I wore my armor that was given to me by General Connor I was assigned to stop the enemy from advancing inside the forest and right now we are approaching near the shore while hiding in the woods, we are waiting for the Human army to land.
"I heard the battle has begun at General Harlan's side.."
One of the elves talked to his companions.
"According to the talk of the middle-rank officers General Harlan is doing a great job stopping the advance of the humans, they said they only advance a few meter in the forest."
"Then we must do our best too."
"Yes, Hey Flint are you ready? We must not let them advance any further the cavalry unit will cut their attack after we block them."
The captain leading this group asked me nicely, He seems to be a nice person he didn't try to show any disrespect and hostility towards me, he really just treats me normally. General Connor said the Elves might doesn't have time to waste on me there are also chances that they may see me in a different light if would be able to do my job properly, he even said that the Justice court might give me another chance if we succeed. This is my chance to cleanse my name that was tainted by Chief Mau though I don't plan on killing them it's probably enough to knock them unconscious or capture them when they surrender, I don't plan on going back the way I was like killing everyone mercilessly.
There are three layers of defenses made by General Connor, The first layer of defense is us, there are currently 20,000 Elven Knights and mages on this first layer, on the second layer there are also 20,000 but there are lower officers positioned on the second layer of defense. The last and third layer of defense is led by General Connor with 20,000 of the strongest in his command.
".....I'm ready."
I hid behind the trees when I saw the Empire battleships are approaching. The large wooden gate of the ship opened with a strong noise then we heard the War Cry of the Empire Army.
""""FOR THE EMPIRE!!!""""
We heard a strong noise and the ground began to shook when I looked back I saw the Cavalry units of the Empire coming out from the battleships.
"The first layer of their formation are the Cavalries!"
"What!?"
The Elves looked at the Cavalry coming out and beginning to form their formation, The Infantry, and Mages division also began to come out.
"This is absurd! There are too many Cavalry units!"
I heard the captain's horrified voice, there is something suspicious here, and I need to ask him.
"Hey, Captain are there any Cavalry unit fighting against General Harlan in his position?"
"N-no, if I remember correctly most of them that were fighting against General Harlan's men were Infantrymen and few mages that supporting them."
"I see..."
When the captain saw my serious face he also began to realize it.
"H-hey, don't tell me."
"Yes, it's what you think you should immediately send a messenger to General Connor so he can collaborate with General Harlan."
"Yes! H-hey, there something I need you to do!"
The captain quickly gave a command to one of his men.
"The Empire's Plan is to divide our forces, the attack on the northwest side is just a decoy to occupy General Harlan and his men while their main force will land here to immediately wipe out General Connor's men and with this they can attack General Harlan from the side or continue to march directly to the Castle Forest!"
"Go immediately and pass the message!"
The captain shouted though his voice trembles for a little bit he still manages to show a good composure in front of his men.
"There are still more waves of army to come, so what should we do?"
"We'll stick to the plan, we can't fight them on the shore the mages on their battleship will be able to hit us.”
I looked around and saw everyone prepares their swords, magic and bows. They're on top of the branches of the tall trees, I also climb to one of the trees nearby and hid my presence.
"FORMAAAATION!"
One of the men who wore a different kind of uniform is giving commands to the troops. They quickly formed a line, the Cavalry unit is on the front lines next to them were the infantrymen, and the mages were positioned on the rear.
"READY, MAAAAARCH!"
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They began to advance slowly and the ground shook by their every step, their figures became clearer as they approach they forest. I fixed my eyes on the person walking beside the man giving the command, he looks very familiar and as I get closer I realized who it was.
"Kyle..."
I muttered his name to myself, he's probably the one who planned this invasion. Was he one of those who were sent to find me?
The Cavalry entered the forest and I just notice that all of their equipment were engrave with magic, you can notice it easily because of the letterings embedded on their swords were glowing. I also look at their armor and it was coated with magic resistance. The equipment of the Elves is no match to these.
They are now marching below us, fortunately, they didn't notice us.
Our captain raise his hands and gave the signal to attack!
"GO!" He shouted with all his might.
Then magical attacks and arrows began to fly towards the enemy, the elven knights jumped down and started attacking.
"AMBUSH!"
"DONT BREAK THE LINE!"
The Army didn't even falter, they remained calm and compose they block their magical shot and arrows by the barrier made by the mages that were positioned on the rear.
"How could they cast their protection with this distance!?" One of the Elven mage shouted in irritation while looking at mages.
"Those people were all probably Master sage rank!"
The Infantrymen quicken their march to aid the cavalry unit.
"Ready, ATTACK!"
The horses began to run and the Cavalry unit began to slash the elven knights with ease, with their magical swords, they can easily break any kind of armor.
One of them saw me and charge at me, I quickly cast ✡Body Reinforcement✡ I also run towards him.
I need to take down the horse first. I accumulate manna on my right arm and before the horse reaches me, I cast ✡Tempest Strike✡ the man was surprised because I suddenly appeared on the left side of his horse. He swings his sword at me but parries it with my right arm, with the power of ✡Body Reinforcement✡ and the concentrated manna on my arm I can block or even destroy their equipment.
He again swings his sword but, this time, I evade it and pierce my hand to the heart of the horse. They horse panics and threw off the man riding it.
The Knight managed to control his landing and without wasting any time he again charged at me.
