As Ryker gathers the orphans around a campfire on the final leg of their journey home, he takes a moment to reflect on how far they've come. The night is colder now, the air sharper with the change in seasons, and Ryker knows they will soon be in the king's presence again, ready to deliver the results of his long journey. His men handle the orphans as best as they can—though they've grown stronger, the psychological toll of this mission hasn't been without its consequences.
Ryker, as always, is thinking ahead. He sits at a wooden desk in his tent, his quill moving swiftly across the parchment as he writes his letter to the king.
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To His Majesty, King Malathar,
From the Command of Ryker
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Your Majesty,
I write to inform you that I have successfully completed the task of gathering all 46 children, as per your orders. Their training is underway, and I have begun preparing them for their future roles. The journey was long, and the selection process proved to be more arduous than initially anticipated, but I believe I have acquired a group that will serve your purposes well.
As of this writing, all 46 children have been accounted for. Their physical and mental states vary greatly, but I have handpicked those who show the most promise. Some, such as Mukt, still young but already demonstrating resilience beyond her years, will require further refinement. She has become something of a quiet leader among them, commanding respect through her silent strength and unwavering will.
Tobias, a boy who was previously among a bandof thieves, has proven himself both skilled and conflicted. His experience in the criminal underworld has granted him a sharp mind and quick reflexes, though his loyalty is yet to be fully tested. I have placed him under my closest lieutenant's tutelage, as his potential for infiltration and subterfuge is unmatched.
The other children, also show promise but I cannot mention all in this letter. Some exhibit remarkable physical prowess, while others show promising leadership qualities. It is my recommendation that we keep a close eye on those not selected for the first phase of training, as they may prove useful in time. Several possess traits—be it raw strength, stealth, or intelligence—that could one day be honed for more specialized tasks should the need arise. I recommend leaving them under our watch, perhaps for future assignments.
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The southern province remains unstable but is not without hope. While I've made significant progress in removing the threat of banditsand rebels and consolidating some measure of control, I still believe the region requires a firmer hand. The remnants of the rebels continue to destabilize the area, and the region's garrisons are spread thin. I've had reports of unrest from a few smaller villages, but I have taken the liberty of organizing local leaders to ensure they do not spiral into full rebellion.
There are whispers of a larger movement stirring in the shadows, something beyond what we once thought was a little rebellion, though I have yet to confirm these rumors. The people are weary, but there is still the chance for stability if we act swiftly.
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I plan to move the group to the old summer palace soon. It will provide a secure and secluded environment for further training, far from the distractions of the outside world. The palace is not without its challenges, as it has fallen into some disrepair, but I believe it will serve as a fitting location to further refine their skills and prepare them for the missions to come.
Given the number of orphans now under my charge, I will require more resources for their upkeep and continued training. I have already begun to arrange for additional supplies from the local garrisons, though I anticipate a need for further reinforcements as the group continues to grow.
Your Majesty, the task is progressing as planned. The orphans are being molded into a capable force, and I am confident that they will prove invaluable in the future. I will continue to train them in preparation for their eventual deployment and await your next orders regarding their next steps.
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Ryker sets down the quill, looking at the letter in the flickering light of his tent. It feels almost like a final report, though in truth, this is only the beginning. The king will have to decide whether the orphans are ready or whether more is needed. The summer palace looms ahead, its shadow hanging over their next stage of training. Ryker feels a weight in his chest—not of failure, but of what's to come. The king's plans are always larger than one man's vision, and Ryker knows the orphans are only part of a much greater game.