Analytical Commander

Shen inhaled deeply as the fortress's gates opened in front of them. The weight of expectations and history made the air feel thick. Shen saw that his brother was treated with a profound respect that looked almost natural in every gesture and salutation. Everyone who came into contact with Geno was washed away by his overpowering presence, which filled the room like a tide.

Zara caught up to them before they arrived at the royal room's huge doors. She had remained silent the whole of the way, but when they got closer to the threshold, she stopped Shen by putting a hand on his arm. Geno slowed down but did not stop, moving on toward the doors to have a quick conversation with a servant.

Zara said, "Shen," in a steady but hurried voice. Shen turned to face her with a curious expression.

"Remember this before we enter," Zara urged. Don't let your doubts to fade. No. Make use of that. Don't just be scared and blind. To navigate, use that. Don't strive to be "fearless," then.
Although fear has its place, let it to lead you rather than dominate you. Her words carved themselves into his mind as her look pierced him.

Shen gently nodded as she took in her counsel. He understood the truth in her words and felt their weight. Fear was a tool that he needed to learn how to use, not a weakness.

Zara took a step back when Geno came back, and the three of them made their way toward the doors of the throne room. Shen's heart raced as the huge doors groaned open. The chamber's towering ceilings and elaborate stonework, which were intended to evoke awe, made its grandeur overwhelming. The king's armor shone in the torches as he sat on an elaborate throne. The room became silent as his piercing stare passed over them with an aura of power.

Shen and Zara bowed their heads in respect and knelt down immediately. In a gesture that conveyed respect for one another rather than subordination, Geno stood still but cocked his head slightly. The chamber echoed with the king's powerful voice.

With a strong but gentle tone, he ordered, "Rise." "Your triumphs and sacrifices have greatly benefited this kingdom."

The king stared at Zara as she and Shen stood there. "Zara," he added with a tone of appreciation in his voice. "You have shown yourself to be a strong warrior by your bravery and leadership on the Republic's frontiers. As Commander of War, you have my respect.

Zara's new insignia was handed to her by a royal attendant. Composed, she bowed her head in appreciation and took it. Then the king's piercing eyes shifted to Shen, and Shen felt the full force of it fall upon him.

The monarch said, "Shen Takeda," in a firm and authoritative voice. "This kingdom has greatly benefited from your analytical thinking. The secret to your victory on the battlefield has been your strategic planning and determination. We require not just physical prowess but also intellectual strength. Thus, I bestow upon you the unique rank of Analytical Commander.

Shen felt both a great sense of pride and a great deal of responsibility after hearing the words. An attendant came forward and put the emblem on him. Shen was compelled to consider the king's deeper meaning as his thoughts continued to replay his speech.

The king underlined, "They are great responsibilities, not just titles." Shen found great resonance in the phrase and knew it to be true. This was a challenge to meet the standards set for him, not only an acknowledgement of his skills. His actions and decisions would have to shape this title, which he would have to earn every day.

Shen followed Geno through the extensive hallways of the citadel as they exited the throne room. Both the presence of his brother and the weight of his new title weighed hard on his mind.
Every action Geno made had a purpose, and his quiet confidence was evident. Shen's mind kept returning to Zara's earlier remarks regarding uncertainty and anxiety. He was unable to get rid of the impression that Geno too had concealed doubts of his own.

Shen spoke, breaking the silence. "Geno, what the king said about accountability. Is it ever too much for you?

Geno glanced to Shen with a little smile as his pace slowed. "Shen," he added in a measured tone, "the weight of responsibility never lessens." However, it isn't intended to. We are reminded of our fight by that weight. It tempers and molds us. You will eventually learn to carry it without hesitation.

With a thoughtful nod, Shen showed his growing regard for his brother. Geno's remarks were more than just guidance; they were a mirror of his own fortitude and expertise.

Shen paused, then asked another inquiry as they walked on. "What was the reason behind the Republic soldiers' actions in the village? Instead of defending their own people, they appeared more concerned with establishing their supremacy.

Geno's face darkened a little as he sighed. He remarked, "Shen, politics is rarely about what's right or fair." "The Republic's actions are motivated by a complicated web of factors rather than just hostility. In order to remind us and their own people of their strength, they sought to establish control over the frontiers. The purpose of the presentation is to discourage dissension and insurrection.

He hesitated, picking his words wisely. However, they are cautious about going over their limits. They carefully consider both the immediate and long-term effects of every choice they make. They're not reckless, but they're also not unbeatable. Eventually, their need to be in charge of everything will turn into a weakness.

Impressed by the breadth of Geno's understanding, Shen took in his brother's explanation. He had underestimated the complexity of the layers of political influence and strategy.

At last, Geno gave Shen a golden key and a little cloth pouch stuffed with bloodflowers. Geno remarked, "This is for your protection." "And this is for your future," he continued, pointing to the key. As a thank you, the king has given you a house. It's past time you had a home of your own.