He swings his sword sideways, but I stepped back and quickly jumped at his side, I bend my arm and swung my elbow horizontally at his jaw. His body trembled and struggling to regain his balance, he swung his sword at me but since his head is feeling fuzzy I easily evade it, I drove the heel of my palm to his chin and this time, he is completely knocked out.
"One down.....and there are still thousands...."
The Elves are being overwhelmed, the images are already in close range and they cast fire magic and burns the trees. The Elven mages tried to counter it with their own magic, but the difference of their power is just too much.
The Infantrymen began piercing every Elves they encounter without breaking their formation. This line formation of them seems like unbreakable, their magical shields are glowing intensely making sure to protect its wearer.
"Their formation is giving them the advantage, we have to find a way to break it.”
I shout at the captain while who's fighting from the distance, I cast ✡Tempest Strike✡ to his opponent and knock him out immediately.
"How did you do that?"
"That's not what's important right now. Our forces have scattered because of the Cavalry attack."
"Our own Cavalry was supposed to aid us, but General Connor pulled them back."
"W-what?"
Why would he do that? No, even if the Elven Cavalry unit will join us they won't make any difference since the Cavalry unit of the Empire is too overwhelming. General Connor made a logical choice.
"Then what should we do?"
I ask the captain gently.
"There is no change of -Aha!!"
"Wahl!"
An explosion occurred on our right side and we were thrown away by the impact.
"Raghu!" I groan in pain even though my body was protected by ✡Body Reinforcement✡ it can't protect from different kinds of attacks.
"Captain, are you alright?"
I glance at him beside me, his eyes and mouth are open while looking at me.
"Come on Captain let's get up"
I stood up and try to carry him but when I raised his body, his internal organs flowed out from his stomach.
"Don't tell me..."
I looked at him again and his eyes are still open, but the light of life is no longer there.
"Shit..." I closed his eyes and looked around.
The mages were throwing different kinds of magic at the Elves, but even at the overwhelming forces in front of them, they kept fighting till the end.
I also joined them, I jumped at one of the Cavalrymen nearby and tried to reach him by my punch, but he was able to notice it and rear up his horse on defense.
I concentrate my manna and hit the side of the horse with a back fist. The horse started to draw out blood and fell down. I ran to the fallen knight though he managed to break his fall, he won't be able to evade my attack.
I attacked his left stomach with a side kick and quickly perform a high kick on his head, He falls onto his knees, but to make sure I performed a downward kick onto his head.
I took the Knight’s magical sword and put it on my waist. I ran to the Elven mage who's casting healing magic to his comrade nearby and asks him some questions.
"The Captain is dead, Where's the vice-captain?"
"He's also dead he was pierced by Ice magic and a Cavalry unit slashed his head.”
"Then who is next in command!?"
"I-I don't know... M-most of the officers are dead."
Then that means there is no one leading these guys, no wonder our forces was scattered. The best choice is to retreat and regroup with the second layer of the defense.
"We should retreat, and regroup with the others."
I put my hand on his shoulder and asked him nicely
"B-but, we don't have orde-"
"All of the commanding officers are dead and were all going to die here if we don't retreat."
"Y-yes!" After he heals his comrade he quickly ran to others and passed the words.
"Retreat! Retreat!" The other Elves began shouting as well.
This battle has ended before it even began, I didn't know that these guys will be easily overwhelmed, but it's also because of the Empire's army, all of them were highly trained and their equipment were all top class. Funding this kind of army to even use magical weapons and gather Master Sage Rank magicians, they must have spent a lot of money on this. Did Kyle use his position as a prince to fund this war? Because usually an empire knight won't wear those kinds of magical weapons. Only one person came to my mind.
"It's the Emperor."
He must be the one who allowed Kyle to use these kinds of weapons.
I started to retreat together with the Elves while knocking out the Empire Knights who tried to stop me.
✦✦✦✦✦✦
We managed to regroup with the second layer of defense. The Empire Knights didn't chase us, they probably plan to make a camp inside the forest. The Elves immediately helped the wounded and asked us for information and of course, we said all the things that happened.
"Among the 20,000 Knights and Mages only 7,000 has survived.... And the numbers of their first wave of attack of our enemies were 25,000 and you say all of them has magical weapons?"
"Y-yes!"
I heard one of the Elves interviewing one of the wounded Knights, the Elf began to wipe his comrade's sweat on his forehead.
"Then don't tell me that the incoming waves of their armies will also be wearing magical weapons?”
We're not pretty sure about the numbers they plan to land but based on the numbers of their battleships that we saw, there should be around 100,000 of enemies to land on the shore, that means that those 25,000 that we fought earlier we're just 1/4 of their total numbers and, what's more, Kyle is joining them on the front lines so the moral of their army should be way higher compared to us.
"Hey Flint, General Connor want's to meet you. Since we can't allow you to ride a horse please go to the carriage they will guide you to the third layer of defense. "
"Okay..." Actually, I want to rest but there must be things he wants to tell me personally, I wonder what is it?
I went to the carriage waiting for me since it would take around 3 hours before we reach the third layer of defense I decided to sleep inside.
✦✦✦✦✦✦
"Hey, Wake up...”
*Shake* *Shake*
"Hm?"
I opened my eyes and look at the Elf that is shaking my body.
"We're here." He opens the curtains that cover the carriage and I jumped outside.
