As Ethan was rushed back to Vale city, panic filled the air. The healers of Vale City were hastily summoned, their expertise required to save Ethan's life. It was a tense and critical situation. The skilled healers worked tirelessly, their hands moving with precision.
They gathered a vast array of potions and herbs, carefully concocting a blend of remedies to combat the injuries that plagued Ethan's body. With a delicate touch, they administered the potions, their effects gradually taking hold. The healers used their knowledge to mend what was broken, mending fractured bones and soothing damaged tissues.
For hours, the healers toiled, their determination evident in every movement. The room was filled with the scent of medicinal herbs, their healing properties permeating the air. Their collective expertise and unwavering dedication were the lifeline that kept Ethan tethered to the realm of the living.
As the procedure reached its culmination, a sense of relief washed over the healers. Ethan's life was no longer in immediate danger. The healers stepped back, their expressions a mixture of exhaustion and accomplishment. They knew that their efforts had saved their king, and for that, they felt a sense of profound fulfillment.
Left to rest and recuperate, Ethan's body slowly began to heal itself. Days turned into nights, and nights turned into days as he remained in a deep slumber, his body working tirelessly to repair the damage it had endured.
And then, after a week of stillness and unconsciousness, Ethan's eyelids fluttered open. Sunlight poured through the window, casting a warm glow upon the room. His eyes adjusted to the brightness, and as he blinked away the remnants of sleep, he was greeted by the gentle caress of morning light.
With a deep breath, Ethan felt a surge of life coursing through his veins. He marveled at the simple beauty of the sun's rays, appreciating the gift of another day. Slowly, he sat up, the heaviness of his body a reminder of the immense ordeal he had endured.
As he swung his legs over the edge of the bed, his feet touched the cool floor. The sensation grounded him, connecting him to the reality of his existence. Ethan smiled, gratitude filling his heart as he prepared to face the new day.
As the morning was passing slowly everyone in the castle became aware of Ethan's awakening. Every corner and path Ethan treaded, important ministers or officials asked about his health. Irritated by their questions, Ethan returned to his chamber for a much-needed bath and for him to calm down.
After everything was done and Ethan was feeling refreshed, he returned to his duties and summoned the Knight Captains.
All four Captains were standing before Ethan with questioning eyes, Ethan seeing this got annoyed once more and before anyone could ask, he said irritably. "I'm fine, there is nothing to worry about. Let's get to work instead. Tell me, what are the losses we sustained and how many enemies are left."
Each Captain reported their own Order's losses and when Ethan heard the amount, he was relieved. They have suffered much less losses than he thought they would. Nonetheless, these men protected his Kingdom and for that they would be remembered and honored. In total the Dragons Fang lost only 15 members, the Obsidian Order lost about 23 soldiers, the Dawnbringers about 17 soldiers and the Ravens Shadow only lost 3 members. A total of 58 soldiers.
"These men gave their lives protecting my kingdom, their kingdom and as such I want to implement a new tradition. A colossal monument shall be built and, on that monument, shall be the fallen heroes who died in battle protecting their homeland. Every fallen soldier's family will be compensated with gold, if a child remains, his education will be provided by the kingdom until the age of 16." Ethan said. "Let it be known that our kingdom is not made by me but through the people, for they are the people of Verdant Vale- it's beating heart."
After the casualties were settled Ethan found out that only a few trainees and 3 apprentice knights were able to flee from their axes. It would not be an exaggeration to say both the kingdom of Argenthrall and Florathell have lost around 50 percent of their military might. "My Lord, what is your orders?" Asher asked.
"It would not be wise to attack as the only able army that could invade is the Obsidian Order and the Dragons Fang, which amount to half our strength. With the Demon Pavilion still lurking and our sea voyage on the horizon. I think we should hold back the invading of the 2 kingdoms and prepare for the sea voyage."
"You are wise, Your Majesty" Magnus responded.
"Then we shall make it so: we will depart for the seas on the day of rest in the coming week. Rowan shall lead a group of lieutenants each from 3 Orders to the sea to ensure the goods safety."
"I will do as you command, my Lord" Rowan replied excitedly.
"Then before anything else, how long before you can advance?" Ethan asked looking toward the men. "I am still a bit away from stage 8. But thanks to your Majesty's grace I may be able to advance in 3 weeks' time" James was the first to answer. Ethan nodded and he turned his head to Rowan and Magnus. "About 2 weeks my lord then we both will advance to stage 9." ''Good, very good." Ethan laughed lightly. Then he turned towards Asher. "I will still need a long time Your Grace. Breaking through to Mortal level 1 is extremely difficult."
Ethan nodded slowly, not disappointed by the news as he knew breaking through to the Mortal realm is extremely difficult.