As the days trudged on, the persistent voice in Jared's mind was relentless, gnawing at his thoughts with every opportunity it found. "Engaging with a woman is strictly prohibited," it droned on, a nagging echo that reminded him of the man who had once inhabited this body—a father burdened with the responsibilities of twelve children. Each taunt felt like a stab, each reminder a tightening grip around his hopes and aspirations. "You'll only defile Jeanne with your impure desires." The words twisted within him, wrapping around his heart like an iron chain, threatening to drag him down into despair.
But everything changed the day they encountered a bandit group. It was a night that began like any other but soon unfolded into chaos. Jared and Anne had prepared for battle, but instead of relying on weapons, they offered understanding. The defeated bandit, a man once proud and strong, now hobbled toward him, torn and ragged but filled with a flicker of desperation.
"Please, good sir!" he called out, his voice cracking under the weight of despair. "It's not riches we seek, but food. We're starving—my family is starving."
Jared's heart tugged painfully at the sight of this man in need. Emotions surged within him, a mixture of empathy and resolve igniting a spark. Despite the shadows of his past haunting his mind, he saw an opportunity to make a difference. "Food isn't just thrown at your feet; it's crafted and nurtured," he began, his voice steadying as he reached into his inventory and pulled out a small, weathered manual. The pages were crammed with the knowledge of agricultural practices—methods he'd learned in another life—the three-field system, crop rotation, and techniques for selective breeding.
"Here," he said, extending the manual to the bandit, "this can help you cultivate your land and yield better crops." His sincerity filled the air, and he believed, with unshakable conviction, that this man could build a sustainable future for his family and those around him.
The bandit's eyes widened as he accepted the book, disbelief mingling with gratitude. "You would share this?" His voice trembled. "You don't even know me…"
"Maybe not," Jared replied, "but I know what it's like to stare into the abyss of hunger. Trust in this knowledge, and help will follow." As the bandit turned to gather his comrades, relief bloomed on their weary faces, and gratitude washed over Jared in waves. He felt a surge of purpose; knowledge could indeed breed hope, paving a new path forward.
Returning his attention to Anne, a sudden thought flitted into his mind. From his inventory, he drew a strawberry cake—an almost whimsical treat meant to lighten the burden of their journey. With a flourish, he held it toward her, unable to suppress his grin. "Behold, a strawberry cake!" he declared, the playful tone brightening his heart as joy briefly countered his earlier doubts.
But the voice in his mind piped up again, dripping with disdain. "Look at you, Mr. Simp! Giving food to girls like you're some kind of chivalrous knight. What's next? Flowers?"
Jared grimaced but fought to maintain his smile as he presented the cake. "Nonsense! Everyone deserves a reward, especially after a day of helping others. Here, Anne. Enjoy!"
Anne's eyes sparkled as she accepted the cake, a laugh bubbling on her lips. "Thank you, Jared! This looks delightful!"
They shared the cake, laughter echoing around them, momentarily lifting the heaviness of their surroundings. The sweetness of strawberries and cream became a balm, but it was the companionship that truly nourished them. A flicker of warmth ignited in Jared's chest—a reminder of the simple joys that endured amidst their chaotic journey.
As the sky began to darken, they pressed onward toward the outskirts of Compiègne, the castle looming ahead—a majestic structure of stone and strength that inspired awe and anxiety alike. The vibrant banners fluttering in the wind felt alive, a vivid reminder of the history they were about to step into. Each step grew heavier with anticipation; this was more than just a destination—it was a convergence of fates.
Upon reaching the castle gates, disbelief washed over Jared. The guards stood resolute, clad in armor that glinted in the fading light. But as he observed more closely, he realized that not all of them were decked in metal; many wore simple clothes, and the weariness of battle was undeniably etched on their faces. Scattered among them were farmers—volunteers who had risen to defend their home.
Yet even the guards seemed to pale in comparison to the signs of battle that marked the castle walls—charred wooden beams, siege marks, and remnants of past skirmishes told stories of hardship and resilience. Tension hung thick in the air, palpable and suffocating.