This place is one of the Elven Village outside the Castle Forest, The Civilians were already evacuated on the Castle Forest and this Village serves as General Connors Headquarters. This Village doesn't have a lot of differences to the village that governed by Chief Mau, The beautiful tree houses became an archer tower or mage tower, There are a lot of fairies around helping with the weapon sharpening or cooking the food. The Female Elven Knights also helps them.
"Let's go, General Connor, is waiting..."
My Elf guide began to walk ahead of me... Don't be impatient he's not going anywhere ....
He led me to the biggest tree house located at the center of the Village, We walked the stairs and knocked the door after we reached it.
*Knock* *Knock*
"Enter."
"General Connor we're here."
After we went inside I lightly nod my head to give my respect to him.
"Leave us."
He gave an order to my guide in a soft voice and after he made sure that the Elf is gone he turned his attention to me.
"So why did you call me?" I didn't notice that my voice became serious when I asked him.
"I heard what happened."
"What happened?"
Is he talking about the retreat? If he is going to question me why I suggest such thing, that’s because that's the most logical way. You can't stand your ground forever a soldier will advance and retreat in a battle that's inevitable.
"I heard you fought bravely during the battle and defeated several enemies while retreating and thanks to you the wounded were able to retreat safely."
"Oh, so it's about that."
I thought he's going to scold me because I suggested the first layer of defense to retreat without his orders.
"I also heard that the way you fight is unique, according to the report of the Elves who saw how you fight. They said you used strange unique techniques to defeat your enemies and it was incredible."
Is he talking about my martial arts? Well, I learned a different kind of fighting style during my military days.
"But you know, I noticed some problems after I finished reading the reports?”
"... What might that be?"
He looked at the several scrolls on his desk, it's probably the written reports about the battle. He took one of them and raise it.
"According to this, you didn't kill any enemy during the battle.... What the hell is the meaning of this?"
He narrowed his dark green eyes at me and matching by the scar on his face, he looks intimidating.
"That's bec-"
"You didn't hesitate to kill Chief Mau and you even killed several Elves, but now you won't kill any humans?"
It certainly true, I didn't have any hesitation when I killed Chief Mau, but that was because I had no choice! That person will never stop unless one of us get killed and I also lost control of myself during the battle. I also killed a human noble back in the Empire Building, but that was before I decided that I can't live the way who I was in the past. If I stay the same as Heins Cross then only abomination awaits me.
I looked down to avoid his intimidating gaze
"...."
"Your own Empire has abandoned you and trying to kill you, but you don't want to kill them to protect yourself? Is this the way you fulfill your promise to the Princess? "
"No.. It's...If possible I don't want to kill unless I don't have a choice.."
I know this fails me as a soldier, but I won't go back to a cold blooded killer.
And I didn't promise the princess that I will kill anyone! Though I want to say that I remained silent.
This war reminds me so much of my past life, how brutally I've become during the third world war I don't want to return to that. I have people that I really care now compare to my past life, I don't want them to be afraid of me and turn their back against me.
The General stood up from his seat and walks towards me. He stopped when he's in front of me and his face is so close to mine, I can feel his intimidating presence getting stronger.
"You're not helping us win this war because you don't have the stomach to do what must be done."
"...."
"The Empire army sent out several scouts to search any information they could find that would be useful to their advance, they're guided by Enslaved Elves that they brought with them. I will send out special teams to rescue the slaves and suck out pieces information from the scouts before we kill them."
"....I see"
"I command you, this time, to act appropriately... Every Human you kill is every Elven life you save... This way you can atone for the Elves that died in your hands. Do you understand?"
"Perfectly, General."
✦✦✦✦✦✦
"And that's the last wave.."
Commander Armand is standing beside Prince Kyle on the shore while watching their men descending from the battleships. 100,000 Strong army of the Empire has successfully reached the shore and currently creating a wide base in the forest.
"So, how’s the first battle, my Prince?" The commander glanced at the prince while holding his growing beard.
"It was pretty easy, they tried to ambush us when we enter the forest, but they weren't able to break the formation. "
"I see... Anyway about the interesting information that we received that a human was fighting on the side of the Elves... Don't you think that's ridiculous?"
Prince Kyle was also fighting during the first battle, but he was positioned between the Cavalry units and the Infantrymen that's why he didn't encounter Flint. He didn't even know that Flint was there before he read the reports that a human was fighting together.
After he finished reading the reports he already has a pretty good guess who it was.
'So they decided to use him huh?' Prince Kyle thought to himself.
"That doesn't matter Commander, we will crush anyone who fights against the Empire."
"Haha, you’re a really serious person. By the way, it would take a few days for the scouts to find the Elven base, the slaves also need to rest and the enemies won't be foolish enough to attack us with our current numbers. "
"How about the decoy army?"
Their job is to stall the enemy forces and prevent them from aiding the losing forces of the Elves in the southwest.
"They're doing their job pretty well, there are some casualties, but it's not that match they won't engage since the enemy number are much bigger, our forces in the northwest are doing a hit and run tactics."
"I see, after the scouts managed to find the base of those Elves we will immediately carry out a full attack to the front"
"Full attack? Aren't you bit impatience?"
The Commander was surprised, in his experience, they should at least put some reserves and divide the army into different sides rather than attacking a single side.
"Let's defeat them before they can come up with a good strategy to stop us."
