The grenades had been placed, and with them, the Regiment was down a handful of supplies, which meant they would need to find a way to replace them… along with the issue of their ammo stores. Another problem for Luc to deal with upon his return to their camp. Still, for now, it was thought it best to use whatever they had to deal with these Goblins as this action would surely help establish a solid relationship with the Dwarves and with them, they would be able to gain the much-needed metals and sulfur. Once they had those, they’d be ready to start producing cannons, which in turn would allow the Cuirassiers to establish their star fort and ensure no Orc -or anyone for that matter- could get the jump on them. For now, though, such thoughts were stowed away as the Cuirassiers prepared themselves for the Breach.
“You know… I don’t much like the thought that we’re all part of the Forlorn Hope.” Alexander stated as he finished checking his Carbine.
Luc nodded in agreement, “I know, I don’t much like it either, but you and I both know that we’re the only ones armed and trained to do this.”
Alexander sighed in defeat, “You’re starting to sound more and more like a real officer every day, you know that?”
“Oh?” Luc smiled, “Well then, I guess all I’m missing now is the attitude.”
“I’d say the Commandant has you covered for that, Sir.” Alexander retorted with a grin.
Shaking his head, “I suppose. Still, let’s try to minimise our casualties as much as possible. Give Captain Lafranc the suggestion to keep the men in two ranks, with the front rank armed for melee and the second rank armed for range. If all goes well we should have a modern phalanx. With Calondra’s squadron covering us via their bows, and you and your team of marksmen, I’d say we should get things done by the end of the day.” Looking up and away from the Senior NCO, he began to examine the slow-burning fuse. “A tiring day… but a good day.”
As the seconds began to tick away inside the heads of every Cuirassier there, the memories of what a forlorn hope was starting to take root, with the men bound for the first rank’s knuckles going white as they gripped the hilts of their blades. Luc couldn’t say or do anything to alleviate their worry, as even he was feeling the grip of fear well up within him as his sphincter began to tighten. Silence soon followed…
BOOM
The area ground shook as a fiery explosion rocked the walls and the surrounding area, kicking up debris that shot upward and away in a deadly spray of shrapnel. It was times like these that made the Cuirassiers glad they wore the uniforms they did, as even from behind their place of cover, there were still tiny rocks, metal, and wood splinters falling upon them; harmlessly bouncing off their steel helms. It was then that the men of the First Squadron -including Luc- dashed out from behind their cover. Almost immediately, the two ranks were formed as they rushed towards the now wide open hole in the wall. With practised ease, the men quickly set up a semi-circle around the opening and were fully expecting to receive massive enemy resistance upon emerging.
Nothing... just silent.
Looking around the area, Luc quickly spotted the bloody remains of their foes, their bodies were strewn about like pieces of torn fabric dripping with blood. “Dead? It can’t be that simple?” Luc thought aloud.
It was then that Alexander rushed up behind Luc, giving much the same surprised look, “They’re dead already?”
“Appears that way… but I think it’s best if we continue. Sergeant Major, continue with your task. Take your marksmen and set up somewhere with a good vantage point.”
“No need to tell me already moving,” Alexander replied before waving his men forward.
As his friend ran off with a small team of six, Luc was left with the First Squadron who looked both slightly relieved, yet puzzled.
“If I may, Sir, I think like those we faced in the tunnel, these Goblins weren’t expecting such devastating weapons? My bet is they thought they would be able to outlast us given how there were some tight spaces back the way we came that wouldn’t allow for the transport of siege equipment.” Daniel suggested in his usual professionally calm tone.
Luc nodded in agreement. “Mhm… agreed. Still, I’d feel better if we begin to clear the area. Split the Squadron up into three. Give your Lieutenant’s a chance to gain some experience. In the meantime, we can also work with the Dwarves.” Looking back over his shoulder, he spotted Mountainhelm, and a small force of those Liberated Dwarven soldiers come walking towards them, brandishing their retrieved weapons.
“Mountainhelm. Good to see you, but I’m sorry to say you missed the fighting.” Luc greeted warmly.
