Chapter 98: A Call to Duty
Scene: The Village of Elaria, early morning. The sun is just beginning to rise, casting a warm glow over the peaceful village. The birds chirp softly in the trees, and the villagers go about their morning routines, unaware of the momentous visit that is about to occur.
Narrator: The village of Elaria, a quiet and tranquil place, is about to receive an unexpected visitor. King Alden, accompanied by one of his trusted escorts, arrives with a mission that could determine the fate of the South Nation. His destination is the home of a man who once led the knights of the South Nation with unmatched skill—Eren's father.
King Alden and his escort ride into the village, the horses' hooves clopping softly against the dirt road. The village Elder, a wise and respected figure, notices their arrival and approaches them with a welcoming smile.
Village Elder: (respectfully) Your Majesty, it is an honor to have you in our village. How may we assist you?
King Alden dismounts from his horse and returns the Elder's greeting with a nod of respect.
King Alden: (calmly) Thank you, Elder. I'm here to speak with Eren's father. Could you show me to his home?
The Elder's expression shifts slightly, understanding the gravity of the king's visit. He nods and gestures for the king to follow him.
Village Elder: (seriously) Of course, Your Majesty. Please, follow me.
The Elder leads King Alden and his escort through the village, past rows of modest houses and bustling villagers. They finally arrive at a small, well-kept home on the edge of the village. The Elder gestures to the house.
Village Elder: (quietly) This is the home of Eren's father, Sylas. He has lived here peacefully for many years.
King Alden nods in thanks and steps forward, knocking gently on the door. Moments later, the door opens, revealing Sylas—Eren's father. His expression is one of curiosity, but there is also a calmness in his demeanor, as if he knows that he is being called upon for something important.
Sylas: (calmly) Your Majesty… I wasn't expecting a visit from the king. Please, come in.
Sylas steps aside, allowing King Alden and his escort to enter the house. The interior is simple and cozy, with a few pieces of well-worn furniture and a fire crackling softly in the hearth. Sylas offers them a seat and then sits down himself, his gaze steady on the king.
Sylas: (curiously) What brings you to my home, Your Majesty? I have a feeling this isn't just a social visit.
King Alden takes a deep breath, his expression serious as he begins to explain the situation.
King Alden: (seriously) Sylas, we are facing a grave threat. Zarek and his allies have taken control of the East Nation, and we believe they are planning to attack the South Nation next. The power they wield is unlike anything we've seen before. I've come to ask for your help… to lead the knights of the South Nation once again.
Sylas listens intently, his expression growing more serious as he absorbs the king's words. He knows the weight of what is being asked of him, and he takes a moment to think, his gaze falling to the floor as he considers the decision.
Sylas: (softly) I've been out of the fight for a long time, Your Majesty. But I can see that this is no ordinary threat… and the South Nation needs every capable warrior it can get.
Sylas looks up, meeting the king's gaze with a renewed sense of purpose. There is a fire in his eyes that hasn't been there for years—a determination to protect his homeland and his loved ones.
Sylas: (resolutely) I'll lead the knights once more. But I have one request—while I'm away, I ask that you station guards in the village of Elaria. The people here are peaceful, and I want to ensure their safety while I'm gone.
King Alden smiles, a sense of relief washing over him. He nods, agreeing to Sylas's request without hesitation.
King Alden: (gratefully) Consider it done, Sylas. I'll ensure that Elaria is well-guarded in your absence. Thank you for your service—you have the South Nation's deepest gratitude.
Sylas rises from his seat, a sense of resolve settling over him. He turns to the village Elder, who has been standing quietly by the door.
Sylas: (softly) Elder, please inform the village that I'll be leaving with the king. It's time to say my goodbyes.
The Elder nods and quickly leaves to spread the word. Sylas gathers a few belongings and steps outside, where the villagers are beginning to gather. He says his goodbyes, receiving words of thanks and encouragement from the people he has lived alongside for so many years.
Finally, Sylas mounts his horse, ready to depart with King Alden. He takes one last look at the village, his heart heavy with the knowledge that he may not return, but determined to protect it at all costs.
Narrator: With his decision made, Sylas, once a knight commander of great renown, bids farewell to his village and prepares to take up his sword once more. The future of the South Nation may very well depend on his leadership and strength.
The scene shifts back to the castle's training grounds, where the heroes and warriors continue their sparring matches. The air is filled with the sound of clashing mana and the cheers of onlookers, eager to see the display of power from their champions.
Narrator: Meanwhile, the training at the castle continues with fervor. The next match is between Asher and Rylan—two of the most skilled fighters among the heroes. They stand ready, their expressions filled with anticipation as they prepare to test their abilities.
Asher and Rylan step into the center of the training grounds, the circle of spectators widening to give them space. The tension is thick as they face each other, their auras beginning to glow with the energy of their mana.
Rylan: (grinning) Let's see what you've got, Asher. I've been waiting for this.
Asher: (calmly) Don't worry, Rylan—I'm not holding back.
The match begins with a burst of movement. Asher activates his mana liquid, the shimmering energy flowing around him like water. He quickly forms the liquid into a large fist, charging at Rylan with the force of his attack.
Asher: (shouting) Take this!
Rylan, always quick on his feet, activates his mana mist. The dark, swirling energy envelops him, and with a swift motion, he forms the mist into wings, allowing him to take to the air and dodge Asher's attack.
Rylan: (laughing) You'll have to be faster than that, Asher!
Asher grits his teeth, determined not to let Rylan get the upper hand. He repositions himself and prepares to strike again, but Rylan is already moving. With a flick of his wrist, Rylan transforms his mist into the Abyssal Blade, a dark, shadowy sword that radiates with power.
Rylan: (confidently) Time to end this!
Rylan swoops down from the air, his Abyssal Blade cutting through Asher's defenses with a powerful slash. Asher tries to counter, but the force of the attack is too great. He stumbles backward, his liquid mana dissipating as he is pushed to the edge of the circle.
Asher: (gritting his teeth) Damn… you got me.
The crowd erupts in cheers and applause as Rylan is declared the winner of the match. He helps Asher to his feet, the two exchanging smiles of mutual respect.
Rylan: (grinning) Good match, Asher. You're tough, but I had to give it my all.
Asher: (smiling) Same to you, Rylan. You've gotten stronger.
As the next match is about to begin, a sudden commotion interrupts the proceedings. A messenger arrives, out of breath and urgent, informing the crowd that King Alden has summoned everyone to the castle immediately.
Messenger: (urgently) The king has returned and requests the presence of all heroes and warriors at the castle at once!
The heroes and warriors exchange curious glances, quickly gathering their belongings and heading towards the castle. The training matches are halted as everyone rushes to answer the king's summons.
Narrator: The training is abruptly interrupted as King Alden summons everyone to the castle. The urgency in the messenger's voice suggests that something significant has occurred, and the heroes and warriors move swiftly to respond.
The chapter ends with the heroes and warriors making their way to the castle, their minds filled with questions and anticipation. The air is thick with tension as they wonder what news awaits them.