Commander Armand Chuckled unintentionally to the Prince's words and put his hand on his chin.
"We have the advantage of numbers and the equipment of every knight and mages were all first class that was provided directly by the Emperor's order. I don't they would be able to come up a strategy to defeat us since all of our men are wearing magical weapons and items."
The Prince didn't speak for a few seconds, He put his right hand to the commander's shoulder and gripped it tightly.
"You know, the things that my teachers in the Empire has thought me?"
"..."
Cold sweats began to pour out from the commander's forehead.
"You keep stepping forward and you will keep your enemies away from catching you. Do you know the meaning of that?"
"...No." The commander trembles a little, but he managed to speak out his answer.
"Then you will learn the meaning of it after we win this war."
Prince Kyle lets go of his shoulder and walks forward to the forest.
"Make sure to send more group of scouts, I'm counting on you Commander."
Commander Armand swallowed his saliva and *sighed* deeply.
✦✦✦✦✦✦
Back in the Castle Forest the King has received the reports of the recent battle and also how the first layer of defense was easily broken by the enemy.
King Ulysses is sitting on his throne while his subjects are surrounding him from a distance, Princess Kaya and Princess Wendell are also present.
"The Humans are currently using slaves to locate our bases... General Connor already sent out groups of Knights to stop them... Also, all of the enemies are wearing Magical weapons and supported by Master Sage rank mages”
One of the council began to speak and suggest his thoughts.
"My King how about we make terms with them? It's much better than all of us suffering."
The King looked at him with vexed expression and hit the side of his chair intensely.
*Thud!*
"What they want is all of us! Making terms with them is impossible in the first place and I will not bring down my honor to make terms with those humans who made our people suffer for a very long time!"
His angry voice resounded in the room and the surrounding went completely silent.
"We will keep on fighting, we just need to make a better plan."
The King spoke in a dejected voice. Prince Wendell slowly stepped forward in front of his father and lightly bowed his head.
"Father I will go fight together with our people."
Prince Wendell's voice is serious and looking at his father without faltering.
King Ulysses doesn't want to believe what he just heard and asks him.
"What did you just say?"
"I can no longer keep doing nothing while our people are fighting the enemy as a prince it's my duty to support them."
His father looks dejected his eyes became a little bit sad, he knows that he can't stop his son from going because his cause is right, but even so, the King still tried to reason with him.
"I told you right? You will not be going to war."
"You want us to stay here to hide and stay safe while our own men are fighting to the death to protect this place? Father, I'll go fight with or without your permission, I'll do what has to be done in order to protect our people. I am no longer a child."
"BUT YOU ARE MY CHILD! NO FATHER WOULD WANT HIS OWN CHILD TO GO TO WAR, AS LONG AS THERE ARE OTHER MEN ARE WILLING TO GO IN HIS STEAD THEN I WILL GLADLY ACCEPT IT! "
The King stood up and shouted angrily at his own son. This is the first time he shouted at him, Prince Wendell knows that his father was just trying to protect him.
"Father.... Those people fighting right now are also a children of somebody, they're are doing their shares to protect this place even though sending their own sons and daughters to a losing war, but we haven't lost yet there still hope for us to overturn this war and we must go to provide them our strength."
This time, his Father sat down again while downhearted, His son is completely right, everyone is doing their part and they also do their own.
"Father I'll go as well."
This time, it was Princess Kaya who spoke.
"W-what?"
The words downhearted is no longer enough to describe King Ulysses reaction.
"My ✡Grand Healing✡ is a Magus rank spell it's higher than the mages of the empire that are currently Master Sage rank, I can play a big role in this war."
She's actually right, her healing magic is Magus Rank higher than the Master Sage rank if she participates in this war the elves can fight longer and their wounds would be instantly healed before they even feel the pain.
"Kaya..."
"And Wendell would also be safer if I'm with him..."
With her ✡Grand Healing✡ Prince Wendell would be safer if Kaya is going with him.
King Ulysses had no choice but to wish that his son and daughter would be safe, even him can't stop them from going.
The king spoke in a dispirited voice, you can feel the dejection in his voice.
"Kaya.. Take care of your younger brother... that also goes the same for you, Wendell... Take care of your older sister."
Wendell smiled to his father's response.
"Thank you, Father and I promise you! We will win this war!"
✦✦✦✦✦✦
"✡Tempest Strike✡!!!"
I struck down the last human that is still conscious with my spell, I noticed lately that my spells are limited and can be countered if they saw it once so I’m thinking about creating new spells but for now, let's concentrate on the job that was given to me.
*Clang!*
I broke the Slaves collar from the Elven female and set her free, she was used by the scouts to guide them deeper in the forest because a human would usually get lost deep in the forest due to the spells protecting the Elven territory. The slave looks frightened when she saw me, but she regained her calm after the Elves that are searching together with me told her that I wasn't an enemy, I also promised her that I won't ever hurt her so she lowered her guard towards me.
She explained her situation to us. Apparently, her father and mother will be killed if she doesn't cooperate with the Knights.
She is a slave, but she can refuse to the death or kill herself so that no human would ever step in the protected forest of the Elves but since they took her parents, she was afraid to betray the Humans because that would kill her parents.
I told her that it would be alright since we are going to take the unconscious knights as prisoners. They won't be able to report that the slave had betrayed them and they can't execute her parents without an evidence or report of betrayal of the slaves.
