We find ourselves inside the capital of Orie, and it's a sight to behold. The city is nothing short of immaculate! The buildings here combine a modern touch with medieval charm, all crafted from sturdy stone. The reassuring blue stone brick walls surrounding the city are a stark contrast to my humble village, or what's left of it. This place is worlds apart from the village I've known for so long.

As we walk deeper into the capital, I can't help but notice the intricate stone patterns beneath our feet. To the left, there's a row of multi-story houses.

One of them stands tall, proudly displaying an "Inn" sign, nestled among smaller homes where the city's residents live. Just ahead, a small but elegant wooden building catches my eye, bearing the sign "Guildhouse."

This must be what Alpha mentioned earlier.

Adventurers in their distinctive suits come and go from this building. Maybe I'll find Rodger here, deeply involved in his mercenary work.

A petite stone dock stretches out into the river to the southwestern side of the guildhouse, thru a small path on its left, where two wooden ships rest peacefully at the harbor. Some sailors are spotted in their own business.

To the right, a cluster of shops lines the street beside other civilian houses, including weapon and armor shops, as well as a general store. These stone houses have roofs painted in vibrant red or calming blue.

On the far right, a solid stone structure announces itself with the sign "Bar." Towards the southern end of the wooden building,

I keep my focus forward as we continue our journey through this bustling city. In the distance, an enormous castle comes into view, flanked by a splendid garden and a majestic waterfall at its front. This castle is truly massive, constructed with sturdy gray bricks and crowned with several conical roofs atop various segments. It seems like a blend of multiple segments seamlessly melded into one grand and regal castle.

High above, elegant flags wave proudly, following the same pattern as those I observed outside the city walls: Red to the left, white in the middle, and dark blue to the right, adorned with a shield pattern at its center, crossed by two gleaming steel-colored swords. What an exquisite flag!

The Capital City is a bustling hub of activity, with people dressed in clean and modern medieval attire, each pursuing their own tasks. I spot guards similar to the ones we encountered at the front gate, clad in steel armor that covers their left shoulders, chests, and waist areas. They wear flexible corsets made of linked steel for agility and black inner suits made of fine, blade-resistant material. Despite their protective gear, they appear comfortable, sporting long, dark leather gauntlets and gloves. Their trousers also feature steel elements, covering their knees, and are made from the same leather material as their gauntlets. Each guard carries either a spear or a sheathed sword at their waist.

What a breathtaking sight!

...

"Is this your first visit to the capital?" Alpha asks with a hint of curiosity in his voice.

"Yes, the buildings and the views are totally different than the village!" I respond, my excitement evident in my words.

"To be honest, we were just as amazed the first time we came here," Josh interjects, his reminiscence bringing a smile to his face.

"Yeah, and you even ran across every rooftop until the guards put a stop to it. They thought you were a thief or something," Alpha teases, a mischievous glint in his eyes a bit.

"Come on, Alpha! I was just curious, okay!?" Josh throws his face away, embarrassed but chuckling.

Their laughter fills the air, and their camaraderie warms my heart. Yet, beneath the joy, a twinge of regret starts to seep in. If only I had joined them three years ago, maybe I would be as strong as they are now. They've grown incredibly powerful, embarking on thrilling quests and adventures.

I imagine the exciting journeys they've undertaken. But I shake my head, pushing those thoughts aside as Amy's image slips into my mind. A peaceful life in the village with her is what I truly desired, I think to myself, gazing downward.

Minutes later, our journey brings us to the castle. Alpha confers briefly with the guards, and two of them step forward to guide us to a majestic grand hall.

The grand hall exudes a majestic cathedral-like aura. Its expansive space, while lacking intricate designs, is bedecked with a bold dark red carpet that leads us straight to a commanding throne.

Alongside this carpeted path, square pillars mark the left and right zones. Each pillar hosts a unique short table adorned with decorative pots. In front of these pillars, facing the center of the hall, imposing steel-armored statues stand upon elegant pedestals. These statues seem to raise their hands to their chests, gripping their robust, genuine steel swords firmly in front of them.

The hall's walls are adorned with tall, slender windows, each fortified by ornate steel coverings, a formidable deterrent to any unauthorized entry. The glass itself consists of thick, white panes. Flags, bearing the same patterns, are meticulously arranged and hang gracefully from the pillars, adding an air of dignity to the statues.

The upper side of the hall is encircled by stone platforms, spacious enough for access, and doorless doorways are visible, hinting at adjoining chambers or halls. Several maids can be seen diligently maintaining the cleanliness of the area.

Positioned on both sides of our path, a regiment of guards, dressed in the same city uniform, stands resolute in stoic formation. Their unwavering presence indicates they were well-prepared for our arrival.

