Onward

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the forest path as The Vengeful One and her forces came to a halt. The sound of armor clinking and boots shifting echoed faintly as the 1st Dark Marine Battalion began setting up camp, their movements precise and practiced after months of rigorous training.

Lian dismounted first, issuing orders to the Marines with calm authority. "Set up a perimeter! Standard formations. I want the fires low and supplies accounted for. Move!"

The Marines saluted sharply, their boots thudding against the earth as they sprang into action. Tents began to rise, supply wagons were unloaded, and the faint hum of activity filled the air. Yet, despite their efficiency, the exhaustion of a long day's march was clear in their postures and weary expressions.

At the center of it all stood The Vengeful One, her dark cloak trailing behind her as she surveyed the scene. Her crimson eyes flicked from one group of Marines to another, their discipline and resolve drawing the faintest hint of a smirk to her lips. But there was more to be done.

"Lian," she called, her voice cutting through the din. Her Grand Commandant hurried to her side, saluting swiftly.

"My Lady?"

"Take over here. I'll handle the barrier."

Lian blinked, momentarily confused. "The barrier, my Lady? You mean—"

"Exactly that," The Vengeful One interrupted, stepping forward. "Our soldiers may be strong, but they still need rest. A full night's sleep without fear of ambush will do them good. Watch closely. Perhaps you'll learn something."

She strode to the center of the encampment, her dark aura beginning to pulse faintly as she raised her arms. The Marines paused in their tasks, heads turning toward her as a wave of magical energy rippled through the air, heavy and commanding.

"What's she doing?" one Marine whispered, his voice tinged with awe.

Another shook his head, eyes wide. "I've never seen her cast anything like this. Look at the sky—what's happening?"

Above them, the darkening heavens seemed to shimmer, threads of glowing energy weaving together as The Vengeful One's voice rang out in a low, ancient chant. Her crimson eyes blazed, her hands moving in precise, deliberate motions as the spell began to take form.

Golden runes appeared in the air, spinning in intricate patterns before expanding outward to form a massive dome of translucent light. The barrier stretched across the entire encampment, its edges shimmering as it touched the earth, sealing them within a protective sphere. The glow was warm yet unyielding, radiating a sense of absolute safety.

The Marines stared in stunned silence, their exhaustion momentarily forgotten.

"It's… it's huge," one murmured, his eyes wide.

"No one's breaking through that," another added, his tone filled with reverence.

The Vengeful One lowered her hands slowly, her breathing steady as the runes faded, leaving only the barrier's faint hum. She turned to face her troops, her smirk returning as she saw the awe etched into their faces.

"There. No beast, bandit, or assassin will touch you tonight," she declared, her voice carrying across the camp. "Rest well, my Marines. You've earned it. And remember—your queen watches over you, always."

A cheer erupted from the battalion, their voices ringing out with renewed energy despite their weariness. Lian stepped forward, her expression a mix of admiration and disbelief.

"My Lady, this… this is incredible. To shield an entire force with one spell—how long will it hold?"

The Vengeful One's smirk deepened as she folded her arms, her dark aura receding slightly. "Until the sun rises, or until someone foolish enough to challenge me breaks it—which they won't. Let them come if they dare. I welcome the distraction."

Lian couldn't help but smile, shaking her head in amazement. "You've outdone yourself, my Lady. The troops will sleep soundly tonight."

"As they should," The Vengeful One replied, her tone softer now. Her crimson eyes swept over the camp once more, her satisfaction evident. "A well-rested force is a deadly one. Let this remind them why they march under my banner."

The camp buzzed with subdued activity, the soft hum of the barrier casting an otherworldly glow over the encampment. As the Marines settled into their tasks, tents rising and supplies being carefully organized, The Vengeful One strolled through the camp with measured steps, her dark cloak trailing behind her.

Great Sage chimed in, its voice a steady presence in her mind. "My Lady, your patrol seems to be garnering attention. The soldiers respect you deeply, and your presence is sure to bolster morale."

