Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

Much to Rain's surprise, the squads that were supposed to come to guard Teria arrived three days later, and Seara came with them, informing them that nothing happened on their end… things were becoming more curious with every passing moment.

"Considering what you just explained, I would guess that we didn't move as the enemy had expected, so perhaps that is the reason why nothing happened," Seara said. "Anyways… it seems that we have more allies, I guess? But you aren't happy about that."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

"The conditions force me to take them with me," Rain said and then went to talk with his soldiers who were going to work on Teria from now on. "You guys' training isn't over yet, and that is why, in one month, you will return to our base to resume it, but I am sure that you will keep training hard to be ready for action."

All the soldiers saluted Rain in response… he didn't train them to do that, so it felt a bit weird. Regardless, it felt like they truly respected him, so Rain didn't mind.

"Once you guys return, I will teach you a new technique, and this one is one is one of my favorites," Rain added. "I expect great things from you."

As the news of learning another powerful technique spread among the soldiers, an undeniable wave of excitement surged through their ranks. Their faces lit up with anticipation, and their collective enthusiasm was clear. Rain recognized that these men and women had spent a significant portion of their lives obeying orders without much consideration for personal gain.

The promise of newfound power and the potential for true freedom had ignited a spark within them. Continue reading on empire

Rain, in turn, acknowledged the importance of nurturing their loyalty. He believed that instilling a sense of camaraderie and purpose beyond monetary compensation was essential. His decision to increase their training was motivated not only by the desire to strengthen his forces but also to ensure their unwavering loyalty.

By granting them the means to empower themselves, he aimed to foster a sense of unity and the understanding that, together, they could shape their destinies and break free from the constraints of their past.

"What now?" Seara asked.

"Now we return home after giving a brief report to Branden and Esmeralda," Rain replied and then looked at Seara for a moment.

At this point in time, Rain realized that things wouldn't go the way he planned that much… at least when it comes to whatever happens all over the world, his enemies had the upper hand since they could move that fast and attack what they wanted when they wanted… everyone should have realized that after seeing that hooded guy teleporting in the middle of the day.

All those things made Rain realize that hoping for the best was great, but he had to prepare for the worst as well.

"There is no point in letting the enemies dictate the pace of my life, I guess," Rain muttered.

"What was that? Isn't that obvious?" Seara asked.

"I suppose," Rain shrugged. "I will act with all that in mind all the time from now on."

While using the underground tunnel and a longship made of earth magic, Rain and his new underlings went to the capital with Seara. She decided to stay with him, for the most part, to increase their movement speed since having more than one hundred people with him could also be dangerous for Rain. In any case, soon they gave their report to Branden and Esmeralda.

"I see… so things ended like that," Branden said while studying Cor and Geo's group.

"Please convey my thanks to your brother and His Imperial Majesty, Seara," Esmeralda said.

"Certainly, Your Majesty," Seara said and then bowed.

Rain felt weird when people tried to talk formally like that while he tried to keep things as relaxed as possible, but he couldn't complain all that much since that was common sense when dealing with authorities and leaders of the countries.

"This might sound weird, but since you already recruited some of them, why not recruit Karla and the others as well?" Branden asked. "Karla's management skills are unrivaled, and after all these years, they must be willing to do whatever it takes to make up for the war."

"You know that I can't trust people that easily, right?" Rain frowned. "Besides, it would be difficult if so many people were to learn about my secrets."

"Your cautiousness is understandable, but they stayed behind when all the suspicious individuals disappeared, most likely to work for the enemies, most likely because they are still being controlled," Branden explained. "While there is a small chance that they could be controlled as well… you have someone with you that can prove or disprove their innocence now."

It was Artisia… Branden had a point, but even so, trusting her words and judgment was a bit… it went against all of Rain's self-preservation instincts. Seara shrugged while seeing Rain suddenly getting quiet. She could understand the reason why, but it was too much from her perspective.

"Didn't you just say that there is no point in letting the enemies dictate your life?" Seara asked.

"I suppose you have a point…" Rain rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Maybe I should use everything in my power to increase our chances of success when fighting the enemies."

"So, should I send the word to the former members of the king's blade?" Branden asked.

"Yes, you also should spread the word that we are accepting anyone to enroll in our group as well. It will be another matter if they will be accepted or not," Rain said.

"All right, I will keep in touch to inform you about all that," Branden said after nodding.

"I will send the word about the progress on my end as well," Rain said. "Expect to hear great things since I am going all out from now on. It is time to make the enemies tremble in fear."