Kael's sword danced through the air in a series of deliberate strikes, the training dummy creaking under the weight of his blows. His body moved on instinct, a testament to weeks of rigorous practice, but his mind was far from the task at hand. Instead, it replayed the commander's words from their meeting a week ago, and the implications behind them.
"The monsters are acting strange."
That statement lingered in his thoughts like a persistent echo. He was certain it was connected to the dungeon. The timing seemed almost too perfect. With the commander and his forces leaving tomorrow for a week-long scouting mission, Kael knew he had an opportunity—a slim, dangerous, but necessary chance to find the dungeon.
Yet doubts clawed at him. What can I do even if I find it? His strikes slowed, his focus slipping. I'm still too weak to stop it. The explosion will destroy the fortress, just like in the novel.
He took a step back, lowering his sword. Sweat dripped from his brow, but he barely noticed. Maybe… maybe if I inform the commander, he and his soldiers can handle it. They're S-rank; they'd have a chance, unlike me.
But then another thought struck him, one that twisted his stomach. In the novel, even Commander Arvell—a bona fide S-rank—died when the dungeon exploded. Kael's grip tightened on the hilt of his blade. How can I, a mere F-rank, hope to succeed where someone like him failed?
The sound of clinking armor pulled him from his thoughts. Korrin's voice boomed from the edge of the training grounds.
"Where's your mind at, lad?!"
Kael blinked, turning to see the old soldier leaning against the wooden railing, a wry grin on his weathered face. His presence was commanding yet oddly reassuring, a stark contrast to the commander's overwhelming aura.
"You're working hard enough," Korrin said, stepping closer, his eyes narrowing as if to study Kael's thoughts. "But your head's clearly somewhere else."
Kael straightened, wiping his brow with the back of his hand. "It's nothing. Just… thinking."
"Thinking, eh?" Korrin's grin widened. "That's rare for someone your age. But don't let it get in the way of your strikes." He gestured toward the training dummy. "You've been doing well these past weeks—better than I expected—but it might be time for you to take a proper rest."
Kael offered a faint smile. "Rest is a luxury I can't afford."
"Aye, I know the feeling," Korrin said, crossing his arms. His tone shifted, carrying a note of warning. "But don't wear yourself down. Tomorrow, I'll be leaving with the commander to scout the other side of the fortress. It'll take us a week, give or take. Use that time wisely—and don't go pulling any of those stunts you did two months ago."
Kael nodded, his expression neutral, though his mind was already racing. A week… that's more than enough time for me.
---
With training concluded for the day, Kael made his way to the shaded side of the fortress. Liana was waiting for him, a fresh set of towels in her hands. The sight of her brought a small measure of comfort, her presence a constant amidst the chaos of his thoughts.
"You've been pushing yourself too hard again, haven't you?" she said, her voice tinged with concern as she handed him a towel.
Kael took it with a nod, wiping the sweat from his face and neck. "You're always worrying too much."
"Someone has to," she retorted, though her tone lacked any real bite. "Especially when you're this reckless."
Kael chuckled lightly. "You sound just like Korrin."
"Well, maybe he has a point," Liana said, her cheeks turning faintly pink. She hesitated before adding, "I… made sure to prepare something you'd like for dinner. You should eat properly, you know."
Kael glanced at the tray of food she had brought—a hearty stew with fresh bread. The smell alone made his stomach growl. He sat down on the bench nearby and took a bite, savoring the flavor.
"This is excellent," he said, looking up at her with genuine appreciation. "You've really outdone yourself."
Liana's blush deepened, and she quickly busied herself rearranging the tray. "I-It's nothing special. Just eat, okay?"
Kael smirked but didn't comment further. As he ate, his thoughts drifted again to the dungeon and the commander's impending departure.
The monsters' behavior, the strange energy—everything points to the dungeon. If I can find it during the commander's absence, I'll at least know where it is. Reporting it might be enough to save the fortress.
---
The next morning, Kael met Korrin near the main gate. The old soldier was fully armored, his presence as steady as ever. He gave Kael a firm pat on the shoulder.
"Remember what I said, lad. No stunts while we're gone," Korrin said, his tone both stern and teasing. "I'll check on your progress when I return."
Kael offered a faint smile. "I'll stay out of trouble, don't worry."
Korrin laughed, shaking his head. "Good. You've got potential, even if you don't see it yet. Don't waste it."
Kael watched as Korrin joined the rest of the expedition. Commander Arvell stood at the forefront, his imposing figure impossible to ignore. The aura of authority surrounding him was suffocating, even from a distance.
As the gates opened and the group began their march, Kael felt a strange mix of anticipation and dread. This is it. With the commander gone, I can start searching for the dungeon without interference.
But as he turned away from the gate, a lingering thought gnawed at him. Even if I find it, will I have the strength to face what lies within?
Kael shook off the doubt and headed back to his quarters. I'll have to make the most of this week. There's no turning back now.