"I'm aware, Sage," she replied inwardly, her crimson eyes flicking to the Marines who hastily saluted or nodded as she passed. "But I'm not just here to bolster morale. I want them to know they're more than just tools to me. Each one of them is part of this machine I'm building, and I can't afford a single cog out of place."

Her first stop was at a group gathered near a low-burning fire. They were cleaning their weapons, their postures stiffening as she approached. One of them, a tall, burly man with a scar running across his jaw, stood and saluted.

"My Lady," he said, his voice steady but tinged with surprise.

She inclined her head slightly. "At ease, Corporal. You're Josten, if I recall. How's the arm? You injured it during the last sparring round, didn't you?"

Josten's eyes widened briefly before he nodded, flexing his arm. "It's much better now, thanks to the medics. I wasn't expecting you to remember, my Lady."

Her smirk was faint but noticeable. "Of course I remember. You're one of my strongest combatants, and I don't make a habit of losing valuable assets. Keep your strength up, Corporal. You'll need it soon."

Josten beamed with pride as she moved on, her crimson eyes scanning the camp. Great Sage chimed in, its voice calm. "The Corporal's morale has risen significantly. Acknowledgment of past events creates a sense of personal value."

"I know, Sage. This isn't my first walk among the ranks," she replied silently.

Further along, she stopped at a small group sharpening blades under the barrier's glow. A wiry woman with short-cropped black hair glanced up, her sharp eyes softening as she recognized her queen.

"Private Lessa, isn't it?" The Vengeful One asked, her tone casual yet commanding.

Lessa quickly stood, saluting. "Yes, my Lady. It's an honor."

The Vengeful One gestured for her to sit. "Relax. I'm just here to talk. You're the one with a knack for tracking, if I'm not mistaken. How's the terrain been treating you?"

Lessa blinked, caught off guard, but quickly recovered. "It's been challenging, my Lady, but manageable. The forest paths are rough, but they won't slow us down."

"Good. I'm counting on you to keep us on the right path when we hit the more uncharted areas, Private. Don't let me down."

"Never, my Lady," Lessa replied, her voice firm.

Great Sage's voice whispered in her mind. "Your acknowledgment of her unique skills has reinforced her confidence. She is likely to perform above expectations."

The Vengeful One chuckled inwardly. "I expect nothing less. Let's see who else could use a word."

She continued through the camp, her steps carrying her to a group of younger recruits gathered near a wagon. They were huddled over a map, their faces lit with a mixture of determination and uncertainty. She stopped behind them, her arms folding across her chest.

"Planning my conquest for me?" she asked, her voice light but teasing.

The recruits jumped, scrambling to stand and salute. One of them, a boy barely out of his teens with freckles scattered across his nose, stammered, "N-no, my Lady! We were just… reviewing the terrain…"

"Relax, soldier," she said, her smirk softening. "I'm impressed you're taking the initiative. What's your name?"

"Private Orren, my Lady," he replied, his voice still shaky.

"Well, Orren, tell me what you've learned. What's the terrain like past the next river?"

Orren hesitated, then stepped forward, pointing to the map. "It's dense forest, my Lady, with rocky outcrops here and here. It'll be tricky to navigate with the wagons, but there's a clearing about two miles further that could serve as a temporary camp."

The Vengeful One nodded, genuinely impressed. "Good work, Private. Keep that up, and you might find yourself leading more than just map studies."

The boy's face lit up, and she moved on, her crimson eyes gleaming faintly in the barrier's glow.

Great Sage spoke again. "Your interaction has planted the seed of ambition in Private Orren. He will likely work tirelessly to prove himself."

"Good. A little ambition never hurt anyone," she replied, a faint chuckle escaping her lips.

She stopped again near a group of medics organizing supplies. One of them, a tall woman with braided auburn hair, straightened and saluted.

"Lieutenant Carya, isn't it?" The Vengeful One asked, tilting her head slightly.

"Yes, my Lady. How can I assist you?" Carya's tone was calm and professional.

