tent together with Skald there was his retainer Victor, squad captains Hiro and Renzo. And lastly Kazehaya and Fubuki who had previously proven themselves worthy of coming up with cunning strategical plans.


    Little over a week ago the mercenaries were hired by the state of Nivalis to join their army to subjugate a group of bandits. Recently the bandit group has been rapidly growing, and currently exceeds a force of 2000 men strong. Around the bandits hideout there are a multitude of mountains which makes sending a large army to prove quite difficult. Skald was the first to bring this problem to light.


    ¡®¡¯Sending a large number of forces seems to be out of the question.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Then how about splitting up into smaller groups?¡¯¡¯


    The one to answer Skald¡¯s remark was squad captain Renzo. Almost instantly rebutting his comment was the young man almost half his age Fubuki. Being the same age as Kazehaya the two of them were close since there were barely any other kids in the mercenaries. While everyone¡¯s eye were focused on the medium build, dark brown haired youngster, he started to explain the reasoning behind his words.


    ¡®¡¯While coming from multiple side¡¯s and locking our enemies in would normally be a standard strategy, the bandits have the advantage of the terrain. Mountains tend to have tons of hidden places we could never think of no matter how long we strategize, without thoroughly searching all the area¡¯s in the mountains we will be at risk of a surprise attack.¡¯¡¯


    Tension rose in the air, hearing Fubuki¡¯s thoughts no one could deny that the plan was destined for failure. For about 10 minutes the room was completely silent, slowly losing their confidence. Only two people looked up with hopeful eyes those were the captain of Andor¡¯s sight Skald and his son Kazehaya.


    ¡®¡¯Fubuki you just said they could hide anywhere in those mountains right?¡¯¡¯


    Looking at the passionate eyes of his friend Fubuki couldn¡¯t help but smile at his friend question.


    ¡®¡¯That¡¯s a good look in your eyes there Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    As if a breath of new air filled the room everyone¡¯s attention was turned to Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Captain do we still have any fireworks.¡¯¡¯


    While The leader of Andor¡¯s sight was smiling at his words as if expecting them, the rest of the mercenaries looked at him astonished while figuring out the meaning behind his question.


    ¡®¡¯Young master are you saying.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes we¡¯ll smoke them out. If we are to use fireworks and start controlled fires we will be able to make the come out of hiding.¡¯¡¯


    Erasing the tension in the room the mercenaries regained their vigor. After spending half an hour discussing the plans details and possible vantage points.


    Skald confirmed that the plan was a go by raising his glass, seeing their captain the rest of the mercenaries raised their glasses while turning their gaze towards Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Young master, you truly are becoming more like your father each day. This old fool couldn¡¯t be more proud.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Truly a brilliant strategy Kazehaya.¡¯¡¯Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    ¡®¡¯You really are the captains son.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Congratulations Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Well done Kazehaya.¡¯¡¯


    Trying to hide his embarrassment Kaze couldn¡¯t help but feel like they were over exaggerating. While they said Kaze was becoming more and more like his father they were right, this was truly a plan only the two of the could come up with. Though there was only one misconception, Kaze wasn¡¯t Skald¡¯s son by blood he was his adoptive son.


    Ten years ago when Kaze was only 6 years old his village got attacked by a group of bandits, almost killing all the villagers including his parents, he had given any hope of making it out alive.


    But as fate would have it Andor¡¯s sight happened to return from battle and wanted to restock in his village. When they arrived and found the band of bandits the mercenaries showed no mercy and made sure to slay each and every bandit. When Skald found Kaze he was calm as if he had already accepted his fate, this broke his heart so he decided to make it his mission to give Kaze a reason to live.


    While living with Skald, Kaze learned to read and write, Skald also passed on his sword skills even though he would have been happy if his son lead a normal live. But Kaze wouldn¡¯t have it any other way, he looked up to the man who saved him that day and wanted to be able to look the same for others. As years passed he once again learned to laugh and hold life dear, he made friend with Fubuki and Rentaro and got into mischief like a child should.


    Wrapping up their strategy meeting it were Kaze and Fubuki take their leave first. While walking out of the captains tent they saw Rentaro standing with his arms crossed and a wry smile on his face. The young man was 2 years older than both Kaze and Fubuki, with a tough build and a longsword on his back.


    Though he had been a mercenary for a longer time than his two friends he had never been called for a strategy meeting. Rentaro¡¯s style of fighting wasn¡¯t suited for complex strategy, he was more a straight arrow cutting down any enemy in his path.


    ¡®¡¯Welcome back.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at their spikey black haired friend the two youngsters greeted him with a gentle smile.


    ¡®¡¯You guys must be tired, let¡¯s go grab something to eat and hit the sack.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sound like a plan, what do you think Fubuki?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯You two go on ahead I¡¯ve still got to maintain my bow and armor.¡¯¡¯


    Maintaining once weapon and armor was of significant importance, on the battlefield a well maintained breast plate could make the difference between life and death.


    Waving good bye to his friends Fubuki takes his leave. After seeing of their friend Kaze and Rentaro went to the mess hall and enjoyed a dinner of bread, steamed potato¡¯s, meat stew and dried fish. After wards the two young men when to their respective tents.


    When Kaze got back to his tent he immediately felt the fatigue he had built up weigh down on him, taking of his armor and preparing himself for sleep. Instantaneously Kaze fell on the ground and wrapped himself up in blankets.


    Was this truly for the best.


    Wondering if the plan he had come up with was truly for the best, Kaze started to think of other ways to fight the bandits. Feeling the fatigue slowly growing on his muscles Kaze couldn¡¯t help but fall asleep.


    Waking up early in the morning by a cold breeze coming down his back. Deciding to get up against his regular instincts, Kaze puts on his light armor over his clothes.


    Walking out of his tent Kaze decided to walk to the river to clean his face. After cleaning himself of Kaze returned to camp.


    Guess most people are still sleeping huh. Though most of the time I¡¯m last on up.


    Deciding to take a stroll around the outskirts of camp Kaze saw a known silhouette standing in a field.


    ¡®¡¯Captain what are you doing here.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Wrong Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at his son with a smile, Skald quickly rebutted him. While pondering what he did wrong Kaze clapped his hands together.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯m sorry father.¡¯¡¯


    Getting a smile on his face the youngster saw his father holding something in his hands.


    ¡®¡¯Father, are those?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Indeed, it has been a while wasn¡¯t it, here catch.¡¯¡¯


    Throwing an object at his son Skald put up a fighting pose. Examining what his father had thrown him Kaze started to reminisce. It was a wooden sword, while teaching Kaze about swordsmanship Skald used to have training battles with him in this way.


    ¡®¡¯Now show me how much you¡¯ve grown these past few years Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I won¡¯t hold back.¡¯¡¯


    Charging at each other Kaze came at his father with a side wards slash.


    ¡®¡¯Too predictable!¡¯¡¯


    Being the one to train Kaze the way of the sword Skald held the upper hand, knowing which way he would swipe Skald guarded to the side he got attacked from.


    He had forgotten that although he had thought Kaze everything he knew, and knew about Kaze¡¯s habits, Kaze knew about all of his too. Planting his feet in the ground Kaze made a hard break and went for a stab to the stomach.


    Barely able to parry Kaze¡¯s strike Skald jumped back to regain some distance.


    ¡®¡¯Ho not bad kid, but don¡¯t think I got to where I am by being weak.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Hehe I didn¡¯t think, I would win that easily.¡¯¡¯


    Putting up their stance both Kaze and Skald got a smile on their face.


    ¡®¡¯Takes you think of the old days doesn¡¯t it son.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yea back when you first taught me the sword.¡¯¡¯


    Being enthralled in their fight the two men didn¡¯t notice the crowd that had gathered around them.


    After exchanging a few blows with each other Kaze changed his stand. Holding his sword with both his hands over his shoulder and on his back, Kaze minimalized his body surface. Not knowing what to expect Skald looked at his son with pride and excitement.


    ¡®¡¯Is this the stance I¡¯ve heard so much about, that has brought you these victories in battle Kaze?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I couldn¡¯t call myself your son if I didn¡¯t find my own fighting style now could I.¡¯¡¯


    Dashing towards his captain with incredible speed It took Skald a moment to process what his sons intentions were, and charged at him.


    ¡®¡¯Messenger!¡¯¡¯


    Stopping in their tracks both Kaze and Skald lowered their weapons. Exchanging looks with each other the two men knew what to do.


    Standing in the captains tent were Skald, his most trusted men and the messenger of the Nivalis army. Hearing out the messenger tension rose in the air and even Skald got a pained look on his face.


    ¡®¡¯So what you¡¯re saying is.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes, the bandit camp has split and gone into four different directions each 500 men strong. Now they are causing more trouble than they ever did before.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯So are they not together anymore.¡¯¡¯


    Renzo setting his sight on the messenger he hoped to hear what he wanted.


    ¡®¡¯No it appears they are all still together. What¡¯s more it appears they have gotten a new troublesome strategist on their site.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Is this strategist truly that extraordinary?¡¯¡¯


    Despair growing on the messengers face the mercenaries couldn¡¯t help but wonder what they would go up against.


    ¡®¡¯It is said he is a man who goes by the name of Gandor.¡¯¡¯


    Everyone but Kaze and Fubuki suddenly got tense, seeing the expression on their superiors faces the two youngster knew this isn¡¯t good. Being curious Kaze had no choice but to ask to question that hung on their lips.


    ¡®¡¯Captain, who is this Gandor?¡¯¡¯


    Knowing that they would eventually would go up against this man he decided to tell them.


    ¡®¡¯He is an old general of the kingdom of Falak, Gandor is known for being an especially cruel man. He has been known to burn down villages he came cross just for the enjoyment of despair. This is the reason he was banished from Falak, with nowhere to go he must have joined up with these bandits.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Leader of Andor¡¯s sight you and your guild are to go to the town of Cina and assist the second army.¡¯¡¯


    Picking themselves up the superiors of Andor¡¯s sight decided to start moving right away.


    ¡®¡¯Everyone start packing up and prepare yourselves, we are going to war!¡¯¡¯

 Chapter 3: The subjugation army

    1 hour has passed since the messenger of the kingdom of Nivalis arrived. Finished packing up camp Andor¡¯s sight prepared to head out to the town of Cina.


    ¡®¡¯Captain Skald from this location it will take us approximately 3 hours to reach the town of Cina.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Very well, let¡¯s depart.¡¯¡¯


    Going off their original plan of smoking out the bandit group, Andor¡¯s sight must now travel to the town of Cina to lend their support to the second army of Nivalis.


    Leading the Mercenary guild of 200 men was a man by the name of Skald. Carrying a battle-axe on his back, he gave off a strong hostile aura.


    Looking at their captain, the men of Andor¡¯s sight were filled with hostility themselves.


    ¡®¡¯Captain, look over there a dust cloud is forming.¡¯¡¯


    Being a archer Fubuki¡¯s eyes were exceptionally trained. Hearing this Skald quickly turned to his squad captains.


    ¡®¡¯Hiro take 20 men and go towards that location.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes sir!¡¯¡¯


    Dispatching themselves from the main force Hiro along with Kazehaya, Rentaro and 18 other men went towards the rising dust cloud. Praying to the god of war Andor, Fubuki wished his friends safety in case of battle.


    ¡®¡¯Been a while since the two of us fought together hasn¡¯t it Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Right, but I pray that we are wrong about what we¡¯re going to face.¡¯¡¯


    Andor¡¯s sight has now split up into two separate forces. The main group about 180 men strong which was led by captain Skald headed towards the town of Cina, which was still about 15 minutes away. While Hiro and his men were to investigate unknown occurrence.


    After about 5 minutes passed, Hiro¡¯s group entered a small forest.


    ¡®¡¯Keep your eyes open men, the dust suddenly settled after it went into this forest.¡¯¡¯


    Slowing down their march the men erased the distance between them so as to protect each other.


    Hearing screams coming from deeper within the forest the separate group started to advance forwards.


    ¡®¡¯Stay on your toes men, we don¡¯t know whether we¡¯re in hostile territory.¡¯¡¯


    Getting closer to the screams Hiro decided to take his men of their horses and proceed on foot. Staying hidden in between the bushes Hiro and his group got closer towards the source of the noise.


    ¡®¡¯Bwahaha this couldn¡¯t have been any easier, now what should they do with them?¡¯¡¯


    Setting their sight on the scene in front of them Hiro and his men were barely able to keep their voices down. A group of 10 bandits which had probably separated itself from their army, and on the ground 20 people, 15 of which were women and children. Getting filled with rage Rentaro quietly let out a few words.


    ¡®¡¯Are those who I think they are.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Probably.¡¯¡¯


    Kazehaya keeping his cool while answering Rentaro¡¯s remark, tried to calm down his friend.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze how can you be so calm right now.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯If we make the wrong move right now they could kill those people.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Listen up men were are splitting up in groups of five and surround our enemies, make sure you are not spotted.¡¯¡¯


    Confirming their captains plan the group split up in teams of five, Kaze¡¯s group consisted of Rentaro and 3 other men. Marking who would go to which target Kaze¡¯s group split up once more in a two men and a three men team.


    The two men team consisted of the only archer in their group and a regular soldier.


    Kaze, Rentaro and the other soldier formed the 3 men group, being the fastest soldier Kaze would be the one to strike down the bandit, while being supported by the other two.


    The archer which was in their team pulled back his bow string, nocked an arrow into his bow and locked onto his target. Letting go of his arrow the bandit fell on the ground, before being able to react the other bandits were all cut down.


    ¡®¡¯Everyone confirm their dead, and search for more bandits.¡¯¡¯


    After making sure there are no more bandits nearby Hiro and his men freed the captured men and women.


    ¡®¡¯Are you alright?¡¯¡¯


    Asking about their state, the women started to break down in tears while the men were barely able to keep their calm.


    Leaning forwards Kaze started to console a young girl. Suddenly the young girl pushed her face into Kaze¡¯s chest. Looking down the young girl with long blond hair had started crying into Kaze¡¯s chest.


    Seeing the young girl sobbing in relief, Kaze started gently petting her head.


    ¡®¡¯Cry to your hearts content, you are safe now.¡¯¡¯


    The young girls eyes met with Kaze¡¯s and she heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡®¡¯Oi Kaze stop being a player for a few minutes and help us with the hostages.¡¯¡¯You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    Getting a sour expression on his face Rentaro¡¯s voice was filled with a part seriousness and a part enviousness.


    After consoling the young girl, she and Kaze started helping the others in need.


    After about 10 minutes Hiro gathered his men and escorted the people back to their town. But something started bothering Hiro and Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Captain there is only one town in this area right.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing his friend speak his thoughts Rentaro knew why he had said this.


    ¡®¡¯You¡¯re correct Kazehaya, the only town in this area is Cina. Which could only mean one thing, something terrible went down in Cina. But for now let¡¯s get a rough sketch of what is going on.¡¯¡¯


    Speaking with some of the villagers Hiro and his men learned what they were doing in all the way in this forest, and about the situation of Cina.


    Apparently last night when the second army of Nivalis had arrived a messenger suddenly appeared from within the mountains. The leader of one of the bandit groups challenged the second army of Nivalis to a battle. Hearing out the messenger the commander of the second army agreed to their request. The reason the commander agreed was because he was afraid of what would happen to the nearby town if he declined. Having a greater army of 600 against the bandits 500 men, the commander held a slight upper hand. Not knowing what happened in the battle the villager talked about them fleeing the town, after which he ended his story.


    ¡®¡¯So the army got defeated huh.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Captain we should hurry and get to Cina.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes. Men prepare for departure, we¡¯re taking these people with us so be sure to protect them with your lives.¡¯¡¯


    The villagers stared at the mercenaries with wide eyes, not being able to believe what they were hearing.


    ¡®¡¯Sir you don¡¯t need to do such things, you have a more important task at hand. We couldn¡¯t ask for your help any longer.¡¯¡¯


    Setting their eyes on the villagers each member of Andor¡¯s sight started laughing.


    ¡®¡¯Sorry but we can¡¯t do that.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯But why?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Those are the rules of Andor¡¯s sight, always help people in distress no matter if there is anything in it for you.¡¯¡¯


    Bowing their heads towards the mercenaries the villagers started thanking them once again. Finally departing towards Cina, Hiro and his teams recon mission turned into an escort mission.


    Meanwhile over at Skald¡¯s side the other group of Andor¡¯s sight had arrived at Cina.


    Setting their sight on the town in front them they could grasp the just of the situation.


    Skald immediately decided to take action.


    ¡®¡¯Renzo take 100 men and go tend to the wounded, Victor take the remaining men and start setting up tents to put everyone in once treatment is done. Fubuki you come with me we¡¯ll get information on what happened here.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes, sir!¡¯¡¯


    Suddenly a group of men started approaching Skald, they were wearing dark blue and red colored armor, they were the colors of the kingdom of Nivalis.


    ¡®¡¯Are you the men of Andor¡¯s sight?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯That is correct I am their leader Skald.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯My name is Noburo I am the temporary commander of the second army.¡¯¡¯


    His face slowly turning sour, Skald started questioning the commander.


    ¡®¡¯Why is the town in such a dire state?¡¯¡¯


    Pondering about what to say the commander got his thoughts in order and then started talking.


    ¡®¡¯It happened late last night, after our former commander had finished his strategy meeting a messenger suddenly arrived. He brought with him a letter of challenge, fearing about what would happen to Cina if we didn¡¯t agree we took up arms. We headed out to the plains about 15 minutes from here, and began our fight. At first it seemed that having a strength in numbers wasn¡¯t even needed.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Wasn¡¯t needed?¡¯¡¯


    Thoughts occurred within Skald, normally one would prefer having a greater army. The only reason one would think it not to be necessary was with a strategy that depended on mobility or stealthiness. Remembering about why the bandits had split up in the first place Skald started grinding his teeth.


    ¡®¡¯Indeed, when we first clashed the difference in experience was made clear. It was as if those men had never been in combat, but suddenly after we slew about 100 of their men they started retreating towards Cina.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯What!¡¯¡¯


    Not being able to believe what he had heard Fubuki could no longer contain his voice. Realizing what he had done, Fubuki quickly apologized for his inappropriate comment.


    ¡®¡¯No need to apologize Fubuki, if you hadn¡¯t said it I would have.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Continuing with my story, our commander made us chase after the bandits, but we could not catch up to them. Thus they reached Cina before us and started setting fire to the town, hearing all the commotion the people of Cina started fleeing the town. Suddenly we had lost sight of the bandits, not realizing what they had done.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯And what would that be?¡¯¡¯


    Noburo¡¯s face got even more serious as he answered Skald¡¯s question.


    ¡®¡¯It came as a sudden shock for all of us, when we suddenly found the streets covered in armor.¡¯¡¯


    Widening their eyes Skald and Fubuki figured out what the bandits had done. Seeing the look on their faces Noburo quietly nodded as to confirm their thoughts.


    ¡®¡¯It is as you are thinking, they had hidden themselves amongst the villagers. But by the time we noticed it was already too late. It wasn¡¯t just them hiding themselves within the crowd of villagers, each bandit had the strength of an elite soldier. Meaning that the first attack was just to give us a false thought about their soldiers. Plus there was one truly terrifying creature.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯And what would that be?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯An ogre, we don¡¯t know how be they seem to have tamed an ogre and are using it as a weapon of war.¡¯¡¯


    Skald started wiping the cold sweat from his face as he heard the word ogre. Only having heard about ogres and never seeing one, Fubuki could only wonder what kind of creature this might be to be able to make his captain feel fear.


    ¡®¡¯And now this is the state we¡¯re in from 600 men down to just about 100 men who are in fighting condition, while the bandits hold about 350 men each as strong as an elite soldier.¡¯¡¯


    Taking some time to process what they had heard Skald and Fubuki had already started thinking of counter measures against the bandits forces.


    ¡®¡¯So together with Andor¡¯s sight our army will be 300 men strong. Commander who will lead our attack against the bandits?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Leader of Andor¡¯s sight we ask of you to lead our charge, none of our soldiers hold the experience to lead an army. So we beg of you to take over the role of commander.¡¯¡¯


    After giving it some thought Skald gave his answer.


    ¡®¡¯Very well, I shall take over as leading commander in the bandit subjugation.¡¯¡¯


    Bowing their head the soldier of Nivalis expressed their gratitude.


    ¡®¡¯Thank you sir Skald, please use us as you see fit.''''


    Hearing the soldiers determination Skald started to get a smile on his face.


    ¡®¡¯Very well but be prepared to be worked to the bone.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes sir!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯By the way have you notified the other armies about your situation, or requested reinforcement?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯We have send a messenger to inform the other armies and requesting reinforcements, but we have yet to hear back from them.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Then we have to make do with the people we have here. The bandits will probably attack at the end of the day, so rest while you still can, and leave the villagers and wounded soldiers to us.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at Skald with adoration in their eyes, the soldiers of Nivalis decided to give it their all.


    30 minutes later Hiro and his men arrived in the town of Cina together with the rescued villagers.


    ¡®¡¯Captain we have finished our mission.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Well done Hiro, and I see you brought some new friends with you.''''


    ¡®¡¯Yes, captain. Everyone please take these people to the medical bay and get them treated, while I explain to the captain about what happened.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Very well, everyone please follow us.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at his son lead others, Skald felt relieved knowing that his son turned out to be a fine young man.


    ¡®¡¯Now that I think about it Kaze turned 16 earlier this year, which means he can legally marry.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a little early for that captain? After all we are in the middle of war.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯You¡¯re right, guess it¡¯s still too early.¡¯¡¯


    After explaining the happenings of earlier Hiro and Skald retreated to the captains tent, and called all the remaining strategist. For this time they would face the bandits in full combat.

 Chapter 4: Head-on charge

    The sun has started setting behind the horizon, before vast mountains laid a town to waste. The streets were filled with soldiers, busy tending to the wounded and preparing themselves for combat.


    In the middle of town stood a big tent, inside it were captain of Andor¡¯s sight Skald, his strategists, squad captains and commander of the second army of Nivalis Noburo.


    Standing in the middle of the tent stood a great oak table covered in multiple maps of the surrounding areas.


    ¡®¡¯Should we take them out to the pains?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯No they¡¯ll probably come to challenge us again, so we need to figure out where they will strike.¡¯¡¯


    Wondering what is to come Skald and Hiro started a heated discussion. Turmoil was rising as everyone started giving their thoughts, having a quiet discussion for themselves were the youngsters Kazehaya and Fubuki.


    ¡®¡¯What do you think their best option is Kaze?¡¯¡¯


    Moving his hand towards the map Kaze pointed towards a river.


    ¡®¡¯If I were them, I wouldn¡¯t give our enemies a chance to escape. This way they¡¯ll be able to throw us into a state of chaos, and wipe us out without even trying.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I see, but If we split our forces we would be able to perform a pincer attack.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯You¡¯re right but there is still the unknown factor.¡¯¡¯


    Getting a pained expression on his face Fubuki couldn¡¯t think of a way to rebut Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯We shall split our troops, the 200 men of Andor¡¯s sight and the 100 men from the army of Nivalis.¡¯¡¯


    Drawing everyone¡¯s eyes on himself was Skald. Wondering what his reasoning was the room got silent.


    ¡®¡¯Noburo I¡¯ll need you to draw their attention and lead them here.¡¯¡¯


    Pointing towards a nearby forest, the soldiers held their breath as Skald started explaining his plan. While in the middle of his explanation a messenger from Nivalis arrived.


    ¡®¡¯Commander one of the bandits just dropped this off.¡¯¡¯


    After handing Skald a letter the messenger took his leave, opening the letter Skald started to read it out loud.


    ¡®¡¯Greeting remnants of the Nivalis army, it seems you¡¯re still determined on finishing your duty a soldiers. Let me start off by saying I admire your tenacity and your foolishness. If you think that you even have the slightest chance on stopping us, I feel really hurt that you underestimate me that much. You of course remember where we first met right? That place shall be were you draw your last breath, and if you were to refuse my kind offer, you know what will happen right? That is where the letter ends.¡¯¡¯


    Taking their eyes of Skald and back towards the map the soldiers started checking out the area where the bandits would show up.


    ¡®¡¯Well Noburo, what do you think?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It¡¯s possible, we can do this. From this distance we¡¯ll be able to lead the bandits towards the forest, without taking any losses.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Then we¡¯ll go with this strategy, get the men ready it¡¯s time for battle.¡¯¡¯


    While walking out of the tent Skald and his group were met with a group of injured soldiers.


    ¡®¡¯Commander please leave guarding the villagers to us.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at the soldiers who were barely able to pick up their weapons, even Skald who would normally ask of this was hesitant.


    ¡®¡¯Moving around too much could re-open your wounds, yet you still wish to do this?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Of course, without you a great number of us would not have survived. So now we need to repay our depth.¡¯¡¯


    Determined to fulfill their duty as soldiers, Skald decided to concede and let them do their work.


    ¡®¡¯Very well but please take care of yourselves, if you start feeling unwell stand down immediately.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Thank you commander.¡¯¡¯


    Preparing himself for the upcoming battle Kaze headed towards his tent to prepare his equipment. On his way to his tent Kaze came across the group of people he had met in the forest earlier. Making sure everyone was doing alright, Kaze checked their mental and physical state. One of the men he had saved saw tension on Kaze¡¯s face.


