Chronicles of Legends

Volume 6 Chapter 8 - Assignments

The room buzzed with a mixture of anticipation and resolve, the mages and Lances exchanging nods and glances, ready to face the imminent challenges that lay ahead.

We embarked on our journey, utilizing the remarkable underground train system meticulously designed by Gary and Gideon during my training in Epheotus. While the system carried an inherent risk of discovery and destruction by our adversaries, its efficiency and swiftness made it an invaluable asset for traversing long distances.

The trains, though different from those found on Earth, possessed a functional and utilitarian design rather than focusing on aesthetics and comfort. Lance Varay, known for his stoic demeanor, displayed a flicker of surprise mirrored by others as they took in the unique features of the train before settling into their respective seats.

Controlling the trains involved injecting aether, a precautionary measure to safeguard against potential sabotage by our enemies. I placed my hand upon the cube-shaped device, infused with the power of the Realmheart, channeling the energy within me.

A surge of power emanated as I directed vibrant purple motes of aether towards the train, causing the entire machine to illuminate in response. The aether, rather than directly fueling the train, acted as the catalyst for the steam engine that propelled the vehicle forward.

The rhythmic chugging of the train's engine filled the carriage, accompanied by the soft hiss of steam as we glided through the underground tunnels, seamlessly crossing vast distances in a fraction of the time it would take through conventional means.

Lost in my own contemplations, I sat silently as Sylvie, now in her human form, slumbered peacefully with her head nestled on my lap. It was an unorthodox sight, considering her role as Vice Captain, but in this moment, I allowed her this respite.

During our time in Epheotus, Sylvie had undergone a profound transformation, realizing her true nature as an Asura and embracing the inherent qualities that came with it. As a result, she no longer referred to me as "Papa," a change I found myself oddly accepting. This shift allowed me to compartmentalize our relationship, recognizing the necessity of treating her as a valuable tool and formidable weapon, rather than solely as my beloved daughter.

These adjustments, though necessary, didn't entirely ease the burden on my heart. However, they offered a semblance of detachment, shielding me from the piercing pain that came with making tough decisions that may put her in harm's way.

Before long, our journey reached its destination, and I gently roused Sylvie from her slumber, preparing ourselves to face the challenges that awaited us.

As we disembarked from the train, a welcoming committee awaited our arrival. Three figures, their heads bowed in deference, greeted us with utmost respect.

"Paladin Arthur, Lances Varay, Mica, and Alea," they addressed us respectfully.

I couldn't help but notice the skepticism and doubt reflected in the eyes of the soldiers surrounding us. Although their spirits lifted at the sight of the esteemed Lances and my capable division, they seemed unconvinced of my own abilities, given my youthful appearance. It was evident that entrusting the defense of their fortress to a young boy like me did little to instill confidence in their hearts.

I took a steadying breath, summoning the power within my white core. Mana surged through my veins, causing a ripple of energy that resonated with the air around me. The crowd gasped collectively as the weight of my aura pressed down on them, even though I exerted considerable restraint.

"While it may seem unnecessary for me to be present in this fortress, my sole purpose is to expedite our victory while minimizing casualties among our ranks," I declared, my head held high.