GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Vol 2 - Chapter 16.2: Breakpoint Behemoth

Hileya appeared with their packed belongings. "I've gathered our things. The carriage driver is eager to continue our journey."

"Alright," Vel nodded, wincing slightly from the movement. "We've already lost a night. The entrance exams won't wait for us."

As they prepared to leave, the sergeant approached, her stance more relaxed than the day before, though dark circles under her eyes betrayed a sleepless night supervising repairs.

"Last night'll be a damn tale for the barracks," she said, extending her hand to Vel with gratitude in her voice. "Ain't none of 'em forgetting that mess soon—especially you, kid."

Vel clasped her hand firmly. "We couldn't have done it without your soldiers, Sergeant."

She smiled, the expression softening her weathered features. "Safe travels to Lona. The road ahead should be clear—we've increased patrols after yesterday's incident."

With final farewells exchanged, Vel and his companions boarded their carriage. As they pulled away from the outpost, Vel glanced back at the behemoth's massive form one last time, still surrounded by soldiers and the meticulous inspector.

Half an hour later, the carriage crested a hill, revealing the fortified silhouette of Everfront against the midday sun. Unlike Elnor's sprawling markets and wooden structures, Everfront presented a disciplined array of stone buildings and regimented streets. Military banners fluttered from watchtowers that punctuated the high walls.

"Everfront," the driver announced, gesturing ahead. "Last major stop before Lona."

Vel leaned forward, taking in the sight. Where Elnor bustled with merchants and craftsmen, Everfront pulsed with a different energy—soldiers drilling in formation within the parade grounds, smiths hammering out weapons rather than common tools, and guards at every corner maintaining vigilant watch.

"It's so... orderly," Celia remarked, adjusting her position to get a better view.

Mora nodded. "Military towns always are. Everfront serves as the kingdom's first line of defense against threats from the northwestern mountains."

As they passed through the iron-reinforced gates, Vel noted how different the atmosphere felt. Citizens moved with purpose, many wearing partial armor even in civilian clothes.

Their carriage navigated the cobblestone streets until it reached a modest waystation. The driver turned to address them.

"We'll need to resupply here. The road to Lona is clear but long. I suggest taking a few hours to stretch your legs while I tend to the horses and replenish our provisions."

"How long would the stop be?" Vel asked.

"We could leave by mid-afternoon if that suits you. Or stay the night if you prefer a fresh start tomorrow."

Hileya glanced at Vel. "It might be wise to explore a bit. Military outposts often have unique merchandise we won't find elsewhere."

"And I could use a proper meal," Celia added, stretching her arms. "Something that isn't travel rations."

Vel considered their timeline. The entrance exams weren't for another three days—they had some flexibility.

"A brief exploration sounds reasonable," Vel agreed. "Let's meet back here in three hours."

Vel stepped onto Everfront's main street with Celia and Hileya walking alongside him. Unlike Elnor's meandering paths and organic growth, Everfront's thoroughfares cut through the town in precise, strategic lines. Every building seemed to serve a specific purpose in the military machine.