The days following Aiden's last confrontation with Conan passed in a strange, almost unsettling peace. The fortress bustled with activity, its inhabitants performing their duties with renewed vigour. Aiden, while initially skeptical of the smoothness of operations, chose to embrace the positivity, though a small part of him remained vigilant, wary of the calm before a potential storm.
Now, seated at the head of the command room table, Aiden conducted a meeting with his trusted inner circle. The room was filled with the voices of his advisors, each reporting on their assigned tasks and responsibilities.
Marius stood tall and confident as he began his report.
"The soldier count is sufficient for both guarding the fortress and forming a dedicated attack unit. Training sessions have been rigorous, and morale is high. We're ready to act on your command."
Aiden nodded, his sharp eyes assessing every word.
Next, Kellan spoke, his gruff voice carrying the weight of hard work.
"The old weapons have been repaired, and we've forged enough new ones to arm the soldiers adequately. It's not abundant, but it'll do for now."
Garret, with his steady demeanor, chimed in.
"The recruitment efforts have been fruitful. The new recruits are acclimating well and showing promise. I've ensured proper training and discipline are maintained."
Finally, Lina, her tone light but purposeful, added her update.
"Job opportunities have been posted, and rations are being distributed without any issues. I've also been assisting Garret with managing the recruits, ensuring they're settled and productive."
Aiden leaned back in his chair, absorbing their reports. Everything seemed to be running smoothly, almost too smoothly. His skepticism flickered briefly but was soon replaced by a sense of cautious optimism.
"You've all done well. This is exactly what I needed to hear."
The room's atmosphere lightened slightly at his words, though Aiden's expression remained thoughtful. After a moment, he straightened and addressed Marius directly.
"Marius, arrange the attack unit. We'll be leaving for the dungeons soon. There's no better time than now to begin our resource hunt. We can't afford to delay it any further and risk unforeseen obstacles interfering with our plans."
Marius gave a sharp bow.
"Understood, my Lord."
As Marius turned to leave, Aiden's voice halted him.
"And Marius, prepare the items I asked for earlier. Ensure everything is ready."
Lina and Garret exchanged puzzled glances, their curiosity evident. Aiden noticed and waved a hand dismissively.
"Nothing to worry about. Focus on your current tasks."
The meeting concluded, and the group dispersed, each member resuming their responsibilities.
By late afternoon, Marius had gathered the soldiers at the fortress gates. Rows of disciplined men and women stood at attention, their weapons gleaming under the sun. Marius signaled Aiden, who stepped forward, his commanding presence silencing the murmurs among the soldiers.
Aiden addressed them with a clear, resonant voice:
"First of all, today's raid is an important one. For the past few days, you've undergone rigorous training. Now, it's time to put that hard work to the test. You will follow myself and Commander Marius. We'll be moving in two large groups.
We have located dungeons in the forest that contain valuable resources. However, obtaining them won't be easy. Let me be clear—some of us may not make it back today. I'm giving you one last chance to back out. There will be no shame in leaving now. It takes great courage to admit one's limits."
Aiden paused, letting his words sink in. The soldiers exchanged glances but remained steadfast.
"So no one? Excellent. Remember, if anyone tries to back out during the mission, it'll be my blade and your neck. Understand?"
The soldiers responded with a resounding, "Yes, my Lord!"
Aiden: "Good. Let's move!"
The unit set off into the forest, their movements synchronized and purposeful. From the fortress gates, Lina watched them disappear into the dense trees. Her hands clenched tightly as worry etched across her face.
"Come back safely, Aiden. Victorious and unharmed."
Garret, standing beside her, placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"He'll be fine. He's changed a lot since those days. He's no longer that scared child we used to know."
Lina nodded, her worry easing slightly at Garret's confidence.
Inside the forest, Marius walked beside Aiden, his tone low.
"We're approaching the dungeon location. Should I send scouts ahead?"
Aiden nodded.
"Do it. We can't afford surprises."
Marius relayed the command, and a group of scouts slipped into the shadows, their movements swift and silent. Minutes later, they returned, reporting their findings.
Scout Leader: "The dungeon entrance is guarded by goblins and a hobgoblin. The surrounding area is clear."
Aiden considered the report before issuing orders.
"Send three soldiers to lure the goblins away and keep them distracted.Station the archers. When I signal, they'll take out the hobgoblin. We'll strike swiftly."
The plan unfolded flawlessly. As the hobgoblin fell to a volley of arrows, the goblins scrambled in confusion. Aiden's unit surged forward, cutting through the disoriented creatures with precision. Within moments, the area was cleared.
Aiden's blade dripped with goblin blood as he surveyed the scene, scanning for any additional threats.
"Good work. Regroup and prepare to move into the dungeon. This is just the beginning."
The soldiers' morale surged, their confidence bolstered by their swift victory. As they prepared to delve into the dungeon, Aiden allowed himself a small, satisfied smirk.