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By the way, she is one of the many Elves that are living in the forests of the Continent of Entros, they were captured by the slave hunters with her family during the time when they are going to have a visit to another forest.
Her parents are currently in one of the battleships of the Empire navy that was used to transport them here. There are also a lot of slaves who got their families as a hostage and Prince Kyle is using them to make sure the slaves won't betray them.
I look at the unconscious knights there is also one mage with them. General Connor wants me to kill them, but that won't happen if we make them accept surrender.
If I manage to convince these guys to surrender after they woke up then I don't have to kill them, why? Because killing an enemy who surrendered isn't honorable that's why the Elves doesn't kill anyone who surrendered but if these guys woke up and act arrogantly and refuse my offer then the Elves has a reason to kill them. An enemy who refuses to surrender means he's still willing to fight for what he believes and the Elves see that as an honorable thing and it would be their honor to kill such an honorable person.
These people are all about honor! I wish humans can also be like that.
I was informed that there are also rules of war that everyone including the empire is following in this world, it's like the version of The Geneva Conventions of this world, it’s also quite complicated but these are the few things that I understood.
First - Any officers are not allowed to be attacked from behind. If you want to fight the officer in charge during the battle then you must do it in an honorable way (Fight him face to face) and not in a cowardly act. (Now that I think about it the captain who died during the first battle was killed by a stray magic attack, so guess it's acceptable if the officer is killed in an accidental way.)
Second - Corps of Drums are not allowed to be killed during a battle, these are the people sounding the march of the army while hitting their drums. They are the one who sounds the retreat, the advance, the victory and the surrender. They act as signalers for the formation of the army. Corps of Drums are considered as an unarmed group and there is no honor in killing them.
Third - Anyone who fails to comply with the order of the Chief General will be stripped off his/her rank and shall be put to death without trial in Army Court. (This third rule only goes to the Empire.)
The others are just too complicated for me to understand when war gets worse nobody will give a fuck about those rules anyway. Well, I can't speak for everyone but that's how I see it.
"Let's go back to the second layer of defense and interrogate these people."
The Elf who is leading us gave an order and the elves began to carry the unconscious Knights and the Mage, I also helped them of course.
"Hey, why do you think human loves to go to war?"
The female Elf asks me silently while I was carrying one of the knights back to the base. Is she asking me because I am a human? She's not looking at me, but she's looking straight to our path.
I guess I should answer her base on my knowledge and experience......
"War is intoxicating. Once a person has won and tasted its intoxication, they get addicted to it and getting intoxicated is a part of human nature."
Maybe not just human, maybe this goes for every race but this is what I observed from the people in my past life.
"That is... just so wrong."
Her voice sounds dispirited I looked at her eyes began to get teary.
"It doesn't matter if you're on the side of the wrong people. Your beliefs will become right if you won the war even though it's so wrong or evil. War does not determine who is right - only who is left...."
'War does not determine who is right - only who is left.' This was once said by a wise person on earth.
"...I detest it! I hope those people who started these kinds of things would just go die!"
She declared with a solemn voice.
"That's why we're fighting because we detest it."
I talked a lot of things to her until we finally reached the base.
✦✦✦✦✦✦
Two days has passed we managed to capture a few Knights and mages, They accept to surrender when I persuaded them, but of course I still have the beat the shit out of them before they surrendered. You got to show them who's the boss.
We only got very few information, their base is located only several kilometers away from us and their numbers are more or less 100,000 and since some scouts weren't able to return from their base Prince Kyle decided to add more Knights and mages in the group of scouts. The group of scouts that he is sending are now composed of 25 Infantrymen, 5 Cavalry units, and 3 Mages.
Capturing them became very hard so it's decided that we wait for a new order to arrive. General Connor was busy having a meeting with General Harlan. I heard General Harlan was not a having a hard time fighting the enemies on his side because the enemy doesn't advance at all. They're using hit and run tactics to stall time, unfortunately, he can't send reinforcement to General Connor because they didn't know what would be the next move of Prince Kyle so he decided that the reinforcement would be him. He left the work to the other officers and came here alone to aid us, I heard he is pretty strong that's why everybody believes that having him here is a great help.
I just finished interrogating some prisoners and I was given time to rest on a tent, unfortunately, this second layer of defense doesn't have any tree house which is quite disappointing. I was on my way there when a messenger stopped me.
"General Connor wants you to go meet him. He is waiting on the main base... The carriage is waiting for you."
He pointed his finger to a distance and when I turned my attention to it, there is actually a carriage.
"... May I ask why?"
"I actually don't know either."
Oh well, He's probably has something to say or he's going to scold me again like last time. Let's just go check it out.
I went to the carriage, I was alone inside so I lie down and slept until I get there.
✦✦✦✦✦✦
*Thug.* *Thug*
I can feel someone shaking my body, it's probably the coachman trying to wake me up. I gently opened my eyes and looked at him.... But it wasn't the coachman.
"....Kaya?" I rubbed my eyes once again and looked at her. It's really her!
"Sorry to suddenly wake you."
"No... It's okay.... but more than that what are you doing here?"
I asked her immediately, I also noticed Prince Wendell behind her. If I remember correctly the King doesn't want Kaya and Prince Wendell to come here. Did the King had a change of heart?
"We're here to help everyone."
