Chapter 25 Domine Salvum Fac Regem

The soil under Golla's was painted red and black as he walked toward the lining camp in his sight. He was with his horse next to him and his king in his hands while Jocylee rode behind them. His eyes were focused on the flags that were lining up in front of them.

The proud flags of Hella greeted them, expecting to see their owner return, but this time he wasn't returning with glory. His once proud back of his was gently laid on his palms, saddening the earth which was weeping because of his death.

The head knights and generals came to visit and see their king, but only silence waited for them. They saw their liege was carried in his hand while Golla walked toward them without expression. Behind him, they saw Jocylee who was the messenger of Bastia. However, the sudden death of their beloved king took a toll on their minds.

" My king!"

The generals shouted, rushing toward Golla who was heading toward them. They saw he wrapped his cape around his body and covered his face, indicating he passed away in their custom. Also, he equipped his sword on the wrong side to express his grief.

" All units, bow. All units, kneel. All units, place your swords and respect for our king one last time. We will bid him with our victory and glory. He will be embraced by the goddess and return to the stars."

Golla said emotionless, ordering them to show their respect one last time. The generals and knight commanders took off their capes, lining up to the head commander's tent while the knights stood by them. They knelt on the side, placing their sword next to them to gesture their respect.

The flag bearers raised their flags, hitting the ground to make a sound. Their cries ignited the passion inside the soldiers as they hummed loudly to bid farewell to their king. They were in a war, and being sad would only bring their morale down. Hence, the soldiers proudly raised their heads to look at their fallen king last time. They remembered the moment when they followed him from behind and this was the most important thing.

" All units, clash swords and sing. Sing for him one last time."

The company commanders gave out chain commands and the soldiers followed them. They unsheathed their weapons and clashed them together to make a scene of respect. The sound of metal was ear-deafening, but somehow it was reassuring.

The soldiers knelt after Golla passed their lines, creating big waves. Their armor shone under the sun, illuminating his way to the tent where he would be placed on his bed.

" Save our King, oh great goddess."

The knights sang out loudly, hiding their tears behind their hoarse voices. The soldiers followed the suit and sang along with them. Their strong voices chased away the clouds hanging around them as the sun shone even brighter like it was guiding its child.

Jocylee silently followed behind him, peeking at the soldiers with pity. She felt both guilty and helpless because their side was at fault and she couldn't save him despite her power. He trusted them with his life, yet she gave him a stab in the heart.

" Raise your head, Dame Jocylee. You are here on the wish of our king and I will honor his will."

Golla spoke lightly, threading on the path with a stoic face. The only thing in his mind was to protect the general and give the medicine to her. If anyone gets in his way, he would strike them down mercilessly.

Swoosh*

He entered the tent and placed the king on the bed. He took a look at him one last time before heading out to the war vault that was kept next to them.

" Who are you?"

He saw a man, standing there while Jocylee prepared for a combat. They both knew it was impossible to go through the camp now unless they were either mages or assassins with bad intentions or a message. However, this man didn't look like he was on their side.

" I am sorry, but I can't let you have an elixir. The kings must die in this war."

He said, drawing out his sword from its scabbard.