Chapter 82: Echoes of War

The aftermath of the battle at Fort Emberhold left Rimuru's forces battered but triumphant. The soldiers celebrated their victory long into the night, fires lighting the sky, the smoke carrying the smell of victory and sorrow in equal measure. Padrino stood on the battlements, watching as the horizon began to lighten with the first hints of dawn. Though the battle had been won, he knew that it was a temporary reprieve.

Rimuru's victory had sent a message to Galdros, but Padrino was aware that this victory might provoke a stronger response. The Galdrosian king would not take the defeat lightly. He would rally his forces and return with a vengeance. It was not a question of if—but when.

As the first rays of sunlight broke through the clouds, Marko approached him, his expression grim. "We've driven them back for now, but the scouts report that Galdros forces are regrouping in the hills. It's only a matter of time before they strike again."

Padrino nodded. He expected as much. "How long do we have?"

"Two weeks at most," Marko replied, folding his arms. "They're gathering reinforcements, but it's unclear how many more troops they'll bring."

Hinata joined them, her expression no less serious. "We need to fortify Rimuru. Even though we've strengthened the outer defenses, we can't assume Galdros will attack the same way. We need to be prepared for different tactics."

Padrino's mind was already racing, forming new plans. Fortifying Rimuru's defenses was the top priority. But he couldn't fight off the growing sense that the only way to truly end this war was to take the fight to Galdros itself.

"We can't afford to wait," Padrino said, breaking the silence. "If we only defend, we're just waiting for them to return stronger. We need to disrupt their plans before they have a chance to recover."

Hinata and Marko exchanged glances. "Are you suggesting we strike first?" Marko asked.

Padrino nodded. "If we can cripple their supply lines, destroy their strongholds, we might be able to weaken them before they launch another full-scale attack. Galdros relies heavily on its military infrastructure. If we hit them hard and fast, they won't be able to rebuild quickly enough."

Hinata looked thoughtful. "A strike team, perhaps? Small and mobile. We could infiltrate Galdros' border towns, disrupt their supply routes, and sabotage key positions."

Padrino turned to Marko. "Can we assemble a group quickly?"

Marko nodded. "I already have a few names in mind. We can be ready to leave in a few days."

With the decision made, the three of them set to work, coordinating their plans. Padrino gathered a small but elite team of warriors who had proven themselves in the battle for Fort Emberhold. Among them were some of his most trusted companions: Sera, a stealthy scout; Niko, a brilliant tactician with a sharp eye for strategy; and Grendar, a hulking warrior known for his brute strength and loyalty.

As preparations for the mission were underway, Padrino took a moment to visit the people of Rimuru. The villagers had grown accustomed to the looming threat of war, but now there was a palpable sense of hope. Many believed that if anyone could protect them, it was Padrino.

In the market square, he was greeted with cheers and applause. Children ran up to him, some shyly offering flowers, while others tugged at his cloak, asking about the battle. The sight of their smiles reminded Padrino why he fought—not for power, not for glory, but for them.

As he walked through the square, a familiar voice called out to him. "Padrino!"

He turned to see Lia, the healer who had saved his life so many times. She stood with her arms crossed, her expression soft yet stern.

"I've heard you're planning something dangerous again," she said, narrowing her eyes at him. "You never know when to stop, do you?"

Padrino smiled wryly. "You know I can't sit by and do nothing, Lia. Galdros won't give us peace unless we fight for it."

Lia sighed, her gaze softening. "Just… be careful. The people need you, Padrino. Rimuru needs you."

Padrino nodded, appreciating her concern. "I'll be back, I promise."

As he made his way back to the castle, Padrino felt the weight of the upcoming mission settle on his shoulders. It was risky, but he knew it was the only way to gain the upper hand in this war. If they could pull it off, they would force Galdros into a weakened position. But if they failed… the consequences could be disastrous.

The night before the mission, Padrino stood in the war room with his team, laying out the final details of their plan. They would travel under the cover of darkness, avoiding major roads to remain undetected. Their targets were Galdros' supply routes and key fortifications near the border. A swift, coordinated strike would cause maximum disruption with minimal casualties.

As they prepared to leave, Hinata approached Padrino. "You don't have to do this alone," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "We can fight Galdros together. We're stronger united."

Padrino met her gaze, appreciating her loyalty. "I know. But I have to lead this mission myself. This is more than just a battle—this is the first step in ending this war."

Hinata nodded, understanding the weight of his decision. "Then may the light guide you, Padrino."

With that, Padrino and his team set out into the night, their figures vanishing into the shadows as they embarked on a mission that would shape the future of Rimuru and its people.