"Y-Your Highness...! A new report has come in!"
A loud declaration echoed loud and clear throughout the room as a ragged knight suddenly entered the room. All eyes were on him as his body trembled, holding onto the sides of the door frames, trying to catch his breath.
Speculations already started brewing inside the Lord's mind as soon as he heard the knight's words, but he tried to calm himself down. He clenched his fists tightly and realigned himself, his eyes glimmering a serious and composer glint.
"Speak." ［Reisner］
"The monster flood is already spotted in Rusphalt's vicinity! One hour estimate before impact!"
It was a heavy report, one which greatly shook everyone present, leaving their mouths hanging wide open and their hands trembling in anxiety and frustration. But the one who was the most affected was the Lord himself.
'Sylvia...' ［Reisner］
A single person appeared on his mind as soon as he heard the report. It was his lovely daughter who he treasures so dearly. He could feel his heart sink in the depths of darkness and despair as a cold chill swallowed his heart in its entirety.
It was a few days ago, when he told his daughter to send messengers towards the towns and cities in their territory, the latter volunteered to do it herself and make sure that everything is done perfectly. Accompanying her were another B-rank commander and a group of elite C-rank knights.
One might think that such a party is already a powerful force, and that is correct... By normal standards, that is. In front of a single A-ranker, they are all nothing but mere toys, not worthy of fighting. Don't even mention Calamity-Class, they'll be decimated before they have the chance to even fight.
He had always taught his children about "Noblesse Oblige" or the responsibility of the privileged. But in this situation, he couldn't help but wish that he didn't. He wished that even just this once, Sylvia would act selfishly and save herself.
"Your Highness, we await your orders..."
"... We shall proceed with the plan. Fortify the Kosalvier's defenses. Don't spare any resources and use the treasury if needed." ［Reisner］
"But Your Highness... What about Rusphalt?"
To a commander's question, the Lord became silent. He tried to think of a solution but nothing came to mind. As he gritted his teeth and clenched his fist, only a heavy answer came out of his mouth.
"Form a rescue team and prepare a camp for the refugees. Make sure that it has everything they will need." ［Reisner］
The end has already been judged. While the Lord made it sound more appealing, his statement couldn't be any graver for those who were present in the meeting. A dark and depressing atmosphere loomed over the whole room.
It would have been different if the Lord said "Reinforcements", but instead, he used the term "Rescue Team". It meant that they won't be able to send help whilst the town is under siege, only survey the place and look for survivors once everything is already done and over.
"Refugees"... It meant no difference with the word "Survivor". With it, it is basically confirmed that the town would be destroyed. The only ones they could help would be those who managed to survive if there is even any.
But even in such a situation, none of them could blame the Lord. Deep in their hearts, they knew that they could do nothing but wait and wish for a miracle to happen.
Rusphalt is a medium-sized town located roughly about 600 kilometers southwest of Kosalvier. Even if they hurry up and form reinforcements, Rusphalt would already be in flames and ruins the moment they arrive.
Not to mention that if everyone were to hurry as fast as they could, they would be exhausted by the moment they arrived in front of the horde. Facing such a horrifying disaster whilst tired is nothing short of a death sentence for the reinforcements.
'Rusphalt... Rusphalt... I think I've heard of that name before...' ［Grey］
But of course, it's only impossible when considering normal standards. Fortunately for everyone, there is a pair of unusual youths with them today. They have only just arrived but they already have a full grasp of the situation.
『Grey, is Rusphalt far?』 ［Yuna］
『Hmm... It's about a hundred kilometers short than the distance between Galderia and the Royal Capital.』 ［Grey］
『Then it should be fine, right?』 ［Yuna］
『Yeah. We should be able to make do with what we have... Though the problem is how we'll deal with the boss...』 ［Grey］
Unbeknownst to everyone present in the room, the two were already making plans inside their mind about what they should do to solve the problem with the boss monster. It was a quick exchange done with telepathy.