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.

image [https://gdurl.com/aI4L]

"Your Highness!" Alpha and Josh immediately kneel down in a show of respect, and I follow suit by obediently lowering my head upon Josh's whispered instruction.

"I heard you bring news," the man speaks with a pronounced accent, his gaze locked on us.

"Yes, Your Highness. As we suspected, the calamity is stirring, and it has brought forth a Blood Moon, accompanied by unknown creatures we encountered in the village. These creatures bear a resemblance to the ancient beings of Ergardia, but they possess distinct differences," Alpha explains, his voice steady and resolute.

"Go on," the man urges, his curiosity piqued.

Alpha takes a moment to glance at me before continuing the report, his words carefully chosen. "A dozen survivors managed to escape, but tragically, nearly half of them fell victim to the corrupted [Guardian of the Forest]. And every time we defeat it, we discover this crystal within the creature."

A heavily armored guard steps forward, and Alpha retrieves the dark crystal and a fragment of Leviah's bud from his large pouch. With a solemn air, the guard presents these items to the bearded man.

"This is..." The man pauses, clearly astonished. "A fragment of Ergardia itself. Humanity is undoubtedly in grave danger."

He passes the crystal and bud to a robed figure standing nearby. Judging from his attire, it's evident that the figure is an alchemist, donned in a long-cloaked outfit adorned with intricate patterns. His sharp eyes convey knowledge and wisdom, though his face remains calm.

"I will entrust these to your care. It's your area of expertise, after all," the bearded man remarks.

Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

"Of course," the robed figure acknowledges with a respectful nod.

The man in the grayish robe, who bears the visage of middle age, promptly departs from the hall.

"I commend your bravery, warriors, and extend my warm welcome to both the new and returning champions by our side," the bearded man commends. "We shall host a grand feast in your honor here in the Capital, and for the time being, you are to await further orders. In the interim, you may undertake freelance work to keep your skills sharp until we have more information regarding the situation."

"Actually, Your Highness," Alpha raises his right hand and stands, prompting Josh and me to do the same.

"This young man here is one of the survivors from the village," Alpha continues, "and he possesses considerable experience. Judging by his skill with a sword, I propose that he undergo the knighthood trial to serve our kingdom."

Alpha's gaze shifts to me, and I await the bearded man's response with anticipation.

"Hmm..." The bearded man steps toward me, thoughtfully stroking his beard. "What is your name, young warrior?"

"Raiken... Raiken J. That's my name," I reply, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

"Very well, young warrior Raiken. I shall arrange your swordsmanship trial shortly. As for the two remaining warriors, you are dismissed."

"Yes, Your Highness," both Alpha and Josh respond, placing their right hands on their chests in a gesture of respect.

"Good luck, Rai. See you around!" Josh bids me farewell, his words filled with camaraderie.

"Make sure you don't get yourself killed. The trial may be challenging, but I have every confidence you'll handle it admirably," Alpha advises with a reassuring smile.

"Thank you, Alpha, Josh..." I express my gratitude.

As I follow the bearded man, Alpha and Josh exit the hall, leaving me to embark on this new chapter of my journey.

...

We exit the grand hall and proceed down a corridor on the left, a vast passage constructed from the same grey material as the grand hall's walls. My gaze drifts toward the remarkable weapon the bearded man carries—a blade adorned with a dark-colored dragon-shaped head, its eyes resembling deep-set sockets.

As we walk, the bearded man slows his pace and turns his attention to me.

"Sir Raiken, isn't it?" he inquires.

"Yes," I confirm with a nod.

"Since you've spent most of your life in the village, you probably don't know me. I am Horroundeous, the acting lord of this capital," he introduces himself. "As you can see, we stand on the precipice of war against the unknown forces that General Alpha mentioned. We require all the reinforcements we can muster."

I continue to walk beside him, my focus entirely on his words.

"Let me ask you again. Are you prepared to undergo the trial to become a renowned swordsman within this capital? I give you the opportunity to walk away, fully aware of the hardships you will face."

"I'm ready, Your... Highness," I reply with uncertaincy.

Horroundeous nods, acknowledging the resolve in my eyes.

"I observed the fire in your eyes earlier. Tell me, what are your ambitions?"

I clench my fist, emotions welling up within me.

"I want to make the monsters who invaded the village pay. They took away everything precious to me and killed nearly everyone I knew."

Horroundeous sighs deeply upon hearing my choice.

"So, an Avenger it is. Do you understand the weight of that decision?"

I meet his gaze with a solemn expression before looking down.

"I don't... I just want to return to those peaceful moments..."