“Aye, that I did, but I bet you a years worth of mead that those pests ran the moment their walls and those manning them were brought down with such force and violence. Hell… I know I’d be running after seeing such devastation!” The King admitted as he and his troops marched into the opening in time to watch the First begin to clear the tiny settlement.
Luc didn’t know how to respond at first, given how he was so used to his own era’s use of technology and explosives that it had barely registered, but when the Dwarven King admitted how he’d not seen such weapons before, it quickly reminded the Colonel where he was. “Right… I suppose so. Well, for now, I’d recommend taking your command and joining us in sweeping the area. I have no doubt that more victims are being used as slaves down here, and the sooner we can get to them, the sooner they can return to safety.”
With a beaming smile of pride and excitement, Mountainhelm gave Luc a playful shove, “Hah! Sounding like a right proper leader of people that you do!”
Luc returned the smile with one of his own as he caught his balance, “Thanks.”
“Aye, but, we’ve got work to do!” Peering over his shoulder towards his small army, the King spoke, “Come on, lads! Time for vengeance!” He bellowed before the short muscle-bound Dwarves charged in, promptly moving to destroy and all Goblin life they could find.
Luc was once again left alone with only his thoughts to keep him company. That was until Calondra, and her fellow Elven Cuirassiers came up to meet him.
“What’s happening Demoulin?” Calondra asked as she gracefully strode up beside Luc.
Luc gave her a glance before nodding his head in greeting, “Captain.” He then turned and motioned towards the Goblin remains. “Much to our shared surprise, the Goblins were woefully unprepared for a breach, much less an attack. Captain Lafranc and his men have split up and are now sweeping the area along with his Highness Mountainhelm. Meanwhile, the Sergeant Major and his team of marksmen are taking the high ground to see what they can do from range.” He reported before turning to face the Elven woman once more, “That leaves you and me with a new objective… that is to say, the duty of securing the breach and gate. If we can secure both the breach and the gate we’ll be ensuring that no Goblin escapes to cause trouble again for our future allies.”
Calondra nodded, her sea-blue eyes seemingly lost in thought as she examined the gory scene before her. “Right! Well, I can split my Squadron up then! Have one take up positions at the gate and the other to remain here.” She replied warmly, her usual cheer and joy infecting Luc who gave her a small smile in return.
“Sounds good, Captain Calondra. Give the order, I’ll attach myself to your unit for the time being until the operation’s completion. If all goes well, we’ll be able to get this all sorted out before the end of the day.”
--
As Luc had guessed, the Goblin-town took a good part of the day, with the sound of gunfire still echoing off in different parts of the settlement. “Did we lose anyone?” Luc asked Alexander who had joined a gathering of other officers and NCO’s that had managed to complete their sweeps.
“None. All men are accounted for… but…”
“But?”
“They’re tired.”
Luc nodded at the report before giving a small sigh, “Not a surprise… I think everyone’s exhausted given how we’ve been fighting for nearly two days non-stop. At most, the men have had four hours. See to it that upon our return to Headquarters that First Squadron is given two days leave and three days of light duties.” He said.
Alexander nodded, “I’ll mark it down so we can see to it that the men can get the rest they need. What about Calondra’s squadron?” he questioned.
Luc raised a brow at the question before looking up and over to Calondra who still retained her usual beaming smile. “I have something in mind for her and her squadron. So they’ll be taken off the duty roster upon our return as I have something special for you and your troops, Captain.” Luc stated, giving the Elven woman a warm smile and nod.
Calondra snapped a quick and practised salute, which had even the straight-laced and professional Daniel Lafranc seem impressed at how crisp it appeared. Luc returned it with one of his own before turning to Daniel.
“Captain Lafranc, can you send a runner to get the King. I want to see how he and his forces fair. Given how the last of your men are starting to come back, it seems as though this campaign is coming to an end.” Luc noted as he gave his order.
Daniel bowed his head in respect before wordlessly walking off to grab his batman (NCO or enlisted man who was essentially a clerk/butler to their officer for higher pay). Once the Captain left, Luc began to examine the scene before him.
“Were there any other captive?” He asked.
Calondra frowned, “A few… many were my kinsmen…”
Luc grimaced, “Sorry… are they okay?”