"How many soldiers and adventurers do we have on Kosalvier right now?"
"We'll need the Blacksmiths' and Merchants' Guild to prepare as much equipment as possible. Potions and traps would alp be helpful."
"Then we should also contact the Alchemists' and Enchanters' Guild."
Such statements flew left and right as the meeting continued. Whilst Grey and Yuna engaged in their own conversation, the others also made a detailed plan, utilizing all resources and manpower they have available.
Not only the defense of the city, they are also thinking of how to evacuate the citizens the moment the defenses start crumbling down. Although the matter with the other towns and cities still weighed on everyone's minds, they didn't let it get in the way of their work.
Of course, even Julius and Amelia pitched in ideas time after time again. They may still be young but they are also children of high-pedigree brought up with the best education and resources. They will be amongst the future figureheads of Alfrione. There was no way they would just sit still.
"Archduke, do you have a map of the territory here?" ［Grey］
The discussion was only broken when Grey suddenly voiced out his query. It was the first time he said something ever since the discussion started and so everyone was quite puzzled. Not to mention he asked for a map of all things.
"Y-Yes... We do, but why do you ask?" ［Reisner］
"Nothing too complicated. We just have a proposition to make." ［Grey］
Grey ended his statement with such a bright smile on his face, everyone couldn't help but get even more confused. Even then, the Lord simply followed Grey's request and had a map be brought to them.
The map was then laid out atop the meeting table, at a position everyone could see. Although it was unfortunate that the map only contained the cities, towns, and major geographic landmarks, and no villages and hamlets marked out, it was still useful.
"Archduke, where is the most barren area near Kosalvier?" ［Grey］
"Hmm... If it's the most barren, it would be... here." ［Reisner］
The Lord's fingers were pointed towards a snowy plains just west of Galderia. It was an area where no settlements could be seen due to high populations of arctic beasts. There were also no important sources of income located there. It was the perfect place for Grey and Yuna's place.
"Hmm... I see. Then, please prepare a trap or an array there by tomorrow afternoon. Only bring those who are E-rank and above and prepare for the worst. We'll be luring the monster flood there." ［Grey］
Now, everyone is even more confused by Grey's words. Even the Lord and the commanders who had several years of experience couldn't fathom what he was thinking. They were speechless at such sudden requests,
"Lord Grey, by luring... You mean..." ［Reisner］
"That's right... We'll be aggravating the boss and lure the monster flood away from the towns and villages. This way, we can secure the least damaー" ［Grey］
BANGGG
"Don't be absurd!" ［Fizzel］
A resounding bang echoed as Fizzel slammed his hands against the tables, his large voice following soon after. There was a grave expression on his face as he looked at Grey and Yuna, his eyes lit ablaze with anger.
"Are you saying you'll be acting as bait towards a Calamity-Class boss?! What kind of nonsense is that?! That's nothing different from seeking death!" ［Fizzel］
Although there was only silence in the air, everyone was in agreement in Fizzel's words. While they understood how powerful they were, in their eyes, Grey and Yuna were still children. It was unthinkable of them to let such youths sacrifice themselves while they remain in safety.
It wasn't a matter of pride and arrogance, but guilt and conscience as a person. For such youths to suggest an insane plan, they could only get angry and disappointed at their own powerlessness. Julius and Amelia were especially against it.
"Lord Fizzel, have you ever camped inside a Labyrinth's 9th floor?" ［Grey］
"No. I haven't..." ［Fizzel］
"We have. And I can assure you, it isn't easy." ［Grey］
There wasn't a more absurd statement than what Grey had just said. Everyone inside the room was shocked at his question. After all, the 9th floor isn't just a place for playing, it's a place even High-rankers fear. A hellhole full of absurd monsters.
