The walk to the capital had been arduous, but fortune seemed to smile upon me. Just as I was preparing to rest for a few hours, I stumbled upon a merchant caravan camp. After assuring them I wasn't a bandit, they graciously invited me to join them, even sharing some of their food. Grateful for their kindness, I spent the night with them and gladly accepted their offer to travel with them to the capital.

Their horses and carriages will my journey much quicker than I had anticipated. What I had thought would take several days would be completed in just half a day, comfortably seated among crates brimming with cabbages, carrots, and other goods. It felt as though I was riding alongside the gods themselves.

One aspect of the caravan that piqued my curiosity was their escort of mercenaries. From their armor, I could tell they were from Atila. Their white armor with blue accents, Corinthian helmets, and bronze breastplates adorned their torsos. They wore leather skirts interspersed with pieces of metal. There were thirteen of them, all veterans, their faces, arms, and legs marked with scars.

One of them noticed me looking at them,puting her sword away she urged her horse closer to me.

"Χαίρετε, what's a little lady like you doing in this caravan? You know, you were quite lucky to find us last night. The countryside isn't very safe," she remarked. Her voice trailed with humor, and her golden eyes looked at me through the visor of her helmet.

"I know, Atilan. Besides, it is not of your concern what my personal activities are. Weren't you hired to protect this caravan? Shouldn't you be vigilant?" I retorted a little mad .Why should she care.

"Χα!" she scoffed, her laughter ringing out sharply. "So the little lady has some bite after all. Don't take it personally, I'm just curious. Usually, you farm folk stick close to your homes like ticks on a cow. Only the most desperate venture to the capital. Ah, so you're desperate too. What's your plan? Find a job, turn to crime, or simply do nothing? Everyone can see the Empire is faltering. Well, perhaps not everyone—those foolish senators talk endlessly but do nothing. If this were Atila, we'd already have solutions underway and these issues resolved. Bah, you Aurelians and your incompetent senators," she spat with disdain. "If you want to witness real governance, you should visit Atila. That's where true civilization thrives."

I looked at her with disdain, feeling a surge of anger. "The Empire is the epitome of civilization in this world. Don't you dare lecture us. Aren't you constantly at war with the Dominion over trivial matters? Last I heard, you were gearing up for yet another conflict. Isn't this the sixth time this year?" I mocked, a smug grin on my face.

The Atilans and the Dominion were like oil and water; they never mixed well, always at odds wherever they crossed paths, even in foreign lands.

She fixed me with a furious glare. "Look who's talking! When you failed to invade Deorim, they defeated you with primitive weapons. Ha! We Atilans uphold true honor and grant freedom to our citizens, unlike you, who keep slaves—worse still, you even enslave your own people. I'm done with you. Seems you're no different from the others." With that, she angrily spurred her horse and rejoined her assumed leader.

After some time, we began to see signs of civilization—wheat fields, small towns, and more. I was amazed. These fields were larger than my family's. I saw praetorians marching through these towns, guard posts dotting the landscape. It was clear we were getting closer to the capital.

Soon, something shocked me. As our caravan traversed through a town, a distant cluster of tents caught my eye. Initially, I mistook them for a legion's encampment, but as we drew nearer, the truth revealed itself starkly—they were our own people. Yet, their appearance spoke volumes of their dire circumstances.

Their forms were emaciated, heads scrawny with ribs protruding against their stretched skin, cheeks hollowed by hunger, and grime clinging to their frail bodies. Among them, children with visible ribcages lay still, some presumed dead, while others breathed shallowly. Their mothers, bereft of tears, reached out with feeble arms, their fingers clawing for any morsel of sustenance.

Far from the caravan, a makeshift gravesite dotted the landscape. Dozens of graves, some adorned with small toys, marked the final resting places of those who had succumbed. The sight twisted my stomach with sorrow and dread.

As our caravan passed, the desperate souls hurriedly approached, but kept a cautious distance, wary of the guards who formed a protective shield wall around us, safeguarding their goods from theft. The impoverished stretched out pleading hands, begging for food or even scraps, only to be ignored by the merchants. When one dared to snatch a loaf of bread, a guard swiftly struck him with the flat of a sword, breaking his nose. He crumpled to the ground, blood mixing with the dirt, clutching his face with eyes burning with resentment.

This harsh act subdued the others, forcing them to retreat in defeat, their gaunt faces etched with the grim reality of their plight.