    ¡®¡¯You seem to quite serious lad, even more so than earlier. Guess the battle is getting near isn¡¯t it.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ah, I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean make anyone worry.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t be foolish lad, going to battle isn¡¯t an easy thing to do, especially for someone of your age.¡¯¡¯


    After looking over everyone Kaze noticed someone missing. It was the young girl who had earlier cried into Kaze¡¯s chest.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ¡®¡¯Excuse me where is that blond girl?¡¯¡¯


    Thinking a minute about what Kaze meant, the man clapped his hands together and answered.


    ¡®¡¯You must mean Setsuna, she¡¯s probably at her house, or at least what used to be her house.¡¯¡¯


    Concerning himself with the girl named Setsuna, Kaze asked the man where she would be, and started heading to her home.


    After about 5 minutes of walking Kaze found Setsuna standing in front of a destroyed house. Walking up to her Kaze quietly called out her name. Not noticing Kaze, Setsuna started talking to herself.


    ¡®¡¯They¡¯re not here. My parents are not here.¡¯¡¯


    Putting his hand on her shoulder Kaze called out to her once more.


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ah, it¡¯s you. How do you know my name?¡¯¡¯


    Kaze started explaining how he knew Setsuna¡¯s name and how he found her. He also properly introduce himself.


    ¡®¡¯I see, thank you Kazehaya.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna are you okay?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯m fine, no need to worry about me.¡¯¡¯


    Though she said not to worry about her, Kaze noticed that the smile she had on her face was a fake one.


    ¡®¡¯Is this your house?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It used to be, but it was also my parents bar. Dad always poured drinks for the guest, as Mom and I helped cooking the meals.¡¯¡¯


    As Setsuna started reminiscing about the time she spent with her parent her expression kept getting faker.


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯There used to be this old couple who would come over every day, the old man always gave me candies. They weren¡¯t good but I loved seeing the smile on his face as I ate them.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯The old woman always told me about how pretty I was and that I would make a great wife someday.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna!¡¯¡¯


    As Kaze yelled her name, Setsuna could no longer keep her smile, and tears started flowing down her face.


    ¡®¡¯Why¡­Why did they all leave me?¡¯¡¯


    Wrapping his hands around Setsuna, Kaze embraced her until she finally calmed down.


    ¡®¡¯Thank you Kazehaya.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t worry I¡¯m here for you, and call me Kaze it¡¯s what all my friends do.¡¯¡¯


    Setsuna¡¯s face started to brighten up as Kaze brought her back to camp.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Hmm is something wrong?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Well what will happen from now on?¡¯¡¯


    Thinking about what to say as to not concern Setsuna, Kaze had to choose his next words carefully.


    ¡®¡¯At the end of the day our main army will start the subjugation of the bandits, while a smaller force shall stay behind and protect the villagers. After our fight is over we¡¯ll take the villagers to the nearest town, so that they may pick their regular lives back up.¡¯¡¯


    Silently nodding as to confirm she understood, Kaze and Setsuna had arrived back at camp.


    ¡®¡¯This is where we¡¯ll separate for now.¡¯¡¯


    As Kaze said his goodbye¡¯s and turned away, Setsuna grabbed his sleeve.


    ¡®¡¯Huh, Setsuna?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­back safe.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯What did you say?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Please come back safe.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­I promise, I¡¯ll return safely.¡¯¡¯


    Getting a smile their faces Kaze and Setsuna each went their respective ways.


    20 minutes after departing from Setsuna, Kaze and the other soldiers had finished preparing and were ready for combat. In one hour it would be time for the battle to start, in this period the subjugation army started heading towards the battlefield. The plan was for the Nivalis army to be the bait and lead the bandits away from Cina, later in the battle Andor¡¯s sight would join in. This was to give their enemies a false idea of the amount of soldiers. Skald and his men were to hide behind some nearby hills, deciding when to strike would determine whether they would ascend victorious or fail miserably.


    The moon stood high in the sky giving off a dim light, visibility was reduced to but a few hundred meters. 45 minutes after the Nivalis army had set up their formation the bandit army arrived. In the front of the bandit army stood a sturdy man with a thick beard and a bald head, with many scars on his face it was clear this man had survived many battles.


    At an distance of 500 meters the two commanders exchanged looks filled with vigor.


    Shouting across the battlefield with a voice as if he stood right next to you, the bandit commander conveyed his message.


    ¡®¡¯I have to admit it¡¯s quite honorable that you¡¯ve all got the balls to stand in my way. Now listen here and listen good those of you who die right now get of easy. Those who throw down their weapons like a bunch of dickless cowards shall be taken to the river nearby and will be drowned. Hearing your screams of anguish oughta make me feel happy for a few minutes. Or perhaps I¡¯ll feed you to the ogres, as you can see they¡¯re quite hungry.¡¯¡¯


    Seeing his men¡¯s faces turn white with fear Noburo had to raise his soldiers morale.


    Walking to the front of his army he drew the attention from his men and his enemies. Lifting his sword in the air he looked over at the enemy commander.


    ¡®¡¯You street dogs would dare to turn your weapons on the kingdom of Nivalis. Do not think your death will be a painless one. For the honor of Nivalis, I Noburo shall take your commanders head.¡¯¡¯


    Gazing at Noburo, the soldiers of Nivalis raised their voices. Morale was high on the allied side, but war is not won on morale alone.


    ¡®¡¯Ho ho looks like we might get to have some fun after all.¡¯¡¯


    Stroking his thick beard, the bandit commander spoke as if he had already won.


    While holding his sword in his hand Noburo pointed it towards the bandit commander and issued his order.


    ¡®¡¯Men retreat!¡¯¡¯


    Turning their back to the bandits every soldier of Nivalis started to take their leave.


    Unable to process what was happening the bandit commander was staring with an empty gaze as the Nivalis army took their leave.


    After 10 seconds of silence the bandit commander¡¯s face turned red with anger.


    ¡®¡¯You dickless cowards!¡¯¡¯


    Due to the distance of the Nivalis army, the bandits were unable to hit them with their arrows. The distance between the armies had slowly changed to 400 meters, even the most trained bowmen could not shoot an arrow further than 200 meters. So the bandits had no choice but to follow them, a little while after it was clear where they were headed. One kilometer in front of the bandits was a thick forest, still fueled with rage the bandit commander made his men follow them in.


    Turning his gaze towards the bandit army Noburo smiled as he was about to enter the forest. When he entered the forest his men immediately split up in two directions. Not even one minute later the bandit army entered the forest, still going straight ahead at full charge the bandits were unable to find any soldiers.


    ¡®¡¯Damn it where are they!¡¯¡¯


    After yelling those words an arrow flew past his face and hit the person riding next to him. As he fell of his horse multiple arrows started flying in his direction, on reflex the commander picked up his shield and protected himself from the arrow rain, only suffering a few scratches. Though this could not be said for a great number of his men. In the span of 5 seconds the bandit army had lost 20 men. Picking himself up the bandit commander picked up more speed than they had before. Thinking that they had left the bowmen¡¯s range the bandits started slowing down. Thanks to the bad visibility of the forest and it being night time, finding the bandits would be a hard task. Were it not that they had predicted their movements. As the bandits were still in motion the ground started to disappear beneath their horses.


    ¡®¡¯What the hell!¡¯¡¯


    One by one a large number of bandits fell of their horses, now they were vulnerable. With no visibility and a large number of people dismounted, the bandit commander decided to send his men into every direction. Though unable to use horses these bandits were still a well-trained group.


    ¡®¡¯Commander look at the sky.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Huh, what now?¡¯¡¯


    Flying an arc across the sky was a flaming arrow, when the commander saw this he held his breath. Feeling the tremors of the earth he stopped his men from advancing and took up a defensive position.


    ''''...Mother fucker.''''

 Chapter 5: Blessed are the Brave

    Under the star lit sky, a group of bandits were defending themselves within a forest. Arrows were constantly flying towards them without a break, the constant volley of arrows made even the toughest of men cower. Earlier when the bandit commander felt tremors in the earth he had his men pull back and take up the defensive. After which the volley of arrows started appearing. Not knowing whether they would make it out alive some of the bandits started cursing and provoking their enemies. While using a combination of words that would disgust even the worst of criminals.


    Soon their shouting grew silent, because for some reason the arrows had stopped firing. Before entering the forest the bandits were a force of 350 men strong, but now they had been reduced to a mere 200 men.


    ¡®¡¯Did they run out of¡­¡¯¡¯


    While still in the middle of his sentence a galloping sound could be heard coming from behind the bandit army. Quickly turning their attention towards the oncoming sound the bandits prepared themselves, as it was about to appear. The source of the sound was Andor¡¯s sight who had yet to join the battle.


    While Noburo and his men distracted the bandits and had led them towards the forest, Andor¡¯s sight was to be the first to engage into actual combat. Andor¡¯s sight had been split their men up into two groups. The main group was led by Skald was to flank the bandits when they had entered the forest. While the second group led by Hiro consisted almost entirely of bowmen, who had hidden themselves in the woods and ambushed the bandits.


    While dropping their shields and picking up their weapons multiple bandits were cut down in a slip of a moment. They were cut with swords and penetrated by spears, some were able to fight back and get revenge for their fallen comrades though. But even that was short lived when they struck someone down two others were already on him.


    ¡®¡¯Release the ogres!¡¯¡¯


    Drawing the entire battlefields attention to himself the bandits commander order his men to release his ogres. After releasing the them from their chains the ogres led out a roar that froze the entire battlefield.


    ¡®¡¯Hahaha how do you like that! Did you all piss your pants in front of a true monster?!¡¯¡¯


    Morale was rising on the bandits side as they saw their enemies faces grow cold, but even among the bandits a lot were terrified.


    ¡®¡¯Been a while since I last saw one of you huh? Though you¡¯re a lot smaller than the other two I had met before.¡¯¡¯


    The man who was slowly walking towards the ogres was Skald leader of Andor¡¯s sight.


    ¡®¡¯Who the hell do you think you are? Didn¡¯t you look earlier, those arrows of yours couldn¡¯t even penetrate the ogres skin.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes, I know. Something like that wouldn¡¯t even make it itch.¡¯¡¯


    As everyone held their breath as to what Skald would do the battlefield grew quiet. Neither army dared to attack each other as they looked at Skald approaching the ogres.


    ¡®¡¯Tell me commander do you know what a blessing is?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯The hell you talking about?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Well then allow me to show you, after all deeds are better than words.¡¯¡¯


    Now directly in front of the ogres Skald drew his axe and under his breath mumbled the words ¡®¡¯Blood of titans¡¯¡¯.


    Swiping its hand sideways the ogre made contact with Skald¡¯s body, due to the shock wave a cloud of dust formed where Skald stood.


    ¡®¡¯Bwhahaha you were talking all that tough shit and look at you now. Alright men their commander is dead now slaughter them all.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Well, well it seems like I¡¯m being underestimated.¡¯¡¯


    Standing in the fading dust stood Skald holding his axe against the ogre¡¯s fist. Without having a scratch on him Skald started to grow buffer, shock rose on everyone¡¯s faces, seeing Skald easily blocking the ogres attack.


    ¡®¡¯Looking at their size I estimate these two are about 10 years old, even so I can¡¯t allow you to just walk around and destroy towns.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­You what are you?!¡¯¡¯


    Shouting with a fearful voice the bandits commander could not believe what had just happened. Skald pushed away the ogre¡¯s arm that was still trying to push him away with all his force. And with a quick slice of his axe Skald cut the ogres body into two separate pieces. At the time this happened the other ogre, fearing for its live, started running away deeper into the woods. As Skald saw him running away he tightly gripped his axe and threw it, as his axe flew through the air, the force was strong enough to tear through the trees that blocked its way. About twenty meters from Skald the ogre was cut down and its body crushed by the axe.


    ¡®¡¯I-Impossible.¡¯¡¯


    As the bandit commander shivered in fear and let go of his weapon all of his men lost any will they had left to fight.


    ¡®¡¯Anyone who still wants to fight I¡¯d be happy to take up the challenge.¡¯¡¯


    Every one of the bandits dropped their weapons in fear of the man who had single handedly killed two ogres. The Allied army had been victorious in the subjugation mission.


    After picking up the bandits weapons and tying them up the army of Nivalis took the bandits to the main army and took their leave. Immediately after they took their leave Skald started to sweat uncontrollably and fell down.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    ¡®¡¯Captain are you alright?!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t worry Kaze I¡¯ll be fine after a little while. Guess I still haven¡¯t mastered it.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sir just what was that power?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯That was a blessing, mine grants me incredible strength for a limited time.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Mine? Does that mean there are others with these kinds of power?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯There are, but even so they are rare, I got mine only four years ago. Unlike what you might think this power was given to my.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯What?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯At that time me Hiro, Renzo and Victor were out hunting. For some reason the woods were in uproar, so we started investigating it. When we found the source of the sound, it was a four meter tall humanoid creature getting attacked by a pack of wolves. It seemed like the creature did not want to fight, so I decided to scare the wolves away, against the wishes of the others. After the wolves had run away the giant creature got down on his knees and thanked me. We were all surprised as the creature could speak, he then placed his hand above me and said that this was his way of rewarding me. And since then I have had this power, although this was the first time I had used it in actual combat. If I were to use it at the start of a battle I would be unable to participate in it any further. So I¡¯ve been training in order to keep the blessing active for a longer time and to keep the recoil damage afterwards to a minimum.¡¯¡¯


    After explaining the happenings to his men, Andor¡¯s sight headed back to Cina. There the good news was quickly spread among the villagers and the guarding soldiers of Nivalis.


    ¡®¡¯After taking care of the villagers we¡¯ll take you all to join the main army.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Thank you sir Skald, we are all indebted to all of you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯We¡¯re just doing what we were paid to do, there¡¯s no need to thank us. Men for our victory today, let¡¯s prepare a feast for everyone.¡¯¡¯


    Cheers rose as Skald declared the feast, meanwhile Kazehaya, Rentaro and Fubuki were still thinking about the battle. Skalds inhuman strength that took down the ogres was burned deeply within their minds.


    ¡®¡¯Strength that transcends the human limits.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It seems there are quite a few drawbacks though.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯So the best way to fight them is to make them go past their time limit.¡¯¡¯


    Debating how to fight against people with blessings the three forgot all about the outside world. These three were years ahead for their age, each of them had proven themselves multiple times on the battlefield.


    ¡®¡¯Then what about another blessing user?¡¯¡¯


    Kaze pointed out the one thing the hadn¡¯t thought of yet, using other blessed abilities.


    ¡®¡¯That would indeed be the most logic course of action.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯But just what kind of creatures are out there in the world.¡¯¡¯


    As they were still discussing Skald came walking up to them.


    ¡®¡¯Come on boys there is enough time to think about all that later, right now let¡¯s have some fun.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes sir.¡¯¡¯


    Though it was already late at night the streets were covered with people singing and dancing. While others were feasting on freshly caught animals and other delicious foods.


    ¡®¡¯This is truly delicious, who made this?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯We had Setsuna help prepare us, after all you soldiers deserve it after today.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Well send her our compliments.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sure, though I wonder where she went.¡¯¡¯


    Taking a break from all the hustle and bustle of the victory party, Kaze took a walk around the outskirts of the town. Looking up at the cloudless sky he kept thinking about the battle earlier.


    What would have happened if father wasn¡¯t there. Would we still have won?


    ¡®¡¯Ah, Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    Breaking Kaze¡¯s train of thoughts was Setsuna who was looking out at the plains.


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna it¡¯s good to see you¡¯re doing well.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes thank you very much. It¡¯s all thanks to you all for saving us.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯We¡¯re just doing our job, and abiding the laws of Andor¡¯s sight.¡¯¡¯


    The two of them started chatting for a while and forgot all about the happenings of earlier today.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Actually I have something I would like to ask you Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    Looking puzzled as to what she might ask Kaze decided to hear her out.


    ¡®¡¯Of course ask me anything.¡¯¡¯


    Her expression getting more timid, Setsuna gathered all her courage to ask Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Please take me with you!¡¯¡¯


    Both of their faces turned red as Setsuna said something excruciatingly shocking.


    ¡®¡¯Ah no wait not like that, let me think!!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯S-Setsuna please calm down, and get your thoughts in order.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Y-yes I¡¯m sorry Kaze, um well I.¡¯¡¯


    I don¡¯t think I can survive another shock like that.


    ¡®¡¯I got it, Kaze let me join Andor¡¯s sight!¡¯¡¯


    His face grew serious with concern as Kaze heard her odd request.


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna¡­ we¡¯re a mercenary guild. We make our money on the battlefield, it¡¯s a dangerous job.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Why not take her?¡¯¡¯


    Interrupting Kaze and Setsuna¡¯s conversation was Skald, who had been listening on the youngsters.


    ¡®¡¯Father how long have you been there?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I came right about the time went she asked you to take her with you.¡¯¡¯


    Again Kaze and Setsuna¡¯s faces turned red with embarrassment. Getting his thoughts back in order Kaze responded to Skald¡¯s question.


    ¡®¡¯But taking her to the battlefield even though she has no combat training would be incredibly dangerous.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯m not saying she should become a soldier.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯What do you mean?¡¯¡¯


    Starting to grin Skald answered his son¡¯s question.


    ¡®¡¯She¡¯ll become a maid.¡¯¡¯


    Both the youngsters turned to each other, and for a few seconds it was completely quiet.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯ll do it.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Huh?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯ll become a maid of Andor¡¯s sight!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Haha I like your determination young lady, very well welcome to Andor¡¯s sight.¡¯¡¯


    As Skald and Setsuna shook hands Kaze started smiling.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze you better protect her well.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Understood, Setsuna I¡¯ll protect you with my life.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kazehaya.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes she¡¯ll make are great wife one day Kaze, have you tasted her cooking it¡¯s really great.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Father!¡¯¡¯


    Turning even redder than before Kaze and Setsuna turned their faces away from each other.


    ¡®¡¯Oi Kaze we finally found you.¡¯¡¯


    Shouting in their direction were Kaze¡¯s friends Rentaro and Fubuki. With his big build Rentaro made Setsuna a bit uncomfortable. Though his size still fell pale in comparison to that of his captain. Skald introduced the two young men as they approached them. After getting introduced Fubuki asked who this young lady is.


    ¡®¡¯Captain who might this be?¡¯¡¯


    Fubuki said in his ever gentle tone to calm Setsuna down.


    ¡®¡¯Right you don¡¯t know her yet, this is Setsuna she¡¯s Kaze¡¯s maid.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Eh¡­¡¯¡¯


    Each of the youngsters fell silent, Skald immediately broke the silence with a smile as bright as the sun on his face.


    ¡®¡¯Though she¡¯ll be helping everyone with laundry and cooking she¡¯ll primarily be Kaze¡¯s maid.¡¯¡¯


    Turning to Kaze, Rentaro couldn¡¯t keep his thought to himself.


    ¡®¡¯You bastard! How dare you get such a cute maid all for yourself.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Now, now Rentaro let¡¯s try to be civilized about this.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯How can you say that Fubuki, I am so god damn envious of you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯R-Rentaro hold on a second.¡¯¡¯


    Lifting his fist Rentaro was preparing to give his friend something he thought was coming to him.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze let me punch you once, then I¡¯ll feel a little better.¡¯¡¯


    As Rentaro said this Kaze started running as if he was in a life and death situation.


    Rentaro started chasing Kaze, and Fubuki chased Rentaro so that he wouldn¡¯t take it too far. Running around Setsuna and Skald were watching the three young men make asses of themselves.


    ¡®¡¯Those three seem to really get along well.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Of course they have been together for many years now. I¡¯ll need to ask of you to take care of them from now on, think you¡¯re up for it?¡¯¡¯


    Slapping her cheeks with her hands Setsuna mad herself got pumped up.


    ¡®¡¯Leave it to me. Rentaro please calm down!¡¯¡¯


    A warm feeling started to come over Skald as he saw the four youngster play with each other.


    ¡®¡¯Ah youth is such a pleasant thing. Well then first thing tomorrow we¡¯ll take the villagers to a safe place. Then we¡¯ll come for you Gandor, don¡¯t think you¡¯ll make it out of here alive. Sorry seems like I won¡¯t be back anytime soon, but after this is done I¡¯ll come straight to you, so wait for me Ran Nivalis.¡¯¡¯

 Chapter 6: A calm river or a heavy storm

    A cold breeze came across the vast meadows.


    The sun was still on the rise as it dyed the sky a light vermillion color.


    At a time that most people would wake up a dark blue haired young man was still sleeping in his tent.


    Standing next to the sleeping youngster stood a blond haired girl.


    ¡®¡¯Will you please wake up.¡¯¡¯


    Shaking the youngster so that he would get up and start his day the maid started to concerned, and started to feel his pulse.


    ¡®¡¯Thank goodness you¡¯re still alive. Though how can you still be sleeping!¡¯¡¯


    Getting more and more agitated the blond maid started to lose her cool.


    ¡®¡¯You¡¯ll never get him up that way you know.¡¯¡¯


    Walking into the tent were Fubuki and Rentaro.


    ¡®¡¯Indeed if you want him to get up you need to use more aggressive methods.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Aggressive?¡¯¡¯


    Wondering what they would do the maid stepped aside from the sleeping youngster.


    ¡®¡¯Who¡¯s turn is it this time?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I woke him last time so the pleasure is all yours.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yeah, yeah I got it.¡¯¡¯


    As he said that Rentaro started walking towards the young man still vast asleep, not noticing the people that had gathered around him.


    ¡®¡¯You should take a step back.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Oh, okay.¡¯¡¯


    Listening to Fubuki¡¯s advice the maid to a step back, while wondering what the reason would be.


    ¡®¡¯Go easy on me okay.¡¯¡¯


    Clapping his hands together as if he were praying, Rentaro stood before the young man.


    As he closed his eyes Rentaro started to gather his strength, after which he immediately opened his eyes and released his blood lust.


    Feeling the blood lust directed at him the sleeping young man jumped up and grappled the source.


    ¡®¡¯Oi Kaze calm down and wake up.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing the voice of his friend Kaze noticed his friend lying beneath him.


    ¡®¡¯Huh? Ah, Rentaro I¡¯m sorry.¡¯¡¯


    Standing at the side line the maid started walking towards Kazehaya and Rentaro.


    ¡®¡¯¡­Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna, I guess I scared you didn¡¯t I?¡¯¡¯


    The maid standing with a blank look was Setsuna. Since two days she started working for Andor¡¯s sight as Kaze¡¯s maid. As her town was destroyed by bandits and she was fleeing for her life, Kaze and Andor¡¯s sight came to her rescue. Though this was the first time she had seen her master in such a fashion.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯ll make sure to be able to wake you up properly from now on.¡¯¡¯


    Being baffled by her words both Kaze and Fubuki gave of a soft smile, Rentaro on the other hand.


    ¡®¡¯Will you get off a me already!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sorry Rentaro I forgot all about you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯How mean!¡¯¡¯


    At those words everyone except for Rentaro started laughing.


    After changing his clothes Kaze stepped out of his tent where his friends were waiting.


    Outside both soldiers and villagers were walking across the camping grounds.


    When Andor¡¯s sight departed from the ruined town of Cina they took the villagers and the injured men from the Nivalis army with them.


    The plan was to take the villagers to the nearest town over, and the soldiers of Nivalis are to be taken back to join their respective army.


    But before any of that could happen the people had to refuel themselves.


    ¡®¡¯Alright everyone foods up.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing the call, people started gathering around the crockpots.


    ¡®¡¯Now no one cut in line alright. There¡¯s enough for everyone.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes, Setsuna.¡¯¡¯


    Though she had only joined Andor¡¯s sight two days ago, Setsuna was already a big influence in the army. Mainly due to the reason that everyone found her adorable.


    ¡®¡¯Looks like she feels right at home, eh Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes it does my heart good to see her happy. Plus her skills are incredible.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Indeed this food is exquisite, though she has only been thought yesterday she already is able to tend to armor and perfectly perform first aid.¡¯¡¯


    Staring at Kaze with a sour face Rentaro was quietly eating his food.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    Noticing his intense aura Kaze and Fubuki looked over to him.


    ¡®¡¯R-Rentaro I¡¯m really sorry about what happened earlier.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze was of course referring to him grappling Rentaro on the floor when he was still half-asleep.


    Slamming his hand on the table Rentaro rebutted Kaze¡¯s apology.


    ¡®¡¯Why¡­ why are you the one who got such a cute maid.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­Eh?¡¯¡¯


    The tension that was building was quickly knocked down when Rentaro opened his mouth.


    ¡®¡¯It isn¡¯t fair, even though you¡¯re younger than me, you get such a cute maid to tend to your every desire.¡¯¡¯


    Cold air was in the air as Kaze and Fubuki¡¯s faces turned white from fear.


    ¡®¡¯Huh what¡¯s wrong with you guys?¡¯¡¯


    As he felt a strong urge to kill coming from behind him Rentaro held his breath, though he wanted to he was unable to turn around.


    ¡®¡¯Rentaro will you please stay still while I crush that bug in your hair.¡¯¡¯


    Finally turning around Rentaro saw Setsuna with an eerie smile on her face, looking at her hands he saw what looked like a hammer.


