Chapter 13
Cecilia's POV:
It's been a few days since everyone gathered and spoke in detail about the plans for the war. Now, my children, my men and I are all heading to the south in preparation for Demon Lord Milim's inevitable invasion. We're each riding on horses as my army is made for swift redeployment and manoeuvrability. However, even with this in mind, it's taking us quite a while to get there and Nina's starting to get bored.
Nina: So Mom, can I play with Amethyst?
Still determined to call me mother I see. Though I suppose they were created as such. In any case, I don't see the harm in allowing her to play and even if she goes overboard, Amethyst should be capable enough to manage without my interference.
Me: Sure, if she wants to.
Nina: Amethyst!
Childe: Nina, how often do I have to tell you it's Lady Amethyst?
Amethyst: Uhm. It's fine really. I don't mind.
I watch as Childe bickers with them over it before resigning from the debate. He really should take things less seriously though I suppose his character matches that of the ideal older sibling. I can't imagine having two Ninas with me right now.
Soldier1: General, we're approaching a town.
Me: Have they surrendered peacefully or do they wish to fight?
Soldier1: We were unable to contact them. They fired on sight.
Me: So fight then. Nina! Play time's over. You and Amethyst are going to get your first taste of battle.
Nina: Really? Like for sure this time?
Me: Childe, look after them. Take the town but remember not to kill all the civilians. We'll be using them for supplies until we arrive at our destination. Catch up to us when you are finished.
Childe: As you command.
Me: 10th division! You're under Childe's command. Do me proud.
10th: Yes General!
As my children, Amethyst and a thousand of our number split off and head to the town, I lead the remainder of the 3rd Army on a route to circumvent the town. We're some ways off when the cries and screams finally reach our ears but while such might affect the morale of ordinary men, those with me have been bred for war. I've personally trained every one of them to be perfect weapons.
They were chosen whether they had skills or not. They have no ties to the mortal realm besides that of their own life and the patriotism instilled in them towards our Queen and me. Yes, these men would follow me to conquer any foe without hesitation, even if our enemy was death itself or eternal damnation. The fact that they are all skilled fighters only furthers their resolve. They are the best of the best our armies have to offer. It's why they can fight alongside me and why there are only 10,000. We are an elite fighting force.
As I continue admiring my achievements in creating this force, a loud explosion behind us causes a tree that I'm passing to fall.
Laela: [Mistress!]
A flick of the wrist sees the tree halt in place as I finish passing before I send it flying out of the way of our path.
Me: [Is there a reason why you are panicking, Laela? Certainly, you're aware a mere tree wouldn't be able to harm me in any significant way.]
Laela: [Detecting a powerful individual approaching. I suspect this might be the Demon Lord Milim or one of her subordinates.]
Already? We aren't even close to the border. Does this mean they've already invaded our territory and had already begun moving towards the capital? Tsk. We are barely a few days away. Turning to the nearest soldier, I quickly issue a command.
Me: Hurry to the town and inform Childe that Demon Lord Milim is heading our way. Have them rejoin us i-
BOOOM! BOOOM! BOOOM! BOOOM! BOOOM! BOOOM! BOOOM!
A rain of pink light fires overhead and seemingly set the town, now some distance behind us, on fire. Before anyone can react, laughter fills the air as someone buzzes overhead going straight for the town.
Me: Spread out and ensure that the enemy's main force isn't also assaulting!
Soldier: But General-
Me: Go!
Before they can protest me going alone any further I too, am in the air, blasting towards the town. I can only hope I can get there in time before anything happens to Amethyst.