"This indicates that I can presently pinpoint the coordinates of their base." As soon as those words left my lips, the collective focus of the room shifted towards me, laden with intensity.
"So, does this imply that we can now launch a synchronised assault on their headquarters?" Kei posed his query.
"Their stronghold is likely teeming with thousands of void creatures, in addition to the remaining Voidshades and Voidkeepers under the rule of the corrupted Mirrikh. A coordinated attack would merely leave a superficial dent. We must wage an outright war against them," Kabir interjected.
"Wallace, I reckon I’ve grasped your intentions in seeking me out and unravelling this narrative. You’re proposing that I assemble a force capable of waging war against the void order, correct?" Gary surmised.
Indeed, Gary’s understanding was on point. I had sought him out due to his role as the commander of H.A.D.E.S., which oversaw all Venturers. Only he could potentially bring about such an ambitious undertaking.
I nodded in response, my demeanour composed. Gary delved into contemplation, his expressions dancing between reflection and resolution. After a moment of introspection, he spoke with an unwavering gaze, his determination palpable.
"This matter exceeds the boundaries of Limbo. It encompasses the safety of our entire planet," Gary stated, his voice steady.
He paused briefly before continuing, his tone unflinching. "I will reach out to the esteemed Venturer families who maintain connections with renowned Limbos. These families possess potent artefacts and resources. Although it might be a formidable task to persuade them, there’s no alternative but to seek their assistance. By uniting the Three Limbos, we can muster a total of 250 paladins and around 800 Venturers who have reached the depths of the realms. Squads will be assembled."
Gary’s words concluded, and Kabir shifted his gaze to me. His eyes bore a blend of inquiry and a tinge of disappointment.
"Wallace, how can we even access the hideout? The Heralds are confined to Limbo," Kabir asked.
"To address your query, it’s likely that the void order’s base resides in a dimension that is isolated or concealed from our world. This explains why its location has remained elusive thus far. However, this secluded realm is likely linked to Limbos to facilitate their invasions. Consequently, as long as you possess the means, gaining entry should be feasible," I responded.
In that moment, the collective focus intensified on me, and Kei’s mind couldn’t contain the revelation that sprang forth.
If the Heralds can gain access, then logically, we can enlist the aid of the Dwellers who are also isolated within Limbo!" Kei unveiled his insight.
He was indeed correct. Limbo served as the homeland for the Dwellers, the indigenous inhabitants of this realm. Although a portion of the dwellers harboured reservations about the Venturers, a significant number had forged amicable relationships.
Notable instances included the people of Easrich, the second respite zone, and Everwood, where Kabir and I had crossed paths. With a persuasive case presented and the threat to their home elucidated, many dwellers would likely extend their aid.
The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.
"Exactly. We would require an intermediary to communicate with the dwellers. The Heralds seem to be the most apt choice, given their inherent connection to Limbo," I affirmed.
A collective nod from the remaining three Heralds signified their agreement.
However, a substantial hurdle remained.
"Wallace, will you possess the capability to teleport such a multitude simultaneously? That would demand an extensive amount of resources," Kabir inquired.
I had foreseen this query. Kabir’s concern was valid. Despite my mystical talents, at my core, I was a mere human with a few arcane skills. While I could create a portal for myself, replicating it for others was beyond my capacity. Yet I had a solution in mind.
"I can uphold a spatial rift that permits access to their stronghold. However, as you pointed out, I lack the energy and resources to sustain it for a large gathering. Nevertheless, the burden of energy is not solely on me. I can serve as a medium while tapping into alternative sources to maintain the portal," I elucidated, directing my gaze towards Gary.
"Your intentions are clear, Wallace. What quantum of energy would be requisite?" Gary inquired.
"A minimum of five nuclear power plants for a few days," I stated matter-of-factly.
The response prompted a collective holographic reaction of astonishment, though Gary’s demeanour remained composed.
"Not an issue. I will promptly liaise with the United Nations regarding this matter," he assured.
This underscored the considerable influence wielded by H.A.D.E.S. on the global stage.
"Yet another consideration warrants attention. As we embark on this offensive, it renders Limbos susceptible, potentially allowing them to seize the fragments," Eugene proposed.
"Your observation is astute. However, the void order has already depleted most of their resources. Their ability to dispatch a Voidshade would be limited for a considerable period of time. Only a fractional deployment of void entities can be anticipated. Consequently, a fraction of our forces will remain behind to safeguard Limbo. Moreover, we must act before their resources are replenished," Kabir responded on Eugene’s behalf.
"You’ve articulated precisely what I intended to convey. Our actions must be swift. Even with all my resources, it would take at least a month to amass the requisite forces," Gary stated.
"Let’s delve into a thorough discussion of this strategy," Kabir, represented by his hologram, suggested.
**
Over the subsequent hours, our assembly persisted at the holographic tables, meticulously charting the path forward. We delved deeply into discussions surrounding force mobilisation, soliciting assistance from the dwellers, and refining the operation’s execution, among other topics.
Similar sessions would recur weekly, serving to track our progress. As our discourse neared its culmination, Gary rose from his seat, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder.
"With the timeline set at precisely three months from now, there’s something crucial I wish to convey, Wallace," Gary began.
I inclined my head, attentive to his words.
"Delegate all matters concerning force aggregation and war preparations to me. Just this once, entrust an old man with this responsibility. An imminent peril remains: the Voidkeepers. Your focus must centre on increasing your strength and prowess during these ensuing three months, aligning it with their formidable might. Failure to do so renders our efforts futile," he articulated composedly, his gaze shifting towards Kei.
"Keiichi, this applies to you as well. As a newly inducted Herald, you’re yet to grasp the full extent of your capabilities. Eugene and Kabir, your concentration should also be channelled towards power enhancement. While both of you stand at the pinnacle of your abilities, remnants of the vanquished Voidshades hold untapped potential," Gary concluded.
"I comprehend," I affirmed, a collective nod emanating from the trio of Heralds.
Indeed, this was my initial intention, and Gary’s guidance reassured me.
Concluding our exchange, Gary declared, "Prepare yourselves, gentlemen; the path to war beckons."