“Yes and no… they’re happy to be free once again, but many are badly wounded and are malnourished… it’ll take some time for them to recover…” She reported, her voice trailing as hints of anger and depression found their way into her tone.
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Resting a hand on her shoulder to reassure her, he then tried to get her a small smile, “It’s okay Calondra. The main thing is that we managed to save them. Once we get them back home, we’ll make sure they’re promptly cared for. We did promise to aid you and your people, after all.”
“Thank you, Sir… If I may, may I see to my people so I can prepare them to be moved?” She asked as she returned the smile with one of her familiar ones.
Seeing her smile again helped reassure Luc, “Of course. We’ll meet you at the exit, Captain.” He replied.
Luc and Alexander watched Calondra, and her Elven officers leave before they did or thought of anything more. Once the Elves were gone, Luc turned to his trusted friend.
“Now, all we have to worry about is figuring out how to arm and train the Dwarves,” Luc stated as his smile faded.
Alexander nodded in reply as he crossed his arms over his chest. “I can’t say it’s going to be an easy thing. Given how we had trouble just arming Calondra and the Elves I can’t imagine how we’re going to aid the Dwarves… more so given how they appear.” As he spoke, he motioned towards the closest Dwarven soldier who walked by, noting his size and bulk, “If anything, we’re going to have more trouble with them then we did with the Elves.”
Scratching the back of his head, Luc threw back his head in annoyance. “Shit… If we can’t deliver on our promise, we’re pretty much telling Mountainhelm and Calondra that we can’t protect them.”
Alexander shrugged, “Why I’m happy I’m not an officer.”
Luc shook his head, smiling at the joke. “Well, if we ever become a nation, I’ll make sure to change that.” He promised.
Alexander frowned, “I’m good.”
Then, before anything more could be said on the matter, Mountainhelm came walking up, followed closely by his Guard. “Bloody Hell that was some right good fighting! You and your men have more than proven yourselves these past two days, Colonel!” The great Dwarf King stated warmly before slamming his mighty war axe down upon the ruined table.
Luc grinned as he gave a nod to the King, “It’s good to see you in high spirits Mountainhelm. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if you’d be up for any more talk of politics given all that we’d seen these past two days.”
As he removed his helm, Mountainhelm scratched the back of his head before letting out a sigh, “Well, as much as it pained me to see what my people and those of the elves were reduced to, I feel getting to slaughter a couple of the creatures helped not only my sanity but those you liberated.” He replied calmly. “But, enough of that, my people are free, and the pests are dead. As I’ve stated before, you and your men have done more than enough to call yourselves friend of the Mountain Dwarves.” He stated warmly.
Luc didn’t know how to respond initially as he cast his gaze down to the floor. “Well, I’m glad we were able to establish a strong relationship with you and your people Mountainhelm, and I’m sure it’ll only get stronger as we trade resources and technology… us trading the latter.”
“Well! In that case, we best head back and sign all the pacts and treaties to ensure our people can work together then. But first, we have to celebrate! Once we return, we’ll hold a massive feast to celebrate this day!” Mountainhelm announced proudly.
Smiling the Colonel looked up and away for a moment noting how his men were starting to return. The condition of each of his soldiers forced his smile to fade as he saw his soldiers bloody, dirty, and slumped over from exhaustion. This had been their first taste of an actually bloody war, and their first taste of a seemingly non-stop battle. It was at this thought that he thought back to his friends and comrades in rest of the Division and he wondered if his comrades were fairing well without them, yet he highly doubted a single Regiment would do anything to change the outcome of the battle. Still, with his brain dwelling on such depressing thoughts, he was taken entirely by surprise the moment Mountainhelm slammed his helm down onto the table.
“H-huh?... ah… forgive me. My mind started to trail away.” Luc stated as he forced a smile, “All this fighting has me pretty worn out, and I can’t stop my thoughts from drifting elsewhere.”
The Dwarven King gave him a fatherly smile before crossing his massive scared arms over his chest, “Aye… it’s fine, Colonel, but if you’re to lead a nation, you’re going to need to practice how to hide your emotions a little more.”
