Chapter 390: Eternal Winter (4)

Perseus POV

"Sup Vince, what do you want? Did you get bored of those games already?"

"No."  He then looked around and saw only Leilah there, "What happened to those scientists?"

"Most of them will be killed by Dawn's subordinates, some are spared and will go to confess their crimes after being scared, Cain's operation will cease to exist, and that's about it, other than the fact that he and some gods coming to invade our world in a couple of months."

"Fun."

"Yeah, you should start packing and going to our bunker, I got us a private one close to the village's one, you guys can still communicate with friends while having a lot more rooms to spare compared to everyone."

"When will the war start?" 

"After the 7-month period where we'll reject Russo's offer, that's when it starts."

"What's stopping them from attacking us right after we submit the 15 representatives thing?"

"Nothing, it would be different if they saw us as equal. Their citizens would protect if we were, but we can't expect that much, if we were another human kingdom, there would be some mercy granted."

"Chances of us living if we all go all out?"

"We win at the cost of at least half our men. We're much stronger in terms of quality, we'll easily invade and take their capital. Russo himself is there while also being named as a representative."

"I came from one war-torn world only to end up in another, God truly hates me."

"I wouldn't say so." Dawn chimed in out of nowhere, "He asked me to check up on you, it seems that he granted you another chance, so it's why your memories are retained."

"Dumb god." Vince complained, "What's the point of giving me a second life? I'd rather just enjoy one and get it over with."

"Are you not enjoying yourself?" I asked

"I enjoyed it, but still, you get my point bro. Anyway, if you need any help, let me know, I'm just enjoying a very slow life at the moment."

"I can introduce you to a woman."

"Knowing your taste, I'd rather not."  he shook his head

"What's wrong with my taste?"

"I prefer younger women." he answered

"Um...you're...like...you're..."

I think I might need to call the authorities on my own brother.

*****

Currently, I'm taking it upon myself to check the village's equipment, the enchanters left after they've done their job, so I'm the only one left who can see if there's anything they've missed. 

It was about time to check our inventory and ensure that everything was in order for the impending battle.

I started with the swords, carefully drawing each one from its scabbard and examining the blades. After the enchantment, the edges became razor-sharp, capable of slicing through the toughest armor with ease.

I inspected the hilts, ensuring that they were securely fastened and free from any cracks or damage. It was essential that every sword in our arsenal be in pristine condition.

Next, I moved on to the shields, lifting each one from its hook and inspecting the surface for any signs of wear or weakness. A shield was a lifeline, and a flaw could prove fatal on the battlefield. I ran my fingers along the edges, making sure they were free of chips and dents and gave the boss in the center a firm push to check for any wobbling. 

"Leilah, wanna get married?"

"What?" Leilah responded in shock

After the shields, I turned my attention to the armor. I was checking the joints and straps for any signs of wear or loosening. Our warriors needed to be fully protected, and I couldn't afford to overlook even the slightest mistake. I'll have Dawn bless these later, there's no oath forbidding her from doing anything.

"Stop checking them!" Leilah demanded, "Are you serious?!"

"About what?"

"Your proposal just now!"

"Oh that, yeah."

"What?!"

"The war is about to start, Rowan is going to be our enemy and all, so if we get married before the war starts, you can still invite him without too much worry."

"And your idea of a marriage proposal is in the armory?! What is wrong with you?!"

"A lot of things are very wrong with me. So yes or no?"

"Of course, it's yes, who the hell do you think I am?!"

"Alright then, I'll give you the engagement ring after this, let's finish our job first."

"You're something else, you know that?"  she said with a smile.

"What's so funny?"

"You just proposed to me," she replied while chuckling, "And now you're back to work like it's the most normal thing in the world."

*****

Leilah POV

After leaving the armories, Perseus just gave me a ring and a quick kiss before heading off to do something. What? I don't remember, I'm still in a bit of shock.

I stared at the simple silver ring on my finger, the weight of what had just happened sinking in. It wasn't the grand, romantic proposal I had always imagined. In fact, it was the opposite, and that's what made it so incredibly... him.

He had asked while we were inspecting equipment, of all things. He didn't get down on one knee or recite a rehearsed speech. There were no candles, no fancy restaurant, just the two of us surrounded by tools and gear.

I couldn't help but burst into laughter, he had casually returned to inspecting equipment, as if he had just asked me to pass him a wrench.

"What's with your face?" Lilith asked as soon as I returned home.

So, I showed her my ring and her face was priceless. For a person who was scared of the idea of marriage, she could still be jealous of me receiving the proposal first. I just stuck my tongue out and walked by, but she stopped me.

"Where did he do it?" she asked, "Did he lie when he said that you 2 were going to inspect the armory?"

"He did it in the armory, he didn't lie."

"You...you 2 didn't have sex in the armory, did you?" 

"No. I rather not do anything like that in public, I'm not you."

"You made it sound like I've done it with him in public before, I haven't." she replied

"You haven't?"

"Wait, what's with the smirk?! You've done it?! Hey, don't ignore me!"