Kaya said so with a cute smile. So, I can safely assume that the King allowed them? Well, based on the personality of this siblings they both have a strong sense of duty. They probably forced the King to agree with them.
"Hey, Flint I requested General Connor to be in the team same as yours were going to kick the enemy's ass together Hahira!"
Prince Wendell stepped forward and talked arrogantly.
"Wait.... The General agreed to that?"
I don't think he would actually allow the prince to team up with me.
"He didn't, Wendell was actually placed on the 13th reserved Division. General Connor insisted him to stay here in the 3rd layer of defense but Wendell didn't stop complaining to him and he decided to put him on the reserved division”
Kaya spoke and disclose Wendell's lie.... Suddenly he started pouting.
"Boo... I won't be able to fight..."
All Reserved units were placed in the second layer of defense just in case the Empire Knights managed to find a way to go there. General Connor doesn't want to give up the second layer of defense that's why he's putting a lot of reserves there.
But right now the reserves isn't doing anything. There aren't any orders for them do anything since the Elven knights and mages that are originally placed on the second line of defense are the ones doing all the dangerous job.
"It's okay Prince Wendell, I'm pretty sure you will have your turn."
Sooner or later we would need everyone to fight, so this guy doesn't have to be impatient.
"I want to fight already I'm hungry to earn my honor. Oh, by the way, I want to teach you some interesting spell."
"Huh?"
"You heard me! Ha-ha!"
Well, learning some spell is pretty convenient. Mage unit has a lot of advantage in battle, I think it would be helpful if I learn some useful spells.
"Fliiiiint~"
While thinking, I suddenly heard Nahla's voice from a distance. I jumped out from the carriage and look for her.
"Ohh- *Thub*"
She hit her head on my chest while flying, it hurts a little bit so I pushed her lightly.
"Nahla you have to stop trying to kill me every time we meet."
"Mm?"
I tried to scold her but she just tilted her head. She didn't get what I was trying to say.
Behind her are General Connor and Harlan, They are both riding a horse. They’re slowly coming here.
"You guys, I told you to stay inside the Treehouse but you went out immediately after you heard Flint has arrived."
General Connor complains while scratching his head while General Harlan just glanced at me.
"I apologize about that, I just want to see Flint immediately ever since father finally allowed us to talk to Flint."
"There is no need for you to apologize Princess" General Connor responded with a wry smile.
The king allowed them to talk to me? So there's no restriction anymore? But why?
"It's because you are fighting a war with us and it's unreasonable to stop Kaya from talking to you knowing that you might die anytime."
Prince Wendell answered the question floating in my mind. Probably because I looked puzzled that's why Prince Wendell was able to guess the question in my mind.
"I see, by the way, why was I called here?"
I asked straight to the point and looked at General Connor, but he glances at Kaya.
"It's because I wanted to see you. "
She suddenly wraps her both with my arm while answering. She stuck her body closely to me, I don't mind her doing this, but right now General Connor and Harlan both looked surprised.
"Princess!?"
"Princess Kaya is unfair! Let me join in too!"
Kaya was startled and immediately separated her body from me while Nahla is protesting.
"So sorry I got carried away..."
She looks pretty embarrassed, she held the helm of her clothes while making an excuse.
Let's not tease her since both Generals are here.
"See me, huh? I also want to see you. "
"Really!?"
She immediately brightens up after she heard me, was she really that happy to see me, it has just been a few days after we saw each other?
"Of course!"
"Ahem! Anyway, I will teach you some spell that's also part of the reason you're here."
I've been thinking of creating a new spell, but I don't have much time since I'm fighting on the frontlines.
Prince Wendell cleared his throat and stated his intention.
"Come follow me! Let's go get some horse from the stables! You will learn it immediately because I'll be the one to teach you! hahaha!"
He walks quickly and went to the stable. You don't have to hurry, I’m not going anywhere. I was about to follow him about General Harlan blocked my way.
"Uhm.." I'm figuring out what to say while he's looking at me seriously.
"Listen to me well." He spoke in a serious tone.
"Yes?"
"Prince Wendell is my student and I've been teaching him for quite some time. Sometimes he makes stupid choice bad but he is a kind-hearted person."
"I see."
So why is this guy telling me this?
"The reason I'm telling you this is because sometimes he can be rash. "
Crap! Did he read my mind!?
"So you want me to prevent him from doing stupid things?"
"Yes, If anything unexpected happens please protect Prince Wendell, Do not abandon him."
This guy is really close to the prince, he might look like a strict and scary person but them inside he cares for the prince so much.
"I will protect him to the best of my ability."
I'll make sure that I won't fail this guy expectation towards me. He nodded and he looks satisfied from my answer.
"Very well."
He looks away from and went back to where he came from, then General Connor speaks to me.
"Make sure to learn well, because there is something that I need you to do."
"... Is that so?"
"I'll tell you the details later."
I want to ask him more about it but...
"Hey, Flint let's go!" Kaya pulled my hand and we started to walk, but Nahla hugged my head from behind and she is literally choking me!
"Nahla I told you to stop trying to kill me?"
She just tilted her head again.
"Hm? What are you talking about?"
Oh, Nahla....
✦✦✦✦✦✦
"Woh!? Argh!"
This is the seventh time that I fail to control and produce the right amount of mana properly.
"Do it again Flint."
