[Roy's POV]
The early morning atmosphere in the village was tense and somber. Rumors of a potential invasion had cast a pall over the community, dampening any inclination for lively conversation.
Under Merilyn's notice, Janis and I were making our way to the village's assembly hall, prepared for any potential mishap. We weren't alone in this endeavor. Individuals of significant status and influence would also attend, ready to address the situation if necessary.
As we entered the assembly hall, it was immediately apparent that the room was filled with individuals radiating authority. Unlike the encounters with adventurers, the atmosphere was more serious, and the presence of these figures stirred within me a sense of apprehension. Some of them held power that could cause Janis and me considerable trouble.
Merilyn stood confidently at the podium, commanding the attention of everyone in the hall. Despite her youthful appearance, her demeanor exuded authority and wisdom, earning my utmost respect. I couldn't help but marvel at her ability to lead the village at such a young age. Trying to envision myself in her position, I found it challenging to fathom accomplishing what she had achieved.
Having heard many stories about Merilyn from Janis, it was evident that their bond ran deep. Through Janis's stories, I learned that Merilyn was not just any elf but a high elf, a member of elven royalty.
Janis was renowned for her exceptional magical talents, though she paled compared to Merilyn's prowess. Already achieving the fifth rank at such a young age, Merilyn was considered one of the most gifted individuals in our village and many parts of the world. Her extraordinary abilities alone could have warranted her position as village chief, but coupled with her noble lineage as a high elf, her authority was virtually invulnerable.
"Thank you all for being here. As you may be aware, the Empire has dispatched warships to our island." Merilyn addressed the crowd after a few moments when more of the people of this village joined.
Her voice was clear, and despite her regular tone, no one in the room needed any clarification.
"At this very moment, their forces are advancing into our territory. Should the situation escalate, we must be prepared to defend ourselves by any means necessary," she continued, her words casting a somber shadow over the already tense atmosphere in the room.
"I implore each and every one of you to unite and fulfill your role in safeguarding our home. Prior to engaging in any conflict, I have initiated evacuation procedures," Merilyn assured, her voice carrying a sense of urgency and determination.
"VILLAGE CHIEF!!!" A panicked voice echoed through the room as the scout burst in, clearly distressed.
"IN TEN MINUTES, THE ARMY WILL ARRIVE!" Gasping for breath, the scout relayed the urgent message, her eyes fixed on the ground as she struggled to recover.
The announcement sent a wave of heightened tension rippling through the assembly. While the impending arrival of the army was anticipated, the sudden time constraint intensified the pressure exponentially.
"Thank you for your diligence." Merilyn acknowledged the scout's report, her tone steady despite the situation's urgency.
"Everyone, you've heard the news. As much as I wish we had more time, we must act swiftly. The army is approaching from the east. I need each of you to stand ready to defend our village. Should the need arise, I expect you to fight with all your strength," Merilyn directed, her words commanding as she urged us to disperse from the assembly hall.
My nerves were at their peak when this would be my first time fighting another human being. Could I bring myself to kill a human like the monsters I had killed earlier?
"Calm yourself. If you're not prepared to fight, then don't. This battle isn't yours." Janis reassured me, her usually cheerful expression replaced by a solemn demeanor I had never seen before.
Of course, Janis' words didn't go unnoticed. Despite not being a race with an affinity for nature, they appreciated me for just showing up. Any manpower was essential, and fighting in a war like this was not something anyone could do.
"Janis, you have helped me a lot for the past few weeks. And to repay you, this is something I have to do." Giving myself a resolve, most of the hesitation I had disappeared.
We had shared jokes about using me to fulfill her sexual desires as a form of repayment, but faced with the reality of the impending conflict, I knew there was a deeper debt owed to Janis, one that I was determined to fulfill.
As we made our way to the eastern outskirts of the village, time dwindled, with less than three minutes remaining before the confrontation. I focused on clearing my mind and prayed for an acceptable resolution for all involved.
~
"Imperial Commander! We're approaching our destination, estimated arrival time is five minutes. Our scouts have observed that the villagers are already aware of our presence and are prepared to engage if necessary," the scout from the reconnaissance mission reported to the commander, relaying crucial information to the entire squad. The commander nodded in acknowledgment before leading her army forward.
Earlier in their journey, they had encountered resistance from the inhabitants of the forest. This confrontation had caused a delay in their progress, which was unexpected given the nature of their opposition. The creatures they faced, particularly the humanoid cockatrice, inflicted significant damage, nearly resulting in casualties if not for the ample resources supplied by the Empress. Despite these challenges, the commander remained determined to fulfill her mission.
With various obstacles along the way, the commander hoped for cooperation from the villagers. She couldn't help but feel that her compensation was inadequate for the risks involved. Nevertheless, given this task at her majesty's command, she pressed on, knowing that failure would invite severe consequences.
In a matter of moments, the army of the Spring Empire made their first contact with the villagers.