    ¡®¡¯S-S-Setsuna w-what are you going to do with that hammer?¡¯¡¯


    While maintaining her smile Setsuna raised her other hand to her mouth as to act cutely.


    ¡®¡¯It told you did I not. I¡¯m going to crush a bug.¡¯¡¯


    Seeing this side of Setsuna neither of the youngsters could utter a sound.


    ¡®¡¯Hahaha, it sure is nice to be young isn¡¯t it.¡¯¡¯


    Cutting the tension with just his presence was Skald, walking towards the bunch.


    ¡®¡¯Setsuna though Rentaro has a big mouth from time to time he has a good heart, I¡¯m sure he meant no harm with it.¡¯¡¯


    Slowly nodding Setsuna handed over the hammer to Skald.


    ¡®¡¯Though I don¡¯t mind if something of the like happened between you and Kazehaya.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡®¡¯Captain!¡¯¡¯¡¯¡¯


    Both Kaze and Setsuna shouted at their leader, while their faces turned red.


    After saying those words Skald took his leave while laughing maniacally.


    Unable to look at each other Fubuki broke the silence.


    ¡®¡¯Though I have to say Setsuna, I didn¡¯t think you would have such a side to you.¡¯¡¯


    Still trying to hide her embarrassment Setsuna decided to tell them about her different side.


    ¡®¡¯Well I grew up in bar, and sometimes you¡¯d have to deal with troublesome costumers. I basically learned how to deal with them in such a fashion by watching my father. Though he often got scolded afterwards for being too rough by my mother.¡¯¡¯


    Having regained his composure Kaze cleared his throat as he was to speak.


    ¡®¡¯Have you eaten breakfast yet Setsuna? If not why don¡¯t you join us.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes I¡¯ll do just as you said.¡¯¡¯


    Having a cute smile on her face Setsuna turned her back to the young men.


    As she took her leave everyone took a sigh of relief.


    ¡®¡¯I thought I was a goner there for a few seconds.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Although I have to say I¡¯m relieved.¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro and Fubuki stared at each other for a few seconds before opening their mouth.


    ¡®¡¯Relieved?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes, when she asked to join Andor¡¯s sight I thought she would be unable to adapt to this lifestyle. Seeing her like that made me feel a sense of relief.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing Kaze¡¯s reasoning his friends each started to smile.


    After a few minutes Setsuna returned, after which they all started sharing stories with each other.


    It had now turned to the middle of the day.


    Andor¡¯s sight had just arrived at the town of Laris, here they would leave the former citizens of Cina. The Kingdom of Nivalis was to send support to aid in the building of new homes. This was the way Nivalis would help its citizens in times of need.


    Before leaving Skald was called out by an elderly man.


    ¡®¡¯Excuse me sir Skald?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Mayor is everything alright.¡¯¡¯


    The man standing before Skald was the former mayor of Cina.


    ¡®¡¯As representative of the people of Cina I would like to once again offer my thanks for everything you have done.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯You don¡¯t need to thank me for anything, I¡¯m just following the rules of Andor¡¯s sight.¡¯¡¯


    As the old man smiled he and Skald shook hands both went their own way.


    Finally departed from the people of Cina, Andor¡¯s sight task now was to join up with the army of Nivalis.


    In order to take the head of Gandor, the great commander of the bandits, all four armies were to surround the mountains in which the bandits had hidden themselves.


    But due to the massive attack on Cina, the second army was unable to perform in the upcoming battle.


    The second armies objective had because of this changed to escorting the captured bandits back to the kingdom of Nivalis.


    Not knowing the results of the other battles, Andor¡¯s sight was to go towards the rendezvous point for the Nivalis army, as fast as possible.


    As for the soldiers who were left behind they would for the time being remain with Andor¡¯s sight until the mission was over.


    By the time night fell Skald and his men had arrived at the rendezvous point.


    Looking around at the soldiers one could see that moral was quite low, if things remained like this a battle would end in an utter failure.


    After finding the supreme commanders tent Skald ordered his men to go set up camp, before Skald entered the tent he gave his orders.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze, Victor you two come with me. Renzo, Hiro could you take care of the soldiers for a little while.¡¯¡¯


    Getting fired up Renzo and Hiro nodded towards Skald.


    ¡®¡¯Leave it to us boss.¡¯¡¯


    While entering the tent Kaze thought to himself why he was chosen to take part in the meeting instead of his superiors.


    But his thoughts did not last long as he found multiple people looking in his direction.


    The man standing at the head of the table made his way towards Skald, though not as buff as Skald he made up for it with his terrifying face. As he opened his mouth tension in the tent dropped significally.


    ¡®¡¯Good seeing you again Skald.¡¯¡¯


    Seeing the two men shaking hands Kaze knew this wasn¡¯t the first time these two men had met.


    Similarly Victor had been met by multiple men, after saying his greeting to Skald the scary faced commander made his way towards Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯So you are Kazehaya huh, your old man has told me quite a lot about you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Hey Nimura don¡¯t suddenly approach my kid like that your face will scare him.¡¯¡¯


    Looking seriously hurt the man named Nimura hung his head in sadness.


    ¡®¡¯You sure know how to knock someone down Skald. Though it¡¯s good to see you haven¡¯t changed since last time.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Well then Kazehaya let me introduce you to my old friend Nimura, though he has a scary face he is a gentle man. And he is our commander for the remainder of the mission.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It seems as if both father and Victor know everyone here.¡¯¡¯


    Being preoccupied while chatting with everyone Skald and Victor did not notice what Kaze had said, instead Nimura was the one to answer.


    ¡®¡¯Andor¡¯s sight has been working with the kingdom of Nivalis for a few decade¡¯s even before your father was their leader. So naturally we maintain a good relation between each other. ¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I didn¡¯t even know Andor¡¯s sight was that old, guess there still are a lot of things I don¡¯t know.¡¯¡¯


    Seeing Kaze¡¯s mood deteriorating, Nimura padded him on the back as to say don¡¯t worry about it.


    After getting introduced to everyone Nimura walked back to the head of the table.


    Gathering around the table were the respective commanders of each army along with Skald were Victor and Kazehaya.


    Now that everyone had arrived Nimura decided to begin strategy meeting.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯ll get right to it, after the bandits sudden attacks our armies have taken serious damage. Together with Andor¡¯s sight our number are about 1500 men. Meaning that we have lost about half our forces, to make matters worse the second army is unable to participate. Were it not for you Skald, we would be in a much worse situation.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Let¡¯s leave the compliments for when we¡¯re out of this mess, now that we know our numbers, what about our enemies?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Their original number consisted of 2000 men, now it¡¯s been reduced to somewhere in the 1000 range. Though they too have lost half their men it is significally less than our losses. Our enemies are also incredibly well trained¡¯¡¯


    Skald raised a question due to what happened during his fight.


    ¡®¡¯Nimura have there been any abnormalities in the previous battles?¡¯¡¯


    Seeing Nimura¡¯s face turn white confirmed Skald¡¯s thoughts.


    ¡®¡¯So there are still more ogres huh?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It is as you say, it took about 100 men just to kill one of them.¡¯¡¯


    100 men for just one ogre! I don¡¯t even want to think about what we would have done if father wasn¡¯t there.


    ¡®¡¯Our battle will take place over here.¡¯¡¯


    Pointing at an area hidden between mountains Nimura announced the battle plan.


    Whether they would be victorious seemed to depend entirely depend on Skald¡¯s presence. Otherwise a large number of soldiers would be sacrificed.


    I won¡¯t let father carry this burden on his own. This time I¡¯ll make sure to make myself useful.

 Chapter 7: A new dawn approaches

    The moon and the stars were hidden behind the clouds, as the strategy meeting was coming to an end.


    Though it was a particularly cold spring night, the thick cloaks of the tent kept out the harsh winds.


    ¡®¡¯Nimura, have you sent word about the battles back to Nivalis yet?¡¯¡¯


    The man who called out to the commander was Skald leader of Andor¡¯s sight and a commander in the bandit subjugation.


    After taking some time to think, Nimura set his sights on Skald.


    ¡®¡¯The moment we came into contact with the ogres, I had sent out a messenger towards the capital. But seeing as the capital is too far off to request back up, I also sent some towards nearby noble men. There also is another army that should be about two days east of here, so we¡¯ve requested back up from them as well.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Have you received word back yet?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Though none of the noblemen were able to assist us, we got confirmation from the eastern army that they are sending five hundred men. Amongst them would be an immensely strong blessed soldier.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯They had someone like that to spare, huh.¡¯¡¯


    Skald narrowed his eyes as if he were in disbelief, as to which Kaze started thinking back about the battle of a few days ago.


    ¡®¡¯When will they arrive?¡¯¡¯


    Breaking Kaze¡¯s thoughts Skald asked an important question.


    ¡®¡¯Tomorrow probably in the midday, so until then we¡¯ll need to fend for ourselves.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Then I¡¯ll ask one more question and then keep my mouth shut. Who is their leading commander¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­I¡¯ll tell you the exact same thing the messenger told me. You¡¯ll know as soon as you see him.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Must be some big shot then, if they¡¯re that confident we know him.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Indeed, and with that the meeting is now over. Everyone get back to your respective army and begin preparations for battle.¡¯¡¯


    With that Skald, Victor and Kaze went to the grounds were they had set up camp.


    When they arrived at their camp they were greeted by Hiro and Renzo, Skald and Victor gave them the run through of the meeting.


    Kaze had at this point gone his separate way, so to get his thoughts in order.


    If reinforcements are on time it¡¯ll be a fight of one thousand against two thousand. Plus the existence of another blessing user will shift the battle into our favor. But we can¡¯t take too long to start the battle, otherwise the bandits might try and do something again. So in this case the battle will start with one thousand versus fifteen hundred. Even with our numeral difference the bandits have to advantage of knowing the geographical layout. From the intel it is clear that we¡¯ll enter at the eastern side of the mountain. Seeing as this is the only place that will allow the entire army to pass through without much of a delay.


    There has to be something that we could use to our advantage. Something I can do with the information that we had.


    ¡®¡¯Kazehaya!¡¯¡¯


    Noticing Rentaro, Fubuki and Setsuna standing next to him, Kaze felt a slight shock.


    ¡®¡¯How long have you been standing there?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯About two minutes man, we¡¯ve been calling you out for a while now.¡¯¡¯


    Seeing as his friends were clearly worried Kaze tried to calm them down.


    ¡®¡¯Sorry for making you worry about me, though this might come at a good time.¡¯¡¯


    Turning their faces towards each other with a questioning expression, Kaze began to talk about the meeting.


    ¡®¡¯I see, those are quite some serious reasons to be worried. Have you thought of any counter measures yet?¡®¡¯


    Kaze¡¯s silence was enough for Fubuki to know that this was not the case.


    ¡®¡¯Would the bandits stagger if we suddenly had more forces?¡¯¡¯


    It was obvious that Setsuna knew very little about, how things went on the battlegrounds.


    ¡®¡¯With the additional number of forces we would have twice their numbers. Even so I don¡¯t think they¡¯ll be frightened, seeing as they know every nook and cranny of the mountains.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze looked at the sky, wondering if there was anything that he had forgotten over the course of the past few days.


    ¡®¡¯But still I gotta say, that Gandor seems like a pretty amazing strategist.¡¯¡¯


    Feeling as if he were struck by lightning Kaze remembered, the existence of the man Gandor. Though he knew of the man and his terrible deeds, he also knew of his habits. Most noticeably he was a particularly cruel man, who finds joy in the misery of others.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡®¡¯Guys I think I have an idea, will you hear me out?¡¯¡¯


    Nodding to their friend, Kaze explained his plan.


    ¡®¡¯Have you lost your mind!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯This is plan is simply pure madness.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kaze, didn¡¯t you say you wouldn¡¯t do anything rash.¡¯¡¯


    Each of his friends made their thoughts heard holding no regards towards Kaze¡¯s feelings.


    ¡®¡¯I know that it¡¯s extremely dangerous, but if we are able to pull it off, we¡¯ll be able to turn the tides in battle.¡¯¡¯


    Putting his hand against his head Fubuki processed Kaze¡¯s plan.


    ¡®¡¯This would certainly be able to work out greatly to our profits.¡¯¡¯


    Not believing what he heard Rentaro furiously stomped his foot.


    ¡®¡¯Fubuki you can¡¯t seriously agree with this!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Calm down and think logically for a minute. If reinforcements don¡¯t arrive within a certain time span, we¡¯ll be overpowered by the ogres and bandits alike.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯That¡¯s why we have captain Skald for right.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze quickly knocked down his statement.


    ¡®¡¯While it¡¯s true that the captain would be able to make quick work of the ogres, he will not be able to keep it up for a long time. There is also the distance problem, unlike last time the ogres won¡¯t be grouped together. Which would make finding the right time to use his ability troublesome. So the best option we would have left is stall for time. I know this is asking for a lot, but I would like your assistance.¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro started moaning as if he were in excruciating pain.


    ¡®¡¯Alright fine, I¡¯ll help you out. Better than letting you do it by yourself.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Rentaro, thank you.¡¯¡¯


    The three young men were now on the same wavelength, though Setsuna hung her head in displeasure.


    Seeing this Kaze placed his hand on her head and petted her lightly.


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t worry, this¡¯ll be our last resort. I¡¯ll do anything I can to not use it.¡¯¡¯


    Setsuna¡¯s mood immediately brightened up as Kaze reassured her.


    As Kaze looked at Setsuna¡¯s azure blue eyes, he felt himself getting flustered.


    Feeling a hand tightly grabbing onto his shoulder Kaze looked over at Rentaro who had a strangely peaceful look on his face.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze my friend, do you mind if I strangle you just a little.¡¯¡¯


    With a gentle smile the two young man started running, Kaze for his life and Rentaro to decompress his rage.


    ¡®¡¯There they go again, Setsuna mind giving me a hand?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Hehe I guess I¡¯m partly to blame for all of this. Rentaro please stop trying to kill Kazehaya!¡¯¡¯


    Meanwhile at the bandit camp.


    ¡®¡¯Bwahaha, I knew those idiots would end up losing, now pay up.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Dammit the one time he was actually doing work and this shit happens. Here¡¯s your damn money.¡¯¡¯


    Over at the bandit camp people were full of life, despite the fact that they had been pushed back into the mountains.


    Without a care in the world the bandits were eating, gambling and partying as if nothing had happened.


    ¡®¡¯Hey Seroku, you wanna go in on this bet?¡¯¡¯


    The man that was address as Seroku was the retainer of Gandor, though he is of an average build, he was able to wield a heavy spear with ease.


    Being able to wield such a destructive weapon has proven him a force to be reckoned with.


    ¡®¡¯Very well let¡¯s hear the bet.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯We¡¯re betting how many ogres those idiots will be able to take down, before they turn their tail and run. I¡¯m betting one ogre and this smart ass thinks they¡¯ll be able to take down two.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯So what will it be.¡¯¡¯


    Seroku closed his eyes and put his hand on his chin, he seemed like he was deep in thoughts.


    ¡®¡¯Alright then I pick five ogres.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡¯¡¯Huh?¡¯¡¯¡¯¡¯


    Both the bandits simultaneously let out a sound of disbelief.


    ¡®¡¯S-Seroku don¡¯t you think your overestimating them a lot.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yeah and aren¡¯t there only seven ogres left.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯You¡¯re right that there are only seven left, when my lord came here he came with a total of eleven ogres. But they seemed to be able to kill at least five of them with their previous numbers. So I don¡¯t think that I¡¯m overestimating them.¡¯¡¯


    The two bandits glanced at each other as Seroku turned his back towards them.


    ¡®¡¯Though there is also the chance that we¡¯ll be the once to draw the short end of the stick.¡¯¡¯


    With those words Seroku departed towards a tent three times the size of a normal tent.


    ¡®¡¯Hey boss, how are you holding up?¡¯¡¯


    Sitting in a big chair sat a man who seemed to be around the age of fifty.


    Due to his age his chestnut brown hair was slowly starting to turn grey.


    In his hand was a silver cup within it was a finely aged wine.


    ¡®¡¯You know Seroku they say a fine wine is just like a woman.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯The longer you keep them locked up the better?¡¯¡¯


    Gandor¡¯s good mood was quickly fading as Seroku opened his mouth.


    As he gave of a heavy sigh to express his stress, Seroku kept smiling like he had been the entire time.


    ¡®¡¯You really have a certain way with words don¡¯t you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯So I¡¯ve been told.¡¯¡¯


    Offering a seat to Seroku, Gandor started pouring him a glass of wine.


    ¡®¡¯Tell me how is the state of my men.¡¯¡¯


    When Gandor handed the cup to Seroku, he first took a whiff as to prepare himself for this delicacy.


    After gracefully having a taste of the wine, Seroku started explaining the armies state.


    ¡®¡¯Moral seems to be especially high after attacking those villages near here. Though we have lost about half of our men, about seventy percent of them were original bandits. The other thirty percent were men you brought with you, and of course five of your ogres.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Mhmm so they were able to go against that many of my men, not to forget my ogres as well.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯But it seems we have nothing to worry about, as long as we keep our soldiers fed and entertained they¡¯ll keep fighting.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Good, after we¡¯re done dealing with the Nivalis army, we¡¯ll recruit more people from the surrounding areas. When we¡¯re back on our feet, I¡¯ll show Lord Falak that he made the wrong move banishing me.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Though can you really blame him, after all each time your returned from the battlefield you had a new batch of slaves. What did you even do with them, did you sell them?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Only the men got sold, I kept the women for myself of course. Also don¡¯t think that you¡¯re innocent in all of this. Weren¡¯t you the one who kept setting fire to the houses we passed.¡¯¡¯


    The gentle smile which Seruko had kept until now, was gradually becoming more evil.


    ¡®¡¯Hehehe it¡¯s not like those lives were of any importance, they lived in enemy territory so I disposed of them. All I did was get rid possible future problems.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at his retainer, Gandor drank the last bit of his wine and stood up off his chair.


    ¡®¡¯The man who killed my precious little ogres will soon be upon us.¡¯¡¯


    The light of the torches which were inside the tent danced with Gandor¡¯s silhouette.


    Rising his hand he clenched it into a fist, due to the force he impaled the skin of his hand and started to bleed.


    ¡®¡¯I promise you this, you won¡¯t leave the mountains alive.¡¯¡¯


    Seruko glanced at his commander while still enjoying his wine.


    Show me more of what I saw that day commander. That fateful day when you killed everyone I knew, I yearn to see such beauty once more.


    Gandor walked out of his tent and looked over his men, as they were enjoying themselves.


    Next time you lose I won¡¯t accept it.


    With those thoughts Gandor grabbed onto his sword, which hung on his waist.


    I¡¯ll kill that blessing user with my own blade, even if I have to let each of you die in the process.


    Gandor was determined to kill Skald, even at the cost of his entire army.


    The dawn broke through the sky as the battle of Nivalis versus the bandits would begin.

 Chapter 8: Man鈥檚 determination

    *Click* *Clack*


    ¡®¡¯Alright, done.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kaze are you, oh you¡¯re already up.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze stood in his tent all armored up, fully energized to head into battle.


    ¡®¡¯And here I thought I would finally get the chance to wake you up.¡¯¡¯


    Setsuna¡¯s gentle smile greeted Kaze into a new morning.


    ¡®¡¯Sorry to ruin it for you, but I can¡¯t stay asleep today. Not knowing if the enemy might attack, I have to be ready at every given moment.¡¯¡¯


    Seeing Kaze¡¯s determination to fight made Setsuna¡¯s face turn slightly red.


    ¡®¡¯Well then shall we go?¡¯¡¯


    Nodding at Setsuna¡¯s remark Kaze stepped out of his tent, and after a hearty breakfast it was finally time to gather around the main army.


    On a quickly made podium, Nimura stood valiantly above his soldiers as he was about to speak.


    Rentaro who was standing next to Kaze was shacking in his boots.


    ¡®¡¯K-Kaze is that r-really our commander.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes he is, don¡¯t worry he¡¯s a really nice person.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze gave Rentaro a thumbs up to say everything¡¯s alright.


    ¡®¡¯Even if you say that.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Now, now Rentaro don¡¯t judge a book by its cover.¡¯¡¯


    Fubuki was lecturing Rentaro but when they looked at his face it was clear that he was doing the same.


    ¡®¡¯I don¡¯t think your one to talk right now Fubuki.¡¯¡¯


    After Kaze was done laughing at his friends, Nimura started to speak.


    ¡®¡¯Listen up men, today will be the final battle in the bandit subjugation. Our enemy is a former commander of Falak who goes by the name of Gandor. I¡¯m sure many of you already know of his deeds, so you can guess just how important this mission is. If we don¡¯t stop him here he will surely try to raise an army, and cause more destruction to Nivalis. Houses will be destroyed, fields will be burned and your family and friends will be either killed or sold off as slaves. Now I ask to each of you lend me your strength and protect your country, protect your family!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Raaahhh!¡¯¡¯


    Nimura had risen his soldiers moral to the point where the ground vibrated just from their battle cry.


    Proving to everyone present the reason why he had been chosen as head commander for this mission.


    The young men who were previously scared of his rough face, were now making their voices heard.


    This is the influence of a commander.


    Kaze looked up at Nimura with a sense of admiration, wondering if one day he would be in such a situation.


    After taking one hour to fully prepare, the Nivalis army headed towards the eastern mountain side.


    In the meantime the bandits had not shown themselves yet.


    After advancing further into the mountains Nimura dispatched a recon unit and set up base camp.


    Though he had already sent a recon unit yesterday night they were unable to spot the enemies.


    Due to the rough paths and dense woods inside the mountain range, and it being night time the recon unit were not able to make a lot of progress.


    To prevent a possible ambush from his enemies Nimura prayed for fortune.


    In the mean while Skald and the other commanders were called over to his tent.


    ¡®¡¯We still haven¡¯t heard any word about the enemies whereabouts. But at our current position we¡¯ll be able to keep a keep a close eye on our surroundings.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Be that as it may we still won¡¯t be able to take it easy.¡¯¡¯


    Skald being who he is wasn¡¯t afraid to talk back to his superior.


    Nimura quietly nodded as to agree with his statement, and again took up the conversation.


    ¡®¡¯If Gandor and his army finds us before we do them, they¡¯ll have the upper hand.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯And even if we are able to find them first there is still the possibility of an ambush, unless we scout out the entire area first.¡¯¡¯


    As tension rose in the room a voice could be heard from outside.


    ¡®¡¯Please allow me to talk to commander Nimura.¡¯¡¯


    The voice belonged to Kaze, after hearing him Nimura called out to the guards outside to let him in.


    ¡®¡¯Thank you for letting me in commander.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯What is this about Kaze?¡¯¡¯


    Nimura quickly got back to business, Kaze¡¯s presence of course raised questions for everyone in the room.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    ¡®¡¯I had a request regarding the upcoming battle.¡¯¡¯


    Everyone held their breath wondering as to what he could possibly ask.


    ¡®¡¯I know that there is a lot of uncertainty regarding the battle, so I have thought up of a counter action.¡¯¡¯


    Skald who was curious as to what his son thought up off asked him to explain.


    ¡®¡¯With the uncertainty of when our reinforcements will appear, we will be forced to keep the bandits at bay. Captain Skald being the only one who would be able to keep the ogres at bay, time would play a major factor. So I thought of a way to buy us more time if it were to be required.¡¯¡¯


    A pained expression started to grow on Skald¡¯s face.


    ¡®¡¯My plan is to disguise thirty soldiers as a group of merchants, knowing Gandor¡¯s personality he would most likely try and capture us.¡¯¡¯


    Tension rose on the faces of everyone present in the room.


    ¡®¡¯Hold on Kaze, what you are requesting is extremely risky.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯But if he is able to pull it off it could turn the tides of battle in our favor.¡¯¡¯


    The person who told Kaze the plan was dangerous wasn¡¯t his Skald but it was Nimura.


    Nimura himself looked at Skald when he had said that this plan could work out.


    ¡®¡¯Skald you can¡¯t seriously send your own son to use this kind of strategy.¡¯¡¯


    Nimura was unnaturally hostile towards Skald.


    But Skald answered with his usually logical and calm mind.


    ¡®¡¯On the battlefield we¡¯re not father and son, we¡¯re soldiers with each or own mission.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­you¡¯re right my apologies for speaking in such a manner.¡¯¡¯


    After calming themselves down Nimura and the other commanders started discussing Kaze¡¯s plan, before coming to a conclusion.


    ¡®¡¯Very well Kaze, select thirty soldiers who will be dispatched to your command. When to preform your operation will be all up to you.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze bowed down towards his superiors to express his gratitude.


    A few moments later the captain of the recon team had arrived, and gave his report.


    ¡®¡¯Sir we have found Gandor¡¯s camp at a distance of four kilometers from our current location. The area surrounding it is mostly and open plain with a few small forests around it. Other than that there were no strange movements from their side.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I see good work, take your men and get some rest for now.¡¯¡¯


    After the recon captain left the meeting resumed once more, this time Kaze joined in as well.


    For about ten minutes the meeting went on, after which a commotion could be heard.


    ¡®¡¯What is going on out there?¡¯¡¯


    Nimura questioned the sudden noises.


