─────────────???─────────────

  After weeks of travel through varied terrains, the group of Heirs of Golden soldiers and mercenaries finally arrived in a vast land area, where few plants thrived, and the grass appeared dry and withered.

  Not far off, a small city could be seen, and from the outside, it was possible to spot an abandoned old town with a small, neglected castle standing in its center. Its defense walls looked extremely worn down.

  Standing to the south of the Alku village, this was the final border of the Heirs of Golden’s territory, overlooking the sea.

  At first glance, this small city appeared uninhabited, but underground, many iron miners resided, which explained the city’s desolate surface. Due to its abundant iron mines, numerous Heirs were eager to seize control. Historical records show that two Heirs have attempted to conquer Ironclaw City.

  Ironclaw City resembled a solid fortress, nestled amidst rugged rock landscapes and radiating a timeless allure. Though it seemed deserted from above, a lively world thrived underground, earning it the fitting moniker, the Underground City.

  Beneath the surface lay hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered. Ironclaw City was famous for its extensive underground iron mines, a labyrinth stretching beneath the city’s foundation. These mines were a testament to the city’s prosperity, providing an endless supply of precious iron that had attracted the interest and greed of many noble families.

  Ironclaw’s reputation wasn’t solely due to its bountiful iron mines but also because of its long-standing rulers, the House of de Leaf. For generations, this noble family had governed the city, perfecting their defensive strategies. Descendants of the esteemed leader Paul de Leaf continue to rule to this day, upholding the traditions and values of their ancestors.

  With many noble families vying for control over Ironclaw, the abundance and quality of its iron mines fueled their ambitions. The wealth and resources derived from these mines made the city a coveted prize, sparking fierce competition among those seeking power and prosperity.

  With its contrasting surface facade and bustling underground world, Ironclaw City stood as a testament to the dichotomy of life and the resilience of its people. As the city prepared to face the inevitable challenges ahead, the House of de Leaf remained steadfast, ready to defend their legacy and protect the city’s secrets from those who sought to claim its wealth and influence.

  Twenty years ago, the Heirs of Fish launched an assault with a sizeable force but suffered a devastating defeat. Ten years later, the Heirs of Stone tried their luck in an attack, only to fail once again to capture the city.

  This region was incredibly difficult to conquer due to the cold-blooded rule of the Heirs of Leaf, known for their strong tactical defenses.

  Now it was the Heirs of Golden’s turn to attempt to claim this iron mining city. Unlike the other Heirs, they sent only one battalion of new hunter soldiers, a smaller force, relying more heavily on mercenaries. Even this assault was led only by General Aldrich, newly appointed for his recent achievements. In terms of experience, he was far outmatched by the hired mercenaries.

  ───???───

  Gathered on the open field, they built a campfire as darkness fell, some setting up tents on the open ground. The soldiers gathered in groups, and two bands of mercenaries huddled with their respective groups. Meanwhile, Eran could be seen sitting alone a bit further from the others, as usual reluctant to socialize. Around him, ten lone-wolf mercenaries lingered, unaffiliated with any particular band.

  After a brief rest, General Aldrich stood not far from the campfire, stepping closer to the gathering of the Band of Sirens and the Band of de Sun. He called on the leaders of both bands to follow him.

  Taran de Sirens was the leader of the Band of de Sirens, one of the strongest bands after de Sun. Known for their speed and brilliant tactics in completing missions, they were often compared to de Sun; some even said they were the second best mercenary group. Taran didn’t pay much mind to such talk when he overheard people discussing it.

  They stopped near a smaller campfire than the others.

  “First of all, I’d like to thank you both, the two strongest bands, for participating in this assault. Taran de Sirens and…” The General hesitated, bowing slightly as he continued, “Bless you, my…”

  “Theo will do. I’m just a mercenary,” Theo interrupted. Aldrich, a bit perplexed, nodded and followed his preference.

  “Alright,” Aldrich responded.

  “Now, without wasting time, let’s get straight to it. We’re going to plan our strategy,” he said, unfolding a map of Ironclaw City.

  “According to the records from the Heirs of Fish and Leaf’s assaults, this city has three access points. The first access point is the main gate,” Aldrich pointed to the front of the city on the map, “Then the second is an underground entrance, located in the middle of the city near the castle. That would be easy to access if we manage to breach the main gate. And the last one is here, buried underground,” Aldrich pointed to a specific spot on the map. Taran and Theo examined the map intently.

  “The problem is we don’t know the exact location of the third entrance, so we’ll need some time to search for it,” Aldrich explained.

  “No problem. I have a Pathfinder in my band who can search for the entrance if you permit it,” Theo suggested.

  “Alright, I’ll explain the tactics,” Aldrich paused briefly, looking at the two band leaders.

  “Go ahead, I’m listening,” Taran finally spoke, which was what the General had been waiting for.

  Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.

  He had been extremely nervous, especially about explaining his tactics. How could he not be? The two people seated near him were leaders of the strongest bands and had undoubtedly been through countless battles.