There she was—Jeanne d'Arc—an embodiment of valor and beauty, clad in elegant armor that shimmered under the last rays of sunlight. Yet it was her undeniable presence that captivated him, instilling both admiration and an unexpected kinship.
From where he stood, he watched her with bated breath, enraptured by her determination. She was not merely a warrior of legend but a fierce guardian, currently engaged in shooing away a group of cheeky women who had brazenly approached the gates, teasing the soldiers about their fortunes. "Get lost! You won't get a franc from these fools!" she barked, her commanding voice cutting through the air with an intensity that made him smile.
Watching her in action, amusement welled within Jared. The absurdity of the scene enveloped him like a warm cloak. She was like a spirited little sister protecting her backyard from intruders, and despite himself, a grin tugged at his lips. "Jeanne…" he breathed, momentarily lost in reverie. She was so much more than the idealized figure he'd conjured in his mind.
"Surprised?" the voice in his head burst through with mocking glee. "She's hardly the polished, anime version you grew up with, is she?"
"No, she's definitely something else," Jared replied, feeling a mix of admiration and humor washing over him. He recognized just how wrong he had been to confine her essence to mere legend. She embodied the vibrancy of life—the very vibrancy that he felt pulsing within him as he stepped closer.
"Do you know what has happened here?" Jared called out to a nearby guard with urgency. "We've come to help."
The guard, a robust man with dirt under his fingernails, narrowed his eyes as if gauging Jared's intentions. "Are you here to join the fight? We've endured night raids—foes who slip in quietly, setting fire to small villages and disappearing into the night like ghosts."
"Night raids?" Jared pressed, adrenaline coursing through him. "Have you spotted any patterns in their attacks?"
"Not much to tell—chaos is their ally." The guard sighed, frustration evident on his features. "Each night brings a new wave of fear, and we're struggling to protect our people."
Jared exchanged a look with Anne. Their determination solidified, a silent agreement passing between them. "We might be able to help," he suggested. "Rally the farmers, fortify the defenses, and employ tactics from my time. Together, we can turn the tide!"
As they discussed strategies to protect Compiègne, the weight of the task before them settled heavily on Jared's shoulders. But he was fueled by urgency; they needed to act to defend against the encroaching darkness.
Nearby, he spotted a burly man vigorously training with a wooden sword, his strikes powerful and precise. An instinctive rush of competitive spirit surged within Jared. "I could use some practice!" Jared declared, stepping forward. "Let's see if my skills can hold up against yours!"
The big man squinted, his lips curving into a bemused smirk. "You think you can take me on, little wanderer?"
"Why not? Let's see if you can keep up!" Jared shot back, his voice steady, a challenge igniting in his gaze.
The crowd of soldiers and farmers that had gathered to watch the sparring match held their breath, excitement electrifying the air. Jared had felt for too long as though he was merely an observer in another person's life, but now he wanted to prove himself—not just to the big man, but to those watching as well. They all hungered for hope, and he was determined to give it to them.
As they squared off, Jared's heart raced. He needed to show his worth to those around him. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation; it was as if everyone could sense the stakes. He found himself moving quickly to evade the man's initial strike, his feet finding a rhythm that felt surprisingly familiar.
"Look at you, all flashy for the little girls!" the voice in his head erupted, dripping with ridicule. "What a showoff you are!"
Ignoring the mocking, Jared focused on his opponent. With each swing and dodge, he struggled to fend off the larger man's brute force. The burly opponent aimed for him again, this time a powerful overhand strike. Jared executed an expert sidestep, countering with a quick jab that caught the big man off guard, landing solidly against his shoulder.
The crowd erupted in cheers, their support invigorating him. Jared's heart swelled; this wasn't just about his fight. He was fighting for everyone who believed in a better future.
"And catch the applause too," the voice sneered, yet Jared brushed the negative thoughts aside, channeling determination into each movement.
