《Traversing Worlds | Making Worlds Anew》 Prologue - Death Modern day Shanghai, a bustling cosmopolitan city and the financial hub of mainland China. It is one of the great symbols of the economic booms of the East. In the Pudong downtown area, Chen Ryu is walking home from the subway station on his return back home from school. He just completed the matriculation ceremony if his new school. Ryu is half Japanese from his father¡¯s side resulting in his mixed heritage name. He is the youngest of 04 children with 02 older brothers who have moved on to University and his elder sister who is now in college. Ryu lives independent from his parents who are living in Singapore. You would wonder why he lives separately, and no, it is not because of household problems. Now Ryu is a normal high school student. Just he is not from a normal family. His family has ancestral heritages in martial arts and as former nobility from both bloodlines. His farther the head of the Ryuzaki family based out of Osaka is a former samurai family with several branch families. And his mother is the head of the Chen Xi Tian clan from Xiamen having roots as far back as the Ming dynasty. Both families have excellent talent in all forms of art and are competitive by nature. However, Ryu is an odd ball. From his siblings, his brothers had masters several martials arts while his sister learned the Chinese zither. Ryu unlike his siblings has no interest in martials arts. He exercises but finds every possible way to run away from martial arts training. As for cultural arts, he has no talent for painting or most instruments. He can moderately play the violin and the piano but not to the standards of either family. Also, as the youngest, neither family holds any expectations of him, which has made his attempts at avoiding things he finds ¡®cumbersome¡¯. Ryu has yearned to be normal. He feels suffocated in his abnormal family. Not that he quarrels or is at odds with anyone. Rather he friendly with almost everyone, even extremely distant relatives. In his family, he has the best people and networking skills. Yet, he finds living with his family suffocating. So after completing middle school, he got his parents to approve him moving to Shanghai. The guise was to learn to be independent and build himself. He got what he wanted, but his parents were, less than happy. [Since you want to live away from us, you will have to handle everything on your own. We will send you the minimal allowance and will manage your lease and tuition. Everything else is for you to manage. If you cause any problems, I will drag you back] These were words of his father the day Ryu left for Shanghai. Ryu was more than happy for the arrangements. Reminiscing the memories, Ryu hums his way home. { Tink .Tink . Tink } Ryu¡¯s phone rings. He finds that it is a call from his sister. [Hi little Ryu!] [Hello Sis] Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. [Huhu.. Are you surprised that I called?] [Well I was expecting someone would call me today] [Is that so? How was school? Have you settled down properly?] [Nothing much since it was just the welcome ceremony today. I am on my way back. Everything is setup for now] [Hmm. Good to hear. It hasn¡¯t been long but do take care of yourself. I know Dad was harsh but he is a worrywart. Mum is worried too. If not Dad, at least give mum a call later, okay?] [Sure] [Also, I will be dropping by the first weekend just to see you] [¡­ Why?] [What do you mean ¡®why¡¯? I have to see for myself that little bro is alright and happy] [Do you trust me so little?] [No it¡¯s not that. Can¡¯t I visit you?] [That¡¯s not it. . . fumu. . Fine, I will see you this weekend] [Great] {Poooong} Ryu on the phone hears something behind him. But before he could turn, he feels like he got slammed from behind. Not realizing what happened, Ryu get throttled several meters away and slams face first on to the road. <¡­ What happened?> Monologues Ryu. [Hey Kid! Are you alright?] [This is bad. Hey!! someone call an ambulance!] . . . . . Chapter 01 - WHITE Waking up Ryu mumbles lightly until he realizes. Feeling as if normal, he abruptly wakes up and start checking himself. Why? Because he feel alright. No pain. Ryu careful checks himself. Stretching his arms and feet. He feels absolutely fine or even better than before. He then starts scanning his surroundings. Ryu finds himself on top a comfortable light bed. But there is no room. More like, the entirety of everything is white. Endless whiteness. [Have you woken up now?] A voice is suddenly heard. The voice spoke words of concerns, but it sounded genderless and emotionless with slight staleness. Ryu tries to find the source of the voice. Then He finds a figure just in front of him. He couldn¡¯t¡¯ notice any features. Rather he was blinded, by white light. [Do not panic. Be seated] As the voice spoke, a table and cushions came out in front of Ryu. Though he gets slightly startled, Ryu seats himself as instructed. He sits in seiza, the traditional Japanese way of sitting. The white figure also takes seat across from Ryu. [First, I must inform you that due to circumstances, Chen Ryu, you have passed away] [ . . . . ] [You had gotten into an accident on you way home. You were hit by a cargo truck that gone out of control. Though not immediately, you had passed away shortly after. Because you were paralyzed, you did to feel pain. This could be called fortunate for such an untimely incident] [ . . . . ] [Do you have nothing you want to say?] [Well¡­ This still feels surreal. To be informed that I died. I had an Inkling, but your words have confirmed this] [Not really calm, but facing fact. However, I would like to clarify somewhat from you] [Please ask] [First, who are you?] [Then, is this heaven?] [No it is not] [Where is this?] [This is the realm of Gods. It is higher than Heaven] [Your death of an unfortunate incident that was completely unexpected. Because this falls out of norms remedy is needed] [Unexpected? Even for God? Please explain] [ . . . . The fact of the situation is your death was an unexpected result. The driver of the truck that hit, had passed away a short moment before it hit you. The driver was heavily drunk and had passed out to some extent. In his sleep, he had passed away. The expected result was that the truck would proceed as is and fall into the river further down. However, the truck somehow had slid off to the side and rammed you] [ . . . . You speak as though this is natural and unrelated] [This is completely unnatural and is why I am meeting you. Also it is related to me and is the other reason to meet with you] [Is his death of your direct action?] [Indeed. The thing is I loathe drunkards and thus took his life] [Indeed] [ . . . . Is that all? Do you have nothing to say?] [It is recognized as this one¡¯s error and thus offer to make amends for you. I will not apologize to a human; however, you will be offered a recompense] [Do not insult. I can still send you to oblivion] [ . . . . ] [Why did you not answer?] [Because you did not speak] [But you can read my mind] [Too cumbersome. Just speak] [Again, do not insult, human] [Fine. Then what do you offer me? Resurrection? Reincarnation?] [You can no longer resurrect into your old world. I can send you to another] [Oh! Really?! What kind of world?] At this point Ryu who had been glum through the entire sitting, became excited and interested. [It is a world of magic and adventure. It will fit young humans like yourself] [Really?! Great! ¨C What will you give me? A Quest? New settings?] [Quite down. I will give you the chance to select abilities and some settings. Others will be random. There will be no quest. It will be up to you] [Oh! Tell me quick¡­ what are my options?] [For your gifts, first are the necessary settings:
  1. Common Language (Human) ¨C this includes Reading & Writing.
  2. Age set to 16 years.
  3. World Traveler Status ¨C Keeping knowledge of the Former World.4. Guide ¨C A sort of help knowledge embedded into the brain for World Travelers (Automated expiry in 3 months from transmigration).
  4. Magic circuit for learning magic.
Second are the Primary Skills and Powers:
  1. Disassemble (Passive) ¨C power to break apart any loot or kill for increased gains.
  2. Greater Innate Magic (Genetic Addition) ¨C basic level of magic will be higher than normal. Specialization to develop later.
  3. Comprehension (Passive) ¨C Ability to learn, decipher, understand and react will be faster. The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
Next you can choose four unique skills to tailor for yourself. Think about this and decide. These cannot be changed later] [Can I get anything for Unique powers?] [Indeed] [In that case, I want:
  1. The ability to get to create anything I want
  2. The ability to Summon anything I want
  3. The ability to do anything I want
  4. Power of Space & Time
These four] [ . . . . ] [Hmm? . . . . Is anything wrong?] [You are too greedy. Do you intend to become a God? They must change] [Do not be too greedy . . ] [This is an amend for your error in my death, remember] Ryu spoke back undauntedly. He was internally smug as he spoke. God gave him no reply as it remained seated. [Okay. Revising the powers. I want these powers:
  1. Ability to summon weapons and soldiers. Embedded should be the ability to command them and their paramount loyalty to me.
  2. Ability to summon the necessary support for those summoned, including resources, facilities and appropriate personnel, science and technology.
  3. Ability of Great Sage like AI (artificial intelligence) support. This is embedded into by being and spirit.
  4. Ability to cultivate powers. Building upon experience and knowledge.
These should be fine. I chose these based off the best manga I have read. Can¡¯t go wrong with these] [Still too greedy. However, they are somewhat better than before. We will have to work on some limitations for these.
  1. Ability to summon weapons and soldiers. This is fine as is. But limitation to number will be set. You can explore on this after to reach the world.
  2. Ability to summon necessary support. This is too vast. Personnel cap will be proportional to summons. Resources can be infinite but remember they will not be locked to you and can be taken away from you. You can explore the limitation on this after to reach the world.
  3. Ability of Great Sage. This is fine as is.
  4. Ability to Cultivate Powers. Difficulty will be added to this. This gives you too much so, making attainment slightly harder will be the limitation. You can explore the limitation on this after to reach the world.
With this you can now be on your way] [Wait! Remember adding some settings including my appearance to deal with] [Again, do not be greedy. Speak, what you need after consideration] [I want to add:
  • Symmetrical body structure (muscle & bone).
  • Ikemen face. I need to be popular after all.
  • Height of 190 cm.
Starting equipment:
  • Gakuran uniform with high protection, durability & magic resistance. Kuku¡­ This will give me a mysterious feel when people see me.
  • School shoes with spikes for hiking. For movement diversity. Make the shoes comfortable and durable.
  • Wrist watch to monitor time. I am without anything right now.
  • Last, a katana sword with divine protection, magic and high offensive power.
That is all. These should be relatively reasonable] [Haah!... Forget it. You humans are always too greedy] [There is no such thing. What you have as can be provided. Only the sword will be revised. You can explore it after to reach the other world. If there is nothing else. Let us begin] [Really! Great! Hmm¡­ so there is nothing more right?] As Ryu could not recall anything else, both he and the figure got up. With a wave of its arm, the figure removed the table and cushions. Then with another, a pillar of golden light was cast upon Ryu. There his appearance, height changed and his equipment was adorned. Next the begin spread both its arm and a large circle of light manifested under Ryu. It was lit with a myriad of colours from the rainbow. The complex designs and hieroglyph like scriptures fascinated Ryu. He was on top of the transmigration magic formation. He felt wondrous as he looked down onto it. Then pressure came upon on Ryu as he started to sink into the formation. As he was half way through, Ryu looked at the white being. [God, Thank you. I will take this opportunity to the fullest] Ryu spoken merrily as he felt like those MC from the manga¡¯s he had read. Then the white being replied. [Now be off with you. I can return back to being uninterested. You are too much work. Oh! Before you go, know that in the other world I will not be in charge. The one in charge likes to interfere with stuff more than me and has tonnes of other worlders as well. These are my parting words for you. Do enjoy the chaos over there!] Ryu blanked at what was spoken. He was unable to comprehend. And unlike all of the previous, the last sentences were spoken with great delight as if sarcastic. Then realization dawns on to Ryu as he becomes wide eyed. But before he could speak, light erupts and his conscious fades with him gets transported away. Chapter 02 - ARRIVAL With sounds of chipping birds and rustling leaves, Ryu wakes up. He finds himself in the middles of grassy patch surrounded by woods. Ryu stands and looks around. The Sun high up as if high noon. Silhouettes of mountains ranges are to his right. They seem quite far away with its foggy appearance. Some of them peak over the could. To his back are woodland hills. His was in a meadow that was almost perfect a circle with a diameter of hundreds of meters. The surround trees, them seem as though they are magnified as they could easily reach or ever surpass a hundred meters. Taking a deep breath, Ryu sits down again. [Now be off with you. I can return back to being uninterested. You are too much work. Oh! Before you go, know that in the other world I will not be in charge. The one in charge likes to interfere with stuff more than me and has tonnes of other worlders as well. These are my parting words for you. Do enjoy the chaos over there!] Ryu recalls the exact words. < You shameless Ossan, I will make you pay for this! A God? Hell with that! Too irresponsible. And what is this about multiple gods? And the one this time wants to interfere with lives even more? That hypocritical sadistic. I just wait, I will show you that I will make this a success and find a way back to you!> Ryu monologues his complains as he makes this resolve to prove the old coon wrong. Taking a deep breath. Ryu does a check of his equipment. Taking a few minutes, he confirms that he has everything he asked for:
  • The Gakuran, jet black with gold buttons and linings.
  • His School shoes with spikes. He tests them by walking a little and slight hops.
  • His wrist watch, which is all white and stylish. It has a sort of metallic mesh band and head. The clock is like back on earth.
Next he unsheathes his sword. The blade is complete jet black. It has a luster that bounces off light giving it an ethereal feel. It also seems to have a carving of a dragon on it. The carving is replicated on both sides of the blade. Then, the handle on the sword and is made of the same material as his watch. But the grip seems subtly soft making it easier and more stable to hold. After checking his equipment¡¯s, Ryu slight ponders. [Master: Shall I display the status screen? YES or NO] Ryu becomes startled as he hears a gender-less robotic voice. His eyes dart around to quickly search his surroundings, but finds no one within the field. [Master: This is the AI. One of masters powers, the ?Great Sage? that is to assist master in his tasks. Only master can hear me as I am in your spirit. You can converse with me with thought] The voice explains as it resounds in Ryu head. Ryu still startled, can digest this information. [Master: This one currently has no set name. You can give me a name or call me AI. Till now I have been booting up and adjusting to master¡¯s statuses and powers. I have also been copying and cataloguing the information from Guide. This will keep the information even after expiry for reference and will build on AI¡¯s future assistance to master] At Ryu¡¯s instructions, the status of the sword is reveal. Name: Ryuzen Class: Hero Class Element: Darkness Powers:
  • Blackening ¨C A shroud of darkness covers the blade increasing slash power, sharpness and durability. Consumes magic depending on target.
  • Black Claw ¨C A single blade slash using darkness element. It moves in a straight line for maximum 100 meters.
Stats:
  • Durability 1000 pts
  • Sharpness 400 pts
  • Skill 400 pts
Auto-Repair function (Passive). Needs swordsmanship skills to use. [Master: The sword is a typical HERO class grade 1 sword. This is according information on the guide] Ryu was crest fallen at this discovery. This has made his sword useless for now and in turn makes him unarmed and defenceless. Ryu grumbles as he recalls the being called God from his last meeting. [Mater: Understood] AI explains his current situation very briefly. The main points are:
  • Location ¨C Introduction page mentioned that Ryu is sent to the 3rd Open field of ?Moore¡¯s Forest. This is outside the Dungeon forest of Glaze That is to the North past the Hills. He is also situated near Elvish territory of Ishbaala Forest Kingdom. This is neutral territory. Ryu is far from human civilization which are further south and outside the forest. This is the distance of several thousand kilometers.
  • Remaining equipment ¨C they are all durable and have divine defence with no pre-requisite requirements. The Gakuran has a special ability of indestructibility, all magic resistance, spell resistant and had domain evoke ability. This casts a darkness barrier around Ryu for up to 3 meters. This powers evolves with his level. Leaving the Gakuran, his shoes do not have any special powers. This is however enchanted to make his feet light and allows him to always land on his feet when falling, adding a inertia cushioning magic effect.
Next his powers:
  1. Disassemble (Passive) ¨C power to break apart any loot or kill for increased gains. This gives him the ability to get better loot from kills. Not limiting to meat rations, it also includes blood essence, magic and knowledge. The limitation is that he must have killed the prey himself. The ability is passive.
  2. Greater Innate Magic ¨C basic level of magic will be higher than normal. Specialization to develop later. The possible branches of evolution are: Basic: Fire / Water / Earth / Wind Special: Light / Darkness / Space / Nature Compound: Time / Void / Healing / Summoning / Enchantment Unique Magic (not fitting any of the above)
  3. Comprehension (Passive) ¨C Ability to learn, decipher, understand and react will be faster. This skill has become consumed by AI and integrated into it. Therefore, became redundant. This improves AI capability in responses and calculation.
Information on AI ¨C it currently has all recorded basic information of this world, including its common sense, language and regional map. Regional map indicates the area of ?Moore¡¯s Forest. Areas outside ?Moore¡¯s Forest are not included. As for language, it currently only includes human and elvish. Other languages can be comprehended as and when encountered and by experience. AI also passive installs language into me so that can retort back in spoken language after it is deciphered and learnt. As for common sense, basics of world affairs and current leadership, policies and situations were described in the guide very roughly. Only the situations of Ishbaala Kingdom and the Human Kingdom of Rhine are provided. This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. Taking time to comprehend this Ryu settles down. It has roughly been 2 hours since he arrived into the new world. Ryu, by nature is quite calm even when he is internally in chaos. He slowly tries to recall important steps and considerations. Only slightly forgets matters when he becomes excited. [Master: Understood. Verifying now] [Analysis complete. Explanation:
  • Ability to summon weapons and soldiers. - The ability grants power of summoning weapons and appropriate users. - Weapons and users are summoned separately. - Weapons can be summoned unlimitedly. - Can summon weapons from this world and the other world. - Further technological restriction of weapons also based on summoner level. - Summon weapons can be switched out later or disassembled after summoning. - Summon of Users has restrictions. These include: Limited Number based on Level Growth based on Levels Summon users cannot be unsummoned. Summon personnel who die cannot be re-summoned. All summoned personnel are by default, extremely loyal. - Other characteristics will be set by default unless specifically set by summoned. This includes, appearance and character. - Automatic command ability of users is achieved. - Summons are not limited to humans and can include beasts and mythical creatures as well as the undead as necessary for equipment.
  • Ability to summon necessary support. - Personnel cap will be proportional to summons. Ratio is determined based on level of summoner. - Type of summon-able building is limited by level of summoner & technological restrictions. - Engineer construction ability is not limited. - Any and all professions deemed appropriate by summoner can be summoned within the limitation.
  • Ability of Great Sage. Already explained.
  • Ability to Cultivate Powers. - Extreme difficulty added. - Required player to get direct experience to copy powers of another. Several hundred experiences required. - Unique powers require players to undergo theoretical learning and trial by fire practices. - Can learn skills under this ¨C but difficulty will be the requirement of vigorous training at four times the difficulty of regular trainees. - Difficulty increases with level of the power. - Learning ability ration 4:1 proportionally increases on players¡¯ level.
That is all!] Ryu becomes ever more glum on this prospects and status after analyzing his unique powers. [Master Understood. Results are: Name: Chen Ryu | Level: Level 01 (Beginner) Race: Human | Age: 16 yrs Gender: Male | Height: 190cm Disposition: Calm, Shounen, Slightly Chunibyo, Closet Pervert, Gentlemanly Stats:
  • Strength [20 pts]
  • Agility [50 pts] (+200 from equipment)
  • Motor Skill [100 pts]
  • Mental Str. [150 pts]
  • Wits [500 pts] (+2000 from powers & skills)
  • Magic [700 pts]
Magic: All Elementary Magic Innate Magic: N/A Unique:
  • Ability to summon weapons and soldiers. Weapon: - Technology (Other World): Any discovered until 1915 (Napoleonic Wars) - Technology (This World): Any discovered and understood. Users: - Summoning Limit (Each limit counts separately) Infantry: 500 units (5 platoons) Armours: 50 units Artillery: 20 units Air forces: 05 units Naval Forces: 10 units
  • Ability to summon necessary support.
