Another Platoon

"Brother!" Hiyasmin's voice echoed with pure excitement and affection as she caught sight of Liam entering the room unexpectedly. Her eyes lit up with joy, and she immediately rushed towards him, her steps more confident now that she could walk without as much assistance.

We were gathered around the table in the cozy room, Commander Leonel and I, with Commander Rivalz stationed near the entrance for security. Liam's sudden appearance brought a surge of positive energy into the room, breaking the tension and uncertainty that had been lingering in the air.

Hiyasmin's embrace enveloped Liam, displaying their close bond despite having different mothers. Her happiness was palpable as she shared her progress with him. "I can walk now, Brother!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "And I wake up early too, unlike before." Her smile was radiant, reflecting her determination and resilience.

Liam returned her embrace warmly, his eyes reflecting pride and happiness for his sister's achievements. It was a heartwarming moment, witnessing their sibling bond and seeing Hiyasmin's progress firsthand.

Liam's expression softened as he thanked me, a gesture that touched me deeply. His gratitude was heartfelt, and it was the first time I had seen such warmth in his eyes. I nodded in acknowledgment, reciprocating his smile. 

"You're welcome," I replied with a genuine smile, mirroring his expression. "I'm just glad I could help, especially after everything you've done for me."

Liam's nod of acknowledgment spoke volumes, emphasizing the unspoken bond that had formed between us during these challenging times.

However, the mood shifted when Hiyasmin cautiously inquired about Alexa. Her voice held a hint of fear, aware of the gravity of the situation. Liam's reaction was visceral, his hands clenched into fists, and a flicker of anger crossed his features, revealing the depth of his emotions.

The silence that followed spoke louder than words, conveying the grim reality of Alexa's situation. Hiyasmin's eyes welled up with tears, her lips trembling with sorrow. "Brother…"

Liam, sensing her distress, enveloped her in a comforting hug, his words a promise of hope and determination. "Don't worry, Hiyasmin," he reassured her softly. "We'll find her and bring her back, no matter what it takes." 

The weight of the situation hung heavy in the air, and I couldn't shake off the worry and concern that filled my thoughts. The unanswered questions about Alexa's safety, the state of the castle, Ludwig's well-being, and the nature of the explosions plagued my mind.

As Liam conversed with Commander Rivalz and Commander Leonel, I hesitated to interrupt their discussion. I wanted desperately to inquire about the recent events, but the urgency in their preparations to leave left me with no opportunity to voice my concerns.

Instead, I watched silently as they readied themselves, a knot of anxiety tightening in my chest. 

I was taken aback by what I had just realized. "Wait..." I stammered, trying to process the gravity of the situation. "Are you planning to leave me here?" I directed my question at Liam, my voice trembling with uncertainty.

Liam responded with a firm nod. "The situation is critical," he stated gravely. "The castle came under attack while you were being evacuated. Alexa went missing, and Ludwig suspects that the incident may have occurred inside. You were taken out to ensure your safety."

As Liam spoke, his expression grew serious, his lips pressed together tightly and his eyebrows furrowed in concern. "One of our informants has warned us about an imminent second attack. Although Hiyasmin is still recovering, she remains a Princess and must stand with us in this fight. Even I may not fully agree with this decision, but it is not solely mine to make. She needs to join us in battle."

I swallowed hard, a sense of unease settling in the pit of my stomach as I grappled with Liam's words. "You may be a Halfling," Liam added, his tone somber, "but we have no knowledge of your true abilities. You lack combat skills and could potentially become a liability or worse, another casualty. I'm sorry, Louise," he sighed heavily, his expression filled with regret, "but you cannot accompany us."

While I could comprehend Liam's reasoning and understood the necessity of his decision given our circumstances, fear still gripped me tightly.

"Don't worry," Liam reassured me, his tone trying to offer solace. "There will be others assigned to guard you, ensuring nothing worse happens. Commander Rivalz, our finest warrior, will personally see to your safety, using every means necessary." Liam's sigh hinted at the weight of the situation. "Another platoon is set to arrive tomorrow, so..."

Confusion knitted my brow. "Why bring in another platoon?" I questioned, struggling to grasp Liam's rationale. "The battle isn't here. Shouldn't all knights be stationed at the castle? Every man is needed for the fight there. Why divert resources just to guard me? Who am I in all of this? Besides, if Commander Rivalz is indeed our most competent warrior and a commander, wouldn't it be more prudent for him to defend the kingdom at the front lines? Why am I being prioritized for safety?"

Liam's gaze averted, a sign that he didn't have all the answers. "Ask Ludwig," he replied firmly. "He holds all the explanations. This decision is his." With that, Liam offered no further farewells or reassurances before they departed.

I barely had a chance to bid a proper farewell to Hiyasmin, just a brief embrace as Liam seemed in a rush to leave.

Three hours had slipped by since their departure, yet I couldn't shake off the creeping worries that gripped me. I still couldn't fathom why this decision fell under Ludwig's purview. I recognized my own weaknesses, so I understood their reluctance to have me join the fray, but the arrival of an entire platoon remained a mystery.

As the sun rose on another morning, the anticipated reinforcements arrived in force. Their distinct uniforms, with half of them donning green instead of the customary red, indicated their origins from the knights of the Land Fae Kingdom. Commander Rivalz took a moment to explain this to me as we sat down for breakfast amidst the heightened security outside the house.

"That seems excessive," I murmured to myself, grappling with a sense of unease as I tried to eat.

Commander Rivalz noticed my discomfort, observing the dozen guards patrolling outside while I remained confined within the safety of the house, with no escape in sight. "I understand that you're not accustomed to being surrounded by so many people, Lady Louise, but you must honor Prince Ludwig's decision. He clearly prioritizes your safety above all else."

I offered a reassuring smile, acknowledging his words. "But what about the others?" I pressed on, my concern for those more vulnerable than me evident. "The children, the pregnant women, the elderly—how are they being protected, Commander Rivalz?"

Commander Rivalz remained silent, offering no further insight into the matter.

As two days slipped by without any updates, my worries intensified. The lack of communication left me in the dark about what was transpiring. Had the anticipated attacks occurred? Were they safe? Did they require additional support?

My mind raced with questions, and the lack of answers fueled my anxiety. It was well past midnight, yet sleep eluded me. I felt utterly useless, confined to a routine of eating, reading, and sleeping while others risked their lives for the kingdom.

This was the first time in my life that I felt so powerless, and the feeling was unbearable. Surely there must be something, however small, that I could contribute.

For hours, I tossed and turned in bed, consumed by thoughts, wishes, and prayers until I finally decided to get up. Perhaps reading would help me find some peace and rest.