Prince Wendell took my hand and helped me up and I once again began to control my dark mana
"Don't give up."
"You can do it, Flint. ~"
Nahla and Kaya are cheering for me, they're currently sitting on the plain grass a few meters away from us. They're both watching me with eyes full of expectation.
"Keep your hands steady and watch your feet. Your body must get used to it."
Prince Wendell gently guides, before I start riding this horse he first thought me how to gently accumulate mana to surrounds the horse while saddling it.
I never used this kind of magic while riding a horse, I remember in my past life that there are policemen that use horses instead of a car, but it was only on some part of the country sides.
"Uhm.. Prince Wendell."
"What is it?"
"I thought you're going to teach me some spell?"
I don't have much time playing around with a horse. We're completely ignorant about the next move of the Empire army. I need to learn immediately.
"Don't be impatient, my big sister said you're a talented person so you may be able to learn it immediately and more importantly you need to learn how to control the horse while accumulating your mana. Every strong warrior knows how to do it"
"*Sigh...* Fine."
We kept practicing until the sun goes down.
✦✦✦✦✦✦
The moonlight shines upon the face of the Empire Prince, Kyle. Around him are several thousand strong that signify the might of the empire, strong discipline is what their eyes describe, their loyalty is their honor, and the sharpness of their weapons defines the sharpness of their minds. The empire trained each of them with firm education, the empire trained them to become a living weapon.
"It's finished." One of the Elven slaves said to Prince Kyle.
They managed to break the spell that protects the Elven territory. Now the Empire soldier will not be misled, the fog that surrounds the forest gradually disappear as if it weren't there in the first place.
Commander Armand taps the shoulder of the prince to signal him to give the order to advance. The prince turns his back and faced his men.
"Deeper in this forest our enemies are waiting for us. Those Elves are willing to die just to cut off the head of any human that dares to enter their territory, but what lies deep in this forest is noble glory and it awaits us. I have no doubt of your courage, I know the empire's troops are the bravest of among all the army of the world and I ignite that courage of yours tonight and bring victory to the empire. O BRAVEST OF MEN! I COMMAND YOU AS YOUR PRINCE, GO! DYE THE MOON WITH BLOOD! GO AND GRAB THAT GLORY, OFFER YOUR LOYAL BLOOD FOR THE EMPIRE'S VICTORY! ALL HAIL THE EMPEROR! "
His men gave a loud shout of approval after hearing his words, all of them are hungry for battle and honor, hungry for the victory that awaits them. The corps of drums began to sound their instruments as several thousands of troops began to march deeper in the forest.
Prince Kyle showed a scary smile, he can no longer wait and every time he imagine that after he conquer the elves and bring back flint the right for the throne will be in his grasps and his siblings can no longer belittle him.
"Let's also move your highness."
"Yeah"
Commander Arman and Prince Wendell also began to walk deep in the forest.
"Now, that I think about it how long do you think will it take for us to completely defeat the Elves?"
"Hm, If we don't encounter any problems and continue to break the spells of this forest as we advance, probably ten days your highness."
"Ten days huh? That's faster than I expected."
"Well, I'm only judging it by the result of the first battle, the Elves might try to do something different this time."
The commander is right, they shouldn't expect the same thing would happen again. They won the first battle because the Elves didn't know that Prince Kyle used all his available resources to support the enchanted weapons and armors of his men, he is grateful to the emperor because he didn't hesitate to give his approval.
So this invasion should not fail no matter what because his name and right for the throne is at stake, this is a gamble for him so he had no choice but to use everything in his knowledge.
Few years ago when Flint disappeared from the empire, he was happy because that means his rival has lessened although he didn't know the fact that Flint didn't care about the throne. Whenever he thinks of himself sitting on the throne, he always gets excited and he feels like he has the world on his hands.
"Full Speed Ahead!"
Prince Kyle gave an order to the army, he can't wait any longer and wants to finish this war as fast as he can.
After several minutes of marching. A cavalryman reports the Prince.
"Prince Kyle, our scouts on the front found the second base of the elves, it might be the second layer of their defense. "
"How long before we get there?"
"30 minutes but if you give an order to the cavalry unit they can launch the first wave of attack to prevent them from preparing and the infantry unit will be able to defeat them easily when they reach their base. "
The Prince began to think, the suggested plan wasn't that bad, but they didn't know what the elves had prepared for them and the cavalry units are the backbone of this entire army. If by chance they were able to defeat them before the infantrymen reach them then it would certainly become a disaster although the chances for that to happen is slim, Prince Kyle doesn't want to take his chances.
"No, The Cavalry units will stick with us until we reach their base."
"Yes."
The man nodded his head and returned to his position and after they saw him off, Commander Armand speaks.
"I want to lead the front lines, what do you plan to do?"
"I think I'll stay here in the middle, for now, I'll join you later during the battle."
"I see, then I'll go first."
He whipped his horse and it began to run forward.
"Good luck Commander!"
✦✦✦✦✦✦
After Prince Wendell taught me how to control the horse while accumulating a large amount of dark mana. He quickly began to teach me a new spell. It's about using my mana to create a spear-like object and after I accumulate a good amount, I began to imagine a sharp spear and the mana began to shape itself.
"Good...."