Personnel Ratio: 10 per user Building Technology: Any discovered until 1915 Resources discovered resource can supplement as support. Consumption of magic based on scale, rarity and uniqueness.
  • Ability to Cultivate Powers. No powers learnt yet.
Skills: All Language Comprehension Summoner Powers:
  • Complete Disassemble (Passive) ¨C power to break apart any loot or kill for maximum gain. This gives him the ability to get maximum loot from kills. Not limiting to meat rations, it also includes blood essence, magic and knowledge. The limitation is that he must have killed the prey himself. The ability is passive.
  • Comprehension (Passive) ¨C Ability to learn, decipher, understand and react will be faster. This skill has become consumed by AI and integrated into it. Therefore, became redundant. This improves AI capability in responses and calculation.
That is all!] [Master: You are considered stronger than average, as a beginner] After learning his status and powers, Ryu recovers his mood. It has now been 5 hours since he arrived in this world and is now 2.30 in the afternoon. Recovering himself, Ryu now thinks on him future plans and the start of his adventures. Chapter 03 - YOURS TO COMMAND! It is Day 00 of Ryu¡¯s arrival into the other world. Apparently, the world is called ?Galeia. Ryu moves to center of the open field and tries his first attempt at summoning troops.
  • Type: Recon (Scouting)
  • Number: 120
  • Patrols: 12
  • Armour/Cavalry: - None
  • Equipment: - Baker Rifle, Swords, Dagger - Light Armour, Gloves, Combat Clothes, Military Shoes - Potable Shovel - Knapsack
    • Platoon 02 & 03
    • Type: Infantry
    • Number: 260
    • Patrols: 20
    • Armour/Cavalry: - None
    • Equipment: - Barker Rifle, Swords - Light Armour, Gloves, Combat Clothes, Military Shoes - Potable Shovel - Knapsack
    Platoon 04
    • Type: Pike
    • Number: 120
    • Patrols: 12
    • Armour/Cavalry: - None
    • Equipment: - Halberd Pike, Dagger - Light Armour, Gloves, Combat Clothes, Military Shoes - Knapsack
    Platoon 05
    • Type: Cavalry (Dragoons)
    • Number: 50
    • Patrols: 10
    • Armour/Cavalry: - War Horse
    • Equipment: - Carbine, Swords - Light Armour, Gloves, Combat Clothes, Military Shoes - Knapsack
    Platoon 06
    • Type: Artillery (Field & Bombardment)
    • Number: 50
    • Weapon: - 8-Inch Howitzers (10) - 12-pound Cannon (10)
    Platoon 07
    • Type: Engineers (Combat)
    • Number: 200
    • Weapon: - Carbine
    Platoon 08
    • Type: Logistical Troopers
    • Number: 1000
    • Armour/Cavalry: - Wagon Carts (400)
    • Weapon: - Carbine, Sword
    In additional let¡¯s set leaderships for every platoon to have male leaders. Vice of every even number platoon will be female. And every second patrol leader is female. Hmm¡­ I could put for all females for a large harem¡­ but it may just become muscle head women¡­ That doesn¡¯t seem heavenly. We can always do more later> Ryu after determining the troop composition and toying with an all-female army idea that gave him a nightmarish premonition, he moves on to do a final check. With his final thought, the flash of brilliant white explodes before him. In a single instance, all his troops are assembled before him. Ryu is slack jawed as he sees the well assembled group. As he remains in shell shock, a soldier steps out and up to him from the left. [Commander. All troops reporting, Sir] A young adolescent voice reports up to Ryu. This voice has a European, boyish feeling. The troopers call, helps Ryu regain himself. [Ah! Well yes¡­ Welcome troopers. To start off, can you remove you helmet and introduce yourself and also call out the platoon leaders and vices] [Understood. Sir] Ryu, slowly backs up and summons a large command tent with modest field furniture. He then walks in a waits for the trooper to gather the appropriate. Just as Ryu takes his seat, a call is heard for outside. [Commander, permission to enter] [Yes. Come in] [All Platoon leaders and Vices are reporting Sir] Ryu slowly inspects each of the troops that had entered the tent. As all of them had removed their helmets, Ryu now gets a better look of each person. There are 12 men and 04 women in total. Almost all of them are fairly young. The first person that spoke to Ryu and is leader of the Group is as like his voice suggested a European. By visage, he looks to fit the description of the Aryans of the Germanic myths. He has blond hair and cerulean blue eyes. A perfect European ikemen. Ryu is slightly annoyed. His features and proportions are symmetrical, making him look perfect. This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. Moving on, others in the groups are of mix heritages. From the groups, Ryu can identify 3 Japanese made of 02 guys and 01 girl, and 5 Chinese with 02 guys and 03 girls. All girls of the groups were of Asian descent. The remaining guys was another German, 02 Russians, 02 Turks and 02 Koreans. A very diverse group. All of them beauties (girls) and ikemen (guys) alike. All seeming between 21 ¨C 30 years old. As Ryu finishes sizing up the group, a little crestfallen, the German ikemen speaks. [Commander. My name is Tolech Rudger. I am captain of the second platoon and lieutenant commander of the first combat group. I am 21 years old] As Ryu was having concerns, Tolech continues his introductions. In summary. Tolech is the youngest but is the most trained and equally experienced to everyone present. Each one had a gleam in their eyes as they spoke up. His name was hard to pronounce, so Ryu named him Tolle which Tolech was happy to receive. During this all Ryu wondered on his insignificant worries and excessive looked at the girls. In turn they felt Ryu¡¯s gaze as they seemed to become happier. [With that, that is all for introduction of platoon leaders. Each of the platoons are a mix of the nationalities of its leadership. And the gender ratio within the combat group 2:1 with more men. And in the Logistical teams it is 1:1 on average. Sir. What are your orders] [Master: Understood. AI recommends that a Fort be constructed. Class 2 Hill Fort would suffice. Additionally, summoning resources and supplies as necessary by platoons into it. Fort should also have sufficient cannon turrets for defence as threat level is unknown for now. Then organizing recon parties into the forest. Operational time should be 3 hours for return movement. A distance of 5 kilometers will suffice for security. Last, clearing of forestation up to 800 meters surrounding forest is suggested. Simultaneously adding obstacles is also recommended] Ryu quickly gives out the orders to complete AI¡¯s recommendation. He also adds on setting command at the highest point of the fort he will summon. He instructs Tolle to issue corresponding commands to recons patrols. Other platoons are to move into fort and organize the supplies and positioning. Orders for the Engineers were also sent out. After all commands were issue, everyone including Ryu stepped out of the Tent. Tolle commanded the troops to clear the middle of the meadow. After the troops cleared off to the sides, Ryu then summoned a Class 02 Hill Fort. This was a replica of the Azuchi castle. However, this castle at 2 gates, one to the north and one to the south. Both were massive but inconspicuous from a distance. The walls were 15 meters high and in a pentagon shape. The castle also had cannon point along its wall. The height of the central Tower was higher than the walls but did not top over the surrounding trees. This somehow gave it a big and small feel to Ryu. Ryu was quite pleased with his fort summoning. Other tasks moved along as the resources were called in as suggested by the combat, logistics and engineering teams. After collecting the resource, the recon group assembled to moved out. Before they left, Ryu issued one more command to them ¨C RETURN BACK ALIVE. They spread out with each patrol on bearings between 1:00 and 12:00. Ryu also informs them of the existence of demons. By common sense of this world, to should be lower class, however since they are yet to experience them, he informed all of them to maintain caution and retreat back to fort as necessary. This is especially so since they do not have radio communications yet. After the recon troops spread out Ryu returned to the fort to face the remaining troop. He got onto the balcony of the central tower with Tolle as he addressed the assembled troops. [Hello everyone. I am Chen Ryu and your summoner and commander. By circumstance we are in another world. I will be needing to rely on your support to live and progress in the world. This not to say that you are servants but comrades. It is important to me that, neither of you are sacrificed. I can replace those who die, but I cannot revive the dead. I want unity amongst us. I hope to be in you care and hope to make our adventures a success] Ryu spoke, clearly and unflustered. As he was used to things like this from times at the large families of his parents. He gave a slight bow at the end. As he returned upright he watched on as the soldiers gazed back at him in silence. Then Tolle abruptly steps ahead of Ryu and turns to face him. He then suddenly kneels infront of Ryu, keeping his gaze to the ground. Speaks out aloud. [We the first Combat group are yours to command. Your words are sincere and profound. We are grateful for your concern and acceptance of us as your comrades. We will do our utmost for you, our Commander. We swear utmost and unquestionable loyalty to you. Please me our commander and lead us to victory] Just as Tolle spoke up, the rest of the troops knelt in the same fashion. At the end of Tolle¡¯s speech they all yelled. [We are your Command! Long live Commander Chen Ryu!!] Ryu was taken aback. But he quickly recovered. [I have received you. Now stand. Arrange the fort for operation and prepare our defences. Tolle please see me inside] Ryu was claiming inwardly for the excessive show that was led by Tolle. He was expecting a salute and simple response, but Tolle¡¯s speech blew him. As he returned in silently, Tolle got back up and watched Ryu walk back inside the tower. Then he turned and dismissed the troops as they dispersed off to perform their predetermined tasks. Tolle had a slight smile on his face. His eyes narrowed with a gleam. Ryu unaware of Tolle¡¯s thoughts and expression, only felt a slight shiver as premonition as he proceeded inside to the command room. Chapter 04 - RECON It is now half past 3 in the afternoon. It has been 30 minutes since the recon teams left. Ryu was right now drawing out the topography of the area with AI¡¯ assistance. Ryu was good at mapping as was one of the survival skills he learnt from his 2nd elder brother who joined a military college. Scattered across the table he worked on were drawings of the fortress and immediate surroundings, paper work for new requirements and facilities, defence plans and a paper on discussion of the name of the group and its banner. Tolle was assisting Ryu with the documents as he briefed the details. Other than Tolle there were 02 others. Vice of the logistics team Li Lin who was a female Chinese and Salman Ubaid a male Turk, who was the head of the Engineers. After drawing out a simple map, Ryu passed it to Lin to make copied of and she quickly left. Remaining in the room were Salman and Tolle as they stood by the table and waited on Ryu. [So, explain to be simply, what we need to do for defence of the fort, in order of priority] Ryu who was leaning back on his chair with his eye closed, spoke these words to Salman. [Commander, the fort still requires facilities like a foundry and smithy as well as more stores for supplies. Additionally, portable cranes and larger wagons are needed for setup of the obstacles outside the fort] [I see. I will head down to the plaza after a while to prepare the wagons. As for the buildings, bring me a rough sketch to give me an idea of what you need] [Understood. By your leave] [Tolle, are the combat plans ready? What are the expect-able scenarios?] After Salman left, Ryu immediate got into discussion of combat plans with Tolle. Ryu¡¯s first concerns was preparing combat contingencies. Tolle had led discussions with the leaders of the combat platoons and drafted out 4 possible action plans. He and Ryu spent an hour in review and discussion of the plans. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A distance away, Recon patrol 3 was heading in the direction of the Elven Kingdom. The dungeon was to the north were patrol 12 went to explore. Along the way the patrol collected various plants and fungi as well as minerals that they spotted. This was as per instruction from the Lieutenant Commander to building information on the ecology and environment. As they pass 30 minutes from operations, the patrol is now 3 kilometers from their starting point. They have come across a stream which the patrol stops for rest and review of the route. As they had progressed, a detailed topography was being drawn out. [Hey! Found something here!] One of the solders call out. Patrol leader Albert makes his way to the solder has he points to an unconscious person lying near the base of a tree. Cautiously Albert instructs the solder to approach and verify the status of the person. The solder closes in and confirms that the person is breathing. Albert moves in closer. Behind him 2 more solders stand alert and ready. Albert unable to verify nor inquire, has it moved to camp. He orders half the team to remain as he leads the others to complete the reconnaissance. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Leaving Patrol 03, Patrol 07 has come across a road block. They had come across what appears to be the remnants of a battle of monsters. They found various carcasses of monsters and several destroyed trees and boulders. The stench was truly horrible. The leader of the platoon, orders the collection of some carcasses to take back to base and orders their retreat. He determines that further progression is impossible. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- With Patrol 03 having found another worldly inhabitant, albeit unconscious and Patrol 07 retreating from inspection of a battle ground. The situation of Patrol 10 was in some sense, unique. What appeared before them was no monster. There was no physique to speak of. They heard laughter, but no words. They saw what appeared to be orbs of light in a luscious basin that was easily several hundreds of meter wide with a slanted slope leading down almost 50 meters deep. No knowing what was before them, this team too decide to retreat back to base to report. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was now the 3 mark for the end of recon operations. 10 of the 12 patrols had returned with only Patrol 12 and Patrol 05 unaccounted for. This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. The findings of the recon teams were abundant. Several heaps of flora, fauna, ores, minerals, liquids and carcasses were brought. Ryu quickly distributed them out to the logistics and newly summoned scientists and alchemists to research them. He also instructed AI to conduct its own research. Now only, Ryu remaining concern is the status of the 02 unaccounted patrols. Ryu orders the other patrols to rest and share their logs and topography later. After the patrols were dismissed, Ryu refers to Tolle. [Tolle, what do you think are the chances that the patrol may not return?] [There stands an 80% chance that they may not. However, logic dictates that monsters will holler out a scream if engaged] [I see. But, if what they faced what not a monster but a mutant plant. There would not be any noise to alert us] [ ¡­ That is indeed possible] [Tolle, please prepare teams to standby. I would prefer to know what had happened to them and will need to dispatch people again] [Understood] Just as Ryu makes a decision and instructs Tolle to prepare accordingly, a massive roar is heard from the north of the forest. This gave Ryu the raise to the worst case premonition. He and Tolle run up to the rampart of the northern wall to see what happened. For their surprise, they find that the Patrol 12 is returning. They had looked battered and had come from a bitter battle. Ryu orders the defences to stand alert and rushes to the gate to meetup with the returning Patrol. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [Apologies Commander. We are late. Situation Report. Encountered monsters. A hoard of them. One confirmed demon as well. Lost 4 personnel. 02 more seriously injured. All findings of recon are accounted for] The patrol leader spoke in short breaths. He was visibly extremely exhausted, but as Ryu, the commander had come to them, he reported without delay. [Understood. Now take an immediate short rest. When you recover to a modest amount, report back to be more details. Tolle, order the garrison to prepare for combat. Northern front may have a battle later] [Understood] [COMMANDER!] A shout came from the southern wall. Ryu and Tolle rush over. [Patrol 05 has been spotted. They seem to be towing something over!] A soldier reports to them. Patrol 05 was still at the forest edge and were slow paced. Ryu immediate orders a cavalry patrol to move out and assist the recon patrol. Ryu and Tolle move to the central plaza to wait for their return. Not long after the group arrives in front of Ryu, Tolle and the gathered heads of various departments and Platoons. The solders tow in a large wagon. Leader of Patrol 05 reports to Ryu. [Commander this was found abandoned in the forest. No habitants found within 1 kilometer vicinity. It was 5 kilometers from base. Apologies for the delay] [Acknowledged. What is inside?] [There seems to be a lot of books, samples and small vials. We deduce that it belongs to either an alchemist or a magician. We were unable to decipher much from its items] [I see. Tolle have the items moved into my office and arrange for some researches to work with me on these later. And following on Patrol 12¡¯s situation moves the entire fort to combat ready alert] Just as Ryu finishes giving these orders. A sound of a Chinese bell is heard in his head and a thunderstorm unexpectedly moves over the fortress. And Ryu¡¯s premonition alerts goes into overdrive. Chapter 05 - FIRST BATTLE & MISSION A Chinese Bell had just rung inside Ryu¡¯s head and it left him blanked. [ANNOUNCEMENT: God Game Mission 01 ¨C Player Welcoming] An autonomous female voice is heard. It sounded like an in game message. [Game Type ¨C Monster Subjugation | Scale ¨C Besieging | Level ¨C Level 1 Objectives:
    1. Kill or route all Monsters.
    2. Total Monsters count 6,099.
    3. Bonus Demons 6.
    4. Challenge level 1 ¨C 25.
    Notes:
    1. Killing monsters and demons based on level grants experience points to advance player levels.
    2. Capturing monsters is possible will appropriate equipment.
    3. With this announcement defence building is banned.
    4. Player allowed to summoning until start of battle.
    5. Battle starts in 01 hour.
    End of Announcement. Good Hunting to Player] Ryu is shell shocked. Everything sounded too unreal. He was praying that this was a prank. While Ryu was pale faced, Tolle calls out to him concerning. Ryu waken from his stupor, and shares the details to Tolle. Tolle steels himself as he replies exaggeratedly. [Understood. Please calm down commander. We will bring you Victory] With that Tolle dash off to make the immediate arrangements. [Master: I suggest master summon more supplies now as you cannot do so later. Additional weapon stockpiles, munitions and rations are suggested] AI also voices suggestions to Ryu which he immediate calls out. The fortress goes into lock down as all engineering units outside are called back and the gates reinforced. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45 minutes had quickly passed since the announcement. During the time Ryu has also summoned weapons for himself. These include a carbine, dagger and short sword. Additionally, he wore body armor over his Gakuran. He also summoned a stock of binoculars and rudimentary equipment such as spears, sabers and iron shields. Engineers man the forts cannons and soldiers line the wall with their rifles. Ryu had also provided them with binoculars. Howitzers are placed on either side of the central tower with an observer on the top deck to direct bombardment. In 15 minutes the battle will start. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Another ring of the Chinese bell resounds within Ryu. This marks the start of battle time. An eerie silence descends across the fort. With the ringing of the bell, a downpour starts. Ryu¡¯s forces are at a disadvantage. Gunpowder is bad in wet weather. He only has old technology at his disposal and not modern items which are versatile even in wet weather. Then the ground starts shaking and low roars are heard from the forests. Within 2 breaths time, several silhouettes dash out. Several giant wolves and foxes are discernible from among them. Several hundred monsters rush towards the fort. Because of the open ground, cannons fire off. The loud booms of canon fire, mark the start of the true battle. Ryu is positioned at the top balcony of the central tower. Tolle and 2 platoons are with him for his protection. All other combat groups are up along the walls. They are maneuvering the multi-lined gunnery with solders swapping out after each shot. This is a technique introduced by Oda Nobunaga during his campaigns of the Sengoku era. The cavalry is organized in the central plaza waiting to ride towards any who make it through the main gate. Ryu silently prays things do not go awry. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Tolle¡¯s POV) I try to reassure the commander with a calm smile but the commander doesn¡¯t seem to notice this. Keeping a lookout over the battlefield, Tolle lightly contemplates. Slowly the downpour turns to a thunderstorm as it gets heavier. This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. Tolle laments and schemes on how he would handle with any threats to Ryu¡¯s position and life. Ryu is completely unaware of Tolle¡¯s thinking and personality and will only learn of this later. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Just as Ryu ponders over this, a loud roar reverberates out from the depths of the forest. This roar was unimaginable from the several monsters like large foxes, hybrid boars, bears and gorillas have approached the fort so far. [What was that?] Ryu can¡¯t help but exclaim. Before anyone could respond to him, a large Minotaur like monster walks out of the woods. It is almost 10 meters tall, with the total appearance of the once mythical Minotaur from Greek mythology. Ryu blanches completely. Tolle on the other hand, immediate orders the howitzers to fire on the area around the Minotaur. Ryu wonders. The Minotaur slowly steps out into the open. As it opens its mouth to release another roar, the howitzers fired away. The rounds fall in the area around it and some on it and explode with loud bangs and booms. Ryu watched attentively with binoculars, hoping that the Minotaur is killed with just that. As the smoke clears away. To Ryu¡¯s dismays the Minotaur only has superficial injuries. The gleam in its eyes intensifies as it furious lets out a roar and dashed. [Cannon batteries on the gate, aim at the Minotaur. All howitzers focus on suppression bombard of the area in front of the gate] Ryu immediate shouts out orders. Alarm bells are ringing in his head. They are telling him to not let the Minotaur reach the gates. The soldiers immediate act on Ryu¡¯s order and start their bombardment. Under heavy fire from cannons, the Minotaur is forced to slow down and another round of howitzer fire blasts around it. This time it is heavily injured with a lost arm and leg. Another round of canon fire blasts its head and kills it. There was a total of 700 meters form the edge of the woods to the forts walls. Within that short amount of time, it had reached within 300 meters of the walls. Ryu couldn¡¯t help but feel the pressure of its speed. He did not want to think what might have happened if it had reached. Just as he let loose a sigh of relief. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (POV from the Walls) [What the hell are these things?] [According to command, they are monsters] [Don¡¯t have a choice but to believe it] The monsters up until now have come at the fort frenzied. Even with severe injuries and lost limbs, they all make attempts to reach the walls and gate. [How long is this going to go on for?] [Command hasn¡¯t said anything on this] [What about the captain or the vice?] [They haven¡¯t said anything either] A soldier looks back towards the central tower and finds Ryu, the commander on the balcony with binoculars. Tolech, the Lieutenant Commander is also with him. [Remember guys, we are the commander¡¯s strength. He has given all resources and supplies we have asked for. It¡¯s up to us to get the victory for the commander] [Remember the captain¡¯s words, ¡®for everything we kill, adds strength for the commander¡¯. We must hold on and bring victory for the commander] [YEAH!!] Invigorated many of the troops yell out. Many of them are exhausted. The monsters were frightening. Most of them thought of the monsters as demons. There were unaware of the expected enemy composition, but only new that enemy was stronger than whole of the fort garrison. The battle is to prove their usefulness for the commander. [For the Commander, we will give our lives! For glory is to be in his service!] A last fanatical holler was released by the troops across the walls. They were yet to know the cruel reality ahead of them. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- After releasing a slight sigh, Ryu takes a flask to drink some water. Mid way during this drink, several roars reverberate out from the woods again. This time more Minotaur like monsters and Cyclopes walk out. Ryu felt despair at these huge monstrosities. At their feet several hundreds of smaller monsters walk out. The battle has finally reach its main act. Tolle¡¯s eyes narrow with a gleam at the sight of the monster army. Chapter 06 - DEMONS (01) Within the downpour of a thunderstorm, the battle reaches a critical juncture. Forces of both sides stare down at each other. A monster army of little over 3,500 which is all the remaining monsters stare down at the fort garrison of little more than 02 battalions of mixed troops and personnel. Ryu leans heavily on the railings of the balcony as he gazes out at the monster army. His head is in shambles. The size and scope of the monsters have taken a qualitative leap compared to the frenzied wave from earlier. Tolle, standing behind Ryu stands noiselessly waiting on Ryu as he contemplates. After taking almost 2 breaths of time, Ryu turns to face Tolle. [Send out this order. The next wave will the last. It will also be the most chaotic and unpredictable. Depending on scenarios the following needs to be executed.
    1. If the hoard army moves out all at the same time, the defense should fuss cannon fire on to the giant monsters. Rifles must target the fastest moving monsters. Pick off other monsters as and when it is possible. Can use suppression bombardment of the howitzers to help contain the field.
    2. If the monsters reach the wall, as long as the gate is not compromised, they are to man the wall turret positions.
    3. If one of the giant monsters reach the gate. All fire power must be focus on it. Make all attempts to prevent fall of the gate.
    4. If in the event the gate becomes compromised, all forces are to fall back into the pre dug bunkers and trenches across the compound and man the turret positions from within the central tower.
    5. Last, during this wave, demons are expected to appear. No specific details are known about these targets, but we can assume that their target will be me directly. If they make an appearance, other than the 02 platoons present with me are to steer clear and focus on the monsters. Only after the monsters are dealt with are they to focus on the demons.
    That is all. These orders are irrevocable and must be followed precisely] As he was issuing the command, Ryu gazed directly at Tolle. He could see the surprise on Tolle¡¯s face. Explicitly emphasizing on the last sentence, Ryu sends Tolle down to pass on the orders to the front as he turn back to oversee the battlefield. The stand-off continues for several more minutes as Tolle returns back. Just as Tolle reports his return, the giant monsters release a deafening roar. This becomes the signal for restart of the battle. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (POV from the Walls) Just moments ago, the Lieutenant Commander had come down from central tower to pass on the Commander¡¯s orders. The commander had issued explicit commands. Here the soldiers got to learn of confirmed demon appearances. Worse is that they have not appeared so far in the exchange. [So that means, what we have killed so far is only just monsters?] [Doesn¡¯t that mean that the demons are scarier?] Different soldiers had different responses. However, it was pretty obvious that each of them accepted the orders without question. Only, they were concerned for the commander as he seemed to be the target of the demons. [Listen up all of you! We are to execute the commanders orders resolutely. We will be precise, efficient and deal with these animals as fast as our abilities allows us. We must support the commander soon as the demons show up!] The captain of the 2nd platoon shouts out. [Sir, Yes Sir!] And the troops respond accordingly. Their determination reinforced. They were fanatics. It may or may not be the work of the summoning settings, but each of them had a profound loyalty to Ryu that bordered fanaticism. The gleam in their eye proved it. Ryu who unbeknownst of the soldiers¡¯ morale and temperament, stands on the balcony with his own resolution. His visage is portrayed to them as an unfettered and undeterred general. With morale at an all-time high and rested from the break, the soldiers prepare for Phase 2 of the battle. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The battle promptly starts after the loud roars. As Ryu had predicted, the monsters dash up unorganized, all at once. Howitzers release cluster shells over the battlefield that blasts several hundreds of shrapnel onto the monsters. The lighter monsters are torn to shred under the barrage of shelling. While the bombardment continues, cannons target the giant monsters, 02 at a time. Minotaur¡¯s are first targeted as they are faster of the two types. Some riflemen target the Cyclopes¡¯, especially focusing on its one eye. This stalls them from coming forward until cannons clear up the Minotaur. The hoard charges wildly. Several monsters avoid rifle fire as they mingle across the battlefield. Ryu looks over the scene with much comfort, knowing that the soldiers are capably holding the monsters at bay. {Boooom} Just as the thought occurs to Ryu, a loud boom is heard from the position of the gate. The battlefield goes silent. All eyes dart at the position of the gate as smoke bellows from its position. As the smoke clears, they all notice that the gatehouse as completely blown off. No, it is rather that, it was blown to kingdom come as nothing remains. [Uhuhuhu¡­. Hmm¡­] Before Ryu could digest the situation a scornful laughter is heard from above. His eye dart upwards to find a female demon flying in the sky. She had raven black wings and pale skin countenance. Behind her 03 large crows floated in position. [Hello! How do you find my greeting?] The demoness asks with much amusement. Ryu doesn¡¯t respond to her as he looks back down again. [All captains are to act as they best see fit from this moment forward. All forces are to steer clear of the central tower] If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Ryu loudly shouts out this order and pulls out his carbine. He looks back again at the demoness. [This demoness, I do not know you, however, I have been expecting something to come over] Ryu taunts it. [Oh! You seem to be fearless, or is this a human fa?ade? I can¡¯t seem to ever tell the difference from you humans. Well regardless, you should be humbled to know my name. I am demoness Zesta, a crow demon of the 25th level. And I shall be your demise. Be pleased, you will become food for my growth] The demoness declares smugly. Ryu does not retort. After a breath of time, shots are fire out from the platoons near Ryu as Tolle directs them. The demoness and demon crows, rise higher dodging the shots fired. After rising a distance, the demoness raises her arms. From the tips of her fingers, a magic circle grows out. Seeing this Ryu immediate orders the soldiers near him to disperse as he jumps down to a lower balcony. The demoness releases a dark ball of energy at Ryu¡¯s former position, blasting a huge portion of the room and the entire balcony to smithereens. Not looking back to confirm, Ryu aims his carbine and fires at a crow that is dodging the hail of bullet fires from the troops on the ground. A clear shot through its eye, kills the crow. A lucky shot. Seeing the demon crow get killed, enraged the demoness greatly. [You, you, puny human. How dare you! I will slaughter you!] In her rage the demoness swoops down towards Ryu with her claws stretched out to gnaw at him. Just as the demoness near Ryu, Tolle jumps out of the wreckage of the top floor and grabs on to the demoness. This throws her off, just as she was a few meters from Ryu. Both the demoness and Tolle fall down on to the central plaza. [How dare you latch on this one. Dirtying me with your filthy hands] [Shut up to freaking bird brain. NO ONE endangers our commander!] Tolle retorts angrily at the demoness as he charges at her with his carbine and sword as hand. Both Tolle and the demoness engage in close combat. As the scuffle is going on Ryu, diverts his attention back to the larger battlefield. With the gatehouse gone, monsters are more frantic to reach the inside of the fort. Soldiers on the walls have not retreated and have keep the monsters at least 50 meters from the gatehouse position. This is very close to breaching the defense line. Ryu also notices that the cavalry has moved out as they are absent from the central plaza. As he sweeps his gaze across, he notices large number of casualties from among the garrison forces. He grimaces as the pools of blood and gore from his soldiers. Ryu can¡¯t help but lament that the fortification was too simple and offered far less defensive positions. After contemplating this, Ryu immediately disregards it. He known it cannot be solved now, but in future. It is more important to secure that future y winning now. Ryu turn back to scuffle between the demoness and Tolle. Tolle has been successful as stalling and even injuring the demoness. The demoness on the other hand is enraged at her suffering and at Tolle. She has failed to cast any magic at close range and has to reply on her physical strength. However, unexpectedly she can¡¯t harm the human in front of her. It is commonly known that humans are weaker than monsters and demons, yet the one before her seems to defy this logic. [What! Is this all? Demoness! You aren¡¯t much. Let me finish this now! In the name of the Commander!] The demoness is irked by Tolle¡¯s words as she dashes at the same time he launches. In a split second the engagement decides the winner. The demoness slumps to the floor helplessly. Ryu is thrilled with this result he jumps down and rushes up to Tolle. Ryu finds that Tolle is barely standing. He has a large slash across his abdomen. Unexpectedly, the blood only trickles down from the severe looking wound. With a grin Tolle looks at Ryu as tries to lightly sit down. [The demoness was quite powerful. She had a hidden card to play and could have killed me if not for her getting hit with a stray bullet at the last minute] Before Ryu could ask on his condition, a hoarse voice is heard. [What?! The crow demons failed? What a lousy bunch. They dishonor all demons. Falling into the hands of some low level humans. Shameless] The gruffly bear like man appears at the edge of the plaza. By his side is a younger male. He has features of a leopard. Both give off an unpleasant feeling, which put Ryu on alert. He knew that they were demons. Just like the gruffly man had said, all the crows had been killed off by rifle fire and the troops had assembled around Ryu and Tolle. Now only 11 of them had gathered. Ryu had not been able to clarify the death or the status of the troops as he stared at the demons across from him. I fit was as the man said, Ryu on only had these demons to deal with. However, roughly estimating, Ryu also knew the forces he had in hand were only a third what he had at the start of battle, monsters¡¯ sill outside the fort. The situation was dire. Dire enough to leave a bitter taste in his mouth. [Master: Less than 10%] Just as Ryu was about to step up. [You demons, I will dispose of you!] Tolle get back up and points at the pair of demons. Just as the words left his mouth, Tolle is blown out of the plaza and into a store house as it crumbled and collapses from the impact. Ryu slowly turns to find the younger man standing with his fist extended out. Most likely, Tolle was punched quite physically and possibly incapacitated. The soldiers caught unaware, quickly recovers from the stupor as 5 of them surround to protect Ryu and the others jump at the demon with their bayonet charge. With victory for Ryu¡¯s group all but settled, in the climactic moments of the battle, other challengers appear infront of the group, throwing the situation for a loop. Ryu grimacing, silently laments at the change of favors as misfortune that has yet to wash away from him. Chapter 07 - DEMONS (02) Moments after Tolle defeats the demoness Zesta and her group, another pair of demons appear before the group. Unlike Zesta¡¯s group, the pair are both human form demons. Tolle, who tries to get up and fight the larger of the pair, gets clobbered into a storehouse by the younger man of the pair. With Tolle knocked out, Ryu and the remaining 11 soldiers are left to deal with them. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On the battlefield, the monsters have been reduced to some measly tens of them. Down from the thousands of them who appeared, this is by no means a lesser threat. The surviving ones, all appear to be large and bulky, attributing features for their survival from the haphazard battle. On the side of the garrison, things aren¡¯t fairing any better. The once little over 1,000 strong mixed battle group has been decimated. Platoons 01, 03 and 04 have been completely annihilated. The cavalry group is down to and an odd 15 surviving units and Platoon 02 only has 50 soldiers that are battle worthy, with another 30 injured. As for the engineer and logistics platoons have lost 50% of their forces with another 25% heavily injured. Luckily, the battle cannons of platoon 6 have survived, though same cannot be said of the howitzers near the central plaza. In total, the situation of each group was:
    • Survivors: Ryu¡¯s Group ¨C 386 Monsters ¨C 76 Demons ¨C 02
    • Dead: Ryu¡¯s Group ¨C 1,414 Monsters ¨C 6,023 Demons ¨C 04
    Many of the dead garrison had died fighting the 03 demon crows that followed, demoness Zesta. The numbers prove the intensity of the battle so far. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Returning to Ryu, 06 of the remaining soldiers charge at the demon with fixed bayonets. However, before they could take third step, the demon casts a glance at them and simply swing of his arm across. The charging solders are instantly decapitated across the chest. Blood spurt from the halved bodies of the soldiers. Ryu and the remaining 05 soldiers paled greatly. With a simple wave of his arm, 06 soldiers were decapitated. And before that, Tolle was clobbered into a storehouse that is now in ruins from the impact. [FALL BACK!!!] Ryu immediately shouts as he dashes back several paces to enter the ruined central tower remains. Seeing what had happened to the previous group of soldiers, Ryu knew that the soldiers could not do much against these demons and instinctively decides to move into the tower. Though ruined, it is only the higher floors that have been destroyed. The larger base of the tower is relatively intact. With a plan in mind, Ryu rushes in. The soldiers upon hearing Ryu¡¯s command try to refute, however before they could move or turn, the young demon attacks again. His arm ran through the body of the soldier at the foremost of the group. Not to engage the demon at close range, the remaining four, scatters into the ruins arounds the tower base. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Having killed off several of the soldiers, the young demon nonchalantly throws away the body of its last kill. It cleans away the blood on its arm with some sort of magic. [Kadal, was that necessary?] The larger demon spoke. [Nope. But they annoyed me by standing there] The younger demon, Kadal replies unconcerned. [We only need to kill only that human called Commander for us to complete our task] Seeing that Kadal was noncommittal, the larger demon spoke grumpily. [Segred, do you care about humans? We can simply get rid of these insects at our leisure. Why rush?] Kadal turn to look at the large demon, called Segred as he spoke slightly irritated. [Nope. I just want to be done with this sooner] Segred lightly shrugging his shoulders heads in the direction of the entrance to the tower where Ryu entered. Kadal, seeing that Segred walk in the direction of the tower, follows behind him leisurely. Truthfully, Kadal also finds their task bothersome, but would not say this aloud. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ryu, oblivious to the demons¡¯ exchange, heads deeper into the lower levels of the tower base. Ryu had only come in here due to AI¡¯s transmission, suggesting him to enter here. While slowly making his way through a suggested route, he couldn¡¯t help but question. [Master: You will have at least 30% more chance of killing the demon pair. The base of the tower was designed as large trial by fire training ground with several contraptions littered across the maze like structure. If not killed, they would be severely injured] Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Ryu retorts to AI¡¯s suggested simplistic plan. [Master: It is unlikely that they would use any large scale or explosive magic down here, lest the structure above collapses onto them. Also, from faint readings, they do not seem to have much more magic than Master. Only difference is that they know how to use magic, as to where, you do not] AI states the facts for Ryu to digest. He tepidly agrees. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Back on top, the remaining battle group quickly regroups at the base of the only standing tower on the forts walls. There the soldiers who separated from Ryu update the survivors on the situation. [You left the commander alone to fight against the demons?] The one who spoke was captain of the 8th logistics platoon, Kuroz. As the only surviving captain he was the current leader of the survivors. [We were ordered to by the commander. And with the situation as it was, we had no choice but to scatter] Kuroz was visibly angry at the soldiers infront of him. He couldn¡¯t help think of how he would fight to his last breath to protect the commander and berated the soldiers in his head. He could not tell off the soldiers as they had mentioned that the commander ordered their retreat. [So, where is the commander and the demons now?] [The commander entered the ruins of central tower. And presumably, the demons followed him inside] Kuroz couldn¡¯t help but worry at the commander facing two demons alone. Like everyone else, he too thought that the commander was too weak and needed protection. This was not completely wrong, but Ryu would adamantly refute this if he were present. The soldier also reported on the exact exchanges and short engagement they had with the demons. They report painted a horrifying image of the demons to the survivors and painted an even more horrifying image of an endangered commander in their minds. Kuroz, couldn¡¯t help berate them again in his head. However, that was all he could do. He had to think positively for the surviving troops. Kuroz silently prays as he faces the troops and shouts out order to re-organize to engage the remaining demons. Even with their losses, the field cannon had survived the chaos. This gives him a chance to do away with the monsters. Within 10 minutes, the survivors re-organize and start their attack to wipeout the monsters. Basing and barricading themselves on the corner portion in and around the tower, they target off monsters in ones and twos. With the restart of attacks, monsters focus on the tower as they start freezing towards it. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Back inside the towers basement structure, Ryu has managed to reach the deepest room. With AI¡¯s assistance he had gotten here using the shortest route using hidden passages. [Master: The structure of this training ground is long and winding. As per calculations, the demon will only reach here in 20 more minutes¡¯ time. Therefore, before then, please calm down and ready to use your weapons. It is recommended to mix use the carbine and short sword] AI retorts dryly to Ryu¡¯s never ending concern. Shortly after AI¡¯s message, loud booms and bang are heard with slight tremors across the room. [Hey! Didn¡¯t you say that the demons won¡¯t use explosive magic?] Ryu couldn¡¯t help but yell out as he gets goosebumps all over. [Master: That was unlikely to be the work of demons. Based on probabilities, it is deducible that the last of the garrison forces have re-grouped and are fighting the remaining monsters] Ryu calms down slightly, clinching on hope that AI¡¯s assessment that some of his troops survived the demon attacks. Grasping his short sword tightly, Ryu sit down to meditate. In order not be ¡®useless¡¯ any further, he tries to collect himself and focus on surviving the demons coming his way. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- After a while, the large double doors into the last room are blown open as they dislodge from the falls and scatter into pieces across the floor. The 02 demons enter unhurriedly into the room. Chapter 08 - DIRE CIRCUMSTANCE After a while, the large double doors into the last room are blown open as they dislodge from the falls and scatter into pieces across the floor. The 02 demons enter unhurriedly into the room. The room has a large dojo hall like design to it, lit with oil lamps along the walls. The walls are made of hard stone with wooden flooring. Several pillars line both sides of the hall, also made of stone. By size it was also 10 meters wide and 30 meters long. Ryu is seated at the very end of the hall eyes closed as the demons enter. He slowly opens his eyes narrowly to stare at the demons. Unlike before the air around him is calm. He not flustered nor hurried in his actions as he slowly stands up to face the demons. [Pathetic human. You really have made things difficult. I will not make things easy for you even if you beg for it] Kadal growled at Ryu who stood infront of him. He was visibly greatly angered. Ryu, noticing the temperament carried in the voice, takes another look at the conditions of the demons. He finds that both demons have several injuries. Of the two the younger (Kadal) has a horrifying wound running along his left arm all the way over his shoulder and ending on his back. It is highly probably that the shoulder blade is destroyed and that arm is completely paralyzed. As for the situation of the larger (Segred), there were several wounds on him. A scar over his face as well as several more across the chest and his knees. Visibly Segred has lost one ear, but this is the only noticeable loss he has suffered. That said, his face had a horrible grimace. Likely intense anger that was ready to boil over. Ryu, evaluating the demons infront of him, lets loose a small sigh. The demons do not seem to have suffered as much as he had hoped. The only riposte is that they are unable to heal their wounds or else they would have done so already. {Doom} Without any warning Kadal attacks Ryu. Slamming his fist on Ryu¡¯s position. As the dust cloud clears, Ryu is no longer in the same spot. Kadal slowly stands and darts his eyes to Ryu who is now in the middle of the hall between the 02 demons. Unexpectedly, Ryu doges Kadal¡¯s light fast attack. Unlike how he had been upto now, Ryu maintains composure as he glances at both of them. Ryu confirms that Kadal is wearing a form of equipment in his right arm. This was not there previously. Ryu quickly shelves away his query as he focuses on the next attack. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Having his attack avoided, left a bitter taste in Kadal. What he had considered pathetic had eluded him with a speed faster than he could perceive. Not being at his best Kadal, raises his alert level as he casts a short glance at Segred and make another forward dash. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The second attack from Kadal, comes directly at Ryu from the front as he decide to parry it. Just as he raises his sword, a chilling coldness ran across his back as he dodges again. Avoiding Kadal Ryu is back at his former position. He notices that the older demon had also launched simultaneous with the younger intending to pincer him. The older demons attack leaves a 3-meter wide crater to where Ryu stood. There was no doubt Ryu would be done for if he had received it. Ryu couldn¡¯t help bet let loose this thought in his head. Feeling the pressure, Ryu decide to attack instead of defend, lest to allow the demons to have the upper hand. Dashing up at the demons, Ryu choses to attack Kadal first. Aiming his carbine at Segred Ryu fire to stall him while he charges at Kadal with his sword. Segred avoids Ryu shot as he side steps away from Kadal. He notices a step too late as Ryu¡¯s blade closes in on Kadal. Kadal on the otherhand is unamused. [You, shitty human. You think you can take me down just cause of one injury] With veins popping on his forehead, Kadal raises his right arm to catch the sword strike. Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! Ryu unflustered allows Kadal to catch it. [Hahaha! Is that all? Human. What will you do now?] Kadal immediately gloats. But just as his words let loose, sound of gun fire reverberates. Ryu had shot him right in the heart at close range. Kadal didn¡¯t even notice the aimed carbine. He had not anticipated a second shot from it after it was used on Segred. Kadal glances down at his chest. Blood oozing out of the wound. Still in shock, he slumps down to floor losing all strength. Taking the opportunity, Ryu uses his now free short sword to slash at Kadal¡¯s neck, severing his windpipe and several arteries. Ryu swiftly disposes of Kadal and steps away to distance from Segred. Everything happened within an instance. Not more than 2 breaths of time had passed, but Ryu has successfully killed a demon, singlehandedly. Segred, on the other hand is in a state of shock. He stared wide eye at the now deceased Kadal lying on the floor below him. It takes him some time to come to grips with what had transpired. Ryu on the other hand, takes deep breaths as he moves back slowly towards the wall. It took a lot of energy from Ryu to avoid the strikes cast at him and them kill one of the demon. Though only the more severely injured one, it took a great deal of strength, mentally and physically from him. As almost 3 breaths of time pass, Segred reacts. As he releases a terrifying roar. Releasing his grief and rage Segred cast deathly eyes at Ryu. Like a predator looking at his prey, his aura slams and lock onto Ryu. Ryu is thrown-off balance from the aura blast from Segred. Before he could re-balance himself, Segred throttle at him to ram into the wall. Seeing this, Ryu immediately kicks himself away. Avoiding by a hairsbreadth, Ryu slams into a column nearby. The aura blast had disoriented Ryu perception of space. Segred, had slammed straight onto the wall with tremendous speed. The ramming charge attack decimated the walls. However, Segred walks away unharmed as he turns to face Ryu who is on the floor. Ryu is mummed from shock. Segred had come out unharmed from a powerful slam into the walls that were made of hard stone. Also, Ryu notices that Segred, skin had turned slightly grayish from the previous tan complexion. A useless thought entered Ryu¡¯s head as he got slightly distracted. Quickly regaining focus. Ryu summersaults away from Segred position and without hesitation decides to run out of the hall. Segred, keeps his gaze on Ryu has he slowly steps forward. See that Ryu had run towards the exit, he releases another roar as he chases after Ryu. Slightly slower than before he could overtake Ryu in speed. However, Ryu fires a shot at aiming at the face as he ran. This forces Segred to cover his face as stall chasing after Ryu. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- After making out of the room. Ryu take¡¯s AI¡¯s assistance to navigate the route out of the basement and tower. Ryu is out of munitions as he discards the carbine and makes all haste to get away. By pure good fortune, he had been able to kill 01 of the demons. He hadn¡¯t let that get to his head. He knew he had no chance against the remaining demon. This was only possible since, it underestimated Ryu¡¯s abilities far too much and because Ryu had calmed down his breathing and mind frame. Using the moderate defensive skills, he learned back on earth form his family, Ryu used all his strength, to avoid, to counter and to defeat 01 demon. With the second demon on a near rampage, his only choice let was to get out into the open as soon as possible. With thought running through his head, Ryu heard the demon chasing after him from the sounds of crushing metal and wood. The entire course had been activated when the demons first made their way in. This left many things as obstacles on the return path. Luckily, the contraptions only deterred large being. Ryu was on the smaller scale in the concept of this world¡¯s common sense. With the sound getting ever clearer, Ryu ran with his life on the line. Right now, he was less than 60 meters from reaching the stairs out of the basement. Chapter 09 - ??? Right now, Ryu was running quite literally, for his life. By some fluke, in the battle Ryu had in the last chamber, Ryu manged to kill Kadal and as such enraged Segrad, who was now chasing after him. The only things preventing the worst for Ryu have been the previously activated large obstacles that littered the route back and stalled Segred from getting his hands on Ryu. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Running as nimbly as he could and taking every possible shortcut, Ryu finally reached the ground floor of the tower base. Without any hesitation, he runs down the hall and out the main doorway. Getting out, Ryu did not stop. Instead he ran towards the edge of the plaza running eastwards and hid behind some large ruins. Slumping down to catch his breath, his eyes quickly darted around in hopes to find some weapons. His carbine had been lost in the last exchange and his short sword felt inadequate to deal with the gorilla size Segred. However, in what was most mostly a minute after Ryu got out, Segred came blasting out of the ruins of central tower. Using his ram charge, he had destroyed what was the only standing remains of the towers entrance. And loudly landed on the plaza. Ryu quickly held his breath, not to let the demon know of his position. He frantically tried to slow his heart down as it had threatened to jump out of him after Segred loud entrance. Taking deep breaths to calm himself, Ryu sneakily tries looks over the ruins to confirm Segred¡¯s position and present condition. The demon stood right at the middle of the plaza. It stood there scrutinizing the surrounding ruins with its eyes as it tries to find Ryu. It slowly swayed and paced across slightly trying to glimse around some of the debris. As Ryu slipped back down and fervently tried to think of what he could do, he gets noisily interrupted. { Boom . Boom } x3 Loud explosions echoed in 3 waves. Ryu immediately got back up. To his surprise he finds that the area where the demon had stood, had been bombarded. He finds himself pleasantly shocked and unbelievingly darted his eyes in the opposite direction to the explosion. Ryu finds that several soldiers are charge towards the plaza from the direction of a tower. It is the only standing tower of the north wall. And on the tower, 10 field cannons are aimed and getting armed to fire another round of cannon fire. The sights of them, cause Ryu to blank out. It takes a while to process what he is seeing. In the dead of night, under the luminescence of a full moon, Ryu slumps down on to the ground, tears running down and a weird smile let loose on his face. Ryu has all of the energy and tension within him let loose. Feeling as though the battle was over. A surreal feeling of ¨C being alive ¨C was born within Ryu¡¯s heart and mind. Pain quick rose from Ryu¡¯s right arm. It is only now that he notices that his arm is dislocated. It is likely from the time he slammed into the column back in the depths of the training labyrinth. The adrenalin from the fight had distorted his sense of pain and only when the tension seep away did he notice it. Both crying and laughing, Ryu waves his left arm to get the attention of the troops. He really wanted to scream for joy though no voice came from him. That was until¡­ {GRRAAAAW!} A furious roar is hollered and a black silhouette jumps towards the middle of the rushing troops. Instinctively, most of the troops dodge the oncoming silhouette. Ryu, still slumped on the floor is shocked beyond his mental limits. There, infront of him stood, the last remaining demon, Segred. This was the only thing that came to mind. Segred had entered a frenzied state. His eyes had gone completely red. From the previous bombardment, it seems that he had lost an arm, blood furiously gushing from the severed stump. Ryu screams in his mind, unable to accept the reality he faces. The soldiers who were equally bewildered by the abrupt charge, recover quickly as they scatter and surround Segred. In volleys of threes and fours, the soldiers fire off at the demon. However, contrary to expectations, the bullets simply bounce off the demon¡¯s skin. It had turned slightly crimson, unlike the dust color from before. Not giving up several of the solders continue to fire aiming at the face. Two from among the group rush in with a bayonet charge. The frenzying Segred using his only remaining arm crushes one of the solders. The other soldier takes the opportunity when Segred releases a roar to shove the rifle with bayonet it into the demon¡¯s mouth and scurry away. The rifle and bayonet jam the large jaws of the demon, with the bayonet especially lodged deep into the back of the mouth. Thereafter, in quick succession another barrage of cannon fire lands on and around it. The solders slowly expand the encirclement staying on alert for any further sudden movements. A pair of soldiers from the group upon sighting Ryu in among the ruins, rush to where he was, still slumped on the floor. His disheveled appearance caused them to have expression of concern and worry. After several rounds of cannon fire landed upon and around area, a huge plume of dust and debris bellowed from it. The area turned awry quite as everyone remained on alert. Just as two soldiers step forward to investigate, Segred releases another loud roar. With the roar, the dust cloud scatters away, to reveal a Segred in an extremely sad state. It is now armless and its skin and return to the normal tan colouring. It looked as if the last loud roar was a roar screaming in defiance to its circumstance. Due to the series of bombardment, Segred had regained consciousness as its eyes have also become clearer. It slowly fell down on to its knees. It falls face first on to the broken plaza floor. As blood continues to gush out from his sever wounds, pools of blood form around Segred. Panting heavily, he releases low groans trying to remain defiant. The soldiers trying not to lose focus, start closing in slowly, muzzles aimed at Segred. Just as Segred focus starts to darken, it casts a glace to its right. There Ryu comes into view. Seeing Ryu with soldiers on his sides, Segred has an unwillingness to surrender, but with his grave injuries, was there anything he could do? Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. A last thought occurs to Segred as he drew his last breath with what was a solemn smile on its lips. Ryu, watching the complete defeat of Segred, finally had his heart calms down. The continuous thumping left him in pain as both fear and adrenaline course through within him keeping him high paced to keep up with most of the situation. Ryu silently questions in his thoughts. He had been through a roller coaster of emotions and tension throughout the entire battle and only has one thought running through his head right now, sleep. He felt as though he needed to take rest as soon as possible, to take it all in. Ryu, couldn¡¯t help but question, was he in another world, or was this hell? With the ringing of the bell once again, there at the dead of night, the first battle comes to an end. [ANNOUNCEMENT: God Game Mission 01 ¨C Has now been completed. Congratulations to Player!] The autonomous female voice is heard. It seriously sounded like an in game message. [All objectives cleared. All monster and demon corpses will vanish after an hours¡¯ time. Player¡¯s reward is loot from the corpses of monsters and demon. Happy hunting. Until next time] The announcement ends. This officially is the end of the horrid battle. Ryu gets dragged up to stand on his two feet, and is escorted to the tower by the two soldiers near him. Arriving at the base of the tower, a soldier rushes up to Ryu. It was Kuroz, who upon seeing Ryu¡¯s arrival at towers base, ran up to greet him. The wide smile Kuroz had upon Ryu return, quickly turned sour as the first thing Kuroz saw was the dislocated arm. His expression quickly turned pale as he caught signs of discoloring on the arm and Ryu¡¯s pale facial complexion. Giving an exaggerated bow and apology, he immediate had one of the soldiers attend Ryu, to help set his arm back into position. Ryu who was taken aback by the theatrics of Kuroz, let loose a howl as his arm was forcibly push back into position. It was important to note that the pain from the arm had numbed by the time Ryu got to the tower¡¯s base. The unexpected aid that Ryu could not react to at first caused him mind numbing pain as he slightly glared at Kuroz reproachfully. Kuroz who was oblivious to the glare from Ryu, directed him to enter the tower and into the command center temporarily setup. Arriving in the room, he directed Ryu to a seat and presented the current situational report to Ryu. Ryu is first briefed about Tolle, who had been rescued from the storehouse and was currently recuperating. It seems that the Tolle only had a bad cut across this chest and abdomen and also suffered a concussion from when the demon pummeled him. Ryu is relieved upon hearing Tolle survived and would recover without complications. Ryu did not inquire how this was confirmed. However, good news ends there. Kuroz, as acting head of troops, informs Ryu of the damages. Precisely, the absolute degradation of the forts northern wall and defenses, as well as the catastrophic circumstances within the fort premises and that the count of all surviving forces. In total, only 200 battle ready mixed troops and 113 injured had survived the ordeal. The rest of the force had been completely annihilated. Also they have only 5% of the supplies left after much of it was destroyed and lost in the chaos and mayhem on the battlefield. Kuroz, also elaborates that originally after Ryu had led the 02 demons into central tower, the re-grouped forces amounted to 376. They had then engaged the remaining monsters and as a result, lost 176 personnel. This included some of those who were previously injured. Ryu notices the tattered state of the tower, inside and out, as standing proof of an extremely harsh battle. Ryu¡¯s mood turns ever more glum at these details. The battle really had become a nightmare and may possible become a trauma for him. What he had learned was that demons are extremely terrifying. Only 06¡­ no, 04 demons, decimated the majority of the garrison and fort. The last two only focused on Ryu. Noticing Ryu¡¯s deteriorating mood, Kuroz summarizes the details to that extent, deciding to give more information after Ryu refreshes from a good night¡¯s sleep. As Ryu was silently brooding over what he heard, oblivious to Kuroz¡¯s intentions, AI interjects into his thoughts. [Master: This one would like to recommend master to rest as soon as possible. Fatigue levels are extremely high and turning unconscious would not be advisable. Before master retires, this one recommends that some assisting forces be summoned to help deal with the situation. Master can summon 140 units and some supplies without losing conscious. Should a draft of recommend force be presented?] At AI¡¯s message Ryu readily agrees and with its support he summons 30 medical units, including 10 doctors, 30 logistical troops, 30 engineers and 30 soldiers. Ryu considers it highly unlikely any threats will show up so soon. However, from this experience it is learned that caution is always better. After summoning units, Ryu also summon few immediately necessary supplies and ordered the units to clear out the fort grounds. Ryu also ordered for looting from demon corpses. Anything that had plausible value, demon meat and bones. All of it was to be gathered and that 60 minutes was their limit. After that, they were to gather the remains of the fallen. He also ordered them to focus more on the higher level demons and monsters. He then left command to Kuroz, ordering him not to be excessive and properly allow for rest and recuperation of all the survivors and then retired. It was now one, at midnight. The battle that had started at eight in the evening continued till past midnight. The thunderstorm that had started with the battle, had died down as Zesta and her groups were subdued. The weather now was clear skies and a full moon. With passing thoughts on the hectic day, Ryu lays down on a futon in a room adjacent to the temporary command room in the tower to sleep. Ryu¡¯s face was not content, but more anguish and fear as he had recalled flashes from the horrid battle. Cursing at the gods as he closed his eyes to sleep, it was a few hours before Ryu fell into a slumber as the remaining tension and energy left him. This was how Ryu''s first day in another world ended. A Pyrrhic victory and bad aftertaste from his first battle. =========================== Title of Chapter 09 - Pyrrhic Victory Chapter 10 - AFTER THE BATTLE It was noon the next day when Ryu drowsily woke up. As he stood up absentmindedly, rays of shine perforated through the wooden fixed blinds on windows of the tower. Ryu could hear the shouts and commanding of the troops outside. Collecting and readying himself to step out, Ryu also notices that he is wearing sweatpants and an undershirt. He cannot recall ever having changed or removed anything on him with his spent condition last night. Disregarding the thought, Ryu moves towards the door to leave the room. As he opens, seated in seiza before him are Tolle and Kuroz in the hallway. Though startled from the unexpected appearance, Ryu tries to greet them. [Good morning both of you!] However, instead of a reply, both of bow deeply to Ryu as the spoke in unison. [Commander, our deepest apologies. We have failed you miserably] In a dogeza stance, both of them bow and apologized to Ryu. Ryu looks at them dumfounded, as he could not comprehend their behavior. As he stood there in silence, Tolle continued. [Commander, I cannot offer the appropriate words for my defeat. As the captain of the first combat group, I was to be your sword and shield in battle. Yet I was taken out so easily and allowed you to fall into harm¡¯s way. Furthermore, the soldiers meant to protect you failed and deserted you and you were left alone to battle against two of the enemy. With your great skills, you had killed one of them and made it to safety from the other afterwards. However, the ordeal has left you unnecessarily fatigued and injured. I truly cannot express my regret and abhorrence with myself] Tolle¡¯s voice had been very shaken and incoherent throughout. Anyone who listened could tell the gravity of the feelings that emotions and depression he had bottled-up within him as he tried to speak collectively. However. [Enough of this! Tolle, Kuroz, stand up this instance] Ryu spoke aloud and sternly, startling both Tolle and Kuroz who lay down in dogeza. [I do not know what misconception you are having, but first and foremost, keep in mind, none of you have failed me. It is rather, I who has. My inexperience had led to the situation and its result. Furthermore, we are at a complete disadvantage in terms of knowledge and common sense in this world. What I know is limited and incomplete and where information is incomplete it can lead to undesirable situations. Neither of you could change these facts and conditions. Therefore, I will say it again, none of you have failed me. You have performed above and beyond my expectations. Tolle, you alone defeated the demon Zesta in direct combat which should have been impossible for any normal human regardless of summon or not. And Kuroz, you had successfully organized a counter offensive with decimated forces, to finish off the monsters. Both are achievements that cannot be denied. Now, let this topic end here. There are other things that need be done and talked about. Specifically, what we do next] The first and second portions of Ryu¡¯s speech carried a sense of anger, which was from self-hatred at seeing the two men before him apologizing for his mistakes. At first, he had been startled by the abrupt apology. However, recovering himself, a sense of loathing had assaulted him. The third portion, carried with it the sense of pride he had for these men and the soldiers. Where Ryu mentions Tolle and Kuroz battle achievements, it carried the sense of passion and awe carried for heroes. And last of his words, carried with it the dignity of a leader and a person not shrugging his responsibilities. With Ryu¡¯s words, both men got up from their dogeza stance to look at Ryu with streams of tear. Their eyes also carried a new flame of determination and passion. Nodding at the words Ryu spoke, they stood up and walked with him into the meeting room. There. Ryu, Tolle and Kuroz sat around the conference table that was littered with minimal breakfast and heaps of reports. There all three quickly finish off the breakfast made of bacons strips, dry bread and morning coffee and tea. Tolle, finishing first, starts to give a summarized report on the status of the troops. [As at present, 313 survivors and another 120 newly summon make up for a total of 433 total troops at base. During the night, the injured troops had made a full recovery. It was reported that the medical staff had no clue regarding the reason for such a speedy recovery, however this can be counted as a blessing] A repulsive thought formed in Ryu¡¯s head as Kuroz took over reporting after Tolle. He summarized the report on the fortifications and scavenge. [During the night, engineers and personnel available had re-secured the gates and recovered 10% of previously lost supplies. Also, as per instructions of the commander, the monsters have been looted and they have been sorted into the classes of #Strength, #Speed, #Giants, and #Demons. It was reported that all corpses had been successfully looted of any material items or special horns or features, however, the meat extraction was not as successful. Second, there is a special mention that loots from the demons include some unknown, mysterious objects. It is recommended that the commander review them] Saying that, Kuroz steps near the base of the main door and pulls over a small chest and places it on the table. He then wordlessly pushes it to Ryu to open and verify. Nodding slightly, Ryu accepts and opened the lid carefully. As he does he finds several unusual items inside. They are a set of horns, a dagger, some sort of parceled meat and 02 glowing orbs. Skeptical at what he is seeing, Ryu does not touch anything direct, but quietly ponders. It is at this moment again that AI interjects. [Master: Most of the loot in the chest comes from the 2 demons you had killed. The demon crow and the young humanoid demon. This loot is likely the product of skill ?Disassemble?. It is passively active and offers more loot from any direct kills my master] AI briefly explains. That said, it only answers half of Ryu¡¯s questions. [Master: It is not possible without master touching and claiming them as master¡¯s property. The process to do this is by adding a form of presence into the item. An effective method is currently unknown. However, AI can assist master in preliminary process. Success rate maybe 40% ¨C 70%. Please pick an item and concentrate on it] When AI says as much, Ryu first grabs on to the dagger in the chest. He picks it up and firm holds it in his hands. He then closes his eyes to concentrate on it. After a full minutes of time, a little trickle is felt though his fingers as the status for the dagger pop-up in his head. Name: Glazing Claw Class: Army Class Element: Wind & Heat Powers:
    • Scarring Slash ¨C A blade of heated wind is released from the blade in the direct the dagger is swung. The level of heat is controlled by the amount of magic used. Skill is developed with use and practice. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.