"While we understand your worries, we aren't just suggesting this out of arrogance. We have already clashed with several Calamity-Class monsters in the month we stayed on the 9th floor. Risking our lives isn't new to us." ［Grey］
The room was silent, not a single sound to be heard. While everyone is against the thought of sending them to such a dangerous task, they couldn't argue anymore after Grey said it in such a way.
"Don't worry. We also value our lives so we won't be taking anything too risky. You can rest assured we'll be arriving here in one piece." ［Grey］
"Un! And after we return, we'll be expecting a thoroughly made trap, okay? Ah! And make sure not to overwork yourselves. We still have a battle to fight." ［Yuna］
Even when they were in the most dangerous positions, Grey and Yuna still had the leeway to worry about the others. It wasn't that they were saints or anything of the sort. They were just normal people, trying to do what others would have done if they had the power.
Now, there was no possible way they could turn the tables anymore. As silence loomed over the room, it was already decided that they'll be agreeing to Grey and Yuna's plan. They could only shake their heads in resignation.
"Haah... Since that's that, then I'll be going, too. It leaves a bitter taste in my mouth knowing that kids are sacrificing themselves for our sake." ［Fizzel］
"A-Ah, no, Lord Fizzel, you really don't have toー" ［Grey］
BANGGG
"No! My decision's final! I need to keep an eye on you two and make sure you won't be dying on us! It's either I join or you won't be leaving!" ［Fizzel］
Fizzel was firm on his words. His eyes were like an immovable mountain, containing a blazing and stubborn determination. He held the look of someone who would never back down no matter what you say to them.
In the end, Grey and Yuna ended up agreeing to Fizzel's demands. The other High-Rankers also tried to volunteer themselves, but luckily, Grey and Yuna were able to stop them. They appreciated the thought, but they still needed to devise a plan and lay out the traps, after all.
"Then, we'll be relying on your traps later on. See you again tomorrow afternoon. Don't be late, alright?" ［Grey］
"You can rest assured... And may fortune shine upon you..." ［Reisner］
There was a smile on the Lord's face as he sent off the three, but it wasn't one which contained happiness. It was one which was riddled with relief and sadness, a deep gloom still gnawing away on his heart.
"Ah, and Archduke, please don't be too sad. Lady Sylvia will be safe." ［Grey］
"P-Pardon...?" ［Reisner］
"We have a special ride, you see. If we hurry up, we should be able to arrive there in ten minutes or so." ［Grey］
Shock. Such was what the Lord felt at Grey's words, but that shock was soon replaced with an overflowing relief. The heaviness he felt the whole night was now lifted as if everything was all but a passing lie.
If it wasn't for the fact that there were other people present, he would have more than likely shed a tear or two. It may be unbecoming and undignified for a lord, but for a father who loves his daughter dearly, such a thing was only natural.
"Thank you... I will never forget this debt..." ［Reisner］
"Hahaha, just a consider it a gift from us," ［Grey］
"Ah! But I could use some sweets! Some herbs would also be nice!" ［Yuna］
"Hey, Yuna... Don't you already have enough sweets?" ［Grey］
"They're so delicious! What's wrong with wishing for more?" ［Yuna］
It was such a warm scene that one wouldn't even think that they were in a dire situation. The Lord couldn't help but smile as he looked at the two youths argue a little over such a trivial topic.
"Understood. Then I'll prepare the best sweets and herbs there are in Kosalvier. I swear this on my name as Archduke Farmalte." ［Reisner］
It was an extravagant promise, but it was one which was full of sincerity. There wasn't a single response from Grey and Yuna, only smiles blooming on their faces as they finally left the place and headed towards the castle's ramparts.
The silver moonlight shone ever so brightly and the melody of the night was sung ever so smoothly as three pairs of footsteps echoed in the air. Three figures walked proudly on the ramparts, their eyes clear as day.
"Polaris, come forth." ［Grey］
At Grey's call, the nightly wind started to howl, the clouds parted, and the shadows started to tremble as if greeting the descent of a king. The very next moment, a large figure appeared out of nowhere, its platinum scales shining brighter than the moon itself and eyes rivaling the beauty of the stars.