  How could a new General like him be tasked with such a heavy responsibility by the Kingdom? He had to lead both Theo and Taran.

  Who hadn’t heard of Theo? A charismatic leader with strong command skills. Meanwhile, Taran possessed absolute leadership and tactical brilliance.

  “Forgive me; I’m nervous to lead you both,” Aldrich admitted with a faint, weary smile. Theo and Taran exchanged glances and soon burst into hearty laughter.

  “Oh, come on. We’re just a bunch of mercenaries doing a job; we’ll do whatever it takes as long as we’re paid. So there’s no reason for you to be nervous. Besides, you’re the leader here,” Taran said reassuringly. Then Theo patted Aldrich on the shoulder.

  “Come on, just continue. If your tactics seem risky, I’m sure Lord Taran here will be happy to correct them. Isn’t that right, Taran?”

  “You lazy fool. How your team stays loyal to you is beyond me.”

  They all laughed at Taran’s words, and soon resumed their discussion.

  Their laughter lightened the atmosphere, easing Aldrich’s anxiety. They continued the discussion, refining their strategy and tackling any arising issues. The leaders of both bands offered insights, sharing their experience and expertise to strengthen the plan.

  As the night grew deeper, the campfire continued to burn, casting flickering shadows on the determined faces of the mercenaries. Each member felt the weight of their mission, aware that the fate of Ironclaw City’s conquest rested on their shoulders. They had only a few hours left to rest before it all began.

  At the outermost edge of the camp, Eran sat on a rock, observing his surroundings from afar while occasionally poking at the small fire he had made.

  Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed someone approaching him. The figure walked with a confident stride that emphasized his charisma, his long golden hair dancing above a face perfectly chiseled.

  "May I join you?" he asked after stopping a short distance from the fire.

  Eran turned toward the voice without changing his posture.

  "If you expect respect and formalities from me, you’d better reconsider," he replied.

  The man simply smiled.

  "Relax, my friend. Aren’t we mercenaries, bound only by pay and duty?"

  "Not for you, Theo, the heir of Light’s blood."

  Theo sat on a nearby rock across from the fire.

  "Wow, I’m surprised you know that about me."

  "Who doesn’t know you? Just looking at your face and hair, anyone could tell."

  "Come on, that’s nothing important. I’ve told you—I’m just a mercenary like you."

  Eran took another sip of his warm herbal drink.

  "Would you like some?" Eran asked, lifting his cup slightly.

  "Oh, no thanks. I had some earlier."

  "Alright, Theo, so what’s your purpose in meeting a lowly mercenary like me? Do you want to kill me for insulting your band?"

  "No…no. I should be the one apologizing for my friend’s behavior at the guild back then. I hope you understand, Gorstag is easily provoked, especially when it comes to our band. He’s a Barbarian."

  "It’s no problem. Besides, I was only replying to the guild officer’s words at the time."

  "Glad to hear that," Theo replied, smiling, relieved there were no hard feelings.

  "So what do you want from me?" Eran asked again.

  Theo was silent for a moment, his eyes fixed on the fire that danced in the night breeze.

  "Join our Band," Theo said firmly, his gaze unwavering.

  Eran was taken aback, though he tried to remain calm.

  "Are you joking?"

  Theo shook his head.

  "I’m serious."

  "We’ve never met before, we don’t even know each other."

  "That’s not important to me."

  Eran poked the embers with a thin stick he had been holding, his mind wandering as he weighed Theo’s offer.

  "I’m used to working alone; I’m just a lowly mercenary compared to all of you."

  "Don’t say that. I’ve heard stories about you. They’re too impressive for me to ignore," Theo replied in an admiring tone.

  Finally, after some thought, Eran made his decision.

  "I’m not interested in joining a group, so my answer is no," Eran replied firmly.

  Theo was surprised by Eran’s response. It was the first time he’d been turned down. Instead of being disappointed, Theo looked even more enthusiastic.

  To date, only five people had received a direct offer from Theo; it was considered a fast track to fame and high pay for a mercenary.

  "Alright, I’ll assume you’re still considering my offer, and I’ll wait," Theo said.

  "My answer was a clear no. There’s nothing left to consider."

  Their conversation was soon interrupted by a call.

  "Theo!"

  Not long after, the source of the voice appeared. A beautiful woman with long gray hair approached them, standing close to the two of them.

  "Let's go back to our tent."

  Theo let out a long sigh, then stood up, brushing the dust off his pants.

  "Alright, Eran, it seems our conversation has to stop for now."

  "Hurry up!" said the woman, tugging on Theo's arm.

  "Yes, calm down, Tane," Theo grumbled.

  Eran watched them as they left, and then Theo glanced back.

  "I'll be waiting for your answer, Eran," he said before they walked off.

  Eran noticed something that had been bothering him—a sharp, disapproving look from Taneaya. However, he didn’t pay it much mind.

  He returned to his solitude as the night grew deeper, with stars shining brightly above the camp.

  ─────────────???─────────────