Luc nodded before pausing, “Wait, lead a nation?” He thought puzzled as he looked down at the Dwarf with a brow raised. “What do you mean by that? I don’t lead any nation? I lead my Cuirassiers and help out with managing the Elven town, but we’re by no means a nation.” He pointed out in reply.
A mischievous grin soon spread across the Dwarven King’s aged features as he waved the Colonel’s reply, “I guess you’ll soon find out once we return to my castle.” He replied.
That last statement gave reason enough for Luc to pause and remain puzzled, but he didn’t bother to press the issue. Instead, he turned to wave over Alexander who had wandered off to talk to one of the Corporals.
“Alexander, give Daniel my compliments and give him word that we’re leaving. The Dwarves will want to have the honour of taking down this stain in their tunnels themselves.” He said.
Alexander snapped off a salute, “Sir!” Before about facing and marching over towards the First.
“Well, I suppose we should get going then, your Highness. Best not to dwell in these ruins any longer, lest we become accustomed to the scenery.” Luc said.
Mountainhelm nodded, “Aye! Any longer and I’ll likely smell just as foul as these Pests.”
Shortly after their exchange the two returned to their respective people and began to make their exit, going back the way they had come, trudging through the blood and gore of those goblin dead that littered the tunnels.
--
The return trip passed peacefully as the group managed to weave and march through the mess of bodies and discarded ammunition that littered the tunnel floors. The thought of returning to the surface was the one motivating factor that kept all the Cuirassiers pushing hard as they began to draw ever closer to the opening when the light at the end of the tunnel finally appeared in the form of the massive brazers that continued to burn brightly. The Cuirassiers of the First and Ninth Squadron let out a hearty cheer. Their spirits raised as they came bursting out from the tunnel and were immediately greeted by the cheers and shouts of welcome and thanks from those of the Dwarven people, praising the return of their King and allies alike. The Cuirassiers were quite honestly surprised by the warm welcome they received as they were not at all prepared for the thundering voices that echoed all around them as the sounds were seemingly amplified by the tunnel.
Luc -who came out beside Mountainhelm- had the look of wonderment upon seeing all these Dwarves, as thus far he had only ever seen armed guards and or soldiers since coming here. It was a pleasant surprise and one he was quite happy to experience given how unique this world was. Alexander meanwhile had a more controlled and measured reaction, merely smiling and giving a nod to those who looked in his direction. Yet, to the eyes of Luc, he could tell his friend was just as excited to witness the jubilant greeting they were receiving. Calondra, on the other hand, had to cover her ears as she tried to muffle out the sounds as her hearing was far more sensitive than a human’s; It was the first time Luc had seen her frown over a non-serious issue before.
“Quite the welcome for just a few pests?” Luc thought aloud, gazing toward Mountainhelm who shrugged his shoulders.
“Aye, Pests they were Colonel. Though, they were a wee bit larger than I might have led you to believe.”
Raising a brow, Luc began to chuckle, “Clearly, but I’m happy to see that your people are at least safety due to our actions.”
Mountainhelm nodded, “That they are, that they are… and they’ll be happier upon hearing the news we’ll bring them after the treaty signing.”
Luc nodded his head in reply, “Mhm, having a new ally, weapons, and the ability to expand will certainly bolster their spirits. I’m sure.”
Mountainhelm didn’t meet his gaze, he just kept walking forward as he opened his mouth to reply, “Aye.”
Another moment that left Luc in a state of bewilderment as he examined the Dwarven King for any clues as to why he was so elusive and distant. Still, he cast his view forward, feeling it would be better to keep such thoughts for later and focus more on the immediate problem, which was his Regiment’s condition. The Cuirassiers, while happy and heartened by the greeting, were still extremely tired with many starting to pull free their Cuirasses as they attempted to alleviate some of the weight they were carrying. Peering over his shoulder, he could tell that even the Elves were starting to feel the weight of their armour, and lack of experience soldiering overall given how many seemed to slouch and require the aid of their stronger friends to help them move. While no significant wounds were taken by any of the Cuirassiers, they still looked as though they were put through the wringer by how exhausted they all appeared to be. This had been a test, and in Luc’s mind, they passed, but more would need to be done if they were going to survive in this world. He only hoped that with the materials the Dwarves would be giving them, that they would be able to adequately resupply their ammo stores and start working on those cannons. Just as his mind began to wander once again, dwelling on all the issues his Regiment was facing and would be facing, it was Calondra that brought him back to reality as they marched into the same Great Hall before.