    Stats:
    • Durability 500 pts
    • Magic 200 pts (Offense only)
    Dual Wieldable (Passive). Ryu immediately opens his eye and exclaimed at the easy nature of claiming the dagger. It was unknown from which demon this was looted but it was a treasured find. Furthermore, comparing to his sword, the dagger is weaker but can be immediately used by him without needing any skills. A smile loses on his face. Noticing Ryu¡¯s smile. Tolle inquired on the findings from the blade. Ryu immediately informs Tolle and Kuroz on the dagger¡¯s status and process involved. He also decides to pass the dagger to Tolle. The reason emphasized is that Tolle is more likely to have close combat with demons and monsters more frequently in the future. This said, Ryu only passed it with caution as Tolle may not be able to claim it like he did. However, to his surprise, Tolle was easily able to use it. AI reasoned that all of Ryu summon are considered part of himself and therefore would be able to use items he claims. Also, after passing the dagger to Tolle, Ryu highlights that facts that he still has the sword ?Ryuzen? that he can training for future use. He also added; [You will be protecting me ever more from now, right?] Leaving no room for a counter and emitting a slightly unintentional glaring vibe at Tolle, who completely blanks out. Leaving aside the blanked out Tolle, the discovery was much to the surprise and comfort of Ryu who was thinking up future plans and considerations. Moving on, next Ryu grabbed on to one of the orbs in the chest. It was slightly larger than a baseball and had a light tint of cerulean blue. As he lifted it out from the chest, the orb suddenly jolted out of his hands in if floated into his forehead. Completely taken by surprise, Ryu tried to step back and get away. However, it all happened faster than anyone in the room could actually respond to. After the orb had entered Ryu¡¯s forehead, his eye dilated as his conscience drifted. He quickly finds himself in a dark space. As he Ryu quickly tires to figure out where he is; [Master: you have entered your inner minds. A flood of information is about to impact you. Will begin automatic sorting process] A short message by AI resolves his immediate query. Just as he gets one answer, another arose, but before he could ask, pain jolts his mind. Several screens of projection start appearing before him. Ryu is greatly startled. Several images of gale winds, unknown buildings, etcetera all appear before him. Just as quickly as they appear they also disappear before him. [Master: All information has now been controlled and sorted. Information from surge has been filed as Magic, History of the demon called Kadal. New information shows the person as the younger of two demons who master faced off against]. After what had felt like a roller coaster ride through memories, it all abruptly ended and Ryu releases a sigh of relief. [Master: Information has been sorted and categorically filed. Additionally, AI has segregated Master memories as well for optimal efficiency settings. Master¡¯s productivity should now increase] AI neutrally gives the message, Ryu is left feeling quite forlorn. AI had independently catalogued his memories. After it had mentioned so, Ryu tried to call up a directory of his memories. Immediately folders pop-up infront of him. There he finds that his memories had been allocated appropriately as his childhood. Additionally, he also notices memories of Death 01 for the time with the white being called God. Last of the folders was the folders called, Demon City Burkine and Demon Magic Initial - 01 of 15. Ryu goes through the new folders and discovers that the first of the memories only include small facts of a city from within demon territory. Exact location, names and places are unspecified. The bits and pieces were like a broken film. The next folder had various symbols that seemed like incantations, notes and memories of basic magic. However, Ryu could not understand it. Ryu hypothesized. AI quickly affirmed for Ryu, highlighting that the probability of it being of demon language or ancient language can prevent Ryu from learning until appropriate knowledge and skills are acquired. These memories may only be useful after. Slightly dejected, Ryu returns to material conscious to find two worried Tolle and Kuroz staring at him. Startled from the proximity of their faces, Ryu backs off and lightly calms both of down explaining his experience in details. Ryu next picks up the second orb as it also floats into his forehead. There in the information also is sorted out and analyzed by AI. This time, it does not take Ryu into the depth of this mind. The information from the Orb included information on topography from a birds-eye view. Also some information on the crow demon are also known. The crow demons are called Black Storm Crows. The demon killed was only of level 6 rank. It had yet initiate its bloodline and thus did not have actual skills and powers to utilize. Ryu was able to learn from the memories that the Black Storm Crows were among several of the crow family of demons and are classified as demonic beats. They sometimes have a case where one of their own transcends as a half-demonic being and gain humanly form. In the recent case, Zesta was one such demon. Other that these, nothing further was learnt. Sharing this information, Ryu sits to take a few moments to ponder and arrange his thoughts. Ryu trying to work out his thoughts, turns his attention to the standing Tolle and Kuroz who are waiting on him. Putting aside rest of the chest ,he asks if there is anything further to be reported on. To this, Kuroz adds to his report that the wagon and unconscious elf like person are safe and again in their custody. The wagon, as it was in a storage shed in the southern portion of the base, had remained hidden and undamaged. Also the elf was also in a medial tent in the southern half and managed to avoid the chaos of battle. However, since the elf had not woken up even in the disturbance, there is concern that it may be already dead or beyond help. Receiving this, Ryu orders that the wagon be moved closer to the command room and its contents transfer to a nearby room for him to inspect and review. He also asks that regular patrols should be arranged on the walls and to continue monitoring. Ryu also make a direct order to create a list of the deceased and present it to him later and to have the remains of the dead cremated and buried under a massive grave. He then dismisses the two and asks to meet them after an hours¡¯ time. After both Tolle and Kuroz, left, Ryu slumps back into his seat and starts to arrange his thoughts to his next course of action. Chapter 11 - REORGANIZING It is now two in the afternoon. Ryu had crippled and smudged several sheets of paper as he tried to form an order of his next source of action. As he was working out these, a though occurred to him that his level should have increased from the last battle. He quickly orders AI to produce improvements in his stats. The results were. Name: Chen Ryu | Level: Level 18 (Beginner) Race: Human | Age: 16 yrs. Gender: Male | Height: 190cm Disposition: Calm, Shounen, Closet Pervert, Gentlemanly, Confused, Na?ve, Scared Titles: Demon Slayer, Monster Slayer, Commander, Other Worlder, Scavenger Stats:
    • Strength [120 pts] (Increase of 100 pts)
    • Agility [170 pts] (Increase of 120 pts | +200 from equipment)
    • Motor Skill [130 pts] (Increase of 30 pts)
    • Mental Strength [230 pts] (Increase of 80 pts)
    • Wits [750 pts] (Increase of 250 pts | +3600 from powers & skills)
    • Magic [2000 pts] (Increase of 1300 pts)
    Magic: All Elementary Magic Innate Magic: N/A Unique:
    • Ability to summon weapons and soldiers. Weapons: - Technology (Other World): Any discovered until 1939 (start of WW2) - Technology (This World): Any discovered and understood. Users: - Summoning Limit (Each limit counts separately) Infantry: 1600 units (2 battalions) Vehicles: 1000 units Artillery: 300 units Air forces: 60 units Naval Forces: 100 units
    • Ability to summon necessary support.
    Personnel Ratio: 15 per summon / 45,900 support cap Building Technology: Any discovered until 1939 Resources discovered resource can supplement as support. Consumption of magic based on scale, rarity and uniqueness.
    • Ability to Cultivate Powers. No powers learnt yet.
    Skills: All Language Comprehension (Human only) Summoner Powers:
    • Disassemble (Passive) ¨C power to break apart any loot or kill for maximum gain. This gives him the ability to get maximum loot from kills. Not limiting to meat rations, it also includes blood essence, magic and knowledge. The limitation is that he must have killed the prey himself. The ability is passive.
    • Comprehension (Passive) ¨C Ability to learn, decipher, understand and react will be faster. This skill has become consumed by AI and integrated into it. Therefore, became redundant. This improves AI capability in responses and calculation.
    Ryu is shocked from the changes in his stats. Was his first thought. He felt that his level was lower than expected as his challenge included enemies reaching level 25 intermediary. However, the direct personal statistics proved a little bit satisfactory. Additionally, the increased in technology was much welcomed as it increased his ability to respond and maneuver. Ryu quickly thought up and drew up a few plans. He also had the assistance of AI in his planning. After half an hour, at half past two, Tolle and Kuroz returned to the command room. Upon their entry, Ryu discussed his suggestions with them. Ryu solemnly says this as has both Tolle and Kuroz nod their affirmation first before detailing his proposal. Ryu offers them 05 directives. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    • Fresh troops will be summoned to reinforce the forces. Ryu mentions that he can now summon 02 battalions¡¯ worth of soldiers and additional vehicles and artillery. He also mentions that at present he would not create any air forces. He also adds that he can now prepare technology from period start of world war 02. These forces will be divided into first sword and first shield battalions.
    • Their current location will be made into a temporary but fortified stronghold for operations. The area 2 km in diameter will be transformed into a heavy fortress and up to 8 kilometers around will be regularly surveilled. The fortress defenses will be maintained by the first shield battalion.
    • Assault platoons will move out to recon the surveillance zone. The forces will be from the first sword. The primary focus is assured security of the zone. Additionally, capture of creatures and plants for research and information gathering.
    • During all recons and other movements, unless or otherwise commanded forces will stay out of mystery zones and supernatural creatures. They are to avoid agitating the natural creatures as much as possible.
    • Ryu will shortly prepare to leave towards the Eleven kingdom of Ishbaala. One defense and sword platoons will join him in the expedition. The focus is to integrate into the city as foreign travelers to learn and explore more information on the world, the area and other relevant aspects. It is known so far that this world as existences called adventurers and thus the attempt will be to join their guild and work around from there. Everyone is to avoid become too outstanding or famous. Being secretive will secure freedom of movement and forces.
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- These were the plans Ryu put forward. He additionally added that Tolle will be going with him to Ishbaala, were as Kuroz will remain at fort. Ryu also mentions that Kuroz will be promoted to rank of Lieutenant Colonel as head of logistics and engineers. Tolle was also promoted to rank of Colonel and head of combat groups with the additional title of chief of staff. Tolle & Kuroz, both accepted their promotion gratefully. They also confirmed Ryu¡¯s directives. The only concern they raised was the composition of forces and support to which Ryu proposed his suggested composition. The forces were segmented into 06 classifications including the support groups. These were 02 combat groups, engineer regiments, logistics regiments, experimental battalion and special command & communique. The compositions were: SOLDIERS (1,600 total soldiers) All soldiers were to be provided with full combat kits, Panzerfausts, Shin Gunt¨­ swords, MG81 machine guns and several amenities kits. The personalities of the soldiers were set at mild temperament, brave, disciplined, observant, calm and cautious. Additionally, a balance ratio of gender was set as a parameter. The division in composition were:
    • Swords Battalion (800 soldiers) Personalities of the group are set at mild, disciplined and brave. - 600 armed with Fedrov Avtomat and Pattern 1914 rifles. - 50 armed with ROKS 2 flamethrowers. - 100 armed with Bren light machine gun. - 50 armed with Type-97 and M1 Garand sniper rifles.
    • Shields Battalion (800 soldiers) Personalities of the group are set as observant, calm, mild, disciplined and brave. - 600 armed with Fedrov Avtomat and Pattern 1914 rifles. - 40 armed with Flamethrowers with ROKS 2. - 120 armed with M2 machine gun. - 40 armed with Type-97 and M1 Garand sniper rifles.
    VEHICLES (1,000 total vehicles) Vehicles ranged from tanks to ambulances, trucks to tractors. The division in composition were:
    • Combat (720 vehicles) - Panzer I and Type 95 Ha-Go light tanks. (200) - Panzer III and T-28 medium tanks. (100) - KV-1 heavy tanks. (80) - Sturmgesch¨¹tz III assault guns. (80) - BA-20 armored car and T7 Half-Track car. (100) - Matilda and BA-20 armored car. (160)
    • Logistical (280 vehicles) - Mercedes-Benz L3000 and AEC Matador trucks. (100) - K¨¹belwagen. (40) - T7 Half-Track car. (80) - Austin K2/Y ambulance. (20) - Bulldozers and cranes. (40)
    ARTILLERY (300 total units)
    • Flak-30 Anti-air and anti-tank. (150)
    • SU-14-1 heavy artillery. (90)
    • Katyusha rocket launchers. (60)
    OTHER Forces that are non-combat and non-combat support were also organized for base operations. These include:
    • 01 - 03 Logistical Regiments (6,000 personnel and staff) Personnel dedicated for the maintenance of armaments, provision of support, maintenance of support lines and medial assistance. These included engineers, mechanics, technicians, doctors, nurses, surgeons, com-relay coders and tacticians. Also included were the kitchen and cafeteria staff.
    • First & Second Engineer Regiments (4,000 personnel) These were personnel dedicated for defensive build, encampments, structural developments and construction as well as the development of trenches and hidden facilities. Excluding the swords combat group and logistics division, they were the next most important group in the combined forces.
    • Special Experimental Battalion (800 personnel & staff) Personnel dedicated to researching items of the new world, improvement of current armaments and other innovations. The division is comprised of researcher scientists, mechanics, technicians, engineers, innovators, architects and administrative staff.
    • Special Command & Communique (1,000 personnel & staff) These were personnel dedicated for defensive build, encampments, structural developments and construction as well as the development of trenches and hidden facilities. Excluding the swords combat group and logistics division, they were the next most important group in the combined forces.
