"So, this is the elite room, huh?" Audrey remarked, her voice filled with a mix of awe and amusement.
Her eyes swept across the elegant decor that adorned the space. Soft hues of gold and cream adorned the walls, accentuated by intricate tapestries depicting scenes of grandeur. The furnishings exuded opulence, with a large four-poster bed draped in luxurious silk canopies, inviting rest and relaxation.
The room was spacious, offering ample space for two guests. A small sitting area with plush chairs and a delicate tea table provided a cosy corner for intimate conversations.
Audrey's assistant let out a low whistle of admiration. "I can't believe this is the lowest tier of their accommodations," she remarked, her eyes wide with wonder. "It's far better than I expected. In fact, it's made my house looks like a shithole."
Audrey smiled, her gaze drifting across the room. "That's the top inn for you," she replied, a hint of satisfaction in her voice. "It's important to have a comfortable and relaxing space during our stay here."
She moved towards a nearby side table, where a silver tray adorned with an assortment of delicate pastries and a steaming pot of fragrant tea awaited.
Audrey poured herself a cup, savouring the warm aroma that enveloped her senses.
After calming herself down, she reached for a piece of paper with the official letterhead of the Ryntum Kingdom from her bag.
This kind of paper was produced in very limited numbers and was only handed out by the king as he doesn't want anybody to misuse this paper.
Firmly holding a quill, her finger start to dance across the paper as she composed a formal letter, expressing her desire to meet with the ruler of the principality. The letter was neither short nor long but it still convey all the messages she wants to.
As the ink glistened on the page dried up, she carefully sealed the letter.
"Send this to the Blueriver Palace," Audrey instructed her assistant, handing her the sealed envelope. "Let's hope they are willing to meet with us."
Her assistant nodded, a glimmer of confidence in her gaze. "They will, for sure. After the commotion at the port and the presence of our steel ships, Barlia is likely aware of our presence. They won't ignore our request."
With a sense of purpose, the assistant tucked the letter into her satchel and prepared to make the journey to the palace, situated across the river.
....
In the south, Levi, surrounded by his officers stood before the map spread out on a makeshift table. His army, now reinforced by the soldiers stationed in Haugdak, stood ready for their next move.
The map of the Eikadir region lay before them. And the nearest significant settlement to them was Balkes.
Levi's gaze narrowed as he studied the map, his mind calculating the distances, terrain, and potential challenges that lay ahead. He traced his finger along the route they would take.
"Balkes," Levi murmured, his voice a blend of determination and caution. "It's a large fortified city in the Eikadir region. The city was established after Barlia captured the region from Cerdeauxia. If we can capture the city, it will provide us with a significant advantage and pave the way for further advances. Be it to the north or south."
His officers nodded, their eyes reflecting the same understanding as their commander.
Having their target set, Levi promptly scrolls the map. "Let's not waste any time and marched into the region."
The army began its departure from Haugdak. Banners fluttered proudly, displaying the insignia of Ryntum as a symbol of unity and strength.
The rhythmic sound of boots hitting the ground reverberated through the air, echoing the collective heartbeat of the marching soldiers.
As they traversed the terrain, the landscape changed around them. Rolling hills gave way to dense forests, their leafy canopies providing shade from the scorching sun. Rivers meandered alongside their path, offering a momentary respite and a source of refreshment.
Along the way, they encountered countless villages, where the locals offered their support and hospitality.
In times of peace, these villages thrived due to their proximity to the border. They had served as vital rest stops for merchants conducting business between the two nations, benefiting from the flow of trade and commerce.
The locals had reaped the rewards of this bustling activity, with markets bustling and hospitality extended to travellers passing through.
However, in times of war like the present day, the advantageous location of these villages became a curse.
The borderlands were now a contested and dangerous territory, subject to raids and skirmishes. The villagers found themselves caught in the crossfire, living in constant fear and uncertainty.
As such, the sight of the Ryntum army brought a sense of relief to the weary villagers. It signalised a glimmer of hope in the midst of the turmoil.
Levi, at the forefront of the army, rode on his noble steed. His mind remained sharp as they advanced. Days turned into weeks as they marched relentlessly, never losing sight of their objective.
As they neared the Eikadir region, anticipation and tension hung in the air.
Levi's voice cut through the murmurs of the soldiers, commanding their attention. "Be careful and stay alert," he warned, his eyes scanning the surrounding terrain. "We are about to enter a hostile region."
Although he adjusted their route to avoid potential ambushes, they still need to be careful as the Barlia know the terrains better than them.
The soldiers nodded, their expressions serious as they tightened their grips on their weapons. They understood the need to exercise caution.
The army proceeds deeper into the region. The silence was punctuated only by the rustling of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife. A sense of unease crept through their ranks, leaving them with an inexplicable, unsettling feeling in the pit of their stomachs.
Levi felt the same sensation as well.
Suddenly, the tranquillity shattered as a rain of arrows descended upon the Ryntum forces.
"It's an ambush!" shouted Levi.
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