POV:???
Gazing out of the small wooden window near my desk, I found myself captivated by the ethereal beauty of the stars. Their radiant brilliance had a hypnotic effect, momentarily making me forget my purpose and the reason for my presence here.
However, the clatter of metal and chainmail brought me back to reality. It was the sound of my soldiers patrolling the once bustling trading post, now transformed into a military base for this accursed war. Mirktal, once a thriving city facilitating trade between kingdoms, now served as a mere rest stop for the main army's troops before the commencement of the actual conflict.
As the fourth prince of the Rhukadev royal family Argus vi Harmonia, I couldn't shake the feeling that I didn't belong here. Assigned as the Supreme Commander of the Alliance Army, I was torn between my royal lineage and the responsibilities thrust upon me in this petty war instigated by a greedy individual.
Sighing, I took in the gentle yet chilly autumn breeze, admiring the picturesque scenery once more. The vibrant red leaves danced in the wind, perfectly complemented by the shimmering stars.
A part of me yearned for a respite, a chance to explore the world and revel in the company of new acquaintances. Alas, duty held me back, for if the alliance were to falter due to my selfish desires, the consequences would be dire.
Just as I pondered my predicament,
A sudden knock on the door abruptly interrupted my train of thought, followed by the creak of the old wooden door swinging open.
A man, who appeared to be around 60 years old with slicked-back grey hair and a grey beard, stepped into the room. He was dressed in a military uniform, black and green in color, and his expression remained stoic.
"Rainham..." I called out to him, my voice lacking any real interest.
As I gazed at him, memories from my childhood flooded my mind, momentarily softening my demeanor. However, his voice quickly snapped me back to reality.
"My lord, I have received information that the enemy army is advancing towards the Arminaria Fortress," Rainham informed me.
I stood up from my desk and glanced at the map on the wall to my right. It depicted the Silriar continent, divided among the Rhukadev and Fallvus Kingdoms, as well as the Siriath Empire, which controlled over 70 percent of the land.
As I stood there, contemplating the precarious situation, Rainham's words echoed in my mind. The Rhukadev Kingdom and the Fallvus Kingdom, isolated by the mighty Skyforge Mountain Range, had managed to evade the clutches of the Siriath Empire for over a century. It was the sheer magnitude of these colossal mountains that acted as a shield, protecting them from invasion on both the West and East sides.
However, my thoughts were quickly interrupted by the mention of the Arminaria Fortress. Nestled at the farthest point on the East side of the mountain range, it served as a gateway to the Fallvus Kingdom. If this fortress were to fall into enemy hands, it would spell disaster for both kingdoms. A sense of unease washed over me, and I couldn't help but let out a small sigh.
"And also, my lord..." Rainham paused for a moment, his voice filled with concern. "Although it is unconfirmed, there seems to be a Magic User among their ranks."
Magic users were a rare breed, bestowed with the ability to manipulate elements, actions, or even concepts from birth. Their powers were limited to certain ways, depending on their skill and affinity. Throughout history, these individuals had risen to become powerful and legendary figures, but only the strongest among them could truly make a name for themselves. If a magic user was indeed among the enemy troops, it would be a cause for concern. The news would undoubtedly devastate the common soldiers, for they knew the destructive potential of such individuals.
Is it really true? I inquired, seeking confirmation from him rather than questioning the validity of the statement.
"I do not have that information, my lord. The enemy's magic user remains unidentified, and their strength is unknown. However, they are apparently quite young based on the data from the Mana Receptor. It seems they also have a method to disrupt the Mana Receptors, which delayed the report," he explained.
"Interesting..." I sensed that something was amiss with the unusually peaceful night. Glancing at the map once more, Sir Edward was stationed far to the west of the Mountain Range, Sir Abell was securing the main road, and Sir Norvis was meeting with the Fallvus Royal Family. That left...
"Is Casimir stil located at the Eastern Border ?" I inquired.