    ¡®¡¯Argh!¡¯¡¯


    A sudden scream could be heard outside of the tent, after hearing it everyone rushed outside.


    Setting their eyes upon the source of the sounds everyone held their breath, not being able to believe their eyes.


    ¡®¡¯T-That¡¯s.¡¯¡¯


    One of the commanders was unable to speak a proper sentence, so Skald finished it.


    ¡®¡¯That¡¯s an ogre.¡¯¡¯


    Beads of sweat started flowing down each of their faces.


    As the ogre crushed the head of a man between his teeth, blood of the dead soldier formed a pool around the floor.


    ¡®¡¯Argh!¡¯¡¯


    Now at the other side from where they were standing another scream could be heard.


    ¡®¡¯Waah, two of them!¡¯¡¯


    A terrible occurrence had happened, two ogres had somehow made their way into the Nivalis camp.


    Without taking a second to breathe Skald rushed over towards the closest ogre and muttered ¡®¡¯Blood of Titans¡¯¡¯.


    With a single slash of his axe carved the ogre in half, after which he immediately made his way towards the second one.


    After striking it down the soldiers were filled with joy and anxiety.


    ¡®¡¯Father did you just.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yeah, I used my blessing. I canceled it out immediately but it will still take a toll out of my body.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze¡¯s got an expression of fright on his face, as he knew now that Skald had used his blessing he won¡¯t be able to properly fight for quite a while.


    ¡®¡¯You made the right choice Skald, if you hadn¡¯t used it who knows how many losses we would have had.¡¯¡¯


    As things played out fifteen soldiers were killed by the ogres. Were it not for Skald the amount of casualties could have leapt up to a couple of hundred.


    ¡®¡¯Looks like we¡¯ve run out of time, assemble all soldiers, we¡¯re going to battle.¡¯¡¯


    Having been attack by two ogres Nimura decided to move out as soon as possible.


    Nivalis¡¯s army of about fifteen hundred versus Gandor¡¯s one thousand soldiers plus the five remaining ogres.


    Originally the plan was to take out the ogres using Skald¡¯s blessing. But due to the ogres which Gandor had sent he would now be in no state to use it without risking his life. Even if Skald would try to use it, everyone would do anything they can to stop him.


    Several minutes of traveling later the Nivalis army was met with Gandor¡¯s army.


    Nimura split up his forces in groups of three.


    The left wing and right wing both consisted of three hundred men, and the main force of about nine hundred.


    Gandor on the other hand seemed to keep most of his men together, except for about a hundred men who guarded the command post. It seemed he was confident that no one would come close to him.


    His ogres where kept in the back of his main army so that they are easily deployable, of course he kept one of them close to himself. The man who commanded Gandor¡¯s main force was Seroku, as he himself would rather save his strength for the final.


    The way up to Gandor¡¯s camp was up a steep hill, meaning that the bandits had a height advantage.


    Nimura looked at the enemy army with determination in his eyes.


    ¡®¡¯Feeling nervous or something Nimura.¡¯¡¯


    Calling out to Nimura was Skald, he and his forces were placed in the main army close to Nimura.


    ¡®¡¯Hehe, speak for yourself, sending your own child to do such a dangerous mission. I bet you are worried sick about him.¡¯¡¯


    A smile floated on Skald¡¯s face.


    ¡®¡¯My son won¡¯t fail, nor will he allow anyone under his command to perish.¡¯¡¯


    Nimura looked at Skald with a feeling of disbelief but also with joy.


    ¡®¡¯You sure are confident in his abilities.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Of course I am, he¡¯s my son after all.¡¯¡¯


    The two men made their way to the front of the army.


    ¡®¡¯Think you¡¯ll be able to keep up with me after what happened earlier?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Who do you think I am, even after using my blessing I¡¯ll still be ahead of you. Now how about we have our usual contest.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sure, how about loser has to take a bath in the middle of camp.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Do you really want to make your own men see you in such a state.¡¯¡¯


    After reaching the front of the army Nimura and Skald drew their weapon. Nimura pointed his sword towards Gandor¡¯s camp.


    ¡®¡¯Charge!¡¯¡¯


    -A few minutes earlier over at Kaze¡¯s group-


    Kaze and his men had arrived on the outskirts of the area. They were at a distance where neither friend nor foe could spot them, thanks to a set of small forest covering them.


    ¡®¡¯Alright from this position we¡¯ll have a good look at the battlefield.¡¯¡¯


    Alongside Kaze were his friends Rentaro and Fubuki along with twenty-eight other soldiers.


    ¡®¡¯I know this isn¡¯t the right time to say it but didn¡¯t you tell Setsuna that you wouldn¡¯t go through with this unless it was necessary?¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro still seemed a little skeptical using Kaze¡¯s plan.


    ¡®¡¯Thanks to those ogres earlier it was already decided that the plan was a go. Now that captain Skald is unable to use his blessing, all we can do is stall until reinforcements appear.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Quite, now come along then, we¡¯ll need to keep a close watch and decide when to strike.¡¯¡¯


    Clouds of dust could be seen appearing in the distance.


    They¡¯ve started, stay focused, don¡¯t miss any change in formation. The moment we decide to engage could turn the tides of battle.


    ¡®¡¯But I still don¡¯t get it Kaze, how will taking away a few men change the battle. I get the whole buying time part, but how will such a small change have an impact.¡¯¡¯


    Even though Fubuki was the first to agree with Kaze¡¯s plan he couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of agreement in Rentaro¡¯s words.


    ¡®¡¯Gandor will not take regular soldiers out of battle, he¡¯ll use the reserves he kept close to him because he is confident. When he does this his defenses will thin out and provide an opening to attack.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Wait a second do you mean.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯We¡¯re not just trying to distract him, we¡¯re trying to take him out with this. When he dispatches a group to come after us the commander will send out a separate group to go directly after Gandor.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯And if that is done all we need to do is take out the ogres?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Exactly, hopefully we¡¯ll have bought enough time for reinforcements to arrive. All we can do now is wait for our moment to come.¡¯¡¯

 Chapter 9: The will to live

    The sun had reached its peak as Nimura and Skald lead the attack towards Gandor¡¯s army.


    Without having the possibility to take out their most dangerous foes they would have to work to defeat as many soldiers as possible.


    ¡®¡¯My, my aren¡¯t you all eager to die.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sir, the enemy is approaching fast, please give us your commands.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯S-Sir Seroku shouldn¡¯t.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Silence!¡¯¡¯


    While still in the middle of his sentence Seroku grabbed the face of the man next to him and threw him of his horse. After hitting the ground everyone around Seroku started to mumble as they looked over at the man on the ground.


    Not paying any attention to his men Seroku continued to look at the approaching Nivalis army.


    ¡®¡¯¡­There you are.¡¯¡¯


    After a few seconds off looking at his approaching foes he set his sight on Skald. A fire started to burn in Seroku¡¯s eyes, he decided beforehand that he would be the one to kill Skald. Just the thoughts of the his upcoming fight made Seroku float a terrifying smile on his face.


    Holding out his spear Seroku started advancing towards the Nivalis army, with his men following him.


    Closer, closer let my spear pierce you!


    At the moment the two armies clashed a spear was thrust from Skald¡¯s right side.


    He made his horse skillfully avoid it, and with a strike of his axe knocked it back to its wielder.


    ¡®¡¯Oh ho, not bad, though it would be disappointing if that was all it would take to bring you down.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Those are quite some skills you¡¯ve got there, being able to wield such a heavy spear so gracefully would take a lot of practice. Though it¡¯s unfortunate that you¡¯re not the one I¡¯m looking for so I can¡¯t spend too much time on you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Now there¡¯s no need to leave in such a hurry, after all you are the one I¡¯ve been looking for.¡¯¡¯


    Skald clenched the handle of his axe as he looked at Seroku¡¯s eyes. Seroku looked like a starving animal who had cornered its prey, he was determined to test Skald to the best of his skills until he would kill him.


    Meanwhile the leftwing army was trying to flank the bandits from their side. But this was to no success, as the sides were covered by heavy units.


    ¡®¡¯Damn, arrow won¡¯t penetrate those shields and we can¡¯t get any closer, or we¡¯ll be the once getting shot.¡¯¡¯


    Nivalis was known for fostering some of greatest archers in the world, thus they would be able to attack the bandits without being under fire themselves.


    But even though the Bandits were fewer in number they made up with by having greater weapons and armor. Though even in the wrong hands these would be unable to bring out their full potential.


    ¡®¡¯Tell the commander of our situation, we won¡¯t be able to advance without reinforcements.¡¯¡¯


    Suddenly tremors could be heard coming from the bandits back army.


    ¡®¡¯Huh, do you hear that?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Look over there, something is coming at us with incredible speed.¡¯¡¯


    Bandits were jumping out of the way for the approaching animosity. Those who weren¡¯t able to get away were crushed under the staggering force.


    ¡®¡¯Shit looks like we drew the short end of the stick.¡¯¡¯


    Breaking it¡¯s way through the bandit army was an ogre, though one couldn¡¯t tell the expression on its face everyone could tell he was famished.


    Terror struck the hearts of allies and foes alike, normally the ogre would be handled by at the least ten men. But right now it was free, the fact that it hadn¡¯t attack the bandit army from within was nothing short of a miracle.


    Saliva dripping from its mouth the ogre set his eyes on the people in front of him. The beast cold stare pierced through the soldiers very soul.


    ¡®¡¯Eh? ¡­Ahhh!¡¯¡¯


    As the ogre drew closer it started to break into sprint, doing so caused fear to take over the Nivalis soldiers. Multiple people soiled themselves while looking at the approaching threat.


    Some people ran away while others prepared their weapons. Standing in the back of the army were archers who readied their arrows, though they weren¡¯t regular arrow heads. They were called bodkin points, though it has a simple form they are known for having incredible penetrating capabilities.


    While they would be reserved for the heavily armored bandits, the leftwing commander decided that this would be of better use.


    Ordering his men to retreat to the back of the army the archers took aim.


    Seeing the dispersing soldiers the ogre grew weary, but it did not slow down its pace. After the soldiers got out of the ogres sight he finally stood in front of a squad of archers. The cavalry had led the ogre to about one hundred meters towards the archers, making well within their range.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Standing in the middle of the archers was the leftwing commander who had made his way to the front of the army. He was holding his hand up and made a motion to signal the attack.


    After the commander gave his signal all archers released their arrow. The arrows gave off a high pitched air cutting sound as it flew towards its target.


    *Thunk, thunk, thunk.*


    A silence fell on the battlefield, neither the bandits nor the Nivalis soldiers dared to make a move as they look over at the ogre.


    Its entire body was covered with arrows. The large shadow of the ogre appeared motionlessly on the ground. Unlike previous times when the arrows would just scrape it¡¯s skin the arrows this time were able to penetrate the flesh.


    ¡®¡¯Uuuugh.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing the ogres prolonged groan the soldiers knew that he was releasing its dying breath.


    After having finished releasing its last breath the its body fell onto the cold earth.


    Unlike last time, this time we were prepared. No matter how though its skin is, there is nothing in existence that can¡¯t be broken.


    ¡®¡¯Attack!¡¯¡¯


    Not wasting a single second the commander made his troops advance.


    Making use of the hysteria that the bandits had lost an ogre was the breakthrough they had been waiting for. But even so they had used nearly all their bodkin arrows, so they had to strike while the irons hot. Before the bandits were able to pick themselves up.


    ¡®¡¯Looks like things are going well, we might not even need to fight after all Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­Don¡¯t get your hopes up yet, you heard the reports from the other armies right? Even before using their ogres they were able to hold up well against our army.¡¯¡¯


    Pointing towards the battlefield Kaze started to lecture Rentaro.


    ¡®¡¯Even though the leftwing is able to make a little headway, the bandits already reformed themselves and are starting to push back. While the middle and rightwing army have been at a complete stand still since ever since we started the battle. We might have the numeral advantage but they are able to keep us at bay.¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro¡¯s mind was working on overtime trying to figure out why they weren¡¯t having the upper hand.


    ¡®¡¯But our leftwing was able to push forward wasn¡¯t it?¡¯¡¯


    Kaze shook his head at Rentaro¡¯s thoughts.


    ¡®¡¯Though there was a slight change in the flow of battle it was almost immediately changed back. The leftwing commander did something that changed the flow but it wasn¡¯t enough to make any significant impact. Even if he were to try it again it would end in the same results.¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro¡¯s face grew more sour the more Kaze explained why they weren¡¯t winning.


    ¡®¡¯So what you¡¯re saying is there are people commanding them so well that no matter what we do we can¡¯t get anywhere.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Exactly, whether we¡¯ll be able to win depends on how fast we can defeat those commanders.¡¯¡¯


    At this point Fubuki decided to join their conversation, with a worrisome look on his face.


    ¡®¡¯It seems the tides have turned once again, look at the rightwing.¡¯¡¯


    Every soldier present turned the way Fubuki told them to look.


    ¡®¡¯What the hell is going on!¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro was unable to restrict his rage. The rightwing was getting completely pushed back.


    What they didn¡¯t know was that in the commotion of battle two ogres had steadily approached the Nivalis army.


    When they had arrived at the front of the army the bandits had started to retreat, leaving the ogres to fend for themselves. Though the Nivalis army had prepared special weapons to fend them off, at such close range they were unable to put these to use. Resulting in the rightwing needing to retreat.


    ¡®¡¯Shit, Kaze we need to go right now!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kaze what is there even to think about, people are dying out there!¡¯¡¯


    Kaze managed to keep a calm composure though things were taking a turn for the worse.


    ¡®¡¯Even if we canceled our plan thirty soldiers won¡¯t have even the slightest impact on the battlefield. Right now all we can do¡­¡¯¡¯


    Stopping in the middle of his sentence confused Rentaro which strangely seemed to calm him down.


    ¡®¡¯We¡¯re going.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Huh?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯We¡¯re going, our mission starts now!¡¯¡¯


    Though no one understood the reason behind it they all obeyed Kaze¡¯s command.


    Heading towards their horses and carriage Kaze was determined to turn the tides of battle.


    After a few minutes a messenger arrived and gave his report to Gandor.


    ¡®¡¯Sir almost everything is going according to your plan, one of the ogres was sacrificed to give them a false sense of accomplishment. And the enemies rightwing is being pushed back as we are speaking. Though the main battle is keeping us at bay, sir Seroku will certainly be able to defeat them without a doubt.¡¯¡¯


    Sweat was beading up on the forehead of the messenger after he was awaiting his master¡¯s response.


    When Gandor assigned Seroku to lead the main army he expected him to make fast work of their enemies. Since no one else held greater military strength after Gandor than Seroku. And now hearing that they were able to keep him from advancing made Gandor¡¯s previous mood turn into anger.


    ¡®¡¯Unless there is anything else to report get out of my sight.¡¯''


    After Gandor turned his back the messenger started to speak once again.


    ¡®¡¯This might not be of any importance to you sir, but our scouts have found a group of merchants passing through the mountains. They appear to be loaded with goods.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing this news Gandor floated an evil smile, and called out to one of his men.


    ¡®¡¯Take fifty soldiers of my soldiers and capture half of those merchants, and take an ogre with you to feed the other half too.¡¯¡¯


    Anxiety floated on the face of the man who was assigned to be the leader for this task.


    ¡®¡¯Sir taking men from your command post is one thing but to depart your ogre as well, I beg you to reconsider your decision.¡¯¡¯


    It seemed that Gandor did not appreciate the back talk from a lowly soldier. For when the soldier had finished speaking veins started to pop up on Gandor¡¯s face.


    ¡®¡¯Do you dare to defy me! Do not forget that I am the one who allowed you to live when Falak turned their back on you!¡¯¡¯


    The words Gandor spoke were only partly true. It was true that he and his soldiers were banished from Falak it was all due to Gandor¡¯s orders. But there was no one who dared to defy him, for those who defied his orders awaited a fate worse than death.


    ¡®¡¯Y-Yes sir I¡¯ll make preparations right away.¡¯¡¯


    Mere minutes had passed since Kaze and his men had started their separate mission.


    They were moving at a slow pace so as to not draw suspicion onto themselves.


    As they left the mountain path, Kaze¡¯s group entered a forest area, the paths leading forwards were wide enough for carts to pass through.


    While going into the woodlands multiple horses could be seen approaching. Among them was a creature which was nearly twice the size of a full grown man.


    ¡®¡¯It seems they¡¯ve gotten on to us, they might be about twice our number not to forget they even brought an ogre with them.¡¯¡¯


    With worried expression the soldiers continued forwards, even those with many years of experience ran in the face of this beast.


    ¡®¡¯Keep pushing forwards, Fubuki are you ready to prepare the fire arrows?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯At your command.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Good, Rentaro how¡¯s the cart looking?¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro gave a thumbs up to signal everything was alright.


    ¡®¡¯Just tell me when to drop it.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze glanced at the men he had brought along. Though only half of them belonged with Andor¡¯s sight he was determined to bring everyone back alive.


    ¡®¡¯Remember if they get to close to the cart we won¡¯t be able to release it properly and we¡¯ll need to fight for our lives. If this happens I can¡¯t guarantee that each of you will get out of here alive.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze had pondered about this plan ever since he first came into contact with the first ogre.


    Thus he placed all his hopes on this, the men who had heard its full detail also decided to place their fate in Kaze.


    This time I¡¯ll make sure to be of use to everyone.

 Chapter 10: New objective

    ¡®¡¯Remember Gandor¡¯s orders, we are to take half of the back alive and take any supplies the have with them back.¡¯¡¯


    Gandor¡¯s men were a mere two hundred meters away from Kaze¡¯s team.


    Looking back at the oncoming threat Rentaro called out to Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Hey Kaze isn¡¯t it time we let go of the cargo?!¡¯¡¯


    His voice was tinged with a slight fear, being the one closest to the action even he who would normally charge head in first without a plan felt a slight fear in this situation.


    But even so he knew Kaze¡¯s desire and kept doing as he was told.


    ¡®¡¯Just a little more, when they get within a hundred meters be ready to release the cart. Archers be ready with the fire arrows at any time, make sure they don¡¯t notice them or they might grow suspicious.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡¯¡¯Right!¡¯¡¯¡¯¡¯


    Even though Kaze and his men were in one of the most dangerous positions in this battle, morale was high with the soldiers.


    ¡®¡¯¡­Not yet.¡¯¡¯


    Sweat was forming on the youngsters forehead making his dark blue hair stick to his skin.


    ¡®¡¯Release it!¡¯¡¯


    At his command Rentaro release the cart from his horse. As Rentaro dropped the cart, flaming arrows started flying towards it when the cart was just ahead of Gandor¡¯s men.


    Which caused confusion to arise on their enemies side, their leader had could not think of a reason why they would light their cargo on fire.


    Perhaps they did not want it to fall in Gandor¡¯s hands, but to create fire arrows under these conditions seemed plain foolish.


    Gandor¡¯s men were all within a few meters of the cart, as Kaze looked back he thought ¡®¡¯I could not have asked for a better result.¡¯¡¯ and floated a smile.


    *BWOOM*


    After the fire reached the contents of the crates the cart suddenly blew up.


    Before the Nivalis army had departed for battle Kaze made a request from Skald.


    ¡®¡¯Father do you still remember our original plan the smoke out the bandits?¡¯¡¯


    Skald tilted his head and started scratching his face as he reminisced to a few days back.


    ¡®¡¯Ah, yes I remember now, you wanted to use fireworks and fires to smoke out the bandits.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze nodded to confirm that Skald was right.


    ¡®¡¯I would like to request the remaining fireworks.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Very well, I guess this is part of your strategy as well so take everything we have.¡¯¡¯


    Skald agreed to give Kaze what he wanted without needing any further details.


    After he received the fireworks Kaze along with Rentaro and Fubuki started taking out their explosive contents, and put them in crates along with small rocks.


    The crates were loaded onto the cart, it was now a destructive weapon for anything within its range.


    Even if they weren¡¯t within this range the blast would be strong enough to incapacitate them.


    Kaze and his men held their breath as the smoke started to clear.


    What lay before them were the corpses of at least forty soldiers, though was not what was most important to them.


    ¡®¡¯What is the state of the ogre?¡¯¡¯


    Fubuki raised a question which was on everyone¡¯s mind. The ogre which could not be defeated by normal means still stood on its feet.


    ¡®¡¯Archer prepare to fire!¡¯¡¯


    Kaze did not waste a single second, because he knew that if this beast got to close everyone would die.


    Though all they could hope for was to slow the beast down.


    But as they were clear to fire the ogre¡¯s massive body fell to the earth.


    As it was standing right behind the cart as it exploded it was unimaginable that it would have survived.


    Having completed their mission the soldiers raised their weapons and cheered with joy.


    Kaze now stood out even more than previously, the old knights who were with them let their admiration been known to the youngster less than half their age.


    But they could not stay this way for too long, as the battle was still ongoing.


    ¡®¡¯Now that we have completed our distraction we are going to rejoin the main army and begin our counter attack. If Gandor acted as predicted his defenses should have thinned out.¡¯¡¯


    Meanwhile in the distance they see a group of soldiers approaching.


    Initially Kaze¡¯s soldiers were filled with shock seeing an unknown group of soldiers where there were supposed to be none.


    As they got closer tension rose in the air.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    When the unknown soldiers had arrived a man in flashy silver armor approached Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯You really saved us the trouble of finding you kid.¡¯¡¯


    Still being warry of these unknown men everyone kept their weapons out.


    But after looking over the soldiers Kaze saw something reassuring.


    ¡®¡¯Those banners, they¡¯re¡­¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes we are from Nivalis, as per your request five hundred men ready for combat. I am acting as the leading commander of these men.¡¯¡¯


    The armor which they were wearing was a combination of dark blue and red, the banner which fluttered in the wind was of a white wolf.


    The white wolf of Nivalis symbolized vigor and determination.


    ¡®¡¯Would you be the blessing user we heard of?¡¯¡¯


    Kaze had wondered this since he this man¡¯s armor seemed flashier than the others.


    Due to the helmet he was wearing none of Kaze¡¯s men knew who he was.


    ¡®¡¯That I am, but you somehow seem familiar.¡¯¡¯


    To answer this man Kaze followed proper etiquettes.


    ¡®¡¯My name is Kazehaya I am a mercenary of Andor¡¯s sight, our mission was to distract or enemies in order for them to drop their guard.¡¯¡¯


    A slight pause was between the two men before the flashy commander broke the silence.


    ¡®¡¯¡­Hahaha no wonder you remind me so much of him. But we¡¯ll have enough time to talk after this battle is done. Now let us depart the battle is still heavily underway, now then everyone follow me. There is no time to waste.¡¯¡¯


    At those words Kaze and his men started following next to the flashy commander.


    I wonder just who this man is, he seems to know father and me as well.


    -A few minutes earlier on the main battlefield.-


    While people were still wondering what that loud bang from a few minutes ago, the battle was going in full force once again.


    Nimura and his men, at the moment held a slight advantage over their opponents.


    Thanks to Skald keeping Seroku busy he was unable to kill any other soldiers.


    But Skald is unable to keep this pace up any longer, since the damage of using his blessing started to become noticeable.


    ¡®¡¯It has been a long time since I have fought against an opponent of your caliber. Though it pains me to say that I would not be able to defeat you at your full potential.¡¯¡¯


    A bit of grief could be heard in Seroku¡¯s voice but it almost instantaneously went back to his regular tone.


    ¡®¡¯Farewell Sir Skald.¡¯¡¯


    After those words Seroku trusted his spear towards Skald¡¯s chest.


    As it penetrated through his armor Nimura shouted out in shock


    ¡®¡¯Skald!¡¯¡¯


    Seroku was filled with ecstasy, but due to this he failed to notice one crucial detail.


    ¡®¡¯Nimura if you scream like that our soldiers will start to lose moral.¡¯¡¯


    Both Seroku and Nimura turned their head towards Skald looking at him with disbelief.


    After looking Skald over Seroku noticed why he was still alive.


    ¡®¡¯Hahaha no wonder I did not feel any resistance of flesh when I cut you, being able to use your blessing in that state, just what kind of monster are you!¡¯¡¯


    Seroku was more than pleased seeing his opponent push himself beyond his limit.


    Nimura on the other hand was concerned seeing his friend use that power.


    ¡®¡¯Skald undo your blessing, otherwise you will surely die!¡¯¡¯


    Skald started to cough up blood. He had already used his blessing to fend off the ogres in their camp, and now he was forced to use it to protect himself once again.


    Nimura expected that Skald would negate his blessing and retreat, but his did just the opposite of that.


    ¡®¡¯Raagh!¡¯¡¯


    Skald lifted his arm and swung it at Seroku with all his power.


    Unable to register what had happened Seroku was blown twenty meters backwards.


    Thankfully his reflexes took over and he protected himself with his spear.


    This action proved to work out greatly for Nimura and his man, when the bandits had seen their commander flying backwards many of them started to lose moral.


    Seroku¡¯s elite soldiers made sure that the soldiers would not back down, while others took Seroku to safety.


    ¡®¡¯Skald that¡¯s enough you have to stop now or your body won¡¯t hold up.¡¯¡¯


    But he was unable to hear Nimura, his pain was so intense that he started to lose of his senses.


