The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the war-torn city of Mezorin. The golden light danced upon crumbling facades, revealing scars of conflict etched into the very essence of the city.
The city is bustling with activity as the merchants from neighbouring towns and cities saw an opportunity amidst the chaos and devastation, seeking to capitalize on the rebuilding efforts and the influx of labourers and soldiers.
The merchants, shrewd and quick-witted, recognized that amidst the rebuilding process, there was an opportunity for profit.
With goods and resources in high demand, they brought in supplies from distant lands, offering them at prices that reflected both the scarcity and the urgency of the situation.
They set up makeshift stalls along the makeshift streets, displaying their wares in an attempt to entice the weary residents and the newly arrived workers.
The scent of fresh produce, vibrant fabrics, and aromatic spices wafted through the air, mingling with the dust and remnants of destruction.
"Step right up, my friends! Feast your eyes upon these magnificent fabrics from distant lands," he proclaimed, his words dripping with enthusiasm. "Feel the luxury between your fingertips, as soft as a lover's caress. Look at these intricate patterns! It was woven with the cutting edge technologies that exist none other than Ryntum."
On another corner, another merchant's stall featured stacks of food items. "In times of scarcity, it is vital to nourish and care for one another," he emphasized. "These fruits, sourced from the best orchard, cultivated on the best land with the best seed can provide you with the strength needed to rebuild your lives."
The sound of haggling and animated conversations filled the once-silent thoroughfares, as merchants vied for the attention and wallets of those passing by.
Levi, standing amidst the rubble and destruction, observed the surrendered enemy soldiers as they toiled to rebuild the devastated city. Their once defiant and battle-hardened demeanour had given way to a weariness that mirrored the destruction surrounding them.
It had been a few days since Levi Owen had dispatched a letter to the capital.
Typically, the response would have arrived in a couple of days, but the circumstances surrounding the surrender of the Barlia and Inverloch forces were unique, the capital probably requiring thorough deliberation and careful consideration.
The clang of hammers against stone echoed through the streets as buildings slowly rose from the ashes. Under his watchful eye, the soldiers, now temporarily prisoners of war, worked diligently, rebuilding what they had once fought to destroy.
To be honest, it was an odd sight to see former adversaries now labouring side by side.
"Keep up the pace, but don't overexert yourselves. We have a long road ahead of us," Levi said firmly, addressing the temporary prisoners of war who were now working alongside the Ryntum army to rebuild the devastated city.
Neigh-
Just as Levi's voice began to fade, a thundering sound of hooves filled the streets. Heads turned towards the source of the commotion as a horse, lathered in sweat, galloped into the city.
The steed made its way to Levi and its rider delivered an urgent message. The messenger approached Levi, extending the letter with a sense of urgency.
Levi's eyes scanned the contents of the letter, a smile gradually forming on his face. He turned to the messenger and nodded, expressing his gratitude for the timely delivery.
Raising his voice to ensure that everyone within earshot could hear, Levi called out, "Soldiers of Barlia, gather around! Tomorrow morning, we depart for Napuna. The kingdom has prepared ships to carry you back home!"
The proclamation echoed through the streets, and an eruption of joyous cheers erupted from the Barlia soldiers.
They embraced one another, their faces glowing with relief and elation at the thought of returning to their homeland after months of conflict and uncertainty.
The air was filled with contagious energy as shouts of celebration and laughter reverberated through the city.
"You hear that, lads? Home!" one soldier bellowed, his voice tinged with a mix of relief and disbelief. "After all we've been through, we're finally going back to our families, our friends, and the familiar embrace of our homeland."
"Finally, we're going home!" exclaimed another soldier, tears of joy streaming down his face. "I can't wait to see my family again."
Amidst the jubilant atmosphere, the Inverloch soldiers stood in the background, their expressions a mix of longing and envy. They watched the Barlia soldiers' elation with a tinge of sadness, their own homes and loved ones' seemingly distant dreams.
"I wish we were the ones going home. It feels like we've been stuck here forever." his voice laced with a tinge of longing.
"Patience, my friend. Our time will come. Since they fulfilled their promise with Barlia, that means they will fulfil the promise with us." his friend offered solace.
They exchanged a brief nod, finding comfort in each other's presence amidst the celebrations of their Barlia comrades.
Together, they continued carrying out their duties, working as temporary construction workers. Their efforts were fueled by a glimmer of hope that their own return home was on the horizon.
Meanwhile, Levi summoned Bain to meet him. As Bain arrived, Levi's face displayed a mixture of seriousness and concern.
"Bain, I need you to take charge of the affairs here," Levi instructed. his voice firm but filled with concern. "Ensure the soldiers here do not plot anything. Who knows if there are spies from Vofors infiltrating the city and trying to rouse the soldiers to fight back."
"Don't worry, you can rely on me, Levi," he affirmed. "Are you taking the detained top officers with you?"
Levi nodded, his expression resolute. "Yes," he replied. "They are valuable prisoners that need to be secured safely. We cannot allow any chance for escape. Furthermore, the interrogation process cannot be delayed."
Bain understood the hastiness of the military. The captured top officers held valuable information about the Principality of Barlia and the north in general.
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