The Runic Alchemist

The bench was meant for three, but five could squeeze in with some adjustments—not that Damian and Sam needed much space.

As they made their way over, the room fell silent. Conversations stopped, and everyone stared at them, whispering. Most seemed to be wondering why they were even there. Well, that was no surprise. They were barely old enough to be soldiers as it is.

'Cough'

'Cough'

Tristan began.

"As you've all been informed, tomorrow we attack the Ashenvale forces camped at the foot of our land—head-on." Many in the room started murmuring among themselves, while some voiced their agreement about confronting the enemy directly.

"It's an intricate plan created by none other than Commander Vidalia herself, and with Lord Bonecrusher with us. It's finally time to show those bastards what war looks like." The murmurs of agreement grew louder. "However, there are a few things we need to address and prepare for. We all have different positions to hold and duties to fulfill. Your unit assignments will be given now.

With how cunning those bastards are, we can't expose our backs to them, nor can we ignore the injustice and chaos they're spreading through our lands."
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Tristan paused for effect, and Damian had to admit the guy nailed it. He was a born showman.

"We've received many reports from our brethren about strange activities in the forest. The number of monsters and beasts has significantly decreased. The cause? We don't know. Many scouting teams were sent, but none have found anything substantial. Instead, they've encountered more and more Ashenvale soldiers, making it difficult to pass through without greater numbers.

Most of our force, 15,000 strong, will charge toward the Dreaded Lands, but around 3,000 of us will be tasked with venturing into the forest to root out these hidden enemies and prevent them from launching a surprise attack on our rear. Along the way, we'll assist as many villages and towns as we can—assuming there are any still standing.

We've received word from several asking for reinforcements, so we know there are people still waiting for us. We must meet their expectations."

He stopped again, scanning the faces of those seated around the room before continuing.

"I've already assigned tasks according to your capabilities. However, I'm open to hearing what you all have to say. If anyone wishes to volunteer for the mission in the forest, speak up now. And one more thing—due to the limited number of second-rankers, we've assigned those without a unit or captain to various teams heading into the forest.

Each captain leading a unit in the forest will command 250 men instead of the standard 100. That's all. If anyone wants to volunteer, now's the time."

For a minute or two, no one spoke. Everyone seemed to be waiting for someone else to step forward, murmuring among themselves. Damian couldn't blame them. They had little information about what was happening in the forest or how many enemies might be hiding there.

Some were heading to certain fight and maybe survive or not, among the monstrous people fighting while others just offering themselves to the unknown wolves hiding in the woods. Equally stupid choices.

"I'll volunteer for the forest clearance," said someone sitting close to Damian standing up straight.

'Are pugilists so used to pain they have masochistic tendencies?' he thought.

It was Captain Mira. From the looks on Royce and Valoris' faces, who didn't object or try to stop her, it seemed they already knew she would volunteer.

"Pyron Unit 4, Captain Mira – 197855," Tristan's assistant called out, and Mira nodded in acknowledgment. That was it.

"Anyone else?" Tristan asked.

This time, Royce stood up. He didn't say a word, just looked at Tristan, who seemed to share the same grim determination. Both captains had the look of people who knew this was likely the worst mission they could be given—and yet they volunteered.

"Pyron Unit 7, Captain Royce – 206745."

"Anyone else?" Tristan asked again. Only two had volunteered so far, and they needed twelve. He could order people to take the mission, but if they chose it themselves, they would take responsibility and give their best effort instead of making excuses or doing a half-hearted job. Guess forest it was then.

Not like he had many choices and if they went without him they will just be serving themselves in silver platter. At least Damian could spot the enemy and give them a fighting chance. He wasn't going to go charge at Ashenvale camp, even if they told him to. If he went to the forest, he'd be the highest authority in his unit and could make his own decisions.

Sighing again, Damian stood up. The murmuring started once more, with people glancing at him and whispering to their friends in surprise. The most shocked expression, though, was on Tristan's face. Damian gave him a self-deprecating smile, which seemed to snap Tristan out of his stupor.

"Commander's Personal Unit 11, Captain Maximus – 300020," the assistant called out.

Damian suddenly felt a warm touch on his hand and looked down to find Sam holding his wrist, his face full of unsaid emotions, his eyes conveying everything he needed to say. Damian gently placed a hand on Sam's shoulder, reassuring him with a smile that said, 'I've got you.' Mira and Royce also looked at him, their expressions unreadable but with smiles on their faces.

Damian had expected no one else to volunteer after him. If they were going to, they would've done it before he stood. But, to his surprise, things changed once he sat down. One by one, another five people stood up, each volunteering for the forest mission. The assistant called out their names and units. That was strange.

Were they volunteering because of his recent success in locating enemies, or were there still some weird rumors circulating about him, even after six months?

After the volunteers were gathered, Tristan reassigned the remaining missions, with the volunteers going to the forest and the rest preparing for battle tomorrow.