Prince Wendell uttered in an amazed voice, he didn't expect me to learn it immediately. I was also surprised, but I believe it was because my four years training with Kaya that I can do it immediately. This sibling helped me greatly and I want to repay their kindness to me someday especially to Kaya, she treated me normally she didn't see me as a dangerous person and she even opened her heart to me.
Kaya is sitting on the side and still watching me while Nahla is sleeping on her lap, it seems like she was tired of continuously cheering me she's really a carefree person.
The dark spear that was created from my mana is floating over my head, it's giving a very dark glow and scary feeling. Just by looking at it, you can say that it's a dangerous power.
"Okay, now try to target the huge rock in front of you."
He pointed at the rock that is located 20 meters away from us, I try to give command on the spear in my mind. I want it to go on unimaginable speed and power.
The dark spear flies to its target in a speed of sound while releasing a strong wind to the surrounding, there was a second delay before we heard the sound of the movement of the spear. The dark spear pierced the target and destroyed the entire rock.
"Wow, I didn't even see that! How did you do that? I never saw something so fast like that!"
Prince Wendell began shouting excitedly, you can see his eyes are full of eagerness.
"Actually, I just imagined it....."
"Imagine it? Magic doesn't work like that! You need to have a strong concentration to be able to do some like that and you also need to have a clear understanding of the properties of the mana...."
"... But it's true that I used my imagination.... and I just gave an order to the spear inside my mind.."
"Inside your mind? That's Impossible I never heard something like that before. The reason we use long incantations is because we can't command our power if we're using a great amount of mana... and it seems like you didn't even do that"
"Well...."
I'm not sure how to answer that, Rhaegal's soul has merged with mine and I'm not even sure if my body is still human.
"Hey Wendell, you should stop asking too many questions Flint looks bothered."
Kaya came to my rescue and stopped her little brother. I smiled and nodded at her to express my thanks.
"But big sister don't you find this guy too strange? Even with the power of a dragon....... Unless his soul merged with a high ranked dragon... Then it' possible for him to do everything he wants."
Well, it is true that they know that my soul merged with a dragon, but they didn't know it was the former dragon king Rhaegal. Only Kaya and Nahla knows about this and I don't plan to just spread this information to anyone. Of course, Prince Wendell can be trusted but everything has to be told at the right time.
"I still chant when I use other spells, though."
Yup but they're very short. I only need to say the spell name and it will activate I also have a feeling that I can cast them without chanting.
Kaya retorts him once again
"Wendell stop it already"
"Uhh, Okay... Anyway, let's continue! Can you create several magic spears and give each of them different commands?"
"Let me try. "
I concentrate my power once again and the mana began to form around me, it gradually began to form the shape of several spears and for some reason, I don't feel any tiredness at all.
I was about to make them fly over my head, but I heard some noise of a running horse.
Everyone look over where it is coming from and we saw an Elf probably a messenger or someone who belong in Elven Cavalry unit. He looks horrified and when he saw us he immediately drove his horse to our place and he fell down from his horse after he reached Prince Wendell. The Prince worriedly face the Elf.
"What's wrong, are you okay?"
"The... Haaa! Haaa! The seco.."
He tried to utter the words he wanted to say, but we can't understand what he's trying to convey to us. I calmly told him to calm down and breath slowly, we waited for a few seconds before he regains his composure.
"So what's wrong? Why do you look so horrified when you came here?"
"Th-the second layer of defense is under attack!"
I widened my eyes from surprise. This means they managed to break the barrier that was protecting this forest. The question is the number of the enemy and how many waves of attack are they planning to commence.
"Hey, what about the numbers of the enemy?"
The Elf gulped from my question he's currently sitting on the plain grass, but I noticed that he trembled a little.
"At first cavalry units came attacking us and, of course, our own cavalry managed to block them but we didn't notice the infantrymen that completely surrounded the base."
Prince Wendell placed both of his hand on both sides of Elf's shoulder.
"Surrounded the base!? The second layer of defense is 5 times bigger than the first layer, it's impossible for them to surround it unless..."
"Unless they use an all-out attack in a single wave" I continued the words he's afraid to say.
If they are really using an all-out attack then we must do something immediately but to match the Empire's army that means we have to mobilize the 3rd layer of defense which is the last defense line of General Connor and if we the third line of defense also get destroyed then the Inner defenses led by General Amena and the other Generals would have no choice but to adjust their defenses and let us join with them to face the huge number of the Empire's Army. There are more numbers of the Elven Knights and Mages inside the inner defense, but the most experienced fighters are on the second line of defense which is under attack right now and the third layer of defense.
What should be the best thing to do....
"Let's go!"
Prince Wendell Shouted with a strong voice.
"No. Wendell we should inform General Connor first!"
"You go inform him big sister and I'll go immediately aid our warriors."
"What are you saying? You are not allowed to move unless General Connor says so."
"But big sister!"
"Enough! I promise father to look after you!"
I decided to intervene before they start fighting.
"Princess Kaya is right Wendell. A strong person knows how to follow his order and you can't just go there without a plan."
"But-"
"Come on man, you don't want your big sister to hit you right?"
He glanced at Kaya after I mentioned her and Kaya is looking at him intensely.
"Ughhh.. Ahh! Fine...." He looks annoyed, but he knows that he can't win against his big sister so he decided to give up.
"Then let's go inform the General." [Flint]
"Yeah" [Kaya]
"Y-yeah, I'll carry Nahla." [Wendell.]