    Ryu proposal was including the roughly little over four hundred personnel on base, the new force count would exceed 17,000 on total. This was a substantial army compared to the starting force he had summoned at the beginning. Ryu was under no illusion, that equipment played a large role in his pyrrhic victory and from his previous limitation, he hopes that the addition of more technology is to his benefit. The select of this composition was possible for Ryu because of AI¡¯s reformatting of his knowledge and memory. The military nerd knowledge of thousands of arms, vehicles and weapons, that he had built-up on earth was now more easily accessible as it had become organized and with AI¡¯s assistance comparison and analysis was made possible. After providing these details, he had Tolle confirm the final distributions and command structure. The three of them spent roughly two hours working out every detail and element considerable to operation and deployment based off what they had experienced. During this time Ryu updated the topography from the compiled reported and new knowledge he has received from the crow demon. It was almost five in the evening when they completed their discussion and moved out towards the plaza. This was the first time since the battle that Ryu had stepped out of the tower. He could see the still pretty ruined state of the fortress. Though the carcasses, most of the debris and craters have been cleaned, the total state was still very ruined. Removing his focus from the surrounding, Ryu faces the remaining troops. He commands Tolle to give a run down for the current survivors. This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. After Tolle finishes his summary of structural changes, Ryu calls out the summoning. With Ai¡¯s help, Ryu calls out the intended summons and with a massive pillar of light more intense that the first, thousands of troops in formation are assembled before him. From the planned foces Ryu did not summon all of the groups because of the limitations on his magic power which had been depleted to single digits following the large scale summoning. At this time, he summoned the combat groups, first logistics, both the engineering regiments and the the special command and communique forces. If not for AI¡¯s assistance it was highly likely he would have crossed is limit and suffered unknown consequences. The drain of his magic was felt with physical fatigue and stinging headache as almost all of his magic had run out in a single stretch. Due to feeling the fatigue, Ryu had Tolle conduct the introduction and basics and asked to summon the combat group leaders ¨C majors and lieutenants for a briefing back in the tower¡¯s command room before he excused himself and walked back in, as to not to show his fatigue. He also orders Kuroz to begin separate introduction and primary assessment and basics for the logistics, engineering and command teams, leading them to a separate briefing. He also ordered Kuroz to begin the planning of operations discussed. A meeting for review was planned for after the respective team meetings later that night. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Back inside, Ryu is waiting in the command room as he organizes the litter of documents and maps on the conference table. Almost 30 minutes after Ryu returned to the command room, a knock is heard at the door and Tolle enters the room. Behind him 02 lieutenant colonels and 30 majors enter the room. The group quickly organize themselves into files on either side of the room. It is noticeable that all troops are in Japanese style military garbs. Disregarding the irrelevant thought Ryu nods to Tolle to begin the meeting. Tolle introduces Ryu as ¡°Honorable Commander¡± causing Ryu to passed a bewildered look at Tolle who flashes a refreshing smile to Ryu, passing over the incident. He then orders each person to give a brief introduction for Ryu. During the round of introductions, Ryu makes specific notes of the 02 lieutenants. Leader of the swords battalion was Isuzu Hitomi a female Japanese. She had bishoujo looks but was 22 years old. She introduced herself as a swords master and average marksman with the rifle. Ryu mentally comments on her bombshell of a figure, outlined from a form fitting uniforms. Ryu felt slightly hot under the collar as the ravings of a teenager had not been lost in him yet. After Hitomi was Seo-In Hans. He was a South Korean, male and 23 years old. He was the leader of the shields battalion. He introduced himself as more of a tactician and excelling as a sniper. He also added that he had fair skill in some martial arts disciplines. As for Ryu, he mentally noted Hans as having more of a moderate of impression and appearance, but gave him a feeling of security and obscurity. This felt puzzling to him. Both of the lieutenants introduced themselves with smiles and modest gesture. Other than the two, the rest of the majors were distributed 3:2 with more men. After the introductions, Ryu instructed Tolle to briefly outline the directives previously finalized. And after Tolle summarized, Ryu asked around for any questions or concerns and also for suggestion from the group. To this, they simply replied ¨C ¡°honorable commander¡¯s orders are absolute and profound¡±. Ryu was troubled with their words, but did not force the topic further. Next, Ryu ordered the transfer of 06 personnel from each battalion to be under Tolle¡¯s direct command. They were to serve as assistants and Tolle¡¯s personal group in any task, operation and movement. The composition was to be 01 sniper, 01 flamethrower, 01 machine gunner and 03 riflemen from each battalion. In total 12 soldiers were to work under Tolle. Additionally, Ryu declared that that Hitomi and Hans will be Tolle deputies and subsequently Tolle would be a deputy to Ryu along with Kuroz. In his short speech, Ryu stressed the importance of maintaining discipline and structure, but also mentioned that need for flexibility and progressive criticism. After making the clarifications and transfers, Ryu dismissed the group and had Tolle lead the deployments until the next meeting. After everyone had left, Ryu relaxed o his chair as he started to go through the information guide he had been provided before coming to this world. He wanted to learn through it as much as possible to notice if he missed anything or value and importance as he waited for the next meeting. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hours later, at ten at night, Kuroz and Tolle return to the meeting room to debrief Ryu on the completed actions. Tolle summarized his report by stating, that the new troops had well accepted the structure and deployment details had finalized. He also reported satisfaction in the team he had handpicked from each of the battalions to form his core unit. He then submitted the documents on new personnel information, list of deceased from the previous battle and the supplementary hierarchies within the battalions. Next, Kuroz also summarized his report as having great talent and that the personnel had easily setup up complimentary inner structures for operation. He then submitted a proposal for the new base layout and a list of required supplies for immediate use. Receiving the reports and documents, Ryu has them seated at the conference table. They furthered their discussion various elements and points of the plans and documents. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- After what had seemed to be hours in discussion, Ryu takes a look at the time. Almost two hours were again spent on plans and layouts. Ending the current rounds of discussion, Ryu decides to move out to summon the necessary defenses and supplies. This was inevitable as the force could not maintain position or deploy properly without sufficient facilities. Ryu had AI confirm the recovery of his magic. Within seven hours¡¯ time period, Ryu had recovered 90% of his magic powers. He could not determine if this was fast or slow by common sense of the world, but he felt that this was too long considering the intensity of the battle yesterday. After stepping outside, Ryu rolls out the new proposed layout by the engineering and logistical divisions. The base was drawn up to take 1.5 square kilometer area and takes the shape of an eight pointed star with two defensive rims. This required for tress with the edges of the meadow be removed, which Kuroz had the engineering and logistical divisions perform since earlier. The remnant debris and standing structures had already been disassembled and removed as well. The first rim is a line of defense made of mesh fences, barbed wires, trenches and pits. The second layer is a heavily fortified defense wall, almost 10 meters deep and 8 meters high. The wall was to be become banks for elevation of the forts interior. The walls also had several positions for turrets, a vehicle drive on and bunkers and pill box posts. Ryu commented that this seemed too much, however, Kuroz had convinced him of the necessity following the collapse of the defense and comments of inadequacy walls last time from the survivors. Other than the walls and fences, the inner base was divided into nine different areas, woth one for each regiment, battalion and force. The central area was as expected the area for the core facilities like the command and communications center, main research center, special storage units, special accommodations and a single large plaza for assembly of troops. And the surrounding eight regions were set as areas for the divisions, and the correlating training facilities, accommodation, armory, storages and supplementary buildings. As at this time no special area had been designated for secondary buildings, such as plants for food processing, garbage and recycling and for manufacture and smelting. This was considered to be un-important for now. In the entire layout of the base there are 04 primary gates installed, additionally each area is internally divided into easily defendable zones with enough open space making the entirety of the base a labyrinth like defensive structure. How could Ryu know that in future this base was to enter the ranks legends and folklore of this world. A myth accredited to him and his endeavors, though this will be a story to tell another time in the future. After reconfirming the plans from the design, Ryu starts the summoning of facilities and components in equal measure for each of the zones. He was only able to summon the walls and primary military buildings for station, storage, command and accommodation for each area. Additionally, Ryu summoned the supplies marked necessary for the outer rim and defensive walls. As he was reaching the limit of his summoning ability, Ryu informed Tolle and Kuroz that further resource would have to be the absolutely required minimum elements for the night and that further items can be summon the next morning. Both of them quickly selected and finished off marking the requirements to be summoned and immediately had the facilities occupied and resources manned by the personnel in order to occupy and begin to settle down. Finishing off, Ryu made his way to the central command building with Tolle and Kuroz in tow. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- After arriving Ryu, seperated from Tolle and Kuroz, ordering them to perform minimum necessary tasks for tonight as required for tomorrow¡¯s duties and plans and to be fresh for tomorrow. Ryu plans to take couple of more days for the setup of base and prepare for the journey to the eleven kingdom. After arriving at the top floor of the four story command building, Ryu entered what was his designated living space. It was a complete apartment fit for a dignitary, with all required furniture and decoration. It was unlike a teenager¡¯s bedroom, and far from his bedroom on earth. Still, the room comforted him as it was better than his first day¡¯s experiences. As he shrugged the thought, he decided to laying down for a test on the bed. The comfort of a soft bed easily removed the first layers of tension and tiredness he had accumulated from a long day. Immediately, not to fall asleep as is, Ryu plans to freshen-up before hitting the hay for good, however, he gets interrupted. { Knock . Knock } An unexpected visitor knocks at the door to his apartment. Ryu sluggishly arrives at the door and opens it. To his surprise, lieutenant Hitomi stands infront of him. Ryu is startled by his unexpected visitor. He had been anticipating Tolle or Kuroz as they were the ones who had arrived with him to the central command building. Not intending to keep on silently pondering, Ryu inquires of her. [Yes Lieutenant Hitomi, anything the matter?] Ryu tried to sound like a commander. However, Hitomi lightly smiles and replies to him. [Evening Commander. I apologize for coming to you this late, however, I have a proposal for you.] Hitomi¡¯s tone was casual and lacking the military discipline that Tolle and others carried around him. Slightly furrowing his brows, Ryu responds. [Is that so? Care to tell me?] [Could I come in to speak to you?] To Ryu¡¯s change in mood and expression, Hitomi continued unchanged as she requested to enter his apartment. [No. You may not. Make your proposal briefly. If it needs further discussion, we will continue in the morning. I intend to take a good rest tonight as many matters are still pending in the morning] Ryu spoke, unhurriedly but slightly irritated. He felt a lack of proprietary and respect from Hitomi. [Understood. Then commander, I would like to propose to become your direct aide and secretary to help you in your functions, duties and office] Turning her tone to sound acutely cute and appealing, Hitomi exaggeratedly proposes with gestures. Ryu is immediately turned-off by what Hitomi puts forward. Her attempt to usurp and create discord greatly annoys and angers Ryu who had made a specific comment on keeping structure and discipline. Controlling himself he replies curtly. [Lieutenant Hitomi, I have not heard any request from you tonight. Return to you barracks and duties immediately. That will be all] Ryu felt as if he was brushed the wrong way as he narrowly stares at the flabbergasted Hitomi and enters back into his apartment, slamming the door in her face. Further disregarding the talk, Ryu decide to enter the shower and quickly prepare to sleep off the bad feeling. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Outside, Hitomi is left startled and shocked. She had not expected Ryu to become brisk at her words and rather had been hoping on his acceptance to the idea. Hitomi who is silently contemplating and scheming, is brought out of her thoughts as she hears footsteps coming along from around the corner of the hallway. She immediately turns arounds and make haste to leave. Just as she takes a corner, a person arrives infront of the door to Ryu¡¯s apartment. Standing there is Tolle. A ferocious glint is in his eyes as he stares at the back of the rushing off Hitomi and alternates to Ryu¡¯s door. Keeping a calm yet stern face he turns around and leaves. The aura around him turning solemnly dark as he walks off. Meanwhile Ryu quietly slept, completely oblivious to silent exchange and thoughts outside his apartment and enters dreamland as he slept comfortably after ending his second day in another world. Chapter 12 - PREPARATIONS Sounds of morning trumpets resounds across a base, in a near darkness. Trumpets in the morning are a classical signature for the start of a day, the morning at a base. This base is a text book military fortification for heavy defense that is normal on earth. Yet, this is a forward staging base surrounded by enormous wall of tress on all sides, on a scale impossible to replicate on earth. This is the third day since Ryu arrived in this new world. The rays of sunshine or dawn have not cast upon the base with the wall of tree surrounding it, but like clockwork, gears of a trained military function. Soldiers can already be seen changing rotations on guard duty and early reconnaissance teams departing. Heavy machinery and vehicles are starting their engines to begin rounds of work. At central command, Ryu is in his apartment, already awake. He had already woken hours before the sounds of the trumpet. In a state of Zen, he stays in a mediation position in the garden of his apartment. Big beads of perspiration are on his forehead. Ryu, had not truly had a good night. In the late hours, he had been plagued with several torturous nightmares. The experiences have not been kind to him. Flashes of split carcasses, raining blood, scattered gore, agonizing howls and screams. Ryu had been through a night of ghost haunts and grudging mares. Waking up every few minutes, he had only had a good hour of sleep before this series of nightmares started to plague him. Some had been worse enough for him to barf out his dinner and empty stomach. Ryu¡¯s face had a severely pale constitution. Opting to not sleep further, Ryu has tried to meditate and calm himself. To separate himself from the haunts. One would wonder, were these the haunts of the dead soldiers. Surprisingly, they were not. In his meditation, Ryu has tried to recall his nightmares, as vividly as possible. His improved ability to concentrate, greatly aided by AI has helped identify the scape of each of his visions. He can only determine that they were not, because, each of the nightmares, had been different. The first one was of a burning village in pitch darkness, with the screams and wails of slaughter. The second, had been the haunting figures of ghouls and undead within in a white shrine in a valley of dead forestry. The next, was the images of glowing eyes within a darkness. Incomprehensible speech and oppressive aura. Each of these had been several minutes long. The feeling as real as being present in the spot himself. A dangerous sense of ill-foreboding welled within Ryu. Ryu could not determine if it was the trickery of the so called Gods. And skeptically, he also wondered if wandering spirits had come to him at night. Least of his considerations was a sense of foresight, a prediction of what is to come in future. After spending three hours in meditation, with no conclusive decision on his nightmares. Ryu shelves his thoughts to contemplate on for later. Today is the start of his third day in a new world. He still had many things that needed to be done to setup his foothold. He needed to venture out to know the world. Looking up into the dimly lit sky above the trees, Ryu recalled on the start of his ordeals. The actions sequences of, a god who killed him unremorsefully, lied deceitfully and made him a pawn of a game between gods that nearly killed him yet again, was deeply embedded into his psyche. An irreconcilable grudge. The lack of a sense of rest and safety spur him to act against his fate. Walking back inside his apartment, Ryu looks at the wall clock. A quarter past seven in the morning. Breakfast was in fifteen. Ryu quickly prepares himself and makes his way to the command¡¯s mess hall. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Arriving at the door way to the hall, Ryu meets up with Tolle and Kuroz. [Good Morning Commander] X2 [Morning to the both of you. Did you two rest like I asked?] They greeted each other as they made their way inside the empty mess hall. Both Kuroz and Tolle affirmed their peak condition after a good night¡¯s sleep as they quickly took trays of food and sat down to eat. Ryu observes the mess hall, that is the floor size of a gymnasium, as it is scantly occupied by soldiers. During meal times, the mess hall is normally always filled to capacity, however at present, other than Ryu¡¯s company of three, there is only a handful of soldiers and the kitchen staff present. Noticing the floating question mark, Kuroz interjects to explain. [Commander, the quietness of the mess is only because the soldiers are still setting up the equipment and fittings across base. The soldiers in the mess at present are half of the manned communique soldiers operating out of the command center. I had issued directives last night to the majority of the command battalion that the setup was their highest immediate priority and that logistics teams for the present need to dispatch meal provisions to soldiers at fixed intervals. This will only last a day as all setups should be completed by the afternoon] Kuroz summarized the actions to minimum as he explained to Ryu. On lingering his thought on it further, Ryu opted to finish his meal first. He asked both Tolle and Kuroz to bring summaries of the overnight progress and meet in his office after breakfast. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The whole of breakfast took fifteen minutes, and almost half an hour later Tolle, Kuroz and their assistants all arrived at Ryu¡¯s command office to go over the briefing. The command room was decorated much like a war room and personal office combined. Ryu¡¯s personal desk was arranged at the end of the room near the windows overlooking the south portion of the base. At the center of the room was a large table with a theater map of the base and its surrounding. This was a larger version of the maps drawn up by Ryu and circulated to the various forces. Removing from the center the right side of the room was decorated with bookshelves that were at present completely empty and on the left side, a lounge space with sofas and a small table was arranged. Ryu, Tolle and Kuroz sat around the lounge space as the assistants stood behind the sofa respectively at the sides of Tolle and Kuroz. Both of them summarized the progress of the base into four points.
    • Base defense, which had been completed before dawn. The outer fence and traps, as well as the defensive mounts and fittings on the outer walls were completed. The next portion was the interior of the base, for the segregation of area and final line of defense for the central compound.
    • Setup of division posts, other than the minimum summoned facilities by Ryu, facilities like armory, bunkers and garages are 50% complete. The speed of progress was due to the participation of troops from each division, increasing the number of hands on projects.
    • Progress of Utilities of base, such as the development of power plants, water and sewerage. The project was only quarter of the way completed. The delay is due to insufficient resources and support. A request was made for prioritizing the project. Currently, only central compound had power, water and sewerage in a separate network.
    • Reconnaissance report. It was mentioned that scouts had not encountered anything as of yet. It is marked that no creatures were heard or around base or scouting routes. This has been marked as a concern.
    After the report Ryu took the documents presented. The discussion moved forward on to the next steps to taken. [Kuroz, supplement for me, what is the requirement of the builders working on Utilities as well as immediate supplies for base] [Yes Commander. As of right now, the builders require special equipment for the functioning of the plants as well as the pipes, furnaces and construction material. A list of the amounts is attached in the report] As Kuroz mentions, Ryu rummages through the documents again to find the list. [MASTER: Understood. Establishing calculations] [Understood, Kuroz, mention to the builders later that supplies will be made available soon. Moving on, Tolle, from the experience over the past three days, can you suppose any ideas for improvement?] Ryu inquiries from Tolle, who turns from startled to a bit solemn from the question. [Commander, quiet honestly, I do not think being a modern force is of much help within this forest. If this were out in the plans or mountains, we would have some advantages. Within the forest, the fast moving monsters and demons will have greater advantage against our modern troops] [I see. You also noticed this. I have also thought on this earlier. The forest has become a form of obstacle as we cannot fight within it. The battle on the first night was exemplar proof of this. We cannot see nor target anything beyond the meadow¡¯s edge. Simply because we cannot see behind the forestry and the fact that it can shield, friend and foe] [Commander, I believe you mentioned about having preliminary knowledge about the world and its norms. Can you elaborate about it?] This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.[It is as you mention. Referring to it, I have learnt that the world has very many forms of combat and abilities. Not all is mentioned, but the primary roles as expected in a fantasy realm are swords, spears, archery, magic, sorcery, martial arts and tamers. The professionals of these arts normally register into organizations such as Adventurer Guilds, Mercenary Guilds, Guilds, Shadow Guilds, Magi Circles, Magician Association, Royal Assemblies, Knighthoods, Nobel¡¯s Court and so on so forth. These existed in nations of each of the races. From among them, the guilds operate beyond borders and beyond racial divides. Additionally, there is mention of slave warriors, death sworn and gladiators among the combatants of this world. Strictly, the world is a mess of fantasy, magic and medieval. Our modern norms may not exist at all or exist in a twisted form by chance. Based on this, I think we should look to retrain all of our forces to have additional skills and increased abilities] [I agree. At-least, based off my personal experience fighting the demoness, we need to have additional combat skills other than our guns and weapons. In this forest, out heavy armor and the like are almost useless] Tolle, spoke, contemplatively as he furrowed his brows, digesting the information from Ryu. [Based on this, I want both of you to start taking immediate action to retrain the forces. Kuroz, I want you to request the Engineer regiments to build facilities like dojos, combat halls and obstacle courses. I want to introduced swordsmanship, archery, spear-man ship, martial, mixed martial arts and introduce various training. Tolle, I want you to find suitable professionals form among our troops to lead these areas. We need to serious start embedding these skills into our combat. This is also necessary for us to integrate into the societies of this world. Our weapons are other worldly, and if known various powers may try to make use of us. I want us to not become pawns any further] [Yes, Commander] Both Kuroz and Tolle and give a resolute look at Ryu as they stand to salute and walk out of the command room. As they left, Ryu, slumped back into the couch he was seated on. He was still pensive. Ryu lifting his right arm over his face. It was the arm that was dislodge and almost lost after the encounter with the demon. Ryu only survived the battle because, the demons underestimated him. Because of the self-defense training he had undergone back at his family home on earth. Ryu as unskilled he was, we had built up some strength and endurance from the training. This and his berserk state of mind and AI¡¯ assistance allowed Ryu to survive through his first ordeal. [Fuu..] A self-depreciative smile floated on Ryu¡¯s face. Thin up to here, Ryu gets off the couch as he places the documents on his desk and walks out of his office. With a sharp look of resolution and ambition, Ryu walks out of the command center, heading out to the construction site for the utilities. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- After several hours of outdoor inspections, Ryu return to the command center. Having finished summoning the requested items for the utilities and for the building of the training facilities, Ryu was exhausted from the use of his magic. To further monitor the progress across the base he arrived at the communique center for an inspection. There are twelve soldiers manning the communique center as he enters. Three overseeing supervisors salute Ryu upon his arrival. [How are things progressing? Anything to report?] Ryu inquires as he returns the salute. [Nothing as of now Commander. All is proceeding as on schedule. Following the lists of instructions from Lieutenant Colonel Kuroz, all of the projects are scheduled to complete within three days from today. Daily targets are being reached] The most senior soldier reports to Ryu. The soldier is female, with carrot like orange-ish hair. Intrigued by her unusual hair, Ryu inquired and found out her name. Shaira Ashaheen was her name. She was of Persian descent, and her rank was that of a sergeant. She introduced her assistants Tarith and Lumens, two men who were also of Persona descent. Ryu also inquired if the setup of the communique room was sufficient, as he observed the machinery and layout of the room. Shaira, reported that further expansion of the communication center was needed. As more operations are expected, simultaneous communication with several groups, both inside and out would be necessary. She requested for a twice the increase in scale in anticipation for the future. Ryu accepts are requests, mentioning that changes to layout and arrangements can be seen to after current projects were over. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Finishing his inspection, he returns to his office. There he runs into both Kuroz and Tolle, who were waiting for his return. The three of them, sit down to go over the revisions of the plans. Ryu makes it clear that he targets the expedition to Ishbaala after two weeks. He highlights the need for better understanding the world so that they can better prepare and cope. Ryu also requests Tolle to schedule training for himself, in swordsmanship and for strength and endurance training to further develop himself. Ryu mentions the need for having skills to register as an adventurer in the guild in Ishbaala. Ryu shares his idea of limiting modern weapons and carrying rudimentary weapons and armor with them on horseback. Stressing ever more, the need to be unassuming and ordinary, Ryu asks Tolle to create three groups to go with them on the expedition. One will focus on mercantile and research, whereas the other two focus on combat and exploration. Tolle, proposes inclusion of weight training into the training plans. This is as Ryu, mentioned the use of rudimentary armor. Kuroz also proposes the creation of a platoon of blacksmiths to handle the refining and repairs of armor and weapons that will be distributed to the soldiers. Ryu, mentions that weapons had already been arranged for in a stores in central compound. Ryu had summoned thousands of weapons of each type earlier today in preparation for distribution. He left it to Kuroz to distribute and records the distribution of weapons. The three of them, finish the meeting after little more than two hours discussing the detailed plans for the next several weeks. Ending the meeting they went their spate ways, calling it a night. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Starting the following day, the base which had stabilized its deployment, began the retraining of troops for the use of rudimentary weapons and armor. Many of the soldiers were perplexed by the arrangements, however Tolle quickly asserted and explained the reasons for the retraining. Having already selected appropriate trainers, the trainings were scheduled to encompass sixteen hours in a day. Ryu also had a ranch for horseback riding summoned. Primarily planned for himself, it was found that many of the soldiers need to be trained to ride horses and it was quickly expanded. Ryu also quickly summoned thousands of horses for use by soldiers. The horses were counted as his support, as no trained cavalry was summoned this time. Several days went by as everyone on base trained their skills and strengths. During the course of training, several solders got injured, whereas others developed unique skills. Under heavy competition, the days passed on, until the morning of the eighteenth days came. On this day, Ryu with Tolle and his group of twenty-two and two more platoons of twenty-five each, departed from the base on horseback towards the Ishbaala Kingdom. The journey was to take at least four days to arrive at the border outpost, and a further five days to arrive at the town marked on the maps assembled. The map is made from the cumulative knowledge Ryu had gained from the demons, guide and reconnaissance. For this journey, they set out with wagons for supplies and monster parts for trading. The target of the journey is to make contact and slowly establish themselves in this new world. With expectations and fervor, the groups depart out of base at the crack of dawn to make best use of time and leading the group, Ryu had a smile and sparkling eyes as he departed on his first journey, in this fantasy world, to an elven country. Chapter 13 - ARRIVING AT ISHBAALA Chapter has been re-written. Note at the end.