“Luc!” Calondra called before getting a nasty glare shot her way by Alexander due to her calling his name rather than rank, “Uh… Sir, Colonel Demoulin, what do you think’s going to happen next?” She asked.
Luc turned to face her, “I’m not sure, to be honest. King Mountainhelm seems to have some sort of scheme cooking up in that grey mane of his.”
Calondra chuckled at the reply, “Well, hopefully, it’s not fighting anymore of those Goblins. I think I’ll have a hard time trying to get the people we freed integrated back into society again…” Her smile soon faded for a second before she quickly returned, “But! I’m sure after what they saw they’ll be a little motivated to getting back at it!”
Luc beamed her a smile and opened his mouth to reply before he was interrupted by Mountainhelm whose voice boomed and carried across the spacious hall, even carrying well outside into the courtyard behind them, causing all eyes to focus on him as he stood at the foot of his throne.
“Brothers, Sisters! I come to you today to announce the total destruction of our hated enemy, the Goblins! Furthermore, I am overjoyed to share with you all that we have also managed to liberate our people who were treated as slaves by the vile creatures!” Extending his arms out as he began to announce their success he then cast his view towards Luc and the others, “And it’s all thanks to our new allies and fellow citizens, the Cuirassiers!”
That final statement had Luc, and everyone else give a confused look, “Fellow citizens?” Luc thought aloud, voicing everyone else thought.
“Aye! That’s correct my dear citizens, for today I am going to join with the Elves in forming a new Kingdom! The Kingdom Of Kedirewen! Named after this Continent, to be led by one of our heroes and the leader of the Cuirassiers, Colonel Luc Demoulin!” The great Dwarf announced, extending his hands towards Luc.
Luc stood there in shock and bewilderment, his eyes going wide for a moment, as he found himself at a loss for words once again. “W-what’s happening now?” Luc managed voiced with a shudder as he looked to Alexander for answers.
The Sergeant Major shook his head, the same confusion plastered across his face when he looked over at Calondra, she seemed to be beaming with pride and was in seemingly full agreement with the announcement.
“I concur! As a representative of the Elves, I put my vote down for Luc Demoulin to serve as the Kingdom’s new ruler!” She announced proudly after stepping forward.
The Elves and Dwarves all cheered in unison, leaving Luc and his fellow Frenchmen to look around in shock and unease. Luc just stood there, frozen, unable to force his legs, arms, or lips to move; even breathing was a struggle. It was Alexander though that made the first move, giving Luc a small nudge which prompted him into catching himself and his balance with his right foot as he motioned forward. Peering over his shoulder towards his close friend and SNCO, he gave him a small nod of thanks before turning and walking up the steps amid the cheering masses of those both within and outside the Great Hall. Walking up towards Mountainhelm, Luc was unsure of what to do next other than stand beside him and turn to face the gathering.
As he looked out towards the different races that gathered before them all in the Great Hall, the young blonde couldn’t help but feel that this was a bad dream that he was still struggling to wake up from. Yet, as he looked down upon those from the step of the throne, he held his hands behind his back and pinched his side. A small pain shot through him telling him it was no dream… this was his reality now. He had come to this world through mysterious means, and in that time he had fought Orcs and Goblins, had helped liberate and rebuild an Elven collective, and now… now he was being crowned a King. He wanted to run… desperately. He didn’t like this… none of this was who he was, or who he was meant to be in his mind. He still felt the heavy burden of command, and now… now he was going to have the added weight of a country tossed on top of him like he were a mule. If it weren’t for the former Dwarven King, Luc would likely have been showing his disapproval for all this. As he stood there, foot in mouth, waving to the public like the buffoon Emperor Napoleon III of France, his mind drifted aimlessly towards his new responsibilities and people. It wasn’t just his men he was now responsible for leading, but now all those that came to call the Kingdom Of Kedirewen home.