"Time cannot be reversed, young man. What's done is done. It may sound harsh, but it's the reality you must confront. Many challenges lie ahead. Fate has brought you here, far from your comfort zone."

In silence, we continue until we reach a dark stairway guarded by a knight in armor.

"This is it," Horroundeous declares as he signals the guard. The guard raises his weapon and steps aside, granting us passage.

"You are about to face your first trial, young lad. You'll encounter everything from minor adversaries to Trolls to prove your mettle."

"What kind of creatures are Trolls?" I inquire.

Horroundeous widens his eyes in surprise. "You've never heard of Trolls?"

"I've spent my entire life in the village, so I'm only acquainted with rats, snakes, and goblins—creatures commonly found in the forest."

Horroundeous shakes his head in understanding. "You've been living like a frog in a well. You haven't experienced the true wonders of the world," he sighs. "I won't spoil it for you. You'll have to see it for yourself. If your will does not betray you, you won't meet the same fate as those unfortunate souls who came before you."

The guard presents me with two bottles containing green liquid.

"What are these?" I inquire.

"Potions, crafted from high-quality herbs by our esteemed alchemist. They'll slightly enhance your regeneration, so you needn't worry about sustaining injuries," the guard explains.

I accept the bottles and stow them away in my pouch.

"Thank you."

"We'll be waiting at the other end of the trial. Best of luck."

I nod and descend the stairway. The further I venture, the darker it becomes. Upon reaching the bottom, I push open a weathered and dimly lit wooden door, stepping into the unknown.

…

As I step inside, the door behind me shuts with a sudden mechanical clank, triggered by the pressure of my steps. Panic surges through me, and I rush back to the door, desperately trying to pry it open. My efforts prove futile; the door refuses to budge.

Taking slow, deliberate breaths, I regain my composure. There's no turning back now. I grip my trusty Iron Sword tightly and begin to cautiously advance down the dimly lit stone corridor.

Apart from eerie whooshing sounds that echo faintly, the corridor remains shrouded in darkness and an unsettling silence. Only the outline of dark bricks is visible on either side, and there are no signs of creatures or any other living beings.

After several minutes of tense exploration, I reach the end of the corridor, where a sturdy iron door stands sentinel. With a resolute push, I open the door and peer into the room beyond. The walls are constructed from dark brown stone, and broken wooden tables and chairs are scattered haphazardly. Several shelves lining the walls have been similarly damaged, their contents strewn about carelessly.

To the right, a pathway catches my attention, beckoning me to explore further.

I examine the broken wooden furniture, and to my surprise, I notice several goblin corpses strewn amidst the wreckage, their heads clearly crushed by a powerful force. Despite the grim discovery, I make an effort to maintain my composure.

"Perhaps others have already completed this trial. It might be easier for me," I silently hope, trying to find a glimmer of optimism in the situation.

Since there's nothing else to explore in the room, I decide to head towards the pathway at the right end of the room, clutching my Iron Sword tightly. Truth be told, I feel a slight unease about the trial. I'm supposed to encounter various creatures before facing the actual challenge—the Troll Horroundeous mentioned. If I manage to navigate this dungeon without encountering anything, it would indeed be a wasted opportunity.

I contemplate discussing this with Horroundeous later, as questions linger in my mind about the nature of this trial and whether I'm truly prepared for it.

A deafening slam reverberates through the corridor ahead, causing my heart to race. Without hesitation, I break into a slight run, chasing the source of the noise until I reach a partially damaged iron door.

My breath catches as I take in the door's bizarre shape, bearing the unmistakable imprint of a blunt object. It dawns on me that the goblin corpse I passed earlier suffered a similar fate. I gulp, attempting to steady my nerves as I slowly begin to open the door—

"IDIOT, DON'T OPEN THAT DOOR!!!"

Before I can react, a massive object hurtles toward me with astonishing speed as the door swings open. Instinctively, my body ducks, and I hear a resounding crash as the metal door collides with the adjacent wall.

CRASH, THUMP!!!

As I cautiously reopen my eyes, a grotesque sight awaits me—a towering, bald, gray-skinned creature stands before me, wielding a massive wooden club. Its other hand scratches its hairless head with an eerie nonchalance. The creature is unclothed, its repulsive face devoid of any distinguishing features, making it all the more unsettling.

Ugly and drooling, it regards me with a perplexed expression while continuing to scratch its head.

"Don't. Make. Any. Sudden. Moves," a trembling male voice warns me from my right.

I quickly shift my attention to the source of the voice and spot a white-haired teenager of about my age. His sharp, handsome face is framed by a mop of disheveled hair, and he wears tattered leather armor. Despite his evident struggle to stay on his feet, he tightly grips an iron spear.

#

End of Chapter 11