Dual Support

As Shen started approaching the castle, the train station, a symbol of the Republic's strict control, grew smaller behind him. The controlled urban environment faded away with every step, giving way to the wild, undulating vegetation of the Kingdom. There was a noticeable difference; the air itself appeared to change, smelling richer of moist earth and natural vegetation instead of the pungent smell of industry. It was a vast, lovely wilderness, yet its tranquility brought no comfort. A single, eerie phrase from Shen's dream was continually battering his consciousness like a hurricane.

You told her a falsehood.

The words reverberated in the recesses of his mind, a spectral murmur devoid of meaning or context. To whom had he lied? What is it about? Each step felt heavier than the last as the allegation hung over him like a thick, unseen cloak. He nearly missed the castle's enormous walls rising out of the terrain, their grey stone appearing to penetrate the clouds, because he was so preoccupied with the internal conflict.

He was getting close to the main gate when the silence was broken by an abrupt, startling noise. A squad of troops poured out like a steel tsunami as the enormous doors opened inward with a resounding groan of protesting metal. With a phalanx formed, spears directed at him, shields locked, they moved with a practiced, aggressive urgency.

"Stop right there!" One of them gave a harsh, authoritative bark. "This area is prohibited! Declare your intention or risk being viewed as antagonistic.

Because his position and the Kingdom's own insignia were prominently displayed on his clothing, Shen was temporarily taken aback by their animosity and reflexively lifted his palms in a conciliatory gesture. Of course he understood. Security would have been heightened by the recent attempt on the King's life. However, a well-known voice broke the tension before he could explain.

"Get down on your feet! He's here with us.

Two individuals moved with a quick assurance that befitted authority as they stepped out of the gate's shadow. Shen recognized them and felt a wave of immediate, powerful relief. Fenix and Kelly—friends formed in the furnace of mutual hardship, teammates from his training days.

Fenix strode ahead, speaking authoritatively to the cautious men. "This dude is someone we know. "Down your weapons," he said in a strong yet comforting tone. Then, with a glimmer of regret in his eyes, he turned to Shen. "I apologize, Shen, for the welcome party. Since the attack, things have been tight.

Fenix's order caused the troops to pause, looking from him to Shen, and then grudgingly down their weapons. But the distrust remained on their faces. Shen's focus was entirely on his buddies, whose presence served as a reassuring and unexpected stabilizing force amidst the turmoil.

"Fenix? Kelly? Why are the two of you here? Shen inquired, his prior uneasiness subdued by his sincere interest.

A sardonic smile appeared on Fenix's face. In any case, we chose to remain after completing an assignment nearby. We were given command of the local army by them.

Shen raised her eyebrows. "Commanders? I thought that the only person who could make such an appointment was the King himself.

Kelly crossed her arms and shrugged. That's what we also believed. However, it seems that the customary procedures become more like recommendations during times of crisis in the kingdom. To shut things down, they required officers with expertise, so here we are.

Shen took a deep breath as the meaning of what they had spoken began to sink in. He had been misled about how unstable things were in the Kingdom. It was implied that the royal court was under tremendous strain, possibly even crumbling, to assign such important authority.

"How is the King doing?" Fenix's cheerful disposition disappeared and was replaced by a worried expression. "The assassination attempt was reported to us."

The recollection stiffened Shen's own face. As of right now, he's stable. However, the court is in chaos and the populace is terrified. I am here because we have grounds to believe that another country is tugging the strings.

Fenix and Kelly looked at one other knowingly and solemnly. Shen's candid statement validated their concerns, and the seriousness of the situation was evident. He was hunting, not here for a social visit.

Kelly's eyes grew piercing. "So, you have a lead if you're here, don't you?"

Shen paused for a moment, considering, then nodded. Indeed. We suspect that a senior Regalian official is involved. The most direct path to their coastlines is via this territory, according to Admiral Takeda.

The word "Regalia" seemed to drain the air of its warmth. Fenix's expression hardened as he took in the details. Regalia can be reached from here, but it won't be simple. That region of water is teeming with separate pirate crews, and the only way is via ship.

In a low, sad voice, Kelly said, "They're not just pirates." They are vultures. They never ask questions and always fire first.

Shen's forehead creased as he considered this new challenge. It was the most direct and dangerous path. On this mission, it appeared to be a recurrent motif. He questioned, "Is there another way?"

Kelly gave a firm shake of her head. Emporia has a land route, but they have a fortified wall enclosing their boundary. You would have to engage in an unwinnable battle to get past their forces. It would take 10 times as long and be twice as dangerous.

Shen took a deep, determined breath and decided what to do. The decision was obvious, despite the potential risks. "All OK. I'll go over the ocean.

Fenix and Kelly exchanged a glance and then smiled faintly, encouragingly. He had not fallen short of their expectations. Fenix gave Shen's shoulder a strong, comforting clap. "We anticipated your statement. Do not be concerned. We support you.