    Al of the sudden a man put his hand on Skald¡¯s shoulder and said to him ¡®¡¯It¡¯s alright my friend, leave the rest to me.¡¯¡¯


    Afterwards Skald¡¯s blessing negated and he lost conciseness, but before that he muttered ¡®¡¯What took you so long you bastard.¡¯¡¯ and floated a light smile.


    The man who took care of Skald was the flashy commander who had made his way towards the main battlefield.


    Nimura had noticed that he was surrounded soldiers of Nivalis, though they did not seem to be his own.


    ¡®¡¯The reinforcements, when did they get here?¡¯¡¯


    The flashy commander turned to Nimura.


    ¡®¡¯Make sure you reward those youngsters, if it weren¡¯t for them we probably would not have gotten here on time.¡¯¡¯


    He was talking of Kaze who thanks to the explosion lead them towards him.


    ¡®¡¯Sir Nimura I bring with me four hundred thirty soldiers in peak condition.¡¯¡¯


    Nimura twisted his head to the flashy commanders words.


    ¡®¡¯Four hundred thirty did you not say that you would bring five hundred?¡¯¡¯


    Though it could not be seen the commander smiled beneath his helmet.


    ¡®¡¯I have sent some of my men on a special mission, do not worry they will certainly change the flow of this battle.¡¯¡¯


    They could not keep chatting for too long, Skald was taken back to camp, and Nimura went back to commanding his troops.


    The final two ogres had made their appearance as a last ditch effort to keep the battle on Gandor¡¯s side.


    The flashy commander turned towards them and started to chuckle.


    ¡®¡¯Mhmm, unlike griffins these won¡¯t even make for a good exercise. With this few people I can use it as much as I want without wondering if I am able to get out alive.¡¯¡¯


    The commander picked up his sword, inside the hilt of the word lay a sapphire.


    A sword like this should not be in the possession of a regular commander, a sword like this could only be obtained by someone with at least the rank of general.


    ¡®¡¯Goddess who hunts in the frozen heavens, let those who enter your kingdom feel the arctic chill of your enchanting bow, Skadi!¡¯¡¯


    Finishing his incantations the battlefield was covered with a cold wind. A small pixie covered by a blue light had appeared on the commanders solder just the size of his helmet.


    ¡®¡¯Geez why did you even call for me, you could have shot some icicles at him do you really expect to need this much power.¡¯¡¯


    The commander shrugged his shoulders at the pixie¡¯s comment.


    ¡®¡¯Firing those icicles always drains so much stamina, this way I¡¯ll be able to keep going for longer.¡¯¡¯


    The pixie started tugging at the helmet of the commander with irritation.


    ¡®¡¯What do you mean by that, maybe you won¡¯t get tired as much this way but this will take much more of you! Do you even think about your own health, summoning me will hurt you way more than using my power normally!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It¡¯s an annoying feeling getting tired without feeling anything else, I would rather feel as if I had been through the fight of my life anytime.¡¯¡¯


    The pixie started rubbing her temples as she could not understand his reasoning.


    ¡®¡¯Why did I ever form a contract with you.¡¯¡¯


    The commander smiled at those words and resumed with the battle.


    Kazehaya still had not met up with the main army, this was because he had gotten a new mission.


    It was given to him by the commander of the reinforcements.


    At the time the commander made this proposal Kaze immediately turned it down.


    But the commander would not take no for an answer.


    Now Kaze looked at his men who had increased from thirty to a hundred soldiers.


    They now stood behind their objective, one hundred men with Kaze leading them in the front.


    The mission they had gotten the most important task in the entire battle.


    They are to kill Gandor.


    ¡®¡¯Who would have thought that the situation would play out as such right Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯You can say that again, don¡¯t worry we¡¯ve got your back all the away.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze nodded towards his friends who were trying to reassure him.


    ¡®¡¯Thank you my friends, I¡¯ll make sure to finish our task successfully.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze drew his sword an lifted it up in the air for all his men to see.


    When he sung it down he and his men started their attack on Gandor¡¯s command post.


    Hearing commotion coming from behind them Gandor and his soldiers turned around to see an upcoming surprise attack.


    ¡®¡¯So you actually made it all the way here, but do not jest yourself your chance of winning is zero percent.¡¯¡¯


    While not wasting any time Gandor commanded his troops to intercept Kaze¡¯s.


    Gandor held just above fifty men, though Kaze¡¯s squad had twice their numbers Gandor was certain that he would come out victorious.

 Chapter 11: Youthful vigor

    A man with a just cause, and one who only helps himself. Each their own reason to fight for their cause.


    These two were mere seconds away from clashing, while both held their own reason to win neither wanted the other to survive.


    Standing on the edge of the cliff, looking over the battlefield was Gandor.


    Together with fifty of his most elite soldiers which he brought from Falak, each covered in full metal armor and noticeably sharp weapons.


    Behind Gandor¡¯s camp charging towards him was Kaze¡¯s squad of a hundred soldiers.


    Though the squad he originally came with was only wearing light armor so as to not seem suspicious for their earlier mission.


    There were also the seventy men brought from the Nivalis reinforcements, they were all covered from head to toe in metal armor.


    The layout of the terrain was in Kaze¡¯s benefit, having their enemies cornered with no way to run was a great opportunity for him.


    Not a single man was left behind in this battle even the archer were brought into close combat.


    Because Kaze knew, if Gandor were to survive this battle there would be no second time that such an opportunity would show itself.


    Swords clashed against spears, and spear against armor. Multiple men were cut down within the first clash of the two squad.


    Though they had a numeral advantage Kaze¡¯s squad had gotten the most damage done to his men.


    It was made clear what difference there was in experience between Gandor¡¯s men and Kaze¡¯s men.


    By no means were the men of Nivalis weak, but Gandor would allow no men who he deemed weak in his army. And because of this his elites were the best of the best.


    But that did not mean that they would give in to Gandor.


    At the second clash the battle turned into close combat, and the one who set their sights on Gandor were Kaze, Fubuki and Rentaro.


    Even before they had departed it was the commander of the reinforcements that Kaze was to bring down Gandor.


    Even though he thought this to be an impossible task, Rentaro and Fubuki told him that they would assist him in doing so.


    After which Kaze felt that he could no longer refuse this task.


    While the three young men were looking at their enemy, Gandor first spoke out to them.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯m impressed to see someone of such a young age make it all the way to my camp.''''


    No doubt that you are talented if you are able to lead an attack like this, so I¡¯ll make you a proposition. Become one of my men and I¡¯ll show you things beyond even your wildest dreams, I promise to take good care of you, as long as you are of use to me.¡¯¡¯


    And of course Kaze denied his offer immediately.


    ¡®¡¯Someone like you who only knows how to take a life will never be able give me what I desire. I shall never follow a man like you who would throw me away as soon as he deems me useless.¡¯¡¯


    To his words Rentaro and Fubuki turned to each other and smiled. Gandor¡¯s expression turned to anger hearing to youngsters rebuttal.


    ¡®¡¯Then this is as far as you shall go, now say your prayers!¡¯¡¯


    Gandor charged head first at Kaze as if he did not think this through.


    Noticing his odd behavior Fubuki knocked an arrow in his bow and his directly at Gandor¡¯s skull.


    Though he could have easily deflected the arrow, it seemed like Gandor let himself get hit.


    The arrow pierced through his skull dripping blood from the tip of the arrow head.


    His horse lost speed and eventually came to a complete stop.


    Not believing what had just happened the Nivalis men all stared at the struck down commander.


    But there was no sign of giving up in Gandor¡¯s men in fact they made use of this distraction to attack the Nivalis soldiers.


    Rentaro voiced out his concerns before everyone else could.


    ¡®¡¯Why aren¡¯t they stopping didn¡¯t we just kill their commander why are they still fighting?!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯That is because they know something of this caliber will never be able to kill me.¡¯¡¯


    The shock that this sentence gave was even more severe when they saw who it was coming from.


    ¡®¡¯Did you seriously expect that such a slow arrow would reach me if I tried to stop it?¡¯¡¯


    Normally Fubuki would be offended by such a remark, but at the moment his mind was preoccupied with something else.


    ¡®¡¯H-He¡¯s still alive, how that arrow should have destroyed your brain?!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Fubuki calm yourself down, if you start to panic now it¡¯ll mean the death of you!¡¯¡¯This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Kaze shouted at his friend to calm him down be even he was unable to remain his cool.


    ¡®¡¯Keeping your men from losing morale is a key factor in any battle, but if the commander shows any sign of fear so shall his men become frightened.¡¯¡¯


    Gandor spoke down to Kaze as he removed the arrow from his skull.


    ¡®¡¯Do you want to know why I am still standing?¡¯¡¯


    The youngsters looked at the man who should be dead, although he said, ¡®¡¯do you want to know¡¯¡¯ they had already guessed what it could be.


    ¡®¡¯Gods elixir that is my blessing, it allows me to take any injury and walk away as if nothing happened. Beautiful is it not, the perfect blessing for any soldier.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯So what you¡¯re saying is that you¡¯re practically immortal.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze said with a pained expression.


    But Gandor rebutted his statement.


    ¡®¡¯Though I say that I can take any injury I can still feel the pain. Do you know the intensity of being shot in the head? Since the day I have gotten this power I have been training my tolerance towards pain, but something like this still made me lose conciseness for a few seconds.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯And why are you telling us all of this?¡¯¡¯


    Telling his enemies the extent of his powers in full detail made Kaze worried.


    But Gandor just smiled as his said this.


    ¡®¡¯Because it doesn¡¯t matter if you know, none of you shall leave here alive.¡¯¡¯


    And now Gandor once again drew his sword and met with Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯¡¯¡¯Kaze!¡¯¡¯¡¯¡¯


    As Kaze was now in combat with Gandor, Rentaro and Fubuki were clearly concerned. Both wanted to help him but Gandor gave them no opening to interfere.


    ¡®¡¯Tell me the blessing user who killed my ogres is he still alive?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯And what is it to you?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I merely want retribution, after all they have been with me for so many years they are practically my children. And taming them was anything but effortless, so you can guess that I am furious.¡¯¡¯


    Furious seemed to be an understatement when one would gaze at his expression.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze dodge!¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro seized the opportunity now that Gandor was distracted.


    He swung his sword with tremendous strength towards Gandor, but he did not aim for Gandor but for his horse.


    But with ease his strike was countered, losing his balance Rentaro almost fell of his horse, but he managed to hold on.


    ¡®¡¯In terms of raw strength you are quiet a threat, but without proper technique it is like swaying away a child with a stick.¡¯¡¯


    Each of the youngsters pride was crushed by this one man.


    None of them had time to think about it though, as Gandor easily repelled all of their attacks their difference in experience became painfully clear.


    Gandor sighed heavily as if he became bored with the youngsters.


    ¡®¡¯I have had enough of this child¡¯s play, from this point onwards I shall be fighting serious.¡¯¡¯


    Sweat flowed down the faces of the youngsters.


    If this was him fighting not serious, than what would it be like when he did not hold himself back.


    Rentaro and Kaze attacked from Gandor¡¯s side while Fubuki tried to shoot arrows at him.


    ¡®¡¯Pathetic.¡¯¡¯


    With a single swipe from his sword Kaze and Rentaro were knocked out of the way, and the shot arrow was blocked.


    Just one graceful motion was all it took to simultaneously block three attacks.


    Kaze now stood just at the edge of the cliff.


    ¡®¡¯Dammit.¡¯¡¯


    In his current situation this was the only word he could utter.


    ¡®¡¯This is it child, it really is a shame, had you followed me I could¡¯ve made you into a great pawn.¡¯¡¯


    Not listening to Gandor as to not get agitated, Kaze got of his horse and sent it away.


    Gandor raised his brow while trying to figure out what the meaning of this was.


    ¡®¡¯Ho, have you finally given up on living. How nice, saving me the trouble of chasing after you.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze bent down his body minimalizing his surface, he was holding his sword with both hands over his shoulder.


    He was standing as close as he could to the edge of the cliff, after a quick look down Kaze¡¯s eyes started to burn with vigor.


    Rentaro and Fubuki exchanged looks with each other and nodded.


    Kicking his horse¡¯s stomach Gandor charged at Kaze, his eyes set on his target, eagerly awaiting to strike him down. He was but a few meters away, from certain victory.


    With his sight fixated on Kaze he had not noticed how close Rentaro had gotten.


    Using all his weight Rentaro swung down wards on Gandor, though he managed to block it, the force of his blow was strong enough to make Gandor¡¯s horse stager.


    He was now within reach of Kaze, dashing forwards with amazing speed Kaze managed to cut the front leg of the horse, but it was too shallow.


    But Fubuki had already shot an arrow at the same leg Kaze had attacked, with its leg broken the horse together with Gandor fell of the cliff.


    Still in the middle of falling Gandor called out to the youngsters, with a smug smile.


    ¡®¡¯Did you expect that this would defeat me, my soldiers lie down below, and it will take mere seconds before I am healed again!¡¯¡¯


    Kaze without uttering a single word pointed downwards at the ground.


    When Gandor turned he saw not his soldiers but those of Nivalis, and leading them was the flashy commander who had given him his task.


    While still in lost in thoughts Gandor¡¯s body hit the ground, covering the grass in a thick red paste.


    The flashy commander made his way towards the body, but as it started to reform he got off his horse.


    ¡®¡¯You, you bastards will never defeat me, no matter how many times you cut me down! As long as I¡¯ve got this power I can keep getting up, no matter how many times you cut me down! Falak shall regret banishing me, each country in Siegdrak shall fall under my rule!¡¯¡¯


    The flashy commander looked down at Gandor, as what he was saying was no more than the ramblings of a defeated man.


    ¡®¡¯You may be able to regenerate every wound you get, so I will make sure your body shall never get destroyed.¡¯¡¯


    The flashy commander took off his helmet, and pointed his sword at Gandor.


    After removing his helmet the commanders white hair started to flow in the wind.


    And a serious look which did not seem to belong to his personality floated on his face.


    ¡®¡¯Y-You¡¯re¡­¡¯¡¯


    Fear appeared all over Gandor¡¯s face.


    ¡®¡¯For every life you took, you shall now receive your punishment. Eternal glacier prison!¡¯¡¯


    A cold blue lighted started to shine underneath Gandor, he could not even utter a single word before it was over.


    From head to toe he was covered in ice, even if one were to break it not even his blessing would be able to save him.


    After word got out on the remaining battlefield of Gandor¡¯s demise, the remaining soldiers threw down their weapons.


    It had been quiet a battle but now it was finally over.


    After returning to the main army Kaze and his friends were met with the flashy commander.


    ¡®¡¯Well done youngster, you have brilliantly dealt with Gandor despite not having a blessing at your disposal.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze seemed a little down about not being able to deal with the issue himself though.


    On the other hand Fubuki gallantly bowed down towards the commander, to confusion to his friends.


    ¡®¡¯It was of the greatest honor fighting alongside you lord Nivalis.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Hehe, I was found out after all.¡¯¡¯


    The commander lightly scratched his cheek.


    Kaze and Rentaro realized who this man standing in front of them was, and while trying to remain their cool bowed down towards him.


    He was one of the seven Great Lords of Siegdrak, he is the one who ruled the kingdom of Nivalis.


    And went by the name of Ran Nivalis, what stood most about him was his white hair.


    Through a contract which he formed with the goddess Skadi he attained his title.


    It has been ten years since he achieved his position and since then he had dealt with war, political issues and everything that came with his title.


    There was still one thing that bothered Kaze though.


    ¡®¡¯Lord Nivalis, if I may ask, how is it that you know of me?¡¯¡¯


    Ran turned to Kaze with a smile.


    ¡®¡¯Your father and I have a long history together, we have known each other for about twenty years now.¡¯¡¯


    Twenty years, though he had only attained the title of Great Lord ten years ago.


    This made the youngsters wonder what kind of past they had together.


    But that would have to wait for another time.


    For now they headed back to their leader to report their mission.


    And after that they are finally able to get some well des

 Chapter 12: Behind his power

    After a long battle the sky had turned a soft vermilion red, cold air was blowing.


    While making their way back to camp, Ran told the story of how he and Skald met.


    Somewhat over twenty years ago Nivalis was at war with the country of Madow.


    The Lord of Madow at the time was obsessed with expanding his territory.


    At a certain time he had started attacking the border town of Barafu.


    The then Lord of Nivalis was aware that such a thing might happen sooner or later, so he had multiple armies stationed near the border.


    Ran was the general of one these armies.


    Though only twenty-five at the time Ran was already a resounded general, with an astounding amount of achievements to his name.


    The Lord of Nivalis had also taken quite a liking to Ran, which might have led to him being promoted that quickly.


    But there was no person who would deny that Ran was a man worthy of such a title.


    Deploying too much armies would leave the certain parts of the country unprotected, so a great deal of mercenaries were hired to assist the armies.


    As it happened Andor¡¯s sight was placed under Ran¡¯s command.


    Skald at this point was still a normal mercenary, but he was well known among every person in Andor¡¯s sight.


    So much so that rumors started spreading about him becoming their next leader.


    For this reason Skald was chosen the lead them in the upcoming battle.


    When Madow had crossed the border they were immediately with the Nivalis army commanded by Ran.


    Ran was excellent at commanding his troops, but somehow was not able to gain the upper hand in battle.


    Though the battle was of a grand scale he was able to notice a subtle change in Madow¡¯s soldiers.


    When he saw that this was caused by a simple mercenary group Ran was perplexed.


    But at the same time he was overflown by joy, looking at the man commanding them he felt a special bond with him.


    After the battle was over and they had repelled the Madow army, Ran made his way towards Andor¡¯s sight¡¯s camp.


    It was at this moment that he first met Skald.


    Ran hastily approached him.


    ¡®¡¯You are Skald of Andor¡¯s sight are you not?¡¯¡¯


    Skald turned around to see Ran to his surprise.


    ¡®¡¯That I am, what do you request of me general?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Would you please join me and become one of my knights.¡¯¡¯


    It came as a shock to get such an offer from a general in person.


    ¡®¡¯Sorry general, but this is the life that suits me most.¡¯¡¯


    With a light smile on his face Ran backed down and smiled himself.


    ¡®¡¯I can see that there is nothing I can say to change your mind, even so I hope we will be able to have a good relation with one another.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯As do I general, now then, the name is Skald I am a mercenary of Andor¡¯s sight.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ran general of Nivalis, and loving husband to the greatest woman on this continent.¡¯¡¯


    The two of them shook hands, and Skald turned his head in slight confusion.


    ¡®¡¯Was that last part really necessary?¡¯¡¯


    And they kept their promise to each other, over the years the relationship between the two grew closer and they became the best of friends.


    After hearing Ran¡¯s story everyone started to engage in small talk, until they arrived at their location.


    Finding out where Skald was taken they headed for him.


    Though when they did they had found him already out of bed, like nothing had happened.


    ¡®¡¯Father is it alright for you to be out of bed already, perhaps you should rest some more.¡¯¡¯


    With his usual fearless smile Skald gave a thumbs up to signal that their job was done.


    The only thing those present could do was smile back at the man they admired.


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t worry about me, there is nothing better for me than getting some exercise.¡¯¡¯


    Ran started walking towards him, seeing this Skald similarly walked towards Ran.


    They lifted their fists towards each other and lightly bumped them.


    ¡®¡¯Now then it¡¯s time to celebrate our victory. Also don¡¯t forget our payment Lord Nivalis.¡¯¡¯


    Ran scratched his head.


    ¡®¡¯Only at times like these you address me with Lord, I really would appreciate if you would address me as such more often.¡¯¡¯


    As night time approached camp fires were lit and crock pots were filled.


    People feasted on dried meats and alcohol, together with steamed potatoes and a vegetable soup.


    The alcohol has been saved until they would finish their mission, saving it made it taste all the greater.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    While most people were busy celebrating their victory, three young men were forced to get down on their knees.


    In front of them a girl with a doll like appearance, golden hair that flowed down to her hips flowed graciously in the wind. And a braid in her hair that gave her a loveable childish appearance.


    One of the youngsters inched closer to the dark blue haired one. He whispered as to not be heard by the young girl.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze isn¡¯t she your maid, can¡¯t you say something to calm her down.¡¯¡¯


    The young girl noticed that he was whispering and glared daggers at him.


    A cold sweat started flowing down each of their backs.


    ¡®¡¯Um, Setsuna, we really didn¡¯t have any other choice but to follow through with the plan. Had we not used it Lord Nivalis would not have arrived in time.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing Kaze try and talk his way out of this Setsuna glared even more menacingly.


    To shock to the three young men.


    The man standing near them started to chuckle, but they made sure to keep quiet less they also wanted this treatment.


    ¡®¡¯S-Setsuna were it not for Kaze and his quick grasp of the situation, there would be no telling what would have happened to us. Thanks to him attracting Lord Nivalis, Sir Skald¡¯s life was saved, and with him all of Andor¡¯s sight.¡¯¡¯


    That¡¯s Fubuki your you, he was a young man well thought in etiquettes and political debate. Given the right circumstances he would be able to alter anyone¡¯s point of view.


    ¡®¡¯¡­From the beginning I knew that you would do it, no matter how much you had to put yourself in danger. But still I was afraid of what would have happened if you didn¡¯t succeed.¡¯¡¯


    So that was what this was all about, she wasn¡¯t mad that they had used his plan. She was just scared of the possible consequences.


    Kaze stood up and looked her straight in the eyes.


    ¡®¡¯We live the life of a mercenary, there is no telling when we might not return from the battlefield. Choosing to sacrifice yourself to save a greater amount of allies is one of our ways of living. When you joined us you were aware of these consequences.¡¯¡¯


    Setsuna looked down sorrowfully.


    ¡®¡¯Though¡­ as long as you are waiting for me I shall return, you have my word.¡¯¡¯


    As if she looked into a strong light the young girls eyes started to tear up, as she started to nod the young man embraced her.


    The two youngster still on the ground got up and put their hand on their friend his shoulders.


    ¡®¡¯No matter where we go I¡¯ve got your back, after all if we keep making women cry what kind of man would we be.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Quite there is no place for a man who can only make a women weep tears of sorrow.¡¯¡¯


    To change the heavy mood the youngsters headed to the center of camp and joined everyone in partying.


    On a small hill two men were looking over the camp.


    They were Ran and Skald who were picking up for lost time.


    ¡®¡¯He had the same look in his eyes as you did when we first met. I can tell you have raised him well, he might even surpass you quiet soon.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I would have been happy no matter what life he would have chosen. Though I guess it does make me feel proud to see him surrounded by people that trust him with their lives.¡¯¡¯


    Putting their hands on their weapons the two men stand opposite of each other.


    ¡®¡¯Our current score is 36 to 35 in my favor, be ready for 37.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Heh, has being locked up in that stuffy castle of yours made you senile I am the one with 36 wins.¡¯¡¯


    As the night carried on the starry sky was replaced with by a clear blue one, and it was finally time to depart once again.


    The destination was the capital of Nivalis, Alos.


    After a journey of about a week they had finally arrived at their destination.


    The city was surrounded by a great stone wall, no matter in which direction one looked the wall kept going on.


    As they walked through the gate the soldiers were greeted by a loud roar.


    The sides of the roads were covered with people cheering at their return.


    ¡®¡¯Lord Nivalis!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Great Lord!¡¯¡¯


    Men, women, people young and old all had come to catch a glimpse of their Lord.


    Just the presence of this man was enough to send vibrations through the entire city.


    With a face that plainly said admiration, Kaze was at a loss for words.


    Ran looked gaudy yet humble, strong yet caring.


    Is this what it means to be one of the lords¡­ just being near him makes it hard to breath.


    Making their way through the castle town one would notice certain aspects of the city.


    Bakeries with freshly made bread, taverns filled with people telling their tall tales.


    If one had to describe this city in one word it would by lively, a simple yet accurate way to describe it.


    When they had arrived in the castle grounds most of the soldiers were dismissed. They would head into town to use their earnings to treat themselves.


    Though a few people would remain behind for a special reason.


    ¡®¡¯Now then everyone, please allow me to present to you my humble abode.¡¯¡¯


    Walking through the corridor were Skald, his retainers and Kaze with his friends, Fubuki, Rentaro and Setsuna.


    Due to them playing a massive role in the bandit subjugation Kaze and his friends were allowed inside the castle.


    A grace which is given to only a select few people.


    And because Kaze was brought here of course it was his maid¡¯s task to accompany him.


    On the wall were oil paintings of people and landscapes alike.


    Statues made from marble were put in plain sight.


    And on the floor a tapestry which originated from the country of Izumu, with bright colors which seemed to flow in well with the decoration of the room.


    After walking for a bit the party was halted by an elegant maid.


    ¡®¡¯Welcome back milord.¡¯¡¯


    Gracefully bowing, her chestnut brown hair which came to her shoulders covered her ears.


    After running her hand through her hair so to put it back she sported a slightly agitated expression.


    ¡®¡¯Sir Hatsu has also returned and had given his report. Such a task would have better been off left to him, were it anyone other than Earl Motan you were meeting it would have caused us trouble.¡¯¡¯


    It seemed like the Great Lord had abandoned his original duty to come to their assistance.