Soon, the Atilan I had spoken with earlier came up to me again. "Hah! I was right. Your government does not know how to govern," she said mockingly. "Your precious Empire is falling apart. We, the Atilans, have true honor and freedom. We would never allow our people to suffer like this. Our polis would have resolved these issues swiftly and justly. Unlike your corrupt senators, who do nothing but talk." Her accent and mannerisms reflected the pride and stern demeanor typical of her people, making her words sting even more.

Once again, she rejoined her leader, who quickly smacked her on the back of her head. Soon, I heard a few harsh words in Atilan, and they rode off to the front of the caravan. I tried to ignore her remarks, but it seemed that my brother's warnings about the state of our empire were more accurate than I had thought. Choosing to dismiss her hurtful words, I allowed myself to get lost in my thoughts.

After some time, I saw that a giant wall was close. The forty-meter-high wall surrounded the city, an imposing structure of stone and strength. The banners adorning it were colored imperial purple, with golden highlights. At their center was a majestic golden eagle with a radiant sun on its back. These banners were flown all over the wall, representing the empire's might and grandeur.

As we approached the city gates, the sight of the wall filled me with a mixture of awe and pride. Despite the troubles and criticisms, the symbol of the empire's enduring power gave me a renewed sense of hope. Getting off the carriage, I thanked the leader of the caravan for their kindness and assistance. With a deep breath, I stepped into the city, ready to face whatever awaited me within its ancient walls.

The guards let me in, and I began walking carefully. The cobblestone streets were alive with activity; traders loudly advertised their wares, and Praetorians and guards diligently patrolled the bustling thoroughfares. Children played, and the people seemed content. Knowing I needed direction, I searched for a stationary legionary. After some time, I found one—a striking woman with golden eyes and hair, her armor pristine and gleaming. As she saw me approaching, she forced a smile.

“Hail, traveler. How can I assist you? Are you lost?” Her voice was rough and commanding, with a hint of insincerity.

“Hail. Yes, I am lost. I am looking for the closest recruiting office. I wish to join the legion,” I said, noticing a glint in her eyes.

“Ah, I see. It's encouraging to see the young eager to serve the empire. Follow me; I am on my break, and I can guide you to the nearest recruiting office,” she said, starting to walk down a street. Quickly, I followed after her.

As we walked, the sights and sounds of the capital enveloped me. The clinking of blacksmiths at their forges, the aroma of fresh bread from the bakeries, and the lively chatter of citizens filled the air. The legionary led me through a maze of streets, and I marveled at the grandeur and complexity of the city.

After a short while, we arrived at a large building adorned with the empire's banners. The golden eagle with the sun at its back was prominently displayed, and a steady stream of people entered and exited the building.

“Here we are,” the legionary said, stopping in front of the entrance. “This is the recruiting office. Best of luck to you, and may you bring honor to the empire.”

“Thank you,” I said as she departed.

As I entered the recruiting office, I surveyed its interior. Various tables were occupied by young women, much like myself, joining the legion. Some were signing papers and grabbing their bonuses, stuffing them into their bags. Others were writing letters, heading towards the lone door beside the entrance. The walls were adorned with pieces of armor and weapons.

In the distance, a legionary gestured to me. She sat at a table, her posture upright and disciplined. Approaching cautiously, I ensured my bag didn't hinder my movement as I took a seat opposite her. She had brown eyes and brown hair, exuding an air of readiness and resolve.

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"It is good to see such young people join the empire, full of courage and honor. So, why are you interested in joining?" the legionary asked as she took off her helmet.Her long brown hair flowed free from its restraints.

"I'm going through difficult times, and I thought joining the legion would help me. I want to defend my kin and serve the empire," I said earnestly.

"Hmm, not the motivations we're looking for in a legionary, but the empire is in desperate times. So, if you would please sign the scroll," she said as she handed me a parchment. I glanced through it briefly before signing.

"Now that you've signed, proceed to the back. There, you will receive further instructions. Also, you will be granted a bonus. Given the economic strain on our empire, you have two choices: take it with you or send it to your family," she said, placing three Aureus on the table.

Without hesitation, I answered, "I want to send it to my family."

The legionary nodded, "Very well. Write down the directions to your family's house and their names on this scroll. A courier will be dispatched to deliver it."

She handed me another scroll, and I carefully inscribed the necessary details. With that done, I felt a sense of relief knowing I could provide some support to my family. The legionary took the scroll and gave a curt nod.

Nodding, I took the first scroll and stood up. The legionary thankfully pointed me to where I needed to go. It was a door guarded by two legionaries. Approaching them, I showed them my scroll, which they grabbed and handed to a scribe.

