As we approached the gates of Lageta, moving through the camps, the sight of Garios' massive army looming in the distance sent a shiver down my spine. Hundreds of tents dotted the landscape, a sea of soldiers practicing drills and sharpening weapons. The power and size of Garios' forces were undeniable, and for the first time in days, I felt the weight of the banner I carried. It wasn’t just a piece of cloth—it was a symbol, a tool of war, and a potential source of power.

When we reached the city gates, we were stopped by guards. After some discussions and presenting our documents, I was informed that only the commander of the equites, Cassius, and I would be allowed to enter the city, along with Mannes' body. The rest of my men, including Silvana, were required to set up camp outside the city walls. I had expected this, but it still felt strange to be separated from my group.

Before heading inside, I turned to Silvana and gave her the responsibility of organizing the recruits, making sure they were paid, and setting up camp. She nodded, showing no sign of hesitation. She had stepped up so much in the last few days, especially after Mannes’ death, that I trusted her completely with handling things in my absence.

As I entered the city, a feeling of unease settled in. The streets were eerily quiet as if a curfew had been imposed. Not a single person walked the streets, and most shops had their doors shut. The only signs of life came from the garrison troops patrolling the area, their heavy boots echoing on the cobblestones. There was a tension in the air, something unspoken but palpable, and it made me uneasy.

We were led to the Governor’s office, where Garios himself awaited us. I had heard stories about him—how he had risen through the ranks of the Imperial army, his unmatched prowess in battle, and his charisma that inspired loyalty from his men. But seeing him in person was another thing entirely. As we entered, I saw him seated on a luxurious throne-like chair, radiating authority. He was wearing a golden crown, though modest in size, and his presence commanded respect.

Garios looked younger than I had imagined. Though I had been told he was in his late thirties, his features made him appear closer to 25, with sharp, piercing eyes and an aura of intensity. There was something about his demeanor that drew you in—an unshakable confidence, a man born to lead. As the equites commander kneeled before him, I followed suit, bowing my head in respect.

“You may rise,” Garios said, his voice smooth but authoritative.

I stood, trying to keep my composure as he addressed us. “I congratulate you on your successful mission,” Garios began, his eyes briefly flickering to Mannes’ body. “It saddens me to hear about Mannes' death. He was a good man, loyal to me and the gods. I will ensure that his last rites are carried out with honor. He deserves that much.”

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Hearing his words, I felt a wave of emotion wash over me, but I pushed it down. “Thank you, Your Highness. I would like to be present for his last rites,” I said.

Garios nodded. “You will. Mannes earned that, and you, as his companion, have earned the right to pay your respects.”

After a brief moment of silence, Garios shifted his attention back to me. “Your group, Nova, has done well for the Western Empire. I’ve heard of your efforts—resolving the conflict with the poachers, and now, successfully bringing the banner to me. You’ve earned not only your payment but also my respect.”

My heart pounded as he mentioned the banner. This was the moment I had been waiting for—the reason I had risked so much. Garios leaned forward, his tone shifting slightly as he began to explain the significance of the banner.

“Do you know the history of this banner?” he asked, his eyes narrowing slightly.

I shook my head. I had only heard whispers and tales, but nothing substantial.

“Around a century ago,” Garios began, “Calradia was home to a species of insect known as Callids. They were small, unassuming creatures, mostly found in the dense forests that once covered the center of the continent. From their bodies, we could extract a remarkable thread. This thread, known as Calli, was unlike any other. It was fireproof, impervious to rot or decay, and over time, it would harden, becoming stronger and more durable. Armies in the past would carry banners made from this thread, believing it brought them luck and protection in battle.”

He paused, his gaze intense. “Many consider it a myth now, a fairy tale told to inspire soldiers. But I have led men into battle, and I have seen things I cannot explain. I believe in the power of these banners, and now, thanks to you, I have the opportunity to wield one again.”

I stood in stunned silence, absorbing his words. I had expected the banner to be important, but this… this was something else entirely.

“I plan to use the Calli threads to craft a new banner for my army,” Garios continued. “With this banner, my forces will be unmatched. And as promised, you will be compensated.”

He gestured toward the governor, who stepped forward and handed me a small bag filled with coins. “10,000 denars, as agreed.”

I accepted the payment, but my attention was soon drawn to something else. Garios reached into his robe and pulled out a folded letter. It looked unassuming, but the way he held it made it clear that it was anything but ordinary.

“Take this,” Garios said, extending the letter to me. “Read it when you are alone.”

I hesitated for a moment before taking it. Everyone in the room seemed taken aback by Garios’ gesture, myself included. Is the emperor handing out a letter with his hand? It was unusual, to say the least.

“Yes, my lord,” I replied instinctively.

As we left the Governor’s office, my mind was racing. The weight of the banner, the importance of the letter, and the upcoming last rites for Mannes all swirled in my thoughts. I knew that whatever was inside that letter would be crucial, not just for me, but for the fate of my group—and possibly the entire Western Empire.