"Just checking in. How are the supplies holding up? Anything we'll need to restock before the next leg of the journey?"

Carya nodded. "We're well-stocked on basic items, my Lady, but the advanced healing potions are running low. I've already sent word to Silvercrag for resupply."

"Efficient as always, Lieutenant. Keep up the good work. You've saved more lives than you probably realize."

Carya bowed her head, her expression softening. "Thank you, my Lady. It's an honor to serve."

As The Vengeful One moved away, Great Sage chimed in. "Your acknowledgment of the medics' efforts has reinforced their morale. Medical staff are often overlooked, but their value is immeasurable."

"I don't need you to tell me that, Sage," she replied silently, though her smirk betrayed her amusement. "Every piece of this machine is essential. And I don't let any of them forget it."

By the time she completed her circuit of the camp, the Marines were settled, their spirits visibly lifted by her presence. She returned to the center, where Lian stood waiting, her expression one of quiet pride.

"You've been busy, my Lady," Lian remarked, her tone light.

The Vengeful One chuckled softly. "A queen's work is never done, Lian. You should know that by now."

Lian smirked faintly, shaking her head. "They'll sleep better tonight because of you."

"Good. They'll need it. We have a lot of ground to cover tomorrow, and I won't tolerate a single misstep." Her voice carried its usual edge of authority, but her crimson eyes gleamed with satisfaction as she glanced over the camp.

The Vengeful One lay back on her mat, her arms sprawled out at her sides, her crimson eyes fixed on the fabric of the tent's ceiling. The distant hum of the barrier mixed with the faint murmurs of the camp settling down for the night. She let out an exasperated sigh, the weight of the day pressing against her shoulders. For a moment, the stillness enveloped her, her mind teetering on the edge of exhaustion.

Then, a grin cracked her lips. "Sage," she murmured aloud, though she needed no sound for the presence in her mind to hear her. "How was my performance today? Did I play the role of the benevolent queen convincingly, or do you think anyone noticed I was just acting?"

Great Sage's familiar, measured tone chimed in, its calm voice echoing through her thoughts. "My Lady, your actions and demeanor appeared entirely genuine to your forces. There is no indication that anyone doubted your sincerity. The psychological and emotional responses observed in your Marines suggest they are deeply moved and inspired by your presence."

She chuckled softly, throwing an arm over her eyes. "You mean they fell for it. Not a single one saw through me?"

"Correct. Your ability to seamlessly blend calculated strategy with the appearance of genuine emotion is unparalleled. Even I, with all my knowledge, might struggle to discern the difference were I not aware of your intent."

Her grin widened, though it carried a faint edge of amusement. "Oh, Sage, flattery will get you everywhere. But tell me, do you think I'm going too far with it? All this… kindness and camaraderie. It's not exactly in my nature."

Great Sage paused for a moment, as if contemplating its response. "It is true that your innate tendencies lean toward pragmatic and ruthless decision-making. However, the facade of compassion you present is not merely for show. It is a tool, and a highly effective one. By fostering loyalty and trust, you ensure that your forces remain united and motivated. Even if it is an act, its results are undeniably real."

Her laughter was soft, almost melodic in the quiet of the tent. "So, you're saying it doesn't matter if I care, as long as they believe I do. That's almost poetic, Sage. You've got a way with words."

"I merely analyze and provide observations, my Lady. If my words are poetic, it is a reflection of your strategic brilliance."

She raised an eyebrow, though the grin never left her face. "And now you're buttering me up. What do you want, Sage? A promotion? More power over my thoughts? Perhaps a throne of your own?"

Great Sage's tone remained as steady as ever. "I require nothing, my Lady. My sole purpose is to assist you in achieving your goals."

She sighed, dropping her arm back to her side and staring at the ceiling again. "That's what I like about you, Sage. No ulterior motives, no hidden agendas. Just unwavering loyalty. If only I could say the same about everyone else."

"Your Marines' loyalty is not in question, my Lady. Their devotion to you is genuine. The admiration and respect you have cultivated among them are unmatched."