    ¡®¡¯Hatsu has been by my side for a long time now, he is a valuable soldier and politician. There have been multiple occasions where he has taken care of such matters for me. Aristocrats know of him and respect him, even without me they would be overjoyed to do business with him instead.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Even so sending aid to another army could be left over to him. There was no reason to put yourself into danger like that.¡¯¡¯


    With a smug smile Ran answered.


    ¡®¡¯My best friend¡¯s life was in danger, would you seriously ask me not to come to his aid myself?¡¯¡¯


    After a deep sigh the elegant maid ceased her confrontation.


    ¡®¡¯Very well I shall concede this time.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Thank you Cynthia.¡¯¡¯


    With a light bow Ran expressed his thanks.


    ¡®¡¯Now that that¡¯s out of the way allow me to introduce you all. This is Cynthia the head maid of my personal staff.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Pleased to meet your acquaintance, and it is a relief to see you in good health sir Skald.¡¯¡¯


    Holding the frills of her dress she slightly lifted it up.


    ¡®¡¯Thank you Cynthia, it does me well to see that you are fine as well. Although it seems that you still have that same effect on people.¡¯¡¯


    Looking back to the men he had brought back they were each flustered gazing at her beauty.


    All but Skald and Victor were able to act normal, Hiro and Renzo were slightly blushing.


    While on the other hand the youngsters were entirely captivated by her beauty, even Setsuna could not avert her eyes.


    Showing a captivating smile towards the youngsters made their hearts skip a beat.


    While chuckling Ran started to walk towards the courtyard.


    ¡®¡¯Now then shall we continue, we are almost at the training grounds.¡¯¡¯


    Picking themselves up the youngsters quickly hurried behind their superiors.


    Multiple men were training, some were practicing their sword techniques while other were doing target practice.


    Stepping outside the sight of their Lord made the soldiers halt their exercises.


    The soldiers who were training rapidly made their ways towards Ran, though standing in their way would be a dangerous thing.


    Kaze made sure to step out of the way less he wanted to be squished.


    Regaining his posture Kaze saw a rustling in a set of bushes and a flow of something white.


    Filled with curiosity Kaze decided to leave his party and approach the white sighting.


    Standing in front of the bush a hand quickly grabbed into him and pulled him inside.


    Not having time to think Kaze fell on the ground, he felt the cold earth on his back yet a strangely warm sensation on his chest.


    Opening his eyes he saw that his face was mere inches away from a girl with ruby eyes and snow white hair.


    The warm feeling came from the girl¡¯s ample bosom pressing down on Kaze¡¯s chest.


    With his mind occupied he was unable to think straight, seeing him fluster the girl wryly smiled and opened her mouth.


    ¡®¡¯Looks like I¡¯ve found an interesting guy, since you¡¯ve found me I can¡¯t just let you go. So you will accompany me for the rest of the day.¡¯¡¯


    While Kaze was confused the young girl proudly stuck out her chest.


    ¡®¡¯This¡¯ll be way more fun than being stuck in that stuffy castle with my father all day, now let¡¯s go.¡¯¡¯


    Father? That white hair, does she mean¡­


    The cheerful young girl grabbed Kaze¡¯s hand without so much as hearing his answer and the two of them left the castle grounds.

 Chapter 13: Lost times

    Standing in the middle of a busy street stood Kaze and the girl he had just met.


    After being forcefully dragged along with the unknown girl they had been avoiding open streets near the castle.


    When they had reached the outer wall of the castle they made a quick stop to get a couple of cloaks.


    They were hidden just outside the sight of the guards, it seemed like this girl snuck out of the castle often.


    Though Kaze wondered why she suddenly decided to come out in the open.


    ¡®¡¯Haaah, we¡¯re finally out of there.¡¯¡¯


    She stretched out her arms towards the sky, after making a sound that relieved her tension she looked over at Kaze.


    Putting her hands behind her back, she jumped over to Kaze her face noticeably close to his.


    Being so close to this yet unknown girl made Kaze fluster.


    Seeing him like this made her chuckle, as she started to walk she waved over to Kaze, signaling to follow her.


    He shrugged his shoulders while smiling and decided to just go along with her.


    It was a good chance to see the city that was directly under a Great Lords control.


    Walking for about five minutes the youngsters stopped in front of a small store.


    A faint aroma of sweetness hung in the air.


    The unknown girl walked up to the counter.


    ¡®¡¯Old man give me two Makshufa and make it snappy.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze looked at her with disbelief, hearing such words would surely infuriate the shopkeeper.


    ¡®¡¯Yes, yes two Makshufa for the princess with the big mouth and her companion.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing the word princess Kaze could no longer keep his mouth shut.


    ¡®¡¯Who are you?¡¯¡¯


    The girl tilted her head, clapping her hands together she seemed to have remembered something.


    With a smooth motion she removed the cloak she was wearing.


    ¡®¡¯I am Yukino Nivalis, daughter of the current Great Lord of Nivalis.¡¯¡¯


    Though slightly surprised Kaze had thought this to be a reasonable possibility.


    While removing his cloak Kaze acted accordingly and also introduced himself.


    After receiving their Makshufa the two youngsters went somewhere more secluded.


    Staring at his unknown treat Kaze was the first one to take a bite.


    A burst of sudden sweetness hit his taste buds, it was something that would not be found in Nivalis.


    Yukino looked joyfully over at Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Is it good? These kinds of treats are quite uncommon in our country, they originate from Izumu so does that man that was selling them.¡¯¡¯


    The people of Izumu were known for their skills in weaving and their bronze skin.


    ¡®¡¯Mhmm hmhmm muuh.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Maybe swallow your food first before talking.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino was barely able to keep in her laughter.


    ¡®¡¯*gulp* This is really something different from Nivalis sweats. The capital of a country would probably hold many things that I have never seen before.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino who had been smiling through the entire conversation put her finger to Kaze¡¯s cheek and removed a piece of Makshufa that was stuck on his cheek.


    While putting the piece of Makshufa in her mouth Yukino looked Kaze head on.


    Having finished their treats, the two shared some stories about their past.


    ¡®¡¯You really are an interesting guy.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino stood up and extended her hand at Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Let¡¯s go I¡¯ll show you many more things yet unknown to you.¡¯¡¯


    Getting off his spot, Kaze choose to let his curiosity take the lead while following Yukino.


    Sightings in the city were like none he had ever seen.


    Houses which were built in the style of all the other countries, people from different races all walking the street.


    Though he was used to seeing them he had never seen so many in one place.


    Diversity could be found everywhere from the people, to the houses, especially the foods gained his interest.


    She had also showed him, her most favorite spots to relax.


    Which right now was a small field, the two were resting with their back on a tree.


    ¡®¡¯Muuuh, The sun is starting to set, guess we should be going back.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino stretched out her body while giving off a relaxing moan.


    Thinking about how he was going to explain his disappearance he first would need to sneak his way back inside the castle.


    ¡®¡¯Why did I need to put on a cloak when we left in the first place, the people around the castle grounds don¡¯t know who I am.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at Yukino she seemed to be pouting for some reason.


    ¡®¡¯Making a young maiden dress like that all by herself, a man should have the courtesy to wear one too.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Eh?¡¯¡¯


    Such a flawed reason, but Kaze nodded at her words thinking that he should be a gentleman in such a situation, after which they returned to the castle.


    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Arriving at the castle gates Yukino and Kazehaya checked their surroundings.


    Not seeing anyone nearby the two snuck back through a small gate at the side of the main building.


    Though just when they thought they were in the clear.


    ¡®¡¯Ah¡­ y-yooo how has everyone been ehehehe.¡¯¡¯


    Though normally nobody would be in this place, there stood a group of guards here.


    Being caught red handed the two were escorted to the drawing room where everyone had been awaiting their return.


    When knocking on the door someone from inside answered ¡®¡¯enter¡¯¡¯.


    Sitting on a couch were the people of Andor¡¯s sight.


    Seeing his son Skald stood up and walked over to Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯¡­Kazehaya. This city is like none you have ever seen, make sure you experience as much of it as possible.¡¯¡¯


    Not the reaction he was expecting, sneaking away all of the sudden not to forget that he snuck away from a Great Lord.


    But even Skald knew that he was not one who would do such a thing without reason.


    He was also a little relieved, Kaze had always abided the rules and never done anything someone his age would do.


    ¡®¡¯It appears that you were the reason behind this after all Yukino.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯He happened to catch my attention so I decided to take him with me. Honestly I was surprised to learn that he was your son.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Father, you and Yukino know one another?¡¯¡¯


    Both Skald and Yukino turned towards Kaze, the one who answered him was Skald.


    ¡®¡¯We have fought on multiple battlefields for some time now. A few years ago Ran started bringing her along with him, she may be young but she holds the potential of a full-fledged general.¡¯¡¯


    Being just two years older than Kaze with the possibility of being a general.


    Hearing this gave Kaze the resolve to rise to her level within the next two years.


    Cutting the heavy tension that rose inside Kaze, Yukino asked an important question.


    ¡®¡¯By the way where is my father?¡¯¡¯


    Suddenly a strong killing intent came from behind Kaze and Yukino.


    ¡®¡¯You and my daughter apparently have had quite the fun day, now won¡¯t you tell me all about it.¡¯¡¯


    Guess this is what would be a doting parent, being close to his daughter seems like a dangerous choice.


    He might have been a little annoyed that Yukino snuck out of the castle.


    But when Skald told him that she possibly took Kaze with him he became furious.


    Swearing, drinking, challenging his own men to fight, he did just about anything to calm himself down.


    However this was not uncommon, whenever a man would get friendly with Yukino Ran would become a rage filled entity.


    Thankfully Skald and Yukino were eventually able to calm him down.


    Now at the end of the day everyone could use was a nice bath.


    Nothing like some male bonding in the bath, though most of the time the men were trying to keep Ran away from Kaze, just in case.


    On the other side Yukino, Setsuna and Cynthia engaged in some light conversation.


    Finally their stress from the day had been relieved.


    After finishing their bath Cynthia and the other maids prepared rooms for their guests, after some more socializing everyone hit the sack.


    Light shone through the window into a room where a young man was sleeping.


    Next to his bed stood two young girls, one with blond hair and a maid uniform, Setsuna.


    And the other with long white hair and dark blue with red parts clothing, Yukino.


    While overlooking the young man the two girls were playing rock paper scissors.


    Yukino was victorious, which meant that she was allowed to wake up the sound sleeper.


    Holding one of her fingers on her lips she smiled evilly, while inching her face closer to Kaze¡¯s she started to whisper in his ear.


    ¡®¡¯Ah, wait don¡¯t touch me there. Don¡¯t run your hand through there.¡¯¡¯


    Words which would make would make her father kill the young man were spoken.


    Still asleep they young man¡¯s head started turning red, likewise for Setsuna who had heard everything Yukino was saying.


    ¡®¡¯Seems like part of him is up but not all of him.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Lady Yukino!¡¯¡¯


    While pulling her away from the bed Setsuna started to lecture Yukino, but neither of them had noticed that the young man had woken up.


    Still half asleep the young man got out of bed walked towards the sound of the noise.


    ¡®¡¯Is everything okay, it¡¯s so loud already.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kazehaya!¡¯¡¯


    The two girls had silenced down while looking at the absent minded young man.


    Setsuna quickly averted her eyes, Yukino turned slightly red and while averting eye contact and pointing downwards.


    Following the direction of her finger Kaze looked down, the sight made him get to his senses.


    ¡®¡¯Well you¡¯re a healthy young man, it¡¯s normal that this would happen in the morning. Though I guess I am partly to blame for this.¡¯¡¯


    She might have said that but she was fully to blame for it¡­ this time at least.


    Hastily Yukino grabbed onto Setsuna and dragged her out of the room.


    Kaze corrected his posture and breathing, he grabbed his chest and prayed that Ran would not find out.


    Having changed into his regular clothes Kaze made his way down to the dining hall.


    After finishing their breakfast the five youngsters headed out, but not to go sightseeing.


    For a few days now a pack of wild boars has been appearing out of the forests and attacking a neighboring village.


    Crops got eaten from the fields and private property got destroyed.


    Yesterday it was decided that Yukino would head out.


    Thinking that it would be good training Skald requested that the boys should accompany her, Setsuna had chosen to look out after them to make sure they would not do anything dangerous.


    She can¡¯t ride a horse herself yet so she saddled up together on Kaze¡¯s.


    A few hours later they had reached the neighboring village and met with the mayor.


    Having heard the details about the boars location and habits they left their horses at the stables to rest, since bringing them along into the forest would only slow them down.


    Since Yukino was most knowledged about the area she took the lead.


    Splitting up would only end up in someone getting lost, so they sticked close together until they came to the boars resting grounds.


    A small field with a creek where they could rest easily, the flora was impressive to say the least.


    Flowers stood in bloom, mushrooms grew out of the ground which eventually got eaten by the boars.


    There really was no reason to attack the village and eat their crops.


    ¡®¡¯Maybe they wanted a change in diet?¡¯¡¯


    Nobody responded to Rentaro¡¯s tasteless joke.


    ¡®¡¯Right let¡¯s get to it as previously planned Rentaro and I will charge at those furthest from the center.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Meanwhile Fubuki and me will fire arrows at those that try to escape. Setsuna stick close to us so nothing will happen to you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t worry about me, I¡¯ll make sure to not cause any trouble.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Atta girl, be sure to watch our back too alright.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Wah, wait!¡¯¡¯


    After Yukino was done rubbing Setsuna¡¯s head, it was time to carry out the plan.


    Kaze and Rentaro departed from the group and went towards their designated position.


    They were still going unnoticed and had reached their position.


    To signal that he was ready Kaze lightly threw a red colored stone at a place so the boars would not be able to notice them.


    Noticing this Rentaro likewise threw a red stone, after the count of ten seconds the two rushed in.


    Becoming aware of the oncoming threat, some boars decided to face them head on while others chose to run away towards the density of the forest.


    Those who retaliated were swiftly cut down by Kaze and Rentaro.


    And those who headed into the forest were sniped down by Yukino and Fubuki.


    Yukino¡¯s skill were spectacular, some shot which one would think being impossible, she hit with ease.


    Even though they still had their hands full Fubuki had to commend her skills.


    Likewise Yukino was impressed there was someone around her age with such bow skills.


    It took them roughly two minutes to finish off all the boars, Kaze took a quick look around to confirm them all to be dead.


    ¡®¡¯Should we take one with us, I¡¯m kinda hungry after all this.¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro spoke of eating one of the boar, Kaze¡¯s stomach started to rumble thinking about this.


    ¡®¡¯Heh, guess it has been a while since we ate breakfast.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Geez, Kaze I made sure to prepare us all lunch and you want to eat a wild boar.¡¯¡¯


    Setsuna was pouting while setting her eyes on Kaze.


    Just as he wanted to speak a rustling sound came from a bush near Yukino.


    Quickly dashing away from Setsuna, Kaze readied his sword.


    A second later a lone boar emerged from the bush.


    Knowing that he would not make it in time Kaze prepared to throw his dagger.


    But because he was so focused he had not payed attention to Yukino.


    In her hand she was holding dagger of her own, and with a swift strike cut the boars throat.


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t think that such a sneak attack would work on me.¡¯¡¯


    An odd type of graciousness could be found in her combat style, whether it was with a bow or with a dagger.


    While trying to come to a halt Kaze failed to notice a dead boar laying on the ground.


    He stumbled onto Yukino who was unable to proses what was happening.


    After a few seconds had passed the two realized in what position they were in.


    Yukino looked down at Kaze with a bright red face.


    ¡®¡¯Ah, sorry Yukino I¡¯ll get¡­¡¯¡¯


    While trying to get himself back up Kaze felt a soft squishy sensation on his hand.


    ¡®¡¯Kyah.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kyah?¡¯¡¯


    Seeing how Yukino was turning away her face because she was flustered, Kaze was able to piece together the puzzle.


    ¡®¡¯Umm could you move your hand.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯S-Sorry!¡¯¡¯


    Jumping up off Yukino his body hit something sturdy from behind.


    ¡®¡¯Oi Kaze.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kazehaya.¡¯¡¯


    Of course such an indecent action could not go unpunished for that he could rely on Setsuna and Rentaro.


    ¡®¡¯You all really get along huh.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Of course, after all he is the one that makes our lives so enjoyable. Now shall we assist him, who knows what could happen if we leave it to those two.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Heh, sounds good.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino got up and brushed the dirt off her clothes, looking at the frolicking youngsters she became slightly envious.


    But when she looked at Kaze she put her hand to her chest with a lightly red face, and a gracious smile.

 Chapter 14: Invasion

    After a nice lunch the team of five youngsters made their way out of the forest.


    All that was left was for them to give their report to the mayor, reaching his house Yukino told of the happenings.


    ¡®¡¯Admirable as usual lady Yukino, as promised here is the reward.¡¯¡¯


    Expressing his gratitude the mayor handed Yukino a sack of coins and some fruits that are grown on their fields.


    The coins were the payment for finishing their job, the fruits were a gift from himself.


    ¡®¡¯Mhm, thanks mayor, the fruit looks delicious as always.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Won¡¯t you all rest for the remainder of the day in my village, I¡¯ll have some rooms prepared for you all right away.¡¯¡¯


    A lovely gesture but Yukino shook her head.


    ¡®¡¯I have promised father that I would be back by days end. Next time we¡¯re back we might take you up on the offer.¡¯¡¯


    Having received their payment the five bowed towards the mayor and returned to Nivalis.


    The sun was still out at the time they had left the village, by the time they had reached Alos night time had approached.


    Though they were expecting a warm welcome, the castle was in uproar.


    ¡®¡¯Somethings wrong the entire place is in chaos.¡¯¡¯


    They started asking people about what happened, but nobody stopped to explain anything.


    ¡®¡¯We should find Lord Nivalis and father, they can explain the situation to us.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze¡¯s comment was the right one to make, their fathers would be able thoroughly explain the commotion.


    ¡®¡¯Worth a try but how are we gonna find them? We can¡¯t even walk straight without gettin knocked around.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Lord Nivalis and the captain will probably be secluded somewhere, Yukino where is your father¡¯s office?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯This way follow me.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino headed towards the most secluded hall and walked in the direction of Ran¡¯s office.


    ¡®¡¯Uhm, Yukino do these kind of things happen often?¡¯¡¯


    Setsuna was worried seeing so many hectically walking all over.


    ¡®¡¯No, there have been times when there was commotion in the castle but never this much. But something that would cause this much chaos would have to be on a grand scale.¡¯¡¯


    Having heard Yukino¡¯s answer made the others faces tense.


    ¡®¡¯Here it is.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino knocked on the door and awaited an answer from within.


    After an ¡®¡¯enter¡¯¡¯ was heard the five youngsters opened the door and walked inside.


    Inside the room were Ran, Skald and his retainers also two unknown persons, they were surrounding an oak table covered with maps.


    ¡®¡¯Lord Nivalis our mission was accomplished without any trouble. I know that this is rude of me to ask, but there seems to be a great deal of turmoil going about. What has happened?¡¯¡¯


    Ran looked around the room to confirm if he could speak of it. Everyone present nodded as to say it¡¯s alright.


    ¡®¡¯Under no circumstances is this allowed to leave the castle grounds, understood?¡¯¡¯


    Of course, seeing in what state the castle was no one would dare to speak of it. Otherwise the entire city might soon follow their actions.


    ¡®¡¯A few hours prior to your departure a messenger arrived with troublesome news. Ships of Falak packed with soldiers attack our western border, the port town of Larach was wiped out.¡¯¡¯


    Silence befell the room, no one dared to break it.


    Since the war with Madow ended roughly eighteen years ago Nivalis was in a state of peace with the other countries. This attack would practically a declaration of war in itself.


    Attacking Nivalis¡¯s mayor port town meant that trade would decline, likewise the Falak army would be able to stock up on supplies.


    ¡®¡¯Yet this is not our biggest problem, the one leading the Falak troops is none other than their Great Lord himself.¡¯¡¯


    Frightened by thought of facing against a Great Lord made the already tense atmosphere twice as heavy.


    ¡®¡¯Might I ask, how many soldiers does their army consist of?¡¯¡¯


    Kazehaya regained his composure quickly, although even this was a feigned bravery.


    Ran answered him without sparing any details while drawing with his finger on the map.


    ¡®¡¯According to our intelligence their number is approximately ten thousand soldiers. How so many ships went unnoticed for both Nivalis and Izumu I do not know. But right now ever second counts. Lord Falak will definitely stop here at Muzou plains roughly five days away from their current position.¡¯¡¯


    While looking at the imaginative drawing it was a mystery why he was so certain of this.


    Izumu could be found in the western part of Siegdrak, between Nivalis which lay in the North-West and Falak in the South-West.


    Going further West was nothing but ocean for hundreds of kilometers, except for some small islands.


    No matter how one would look at it they could not have hidden themselves anywhere.


    ¡®¡¯But amassing an army that can counter theirs and gathering recourses will take a large deal of time. Won¡¯t we either need to prepare a smaller army so that we can move out immediately?¡¯¡¯This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Ran smiled at Kaze who had questioned his reasoning.


    ¡®¡¯Very good, it is true that preparing a large army would take too much time. So when the message arrived, I prepared some of myself. ¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Messages of yourself?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes they are designated to noble territories who lie in the path between here and Muzou. They are to prepare as much soldiers and provisions as the can spare, along the way we¡¯ll add them to our forces.¡¯¡¯


    Being able to make such an swift decision was a necessity for a high ranking leader of any kind.


    Finishing his explanation a soldier abruptly entered the room and presented himself to Ran.


    ¡®¡¯Milord the preparations are near completion, seven thousand soldiers and enough provisions to last two weeks should be finished within the hour.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Thank you, go take so rest for now.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes, sir.¡¯¡¯


    Having left the room Ran drew attention to himself once more.


    ¡®¡¯Our enemy are at our throat, we cannot turn a blind eye towards their actions. If we fall there is no telling who might strike us next, failure is not an option now make preparations for department we leave in one hour, now go!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sir!¡¯¡¯


    He seemed fearless, almost invincible, Kaze had seen his father lead Andor¡¯s sight multiple times. And even Nimura who led the bandit subjugation, but none gave him this odd feeling.


    But now was not the time for these thought, right now he had to pack and prepare for war.


    One hour after the meeting ended it was time to depart.


    An army of approximately seven thousand men, taking about six days to get to their destination. But at with their current time they were forced to do it in five.


    If they wanted to stop the Falak army at the right time they were forced to run through the night for as long as possible.


    Resting was crucial to the soldiers morale, so deciding when to call it a night was left to the general, in this case Ran.


    Night time was also the time when wild beasts were known to roam, so for safety measures extra torches were brought along.


    It¡¯s been about four hours since the Nivalis army left Alos, fatigue slowly started to build up.


    But more than that it was too dangerous to continue with their view being no more than a dozen meters.


    Wild beasts could be roaming about to camp was set up quickly.


    Those with great dexterity were the group to guard the camp.


    Since they had left after dinner time everyone went straight to bed.


    In a certain tent a faint silhouette could be seen inside the darkness, the dim light of a burning candle made it appear.


    It was Kaze, tending to the sword in his lap, he brushed away his dark blue hair due to the fatigue it had become dull.


    Earlier this morning he had made a trip from a few hours, hunted a pack of wild boars, and then had to take the trip back again.


    Nevertheless once weapon was once lifeline, if it wasn¡¯t tended to everyday it was like asking to be killed.


    ¡®¡¯There, all done.¡¯¡¯


    Having finished tending to his weapon the young man blew out the candle and prepared himself for bed.


    His mind was racing but his body was exhausted, it took only a few breaths for him to fall asleep.


    Without his knowing the night had passed.


    Hearing the cry of the birds and the clanking armor of the soldiers woke the boy up.


    But he reluctantly tried to stay awake.


    For some reason he had trouble breathing, his chest felt unusually hot.


    ¡®¡¯Ugh¡­ heavy.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯How rude, my armor makes me feel at least twice as heavy as normal.¡¯¡¯


    Unwillingly opening his eyes, he slowly adjusted to the darkness.


    ¡®¡¯Hey you gonna sleep any longer.¡¯¡¯


    His eyes now adjusted he was able to see that a person was lying on top of him.


    A woman, most noticeably was her snow white hair and ruby eyes, of course one could not overlook her ample bosom.


    Yukino daughter of the Great Lord of Nivalis was laying on top of him.


    A dark room alone together with a girl a little older than him, anyone would take the same guess as to what was going on.


    ¡®¡¯¡­Wha!¡¯¡¯


    Before Kaze was able to make utter a sound Yukino put her hand over his mouth.


    ¡®¡¯Calm down I¡¯m not planning anything, or do you perhaps want me to do something.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze was had just woken up yet he already felt fatigued.


    His face was bright red as he tried to avoid eye contact with Yukino.


    ¡®¡¯Fufu, I wonder what you could be thinking about.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Lady Yukino did you wake him up yet?¡¯¡¯


    Having heard the voice from outside Yukino jolted.


    ¡®¡¯Ah¡­ Setsuna.¡¯¡¯


    Entering the tent and looking over at Yukino lying on top of Kaze almost drained all the life from the young maid.


    After regaining her composure she let lose the fires of hell.


    Both Yukino and Kazehaya were forced to sit on their knees and apologize for their indignity.


    Yukino was also banned from ever waking Kaze up again.