"Long time no see, Polaris. How's Liz?" ［Yuna］
"It indeed has been some time, Master, Mistress. And you don't have to worry. Lady Eliza is doing fine, she's currently having dinner with her family." ［Polaris］
"I see... Dinner, huh... Come to think of it, we haven't had one yet..." ［Yuna］
There was only a casual conversation between Yuna and Polaris as they talked about the recent happenings in their lives. They had already told him the details and so, he is already prepared for the harsh road up ahead, ready to serve his masters.
But while such a friendly conversation was happening, a single man was in shock. His eyes were wide open as he looked at the platinum-scaled beast resting atop the ramparts, words unable to get out of his mouth. He was speechless.
'You've got to be kidding me...' ［Fizzel］
That was the only thought which ran throughout Fizzel's mind as he looked at Polaris. He doesn't have any appraisal nor detection abilities, but he could tell quite well that the creature before him was on another league from him. It was one which had reached Calamity-Class.
Orbs of amethyst shone under the gentle skylight, deep as the silent night and brilliant as the moon and stars above. Just a single glance is all what's needed to take one's breath away. The magnificence of a king.
...
Chatters and clatters, hustle and bustle, and clicks and clacks. Such sounds echoed throughout a large rooms as people discussed their plans with each other. There were agreements and oppositions as times passed by.
Such scenes continued to unfold for the hours to come, a detailed plan finally made after hundreds of ideas approved, rejected, and altered. It was by no means perfect, but it was already excellent considering how little time they had. All that is left is to complete and execute it.
"I am grateful to everyone for attending this sudden meeting. Rest assured, you will all be fully compensated... Everyone's dismissed and have a good night." ［Reisner］
The night was deep, and one after another, the people inside the room slowly started heading out, their faces much more relaxed than when they came in and giving their sincere farewells to the Lord before leaving.
It wasn't long before everyone was out of the meeting room... Well, everyone except three people. There was the Lord, Julius, and Amelia. They don't have anything in particular to talk about. They just have no other choice but to stay behind.
After all, Julius was a prince and Amelia was a high-born noble lady. They were children of two important figures in Alfrione. It would cause diplomatic problems if they were to be put in harm's way. It was in their best interests that they stay at the Lord's castle for the night.
Well, the diplomatic relations with Alfrione really wasn't what weighed the most in their minds at that moment. Especially the Lord. Even when he trusts the three, he still couldn't help but feel worried about what's about to come.
"Is something bothering you, Your Highness?" ［Amelia］
"Ah, is it showing on my face?" ［Reisner］
There was no direct answer on Amelia's side, only a slight nod of affirmation. She didn't want to be rude to the Lord and only acted as how a noble lady should. It wasn't only her. Julius is also acting like a proper prince for once.
"Hmm... It isn't much of a bother, per say... I'm just worried about Lord Grey and the others. I hope they would be alright," ［Reisner］
"Your Highness, if that's what you're worried about, there's no need to fret. You can put your trust in them." ［Julius］
It was unlike Julius. The man who would usually mess with the two was now full of confidence about them. He may not know how strong Grey and Yuna truly are, but he can proudly say he knows them better than many people.
"You seem confident about it, Prince Julius." ［Reisner］
"Of course. They're Grey and Yuna, after all. If they say they will do something then they would definitely accomplish it without fail. There is no pair more trustworthy than the two of them." ［Julius］
"That praise seems a little excessive, don't you think?" ［Reisner］
"No, not at all. Even if you were to ask my father, our Prime Minister, or our General, they would all say the same thing. There's a reason why they are deeply respected as Heroes of Alfrione." ［Julius］
It was praise after praise. Although he admits himself that he is a bit biased as their friend, he couldn't deny anything of what he said. It wasn't only him. Amelia and the people who know the two of them also think of them that way.