"And all it took was a few strolls through camp and some flattery. People are so predictable," she mused, her tone carrying a hint of self-deprecation. "But what if I slip up, Sage? What if one of them sees past the mask?"

"The likelihood of that occurring is negligible, my Lady. Your ability to maintain the facade is formidable. However, should such a scenario arise, your reputation and authority are strong enough to mitigate any potential fallout. Furthermore, it is worth noting that, while you may view your actions as purely performative, there are moments where your responses align with genuine emotion. Perhaps, in those instances, the mask and the reality are not so different."

Her smirk faltered, her crimson eyes narrowing slightly. "Careful, Sage. That almost sounded like you're suggesting I have a heart. We can't have that now, can we?"

"It is not my intention to suggest sentimentality, my Lady. Merely an observation. Even the most calculated actions can occasionally blur the line between artifice and authenticity."

She chuckled again, a softer sound this time, and closed her eyes. "Blurred lines, huh? Maybe. Or maybe I'm just getting too good at this game. Either way, it's working. That's all that matters."

"Indeed, my Lady. Your results speak for themselves. The loyalty you command and the victories you achieve are proof of your effectiveness. Whether genuine or not, your leadership is unparalleled."

She let the silence hang for a moment, her thoughts turning over Sage's words. Then, with a faint smile, she murmured, "Good to know I've got you fooled too, Sage. Maybe one day I'll even fool myself."

"Such a day would signify mastery of your craft, my Lady."

She laughed softly, rolling onto her side and pulling the blanket over herself. "Mastery, huh? Let's get through Ravenmoore first. Then we'll see how close I am to being the perfect queen. Goodnight, Sage. Don't let my thoughts wander too far while I sleep."

"Rest well, my Lady. I shall ensure your thoughts remain as sharp as ever."

With that, the tent fell silent, the soft glow of the barrier casting faint shadows across the fabric. The Vengeful One closed her eyes, the faint trace of her grin lingering as sleep claimed her.

The morning sun broke through the misty horizon, bathing the road ahead in soft golden light. The Vengeful One and her forces crested a hill, their boots crunching against the gravel as the city of Ravenmoore came into view.

Even she, with all her usual composure, couldn't help but pause for a moment. A faint smirk tugged at her lips. "Well, now. That's a sight."

Before them stood Ravenmoore, a city unlike any other they had encountered. Built into the side of a jagged cliff, its walls towered impossibly high, crafted from dark stone that seemed to absorb the light. The fortifications bristled with iron spikes and watchtowers, each one positioned with military precision. Bridges crisscrossed the cliff face, connecting the sprawling upper levels to the city below.

"An absolute fortress," Lian breathed, her voice tinged with awe as she pulled her steed alongside the Vengeful One. "No wonder they called it impenetrable in the old wars."

The Vengeful One's crimson eyes scanned the massive walls and towering gates, her gaze sharp and calculating. Her banners—black as the abyss and emblazoned with her silver sigil—fluttered proudly in the wind above the ramparts. Even from this distance, the sight of them sent a ripple of satisfaction through her. Her Marines had held their ground, and the city was firmly under her control.

"Impenetrable, perhaps, but not immutable," she said, her voice carrying the faintest edge of amusement. "Look at those banners. This fortress bows to me now."

Lian nodded, though her gaze remained fixed on the city. "Still, my Lady, the scale of it... The defenses alone would take an entire army to breach. It's remarkable."

"Which is why it was a priority to capture," The Vengeful One replied, spurring her horse forward. Her troops followed, their disciplined march creating a rhythmic thunder on the road. "Now all that remains is to ensure the people within understand what it means to serve me."

As they descended the hill, the details of the city became clearer. The outer walls were adorned with carvings of fierce creatures and ancient battles, their intricate designs a testament to the city's history. The gates stood tall and unyielding, flanked by statues of long-forgotten warriors. But beyond the imposing exterior, signs of her dominion were evident.