Entering through the door, I saw other women like me. They were standing in a line, which I joined. After a few minutes, I approached a table filled with linen uniforms and helmets. The uniforms were red with purple cloth stitched through the torso. Attending the table was a legionary who bore a nasty scar over her left eye, her other eye a striking red. Her hair matched the fierceness of her gaze.

"Welcome to the legion. We commend your willingness to join our ranks. Please take a uniform and helmet. Behind me, there is a room where you can dress. Now move along, you're holding up the line," she said with a tone of boredom. Quickly grabbing a uniform and helmet, I walked behind her and opened the door. To my surprise, the room was filled with other women. Some were getting undressed, while others were already in their uniforms. Feeling a little embarrassed, I noticed a legionary waiting in the room. As I moved to ask if this was the right place, a more sophisticated woman beat me to it.

"Excuse me, ma'am, where can I find a more private room to undress? I do not feel comfortable with peasants seeing my pristine body," she said arrogantly.

The legionary merely raised an eyebrow and responded, "As you can see, there is no private room. You have all become sisters in the legion, bound not by blood but by duty. Besides, seeing another woman unclothed will become commonplace in your service. Now stop whining and disrobe, or are you afraid to show a little flesh?" she said mockingly

The woman looked furious but quickly started to undress, not wanting to incur further scolding. I followed suit, swiftly removing my garments. Soon, others joined me. To my left, I saw a woman with brown hair, a slender body, and perky breasts. Glancing at my own body, I felt a tinge of shame that mine were not as developed. That feeling quickly faded when I noticed another woman with peculiar markings on her skin, just above her pubic area. I couldn't make out what they were from a distance and decided to ignore it. However, the legionary from before noticed as well and quickly approached her. Grabbing her shoulder, she whispered something, and the woman nodded fearfully before being escorted out of the room. Other women looked curious, but a stern glance from the legionary silenced their questions. I chose to ignore the incident, assuming that markings on the skin might be prohibited.

Soon, I was fully dressed in the legion's uniform and helmet. I proceeded through the only door in the room and found myself in a large, enclosed courtyard. As I took in my surroundings, a booming voice filled the air.

"Recruits, welcome to the legion! I am pleased to see so many young women joining to support our mighty empire. You will now board assigned carriages that will take you to specific fortresses, where you will join a legion and begin your training. Farewell, and glory to the empire!" she shouted, raising a fist to the sky, her other hand over her heart.

The recruits and legionaries present echoed her words with fervor, and I found myself shouting along with them, filled with a sense of purpose.

"Glory to the empire!"

I glanced around at the other women who had joined the legion alongside me. Some were redheads, others had brown or golden hair. Observing them, I noticed that some bore the marks of hardship, while others had pristine skin and hair, hinting at noble origins. The recent scene with the noblewoman underscored the severe economic impact forcing even the wealthy to enlist. I was so engrossed in my thoughts that I jumped in fright when a hand touched my shoulder.

"Ha, don't be so scared, girl. We are all kin here," a young, quirky voice said behind me. Turning back, I saw a short girl with chestnut hair and blue eyes. "My name is Sabina. What's your name?" she asked, smiling.

"I am Claudia. What is a girl so short like you doing here?" I said jokingly.

"I'm not short, I just need to eat better... easily remedied," she replied with a grin. "I came to bring honor to my family by joining the legion. Soon, I will be drawing in denarii and jewels," she said dreamily.

"Ha, that's a good dream. I'm also somewhat like you. I wish to help my family and earn some coin, but also to defend our empire from the Herser menace," I said.

"Yes, those Hersers, lowlifes. That's another reason I joined. Let's say they are my mortal enemies. But let's move to something better. Since you're the only one I know in this area, do you want to be my friend? If we do it carefully, we might end up in the same carriage with luck," she said happily. I thought for a moment, but not knowing anyone here, it would be good to have some company now that I had joined the legion.

"Sure. Besides, soon we will be sisters in battle, spilling blood and giving blood for the empire. So, in other words, we are already friends and sisters by our profession," I said.

Sabina's eyes sparkled with delight. "To friendship and the glory the Empire!" she exclaimed, raising her hand.

"To friendship and the Empire" I echoed, clasping her hand.

"Ha ha ha ha, and my mother thought I would not encounter a friendly face here," she chuckled heartily, her laughter echoing through the bustling crowd.

Her jovial demeanor piqued my curiosity, prompting me to inquire further. "Are you not from these parts?" I asked, noticing the surprise flicker in her eyes.