The match continued, the burly man's strikes growing fiercer as the crowd's energy pushed Jared further. He skillfully deflected another blow before springing forward, using his momentum to land a quick kick that sent the man stumbling back. Cheers erupted again, louder this time, filling the training yard with a sense of hope that was palpable.
"Well now, look at you!" the big man bellowed, a grin spreading across his face that contrasted with his earlier bravado. "Not bad for a wanderer. You have some fight in you after all!"
Breathless and exhilarated, Jared could barely hold back a grin of his own. "Let's put our strengths together—combine our knowledge and skill to drive them away for good!"
As he glanced around, meeting the eyes of farmers and soldiers gathered, Jared felt the thread of a new energy weaving through them—resilience, courage, and camaraderie. In that moment, he understood: they were all in this together, and together they could stand against the dark tide threatening to engulf their lives.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over their gathering, Jared leaned into the light of possibility that shone before them, ready to fight for the future—not just his own, but for all those who stood beside him in this struggle.
With renewed determination, Jared helped organize a gathering of the local volunteers. The farmer's faces, once marred by worry and fear, began to show signs of hope as they discussed how to fortify their defenses. He felt the weight of responsibility settle on him, but it was a weight that felt empowering rather than burdensome.
"Listen up!" Jared called out over the gathering. "Every one of you has a role to play in protecting our home! We need your eyes, your ears, and your hearts in this fight!"
The farmers, who had come to the castle in search of refuge, exchanged glances filled with resolve. "We know this land better than the enemy ever will!" one of them shouted, his voice full of fierce determination.
"Exactly!" Jared responded, his excitement infectious. "Let's use that to our advantage. If we can predict their movements, we can prepare for whatever they throw at us. We have to know where we can fight and where we need to retreat. Our strength is in our unity!"
Under the flickering glow of torchlight, plans began to emerge. They mapped out key positions, discussed areas that needed barricading, and reviewed tactics that could be used against their elusive foes. Jared felt a warmth spread through him—a sense of belonging amidst these ordinary heroes willing to stand against the night.
"Let's gather more wood for barricades," a tall farmer suggested, urgency in his tone. "The faster we prepare, the better our chances."
As they broke into groups, Jared's heart swelled with pride. Here were the people he would fight for—those who had nothing to gain but the hope of survival and the love for their families.
Amidst the planning, Jared spotted the big man from earlier, his brow furrowed with thought. "You've rallied them well," he said, nodding with respect. "But you know, it's not just tactics we need. We need spirit—courage when faces become grim."
Jared nodded, the man's words resonating deeply. "You're right. Fear can turn to panic. We need to instill confidence, remind them of what they're fighting for."
"Then let's do just that," the big man replied, a fire igniting in his eyes. "Let's remind them that we can drive these cowards back into the darkness!"
Together, they walked among the villagers, spreading a message of bravery and unity. With each conversation, Jared could feel the spirit of the farmers rekindling, like embers coming to life. He shared stories of hope, recounting tales of those who had faced insurmountable odds and prevailed.
As they shared inspiration and laughter, the heaviness that had sat like a stone on their shoulders began to lift. Those once filled with fear started to share their own stories—of family, of loss, of the things worth fighting for. Jared knew that this sharing of burdens brought them together, stronger than ever before.
As the preparations continued late into the night, Jared felt an overwhelming sense of belonging. This place, with all its struggles and hardships, had transformed into something meaningful. Here, in the heart of danger and uncertainty, they could find strength in one another.
As darkness settled in, Jared felt the fortified walls of the castle wrap around him, a comforting promise of safety, even as he knew danger lurked just beyond the gates. He was ready, alongside those he had come to care for, to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
With a final glance toward the castle towers, glimmering faintly under the stars, Jared whispered to himself, "We can do this."
Filled with determination, he steeled himself for the upcoming battle, ready to fight not just with weapons but with the spirit of the villagers who had placed their trust in him. Each heartbeat resonated with purpose, revealing the depth of his commitment to not only protect but thrive alongside them in the face of adversity.