After a long journey through the ocean, entering the sea. Squadron Commander Orcham chose this bustling trading and fishing harbor as the perfect place to introduce the four young soldiers to the grandeur of Akkadia's capital, Akkad.
The harbor was unlike the stern, fortified military docks. Instead, it was alive with vibrant activity, a place where the essence of Akkadian life thrived.
As the ship approached, the smell of fresh fish mixed with the aromas of spices and exotic goods from distant lands. Traders shouted deals, fishermen hauled in their catches, and the sound of lively conversation filled the air.
Orcham stood at the helm, his gaze steady, gesturing towards the sprawling city beyond the harbor's edge. The towering structures of Akkad rose in the distance, their stone and brick façades catching the light of the late afternoon sun, glimmering like the heart of the kingdom itself.
"This,"
Orcham said, his voice calm but filled with a sense of pride, "is where it all begins. Akkad, the seat of power, the capital of the kingdom."
The four of them looked out, their eyes wide with awe. The city's walls, strong and immense, guarded the civilization within, while the harbor's docks were filled with ships carrying goods from all corners of the kingdom, giving a glimpse into Akkadia's vastness.
Orcham wanted them to see not only the might of Akkadia's army, but also the lifeblood of the kingdom. The trade, the culture, the people. This harbor, seemingly ordinary at first, was their gateway to something far greater: the heart of Akkad.
Akkad, the capital of the Akkadian kingdom. a vast and bustling city that radiates power, wealth, and history. Its streets are cobbled, filled with horse-drawn carts, merchants, and citizens going about their daily lives. Wooden and stone buildings, constructed in a style reminiscent of the Middle Ages, dominate the cityscape. Winding alleys lead to grand marketplaces where traders from all over the empire gather to sell spices, textiles, and precious stones, alongside local fishermen and blacksmiths.
Mana-powered light pools, glowing with a strong yet soft yellow light hue, line the main roads, illuminating the city even after sundown. These lights provide a magical glow, casting a shimmering reflection across the stone and wooden surfaces of the buildings. Tall, fortified walls protect the city, with watchtowers manned by soldiers in crimson armor, keeping a vigilant eye on the bustling activity outside the walls. Other soldiers walk among the streets, three walked down and the other three walked in the opposite direction.
Temples dedicated to the gods, particularly the mighty Anu, rise like stone fortresses within the city, their courtyards filled with worshippers and priests conducting rituals.
The Euphrates River, wide and slow-moving, cuts through the heart of Akkad city.
The residential areas vary, from the ornate homes of nobles adorned with lush gardens and fountains to the more modest dwellings of the common folk. Streets are alive with the sound of artisans crafting, blacksmiths hammering away, and vendors shouting their wares.
Eline turned to the group, her curiosity piqued. "So, where exactly are we headed?"
Hadleigh glanced at her, a hint of excitement in his voice. "The royal palace."
"I've heard it's magnificent," Ursang said, expressing the tales the second in command back in the orphanage told him.
Speira chimed in, a smirk on her face. "Yeah, but what's so special about it? Just another big building, right?"
Yacha, still captivated by the sights around him, added, "It's not just a building, it's where the king rules! I bet there are treasures and magic artifacts inside."
Eline nodded enthusiastically. "And think about the soldiers who protect it! They must be incredibly skilled."
Ursang smiled, sharing in their enthusiasm. "We'll get to see it all up close."
While they were still chatting, Orcham chuckled softly, shaking his head, "You're still just kids, despite the things you managed to pull."
Hadleigh and Ardran were in shock, as were the rest of the remaining veteran soldiers, they had never seen Orcham laugh, on the other hand, and the rest of the newbies had no idea about the cold personality of the squadron commander.
"Hell is freezing" Ardran said to Hadleigh.
while both of them elbowed one another with a funny laugh, annoying Orcham. He paid no mind to their childish behavior.
They arrived at the main gates of the castle, a massive, square-shaped fortress with towering stone walls. The rear side overlooked a wide river, its waters gleaming as they curved around the fortress. The guards, recognizing the squadron commander, opened the gates without a word. The castle, vast enough to house the royal residence, blended military and royal functions seamlessly. Barracks and training grounds filled the outer sections, while guards in each corner oversaw the bustling activity within.
As they entered, a strong, almost palpable aura enveloped them. Division General Naramsin stood before them, his presence overwhelming. He was draped in golden armor that shimmered like molten metal, his crimson hair flowing like a river of blood against his pale skin. His red eyes, burning with intensity, seemed to pierce through the air, commanding attention and obedience. His movements were deliberate, exuding authority. Without warmth, he greeted the squadron commander, Orcham, with a nod, commanding him to rise. The atmosphere was thick with the weight of his presence, a testament to the ruthless legacy of Akkadia's royalty.
As quickly as it had appeared, the general withdrew his aura and left the castle, his expression calming. Commander Ardran let out a sigh of relief.
"That was a prince, children—the grandson of King Sargon the Great." Yet the squad was more concerned with food than the prince's presence.
Speira, with a sarcastic tone, asked, "Does he give food?"
Ardran, already tired of their behavior, couldn't help but ask if that was all they cared about. Their growling stomachs answered for them.
Speira, the youngest, tried to act indifferent but blushed when her own stomach betrayed her, much to the amusement of the others. Laughing at the scene, Ursang teased her, saying, "Your belly spoke the truth."
The squad was led to their temporary quarters, a house that looked more like a palace. Inside, several dishes were prepared by other soldiers as a welcoming gift. Speira wasted no time, attacking the table like a wild boar, while Yacha apologized for her behavior. They spent the night introducing themselves to the veterans, forming bonds that would soon be tested in battle.
As the introductions progressed, one of the veterans switched to a more serious tone.
"Let me give you one piece of advice,"
he said. "Even Orionis has its scumbags. But there's one person you must never cross. Even the commanders avoid her."
Curious, Yacha wondered who this fearsome woman could be. Ursang, recalling something he'd heard on their journey, calmly asked, "Is she called the Slayer of Nergal?"
The veteran nodded. "Among other names, yes. Even the orphans know of her."
The girls, unaware of the legend, responded in unison, "No!"
Ursang explained that he'd overheard the name on their ship before. The conversation piqued Yacha's curiosity even further.
Ardran, overhearing the conversation, approached with a concerned expression. "You don't understand, children. She's the youngest commander, and her power level is beyond even that of a seasoned commander. But her behavior holds her back."
The squad, confused, asked how someone could become a commander so quickly. Ardran explained with a bitter laugh that she had achieved the rank in just eight months, her potential far surpassing the usual requirements.
Chris, the second-in-command, interjected. "Despite the rumors, she's just isolated. But her magic—it's beyond anything you've heard."
Ardran cut him off. "Her magic is like nothing you've seen before, Yacha. You have one of the rarest attributes, but she has none. Her power manifests only when she chooses to reveal it, often with catastrophic results."
The warning hung in the air, but Yacha felt a growing excitement. Ursang couldn't contain his eagerness and asked about the woman's whereabouts, ready to challenge her. Ardran, sensing the squad's intent, issued a final caution. "She's only two years older than you. But tread carefully. She won't hesitate to shatter your core if you push her too far."