    Four days has passed since Ryu and co departed from base. The journey was exploration and learning every step of the way. The first day was entire spent pacing themselves through the roughed terrain around the base. The roots of the enormous tress, uneven ground and copious moss. The terrain delayed the mobility of the wagons as they had to make several adjustments, arrangements and detours. The first point of the group had been to make their way to the nearest point of the path between Ishbaala and the Human territories outside the forest. The point had been roughly 60 kilometers southeast from the base, in the 4.30 position. It took them until afternoon the next day before they arrived at the point. The area near the path was less dense with thicker and widely spaced trees, even dirt grounds, a clean trek, scare moss. It had the signs of care and management as the cobblestone path was clear and undamaged. The path was wide enough for seven people to walk along in side by side with further open space between the edge of the cobble path and the trees. The trees seemed almost evenly space as the clearing for the path was also fairly wide. The trees 2 times thicker than the ones around the base. It would take atleast 20 of them to surround any one of the trees near the path. After arriving on to the path the group rested for lunch, before departing direct east along it. Their destination was the first border outpost that controls the inward traffic from Human Territory to Ishbaala. The original plan was for them to take a day to arrive onto the path and three more to arrive at the outpost. A total of four days had been anticipated for the first trek of the journey. Though behind schedule, the group was in no hurry as they had no schedule to keep. They carefully observed the path marking locations and geography as they made their way. Their rudimentary map was slowing having more features and notes added on to it. Thanks to the cobblestone path, the group was able to successfully arrive at the outpost within two and half days later. They were able to make time due to ease of travel made possible from the maintained path. Arriving in the outer vicinity of the outpost, the group was amazed from the breathtaking scenery and scape. In the last several hundred meters of the path leading to the outpost, fireflies and mysterious glowing lights had created a fantasy like environment that lit up the area adding a sense of tranquil profoundness and clam. The closer the group arrived, the wider the clearing became. Still covered under the thicket of the giant tree branches above, a closed meadow appeared before the group. The size was roughly just as large as the meadow Ryu had first arrive at. However, in the middle of this vast space, a single ginormous tree. This was simply the largest of the trees they had seen. With several hundred meters of distance from the edge of the meadow to the center, the tree that looked as large if not larger than the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Its branches towered over the entire meadow and even above the surrounding trees. At its base was, what was presumed to be the first outpost point. Though calling it such would be an understatement. At the base of the tree was what one would generally call a fortress. A citadel fortress, built upon layers and heavily fortified, it gave onlookers the impression of power, strength and scale. Built into two layers, fortress was one-tenth the scale of the base perimeter that Ryu had established, yet it was built upon so many layers that it had reached half the height of the tree trunk. This could easily be over 50 floors. The center of the fort was the citadel like structure that stood imposingly. As for the out section, it looked to be fairly densely constructed with an out that encompasses the entirety of lower levels. The walls looked to be as tall as 8 meters and the gate houses looked to be as large as the Arch de Triumph of France. Though a fortress in its existence, the architecture was very elegant even at the distance. Observing from a far, Ryu could make out parts similar to his perceived expectation of elven architecture from the structure. The parts of elegance and d¨¦cor along the towers, archways and side passage that could be observed from a far were numerous. That said, these in no way diminished the imposing feeling the structure portrayed. Arriving infront of the main gate, Ryu and co arranged themselves behind a short line of merchants and their escorts that were being and waiting to be processed by the soldiers guarding the gate to enter. The line had four groups infront of Ryu excluding the one being processed at that moment. Each group had roughly two to three dozen people with more than half of the group being adventurers and escorts. It was unclear if the amount in normal for a day or a longer period, however the amount of cargo and scale of parties per each of the groups infront of them gave Ryu a sense of prosperity and flourishing trade between humans and elves. However, Ryu quickly shut the notion down as he recalled not to have biased first impression from observations, an order he gave to the group travelling with him. The group slowly waited at the back as roughly half an hour passed before their turn had come to be processed by the gate guards. Maintaining and outwardly calm, Ryu observed the armor fittings of the elven guards with great fervor and euphoria in his mind. The guards were in shining, spotless body armor and helmets that were decorated with golden leaves and a short green cape to their back, the soldiers were position a pair on each side of the gate that was as wide as the path. They each held halberds in one hand and a curved sword on their belts. [Sir. Welcome to the Noven Border post of Ishbaala. May I inquire if you¡¯re here on official business or trade?] One of the gate guards greeted Ryu as he spoke. Slightly startled by the fluent speech of Hyuman language by the elf and his use of polite language, Ryu replied a beat late. [Hello. We are a group of adventurers and merchants here for possible trade. I am unsure on the permits and entry requirements as this is our first time coming to Ishbaala. Could you possibly help advise us?] Ryu replied back politely to the guard. He could not help wonder on the change of tone of the guard compared to the interaction between them and the previous merchant groups. [I see. If this is your first time coming for trade into Ishbaala, please take this token and head to the Central Office. Past the gate, head down the main path until you reach a large plaza. It is the largest of the buildings that is visible in the main plaza. The staff there can assist you. You will need a permit to travel further inside ad also clarify any further information from them] The soldier replied as he extended a cyan colored tablet the size of a smartphone to Ryu. Ryu accepted the tablet as he thanked the soldiers and entered past the gate. Examining the tablet, Ryu discovered that it was as thick as note book and was not heavy and rather light. The tablet also had carvings engraved. On the front was the figure of a soldier with a spear, a leave-less tree and stars overhead. The design was simple but beautiful. The craftsmanship was appreciable considering the intricate details of the soldier¡¯s armor that replicated the same as the soldiers guarding the gate. Also the starry sky over the tree was also made unordinary. The backside of the tablet had a weaved pattern made of various shapes and item such as maple leaves, diamonds, swords and a shield. The tablet in total was a work of exquisite craftsmanship and had signs of careful maintenance. The group after entering past the gate followed as instructed along the main path as they walked further inside the outpost. There was a slow elevation in the direction they walked as they notices the increasing hustle and bustle on the street. Lined on either side of the roads were various stalls and eateries as they saw many different races. Other than hyumans and elves, they also saw hobbit like and beast-man like races. Each of their observations increased the acceptance of the surreal-ness of the other world. Not too long after, the group arrived at the plaza. The area was fairly wide as it laid right at the doorstep of a massive double doors that lead into the fortress built onto the trees. The doors were colored ash black, standing almost as tall at the gatehouse of the outer wall. [Over there. I think that is the Central Office building] While Ryu was lost observing the architecture, Hitomi called Ryu out of his trance. Ryu looked in the direction she was pointing towards to find a four story building. It was a standalone and elegantly decorated building, the hallmarks of an official building. Those around it was fairly simple and shorter with mostly two floors. The group walked towards the identified building with their wagons in tow. Now, you would wonder why she was here. It was in the days leading up to the expedition, that Hitomi made constant appeals to Ryu to allow her to join the expedition. Though he was adamant in ignoring her, she pestering for several days wore him out. Also, Kuroz also made a request of Ryu to take her after he too could not help but feel overwhelmed. Only Tolle had maintained his stern refusal. With her wearing down Ryu and Kuroz, she was able to force herself to be part of the expedition group. She was part of the sword battalion¡¯s participating group. After arriving at the building, Ryu had the shields and swords group wait outside with the horses and wagons as he led the rest inside. Heading inside, they entered a massive hall. It was possibly as large as a football pitch with massive windows along the main entrance wall. The sides had several column arches with lounging seats. To large chandelier like objects were hanging from the ceiling emanating light that illuminated the hall. They were no candles, however Ryu could not identify what they exactly were either. The middle of the hall was open space that had a large, laid out carpet. At the very back of the hall was four counters with a receptionist manning each. Ryu unhurriedly made his way to counters. He arrived at the right most counter that was manned by a female elf. [Welcome to Central. My name is Yilin. How may I be of service?] The female elf called Yilin replied professionally. It is important to note that elves that Ryu had seen in the fortress all match the stereotypical description of elves made in the movies and films of earth. With long pointy ears, long hair, slender and tall. Yilin also matched with this description. Though her figure was undiscernible from the uniform of the receptionist, she had the refreshing aura around her. [Hello. My name is Ryu. I was told to come to the center and present this token to you and request your assistance] Ryu replied courteously to Yilin as he passed her the token he had received by the gate. Receiving the cyan colored token, Yilin placed her hand on top of the token. In what was almost an instant, she put the token away as she smiled back to Ryu and continued. [Dear Sirs. I believe this is the first time you have travelled to Ishbaala. How may I help you?] After seemingly having verified authenticity, Yilin professionally approached to inquire the purpose of Ryu¡¯s group. [Yes, this is our first time to Ishbaala. We would like to clarify several things from you, mostly for a basic introduction on Ishbaala, rules, passes and others relative] Ryu calmly replied back to Yilin, maintaining his courtesy. Taking a moment to ponder. Yiling dropped down under her counter as she rummages through what was stored under it. After a few breaths of time, she stood back up with two books in hand. One was fairly thick like an encyclopedia while the other was the size of small note book. [These are two books that will provide basic introduction to Ishbaala, its rules and customs. There is also information about trade and commerce within the kingdom, for your reference. The books will cost you 50 rimits each] Yilin offered the books for Ryu to purchase and self-study. Smiling wryly while lightly scratching his cheek, Ryu leaned onto the counter as he spoke in a low voice to Yilin. [Ms. Yilin, this is difficult to ask, but we are slightly troubled to have to go over the information by ourselves. Additionally, we have some circumstance that we will clarify to you, but not at the counter. We would appreciate if you could give us an easy walk-through of information privately. As for the books, we first want to exchange some of our cargo to purchase them] Ryu spoke humbly as he gave a soft, defeated gaze to Yilin. Startled, Yilin gave Ryu and co a disbelieving look. She then gave a quick glance towards the other counter staff before replying just as softly to Ryu. [Mr. Ryu, would perhaps be in some sort of trouble? Our country does not offer protection for fugitives] Yilin stated. Ryu was dumbfounded by what Yilin had mistakenly surmised. He couldn¡¯t help but look at her flabbergasted and wide eyed. At then someone else spoke up. [Ms. Yilin. That is an incorrect notion. We are not fugitives or anything remotely close. We assure you that, though we are troubled, the situation is not as remotely close to such a thing] Tolle spoke up from behind Ryu. Giving a slight smile, he stepped closer to the counter as he spoke just as softly as to be not overheard. Yilin have a looked startled and immediately embarrassed as she slowly turned red at the ears. She couldn¡¯t help berating herself for the grave miscomprehension she had made. Giving a light bow, she picked up the books and moved the group to a side lounge. Recommending everyone to sit, she asked some of the group to bring other sofas and chairs closer to sit around. However, other than Ryu, Tolle and Hitomi others remained standing. Tolle, lightly told Yilin not to mind as he encouraged her to begin. Collecting herself, she placed the books on to a side as she seated herself closer to Ryu in a separate seat. [Now to begin again, my name is Yilin and I am an information receptionist of Central. Central is the official main information and handling center in the Kingdom of Ishbaala and is a public service center. We are present in every town and outpost in the kingdom and therein provide unparalleled support within the kingdom. As for the kingdom, this is the Forest Kingdom of Ishbaala, built, ruled and protected by the Forest Elves of Moore. Ishbaala was founded 3,000 years ago by the founding king, his majesty Rudome Hainz Ishbaala. It has been consecutively ruled by his descendants, to the current king, Komenz-sama. He is the 69th king of Ishbaala. As you may know, Ishbaala is referred to as the frontier kingdom and a military elven state. This is because of our extremely close proximity to the Dungeon of Glaze that is to the north of the country. There is less than 400 meng between the northern border and the boundary of the dungeon. I will explain ¡®meng¡¯ and other denotations later. Our country was forged through blood and the fires of wars, surviving through several calamities emerging from the dungeons. All our experience has been bitter; however, it has helped forge a powerful country. The country is made up of 56 provinces, which are divided between the various nobility and the king. Though not an official census, it is calculated that our country has a population little over 200 million elves, not including other races that reside in our country. By this scale we can be considered a peak middle size nation if among the human nations. However, if we include the other races we would be over 250 million citizens making us an initial large nation. The elven archers of Ishbaala are the strongest among the profession, excelling as hunters and adventurers¡­] Yilin carefully introduced about Ishbaala to Ryu and co. Ryu, with the assistance of AI committed the information to mind as he listened intently. The history, scale, power and experiences were information not included in the guide. The information Yilin spoke, helped Ryu assemble chunks of an image regarding Ishbaala and the Moore¡¯s region as well as about human nations. After speaking for almost an hour about the history, composition and strength of the country in general, Yilin took a break to drink some water before she moved to basic internal knowledge. [Moving on to internal practices ad common knowledge, in Ishbaala, we use Rimitz with the (?) symbol denoting currency as the main coin and as our country¡¯s lowest denominator. It is made of copper and is the general use currency. This is further supplemented with the use of coins of precious metals in exchanges for more expensive items. 1 Small (?) coin ¨C lowest denominator 1 Large (?) coin = 10 (?) 1 Silver coin = 100 large (?) / 1,000 (?) ¨C thousand This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.1 Jade coin = 100 silver / 100,000 (?) ¨C hundred thousand 1 Gold coin = 10 jade / 1,000,000 (?) ¨C million 1 Platinum coin = 100 gold / 100,000,000 (?) ¨C hundred million 1 Obsidian coin = 10 platinum / 1,000,000,000 (?) - billion From these, Jade and Gold are used by merchants and mages for important transactions frequently. Platinum and Obsidian are used by the country, royalty and nobility and mostly in rare cases. Other materials and items will need to be evaluated and appraised by the appropriate professional to be set a price. It is important that each nation treats precious metals in various degrees of importance based on availability] The Yilin explained with a chart in the encyclopedia, depicting the evolution of values and currency. [As for other standards to remember are; Length: 1 Meng > 1,000 Kon > 100,000 Nos. The sofa is 1 Kon. Weight: 1 Rye > 1,000 Joul > 100, 000 Ziq. A human on average weighs 50 Joul. A water canteen costs 5 ?, and a meal costs 10 ?. A household normally spends 10 silver in a year] Yilin explained the various standards. Comparing to the knowledge of earth, the scale of each measure measured relatively. Length progressed from Kilometer to Meter to Centimeter. Therein meaning that the sofa was a meter long. Weight was also relatively simple, with the standards being equal to Tons, Kilogram and Gram. Stopping here, Yilin took another break as she collected her breath and drank more water. Taking a moment to look at the contemplating Ryu, the vigilant Tolle and the smiling Hitomi, Yiling decided to place her first question to the trio. [After explaining here, I would like to inquire of Mr Ryu. Who are you all? And what is your circumstance? Though this is a little direct, however I need to clarify in order to properly assist] Yilin gave an apologetic look and slight bow as she spoke. Ryu returned a wry smile as he let loose a small sigh. Sitting upright on the sofa, Ryu gave a deep gaze to Yilin. [Ms. Yilin, to first explain, I must ask you, what do you see us as?] Ryu first proposed a question to Yilin¡¯s query. Taking a moment to take a look around the group, Yilin observes each person carefully before returning to look at Ryu. [From what I can observe, you should be prominent people on an official visit. However, this does not match with that we had spoken previously nor your approach to matters. Please clarify for me clearly, who are you?] She spoke solemnly and clearly to Ryu, not averting her gaze. The trio gave her a small smile, with Ryu replying. [As you can now understand, we are not officials. I do not understand why we have been mistaken so. Ms. Yilin, honestly we are from a reclusive people here in Moore¡¯s forest. However, compelling circumstances have forced us to come here. To tell you honestly Ms Yilin, we are refugees. Our home was recently attacked very viciously form a monster horde. We have lost everything. The horde was enormous. We who have lived reclusively for generations, who had already experienced disasters were annihilated from the horde this time. We have lost all of our families. Those here and others waiting outside are all that survived. We are here in order to regroup. To survive. That said, we are not here to ask citizenship. Taking out time, we have consulted amongst us and choose to become adventurers and traders. We wish to explore the outside world, to gain knowledge and after our journey¡¯s try to rebuild a home for ourselves again] Ryu spoke, heartbroken as he gave a strained smile and let loose a tear. He emanated an aura of victimization, causing Yilin to unconsciously try to reach out to him. His words pulled on her heartstrings as she gave another look around. This time, she saw the people sympathetically. The loss of loved ones, was a pain that was too hard to overcome and yet those in the group maintained a tough front in front of her. She could not have known that all of this was a lie. The story was an agreed and rehearsed piece among all of them. Ryu, used his small acting skills to deceive the na?ve Yilin in order to win themselves space and assistance more easily. To make it as believable as possible, Tolle and Hitomi also looked down as to not show their faces to Yilin. While Hitomi could hide behind her bangs, Tolle had a crimpled face portraying anguish. The soldiers maintained a resolute look as those with conviction. Yilin, choosing not to explore further on the emotional scars, gave a small apology and a deep bow. She moved on to ask on how she may help them in their pursuit. [Well, as you have spoken, you can register as an adventurer without becoming citizens of a country. This is a way for wanderers