Chapter 204: Party Forming
Nana watched closely as King Griswald dismounted his horse, a look of determined focus on his face. One of his Royal Guards approached swiftly, saluting before delivering his report. "Sir, all of the injured have successfully formed the defensive barrier. Additionally, we have selected the 12 fighters for the spearhead operation," he announced.
King Griswald's nod was firm and decisive. "Good. We should be able to reach the cave's entrance within 15 or 20 minutes if we execute our strategy smartly," he said, turning to the guard. "Who are the men and women included in this push?"
The Royal Guard, holding a scroll that seemed to have been written in haste, responded, "Due to severe injuries among some of our fighters, we've selected those with the best combat capabilities who won't slow down the group."
Nana strained to hear as he began to list the members of Team 1. She knew that the composition of this team was critical to their mission's success. Every name read out was a warrior ready to face the unknown dangers that lay ahead in their quest to stop the monstrous invasion and find Ty.
Nana listened as the Royal Guard continued to read off the names of those selected for the spearhead operation. King Griswald himself was taking part, along with Silvius Draven:, Orin, and Guido. It was a strong team, each member known for their combat prowess.
King Griswald, turning his attention to the members of the team, approached Orin. Nana observed Orin closely; the young fighter was distinctive with long green hair braided down both sides, complementing his emerald green eyes.
"You sure look pretty young. You can't be older than 14, is that right?" King Griswald inquired, his tone carrying a mix of curiosity and concern.
Orin, standing confidently despite his youth, replied, "Yes, Sir, that is correct. I was asked to accompany this expedition along with my other battlemates that we fought alongside during the invasion of the Cathedral."
King Griswald nodded, his gaze shifting to the bow Orin carried. "I see. So, I suppose that bow is your weapon, right?"
Orin responded with a determination that belied his age. "Yes, Sir. I have been training nonstop, and I plan to be nothing but useful to you and the kingdom." His words conveyed not just his readiness for the task ahead, but also his commitment to the cause and his desire to contribute meaningfully to their mission.
King Griswald placed a reassuring hand on Orin's head. "Good, I will do everything in my power to ensure you make it out alive. You never know who will lead the nation once my day comes."
Orin, a faint blush coloring his cheeks, replied with a respectful determination, "I plan on ensuring that isn't anytime soon, Sir."
Nana watched as King Griswald then turned his attention to Guido, the man clad in shining silver armor. "It's a pleasure to be going back into the fray with you, Guido. Though, I'm surprised you were able to make it here. I thought you were on castle defense duty, guarding the royal families," the King remarked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.
Guido, lifting his visor to reveal his face, responded with a tone of deep respect. "Your Kingness, I was informed about the situation with the Attacker returning and the loss of a good friend of mine. I've passed off the responsibilities of guarding the castle to Master Dagon's promising student." His voice carried a blend of sorrow for his fallen comrade and a sense of duty to avenge their loss.
Nana, observing the interaction, could sense the camaraderie and mutual respect among the team members. Each had their own reasons for joining this dangerous mission, united by a common goal to confront the threats facing their kingdom and to honor those they had lost along the way.
The mention of Master Dagon seemed to bring a fond memory to King Griswald, who chuckled heartily. "Master Dagon, now that's a guy I haven't fought alongside in a while," he said with a broad smile. But as his laughter subsided, Master Dagon himself materialized out of thin air, accompanied by a small shower of sand particles from his sudden appearance.
"Well, perhaps it's time we change that, I suppose. What say you, old man?" Dagon quipped playfully, addressing King Griswald.
King Griswald, still smiling, nodded in agreement. "We will have a lot to catch up on once we make our push," he responded, anticipating the joint effort.
Master Dagon, joining in the light-hearted moment, laughed heartily. "No need, old man. No reason to do things so obtusely anymore. Sure, we could tire ourselves out, but I had a better plan once I got word of the events going on."
Nana observed this exchange with a growing sense of assurance. The presence of seasoned warriors like Master Dagon, along with the camaraderie and mutual respect shared among the group, added to the team's strength and experience.
Their united front, bolstered by the addition of such skilled fighters, promised a formidable challenge to any adversary they would face in their mission to protect the kingdom and defeat the lurking threats.
As Master Dagon snapped his fingers, a distant but distinct sound of a roaring engine filled the air. The team looked up, their attention captured by the approaching noise. In the distance, they could see a giant train, its path illuminated by a blue trail of energy. It charged towards them with remarkable speed.
As the train drew closer, it slowed, eventually coming to a hovering stop directly above them. The sight was nothing short of astonishing—a feat of technology that seemed almost otherworldly in its execution.
From the train, men and women dressed in crisp white suits emerged. They moved with purpose and efficiency, quickly beginning to unload their cargo. Crates and bags, each marked with various symbols, were thrown down with precision, forming a neat pile on the ground below.
The team watched in awe as the supplies accumulated. The train, a marvel of engineering, had brought them much-needed resources. It was clear that their mission was being supported at the highest level, with equipment and provisions that would be crucial for their journey ahead.