Chapter 17: 38th Squad

Two days later…

Marcus and Sebastian rode their horses through the winding mountain path leading back towards the Grey Mountain Sect. The sun was just beginning to rise from the horizon, casting a soft golden light over the peaks and valleys. After the meeting had concluded, the journey to return to the sect from the capital had been long and tiring for Marcus, but the urgency of their mission kept them moving at a swift pace.

As they approached the sect, the guards stationed at the gates immediately noticed the two horses speeding through the sect, and identifying the identity of these people fast, the guards immediately shouted, "Open the gates!!!"

Once the gate is opened, the speeding horses didn't stop as they passed by the guards and directly up towards the mountain peak of the first peak.

Seeing the familiar sight of the sect, Marcus brought a sense of relief. Marcus though exhausted felt

As they approached the main gates of the sect, the familiar sight of the towering mountains and lush forests brought a sense of relief. Marcus, though exhausted, felt resolute as the experience he gained for leading the sect in the council made him proud of himself. He glanced at Sebastian, whose stern expression mirrored the gravity of the situation, without his master, he wouldn't have the courage to face countless powerful political figures in the kingdom.

"We're almost there, master." Marcus said, trying to lighten the mood. "It's good to be back."

Sebastian nodded, his eyes focused ahead. "Indeed, but our work is just beginning. We have to rally the sect and prepare for the assault teams! We can't let the demons increase their numbers further!"

They passed into the bustling courtyard of the Grey Mountain Sect. Disciples and officers paused in their activities to watch the pair's arrival, sensing the importance of their return. Marcus dismounted and helped Sebastian off his horse, both men heading straight for the grand hall where the council of elders awaited.

Who already had been notified by the guards through their expensive communication talisman.

Inside the grand hall, the atmosphere was tense. Victor Armstrong, the sect master, stood at the head of a long table, flanked by the other elders: Brandon Forge, Luna Grace, Skyler Dawn, Aaron Sinclair, Grace Stoneheart, Ryan Skylark, and Rose Langley. Their expressions were a mix of concern and seriousness.

"Welcome back, you two," Victor greeted them, his voice calm but commanding. "What news do you bring from the capital?"

Sebastian stepped forward, bowing slightly before addressing the council. "The Rose Kingdom has decided to take immediate action against the demon threat. We are to form assault teams in collaboration with other sects. Our objective is to harass and disrupt the demons' progress, buying us time to find a more permanent solution to the portal."

Murmurs spread through the hall as the elders digested the information. Brandon Forge was the first to speak up. "Do we know which sects will be joining us in this effort?"

Marcus answered, "The Jade Lotus Sect and the Iron Fist Sect have both pledged their support. Additionally, the Celestial Phoenix Sect will send a contingent to aid us. We must coordinate our efforts to be effective."

Hearing these, the elders was stunned first and soon relaxed. These sects were powerful and had a long and ancient history compared to their Sect. Both sect, the Jade and Iron were mid-tier sects, meanwhile the Celestial Phoenix Sect is the oldest among the region, their foundation is so deep that no one knows exactly how strong this sect is. But being a high-tier sect, there's no doubt about their strength.

With Celestial Phoenix Sect joining them, the heavy worries these elders had have been lifted.

Victor nodded thoughtfully. "Very well. We will need to organize our best cultivators into these assault teams. Each team must be balanced in skill and elemental affinity to maximize our chances of success."

Skyler Dawn, who had been listening intently, added, "We should also consider the terrain and strategies. The demons will be heavily guarding the portal. We'll need to be smart about our approach."

Aaron Sinclair, always the strategist, chimed in, "We can use the forest to our advantage. Ambush tactics and hit-and-run strategies will be our best bet. We must keep the demons off balance."

Victor turned to Sebastian. "I trust you and Marcus will lead the first assault team. Your experience and knowledge will be crucial in guiding the others."

Sebastian bowed again. "It will be an honor, Sect Master."

Marcus felt a swell of pride and responsibility. He had trained for moments like this, but the reality of facing a demon horde was daunting. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the task ahead.

"Prepare your teams," Victor commanded. "We move at dawn. The Grey Mountain Sect will show these demons the strength and unity of our people."

The elders dispersed to relay orders and begin preparations. Marcus and Sebastian left the hall, heading towards the training grounds where they would assemble their team.

As they walked, Marcus turned to his master. "Do you think we're ready for this?"