Well, now, they aren't only Heroes of Alfrione, but of Ingrasia as well. If the world knew of their hidden prowess, it would surely shake the current balance as people know it. But for now, it's enough that only a few know.
"I see... Hearing that makes my heart feel lighter as well. It seems like all my worries were all for naught." ［Reisner］
Said the Lord as he snickered to himself. He never thought the day where he would be comforted by such youngsters almost three times younger than him would come. It truly was an interesting sight to see.
"Oh, now that I think of it... Prince Julius, Lady Amelia, have you already had dinner?" ［Reisner］
"Ah, that... We were called over before he had the chance to." ［Julius］
"Ah... I truly apologize for such a sudden invitation. As apology, would you like to join me for dinner? It may not be anything fancy but I am quite proud of our dishes here in the north." ［Reisner］
"Then, we would be imposing on you." ［Julius］
"Thank you very much for the invitation, Your Highness." ［Amelia］
There wasn't too much to think about. While Julius and Amelia almost forgot that they still haven't had dinner yet, after the Lord mentioned it, they quickly felt very hungry. The three of them walked towards the dining hall, gentle smiles plastered on their bright faces.
...
The wind was cold and there was only darkness to be seen. The sky which was once littered with stars was now only covered by dark, expansive clouds. If there was any light shining, it would be from the towns and villages passed on the ground from time to time.
Fortunately, there wasn't any snowfall, blizzard, or anything of that nature, otherwise, the journey would have been much harder. It was all thanks to Polaris's speed and power that everything went smoothly.
'Crazy... It hasn't even been 15 minutes...' ［Fizzel］
It has been several minutes since Fizzel rode atop Polaris' back but he has still yet to comprehend how fast Polaris really was. The journey, which is supposed to take more than two weeks to travel by carriage, was easily covered in just several minutes.
Fizzel still flabbergasted by such insane speed, the flight continued and sonic booms echoed one after another as Polaris broke through the sound barrier time and time again. It wasn't long before a dark silhouette of a town came into vow from the horizon.
Well, it wasn't only the city which was in sight. In Grey's eyes, there were also thousands upon thousands of undead skeletons marching just south of the town, some already engaging in battle with the knights, soldiers, and adventurers, the sound of chaos echoing everywhere.
Some skeletons wore armor, some wielded swords, spears, and shields, and others rode various beast-like skeletons. There were horses, wolves, vangirs, and even wyverns, blue flames burning ablaze in their eyes.
But the most terrifying one was the one furthest behind the horde. Adorned with armor dark as ivory, black flames raging in its eye sockets, and equipped with a pitch black longsword as it rode atop a skeleton dragon. There wasn't one more suitable to be the symbol of death.
⟨⟨Appraisal⟩⟩ ［Grey］
-----------------------------------
[Monster]
[Species] Skeleton Tyrant
[Status] Healthy
[Type] Undead
[Ability] ...
[Mana Capacity] 55,785 [Mana Quality] S
[Combat Power] 18,832 [Threat Level] Calamity
[Attribute] Null
-----------------------------------
The hopes of fighting against a lower range Calamity-Class boss was now crushed in a single instant. What was before them was a monsterー no, a monster amongst monsters. One which could strike fear even to anyone which sees it.
Even Grey, who has seen his fair share of monsters couldn't help but feel shaken at such a sight, his body trembling a little before he even noticed it. It was the first time in years that he felt such intimidation.
Still, such a thing would not crush Grey's resolve. If anything, his desire to battle strong opponents was only fueled as he looked at the enemy before him, a strong passion starting to burn ferociously inside his heart.
"Everyone, get ready for battle." ［Grey］
His voice resounding gently yet clear as glass, everyone drew their weapons and steeled their hearts. Their eyes now gleamed a different, fierce glint as they prepared themselves for the battle about to unfold.
CHAPTER 184 END