    ¡®¡¯Lady Yukino have you had breakfast yet? If not would you like to join us.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Oooh sounds great, but you really don¡¯t have to be so formal to me just address me normally.¡¯¡¯


    Setsuna seemed happy to hear that she saw her as a friend.


    She was always surrounded by men, so having a female friend around her ago was very pleasant.


    ¡®¡¯T-Then may I call you Yuki?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yuki?¡¯¡¯


    Flustered by what she said Setsuna quickly rebutted her words.


    ¡®¡¯Ah sorry I shouldn¡¯t say such strange things.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino tilted her head seemingly deep in thoughts, before blurting out.


    ¡®¡¯I love it, just like you to think of something like this Setsuna. Right Kaze, from now on you call me Yuki too.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kyah!¡¯¡¯


    Yukino now known as Yuki was hugging Setsuna from behind while stroking her head.


    One their way they met up with Rentaro and Fubuki, the group of five went to get some food.


    ¡®¡¯This is amazing, Setsuna come back with me to Alos.


    Even if it was an obvious joke Yuki held a strange look in her eyes as she gazed at Setsuna.


    After finishing their breakfast they could all use some exercise.


    Deciding that it¡¯ll be one on one duels, It was Rentaro versus Fubuki and Yuki versus Kaze.


    They each grabbed a wooden sword and stood before their opponent.


    ¡®¡¯Take it easy on me Rentaro, this is not my forte.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Right right you¡¯re great with a bow but only okay with a sword.¡¯¡¯


    The two crossed blades without holding back.


    ¡®¡¯Those two are really passionate at training, now shall we do the same.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Mhm, no holding back.¡¯¡¯


    Yuki stood motionless waiting for Kaze to make the first strike.


    He knew that she was someone who even his father would praise greatly, so a single bad move would lead to defeat.


    But being too careful would only make him indecisive, so he acted as if it were a real battle.


    Multiple strikes were blow without a single on hitting his target, but it did seem like his actions were working.


    ¡®¡¯Not bad but I know you can do better.¡¯¡¯


    Yuki took up the pace and started striking back, Kaze was forced to go on the defensive.


    Carefully monitoring each of Yuki¡¯s moves and awaiting to strike was his only option.


    Suddenly she made a big overhead swing leaving her side unguarded.


    Thinking that now was his best opportunity Kaze dodge her blow and swung at her side.


    A wooden sword flew through the air when it hit the ground it got stuck, just a second ago it was tightly gripped.


    ¡®¡¯Hehe you had me worried there for a second but I win.¡¯¡¯


    The sword that got knocked away was Kaze¡¯s, she had tricked him in striking her.


    But to be able to parry from her position should be impossible.


    Were it not that Yuki¡¯s reflexes were trained to the point that not even an entire squad of bowmen would be able to hit her.


    Kaze got down on his knees and solemnly asked her.


    ¡®¡¯Yuki please train me.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Huh?¡¯¡¯


    Surprised by the young man¡¯s remark too her thoughts back a couple of paces.


    ¡®¡¯Dueling with you made it even more clear to me I am still lacking. I have to develop my skills so that I can be of use to father and everyone.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­Kaze you¡¯re a great soldier, everyone would put their fate in your hands. You are in no way lacking.''''


    A mixed feeling of sadness and pride got over Kaze, not knowing what to do he just showed a soft smile.


    ¡®¡¯But I guess training is necessary for ever soldier. Rentaro, Fubuki you¡¯ll be joining us too so prepare yourselves.¡¯¡¯


    Surprised by her comment broke the tension of their training.


    ¡®¡¯Milady I found you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ah Hatsu why are you here?!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Lord Nivalis had sent me, he suspected that you would head to your friends.¡¯¡¯


    This man was in the office of Lord Nivalis yesterday.


    Looking over at


    ¡®¡¯We meet again boy, pardon my rudeness from yesterday. My name is Hatsu I am Lord Nivalis¡¯s retainer.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Pleased to meet you, I am Kazehaya mercenary of Andor¡¯s sight.¡¯¡¯


    Hatsu nodded towards Kaze after which he turned to Yuki.


    ¡®¡¯Now milady let us head back, your father is worried about you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯*sigh* Very well, Kaze after we set up camp once again we shall start our training, but prepare yourself I¡¯m a strict teacher.


    ¡®¡¯Thank you very much.¡¯¡¯


    Having said goodbye to her friends Yuki followed Hatsu back to her camp.

 Chapter 15: Retaliation

    ¡®¡¯No your movements aren¡¯t fluid enough, and you, you¡¯re not clearing your mind stop thinking and rely your instincts.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯She¡¯s saying that but it really isn¡¯t much of a hint.¡¯¡¯


    Calling the girl shouting at the three young men strict would be an understatement.


    It had been five hours since camp had been built up.


    As promised Yukino went to Andor¡¯s sight to train Kaze and his friends for the coming days.


    Luckily Ran had given her permission on training them, which came as a pleasant surprise.


    Regardless of his decision Yukino would have gone anyway.


    But since those three youngsters were promising soldiers he thought that Yukino¡¯s advise could bring them to another lever. Though the main reason he allowed it was that he loved the thought of Kazehaya suffering.


    Ignoring her father¡¯s evil smile Yukino started preparing her material.


    Before they were allowed to do weapon training Yukino first gave them a simulation training to see at what level their strategizing was.


    Naturally Kazehaya and Fubuki passed, with a remarkable grade that was greater then what she had expected.


    When it was Rentaro¡¯s turn she fell silent at his stupidity, almost so that she wanted to call it a night.


    Thankfully Setsuna was able to cheer her up after which Yukino started to intensely lecture Rentaro about strategies.


    She spoke of situations which they would not have been in before so that Kazehaya and Fubuki would be able to participate as well.


    Spending one hour on strategies simulations seemed to be the limit for Rentaro.


    His earlier expression changed from determination to a thousand yard stare.


    ¡®¡¯Well physical training would be best for you ehehe.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino tried to laugh off the current situation but it was incredibly forced.


    ¡®¡¯Alright this is my kind of training.¡¯¡¯


    Being in the great outdoors was where he felt most at home, having grabbed their weapons the three were in wait of Yukino.


    She said there was something she absolutely must have to teach them.


    ¡®¡¯Ah, here she com¡­ Y-Yuki what exactly is that.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze had to stop mid-sentence and ask for an explanation as to what the object in her hand was.


    ¡®¡¯Hmm? Oh, this is just a whip ¡®¡¯


    It was a small whip so as to not inflict any serious injuries, it¡¯ll of course let them learn their lesson though.


    ¡®¡¯Yes that was clear but what are you going to use it for?¡¯¡¯


    He dreaded the answer which he knew would come.


    ¡®¡¯If you are disobedient or talk back to me I¡¯ll need to discipline you don¡¯t I.¡¯¡¯


    What a strange sight her face seemed to graceful an terrifying at the same time.


    Such a feat would only be achievable with someone with great beauty.


    Her eyes which would normally be compared to a gem were now more like the fires of hell.


    First off she had fought with Rentaro to see at what level he was.


    She made Fubuki do simple target shooting and accurately observed his every move.


    Kaze had earlier fought with Yukino so he was has on the sideline together with Setsuna.


    Happily watching over the other two made them just more anxious.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze were done here so let¡¯s get started.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ah, coming! I¡¯ll be off then.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Please be careful.¡¯¡¯


    Setsuna looked at Kaze with her hands clasped as if she were praying.


    He tried to laugh it off but that only made him more anxious.


    ¡®¡¯Here, for now until we reach Muzou plains these will be your weapons.¡¯¡¯


    She took out weapons out from a chest and handed them one by one.


    For Kaze a claymore, it was hard to handle considering the difference in length with his regular broadsword. When he tried to swing it his balance was thrown off.


    For Rentaro a poleaxe, it being a different type of weapon made it feel weird in his hands. He has barely any experience with spear type weapons so it¡¯ll take some time to get used to.


    And for Fubuki a longbow, being difficult to draw to its extent was a tough task even for most adults, which is why there are so little famous longbow users.


    The three exchanged glances of confusion with one another. All of this lead to their current situation.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Making them all get known familiar with their weapons was the first hurdle they needed to overcome.


    So in that fashion Yukino made sure that they got very well-known with them.


    ¡®¡¯Come on swing like you normally do! Don¡¯t let your sword throw you around like that!¡¯¡¯


    Sweat dripped of Kaze¡¯s head onto his weapon making him see a reflect of himself.


    ¡®¡¯Right!¡¯¡¯


    Though he was panting heavily and barely able to remain on his feet he kept swinging his sword.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze¡­Mmh I¡¯m not gonna be the first to drop out.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Don¡¯t go forgetting about me now.¡¯¡¯


    Being a sore loser came in handy at times like these, if they were do call it quits they would do it together.


    ¡®¡¯A-alright guys that¡¯s enough, remember that the real battle is only a few days away. So make sure you don¡¯t overdo it and take enough rest, okay?¡¯¡¯


    Thinking that none of them would admit defeat Yukino decided that she would put an end to this.


    Almost instantaneously the three dropped to their knees, Yukino and Setsuna quickly helped them up.


    ¡®¡¯Geez, you guys just don¡¯t know when to give up do you.¡¯¡¯


    The three youngsters started to laugh, even though it only made their breathing hurt more.


    ¡®¡¯Kaze there you are, want to go the strategy¡­ I guess not eh?¡¯¡¯


    Appearing from behind a tent was Skald gleefully asking Kaze to join him. But seeing as he could barely remain on his feet he would rather let him rest.


    ¡®¡¯*Huff-huff* No, please take me with you.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­ Alright here I¡¯ll lend you a shoulder.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Eh?¡¯¡¯


    Extending his hand out to Kaze he slowly pulled him out putting his arm around his shoulder.


    ¡®¡¯W-wait a second Skald shouldn¡¯t you be the voice of reason here?!¡¯¡¯


    Even if she had pushed him this far Yukino was of course still worried about his wellbeing.


    Without turning around Skald gave her an answer.


    ¡®¡¯Sometimes you just got to let a man do what he wants. Because no matter what you try they will do it regardless of what someone else thinks.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯*sigh* Guess there¡¯s no helping it, here let me help.¡¯¡¯


    Grabbing Kaze¡¯s one free hand and wrapping it around her shoulder made the two look like a couple.


    So as to not ruin the lovely mood between the two Skald handed him over to her.


    ¡®¡¯Thank you Yuki¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯*blush* Shut up and start walking.¡¯¡¯


    He hadn¡¯t noticed with Skald, but Yuki¡¯s body gave off a lot of heat. While a gust of wind blew through her hair Kaze caught a whiff of a sweet scent.


    ¡®¡¯Y-Yuki I¡¯m fine really, I can walk by myself now.¡¯¡¯


    Regaining his posture Kaze started blushing while ensuring that he no longer needed help.


    ¡®¡¯Just be quiet and let it happen.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze decided to listen to her but hadn¡¯t noticed what she mumbled under her breath. ¡®¡¯This is embracing for me too you know.¡¯¡¯


    When the three arrived at their destination they were met by an enraged Ran.


    Seeing the exhausted state Kaze was in he decided to ignore it for the time being.


    Having spent one hour talking about strategies and the layout of the land made the meeting fly by.


    Afterwards Skald and Kaze went back to their own camp and said farewell from Ran and Yukino.


    The coming days Yukino went to Andor¡¯s sight camp to train the boys like there was no tomorrow.


    And so three days went by and Muzou plains where almost within sight. This would be the last night before they arrived.


    ¡®¡¯Alright looking good guys. Unlike three days ago you seem to be more adjusted with your new weapons.¡¯¡¯


    Yukino was once again overlooking the boys training, this time also under supervision of Skald and Ran.


    ¡®¡¯Mhm, thanks to everyone from Andor¡¯s sight giving us tips we were able to use them in just three days.¡¯¡¯ Kaze said while fluidly moving his claymore.


    ¡®¡¯Then I guess it¡¯s time to get back to basics, here take these.¡¯¡¯


    Ran, Skald and Yukino each held out one of the boys weapons.


    ¡®¡¯Hehe this feels kinda nostalgic though it¡¯s only been like three days.¡¯¡¯


    Rentaro took his longsword from Skald¡¯s hands, and held it up while admiring the blade he swung it like he had been with his poleaxe.


    ¡®¡¯This feeling¡­ It¡¯s so different from my old style, it feel so much more flexible now.¡¯¡¯


    He was happily swinging around his longsword, suddenly the sound of something cutting the air could be heard. He reacted in a way that he previously would not have done.


    ¡®¡¯Huh, Captain?!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Not bad it seems you really adapted your fighting style after such a short while wielding a spear weapon.¡¯¡¯


    Now it was Fubuki¡¯s turn, he took his bow from Ran¡¯s hands and carefully overlooked it.


    Taking a quiver he knocked an arrow in his bow and quickly released it.


    The speed at which he drew the bowstring back was at least twice as short as before.


    His reaction speed also significantly improved thanks to the advice Yukino had given him.


    ¡®¡¯I had forgotten how easier it was to use a regular bow, trading in range for accuracy truly suits my fashion.¡¯¡¯


    Lastly was Kaze, Yukino handed him his blade with a exited look that said ¡®¡¯show me what you got.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yuki would you spar with me once more?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯What did that brat just say?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ah yes Kaze let¡¯s get to that right away!¡¯¡¯


    Not wanting to know what Ran would do if he found out that Kaze had a nickname for her she quickly readied her sword.


    Skald stood between the two and acted as judge of the match, the one how could make the first his would be the victor.


    ¡®¡¯Go!¡¯¡¯


    At Skald¡¯s signal Kaze dashed at Yukino, making quick work of the several meters that were between them. His blade felt lighter and more flexible than it ever had before, his strike now aimed for Yukino¡¯s sword drew close.


    ¡®¡¯Whoa!¡¯¡¯


    Barely dodging his blow, Yukino swiftly tried to swing at Kaze¡¯s open side.


    Thinking that it was going to end the same way as before made Rentaro and Fubuki prepare for the worst.


    Only Yukino and the two parents knew that this would not spell the end.


    *Shing* The sword that was supposed to thrust forwards had now met with Yukino¡¯s sword.


    ¡®¡¯Wha! That fast from that form?!¡¯¡¯


    Without giving Yukino time to catch her breath Kaze bend down as far as he could and parried the initial strike.


    Just barley grazing her skin was enough for her to concede the match.


    ¡®¡¯Oi, oi such change isn¡¯t even funny. ¡®¡¯You win, it¡¯s officially my loss.¡¯¡¯


    None knew what had happened, Yukino who is able to go head to head with enemy generals had given up.


    In a long term battle Yukino would have won without a doubt, but the victory conditions were agreed upon by both the participants.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯m sorry, are you alright?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yeah I¡¯m fine you just grazed me. I thought the training would work a little but it felt like you were another being all together.¡¯¡¯


    What she said was true, it felt like someone had taken him over.


    It almost felt like a unknown presence was looking over him, but it seemed to disappear immediately.


    Huh¡­ just my imagination? I guess it¡¯s nothing.


    While thinking he was swarmed by his friends and parent.


    Just one person stood away from the rest, he seemed to be talking to himself.


    ¡®¡¯Ran did you feel that?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yeah¡­ he¡¯s a candidate.¡¯¡¯


    To the normal person he might appear to be talking to the air, in reality he was talking to a pixie. Although she only visible to those close to him.


    Instead of overloading him Kaze with question Ran decided that now was not the time to talk about this feeling.


    Ran walked over to his daughter to assure that she was alright.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯m surprised he beat you only the second time he fought you.¡¯¡¯


    Not paying attention she did not hear Ran talking to her, all that mattered was her opponent and her friend in front of her.


    Her thoughts were racing but in her eyes was a crystal clear excitement.


    ¡®¡¯Eh? Yukino are you present? It¡¯s me dad.¡¯¡¯ He said while lightly shaking her.


    ¡®¡¯Shut up you''re annoying.¡¯¡¯ Her answer hurt even more now that she said it in such a monotone voice.


    Frozen in place, his mind had become separated from this reality.


    ¡®¡¯Well she¡¯s at that age you know, pretty soon she¡¯ll be thinking about marriage and stuff.¡¯¡¯


    His eyes had turned into a dead white color. Looks like that was the finishing blow.


    ¡®¡¯Ah, guess that didn¡¯t cheer you up did it?¡¯¡¯


    Switching her attention over from Ran to Kaze. ¡®¡¯Still that boy might end up being even more usefully than we thought.¡¯¡¯


    Like that the last day passed and they set foot on Muzou plains on the fifth night since they left Alos.


    As told by the scout a camp had been set up ten kilometers away from their position.


    The banners which fluttered were of a fire bird, commonly known as the immortal phoenix.


    ¡®¡¯Ignus Pyralis Falak, you have raised the banners of war upon our country. As Lord of Nivalis I cannot allow your sins to go unpunished. ¡­This war shall end right here!¡¯¡¯

 Chapter 16: Desire

    ¡®¡¯Milord, the soldiers have been halted and are awaiting your command.¡¯¡¯


    The man that was addressed as Lord was standing at the head of his army.


    ¡®¡¯Tell the men to build up camp, our enemies shall meet us here in one day.¡¯¡¯


    Having remained silent for a few seconds the man questioned his Lord¡¯s actions.


    ¡®¡¯Milord, if we were to advance for half a day more the land would work in our favor. Fighting at our current position would hold no advantages whatsoever.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Laure, I have told you the tale of the one person that ever defeated me did I not?¡¯¡¯


    Digging through his memories the man named Laure glanced at his Lord.


    ¡®¡¯As you command Lord Falak.¡¯¡¯


    Ignus Pyralis Falak, once nobleman with a title of duke, now Great Lord of the country of Falak.


    Due to his family being of royalty, his childhood had been spent studying for when he inherited his parents lands.


    Being of such high rank he would naturally be well thought in the art of battle.


    People around him quickly noticed his potential, as he was sent out to the battlefield Ignus quickly mounted one achievement after another.


    Thanks to his many accomplishments the influence of the Pyralis family became significantly greater.


    His name was famous across all the lands, even those in the other countries were aware of this threat.


    With the passing of the previous Lord it came as no surprise that Ignus had been crowned the next Great Lord.


    When he first appeared on the battlefield to demonstrate his new power there were but a handful of foes that could tell the story.


    This feat earned him the name Emperor of the scorching land.


    But no matter how many achievements he earned, not a single one was able to satisfy him.


    While he was undefeated for many years at a young age, Ignus felt as if no one was able to rival him, which became his downfall.


    In the war of Madow versus Nivalis, five years before Ignus had become a Great Lord, Falak had allied with Madow.


    As fate would have it, that was when he met the future Lord of Nivalis.


    Though he was able to put up a better fight than anyone else had against Nivalis, he still ended up losing.


    The image of that battlefield never left his mind, a vast open field, no mountains, forests or even hills.


    Perfect condition to see who possessed the greatest skills with only using the man at their command and their own strength.


    Laure had turned his back to Ignus and gave orders to the squad commanders.


    Having finished setting up the Lord¡¯s tent first, a meeting was called forth.


    Ignus opened the meeting expressing gratitude towards his men.


    First off, reports about the state of the army were given by the commanders.


    Having all finished their reports the only thing left to discuss was the plan for the upcoming battle.


    Everyone held their breath as they locked their eyes on Lord Falak.


    So as to not keep them waiting, Lord Falak began explaining his plan.


    What they heard next was unbelievable, it was perfectly calculated down to the tiniest detail.


    ¡®¡¯I won¡¯t expect all goes according to my will.¡¯¡¯


    He raised his hand only to slam it down on the table.


    ¡®¡¯However failure is not possible, even if your performance reaps the lowest possible outcomes we shall not fail.¡¯¡¯


    The commanders started murmuring.


    ¡®¡¯Could this really work.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Lord Falak¡¯s strategies have never been wrong before.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Nivalis is as good as concurred, without their Great Lord they¡¯re no longer a threat to us. Afterwards Izumu as well has no chance of surviving¡¯¡¯


    While the commanders where talking to one another, Ignus declared the meeting over.


    With everyone but him and Laure out of the tent, he got down to serious business.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ¡®¡¯¡­How is the state of the new beast, is it battle ready yet?¡¯¡¯


    Laure walked towards the doorway but did not exit just yet, his expression was somewhat troubled.


    ¡®¡¯Please follow me milord.¡¯¡¯


    Laure took the lead, the two of them walked towards the most outer part of the camp.


    They stood in front of a tent that was larger than a general tent. At least twenty meters in diameter and five meters in height.


    It looked more like a performance tent more than those that belonged to an army.


    Before the two walked inside the guard outside handed them a set of candles.


    Entering the tent they were overtaken by darkness.


    Having taken a few steps forwards, the light of the candle illuminated an object in front of them.


    An Iron cage of some sorts, in the middle a blue and yellow ball of fur, it¡¯s thickness made it close to calling it armor.


    Having noticed another presence the ball of fur stood up and produced a faint light.


    Laure stopped walking as he noticed it¡¯s agitated mood.


    ¡®¡¯As you can see it still wishes to do violence to any person that gets close to it.¡¯¡¯


    Ignoring Laure¡¯s warning, Ignus kept walking towards the cage.


    The beast stood up and it¡¯s eyes met with Ignus¡¯s.


    Lightning sparks flew around, some striking at the ground in front of Ignus.


    ¡®¡¯Milord please be cautious.¡¯¡¯


    Not wanting anything to happen to his Lord, Laure stood between him and the beast.


    Ignus put his hand on Laure¡¯s shoulder and shoved him to the side.


    Laure could do nothing more than look as Ignus now stood in front of the wild beast.


    Almost within reach, the beast swiped with his claw at the air between the two.


    Though there should have been at least one meter between the two, a yellow light almost hit Ignus.


    ¡®¡¯Hooh, you are able to clad lightning to your claws and extend it¡¯s reach as well, huh? That¡¯s quite the skill you have. Such a feat is the be expected as the leader of a troop of Raiu.¡¯¡¯


    [Raiu are a type of wolves that evolved due to living in the lightning plains of Thandela. More commonly known as the thunder devouring wolves. Thanks to their thick fur¡¯s they were able to live in these highly dangerous plains. With years they learned to channel these lightning bolts for their own, and eventually create these themselves.]


    Extending one of his hands in the cage, made the Raiu warry, normally it would have snapped at it but for some reason it¡¯s instinct told him to distance himself. But instead it¡¯s body remained frozen.


    Ignus¡¯s hand made contact with the Raiu¡¯s fur.


    Following it¡¯s instincts the beast presented it¡¯s stomach to Ignus.


    ¡®¡¯Good, it seems you understand, I am the one in command here. All you have to do is obey me.¡¯¡¯


    With the hand that was previously stroking the Raiu¡¯s fur, a red glow started to appear.


    Moving his hand on the lock of the cage turned it into a liquid.


    As soon as the former lock hit to ground it reconstructed into a solid plate, like it never changed to begin with.


    With the cage open the Raiu was now free, or so one would think.


    Suddenly the ferocious beast from before was nowhere to be found.


    ¡®¡¯Laure try approaching the Raiu.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯As you command.¡¯¡¯


    Without even the slightest hesitation Laure walked up to the Raiu and stroked it¡¯s head.


    Receiving the petting made the beast give of a pleasant sound.


    The way it acted was odd, like it had been raised by humans since it was a pup.


    ¡®¡¯Commendable as always milord. A wild beast that showed no improvement over two months was tamed within mere minutes by your hand.¡¯¡¯


    Laure who had remained dignified through this entire period showed a fragment of a smile.


    To him Ignus was the preeminent of what a human being should be. An achievement of this caliber would please Laure more than anything he himself had ever achieved.


    Ignus headed towards the exit, but not before giving out one more task.


    ¡®¡¯Laure I put you in charge of the thunder devourer, make sure he is battle ready any time.¡¯¡¯


    Laure stated ¡®¡¯I live to serve.¡¯¡¯ with his right hand on his chest.


    Ignus was still looking at the Raiu, which seemed odd to Laure.


    ¡®¡¯Is something the matter milord?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯No nothing, but such an outstanding companion is deserving of a remarkable name.¡¯¡¯


    Laure bowed down before Ignus and requested of him.


    ¡®¡¯Milord please allow me to perform this task in your honor.¡¯¡¯


    Without changing from his default expression Ignus gave a bland answer.


    ¡®¡¯Do as you wish, I know it will please me.¡¯¡¯


    While still bowing Laure expressed his gratitude.


    ¡®¡¯Words cannot express what joy I am filled with. Raiu you have the honor of being an ally of Lord Falak, and even receiving a name that would please him, henceforth your name shall be Sanda.¡¯¡¯


    Ignus nodded with his back to the other two as he walked away.


    When he returned at his tent, Ignus was greeted by the guards in front of it.


    As he entered the dark room and set upon a royal chair, within the wood were carvings of a phoenix.


    When he sat down with his eyes closed, the candles which were resting on his table suddenly lit up.


    ¡®¡¯You felt it too haven¡¯t you?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯This power, it is on a deity level.¡¯¡¯


    Standing next to the faint light of the candles a red devil roughly the size of an adults upper body.


    Only the side that was illuminated was visible, his other half was clad in shadows.