Sebastian placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "We've trained hard, Marcus. We have the skills and the determination. Remember, we fight not just for our sect, but for our dignity and pride. We will succeed… We have to…"

Marcus nodded, a grim feeling crept on his back. Shaking his head, he steeled himself together with his master, they would face the darkness and protect their home. The Grey Mountain Sect would stand strong against the demon threat.

As Marcus and Sebastian finalized their plans for the upcoming assault, the rest of the Grey Mountain Sect was a hive of activity. All core disciples were to be dispatched, while the inner disciples were responsible for the defense of the sect along with the elders.

Teams were formed, and core disciples took their numbers to determine which team they'd join. The sect boasted nearly 5000 core disciples, and among them, about 1000 were main disciples who had received the most attention and training from the elders. Among the many teams being assembled in the court, Serana was not an exception. She was called by an officer while cultivating on the 7th peak and quickly understood the situation when the officer briefed her about the objective of assembling so many teams. When Serana picked her number through raffles, she was surprised to find herself paired once again with Jessica.

This time, they were in a new team, the 38th Assault Squad. This team included members from various peaks, each bringing unique skills and strengths, making the group more effective and flexible in situations requiring specific expertise.

A day later, Serana stood in the training grounds, the cool morning air filled with the sounds of preparation. Jessica was beside her, her usual cheerful demeanor tempered by the seriousness due to the atmosphere in the surroundings. As the other members of their squad gathered, Serana took a moment to observe them.

First to arrive was William Fletcher, a disciplined warrior from the 5th peak known for his exceptional swordsmanship. He gave a respectful nod to Serana and Jessica, his eyes reflecting a calm readiness.

Next was May Davies, a talented healer and alchemist from the 3rd peak. Her presence was a comfort to the team, as her skills in healing would be crucial in the battles to come. She smiled warmly at Serana and Jessica, her confidence evident.

From the 6th peak came John Harrison, a burly and strong cultivator with an affinity for earth-based techniques. His imposing figure and steady demeanor reassured the team of his reliability in the face of danger.

The final member was Kayla, an alluring lady whose foxy attitude and charm matched Jessica's energy. A swift and agile fighter from the 8th peak, she was known for her expertise in dual daggers and her ability to move unnoticed through the forest. She gave a soft, cutesy salute to the team, her energy a welcome addition, especially for the morale of men.

The group stood in a loose circle, sizing each other up. Serana stepped forward, her cold gaze sweeping over her new teammates. "We're the 38th Assault Squad. I'm Serana Stark, and this is Jessica. Before we begin, let's introduce ourselves and decide on our roles within the squad."

William spoke first, his voice steady and confident. "William Fletcher, from the 5th peak. Swordsmanship is my specialty. I'll be in the front lines."

May followed, her voice warm and reassuring. "May Davies, from the 3rd peak. I'm a healer and alchemist. I'll provide support from the rear."

John's deep voice resonated next. "John Harrison, from the 6th peak. Earth-based techniques and raw strength are my assets. I'll be your shield."

Kayla twirled one of her daggers, her smile playful. "Kayla, from the 8th peak. I'm good at moving unseen and striking fast. I'll handle stealth and reconnaissance."

Serana nodded, pleased deep inside her heart as she was amazed by the diversity of skills. "Good. Now, we need to establish a clear chain of command. Our mission is dangerous, and we can't afford any confusion."

Jessica grinned, stepping forward. "We should determine our leader based on strength and experience. That's the best way to ensure we follow the strongest."

There was a murmur of agreement, and Serana took a deep breath. "Very well. Let's have a friendly sparring session. The winner will lead the squad."

The group moved to the center of the training grounds, forming a loose circle around Serana and William, who had volunteered to go first. The clash was swift and intense, with Serana's strategic mind and fluid movements quickly overpowering William's disciplined attacks, her frost attack always slowed him down, thus he was in great disadvantage against her.

Next was John, who relied on his brute strength and earth techniques. Despite his formidable power, Serana's agility and precise strikes allowed her to outmaneuver him, ending the sparring match with a decisive victory, by freezing his ankles.

Kayla stepped forward, her dual daggers flashing in the morning light. The two women moved like shadows, their speed and agility creating a mesmerizing dance. But Serana's cold determination and unwavering focus gave her the edge, and she emerged victorious once more.

Serana was about to fight Jessica, but that fellow was already terrified how quickly and precisely Serana finished each match realizing how far behind her in terms of strength. Her and their teammates realize that no wonder she's able to defeat a demon, her strength and battle tactics were outstanding!

