Chapter 11 — Preparation for Greythorn Mission
The next day after receiving the mission, the squad gathered at the Academy's west courtyard.
Lux Alaric stood at the front, holding the parchment with the mission details. Synoh Vindral stood by his side, arms crossed, carefully observing everyone.
Claire bounced excitedly in place, her twin daggers strapped at her side.
"This is gonna be fun! Camping out, fighting monsters, maybe we'll find treasure!"
Yuta chuckled, checking his massive gauntlets. "Focus, you airhead."
Hugo Sternblade calmly polished his shield nearby, nodding respectfully at Lux and Synoh.
"Captain. Vice-Captain. We'll follow your lead."
Lira Mooncrest nervously tugged at her robe, standing close to Emily Heartwell.
Lux cleared his throat, pulling everyone's attention.
"We'll split into teams once we reach Greythorn," Lux said confidently.
"Our priority is survival first, clearing the fort second. No heroes. No splitting up without orders."
Synoh added firmly, "If you see something strange, report immediately. This is not a playground."
Edward leaned lazily against the wall. "Tch. You worry too much."
Marcus Redthorn pounded his sword against his shield. "Let's just smash everything that moves!"
Lux handed out small maps Irina had given them. Greythorn Fort was located deep within the Silverpine Forest, surrounded by rocky cliffs — a place easy for ambushes.
Lux's Strategy:
Day One: Establish a temporary camp inside the outer walls. Scout the area for threats.
Day Two: Clear the main keep and fortify it.
Day Three: Maintain defense and hold until extraction arrives.
Each squad member packed essentials:
Rations for five days (just in case).
Emergency healing potions.
Signal flares in case of separation.
Light armor for mobility.
Fel (still hidden in Synoh's sword) whispered in his mind.
"Be careful, Synoh. I feel something... watching from the shadows."
Synoh didn't reply but gripped his sword a little tighter.
After preparations were complete, Irina appeared again, crossing her arms.
"This mission will define your path," she said coldly. "Return successful... or don't return at all."
A heavy silence filled the air.
Lux nodded firmly.
"We'll succeed."
Synoh smirked slightly.
"Let's move out."
The squad, ten strong, set off toward Silverpine Forest — unaware of the danger that awaited them...
...and the fate that would soon weigh on their shoulders.
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End of Chapter 11