    ¡®¡¯It seems like everything is going exactly as you want.¡¯¡¯


    The devil walked to the opposite side of the table and sat down on a vacant chair.


    ¡®¡¯I would have never thought that, that man would be such a good diversion.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯He was a blatant fool, to use him as a pawn was but a simple task. Fortunately he was quick to move and rile up those bandits. My scouts gave me more than enough information to know how to deal with him.¡¯¡¯


    The devil started to chuckle as Ignus¡¯s explanation.


    ¡®¡¯Truly remarkable, half a year you have been planning for this one single moment. Every single move you have been went exactly as you wanted. But dare I say not entirely.¡¯¡¯


    Ignus took a bottle of wine and two challises, while poring the drinks he kept speaking.


    ¡®¡¯He might be an anomaly and in other cases a worthy adversary, but we already know the limit of his strengths.¡¯¡¯


    Having finished pouring the wine he handed a chalice over to the devil and returned to his seat.


    After the first sip of wine the devil revealed a twisted smile.


    ¡®¡¯Indeed he is dangerous but not the one you should be most warry of.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Who is it you speak of?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­Always remember no matter how strong the old generation is, it shall always be toppled by the next generation.¡¯¡¯


    Ignus made a irritated expression while drinking his wine.


    ¡®¡¯As long as the next generation cannot flourish, those of the old will never fall.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Kukuku excellent, challenge the rules of this world and deny their very reason.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Heh, is this not the reason why you chose to make a contract with me? Going against the rules of this world sounds a lot like what the legends have told about you, doesn¡¯t it Lucifer.¡¯¡¯


    While still maintaining his twisted smile the devil known as Lucifer became transparent.


    ¡®¡¯That foolish old man that calls himself the one true god refuses the nurture of anything that does not please him. I have seen the most beautiful beings sprout out of the most vile places. Where he turned a blind I, I listened to their prayers. In your words my actions would be called a coup d¡¯¨¦tat.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯But in the end you failed nonetheless.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯What a nasty remark. But it is true my original plan failed. Though it is not like our war has ended just yet.¡¯¡¯


    At those words the devil known as Lucifer had faded away.


    Staring at the chair where Lucifer sat until just a few seconds ago, Ignus recalled his words.


    Do not think that I will end up the same as you. His life, his country, this entire world, I will change it all according to my will.

 Chapter 17: Setting a goal

    The end of the night drew close. With the location of their enemies now known it was decided to send out a messenger.


    Sending a message to declare an act of war was a requirement for the first of any battle.


    If they do not comply to Nivalis¡¯s demands and return to their own country, any act that followed would be seen as self-defense.


    Nevertheless they knew that the Falak army would not back down, not after all the damage they had done.


    And as expected when the messenger returned he replied as such.


    ¡®¡¯Abilities of your caliber are worthy of my recognition. In any other circumstances I would have reached my hand out at you and made you my ally. However the past is not always cleared over. In the time of my predecessor there was one foe whom I could not defeat. Now we stand at the same position once again, and our lost honor shall be redeemed.¡¯¡¯ Thus ended the message.


    The once present turned towards Ran.


    ¡®¡¯Then he leaves us no choice, inform all our men, tomorrow we shall meet the Falak army on the battlefield.¡¯¡¯


    But as soon as he said that the messenger mentioned one more thing.


    ¡®¡¯I am sorry for interrupting milord, but there is also a request Lord Falak had made.¡¯¡¯


    With a puzzled look everyone looked at the messenger.


    ¡®¡¯A request?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes, Lord Falak has requested that we battle at the point when the sun reaches its peak. Should we agree with this then there is no need to send another messenger.¡¯¡¯


    The room was now in complete turmoil.


    ¡®¡¯They¡¯re giving us such an opportunity?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Are they that confident that they could fend off a night attack?¡¯¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯No there is a threat that this they are deceiving us, if anything we should focus on our own defense.¡¯¡¯


    With everyone arguing about how to proceed, Ran had already made up his mind.


    ¡®¡¯We are going along with Lord Falak¡¯s request and commence our battle at high noon.¡¯¡¯


    A sudden decision made most of the commanders anxious.


    ¡®¡¯Lord Nivalis, how can we be certain that they will not break their own promise.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Have any of you heard of the deeds Lord Falak has performed?¡¯¡¯


    While looking at each other, Ran kept speaking.


    ¡®¡¯While he is a Great Lord he is also part of the esteemed Pyralis household. Even before he became Falak¡¯s Great Lord, his family held a great deal of influence on the country. Having that much power makes others want to use it for their own needs. Multiple royals have used dirty tactics to climb their way up, but they did not realize just how much influence the Pyralis family had. So eventually they met their demise. The Pyralis family has always put their honor ahead of all else, using such cheap tactics would dishonor their name.¡¯¡¯


    As fast as Ran finished speaking, one of the commanders raised another question.


    ¡®¡¯Then should we not take this opportunity to attack their camp?¡¯¡¯


    But Ran quietly shook his head.


    ¡®¡¯Though they do not use these tactics themselves, they are experts in fending off these kind of attacks.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Which means that we are better off fighting tomorrow when our men are in peak condition.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It is as you say Hatsu. Of course there is also the chance that this was all a trap to lure us into our camp and take us out in one fell swoop.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Are you not contradicting what you said about him earlier Lord Nivalis.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Haha I guess you are correct. Nevertheless we will postpone the battle until tomorrow noon.¡¯¡¯


    With that said no one had any problem left with following the plan.


    As such they decided to not send a messenger to the Falak camp.


    ¡®¡¯Now back to the stationing of our troops.¡¯¡¯


    Before the meeting was interrupted by the messenger, they were busily planning where to station their men.


    Because there fight will take place on an open field there are no environmental advantages for either side.


    According to the scout team, the previous report was accurate, the Falak army consisted of roughly ten thousand men.


    With the additional soldiers from nearing noble territories the Nivalis army now consisted of twelve thousand man.


    It was not a significant difference but it could become a deciding factor.


    In the end it was decided to make the main unit five thousand soldiers strong, also two units of twenty-five hundred.


    Lastly the remaining soldiers were placed behind the main army in order to be quickly deployed should a unit need assistance.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Just one matter was left to discuss.


    ¡®¡¯The placing of our blessing users will be a heavy influence in this battle. Let us not forget this is not a bunch of ruffians we are fighting, but another kingdom.¡¯¡¯


    In such a large scale battle there would be individuals who single handedly be able to turn the tide of battle.


    Though the Nivalis army held a few blessed soldiers, the number of their enemies was unknown.


    What¡¯s worse the abilities of the blessings are also unknown.


    Having an estimate number would help with spreading their own blessed soldiers over the respective armies.


    But not knowing what kind of abilities there were would make selecting the correct position of their own blessed crucial.


    ¡®¡¯With that the last blessed has been placed. Now go inform your underlings of the strategies.¡¯¡¯


    Having finished placing the last soldier made everyone in the room sigh of relief.


    One by one the commanders left the tent.


    ¡®¡¯Skald could I ask you to wait for a moment.¡¯¡¯


    Just as he wanted to return to his men, Skald was held back by Ran.


    When Skald looked at Ran he knew something was wrong.


    ¡®¡¯Are you feeling alright, you seem troubled.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Will you do me a favor?¡¯¡¯


    An oddly serious expression floated on Ran¡¯s face.


    ¡®¡¯Please make sure my daughter stays safe.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­I understand.¡¯¡¯


    No further words were spoken.


    Besides the three hundred men from Andor¡¯s sight, Skald was given two hundred from the Nivalis army.


    Because he is an outsider and a mercenary they may not completely listen to him.


    In order to work at its full capacity Yukino was assigned to Skald¡¯s unit.


    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    It being the last day before the battle meant it was the last day for training. And Kaze decided to make full use of this.


    ¡®¡¯Whoa!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Gotcha!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ugh, only two fights and you¡¯re already used to my movements.¡¯¡¯


    Feeling the cold ground over his back made the youth quickly jump up.


    ¡®¡¯Huff huff, are you kidding me? Your moves kept improving over the fight.¡¯¡¯


    Yuki swiped her hair which was in front of her left eye aside.


    ¡®¡¯The first fight was only to get a feel for your new techniques. As you fight more and more your skills will also improve. But don¡¯t think that I will lose anytime soon. You just took me by surprise last time, understood!¡¯¡¯


    Although that¡¯s all it takes in a real battle. She thought to herself.


    Seeing her pouting face felt kind of awkward.


    ¡®¡¯W-well it was incredible to win for someone with the strength of a general. Even if it was only a onetime thing. It¡¯s all thanks to your training Yuki, thank you from the bottom of my heart.¡¯¡¯


    Hearing the praises Kaze aimed at her, made Yuki blush far beyond any what she had previously showed.


    ¡®¡¯Mhhh, of course, I am a great teacher after all.¡¯¡¯


    She quickly brushed it off and changed the subject.


    ¡®¡¯Say what will you be doing after this battle?¡¯¡¯


    Kaze started rummaging through his hair.


    ¡®¡¯It is father who decides that. But seeing as Falak has basically declared war upon Nivalis. Should we manage to make them retreat, it would be safe to assume that the war will continue. If so we will probably be hired to fight for Nivalis, either defending our home or attacking theirs.¡¯¡¯


    Yuki¡¯s expression sadden the more Kaze spoke.


    When he noticed, he tried to lighten up the mood.


    Before he could open his mouth, Yuki started speaking.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯m happy that I met you guys.¡¯¡¯


    Seeing that she was cheerful instead of sad surprised Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯When I was younger I never had any friends my own age. Most the kids my age were snobs who thought themselves to be the greatest person in the world. Eventually they all challenged me to duals, and I always ended up sending them home crying.¡¯¡¯


    Looking at Kaze, she realized that she was the one bringing down the mood.


    Yuki chuckled as she saw a new expression of him.


    ¡®¡¯I wasn¡¯t lonely or anything, in fact quite the opposite. There have always been people around me who made time for me, who helped me study, play and train my skills. But I could only be surrounded by adults for so long. So I started sneaking out of the castle.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Then all those places we visited in Alos were¡­¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Hehe you guessed it, those were the first places I visited on my own. I ate some snacks, found my own secluded place, and played with some kids in the town. Even if I was a complete stranger to them they acted like I was one of their own. Though when the guards eventually found me I was in a heap of trouble.¡¯¡¯


    Yuki walked up to Kaze, with her face close enough that he could feel her breath.


    ¡®¡¯I hope we can go hunting together a bunch of times. Be sure to come visit Alos as much as possible, I still have a lot fun places to show you all.¡¯¡¯


    Staring into her ruby eyes, Kaze could see the sincerity with what she meant those words.


    ¡®¡¯Yeah, I look forward to it.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It does an old man heart well to see you youngsters make the most of your days.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Ah, Victor!¡¯¡¯


    Seeing the tough old man gently surprised the youngsters.


    ¡®¡¯Does that mean the meeting over?¡¯¡¯


    Victor nodded so to confirm his question.


    ¡®¡¯Now young master, lady Yukino, if you would be so kind as to follow me, we will tell you the details of our plan.¡¯¡¯


    When Victor turned his back, while snickering Yukino turned a questioned look at Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Hooh, young master huh?¡¯¡¯


    Feeling embarrassed, Kaze rubbed his neck as he avoided Yukino¡¯s piercing gaze.


    ¡®¡¯We¡¯ve been together a lot of years. Ever since father became the leader of Andor¡¯s sight Victor has been addressing me as young master.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Hoho and I intend to do so until you take over for your father.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯¡­Surely you¡¯re joking Victor. Even if not for Renzo and Hiro there are many others who are far more deserving than me.¡¯¡¯


    Victor stopped in his tracks and put one of his hands on Kaze¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡®¡¯I am not saying that it shall be tomorrow or even the day after that. What I am saying is that someday, you will be the greatest mercenary Andor¡¯s sight will have. When that happens I hope that you will lead us.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze was unable to come up with a proper response.


    ¡®¡¯Will you shape up already!¡¯¡¯


    With an open palm Yuki struck Kaze¡¯s back with full force.


    Having processed the pain made Kaze straighten his back.


    She stood next to Kaze and stomped on the ground while glaring at him.


    ¡®¡¯The house of Nivalis and Andor¡¯s sight have been together for a long time. So you better shape up and become a worthy representative.¡¯¡¯


    Kaze found himself for a loss of words. As the edge of his mouth started forming a smile he looked back at Yuki.


    ¡®¡¯You¡¯re right instead of making excuses, I should be aiming to surpass even my father.¡¯¡¯


    With a bright smile Yuki said. ¡®¡¯That means we have similar goals.¡¯¡¯


    Victor was happy seeing the boy who was like a grandson to him become a dependable young man.


    Yet this moment could not last forever. So the three picked up the pace and headed to the commanders tent.


    ¡®¡¯Captain, I have brought the young master and lady Yukino.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Good job Victor.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯So tell me why I¡¯m here. Something¡¯s up, otherwise I would have heard the plan from dad or Laure.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sharp as ever I see. Then allow me to explain.¡¯¡¯


    Skald explained the situation. About how she was placed in Andor¡¯s sights camp, and how she would assist in leading the soldiers.


    Once he finished, Yuki nodded and smiled carelessly.


    ¡®¡¯It seems like we¡¯ll be together a little longer.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Are you sure it¡¯ll be alright for you to be in our unit? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to stick by Lord Nivalis.¡¯¡¯


    Yuki looked fearlessly at Kaze.


    ¡®¡¯Just who do you think has been kicking your ass all these days? I¡¯ve been introduced to pretty much anyone in Andor¡¯s sight. Both your men and those of Nivalis


    ¡®¡¯Good to hear. Kaze, this will be the toughest battle in your life, should I be forced to use my blessing and unable to fight afterwards I put you in charge.¡¯¡¯


    Had he said this one day ago, Kaze would without a doubt have denied that he would be incapable of doing so.


    ¡®¡¯I¡¯ll lead them like you would father, perhaps even better.¡¯¡¯


    His words came as a little surprise but, Skald had felt proud of his son.


    ¡®¡¯Heh try not to be too smug about it. Remember the first thing I told you, those who are most proud of their abilities are the first to be cut down.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Right!¡¯¡¯

 Chapter 18: Fearful powers

    Westwards of Muzou, stood twelve thousand soldiers, under a banner with a white wolf.


    Similarly eastwards stood ten thousand soldiers, with a banner of a phoenix.


    Both armies had divided themselves in multiple units.


    Nivalis¡¯s main unit consisted of five thousand men and were led by Ran.


    Then there were two units directly next to it, both consisted of twenty five hundred soldiers.


    The unit on the right was led by Hatsu. Normally a direct aid to a Great Lord would not leave their side. But both were needed on separate battlefields.


    And the unit on the left side was led by another esteemed general.


    Lastly two thousand were placed behind the main units.


    They were reserve soldiers, should a unit need assistance they would be deployed. This way breaking formation would be prevented and fatalities would be significantly


    decreased.


    Each unit consisted of multiple smaller units so it had higher mobility.


    People with blessings were mostly given either a leading position or one adjacent to that.


    Right in front of the main army stood a man in flashy silver armor. Seeing him on his snow white horse made the sight of him ever more impressive.


    Morale could not be higher, a gracious yet powerful being who leads every men on the battlefield.


    But morale this high is a double edged sword, if something were to happen to Ran, Nivalis¡¯s entire army would fall to their knees.


    This is why it was a high risk, high reward strategy.


    Normally the general would be stationed somewhere in the back of the army to remain safe.


    Or he would place himself in the middle so that commands could be swiftly given and executed.


    The front of the army neither had safety, nor strategical advantages.


    Even though nobody showed it the soldiers most soldiers were terrified knowing the burden of this battle.


    To his men Ran was a beacon of light in an endless night that would lead them to safety.


    When he raised his hand, the sound of trumpets resonated through the plains.


    Saving not a single moment Ran charged straight ahead.


    As his horse galloped, thousands of others followed mere seconds behind.


    Ahead of them was the Falak army of ten thousand. Split into three units, one of four thousand and two of three thousand.


    It would be obvious that Ignus would be leading the largest of the units.


    This suspicion was confirmed when Ran saw the person in front of the largest unit.


    A knight in black and dark red full plate armor sat on his horse.


    But what was most noticeable about him was his weapon, it was created using an extremely rare metal named Iravu. This was known by its incredible toughness, but even more than that this metal held a natural black color.


    Imbedded in the hilt of the black sword were five rubies organized in an pentagram formation.


    When they saw the approaching Nivalis army, Ran signaled his men and they began the retaliation.


    The respective armies met with one another and the long awaited battle finally began.


    While most battles started of moderately normal, the right wing led by Hatsu was met by an unexpected opponent.


    At first it looked like a wall of shielded units, but those who blindly charged ahead failed to notice the animosity behind them.


    Thirty somewhat wolf like creatures, their blue and yellow furs stood straight up.


    Several people got fried while their horse fell onto the ground.


    Those who saw what had happened, recognized the light which came from them as a hazard.


    ¡®¡¯All men halt! Do not get close to their soldiers!¡¯¡¯


    Having quickly grasped an idea of the situation, Hatsu gave, made his soldiers keep distance.


    They were outside the reach of the Raius but within the range of their archers.


    Turning around and trying to take some distance between them was not an option, this would only expose their backs.


    For the moment Ran could only think of their survival.


    ¡®¡¯Prepare to fire the arrows, aim for those wolves!¡¯¡¯


    Soldiers readied their shields for protection, but left the to Raius fend for themselves.


    Though the beast barely gave a reply. All they had to do was curl themselves up and let their fur protect them.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    There were a few who fired lighting at the arrows and turned them into dust before they started their descend.


    It appears that even these beast have their own personalities of how they complete their task.


    ¡®¡¯Curses, captain notify sir Marudo we¡¯ll need his assistance of taking these beast down.¡¯¡¯


    Within two minutes the man Marudo arrived. ¡®¡¯Sir Hatsu, is it time for my blessing already?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯How long can you keep it up.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯I can keep it active for three hours at a time. But those enemies will be tough, I¡¯ll need to use more power than usual, so maybe around an hour.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Then we¡¯ll finish them within the hour.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Sir are you really using your blessing already?¡¯¡¯


    With a powerful voice Hatsu reassured Marudo. ¡®¡¯Do not worry yourself, without it we¡¯ll still be able to fight these beasts.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Understood then if you¡¯ll allow me.¡¯¡¯ Marudo closed his eyes and held out his hands ¡®¡¯Spacial Force.¡¯¡¯


    Marudo slowly advanced forwards, a rain of arrows was constantly coming down but none came close to hitting him.


    While moving his hands around two Raius came out of the crowd, to confusion of the Falak soldiers.


    Somehow they looked odd. Neither of them were actually walking yet they were in motion.


    Their front paws were firm on the ground to keep themselves from moving.


    ¡®¡¯Archer take aim!¡¯¡¯


    Sparks from the Raius fur started striking the ground but none were able to leave their bodies.


    ¡®¡¯Fire!¡¯¡¯


    As Hatsu gave the signal arrows started at their single venerable place, their faces.


    With arrows sticking out of their faces, the creatures were no longer recognizable.


    What happened was surprising none the less, without their own will, the creatures were pulled out of the crowd. Not being able to defend themselves led to their demise.


    Yet not a single change on the Falak soldiers faces.


    Their mental fortitude was great, Lord Falak made sure to train his men to remain calm and composed.


    If a general were to fall their morale would take no hit whatsoever. Simply the next in line would take over and resume the battle.


    Wild beast on the other hand were different, they relied only on their instinct or their leader.


    Multiple Raius started firing lightning at Marudo, apparently they figured out that he was a threat.


    As if there were a shield around him all lightning bolts changed direction away from him.


    Once again two more Raius were pulled out of the crowd.


    A howl could be heard from further inside the army and four Raius bolted towards Marudo.


    ¡®¡¯Wha!¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯They figured it out already, you three come with me!¡¯¡¯


    While the Raius that Marudo held were killed by oncoming arrows, four more charged at him.


    Before he was able to protect himself from the rain of arrows and lighting strikes.


    This was because his power redirected all oncoming projectiles, he did not have a shield that covered him.


    Hatsu had learned the strengths and weaknesses from all known blessed in the Nivalis army, so his decision making was quick.


    Since the Raius were focused on Marudo, Ran and his men were able to attack somewhat unnoticed.


    Two were struck down, but the other two survived.


    Their fur stood up and sparks started to form. This is a dangerous situation.


    Luckily the two Raius which Marudo held down were killed, so he was able to move his hands over to the remaining two and he was able to prevent a discharge.


    But it turned out to be more troublesome situation then they had thought, as the two rolled themselves up into balls.


    Hatsu and his men were striking their weapons onto the now rolled up Raius, but this was without progress.


    Fur the strength of a brick wall protected them from any harm, the only place not protected were their faces.


    ¡®¡¯Marudo open them up, we have to kill them quickly.¡¯¡¯


    But Marudo just painfully shook his head. ¡®¡¯It¡¯s no good, they keep discharging lightning, the moment I stop keeping it contained we¡¯ll be struck.¡¯¡¯


    Hatsu fell silent for a moment. ¡®¡¯Then we have no choice.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯How long sir?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯One hour if I am conservative, anymore then that will put me in severe risk.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯So we¡¯ll be going all breaks loose from now on.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Yes we have to finish this battle quick and meet up with Lord Ran.¡¯¡¯


    Honestly they were not great odds, to defeat a unit of three thousand men would normally take at least a full day and Hatsu meant to do it in less than an hour.


    Nonetheless he was one of the most powerful blessed in the continent, ranking only below the Great Lords.


    His blessing was special in a way, for he had gotten it from another human.


    ¡®¡¯By the contract with my master, empress of the frozen mountains heed my voice. May my foes whom disgrace the artic land be struck by thine bow, Skadi!¡¯¡¯


    Cold winds started surrounding Hatsu, as a cool blue light dimly shown off him.


    Mumbling could be heard from the soldiers behind him.


    ¡®¡¯Is that the famous power?¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯It has to be, right?¡¯¡¯


    Skadi was the name he invoked when he called forth this power. It was that of the one who had formed a contract with Ran and made him into a Great Lord.


    It is information unknown even amongst those with blessings knew not of these possibilities.


    These special blessings are referred to as a servant pact.


    Yet why was it so unknown? It was very simple really, most people who attempted to abuse it would perish.


    Blessings are not something everyone can handle. If the vessel rejected to power, he and his contractor would die. Because no one used it the information was quickly forgotten.


    But should one against all odds be a true vessel a terrible threat would be created.


    Of course one would not be able to come into the domain of the original user. However depending on the power, a combo between the two could become two maybe three times as strong.


    ¡®¡¯Now as for you two.¡¯¡¯ Icicles formed out of thin air, coming into contact would be enough to freeze just about anything.


    Penetrating through the Raius thick fur was an easy task for these icicles.


    Eventually their entire bodies froze over and shattered into thousands shards of ice.


    ¡®¡¯Sir Marudo, I¡¯m going to make quick work of these beasts.¡¯¡¯


    ¡®¡¯Understood, please act with caution.¡¯¡¯


    Multiple icicles were created, at this point Hatsu could be counted as a one man archer unit.


    Once again a howl was heard from inside the army.


    When the icicles blasted forwards everyman who stood in their way was killed instantly.


    Ordinary people had no hope of surviving this onslaught, shields were destroyed and armor was torn through. Raius were running deeper into the army, most of them were unable to escape and killed by the icicles.


    Along with two hundred soldiers half the remaining Raius were killed.


    ¡®¡¯What incredible power, surely all those beasts have perished.¡¯¡¯ Marudo was perplexed when he saw Hatsu¡¯s blessing first hand.


    ¡®¡¯No something is wrong. Did you hear it, after that howl the beasts started running away. Some of them still survived, we can no longer delay our shelves. Captain please take care of our men while I make preparations.¡¯¡¯ Around Hatsu gusts of air kept blowing it seemed that he meant to end this with one last blow.


    Meanwhile both armies resumed their normal battle.


    Thanks to Hatsu and Marudo their soldiers were able to fight without having to worry about getting struck by lightning.


    ¡®¡¯Mhm it appears we have a troublesome foe at our door. It will soon be time, shall we go on with our plan Sanda.¡¯¡¯


    *Wooooh*


    Laure who had taken command from one of Falak¡¯s armies was stroking the fur of the Raiu leader.


    ¡®¡¯He intends to kill a great deal of us with his next attack. Someone with that much power is probably a Great Lord¡¯s retainer. I¡¯ll have to show them my power as well.¡¯¡¯


    Laure snapped his horse¡¯s reins, Sanda followed behind him.


    ¡®¡¯By the contract with my master, he has was casted down from the heavens obey my will. Burn all who oppose my will and light this plain of existence with your everlasting flame, Lucifer!¡¯''


    When the invocation of his blessing finished Laure had reached the front of the army.


    Hatsu noticed a strong existence and locked his eyes on him.


    Countering him was impossible lest he wanted to kill his allies.


    ¡®¡¯Surging Inferno¡¯¡¯


    What destruction thought Hatsu. A wall of fire now separated the two armies, neither in height nor width could the enemy be seen.


    ¡®¡¯That man killed his own men without batting an eye. Falak¡¯s men are dangerous indeed.¡¯¡¯