Levi made his way to the bustling port, where the warships of Ryntum stood anchored. The clang of metal and the creaking of wooden planks filled the air as crews worked diligently to resupply and maintain the formidable vessels.
Seeing Levi approached, wariness plastered on the face of the sailors. Their gazes followed his every move and their hand couldn't help but point their guns at him.
With a steady and reassuring demeanour, Levi raised his hand in a gesture of peace. "Easy there, sailors," he said in a calm tone. "Don't you see the uniform I'm wearing? I am Commander Levi of Ryntum's forces."
The crews hesitated for a moment, their guns still trained on Levi. "Apologies, sir," one of them said cautiously, recognizing Levi's rank from his uniform. "We were told to be on high alert and to treat any potential threats with extreme caution."
Levi nodded understandingly. "It's quite alright," he replied. "You are merely following orders, and I appreciate your dedication to your duty. Let me meet your admiral."
"'Come up, sir. We will take you to see the admiral," the crew said, gesturing towards the gangway.
Levi nodded appreciatively as the crew led him up the gangway, guiding him towards the heart of the warship. The rhythmic sounds of the ship's machinery and the ocean's gentle sway underfoot accentuated the gravity of the situation.
Finally, they reached the command centre, where Admiral Stormrider stood, overseeing the ship's operations.
Upon seeing Levi, the admiral smiled and said, "Congratulations on your success, Commander Levi."
"Thank you, Admiral Stormrider," Levi replied with a nod, acknowledging the congratulations. "But truth be told, I don't think I could have achieved it this quickly without your support. Had you not sunk their ships, the battle would dragged on for much longer."
The admiral chuckled good-naturedly at Levi's humility. "My contribution doesn't amount much. It is your leadership on the ground that led to victory." Admiral's attention then shifted to the matter at hand. "Now, what can I do for you?" he inquired, his tone attentive.
Levi took a moment to gather his thoughts before answering, "Since you are here, I want you to transport the prisoners of war to Torksey Island. I trust your fleet to handle the task efficiently and securely."
The admiral nodded in agreement. "Consider it done, Commander Levi," he replied. "We will ensure that the prisoners are safely transported and kept under tight security on Torksey Island."
Levi felt a sense of relief knowing that the prisoners would be handled responsibly. "Thank you, Admiral. Your assistance is invaluable," he said sincerely.
"No problem," said the admiral. "Why don't I transport you back to the capital as well? I'm sure the king would love to hear the news," Admiral Stormrider offered.
Levi pondered the proposition, realizing that returning to the capital with news of their victory would be a significant event. However, he knew that his presence in Eikadir was still necessary to ensure stability and address any potential threats from Barlia.
"I appreciate your offer, Admiral, but I must remain here in case Barlia attempts to invade again," Levi replied firmly.
The admiral nodded in understanding. "I see. Your vigilance is commendable, Commander Levi," he said, acknowledging Levi's dedication to his duty. "Though I don't think such action would be necessary anymore."
"What do you mean?" Levi asks with curiosity all over his face.
"Remember the king sent someone to Barlia to negotiate a peace treaty?" the admiral replied.
"Yes," Levi confirmed.
"Well, I don't know what the progress was, but she is supposed to return soon. We might hear about the war with Barlia coming to an end. So... You might want to inform the king about the situation here as soon as possible, easier for His Majesty to coordinate everything at his end," the admiral explained.
Levi's eyes widened in surprise. "Is that so?" he asked, realizing that the long-standing conflict might finally be reaching a resolution. "In that case, I will send someone to Bideford."
He called for his trusted officer who had served alongside Levi in many battles.
"What do you need me for, sir?" asked his officer.
"I have an important task for you," Levi said. "I need you to return to the capital immediately and deliver the events that transpired here to the king. Inform him about our successful victory here and the capture of Major General Nolan."
The officer accepted the orders without objection. "As you wish, sir," he said, giving Levi a salute before promptly fleeing the scene to make some preparation.
Without delay, the process of loading the prisoners of war onto the Ryntum warships began.
The defeated soldiers looked disheartened, but Major General Nolan stood tall, his eyes filled with calmness. He knew that his capture had implications for the Barlian forces, and there is nothing he can do about it.
Nolan passed by the admiral, his hands still bound, but his demeanour remained composed.
"So, this is Major Nolan?" Admiral Stormrider asked, looking intently at the captured Barlian leader.
"Yes, Admiral, this is Major General Nolan," one of the Ryntum officers confirmed, keeping a close eye on the Barlian prisoner.
Nolan met the admiral's gaze with steady eyes, showing no signs of fear or defeat. He knew that his capture had consequences, and he was prepared to accept whatever fate awaited him.
"You'll soon join your superior in an excruciating journey of torture. I hope you're mentally prepared," the admiral stated bluntly.
Nolan's expression remained unchanged, but his voice carried a hint of determination. "I am more prepared than you think, Admiral," he replied firmly.
The admiral observed Nolan carefully, his face inscrutable. After a moment, Admiral Stormrider opens his mouth again, "Yeah...That's what your superior said before but it doesn't go well for them."
Admiral made gestured with his hand, instructing the soldiers to bring Nolan into the ships.
As the prisoners were loaded onto the Ryntum warships, Nolan took one last look at the city he had fought so hard to defend. Their defeat caused all the efforts and lives sacrificed to be in vain.
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