Time was on the edge after the messenger delivered news upon Aggerona's return. The royal heads and courts welcomed Elena to discuss her homeland's tragic fall. It was very early in the morning before the sun had a chance to rise.
"…..And that's what happened."
The King wakes up and shakes his head, pretending he listened to her whole story. Nobody else noticed he was sleeping. Elena starts questioning what sort of action must be taken.
"Hmm, we can't afford another war on our homeland. Since the last invasion from Baronia, we're still recovering." Said the King.
"Oh…" The Priestess' mood dropped.
"But! Instead….. Let us bring the battle to them this time." He got up from his chair, cheery, showing a thumb for support.
Her mood went back up, knowing help was at her side. Battle plans were at hand as the court went away. She gracefully thanks him, then she returns to the hospital to catch some sleep. Princess Amalthea looked at her father, giggling for a moment.
"What's so funny?" He asked.
"You only listened to the first three sentences of her story before you slept through the rest."
"Well, it was about Aggerona…." He yawned. "That was all we really needed to know. Hate to admit it, but I'm getting too old for this job."
The staff was preparing the plans with many papers to fill with the King on the decision made, from the number of soldiers to the supplies and ships to be sent.
Morning comes as the sun rises from Emerald City. Alistor and his friends get up from a good night's rest and then gather at the morning table. Tannen had breakfast prepared for everyone to start their big day.
"You're finally back," Auroa said.
Sairori arrived at their doorstep, placing his bag down.
"So, how was your mission in Lavendhite?" Tannen wondered.
He replied positively, talking about his casual trip with little to mention.
"Oh, I almost forgot. I brought gifts for you all."
Loading out his big bag, Sairori presents them with souvenirs and new weapons.
"No need to thank me, haha. Thought this might help since your old weapons were starting to get rusty. So anything new with you guys?"
After moments of explaining the priestess's story to him, he could not say much. Gulping down the rest of his hot tea, he agreed to their only option and went with the flow. To return back to Claws and Elena for any news and updates.
"The time is at hand for us to finish what started two years ago. But, Alistor, since you defeated Vilevelious, there's no doubt his metal-faced brother will go after you." Katty said. "We must keep our guards up."
They all pack up, somewhat excited for the next adventure. But, with the only worry of Taishae in the back of Alistor's mind, there was no doubt of fear shaking in him. Tannen then slaps him hard on the back.
"Ow! What was that for?" Alistor jumped.
"Don't start worrying now. You can do that later when the time comes."
They all barge out the doors. They head off to Capital City with no time to waste with the motivation of a new journey and the unknown challenges.
Claws meet with the party at the town's central square, leading them back to Elena, staying at the hospital. She was doing well, so they greeted her, knowing she had fully recovered. Then, sitting patiently at her side, they all listen to the news she has to offer them.
"I see…" Sairori whispered.
"Interesting. So the kingdom will bring the battle to the enemy this time." Auroa said.
"At least we'll get some support. See? We're not alone, Alistor." Tannen pointed.
"Your mission is to help us take back Anneria's capital." Claws said.
"That seems like more work compared to fighting one monster daily. I don't know how to feel about it." Maigashi doubted Auroa.
"We'll pay handsomely." Claws offered.
Pulling out a paper, he presents a large sum of cash offered in a disclosure agreement.
"That's over a few million yens!" Maigashi jumped. "Auroa, we can do lots with that kind of money. Count us in then."
Maigashi and Auroa gain some motivation to join the mission. With a price this time, Elena and Claws agree to have them for hire as protective mercenaries under their names. Alistor was still not at ease, worrying about the outcome ahead.
"What is it that is bothering you? Share it with us." Elena requested.
"Go on and tell her then." Tannen nodded.
Alistor started sharing a retelling of his battles against the Baronia Empire with her and Claws. The memory of the spirit Zenmidas battling at his side flashed back in his mind. The fond memories of training together, facing one mechanical foe after another.
"You see…I don't think I'm ready to take on Taishae just yet. I only survived Vilevelious two years ago due to Bamboo intervening at the last minute."
"But we're stronger this time around." Katty reminded. "After all we've been through against Baronia. You're more than ready."
"I know, but will it be enough, though? We were only fortunate enough to have strong allies during Baronia's invasion. Zenmidas may have trained me during his short time in this world, but with him and the rest of the spirits gone, we'll need serious help."
Claws and Elena take a moment to contemplate the information provided.
"Indeed, you lost a great source of allies who fought by your team's side. During your time in need, they came till it was their time to return to rest, but hear us out."
Elena has his attention in complete focus.
"I have a tale to share with you all. Alistor, did you ever heard the story of The Silver Light?"
"The Silver Light?" He questioned.
"I may have heard this tale," Sairori claimed. "But forgot, since it was so long ago. So go on and tell us."
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