to remain unaffiliated to any nation. Though the world does not have a unified guild, guild cards are accepted everywhere. As for becoming traders and merchants, that is not possible without becoming a citizen of a nation. However, this can be pursued as adventurers as well, since adventurers travel frequently and unrestrained. Since you are here as refugees, you must not have the cash required. Everything involves a price, including registering for the guild. What do you intend to do for some starting funds?] Yilin spoke as she noticed the road block. Ryu gave another small smile as she replied. [Ms. Yilin, I wonder if Central may purchase some of the items we have on hand, in order for us to raise the funds] [You want to sell mementos and the like?] [No. The things we are looking to trade are monster parts that we harvested from those that we killed] [Ah! I see. Please show them to be so that I may appraise them. As mentioned previously an appraiser can only value items. All staff of Central are trained to appraise items] With Ryu having clarified, Yilin spoke with relief beckoning him to bring out the items. With Yilin¡¯s affirmation, Ryu signaled one of the solders to go to the wagon outside and bring in a crate. After a few breaths the soldier returned, with one of the smaller crates from the wagon. This was also as planed as Ryu had already plans not to sell too much first as to observe the valuation rates. When the crate was present infront of Yilin, the soldier quickly removed the top allowing Yilin to look and rummage inside. When the top was removed, Yilin couldn¡¯t help but furrow her brows. She stretched her hands into the crate to withdraw one of the items. She withdrew a horn, one of two in the crate. As she examined the horn, her eyes slowly widen. She then placed it on the side as she withdrew another item. This time she had drawn a paw with claws. This time she was utterly flabbergasted as she gave Ryu a shocked look. Noticing the flurry of emotions and expression from Yilin, Ryu, Tolle and Hitomi couldn¡¯t help but feel puzzled. [Is something the matter Ms. Yilin?] Ryu quietly asked. [Un¡­ Not a problem. However, for these items, did you say you harvested form the hoard?] [Yes. We harvested these from the defeated monsters] [So that means, you had killed them?] [Yes. Precisely] [Umm¡­ Can I ask what your levels are?] [That is a little difficult. As we explained before, we are from a reclusive village, we do not have any things to know the details of our levels and strengths. Is there some difficulty?] Ryu, replied to Yilin looking troubled. He did so because from the guide, he had understood that each nation and guilds had their own recording system for such information as part of their identifications. Though he could answer for himself, he could not for the soldiers. In order to be uniform, he chose to reply as such. [Ah! Sorry, I had forgotten about that. Well, let me explain. First the items you have brought are a bit... say unique. These are possible from rare monsters. I was under the impression of beasts and not precisely monsters. What you have brought is roughly what is considered B rank and above monsters. A little roe serious than I can handle. Therein, can you give me a moment, I will head inside to speak to out manager and clarify] Yilin spoke flustered as she had forgotten about Ryu¡¯s introduction. She explained the difficulty and her misunderstanding again of the situation. Excusing herself, she walked towards a door behind the counter as she went inside to supposedly speak with her manager. In this last exchange, Ryu couldn¡¯t help but feel truly troubled. He had not expected such an escalating situation. That said he could not withdraw, as they needed to establish some contact and gain some funds for their journey forward. They also yet had to get a pass before they could continue and was only possible to attain one form Central. Feeling restless he gazed towards Tolle and Hitomi. Noticing Ryu¡¯s nervousness, Tolle gave him a gentle smile. [I do not think there is anything to be worried about. If things become serious, we will ensure to get you to safety] Tolle spoke to reassure Ryu. Hitomi also spoke up to express her opinion. [Commander, please do not worry. If things become too annoying, we only need to take control by force] She spoke exaggeratedly as she gave a fierce look at the door which Yilin left into. Where Tolle¡¯s words offered some calm but much embarrassment, Hitomi¡¯s words were more concerning and foreboding. [Though both of you want to reassure, please try to retain sensibility. We will try to resolve things as much as possible and I hope neither of you overreact. I would appreciate it if you would just help remove me from any stupor. And Hitomi, I hope you did not forget that we are pretty much under a fortress. We cannot create too much of a disturbance under any circumstance unless facing imminent threat. Don¡¯t be so boorish with your words or actions. Also, do not call me commander, here call me leader] Ryu lightly berated Tolle and Hitomi, and more Hitomi than Tolle. Over the course of the past several days, Ryu had come to learn that Hitomi was very much an ambitious brute. She always had a confrontation first approach. Maybe her position in an aggressive battalion played part to her character in the summoning. This gave Ryu several headaches during their trainings back at base and the primary reason to why he did not want to bring her at first. However, she was persistent and unyielding. She had won her way into the expedition. Resting back on the sofa, Ryu pondered on what he had previously learned from Hitomi. The existence of monster tribes, beasts, the human nations, other eleven nations, resources and arts. He was particularly interested in magic and sorcery that was second best practiced in Ishbaala after archery. Ryu was still unskilled any weapon, he could hold himself with a simple short sword and carbine. She had bene trying to get the swordsmanship skill in order to use the sword he had received when he arrived in the world. From the soldiers who had trained the same time as Ryu, many had already started getting better at it than Ryu who was still notice. He could not comprehend why he could use a short sword but couldn¡¯t use a larger sword. Because his weapon skills were hampered, he decided to search for opportunities to learn magic and sorcery in Ishbaala. Magic, was the use of the elements and various powers with aria or chant less, using mana. Sorcery involved the use of magic circles or medium in their casting and use. The difference between them being that sorcery needed mediums for invocation. They were the major forms of magic systems used by elves and dwarves. Other than these two, there was also druid magic and djinn magic. Druid magic, involved the use of nature spirits in their invocation. They needed people to be fairly connected with nature and able to converse with the spirits. Though on the smaller side, they were still sizeable. Lastly is djinn magic that use summon of magic spirits and creatures to invoke powers. Unlike druid magic, djinn magic involved the manifestation of a spirit or creature matching the requirements of the summoner. Druid magic made use of already existing spirits in nature. These two were two opposing magic systems. As Ryu continued to ponder, little more than half an hour passed. Just as Hitomi was getting impatient and was about to leave her seat, the chime of the door being opened sounded. Garnering everyone¡¯s attention, they all gazed at the door behind the counter. They saw a nervous Yilin returning, her pace quite fast as she arrived to stand infront of Ryu. [My apologies for being late. I have spoken with the manager. He has asked to meet with you. Are you willing?] Yilin spoke hurriedly. Ryu, Tolle and Hitomi who were still seated, could see the beads of sweat on Yilins forehead as she bowed deeply after speaking. The situation had unraveled with Ryu feeling unrelieved and ever increasingly worried. As He held a wry smile looking at the deeply bowed Yilin.
    Author''s Note: Dear Readers, I do apologize for re-writing this chapter. Ever since I had put up the initial chapter, I have been having a lot of trouble connecting the next stages. After spending days reviewing and editing, I have completely rewritten the chapter. I hope the new chapter finds better with all the readers. I am motivated due to the readers feedback and view count. I hope to have your comments and advise going forward. Also if you notice any issues with my grammar, punctuation or questions about the plot lines, please do comment or write out a feedback. I will try to reply to them, and not spoil upcoming chapters. Best Regards Chapter 14 - VALDOR, SETUP & ADVENTURING ¡°Fresh new Gullohorns, come and get them. Limited time. Limited supply.¡± ¡°Morbord¡¯s new inventory release tomorrow. Make sure to get there first before it¡¯s all sold out. New Bork series to be unveiled.¡± ¡°Kula¡¯s exotic garden is going to open a 3-day stall next Julen. Rare Squrt bloom to be auctioned on the last day.¡± On a bright morning, the market street was bustling and busy as to be expected of a thriving town. Various vendors and promoters went on shouting as they competed to get the attention of passersby. People huddled in dozens around each pf the stalls looking through the various displayed items. As the crowds packed the streets to the brim with barely enough space to move, a hooded figure walked briskly through the street almost unhindered. As if invisible to the crowd or in reverse, it rushed through the congested streets as it made several quick turns through the extended market area until it arrived at a small alleyway. It came to a stop at an inconspicuous, dark door, one of many, deep inside the alley, before giving a series of knocks. *KNOCK* KNOCK* KNOCK* *KNOCK* KNOCK* *KNOCK* *KNOCK* KNOCK* KNOCK* After four series of knocks, thee door opened and the figure rushed inside. The door quickly slammed shut, with none the wiser. From entering the alley to the door and further, it took less than 2 breaths of time for all of it to be done. Even if one tried to follow the hooded figure, they would have been left lost. Inside of the room was dark. It was dim and barely had enough light to see a few steps infront. Inside, 6 other figures could be noticed. Their faces hidden by their position away from the lights. The hooded figure that entered the room, quickly walked through the room, walking into a darker corridor, further back. The hooded figure continued to walk through the path that was long and complicated, with several portions of flights of stairs going upward. It soon arrived at a door at the end. It was a single door. It was different than everything until now. If the rest of the places can be said to be dirty, at best, the door looked magnificent. A white, elaborately decorated door stood before the figure. ¡°Enter.¡± As the figure came to a stop infront of a door, a voice called out from inside without notice. It continued to enter through the door, to arrive at starkly different place. The room behind the door was a charming and pleasantly large space. The room was bright with much natural light filtering through the large arching windows running along two-thirds of the far sidewall. The windows offered a breathtaking vantage view of the townscape outside, with elegant architecture, white walls, and green roofs. One could also see the odd terrace gardens among a sea of greens. Also popping up, where some of the grander buildings and locations of the towns in the far horizons. These included a few domes, towers, and pyramids. Turning back to inside the room, various luxurious furniture was spaced slightly far apart but in an inviting manner. The interior d¨¦cor arrangements of this room was a mix of royal blue furniture, bronze ornamental decorations, and cream-colored walls. At the center of the room, a pair of well-dressed figures stood at guard. They had turned towards the windows, stock still as if standing guard like statues. Their focus was at what was in front of them, as they watched with rapt attention, a third silhouette standing at the edge of the windows. The third figure, stood as if gazing at the outside, enthralled by its view. It was bathed in the warm and bright sunlight coming from the outside. As the figure stood there, unmoving, the hooded figure approached it from the right-hand side. It arrived until a few steps away from the back of the third figure, before kneeling on one knee with its head bowing down. ¡°So, how was it?¡± A young voice came from the figure by the windows. ¡°Ha. Investigations across town have been completed. Our intelligence reveals that this is the town of Valdor belonging to the Viscount family of Varder Yuwein. The town is the capital of the Varder territory in the West-North-Western region of the Ishbaala Kingdom.¡± ¡°How far have we established?¡± ¡°They have been sent into every sector of the city, at the noble¡¯s manor, the guilds, auction houses, exclusive pavilions and into the guard fort as well. Additionally, we have ¡®friends¡¯ in the large and active merchant groups working through the town. We are expanding through them.¡± ¡°How are our records doing?¡±This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. ¡°In batches of three¡¯s and four¡¯s, team have been registering alternatively in the various guilds. They are rotating among the adventurer guild, merchants guild, alchemist guild, smiths guild, thief guild, dark guild and at the academy learning center.¡± ¡°How many so far?¡± ¡°80, 25, 15, 20, 30, 57 and 73 respectively. And only in the adventurer¡¯s guild and dark guild are there any cooperative teams working. That too is groups of 8 and 3 respectively.¡± ¡°That is good. You can withdraw. Have a good rest.¡± ¡°Ha. Thank you very much.¡± The conversation continued with pauses after each question and answer. A slow paced and concise dialogue. After completing the report, the hooded figure withdrew as ordered, leaving the room as swiftly as it had arrived. After it withdrew out of the room, a sigh could be heard, coming from the figure by the window. ¡°So, it¡¯s going well it seems.¡± ¡°Indeed commander. And it was only due to your wonderful insights.¡± Another, deeper voice responded to the light statement made. Turning to face the figures, it was Ryu and Tolle with one more soldier, left inside the room. And as per his usual antics, Tolle went on to further compliment Ryu, with excessively sweet words. ¡°Stop with the flattery already. We only discussed our steps thoroughly before taking actions. Its everyone¡¯s credit.¡± In what is their usual skit, Ryu spat back grumpily at Tolle for his excessive flattery, in his words. After the hooded figure ¨C the Intel officer had left, Ryu paced back inside the room before flumping on to a large sofa seat at the center. After a moment of silence, Ru continued his questioning. ¡°How are our setups going?¡± ¡°Thanks to the splendid preparatory work of the teams, we have secured more than enough funds for all of our current operations. Additionally, we have setup 6 safe locations in addition to base with the different teams scattered around. Only 40% of forces are at base. Others are evenly distributed. Also, the work on compiling all known records, information, and knowledge is progressing at a reasonable pace. It is expected that we can completely copy the entire wealth of knowledge in this town in the next 2 months¡¯ time.¡± ¡°That is wonderfully fast. Pass my appreciation to the teams involved.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± Speaking up to here, another small pause comes to the conversation. Ryu shifts his gaze towards the town. ¡°This truly is unreal.¡± ¡°¡­¡± ¡°This is a metropolis. Unlike any of my expectations for an Elven settlement, it is a complete, bustling, and crowded metropolis. Teaming with millions of elves living inside a fortified and slightly congested town. Buildings built on ground, rising several stories high. Only a few houses embedded into the trees. Further, not only are their elves living here, humans, beast-man, druids, fairies and more, are all living inside this settlement.¡± ¡°¡­¡± ¡°Among the few places built onto the great trees, are the towns¡¯ fortifications and the Noble¡¯s manor. One occupied the great trees that are to the perimeter, and the other, occupies the great tree near the center. But, as expected of the elves, all of it is built quite well with beautiful and elegant designs. Everything accounts for maximum efficiency in organization and arrangement. The unimaginable highways, multi-tier passes, all help the movement of things in the town. It feels advanced, modern and still, it is only of medieval aura and settings. How totally messed-up.¡± Ryu melodramatically spoke out his thoughts as he blankly gazed at the townscape below. A wry smile crept across his face. Standing on the balcony, high above most of the towns'' buildings, Ryu had the vantage point even few of the upper spectrum of elven society enjoyed. Almost 11 stories above ground, 5 more than regular buildings, he had a spectacular view. To the center of his view, stood a great tree of Valdor. In it, rested the great mansion of the Viscount family and their main fortress. From a far he had a view of the entire town, that was several square miles large. He could barely make out the city wall on the other side. Ryu enjoyed this vantage point, because the building he stood inside was the base of operations for him and the expeditionary forces he led. And due to Tolle preferential arrangements for him, Ryu enjoy the best view the building had. This was first made into his private lounge by Tolle, before Ryu turned it into a general lounge for his group. Ryu¡¯s point of view ¨C everyone needs a relaxing place, and having one with company makes it better. He overrules Tolle who grumbled in slight dissatisfaction at the decision. After reminiscing for a while, he turned to face Tolle as he continued his questioning. ¡°What is our compilation on Ishbaala?¡± ¡°Ha. We have identified all of the territories and their most general information. Well known industries, specialty produces and significant personages have been listed. We do not have much more significant information or details at present. We will need some months to clarify and comb through piles of information. As mystical as the elven race is, it has its own folklore, mysteries, legacies, and rumors among its various territories and regions. All of the confirmed reports will be in the yellow binders and significant rumors and hearsays will inside the cream binders on the shelf in the commander¡¯s office. Other than the territories, we have compiled a very interesting report on the powers of this country and its colorful history. It will be the green cover folder I have left on the Commander¡¯s desk. Lastly, we have the reports on the Sorcerers Tower and Alchemist Towers. So far we only know general information about both of them. They are powerful authorities within this country with each having their own special territory. They have authority as significant as a Duke has, and can exercise military might under certain conditions. A basic biography and recent history is compiled in the blue binders, also on the commander¡¯s desk.¡± ¡°I see. I will see them later this evening.¡± With a slight smile on his face, Ryu gestured for Tolle to take a seat in front of him and asked the soldier beside Tolle to prepare some drinks. He was in a happy mood due to significant progress in setting up operations in Ishbaala. As the drinks, hot tea, was set down on the side table, the conversation continued. ¡°But it is still amazing. Only 15 days since we arrived here, you have managed to organize everything so well. Negotiating our ID¡¯s as well. Tier-3 residency was it? Did this class exist before?¡± ¡°Thank you for your praise. The matter of the ID was quite simple. After all, with a good and hearty conversation and you can have anyone talk with loose lips. The secretary at the general office told of a special category of residency that can be applied for, with a little incentive, as long as we met the requirements. And quite remarkably, we met the requirements for the category easily.¡± ¡°Ho~ you¡­ didn¡¯t do anything out of line, did you?¡± ¡°Of course not! I would never do anything to Bismarck you commander.¡± ¡°I trust you on your word.¡± ¡°I am most delighted.¡± Tolle had a look of heartbreak at Ryu¡¯s doubt, which quickly transformed into a look of pleasant shock and beaming smiles, Ryu¡¯s words of ¡®trust¡¯. Ryu couldn¡¯t help wonder at the vibrant emotions of Tolle, when they are not ¡®on duty¡¯. ¡®Slightly dreadful, his expressions are.¡¯ ¡°Moving on¡­ If everything we wants has already been initiated and well under way, I think it¡¯s time I started my adventure.¡± ¡°Is that so? I¡¯ll defi¡­.¡± ¡°Tolle, you continue observations and handling of base while I am out. Grendal, you, Marv and Ponta will join me. Oh, also ask Chiya to join as well.¡± ¡°Understood. It will be our pleasure to join you.¡± ¡°W-wait! Comma¡­¡± ¡°Alright. We will meetup tomorrow morning and head to the guild to register. I cannot wait to go around in person. Well, see you later.¡± ¡°A-a Hey! Commander! COMMADNER!¡± Leaving the flabbergasted and distraught Tolle, Ryu merrily continued with his arrangements and left the room through a door on the other side. Completely ignoring the wailing Tolle, Ryu and Grendal the soldier left smoothly.