CHAPTER - 18

❈ THE CELESTIA KING'S CHAMBER ❈

With a heavy heart burdened by the dire situation, King Aldric Celestia humbly welcomed the envoys from the neighbouring kingdom. His wise face bore deep concern, yet his gaze remained firm, reflecting his resolve in facing the impending crisis.

"Welcome, my brothers," Aldric greeted them in a calm yet weighted tone. "I truly appreciate the aid and support you have offered to the Kingdom of Celestia in these trying times. The monster threat is growing ever more perilous."

The envoys bowed respectfully, demonstrating both their reverence for Aldric and their commitment to assisting in the crisis. They had arrived with a formidable military force, prepared to stand alongside Celestia against the looming menace.

"Whatever we can do to help the Kingdom of Celestia, we stand ready," declared one of the envoys with a resolute voice, filled with unwavering solidarity.

Aldric nodded, appreciative. "Your support means everything to us. We desperately need our allies to stand with us in this fight."

As the meeting progressed, Aldric and the envoys discussed strategies to counter the escalating monster threat. They meticulously devised battle tactics and defensive measures, ensuring their forces would be ready for the impending confrontation.

Despite the gravity of their discussion, Aldric felt a flicker of relief knowing that the neighbouring kingdom was willing to stand with Celestia. The challenges ahead were formidable, but the presence of allies brought a glimmer of hope that they might yet prevail.

After lengthy deliberations and finalising their course of action, Aldric and the envoys concluded their meeting, exchanging words of gratitude for the cooperation and support shown.

"May the steps we take together restore peace and security to the Kingdom of Celestia," Aldric declared earnestly.

DRAP DRAP DRAP

The sound of hurried footsteps shattered the solemn silence in the castle corridors leading to the king’s chamber. The door burst open, revealing a breathless messenger standing at the threshold.

"REPORT! Your Majesty!" he cried as he stepped forward. "The monster forces have launched an attack on our frontlines! General Red is currently holding them back with all his might!"

Aldric’s eyes widened at the sudden news. Merely thirty minutes ago, the battlefield was reported to be under control.

His piercing gaze locked onto the messenger, seeking confirmation, before swiftly shifting towards the foreign envoys present in the room.

"Clarify the situation in detail," Aldric ordered, his voice measured yet firm, demanding a thorough explanation.

The messenger swallowed hard, feeling the immense pressure of the moment. Gathering his thoughts, he relayed everything he knew—detailing the enemy's strength, their tactics, and the current conditions on the battlefield.

Aldric listened intently, analysing every word. Though the fire of battle burned within him, he knew this was not the time for reckless action.

After a brief moment of contemplation, he gave a decisive nod. "Send word to General Red," he instructed. "Tell him to hold the line at all costs while we prepare a counteroffensive."

As the messenger hurried off to deliver the orders, Aldric turned back to the envoys. He understood that only through unity could they stand a chance against this growing threat.

"We must act swiftly," he stated gravely. "The enemy will not wait for us to prepare. Ready your forces to execute our plan immediately."

"Agreed, Your Majesty Aldric!" one of the envoys responded with conviction. "We will mobilise at once and head straight to the frontline."

• UNKNOWN KNIGHT •

Morning at the Left Wing of Celestia’s Defence brought an air of deceptive calm. Though the sky was clear and the sun’s first rays crept over the horizon, an unspoken understanding hung in the air—every soldier was bracing for war.

From a tent at the camp’s edge, a young knight stepped out, his stride steady and unwavering. His sword rested in his grip, his armour worn like a second skin—scarred and battered from countless battles, yet ever reliable.

"Two things to do," he muttered to himself. "Clean and sharpen."

With measured movements, he set about removing the dried monster blood from his blade and armour. Neglecting his equipment could mean death in the next battle, and he had no intention of falling due to a dull edge.

Taking up a whetstone, he began sharpening his sword with practised ease. Sparks flickered with each stroke, the blade regaining its keen edge, ready for the coming fight.

His mind drifted to the inevitable battle ahead, strategising, preparing himself mentally. But his thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a familiar voice.

"Ahahaha! Nervous, rookie?"

He turned to see Mortz approaching—a seasoned knight and a respected battalion captain. Mortz had been both mentor and tormentor to him since he had joined the army.

"Ah, Mortz-senpai!" the young knight huffed, masking his irritation. "I’m not nervous! And stop treating me like a child! I’m seventeen already!"

Mortz chuckled, ruffling the boy’s hair. "Sure, sure. But remember—on the battlefield, age and rank don’t mean much. It’s your will and determination that count."

A small smile tugged at the young knight’s lips. His mentor’s words, as always, reassured him. With newfound focus, he returned to his task, determined to be ready for whatever lay ahead.

TENG TENG TENG

A loud bell rang out, shattering the peaceful morning. A frantic voice followed, echoing from the watchtower.

"ATTACK! MONSTER ATTACK! HUNDREDS OF THEM APPROACHING FROM DEAD AHEAD! ALL UNITS TO YOUR POSITIONS!"

Below, Mortz’s expression darkened, his veteran instincts kicking in. He glanced at the young knight beside him.

"Heh, finally," he muttered, a grim smile on his face. "Alright, get moving. Back to your post."

The young knight met Mortz’s gaze, his own eyes alight with determination. "YES, SIR!" he shouted before dashing towards his assigned position, his heart pounding with anticipation.

The soldiers moved swiftly, weapons drawn, shields raised, forming tight battle lines.

Tension thickened the air, but there was no fear—only readiness.

As the monsters finally surged into view, the battlefield erupted into chaos. Swords clashed against monstrous flesh, arrows rained from above, and spells crackled through the air.

In the heart of the battle, Mortz and the young knight fought side by side, defending one another as they cut down the enemy with relentless determination.

Though the fight was gruelling, they never wavered. They fought for their kingdom, their comrades, and the people they swore to protect.

❈

After hours of relentless battle, Celestia’s Left Wing defences collapsed. The young knight, battered and bleeding, stood amidst the ruins. Despair filled his eyes as he watched a horde of monsters closing in.

"This isn’t a battle," he gasped between ragged breaths. "This is a massacre."

In the chaos, he had been separated from Mortz. He could only hope his mentor was still alive.

Steeling himself, he turned towards the central defence, determined to warn them of the collapse. But his path was blocked—grey wolves circled him, their fangs bared.

Heart pounding, he swung his sword, fighting desperately. But they were relentless. One sank its teeth into his leg.

Pain seared through him. He screamed, staggering, his grip on his sword faltering.

Then—horror.

In the frenzy, another wolf tore into his hand. A sickening crunch. His finger—gone.

His body weakened, his vision blurred. And then he saw it.

A lifeless figure nearby.

Mortz.

His mentor—his guide—was dead.

"Senpai…" he choked, his voice barely a whisper.

As darkness closed in, he reached out, fingertips brushing against Mortz’s cold armour.

And then—silence.

His journey ended there. But his sacrifice would never be forgotten. His name would live on, forever etched in history as a warrior who fought with unwavering courage until the very end.