"I understand the situation."
...
The grand hall radiates an awe-inspiring, cathedral-like ambiance. Its vast expanse, while lacking intricate embellishments, boasts a striking deep crimson carpet that serves as a direct pathway to a commanding throne.
Flanking this carpeted route, square columns demarcate the left and right zones. Each column displays a unique petite table adorned with ornamental vases. Positioned before these columns, facing the center of the hall, are imposing steel-armored statues, perched gracefully upon exquisite pedestals. These statues seem to respectfully clasp their hands to their chests, clutching their robust, authentic steel swords steadfastly before them.
Adorning the walls of the hall are tall, slender windows, each fortified with intricate steel coverings, a formidable barrier to any unauthorized entry. The glass itself consists of thick, opaque panes. Flags, bearing matching motifs, are meticulously arranged and elegantly suspended from the columns, bestowing an aura of dignity upon the statues.
The upper periphery of the hall is bordered by stone platforms, offering ample accessibility, and unadorned entrances can be observed, alluding to adjoining chambers or halls.
At the far end of this impressive hall, a middle-aged man with a striking white and dark yellow beard that flows over his shoulders commands immediate attention. Clad in formidable dark-colored heavy armor, he sports a regal golden cape that billows behind him, evoking an air of regal authority. In his hands, he wields an imposing, oversized black glaive, its blade material shrouded in mystery, and the hilt shaped like a dragon's head. It radiates an unmistakable aura of power and command. Flanking him steadfastly on either side are two knights, their armor even more splendid, their unwavering vigilance marking them as his loyal protectors.
"Based on your eyewitness account, General Alpha stands accused of committing treason by slaying The Mighty Hunter Josh right before your very eyes, and he, along with Rue, the [Outcast], departed the scene, leaving you incapacitated," he expresses disbelief, his beard furrowing in response.
I remain silent, the weight of my closest friend's betrayal too heavy for me to put into words.
"I once shared moments with this Rue. However, his mysterious nature and differing ideologies drove a wedge between us. So, did Rue utter any words?" he inquires.
"No, Your Majesty. He remained silent," I respond.
"Hmm..."
Horroundeous, the acting Lord of the capital, takes a brief pause before locking eyes with me.
"I regret to say that you must endure this, valiant warrior, for the time being. We are currently in a dire situation where being in siege against those otherworldy monsters."
I silently nod in acknowledgment. Horroundeous steps back, hoisting his unique glaive and positioning it above my head and shoulders.
"With Alpha's absence, the once-mightiest general in the capital of Orie, due to his treason against the very city, I, Horrendous, hereby name you, Raiken J, as the new general of Orie, taking his place. You shall be granted a personal Huskarl who will accompany you at all times."
His gaze shifts to a knight in full-plated armor, standing nearby.
"Alert the new recruit and ensure her readiness. Assign her to this new General."
"Yes, your Highness!" The knight salutes and departs from the grand hall.
"We find ourselves on the precipice of war. Do your utmost. For now, you are relieved. Feel free to assist the townsfolk while awaiting your next assignment."
I bow to Horrendous and proceed towards the grand hall's entrance.
...
Surrounded by a splendid garden, a profusion of vibrant flowers displays their red, blue, and purple hues in meticulously arranged, artistic patterns. In the foreground, a majestic waterfall crafted from white concrete cascades, bestowing its refreshing spray upon itself. I take steps forward.
With a heavy sigh, I lower my gaze, lost in my thoughts.
In the very moment of the incident, a guard happened to pass by the library where I resided, just as I let out a scream and a torrent of curses directed at Alpha.
Sensing that something was awry, the guard swiftly made his way to the spot where I had collapsed. He witnessed nothing thereafter.
Upon regaining consciousness, I found myself in the castle's infirmary. Horrendous was present, along with the guard who had discovered me.
I recounted the entire ordeal to them, disregarding Horrendous' status as the capital's Lord.
Depression consumed me, a direct consequence of the recent harrowing events. Headaches and tears overwhelmed me as I struggled to comprehend the gravity of what had just transpired.
For some inexplicable reason, I found myself incapable of expressing any emotion.
My mind felt fractured, unable to bear the weight of it all.
...
"GREETINGS!!"
I startle, taken aback by a low-pitched female voice that suddenly exclaims before me. It seems she's been waiting here for a while.
"My name is Aveline! I'm here to serve as your personal Huskarl. It's a pleasure to meet you!"
image [https://gdurl.com/XeVn]
A young woman salutes, raising her right hand high above her head. She has a tomboyish appearance, wearing light plate armor with dark metal pads gracing each shoulder. Her short, red hair falls just above her shoulders, and she sports long, dark gauntlets that extend to her fingertips. Dark-colored leather pants with metal embellishments on her thighs, and long boots complete her ensemble. Her broadsword is securely sheathed behind her, and most of her body is encased in armor.
"Raiken J," I offer by way of introduction, attempting to regain my composure after the initial surprise.
"General Raiken."
"Just Rai is fine."
"General Rai!"
I let out a sigh.
"Whatever."
I continue my stride with a dismissive wave of my hand.
"Was my first impression that bad?" she mumbles softly.
"I can hear you."
"A-ah...!"
She jumps in surprise, her hands falling to her sides. I spot a bead of sweat trickling down her forehead.
What an amusing girl.
...
The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
"I'm not a fan of formalities," I declare, "So feel free to drop the act. I'm heading to the front gate."
"Apologies, but my pride won't allow me to do that," she responds with hesitance.
I exhale deeply and make my way toward the gate. Aveline follows closely behind me.