"No, Sir Casimir arrived last night to replenish his troops' supplies," he informed me.
"And why was I not informed of his arrival last night?! Why did he not report to me upon reaching here?!" I questioned Rainham sternly.
"Sir Casimir specifically requested not to report his arrival and instructed us not to inform you or any other superiors about his presence," he replied.
"And what did he say his excuse was?" I inquired, my frustration seeping into my words.
"He didn't provide any explanation. He simply mentioned that he was here to restock and would be leaving tomorrow morning," Rainham replied.
"Very well... Alright then... Rainham, go and fetch that fool immediately," I commanded.
"Yes, my Lord," Rainham bowed and exited the room, the wooden door emitting another small screech. I let out a sigh, my annoyance still lingering. Taking a few steps towards my desk, I reached for a concealed satchel, opened the glass cap, and took a refreshing sip of water, relishing its rejuvenating taste with a subtle hint of minerals.
Feeling slightly calmer, I settled into my chair and gazed out the window, observing the soldiers who had returned from the frontlines. They were either resting, replenishing their supplies, or leisurely strolling around, cherishing their fleeting moments of freedom. However, my attention was abruptly drawn to a swift, indistinct blur of brown that passed by too quickly for the ordinary eye or even the soldiers to notice. "So, he has arrived," I murmured to myself.
After a few moments, the sound of footsteps reverberated through the corridor, and the door screeched open once again, just as it had before.
"Hey... ," the man at the doorway said with a hint of worry in his voice.
"Casimir," I called out to him, my tone icy and my smile forced as I locked eyes with him. He visibly flinched at the sound of my voice.
Casimir, a 27-year-old man, stood taller than most, with long dark brown hair and striking emerald eyes. He wore a combination of silver plate armor and dark leather armor, allowing for greater mobility in combat. Over his armor, he donned a long brown leather coat, and on his hip, a silver longsword was strapped, its exquisite design concealed by a leather sheath.
"I was going to question you about not reporting to me upon your arrival," I paused, observing his reaction. With a disappointed sigh, I continued, "But it seems there are more pressing matters to discuss at the moment." I gestured towards the chair in front of my desk, and Casimir moved forward to take a seat.
"Rainham received a report that the Enemy Army is advancing towards the Arminaria Fortress," I locked eyes with Casimir, my gaze unwavering. "Though it's still unconfirmed, it appears that there is a Magic user among the enemy troops attacking the fortress. I need you to lead your troops and provide assistance to the defenders, while you... well, you know your job."
"Yeah," Casimir replied dismissively. "So, when do I set out?" he asked.
"Give the orders for your men to depart in half an hour. Rainham will take care of the rest," I informed him, my gaze piercing through him, the fake smile long gone.
Casimir Got up from his seat and left quickly.
As I sighed once more, I rose from my seat and made my way back to the map. My eyes fixated on the location of the Arminaria fortress. I couldn't help but hope that there were no more surprises awaiting us.
I yearned for the day i receive the permision to actually go on the offensive instead of just being siting ducks on the defensive. However even tough i was the Supreme Comander, I still lacked the authority to invade the Siriath bastards back.
I couldn't fathom what my parents and the Fallvus royal family were thinking. They still clung to the hope of peace in this dire situation. If they truly desired peace, they should just attack the Siriath Empire and try to put an end to this senseless war. Yet, they chose to hold onto those meaningless agreements with Tharkov III, even though he had been dead for ten years. And that bastard Ewan, who now sat on the throne, had made his intentions of conquest abundantly clear.
"Knock knock."
Once again, my train of thought was interrupted by the sound of knocking at the door.
"Enter," I said without turning to face the person entering the room.
"Sir, everything has been prepared. Casimir and his men have departed for the Arminaria fortress. Additionally, I have received a letter from His Majesty King Argon vi Harmonia to deliver to you," Rainham informed me, handing over a sealed note.
"Very well."
"My Lord," he said, bowing before taking his leave.
I turned my attention back to the desk and opened the note...