"Do I truly appear so polished? Ja ja ja, no, I am but a humble commoner, hailing from the rustic countryside. My family owns a modest farm, and I have joined the legion to aid them. With fortune's favor, I may elevate my kin and even earn a noble title. Ah, I can envision it now—a grand villa, swathes of fertile land, and a retinue of slaves to tend to our every need. Such a life would rival that of emperors!"

I smiled at her dreams, offering a prayer to the gods that they may one day be realized. "Indeed, may the gods smile upon your aspirations."

She turned her attention back to me, curiosity shining in her eyes. "And what of you? Why have you chosen to join the legion, aside from aiding your family?"

My response carried a tinge of melancholy as I reflected on my motivations. "Primarily, I seek to support my family and secure a better future for myself. Beyond that, I am uncertain of what lies ahead."

As we conversed, Sabrina regaled me with tales of her family—her stout-hearted father, her gentle mother, and her cherubic baby brother, barely two winters old. She spoke fondly of her childhood, of skipping stones across the nearby lake and playing soldiers with the village girls. Her decision to join the legion was fueled by a desire to provide for her family, ensuring her brother grew up in modest comfort and relieving her parents of one less mouth to feed.

When the time came to board the carriage, fortune favored us once more, allowing us to sit together. The banner of the XI Legion fluttered proudly from the carriage's ring, its bold lettering a testament to our chosen path. As the carriage filled with recruits, Sabrina settled in beside me, her presence a source of comfort in the uncertain journey ahead.

With a crack of the whip, the carriage lurched forward, joining the procession of others bound for various destinations. Citizens lined the streets, some waving in encouragement while others shouted praises to the empire. It was a stirring sight, filling me with a sense of pride and purpose.

As we passed through the gates of the great capital, I gazed out at the column of carriages snaking its way through the city. Each one carried hopeful recruits like us, bound for their respective postings.

Worry filled me; if so many were joining the legion, it meant the situation was worse than I feared. Once more, I prayed to the gods for the safety of the empire, my family, and my new path in life. Our journey was long, taking us past vast fields of crops, travelers on foot, and even some Albion merchants. Their shiny armor, pointed ears, and blue-blooded demeanor made them stand out. We passed through several towns, some small, others larger, each with its own unique character. Along the way, we crossed several checkpoints, great fortresses with our glorious banner proudly fluttering in the sky.

The lead carriage driver advised us to take a nap, assuring us that the path was well-secured and that we should get some rest, as the journey ahead was long. I heeded his advice, though Sabrina was determined to stay awake for the entire trip. Eventually, sleepiness overcame me, and I drifted off, hoping that the gods would watch over us all.

THE HERSSER CRUSADE

The Hersser Crusade stands as one of the most pivotal and devastating conflicts in the annals of our continent's history. Called forth by the Holy Saintness, who claimed to have received a divine vision from the goddess Alma, the crusade aimed at the unification of the entire continent under the Hersser banner. It was a war of both religious fervor and territorial ambition, attracting participants from all strata of society—from the lowliest bandits to the highest nobles.

The crusade rapidly escalated into the deadliest conflict since the Great Cataclysm. The fervor and zeal of the Hersser forces allowed them to conquer a substantial portion of Aurelia's territory, imposing their social and religious structures upon the subjugated regions. The chaos wrought by this crusade seemed unstoppable until the rise of the great Caesar Alexandria, an outsider to the Aurelian people, who had been adopted by the previous Caesar, Favia, during a visit to the Dominion.

Caesar Alexandria, with the full approval of the Senate, assumed the mantle of dictator and led a valiant campaign to repel the Hersser forces. Demonstrating unparalleled military acumen and leadership, she succeeded in pushing the Hersser Crusade back to its borders and eventually expanding the empire's dominion. Her strategic brilliance culminated in the surrender of the Hersser Queen Eira, effectively ending the crusade.

The aftermath of the crusade saw a dramatic shift in the balance of power. Despite the clamor from the Saintness Council to resume the crusade, their calls were silenced under the Queen Eira firm rule. Her leadership ushered in a golden age for the Aurelian Empire, marked by unprecedented prosperity and territorial expansion.

Nevertheless, the relationship between the Aurelian Empire and the Holy Kingdom of Hesser remained strained. The scars of the Hersser Crusade left a legacy of animosity and distrust that would endure for generations, even as the empire itself flourished under Alexandria's enlightened governance.

Thus, the Hersser Crusade is remembered not only for its immediate devastation but also for its lasting impact on the political and religious landscape of our continent.