The buildings in this city seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with medieval charm, all meticulously constructed from durable stone. The city is enclosed by reassuring blue stone brick walls. As we venture deeper into the capital, my eyes can't help but fixate on the intricate stone patterns beneath our feet. To the left, a row of multi-story houses stands tall.
The city remains in a state of chaos, with lifeless creatures strewn about haphazardly. Most of these beings are crimson, one-eyed creatures adorned with wings and sharp claws. Several injured guards receive medical attention from their comrades. Others remain vigilant on patrol, ready to confront similar flying magical creatures that could wreak havoc once more.
Meanwhile, citizens are being persuaded not to get out until the situation steer clear. However, it doesn't look like things will be ending up soon.
"Yesterday was utter chaos," Aveline remarks bitterly. "These creatures came flying out of nowhere and assaulted the city from the skies. Fortunately, our protocols ensured the safety of the townsfolk."
I glance downward, perspiration forming on my brow. There's no need to disclose the truth to her for now.
...
Guards rush toward the front gate.
"The creatures are attacking again!"
"All hands, hold the line and defend the gate!"
The atmosphere brims with urgency as the guards are running here and there toward the front gate.
I saunter casually toward the gate, pulling my double-tipped spear from its place behind me.
"Let's go."
"Right behind you!"
Aveline unsheathes her broadsword and takes on a battle-ready stance as she follows closely behind me.
...
Ten Sahagin and six Lizardmen charge toward the front gate!
The Sahagin, mystical beings resembling kappas, are often seen near a small lake on my route back to the capital. They wield double-tipped spears, adorned with imposing shells on their backs. Surprisingly, they move gracefully, despite the apparent weight of their formidable weapons.
The Lizardmen, humanoid reptiles likely accustomed to an aquatic habitat, possess scales and sharp claws capable of deflecting sword strikes. Spikes adorn their heads and tails, and their digitigrade legs end in two sharp nails.
And yes, they can shoot water.
On our side, six guards with spears and two archers join me and Aveline, forming the frontline.
I swiftly dash forward, ready to engage the creatures, my spear, similar to the Sahagin's weapon, held behind me.
"W-wait!"
Aveline sprints towards me, appearing somewhat unprepared.
Here comes the water assault!
I skillfully sidestep and advance to avoid the incoming attacks. Seizing the opportunity, I swing my spear forcefully, targeting two Sahagin closing in on me.
Whoosh!!
They attempt to evade, but I swiftly impale one through the head.
Not stopping there, I use the momentum to lift the lifeless Sahagin with the tip of my spear and strike the other with a powerful blow. It resists, attempting to swat the weapon away to avoid harming its companion. Exploiting its vulnerability, I force it to the ground and stab through its heart.
Three more creatures charge at me, with a Lizardman among them.
Aveline swings her sword to my left, parrying the Lizardman's claw before it reaches me. Seizing the opportunity, I pierce its eye swiftly.
"Yaaah!!!"
She spins her body, beheading the Lizardman with a swift strike of her sword.
The Sahagin press their attack, thrusting their spears towards her.
"Duck!!"
!!!
Aveline swiftly responds to my command, evading just in time. Seizing the opportunity, I swing my spear from my lower left.
"[Riselite Slash!!]"
I deflect their spear attacks, and she swiftly assumes a piercing stance, driving her weapon into the neck of one of the Sahagin. In one fluid motion, I snatch the spear held by the fallen creature and hurl it at the other approaching Sahagin, dispatching it instantly.
The guards' morale soars as they witness our prowess in battle. They shout in unison, charging forward to confront the remaining creatures while we form a united front.
"Well executed attack. You are indeed a skilled fighter," I commend.
"Likewise, General Rai. I am honored to be your Huskarl," she replies, her tone filled with doubt.
I offer a slight smirk in response.
"Ready for more?"
"Why not?"
Together, we rush into the fray alongside the guards, engaging the remaining creatures.
...
After several minutes, we emerge victorious, having wiped out the enemy.
The guards slump down, panting heavily. Some attend to their wounded comrades.
Aveline leans on her sword, her breaths coming in ragged gasps, and she stares at me with a narrowed gaze.
"How... how are you... not exhausted... from all of this?"
Well, girl, I am exhausted, just like you.
But this is nothing compared to what lies ahead in my quest to defeat him.
More guards arrive from within the gate, signifying a shift change, allowing the tired guards to rest while remaining ready for the next battle.
"Let's head inside and take a break," I suggest, trying to walk casually to mask my own weariness.
"Wait for me! Give me a moment to catch my breath..."
I pay no attention to her plea and continue walking.
...
After about ten minutes of rest, I make the decision to return to the front gate. Aveline scowls at me, her legs barely able to support her weight.
"Seriously, General?"
"What's the matter?"
"Aren't we supposed to rejoin the battle after two more waves?"
I sigh and wave my hand dismissively.
"If you require more rest, take it."
Once again, I make my way toward the gate.
"T-this man..." she grumbles through clenched teeth, battling to catch her breath. Her frustration shows as she feels like her pride is being tested.
...
Half a day flies by in the blink of an eye.
My mind is fixated on a single notion—I must become stronger, no matter the sacrifices. As long as I am alive, I will keep going, until I fulfill my revenge.
Aveline uses her time for recuperation, joining me in battle every fourth shift, following the standard procedure. So, each time the guards switch shifts four times, she fights by my side on the frontlines. And naturally, I am there, battling at the forefront. I only grant myself two shifts of rest before returning to the fray.
But as the hours pass, my body trembles with increasing intensity, and my head grows numb...
...
Until I collapse after defeating the final towering boar with its two imposing horns.
!!!
"G-GENERAL!! GENERAL RAI!!"
All I can discern is her voice, sounding distant and muffled, before I surrender to unconsciousness.
#
End of Chapter 1