Marines patrolled the ramparts, their uniforms pristine and their movements sharp. The streets beyond the gates were bustling with activity, the faint hum of commerce and life filtering through the air. Even from a distance, it was clear that Ravenmoore was thriving under her rule.

"They've done well," Great Sage chimed in, its calm voice resonating in her mind. "The Marines stationed here have maintained order and efficiency. The city appears to be flourishing."

"Good," she replied silently, her smirk deepening. "It'll make asserting my dominance that much easier. They've already tasted prosperity under my rule. Now I'll ensure they never forget whose hand feeds them."

As they approached the gates, a low horn sounded, its deep notes echoing across the cliffs. The massive doors began to creak open, revealing a column of Marines standing at attention. Their salutes were crisp, their expressions unwavering as they welcomed their queen.

Lian glanced at her, a hint of pride flickering in her eyes. "Your forces are as loyal as ever, my Lady. Ravenmoore truly stands as a testament to your will."

The Vengeful One inclined her head slightly, her gaze fixed on the open gates. "Loyalty is earned, Lian. But it's also enforced. Let's remind them of that."

As they passed through the gates, the bustling city came fully into view. The streets were clean, the buildings well-maintained. Merchants hawked their wares in the market square, children darted through the alleys, and citizens carried out their daily tasks with a sense of purpose. And yet, as her procession entered, all activity gradually ceased.

One by one, heads turned. The people stopped what they were doing, their gazes drawn to the figure at the head of the column. Whispers rippled through the crowd, some fearful, some awed.

"That's her, isn't it? The Queen?"

"The one who sent the bandits packing."

"She doesn't look as monstrous as the stories say."

The Vengeful One's crimson eyes swept over the crowd, her smirk unwavering. She could see the mixture of reverence and unease in their expressions, and she thrived on it. Let them whisper. Let them wonder. By the time she was done, there would be no doubt in their minds who ruled this city.

Great Sage's voice cut through her thoughts. "The populace appears divided. Many revere your achievements, but others remain wary. This is natural given the circumstances. Your presence here will solidify their allegiance."

"And if it doesn't?" she replied inwardly, her tone laced with amusement.

"Then you have other means at your disposal, my Lady. But for now, I recommend a balance of intimidation and benevolence. The former instills respect; the latter builds loyalty."

She chuckled softly, her dark aura flickering faintly as she continued through the streets. "You always know how to keep things interesting, Sage. Let's see how they respond to my personal touch."

As her forces reached the central square, she dismounted gracefully, her cloak billowing behind her as she strode forward. Her boots echoed against the cobblestones, each step deliberate, each movement calculated. The crowd parted instinctively, creating a path that led directly to the heart of the city.

She stopped in the center, her gaze sweeping over the gathered citizens. Her Marines formed a perimeter, their presence a silent reminder of her authority. The Vengeful One raised a hand, and the murmurs ceased, the square falling into a tense silence.

"People of Ravenmoore," she began, her voice carrying effortlessly across the square. "I have returned to the city that now stands as a testament to my rule. Your walls, once impenetrable, now fly my banners. Your streets, once chaotic, now thrive under my Marines' watchful eyes. You have tasted the prosperity I bring. And now, I am here to ensure it lasts."

The crowd remained silent, their eyes fixed on her. She could feel their fear, their curiosity, their hope. It was palpable, a tangible force she could shape to her will.

Her smirk widened, her crimson eyes gleaming. "Do not mistake my kindness for weakness. This city thrives because I have willed it so. And as long as you remain loyal, as long as you serve with the same vigor my Marines have displayed, your lives will continue to flourish. But should you falter… well. You've seen what happens to those who defy me."

A ripple of unease passed through the crowd, but there was no dissent. The Marines around her stood taller, their presence a visible extension of her authority.

Satisfied, she turned to Lian, her smirk softening. "The city is ours, Grand Commandant. Let's ensure they remember why."

Lian saluted sharply, her voice steady. "Yes, my Lady. Your will is absolute."

As the Vengeful One surveyed the square one last time, the banners above her fluttered proudly in the wind.