Damian Caesar

Alfred Norman's POV

[Capital City of Ardania, Ylence, entrance]

*Neighh*

The coachman stopped the horses. I presume we have arrived at our destination. 

The moment I left the carriage, everything was already prepared; the royal guards and maids were already waiting for us and leading us right towards the castle.

"We welcome our honored guest, Alfred Norman. Our Lord is awaiting the guest in the great hall; we shall depart there at once." 

Great Hall, it's only permitted to be used when four great families are accompanying the table.

If they have all gathered here, that means something significant has happened or will happen soon.

*Knock*

[Alfred was standing beside a giant door, which looked more like a gate, waiting for a response to open this gate.]

"Enter at once." I heard a familiar voice say,

When the gate in front of me opened, they were all already here.

Caesar Family, Aligner Family, Vimbert Family, and Nollet Family

The four great families were all present.

Other than them, there were also other fortress commanders, as well as myself.

I was able to recognize some faces—Mack Dillon, Noah Posch, and Robert Maurer; they all command forces in the southern part of the kingdom. I recognized those faces since I'm also apart of the southern region garrison. More precisely, the south-west region, near the coastline.

"Alfred Norman has arrived by the order of the great Marshall Damian Caesar." – I announced my presence.

"Very well," answered Damian. 

He was a great man. In terms of Damian's physical features, he is someone with a great appearance—clear, glowing skin, well-groomed hair, and a fit, toned body. With symmetrical facial features, bright eyes, and a welcoming smile. Considering his age, he aged like a fine wine.

Beyond physical features, his clothing fits well and flatters his body type. Good posture that carries him with a sense of grace and ease. Additionally, his presence exudes an air of confidence and approachability, making others feel comfortable and drawn to him. allowing him to effortlessly command the human forces.

"Unfortunately, the King won't participate in this meeting," exclaimed Damian, meanwhile observing the expressions on the great families' faces.

But none of them even raised an eyebrow; they seem pretty accustomed to this lifestyle, and psychological battles are just like child's play for them.

"As we all know, our kingdom is having a hard time—we lack basic products, items, and tools. Our soldiers are untrained, unexperienced, and unadapted to fighting in a war. In addition to that, we also lack equipment for them—swords, wands, armor." Damian began to make his point.

"We all already know the situation in Ardania, so I don't see the reason why you're pouring salt on the wound." — proclaimed Nollet Familiy's head.

"I also stand on my brother's side; I see no reason for this. Or perhaps the Caesar family is blaming us for not coming up with a solution?" – postulated the head of the Vimbert family.

"The Caesar Family would never do such treason against our sacred brothers," Damian quickly stated.

When Damian finished his sentence, others seemed to quiet down, as if telling Damian to continue.

"As well as to that, I have received a letter from Merlin himself; it seems like he's going off to the mountains of the endless void island to receive enlightenment and finally obtain the black core."

This unexpected news quickly spoiled the mood for the great families. 

"On that letter, he did not mention for how long he would be on that island, but he mentioned something concerning the fate of our kingdom: it depends on how we approach it." — as Damian continued, his eyes were sharp, and his cold gase gave everyone in the room a grasp of the situation.

"Kingdom of Noggin, the race of gnomes, that is our southern neighbor, Merlin wrote on his letter that if the gnomes found out that he was gone, then they'll surely try to annex Ardania and enslave its people." — As Damian spoke, he made a short pause to look at everyone's expressions, and shortly after continued.

"So Merlin suggested in his letter that the kingdom of Ardania must prepare for the war that might soon break out. We must prepare and arm our warriors, train them, and grant them the little experience we hold. First, the fortresses that are located at the border with Noggin must be fully prepared and alarmed at all times." 

As Damian continued to speak, I couldn't understand a single word that came out of his mouth, since I was too distracted by my own thoughts.

A war? Deaths? Casualties? Our fortress is the first line of defense?

What will happen to my family? Lucia? Fray?  The baby? Beatrice? What will happen to them?

*KNOCK*

*SLAM*

Suddenly someone started slamming the gate,

"SIR, THIS IS AN URGENT MATTER!" Someone behind the gate shouted.

Everyone was shocked by the man's insolence, but Damian still had his cold, untouched aura.

"Enter at once." Damian permitted the man behind the gate to enter.

When the gate opened, a young man, approximately in his 20s, appeared in a rush, pouting heavily.

"S-sir...ufff...Y-your family!"  — said the man, but his words weren't for anyone in the room but for me.

"What?" – I answered straight away.

"Y-your family was attacked! I mean your house!" – said the man.

"When was it reported? Did anyone in the house get hurt?"

"Approximately 15 minutes ago, the capital's communication tower received the message from Marsh Emerson."

"I excuse myself, oh great lords, but I must return to my family at once to make sure they're safe!" –  I excused myself; my family is a more important matter to me right now.

"We understand Alfred. Do as you must." –  Damian gave me permission to return.

Without wasting a moment, I borrowed a horse from the nearest horse stable and rushed towards my home. 

Lucia, Fray, Beatrice... please be safe.