With a final nod, Serana turned to the group as her icy expression turned the vibe of the group to seriousness. "I will lead. But remember, we are a team. Each of you brings something invaluable to this squad, and I expect you to give your best."

There was no dissent, only a respectful acknowledgment of her strength and leadership, even Jessica was amazed by her leadership, it's not something she had seen so far being with Serana, after all during their mission together, Jessica was the one to lead and give suggestions to Serana as she have previous experiences that Serana don't have.

…

As they regrouped in the main court of the sect, an officer approached, bearing a sealed scroll. "38th Assault Squad, your mission orders."

Serana accepted the scroll and unfurled it, her eyes scanning the contents. "We are to rendezvous with two other squads from the Jade Lotus Sect and the Iron Fist Sect. Our objective is to harass and delay the demons' progress at the portal in Frostfall Forest. Let's prepare and leave immediately."

She glanced at her teammates.

The squad quickly prepared, gathering their equipment and supplies. Serana led the way, leaving the sect immediately with her squad, her mind focused on the task ahead. The growing feeling of missing her master had been bothering her lately, but, thanks to her cold personality she was able to put emotional burden at the back of her head, so she would be able to focus on the task on hand.

They moved swiftly through the forest, their training and discipline evident in their coordinated movements.

Two days after travelling with the squad, they reached the designated meeting point, a clearing at the edge of the forest. The Jade Lotus Sect and Iron Fist Sect squads were already there, their members standing in loose formations.

The Jade Lotus Sect disciples, clad in elegant green robes, regarded the newcomers with barely concealed disdain, after all, the reputation the Grey Mountain Sect is not great, they're also a low-tier sect. Judy, their leader, stepped forward, her expression haughty. "So, the Grey Mountain Sect has finally sent their disciples. I hope you can keep up."

Fang, the leader of the Iron Fist Sect squad, crossed his arms over his broad chest, his expression one of skeptical amusement. "Let's see if you can handle yourselves."

Serana met their gazes with her usual cold confidence, dismissing their attitude towards them, she then spoke in cold voice. "Serana Stark, leader of the 38th Assault Squad. We are here to fulfill our mission. Personal differences can wait."

Judy raised an eyebrow but said nothing, her silence an acknowledgment of Serana's point. Fang grunted in agreement.

The squad leaders gathered to discuss their strategy, with mission scrolls outlining the plans. "We'll divide our forces to create multiple points of disruption. Each squad will be responsible for a specific target, each of us will lead our respective group." Serana spoke.

Judy's smirk was dismissive. "And what makes you think you can lead a group?"

Jessica's voice was unwavering. "Serana has faced these demons before. She knows their tactics."

Fang nodded reluctantly. "Fine. But if you slow us down, we won't hesitate to leave you behind."

Serana's gaze was cold but resolute. "Understood. Let's get to work."

The teams dispersed, each moving to their designated positions. Serana's team approached their target, Serana outlined their strategy. "We need to create a diversion. Kayla, use your techniques to disrupt their formations. Jessica will protect the rear and protect May. William and John, engage directly. May, be ready to heal."

Quickly designating their roles in a focused manner, everyone nodded and prepared themselves once more. Dealing with demons is hard; they're tricky, unpredictable, and very strong. One must really be prepared when encountering such foes.

Jessica's hand stayed on the hilt of her sword as she walked closer to Serana. Seeing her friend approach, her cold demeanor softened, and she smiled at her. "Be careful, Jessica. If you can't handle the enemy, it's okay to retreat first."

Jessica laughed at her suggestion. "Okay, be safe too." She smiled her eyes were full of determination.

…

The three squads separated and surrounded the entrance of the Frostfall Forest as night approached. These three groups began their objectives.

The group moved into position, their movements coordinated and precise. When they reached the edge of the demons' perimeter, Serana gave the signal. Kayla took a deep breath and unleashed a barrage of offensive talismans that sent the demons into disarray.

"HUMANS! HUMANS ARE HERE!"

"FIGHT, EAT THESE PESTS, ANNOYING PESTS!"

The uncanny figures of demons raged when they realized another batch of humans had come to attack them. It's been like this every day, but the pace of the attacks by humans had increased significantly.

Although most of the demons won the battles against humans, they still lost a handful of their kin protecting the portal.

The demonic aura that suppressed weaker humans spread throughout the forest, slowing the progress of humans and picking them off one by one. The demons were enraged due to the constant attacks, and thus tonight, the demons were unhinged as half of the demon guards left their posts to hunt these humans within the forest.